Talk About It

Comments

Below are comments about the Manifesto.

Brian

Follower of Jesus Christ

Socrates said "the unexamined life is not worth living". Paul said "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you unless, of course, you fail the test?" 2 Cor 13:5 Any self-examination is worth the effort. Prayerfully, every Christian will follow the example of the Manifesto, and discern where they stand in relations to the Great Commandment and the Great Commission. Especially as it relates to the 21st Century culture of America.

M. ReeAnn

Elder, Church of the Nazarene

This is a welcome, sane, refreshing breath of quality Christian and Evangelical thinking. I am so grateful for people who at least take a stand, are not blown and tossed by the wind, make a statement about what they believe, and call us to civility! The American Church needed this document and all of its forthcoming revisions. Thank you!

Glenn

Sad that the Manifesto has to be so American in orientation. There are a lot of evangelicals outside of the USA; in fact there are considerably more. Was it really necessary to make this an American document?

Charles Vaden

KCB Intl

"My people perish for lack of vision"! As a Christian sociologist I am baffled by the complete abandonment of Jesus Christs admonition to "seek first the Kingdom and its rightousness. A kingdom is a society led by a king. A society is a group of people organized for a common cause. There are 2.5 billion Chriastians. I offer the following as starters for building the Kingdom of God on earth. 1 An ideology: Love the Lord.. 2 Form of gov.: Thy will be done 3 Economy: (mgt of resources), Whatever you do unto the least you do unto me. 4 Accounting system: ie. money, Give and it shall be given... We have the keys to the storehouse, we have the spirit of truth and it is the Father's good pleasure. Lets build the Kingdom and He will come! Im willing, You?

allent

Anthropologist/Attorney

As a born-again athiest, I welcome this document as an effort to overcome the hypocricy of the self-annointed [lower case e]vangelicals. The relativism expressed, i.e. tolerance for diversity, and the notion of a open plaza for public discourse permitting the rational and the faithful to congregate is a powerful notion. AT

Coy Lynn Hill

Chaff not one word of scripture in the whole document.

Philip M. Miller

Student / Dallas Theological Seminary

Check out the Facebook Group for those who have signed An Evangelical Manifesto: https://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=14715493436

Chris Wisehart

MGySgt USMC Retired

Having the Gift of Wisdom I must say this is too wordy and wonder if hearts are in the right place here. Does this serve our Lord or promote ourselves. Yes, some have made us look bad but we need to be more concerned with Jesus continuous glorious victory than defending or building the honor of Evangelicals. Why seek to capitalize a word I fail to find in scripture. Let us stick to the Bible as our doctrinal statement and stop making it say everything anyone wants.

John Boggis (UK)

Evangelical Theological Student, Oxford Brookes University, UK

As a British Evangelical I welcome this Evangelical Manifesto. Whilst it clearly originates in the spiritual, culural and political context of the USA its relevence to the worldwide Evangelical identity is equally apparent. About the only time in recent years when I uttered so many loud amens was when I studied the theological output (very considerable) of Donald Bloesch whose writings I would recommend to all Evangelicals.

Richard Nelson

Pastor to Korean Youth, Jeon-ju South Korea

Excellent! A gift of God not just to the Christian church in general, but to also let the world know who we truly are. There is much misconception and misunderstanding due to an unfair characterization of the movement. I truly believe our Lord will use this wonderful statement to undo some of that misunderstanding.

Kenny Ching

attorney, writer

Wonderful! Thank you for this inspiringly accurate, discerning, and important document.

Hank Suverkrup

Clergy

Truly impressed, and for sure needed

Chuck Enscoe

I find this Evanglical Manifesto quite interesting and their stated beliefs the closest thing I have read that I could align my way of thinking with. However the irony is that Evangelicals want "never to be completely equated with any party, partisan ideology, econimic system or nationality." (pg 15) and yet with this manifesto have lebeled themselves with something to be completely aligned with. I align myself with their scriptural beliefs but resist being labeled anything other than Christian.

Bruce Lofland

I think that trying to rescue the term "Evangelical" is not only hopeless but pointless. Why divide Christians further? We already have Catholics and Protestants, Baptists and Methodists. Evangelical is just another form of division or perhaps even elitism.

Mark L. Nygaard

Student and Staff Member, Bethel Seminary

Of course, no manifesto can be perfect (and even if one could, I would surely not be able to recognize it), but I agree with this one enough to sign. I especially appreciate (1) its assertion that Evangelicalism must be defined theologically and not politically; confessionally and not culturally, (2) its confession of past and present betrayals of beliefs by behavior, (3) its attempt to situate Evangelicalism between such false and problematic extremes as liberal revisionismand conservative fundamentalism, privatized faith and politicized faith, and a sacred public squareand a naked public square, (3) its recognition of the significance of globalization in the world today, and (4) its preference for the way of Jesus over the way of Constantine.

Frank Rizzo

How can you have a manifesto that claims to speak for a group of people, and yet within it there is a statement, that says no one speaks for this group, least of all someone that claims to speak for this group! Besides a religious statement like your manifesto is called a credo, not a manifesto. A manifesto is used when the main subject is political in nature. Your manifesto is decidedly against such a thing.

V1ktor

Glad to see secularism beginning to stem inside religious community. Small steps, but religion will be gone from government affairs and politics once and for all.

Bryan

Sadly, John 3:16 should be the only "manifesto" of evangelicalism needed.

Mark Wanamaker

Computer Programmer

Let us hear the word of God.The Manifesto is a noble attempt to show how Evangelicals may stand as their own people, and also, influence the world as they should. A second or third revision may do it, as missing pieces are added to the puzzle. The 5/7/08 version won't do the job, as it tries too hard to appease the sophisticated unbeliever (many of whom identify themselves as Evangelical), and fails to draw the firm lines so sorely needed in church circles. The Christian's call is less to live with deepest differences (pg 3) and more to serve his fellow Christian, as one of many branches on a vine. Setting a clear example of the Gospel is the call; getting along with outsiders is not guaranteed. The Manifesto most unfortunately uses a leftwing slur when it calls abortion and marriage single-issue politics(pg 13). Yes, there are ministries solely devoted to these issues; but also, there are no individuals or congregations who think such issues alone are important. The media slants these as anti instead of pro, as if these qualities were not 2 sides of a coin. A positive outlook would recognize that some ministries (not represented among the charter signers) have done a terrific job of speaking the truth in love, with great patience and civility. We should follow their example. We the Evangelicals should not distance ourselves from the fundamentalists, a vague label for people who just might think most clearly of all. If we think the culture wars attributed to them are harmful, imagine the abominations of our time going forth with no resistance at all! As it is, unborn children are murdered routinely, and the public square is increasingly clogged with pornographic imagery. These cultural matters don't fall out of fashion, and cannot be ignored just because we know of other problems worldwide. In an age when all belief blurs into the great commandment to Be Nice, we need those creeds. Let's bring the Nicene and the Apostle's back and use them as originally intended, to separate the Faith from all unbelief. The next Manifesto should cleanly distinguish the Faith from Error in all its 21st century flavors, much as a creed would do. There are places to apply the yardstick, the media news coverage, entertainment, the arts, the school textbooks, the college course material, and, yes, the political issues. The Evangelical should be at least as fiercely skeptical of beliefs outside the fold, as of his own beliefs. Evangelicals have been inhibited from sharing their faith because high-placed unbelievers have contradicted. They must regain the boldness of the early Church, to call any and all experts into question, for with strong faith comes the strength to doubt errors. The Manifesto rightly says Evangelicals should examine themselves. Such examination might begin with the seminaries where its pastors are trained. More than a few denominations have been destroyed from the root up by its leaders indoctrinated in unbelief. We should examine our own schools in mission-critical fashion. We might then sift out the beliefs many of us gathered at the secular universities and colleges. I appreciate the call for an open and civil public square, as the pressing issues too often cannot be discussed rationally at all, even in the safe haven of the local church. I challenge the signers of the Manifesto to create taboo-free forums on the subjects of:Human life, Marriage and sexual behavior, Race and ethnicity, Origin of all life which kinds of evolution are supported by evidence, and which less well supported. Theories of intelligent design. Taxes and property rights. Education Influences of media and entertainment. The nonEvangelicals would also appreciate an escape from the current information blackout on the important issues of the day. So, we have some pieces of the puzzle:The Faith stands on its own, and is not a mere outworking of a political party or contemporary issue.The Evangelical should apply his faith in public life, as he acts, speaks and votes. Some pieces to add: The Evangelical has given his soul to Jesus Christ, and so owes no unthinking service to any expert on any subject, who would deny the Faith. However diplomatically, the Evangelical must stand firm on matters of Truth. Sometimes that means to the point of death. The Evangelical's service is to the Household of Faith, and then, to those outside it. Many have already seen that, done this way, the abundance of giving to the outside is uncountable. Where we see it, we should follow the example. Let us spare our young people the cruelty of unclear guidance.

Jaime

There is a remnant of us who see through your foolishness. Read your scriptures and not your manifes

Derek

Why were polarizing left leaning evangelicals like Brian McLaren (to call him an evangelical is charitable) and Jim Wallis asked to sign this, while prominent right leaning evangelicals left out of this process? This seems like an effort to marginalize right leaning Christians. Further, it does damage to those who have been fighting for the rights of the unborn.

David

I signed the document and I like it and agree with it. However, I believe that it was weak in the area of addressing evangelicalism as an American civil religion. I know that it was addressed but to me it was not clarified strongly enough. As I watch the news I see Evangelicals portrayed here and globally as Christians who blindly support American policy and who use their faith to justify American civil government particularly the war. Unfortunately the government is often majority Republican so Evangelical is also seen as promoting republican policy. I think the point that I am trying to make is the fact that we are citizens of Heaven first and foremost and that God does not have a chosen nation was not clear enough. In the section that declared our faults and failures, we were far too soft in addressing the damage we have done to our Gospel witness by elevating the Flag above the cross and equating loyalty to America with Faith in God. The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdom of our Lord and Christ and he shall reign forever and ever. Hallelujah. Evangelical does not mean unquestionably patriotic.

R J Pearson

The most noteworthy line from the Manifesto: "We desire not just to speak the Good News but to embody and be good news to our world and to our generation." This is encouraging. When Christians begin to cross the boundaries of their own tradition(s) and compassionately touch the "lepers" of today; when Christians realize "thy neighbor" is frequently not always the fellow Christian but the non-Christian ("Samaritan", if you will) who just as eagerly exercises godly compassion in the spirit of Jesus and for the sake of "God's Kingdom"; when Christians begin to realize that (oh no!) yes the stones are actually crying out; when Christians stop engaging in their ever-constant self-identity crises and "repent" of their annoying habit of self-congratulatory competition and one-upmanship with other Christians (Jesus couldn't stand it when his disciples were always competing, so learn the lesson folks); then that is a good day. As for this Manifesto . . . well, unlike so much of the drivel poured out by too many "prophets" these days, it at least is deserving of a quiet (albeit cautious) second glance.

Chris

This "manifesto" is a poor draft. None of the Evangelical distinctions contain scriptural support. Also, worrying about liberalism and fundamentalism is far less vital than being dead to sin(Romans 6-8) which should be our disinction.

Robert D

Just a couple of comments 1) Holiness - not one mention about Holiness - which we are called to in Jesus Christ. The glaring issue with the Church today is there is no talk about Holiness or Sin - which the Gospels, and letters spent more time talking about than anything else. 2) I agree that the Church should not belong to a particular party - but be careful - while both parties are secular, have nothing in common with Christ - only the conservative party even gives the Christian a chance to have their voice heard when it comes to matters of faith, and living in peace - as Paul has told us to strive for. The liberal party is antethetical to any forms of faith. By the very support of the liberal party - we give up all that we attest to. We need to work, really, independent of both. But, I think Christian leaders - liberal and conservative are too attracted to power to do that. I love the Union Gospel mission which is deviod of goverment funds - they truly can be for Christ and Christ alone. I applaud the effort to "re-reform" the church - but this looks like more a change to meld with today's culture than no - as the manifesto states.

John Nelson

This is an important and timely document - I thank God for the leadership of these distinguished sponsors. This can go a long way toward refocusing Evangelicals on our calling and also resuing the word "evangelical" from the political arena.

Peter

This is a clear-headed call to sanity and a healthy faith. Interestingly, it comes about week short of the anniversary of the death of a great religious polarizer of Americans.

Frank

Where are the woman? Authors? Signatories?

Kevin

This document is well written and outlines the very basic and main focus of the Christian faith that we should be adhering too. That being said after reading some of the comments presented here it seems that there are still a great deal of deep rooted differences, primaily political, that we still have to overcome. Unfortunately, it is one of the things that will destroy our integrity, as Christians, if we don't do something about it. Please read the manifesto again and work with the study guide to understand the true meaning of what we as evangelicals are being called to do.

Joe D.

It should be evident to all Christians that we already have a complete Manifesto, namely, the Bible. When Jesus was tempted by Satan, He answered with scripture. When our values and/or motives are questioned by the culture (as they always will be), we should answer with scripture - not with a new "Manifesto"! I understand why many Christian leaders are not signing on to this document that is probably just another "false gospel".

Bobby Sprinkle

I'm not sure how to approach the Manifesto. It seems to me that it is an impossible document. We don't want a naked square or a sacred one; we can't be liberal or fundamental; etc., etc., etc. The trick there is picking the middle ground. They appear to have left too much space and not enough at the same time. While I decry the stance of the modern church I'm not sure what this document accomplishes. Saying there should be a middle ground is easy. Picking the actual spot is the hard part. This document doesn't solve that.

SWSmith

It seems that while there is much commendable in WHAT this document says, there are a number of questions about HOW this document was produced. Was a broad and diverse selection of Christian brothers and sisters invited to particiapte in this effort? IF relationships are important (do we agree they are, whether in our families, our churches, even our government and political institutions?), THEN we must always be concerned with HOW we produce the WHAT.

Kevin Fitzsimmons

It is sad to see that heterosexism is embeded in this document. They weren't joking when they said they didn't represent all Evangelicals.

R. Todd Mangum

The statement does a good job of trying to strike a balance between legitimate concerns in tension. May be impossible to do perfectly or in a way that is beyond critique or reservation. Nevertheless, I am please to sign my affirmation of it as representing well my beliefs, commitments and aspirations, and the kind of "evangelicalism" I'd want to encourage, participate in, and foster.

Terri

A Civil public square is a great idea on in which MCC has been fighting for for almost 40 years. Sadly too many people have baggage from religion to get past inclusive faith. One thing I know is that Jesus taught us to love one another. He didn't say anything about loving commitments and loving relationship.

Patricia Spillman

I agree that the gospel of Jesus Christ is the first priority of the church. However, moral values and caring about the sanctity of life and the lifestyles of the gay people who have been led astray by people who have control of our laws is part of the Gospel message. These people and us need Jesus to heal them and to resist the temptations that are being forced on our country using our constitution as a force for evil and separating us from God. That is why we can't stand by and allow our present law makers, meaning the liberals who do not care about the family or babies or the guilt that being gay brings especially when they are told that they were born to be gay. And the guilt that women and young girls feel after they have been lied to and urged or forced to have an abortion is guilt so awful that they have thoughts of suicide when they realize the truth. The truth that they will never see their baby or touch and hug their baby. Women in China are trying to get out of China because of the law that forces them to have an abortion beecause they are not allowed to have more than two children. Are these women going to come to America just to be faced with an organization called planned parenthood is trying to force abortions on women. Their reason is money and cloning. Do you honestly believe that God sanctions homosexuality and abortion and cloning? I believe he hates these sins because they not only cause stds and babies to be murdered, they separate them from God. That is why these people have a special need for Jesus. You can't heal people by patting them on the back and saying that's okay and let them continue in their sin. They must be told the truth about what they are doing and how to come to Jesus. It is wrong to ignore the sin that is killing them.

David

Why don't the seven emphases of evangelical belief include the fact that Jesus was resurrected?

Bethany

I think this is a step in the right direction. It will definetly help the Evangelicals gain more allies than enemies.

Martin

Sadly I doubt either Calvin or Luther would recognize many things that have been portrayed here as "evangelical"... Anabaptist perhaps, but not evangelical. The fact that Jim Wallis a leftist radical whose faith is a mockery of evangelicalism has been allowed to sign it makes the whole project seem suspect sadly. Given some of the "names" promoting this document, I had hoped for something much better.

Steve McConkey

42-9-3-0 42 million abortion deaths worldwide each year (not counting the morning-after pill), 9 for starvation, 3 for AIDS, 0 for global warming. The evangelical church continues to leave the abortion problem behind as the church becomes weaker in order to raise more money from the unconverted. Many churches have more unconverted people than converted, as churches decline in growth throughout the United States. Many mega churches are not preaching the truth and are full of professing Christians who are not saved. Many people are hungry for the truth but are discouraged because many churches are run by 'political machines' interested in the bottom line instead of Biblical truth. We got into this position because men have quit preaching the truth and have relied on the social sciences instead (psychology, sociology, economics, geography, history, political science, etc). God can use social sciences but not when they take the place of the Bible. There is forgiveness only in Jesus Christ, not our humanitarian efforts. Many humanitarian organizations have quit telling people that Jesus Christ is the only answer. Seventeen percent of the staff from one top humanitarian organization are from false religions. They give aid to people but are not telling victims the truth. By doing this, victims live on earth longer only to die without Jesus Christ. Then that person spends eternity in hell. Evangelicals need to get back to the truth. We need to be involved in humanitarian efforts but never stop telling people the truth. If we cannot share the truth openly, we should then find another humanitarian effort where we can. "Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth" (1 Corinthians 13:6). Love and truth go hand-in-hand. Sometimes the modern church wants love but not the truth that goes with it. Not ashamed of the gospel, Steve McConkey, 4WCA News, www.4wca.org and www.subterraneanWATCH.org

Kathy

I've only just read the summary, but you've put into words what I've struggled to for years! THANK you for giving me a voice. The term Evangelical has been so used and abused...both by those who claim it and those who defame it. while I'm proud to claim the term Evangelical in all the ways you have described... I've grown weary of getting painted with the same brush as those who wield their faith like club. Finally a document that says what is on my heart. Thank you thank you thank you!

Terry Wright

Instead of worrying about what the world thinks about a term that is not even in the Scriptures, Christians should start worrying about the spiritual decay that is happening in the Church. How can we "evangelize" when most churches have 50% divorced adults, women dressing like prostitutes, people watching inappropriate things on television/movies, and the cultural decay in the so-called "youth movement". The "church" by it's actions does not look Christian at all. God does not care about the term "evangelical" he cares about how we are living. Thanks for listening.

Scott

I believe you have failed to draw a necessary distinction when it comes to the re-emergence of "social justice" aka a reinvented social gospel among evangelicals. Christ NEVER taught that Christians were to use gov't to force others to finance His work to do his work or impose our values on others. It has been the LEFT, not the right, that has done this in America over the past 70 years. Wallis and others who advocate gov't social programs in the name of Christianity are guilty of attempting to impose their religious values on the masses. They should be rejected as peddlers of a false gospel. Sadly, I cannot in good conscience sign this document though I agree with much that it says.

Jey

To All: It is important to remember that this is not a comprehensive theological treatise. It is what it states to be; and you are welcome to disagree with it. Arguing about subtleties of doctrine, however, while important, is for other avenues and different purposes. I for one find this a very clear, powerful, and timely statement - especially contra those who attempt to pigeon-hole in us inaccurate ways.

Bill Holston

Well said Brothers. It's about time we started talking about good news. It is after all, good news, the Yeshua came to save sinners of whom I am chief.

Chris

As a former Evangelical (current mainline Christian) I thought the Manifesto was at its best when it was self-reflective and calling Evangelicals back to their core principals. However I was also disappointed to see that the document still defines Evangelicals largely over/against other religious traditions and ideologies which are inevitably treated negatively and painted with a broad brush. Is there something in the Evangelical DNA that requires it to be aggressive towards competing traditions even while trying to define and reform itself?

David

This is great. I am proud to be an Evangelical.

Donna

So much energy put into something that I couldn''t care less about. OK, I guess that isn't helpful, but why so much effort in definitions? Love God, Love your neighbor as yourself. That's enough definition for me, and more than enough work for a lifetime.

R Farnum

I find it interesting that this "Manifesto", a document which bemoans the replacement of "sola Scriptura" with "sola cultura", is itself devoid of Biblical quotations.

Lee Hoy

Wow!! Finally!!! I can only say that I rarely read something that is so poignant in what it says and that while addressing a complex topic it presents the view in simple terms. It is my hope that all followers will give serious consideration to the implications of this document and that non-followers alike will see that the heart of the message. I want to express my gratitude for capturing the "flag" and replanting it with love and generosity in the middle of the playing field.

Bennett

It is a very good document. I don't see any major problems with it yet. It will be interesting to see how many will follow this bold step of leadership.

David S Muir

I cannot too highly recommend this Manifesto to other believers of all faiths and none. It points a way forward with love, compassion and a vision of intellectual integrity into the public arena of life and ideas where we Evangelicals have been tragically and sadly missing for so long. And sadly if we have contributed it is with a large dose of negativity and foreboding that we have done so. Christianity and christian life and lifestyle should be overwhelmingly positive as we are life affirming at heart or that is to say at our Biblical base. Let us then return with tears to God admitting our failings and trusting that our wish for prsonal and civil Reformation and renewal may not be in vain and that we can speak out and live out the love that He has for everyone of us Christian or non Christian, bond or free and as Saul now changed to Paul be once more able to speak as Saul now Paul did on Mars hill speak out about the God who did not destroy him but saved him by Grace alone and not for favour,place or power that Saul possessed.

Craig Thornton

The Manifesto is very well written. Very interesting and educational. Being a Atheist it is always beneficial to understand the true motivation of a religion. Thanks

Matt Proctor

I found the words of this document inspiring, convicting, and helpful. This is a grand vision, but like Christ, they offer hope. I pray that my years in ministry reflect such a vision.

Ellen

Dear Sir: I would like to know more about the individuals who have worked on the manifesto. Have all these people truly "trusted" Christ as personal savior, before they can write about such issues? You do realize that not every theologian, pastor, etc. Are not all born again believers.

Alden Poetker

First, I wish to express my deepest appreciation to all who have contributed to this manifesto. I was somewhat nervous about its content, but rather than leaving me saddened, it generated tears of joy as it articulated so well where my heart, mind and soul are in these complex days. Secondly, I sincerely hope it is not used as another focal point for division among Evangelicals. I believe its overall focus, thrust and intent is something we can all rally around and hopefully sign on to - faithful discipleship to Jesus Christ.

Brian Adams

First, I am not exactly an evangelical, but more of a mainline Protestant Christian. I do, however, very much agree with some of the criticisms of the mainline church in this document. In particular, many mainline liberals do tend to give in to culture at the expense of adhering closely to the faith, and deemphasize spreading the good news in favor of a more secularized mission of making the world a better place. So in the sense of wanting to spread and live out the good news, I am wholeheartedly an evangelical and see needed reform in the mainline liberal church. However, I have some issues with this manifesto, and so I suppose, with Evangelicalism: 1. I think right belief is emphasized way too much. "Believing" in the Greek has connotations of trusting and faith, and intellectual belief is only a small part of it. Over-emphasizing belief is, I believe, a modernist, culture-based, reactionary distortion of Christianity. 2. The manifesto says Evangelicals want to respect all varieties of belief, Christian or non-Christian, and decries people who believe their way is the only way and try to coerce people to believe like them. Maybe Evangelicals don't want to coerce people, but in the beliefs section, the manifesto states strongly that Jesus is the only way to God. How can a person be so absolutely sure that she is right and still be open-minded and respectful? I tend to agree with Brian McLaren, who I paraphrase here, as saying "I am sure I am wrong about some of the things I believe most strongly." Wouldn't a little more skepticism be a healthy thing for Evangelicals, in order to be more open-minded and respectful? Moreover, you can grow a lot by being open to diverse opinions and recognizing that you may be wrong. Also, the belief that Jesus is the only way would tend to connote that non-Christians are going to hell. Is that what Evangelicals believe? If so, how is telling people they're going to hell if they don't believe like you spreading Good News and not coercing them? 3. Does the belief in sola scriptura and the total truthfulness of the Bible become a soft fundamentalism, as in "not every word is literally true, but the meaning is true"? If so, I think this is again a modernist distortion of Christianity that wants to enclose God in the box that is the Bible and makes an idol of the Bible, i.e. the Bible says that God is some certain way, and so God is limited to these words. I think God necessarily transcends our own words, thought patterns, beliefs, feelings, etc. Also, if the Bible is totally truthful, what is the truthful, Godly, holy meaning of passages that are factually incorrect (a rabbit chewing its cud, when a rabbit does not have a cud) or that are horribly disturbing (the commands to stone homosexuals or other sinners)? 4. Finally, if you really want to build bridges with non-Evangelicals, I thought the language in the manifesto was pretty harsh, calling liberals sinful and the like. Yes, the manifesto does admit to some problems with Evangelicals, but still more emphasis was put on what's wrong with everyone else in a way that is not open-minded to these traditions. I recognize that I disagree with Evangelicals, but as I said, though I have passionate beliefs, you may be right, and I may be wrong. I do not want to assume that you are sinful for the way you are different from me. In general, I really did like the document, but had problems with these areas. I'd like to hear from Evangelicals to understand if my perceptions about them are correct and to understand their views better. God bless, Brian