Are There Beliefs That Are Not Compatible with Being an Evangelical?

The concept of evangelicalism is deeply intertwined with certain core beliefs and practices. As such, there are indeed several doctrines or perspectives that would make it challenging to identify oneself as an evangelical. This article explores these beliefs and their compatibility (or lack thereof) with the principles of evangelicalism.

Core Beliefs of Evangelicalism

Evangelicals often emphasize a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, as well as the specific teachings of the Bible. Jesus himself instructed, 'You must be born again' (John 3:3). Any belief that suggests an alternative path to salvation or a different interpretation of his teachings would be incompatible with being considered an evangelical.

Requirements for Evangelical Belief

Several core beliefs are essential for one to be considered an evangelical:

Indistinguishable Salvation: Evangelicals believe that once a person has faith in Christ, they cannot lose their salvation. The idea that a born-again Christian can lose their salvation is contradictory to the teachings of evangelicalism. Authenticity of the Bible: The Bible is considered the inspired Word of God and the ultimate authority for faith. Any belief that questions the truthfulness or infallibility of the Bible makes it difficult to align with evangelical principles. Trinitarian Doctrine: The belief in the triune nature of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is a fundamental tenet of evangelicalism. Any deviation from this belief would be incompatible. Exclusive Path to God: While other religions may offer different paths to salvation, evangelicalism emphasizes that the only way to God is through Jesus. Beliefs that suggest multiple paths devised by humans would not align with evangelical teachings. Human Perfection: Evangelicals believe that humans cannot achieve perfection on their own and that salvation comes through faith in Jesus. The idea that humans can become sufficiently perfect without the intervention of God is incompatible. Reliance on Intermediaries: Evangelicals generally reject the need for intermediaries such as priests or saints to intercede with God. Any belief that relies on such intermediaries would not be compatible.

Example: Atheism and Evangelicalism

One's belief in atheism would be incompatible with being an evangelical. The core principles of evangelicalism, such as belief in God, the authenticity of the Bible, and the necessity of salvation through Jesus Christ, are fundamentally at odds with atheism. It would be challenging for an atheist to fully embrace the teachings and practices of evangelicalism.

Conclusion

Rigorous adherence to certain core beliefs is necessary for one to be considered an evangelical. While there may be variations in other beliefs among Christians, the principles of born-again experience, the infallibility of the Bible, and the exclusivity of the path through Christ are essential. For those with beliefs that fundamentally differ, such as atheism or positions that deviate from these core principles, identifying oneself as an evangelical would be inconsistent.