A few doctrinal notes

Death is not merely separation but is termination of life. Physical death is the end of cellular respiration and metabolic processes. The Christian understands that there is a separation of the spiritual (soul and spirit) from the flesh (2 Peter 1:14, 2 Corinthians 5:8). Death is a result of sin (Romans 5:12, Romans 6:23). Spiritual death is also a termination of which all humans have. This is an end of fellowship with God (Ephesians 2:1, 1 John 3:14). Death is the punishment for sin (Genesis 2:17, Romans 5:12).

Faith is believing God. Adam did not believe God and chose to disbelieve. Adam’s disbelief was shown by his actions of deliberately disobeying God. God said, “Do not eat.” Adam chose to eat. After eating, God revealed the substitutionary sacrifice of a sheep. Faith is then seen though out the Bible as people “believed God, and it was accounted as righteousness” (Genesis 15:6, Daniel 6:23, Jonah 3:5, John 3:16, Romans 4:3, Romans 4:22-25, etc.).

Original sin is the doctrine that all have sinned. We have inherited the “me first” concept, since Adam was the head of human race.

Sin is disobedience to God’s law. This is best seen in His commandments. We are not good because we are liars, blasphemers, covetous, disobedient to parents, adulterers at heart (if not in flesh), thieves, etc.

Sin is punished by death, not only physical but eternal (Revelation 21:8, Daniel 12:2).

All people are in darkness (John 3:19, Ephesians 5:8, etc.) and dead in trespasses and sins (Ephesians 2:1, Colossians 2:13, etc.). This is total depravity. We are complete sinners and are not good enough for heaven according to God’s standards.

No one seeks God (Romans 3:10-18, Psalms 14:2-3). This is total inability. Unless God initiates salvation (prevenient grace), no one will be saved. God seeks us (Luke 19:10). God is the one who opens our eyes and hearts to the Gospel (Acts 26:18, Acts 16:14). God draws us to Himself (John 6:44) to understand the Gospel.

The Lord Jesus had our sins laid on Him, suffered for our sins (1 Peter 3:18), and died in God’s judgment for our sins (1 Corinthians 15:3).

The Lord Jesus was raised physically from the dead proving righteousness (Romans 1:4, 1 Peter 1:3).

Dispensational Theology

Dispensational theology

This is link to a new publishing company, Dispensational Publishing House, article giving a brief overview of the importance of dispensational theology.

Much confusion occurs with the interpretation of Biblical prophecy due to a failure (or refusal) to distinguish between Israel and the church, and thereby denying any future to national Israel and equating the historical throne of David with God’s heavenly throne. The former rule (the throne of David) could be called the single, unified, mediatorial kingdom that existed historically under the Mosaic Covenant and was prophesied by the Old Testament prophets to be restored in its former glory at the second coming of Jesus Christ. The latter rule (God’s heavenly throne), which is eternal, would be understood as involving aspects of God’s universal and spiritual kingdoms.

You can read the rest here.

More on dispensationalism here.

Dispensationalism—an overview

Dispensationalism




A1 Defined

B1 Bible Interpretation--the plain, normal sense consistently.

B2 Groups

C1 Jew--literal DNA descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob

C2 Gentile--everyone other than literal DNA descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob

C3 Church--those, Jew or Gentile, who believe and put their trust into Jesus Christ. Romans 1:17-18, John 3:36, Philippians 3:9, 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

B2 Dispensation--A period of time in which God reveals certain specific truths, then He tests the people to see if they will obey. This has nothing to do with saving grace or earning salvation. It is simply showing mankind that no matter what the situation, law, or environment, people will always rebel, disbelieve, and sin. Salvation, the Gospel, has been, is, and always will be the same. It is in believing God. It is through faith in God. Salvation has been, is, and always will be by grace. The importance of a dispensation is the test to show mankind that no matter what, people choose to sin. Sin has been dealt with by the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross and His resurrection. God has a purpose which He is going to fulfill. And He uses a progression of truths to build upon the truths already given.

B3 Dispensationalism--a system of interpreting the Bible consistently. It seeks to understand the different time periods recorded in the Bible.

B4 Messiah's coming--His physical appearance on earth and seen by many.

B5 Resurrection--a permanent rising from death.

B6 Judgment--facing the Lawgiver, who is the judge. He will judge all people and all angels.

B7 Law--things we must do or must not do. God is the lawgiver.

B8 Grace--receiving what we don't deserve. Romans 3:24, Romans 4:4, Romans 5:15, etc.

B9 Salvation--a deliverance from the penalty of spiritual death. The penalty was paid in full. Jesus died on the cross.

B10 Rewards--God gives rewards to the saints based on their faithfulness. These are rewarded at the Judgment Seat of Christ.

B11 Believers--those who have faith, believe, and trust in Jesus. This is the Jesus of the Bible in its plain, normal sense.

B12 False converts--these are those who say they believe but do not live (or even want to live it) the Christian life as it is taught in the New Testament.

B13 Covenants--an agreement based on God's promise. It is not conditional. It never ends.

A2 Explained

B1 Dispensationalism

C1 Normal

D1 An administrative period or type of administration

D2 God's type of administration in different periods of time

D3 Three main points

E1 Bible interpretation is in the plain, normal sense.

F1 Prophecy

G1 This is done to be consistent.

G2 This is because the prophecies about Messiah were fulfilled literally.

G3 Since the prophecies about Messiah were fulfilled literally, the prophecies about the second coming and actions of Messiah will also be fulfilled literally.

F2 Non-prophetic passages.

E2 Israel and the church are not the same.

E3 The Millennium is a literal period of 1,000 years.

E4 The main theme of Scripture for humans is the glory of God. Covenant theology understands the main theme to be the salvation of humans. See the Moody Handbook of Theology by Paul P Enns for the topic of dispensationalism.

D4 God gives each period of history (dispensation) a certain amount of revelation, certain required duties (regulations), the need to believe Him, a test from God to see if they obey, humans fail the test, judgment, and then advances to the next dispensation.

C2 Ultra/hyper dispensationalism

D1 Most of New Testament is not applicable to the Church.

D2 Some have the beginning of the church in mid-Acts or even at Romans 1

D3 The Book of Acts is a writing about the Jewish church. The epistles of Hebrews, James, Peter, John, and Jude were written to this Jewish church.

D4 Basically the only applicable epistles are the one that the Apostle Paul wrote.

D5 This Jewish church will be re-established in the Millennium.

D6 Water baptism and the Lord's Supper are for this Jewish church and not the church of Christ's body.

B2 Seven dispensations

C1 View One

D1 The dispensations

E1 Innocence (Genesis 1:1—3:7) Adam and Eve had not sinned, rebelled, or broken any of God's laws in thoughts, desires, words, and deeds.

E2 Conscience (Genesis 3:8—8:22) People had in their heart what is right and wrong. Romans 2:12-15

E3 Human Government (Genesis 9:1—11:32) Had leaders who would obey and enforce God's rules.

E4 Promise (Patriarchal) (Genesis 12:1—Exodus 19:25) Knowing that a time of blessing and forgiveness was coming. Despite the promise people still sinned.

E5 Law (Exodus 20:1—Acts 2:4) What God wants people to do and not do. A written standard of right and wrong.

E6 Grace (Acts 2:4—Revelation 20:3) Faith and trust into Jesus Christ.

E7 Millennial Kingdom (Revelation 20:4–6) Jesus rules as King of the World.

D2 The pattern

E1 Responsibility

E2 Failure

E3 Judgment

E4 Grace

E5 Moves on to next dispensation

B2 Messiah's Coming--comings or advent are defined as public appearances. Messiah made many appearances but most were private to one or a handful. His post resurrection appearance was not public but was seen by over 500 people. 1 Corinthians 15:6

C1 Two comings

D1 These are official appearances of Jesus Christ on earth where He is publicly seen.

D2 Other appearances would not be considered "comings" in this sense. Examples would be God talking with Adam and Eve, Enoch walking with God, Noah, Abraham, Moses, the prophets and prophetesses, and many others.

C2 First advent--This is the history recorded in the Gospels. It lasted about 33 years.

C3 Second advent--This is the time He reigns in Jerusalem over the whole earth for 1,000 years. It is mentioned in latter part of Revelation and some of the Old Testament prophets. Acts 1:9-11, Matthew 24:30, Matthew 25:31, John 14:3, Revelation 1:7, etc.

C4 Most understand that the second coming is in two phases. The first phase is the rapture for His saints. The second is His coming to earth with His saints

C5 The rapture

D1 True and will happen. 1 Thessalonians 4:17

D2 Differences between rapture and Second Coming of Christ. Below are a few. This is only a partial list.

Rapture	Second Coming
For the saints 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, Hebrews 9:28, 1 Thessalonians 4:14	With the saints Jude 1:14
Secret 1 Corinthians 15:50-54, 1 Thessalonians 5:2	Seen by all Revelation 1:7, Matthew 24:29-30
In air 1 Thessalonians 4:17	To earth Zechariah 14:4
Without any notice or warning 1 Corinthians 15:50-54	Many signs point to it 2 Thessalonians 2:4, Matthew 24:15-30

D3 Types

E1 Pretribulational (References: here,

F1 Pro

G1 Believers are not to face God's fierce anger. 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9, Romans 5:9, Revelation 3:10

G2 The rapture will happen without any warning. It is imminent. Matthew 24:42-44, Matthew 25:13, Mark 13:33, Philippians 4:5, Titus 2:12-13, James 5:8-9, 1 Peter 4:7

G3 The whole tribulation is a time of God's wrath. Revelation 6:16-17, Revelation 14:19, Revelation 15:1, Revelation 16:1

G4 The whole world is involved and receiving God's wrath during the tribulation. Isaiah 24:1-6, Revelation 13:17 (no one will be able to buy or sell, so the whole world will be involved). But God does not want us to suffer His wrath. 1 Thessalonians 5:9

G5 The idea of imminence is very important. We are to be prepared and ready for the bridegroom who may come at any time. For a good description of imminence see here. 1 Corinthians 1:7 (eagerly waiting for the Lord Jesus), Philippians 3:20, Philippians 4:5, 1 Thessalonians 1:10, Titus 2:13, Hebrews 9:28, James 5:7-9, Jude 1:21, Revelation 3:11

F2 Con--I can't think of any. See below for other views arguments.

E2 Midtribulational

F1 Pro

G1 The first 3.5 years of the tribulation are not the wrath of God. It is only the last 3.5 years reveal the wrath of God.

G2 The seal and trumpet judgments come from humanity. Only the bowl judgments come from God.

G3 The trumpet of 1 Corinthians 15:52 is the same as the trumpet in Revelation 11:15.

G4 It seems to be an argument from philosophy rather than from Scripture.

F2 Con

G1 The whole tribulation period reveals and experiences God's wrath, not just the last 3.5 years.

G2 Christians are to be delivered from wrath. 1 Thessalonians 5:9-10

G3 Just because trumpets are mentioned doesn't mean that the trumpets mentioned above are the same.

G4 Most likely the last trumpet is mentioned in Matthew 24:31 is last. It is at the very end of the tribulation and after the 7 bowl judgments.

G5 The trumpets sounding in Revelation are related to judgment. The trumpet in 1 Corinthians 15:52 is the trumpet for resurrection.

E3 Posttribulational

F1 Pro

G1 The differing views here deal with a mix-up of the church with Israel, a nonliteral tribulation, missing the idea of the imminent return of Jesus. They all believe that the church goes through the tribulation.

G2 Matthew 24:29-31. This passage teaches

H1 Jesus returning and ALL see Him.

H2 This happens at the end of the tribulation.

H3 Angels gather the elect. Because the word elect is used, they take out of context and proof text Romans 11:7 to imply that the word elect cannot refer to Israel. But Isaiah 45:4, 2 Samuel 21:6 (King Saul was chosen/elect), 1 Chronicles 16:3, Psalms 105:43, and many other places.

F2 Con

G1 Mixing the church with Israel, not interpreting the Bible in its plain, normal sense, and not knowing the Bible teaches the imminent return of Jesus.

G2 Romans 11:7, the election, is the Jewish believers. The context is clear that there were before Messiah was born of the virgin Israelites who were believers and had faith. Those who did not were hardened.

G3 Romans 11:28, the election, is Israel.

G4 The Tribulation is a time of punishment for the world and for Israel. God's purpose for Israel at that time is for them to repent. Joel 3:12, Zechariah 14:2, Jeremiah 30:7, Daniel 12:1, Zephaniah 1:16, Revelation 6:16-17, etc.

E4 Prewrath

F1 Pro--this is somewhat similar to the mid-tribulation rapture. They teach that only the bowl judgments are the wrath of God.

F2 Con

G1 The whole tribulation period reveals and experiences God's wrath, not just the last 7 judgments (the seven golden bowls--Revelation 15).

G2 The rapture is seen as being as any time (imminent).

E5 Partial--only those who are worthy because of prayer, Christian living, and faithfulness will be raptured. The rest will have to go through the tribulation.

F1 Pro

G1 2 Timothy 4:8. It is interpreted that only those who love His coming will be raptured. (Problem--They are adding to the words of the passage. This verse is not speaking about who will and who will not be raptured. It simply states that those who love His appearing will receive a crown--the crown of righteousness).

G2 Hebrews 9:28. The words "...to those who eagerly await Him" have been interpreted to mean some will and some will not be raptured. The same problem of interpretation in 2 Timothy 4:8 is also used here. These who hold to this view simply read between the lines something that is not stated in the passage. I would understand the passage in its plain, normal sense and context to be stating that those who eagerly wait for His coming are those who believe the Gospel. All die (Hebrews 9:27) and are judged, but those who eagerly await His coming (believers) will be saved.

F2 Con

G1 Doesn't interpret the Bible in its plain, normal sense

G2 Is a type of protestant purgatory

G3 The cross of Jesus was not good enough for the believer. They must also do something to obtain a better salvation.

G4 Romans 5:1 teaches we are justified by faith and have peace with God. Colossians 2:13

G5 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 states that the body of Christ (the believers) are one body, not a divided body.

B3 Resurrections Acts 24:14-15.

C1 All humans will have a resurrection. Daniel 12:1-2, John 5:28, 1 Corinthians 15:22, Acts 24:15

C1 The blessed

D1 This is for believers who had died before the Rapture.

D2 It happens at the Rapture. This is called the First Resurrection. 1 Thessalonians 4:14-18, 1 Corinthians 15:22-23, John 5:29.

D3 The tribulation believers are raised before the Millennium. These believers are the ones killed by the antiChrist. Revelation 20:4.

D4 Thus the blessed resurrection is two phrase, but it is for believers only.

D5 Chronologically this is before the Judgment Seat of Christ (the bema judgment). This is for believers who will be judged and receive rewards.

C2 The cursed

D1 This is for unbelievers.

D2 It happens at the end of the Millennium.

D3 This happens just before the Great White Throne Judgment (the judgment time for unbelievers only). Revelation 20:5, John 5:29, Daniel 12:1-2

C3 Some hold to the view that Israelites will be raised at a later time (the end of the millennium). Daniel 12:1-2

C4 The resurrection of Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:4

D1 The was prophesied. Psalms 16:10, Isaiah 53:9-11,

D2 After resurrection, He was seen by over many people including one time over 500 people. 1 Corinthians 15:3-8

D3 Called the first fruits. 1 Corinthians 15:20-23

B4 Judgments

C1 It is true. Psalms 96:13, Acts 17:31, Hebrews 9:27

C2 The judge is Jesus Christ. John 5:22-23, John 5:27, 2 Timothy 4:1, Acts 17:31, etc.

C3 The judgments

D1 Regarding believers--this is Jesus dying, paying the penalty for sins. Jesus's death is for all (unlimited atonement) but applied only to those who believe. 1 Peter 2:24, 1 Peter 3:18, Galatians 3:13, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Hebrews 9:26, Hebrews 1:3, Romans 8:1

D2 Regarding believers who sin--this is chastisement of believers. 1 Corinthians 11:31-32, Hebrews 12:7

D3 Judgment Seat of Christ

E1 This is for believers only. 1 Corinthians 3:10-17, Romans 14:10-12, 2 Corinthians 5:9-10

E2 This is for rewards or no rewards of how we lived in our life on earth.

E3 The five crowns--Life (James 1:12, Revelation 2:10), glory (1 Peter 5:24), rejoicing (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20, Philippians 4:1), righteousness (2 Timothy 4:8), incorruptible (1 Corinthians 9:25-27)

E4 It is NOT to judge sin but to determine rewards.

E5 Takes place in heaven.

E6 It is after the rapture.

D4 Great White Throne Judgment Revelation 20:11-15

E1 This is for the unsaved only.

E2 The unsaved are resurrected.

E3 It happens on earth.

E4 It happens at the end of the Millennium.

E5 The resurrection of believers has already happened.

F1 The saints at the rapture. 1 Thessalonians 4:17, etc.

F2 The tribulation saints at the end of the Tribulation. Revelation 20:1-5

D5 Separation of sheep and goats Matthew 25:31-46

E1 Also called the Judgment of the Nations.

E2 Deals with the judgment of the gentile nations just after the end of the Tribulation.

E3 It happens at Jerusalem on earth.

E4 Messiah examines how they treated "My brethren," which is probably Israel.

E5 The saved gentiles go into the Millennium.

E6 The unsaved go to Hades.

D6 Of Israel Ezekiel 20:33-44 and Psalms 50:16-22

E1 Just after the end of the Tribulation

E2 In Israel

E3 The saved of Israel (Jews) will enter the Millennium.

D7 Regarding angels. 1 Corinthians 6:3, Jude 1:6, 2 Peter 2:4

B5 Difference between law and grace

C1 Law

D1 This is understood as Mosaic law especially as seen in the summary commonly called the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20).

D2 This law was required. Deuteronomy 10:12, Luke 10:27-18. (However no one can obey the law perfectly, except for the Savior, Jesus).

D3 It was not designed to make people right with God. Galatians 3:24-25

D4 It was for a nation--Israel. Romans 9:4

D5 Salvation was still by faith. Habakkuk 2:4, Deuteronomy 21:8-9 (one had to believe, which was proved when they looked).

D6 Was to show humanity that no one is righteous and no one can obey God's laws perfectly in thoughts, desires, words, and deeds.

C2 Grace

D1 Nothing we can do.

D2 Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone.

D3 God gives something that someone does not deserve. It is free and undeserved. Romans 4:4-5 (a gift is not given because we earned it), Ephesians 1:7 (we do not deserve redemption or forgiveness), 2 Thessalonians 2:16 (we do not deserve, nor have we earned, eternal hope and comfort), 1 Peter 1:10 (we have not earned, nor deserved, salvation. It is a gift).

B6 Difference between the believer's standing and state

C1 Standing--this is salvation. 1 Corinthians 6:11, Romans 3:26, Romans 8:33, 1 Peter 1:18-19, 2 Corinthians 5:17

C2 State--this is the current situation as we live our Christian life. Romans 8:5-6, 1 John 3:4, Galatians 5:16-26

B7 Difference between salvation and rewards

C1 Salvation--this is passing from death to life, having no forgiveness to forgiveness, not reconciled to reconciled.

C2 Rewards--has nothing to do with being saved. These are given in response to how we lived our lives after we became Christians.

B8 Difference between believers and professors

C1 Believers--those with a true heart change. 2 Corinthians 5:17, James 2:14-26

C2 Professors--those who say they are believers, but their lives show otherwise. Matthew 7:20-23, Matthew 12:33-35, Matthew 23:25-28

B9 Seven covenants

C1 Covenant defined

D1 An agreement between two parties. It is a very formal, legal agreement.

D2 Types

E1 Conditional--the only conditional covenant is the Mosaic covenant. The Scriptures state, "Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice, and keep my covenant, then you shall be my own possession from among all peoples; for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation.' These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel." (Exodus 19:5-6, WEB)

E2 Unconditional--all the other seven. No conditions, just promises given by God.

C2 Adamic Genesis 3:14-19

D1 Adam and Eve had sinned.

D2 God passes judgment and sentence on the serpent, Adam, Eve, and all creation.

D3 God gives an unconditional promise of a coming redeemer, a savior, a descendant of Eve (Adam is not mentioned). This is singular.

D4 This redeemer will destroy the serpent, even though the serpent will injure the descendant.

D5 This has been mostly fulfilled. Galatians 4:4. Complete fulfillment when all the works of the devil and sin are destroyed is still future at the end of the Millennium and just beyond it.

D6 Jesus was tempted by the devil, (Matthew 4:1-10), but Jesus did not sin.

D7 The reason Jesus came was to destroy the works of the devil. 1 John 3:8

D8 The complete fulfilling of the covenant does not depend on us or anything we do or do not do. God has promised and will do it.

C3 Noahic Genesis 8:20-9:27

D1 God had destroyed every living thing that breathed air except for what was on the ark.

D2 God now gives an unconditional covenant to never destroy every living thing again. Genesis 8:21

D3 Seasons were established and never will end. Genesis 8:22

D4 There is also the relationship between God and Shem. Genesis 9:26

D5 Japheth was to be enlarged. Genesis 9:27

D6 Canaan was to be the servant of servants (Genesis 9:25). This was fulfilled when Joshua conquered the land (Joshua 23:1, Psalms 44:1-3).

C4 Abrahamic Genesis 13:4-18, Genesis 15:1-21, Genesis 17:4-8, Genesis 22:15-24, Genesis 26:1-5, Genesis 28:10-15

D1 The establishment of the nation of Israel.

D2 The ownership of that land in the Middle East that God promised.

D3 This covenant is unconditional. It has and will happen. Psalms 105:8-11

D4 There was the promised seed, descendant. This is singular, not plural, and it refers to Messiah--Jesus. Galatians 3:16

C5 Mosaic Exodus 19:5-8, Exodus 19:25

D1 This is the only one that is conditional. Do it and live. Luke 10:28

D2 The summary of this covenant is the Ten Commandments. Exodus 20:1-17, Hebrews 9:1-7

D3 The reason that this is conditional is found in Galatians 3:19-29. It is to show all humanity that we are not good enough for heaven and fellowship with God. Romans 3:19 and Romans 7:7-13

D4 Jesus fulfilled this law perfectly (Matthew 5:17) and was sinless (Hebrews 4:15, 1 John 3:5, 1 Peter 2:22-24).

D5 Yet Jesus died, being sinless, because He was the sacrificial lamb. He became sin in our place (Romans 5:8, 2 Corinthians 5:21,

C6 Palestinian Deuteronomy 30:1-20

D1 The nation of Israel will be scattered. Deuteronomy 30:1 This happened because they sinned and God gave Israel the curses as they knew He would. (Deuteronomy 27)

D2 The repentance and return of Israel to worshiping God. Deuteronomy 30:2

D3 The regathering of Israel to its land. Deuteronomy 30:3-5

D4 Israel converted 2 Corinthians 5:17, Deuteronomy 30:6, Ezekiel 36:25

D5 God judges Israel's enemies Deuteronomy 30:7

D6 God's blessing on the repentant Israel. Deuteronomy 30:9

C7 Davidic 2 Samuel 7:8-17

D1 David would have a son who would sit on the throne of Israel and reign forever.

D2 This descendant would be God and man. Isaiah 7:14 and Isaiah 9:6-7

D3 The reality of this wonderful reign is peace in the universe. Isaiah 11:6-9

D4 This son has been born Luke 1:31-33

D5 Part of this is still future Acts 3:20-23

C7 New Hebrews 8:6-10:39. Read Hebrews 8:6-13

D1 This starts at Pentecost. Acts 2:1

D2 Israel can be part of it and will. Jeremiah 31:31-34

D3 The sacrificial death of Messiah is the base of this covenant. Matthew 26:28

D4 Is composed of believers in Messiah Jesus. Ephesians 2:11-15

B Summary, as I understand it.

C1 The Bible is to be interpreted in its plain, normal sense.

C2 Israel and the Church are separate.

C3 There is a true, literal 1,000 year reign of Messiah, Jesus, in the future

C4 The Gospel is always the same.

C5 The difference between law and grace

C6 The difference between the Old Testament and New Testament

C7 God is different periods in history had different situations to extinguish all complaints of people who were falsely accuse God of being unjust in punishment.

D1 Everything was perfect when Adam and Eve were created. They needed to believe. Proof of their faith would be tested. They failed when they disobeyed God. God judged them by a curse on the land and their relationship to God and each other.

D2 The first descendants of Adam and Eve, up to the flood, still had weather, etc. and understanding, but still failed. God judged them by the flood.

D3 So it happened after the flood, then there was failure.

D4 Then with Israel being chosen and the Law given. Failure happened again.

D5 In this day of grace, people have preached a false gospel much too often, which will also result in failure and judgment.

D6 So it will happen in the Tribulation and the Millennium.

A3 Resources

B1

B2 The following accurate and helpful statement has been formulated by the men of the New England Bible Conference and is entitled "A Clarification Regarding Dispensationalism."

When God's Word, the Bible, is taken in a consistent, literal manner it will result in dispensationalism. Dispensationalism is the result of a consistently literal, normal interpretation.

A dispensation is a unique stage in the outworking of God's program in time, whereby some or all of mankind are to have a believing response, being responsible to be good stewards of the particular revelation which God has given (Eph. 3:2,9; Col. 1:25; Exodus 34:27,28; Gal. 3:10–12; 1 Tim. 1:4; Eph. 1:10; etc.).

We believe that in order to be "rightly dividing the Word of truth" it is essential to distinguish things that differ and to recognize certain basic Biblical distinctions, such as the difference between God's program for Israel and God's program for the Church (Acts 15:14–17; Rom. 11:25–27), the separation of 1000 years between the two resurrections (Rev. 20:4–6), the difference between the various judgments which occur at various times (2 Cor. 5:10; Matt. 25:31–46; Rev. 20:11–15), the difference between law and grace (John 1:17; Rom. 6:14–15; Rom. 7:1–6) and the difference between Christ's present session at the right hand of the Father as the Church's great high Priest and Christ's future session on the restored Davidic throne as Israel's millennial King (Heb. 1:3; 10:12–13; Acts 15:16; Luke 1:32).

We believe the Church is a distinct body of believers which was not present on earth during the Old Testament period and which was not the subject of Old Testament prophecy (Eph. 3:1–9; Col. 1:25–27). In accord with God's program and timetable, the Church is on earth between the two advents of Christ with the beginning of the Church taking place after Daniel's 69th week (on the Day of Pentecost, Acts 2) and with the completion of the Church's ministry on earth taking place at the rapture before the commencement of Daniel's 70th week (Dan. 9:24–27). During this interval of time God is visiting the nations to call out a people for His Name (Acts 15:14–16; Eph. 3:1–11; Rom. 11:25). Indeed, the Church is God's called–out assembly.

We believe God will literally fulfill His covenant and kingdom promises to the nation of Israel just as the prophets foretold (Gen. 12:2–3; 15:18–21; Deut. 30:3–10; 2 Sam. 7:4–17; Jer. 31:31–37; 33:15–26). We believe that the promises of the Abrahamic Covenant (Gen. 12,15, 17), the Palestinian Covenant (Deut. 30), the Davidic Covenant (2 Sam. 7) and the New Covenant (Jer. 31) were made unconditionally to national Israel and that the thousand–year kingdom will include the literal fulfillment of these covenant promises to ethnic Israel (Jer. 31:31–37; 33:14–26; Ezek. 36:25–28; 40–48; Rom. 11:23–32). The church is not the "new Israel" or the "spiritual Israel," but rather "one new man" created of two groups, saved Jews and saved Gentiles (Eph. 2:15; 1 Cor. 10:32). The terms "Israel," "Israelite," and "Jew," are used in the New Testament to refer to national ethnic Israel. The term "Israel" is used of the nation or the people as a whole or the believing remnant within. It is not used of the Church in general or of Gentile believers in particular. Saved Gentiles of this present age are spiritual sons of Abraham who is the father of all who believe (Rom. 4:12,16; Gal. 3:7,26,29), whether Jews or Gentiles; but believing Gentiles are not Israelites [that is, they are not the sons of Jacob]. The Israelites are carefully defined by Paul in Rom. 9:4–5.

We believe that in every dispensation God's distinctive programs are outworked for His great Name's sake and that in every dispensation persons have always been saved by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8; Gen. 15:6; Heb. 11:4–7; Rom. 4:1–8). We believe that the glory of God is the determining principle and overall purpose for God's dealings with men in every age and that in every dispensation God is manifesting Himself to men and to angels so that all might redound to the praise of His glory (Eph. 1:6,12,14; 3:21; Rom. 11:33–36; 16:27; Isa. 43:7; 1 Tim. 1:17).

http://www.middletownbiblechurch.org/doctrine/danger10.htm

B3 The Seven Covenants

B4 The Moody Handbook on Theology by Paul P. Enns and many others.

What is God like?

Is God like a Santa Claus, or a sport figure, or an alien? Just some basic searches in the Bible reveal His character. I just looked at two books in the New Testament—Matthew and Romans. Hopefully this will give us a better understanding of who He is.



Matthew

 

God is with us Matthew 1:23

God is able to raise up children to Abraham Matthew 3:9

God has living words Matthew 4:4

God has a son. Matthew 4:6

God is not to be tempted. Matthew 4:7

God is to be worshiped. Matthew 4:10

God's throne is in heaven. Matthew 5:34

God does not tolerate worship of others or other things. Matthew 6:24

God is concerned about our needs. Matthew 6:30

God has a kingdom. Matthew 6:33

God has rules. Matthew 15:6

God is the God of Israel Matthew 15:31

God is living Matthew 16:16

God is good Matthew 19:17

God doesn't let just anyone into His kingdom. Matthew 19:24

God can do anything that is according to His character. Matthew 19:26

God won't people into heaven just because they are religious only. Matthew 21:31

God of today is and was the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Matthew 22:32

Jesus is the temple of God. Matthew 26:61

God forsook His Son. Matthew 27:46

 

Romans

 

God has a Gospel. Romans 1:1

God has a Son. Romans 1:4

God has grace and peace to give. Romans 1:7

God is thanked for things. Romans 1:8

God is witness. Romans 1:9

God's Gospel has power. Romans 1:16

God has righteousness. Romans 1:17

God has anger/wrath. Romans 1:18

God shows us things. Romans 1:19

God deserves to be glorified. Romans 1:21

God punishes sin. Romans 1:24, 26

God is a God of truth. Romans 1:25

God is hated by some. Romans 1:30

God gives judgment. Romans 2:2-3

God does not show partiality. Romans 2:11

God has standards and a law. Romans 2:13

God knows the secrets of humans. Romans 2:16

God gets dishonor from some. Romans 2:23

God gets blasphemed by people's actions. Romans 2:24

God gives praise to some. Romans 2:29

God is true. Romans 3:4

God punishes. Romans 3:5-6

God has truth. Romans 3:7

God is not sought after by humans in their natural state. Romans 3:11

God is not feared by all humans in their natural state. Romans 3:18

God requires faith. Romans 3:22

God has forbearance. Romans 3:25

God is God of the Jews and the Gentiles. Romans 3:29

God is the one who justifies. Romans 3:30

God is the God of Abraham. Romans 4:17

God gives promises. Romans 4:20

God gives peace through Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1

God has glory. Romans 5:2

God has love. Romans 5:5

God demonstrates love. Romans 5:8

God reconciles. Romans 5:10

God's grace comes through Jesus Christ. Romans 5:15

God makes alive. Romans 6:23

God wants a harvest of fruit. Romans 7:4

God dealt with sin and its guilt through Jesus Christ. Romans 8:3

God is hatred by the natural state of humans. Romans 8:7

God's Spirit lives in believers. Romans 8:9

God has heirs. Romans 8:17

God has a will. Romans 8:27

God works out all things well to those who love God. Romans 8:28

God is for us believers. Romans 8:31

God is the one who justifies. Romans 8:33

God has His Son, Jesus, sitting at His right hand. Romans 8:34

God has love that we cannot be separated from. Romans 8:39

Jesus is God. Romans 9:5

God's word does not fail. Romans 9:6

God has no unrighteousness. Romans 9:14

God is the one who shows mercy. Romans 9:16

God is sassed by some. Romans 9:20

God has longsuffering. Romans 9:22

God has those who do not submit to His righteousness. Romans 10:3

God has raised up Jesus Christ from the dead. Romans 10:9

God has not thrown Israel out. Romans 11:1-2

God can close spiritual eyes if people resist Him. Romans 11:8

God punished Israel. He can punish you and me, too. Romans 11:22

God is able to graft Israelites into His vine again. Romans 11:23

God is a deliverer. Romans 11:26

God has shown mercy to those who were once disobedient. Romans 11:30-32

God's wisdom and knowledge are beyond our comprehension. Romans 11:33

God has compassion. Romans 12:1

God is well pleased with our spiritual sacrifices. Romans 12:1

God has a perfect, that is, flawless will. Romans 12:2

God wants us to think of ourselves honestly. Romans 12:3

God has established government authority. Romans 13:1

God has ordinances. Romans 13:2

God uses government leaders as He wills. Romans 13:4

God loves both vegans and non-vegans. Romans 14:4

God has decreed that every person will confess that God is God. Romans 14:11

God has a kingdom. Romans 14:17

God is pleased when we obey the rules and teaching of Jesus. Romans 14:18

God is patient. Romans 15:5

God is encouraging. Romans 15:5

God gave Paul authority to do signs and wonders. Romans 15:19

God receives our prayers. Romans 15:30

God is peace. Romans 16:20

God is the only wise. Romans 16:27

 

 

 

What is Hyper-Calvinism?

I have contended for a long time that a Calvinist is the 5-point type, you know, TULIP. Anyone else claiming to be a Calvinist either does not understand the terms correctly or just feels like it is the acceptable thing to do. As in, "There is no way you're calling me an Arminian."



Dr. Roger Ols0n has just written an article on this very topic. It is an enlightening read.

Here, today, in this blog post, I wish to demonstrate why classical "T.U.L.I.P." Calvinism logically leads to hyper-Calvinism. In other words, my thesis is that, contrary to what most Calvinists claim, hyper-Calvinism is logically consistent Calvinism.

The key to this argument is unconditional particular election to salvation, not…

People are just fooling themselves to think they are Calvinists when they are really not.

"The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise, as some count slowness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9, EMTV). Please read and interpret this in its plain, normal sense.

Why Animals Sacrifices in the Old Testament?

Humans believe that we are the center of the universe, thus the selfie, the arguments, the fights, and the wars. We think our way, thoughts, ideas, etc. are what is best. If only everyone would agree with us.

When God had Moses write Leviticus, the sacrificial animals are mentioned frequently. Some feel this is because the Judaism of those days was based on the pagan religions around them, but why would God have Moses write Leviticus to remove mankind away from paganism when the ideas themselves come from paganism?

The sacrificial animals are a reminder that forgiveness of sins, getting right with God, and pleasing God cannot be done by ourselves. No human can atone for their unrighteous deeds. We may think our way is best. Cain thought this when he offered the best of his garden. Leviticus reminds us that our way, for once, is not the right way. Sin must be punished. We have been humiliated that we cannot do this for ourselves. Good works do not pay for past sins. This is part of the intention of God—to show us what we cannot do.

The true sacrifice, of course, was Messiah Jesus. He is the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. We cannot atone for our own sins.

1. "For it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins." (Hebrews 10:4, EMTV).
   
2. "But Christ came as a High Priest of the good things to come, through the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. Not through the blood of goats and calves, but through His own blood, He entered once for all into the Holies, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling those having been defiled, sanctifies for the purity of the flesh, by how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works in order that we might serve the living God? And on account of this He is the Mediator of the new covenant, so that, since a death has occurred for redemption of the transgressions at the time of the first covenant, that those having been called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance. (Hebrews 9:11-15, EMTV)
   
3. For the law, having a shadow of the good things to come, and not the image itself of the things, can never with the same sacrifices, which they offer continually every year, make those approaching perfect. Otherwise they would not have ceased to be offered, because the worshippers, once purified, would have had no more consciousness of sins. But in them there is a reminder of sins every year. For it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. (Hebrews 10:1-4, EMTV)
   
4. Which was a symbol pointing to baptism, which now saves you. It is not the washing off of bodily dirt, but the promise made to God from a good conscience. It saves you through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, (1 Peter 3:21, GNB92)
   

Resource referenced to in this article: "This the Law of the Burnt Offering" from the 27 Mar 15 Temple Institute Newsletter. The Temple Institute.

How is God Good?

What is "good," and what is "bad?"

We can only know what is good or bad by God's interaction with creation. God is totally consistent. We sees God's goodness in God sending the rain on the just and unjust. We see God's goodness in that He sent His only begotten son, Jesus Christ, to be the savior of whosoever will. Now, it must be said, we are not born "good." We are evil to the core. We have original sin which is we choose our own way and thoughts as being the best, the ultimate, and our own comfort is first. Nor, is there some spark in us that in our own strength we can see God. We do not seek God! "

What then? Are we any better? Not at all. For we previously charged both Jews and Greeks that they are all under sin. Just as it is written: "There is none righteous, no not one. There is none who understands; there is none who seeks God. All have turned aside; together they became unprofitable; there is not one doing kindness, there is not so much as one." (Romans 3:9-12, EMTV)

Salvation is initiated by God Himself. If God did not initiate salvation, no one would ever be saved, forgiven, or go to heaven.

I know what evil is, because God shows us His character, which is good. The opposite then is bad, evil. God has a way of life:

1. "For I have known him, in order that he may command his children and his household after him, that they keep the way of the LORD, to do righteousness and justice, that the LORD may bring to Abraham what He has spoken to him." (Genesis 18:19, NKJV)
   
2. Who is wise? Let him understand these things. Who is prudent? Let him know them. For the ways of the LORD are right; the righteous walk in them, But transgressors stumble in them. (Hosea 14:9, NKJV)
   
3. He said, "O full of all guile and all craft, you son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease perverting the straight ways of the Lord? (Acts 13:10, EMTV)
   

Sinners (all of us) have a different way of life.

1. Who in the generations gone by permitted all the Gentiles to walk in their ways. (Acts 14:16, EMTV)
   
2. For we have spent enough of our past lifetime to accomplish the will of the Gentiles—having walked in wantonness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. (1 Peter 4:3, EMTV)
   

Dr. Roger Olsen penned an article on his Patheos blog that is a very worthy read.

C. S. Lewis Said It: God's "Goodness" Cannot Be Wholly Other

For years now I have been insisting that the main reason I am not a Calvinist (or any kind of divine determinist) is that, taken to its "good and necessary consequences," Calvinism makes God morally monstrous. I fully realize and understand that many Calvinists do not see this and disagree. Of course they do. In my opinion, most simply close their eyes to the fact that if God creates some people, created in his image and likeness, for hell or even merely "passes over some" when he could save them (because election is unconditional and grace irresistible), then God is not good in any meaningful sense. If God does this, then "God is good" means nothing other than "God is God"—a tautology. "Good" tells us nothing about God in addition to "he is God."

When I push this "button" on Calvinism to a Calvinist he or she usually retreats…

The difference between a Calvinist (full TULIP) and Classical/Reformed Arminian is wide. This article definitely is worthy of 5 minutes of your time.

Calvinism: Blunt reality

Judas Iscariot Prepared by God?

Was Judas Iscariot created, prepared, to be the betrayer?

The thought being that God created Judas to be the betrayer.

Judas became the betrayer because of his own choices.

Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot who also became a traitor. (Luke 6:16, EMTV)

Now He was speaking about Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, for he was intending to betray Him, though he was one of the twelve. (John 6:71, EMTV)

And after supper, the devil having already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, to betray Him, (John 13:2, EMTV)

"Men and brothers; it was necessary for this Scripture to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke before by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus; (Acts 1:16, EMTV)

Judas began as a follower but ended as a traitor.

Judas began with God but ended up following the devil's suggestion.

Judas began as a follower but ended as a leader, guide, to those who were to arrest the Lord Jesus.

Many start well but end up in disaster.

Let us do things God's way and be humble.

Hell

What is hell and why is it talked about in the Bible?

A1 Terms

B1 Hades is the place of those who do not believe God. (Sheol is the Hebrew word).

C1 It is a place of torment. It is a holding cell in jail until the Judgment day.

C2 "…and in Hades, where he was in great pain, he looked up and saw Abraham, far away, with Lazarus at his side." (Luke 16:23, GNB92)

C3 "Death is the destiny of all the wicked, of all those who reject God." (Psalms 9:17, GNB92)

C4 "You snakes and children of snakes! How do you expect to escape from being condemned to hell?" (Matthew 23:33, GNB92)

C5 The direction is down.

D1 "And you, Capernaum, the one having been exalted to heaven, you will be brought down to Hades; because if the miracles which were done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained to this day." (Matthew 11:23)

D2 "For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." (Matthew 12:40)

C6 It is not a permanent place for souls. "And the sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to their works." (Revelation 20:13)

B2 Abyss

C1 Literally it means "without bottom."

C2 It is the place of the evil dead, demons, and sorrows. It is essentially the same as Hades.

C3 "…or, 'Who will descend into the abyss?'" (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). (Romans 10:7, WPNT)

C4 "And he kept imploring Him that He would not command them to go out into the abyss." (Luke 8:31, EMTV)

C5 "And I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key of the Abyss and a huge chain on his hand. And he seized the dragon, the ancient serpent, who is a slanderer, even Satan, who deceives the whole inhabited earth, and bound him for a thousand years; he threw him into the Abyss and locked and sealed it over him so that he should not deceive the nations any more until the thousand years were finished. And after these years he must be loosed for a short time." (Revelation 20:1-3, WPNT)

B3 Tartarus

C1 A place for evil angels who went and remain there for their coming judgment.

C2 It is used once in the New Testament.

C3 "For if God did not spare the angels when they sinned, but rather confined them to Tartarus, and delivered them into chains of darkness, reserved for judgment." (2 Peter 2:4)

B4 Gehenna

C1 This is more or less the same as the Lake of Fire.

C2 It is a place of final judgment for those who did not obey the Gospel.

C3 "…but the sons of the kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matthew 8:12)

C4 "…and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matthew 13:42)

C5 "And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both the soul and the body in hell." (Matthew 10:28)

B5 Lake of Fire

C1 A place prepared for the everlasting abode of the devil, his angels, and those whose names are not found in the Lamb's Book of Life.

C2 "And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone where also the Beast and the False Prophet are. And they shall be tormented day and night forever and ever." (Revelation 20:10)

C3 "And if anyone was not found having been written in the Book of Life, he was cast into the Lake of Fire." (Revelation 20:15)

A2 Questions

B1 Why would God send anyone to hell? I thought He is a "God of Love."

C1 Breaking God's law must be punished just like any law that are broken.

D1 "And now go, lead the people to where I spoke to you. Look, my angel will go before you, and on the day when I punish I will punish them for their sin." (Exodus 32:34)

D2 "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)

C2 God warns that the penalty is eternal. Some might think that the punishment is greater than the crime, but God warns all people.

D1 Those who have God's Law know what is right and wrong.

D2 Those who do not have God's Law know that murder, lying, stealing, etc. is wrong.

D3 So both are guilty.

D4 "The Gentiles do not have the Law of Moses; they sin and are lost apart from the Law. The Jews have the Law; they sin and are judged by the Law. For it is not by hearing the Law that people are put right with God, but by doing what the Law commands. The Gentiles do not have the Law; but whenever they do by instinct what the Law commands, they are their own law, even though they do not have the Law. Their conduct shows that what the Law commands is written in their hearts. Their consciences also show that this is true, since their thoughts sometimes accuse them and sometimes defend them. And so, according to the Good News I preach, this is how it will be on that Day when God through Jesus Christ will judge the secret thoughts of all." (Romans 2:12-16)

D5 "These, then, will be sent off to eternal punishment, but the righteous will go to eternal life." (Matthew 25:46, GNB92)

D6 "And these shall go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life." (Matthew 25:46, EMTV)

B2 Why is hell forever? Doesn't eternity seem too long? They will repent once they are in hell, so then they should be let out and go to heaven.

C1 God warns all that hell is forever.

C2 Anybody in their right mind would not want to stay in hell. It would not be a true repentance, just a fake one to get out of punishment.

C3 We are saved by faith, but once we are dead then we know. It is then fact, not faith.

C4 Rebellion (not obeying God's rules) is very serious.

C5 God has provided a way. See Need God.

 

A3 Other's article/response

B1 http://www.gotquestions.org/eternity-hell-just.html

B2 http://www.gotquestions.org/hell-real-eternal.html

B3 http://pleaseconvinceme.com/2015/is-christianity-unduly-harsh/

Christological Heresies

The list of Christological heresies is long. At the end of this article I have a brief summary plus some links.

The two I wish to discuss today are rather recent. The first is that Jesus is the good buddy. The second is that Jesus is the lover.

The Good Buddy heresy

The good buddy idea is expressed as terms like Jesus is my good friend. We play football together as well as basketball and boxing and breakdancing, etc. I'm not specifically referring to the "Good buddy Jesus" but that probably would fit this heresy as well. A quick search online found topics as "would Jesus make a good drinking buddy?" You get the idea. Jesus is a good friend, a peer, who you do things with, a bestie. Jesus only is some sort of glorified superman.

The trouble with this view, this Christological heresy is that Jesus is God.

The Lover heresy

Consider some lyrics from "Burning" from IHOP

I have found the love of my desire (Jesus)

I'm caught up in the passion of an ever-flaming fire (We're lovesick)

Captured by a pure and holy gaze (You're beauty ravishes me)

Frightened by your beauty but I just can't look away

Burning, oh I'm burning

My heart becomes and instant flame

At the very mention of Your name

 

And a few from Undivided Focus

And I am in love, with undivided focus

And I am in love with You

I am in love

And I am in love, with undivided focus

And I am in love with You

I wanna be a laid-down lover [x3]

Filled with You

 

List of historical Christological heresies

Ebionism	Jesus is only a man	Makes Jesus a liar or lunatic.	Colossians 2:9,
Arianism	Jesus had all of God's perfections but had a beginning. Jesus was also of a different substance than God	Jesus would not be the perfect Savior. He had to be the God/man of the same substance as God.	John 8:58, Isaiah 9:6, Hebrews 13:8, Isaiah 44:8, John 14:9
Adoptionism	Jesus was only a man, who lived a most righteous life and was adopted by God.	Jesus would not be the perfect Savior.	Hebrews 13:8, Ecclesiastes 7:20, Isaiah 45:21-22, Philippians 2:6-7
Docetism	Jesus is God/spirit. He has only an appearance as a human.	Jesus would not be the perfect Savior, because He was not a real man.	Luke 24:39, Ephesians 5:30, 1 John 1:1-2, Hebrews 2:14
Apollinariansim	Jesus had a human body and a human soul, but he had the divinity as his spirit.	Jesus was neither perfect God nor perfect man. All of man needs to be saved. Jesus would have to be perfect God/man to save the whole man—body, soul, and spirit.	Philippians 2:6-8, Colossians 1:15, John 1:1, Matthew 26:12, Matthew 26:38, Luke 23:46
Nestorianism	Jesus had a human and separate God person, so 2 persons in one body. Oil and water do not mix, so God and human are not mixed in Jesus. Jesus is a man who was infused by the second person of the Trinity.	Jesus was a split personality to be sure and not a complete savior. Which person was crucified? The one unified person of Jesus Christ, the God/man, was the Savior.	John 1:1, John 1:14, Hebrews 1:1-4, Philippians 2:4-7. This view is erroneous in that Jesus is always seen in the Scripture as one person. Mary gave birth not to just a son with a human nature but the God/man, one person and two natures. When Jesus died on the cross, both God and man died, since Jesus on the cross was the God/man. Jesus is one person, the God/man unmixed, unchanged, undivided, and inseparable.
Monophysitism	Jesus was a mixture of human and divine with the divine characteristics predominate.	Humans needed a human savior who was fully God as well.	Jesus is fully human as any other human (yet without sin 1 John 3:5) and fully God. There are two natures and one person. Jesus is fully divine as in John 1:1 and yet fully flesh as in John 1:14.
Eutychianism	Jesus had a mixture of human and divine is some sort of third substance. Sort of like hot water and cold water get mixed and are neither hot nor cold.	Jesus wouldn't be a perfect savior since he is neither human nor divine.	There is no mixture of natures. Jesus is fully human and fully God—100% human and 100% God.

Critical Thinking

I've been wondering this myself. Well said and a short article well worth reading and pondering.

Let me do some critical thinking out loud for a moment. I am pondering two questions. First, if God is speaking to us through visions, dreams, personal prophecies, etc., why is it that so often those who receive these visions, dreams, personal prophecies are some of the weakest people I know? I am not going to lump all charismatics together here as I don't know all of them of course and that would be unfair but those that I do know who claim God is speaking to them in a dream or a "word" in their spirit are typically not committed to studying the Bible, are often ignorant of basic doctrines, don't pray too much, are not serious in evangelism, and for the most part are weak spiritually.

Secondly, how…

The Bible is the only source of 100% truth, yet people seek experiences rather than real worship as in prayer, Bible study, fellowship, and church attendance in a godly church.

The entirety of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever. (Psalms 119:160, NKJV)

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, (2 Timothy 3:16, NKJV)

And let us consider one another for the stirring up of love and of good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves, just as is the custom for some, but exhorting one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (Hebrews 10:24-25, EMTV)

Pray without ceasing! (1 Thessalonians 5:17, EMTV)

Why Isn’t Your Church Growing?

A little piece of satire.

I actually saw this title on a Facebook post from a pragmatic church ministry site. I thought I would have some fun with this and try to come up with ten reasons your church is not growing from their point of view. Mind you this is satire so please don't take me serious here. Just laugh with me at how sad the pragmatism is in most modern-day church growth sites. So here we go….

1. You actually use the Bible.

2. You actually pray (and probably still read the Bible).

3. You mention Jesus or Christ is something like that way too much.

4. You teach docterines or whatever it is.

5. You never mention "sex" much in your "talks."

6. You don't wear skinny…

 

You can the whole article here.

Having It Both Ways

"Evolution is a fact," says J. William Schopf, UCLA professor of earth, planetary and space sciences.

For proof from this one study is if there is change, there is evolution, and if there is no change, there is evolution. Both ways. No matter what is observed in science, it is true. Hum…

Something I think is wrong with this.

Here is the link to the article: Sulfur Bacteria, Uncharged for Billions of Years, Confirm Darwinian Evolution. Come Again?

Now Christians who take the Bible in its plain, normal sense know that real science does not support evolution. See here and here
for example.

Well worth the couple of minutes to read.

In six days I, the LORD, made the earth, the sky, the seas, and everything in them, but on the seventh day I rested. That is why I, the LORD, blessed the Sabbath and made it holy. (Exodus 20:11, GNB92)

How To Know If Your Bible Teacher Is Truly Biblical?

 

How To Know If Your Bible Teacher Is Truly Biblical?

 

There is a simple way to know if your Bible teacher is focused on teaching the Bible or not. These simple rules are easy to use.

1. Expository Preaching.

Does your Bible teacher…

This is a good checklist. It is simple. We can also apply it to ourselves. Is our Bible study Biblical?

Prevenient Grace

Prevenient grace is the grace that precedes.

A Calvinist believes in prevenient grace as the grace that precedes salvation. An article on the question #50 on monergism.com states, "It is true, of course, that the regenerating grace of God must come before faith, and so in that sense it is prevenient." It is believed by Calvinists that "God grants his quickening grace to unbelievers, it does not merely given them the option to be alive--it makes them alive." In other words only the elect receive this grace but the nonelect only receive hell in its fullest without any chance for salvation (for God's glory, of course).

J. I. Packer in an article on "Regeneration" from his theology book "Concise Theology" writes,

"Regeneration is monergistic: that is, entirely the work of God the Holy Spirit. It raises the elect among the spiritually dead to new life in Christ (Eph. 2:1-10). Regeneration is a transition from spiritual death to spiritual life, and conscious, intentional, active faith in Christ is its immediate fruit, not its immediate cause. Regeneration is the work of what Augustine called 'prevenient' grace, the grace that precedes our outgoings of heart toward God."

A classical/reformed Arminian or Wesley Arminian would believe that since all humanity is dead because of sin, no one seeks God. NO ONE SEEKS GOD! So the Scripture teaches in Romans 3:9-18. God is the first. God initiates. God seeks mankind. No human seeks God. God is the one who begins and ends salvation. Every single human being would absolutely go to hell deservingly so unless God starts, initiates, begins, and seeks mankind.

A. W. Tozer wrote,

"Christian theology teaches the doctrine of prevenient grace, which briefly stated means this, that before a man can seek God, God must first have sought the man.

Before a sinful man can think a right thought of God, there must have been a work of enlightenment done within him; imperfect it may be, but a true work nonetheless, and the secret cause of all desiring and seeking and praying which may follow.

We pursue God because, and only because, He has first put an urge within us that spurs us to the pursuit. "No man can come to me," said our Lord, "except the Father which hath sent me draw him," and it is by this very prevenient drawing that God takes from us every vestige of credit for the act of coming. The impulse to pursue God originates with God, but the outworking of that impulse is our following hard after Him; and all the time we are pursuing Him we are already in His hand: "Thy right hand upholdeth me."

In this divine "upholding" and human "following" there is no contradiction. All is of God, for as von Hegel teaches, God is always previous. In practice, however, (that is, where God's previous working meets man's present response) man must pursue God. On our part there must be positive reciprocation if this secret drawing of God is to eventuate in identifiable experience of the Divine. In the warm language of personal feeling this is stated in the Forty-second Psalm: "As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?" This is deep calling unto deep, and the longing heart will understand it.

–Excerpted from A. W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God, chapter 1 (this was found on evangelicalarminians org.

Thus God gets all the glory for salvation. When Jesus commanded, "Repent" a person can resist or not resist. "You stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit; as your fathers did, you also do. (Acts 7:51, EMTV)

Most Calvinists and Arminians preach the Gospel. Starting with the Law of God showing all that they are not good but evil and are deserving of hell fire, they proceed to the grace of God found only in the shed blood of Jesus Christ, who is the only savior.

But the Scripture has confined all under sin that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. (Galatians 3:22, NKJV)