I was saddened last week to read about the falling out of Tullian Tchividjian with The Gospel Coalition (TGC) and particularly with Tim Keller and D. A. Carson. Keller and Carson had issued a joint statement declaring that Tchividjian had left TGC over theological differences. Tchividjian replied that this was “categorically false,” “misleading” and accused them of subterfuge so as not to be seen as “bullies” while calling their spin on things a “lie.”

I can’t say strongly enough how much I respect Tim Keller as an author and pastor and D. A. Carson as a scholar. Both men have been faithful to the word of God their whole careers and I have benefited immensely from their ministries. Everything in my being told me to take these criticisms with a grain of salt. Normally I would not have commented on this sad news but the power of God’s forgiveness has broken through and this should be celebrated. Tullian Tchividjian issued a statement on this breakup between him and TGC, apologizing for defending himself and asking for forgiveness for things he said about Tim Keller.

What Keller and Carson have done in the forming of TGC has been a benefit to the church at large. I think it does demonstrate the challenges of such an endeavor when various theological traditions are in play. However it does highlight what members of TGC do share in common, namely, the grace of God in Christ which forgives sinners and imputes righteousness. And whenever we reflect on what were are apart from Christ, dead in sin, it is hard to stay mad at a brother or sister in Christ for too long. Soli Deo Gloria.

Categories: Carson, Forgiveness, Grace, The Gospel Coaltion, Tim Keller