Monday, October 4, 2010

September 12, 2010- James Chapter 3

James returns back to the subject of the tongue in Chapter 3. He was very pointed with a couple of principles in Chapter 1:
  • Be quick to listen/slow to speak
  • Religion is worthless if the tongue can't be controlled
I explained in class how James died and how it relates to what he wrote.
  • James was noted in his time for his piety. In fact James spent so much time and energy on the work of the Kingdom, he neither bathed, cut his hair or beard, and his knees were noted as being like those of a camel from spending so much time in prayer.
  • Needless to say, James was a homely looking fellow, but reputed for both his piety and justness (he is often referred to as James the Just).
  • The Sadducees of Jerusalem wanted to discredit James and the tremendous work he had done in the new church in Jerusalem. The plan was to have James stand on a wall and, under the threat of death, denounce the new church's teaching to a gathered group. It was believed that when the group heard James and saw his repulsive appearance, word would spread and squelch the rising threat of the Christian church.
  • James refused to denounce the teachings of Christ and, in fact, began to sway the crowd to his belief. Quickly, the Sadducees changed plans, a pushed James off the wall with the intent of executing him for 'breaking the law.' The witnesses would surely retreat in terror and be fearful of James' teachings.
  • The fall did not kill James, so the Sadducees gathered to stone him and finish the job. James Struggled to his knees and began to pray for God to forgive those showing him transgressions.
  • The death of James is recorded, among other places, in the writings of Josephus.
James very much practice what he preached and did so even to his death.

We discussed a few other biblical passages that discuss the sins of the tongue:
  • Exodus 20:7 - taking the Lord's name in vain
  • Exodus 20:16- bearing false witness
  • Psalms 10:7- cursing, deceit, threats
  • Psalms 109:2- lying about someone
  • Proverbs 10:18- slander
  • Proverbs 11:13- gossip
  • I Timothy 5:13- tattler/gossip
  • II Peter 2:2, 3- false teaching
Proverbs 6:16 list the 6 things God hates and a seventh He finds detestable (3 directly involve the tongue):
  1. haughty eyes
  2. lying tongue
  3. hands that shed innocent blood
  4. heart that devises wicked schemes
  5. feet that are quick to rush into evil
  6. a false witness
  7. man who stirs up dissension among brothers
The tongue can be pleasing to God through prayer, worship, praise and evangelizing.

Next week: Chapter 4

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

August 29, 2010- James Chapter 2

James starts the second chapter with the principle that faith in Christ and partiality are incompatible.

My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism. James 2:1 (NIV)

He uses v. 1 to state the principle then goes on to illustrate in v. 2-4 by giving an example of an usher seating two distinct men who have come to the synagogue to worship. Matthew 23:6 shoes us that their were 'important seats' designated in the synagogue.

The focus on the lesson falls on the usher, not the rich man or the poor man. Jesus often used the rich and the poor in lessons because most all people could relate to the distinction.

What were the ushers motives for showing favoritism? Bottom line is evil judgment.
  • As Christians, there cannot be a division between profession and practice of our belief
  • To profess the Christian equality of all men in the eyes of God and then practice deference to rank and wealth is a glaring example of evil judgment
James explains in vs. 5-11 that God looks at the heart, not the person's status. God doesn't find favor with either the rich or the poor but rather with the person who follows His Word with a sincere heart.

He finishes the chapter by challenging Christians to exercise mercy over judgment as the Father does with us. By challenging the church to do so, James is showing how to apply the principle to every day life.

Monday, August 16, 2010

August 15, 2010- Finish James Chapter 1

Remember as you read James, he is writing to the early Christian church.

James states that ultimately, the key to overcoming both trials and temptations is in how we as Believers respond to God's Word:
  • v. 18- Prepare and receive the Word
  • v. 22- Respond to the Word
  • v. 23-25 Realize the Word is essential to spiritual growth

The Word - Accept>>Act>>Abide

James goes on in verses 26 and 27 telling us to reign in our tongues. Examples of where the tongue gets us into trouble and goes against God's Word:
  • Gossip
  • Foul Language
  • Criticism of others
  • Lying
  • False Teaching
The tongue can be Satan's #1 tool to use against our testimony for Christ.

Next Week: Chapter 2

Monday, August 9, 2010

August 8, 2010- James 1:19-22

James is challenging the Christians in his writing to grow up and become spiritually mature. He tells them this can be accomplished through the Word.
  • Salvation comes through the Word of God (v18), but Christians must become active listeners (readers).
  • One must be prepared to hear (read) the Word.
  • In verse 20, James emphasizes what he is saying is of utmost importance for the new Christians of the church.
How do we prepare to receive God's word?
  • James says we must rid ourselves of wrong things in our life and be quick to listen, or take in, and slow to speak, or offer response.
  • We must humble ourselves and not give into anger, which doesn't produce a righteous life.
Why is being spiritually mature important for Christians?
  • Very few NFL quarterbacks start in their rookie season. Why? The lack of experience and the level of play dictate a learning period to adjust. Regardless of the talent or intelligence of the rookie quarterback, mistakes are inevitable. A mature veteran not only familiar with the level of play but equipped with the experience of learning through trial and error stands a better chance of success in leading his team to victory.
  • Being a spiritually mature Christian better prepares us for any potential trial or challenge in our spiritual life too. As we evangelize the world for God, we must be prepared to face any number of situation. If we are to be victorious for the Kingdom, spiritual maturity is a crucial attribute.
Listening is not enough...obedience requires action!
  • Listen(reading) the Word is only the beginning. James tells us in verse 22 to do what it says.
  • God isn't looking for activist who do their thing without the guidance He provides, but He's also not looking for those who are well informed but do nothing. There is a balance between the two the mature Christian will seek and find.
  • Pastor Derek spends a lot of time preparing for his sermon each week. He does all the research and cross-referencing for us...his congregation. If we sit and listen, actively taking in the lesson he provides but don't put the lesson to practice is our lives, we have sold him way short of his efforts.
  • God has put a tremendous plan in place for His children to return to Him one day. That plan is contained fully in His Word. If we read and understand God's plan but fail to exercise and put the plan into action in our lives, we have also sold God far short of His desires for our life.
  • As Christians, we should always strive to be pleasing to God.
Next week: Finish James Chapter 1

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

August 1, 2010- James 1:13-18

With a full class (praise the Lord!), we briefly looked back for a review of what had been covered.

13When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.

16Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. 17Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.

  • Do trials and temptations we encounter come from God? James says no.
  • Can God be tempted? Again, James says it is not possible. God cannot be tempted by evil because evil is the very thing that opposes God and His will. Likewise, God cannot tempt us with evil because God is pure and holy.
  • Temptation are a result of our own sin nature and pull us away from fellowship with God. Our temptation result from our own lust which can lead to sin. James restates the price for sin is death.
  • Trials we encounter in life are the result of A. Our own sinful thoughts or actions, or B. The sinful thoughts or actions of someone else. But trials are beneficial to the Christian that perseveres because as they overcome those trials it builds character and maturity in their spiritual walk. As character continues to build and develop, the understanding of the true Hope that Jesus provides Christians is revealed and helps better prepare us for future trials and temptations.
Are lies sometimes easier to believe than the truth?
  • There are a number of situation where a lie is much easier to believe than the truth.
  • God never lies, and James again punctuates that God would never tempt us because (v18) "He chose to give us birth through the word of truth."
  • God is only the giver of every good and perfect gift.
The term firstfruits in verse 18 refers to the first portion of the harvest given to God. It seems that James is referring to the fact the early Christians he is addressing are to be the beginning of all people in the future that would be born again (spiritual birth).

Outstanding class today that really was a blessing to me. Next week: Finish Chapter 1

Monday, July 26, 2010

July 25, 2010- James 1:12-15

As we discussed two weeks ago, James tells us to take joy in temptation because the testing of our faith helps to mature us as Christians.

  • Again we see in verse 12 the theme of temptation but in more depth. If we endure the temptations, we shall receive the crown of life as promised by God. Note the crown is received after enduring and passing a test of temptation and to the Christian that loves the Lord. A parallel can be found in Revelations 2:10 where Satan is persecuting Christians and even killing them. God promises those who stand the test will receive the crown of life and also be unharmed in the second death.
  • James states that through trials our faith will lead to developing perseverance. Paul continues in Romans 5:4 to say perseverance builds and strengthens our character which leads to hope.
FAITH--->PERSEVERANCE--->CHARACTER--->HOPE
  • While a new Christian has hope found in salvation through Jesus Christ, the mature Christians better understands the magnitude of that hope, and the power is possesses to help us overcome any trials or tribulations we might face in this life. Hope is the confidence and assurance given the mature Christian to see past this life to the promised one spent in eternity with God. If that doesn't make you joyful and goose-pimply all over...we need to talk!
  • James tells us that no temptations come from God because He is cannot be tempted nor tempt with evil. Temptation comes from our sin nature. It's our on lust that tempts us which leads to sin, and sin brings death (which refers to the eternal death found in Romans 6:23).
Next week- James 1:16-21 or so

July 11, 2010- James 1:1-12

  • James addresses his letter to the twelve tribes scattered abroad. Most scholars agree James is talking to the church as a whole. In Acts 8:1 and 11:19, the church at Jerusalem was being persecuted and scattered. As a leading elder of the Jerusalem church, it's reasonable to assume that James would feel responsible for those scattered and continue to instruct and give encouragement to them. You can tell by the the tone and content of the letter that James is very aware of their circumstances.
  • James says to consider it pure joy when you we are surrounded by temptation. Why exactly should Christians be joyful of temptations? He states the trying of your faith builds patience, and patience. James instructs us that test and trials are not punishment but rather a test. Passing the test is as much about attitude and knowing where to get assistance with the test (wisdom), a sign of Christian maturity. Jesus spoke of these things in the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew 5:11-12.
  • When James refers to the exalting of the brother in low degree, he is reflecting on the parable of Jesus found in Luke 18:9-14 on the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. Also, Jesus spoke of the meek in the Sermon on the Mount as those that will inherit the earth.
Next week- James 1:12-15

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

July 4, 2010- The Book of James

We started the Book of James today after our rather length study of apologetics and Lee Strobel's book The Case for Christ. The post for this series will always be available here online for easy reference if you need them, and you can always call or email me too if you have a question.


Who wrote the Book of James and when?

  • Most scholars agree James was written by the brother of Jesus. There are 4 distinct characters named James in the New Testament:
  1. The Disciple James, son of Zebedee and brother of John. He was martyred in 44 AD under Herod Agrippa I (Acts 12:2)
  2. The Disciple James, son of Alphaeus. Mentioned three times in the New Testament always in a list of the 12 Disciples
  3. James , brother of Jesus. One of four brothers of Jesus (James, Joseph, Simon and Judas) and presumed the eldest . Died in 62 AD and is mentioned by Josephus in the Antiquities of the Jews.
  4. James, the father of the Apostle Jude (Acts 1:13)
The Letter of James is often referred to as the book on faith. James is not writing about how to become a Christian, but rather how one should act as a Christian.

The underlying theme of James in his letter to the church is real faith produces genuine works. Not to state genuine works are a requirement of salvation (legalism), a doctrine which Paul warns against. Demons know and believe in the power of God, but real, life-giving faith should produce momentum to do on behalf of Jesus Christ.

Next Week- James 1:1-12

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

May 2 and 9, 2010- Chapter 6 Rebuttal Evidence

Moving forward in The Case for Christ, Chapter 6 deals with rebuttal evidence that might refute the Gospels of the New Testament.



Strobel interviews Dr. Gregory Boyd, an author of several well-respected books and a professor of theology at Bethel University.

Boyd addresses the rebuttal of the biblical Jesus being the real Jesus by a group called the Jesus Seminar.

The Jesus Seminar claims:
  • the real Jesus was embellished with supernatural powers after the fact
  • The Gospel of Thomas belongs with the four Gospels canonized in the NT
  • Jesus of history and the Jesus of faith are two different entities
  • Their goal was to free naive Americans from the belief the biblical Jesus was the real Jesus

Based their hypothesis that the Bible can't be accurate, because:

  • They've never seen the supernatural
  • Words attributed to Jesus were fabricated and can't be proven

The resurrection of Christ, according to Paul is a very significant supernatural event:

12But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. 14And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. 15More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised. 16For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. 17And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. 18Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. 19If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.
20But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 (NIV)

The second argument twist the principle that something quote from history should be considered reliable with corroborating or supporting evidence, since the person credited with the quote isn't available to confirm or dispute.

Apollonius is used as a means to discredit the story as but mythology or legend. However, the story of Apollonius (which in many ways parallels that of Jesus) comes from a single source and was known to originate after 230 A.D. or several generations removed from the life of the real man. In contrast, we have seen the mounting evidence that support the historical accuracy of the Gospels concerning Jesus.

Dr. Boyd states, "I don't want to base my life on a symbol. I want reality."

The Apostles Matthew, Mark, Luke and John had absolutely nothing to gain from writing the Gospels and the story of Jesus, but they lost everything including their lives AFTER a life of persecution for their teachings.

Next week: Analyzing Jesus

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

April 25, 2010- God's Grace


I want to thank Keith for a wonderful class. Our class seems more complete when Keith and Linda are with us, and I hope they will join us as often as they feel lead by God.

Summarizing Keith's lesson would be futile on my part. The questions concerning why bad things happen to good people is complex and difficult to understand in our temporal state. We all go through difficult times in life as a result of living in a fallen world. Just lean on the promise of God that He is always with us and through His plan of salvation, we will one day return to a perfect state where troubles will be no more. Hallelujah!

Thank you for being such a loving, caring class. Without exception, there's not a day goes by that I don't think about one or all of you and thank God for the blessing you are to both Candice and me. I love each and every one of you, and I will always be here for you...to listen, to cry with you, to pray, to celebrate, or just lift you up in whatever manner you need.

Next week we're back to Case for Christ in Chapter 6. See you there.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

April 18, 2010- Carbon Dating: Science or SciFi?

The class took a brief hiatus from Case for Christ to discuss another issue important in apologetics...carbon dating.

The media will often report the age of an ancient artifact in a matter-of-fact manner than gives the perception carbon dating is scientifically accurate and reliable. A closer look at the science, however, reveals that the science is far from either.

Chemistry of Carbon Dating
  • Understanding how carbon dating works requires a basic understanding of chemistry.

  • Atoms are the building blocks of all matter. Atoms are made up of smaller particles called protons (+), neutrons, and electrons (-). The protons and neutrons make up the nucleus of the atom.

  • The number of protons determines the type of element. An atom with 6 protons is a carbon atom. If there are 7 protons, it would be nitrogen.



  • An isotope is a given atom with a different number of neutrons (giving it a different atomic mass). In carbon dating, the isotopes carbon-14 and carbon-12 are used. Carbon-14 contains 6 protons and 8 neutrons (thus the 14). Click here for more info.

  • Some isotopes are radioactive, meaning they decay by losing energy (radiation). Carbon-14 is radioactive.

  • All living things take in carbon-14 and carbon-12 through one process or another. Carbon-12 is a stable isotope and doesn't decay.

  • When organic organism dies, the amount of both isotopes is initial static. As carbon-14 decays through radiation, the amount of the isotope reduces at a fixed rate (half-life).

  • Since the amount of carbon-12 remains the same, the ratio between the isotopes can help determine the age since death of the organism (plant, animal or human). If the ratio is the same as the ratio in the atmosphere, there are 1 trillion c-12 isotopes to every single c-14 isotope. That ratio was determined by Dr. Willard Libby in 1949.

More specific information on carbon dating can be found here.


Problems with carbon dating
  • The science of carbon dating makes a number of assumptions:
1. The ratio of 1(c-14):1,000,000,000,000 (c-14) is accurate and constant
  • If the ratio is not correct, the basis for carbon dating is greatly flawed. A number of factor could have a tremndous impact on the ratio being constant: (a) Earth magnetic field seems to be weakening and would appear not to be a constant force. This greatly affects the process of c-14 and c-12 being made in the atmosphere. (b) Volcanic activity releases excess CO2 into the atmosphere affecting the ratio. (c) Made-made CO2 being released into the atmosphere at a greater rate today. (d) Nuclear weapons testing and nuclear power plants would affect the ratio with unnatural amounts of radiation.
2. Radioactive decay (half-life) may not be constant. Scientist believe it is actually quicker.

3. The biblical flood would have created an immense infusion of carbon into the soil making time-lines of millions now more into thousands.

Conclusion
  • The assumptions made in the science of carbon dating are too vast for the science to be considered reliable or accurate. If the the assumptions are 100% correct (which is highly unlikely), the science is still only accurate to 80,000 years due to the limiting factor of the half-life of carbon-14 being only 5720 years.

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

April 11, 2010- Chapter 5 Scientific Evidence

Strobel interviews Dr. John McRay, a renowned archaeologist and author on matters related to archaeology and the New Testament.

Science can only play a supporting role
  • Archaeological findings only verify the locations mentioned in the Gospels. Findings cannot tell the story alone.
  • Many location mentioned in the Gospels have been discovered by scientist.
  • Luke is confirmed to be an accurate historian by archaeologist. While not providing absolute validation to his account in the Gospel of Luke, he does show his was careful and accurate with his writings.
  • Digs within the past century have unearthed locations also mentioned by John and Mark.

Puzzles from the Gospels

  • The census mention is association with the birth of Christ has been a point of contention with scholars through the years. Why would people be required to return to the city of their birth to be counted? References have been found from Roman documents that confirm citizens were required to return 'home' every 14 years to be counted and pay taxes.
  • The concept isn't foreign today. Our Birth Certificates document the city of our birth and tie us to that location throughout our lives.
  • Nazareth as been debated as an actual city in Galilee at the time of Jesus, but Nazareth was a very small village at the time and complete not noteworthy until the story of Jesus.
  • There are no historical records that mention the slaughter of first born by Herod which would appear to us as 'news worthy,' but Herod was bloodthirsty king that killed thousands of people during his reigns, and the slaughter in Bethlehem of what probably amounted to only a dozen or so actual babies. Bethlehem was not a very large city at the time. Even today, it is smaller than Bristol, TN. The killing of a dozen or so would pale in comparison to the onslaughts that took place through Herod time.

Next Week: The science of carbon dating (research a bit before then)

April 4, 2010- Easter Sunday...He lives!!

A shorter class due to Easter services, we veered away from Case for Christ to talk about other world religions.

There are five major world religions that account for 80% of the world population.

  • Christianity
  • Judaism
  • Islam

Plus:

Many times, any sect that includes a 'Jesus element' is included under Christianity (i.e. Mormonism, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Gnosticism). Although Jesus is an element of Islam (as a prophet, not the Savior), it is counted separated.

An excellent quick-reference chart can be found here.

Breakdown of major religions by percent of population:



Next Week: Chapter 5 Case for Christ

Thursday, April 1, 2010

March 28, 2010- Chapter 4 finished

Quick review of Josephus and his importance in corroborating the events of the Gospels.


Chapter 4 Continued

Other writings from the time also corroborate some of the events in the Gospels. Written from a strictly secular point of view and as historical documentation, the writings naturally paint of different point of view from those closest to and following Jesus, but they do in fact reinforce certain events of the time surrounding Christ.

  • Tacitus- First century Roman historian

Mentions Christ in Annals

Tortured/killed Christians to get them to renounce their faith

Highly concerned about his legacy, so he was thorough about documentation

The Role of Ignatius

Saturday, March 27, 2010

March 21, 2010- Chapter 4 Corroborating Evidence

Before class started, Derek presented an opportunity for the class to participate in the GO10 Walk for the World event to raise money for international missions. The Go10 Walk will cover 2,500 miles and come through Hawkins County on the trek in June. He challenged our class to form two 4-person teams to each take a 10-mile segment of the walk. For more information, see the website at this link: http://www.go10walk.com/

Chapter 4- Corroborating Evidence

Strobel begins his third interview by talking with Dr. Edwin Yamauchi, a professor at Miami University in Ohio.
  • What is corroborating evidence? Example of the movie Vantage Point was used.
  • Strobel recalls the story of Chicago hitman Aleman convicted by corroborating witnesses.
  • Corroborate defined

Importance of Josephus

Next week: Chapter 4 continued

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

March 14, 2010- Chapter 3 finished

The most often used challenge by nonbelievers to the validity of Christianity is the reliability of the Bible. Nonbelievers will hastily point out that the Bible is written by men who by the very Scriptures are deemed fallible. Often, they also point out numerous books of importance were left out of the canon.

Taking an apologetic point of view, Christians would be unable to counterpoint with our belief in the fact God's hand was guiding the writings and canonizing of today's Bible. A more objective point of reference could be used for someone to understand the rigorous standards undertaken during the canonical process.

Chapter 3- Canon Criteria

  • Dr. Metzger points out three criteria were used to determine what books were authoritative by the early church:
  • Apostolic Authority- the book must have been written by an apostle or by someone closely associated with an apostle. For the Gospels, Matthew and John were disciples, Mark was close to Peter, and Luke was with Paul.
  • Conformity to the Rule of Faith-was the book congruent with basis Christian tradition that the church consider normative
  • Continuous Acceptance- did the book of continuous acceptance by the church in large
  • Good reference site for more detailed information: On the Formation of the New Testament Canon

The Problem with Gnostic Gospels

  • Gnostic belief recognizes a Supreme Being but believe He is imperfect. Movement started before Christ's birth.
  • Most Gnostic Gospels (teachings on Jesus) weren't written until after the 2nd Century or much later.
  • Popularized in last decade by Dan Brown's book The Da Vinci Code and popular movies based on the series along with Stigmata (1999).
  • Gospel of Thomas is probably most disputed for being left out of the canon, but the authorship has long been in question, and the text were lost for hundreds of years before resurfacing in 1898. There are a number of controversial versus including a reference that Jesus stated Mary would be converted to a man in order to gain heaven, a concept completely rejected by the early church.

Additional Information

Steevie ask a questions about what Mormons actually believe. I found a good website that lays it out pretty straight forward. Click Here

Next week- Chapter 4 The Corroborating Evidence

Monday, March 8, 2010

March 7, 2010- Chapter 3

After a week off and missing a post for February 21, we'll get back into a more regular routine as we continue on through Lee Strobel's book.

Quick Review
  • Remember we are concentrating on the four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
  • As we continue an Apologist approach to our study and talk less on the faith aspect of Christianity, don't lose focus on how important faith is for a Christian (I keep reminding you this for a reason).

Chapter 3- Interview with Dr. Bruce Metzger

  • I encourage each of you to check out the Wiki bio for Dr. Metzger. He is considered a very authoritative source on the New Testament on the canonization of the Bible.
  • The question is posed that if no original copies of the Gospels still exist, have the original text been derogated from being copied numerous times?
  • Dr. Metzger argues that the multiplicity of available manuscripts, some dating as far back as the 3rd Century, greatly deters the potential for derogation of the original text over time. The Gospels have been copied from an archive of over 5,000 Greek manuscripts and close to 20,000 manuscripts translated into other languages.
  • The version of the New Testament that became canon and we use today has been reconciled from these numerous sources virtually eliminating any margin for error in the context of the writings.
  • If a single source were used to copy, the chance of error would be greatly increased, but the size of the archives pertaining to sequential copies of the Bible being translated make scholars confident in the Books historical accuracy.

Other works from the period

  • Annals of Imperial Rome by Tacitus (entry Tacitus on Christ) carried from a single manuscript
  • The Jewish War by Josephus from 9 Greek manuscripts
  • The Iliad by Homer from 650 Greek manuscripts (think the movie Troy for you anti-literary types....tsk, tsk)
  • The Bible is by far the most prolific ancient writing known today

Next week we will finish Chapter 3 and focus on the canonization process of the Bible.

Monday, February 15, 2010

February 14, 2010- Chapter 2 continued...

Ten people in class! That is truly a blessing guys. Thank you so much for coming and participating. I know we reviewed a lot this week, but I believe there were gaps that needed to be filled also. Let's keep momentum going!

Quick Review (see previous post)
  • Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark and Luke)
  • Interviewing Dr. Craig Blomberg
  • Importance of Faith as we fact find
  • Authoritative qualifications of the authors
  • The Intention, Ability and Character Tests

Chapter 2 continued- The Consistency Test

  • Are there inconsistencies in the Gospels that render them questionable or untrustworthy?
  • Strobel poses two examples of apparent contradiction: Healing story in Matthew and Luke and the genealogies of Jesus listed in Matthew and Luke.
  • The inconsistencies in the healing story are explained by matters of title or semantics.
  • The genealogy inconsistency is explained by two possibilities: one is the lineage of Mary and the other of Joseph, or one lineage is Joseph's actual bloodline while the other is a legal lineage.
  • What are other apparent contradicts in the New Testament you've heard or even been confronted with in discussion by a skeptic? (to be continued next week)

For more on contradictions confronted check out these websites:

101 Biblical Contradictions Cleared Up

The Christian Apologetics and Research Ministry

Monday, February 8, 2010

February 7, 2010- Chapter 2

No class last week due to weather.


Quick Review

There were 4 people new to the current study, so we reviewed the overall premise and first chapter in a nutshell. We love new people and was more than glad to recap for them!

  • Relationship of the Gospel's authors to Jesus (some eye witnesses)

  • The Synoptic Gospels and Gospel of John

  • Christian Apologetics

  • Importance of Faith

Chapter 2-Testing the Eye Witness Evidence


  • Strobel, still interviewing Dr. Blomberg, uses 8 different test to determine if the eye witness accounts concerning Jesus in the Gospels hold up.

  • The eight test are: Intention Test, Ability Test, Character Test, Consistency Test, Bias Test, Cover-up Test, Corroboration Test and the Adverse-Witness Test.

  • The Intention Test- Was it the intent of the Gospel writers to accurately preserve history? Dr. Blomberg points out the disclaimer at the beginning of Luke clearly states the authors intent to be accurate and precise. Coupled with the large percentage of material shared with Matthew and Mark, the intention of the three authors seems obviously clear. The straightforwardness of John combined with his statement in John 20:31 also point to John's intent.

  • The Ability Test- Even if the intent of the authors was to accurately record the historical events surrounding the life of Christ, how accurate could each have been since so much time passed before the Gospels were written? The importance of passing knowledge and information via word of mouth was very important during these times. Also having shared the information in their ministries, the accounts of Jesus would have been repeated many times over.

  • The Character Test- There is no historical evidence that points to any of the authors being considered of disreputable character. The integrity of all four are solid.

Question to consider as we go through this study: Can a person be intelligent and critical thinking and still hold to the belief the four Gospels were written as an actual account of the life of Jesus?

Next Week: Continue in Chapter 2

Monday, January 25, 2010

January 24, 2010- Chapter 1 continued

Review from last week
  • Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark and Luke)

  • Interviewing Dr. Craig Blomberg

  • Authoritative qualifications of the authors

Gospel of John


Timeline for writing the New Testament

  • Blomberg presents evidence that all four Gospels were written before 90A.D. or less than 60 years after the Crucifixion.

  • Paul's conversion is generally accepted by scholars to have occurred 2 or 3 years after Christ's death.

  • All of Paul's letters that are now canonized in the New Testament would have been written before the last Gospel (generally accepted to be John).


Next week we will start Chapter 2


Monday, January 18, 2010

January 17, 2010- The Case for Christ Chapter 1

Review of last week

  • Fact finding doesn't replace faith. Although we are proceeding as investigators looking objectively at evidence to support the story of Jesus, faith is still a vital element in Christianity (Ephesians 2:7-9).

  • Listed famous Christian Apologist (Paul, Augustine, Aquinas, Lewis -see links in previous post).
  • When researching, always check references for bias or unseen agenda
Interview With Dr. Craig Blomberg

Matthew-disciple of Jesus, firsthand account
Mark- companion of Peter, one of Christ's inner circle
Luke- close associate of Paul (my beloved physician), historian
John- disciple close to Jesus

*link source is Orthodox Wiki please note but has great biblical references

  • All four had firsthand or were close to firsthand information about Jesus

  • Information was passed with much greater care in biblical times. Accuracy was imperative because often word of mouth was the primary manner in the way information was passed.

  • Biographical writings were in a different style compared to today. Most biographies surrounded the major events in a person's life (movie style) as opposed to their entire life on a timeline like today's writings or documentaries.

Synoptic Gospels

  • synoptic-(synopsis) taking a common view. Reference the first three Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.

  • Relationship between the Synoptic Gospels:

  • The Q Document- theoretical document that supports a two-source hypothesis. No proof the document exist, but scholars believe it would help explain the parallels. Theory also exist that Mark used the books of Luke and Matthew as a source too.

Next week: Continue in Chapter 1

Monday, January 11, 2010

January 10, 2010- Lee Strobel Introduction

Introduction to Course of Study

  • The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel books are available if you didn't get one in class. Just get in touch with me for a book.
  • We watched the following testimonial video by the author:



  • In studying the book, we will discuss a chapter each week in sequence. If the class feels there is need to spend longer on a particular chapter or topic, that's absolutely okay.
The Bible as a historical document

  • Our study will take an investigative approach to validate the facts of Christianity as we follow Strobel through the book. This is not to undermine the importance of faith in Christianity (Ephesians 2:7-9).
  • The importance of Scripture and trusting our Bible as the inspired word of God was discussed. A brief look at the process of canonizing the New Testament was presented but deferred for later discussion when it comes up in the book.
  • Gnostic gospels were briefly touched on, and another video from Strobel's website discussing the Bible as a historical document was played:



Christian Apologist

  • Christian Apologist like Lee Strobel were defined and discussed. Christian apologetics is a field of Christian theology that aims to present a rational basis for the Christian faith, defend the faith against objections, and expose the perceived flaws of other world views.
  • Famous Christian Apologist include the Apostle Paul, Saint Augustine, Thomas Aquinas and C.S. Lewis. Issac Newton was also brought up as an example from his latter years in life. C.S. Lewis authored Mere Christianity, a book considered by many to be one of the most influential Christian writings of the 20th century (Christianity Today 2006). He is also famous for writing the seven book series Chronicles of Narnia.
  • Apologist was differentiated from apostolic by defining the latter as the faith following the gospels and epistles of the Apostles of Jesus (New Testament).
  • I briefly touched on the importance of checking information sources (i.e. the History Channel, websites, etc.). A lot of information is presented as factual but is in fact presented with a bias or unspoken agenda. I personally feel it's okay to use Wikipedia (despite being frowned on by academia) as long as you know the references and sources sited at the bottom of an article.
  • I didn't have time to show another video about apologist tactics, but I've included it here if you're interested. Some of the points mirror points also made by Derek in his sermon that followed (thanks Pastor Derek for the reinforcement):


Next Week: The Case for Christ Chapter 1

January 3, 2010- The Year Ahead

Introduction and Contact Information
  • Thanks to Keith and Linda for a wonderful run as Class Leaders. Keith has agreed to fill in when I can't be here, and we need to keep him in prayer as he helps lead our church into 2010.
  •  Please feel free to contact me AT ANY TIME...I mean that. It doesn't have to be class related either. Candice and I are here for you to support in whatever manner you need...even if it's just to be a sounding board. My contact information is: (423) 202-5791 (Candice 202-5792), email tonycradic@yahoo.com, facebook.com/tonycradic, twitter.com/tonyctoday, myspace.com/stickwithjesus. Don't say you didn't know how to get in touch with me...
Personal Philosophy
  • I briefly discussed my philosophy as the class leader. I strongly believe that daily time spent reading God's word and communicating with Him in prayer can strengthen a person's spiritual life immensely and foster growth. I have learned through my years that making time for both things is much easier than you might think. I also try daily to pattern my life based on the words of Christ in Mark 12:30,31.
  • I look forward to the challenge, and I made a couple of vows to myself and to the class (I don't do new year resolutions). First, I will always come prepared to discuss our subject matter (Keith has set the bar pretty high for me here) and, I will encourage everyone to participate in discussion. You'll get a sermon from Derek after class, so you don't need a lecture from me first. Second, no heavy historical stuff. I know it probably only interest Alan and myself...and I'm not even completely sure about Alan. Lastly, no political discussions. If you want to know my political views (mixed with a little humor), you are welcome to read my blog which is linked. Political issues will stay on Tony C Today and out of our class. My other blog, Kingdom Bloggers, is a team blog I post for once a week (Friday) and is more geared to theological subject matters.
Course of Study
  • After Keith's excellent study of Genesis, he and I decided studying a Christian author would be a good change of pace. We will examine the book by Lee Strobel, The Case for Christ starting next week. I will have books for each of you. I've added a link to Lee Strobel's website you might want to check out.
  • After that, we will move back to Bible study on the book of Acts.
  • Hopefully, we will finish the year with a study of the parables of Jesus or maybe a study of each of the 12 disciples. If the first two subjects end up pushing into next year, that's perfectly okay...and would actually be a blessings that we took our time to study and DISCUSS the subject matters.