Quote:
Remember, semper reformanda: "always reforming." To be truly reformed is to be in a constant state of humbly submitting what you think the text says before the text itself since the textnot your, or your favorite Reformed preacher's, understanding of the textis inspired and authoritative.
Amen.
I am likely not helpful with unpacking the perceived arrogance that may stem from the Reformed churches that some may have experienced. I've only been associated with 1 church and that something I haven't encountered. To be arrogant in a reformed church is truly the antithesis of how it should be; with the importance of man's wicked nature and us being incapable of doing good without the Lord's work first, you're really missing the mark if you think you're better than someone else.
I am also not surprised at the sentiment either; I do 100% identify with the idea of this second conversion as someone may have new found understanding towards the doctrines of Grace. I think that some of it is a passion or zeal for God's word and our duty to protect the truths that it holds. This isn't a choose your own adventure kind of religion, so the reformed faith has a sense of unwavering commitment, often bounded by the confessions they adhere to. There is likely a lack of tolerance towards dissenting views if you're considering joining a reformed church. I think all of these things can come off and play as arrogance. I also think there likely are arrogant reformed church people, perhaps tied to this second conversion theory and having a feeling of being more favored by God - just thinking out loud.
I personally may have a bit of an advantage just because this is not how I was raised. I have two parents that were raised catholic, I grew up in a non-denominational Bible church, have served as an Elder in a previous church, and I am now part of a reformed church.
