What is a caricature? Merriam-Webster defines it as “exaggeration by means of often ludicrous distortion of parts or characteristics.”
When done with theological positions, exaggerations and distortions are usually a result of shallow or non-existent interaction with the positions being characterized. Instead broad-brushed generalizations are formed, usually because of opponents views, which are not carefully interacted with either!
To be fair, I’m also picking on my own theological persuasion camp just there’s no bias. Regardless of whether I agree or disagree with a position, it drives me nuts when it is not treated fairly.
And the only way we can do that is to actually engage with competing ideas and their proponents with the intent on understanding. Building strawmen doesn’t count.
Also, there is typically a range of belief within a particular position that often gets neglected when making sweeping generalized allegations.
So in no particular order…
1. Unconditional election in Calvinism means we are robots who God forces to choose him.
No Calvinist believes this or advocates it. Ask and read them and they’ll tell you the human will is involved. But the will is subject to illumination that only the Spirit can bring.
2. Cessationists don’t believe in miracles or the work of the Holy Spirit.
No, what cessationists don’t believe is that miraculous events are defined by gifts in the present. Cessationist actually have such a high view of God that they believe he’s powerful enough to speak through his written word and can still govern affairs without the extras.
And most cessationists really do believe in miracles and that the Holy Spirit is very much active! But again there is a range.
3. Arminians promote me-centered theology.
Not as far as Wesley is concerned, or any other Arminian who truly loves the Lord and seeks to honor his Word and His church.
4. Egalitarians don’t have a high view of Scripture and seek to support their agenda.
Two words: Gordon Fee and hermeutics. Nuff said.
Oh wait, two more – mutual submission. Can we please concede that there are Christ-honoring folks on both sides of the equation who are submitted to his authority?
