In reverse order, the top 5 people who have influenced my theology. This is theology only, that is, the way I think about God and everything related to Him: His People, His Word, His Son, and His Spirit.
- 5) My Grandfather, T.P. Phipps – From a very early age, my grandfather instilled in me both the wrath and the grace of God. The dichotomy I could see not only in his preaching but in his life as well. He disciplined very lovingly, so to speak.
- 4) Eugene Peterson - His interpretation not only of Biblical text but of the Biblical message is inspiring and influential.
- 3) Rob Bell – Surprise pick here. But his back-to-our-roots theology has greatly influenced my view of the Christian life as we are to live it today. The afterlife is not the greatest thing – the abundant life is. It just so happens that we are able to live the abundant life forever.
- 2) John Calvin and Martin Luther - Ah yes, the classics. They have greatly influenced my theology, as they have us all, whether indirectly or directly.
- 1) Mark Driscoll- Driscoll has instilled in me two things that I think are key: 1) I’m a man. I need to act like it. It’s Biblical. and 2) Jesus is central to everything. I had never realized this previously, I’m ashamed to admit. But now, I realize that it’s so obvious, I don’t see how I even thought about anything without Him.
What about you? Anyone I may have forgotten? Someone who has influenced you in a great manner? Leave a comment or send me an email.
Hey man, nice blog.
I would add Tim Keller to your mix. IMHO, Keller is the most balanced theologian/pastor out there. Walks with humility, yet he is a genius, and has a great church in NYC.
Yes – Tim Keller is a great man. He’s definitely influenced me, especially with regard to urban ministry. Thanks for the comment, Chris!
I’m with you with everyone but Bell. I’d add D. Martyn Llyod-Jones,John R. W. Stott, Tim Keller, David Powlison, John Frame, and Wayne Grudem.
What’s wrong with a little Bell?
Man, I loved hearing about Dr. Stott at Catalyst, he’s a great thinker of our time, along with Tom Wright (N.T. Wright). Right or wrong as they may be, they’re asking great questions.
Derek,
It’s so funny how we tend to only align ourselves with like-minded folks. As if we can’t learn from various streams of Christianity.
Bell may have said a few things that I would disagree with, but the dude has taught so much about Jewish culture.
I’m planting a church in Austin, we may also go with the AG!
Looking forward to following your planting journey!
[...] Desert Father On: Top 5 People Who Have Most Influenced My Theology [...]
[...] A couple of days ago, I posted about the people who have influenced my doctrine. I would like to mention another (honorable mention, I guess): John Piper. He’s got some great stuff, and has influenced entire generation(s). Anyway, this post is dedicated to the people who have influenced the way I think about people. How I love them, care for them, discipline them, call them to repentance, and listen to them. This is a wide range of responsibilities (it gets even wider), but there is a wide range of people who have influenced me in this area. [...]