Writer distorts Reformed theology
Gordon Hall, in Voices of Faith on Oct. 21, distorts Reformed theology to claim Scripture is inerrant.
Most Protestants agree Scripture is authoritative. But, some Protestant denominations differ with Reformed theology on how Scripture guides moral living.
Martin Luther calls Scripture “inerrant” in the narrow sense it is authoritative but says no person can interpret Scripture authoritatively for others. Conscience alone rules understanding Scripture. He quotes 1 Corinthians 14:30 (his words): “If something is better revealed to anyone, though he is already sitting and listening to another in God’s word, then the one who is speaking shall hold his peace and give place.” Reformed theology burdens individuals to hear Scripture, pray and deliberate, listening to the consensus of associates to decide Christian action.
Allowing conscience to interpret Scripture troubles many Protestants. They demand belief Scripture is inspired literally by God, eliminating the fear of “relativism” but demanding denial of the critical Reformed objection to absolute human authority to explain Scripture.
Both carry danger of unrighteous behavior in the name of God. Literalism defended slavery; relativism can separate us from spiritual honesty. However, embracing literal inerrancy contradicts a core principle of Reformed theology.
Rev. Henry Paris
First Presbyterian Church
Spring City, Tenn.
Both parties show lack of leadership
Shiny objects distract us from the tragic dissolution of government for and by the people. It’s become the government of bankers, vested interests, big business and political kickbacks. The Senate voted to remove banking institution constraints, so, like Wells Fargo, bankers can run roughshod over their entire clientele.
A two-person business secured a contract to restore the power grid of Puerto Rico, courtesy of his friend, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke. Two Republican senators stated their support of the Constitution and the people of the United States, but will end their service at the end of their terms.
Both Republican and Democrat parties show serious lack of leadership. Adherence to the politics of expediency eclipses the greater good; running the nation has sunk to denominators devoid of ethics, service or truth. Transparency in government has disappeared. Spirited debate, examination of issues and a search for common ground to advance the national interest is gone. We no longer teach civics and government in school; voters no longer believe they can make a difference in the direction on the county. Corporate entities have the same rights but bigger pocketbooks to influence elections.
Take our country back.
Helen Barrett
Commission should pass Boyd proposal
I like Hamilton County Commissioner Tim Boyd’s proposal that commissioners vote twice before passing resolutions that increase property taxes. I hope the commission will pass a resolution this week that would bring about this change.
This simple change in process would give citizens more awareness of the details of what is being proposed and to weigh in with their commissioner or speak at a commission meeting.
Transparency and accountability in local government could use a shot in the arm.
Passing this resolution would help build public trust.
Helen Burns Sharp