09.22.21
Critical Theory and Christianity
“Bear ye one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
Last week we discussed Critical Theory and what it is. Basically, it is an effort to demonstrate the biblical admonition to be compassionate. This is done by dividing people into two groups: those who are oppressed and those who oppress. The more minority groups to which you belong (immigrant, poor, female, black, homosexual, etc.) the more oppressed you are and the more moral authority you possess. Critical Theory [CT] was developed by Marxists, and is implemented in the several areas such as ‘race’ and ‘gender.’
CT has widely permeated the media, education, Hollywood, and government. Many Christian denominations have also embraced CT. The question we wish to attempt to answer today is: should CT be embraced by Christianity?
In a word, no! Why? Because it differs from Christianity in three significant ways.
First, it offers a different view of humanity. While CT classifies people by race, gender, etc., Christianity does not. In the Christian worldview, we are all made in the image of God. While CT pits groups against each other, God sees us as equal—we are all sinners, we all deserve punishment, we are all equally valuable, and we can all receive God’s grace because Jesus died for the sins of the whole world (1 John 2:2).
Second, it offers a different view of sin. In the view of the Bible, sin is anything that violates God’s law, including unjust oppression. In the view of CT, the major sin is oppression. Things like discipleship, leadership, correction, and reproof are also sinful because they are all assertions of power. However jealousy, envy, bitterness and unforgiveness are all overlooked among those who are considered to be victims. In the Christian view, we are all guilty before God regardless of our race or income status. Oppression is just one of many sins we can commit before a holy God.
Third, It offers a different view of salvation. The Bible teaches that forgiveness can only be found in Christ for those who will repent and believe the gospel. In the view of CT, since only the oppressors are guilty, salvation is found in social justice and liberation in the here and now. ‘Liberation theology’ is something that has been a part of ‘Christian’ teaching for many years especially in Latin American countries.
So, there are many differences in the worldviews of Christianity and CT. Those who practice CT may have good intentions, but good intentions don’t get a person very far if what they are doing is wrong. I can try hard to please God, which is good, but if I don’t come to the Father through the Son, my intentions won’t amount to much. So yes, CT may be well-intentioned, but no, it is not compatible with Bible Christianity.