What is Pragmatism?

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What’s Your Question? for May 27, 2009

What is Pragmatism?

John MacArthur said pragmatism “is determined by practical consequences…usefulness is the standard of what is good.” He said “Churches are allowing drama, music, recreation, entertainment, self-help programs…everything seems to be in fashion in the church except biblical preaching” (Ashamed of the Gospel, p. xii). Winford Claiborne said: “Pragmatism has led many churches – including some churches of Christ – to spend hundreds of thousands dollars on gymnasiums, exercise equipment, musical extravaganzas, having dramas instead of sermons, engaging in dance in the worship…If such practices draw large crowds, publicize the church in the community and increase the contribution, they become a role model for other churches” (The Spiritual Sword, Oct., 1998). This is the result of people not knowing the Biblical distinction between individual and congregational action. Bodily exercise is profitable (1 Tim. 4:8), but it is not the work of the church.