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Professor R. L. Solberg participated in a livestreamed debate with Torah teacher Melissa Schilling Smith (aka God's Little Hummingbird) on How the Sinai Law Applies to Followers of Jesus. The discussion was moderated by Melissa's friend, Scott Harwell, who also hosted the debate on his YouTube channel. 

Both agree that salvation is by grace through faith alone, but they differ on what obedience looks like under the New Covenant. The conversation covers the meaning of “new” in Jeremiah 31, whether the Sinai Covenant is still in effect, the role of the Holy Spirit in writing God’s law on the heart, the purpose of the feasts and Sabbaths, dietary laws, and how to understand passages like Colossians 2 and Hebrews 8. Along the way, they also touch on eschatology, the Gospel of the Kingdom, and the unity of Jew and Gentile in God’s plan. This is a deep dive into Scripture, theology, and the continuity (or discontinuity) between the Old and New Covenants. 

The debate was recorded on August 6th, 2025. 

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In this episode, we respond to the bold claims made by Melissa Schilling Smith—aka “God’s Little Hummingbird”—about mainstream Christianity and biblical theology. Melissa accuses respected teachers of being false prophets and insists that Torah observance is required for Christians today. But is this view biblically accurate?

We take a careful, respectful look at one of her videos and evaluate her claims in light of Scripture. This conversation matters—not just because of what’s being said, but because it reveals how theology can shift our focus from Jesus to the Mosaic law if we’re not careful. If you've encountered Torah-observant teachings or know someone who has, this video will help you understand how to respond, rooted in biblical truth.

 #Torahism
 #FalseTeaching
 #BiblicalTruth
 #ChristianApologetics
 #HebrewRootsMovement

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The last half of Hebrews 10 contains a bold and timely message: because of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice, believers now have full, confident access to God!

This is a major turning point in the letter. After 9.5 chapters of deep theological teaching, the author of Hebrews pivots from doctrine to application. The message is bold and timely: because of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice, believers now have full, confident access to God. No longer restricted by an earthly temple or mediated by a human priest, we can draw near to God directly—boldly, sincerely, and with full assurance of faith. The author lays out a threefold exhortation: draw near to God, hold fast to our hope, and stir up one another to love and good works.

AFFILIATE NOTE: I first studied biblical Hebrew remotely through the Israel Institute of Biblical Studies. If you're interested in learning Biblical Hebrew (or even Aramaic or Greek), check out their courses using the affiliate link below. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of God’s Word!
👉 https://go.israelbiblicalstudies.com/R.L.Solberg

But it’s not all encouragement. This chapter also includes one of the most sobering warnings in the New Testament about the consequences of rejecting the gospel after having received the truth. Yet it ends on a pastoral note, urging believers to remember their past endurance, keep the faith, and live with expectancy for the return of Christ.

This episode not only unpacks a critical theological moment but brings it powerfully into the life of the believer—what we believe about Jesus isn't just doctrine; it’s a call to a radically transformed life.

Defending the Biblical Roots of Christianity
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Chapters
00:00: Introduction
00 The New and Living Way (Heb 10 19–25)
00 A Fearful Warning (Heb 10:26–31)
00 Endure with Confidence (Heb 10:32–39)

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Meet Melissa Dougherty. Join us as she discusses her journey from New Thought beliefs to a deeper understanding of Biblical Christianity. She explores the differences between New Thought and New Age, the identity of Jesus, and the implications of these beliefs on modern Christianity. The discussion highlights the importance of critical thinking, the dangers of autonomy in spirituality, and the need for a solid understanding of the Gospel. In this conversation, Melissa Dougherty and R. L. Solberg explore the complexities of spirituality, the dangers of false teachings, and the importance of critical thinking in faith. They discuss the impact of seeker-sensitive churches on modern Christianity, the role of emotions in spiritual experiences, and the need for discernment in understanding true theology. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of grounding one's faith in scripture and the challenges posed by contemporary spiritual movements.

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#newthought
#newage
#spirituality
#christianity
#apologetics
#interview

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
03:03 Melissa Dougherty's Background and Journey
05:50 Understanding New Thought vs. New Age
08:49 The Influence of New Thought on Modern Beliefs
12:04 Distinguishing New Thought from Biblical Christianity
14:46 The Identity of Jesus and the Gospel
17:56 The Role of Pain and Distrust in Belief Systems
21:02 The Importance of Healing and Insight
28:34 Understanding Healing Through Biblical Perspectives
29:31 The Rise of New Thought and Its Impact
30:45 Historical Context of New Thought Movement
32:08 The Self-Help Movement's Roots in New Thought
33:37 The Dangers of New Thought Theology
36:18 Moral Accountability and Autonomy in Modern Beliefs
37:43 Worldviews and Their Influence on Faith
38:59 The Pragmatism of New Thought and Its Consequences
40:59 The It Works Trap in Spiritual Practices
43:38 Manifestation and Its Spiritual Implications
46:16 The Dangers of False Signs and Wonders
48:08 Evaluating Spiritual Experiences and Their Sources
51:31 Self-Evaluation Against Biblical Standards
52:20 The Importance of Logic and Critical Thinking in Faith
56:12 Balancing Heart and Mind in Spirituality
57:50 The Intellectual Component of Faith
01:01:34 Emotions vs. Truth in Church Culture
01:04:32 The Seeker Sensitive Model and Its Impact
01:12:28 The Dilemma of Church Growth and Theology
01:19:08 The Future of Church and Spiritual Hunger

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Are Christians still under the Law of Moses? Should followers of Jesus today keep Torah commandments like the Sabbath, dietary restrictions, or temple sacrifices? In this episode, we take a clear and careful look at what the Bible teaches about the Mosaic Law, its purpose, and its fulfillment in Christ. We’ll explore how the Old Covenant law reveals God’s character, why it was given to Israel, and how the New Covenant changes everything for believers today.

Whether you’ve wrestled with Torah-observant teachings or are simply curious about how law and grace fit together, this study in biblical theology will give you a solid foundation grounded in Scripture.

We’ll answer:
What does “the law” mean in the Bible?
Was the law meant for everyone?
Do Christians need to obey Old Testament commands?
How does Jesus fulfill the Law?
What role does grace play in the life of a Christian?

Affiliate Note: I first studied biblical Hebrew remotely through the Israel Institute of Biblical Studies. If you're interested in learning Biblical Hebrew (or even Aramaic or Greek), check out their courses using the affiliate link below. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of God’s Word!
👉 https://go.israelbiblicalstudies.com/R.L.Solberg

Defending the Biblical Roots of Christianity
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Chapter

00:00 Introduction
00:53 Setting the Table
01:05 Law Means Law 
02:10 Law Codes in the Ancient Near East
05:43 The Law and God's Character
11:02 The Law's Purpose & Origin
17:37 Four Purposes of the Law
24:02 Law and the New Covenant Christian
24:31 A Brief Look at the Covenants
29:04 What Commands Apply Today?
36:41 Caution: The Torah Has Not Been Done Away With
39:02 Grace in the Christian Life

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Are the teachings of the First Fruits of Zion ministry safe for your church? We speak with David Harris, Ph.D, a Jewish believer in Jesus, and pastor Randy Powell, an expert on FFOZ, on this question. Prof. Solberg gets their reaction to 5 video clips from  FFOZ founder, Boaz Michael.

The panel addresses the controversial claim of an “incomplete gospel,” analyzing the theological roots and consequences of such a belief. They highlight the dangers of Torah-centric teachings that risk shifting the focus away from Christ and toward Old Covenant practices. Topics include the role of the Torah in Christianity, the identity of believers in the gospel, and the balance between holiness and legalism. The panel also explores the implications of the Hebrew Roots movement, including the risks of cult-like behavior and theological confusion within churches. With a clear call for discernment, this video challenges viewers to align their faith firmly with the gospel of Jesus Christ and the New Covenant teachings of Scripture.

Affiliate Note: I first studied biblical Hebrew remotely through the Israel Institute of Biblical Studies. If you're interested in learning Biblical Hebrew (or even Aramaic or Greek), check out their courses using the affiliate link below. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of God’s Word!
👉 https://go.israelbiblicalstudies.com/R.L.Solberg

David Harris' website:
https://beatgoliath.com/

Pastor Randy Powell's website:
https://pastorpowellsponderings.blogspot.com/

Article mentioned in this episode:
https://ffoz.org/messiah/articles/there-is-no-distinction

Defending the Biblical Roots of Christianity
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Chapter
00:00 Introduction to First Fruits of Zion
04:47 Understanding Their Positioning and Theology
08:51 The Influence and Reach of First Fruits of Zion
12:25 The Evolution of Their Theology
18:01 Examining the Incomplete Gospel Claims
26:28 Critique of Church History and Theology
31:53 The Church's Future: A Fractured Landscape
35:08 The Dangers of a Partial Gospel
36:18 Identifying Cult-like Tendencies
40:46 The Role of Torah in Modern Faith
51:14 Understanding Jewish Identity in the Gospel
57:21 Personal Holiness vs. Legalism
01:01:14 Understanding the Incomplete Gospel
01:03:02 The Role of Torah in Christianity
01:06:01 The Dangers of Torah Idolatry
01:09:04 Theological Clarity and Precision
01:11:51 Navigating Church Conflicts
01:15:01 The Impact of Hebrew Roots Movement
01:17:59 Concluding Thoughts on Theology and Community

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In this episode, we test the teaching of a Hebrew Roots rabbi named Steve Berkson who teaches at Messianic Torah Observant Israel near Chattanooga, TN. Rabbi Berkson teaches, "It’s not works versus grace, it's works and grace." And he defines "grace" as merited favor, saying, "It's the opposite of what you were taught. How shocking is that? Another thing the church taught you backwards. It's merited favor. That's why works and grace go together. Because it's your works that merit the favor."

We test his claims against the Bible as he walks us through the idea of grace, works, and faith, and what these things have to do with our salvation.

Watch Rabbi Berkson's Video

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Chapter
04:30 The ISR Scriptures translation of the Bible
07:36 Grace is “merited favor”
15:23 Salvation is available.
19:31 Your works get you into the Kingdom of God
20:37 Jesus did His part
22:56 Christianity teaches no personal responsibility
24:58 We need to do our part.
29:14 You were put here to do the work
35:31 A training ground for your works
38:20 It’s not about salvation (But it is)
45:49 You have to earn it.

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In this episode, we take a serious look at the popular YouTube channel  @Truthunedited  and its controversial “Testing Christianity” series by Ron Charles. With over 100 million views, his teachings are spreading confusion about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We examine his five-question "test" of Christianity and compare it directly to the Bible. Is his theology biblically sound—or spiritually dangerous? Join us as we confront false teaching, defend the Gospel, and pray for truth to prevail.

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits." (Matthew 7:15-16)

Keep me honest! You can watch the full Truthunedited video here if you question whether I presented their positions in a proper context.

Defending the Biblical Roots of Christianity
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:49 Wheat or Tares? (The Test)
08:53 Question #1: Covenant Partners
17:28 Question #2: The Christian Covenant
25:25 Question #3: What Will the Father Do?
32:05 Question #4: These Last Days
35:29 Question #5: Heaven or Earth?
40:19 Wrap it up, Solberg.

#apologetics
#falseteaching 
#torahkeeper
#gospeltruth 
#hebrewroots 
#hebrewisraelites

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Let's look at 6 specific differences between our modern Western culture and the culture in which the Bible was written. Why? Because knowing these differences gives us a heightened awareness of the culture in which our Bible was written, which helps us better understand what the biblical authors wanted to communicate to us. Then, using those 6 specific differences, we'll examine the Kingdom of God (aka The Kingdom of Heaven) as it's taught in the Bible. I pray you find this teaching helpful and enlightening!

Links mentioned in this episode:
https://walkingthetext.com/
https://www.newlensbiblicalstudies.com/
Where are the prophecies of a messiah rising on the 3rd day? (Video)

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In this episode, we’re joined by Christian thinker, artist, and apologist FLAME, who spent nearly two decades in the Reformed Baptist tradition before embracing a deeper understanding of grace. Together, we explore how the biblical teaching on law, identity, and grace shapes not just theology, but how we engage culture, alternate belief systems like Hebrew Israelism, and the modern world with the hope of Christ.

Learn more about FLAME at https://extranosacademy.com/.

Defending the Biblical Roots of Christianity
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