Differing Things

If the assumption that the Hebrew had some concept of endlessness as to both past and future, was not injected into the Hebrew OLAMIM passages, would these bear a rational interpretation consistent with the contexts in which this word occurs and with the Bible in general? In other words, should we use "forever," "everlasting," or "eternal" to translate 'olamim'? Are there better alternatives? Does it even matter?

O'lam is a Hebrew word that is greatly misunderstood. Many Religions construct doctrines based on a flawed understanding of this word. Consider Genesis 3:22 for example. It reads "... take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live le-olam." Most common Bible translations render le-olam as forever. Is this a good rendering? Why or why not? The way one understands olam will determine how one understands this passage. This is just a small example of why it is important to have an understanding of this very important word.

All agree that individuals who have heard and appropriated the Gospel concerning Jesus' death, entombment, and resurrection have been assured a future life with the Lord. But what about the rest of humanity? There are really three views as to what happens to this vast majority of people. In order to understand these three views, one must understand what the underlying Greek and Hebrew words mean. Today's Differing Things begins a multiple week study looking at these views, and the underlying Hebrew and Greek words. This study may change your long-held conceptions, whatever they may be!

Our Host Bill Petri's opening to today's Differing Things Podcast states; "Few doctrines in Christianity are as terrifying or as misunderstood as hell." This podcast will dissect the doctrine of hell, examining its moral contradictions, its lack of Biblical foundations, and how the concept of hell evolved over time.

One of the greatest men of the Bible is John the Baptist. We all have heard his name, and most of us even know a little bit about him. But who was he really? Why is he such an important figure in the New Testament? There is much we have not considered about John the Baptist and who God intended him to be. Today's Differing Things takes an in-depth look at who John the Baptist was!

In today's world we are taught to hate our enemies. Wars have raged for as long as any of us can remember because of hatred. We must ask ourselves what does the Scriptures teach? Is there a difference between Jesus' message to Israel and Paul's message to the Body of Christ? Paul instructs us to follow him as he followed Christ. What does that look like? Today's Differing Things Podcast looks at this topic.

While considering the end of the Apostle Paul's earthly life, the Scriptures offer insight into his circumstances leading up to his death. What can we learn from the Scriptures to help sustain us in an increasingly anti-Christian society?

There are three great truths that confirm the historical fact -- Jesus really did rise from the grave, and by doing so He defeated death! These facts are:

1. The tomb in which Jesus was entombed was discovered empty by women.

How do these three great truths prove the historical reality of Jesus' resurrection? This is the topic for this Differing Things Podcast.

Have you ever wondered how ancient scriptures relate to contemporary mental health issues? The Bible is clear: God sees, understands, and cares deeply about our emotional and mental struggles! If you are navigating mental health challenges, know this: you are not alone, and the Bible is full of people who walked similar paths. Do not forget to give us a like, or better yet why not follow us, so that you never miss an episode of Differing Things!

Recently our host, Bill Petri, did a study on sanctification. This is a very theological word that is often times misunderstood. What is sanctification? How does it work? What is the relationship between justification and sanctification? These questions form the basis for this week's Differing Things Podcast