Recently in our Springfield News-Leader there was an article by a pastor who has been active in the attempt to apply his belief to the issues of the day. He now has chosen to walk away from the beliefs that he affirmed and decry that Christianity has no real practical value. I believe he is wrong. This individual has espoused positions that I tend to agree with...until he had his faith foundation shaken.
In a conversation with some others who were trying to pigeon-hole my beliefs I shocked them with a term which I would not take credit for. I am an Evangelical Liberal. My theology is soundly evangelical in its framework but often I make liberal application because I believe that Christianity is not about "ivory tower" statements and pompous platitudes. It calls for application to where the rubber meets the road. It screams compassion for those who hurt, and need help. It calls into accountability those who for political, or material gain would endanger others in my society. Evangelical Liberalism bids one to examine issues and principles not personalities.
The "social gospel" cannot preclude the spiritual gospel. Cleaning up the issues of our society apart from cleaning up the inside which can be done by the restorative work of the death and life of Jesus Christ (John 14:6) does not get the job done. It is akin to the idea of cleaning up a pig from mud and slime and then leaving the door open for the pig's return to the stinky, dirty environment. The nature of the pig was not changed. This is the evangel of the church; calling people to personal faith in Jesus Christ.
My Liberalism does not mean that I accept what all social liberalism or fringe biblical thinking purports. There are life styles that are incompatible with scriptural statement and principle. BUT, that does not mean I demean those who participate in such activity. Being an Evangelical Liberal does not mean I accept all opinions as equal. My liberalism is tempered by my evangelicalism. My Evangelical Liberalism also challenges some of the flawed thinking of those who advocate "health,wealth gospel" thinking which is prevalent in conservative Christian circles. Jesus said "The poor you will always have with you." Yet, I do speak against those Christians who think the world or the church owes them a living. Scripture mandates a work ethic.
May be you want to join me in my sojourn of Evangelical Liberalism.