In this insightful discussion, Mike Winger, a Christian apologist and theologian, tackles tough theological questions. He addresses whether Jesus' death could be seen as suicide, clarifies how believers can still sin with the Holy Spirit's presence, and defines biblical inerrancy. Winger also explores the implications of the Old Covenant's end, the significance of nakedness in the context of sin, and the complexities of humility in faith. Plus, he shares thoughts on how private biblical events were recorded, providing a rich exploration of Christian doctrine.
Jesus' crucifixion is characterized as a supreme act of love and sacrifice, countering claims of it being suicide or child abuse.
The significance of the resurrection transformed the apostles from fearful individuals to bold advocates, highlighting its pivotal role in early Christianity.
The complexity of the old covenant's end illustrates a gradual transition aligned with God's promises, emphasizing Christ's death and the Holy Spirit's arrival at Pentecost.
Deep dives
The Apostles' Transformation Through the Resurrection
The apostles initially fled and denied Jesus during his crucifixion, showing a lack of faith and fear for their safety. However, after witnessing the resurrection, their attitudes dramatically changed, leading them to become bold advocates for Jesus, even willing to suffer and die for their faith. Historical evidence supports that these transformations are unlikely fabrications, as accounts of their failures would not be typically included if they were simply mythologized stories. This stark contrast in behavior underscores the significance of the resurrection as a pivotal moment that changed the course of their lives and the early Christian movement.
Addressing Common Objections to the Cross
Several objections have been raised about the nature of Jesus' crucifixion, including claims that it was an act of suicide or child abuse. Comparing Jesus’ sacrifice to acts of heroism, such as soldiers jumping on grenades to save others, illustrates that his death was selfless and not self-destructive. Additionally, the objection of the cross being child abuse distorts the reality of Jesus' mature and willing sacrifice, emphasizing that he was not a child but God in human form. Ultimately, the cross symbolizes supreme love and sacrifice rather than any form of condemnation or irresponsibility.
The Concept of a Bloodthirsty God
Critics often portray God as bloodthirsty in the context of the crucifixion, suggesting that divine wrath was arbitrarily projected onto Jesus. This misunderstanding fails to recognize that God's wrath is a righteous response to sin rather than a petty emotional outburst. Proper interpretations of scripture emphasize that God’s anger stems from a moral obligation to address sin justly. The sacrifice of Jesus should be seen as the ultimate act of love and justice, where God's anger towards sin is redirected towards Jesus, thereby offering reconciliation to humanity.
Intercessory Prayer and Its Importance
The question of why believers should pray for one another while Jesus is the ultimate intercessor often arises. Jesus' intercession pertains to his role as a high priest, which enables believers to approach God, rather than merely being about prayer in a conventional sense. Despite Jesus’ role, interpersonal prayer remains vital as it fosters community and worship among believers, often leading to significant changes in circumstances. The act of praying supports the idea that collective prayer can lead to God responding in powerful ways, affirming the dynamic relationship within the body of Christ.
Honoring the Old Covenant and Its Transition
The discussion around when the old covenant officially ended is complex, with various points of transition, including Christ’s birth, death, resurrection, Pentecost, or the destruction of the temple in 70 AD. While Christ’s sacrifice can be seen as a critical fulfillment, the advent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost signals the initiation of the new covenant in believers' lives. Understanding that individuals inherently transition into the new covenant upon accepting Christ reflects the ongoing fulfillment of God’s promises. The understanding of the gradual progression from the old to the new covenant highlights the continuity and fulfillment of God's plan through Jesus.
Teachings and Roles within the Church
The role of women in teaching, particularly in adult Sunday school classes, raises questions about whether these functions align with biblical elder roles. It is posited that teaching a co-ed class, especially if it involves doctrinal instruction, could resemble an elder role due to its authoritative nature. However, facilitating discussions or teaching specific topics, such as parenting, may not necessarily hold the same weight as a formal pastoral role. This distinction suggests that while there are guidelines regarding teaching and authority, the context and content of the teaching play significant roles in determining appropriateness.
1. 3:08 {Was Jesus’ Death Suicide?} I need help responding to the objection that Jesus voluntarily going to the cross was suicide. I know this isn’t the case, but I’m having a hard time expressing why. 2. 20:23 {How Can We Sin if Indwelled?} How are we able to sin if the Holy Spirit is in us? 3. 24:52 {Defining Inerrancy} How can we biblically define inerrancy? Even the writers of the Chicago Statement seem to hold slightly different views on harmonization (according to Mike Licona). 4. 31:45 {Is Nakedness Inherently Sinful?} My 16 year old daughter was wondering why with the Fall in Genesis, shame is associated with being naked. What’s the correlation between sin, nakedness, and the Fall? I didn't really know. 5. 34:51 {How were Private Events Recorded?} Do you know how biblical authors recorded events, conversations, and moments that transpired despite being in private or in a one-man scenario, perhaps like Judas' death? 6. 43:08 {When did the Old Covenant End?} When did the Old Covenant officially end? Christ's birth? Death (Temple veil torn in 2)? Resurrection? Pentecost? 70 A.D. (destruction of the Temple)? Or was it a gradual "end" similar to U.S. slavery? 7. 49:05 {Overcoming Pride} I often feel myself getting prideful and I’m worried that if I don't get control over it, God will humble me. What are some ways to keep myself humble, before God does it for me? 8. 53:40 {Did God or an Angel Give Moses the Tablets?} How do we reconcile Exodus 31:18 with Acts 7:38, Galatians 3:19, and Hebrews 2:2? I’m unconvinced that Scripture contradicts itself, but this lives in my head rent free and I need a resolution. 9. 57:55 {Why Pray for Others?} If Jesus is our final intercessor, why should we intercede for or pray over other believers' needs? Is this related to the spiritual realm and prayer delays, like in Daniel 10:12-14? 10. 1:08:26 {Commentary Recommendations} What is your go-to commentary? -- Bonus Q: 1:11:00 {Co-Led Studies & Complementarianism} After watching your Women in Ministry series, I’d like to know if biblically, you believe a woman helping her husband teach a co-ed adult Sunday school class would be an elder-type role and would be wrong.
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To participate in a future session, show up when the livestream starts (you see me actually on screen) and post your question in the chat. It helps if you reference one or two specific verses if they are relevant to your question and if you put a Q at the beginning of your comment in the live chat.
I’m Mike Winger and my goal is to help people think biblically about everything. My website: BibleThinker.org
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