The Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) has recently decided to investigate the book Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. This decision came during their annual meeting, stirring a significant conversation within the Christian community.
Sarah Young, a beloved author and a member of the PCA community, passed away last August at the age of 77. Her work, particularly Jesus Calling, has had a profound impact on many believers. However, concerns have arisen among PCA pastors regarding the book’s use of the voice of Jesus, questioning whether it aligns with doctrinal teachings and worrying that it may “potentially border on heresy.”
First published in 2004, Jesus Calling has faced theological scrutiny from various leaders within the denomination. Despite its popularity, some believe that the way Young presents Jesus’ words may conflict with traditional Christian doctrine.
Sarah Young, who held a degree from Covenant Theological Seminary, was married to Steve Young, a PCA elder and missionary in Japan. During the debate on the investigation, Steve Young spoke passionately, urging the assembly to vote against it. He defended his wife’s writings, stating, “Her writings did not add to Scripture but explain it. She would stand with Martin Luther and declare that her conscience was captive to the Word of God.” He further emphasized that Sarah was a devoted follower of Christ who shared her meditations out of a deep love for God’s Word.
Despite his heartfelt plea, the measure to investigate the book passed narrowly, with a vote of 947–834 and 20 abstentions. This decision directs two denominational committees to review Jesus Calling and assess its appropriateness for Christians, particularly PCA members. These committees will delve into the book’s history within the denomination and evaluate its doctrinal and methodological soundness.
One of the reports will come from Mission to the World (MTW), the PCA’s mission agency, through which Sarah and Steve Young served as missionaries. Chuck Williams, a church leader, voiced his concerns about the claims of immediate divine revelation at the meeting. However, it is important to note that Young’s editors at Thomas Nelson have clarified that she did not claim to receive new revelations.
Opponents of the investigation argued that it was both unusual and poorly timed, given Sarah Young’s recent passing. Daniel Wells, a pastor from Tennessee who knows the Young family, urged empathy, reminding the assembly that her family is still grieving. He quoted Romans 12:15, saying, “They are still grieving. Romans 12:15 tells us to weep with those who weep. This overture would instead ask us to investigate this woman who has passed on.”
Jerid Krulish from Alaska humorously referred to the measure as a “fishing expedition,” while hymn writer Kevin Twit defended the use of God’s voice in religious literature as a means of summarizing biblical ideas rather than presenting new revelations.
Despite the controversy, Jesus Calling has sold over 45 million copies, indicating its significant impact and widespread acceptance among readers.
As we reflect on this situation, let us remember to approach it with prayer and empathy, seeking God’s wisdom and guidance in all matters of faith and doctrine.
