Mr Facing Both Ways

Posted on February 2, 2024 
Filed under Church of England, Culture wars, Theology

“In his book The Pilgrim’s Progress John Bunyan refers to a character called ‘Mr Facing Both Ways.’

As I reflected on the events of the past year and where they have left the Church of England it struck me that Bunyan’s name for this character is also an apt description of the current position of the Church of England.

On the one hand, the Church of England officially continues to adhere to (a) the traditional Christian doctrine of marriage and sexual ethics, and (b) the traditional Christian doctrine that  visible holiness of life should be required of Christian ministers.

On the other hand, since 17 December  last year it has contradicted (a) in terms of its liturgical practice. Furthermore, it seems certain that action by the House of Bishops will mean that in the coming year the Church of England will contradict traditional Christian doctrine further in area (a) and will also contradict it in area (b) as well. …”

– Martin Davie looks at the current situation in the Church of England and suggests how orthodox Evangelicals should respond.