Leaving or staying?

Many thoughtful Christians do reconsider or leave movements that emphasize Verbal Plenary Preservation (VPP), KJV-onlyism, or a “Perfect Textus Receptus” (Perfect TR), but it depends on the person’s convictions and understanding of Scripture. Here’s a detailed, balanced look:

1. Why some leave or distance themselves

Doctrinal extremism: VPP and KJV-onlyism often insist that only one version of Scripture is perfectly preserved (e.g., the KJV), and that other translations are corrupt. This can feel divisive, legalistic, or unbiblical to many believers.

Church division: Strict adherence to “perfect TR” or KJV-only teaching has historically caused denominational splits, lawsuits, and alienation from other Christians. Some people can’t reconcile this with Christ’s call to unity (John 17:21).

Biblical scholarship: Modern textual criticism shows the Bible has many manuscript witnesses, and no church historically ever held that one single text was “perfect” from the first century onward. Learning this can prompt critical reflection.

Practical faith: Some believers feel that focusing on a “perfect Bible” distracts from living out the gospel, loving God and neighbor, and practical obedience.

2. Why some stay

Trust in authority: Some hold tightly to these doctrines because they see them as protecting God’s Word from corruption.

Community: Many remain because of strong church fellowship, family ties, or long-term spiritual mentorship. Leaving can feel like leaving a spiritual family.

Fear of error: VPP/KJV-only proponents often teach that using “modern translations” risks losing salvation or doctrinal purity, creating a strong incentive to stay.

3. How people typically respond

Gradual reevaluation: Many read broadly (original languages, textual criticism, modern translations) and slowly shift away from extreme views.

Reformed or evangelical alternatives: Some move toward mainstream Reformed or evangelical churches that honor Scripture as inspired and sufficient but don’t insist on a single “perfect text”.

Remaining in the same church but questioning: Others stay in the same congregation but choose not to adopt extreme textual views, focusing on faith and life over textual debates.

4. Key principle

Faith in God’s Word vs. human tradition: Believers often distinguish God’s providential preservation of Scripture (a theological truth) from humanly constructed dogma about a single translation or manuscript. When teachings start elevating a human-made system (KJV-only, Perfect TR) above the gospel itself, some Christians step back or leave.

Summary:

Many Christians reconsider their affiliation with churches teaching VPP, KJV-onlyism, or Perfect TR once they see the divisive, unbiblical, or extremist nature of these doctrines. Others stay out of loyalty or fear. It often comes down to whether one prioritizes faithfulness to Christ and Scripture or adherence to a rigid textual ideology.