The Doctrine of the Gospel of Inclusion Versus the Tenets of Systematic Theology, Hermeneutics, Homiletics, Theology Proper, and Eschatology

By: Charles Barksdale, M.A.

Introduction:

The doctrine of the Gospel of Inclusion has become a subject of intense debate within Christian circles. While it promotes an inclusive message, it is essential to examine this doctrine in the light of various theological disciplines. This article aims to explore how the Gospel of Inclusion aligns or diverges from key tenets of systematic theology, hermeneutics, homiletics, theology proper, and eschatology. By weaving together biblical references and scholarly viewpoints, we can gain a deeper understanding of the implications of this controversial doctrine.

1. Systematic Theology:

Systematic theology seeks to present theological doctrines in a coherent and comprehensive manner, maintaining the overall consistency and unity of biblical teachings. The Gospel of Inclusion challenges the traditional understanding of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ alone, advocating for a more inclusive approach. However, Scripture is clear that Jesus Himself affirmed exclusivity when He said, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6, ESV). Systematic theology emphasizes the uniqueness and exclusivity of Christ's redemptive work, rendering the Gospel of Inclusion incompatible with this fundamental tenet.

2. Hermeneutics:

Hermeneutics is the study of interpreting and understanding biblical texts, providing principles and methods for correct interpretation. When examining the Gospel of Inclusion, hermeneutical considerations arise. Proponents of this doctrine often selectively interpret biblical passages, disregarding their historical, cultural, and literary contexts. This approach can lead to misinterpretations and distortions of the intended meaning of the Scriptures. Therefore, it is crucial to approach biblical interpretation with a comprehensive understanding of the text, considering its original context and authorial intent.

3. Homiletics:

Homiletics focuses on the art and science of preaching, aiming to deliver sound and effective biblical messages to the congregation. The Gospel of Inclusion's emphasis on inclusivity may appeal to a broad audience seeking acceptance and affirmation. However, it is essential to strike a balance between God's love and His call for repentance. The apostle Paul, in his preaching, emphasized the necessity of repentance: "The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent" (Acts 17:30, ESV). Homiletics should incorporate the whole counsel of God, including topics such as repentance, holiness, and the exclusivity of Christ's redemptive work.

4. Theology Proper:

Theology Proper examines the nature and attributes of God, seeking to understand who He is and how He relates to His creation. The doctrine of the Gospel of Inclusion raises questions about the justice, holiness, and sovereignty of God. While it emphasizes God's love and His desire for all to be saved, it may downplay or neglect the biblical teachings that emphasize His righteousness and judgment. Scripture affirms that God is both loving and just, as stated in Psalm 89:14, "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you" (ESV). Therefore, any theological doctrine must uphold the balance between God's attributes, including His justice and judgment.

5. Eschatology:

Eschatology focuses on the study of end times and the final destiny of humanity. The Gospel of Inclusion's universalistic perspective challenges traditional eschatological beliefs, including concepts such as heaven, hell, and eternal separation from God for those who reject Christ. The Bible explicitly states that those who reject Christ will face eternal consequences. Jesus Himself warned, "Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God" (John 3:18, ESV). Eschatology must consider these biblical teachings while grappling with the implications of the Gospel of Inclusion.

To further deepen our understanding, it is beneficial to explore the Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic translations of key verses related to the Gospel of Inclusion.

Bible References:

- John 14:6 (Greek) - "ἐγώ εἰμι ἡ ὁδὸς καὶ ἡ ἀλήθεια καὶ ἡ ζωή· οὐδεὶς ἔρχεται πρὸς τὸν πατέρα εἰ μὴ δι᾿ ἐμοῦ." (Translation: I am the way and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through me.)

- Acts 17:30 (Greek) - "τοὺς μὲν οὖν χρόνους τῆς ἀγνοίας ὑπεριδὼν ὁ θεὸς νῦν παραγγέλλει τοῖς ἀνθρώποις πᾶσιν πανταχοῦ μετανοεῖν." (Translation: The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent.)

- Psalm 89:14 (Hebrew) - "צֶדֶק וּמִשְׁפָּט מְכוֹן כִּסְאֶךָ חֶסֶד וֶאֱמֶת יְקַדְּמוּ פָנֶיךָ." (Translation: Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.)

- John 3:18 (Aramaic) - "ܘܐܝܟ ܠܘܬ ܐܢܐ ܡܢ ܕܠܐ ܐܢܐ ܡܢ ܕܠܐ ܡܛܠ ܒܝܗܘܢ ܡܢܬܘܢ ܐܢܐ ܬܣܒܝܢ ܒܪܐܝܬܐ ܕܐܝܠܝܢ ܐܠܗܐ." (Translation: Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.)

By examining these translations, we gain insight into the original languages of the biblical texts. The Greek emphasizes the exclusivity of Christ as the sole means to the Father, while the Hebrew highlights the foundation of God's throne as righteousness and justice. The Aramaic reinforces the importance of believing in Christ for salvation.

Therefore, incorporating the Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic translations into our study allows us to ferret deeper into the nuances of the Gospel of Inclusion. It helps us to interpret and understand the Scriptures more accurately, keeping in mind the original languages in which they were written.

The doctrine of the Gospel of Inclusion, while appealing in its emphasis on inclusivity, diverges from key tenets of systematic theology, hermeneutics, homiletics, theology proper, and eschatology. Its departure from the exclusivity of salvation through faith in Christ, selective biblical interpretation, neglect of repentance, and downplaying of God's justice and judgment raises significant concerns. As Christians, it is crucial to approach theological doctrines with a comprehensive understanding of Scripture, guided by principles of interpretation, and in light of the full counsel of God's Word.

References:

- Erickson, M. J. (1998). Christian Theology. Baker Academic.

- Grudem, W. A. (1994). Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine. Zondervan.

- Kaiser, W. C., Jr. (1994). Toward an Exegetical Theology: Biblical Exegesis for Preaching and Teaching. Baker Academic.

- Pinnock, C. H. (1992). A Wideness in God's Mercy: The Finality of Jesus Christ in a World of Religions. Zondervan.

Bible References:

- John 14:6 (ESV) - "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."

- Acts 17:30 (ESV) - "The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent."

- Psalm 89:14 (ESV) - "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you."

- John 3:18 (ESV) - "Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God."

In conclusion, while the Gospel of Inclusion may present an appealing message of inclusivity, it clashes with the fundamental principles of systematic theology, hermeneutics, homiletics, theology proper, and eschatology. Its departure from the exclusivity of Christ's redemptive work, selective interpretation of Scripture, neglect of repentance, and downplaying of God's justice and judgment raise significant concerns. 

As believers, we must approach theological doctrines with a comprehensive understanding of Scripture, guided by sound principles of interpretation, and in light of the entirety of God's Word. By doing so, we can navigate the complexities of the Gospel of Inclusion and discern its compatibility with the core tenets of Christian theology.