Comparison Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Comparison Paper - Essay Example There are things new and exciting to some, strange and threatening to others, that have accelerated changes in our way of life. These two schools of thought, apparently in reaction to the changing socio-technical landscape, appear to hurtle headlong into each other. However, as in all discourses, this paper shall seek a reconciliation in principle between them in the context of present-day life. It will be noted that Fosdick used the term â€Å"fundamentalist† to describe the group of people whom we refer to here as â€Å"traditionalist,† for purposes of avoiding the negativity of recent connotations conveyed by the term â€Å"fundamentalist†. Basically, both authors contend on the ground of Christian congregationalism. They express their adherence to the Christian faith, except that they have varying views on what the Christian faith should encompass. The traditionalist view elaborated by Machen holds the Christian faith as defined by institutions, and teachings that have been handed down with the wisdom of the generations must remain essentially intact. Incorporation of beliefs that run counter to this body of beliefs essentially negate the Christian faith and erode its moral ascendancy over non-Christians until nothing differentiates one from the other. On the other hand, the liberal view discussed by Fosdick admits of new truths, and new ways of understanding old truths, and that such new knowledge enhances and deepens understanding of the Faith. Under this view, people could, despite differences of opinion, co-exist in one church, and the Christian label should not be denied anybody. As a point of observation, it is evident that Machen is not so much against change as he is for preserving definitive core beliefs against this change, while the liberal view welcomes changes as part of a gradual, shifting development. The traditionalist is for continuity, which the liberal is