Christianity is simultaneously traditional and progressive.
Traditional in that it doesn't allow you to change your values to suit your convenience, and that it is based on a history going back to the Jews as chosen by God.
Progressive in that it is urging to always press onwards and to not blindly accept following rules.
Western culture used to be generally traditional: looking into the past for significance. About 500 years ago, it started looking for significance in a future that we create (Renaissance, Scientific Revolution, etc).
However, our culture is now in a transition period where people are second-guessing tradition and second-guessing our ability to create a positive future.
What does it mean for us:
Being traditional is useful to not deceive ourselves, unknowingly blinded by our limited perspective.
Being progressive is liberating when change is needed.
- What are some examples when we were traditional when we should be progressive and vice versa?
- (Broader question) What kinds of situations call for being traditional or progressive?