What occurs after death? – A question answerable only via Bible consultation. Does there remain a consciousness after death? Despite the clarity of the Holy Script some do not subscribe to the idea of eternal consciousness in hell. Concerning Thayer’s definition of “olethros,” translated “destruction” in 2 Thessalonians 1:9, Homer Hailey wrote, “Thayer defined the …
Continue reading The Patternists: Posthumous Consciousness Despite the plain teaching of the gospel – “He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day” (John 12:48) – several standards of judgment exist. Driven by obstinacy and ignorance, men continually refuse the flawless standard of …
Continue reading The Patternists: Suffering – An Ambiguous Standard of JudgmentIn the month of December, 2015 the Elm Street church of Christ will meet on the 2nd, 6th, 9th, 13th, 16th, 20th, 23rd, 27th, and 30th. What about the 25th? The 25th falls on a Friday, a day we do not normally meet, for we gather on Sundays as we have authorized examples (cf. Acts …
Continue reading The Patternists: Violations of the Pattern: Observing Special Religious HolidaysHow can we grow numerically? How can we grow spiritually? How can we eradicate apathy? How can we bridge the gap between the elderly and the youth? How do we ensure evangelical success? These are a few of many reappearing questions in the minds of the spiritually discerned, and concerned. This mindset is admirable. We …
Continue reading The Patternists: Violations of the Pattern: Reformation VS RestorationI recently came across an article that sarcastically praised Joel Osteen for his modern gospel message. The author pointed out many scriptures that differed from Osteen’s preaching. He sarcastically stated that if there were differences, it is the apostles that must be wrong, for their message is not applicable to the times. For that reason, …
Continue reading The Patternists: Violations of the Pattern: The Pattern Can ChangeMany in the religious world falsely claim to have the gift of speaking in tongues. This spiritual gift was among the most popular in the first century (cf. 1 Corinthians 14), and is apparently sought after today. However, by “rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15) an honest heart comes to the realization …
Continue reading The Patternists: Violations of the Pattern: Biblical Tongue Speaking Occurs TodayThe doctrine of hereditary depravity is certainly not new to the scene. This age-old doctrine has led many astray throughout its existence, and has contributed to the birth of other false doctrines. Hereditary depravity is the idea that the original sin of Adam and Eve is inherited at birth. It also teaches, “from this original …
Continue reading The Patternists: Violations of the Pattern: Hereditary DepravityOn Facebook, and other social media sites, it is not uncommon to see various pictures of people sitting in a comfortable chair, legs elevated, a cup of coffee in hand, and an open Bible in their lap. In part, this is encouraging to see. We must have an interest in God’s word! However, it is …
Continue reading The Patternists: Violations of the Pattern: Eisegetical Study VS Exegetical StudyI recall a post I came across on Facebook that stated “Religion says do. Jesus says done.” This false notion is motivated by the idea that we are saved by grace alone. The doctrine removes the need for obedience, and personal responsibility. The scripture clearly describes two parts to salvation – God’s, and man’s. While …
Continue reading The Patternists: Violations of the Pattern: We are Saved by Grace AloneA large sect of the religious world hold’s to the concept of subjective guidance via the Holy Spirit. In other words, “I know this is right. I feel it! God spoke to me!” This is a popular fallacy to follow. If one claim’s that God spoke directly to them, who can say otherwise? However, this …
Continue reading The Patternists: Violations of the Pattern: God Speaks Apart from the Bible