Summary of "The Briefing with Albert Mohler"
Episode: Friday, November 15, 2024
Hosted by R. Albert Mohler, Jr., "The Briefing" offers cultural commentary from a Biblical perspective, analyzing current events through a Christian worldview. In the November 15, 2024 episode, Mohler delves into the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury, explores the state of the Anglican Communion, and addresses listener questions on topics ranging from relationships to virtue.
1. Resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury
[00:04]
Albert Mohler initiates the episode by announcing the resignation of Justin Welby, the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury, amid a scandal related to church sex abuse. While Welby wasn't directly charged with sexual misconduct, he faced accusations for failing to take decisive action upon learning about widespread abuse within the Church of England and the broader Anglican Communion.
Mohler emphasizes the historical significance of the Archbishop of Canterbury, explaining its role as the senior cleric in the Church of England and the head of the Anglican Communion, which comprises approximately 85 million Anglicans globally. He underscores the unique position of the Archbishop, who navigates both religious and political landscapes within an Erastian system where the monarch holds the title of Supreme Governor of the Church of England.
Notable Quote:
"The Archbishop of Canterbury is not only the head cleric in the Church of England... but also at the head of what is known as The Anglican Communion." [05:30]
2. Dynamics within the Anglican Communion
Mohler outlines the theological diversity within the Anglican Communion, highlighting the tension between liberal factions, such as the Episcopal Church in the United States, and conservative branches, particularly in the Global South regions like sub-Saharan Africa. This division became evident when the Episcopal Church appointed an openly gay bishop, a move that was met with staunch opposition from more conservative Anglican churches.
He points out that the Anglican Communion serves as a theological parable, reflecting broader cultural and ideological conflicts. The resignation of Archbishop Welby, influenced by both internal church pressures and external political forces, exemplifies the challenges faced by a communion grappling with varying interpretations of scripture and modern societal norms.
Notable Quote:
"You also have Keir Starmer, the British Prime Minister, very publicly refusing to offer the Archbishop of Canterbury any endorsement whatsoever that he should stay in office." [12:45]
3. Justin Welby's Tenure and Controversies
Delving into Welby's background, Mohler describes him as someone with a rich history in finance and business before pursuing the priesthood. Appointed as Archbishop in 2013, Welby's early clerical career was marked by clear evangelical stances, particularly concerning homosexuality and biblical doctrines on gender.
However, as Archbishop, Welby is criticized for theological accommodation, especially regarding same-sex unions. His shift from defending traditional biblical positions to supporting blessings for same-sex relationships is seen by Mohler as indicative of a broader theological collapse within the Church of England.
Notable Quote:
"You go from clearly articulating, defining and defending a biblical position on the impossibility of same sex marriage, then you go to offering an official church blessing for those same relationships." [22:10]
4. State of the Church of England
Mohler paints a grim picture of the Church of England's current state, describing it as a "parable of theological collapse" and noting a significant decline in attendance. He attributes these woes to the intertwining of theology and politics within a state church framework, leading to compromised leadership and diluted doctrinal stances.
He expresses concern over the selection process for Welby's successor, anticipating political pressures that may prioritize inclusivity over theological clarity. The possibility of appointing the first female Archbishop of Canterbury is highlighted as a likely outcome, reflecting the church's liberal trajectory.
Notable Quote:
"When you have this kind of state church, things are going to go badly... you are increasingly looking at a parable of theological compromise and you're looking at a metaphor for theological surrender." [35:20]
5. Listener Q&A Segment
a. Advice for Young Women Seeking Future Spouses
Question from a 17-year-old girl in North Carolina:
She inquires about what qualities to seek in a future spouse amidst perceived immaturity among her peers.
Mohler's Response:
Mohler advises seeking a Christian young man of maturity, faith, and character who can lead spiritually, provide, and demonstrate genuine conviction. He emphasizes the importance of shared faith and the capacity for mutual growth in grace.
[50:15]
Notable Quote:
"You need to marry a Christian young man of maturity and courage and compassion, of love and of character and of ability." [52:30]
b. Health Conditions in Relationships
Question from a man regarding ending a relationship upon discovering a partner's manageable health condition.
Mohler's Response:
He condemns the decision to end relationships over manageable health issues, highlighting the biblical commitment to stand by one another "in sickness and in health." Mohler underscores the importance of prioritizing faithfulness and compassion over superficial criteria.
[60:40]
Notable Quote:
"In sickness and in health is exactly what a husband and a wife are called to when you think about faithfulness one to the other." [62:05]
c. Virtue in Classical Philosophers
Question from a 17-year-old in Georgia:
She asks whether classical thinkers like Plato and Aristotle can teach true virtue given their lack of access to the Bible.
Mohler's Response:
He acknowledges that pagans can exhibit true virtue through what he terms "common grace," reflecting inherent moral knowledge implanted by God. However, he differentiates between earthly virtue and biblical righteousness, asserting that true righteousness is attainable only through the imputed righteousness of Christ.
[70:20]
Notable Quote:
"They are virtuous because they're virtuous because they're measured against a standard of the absolutely morally perfect Creator." [72:45]
6. Conclusion
Mohler wraps up the episode by encouraging continued listener engagement and emphasizing the importance of upholding biblical truths amidst cultural shifts. He reiterates his appreciation for the Anglican tradition's musical and liturgical heritage while lamenting its current theological compromises.
Notable Quote:
"The Church must protect the vulnerable... That includes children, it also includes others." [80:00]
For more insights and updates, listeners are encouraged to visit Albert Mohler's website, follow him on Twitter, or explore associated educational institutions like the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Boyce College.