Caner’s Public Statement: what he did (and did not) apologize for

As many of you know, Dr. Ergun Caner, the President of Liberty Theological Seminary, made the RealApologetics “Virtual Hall of Not So Real Apologists.” For the past couple years – and especially the past couple months – many Christian scholars and theologians have pointed out the slanderous behavior and dishonest assertions coming from Dr. Caner. Finally, a few hours ago on his website, Dr. Caner released an official public statement concerning these matters. What undoubtedly pushed Caner over the edge can be found in today’s article “Seminary president apologizes for calling IMB head a liar,” by the Associated Baptist Press. But, feeling the need to address other issues, Caner wisely widens his scope.

After giving a summary of his conversion, Caner apologizes for “pulpit mistakes,” and then weighs in on the topic of “DEBATES.” He says:

A second question raised concerns debates. One gentleman believes it is misleading to call my interaction with people from other faiths and world religions “debates.” Since his definition of debate is limited to moderated, formal debates, that is his prerogative. He can call them whatever he wishes. My podcasts are readily available online through this website. If he finds them less than satisfying or helpful, then he does not have to listen to them. I do not offer them for his approval or his attention. Please feel free to look elsewhere. God has been gracious to call many Christians to practice evangelism and apologetics in a variety of ways.

Without a doubt, Caner is referring to Dr. James R. White, founder of Alpha and Omega Ministries, who has been in over 80 public moderated debates in his career. White recently posted a youtube video that holds Caner accountable for his embellished debate claims. Caner goes on:

The truth is, several evangelical apologists employ the “formal” debate template and are very effective in their presentations. Norman Geisler, Gary Habermas and William Lane Craig come to mind. Nevertheless, I will continue to do exactly as I have done. In fact, in order to attempt a measure of peace, I am more than happy to call my engagements “interviews,” or even “dialogues.” Since this is historically my method of choice, I shall continue to offer these podcasts here, for the edification of those who care to listen.

However, I would caution all evangelicals that no single method meets consensus. Nor is there only one exclusively biblical model. Certainly there is much good to be found in formal debates, and I also believe that there is enough room for all types of interaction. In fact I believe there is great value to be found in all forms, including conversational and informal methods.

At the time of this writing, his biography page was unavailable, and (assumingly) under appropriate revision. Whether or not Dr. Caner will actually accept a moderated debate invitation remains to be seen (the previous bio page can be viewed here).

But, the question we are all asking is, why isn’t Caner repenting from his unbelievable statement “Calvinists are worse than Muslims”? That was the real absurdity to begin with. Colleagues and Christian authors and theologians have given a strong indication that Caner should either publicly clarify this remarkable statement, or simply repent from the assertion altogether. It appears, after this evening, that Caner intends to do neither. Granted, the main issue today is apologizing for calling the head of the Southern Baptist Convention’s International Mission Board a liar. But vast portions of the Southern Baptist Convention and the associates/students/graduates of Liberty University are still concerned as to what exactly Caner meant, and if Calvinists are really part of the church of God or not. Only time will tell.