Bryan Hodge

Denominations: Baptist Church (Part 1)

Posted on August 3, 2021 by Bryan Hodge

Ascertaining accurate total numbers is difficult. The Baptist church is greatly divided. The Baptist World Alliance (BWA) indicates that their fellowship of 241 conventions and unions, in 126 countries and territories, comprised 47 million baptized believers in 2020 (members unions, baptistworld.org). However, not all Baptists are counted. The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), for instance, is not a part of the BWA. Yet, the SBC “ranks among the world’s largest Protestant body in the United States” (Southern Baptist, christianitytoday.com).

In the United States there are many branches of the Baptist church. Baylor University lists 19 different types of Baptist Churches in America (Baptist Denominations in America, baylor.edu). The Association of Religion Data Archives lists 22 different types of Baptist churches (Religious Groups: Baptist, thearda.com). The Handbook of Denominations indicates that there are 27 different types of Baptist churches in the United States (Frank S. Mead and Samuel S. Hill, Handbook of Denominations, p. 34). The largest branches in the United States are (1) Southern Baptist (SBC) with 14.5 million in 2019 (Fast Facts, sbc.net). Its numbers have declined for 13 straight years (Travis Loller, Southern Baptist See 13^th year of Membership Decline, June 4, 2020, apnews.com). (2) National Baptist USA (NBC USA) with about 8 million members (Members Union, baptistworld.org). It is predominately a black convention. (3) National Baptist of America (NBCA) which has about 3 million members (ibid). It is predominately a black convention. (4) Progressive National Baptist (PNBC) with more than one million (ibid), perhaps as many as 2.5 million (Who is the PNBC, pnbc.org). Martin Luther King Jr. was a leader in this group. It is heavily involved with civil rights activities. Its mission is “equipping pastors and churches to be effective in ministry and lift up our voice on behalf of the voiceless.” It’s vision is to “unite African Americans to positively impact the community” (ibid). (5) American Baptist USA (ABC USA), formerly known as Northern Baptist with more than one million members (Members Union, baptistworld.org). Northern and Southern Baptist split in 1845 over slavery and other issues (Frank S. Mead and Samuel S. Hill, Handbook of Denominations, pp. 54-55).

The top states for SBC as a percentage of the population in 2010: (1) Mississippi, 30.5%; (2) Alabama, 29.1%; (3) Oklahoma, 23.6%; (4) Tennessee, 23.3% (Southern Baptist Convention, thearda.com).

History

There are different ideas which have been set forth about the origin of the Baptist church. (1) A few Baptists believe that the Baptist Church has existed since the first century A.D.. Landmarkism is a belief system that developed in the 19^th century in America. It holds that there has been a succession of Baptist churches from the first century to this day (See: Doctrinal Statement of the American Baptist Association 1905). “Landmarkism for Baptists might be thought of much in the same manner that nineteenth-century Roman Catholicism was. It was attempting to validate their claims to apostolic succession. The name ‘Old Landmarkism,’ somewhat like the ‘Primitive Baptists,’ laid claims not only to truth, but also to historic precedent as well” (Gerald L. Foster, Following the Denomination Called Baptist, p. 400).

(2) Most historians believe that it grew out of English separatism. The American Baptist Churches USA says, “American Baptists, Southern Baptists and all the scores of other Baptist bodies in the U.S. and around the world grew out of a common tradition begun in the early 17^th century… The earliest Baptist Churches (1609-1612), although comprised of English-speaking congregants, flourished in Holland, where religious toleration was much greater than in England. Among their leaders were John Smyth, who led the first congregation of 36 men and women and Thomas Hewys, who returned to England in 1612 to establish the first Baptist church in England… In the early 1630’s Roger Williams, formerly a member of the Church of England, took up clerical responsibilities in Massachusetts. However, he eventually became estranged from authorities in Massachusetts Bay Colony over the failure of church and civil functions to be independent of one another. About 1638 he established the First Baptist Church in America in the then uncolonized Rhode Island (Providence), which became the first government in history founded in the premise of absolute religious freedom. At the same time, John Clarke, also originally from England and also dissatisfied with religious practice in Massachusetts founded a Baptist church in New Port, Rhode Island. Williams and Clarke secured a charter guaranteeing civil and religious freedom in Rhode Island from King Charles II in 1663” (Our History, abc-usa.org). Baptist historian, David Benedict credits John Smyth as establishing the first Baptist church in London in 1607 (David Benedict, A General History of the Baptist Denomination, p. 304, archive.org). Baptist historian, Henry C. Vedder also credits John Smyth, but locates the founding in Amsterdam (Henry C. Vedder, A Short History of the Baptist, p. 4 archive.org).

(3) Some think that there may be a connection with the Anabaptist. Bob Allen of the Associated Baptist Press writes, “Most modern historians mark the birth of the Baptist movement at 1609… There is no question the earliest Baptist interacted with Anabaptist in the Netherlands – When John Smyth’s group left England for Amsterdam, they met in a bake house owned by a member of a Waterlander Mennonite congregation – but historians disagree over the extent of cross-pollination between the groups” (Scholars Disagree on Anabaptist, Baptist Connection, baptistnews.com).

General Baptists and Particular Baptists (Regular Baptists or Reformed Baptists) have slightly different English histories. General Baptist were separatists, wanting to completely separate from the Church of England. John Smyth and Thomas Helwys were separatists. “The earliest documented Baptist Church in England dates from the return to Spitalfields of Thomas Helwys in 1611” (Origin of the Particular Baptists by Gordon L. Belyea, thegospelcoalition.org). Particular Baptists “Were non-separatist, forming their own (independent) congregations outside of the Church of England but seeking to maintain friendly relations with the Church of England” (What are Particular Baptists Churches? Gotquestions.org). However, in time they too would separate. “Historians have… concluded that the first Particular Baptist church dates at least from 1638, and possibly even from 1633. Though their baptism was for believers only, at first it was administered by sprinkling or pouring… English Baptists recovered the practice of believer’s baptism in two steps. By 1608/09, the General Baptists insisted that baptism was for believers only, and by 1638 the Particular Baptist reached the same conclusion. At first, English Baptist baptized by sprinkling or pouring. Immersion came a few years later” (Baptist Beginnings by Leon McBeth, baptisthistory.org).

They are referred to by different names for a reason. Particular Baptists are highly Calvinistic. They believe in particular (limited) atonement. General Baptists believe in general (unlimited) atonement (What Are Particular Baptist Churches? Gotquestons.org). An example of a Particular Baptists would be the Primitive Baptist. An example of a General Baptist would be Freewill Baptist. The Southern Baptist are divided in their acceptance of the five points of Calvinism. Since 1850 the sharp distinction between General and Particular Baptists has faded in most Baptist Churches (Gerald L. Foster, p. 410).

Posted in baptism, calvinism, denominations, History, Race, Stats | Tagged 13th year of decline for sbc, 1608, 1609, 1611, 16123, 1630, 1633, 1638, 1663, 1845, 1850, 1905, abcusa.org, alabama, american baptist association, american baptist usa, amserdam, anabaptist, apnews.com, archive.org, associated baptist press, baptist beginnings, baptist world, baptist world alliance, baptisthistory.org, baptistnews.com, baptst church, baylor univerity, baylor.edu, bob allen, book a gerneral history of the baptist denomination, book a short history of the baptist, book following the denomination called baptist, book handbook of denominations, bwa, calvinism, christianity today, church of england, david benedict, denominations, doctrinal statement american baptist, england, english seperatism, fast facts, frank mead, freewill baptist, general baptist, general v particular baptist, gerald foster, gordon l. belyea, gotquestions.org, henry c. vedder, history, holland, john clarke, john smyth, king charles ii, landmarkism, leon mcbeth, limited atonement, london, martin luther king jr, massachusetts, massachusetts bay colony, mennonite, national baptist of america, national baptist usa, nbca, nbcusa, netherlands, new port rhode island, non seperatist, numbers decline, oklahoma, old landmarkism, orinigin of baptist church, our history, particular baptist, pnbca, pouring, primitive baptist, progressive national baptist, providence rhode island, reformed baptist, regular baptist, rhode island, roger williams, roman catholic, samuel hill, sbc, sbc.net, slavery, souther baptist convention, spitalfields, split northern and southern baptist, split over race, split over slavery, sprinkling, stats, tennessee, thearda, thegospelcoalition, thomas hewys, top states, travis loller, types of baptist, waterland mennonites | Leave a comment

The Sound of Sneezing

Posted on July 30, 2021 by Bryan Hodge

The sound one makes when sneezing is natural, and involuntary. Correct?

The answer is not exactly. The sound one makes seems to be in large part a learned behavior. The sound emitted is different around the world. Achoo is common in English speaking countries. Atchim in Portugese; Atchaum in French; Hatshi in German; Apchki in Russian; Hopsu in Greek and Turkish; Achhee in Hindi; Hat xi in Vietnamese; Eichi in Korean; Hakshon or hakashun in Japanese; Ha-ching in the Philippines (Don Lewis, The Surprising Story Behind the Sound of Sneezing, nowiknow.com; James Chapman, The Sound People Make When Sneezing Across the World, theuijunkie.com; Emma Tracey, Why Deaf People Sneeze Silently, bbc.com).

Moreover, the sound made by deaf people is noticeably different. “British deaf people, particularly users of sign language, don’t think to add the English word ‘achoo’ to this most natural of actions” (Emma Tracey, bbc.com). “To me, deaf sneezes sound more like this: a heavy breath is taken, then a sharper, faster sound of air being released as the sneeze occurs. There is none of this ‘aahhh’ sound added as they breathe in. And none of that ‘choo’ malarkey as said sneeze is released.” (Charlie Swinbourne, The Question: Do Hearing People Fake Their Sneezes? We Need to Know, limpingchicken.com).

People want to conform to the norm. They are influenced by those around them. Charlie Swinbourne suggests, “As they sense a sneeze coming, the hearing person’s brain sends out an alert saying: ‘Emergency! You are about to sneeze in public. Make this sound normal” (Charlie Swinbourne, limpingchicken.com).

I don’t really care about the sound of your sneezes. However, I do care about spiritual influence. Who is influencing us? “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed” (Proverbs 13:20). “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend” (Proverbs 27:17). The ESV Study Bible comments, “Since the word ‘face’ (Hb. Panim) can refer to the edge of an axe or sword (Eccl. 10:10; possibly Ezek. 21:16), the image is that the interaction with a good man (both as he encourages and corrects) hones one’s skill in handling challenges.” “Do not be deceived: Evil company corrupts good habits” (1 Corinthians 15:33).

How much time are we spending with the best of all examples, Jesus? Spending time with Jesus changed Peter and John. “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13). It will change us as well. “We all, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory” (2 Corinthians 3:18). Robert H. Mounce comments, “Taking the participle (beholding- B.H.) in the instrumental sense we read, ‘We all are being changed into the image of Christ by beholding the glory of the Lord.’ Transformation into the likeness of Christ is the inevitable result of gazing upon his glory. We become like that which dominates our thoughts and affections. Like Nathaniel Hawthorne’s ‘great stone face,’ which shaped the life of the one who spent his days looking at the craggy representation of all that was held to be good and pure, so also does the believer gradually take on the family resemblance to his or her Lord as they spend their time contemplating the glory of God. Notice that the participle is present tense. It is a continual contemplation that effects the transformation. As the participle is present tense, so also is the finite verb ‘are being changed.’ The transformation keeps pace with the contemplation. They are inextricably bound together. By continuing to behold the glory of the Lord we are continually being transformed into his image” (William D. Mounce, Basic of Biblical Greek Grammar, p. 298). There is no other way. Let us be ever “looking unto Jesus” (Hebrews 12:2). “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). He left us an example that we should follow in His steps (1 Peter 2:21 cf. John 13:34; Philippians 2:5; Hebrews 12:1-4; 1 John 3:16-18).

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Denominations: Congregational Church/United Church of Christ

Posted on July 16, 2021 by Bryan Hodge

At the beginning of the 21st century, there were about 2.4 million Congregationalists worldwide (congregationalism, britannica.com). There are about 802 thousand members of the United Church of Christ in the U.S.A. (2020 Statistical Report, ucc.org). The top states for UCC membership: (1) Pennsylvania; (2) Illinois; (3) Ohio; (4) Massachusetts; and (5) Connecticut. The top states by congregations: (1) Pennsylvania; (2) Massachusetts; (3) Ohio; (4) Illinois; and (5) California (ibid).

History

Congregational Churches have their history in the English independent and separatist movement, in the sixteenth century. They believed that the local church should be left to govern itself. Some fled persecution in England for Leiden, Holland. They were among the Pilgrims of the Mayflower. The Pilgrims of the Plymouth Plantation (1620) and the Puritans of Massachusetts Bay Colony (1629) acknowledged their essential unity in the Cambridge Platform of 1648. Both Harvard (1636) and Yale (1707) were founded by Congregationalists.

The Congregationalists were Calvinists like the Presbyterians. From 1801-1852, the two denominations worked together in missionary activities under a Plan of Union. “One of the reasons for the breakdown of the arrangement… was the growing liberalism of congregationalism, which become more and more pronounced as the century went on” (Encyclopedia Britannica, Vol. 4, p. 1129 © 1979). Mergers have occurred over recent years. In 1931, the Congregational Church and the Christian Connection (James O’Kelly) merged. In 1957, Congregational Christian Churches merged with the Evangelical and Reformed Church to form the United Church of Christ. Not all Congregational Churches have accepted these mergers. The National Association of Congregational Christian Churches was formed in 1955 in response to the pending formation of the United Church of Christ. These churches believed that the new denomination would create unwieldy bureaucracies and hinder the freedom of local churches. These churches are more independent and self-directing than those of the UCC and tend to hold more liberal positions in doctrine and practice” (What is a Congregational Church/Congregationalism? gotquestions.org). “The third group is the conservative Congregational Christian Conference which was formed in 1948 in opposition to the liberal theology making inroads in other congregational churches” (ibid, see also Congregationalists: The Story, Puritan to Progressive, Read To Harvest, YouTube).

[The following works were among the works consulted in presenting this material: Encyclopedia Britannica; Frank S. Mead and Samuel S. Hill, Handbook of Denominations; The Congregational Christian Tradition, congregationallibrary.org; Congregational Church in the United States, familysearch.org].

Beliefs and Practices

1. Authority

Congregational Churches believe that the Bible is to be the rule of faith (Our Statement of Faith, fccmiddleboro.org).

They do not require that one accept a formal creed. This is true of Congregational Churches (What It Means to Be a Member of a Congregational Church by Henry David Gray, ccclamasa.com). This is true of the United Church of Christ Beliefs by Jack Zavada, learnreligion.com).

2. Continuing Revelation/New Light

The United Churches of Christ believes in continuing revelation. Parkview United Church of Christ of White Bear Lake, MN says, “Basic beliefs of the United Church of Christ… 1. God is still speaking. “’Never put a period where God has put a comma’ – Gracie Allen. We believe that revelation did not stop with the closing of the canon at the Council of Trent in 1546. We believe that our faith is based on a biblical interpretation that includes new revelations and learning in science, art, music, literature, psychology, and the social sciences and other sources of knowledge that continue to evolve and change over time” (mnparkviewucc.org).

3. Sacraments

There are two sacraments in Congregational Churches. These are baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Encyclopedia Britannica, Vol. 4, p. 1130). These are generally regarded as symbolic (Sacraments, uccholyoke.org).

4. Baptism

“Infants are baptized, normally by sprinkling” (Britannica, ibid). The United Congregational Church of Holyoke, MA says, “Baptism is a rite of entry into the faith offered to persons of any age” (sacraments, uccholyoke.org). It is seen as “an identity claimed for the person… rather than a guarantee of protection” (ibid).

5. The Lord’s Supper

The Lord’s Supper is normally celebrated once or twice per month (Britannica, ibid). Most receive it as symbolic. However, each are welcome to bring their own understanding to it” (sacraments, uccholyoke.org).

6. Calvinism

Congregational Churches are Calvinistic. “The English historian, Bernard Manning, once described their traditional position as ‘decentralized Calvinism’” (Britannica, Vol. 4, p. 1129).

7. Abortion

The United Church of Christ (UCC) “has joined with other faith groups to protect women’s equal and fair access to abortion” (Reproductive Justice, ucc.org).

8. LGBTQ

The UCC says, “Who ever [sic] you are, where ever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here!” (LGBTQ Ministries, ucc.org).

9. Politics and Social Justice

The UCC has been involved in many political issues. They have called for gun control reform (Gun Violence, ucc.org). They are an accredited NGO with the UN. They say, “Our presence at the UN today focuses on a few key areas: global peace with justice, gender justice, racial justice, climate justice and global health issues like HIV/AIDS” (UCC at the United Nations, ucc.org).

Name/Organization

Congregational Churches are so named for their organizational structure. “Each UCC setting speaks only for itself and not on behalf of every UCC congregation” (Witness for Justice, Liberation, Freedom, Equity, and Justice for All by Velda Love, ucc.org). First United Church of Christ of Northfield, MN writes, “The local church is the basic unit of the United Church of Christ. That means that our congregation has a great deal of independence and autonomy in the conduct of our ministry. We own our building, call our own ministers, and are responsible for the ways we worship and work… In our tradition (to quote our constitution) ‘The government of the church is vested in its members, who exercise the right of full and final control of all its affairs. Each January, the whole congregation gathers to review and oversee the life of the church. We elect officers, pass a budget for our local expenses, and conduct such other business as may come before the meeting. Special congregational meetings are called from time to time, usually by request of the church council, to vote on particular matters” (How Our Church is Organized, firstucc.org). The exact form of government in the local church seems to be left up to the local church.

There is a General Synod of the UCC. “Because of the UCC’s polity the General Synod speaks ‘to, but not for’ the UCC. Thus, resolutions may call upon, urge, affirm, support, invite, recommend, request, ask, and encourage various settings of the church, but may not direct them” (Resolution Process Overview, generalsynod.org).

Posted in Abortion, calvinism, Church Organization, denominations, Doctrine, History, Stats | Tagged 1546, 1620, 1629, 1636, 1648, 1707, 1801, 1852, 1931, 1948, 1955, 1957, Abortion, aids, authority, bear lake minnesota, beliefs and pratices, benard manning, bible, book handbook of denominations, california, calvinism, cambridge platform 1648, ccclamasa, christian connection, church autonomy, church government, church organization, congregational christian church, congregational christian conference, congregational church, congregationallibrary.org, connecticut, continual revelation, council of trent, creeds, decentralized calvinism, encyclopedia britannica, england, evangelical and reformed church, familysearch.org, fccmiddleboro, first united church of christ, firstucc, frank mead, general synod, generalsynod.org, gotquestions.org, gracie allen, gun control, harvard, henry david gray, history, hiv, holyoke massachusetts, illinois, independants, infant baptism, jack zavada, james o'kelly, learnreligions, leiden holland, lgbtq, massachusetts, massachusetts bay colony, mayflower, mnparkviewucc, national association of congregational christian churches, netherlands, new light, ngo, northfield minnosota, ohio, our statement of faith, parkview united church of christ, pennsyvania, period or comma, pilgrims, plan of union 1801, plymouth plantation, politics, presbyterian church, puritan to progressive, puritans, ready to harvest, reproductive justice, resolution process, sacraments, samuel hill, social justice, stats, the Lord's Supper, ucc, ucc.org, uccholyoke, un, united church of christ, united nations, velda love, yale | Leave a comment

Climate Change, an Existential Threat?

Posted on July 8, 2021 by Bryan Hodge

Let’s define the terms. Climate refers to the long-term weather conditions. “Weather refers to short-term conditions of the atmosphere while climate is the average daily weather for an extended period of time at a certain location… weather is what you see outside on any particular day… climate is the average of that weather” (What is the difference between weather and climate, oceanservice.noaa.gov). Climate change refers to the “Changes in long-term averages of daily weather” (noaa.gov). Existential threat “is a threat to something’s very existence –when the continued being of something is at stake or in danger” (dictionary.com).

Climate change is believed by some to be a threat to human existence on earth. Al Gore said in an interview with Judy Woodruff, “We have a global emergency… if we do not begin taking action very quickly… the consequences… could actually extend to an existential threat to human civilization on this planet as we know it” (PBS Newshour, One-On-One, 10/12/2018). Alexandria Ocasio – Cortez told an audience on January 19, 2019 that she feared, “the world is doing to end in 12 years if we don’t address climate changes” (Ocasio-Cortez on Climate by William Cummings, Jan. 22, 2014, usatoday.com). Nancy Pelosi made this statement, “The climate crisis is the existential threat of our times” (Pelosi Statement on Global Climate Strikes, September 20, 2019, speaker.gov). Greta Thunberg said, “If the emissions have to stop, then we must stop emissions. To me that is black or white. There are no gray areas when it comes to survival” (How Greta Thunberg Transferred Existential Dread Into A Movement by Emily Witt, April 6, 2020, newyorker.com). Some wonder just how sincerely this is believed by politicians. If it is such a severe and immediate threat to our very existence, then some have wondered why no one is advocating the military invasion of India, China or other high producers of pollution to stop the threat.

Is the climate changing? Historians tell us that it has in the past. The medieval warming period (c. 950-1250 A.D.) seems to have brought greater rain fall and crop production in northern Europe. “Human civilization thrived when dramatic warming ushered in enhanced crop production and the more beneficial climate of the Medieval Warming Period” (Global Cooling, Not Global Warming, Doomed the Ancients, James Taylor, forbes.com; see also Ryan Reeves, Medieval Society, YouTube). The Little Ice Age (c. 1300-1870) seems to have brought crop production decline (forbes.com; see also, How The Little Ice Age Changed History, by John Lanchester, newyorker.com). It is now believed, by some, that the Little Ice Age is responsible for the especially dense wood which makes the Stradivarius violins so special (Does Climate Explain Prized Violins’ Tone? By Duncan Mansfield, Dec. 8, 2003, nbcnews.com). 1816 is known as “The Year Without A Summer.” It is believed to have been caused by the eruption of Mount Tambora in Indonesia, which occurred the previous year. “Many residents of New England and the Canadian Maritimes froze to death, starved, or suffered from severe malnutrition… many others from the region pulled up their stakes and moved to western New York and the Midwest, where the cold was less severe. In fact, the year without a summer is now believed to have been one major catalyst in the western expansion of the United States” (1816, The Year Without A Summer by Jamie McLeod, farmersalmanac.com; see also – 1816, New England Experienced Year Without A Summer, wmur.com). It was reported that the temperature had dropped 1/2 a degree F in the Northern Hemisphere between 1945 and 1968, and that the growing seasons had shortened by 2 weeks since 1950. The Newsweek headline on April 28, 1975 was “The Coming Ice Age.” Peter Gwynne wrote an article in it entitled “The Cooling World.” Yes, temperature changes occur. And fear sells

The data suggests that the climate has warmed in recent times. “The Earth is generally regards as having warmed about 1^o C. (1.8^oF). Since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, around 1750” (Exactly How Much Has Earth Warmed And Does It Matter? By Earl J. Richie, forbes.com). The EPA says, “Since 1901, the average temperature across the continuous 48 states has risen at an average rate of 0.16^oF per decade” (Climate Change Indicators, epa.gov).

Keep in mind that global temperature readings have only existed a short time. “The oldest continuous temperature record is the Central England Temperature Data Series which began in 1659, and the Hadley Centre has some measurements beginning in 1850, but there are too few data before 1880 for scientists to estimate average temperatures for the entire planet. Data from earlier years is reconstructed from proxy records like tree rings, pollen counts and ice cores… However instruments are not perfectly distributed around the globe, and some measurement sites have been deforested or urbanized since 1880, affecting temperatures nearby. Each agency uses algorithms to filter the effects of these changes out of the temperature record and interpolate where data is sparse, like over the vast southern ocean, when calculating global averages” (Why Does the Temperature Record… Begin at 1880, nasa.gov).

Is climate change good or bad? This is debated. Most think it is a bad thing. Some are not of this opinion (e.g. Why Climate Change is Good for the World by Matt Ridley, spectator.co.uk).

Is man a major cause of climate change? This is hotly debated. Our government says, “There are many ‘natural’ and ‘anthropogenic (human induced) factors that contribute to climate change” (Why is Climate Change Happening and What are the Causes?, usgs.gov). Among the anthropogenic causes listed are greenhouse gases released into atmosphere, aerosols, and land-use changes. We know that man can cause local changes in climate, e.g. urban heat islands, where cities are hotter than surrounding rural areas.

Thoughts From the Bible

1. Stewardship

It is true that we are to be good stewards of God’s creation (e.g. Gen. 2:15; Deut. 20:19-20; 22:6-7, etc.)

Man can do great damage to his environment. Think – the Halifax explosion, Nova Scotia, Canada (1917); the Texas City industrial explosion disaster, Texas City, Texas (1947); the Love Canal, Niagara Falls, New York disaster (1970s); the Bhopal, India Union Carbide disaster (1984); the Chernobyl, Ukraine nuclear disaster (1986) – to name a few.

Remember that Israel in the wilderness was instructed how to dispose of human excrement. Deuteronomy 23:12-14 read, “Also you shall have a place outside the camp, where you may go out; and you shall have an implement among your equipment, and when you sit down outside, you shall dig with it and turn and cover your refuse. For the LORD your God walks in the midst of your camp, to deliver you and give your enemies over to you; therefore your camp shall be holy, that He may see no unclean thing among you, and turn away from you.”

2. Promise

God told Noah, “While the earth remains, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, and day and night shall not cease” (Genesis 8:22).

This tells me that man is not as powerful as he thinks, and the earth is not as fragile as he thinks. Seasons will continue. Crops will continue to be produced and harvested as long as the earth remains. We do not need to worry (Matthew 6:31-33).

3. End

God, not man, will end this earthly existence. Paul wrote, “We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed – in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet” (1 Corinthians 15:51-52 cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18). Peter wrote, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat” (2 Peter 3:10). This will not be a gradual extinction. It will be a catastrophic event. It will be sudden destruction (1 Thessalonians 5:3).

4. Preparation

Let us remember that the end is coming. “Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God” (2 Peter 3:11).

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Denominations: Reformed/Presbyterian Church (Part 2)

Posted on July 7, 2021 by Bryan Hodge

Name

The name “Reformed Church” has its origin in the reformation. “Originally, all of the Reformation churches used this name (or the name Evangelical) to distinguish themselves from the “unreformed” or unchanged, Roman Catholic Church. After the great controversy among these churches over the Lord’s Supper (after 1529) the followers of Martin Luther began to use the name Lutheran as a specific name, and the name Reformed became associated with the Calvinistic Churches (and also for a time with the Church of England)” (Reformed Church, britannica.com). Today, Reformed Church refers to a Calvinistic church. It is used in a broad sense to include: Presbyterian Church; Congregational Church; French Huguenot Church; Reformed Church, and others. Frank Mead and Samuel Hill write, “They were called Reformed in Switzerland, Holland, and Germany; Presbyterian in England and Scotland; Huguenot, in France; national names, for others in Bohemia and Hungary” (Mead/Hill, Handbook of Denominations, p. 210).

The name “Presbyterian Church” refers to its governmental structure. The Greek Presbuteros means “elder.” New Standard Encyclopedia says, “The powers of governmental are vested in the body of believers and are exercised through their chosen representatives who are called ‘elders.’ It denies the claim of one man or a special class of men who rule the church by virtue of divine right” (Vol. 8, © 1938). Britannica says, “All who hold office do so by election of the people whose representatives they are. The church is to be governed and directed by assemblies of office holders, pastors, and elders chosen to provide just representation for the church as a whole” (Presbyterian Church Government, britannica.com). They reject a king or single bishop over the church.

Authority

1. The Bible

The PCA says, the Bible is, “the only infallible rule of faith and practice” (Westminster Confession of Faith, pcaac.org). The Bible consists of 66 books, Genesis – Revelation, which were given by the inspiration of God (Westminster Confession of Faith, 1547, Chapter 1.2). The Apocrypha is not canonical, nor is it inspired (Westminster, Chapter 1.3).

2. Confessions and Catechisms

The PCA says, “When the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America was formed in 1788, it adopted (with minor revisions) the Westminster Confession of Faith, larger and shorter catechisms (1647), as its secondary standards (the Bible itself being the only infallible rule of faith and practice). Officers in the Presbyterian Church in America take a vow to ‘sincerely receive and adopt these documents as containing the system of doctrine taught in the Holy Scriptures’” (Westminster Confession of Faith, pcaac.org).

The PCUSA also has confessions. The Book of Confessions published by the Office of General Assembly in 2004 contains (1) The Nicene Creed; (2) The Apostles’ Creed; (3) The Scots Creed; (4) The Heidelberg Catechism; (5) The Second Helvetic Confession of Faith; (7) The Shorter Catechism; (8) The Larger Catechism; (9) The Theological Declaration of Barmen; (10) The Confession of 1967; (11) A Brief Statement of Faith.

Beliefs and Practices

1. Calvinism

Nearly all Presbyterians hold to the five points of Calvinism (T.U.L.I.P). John Calvin taught, “By predestination we mean the eternal decree of God, by which he determined with himself whatever he wished to happen with regard to every man. All are not created on equal terms, but some are preordained to eternal life, others to eternal damnation” (John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion Book 3, Chapter 21, biblestudytools.com). Daniel Denhem has written, “Some Calvinist, like (Edwin) Palmer, will be so bold as to affirm that God ‘has foreordained everything’ to such an extent that it includes, ‘…the moving of a finger, the beating of a heart, the laughter of a girl, the mistake of a typist – even sins’” (ed. David Brown, Calvinism, Houston College of Bible Lectureship, p. 92). The Cumberland Presbyterian Church was started in Tennessee in 1810. They reject the wording of the Westminster Confession of Faith. They reject the doctrine of double predestination. They reject limited atonement. They reject irresistible grace. They say concerning the work of the Holy Spirit, “While it is possible for all to be saved with it, none can be saved without it. Whoever will therefore, may be saved, but not apart from the illuminating influence of the Holy Spirit” (Confession of Faith 1984, Cumberland.org). They believe in Perseverance of the Saints, or “once saved, always saved” doctrine (What We Believe, cookevillecpchurch.org).

2. The Sacraments

They believe in two sacraments: baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapter 27). “Sacraments are holy signs and seals of the covenant of grace” (ibid). These sacraments may only be dispensed “by a minister of the word lawfully ordained” (ibid).

3. Baptism

It is “a sacrament of the New Testament… for the solemn admission of the party into the visible church” (Westminster, Chapter 28). It may be administered by dipping, pouring, or sprinkling (ibid). It is “not only for those that do profess faith… but also for infants of one or both believing parents” (ibid). “The efficacy of Baptism is not tied to that moment of time wherein it is administered” (ibid).

4. The Lord’s Supper

“In this sacrament, Christ is not offered up to His Father; nor any real sacrifice made… but only a commemoration of that one offering up of Himself” (Westminster, Chapter 29). They do not believe that the elements are literally changed into body and blood (ibid).

5. Salvation

They believe that man is saved by God’s grace alone, through faith alone which is given to the elect. “We do not need to worry or speculate about our salvation. We need simply to ask, ‘Do I believe in Jesus Christ?’ If we do, we recognize that we do so by the power of the Holy Spirit and that our salvation is secure in God’s electing purpose” (Donald K. McKim, What Do Presbyterians Believe? firstpresbyterian.org).

6. Women

Presbyterians have been using women in church leadership for a long time. The PCUSA says, “You’ll meet Presbyterian women who are teaching elders (pastors), ruling elders (church leaders), session members (a committee of elders who govern a church), church educators, voting delegates to the General Assembly, or chairs or members of church committees” (presbyterianwomen.org).

7. Millennial

“In recent centuries, Reformed theologians have staked their claims in a variety of camps… Historically, most Reformed theologians have tended to adopt either the amillennialist or postmillennialist position” (Robert Bohler Jr., What Presbyterians Believe About the Future, Part 1, pres-outlook.org).

8. Homosexuality

“In the Presbyterian Church USA, the church voted in 2015 to allow gay and lesbian weddings within the church. In 2014, the church had voted to allow clergy to perform same-sex weddings” (Presbyterians: 10 Things to Know, Amanda Casanova, Christianity.com).

Organizations

In PCUSA a local church is governed by a session. It is composed of elected pastors and elders. “Beyond the local congregation, several sessions constitute a Presbytery, several Presbyteries form a Synod, and the General Assembly encompasses the entire denomination” (Presbyterian Organization, religionfacts.com; cf. Presbyterian: 10 Things, Christianity.com; New Standard Encyclopedia, Vol. 8, © 1938).

Types of Presbyterians

1. The Presbyterian Church USA (PCUSA) is the largest branch. It is based in Louisville, Kentucky.

2. The Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) is the second largest branch. It is based in Lawrenceville, Georgia. It is more conservative. It does not ordain women. It teaches that homosexuality is sinful. It teaches that abortion is sinful. It does not teach no fault divorce (Joe Carter, How to Tell the Difference Between PCA and PCUSA, thegospelcoalition.org).

3. There are many other groups. A simple internet search mentions: Orthodox Presbyterian Church; Evangelical Presbyterian Church; Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church; Cumberland Presbyterian Church; Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America; Upper Cumberland Presbyterian Church; Bible Presbyterian Church; Covenant Presbyterian Church; Reformed Presbyterian Church (US); Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterian Church; Presbyterian Church in America; Presbyterian Church (USA).

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Denominations: Reformed/Presbyterian Church (Part 1)

Posted on July 2, 2021 by Bryan Hodge

The world-wide membership is said to be 75 million (Presbyterian Church Denomination by Mary Fairchild, learnreligions.com). Some claim the number to be over 90 million (About the Presbyterian Church, rockvillepresbyterian.org).

In America, there are several branches of the Presbyterian Church. The Presbyterian Church U.S.A. (PCUSA) shows a membership of 1.24 million (PCUSA 2020 statistics, Rick Jones/office of the General Assembly, pcusa.org). The Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) shows a membership of about 385,000 as of 2018 (pcanet.org). The Cumberland Presbyterian Church (CPCA) shows a membership of 65,000 (2020 Yearbook of the General Assembly, cumberland.org). There are other branches. The top states for the PCUSA, the largest branch, were in 2010: by number – (1) Pennsylvania; (2) North Carolina; and (3) California; by percentage of population – (1) South Carolina; (2) North Carolina; and (3) Pennsylvania (thearda.com).

History

1. Ioannis Calvinus or Jean Cauin/John Calvin (b. 1509 – d. 1564).

The history of the Reformed Tradition and the Presbyterian Church is closely linked with John Calvin. The First Presbyterian Church in Watertown, New York says, “Much of what the Presbyterian Church believes originated with the French lawyer John Calvin… who established much of what we know as Reformed Theology” (What is a Presbyterian?, watertownfirstpres.org).

Here is a brief sketch of John Calvin. He was born in Noyon, Picardy, France. His family was Roman Catholic. In fact, his father was notary and registrar for the local cathedral, and essentially secretary to the Bishop of Noyon. At the age of 12, Calvin, himself, began to serve as clerk to the Bishop. Calvin’s father, Gerald, wanted him to become a Priest.

Calvin continued his education. At the age of 14, he went to Paris to study with the aim of becoming a Priest. He studied Latin and Rhetoric at the College de la Marche. Next, he studied Philosophy at the College de Montaigu. He earned a Master’s Degree by age 18. Then, his father suggested that he study law. Gerald was excommunicated from the Church after some dispute with the local Cathedral chapter. Some believe that this was a factor in the decision. Calvin studied Law at the University of Orleans and the University of Bourges. He earned a Doctorate of Law before he turned 23. After this, and following his father’s death, he returned to Paris to study the humanities. He studied Greek, Hebrew, and Latin classics.

At some point, Calvin became favorable to the Reformation. On November 01, 1533, Nicolas Cop, Rector of the University of Paris and friend of Calvin, preached a lesson which called for reformation of the church. There is some evidence that Calvin actually wrote the sermon. A search was made of his dwelling and a copy of the sermon was found in his handwriting. Theodore Beza (1519-1605) was later a close associate of Calvin. He wrote a biography, The Life of John Calvin, and in it he stated that Calvin supplied the sermon (The Life of John Calvin by Theodore Beza, p. 4, reformationstewards.com).

Cop and Calvin fled Paris. Calvin fled disguised as a farmer. He went to Basel, Switzerland. There he published the first edition of The Institute of the Christian Religion. He planned to go to Strasbourg (a free city, now a part of France) and perhaps teach, write, and continue the academic life. However, war detoured him. In 1536, Calvin arrived in Geneva, Switzerland. He did not expect to stay long. He was passing through. Guillaume (Guilhem or William) Farel (1489-1565), a reformer from France living in Geneva, approached him and convinced him to stay.

He was hired as a minister by the city’s small council. He served there from 1536-1538. He and Farel were fired and exiled from the city. The issues concerned changes that he and Farel were insisting be made.

Martin Bucer (1491-1551) invited Calvin to Strasbourg. Calvin ministered in Strasbourg from 1538-1541, working with Bucer. There he married Idelette de Bure, a widow, in 1540.

The Geneva church began to have some difficulties. One difficulty was from a Catholic Cardinal named Jacopo Sadoleto (1477-1547). He was a counter-reformer who was trying to gain people back to Catholicism. The ministers in Geneva were not skilled enough in the eyes of the city’s leaders to respond to Sadoleto. Calvin would return to Geneva and serve as a minister from 1541-1564. He preached almost every day, until he became too ill to do so.

[The following works were among the works consulted in presenting this material: Owen Chadwick, The Reformation; John Calvin, Encyclopedia Britannica, vol. 3 © 1979; Charles Jacobs, The Story of the Church; F.W. Mattox, The Eternal Kingdom; Ryan Reeves YouTube Channel; John Calvin, calvin.edu; John Calvin Biography, notablebiographies.com].

2. Calvinism

The doctrine of Calvinism has been summarized in 5 points, T.U.L.I.P.. This summary was not provided by Calvin. It appeared much later. The 5 points were codified by the Synod of Dort (1618-1619). The earliest use of the acronym may be a sermon by Cleland Boyd McAfee before the Presbyterian Union, Newark, New Jersey in 1905. The popular use seems to have started with the book The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination by Loraine Boettner published in 1932 (TULIP, theopedia.com).

Here are the 5 points:

T – Total Hereditary Depravity. Man is born in sin. Totally inclined to sin. Man is dead spiritually, unable to respond to God. The Westminster Confession of Faith reads, “Our first parents… sinned in eating the forbidden fruit… the guilt of this sin was imputed… to all their posterity… from this original corruption… we are utterly indisposed, disabled, and made opposite to all good, wholly inclined to all evil (chapter 6) “Man, by his fall… hath wholly lost all ability of will to any spiritual good accompanying salvation; so as a natural man… dead in sin, is not able… to convert himself, or to prepare himself thereunto” (chapter 9). Barry Gritter of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America writes, “Can a man want to be born again and follow instructions on ‘how to do it?’ No. Can any man ‘accept Christ’… so that he becomes saved after that? Of course not… only AFTER God makes a person alive, can he and will he accept Christ” (T.U.L.I.P. or the Five Points of Calvinism, pcra.org).

U – Unconditional Election. God has offered salvation unconditionally to some. The Westminster Confession of Faith reads, “God from all eternity did… ordain whatsoever comes to pass… By the decree of God… some men and angels are predestined unto everlasting life, and others foreordained to everlasting death” (Chapter 3). “The effectual call is of God’s free and special grace alone, not from anything at all foreseen in man, who altogether passive therein, until being quickened and renewed by the Holy Spirit, he is thereby enabled to answer this call” (Chapter 10).

L – Limited Atonement. Christ did not die for all men. He died only for the elect, those that were unconditionally chosen for salvation. Barry Gritter writes, “It must not be said that Christ died for all men. The Bible says that Christ laid down His life for His sheep, and only them” (prca.org).

I – Irresistible Grace. God’s grace is irresistible to those whom He chose for salvation. Barry Gritter writes, “That means if God gives grace to you, there is nothing in the world that you can do to resist it and thwart God’s intention to take you to heaven” (prca.org). The Westminster Confession of Faith reads, “Yet so they come most freely, being made willing by His grace” (Chapter 10). John Calvin writes, “It is a powerful impulse of the Holy Spirit, which makes men willing who formerly were unwilling and reluctant” (Calvin on John 6:44, studylight.org).

P – Perseverance of the Saints. This doctrine has been called many things: Once saved, always saved; Once in grace, always in grace; The eternal security of the saints; The impossibility of apostasy. The Westminster confession of Faith reads, “They whom God hath accepted… can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace; but shall certainly persevere therein to the end, and be eternally saved. This perseverance of the saints depends not upon their free will, but upon the immutability of the decree of election… Nevertheless they may… fall into grievous sins… and bring temporal judgment upon themselves” (Chapter 17).

3. John Knox (c. 1514-1572).

Here is a brief sketch of his life. He was born in Haddington, Scotland. His father was a farmer. Knox is believed to have been educated at St. Andrews University. He was ordained a Catholic Priest sometime between 1536-1540. He never received a parish. He worked as a notary public and as a tutor.

He joined the Reformation. In the mid 1540’s, he met George Wishart, a Scottish reformation leader. He began to work with him. Wishart was burned for heresy in 1546. In 1547, Knox and other reformers were arrested and carried off as slaves in French galleys.

He became a minister. In 1549, he was released and went to England. In England, he served as minister, first in Berwick, then in Newcastle. He also served as a Royal Chaplain during the reign of Edward VI. He married Marjorie Bowes of Berwick while in England.

He left England in 1553, when Mary Tudor became Queen. He went to Continental Europe. He served as a minister to England refugees, first in Frankfurt, Germany, then in Geneva, Switzerland. He met Calvin and became greatly influenced by him. In 1558, he penned The First Blast of the Trumpet Against the Monstrous Regiment of Women advocating rebellion against ungodly rulers, especially women, whom he thought, had no right to rule.

He returned to Scotland in 1559. The time was ripe for reformation. In 1560, Parliament rejected papal jurisdiction and approved a Confession of Faith produced by Knox. His wife died that same year. He married again in 1564 to Margaret Stewart. He was 50. She was 17. This was a great scandal.

Mary Stuart (Mary Queen of Scots) returned from France in 1561. She was Catholic in a reformed country. Knox met with her several times but to little satisfaction. He became her fierce antagonist. He not only opposed her Catholicism but also the idea of a woman monarch.

The organization known as the Presbyterian Church has its roots in Calvin and Knox. “The Presbyterian form of church government and Reformed theology were formally adopted as the national Church of Scotland in 1690. The Church of Scotland remains Presbyterian today” (Presbyterian Church History, learnreligions.com).

The Presbyterian Church came to America in the early colonial days of the 17th century. The College of New Jersey (1746), later known as Princeton University, was started by Presbyterians.

[The following works were among the works consulted in presenting this material: Owen Chadwick, The Reformation; John Knox, Encyclopedia Britannica, Vol. 10, © 1979; britanica.com; Charles Jacobs, The Story of The Church; F.W. Mattox, The Eternal Kingdom; Ryan Reeves YouTube Channel Calvin, England and Scotland. John Knox, biography. yourdictionary.com; Heroes of the Faith; John Knox, dianaleaghmatthews.com; John Knox, banneroftruth.org; John Knox and Mary Queen of Scots, historyscotland.com; John Knox: Life Story, tudortimes.co.uk; Presbyterian Church History, learningreligions.com].

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It is Impossible!

Posted on June 18, 2021 by Bryan Hodge

We do not like the word ‘impossible.’ We like to think that all things are possible. Here is what some have said. Tommy Lasorda is quoted as saying, “The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in man’s determination” (brainyquote.com). Roger Clemens is quoted as saying, “I think anything is possible if you have the mindset and the will and desire to do it and put the time in” (ibid). Michael Phelps is quoted as saying, “I think everything is possible as long as you put the work and time into it. I think your mind really controls everything” (ibid). Venus Williams, “In life, there is no such thing as impossible, it’s always possible” (ibid). Selena, “If you have a dream, don’t let anybody take it away, and always believe that the impossible is possible” (ibid). Miley Cyrus, “If you believe in yourself, anything is possible” (ibid).

The Bible is sometimes misused to support this idea. Philippians 4:13 is not about winning football games, bending metal bars and tearing thick phone books. It concerns being able to live the Christian life no matter the circumstances in life (cf. Philippians 4:11-12). Wayne Jackson comments that “all things” means all things “consistent with Christ’s will” (Wayne Jackson, A New Testament Commentary, p. 412). Matthew 19:26 is not about man being able to do anything. It is not about God’s making everything possible for man. It concerns salvation of the rich (cf. Matthew 19:23-25). Tom Wacaster comments, “Yes, it is literally impossible for a camel to go through a needle’s eye. It would take the help of God to accomplish such a feat. In the same way, it is impossible for a rich man to be saved, were it not for the help that God provided him in overcoming the love of money, in teaching that man the proper use of riches” (Tom Wacaster, The Majesty of Jesus, Vol. 2, p. 249).

In the book of Hebrews we are warned that in God’s plan, and according to His nature, there are some things that are impossible.

1. Impossible to Renew

“For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, if they fall away to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame” (Hebrews 6:4-6).

What does this teach? Does this teach that one who has fallen, after becoming a Christian, cannot be forgiven even if he repents? Some have feared that this is the case.

However, such an interpretation seems to conflict with other passages. Many passages encourage us that we can repent and be forgiven (e.g. Luke 15:11-32; Luke 17:3-4; Acts 8:22-24; Galatians 6:1; 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15; James 5:19-20; 1 Corinthians 5:3-6 cf. 2 Corinthians 2:6-8; 1 John 1:9).

This may be teaching that so long as one continues to live in sin that it remains impossible to renew them. Wayne Jackson comments, “Under the present circumstances it was impossible to bring these apostates to repentance. Why? Because they kept on crucifying (a present tense participle) the Son of God afresh, and they kept on putting (present participle) Him to an open shame. These present participles represent action that is simultaneous with that of the verb (renew). In other words, as long as they maintain their hateful attitude toward the Son of God, they cannot be renewed to repentance (because He is the motivation for repentance)” (Wayne Jackson, Notes From The Margin of My Bible, Vol. 2, pp. 142-143).

This may be teaching that there was nothing left for them under the old system. Gary Workman comments, “The writers point in Hebrews 6:4-8 is that the Jewish sacrificial system cannot spiritually renew his Hebrew-Christian readers, if they should happen to go back” (ed. Devin Dean, Studies in Hebrews, p. 696). Tom Wacaster comments, “If these Christians abandoned the system of Christianity and went back under the old system of things, it would be impossible for them to be brought to repentance and salvation under that system” (Tom Wacaster, Studies in Hebrews, p. 219).

This may refer to a willful choice and a hardened condition. Jeff Archey comments, “One has made the conscious decision to leave Christ” (ed. Devin Dean, p. 132). Robert Milligan comments, “Hatred has taken place of love in his heart, and esteeming the blood of the covenant where with he was sanctified an unholy thing, he tramples it under his feet in contempt, and if it were possible he would even crucify again the Son of God, and expose him to public reproach” (Robert Milligan, p. 223, cf. Hebrews 10:24-31).

2. Impossible for God to Lie

“It is impossible for God to lie” (Hebrews 6:18).

It is against His nature to lie. His word is trustworthy (Titus 1:2; 2 Timothy 2:13).

Evidence of His trustworthiness is found in His promise to Abraham (Hebrews 6:13-15 cf. Genesis 22:17-18). He kept His land promise (Genesis 12:1-3; 15:15-18; Numbers 34:1-15 cf. Joshua 21:43, 45; 23:14; 1 Kings 4:21). He kept His promise to multiply Abraham’s descendants (Genesis 22:17 cf. Stars – Deuteronomy 1:10; 28:62; Sand – 2 Samuel 17:11; Isaiah 10:22). He kept His seed promise to bless all nations (Genesis 12:1-3; 22:18 cf. Acts 3:25-26).

This should give us hope. This hope is like an anchor of the soul (Hebrews 6:19-20). Neil Lightfoot comments, “Hope is to the believer what the anchor is to the ship. Hope sustains and braces the Christian in the midst of all his trials; but when hope fails, he is left to drift aimlessly and falls victim to the merciless ocean” (Quoted by Tom Wacaster, Studies in Hebrews, p. 235). “We have an anchor that keeps the soul / Steadfast and sure while the billows roll / Fastened to the rock which cannot move / Grounded firm and deep in the Savior’s love” (Song: We Have An Anchor by Priscilla J. Owen).

3. Impossible that Bulls and Goats Take Away Sins

“It is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins” (Hebrews 10:4).

The annual sacrifices never ceased according to the law (cf. Leviticus 23:27, 29; Numbers 29:7, 11). There was no once for all sacrifice.

Christ’s sacrifice was a once for all sacrifice (Hebrews 7:27; 9:12; 10:12). It did not need to be repeated year after year (Hebrews 9:24).

Animal sacrifices were required by God under the Mosaic system (e.g. Leviticus 1-7, 16, 23), and apparently even before (e.g. Genesis 4:1-5 cf. Hebrews 11:4; Genesis 8:20; 12:7; 12:8; 13:18; 22:7-8; Job 1:5; Exodus 18:12). These sacrifices reminded men of their sins (Hebrews 10:3), and were “a shadow of the good things to come” (Hebrews 10:1). It is true that God counted those of old forgiven when they offered these sacrifices (e.g. Leviticus 4:20, 26, 31, 35; 5:10, 13, 16, 18; 6:7; 19:22; Numbers 15:25-26, 28). However, the blood of these animals really in and of themselves had no power to remove sin.

A much greater sacrifice was needed to save humanity (Hebrews 10:5-7 cf. Psalm 40:6-8). Royce Frederick has written, “The blood of Christ flows both ways from the cross. It flows forward to all who obey the gospel today, and if flows backward to the godly people who died before the cross” (article: The Blood Flows Both Ways by Royce Fredrick, International Gospel Teacher). We are redeemed by the blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19). His blood was also for those who lived under the previous covenant (Galatians 4:4-5; Romans 3:25; Hebrews 9:15; 11:39-40). He willingly offered Himself (John 10:18; Matthew 26:52-54; Philippians 2:5-8). No animal ever willingly offered itself.

4. Impossible to Please Without Faith

“For without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6).

Twenty-five characters are set forth in Hebrews 11 as examples of faith. These men and women were not sinless. However, they did live by faith.

Living by faith means more than mental assent. It includes “diligently seek(ing) Him.” It includes trust (Hebrews 11:7), obedience (Hebrews 11:8, 17, 30), courage (Hebrews 11:23, 27), and endurance (Hebrews 11:15-16; 12:1-2). It includes living a life which pursues peace and holiness (Hebrews 11:6 cf. 12:14). May we so live.

Posted in Faith, Hebrews, salvation, Word Study | Tagged anchor of hope, animal sacrifices, blood flowed both ways, blood of animal sacrifices counld not take away sin, camel eye of needle, courage, devin dean, endurace, faith, hall of fame of faith, Hebrews 10:4, Hebrews 11:6, Hebrews 6:18, Hebrews 6:4-6, heros of faith, hope, impossible, impossible for God to lie, impossible that bulls and goats take away sin, impossible to please without faith, impossible to renew, international gospel teacher, jeff archey, living by faith, Matthew 19:26, mental assent, michael phelps, miley cyrus, misused passages, obedience, Philippians 4:13, priscilla j. owens, pursue peace and holiness, robert milligan, roger clemens, royce frederick, salvation of rich, selena, song we have an anchor, tom wacaster, tommy lasorda, trust, venus williams, wayne jackson, with God all things possible, without faith impossible to please | Leave a comment

Denominations: Anabaptist/Mennonites, and Amish

Posted on May 29, 2021 by Bryan Hodge

The Mennonite World Conference (MWC) reports that there were 2.13 million Anabaptists in their fellowship in 2018 (membership, map and statistics, mwc-cmm.org). Africa is the continent with the most members, approximately 36%. North America is second, approximately 31% (ibid). Anabaptist is a broad term which includes Mennonites, Amish, Brethren, Hutterites and a number of other associated churches. There are more than 350,000 Mennonites in the United States (Who Are The Mennonites? firstmennoniteiowacity.org). There are about 350,000 Amish in North America. More than 62% of North American Amish live in three states: Ohio, Pennsylvania and Indiana (Amish Population profile, groups.etown.edu).

History

1. Anabaptist

The name is derived from Greek: “Ana” = again. “Baptist” = one who baptizes. In refers to one who baptizes again. It was a pejorative name used to describe those who did not accept infant baptism and insisted on believers being re-baptized who had been baptized as infants.

The name was broadly applied to various churches. These churches were not united in doctrine. Some sprinkled, while others immersed. Some denied private property and lived in communes, while others did not. Some relied on an “inner light” to guide them and believed that the Holy Spirit provided guidance apart from the word of God; others rejected this idea. Some were Adventists, while most were not. Some were Arian, while most were not. Some were polygamist, while most were not. Some may have practiced the truth, or been very close to it; others were not.

However, there were certain things that they did have in common. One was the rejection of infant baptism. Another was the autonomy of the local church. Many believed in the separation of church and state.

The Mennonites and Amish both have their roots in the Anabaptist of Sixteenth Century Europe. Therefore, we will study them together.

2. Menno Simons (1496-1561)

He was a Roman Catholic priest in Friesland, Netherlands. “Though educated in a monastic school and trained for ministry, he had never even touched the Scriptures. ‘I feared if I should read them they would mislead me,’ he later wrote, ‘Behold! Such a stupid preacher was I for nearly two years.’” (Menno Simons, christianitytoday.com).

He began to question transubstantiation. “Finally, I got the idea to examine the New Testament diligently. I had not gone very far when I discovered that we were deceived” (ibid).

Next, he began to question infant baptism. An Anabaptist, named “Sicke Freerks Snijder was executed in 1531 for having been re-baptized as an adult” (Menno Simons and the Mennonites, christianinstitutes.org). This prompted him to examine the scriptures. He said, “I examined the scriptures diligently and pondered them earnestly but could find no report of infant baptism… I realized that we were deceived” (christianitytoday.com).

Some Anabaptists were violent revolutionaries. In 1534-1535 the city of Munster, Germany was taken over by anabaptist and proclaimed the “New Jerusalem.” All who refused adult rebaptism were expelled from the city. Polygamy was adopted (Munster Anabaptist, gameo.org; Munster Rebellion, military.wikia.org; Ryan Reeves, Menno Simmons YouTube). In 1535, 300 Anabaptists died while trying to take Oldeklooster (or Bloemkamp), a monastery near Bolsward, Friesland, Netherlands. Among them was a Peter Simons. Some historians believe that this was Menno’s brother. “This was a life-changing event for Menno. While blaming the leaders who had misled these poor people, Menno also blamed himself for not having shown them the right way” (christianhistoryinstitute.org).

In 1536, Menno Simons left Roman Catholicism. He began to work with Anabaptist. He preached that they should not fight with physical weapons (christianitytoday.com).

During the 1700’s and 1800’s, many Mennonites fled religious turmoil in Europe and sought freedom in the New World” (Mennonite Church, ohiohistorycentral.org).

3. Jakob Ammann (1644-between 1708 and 1730).

Jakob Ammann was an Anabaptist/Mennonite leader in Switzerland/France. In 1693, he became concerned over the lack of discipline among the Swiss Mennonites/Brethren. He took issue with Hans Reist and Benedict Schneider over the fact that the ban (excommunication) was not being implemented against those who had left the church.

This led to division among them. Those who were with Ammann became known as Amish.

Other issues developed. “Ammann was highly influenced by Dutch Mennonite beliefs, and instituted the practice of feet washing in connection with communion, which was not practiced by the Swiss Mennonites. He also increased communion to twice a year, instead of the Swiss practice of annual communion services” (Jakob Ammann, en-academic.com). Later in life, Jakob regretted the division. He desired reconciliation. “Despite admissions of being rash and overzealous, the Amish would not give up the belief of practicing ban. Because of this, the main body of Amish and the Swiss Mennonites were never able to reconcile” (ibid).

“Many Amish and Mennonites accepted William Penn’s offer of religious freedom as part of Penn’s ‘holy experiment’ of religious tolerance. They settled in what later became known as Pennsylvania. The first sizeable group of Amish arrived in Lancaster County in the 1720’s or 1730’s” (Amish History, lancasterpa.com).

Authority

1. Bible

I found this statement from the Mennonites, “The Anabaptist and their Mennonite heirs share the protestant principle: Sola Scriptura (“by Scripture alone”). As such their primary authoritative referent is the Bible, rather than scripture plus tradition as understood by Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy” (Authority, Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia online, gameo.org). This seems to be the Amish position as well.

2. Confession

The Mennonites have Confessions. Examples are Schleitheim (1527), Dordrecht (1632), and the Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective (1995).

The Amish have the Ordnung (meaning order or discipline). These are unwritten rules for daily living (What is the Amish Ordnung?, amishamerica.com). These concern such things as dress, hair and facial hair, recreation, technology, and transportation (6 Examples of Amish Ordnung, amishamerica.com). The rules vary from community to community (The Amish: 10 Things You Might Not Know by Harry Scull, Jr., usatoday.com). They affirm the Dordrecht Confession (1632) before baptism (Beliefs/Amish Studies, groups.etown.edu).

Beliefs and Practices

1. Salvation

“We receive God’s salvation when we repent of sins and accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord” (Confession of Faith in a Mennonite Perspective, Article 8).

2. Baptism

“In most (Mennonite congregations, B.H.) baptism is by pouring” (Frank Mead, Handbook of Denominations, p. 149).

“We confess that all penitent believers, who, through faith, regeneration, and the renewing of the Holy Ghost, are made one with God… must, upon scriptural confession of faith… be baptized with water” (Dordrecht Confession, 1632, Article 7). Notice that being one with God comes before baptism. “Baptism by water is a sign that a person has repented, received forgiveness, renounced evil, and died to sin” (Confession of Faith, Article 11). Notice it is a sign that one has received forgiveness.

3. Lord’s Supper

“The Lord’s Supper is served twice a year in almost all Mennonite congregations… most also observe the feet-washing ordinance in connection with the Supper, after which they salute one another with the ‘kiss of peace.’ The sexes separated in the last two ceremonies” (Frank Mead, p. 149).

4. Pacifism

“As disciples of Christ, we do not prepare for war, or participate in war or military service (Confession of Faith, Article 22).

5. Pictures and Technology

“Old order Amish and Mennonites forbid photography of their people based on the Second Commandment, Exodus 20:4” (Amish Faith Beliefs, lancasterpa.com).

Some Amish believe that James 1:27 “Means to stay away from things the ‘world’ does – like driving autos, having TV’s, going to movies, wearing make-up, and the enjoying the conveniences of electricity and phones. They often use generators to create power to run their equipment and use horses, instead of tractors to do farm work” (Who Are the Amish, and What Are Their Beliefs?, gotquestions.com). Not all so believe. Those who do are not completely anti-technology, but seek to limit technology in their lives. “The Amish don’t believe technology is evil in and of itself…What concerns the Amish is that unchecked or used improperly, technology can negatively impact, and even destroy the things they hold most dear…For example, they do not own automobiles because they believe the ability to move quickly and travel longer distances would cause them to move farther apart from each other, and separating families and eroding their tight-knit community” (Dallin Crump, What the Amish are teaching me about technology, dallincrump.medium.com). “Many outsiders assume the Amish reject all new technology. But that’s not true…The difference between the Amish people and most other Americans is the deliberation that takes place before deciding to embrace new technology…The Amish don’t automatically embrace what’s new, they evaluate it and decide if it’s a good fit for the lives they want to live” (Jeff Brady, Amish Community Not Anti-Technology Just More Thoughtful, npr.org). “Amish see threats in technologies which provide easy contact with worldly ideas and values (television, automobile), or those which break down the family or community, by serving as distractions or eliminating the need of relying on others in one’s community. Amish also feel that certain labor-saving technologies take more than they give, robbing their children of the ability to learn the value of hard work, for example” (Do Amish Use Technology, amishamerica.com).

6. Falling From Grace

“While Mennonites hold tightly to the belief that we are saved through God’s powerful gift of grace, we don’t subscribe to the ‘eternal security,’ or ‘once saved, always saved’ theology” (Eternal Security, thirdwaycafe.com).

7. Original Sin

“Anabaptists have a unique approach to Original Sin… They affirm the historical reality of Original Sin, but deny that its power over the individual is final or absolute… What is the view of Anabaptists regarding the salvation of children? Generally, it is held that while children are conceived and born in sin, they are protected by the grace of God until such a time as they are able to take a conscious and informed stand, in confession and action, for or against the saving work of Christ” (Salvation, gameo.org).

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Determining God’s Will

Posted on May 25, 2021 by Bryan Hodge

How does one determine God’s will for one’s life? Many are looking for subtle signs. Consider: (1) I once heard of someone who was trying to decide which church to attend. One day, while driving through town, the person noticed a rainbow in the sky. Then, he noticed a church building was in sight as he looked at the rainbow. He determined from this that it was God’s will for him to attend that church. It was a church that was teaching and practicing things which were odds with the scripture. When an attempt was made to reason with this one from scripture, the reply came “but, I saw the rainbow.” Was this a sign from God? Or a drawing of unwarranted conclusions? (2) I once knew of someone who had been so busy with her hobby that she seldom had time for regular attendance and involvement in the local church. She promised that she would slow down and make time for involvement in the local church, and its work. She did for a short period of time. However, an opportunity came along in her hobby. This was taken as a sign that it was God’s will to once again get more involved in this hobby. The hobby took more and more time. Little, if any, time was left for the local church. In truth, if all members behaved as she, then there would be no local church. Was it a sign from above? Or a temptation from below? Or wishful thinking?

God’s will is not so subtle. He has revealed His will to us. Micah said, “He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8). Solomon said, “Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Paul taught, “For this is the will of God, your sanctification…” (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 cf. 5:11-22). He stated, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). He has revealed His will to us in the scriptures. It is our responsibility to learn His will and do it (Ezra 7:10; Matthew 7:24-27; James 1:22)

No, I am not denying that God providentially operates in this world. He can open doors, and He can close doors.

However, His basic will for us is revealed in His word. One should not set aside the plain teaching of God’s word to follow subtle signs which he infers from nature.

Posted in God's Providence, Priorities, truth | Tagged 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4, 1 Thessalonians 5:11-22, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, close doors, determining God's will, discerning God's will, Ecclesiastes 12:13, Ezra 7:10, God's Providence, hobby, James 1:22, local church, Matthew 7:24-27, Micah 6:8, nature, open doors, priorities, rainbow, signs, signs from above, subtle signs, unwarranted conclusions, wishful thinking | Leave a comment

Denominations: Anglican and Episcopal Churches (part 2)

Posted on May 22, 2021 by Bryan Hodge

Authority

1. The Bible

“The Bible is acknowledged as the ‘ground’ on which any expression of Christian faith must be founded” (A Building With Foundations, anglicancommunion.org). “Holy Scripture containeth all things necessary to salvation: so that whatsoever is not read therein, or may be proved to be thereby, is not to be required of any man, that is should be believed as an article of faith, or be thought requisite or necessary to salvation” (Article 6 of the Thirty Nine Articles of Religion).

Concerning the Apocrypha, “the Church doth read for example of life and instruction of manners; but yet doth it not apply them to establish doctrine” (Article 6).

Concerning the Old Testament, “as touching ceremonies and rites, do not bind Christian men, nor civil precepts… yet notwithstanding, no Christian man whatsoever is free from the obedience of the commandments which are called moral” (Article 7).

2. Three Creeds (ancient)

“The Three Creeds, Nicene Creed, Athanasius’ Creed, and that which is commonly called the Apostles’ Creed, ought thoroughly to be received and believed: for they may be proved by most certain warrants of Holy Scripture” (Article 8).

3. Thirty-Nine Articles

“In 1571, Parliament made adherence to the 39 Articles a legal requirement, and though the statue no longer holds, they remain the basis of Anglican Faith in England to this day” (The 39 Articles, britainexpress.com). “In 1571, the Thirty-Nine Articles were finalized and placed in the Church of England’s Book of Common Prayer… The Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion were established to show the difference between the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of England” (The 39 Articles of Religion, englishhistory.net).

4. Catechisms

“There are also catechisms in which a series of questions and answers are posed to young people or adults who seek baptism or confirmation normally set out, in context of teaching, key beliefs which a professing Anglican might be expected to hold. “To Be A Christian” is the latest Anglican Catechism. It is copyrighted 2020.

Beliefs and Practices

1. Original Sin

They believe in original sin. “Original sin standeth not in the following of Adam… but it is the fault and the corruption of the nature of every man. Man… is of his own nature inclined to evil… every person born into this world… deserveth God’s wrath and damnation. And this infection of nature doth remain, yea in them that are regenerated… although there is no condemnation for them that believe and is baptized” (Article 9).

They believe that man of his own lacks free will. “The condition of man after the fall of Adam is such, that he cannot turn and prepare himself by his own natural strength and good works to faith… without the grace of God by Christ preventing (going before – B.H.) us, that we may have good will” (Article 10).

2. Justification

“We are accounted righteous before God, only for the merit of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ by faith, and not for our own works of deservings. Wherefore, that we are justified by Faith only, is a most wholesome Doctrine, and very full of comfort” (Article 11).

3. Predestination

Article 17 concerns predestination. It was not especially helpful to me.

Who do they believe is elect? “If you want to know whether you are elect, all you need to know is whether or not you have been baptized” (The Anglican View of Predestination, Part IV, conciliaranglican.com).

4. Two Sacraments

“Sacraments ordained of Christ be not only badges or tokens of Christian men’s profession, but rather they be certain sure witnesses, and effective signs of grace, and God’s good will toward us, by which he doth work invisibly in us, and doth not only quicken but also strengthen and confirm our Faith in him. There are two sacraments ordained of Christ our Lord in the Gospel, that is to say, baptism and the Supper of the Lord” (Article 25).

5. Baptism

“Baptism is not only a sign of profession… It is also a sign of Regeneration of New Birth… that they receive Baptism rightly are grafted into the Church. The Promises of the forgiveness of sins, and of adoption to be the sons of God” (Article 27). Notice that their justification by faith only does not exclude the necessity of baptism.

The young are baptized. “The Baptism of young children is… to be retained in the Church” (Article 27).

Sprinkling is common. “Baptisms by immersion are not common in the Episcopal Church” says Rev. Lisa G. Fischbeck, Vicar, The Episcopal church of Advocate, Carrboro, North Carolina (Baptism by Immersion, theadvocatechurch.org).

6. Lord’s Supper

“The Supper of the Lord is not only a sign of the love that Christians ought to have among themselves one to another; but rather it is a sacrament of our Redemption by Christ’s death” (Article 28).

“Transubstantiation… in the Supper of the Lord cannot be proved by Holy Writ; but is repugnant to the plain words of Scripture… and hath given occasion to many superstitions” (Article 28).

“The Cup of the Lord is not to be denied to the Lay-people: for both parts of the Lord’s sacraments, by Christ’s ordinances and commandment, ought to be ministered to all Christian men alike” (Article 30, Note: The Roman Catholics have at times offered the bread alone to the Laity and have withheld the Cup arguing that the blood was in the flesh. The intent may been to prevent members from spilling the cup – B.H.).

“The offering of Christ once made is that perfect redemption, propitiation, and satisfaction, for all sins of the whole world… wherefore the sacrifices of Masses, in which it is commonly said, that priest did offer Christ for the quick and the dead, to have remission of pain or guilt, were blasphemous fables, and dangerous deceits” (Article 31).

7. Sin after Baptism

Man may depart from the grace he has received. Thank God, he can also be forgiven. “We may arise again, and amend our lives” (Article 16).

8. Purgatory, etc.

“The Romish Doctrine concerning Purgatory, Pardons, Worshipping and Adoration, as well as Images as of Relics and also the Invocation of Saints, is a fond thing, vainly invented and grounded upon no warranty of scripture, but rather repugnant to the word of God” (Article 22).

9. Marriage of Priest

“Bishops, Priests and Deacons, are not commanded by God’s Law, either to vow the estate of single life, or to abstain from marriage: therefore it is lawful for them, as for all other Christian men, to marry at the own discretion” (Article 32).

10. Tradition

It is not necessary that Traditions and Ceremonies be in all places one, or utterly alike… Every particular or national Church hath authority to ordain, change, abolish, ceremonies or Rights of the church ordained only by man’s authority, so that all things be done to edifying” (Article 34).

Differences: Anglican v. Episcopal

1. Slightly different prayer book and 39 Articles of Religion

While they are close, there are slight differences. One difference is that the U.S. version of the 39 Articles omits reference to the king (Article 37). The Anglican version reads, “The King’s Majesty hath chief power in this realm of England, and other his Dominions… The Bishop of Rome hath no jurisdiction in this Realm of England.” The U.S. version reads, “The power of the civil magistrate extendeth to all men… in all things temporal; but hath no authority in things purely spiritual.”

2. Doctrine

“In regards to doctrinal beliefs, the Anglican Church is far more conservative than the Episcopal Church” (The Anglican Church and The Episcopal Church, differences.net). In 2016, the Anglican communion decided to temporarily suspend the Episcopal Church U.S.A. from full participation in the Anglican Communion. “The move comes at the behest of conservative bishops – mostly from Africa – who are unhappy with the American church’s stance on same-sex marriage and gay clergy” (Tom Gjelten, Anglican Communion Temporarily Suspends U.S. Episcopal Church, January 15, 2016, npr.org).

Organization

1. Anglican Communion

“The Anglican Communion is an organization of autonomous national (or regional – B.H.) churches connected with the Church of England” (Anglican organization, religiousfacts.com). There are 38 provinces which make up the Anglican Communion. Each province is overseen by a chief Bishop or Archbishop, also known as a Primate (Jessica Elgot, What is the Anglican Communion and Why is it Under Threat?, theguardian.com). Each province is made up of Dioceses or districts of churches called parishes. Each Diocese is overseen by a Bishop (The Episcopal Church: Who We Are, Past and Present, stjohnsroanoke.org). In each parish is under a priest called Vicar or Rector (vocabulary, anglican.org).

2. Church of England

“The Church of England is headed by the King or Queen of England and the Archbishop of Canterbury” (Anglican Organization, religionfacts.com). “The role (of King or Queen – B.H.) is primarily symbolic, but the King or Queen of England does have a hand in selecting the Archbishop of Canterbury as well as legal jurisdiction over all properties of the Church of England. The British Prime Minister plays a more significant role, as he nominates his choice for Archbishop of Canterbury” (ibid). The Archbishop is considered the spiritual and moral leader of the Anglican Communion. He is considered first among equals. He has no direct authority over other Provinces. “His authority is similar to that of the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople with respect to Greek Orthodox churches” (ibid).

3. Episcopal Church U.S.A.

The Episcopal Church is organized much the same way. It has a presiding Bishop or Primate. It is organized into Diocese which are overseen by Bishops. It is explained, “In the English colonies of North America, the Church of England was often referred to by other Christians as ‘that church with Bishops.” The Greek word for bishop is episkopos, and in the common speech the colonial Church of England became known as ‘the Episcopal Church”… Thus, our very name means that the Episcopal Church is structured around bishops. Episcopal bishops, like bishops in the Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches, trace their authority all the way back to the generation of Christ’s apostles, through a historical process of the laying on of hands known as apostolic succession” (The Episcopal Church: Who We Are, Past and Present, stjohnsroanoke.org).

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