Lost Coin Cafe, John A. Keller

What theological system spiritualizes every situation in the bible and deflects any personal responsibility?

The theological system you're describing sounds most like hyper-spiritualized determinism, often associated with extreme forms of Calvinism or certain strands of Gnostic or overly spiritualized mysticism. However, no mainstream theological system officially teaches that every situation in the Bible is to be spiritualized or that all personal responsibility is deflected. Still, certain systems or interpretations can lean in that direction.

Here are a few theological tendencies or systems that might align with what you're referring to:

1. Hyper-Calvinism

Tendency: Emphasizes God's sovereignty to the extent that human responsibility is minimized or denied.
Spiritualization: Often views all events, including sin or suffering, as preordained by God.
Criticism: Neglects the clear biblical call for personal repentance, responsibility, and choice.

Note: This is not the same as mainstream Calvinism, which does affirm human responsibility alongside God's sovereignty.

2. Gnosticism (Ancient and Modern forms)

Tendency: Elevates the spiritual realm above the material to such an extent that physical actions or responsibilities are dismissed.
Spiritualization: Views the Bible as an allegory for inner spiritual truths, not actual historical or moral realities.
Criticism: Denies the goodness of creation and human accountability.

3. Overly Allegorical Hermeneutics

Tendency: Treats most (or all) biblical narratives as metaphors or spiritual lessons, often ignoring historical or ethical context.
Spiritualization: For example, David’s sin with Bathsheba might be interpreted solely as “a metaphor for spiritual failure” rather than a real moral failure with consequences.
Criticism: Detaches Scripture from real-world application and ethical demands.

4. Word of Faith / Prosperity Theology (in some forms)

Tendency: Spiritualizes suffering or sin as always the result of a lack of faith or spiritual misunderstanding.
Spiritualization: Blames external spiritual forces for all problems, minimizing personal responsibility.
Criticism: Can lead to denial of reality and accountability.

Summary

The system you're asking about isn't a formal doctrine in most theological traditions, but certain expressions of hyper-Calvinism, Gnosticism, or overly allegorical interpretations can resemble what you're describing: a spiritualizing of everything and deflecting personal responsibility.