Calvinisim in Scotland

[Hamalas]

I just came across this interesting article by Donald Macleod: Calvinism in Scotland

Thoughts?

 

[Eved]

I can't attest to his use of sources, but he has an obvious agenda. I don't know much about Mr. Macleod, nor his theological/denominational holdings, but it sounds like he doesn't appreciate those of the reformed side. I'm sure not all reformed would classify themselves as a calvinist since they pre-date the term. I'm sorry that I can't add anything to the point of the history of calvinism in Scotland.

Just my petty thoughts on the article as I briefly read it.

 

[Hamalas]

Hi Derek, thanks for your thoughts.

Just to give a bit of context about the author: Dr. Macleod is not without controversy (something which I won't revisit here) but he would definitely be located within the broad designation of Calvinistic and Reformed. He is one of the leaders of the Free Church of Scotland (Scotland's largest conservative Reformed denomination) and has taught systematic theology at the denominational college for years. As I mentioned, he is not without his detractors, but he is writing from "within the camp" so to speak.

 

[Contra_Mundum]

I thought his historical insights were helpful and apt. I like to see him critiquing the critics, the literati. And, he is obviously a gifted communicator.

I was less taken with his proposals, although he does have a sense of the impending failures of the larger society. In short, I appreciate his descriptions better than his prescriptions.

And where is his confidence that the Calvinist-remnant will continue to do it's Providentially appointed work, regardless of their "size" and apparent power? Is this not the confounding way of our God--always succeeding by losing, so far as the world can see?

Thanks for the article.

 

[jambo]

I always held Donald Macleod in he highest regard. I head him preach a few times and he was also a visiting lecturer at the Bile College I attended. I always looked forward to hearing him whether it was as a preacher or a lecturer. He has had his moments of controversy and there was an incident which ended up in the law courts. The courts exonerated him as it transpired he had been set up.

Now living in Ireland, I am a bit out of touch with things in my homeland. However it would seem to me a fair assessment of where things are and where things are going.

 

[Alan D. Strange]

This is a perceptive article, theologically, historically, and sociologically. One of the best brief descriptions of Scottish history and church history that I've read, as well as seeking to gauge the present state of things.

Peace,
Alan

 

[Hamalas]

Thanks for your comments all! That is helpful.

I always held Donald Macleod in he highest regard. I head him preach a few times and he was also a visiting lecturer at the Bile College I attended. I always looked forward to hearing him whether it was as a preacher or a lecturer. He has had his moments of controversy and there was an incident which ended up in the law courts. The courts exonerated him as it transpired he had been set up.

Now living in Ireland, I am a bit out of touch with things in my homeland. However it would seem to me a fair assessment of where things are and where things are going.

Stuart, you are Scottish? My entire perception of you has changed...

 

[jambo]

Yes British by birth, Scottish by the grace of God. Born and bred in Edinburgh until marriage and ministry brought me to Ireland.

 

[Stephen L Smith]

Stuart, you are Scottish? My entire perception of you has changed...

As a NZ born Scot worshipping in a Dutch Reformed church, I like to remind my Dutch friends that Scotland, not the Netherlands, is called the 'land of the covenant'