Ancient Truth

Calvinists contend that the sin of Adam was so destructive for the entire human race that even the mind is corrupted (the noetic effects of sin). That thesis can be challenged from a biblical viewpoint for lacking solid evidence. It isn't necessary to look for an inherent defect in man's rationality due to sin. Rather, there has been an historical influence that is particularly destructive. Paul the Apostle dealt with that negative influence in describing the human race's moral degeneration from its rejection of the true God of heaven (Romans 1).

In this second part of the series, Dr. Phillip Gray (Ph.D, D.Min) looks at historical evidences for the empty tomb that establish the resurrection of Jesus, especially when viewed in conjunction with the appearances made to his disciples (as studied in part one of this series).

In this miniseries, we consider evidence for the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. In part one, we focus on his appearances to select witnesses after starting on the third day after his crucifixion.

Many people around the world honor the name of Jesus. But not all have the same opinion of him. Some say he was merely a good man. Others argue he was a great moral teacher. Yet others believe he was a prophet of some kind, but not literally God incarnate. What does Scripture teach? What does the evidence show?

Freedom of expression is under fire nowadays more than we Americans had to worry about in the past. Our constitution guarantees it, but is a universal human right or privilege to express viewpoints or opinions with which others may disagree or for which they might feel offended? Europe is undergoing a lot of tension along these lines. Western Civilization might even be losing this once cherished value. What does Scripture have to say about this issue?

We can know that the Hebrew Christian Scriptures are from God.

One must "believe" in Jesus to be saved. What does this mean? It it mere mental assent to the truth of the gospel or is it mental assent coupled with an outward response (obedience)? The word can be used in two senses. The context bears out which sense is in mind.

The Protestant world insists that salvation is by faith alone without any further acts of obedience. Does Scripture teach this? It teaches salvation by faith. But it is a living active faith. The adverb "alone" was added by Martin Luther in his German translation of the Bible. Luther dogmatically contended that it is by faith allein (alone). The Bible says it is by faith and obedience.

Is it ever right to tell another religious person, "You are wrong?" When it comes to their personal beliefs, should we say, "You are in ignorance and disbelief?" Well, Jesus Himself did so in Matthew 22:23ff. We learn valuable lessons from his conversation with the Sadducees about life after death. Are you wrong, my friend? What would Christ say?