Rev. Benjamin R. Cremer is a pastor and theologian based in Boise, Idaho, who serves as a pastor in the Church of the Nazarene. He is known for his active presence on social media, where he frequently discusses topics related to theology, social justice, politics, and contemporary issues in the church. Cremer has gained attention for his progressive theological views, often challenging traditional evangelical doctrines and advocating for positions that align more closely with liberal theology and social activism.
Why Rev. Benjamin R. Cremer Should Be Regarded as a False Teacher and Avoided
1. Advocating for Progressive Theology and Undermining Biblical Authority
Rev. Benjamin Cremer often promotes progressive theological ideas that contradict or undermine the clear teachings of Scripture. He frequently questions or reinterprets biblical doctrines on issues such as human sexuality, gender roles, social justice, and salvation. This progressive approach often leads to a reinterpretation of biblical truths in a way that aligns more closely with contemporary cultural norms than with the timeless truths of God's Word.
The Bible is clear that God’s Word is unchanging, authoritative, and sufficient for all matters of faith and practice. Paul wrote, "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16). Jesus Himself affirmed the unchanging nature of God’s Word, saying, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away" (Matthew 24:35). By advocating for theological positions that contradict the Bible and aligning more with modern cultural trends than with scriptural truths, Cremer undermines the authority of God’s Word and leads his followers into error.
2. Promoting a Social Justice Gospel Over the True Gospel of Jesus Christ
Cremer often emphasizes social justice issues, such as poverty, racial reconciliation, and systemic injustice, in his teachings and writings. While Christians are called to care for the oppressed, the marginalized, and the poor (James 1:27), Cremer’s focus on social justice often comes at the expense of proclaiming the true Gospel of Jesus Christ, which is centered on repentance, faith, and the forgiveness of sins. This emphasis on social issues can lead to a man-centered gospel that prioritizes societal change over the need for individual salvation and reconciliation with God.
The Bible teaches that the primary mission of the church is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ, calling people to repentance and faith in Him. Paul declared, "For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified" (1 Corinthians 2:2). The true Gospel is "the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes" (Romans 1:16), and it addresses humanity’s deepest need—reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ. By prioritizing social justice over the true Gospel, Cremer diverts attention away from the central message of salvation and leads people to believe that societal reform is the ultimate goal of the Christian faith.
3. Challenging the Biblical Teaching on Human Sexuality and Gender Roles
Rev. Cremer has expressed views that are inconsistent with the biblical teaching on human sexuality, marriage, and gender roles. He often advocates for a more inclusive and affirming stance on LGBTQ+ issues, suggesting that traditional biblical interpretations are outdated or culturally conditioned. This approach undermines the clear teaching of Scripture regarding God’s design for marriage as a lifelong union between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4-6) and the distinction between male and female roles within the church and family (Ephesians 5:22-33; 1 Timothy 2:12).
The Bible teaches that God created humanity in His image, "male and female he created them" (Genesis 1:27), and that marriage is intended to be a reflection of Christ's relationship with the church (Ephesians 5:25-32). Any attempt to redefine or alter these God-given distinctions is a direct challenge to the authority of Scripture and the order that God has established. By advocating for views that contradict these biblical teachings, Cremer leads people away from God’s truth and promotes ideas that are rooted in cultural trends rather than in the unchanging Word of God.
4. Encouraging a Spirit of Division and Criticism Toward the Historic Church
Rev. Benjamin Cremer frequently criticizes the evangelical church, its leaders, and its traditional doctrines, often portraying them as outdated, judgmental, or intolerant. While the church is imperfect and in need of reform in certain areas, Cremer’s approach often fosters a spirit of division and encourages others to reject sound doctrine in favor of more progressive and culturally acceptable ideas.
The Bible teaches that believers are to "maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3) and to "contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints" (Jude 1:3). While it is appropriate to address areas where the church falls short of biblical standards, it should be done with humility, love, and a commitment to the truth of Scripture. By encouraging a spirit of criticism and division, Cremer leads people away from the unity and doctrinal faithfulness that God desires for His church.
5. Promoting a Human-Centered Theology Rather Than a God-Centered Gospel
Rev. Cremer’s teachings often emphasize human efforts, activism, and social reform as central to the Christian life, while minimizing the need for repentance, transformation, and obedience to God’s Word. This human-centered approach shifts the focus from the greatness of God, the centrality of Christ’s redemptive work, and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit to a more self-empowered, man-centered approach to faith.
The Bible teaches that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). The true Gospel is not about what we can achieve or accomplish but about what Christ has already done for us. Paul reminded the believers, "It is not I who live, but Christ who lives in me" (Galatians 2:20). By promoting a theology that prioritizes human efforts and social reform, Cremer shifts the focus away from the transformative power of the Gospel and the need for personal repentance and faith in Jesus.
Conclusion from Scripture
The Bible consistently warns against false teachers who lead others away from the truth of God’s Word, promoting teachings that are contrary to sound doctrine. Paul wrote, "For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions" (2 Timothy 4:3). Rev. Benjamin Cremer’s progressive theology, emphasis on social justice over the Gospel, and willingness to challenge and reinterpret biblical teachings align with messages that deviate from the true Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Jesus Himself warned against false prophets who would lead people astray: "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves" (Matthew 7:15). True teachers of God’s Word will always point people to Christ, call them to repentance, and uphold the authority and sufficiency of Scripture. In contrast, Cremer’s teachings often direct people toward cultural trends, human efforts, and social activism rather than the true message of the Gospel.
For these reasons, based on the authority of Scripture, Rev. Benjamin R. Cremer should be regarded as a false teacher, and his teachings should be avoided. Christians are called to "test everything; hold fast what is good" (1 Thessalonians 5:21) and to remain grounded in the truth of God’s Word, which is "living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword" (Hebrews 4:12).
The true Gospel is about repentance, faith in Jesus Christ, and the transforming power of God’s grace. It calls believers to live lives of holiness, obedience, and submission to Christ’s Lordship, not to pursue cultural acceptance, progressive ideologies, or human-centered activism. Therefore, believers should reject the teachings of Rev. Benjamin R. Cremer and remain faithful to the unchanging truth of God’s Word, which offers the way to eternal life, true spiritual freedom, and growth in Christ alone.