The 5 Points of Fundamentalism

Dr. Curt Daniel shared these historical tenets of Fundamentalism in a recent sermon series on the 5 solas. Here they are . . .

1. The Verbal Plenary Inspiration of Scripture

2. The Virgin Birth of Christ

3. The Vicarious Substitutionary Atonement of Christ

4. The Victorious Bodily Resurrection of Christ

5. The Visible Return of Christ

I've seen these emphasized in almost every church I've attended, but I never knew they were codified officially as the "5 Points of Fundamentalism." I wonder how many of them are still held among mainstream Evangelicals, seeker-sensitive ministries, and Emergents? It seems all 5 are up for grabs in some circles, while in others they remain non-negotiable.

Of course, correct belief combined with a loveless, graceless, arrogant, legalistic, man-focused religion will only create an ungodly disaster called "Pharisaism." This appears to be the type of religion practiced in some conservative churches nowadays. On the other side, there is the heresy of the Emerging Church, which has distanced itself from anything so "traditional" and is now latching onto whatever mystical mumbo-jumbo it can find in the brave new world of post-orthodoxy. Dry fundamentalism holds some truth but lacks grace. Drowning postmodernism thrashes about in the cesspool of humanistic dogma, but gladly welcomes all. "Come on in, the water's fine," they say.

Well, It's time for some Biblically grounded Calvinists to arise (humbly!) with the fire of God in their bones and the grace of God in their tear-stained eyes. May God revive us with 5 Points of Fundamentalism, 4 or 5 Points of Calvinism (see note below), 5 Solas of the Reformation, 9 fruits of the Spirit, 7 Beatitudes of Blessing, 2 Great Commandments, ONE Glorious Gospel, and the 5 fires of genuine devotion: LOVE, MERCY, GRACE, COMPASSION and HUMILITY (yes, I made the last part up, but to God the 5 fires are already written in stone - and according to His command need to be written on our hearts).

Hosea 6:6 For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.

Matthew 9:13 "Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.' For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners."

Matthew 12:7 "And if you had known what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the guiltless."

James 1:27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.

Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

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NOTE: If you don't like people clarifying the famed 3rd point of Calvinism, or you think all the points stand or fall together, you'll have to take it up with John Calvin, Richard Baxter, J.C. Ryle, R.L. Dabney, William G.T. Shedd, Bruce Ware, and a whole host of other well known Reformed guys!