On Wilkins, etc.

Wilkins’ Q&A session with Louisiana Presbytery (PCA) is working it’s way through the reformed blogosphere.

What is surprising to me is the varying responses to the report that I’ve seen from critics. One can say, “that’s extremely well answers and a great outline”, while another goes through and picks out quotes and criticizes them, saying Wilkins is contradicting himself and really is at odds with the Standards. To me, this disparity reinforces two opinions I’ve held on this controversy for at least that last three years, if not further back…

First, that the description of the Memorial from Central Carolina given by Wilkins (quoted below) is a very accurate description of an attitude present in some of his critics (and of FV in general).

The Memorial exhibits a catastrophic misunderstanding of the position I am seeking to set forth and asserts that I hold positions which I explicitly deny. The Memorial ignores the fact that I have repeatedly said that blessings are not automatically granted because of baptism, but Christ who is offered with all His benefits in baptism must be embraced with living faith before one can enjoy the blessings of His Person and work. The Memorial demonstrates an unwillingness to seek to understand the perspective which governs the position I’m attempting to set forth. I view the Memorial as uncharitable as it is unreasonable.

And, second, that this controversy is about more than just theology.