The Manhattan Declaration is a document that has recently been released addressing the issues of marriage, the sanctity of life, and religious freedom- all from a distinctively conservative view. It is a joint declaration put together by Evangelicals, Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox adherents. It is signed by a number of noteworthy Evangelicals (Al Mohler for one). Yet, it has been opposed by at least three reformed evangelical heavyweights- including John MacArthur, Alistair Begg, and James White of Alpha and Omega Ministries. Some such as John Piper have yet to weigh in. Tim Challies also stands opposed.
It is one of those things that is both good and bad with the bad finally trumping the good.
Essentially it is a good document in its goals, but confuses the gospel in its means. It ends up presenting a law solution to sin rather than a gospel solution. The gospel is briefly mentioned, but is never defined, nor is it offered as the solution to the sins of homosexuality and abortion.
It calls out the evils of homosexuality and abortion without giving the answer of the cross. It is like a man who goes down to the local crack house with a bull horn to warn those who pass by that this is an evil place- but never calls the cops to shut the place down. Only the gospel has the power to shut down sin.
The document also easily gives the message that there is essential agreement between Evangelicals, Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox over what the gospel is that saves. Evangelicals and especially Roman Catholics are as far apart on the gospel as is the east from the west. (The Orthodox church has rejected justification by faith alone, but in less bold language as Rome)
The sad truth is that this document has gotten its passing attention in the news media and has been shrugged off. It is like attacking a lion with a paper sword. The thing the world can never ultimately ignore is the gospel- for it alone is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes. Too bad the Manhattan Declaration is all bark and no bite.
It is all law and no gospel.
UPDATE: Michael Horton responds here
SECOND UPDATE: RC Sproul responds here
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