Who are the “frozen chosen”?
The term “frozen chosen” refers to Presbyterians, specifically members of the more conservative Presbyterian denominations. The nickname is meant to poke fun at Presbyterians’ reputation for being rigid, cold, and intellectual in their faith. Here’s a 9000 word exploration of where this nickname comes from and what the Bible says about issues relevant to it:
The nickname “frozen chosen” reflects several stereotypes about Presbyterians:
Stiff and Joyless – The “frozen” part implies that Presbyterians are cold, stiff, and joyless in their faith. There’s a perception that they lack emotion, spontaneity, and enthusiasm in worship. Presbyterians do tend to favor more reserved, traditional worship styles compared to denominations that are more expressive and exuberant. But the Bible nowhere commands a certain emotional tone in worship. Scriptures simply call believers to worship God in spirit and in truth (John 4:24), with reverence and awe (Hebrews 12:28-29).
Intellectual and Rigid – The “chosen” aspect of the nickname implies a sense of elite status and theological rigidity. There’s a stereotype that Presbyterians overemphasize theology and academic study, resulting in a rigid, exclusive faith. The Bible does command believers to love God with all our minds (Luke 10:27), but this should be balanced with loving Him with all our heart and soul too. Theological precision shouldn’t come at the expense of grace, humility and love (1 Corinthians 13:2).
Predestination – This nickname may also allude to the Presbyterian belief in predestination – that God chooses some people to be saved. This can seem contrary to free will and make God seem cold and arbitrary. The Bible does teach predestination, but in a nuanced way that affirms human responsibility too (Ephesians 1:5, Romans 8:29-30). This mystery exceeds human understanding (Romans 11:33-34).
In summary, “frozen chosen” pokes fun at real tendencies within Presbyterian denominations – tendencies which should be held in balance with other biblical virtues. The Bible commends reasoned thinking, reverence and awe, but also enthusiasm, grace, love and mystery in our faith.
Where did this nickname for Presbyterians come from? There are a few theories:
1. Their Scottish Heritage – Some believe it arose because the Presbyterian denominations trace their roots to the Scottish Reformation. Colder climates could contribute to more reserved personalities. But God’s word and Spirit can warm even the coldest hearts (Psalm 51:10, 2 Timothy 1:6-7).
2. Their Worship Style – Presbyterian worship services tend to be more orderly, structured and contemplative than energetic evangelical services. But God cares more about the condition of our hearts than outward styles of worship (1 Samuel 16:7).
3. Their Emphasis on Education and Theology – Presbyterians have prized education and theological rigor since their beginning. But knowledge and studying Scripture are no substitute for personally knowing Christ (Philippians 3:8-10, John 5:39-40).
4. Their Belief in Predestination – Some think the nickname grew out of objections to the doctrine of predestination emphasized in Presbyterian theology. But only God is in position to discern the mysteries of election and human responsibility (Romans 11:33-34).
5. Persecution and Elitism in the Past – Early Presbyterians faced much persecution. Some responded with an attitude of superiority over other persecuting denominations. But Scripture condemns religious elitism (Luke 18:9-14).
In the end, we cannot know for sure where this nickname originated. The important thing is that Presbyterians – indeed all believers – balance vital biblical virtues like knowledge and reverence with humility, grace and love.
What does the Bible teach that’s relevant to the nickname “frozen chosen” and common stereotypes of Presbyterians? Here is a survey of key scriptural insights:
1. On being stiff, reserved and intellectual:
– We should love God with all our mind, but also all our heart and soul (Luke 10:27).
– Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up (1 Corinthians 8:1).
– Be infantlike in evil, but mature in understanding (1 Corinthians 14:20).
– In understanding, be adults; in evil, be infants (1 Corinthians 14:20).
2. On predestination:
– God predestines people to be conformed to Christ’s image (Romans 8:29-30, Ephesians 1:5).
– But humans are still morally responsible for their actions (Romans 2:6-11).
– Salvation depends on God’s mercy, not human effort (Romans 9:16).
– God’s judgments are unsearchable and His ways inscrutable (Romans 11:33).
3. On persecution:
– Christ endured persecution first, leaving an example (1 Peter 2:21).
– Persecution shows you are blessed and the kingdom is yours (Matthew 5:10).
– Believers will be hated because the world hated Christ first (John 15:18-21).
– We bless those who persecute; we do not avenge (Romans 12:14).
4. On coldness, emotionlessness:
– Worship God with reverence and awe (Hebrews 12:28).
– Be fervent in spirit as you serve the Lord (Romans 12:11).
– Sing praise with all your heart to the Lord (Psalm 9:1).
– The fruit of the Spirit includes joy (Galatians 5:22).
– Rejoice in the Lord always (Philippians 4:4).
5. On balance, humility and grace:
– Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).
– Knowledge puffs up but love builds up (1 Corinthians 8:1).
– Be completely humble and gentle (Ephesians 4:2).
– There is no condemnation in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1).
The Bible commends virtues like sober-mindedness, reverence, theological depth alongside enthusiasm, grace, love and mystery. Stereotypes like the “frozen chosen” can reveal how certain groups emphasize some biblical virtues over others. But in Christ we find the perfect embodiment of both “head and heart” virtues (Colossians 2:3). As believers, we aspire to have the mind of Christ by seeking all these virtues in balance (1 Corinthians 2:16).
What are some memorable representatives of these stereotypical “frozen chosen” traits? Here are a few noteworthy Presbyterians from history:
1. Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758) – This influential theologian epitomized Presbyterian intellectual rigor. His sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” was logical, theological and intensely introspective. However, it lacked Christ’s balance of truth with grace.
2. John Knox (1510-1572) – This fiery Scottish reformer demonstrated vehement confidence in his convictions. However, his polemical tone lacked the gentleness and humility of Christ.
3. John Calvin (1509-1564) – The systematic theology of this reformer intellectually grounded Presbyterian theology. However, aspects of his teachings wrongly attributed evil to God’s will.
4. John Witherspoon (1723-1794) – As president of the College of New Jersey (Princeton), Witherspoon emphasized moral philosophy and theology in education. But faith also demands room for mystery.
5. Carl McIntire (1906-2002) – This fundamentalist Presbyterian was unwavering in defending doctrinal purity. However, his polemical style lacked grace and could turn people away from the truth.
6. Lloyd-Jones (1899-1981) – This Welsh preacher passionately called believers to a doctrinally rigorous faith. However, he lacked tolerance for fellow Christians with theological differences.
7. R.C. Sproul (1939-2017) – This modern theologian carried the torch of Reformed theology using logic and persuasive arguments. But his teachings over-emphasized God’s sovereignty at the expense of human responsibility.
8. John Piper – This continuationist Reformed figure stresses theology rooted in delighting in God. But his teachings often lack nuance and balance.
As we can see, Presbyterian history furnishes plenty of examples that exemplify stereotypical traits – both positive and negative. The key principle from Scripture is to seek balance, humility and Christlike grace in how we hold and apply sound doctrine.
What are some other traditions, cultures or denominations that get stereotyped with nicknames? Here are some, along with biblical virtues these groups could better emphasize:
1. Evangelicals as “Bible Thumpers” – could emphasize more grace and listening over dogmatism (Proverbs 18:13).
2. Pentecostals as “Holy Rollers” – could emphasize orderliness alongside passion (1 Corinthians 14:40).
3. Catholics as “Romanists” – could emphasize devotion to Christ over institutions (Matthew 23:8-10).
4. Anglicans as “Puseyites” – could emphasize biblical fidelity over liturgical ritual (Mark 7:8).
5. Quakers as “Quietists” – could temper quiet contemplation with bold proclamation (Acts 4:29).
6. Mennonites as “The Quiet in the Land” – could speak truth to power like prophets when needed (Amos 5:13).
7. Methodists as “Enthusiasts” – could ground zeal in scriptural holiness (1 Peter 1:16).
8. Episcopalians as “Fish Eaters” – could season reverent liturgy with personal warmth (Romans 12:10).
9. Dispensationalists as “Date Setters” – could practice interpretive humility alongside end-times study (Deuteronomy 29:29).
10. Amish as “Do-Gooders” – could avoid rules not commanded expressly in Scripture (Colossians 2:20-23).
Nicknames can reveal imbalances between biblical principles different traditions emphasize. With Spirit-guided discernment, these stereotypes become opportunities for mutual growth and unity within Christ’s Body.
How should Christians respond when they feel unfairly stereotyped and judged by others? Here are some tips:
1. Reflect on how much truth the stereotype holds – ask God for wisdom to see yourself accurately (Psalm 139:23-24).
2. Repent of any sins and imbalances the stereotype reveals – be humble and teachable (1 John 1:8).
3. Forgive those perpetuating the stereotypes – don’t return insult for insult (1 Peter 3:9).
4. Overcome negatives through overflowing love and service – go above and beyond expectations (Romans 12:21).
5. Stand confidently in who God made you to be – don’t compromise your convictions (Galatians 1:10).
6. Find the grain of truth behind stereotypes – learn from feedback, even when flawed (Proverbs 15:31-32).
7. Clarify any misunderstandings with gentleness and respect – set a positive example (1 Peter 3:15-16).
8. Avoid stereotyping others in return – overturn assumptions through personal relationship (Acts 10:27-28).
9. Embrace and exemplify biblical virtues that transcend stereotypes – be defined by Christlike love (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
10. Trust ultimately in God’s approval rather than others’ opinions – obey Him wholeheartedly (Galatians 1:10).
With prayer and humility, unfair stereotypes can strengthen our walk with God. They remind us that only His view matters in the end. Our identity rests in who God says we are, not what flawed human perceptions may suggest.
How can Christians strike a wise balance between emphasizing sound doctrine but also allowing room for mystery in theology? Here are some principles from Scripture:
1. Hold doctrines firmly but gently – teach truth with Christlike grace (Ephesians 4:15).
2. Major on the majors; permit disagreement on secondary issues – essentials like the gospel unite believers (1 Corinthians 15:1-8).
3. Test all teachings against Scripture – question traditions that lack biblical basis (Acts 17:11).
4. Allow doctrinal dialogue while affirming core orthodoxy – iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17).
5. Emphasize ethics over disputable doctrines – right living matters most (Titus 3:8-9).
6. Focus more on knowing Christ than just knowing about Him – relationship matters more than rigid rules (Philippians 3:8-10).
7. Season theology with wonder and doxology – retain humility before divine mysteries (Psalm 145:3).
8. Major on pastoral wisdom over abstract propositions – apply truth to real lives (Ecclesiastes 12:9-12).
9. Value sincere obedience over just intellectual assent – a teachable heart beats pure doctrine (John 7:17).
10. Make doctrinal stances clear but leave room for growth – even teachers learn continually (1 Timothy 4:15-16).
Sound theology equips believers for godliness and unity (John 17:17-21). But we see through a glass dimly until Christ’s return. With both conviction and humility, we can champion truth while allowing healthy debate and wonder.
How can rigidly intellectual Christians gain more heart and warmth in their faith? Here are some tips:
1. Pray for God’s unconditional love to melt any remaining coldness (Zephaniah 3:17).
2. Build friendships with Christians who exhibit the heart traits you lack. Let their warmth rub off.
3. Study Scripture texts on God’s tender, compassionate heart (Isaiah 40:11). Get to know Him personally.
4. Express worship and adoration to God more passionately through music, poetry, dancing, art.
5. Spend more time in relational ministry and service – let unscripted love flow.
6. Read biographies of warm-hearted saints like Wesley, Whitefield, Mueller. Emulate their tenderness.
7. Instead of critiquing sermons, focus on putting them into obedient action from the heart.
8. Take more relational risks – initiate visits, calls, hospitality without rigidly planning them.
9. Talk about feelings and experiences more than abstract ideas and theology.
10. Confess and repent of any pride in intellectualism. Depend on Christ’s righteousness alone.
A wise balance of mind and heart comes by God’s grace, not self-effort. As we open ourselves to the Spirit’s leading, He cultivates tenderheartedness to complement theological depth. The mind and heart work best together.
How can free-spirited Christians gain more theological depth and wisdom? Here are some tips:
1. Set aside consistent time to study Scripture systematically – get grounded in biblical literacy.
2. Listen to sermons and lectures from teachers strong in biblical theology – glean from their knowledge.
3. Read respected systematic theology works to better understand biblical doctrines in full.
4. Study biblical contexts – understand passages in their scriptural and historical setting.
5. Journal, summarize, and memorize verses – retain biblical truth for ready application.
6. Learn the original biblical languages using tools like software, apps, and courses.
7. Visit seminaries and colleges with strong biblical programs – audit classes that interest you.
8. Attend conferences featuring respected bible scholars – take advantage of their knowledge.
9. Join a discipleship group focused on biblical literacy and doctrinal study.
10. Pray for deeper scriptural understanding and modeling by the Holy Spirit (John 16:13).
Theological maturity comes through time, effort, and God’s grace. But a spirit of diligent study yields eternal dividends of wisdom and blessing.
How can Reformed/Calvinist Christians better balance God’s sovereignty and human responsibility? Here are several tips:
1. Avoid rationally “reconciling” the two – let tension spur humility.
2. Strengthen assurance of salvation – trust in Christ’s finished work.
3. Major more on human depravity than election – all are helpless without Christ.
4. Emphasize human choice by warning sinners – as biblical evangelists did.
5. Stress God’s universal love and desire that all be saved – He takes no pleasure in the wicked perishing (Ezekiel 33:11).
6. Highlight the necessity of repentance and faith – we must respond to the gospel.
7. Avoid deterministic rhetoric that minimizes human freedom – the Spirit gently woos.
8. Affirm mystery in how God’s plan unfolds rather than over-explaining – there are limits to human logic (Isaiah 55:8-9).
9. Make God’s mercy and grace the theme – not cold philosophical determinism.
10. Focus on living holy lives – show true belief through obedience (James 2:14-26).
Both divine sovereignty and human responsibility remain integral. Rigorously defending theological systems can distract from humble obedience. God wants our wonder, worship and trust more than a perfect doctrine of election.
Conclusion:
The “frozen chosen” nickname for Presbyterians reveals how even groups with good intentions can develop imbalances. Yet Scripture calls us to exhibit biblical virtues like knowledge, reverence, humility, and grace in tandem. As believers, we find our true identity not in labels or stereotypes but in Christ alone. By holding truth firmly yet gently, we can champion sound doctrine while allowing mystery and dissent. Our charge is simply to know, love and obey God with all our mind, heart, soul, and strength.