Category Archives: Theology

Which Gospel? Summarizing the Results

I started by saying I’ve been struggling with figuring out which of the many good ideas about the nature of Christianity is where the church should be focused. As kind of an experiment, I thought I’d look for a path … Continue reading

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Surprised by Hope: An Interpretation of Matthew 24, Part 3 (The Eschaton)

Now, at this point it seems probable that Jesus begins to answer the second question — what will be the signs of the end? Some argue that he is still speaking of the fall of Jerusalem, but Jesus seems pretty … Continue reading

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Surprised by Hope: An Interpretation of Matthew 24, Part 2 (The Fall of Jerusalem)

Now that we’ve considered some of the history and significance of the Fall of Jerusalem, let’s turn to the text of the chapter — (Mat 24:1-2) Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to … Continue reading

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Surprised by Hope: An Interpretation of Matthew 24, Part 1 (Background)

In last week’s class, a question came up as to how Matthew 24 should be interpreted. In fact, some in the class were astonished at my suggestion that the New Testament speaks of two “comings” of Jesus — one at … Continue reading

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Surprised by Hope: Hell, Part 1

Wright notes that the idea of a new heaven and new earth argues against the traditional understanding of hell. After all, no longer do we imagine going to heaven when we die. Rather, heaven comes down to earth and we … Continue reading

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Which Gospel? A Musical Interlude

This isn’t really my style of music. But even if you hate the style, you’ve got to hear this. ‘Send Me’ – Live at MHC | Ballard from Mars Hill Church on Vimeo. These guys have a better theology than … Continue reading

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Which Gospel? Deepening Our Understanding of “Gospel”

The last post triggered several very thoughtful comments and questions on just what “gospel” is. I typed a few comments to set out my own views — profoundly influenced by N. T. Wright — but decided it makes better sense … Continue reading

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Which Gospel? The “Gospel” Verses

We’re getting close to the end! Thanks for your patience. Before drawing any conclusions about the nature of the gospel, it only makes sense that we take a look at a few of the verses that actually speak of the … Continue reading

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Which Gospel? The Gospel of Communion (1 Corinthians)

Thanksgiving (1 Cor 10:15-17) I speak to sensible people; judge for yourselves what I say. 16 Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that … Continue reading

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Which Gospel? The Gospel of Communion (the Gospels)

As we continue to investigate the central theme of the gospel — particularly the gospel as it applies to those who’ve been saved — it only makes sense to look at baptism and communion. After all, these are universal practices … Continue reading

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