Yesterday I spent time thinking about the Connexion retreat and the discussions we will have about asking good questions, first of the text we're studying then of the group we are leading. I was reminded how asking the wrong questions of a text will lead to wrong conclusions, sometimes even bizarre conclusion.On of the big … Continue reading Asking the Right Questions of the Bible
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What is the meaning of ‘homosexual’ in the Bible?
There is a common argument that when the Bible speaks of homosexuality what it is actually referring to is 1) homosexual rape, 2) sex with boys (children), 3) homosexual prostitutes (cult prostitutes), 4) heterosexuals having 'unnatural' homosexual sex. Are these arguments valid? What is the Bible referring to specifically? I'll look at these other options … Continue reading What is the meaning of ‘homosexual’ in the Bible?
Questions About Scripture #5: My friend is Jewish and rejects the NT. How can I explain the legitmacy and relevance of the NT?
Another great question from Sunday night, "My roomate is Jewish and therefore disregards the New Testament entirely. How can I explain the legitimacy and relevance of the New Testament?"I think there are at least two possible approaches. First, to show from the Old Testament that the Messiah must suffer and die and be raised again. … Continue reading Questions About Scripture #5: My friend is Jewish and rejects the NT. How can I explain the legitmacy and relevance of the NT?
Questions about Scripture #4: If the Bible is authoritative, how do we take those passages in the Pentetauch which permit slavery?
I am forced to paraphrase this question from memory because the piece of paper is on my desk at church and I'm snowed in at home. The question, 'if the Bible is authoritative how do we handle the passages in the OT that permit slavery', is one I wish I had a whole semester to … Continue reading Questions about Scripture #4: If the Bible is authoritative, how do we take those passages in the Pentetauch which permit slavery?
Questions about Scripture #3: Why didn’t the Jews think the Messiah would be crucified?
Another great question (not necessarily regarding the reliability of Scripture) was submitted Sunday night: "Why didn't the Jews think the Messiah would be crucified. It was prophesied in the OT..."A few points. I'm not sure you can look to the OT and find passages that foretell the Messiah would be crucified (I'm open to correction … Continue reading Questions about Scripture #3: Why didn’t the Jews think the Messiah would be crucified?
God Entranced 