What is Socinianism and why does it matter to the Christian? In fact, why should it matter to anyone? Is it orthodox or a doctrine we should be wary of? I ran across the term Socinianism while reading John MacArthur’s book, “Ashamed of the Gospel.”
Of course I’d heard it before but hadn’t paid it any attention. But, given the subject matter of the book, I knew it couldn’t be good. Not saying I’m clever at all!
Actually, MacArthur mentioned Socinianism in reference to Robert Schindler’s article “Andover Theology” in The Sword and the Trowel. Andover Theological Seminary had been founded in response to Socinianismat Harvard. Sadly, Andover eventually went the way of Harvard. Read more about it HERE.
What is Socianism?
According to GotQuestions?
Socinianism is an unorthodox form of non-trinitarianism that was developed around the same time as the Protestant Reformation (1517-1648) by Italian humanist Lelio Sozzini and later promulgated by his cousin, Fausto Sozzini. In modern times Socinianism has been referred to as psilanthropism, the view that Jesus was merely human (from the Greek psilo meaning “merely/only” and anthropos meaning “man/human being”), a view rejected by the First Council of Nicaea…continue reading
Ligonier Ministries,
Protestants fiercely defended the traditional Christian doctrine of God during the time of the Reformation. The writings of the Reformers are filled with defenses of the Trinity and arguments against contemporary heretical groups such as the Socinians, who denied the deity of Christ. Part and parcel of their defense of the Trinity, however, is the recognition that merely defending the deity of Christ is not enough to give us the biblical doctrine of God. More must be said about how Christ, who is God incarnate, is related to God the Father, who has not taken on flesh…continue reading
From Truth for Today,
[In Socinianism] “The main office of Christ was [only] prophetical. He taught a new law. Gave an example of a holy life. Taught the personality of God. And illustrated the doctrine of a future life by His own resurrection.” (A.A.Hodge, summarizing the Socinian view).
It follows that if Jesus was only a human, and not God (John 1:1-14; Phil 2:5-10; Col 2:8-9; Heb 1:1-10); there is no Trinity (Unitarianism), no hell, and no need for the Atonement. This means that Scripture is broken (not true), and that is why Socinianism is a dangerous heresy.
Forms of Socinianism are still extant today. You will find it in “Progressive Christian” movements etc. In fact various “Christian” cults which deny Christ’s divinity hold forms of it. These modern examples might well be called Neo-Socinianism.
But by any name, it is heretical. Beware.
Maranatha!
Further resources
Why is the Doctrine of the Trinity Important?
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