This article consists of the unedited Introduction to my Believers
Under the Law of Christ; hence the references to that volume. Let
me explain why I have published this material separately under
this title. While some might think my use of ‘decision time’ a bit
dramatic, that I am wrong to polarise the issue in hand, or that I
am wrong even to raise it, I beg to differ. A division of opinion
among new-covenant theologians exists: I am not making that
division by addressing the issues involved. And since the
question is of great importance, one with far-reaching
consequences, which consequences will not go away by wishful
thinking or ignoring them, playing the ostrich is not an option.
Then again, although I concentrate on new-covenant theology, I
know that similar discussions are taking place elsewhere – not
excluding among the Reformed. Indeed, there is nothing new
under the sun: this debate has raged, more than once, long before
our time. Nevertheless, I feel my responsibility to address current
trends as they arise within my own circle. Hence the book and
this article. And although this article is, as I say, an introduction
to the book, it does, I think, stand on its own. I publish it in the
hope that it may help crystallise the issue, and encourage many to
look further into this vital topic. |
