Our first article examined Ulrich Zwingli’s covenant of grace as the historical basis for the assertion that baptism is “an outward sign of an inward grace.” We concluded that Zwingli’s covenant of grace is not supported by scripture. Next, we tested the assertion that Colossians 2:11–13 supports baptism replacing circumcision. However, the text demonstrates that...Continue reading
Our previous article examined the historical background for the assertion that baptism is “an outward sign of an inward grace,” denying baptism as an act of redemption. The resultant analysis demonstrated no Scriptural basis for Ulrich Zwingli’s unifying covenant of grace, supporting his view that NT baptism replaces OT circumcision. In this article, we want...Continue reading
Few are surprised to find apocalyptic literature operating as “crisis literature.”[1] Reddish notes that the crisis, whether perceived or actual, varies. The audiences of Daniel faced military and political oppression, while 4 Ezra’s readers encountered a theological crisis. Irrespective of the crisis, the apocalyptic author uses vivid images of powerful military, political, or theological systems to...Continue reading
A faithful understanding of John’s Apocalypse and other apocalyptic passages demands an appreciation for the Jewish apocalyptic worldview. The Jewish apocalyptic worldview refers to “the attitudes, presuppositions, expectations, and beliefs that form the religious or cultural milieu.”[1] These worldviews incorporate visions that provide “the theological backdrop against which reality should be understood, according to which...Continue reading
Recently, someone asked about responding to a Roman Catholic (RC) who elevates the place of tradition to the level of Scripture. While some internal debate exists, the official position of the RC church places traditions at the same level as the authoritative God-breathed word. The Council of Trent (1546) affirmed the Gospel as “the source...Continue reading