Meaning: The quote "I see with greater and greater clearness that consistent Christianity is the easiest Christianity to defend" by John Gresham Machen, a prominent theologian and professor of New Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary, reflects his belief in the importance of maintaining a coherent and unwavering commitment to the core tenets of the Christian faith. Machen was a leading figure in the early 20th century conservative Protestant movement in the United States, and his views on the defense of Christianity continue to be influential in theological circles today.

In this quote, Machen underscores the idea that a consistent adherence to the fundamental principles of Christianity provides a solid foundation for defending the faith against external challenges and criticisms. By "consistent Christianity," Machen likely refers to a belief system that remains faithful to the teachings of the Bible and the historic doctrines of the Christian church. He suggests that when believers maintain an unwavering commitment to these foundational truths, they are better equipped to articulate and defend their faith in the face of intellectual, cultural, or theological opposition.

Machen's assertion that consistent Christianity is the easiest to defend speaks to the idea that a clear and coherent understanding of one's beliefs can serve as a powerful apologetic tool. Rather than being swayed by shifting cultural norms or theological trends, a consistent Christian worldview offers a stable framework for engaging with challenges and presenting a compelling case for the truth of the gospel. This perspective aligns with Machen's broader theological emphasis on the importance of doctrinal fidelity and the defense of orthodox Christian beliefs.

Machen's own scholarly work and writings reflect his commitment to defending the traditional Christian faith against the liberal theological currents of his time. In his influential book "Christianity and Liberalism," Machen critiqued the theological liberalism that had gained prominence within Protestant denominations, arguing that it represented a departure from the historic Christian faith. He contended that a consistent adherence to the core doctrines of Christianity, such as the deity of Christ and the authority of Scripture, was essential for maintaining the integrity of the faith in the midst of theological challenges.

Furthermore, Machen's emphasis on the ease of defending consistent Christianity may also be understood in light of his engagement with the intellectual and cultural milieu of his era. As modernity and secularism exerted increasing influence on Western society, Machen sought to equip Christians to engage thoughtfully and persuasively with the pressing questions and objections raised by skeptics and critics. By grounding one's defense of the faith in a consistent and robust understanding of Christian doctrine, believers could navigate complex intellectual terrain with confidence and clarity.

In conclusion, John Gresham Machen's quote underscores the significance of maintaining a consistent and unwavering commitment to the core principles of Christianity as a means of effectively defending the faith. By emphasizing the ease of defending this consistent Christianity, Machen highlights the power of a clear and coherent belief system in engaging with external challenges and articulating the truth of the gospel. This perspective reflects Machen's broader theological concerns and his commitment to upholding the traditional Christian faith in the face of contemporary pressures and theological debates.