09/28/2025 – “Finding the Right Hills to Die On – The Case for Theological Triage” by Grant Ortlund
Pastor Dan Schiller covered the themes in this book in his online streaming sermon this morning, Parkside Church, Cleveland. I will post the sermon tomorrow when it is made available on the church website.
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From Amazon.com
Review by “LoverofBlue” dated 10/11/2020
In this book, Gavin Ortlund lays out when we should divide, and when unity should prevail. He categorizes the different degrees of importance among doctrines, and as a result, which ones are not only worth separating over but also worth dying over, if necessary. The categories include –
First-rank doctrines are those that are essential to the gospel itself.
Second-rank doctrines are urgent for the health and practice of the church to such a degree that they tend to be the cause of separation at the level of local church, denomination, and/or ministry.
Third-rank doctrines are important to Christian theology, but not important enough to be the basis for separation.
Fourth-rank doctrines are unimportant to our gospel witness and ministry collaboration.
Contents of the book –
Part 1: Why Theological Triage
The Danger of Doctrinal Sectarianism
The Danger of Doctrinal Minimalism
My Journey on Non-Essential Doctrines
Part 2: Theological Triage at Work
Why Primary Doctrines Are Worth Fighting For
Navigating the Complexity of Secondary Doctrines
Why We Should Not Divide over Tertiary Doctrines
Conclusion: A Call to Theological Humility
I thought the author did a great job drawing out the danger of both doctrinal sectarianism and
doctrinal minimalism. He also did a great job of stressing the importance of seeking harmony amongst ourselves as well as being doctrinally accurate in what we believe. Both matter! It was well written and easy to follow. I think it should be required reading for church membership everywhere!
A couple of quotes I liked –
“…we must distinguish between confused sheep and active wolves.”
“Some Christians are eager to defend sound doctrine. Well and good. But is the unity of the Body of Christ one of those doctrines we jealously guard?”
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Anonymous reviews segment:
• “Die for” issues: courage and conviction
• “Divide over” issues: wisdom and balance
• “Debate for”/”don’t care” issues: circumspection and restraint
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Grant Ortlund bio
Soli Deo Gloria!