This is the time of year more than any other when the subject of the virgin birth of Christ seems to show up in conversations both public and private. The point of the discussion varies from time to time, but it seems primarily to serve apologetic interests along the following lines. Seven hundred years before Jesus was born, this evidential argument says, God foretold through Isaiah that a virgin would conceive and bear a son (Isaiah 7:14). Seven centuries later, Mary, a virgin from Nazareth in Galilee, receives a surprise visit from an angel. He assures her of God's favor and informs her … [Read more...]
Archives for January 2014
Choose reality and change
No doubt about it. It's hard to change. That makes New Year's resolutions a joking subject for the TV pundits, who simply reflect what we all know. Two psychologists, J.O. Prochaska and C.C. DiClemente, have researched and identified three marks of successful change. First, it involves a process, not a one-time decision. Second, successful change is based on perceived reality and reflects deeply-held beliefs. Third, it involves goals that can be expressed in positive terms. All three characteristics express core biblical teaching. New Testament words for change include "conversion," … [Read more...]
OUR FUTURE SELVES
Oh, to live forever! Do you ever long for that? It's a grandiose wish, all right, and certainly not unqualified or without reservations. We would not want any pain, for example, should we somehow manage to live forever. Most of us have experienced pain here; we clearly have no appetite for any more. An unending life ought to be pain-free. While we are at it, let's stipulate that sickness also is banished in that unending future. Even without pain, sickness ruins an otherwise good day. While we are daydreaming, let's include a total body makeover. No surgical procedures involved, just a … [Read more...]
Hebrews: An Interview with Edward Fudge
It is a rare treat to hear an author discuss his motivation for writing a book. Mark Lanier interviews Edward Fudge, author of "Hebrews: Ancient Encouragement for Believers Today", and uncovers Edward's great devotion and passion for the book of Hebrews! Watch and listen as Edward shares his heart regarding the beautiful picture of "our man in heaven", Jesus Christ, our savior!! http://vimeo.com/6034023 … [Read more...]
The Divine Rescue – A Interview With Edward Fudge
On Sunday, May 16, 2010, Edward was interviewed in the 500+ member Biblical Literacy Class of Champion Forest Baptist Church, Houston, Texas, by class teacher Mark Lanier, with some questions to Sara Faye as well. Here is the original full-length video production of the interview: http://vimeo.com/11849068 … [Read more...]
Lecture – The Fire That Consumes
The Fire That Consumes: A Biblical and Historical Study of Hell http://youtu.be/oHUPpmbTOV4 … [Read more...]