Only a few books in my small library seem to stand the test of time. Even fewer are theologically rich while remaining practically viable. In our current day of religious relativism and progressive teachings of the faith, Christianity and Liberalism by John Gresham Machen is one of those rare books. Although written 101 years ago, the relatively small book reads as if it were written for today’s cultural challenges that threaten the orthodox and historical Christian faith.

Being born in 1881, and becoming a New Testament scholar at Princeton Seminary in 1906, the Presbyterian educator found himself standing against the rising tide of liberal theology and higher criticism that had started in Germany decades before. His teachings, writings, and sermons over the years combating this new form of Christian liberalism led to his dismissal from Princeton. As the second oldest seminary in the United States embraced the Christian zeitgeist of what was thought to be an enlightened, darwinian, and modern understanding of the gospel of Jesus Christ, Machen embraced and defended the historic Christian faith — and the two theological frameworks were incompatible.
In Christianity and Liberalism Machen focuses on the dogmas or the fundamentals of the Faith. He makes the case that liberal theology is not just another way to understand and interpret the Scriptures but is something completely disparate. Becoming known as “Dr. Fundamentalis” — Doctor of the Fundamentals, Machen considered those major aspects of Christianity like God, man, the Bible, Christ, salvation, and the Church. His aim, viewed by many as being too divisive, was not to persuade but to clearly define what was at stake. In the Introduction to his book, Machen wrote, “Clear-cut definition of terms in religious matters, bold facing of the logical implications of religious views, is by many persons regarded as an impious proceeding.”
It was through this clear and concise proceeding of Christianity and Liberalism, coupled with Machen’s others works, that ultimately led to his dismissal, not only from Princeton in 1929, but from his own church in 1936. The Presbyterian Church in the United States of America (PCUSA), whose general assembly was much too tolerant of the new liberalism, officially tried and convicted Machen. Despite being authoritatively defrocked for his views against Christian Liberalism, he was not defeated. Along with others professors, close friends, and a handful of followers, Machen not only began Westminster Theological Seminary but would go on to form the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC).
Machen’s life was historic, but his works endure today. To understand why Machen was dismissed from Princeton Seminary and the PCUSA, one must first understand the stark differences between historic Christianity and modern liberalism. To discern this should not only make one aware of the theological implications involved then but, like Machen, behoove us to “contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people” (Jude 1:3) now.
Micah Coate, President and Host of Salvation and Stuff
To listen to a short video that explores the life and legacy of John Gresham Machen, consider the Salvation and Stuff YouTube channel, The Life and Ministry of J. Gresham Machen.
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