When faith is shaped by culture instead of Scripture
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ChatGPTRecently, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear appeared on The View, an ABC television talk show noted for its progressive bias. Governor Beshear, who some suggest should be considered for national office, proudly cited his 2023 veto of Senate Bill 150 as evidence of his compassion. Senate Bill 150 was intended to prevent harm coming to children and teenagers through so-called "gender-affirming" reassignment treatments. The Kentucky General Assembly passed the bill 29–6 in an attempt to prevent minors from undergoing irreversible procedures and to restrict opposite-sex bathroom use and boys competing in girls' sports. It also sought to protect schoolteachers from lawsuits if they "misgendered" students.
Governor Beshear explained his veto by stating that most of the decisions he makes are based on his faith. He cited the Golden Rule and the parable of the Good Samaritan and added, "That's why I chose to veto the nastiest piece of anti-LGBTQ legislation to ever come through my state. I described it in terms of my faith, which teaches me that all children are children of God and I didn't want people picking on those kids."
While some insist pastors should not speak about political matters, Governor Beshear's appeal to faith confirms what many pastors have said for years—that many cultural and social debates are, at their core, moral and spiritual issues. When faith is invoked to justify a moral position, Christians should carefully examine what kind of faith is being described.
While Jesus commanded us not to judge the eternal destiny of others, He did instruct us to examine fruit and beware of false teaching. Good shepherds have a responsibility to protect their flocks from confusion and error.
Southern Seminary President Dr. Albert Mohler pointed out on his podcast that the issue beneath Governor Beshear's comments is larger than one piece of legislation. He suggested Christians must distinguish between historic, biblical Christianity and what is often called progressive Christianity—a movement that approaches Scripture differently.
Progressive theology frequently begins with selected themes—such as compassion or inclusion—while giving less weight to creation order and the full authority of Scripture. It can treat the Bible as a buffet, selecting preferred passages while downplaying others. When human reason consistently overrides
That drift does not happen overnight. It happens gradually—one reinterpretation at a time.
The Bible calls us to a faith that practices discernment.
Biblical faithbegins with believing in creation. "God made them male and female" (Genesis 1:27). That was not an imposition on humanity; it is God's design. Any faith that ignores how God made us must explain why it starts somewhere other than "In the beginning."
Biblical faithhonors parental responsibility. Scripture teaches children to obey their parents and parents to train up their children in the way they should go (Ephesians 6:1–4; Proverbs 22:6). A worldview that sidelines parental authority should concern us.
Biblical faithapplies love consistently. Jesus said we are to care for "the least of these" (Matthew 25:40), and the Golden Rule does not exclude protecting unborn children in the womb. Love cannot be selective.
Biblical faithis not a subjective faith that claims to have "progressed" beyond the traditional view that the Bible is God's Word and the ultimate authority in our lives. It does not treat the Bible as a buffet, picking and choosing which parts to accept and which to reject. It is anchored in Scripture as the infallible, word of God.
Biblical faithdoes not shape Jesus into someone
While we are subject to governing authorities, biblical faith recognizes God as sovereign over government and does not place the priorities of the state above the truth of Scripture.
Biblical faith does not redefine love as merely affirming someone's desires. Jesus prayed, "Father, sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth" (John 17:17). Biblical faith knows that love and truth are never enemies, and that standing for the truth of Scripture—even when it confronts sinful behavior or harmful ideologies—is not hateful, but loving.
Biblical faith knows Christ and recognizes false teaching. Jesus warned, "For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Messiah,' and will deceive many" (Matthew 24:5). And, "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them…" (Matthew 7:15-16a).
Governor Beshear is right about one thing: much of Christianity can be summarized in the Golden Rule. Jesus did say the Law and the Prophets hang on two commandments—love God and love your neighbor.
But the Lord knew human nature well enough to understand that we would be tempted to redefine love according to personal preference or cultural pressure. So lest we rationalize all kinds of misguided behavior, He gave us His Word explaining, "Now here's how you love your neighbor." Then He added, "If you love me, keep my commandments" (John 14:15).
 | Bob Russell became the pastor of Southeast Christian Church at just 22 years old. That small congregation of 120 members became one of the largest churches in America, with 18,000 people attending the four worship services every weekend in 2006 when Bob retired. Now through Bob Russell Ministries, Bob continues to preach at churches; conferences throughout the United States, provide guidance for church leadership, mentor other ministers and author Bible study videos for use in small groups. Learn More » |
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