In the world of Christianity, there are those who faithfully preach the Word of God, upholding the core doctrines of the faith. However, there are also individuals and groups who, under the guise of sound doctrine, propagate beliefs that diverge from traditional Christianity. One such figure is Steven Anderson, and his movement, the New Independent Fundamental Baptists (New IFB). In this blog post, we'll delve into the doctrinal errors associated with Steven Anderson and his followers, shedding light on the potential dangers they pose to sound New Testament churches.
The Infiltration of Sound Churches
Missionary Jerry Jackson, among others, has sounded a warning regarding the errors propagated by Steven Anderson. Anderson's charisma and unwavering dogmatism have attracted followers, particularly those less versed in the intricacies of theology, leading them to believe they've found the ultimate truth. However, a closer look reveals a series of doctrinal errors that demand scrutiny.
Denial of the Imminent Return of Christ
One of the major doctrinal deviations is Anderson's denial of the imminent return of Christ, particularly the pre-tribulation rapture of the saints. This perspective departs from traditional Christian teachings and can impact believers' understanding of end-times events.
Disregard for God's Love for Israel
Anderson also denies God's enduring love for Israel and the Jewish people, instead claiming that all Old Testament promises to Israel now apply to the universal church. This stance reflects replacement theology, a viewpoint that has sparked theological debates for centuries.
Neglect of Repentance in Salvation
Another concerning belief held by Anderson is his denial of the necessity of repentance in salvation, overlooking clear biblical teachings on the subject. This departure from mainstream Christian doctrine can lead to confusion among believers.
Promotion of Infiltration and Seduction
Anderson promotes the infiltration and seduction of New Testament churches, disregarding the autonomy of each church. This approach can undermine the stability and purity of sound congregations.
Name-Calling and Denunciation
Perhaps most concerning is Anderson's tendency to label anyone who differs even slightly from his position as "infidels" and "heretics." This practice runs contrary to the scriptural call to correct and guide fellow believers with love and patience.
The Fruit of Andersonism
David Cloud aptly summarizes the consequences of following Anderson's teachings. Embracing these errors can lead to a loss of hope, confusion in biblical interpretation, and even division within churches. While not all divisions are necessarily wrong, those driven by error can be especially harmful to the body of Christ.
Contending with the New IFB
Anderson and the New IFB have every right to exist and preach their beliefs. However, their active efforts to draw people away from solid churches, particularly independent Baptist congregations, cannot be ignored. In doing so, they align more closely with the characteristics of a cult than a mainstream Christian movement.
In conclusion, it is essential for believers to exercise discernment and remain rooted in sound doctrine. By being aware of the doctrinal errors associated with Steven Anderson and the New IFB, we can guard against potential spiritual pitfalls and maintain the integrity of our faith.