Delve into the closure of the biblical canon and why new scripture cannot be added. Reflect on how to share faith effectively, especially with those skeptical of belief. Uncover the mystery of the young man in Mark 14, exploring themes of trepidation and betrayal. Dive into Messianic prophecies and their implications for understanding divine promises. Engage with the challenges of addressing sensitive topics like same-sex attraction within families, emphasizing love and honesty in communication.
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Quick takeaways
The podcast emphasizes that the biblical canon is closed and cannot be altered or added to, highlighting the foundational teachings established by the apostles.
It scrutinizes the importance of discernment in faith discussions, urging believers to align claims of new scripture with established biblical truths.
The conversation addresses the challenges of discussing faith with those of differing beliefs, advocating for respectful dialogue rooted in love and preparation.
The speaker encourages believers to reflect on their personal faith journeys, affirming that struggles with understanding do not diminish their relationship with God.
Deep dives
The Closed Canon of Scripture
The discussion centers around the theological implications of the closed canon of scripture, emphasizing that no new books can be added to the Bible. It highlights the importance of understanding that the canon was established through the teachings of the apostles and the life of Jesus. The speaker notes that while some may wish to propose additions to the canon, it is essential to consider what constitutes scripture and what has already been established as the foundation of the faith. The argument posits that any suggestion for new scripture must be backed by a specific book, which complicates the discourse surrounding the idea of an open canon.
The Role of Apostolic Authority
The podcast underscores the significance of apostolic teaching in the establishment of Christian doctrine, emphasizing that the apostles were integral in laying the church's foundational teachings. This is supported by scripture indicating that the church is built upon the foundation laid by the apostles and prophets, with Jesus as the chief cornerstone. As such, the authority of the apostles remains crucial, and their teachings are viewed as the final authority on faith and practice. Consequently, the podcast challenges the notion that new revelations could arise after the apostles, maintaining that the foundational work has already been completed.
The Nature of Regeneration and Salvation
Regeneration and its relationship to faith is a critical theme, discussed in the context of Acts and the work of the Holy Spirit. The podcast explains that believing and being baptized can occur without the immediate outpouring of the Spirit, illustrating that individuals may experience a journey of faith distinct from receiving the Holy Spirit. This notion aligns with scriptural examples where believers undergo a process before the Spirit actively manifests in their lives. The speaker clarifies that this phenomenon does not negate one's salvation but indicates varying experiences in the Christian journey.
The Importance of Discernment
A significant theme in the podcast revolves around the need for discernment, especially in matters concerning claims of new scriptures or revelations. The speaker stresses that while believers should be open to understanding various theological perspectives, it is crucial to measure these against established scripture. This call for discernment reflects the speaker's understanding of the potential for deception within religious contexts, particularly when newcomers or false prophets might introduce conflicting teachings. Highlighting the need for caution, the podcast asserts that discernment is essential for maintaining the integrity of the faith.
Understanding Spiritual Gifts and Their Manifestation
The discussion of spiritual gifts and their manifestation is raised with respect to the early church's experiences in Acts. The podcast articulates a view that initial signs of the Holy Spirit's presence were distinctly associated with the apostles and their ministry. The speaker acknowledges that the occurrence of speaking in tongues or other miraculous signs held significance for the early church and served as evidence of the Holy Spirit's working. However, today's believers are encouraged to embrace their spiritual gifts without being fixed on the specific manifestations seen in scripture.
Handling Disagreements with Grace
The podcast addresses the challenges of engaging in discussions about faith with individuals holding differing beliefs, particularly within families. It highlights the importance of approaching such conversations with both truth and love, advocating for a focus on one topic at a time. The advice offered is to engage in prayer and preparation to foster a calm mindset before initiating discussions. Emphasizing the need for grace, the speaker urges believers to create an atmosphere where respectful dialogue can thrive.
The Impact of Cultural Context on Theological Discussions
The influence of cultural shifts on theological conversations is another key point of discussion, where the podcast examines how societal changes impact the interpretation of scripture. The speaker notes that discussions around faith should be informed by the broader cultural context alongside scriptural truths. Acknowledging the complexity of addressing contemporary issues with a biblical lens, the speaker encourages listeners to remain grounded in the core tenets of their faith while engaging in cultural dialogue. This balance fosters a richer understanding of how to apply scripture in today's world.
Encouragement for Processing Personal Faith Journeys
The podcast concludes on a note encouraging believers to reflect on their personal faith journeys and the importance of understanding their salvation. The speaker reassures listeners that struggles with faith or understanding are common and do not invalidate their relationship with God. By encouraging personal reflection, the discussion highlights that faith is often a dynamic process, inflected with questions and doubts that can lead to deeper understanding. The message reinforces the idea that God's love is accessible and unwavering, even amidst personal struggles.
Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro
0:08 {Is the Canon Closed?} Why can no new books of the Bible be written? Why is the canon closed?
26:49 {Must we Share our Faith in Every Circumstance?} Looking at 1 Peter 3:15-17, what would you say to anyone who would ask you about "the hope you have in you"? And are there times or certain people who you wouldn't bother providing that answer to (e.g., someone you know isn't really interested in the answer and just seeks to make fun of you)?
33:27 {How did the Thief on the Cross Know?} The thief on the cross believed Jesus would come into His kingdom, despite knowing that Jesus was going to die. How might that be, since even the disciples didn’t grasp this until the resurrection?
36:58 {How to Reach a Wiccan} What can or should I say to a Wiccan relative who wants to have seances to reach her dead son? She’s not a believer, so should I just hold my tongue?
39:53 {The Man in Mark 14} Who was the man in Mark 14:51-52? Could it be that this was somehow Jesus Himself escaping? As an unbeliever, how should I approach my readings? Any questions I should keep in mind?
45:42 {Understanding Parallel Prophecies} Is there a process you go through to understand parallel prophecies? For example, 2 Samuel 7:14 seems to be about Jesus, but clearly not completely because he doesn’t commit iniquity.
53:11 {Different Personalities in the Trinity?} Do the different Persons of the Trinity have different personalities? Would God the Father, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit act in a different way than the others in a given situation?
55:54 {Do Heavenly Rewards Support LDS Doctrine?} Every time you answer a question about rewards in Heaven, I can't help but think of the LDS levels of Heaven. How do I debate with them when they use rewards as the basis for their belief about there being different levels of Heaven?
1:03:13 {Can a Christian Struggle to Obey God?} Can a Christian still struggle with submitting completely to God? Or is that a symptom that you're not truly saved?
1:05:20 {About the “Two Witnesses” in Rev.} Who are the two witnesses in the book of Revelation, and is it possible for them to be people that are walking the Earth today that are not in the Bible?
1:11:01 {Are Casual Conversations Sinful?} Someone argued with me that because of Matthew 12:36 (every idle word…), all jokes and fun conversations are sinful, and that Jesus never spoke in a casual, non-serious way. Is this true?
1:16:54 {Should We Still Forgive when Not Asked?} Do we still need to forgive others if they don’t ask for forgiveness? My grandma believes that as Christians, we don’t forgive unless the other person repents and asks for forgiveness.
1:20:17 {Christian Creators: Make This Content!} As a YouTube pastor, do you have any suggestions for content you would like to see Christians make? I'm in seminary and I’m thinking about making videos, but I wonder what I should create (if I did).
1:22:56 {Being Open about Sexual Sin} Do you have any advice on how to come out (for lack of a better word) to my Christian parents about being same-sex attracted and addicted to pornography? I know Christianity is true.
1:27:23 {Does Titus 3:5 Teach Calvinism?} What is a non-Calvinist way of understanding regeneration in Titus 3:5?
1:31:34 {Is God’s Love Actually Conditional?} If the Bible says God loves those who love Him, thereby making a condition we have to fulfill for His love (Proverbs 8:17, John 14:21, 23), can we still say that God's love is unconditional (John 3:16, etc.)?
1:35:43 {Lessons from a Peculiar Bible Story} What is the lesson for us from 1 Kings 13:11-24 where the man of God is deceived by the old prophet, eats with him, and is killed by the lion?
1:46:28 {About Catholic Claims: Eucharistic Miracle} Have you ever heard of the apparent eucharistic miracle that Catholics point to? How would you respond to it and how they claim that the apparent miracle has been scientifically verified?
1:48:57 {Baptized Believer, but Not Indwelled?} Acts 8:16 says that believers in Samaria were baptized but hadn’t yet received the Spirit. Can one believe and be baptized without receiving the Spirit?
1:54:05 {Overcoming Anxiety while Witnessing} I always get anxiety and my heart starts beating fast whenever I try to speak up about social or biblical Issues to my family (mainly my dad who is a Progressive Christian). How can I overcome this?
CLICK HERE for my full series through the Gospel of Mark with lots of theology and apologetics.
CLICK HERE for my video examining Matthew's use of "fulfilled," or why Bible prophecy confuses you.
CLICK HERE for why I think Calvinism is unbiblical.
Michael Kruger's useful book, Canon Revisited, can be found HERE.
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