Glossary
An Annotated Glossary of Biblical Christianity
Some entries are included for edification purposes though they do not represent a Biblical Christian viewpoint (e.g. Evolutionary Theory, Atheism, Antinomianism, Pantheism, etc.). The text of the definition will usually indicate such as non-Biblical.
You can "click" the underlined key words to jump briefly to other glossary entries containing further explanation. Returning from those excursions to the original location is much easier by using the <Alt-Left Arrow> keys instead of the <=Back button. The text is best viewed with MS Internet Explorer using the setting: View / Text Size / Medium or Larger. Also, you may find that using the F11 key, to toggle between the usual screen and a full screen, makes viewing easier. ]
Some entries are included for edification purposes though they do not represent a Biblical Christian viewpoint (e.g. Evolutionary Theory, Atheism, Antinomianism, Pantheism, etc.). The text of the definition will usually indicate such as non-Biblical.
You can "click" the underlined key words to jump briefly to other glossary entries containing further explanation. Returning from those excursions to the original location is much easier by using the <Alt-Left Arrow> keys instead of the <=Back button. The text is best viewed with MS Internet Explorer using the setting: View / Text Size / Medium or Larger. Also, you may find that using the F11 key, to toggle between the usual screen and a full screen, makes viewing easier. ]
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A
Abiding in Christ – Essential agreement with the teachings and commandments of Christ (1 John 2:24) that is maintained by resisting temptation to sin (1 John 2:1). "Abiding in Christ" is synonymous with "fellowship with Christ." The Christian is either (a) in carnality, resulting from personal sin, or (b) in fellowship with God, resulting from personal, private, confession of sin directly to God as a part of our Royal Priesthood. Thus, confession of personal sin—an admission of personal responsibility—is the basis for our restoration to fellowship with God and the filling by means of the Holy Spirit. Subsequently, the believer has the ability to be spiritually self-sustaining—to maintain fellowship with God. (Psalm 32:5; 1 John 1:9; Luke 15:18).
Abiding is both necessary and indispensable for spiritual growth and fruit production. (John 15:1-10). In fellowship with God, the believer's task is to mature, to grow in the knowledge of Biblical truth, and to handle the blessings and trials of life in occupation with Christ. Abiding in Christ is not a result of a pious life, acts of penance, asking for forgiveness, feeling sorry for sin, or any other emotion, feeling, or work. (see Sanctification and Spiritual (2))
Abrahamic Covenant – An unconditional covenant between God, as party of the first part, in favor of Abraham and his progeny, as the parties of the second part. This is a grace covenant from God, promising a progeny (Genesis 12:2), real estate for the Jewish race (Genesis 12:1; Genesis 13:14-15), a king from among Abraham’s progeny (Genesis 17:6), and a heritage of blessing (Genesis 12:3). See Covenants to Israel.
Abraham's Bosom – See Hades
Accommodation – The adaptation of eternal truth to the human frame of reference through verbal plenary inspiration, using figures of speech and other human language terms. God knew, at the time of the writing of the books of the Bible, all the scientific knowledge which would be accumulated throughout all time. However, He did not force the writers of the Scriptures to eliminate their contemporary idiomatic phraseology. For example: "The four corners of the earth .." (Revelation 7:1). God knew the earth was round (Isaiah 40:22; Job 26:10) but did not force John to change his vocabulary. Thus, God accommodated (or adapted) human language to divine revelation. God's use of anthropopathisms and anthropomorphisms is another example of the principle of accommodation. A modern example of accommodation is our use of the term sunrise. Sunrise is observational, but not scientific. Many similar phrases occur in Scripture. The understanding of this principle serves as an important preservation of the integrity of God’s word.
Adam's Original Sin – See Fall of Man.
Adoption – In the Bible, adoption has more than one meaning. It has the more usual meaning of placing one into the position of a legal child, as in the case of Esther's adoption (Esther 2:7; Esther 2:15). It is used in a spiritual sense for the placement of the nation of Israel above other peoples (Exodus 4:22; Deuteronomy 32:6; Isaiah 64:8; Jeremiah 31:9; Romans 9:4). It is used in a spiritual sense at salvation for the placement of the born again child of God into the position, rather than relationship, of privilege and responsibility attached to an adult son [uios] (Galatians 3:26; Galatians 4:1-6). One of the privileges of an adult son is heirship. The full realization of the believer's sonship awaits the ‘redemption of the body,’ at the Rapture of the Church (Romans 8:23; 1 Thessalonians 4:14-17; Ephesians 1:14; 1 John 3:2)
Advocate – After the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, He ascended into Heaven and sat down at the Father's right hand in the throne room of Heaven. The Greek word Diabolos (DiaboloV) means “accuser,” “slanderer,” or “maligner.” Satan sometimes accuses us before the Father's Throne of Grace. The present ministry of our Lord includes being our advocate or defense attorney. (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25; 1 John 2:1).
Age of Accountability – The moment when a human being reaches God-consciousness, recognizing the existence of a supreme being, and able to understand the Gospel. The age of the individual may differ in various life situations and cultures, even extending well into adulthood. From this moment, each individual is responsible to God for his eternal disposition. This age is associated with the understanding of right and wrong from God’s law (Romans 7:7-11).
Agnosticism – A system of belief which claims that God cannot be known, either in full or in part. Unlimited agnosticism claims that God and all reality is completely unknowable. Limited agnosticism claims only that God is partially unknowable because of the limitations of man’s finitude and sinfulness. (Psalm 14:1).
Ambassador for Christ – Though all believers in Jesus Christ are citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven (Philippians 3:20), they remain in this world as personal representatives of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20).
Amillennialism – The eschatological position in theology which denies the existence of a literal, earthly, thousand year reign of Christ. This view contradicts a natural interpretation of Revelation 20:2-7.
Angel – There exists a superior race of beings who were created before man. This race is divided into two groups—“elect” and “fallen” angels. Elect angels are those who have remained faithful to God (1 Timothy 5:21; Mark 8:38). The fallen angels, also called demons, are those who followed Satan in his prehistoric arrogance (Revelation 12:4); they are hostile enemies of God who are actively engaged in the deception and destruction of man under the leadership of Satan. The fallen angels have a hierarchy (Ephesians 6:12), and hence are organized toward their objective. They further divide into two sub-categories—imprisoned (2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6) and operational (1 Timothy 4:1; Revelation 16:14). Angels are identified as servants of God (Psalm 103:20-21; Hebrews 1:14) they are the messengers and heralds of God (Luke 1:26-38; Matthew 28:1-7), and they are guardians (Genesis 3:24; Daniel 12:1). Angels also observe human history (1 Timothy 3:16; Luke 15:10), and through observation, the angels learn the Justice and wisdom of God (Ephesians 3:10). They also worship God (Revelation 7:11). At the end of human history, angels will be judged by believers, (1 Corinthians 6:3). Every book of the Bible speaks of angels except Ruth, Nehemiah, Esther, James, and the Epistles of John.
Angel of the LORD – A pre-incarnation appearance of Jesus Christ. Also known as “Angel of Jehovah” and “Angel of Yahweh.” See Theophany.
Angelic Conflict – The invisible spiritual warfare, between God and Satan, in which the forces of Satan are warring against the forces of God (Michael, an archangel, and the elect angelic forces). It was ignited by the prehistoric revolt of Satan (Ezekiel 28:11-19) who also carried off in deception one-third of the angelic creation (Revelation 12:4), whereupon Satan apparently challenged God's decision to cast the fallen angelic creation into the Lake of Fire (Matthew 25:41). Considering that Satan is not in fact in the Lake of Fire, prepared for that purpose, one may conclude that God postponed Satan's punishment (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:10). The Angelic Conflict thus continues as spiritual warfare in human history (Daniel 10:13; Ephesians 6:10-18). The Church Age is the intensified stage of this Angelic Conflict (1 Peter 5:7-9). This conflict has real impact on Christians, and thus, they are to prepare themselves for effective spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:11). The study of this conflict provides the answers to the age long questions regarding “Why Man?”; “Why Sin?”; “Why Suffering?”; and “Why the Church?”
Angelology – The study of the first created beings—angels—both elect and fallen, and includes the study of their origin, nature, purpose, and their relationship to God and Man. Angelology is a major division of Systematic Theology.
Anthropological Argument – The argumentum a posteriori, from naturalistic theism, that asserts the existence of God from several specific features in man's essence. Evolutionary and other theories for man's existence, while claiming to understand man's biological life, do not and cannot explain the origin of man's immaterial human life, intellect, sensibility, will, conscience, or his inherent belief in God. These attributes of man can be accounted for on no other ground than that man has come forth from One who possesses all these attributes to an infinite degree. Taking just one of the foregoing for an example, man's conscience recognizes his violations of a moral law outside of himself, and such violations are followed by a feeling of foreboding and fears of judgment. Since this moral law is not self-imposed, and these threats of judgment are not self-executing, they respectively argue the existence of a holy will that has imposed the law, and a punitive power that will execute the threats of a moral nature. (also, see Cosmological, Congruity, Teleological, and Ontological Arguments).
Anthropology – The study of Man—a major division of Systematic Theology—including his origin, nature, purpose, and relationships to God, angels, the World System, and the Dispensation in which he lives. Biblical anthropology is distinct from secular anthropology by its biblical authority.
Anthropomorphism – Ascribing some human physical characteristic to God that He does not actually possess, such as “eyes of the Lord,” (Proverbs 5:21) “hand of God,” (Psalm 118:15-16) “arm of the Lord” (Isaiah 51:9), etc. An anthropomorphism is a figure of speech using human language to accommodate Divine Revelation. Such language helps man to comprehend God's divine policy, character, and function.
Anthropopathisms – Ascribing human feeling or emotion to God such as “repentance,” “grief,” “anger,” etc. An anthropopathism is a figure of speech using human language to accommodate Divine Revelation.
Antinomianism – From the Greek words “anti” (against) and “nomos” (law), antinomianism has come to represent that particular perversion of the Gospel that implies that, since believers are saved by the free grace of God, and that the Mosaic Law was fulfilled in Christ, they are not responsible to live according to the moral law of God, or even to live in holiness. Antinomianism finds expression in various kinds of lascivious behavior, including immorality. The writers of the New Testament dealt with this in the harshest terms (Romans 3:8; Romans 6:1, 15; 2 Corinthians 12:21)
Anti-Semitism – Though certain Arab groups are Semitic, because of sharing a common ancestor with Jewish groups, the term “anti-Semitism” is generally attributed to attitudes and actions that are hostile to the Jews, including prejudice, intolerance, and even criminal activity. God has promised retribution to those who practice anti-Semitism (Genesis 12:3).
Apostasy – Apostasy is a willful standing apart from the Christian faith (1 Timothy 4:1; 2 Thessalonians 2:3) and a falling away from relationship with God (Hebrews 3:12). It is distinguished from heresy, which is a belief which is held in variance with Biblical truth. Historically, heresy has indicated a refusal to accept a prescribed article of faith. Both apostasy and heresy should be distinguished from common error, which involves a non-Biblical interpretation of a minor doctrine. A gospel built on works or legalism is an example of apostasy (Galatians 1:6-8).
Apostleship – The temporary spiritual gift of authority delegated by the Lord Jesus Christ to the eleven disciples and Paul in the first century A.D. The word in the Greek means “sent forth,” and the true nature of the apostles is that they were sent forth personally by the Lord. There are four distinguishing characteristics of the apostle: (1) He had to receive his call directly from Christ. (Galatians 1:1; Luke 6:13) (2) He had to be an eyewitness to the incarnation of Christ (1 Corinthians 9:1; 1 Corinthians 15:8) (3) He had to possess authority in communicating Divine Revelation (Galatians 1:11-12; Acts 26:22-23) (4) He had to have the validating signs of apostleship (Acts 2:43; Acts 5:12). Apostles had authority that extended to all churches (2 Corinthians 11:28; 1 Corinthians 14:37).
Aramaic – A language in which a small part of the Scriptures (Daniel 2:4—7:28; Ezra 4:8 – 6:1; Ezra 7:12-26; Jeremiah 10:11;Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34) were written. See Languages of Scripture.
Ark of the Covenant – See Day of Atonement.
Armageddon – The last battle of the last campaign of the last war of human history, that takes place on the plain of Esdraelon near the city of Megiddo, in which the forces of the returned Lord Jesus Christ defeat the forces of gentile empires mobilized to annihilate Israel (Revelation 16:16). Armageddon is not a biblical term, but a theological one.
Arminian Viewpoint – The heretical viewpoint of Jacobus Arminius, who advocated a broader view of the doctrines of hamartiology, election and predestination than did John Calvin. It is the belief that mankind does not inherit a sinful nature from Adam, and that man is inherently capable of producing good. Mankind is able to cooperate with the grace of God, and when he does, he receives election into a predetermined class according to the determination of God. Man may also freely repent of his decision and fall from grace, losing eternal salvation.
Ascension and Session of Christ – Seven weeks after His resurrection, the Lord Jesus Christ, in His humanity, ascended into Heaven, where He sat down at the right hand of God until the resurrection of His Church. The ascension is the terminal event of Jesus Christ’s first advent, proclaiming the work of the first advent as finished to the satisfaction of God the Father, (Hebrews 10:12-13). The ascension completes the glorification of Christ in hypostatic union (Acts 2:33; Philippians 2:9; 2 Peter 3:22), declaring Christ as greater than the angels, (Hebrews 1:3-13). The session ministry of Jesus Christ describes His work as the High Priest for His people, wherein He is a Representative, Intercessor, and Advocate (Hebrews 9:24; Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:34; 1 John 2:1-2). The ascension and session of Christ work together as a proclamation that the first advent is finished, the Rapture is imminent, and the work of Jesus Christ continues in the mean time.
Assurance – Assurance is the believer’s confidence in Eternal Security.
Atheism – A contradictory and therefore false system of belief, which asserts that God does not exist. Atheism assumes omniscience, a god-like knowledge of all things, for in the proclamation of God’s non-existence there has to be complete knowledge of all things. In any corner of ignorance God may exist! Consequently, the atheist assumes to himself two of the very characteristics—omnipresence and omniscience—of the God he rejects.
Atonement – The word “Atonement” is used collectively to include the whole efficacious, sacrificial, and redemptive work of Christ on the cross on behalf of mankind. It is not a New Testament word, only occurring in one English mistranslation (KJV Romans 5:11) where the Greek word katallagh should have been translated “reconciliation.” A careful student of the Scriptures will be influenced by the fact that the Holy Spirit confined the word “atonement” to the Old Testament, and did not use the term in any way to describe any aspect of the New Testament believer's relationship to God. The word “atonement” is from the HebrewKAPHAR — to cover. Atonement looked forward to the Cross. When a Jewish believer participated in a sacrifice, the bloodcovered the sin. On the Day of Atonement, the High Priest sprinkled blood on the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant, which covered the sin, represented in the Ark by the broken tablets of the Law, Aaron’s rod that budded, and a pot of manna (Leviticus 16; Leviticus 23:26-32; Hebrews 9:3-7). Actually, Hebrews 10:4 declares that “it is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sin.” In the atonement, God simply covered over the sin until Christ actually “took away” the sin, once “covered” by sacrifice (Romans 3:23-26; Hebrews 9:15). The extent of the collective atonement is unlimited (2 Corinthians 5:14; 1 Timothy 2:6; 1 Timothy 4:10; Titus 2:11; Hebrews 2:9; 1 John 2:2). “And He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the entire world.”
Atonement, Day of – One of the clearest examples of Old Testament Shadow Christology occurred in the ritual observed by the Levitical Priesthood on the Day of Atonement. The Ark of the Covenant was a teaching device that represented the Jewish Messiah bearing the sins of the world. It was a wooden box (representing the Humanity of the coming Messiah), covered with gold (Deity of Christ), bearing the broken tablets of the Law (man's sin against God's law), bearing Aaron’s rod that budded (man's sin against God's divinely appointed authority), and bearing a golden pot of manna (man's sin against God's provision). On top of the Ark were two golden cherubim (representing God's Righteousness and Justice) looking downward toward the “sin” in the Ark. In the line of sight of the cherubim was a golden “mercy seat” (Exodus 25:10-22). On the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) the high priest would enter the holy of holies and sprinkle the blood of a sacrificed animal on the mercy seat (Leviticus 16:1-28). The Righteousness and Justice of God would then see the blood covering the sin and be satisfied (doctrine of propitiation). The high priest would sacrifice a bull for his own sins and a goat for the sins of the people. This ritual and the tabernacle / temple articles taught that until the Messiah would come, God would look forward to the cross of Christ for forgiveness of the believers’ sins. While Christ's work on the cross accomplished many different things, the accomplishment that is pertinent in this context is that, “He took away pre-cross sin, once covered by sacrifice.”
Attributes of God – The individual qualities or characteristics which are intrinsic to the Essence of God.
Authority of the Scriptures – Since the Bible’s ultimate Author is God, it is without error and is our authoritative guide—the Supreme Court—in all matters of faith and practice (John 16:12-15).
Abiding in Christ – Essential agreement with the teachings and commandments of Christ (1 John 2:24) that is maintained by resisting temptation to sin (1 John 2:1). "Abiding in Christ" is synonymous with "fellowship with Christ." The Christian is either (a) in carnality, resulting from personal sin, or (b) in fellowship with God, resulting from personal, private, confession of sin directly to God as a part of our Royal Priesthood. Thus, confession of personal sin—an admission of personal responsibility—is the basis for our restoration to fellowship with God and the filling by means of the Holy Spirit. Subsequently, the believer has the ability to be spiritually self-sustaining—to maintain fellowship with God. (Psalm 32:5; 1 John 1:9; Luke 15:18).
Abiding is both necessary and indispensable for spiritual growth and fruit production. (John 15:1-10). In fellowship with God, the believer's task is to mature, to grow in the knowledge of Biblical truth, and to handle the blessings and trials of life in occupation with Christ. Abiding in Christ is not a result of a pious life, acts of penance, asking for forgiveness, feeling sorry for sin, or any other emotion, feeling, or work. (see Sanctification and Spiritual (2))
Abrahamic Covenant – An unconditional covenant between God, as party of the first part, in favor of Abraham and his progeny, as the parties of the second part. This is a grace covenant from God, promising a progeny (Genesis 12:2), real estate for the Jewish race (Genesis 12:1; Genesis 13:14-15), a king from among Abraham’s progeny (Genesis 17:6), and a heritage of blessing (Genesis 12:3). See Covenants to Israel.
Abraham's Bosom – See Hades
Accommodation – The adaptation of eternal truth to the human frame of reference through verbal plenary inspiration, using figures of speech and other human language terms. God knew, at the time of the writing of the books of the Bible, all the scientific knowledge which would be accumulated throughout all time. However, He did not force the writers of the Scriptures to eliminate their contemporary idiomatic phraseology. For example: "The four corners of the earth .." (Revelation 7:1). God knew the earth was round (Isaiah 40:22; Job 26:10) but did not force John to change his vocabulary. Thus, God accommodated (or adapted) human language to divine revelation. God's use of anthropopathisms and anthropomorphisms is another example of the principle of accommodation. A modern example of accommodation is our use of the term sunrise. Sunrise is observational, but not scientific. Many similar phrases occur in Scripture. The understanding of this principle serves as an important preservation of the integrity of God’s word.
Adam's Original Sin – See Fall of Man.
Adoption – In the Bible, adoption has more than one meaning. It has the more usual meaning of placing one into the position of a legal child, as in the case of Esther's adoption (Esther 2:7; Esther 2:15). It is used in a spiritual sense for the placement of the nation of Israel above other peoples (Exodus 4:22; Deuteronomy 32:6; Isaiah 64:8; Jeremiah 31:9; Romans 9:4). It is used in a spiritual sense at salvation for the placement of the born again child of God into the position, rather than relationship, of privilege and responsibility attached to an adult son [uios] (Galatians 3:26; Galatians 4:1-6). One of the privileges of an adult son is heirship. The full realization of the believer's sonship awaits the ‘redemption of the body,’ at the Rapture of the Church (Romans 8:23; 1 Thessalonians 4:14-17; Ephesians 1:14; 1 John 3:2)
Advocate – After the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, He ascended into Heaven and sat down at the Father's right hand in the throne room of Heaven. The Greek word Diabolos (DiaboloV) means “accuser,” “slanderer,” or “maligner.” Satan sometimes accuses us before the Father's Throne of Grace. The present ministry of our Lord includes being our advocate or defense attorney. (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25; 1 John 2:1).
Age of Accountability – The moment when a human being reaches God-consciousness, recognizing the existence of a supreme being, and able to understand the Gospel. The age of the individual may differ in various life situations and cultures, even extending well into adulthood. From this moment, each individual is responsible to God for his eternal disposition. This age is associated with the understanding of right and wrong from God’s law (Romans 7:7-11).
Agnosticism – A system of belief which claims that God cannot be known, either in full or in part. Unlimited agnosticism claims that God and all reality is completely unknowable. Limited agnosticism claims only that God is partially unknowable because of the limitations of man’s finitude and sinfulness. (Psalm 14:1).
Ambassador for Christ – Though all believers in Jesus Christ are citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven (Philippians 3:20), they remain in this world as personal representatives of the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20).
Amillennialism – The eschatological position in theology which denies the existence of a literal, earthly, thousand year reign of Christ. This view contradicts a natural interpretation of Revelation 20:2-7.
Angel – There exists a superior race of beings who were created before man. This race is divided into two groups—“elect” and “fallen” angels. Elect angels are those who have remained faithful to God (1 Timothy 5:21; Mark 8:38). The fallen angels, also called demons, are those who followed Satan in his prehistoric arrogance (Revelation 12:4); they are hostile enemies of God who are actively engaged in the deception and destruction of man under the leadership of Satan. The fallen angels have a hierarchy (Ephesians 6:12), and hence are organized toward their objective. They further divide into two sub-categories—imprisoned (2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6) and operational (1 Timothy 4:1; Revelation 16:14). Angels are identified as servants of God (Psalm 103:20-21; Hebrews 1:14) they are the messengers and heralds of God (Luke 1:26-38; Matthew 28:1-7), and they are guardians (Genesis 3:24; Daniel 12:1). Angels also observe human history (1 Timothy 3:16; Luke 15:10), and through observation, the angels learn the Justice and wisdom of God (Ephesians 3:10). They also worship God (Revelation 7:11). At the end of human history, angels will be judged by believers, (1 Corinthians 6:3). Every book of the Bible speaks of angels except Ruth, Nehemiah, Esther, James, and the Epistles of John.
Angel of the LORD – A pre-incarnation appearance of Jesus Christ. Also known as “Angel of Jehovah” and “Angel of Yahweh.” See Theophany.
Angelic Conflict – The invisible spiritual warfare, between God and Satan, in which the forces of Satan are warring against the forces of God (Michael, an archangel, and the elect angelic forces). It was ignited by the prehistoric revolt of Satan (Ezekiel 28:11-19) who also carried off in deception one-third of the angelic creation (Revelation 12:4), whereupon Satan apparently challenged God's decision to cast the fallen angelic creation into the Lake of Fire (Matthew 25:41). Considering that Satan is not in fact in the Lake of Fire, prepared for that purpose, one may conclude that God postponed Satan's punishment (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 20:10). The Angelic Conflict thus continues as spiritual warfare in human history (Daniel 10:13; Ephesians 6:10-18). The Church Age is the intensified stage of this Angelic Conflict (1 Peter 5:7-9). This conflict has real impact on Christians, and thus, they are to prepare themselves for effective spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:11). The study of this conflict provides the answers to the age long questions regarding “Why Man?”; “Why Sin?”; “Why Suffering?”; and “Why the Church?”
Angelology – The study of the first created beings—angels—both elect and fallen, and includes the study of their origin, nature, purpose, and their relationship to God and Man. Angelology is a major division of Systematic Theology.
Anthropological Argument – The argumentum a posteriori, from naturalistic theism, that asserts the existence of God from several specific features in man's essence. Evolutionary and other theories for man's existence, while claiming to understand man's biological life, do not and cannot explain the origin of man's immaterial human life, intellect, sensibility, will, conscience, or his inherent belief in God. These attributes of man can be accounted for on no other ground than that man has come forth from One who possesses all these attributes to an infinite degree. Taking just one of the foregoing for an example, man's conscience recognizes his violations of a moral law outside of himself, and such violations are followed by a feeling of foreboding and fears of judgment. Since this moral law is not self-imposed, and these threats of judgment are not self-executing, they respectively argue the existence of a holy will that has imposed the law, and a punitive power that will execute the threats of a moral nature. (also, see Cosmological, Congruity, Teleological, and Ontological Arguments).
Anthropology – The study of Man—a major division of Systematic Theology—including his origin, nature, purpose, and relationships to God, angels, the World System, and the Dispensation in which he lives. Biblical anthropology is distinct from secular anthropology by its biblical authority.
Anthropomorphism – Ascribing some human physical characteristic to God that He does not actually possess, such as “eyes of the Lord,” (Proverbs 5:21) “hand of God,” (Psalm 118:15-16) “arm of the Lord” (Isaiah 51:9), etc. An anthropomorphism is a figure of speech using human language to accommodate Divine Revelation. Such language helps man to comprehend God's divine policy, character, and function.
Anthropopathisms – Ascribing human feeling or emotion to God such as “repentance,” “grief,” “anger,” etc. An anthropopathism is a figure of speech using human language to accommodate Divine Revelation.
Antinomianism – From the Greek words “anti” (against) and “nomos” (law), antinomianism has come to represent that particular perversion of the Gospel that implies that, since believers are saved by the free grace of God, and that the Mosaic Law was fulfilled in Christ, they are not responsible to live according to the moral law of God, or even to live in holiness. Antinomianism finds expression in various kinds of lascivious behavior, including immorality. The writers of the New Testament dealt with this in the harshest terms (Romans 3:8; Romans 6:1, 15; 2 Corinthians 12:21)
Anti-Semitism – Though certain Arab groups are Semitic, because of sharing a common ancestor with Jewish groups, the term “anti-Semitism” is generally attributed to attitudes and actions that are hostile to the Jews, including prejudice, intolerance, and even criminal activity. God has promised retribution to those who practice anti-Semitism (Genesis 12:3).
Apostasy – Apostasy is a willful standing apart from the Christian faith (1 Timothy 4:1; 2 Thessalonians 2:3) and a falling away from relationship with God (Hebrews 3:12). It is distinguished from heresy, which is a belief which is held in variance with Biblical truth. Historically, heresy has indicated a refusal to accept a prescribed article of faith. Both apostasy and heresy should be distinguished from common error, which involves a non-Biblical interpretation of a minor doctrine. A gospel built on works or legalism is an example of apostasy (Galatians 1:6-8).
Apostleship – The temporary spiritual gift of authority delegated by the Lord Jesus Christ to the eleven disciples and Paul in the first century A.D. The word in the Greek means “sent forth,” and the true nature of the apostles is that they were sent forth personally by the Lord. There are four distinguishing characteristics of the apostle: (1) He had to receive his call directly from Christ. (Galatians 1:1; Luke 6:13) (2) He had to be an eyewitness to the incarnation of Christ (1 Corinthians 9:1; 1 Corinthians 15:8) (3) He had to possess authority in communicating Divine Revelation (Galatians 1:11-12; Acts 26:22-23) (4) He had to have the validating signs of apostleship (Acts 2:43; Acts 5:12). Apostles had authority that extended to all churches (2 Corinthians 11:28; 1 Corinthians 14:37).
Aramaic – A language in which a small part of the Scriptures (Daniel 2:4—7:28; Ezra 4:8 – 6:1; Ezra 7:12-26; Jeremiah 10:11;Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34) were written. See Languages of Scripture.
Ark of the Covenant – See Day of Atonement.
Armageddon – The last battle of the last campaign of the last war of human history, that takes place on the plain of Esdraelon near the city of Megiddo, in which the forces of the returned Lord Jesus Christ defeat the forces of gentile empires mobilized to annihilate Israel (Revelation 16:16). Armageddon is not a biblical term, but a theological one.
Arminian Viewpoint – The heretical viewpoint of Jacobus Arminius, who advocated a broader view of the doctrines of hamartiology, election and predestination than did John Calvin. It is the belief that mankind does not inherit a sinful nature from Adam, and that man is inherently capable of producing good. Mankind is able to cooperate with the grace of God, and when he does, he receives election into a predetermined class according to the determination of God. Man may also freely repent of his decision and fall from grace, losing eternal salvation.
Ascension and Session of Christ – Seven weeks after His resurrection, the Lord Jesus Christ, in His humanity, ascended into Heaven, where He sat down at the right hand of God until the resurrection of His Church. The ascension is the terminal event of Jesus Christ’s first advent, proclaiming the work of the first advent as finished to the satisfaction of God the Father, (Hebrews 10:12-13). The ascension completes the glorification of Christ in hypostatic union (Acts 2:33; Philippians 2:9; 2 Peter 3:22), declaring Christ as greater than the angels, (Hebrews 1:3-13). The session ministry of Jesus Christ describes His work as the High Priest for His people, wherein He is a Representative, Intercessor, and Advocate (Hebrews 9:24; Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:34; 1 John 2:1-2). The ascension and session of Christ work together as a proclamation that the first advent is finished, the Rapture is imminent, and the work of Jesus Christ continues in the mean time.
Assurance – Assurance is the believer’s confidence in Eternal Security.
Atheism – A contradictory and therefore false system of belief, which asserts that God does not exist. Atheism assumes omniscience, a god-like knowledge of all things, for in the proclamation of God’s non-existence there has to be complete knowledge of all things. In any corner of ignorance God may exist! Consequently, the atheist assumes to himself two of the very characteristics—omnipresence and omniscience—of the God he rejects.
Atonement – The word “Atonement” is used collectively to include the whole efficacious, sacrificial, and redemptive work of Christ on the cross on behalf of mankind. It is not a New Testament word, only occurring in one English mistranslation (KJV Romans 5:11) where the Greek word katallagh should have been translated “reconciliation.” A careful student of the Scriptures will be influenced by the fact that the Holy Spirit confined the word “atonement” to the Old Testament, and did not use the term in any way to describe any aspect of the New Testament believer's relationship to God. The word “atonement” is from the HebrewKAPHAR — to cover. Atonement looked forward to the Cross. When a Jewish believer participated in a sacrifice, the bloodcovered the sin. On the Day of Atonement, the High Priest sprinkled blood on the mercy seat of the Ark of the Covenant, which covered the sin, represented in the Ark by the broken tablets of the Law, Aaron’s rod that budded, and a pot of manna (Leviticus 16; Leviticus 23:26-32; Hebrews 9:3-7). Actually, Hebrews 10:4 declares that “it is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sin.” In the atonement, God simply covered over the sin until Christ actually “took away” the sin, once “covered” by sacrifice (Romans 3:23-26; Hebrews 9:15). The extent of the collective atonement is unlimited (2 Corinthians 5:14; 1 Timothy 2:6; 1 Timothy 4:10; Titus 2:11; Hebrews 2:9; 1 John 2:2). “And He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the entire world.”
Atonement, Day of – One of the clearest examples of Old Testament Shadow Christology occurred in the ritual observed by the Levitical Priesthood on the Day of Atonement. The Ark of the Covenant was a teaching device that represented the Jewish Messiah bearing the sins of the world. It was a wooden box (representing the Humanity of the coming Messiah), covered with gold (Deity of Christ), bearing the broken tablets of the Law (man's sin against God's law), bearing Aaron’s rod that budded (man's sin against God's divinely appointed authority), and bearing a golden pot of manna (man's sin against God's provision). On top of the Ark were two golden cherubim (representing God's Righteousness and Justice) looking downward toward the “sin” in the Ark. In the line of sight of the cherubim was a golden “mercy seat” (Exodus 25:10-22). On the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) the high priest would enter the holy of holies and sprinkle the blood of a sacrificed animal on the mercy seat (Leviticus 16:1-28). The Righteousness and Justice of God would then see the blood covering the sin and be satisfied (doctrine of propitiation). The high priest would sacrifice a bull for his own sins and a goat for the sins of the people. This ritual and the tabernacle / temple articles taught that until the Messiah would come, God would look forward to the cross of Christ for forgiveness of the believers’ sins. While Christ's work on the cross accomplished many different things, the accomplishment that is pertinent in this context is that, “He took away pre-cross sin, once covered by sacrifice.”
Attributes of God – The individual qualities or characteristics which are intrinsic to the Essence of God.
Authority of the Scriptures – Since the Bible’s ultimate Author is God, it is without error and is our authoritative guide—the Supreme Court—in all matters of faith and practice (John 16:12-15).
B
Baptism – The word indicates an act of dipping, dyeing, staining, or identification. There are seven different kinds of baptism revealed in the Scriptures. Theologically, there are two general types of baptisms—real and ritual. Ritual Baptisms associate the objects of the baptism with water: In these cases, water is representative of some principle of doctrine in the spiritual realm. And, the object of the baptism is identified with something that the water represents.
Baptism – The word indicates an act of dipping, dyeing, staining, or identification. There are seven different kinds of baptism revealed in the Scriptures. Theologically, there are two general types of baptisms—real and ritual. Ritual Baptisms associate the objects of the baptism with water: In these cases, water is representative of some principle of doctrine in the spiritual realm. And, the object of the baptism is identified with something that the water represents.
(1) In the baptisms by John "the Baptist" (during the Age of Israel), the water represented the Kingdom of which the King was being presented and was representative of repentance in preparation for the kingdom (Matthew 3:1-2,11). The recipients were thus identified with the Kingdom to come.
(2) In the baptism of Jesus, the water represented the Plan of God the Father (Matthew 3:13-17); through it, Jesus was declared the beloved Son of God and Messiah. Jesus identified Himself with paying the penalty for the sins of all mankind. No one "follows the Lord in baptism," for this baptism was unique.
(3) In the baptisms of early Church Age believers, the water identified new believers with the name (and thus the character) of God (Matthew 28:19), signifying the new life of discipleship in Christ. The early believers were identified with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. Real Baptisms were an actual identification with something other than water.
(4) In the baptism of Moses (1 Corinthians 10:2), Moses was identified with the very dry path through the sea, while the Israelites were identified with Moses. The only ones who got wet were the Egyptians.
(5) In the baptism of the Cross ("Cup" of Matthew 20:22), Jesus Christ was identified with our sins.
(6) In the baptism by means of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:11; 1 Corinthians 12:13), the believer in the Church Age is identified with his position In Christ.
(7) In the baptism of fire (Matthew 3:11; Matthew 13:25-30; Luke 3:16-17), the unbeliever is identified with everlasting judgment.
(2) In the baptism of Jesus, the water represented the Plan of God the Father (Matthew 3:13-17); through it, Jesus was declared the beloved Son of God and Messiah. Jesus identified Himself with paying the penalty for the sins of all mankind. No one "follows the Lord in baptism," for this baptism was unique.
(3) In the baptisms of early Church Age believers, the water identified new believers with the name (and thus the character) of God (Matthew 28:19), signifying the new life of discipleship in Christ. The early believers were identified with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. Real Baptisms were an actual identification with something other than water.
(4) In the baptism of Moses (1 Corinthians 10:2), Moses was identified with the very dry path through the sea, while the Israelites were identified with Moses. The only ones who got wet were the Egyptians.
(5) In the baptism of the Cross ("Cup" of Matthew 20:22), Jesus Christ was identified with our sins.
(6) In the baptism by means of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:11; 1 Corinthians 12:13), the believer in the Church Age is identified with his position In Christ.
(7) In the baptism of fire (Matthew 3:11; Matthew 13:25-30; Luke 3:16-17), the unbeliever is identified with everlasting judgment.
Baptism of Fire – The baptism of fire is the judgment of the Tribulational unbelievers at the Second Advent (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9). They are removed from the earth and placed in fire for 1,000 years until the Last Judgment. Both Jews and Gentiles who aretribulational unbelievers are involved in this Second Advent judgment. This judgment takes place before the Millennium and includes unbelievers only. (Matthew 3:11-12; Luke 3:16-17) There are five parables which describe the baptism of fire:
(1) The wheat and the tares, (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-40);
(2) The good and bad fish, (Matthew 13:47-50);
(3) The ten virgins, (Matthew 25:1-13);
(4) The sheep and the goats, (Matthew 25:31-46); and
(5) The talent test, (Matthew 25:14-30).
(2) The good and bad fish, (Matthew 13:47-50);
(3) The ten virgins, (Matthew 25:1-13);
(4) The sheep and the goats, (Matthew 25:31-46); and
(5) The talent test, (Matthew 25:14-30).
Baptism by means of the Holy Spirit – In the Church Age, every believer in Jesus Christ is baptized into union with Christ, by means of the Holy Spirit, at the moment of salvation (1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 4:5; Galatians 3:26-28; Colossians 2:12; Acts 1:5; Acts 11:15-17), effecting a change from a "position in Adam" to a "position In Christ." The Greek word en plus the dative case of Pneuma always indicates the means by which the baptism is accomplished. Jesus Christ is the subject, He accomplishes the action, and He uses the Holy Spirit to effect our union with Christ (see Positional Truth).
Barrier Between God and Man – See Reconciliation.
Believe – See Faith in Jesus Christ
Bible – The Holy Scriptures are the infallible, inspired Word of God, without error in the original writings. The Bible is His complete revelation for the salvation of men, and the divine and final authority for all Christian faith and life. (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:3, 20-21; Matthew 5:18; John 16:12-13; Psalm 138:2). See Canonicity and Authority.
Bible Doctrine – Biblical Truth, Spiritual Truth. The believer in Jesus Christ learns Biblical truth in order to use it in his life to the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Biblical truth is called "the mind of Christ" in 1 Corinthians 2:16 and "the word of God" in dozens of verses (e.g. Hebrews 4:12). Doctrine was taught by Jesus Christ and the apostles (Mark 4:2; Acts 2:42; 2 Timothy 3:10). Pastor-Teachers are exhorted to teach Doctrine (2 Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:9).
Biblical Theism – Biblical theism is the exposition of God from the Bible. It is the function of Biblical Theism to recognize, classify, and exhibit the truth about God as set forth in His revelation of Himself as recorded in the Scriptures. This is in contrast to the function of Naturalistic Theism which establishes arguments for the existence of God based solely on the grounds of reason in the mentality of the soul.
Bibliology – The Study of the Bible—a major division of Systematic Theology—including its origin, preservation, interpretation,inerrancy, infallibility, canonicity, authority, and languages.
Body of Christ – The phrase used to designate all Church-age believers in their relationship with Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27;Romans 12:5) and one another. The Body is formed by the baptism by means of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13). Jesus Christ is the Head of the Body (Colossians 1:18). The metaphor teaches the unity of the church universal (1 Corinthians 12:12-13), and the importance of each member of a local team (1 Corinthians 12:14-26). Christ established peace by making both Gentile and Jewish believers into one body. He created the Church from the two groups. He reconciled both Gentile believers and Jewish believers to God. Therefore, both Gentile and Jewish believers have access to the Father (Ephesians 2:14-22).
Body, Soul, and Spirit – See Body, Soul, Spirit, Trichotomous.
Book of Life – In time, the book of life is a registry containing the names of every member of the human race. In eternity, it is the registry of all believers. When a person dies as an unbeliever, his name is removed from the book of life (Revelation 3:5). Therefore, in eternity, only the names of believers remain in the book of life (Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:5; Revelation 13:8; Revelation 17:8; Revelation 20:12, 15).
Born Again – See Regeneration.
Bridegroom – One of seven figures relating Christ to His Church. This eschatological figure is the subject of Ephesians 5:23-32, wherein the Bride, the Body of Christ, is not yet joined to her Husband, who is in Heaven preparing a place for His Bride (also John 14:2). The Bride, also, is being prepared for her future marriage (Revelation 19:7-9) through the washing of the Word, a progressive sanctification. The coming of the Bridegroom will be at the Rapture of the Church (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
C
Canonicity and Authority – Canonicity and Authority are terms that refer to the acceptance of the books of the Bible as being divinely inspired, and the official recognition of them as Holy Scripture. The canon of Scriptures is a closed (completed) collection of writings, consisting of only those writings inspired by God. The 39 books of the Hebrew Old Testament and the 27 books of the Greek New Testament comprise the whole canon of Scriptures ( 2 Timothy 3:16; Jude 1:3; Revelation 22:18-22). Because Scripture is God’s only written revelation to men, it is our sole source of infallible guidance for faith and practice. Biblical Christianity does not accept the apocryphal books as canonical ( Matthew 5:17-18; cp. Revelation 22:18-19; Jude 1:3). Canonicity includes the reasoning that establishes the authenticity of the Scriptures. One example would be that Jesus attested to the Old Testament books as being part of the Scriptures ( Luke 11:51; Luke 24:27, 44).
Capital Punishment – Putting someone to death for a capital crime. The sections which deal with the classification of capital crimes in the Old Testament are Genesis 9:6; Exodus 20; Numbers 35:16-22; Deuteronomy 18:20; Deuteronomy 19:11-13. The punishment must be preceded by trial authorized within the judicial function of government. There must be an objective judge who can recognize and admit true evidence; hearsay and prejudice are rejected. When evidence points to a capital crime having been committed, there must be punishment such that the criminal suffers by dying, and others must witness the execution for the purpose of deterrence. ( Genesis 9:6) See Divine Establishment.
Carnality – From the Greek adjective /sarkikos/. The believer who is living under the control of the sinful flesh, acting as a babe in Christ, unable to tolerate much truth, (1 Corinthians 3:1; Romans 7:14-24). The carnal believer operates under the thinking and power of the sinful nature, much the same as an unbeliever, and is the enemy of God (1 Corinthians 3:3; Romans 8:6-7). The carnal state begins at the commission of a personal sin, and ends when that sin is confessed to God. At the confession of any sin committed during the carnal state, God cleanses the carnal believer from all the sins of that carnal time, and restores him to fellowship (1 John 1:9). Carnality is an absolute state, and mutually excludes Fellowship with God (1 John 1:5-6). (see Spirituality.)
Christ – see Jesus Christ
Christianity – A personal relationship with God begins at the moment of faith alone in Christ alone, in which one has believed in the finished work of Christ for eternal life. Christianity is not considered a religion.
Christian Life – Every believer in Jesus Christ is baptized into union with Christ by the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation, and shares Christ’s Priesthood. Every Christian is to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, through the Word of God. A believer is to bear witness by life and by word to the truths of the Holy Scriptures, to remember the work of the Lord in prayer, and to support it with his means as the Lord has prospered him. ( 1 Corinthians 12:13; 1 Peter 2:5, 9; Revelation 1:6; Matthew 4:4; Psalm 138:2; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Ephesians 6:18; 1 Corinthians 16:2). See Spiritual Life. See Royal Priesthood.
Christology – The Study of Christ—a major division of Systematic Theology—including the Biblical truth regarding His deity and attributes, His pre-existence, His incarnation and humanity, the hypostatic union, His deaths, burial, resurrection, ascension and session, and second coming.
Christophanies – Appearances of Jesus Christ after His resurrection. To Mary (Matthew 28:1, 9; John 20:14-18). To Mary Magdalene ( Matthew 28:1, 9; John 20:14-18; Mark 16:9). To Simon Peter ( Luke 24:34; John 21:1-14; 1 Corinthians 15:5). To the Eleven ( Matt 28:16; Mark 16:14; Luke 24:33, 36; John 20:26; John 21:1-14; 1 Corinthians 15:5,7). To the 500+ (1 Corinthians 15:5-6). To James ( 1 Corinthians 15:7); To Saul/Paul (1 Corinthians 15:5-8; Acts 9:1-8; Acts 18:9; Acts 22:17; Acts 23:11; Acts 27:23). To Cleophas ( Luke 24:18). To Joseph {Barsabas} Justus (Acts 1:22-23). To Matthias (Acts 1:22-23). To Stephen ( Acts 7:56, 59). To John (Revelation 1:12-20; Revelation 22:20). Appearances of Christ before the incarnation are called Theophanies.
Church – see Ecclesiology.
Church Age – The current dispensation of human history began on the day of Pentecost ( Acts 2:1. ca. A.D. 33 Harold Hoehner,Chronological Aspects of the Life of Christ pg 143), fifty days after the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and will terminate with the Rapture of the Church. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
Citizen's Responsibility to His Nation – Citizens of a nation have a responsibility to their nation, including (a) Obeying the Laws, (b) Voting, (c) Paying Taxes (Matt 22:17-22; Mark 12:13-17; Luke 20:19-26; Romans 13:7), (d) Jury Duty, (e) Military Service, for males, (f) Patriotism, and for Believers (g) honoring the Salt of the Earth Principle. See Nation's Responsibility to its Citizens.
Civil Government – God has willed human government for the promotion of justice and order in the world, which are the best conditions for the dissemination of the Gospel (1 Timothy 2:1-4). Governments sustain internal freedom through laws, law enforcement, and judicial procedure and punishment (Genesis 9:5-6; Romans 13:1-7), and external freedom through diplomacy and military force. – Citizens of a nation have a responsibility to their nation, including (a) Obeying the Laws (Romans 13:7; 1 Peter 2:13-17), (b) Paying Taxes (Matthew 22:17-22; Romans 13:7), (c) Honoring the Salt of the Earth Principle (in which spiritual growth and maturity have an impact on the nation), and (d) Praying for Government Leadership (1 Timothy 2:2). Furthermore, in nations that have participatory government, the believer may enjoy many vital forms of Christian service. Voting, service in government leadership and administration, military service, jury duty, and many others qualify. See also Nation's Responsibility to its Citizens.
Common Grace – Common grace is the general blessing God displays towards all mankind. It includes material provision, (Matthew 5:45), the restraint of sin and of judgment as evidenced by man’s ability through the ministry of the Holy Spirit to come to the knowledge of Jesus Christ and salvation. (Luke 6:35; Romans 3:25; Ephesians 2:7; Titus 3:4)
Communion – See Lord's Table.
Confession – From the Greek word /homologeo/, which literally taken means to agree, or say the same thing, but especially in a judicial context, to agree to the charges of wrongdoing. In the Bible, to confess our sins means to agree with God that what we thought, said, or did is in violation of what He defines as right. Confession is the basis for our restoration to fellowship. When we confess our sins, He responds in a faithful and just manner to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (Psalm 32:5; 1 John 1:9). God is faithful and just because He is satisfied with Christ’s work on the cross regarding that sin. (1John 2:1-2). See Abiding in Christ.
Congruity Argument – An argumentum a priori, from Naturalistic Theism, that asserts the existence of God in the following syllogism: Major Premise: The postulate which best explains the related facts is probably true. Minor Premise: The existence of God best explains the facts related to our mental, moral, and worshipping nature, as well as the facts of the material universe. Conclusion: God—the ultimate architect—must exist. (see Anthropological, Cosmological, Teleological, and OntologicalArguments).
Conscience – A native human faculty, placed in the human soul by God, that monitors human action according to a system of norms and standards (Romans 2:14-15; 1 Corinthians 8:12; Tit 1:15). The human conscience provides a major argument for the existence of God, in that it recognizes that violations of a moral law outside of oneself are followed by a feeling of foreboding and fear of judgment. Since this moral law is not self-imposed, and the threat of judgment is not self-executing, they respectively argue for the existence of a holy will that has imposed the law, and a punitive power that will execute the threats of judgment.
Convicting Ministry – This is a present ministry of God the Holy Spirit, by which He causes the individual sinner to comprehend Gospel truths related to the "sin, righteousness, and judgment" of John 16:7-11. Scripture reveals that the minds of unbelievers are blinded by Satan to the light of the gospel (2 Corinthians 4:3; 2 Corinthians 4:4). The veil over the eyes of the unbeliever is removed by the convicting ministry of the Holy Spirit. "Sin" refers to the unpardonable sin— "they believe not on me" ( John 16:9). "Righteousness" is the imputed righteousness of Christ, without which the unbeliever must rely on his own inadequate relative righteousness. "Judgment" is an allusion to the Cross of Christ, where He efficaciously ( John 1:29) bore the sin of the world and wrought a judgment against "the prince of this world," Satan ( John 16:11; cf. Colossians 2:14-15). The unbeliever is then convinced that it is a pardon which he cannot achieve on his on behalf, but rather, he must believe in the work of Christ, as his substitute, for salvation.
Cosmogony – That branch of cosmology that seeks to explain the origin of the universe and its diverse parts.
Cosmological Argument – The argumentum a posteriori from Naturalistic Theism, asserts the existence of God, and has as theMajor Premise: Everything begun (every effect) must have an adequate cause. The effect is dependent upon its cause for its existence, and no effect can be its own cause. It is not possible to assert that that which does not exist could be a cause, since nothing could produce something. (Ex nihilo, nihil fit, i.e. "out of nothing, nothing can arise.") The cause must be sufficient and appropriate to the effect. Minor Premise: The universe is an effect. Conclusion: The universe must have an adequate and sufficient cause. This Cause must be self-sufficient, self-existent, and eternal. And, only God can fulfill this. Proponents of this approach have been John Locke (1632-1704) and John Howe (1630-1705). (see Anthropological, Congruity, Teleological, and Ontological Arguments).
Cosmology – "A cosmology is a world-view, a philosophy of life and meaning, and provides the basic ontological framework within which are found a person's interpretations and decisions. A cosmology seeks to understand the origin, meaning, and destiny of all things. The two dominant extant cosmologies are evolutionary uniformitarianism and Biblical. The evolutionary uniformitarianism cosmology attributes the origin and development of all things in the universe to innate laws and processes eternally resident therein, without beginning or end, and without recourse to a transcendent Creator and Sustainer of the universe. The Biblical cosmology insists that the origin, nature, and destiny of the universe can only be fully comprehended in terms of the creating, sustaining, and consummating activity of a transcendent—yet personal—God, as uniquely revealed in the Book which is His written Word." (H. M. Morris).
Cosmos – From the Greek word for organization (also, known in theology as Cosmos Diabolicus). Satan’s organization for evil( Ephesians 6:11-12), which has the ultimate objective of glorifying Satan above God (Isaiah 14:12-14). It is Satan’s intent to devour human beings and especially Christians toward this goal (1 Peter 5:8). The content of the cosmic system is deceptive human viewpoint projected through the world system (1 John 2:15-17). Satan has been a deceiver from the beginning of human history (Genesis 3:1-6). The fleshly body, which contains the sin nature, is a key asset of Satan’s cosmos (1 Peter 2:11), but also demons, and demon-possessed and demon-influenced humanity work together in the cosmos toward his aims (1 Timothy 4:1).
Covenant Theology – A system of theology (replacement system of theology) which views the whole of Scripture as being covered by two covenants: the covenant of works and the covenant of grace. It rejects the dispensational position that God administers different periods of history in different ways.
Covenants to Israel – A series of five unconditional and conditional treaties between God and the Jewish race (progeny of Abraham and Sarah). The unconditional covenants rely solely upon the character of God for fulfillment. The Mosaic Covenant was a conditional and temporary covenant. ( Exodus 19:5). The unconditional covenants include the Abrahamic Covenant, which establishes the Jewish race and the future nation of Israel (Genesis 12:1-3); the Land Covenant which secures the deed to the Land ( Genesis 15:18; Numbers 31:1-12; Deuteronomy 30:1-9; Joshua 1:3-4; Isaiah 11:10-12; Jeremiah 23:3-8; Ezekiel 37:21-25); the Davidic Covenant, which established the perpetuity of the throne of David through Christ (2 Samuel 7:8-16; Psalm 89:20-37; 2 Chronicles 21:7; Isaiah 55:3 cf. Acts 13:34; Luke 1:32; Acts 2:29-30); and the New Covenant, which will embody the salvation and regeneration of all Israel (Jeremiah 31:31-34). The "signs" associated with the covenants to remind people of God's plan are: Noahic = rainbow; Mosaic = Sabbath; Abrahamic = circumcision; Land = Jews in the Land; Davidic = a descendant of David on the throne.
Other non-Jewish covenants include the Edenic (Genesis 2:16), Adamic (Genesis 3:15), and Noahic (Genesis 9:6) covenants.
Creationism – This term is used in two contexts: the first is in the area of origins for a belief in an ex nihilo creation of the universe, in contrast to evolutionary theories of the origin of the universe and life; the second is in the area of the origin and transmission of the soul, in contrast to Traducianism.
Creationism (Immediate vs. Mediate) – Immediate creation indicates the direct, creative act of God ex nihilo, i.e. without the use of existing materials or secondary causes. He brought into being, immediately and instantaneously, our entire visible and invisible universe (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16). Mediate creation contemplates “those acts of God which are also denominated ‘creation,’ but which do not originate things ex nihilo; they, instead, shape, adapt, combine, or transform existing materials” [Thiessen, p. 161]. Both the man (the dust of the ground, Genesis 2:7) and the woman (Adam, Genesis 2:20-22) were created mediately out of existing materials. All biological human life since the original creation of Adam has been formed mediately through human procreation.
Creationism (Ex-Nihilo Creation of the Universe) – When applied to the universe, creationism indicates the theological view that the heavens and earth resulted from the act of an infinite and eternally sovereign God who created ex nihilo, rather than according to any of the theories proposed by evolutionary uniformitarianism. The original creation of the universe is attributed in the Scriptures to the Second Person of the Trinity (Revelation 4:11; John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17), was accompanied by the celebration of the "morning stars" with the joyous shouts by "all of the sons of God" (Job 38:4-7), and neither determines nor demands a young or an old age of the earth. The best of scholars have disagreed on the interpretation of Genesis 1 and 2; however, three views of the historical creation are prominent among conservative theologians. (For a summary of the three main views see Allen P. Ross, Creation & Blessing, A Guide to the Study and Exposition of Genesis, Baker, 718-723).
Canonicity and Authority – Canonicity and Authority are terms that refer to the acceptance of the books of the Bible as being divinely inspired, and the official recognition of them as Holy Scripture. The canon of Scriptures is a closed (completed) collection of writings, consisting of only those writings inspired by God. The 39 books of the Hebrew Old Testament and the 27 books of the Greek New Testament comprise the whole canon of Scriptures ( 2 Timothy 3:16; Jude 1:3; Revelation 22:18-22). Because Scripture is God’s only written revelation to men, it is our sole source of infallible guidance for faith and practice. Biblical Christianity does not accept the apocryphal books as canonical ( Matthew 5:17-18; cp. Revelation 22:18-19; Jude 1:3). Canonicity includes the reasoning that establishes the authenticity of the Scriptures. One example would be that Jesus attested to the Old Testament books as being part of the Scriptures ( Luke 11:51; Luke 24:27, 44).
Capital Punishment – Putting someone to death for a capital crime. The sections which deal with the classification of capital crimes in the Old Testament are Genesis 9:6; Exodus 20; Numbers 35:16-22; Deuteronomy 18:20; Deuteronomy 19:11-13. The punishment must be preceded by trial authorized within the judicial function of government. There must be an objective judge who can recognize and admit true evidence; hearsay and prejudice are rejected. When evidence points to a capital crime having been committed, there must be punishment such that the criminal suffers by dying, and others must witness the execution for the purpose of deterrence. ( Genesis 9:6) See Divine Establishment.
Carnality – From the Greek adjective /sarkikos/. The believer who is living under the control of the sinful flesh, acting as a babe in Christ, unable to tolerate much truth, (1 Corinthians 3:1; Romans 7:14-24). The carnal believer operates under the thinking and power of the sinful nature, much the same as an unbeliever, and is the enemy of God (1 Corinthians 3:3; Romans 8:6-7). The carnal state begins at the commission of a personal sin, and ends when that sin is confessed to God. At the confession of any sin committed during the carnal state, God cleanses the carnal believer from all the sins of that carnal time, and restores him to fellowship (1 John 1:9). Carnality is an absolute state, and mutually excludes Fellowship with God (1 John 1:5-6). (see Spirituality.)
Christ – see Jesus Christ
Christianity – A personal relationship with God begins at the moment of faith alone in Christ alone, in which one has believed in the finished work of Christ for eternal life. Christianity is not considered a religion.
Christian Life – Every believer in Jesus Christ is baptized into union with Christ by the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation, and shares Christ’s Priesthood. Every Christian is to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, through the Word of God. A believer is to bear witness by life and by word to the truths of the Holy Scriptures, to remember the work of the Lord in prayer, and to support it with his means as the Lord has prospered him. ( 1 Corinthians 12:13; 1 Peter 2:5, 9; Revelation 1:6; Matthew 4:4; Psalm 138:2; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Ephesians 6:18; 1 Corinthians 16:2). See Spiritual Life. See Royal Priesthood.
Christology – The Study of Christ—a major division of Systematic Theology—including the Biblical truth regarding His deity and attributes, His pre-existence, His incarnation and humanity, the hypostatic union, His deaths, burial, resurrection, ascension and session, and second coming.
Christophanies – Appearances of Jesus Christ after His resurrection. To Mary (Matthew 28:1, 9; John 20:14-18). To Mary Magdalene ( Matthew 28:1, 9; John 20:14-18; Mark 16:9). To Simon Peter ( Luke 24:34; John 21:1-14; 1 Corinthians 15:5). To the Eleven ( Matt 28:16; Mark 16:14; Luke 24:33, 36; John 20:26; John 21:1-14; 1 Corinthians 15:5,7). To the 500+ (1 Corinthians 15:5-6). To James ( 1 Corinthians 15:7); To Saul/Paul (1 Corinthians 15:5-8; Acts 9:1-8; Acts 18:9; Acts 22:17; Acts 23:11; Acts 27:23). To Cleophas ( Luke 24:18). To Joseph {Barsabas} Justus (Acts 1:22-23). To Matthias (Acts 1:22-23). To Stephen ( Acts 7:56, 59). To John (Revelation 1:12-20; Revelation 22:20). Appearances of Christ before the incarnation are called Theophanies.
Church – see Ecclesiology.
Church Age – The current dispensation of human history began on the day of Pentecost ( Acts 2:1. ca. A.D. 33 Harold Hoehner,Chronological Aspects of the Life of Christ pg 143), fifty days after the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and will terminate with the Rapture of the Church. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
Citizen's Responsibility to His Nation – Citizens of a nation have a responsibility to their nation, including (a) Obeying the Laws, (b) Voting, (c) Paying Taxes (Matt 22:17-22; Mark 12:13-17; Luke 20:19-26; Romans 13:7), (d) Jury Duty, (e) Military Service, for males, (f) Patriotism, and for Believers (g) honoring the Salt of the Earth Principle. See Nation's Responsibility to its Citizens.
Civil Government – God has willed human government for the promotion of justice and order in the world, which are the best conditions for the dissemination of the Gospel (1 Timothy 2:1-4). Governments sustain internal freedom through laws, law enforcement, and judicial procedure and punishment (Genesis 9:5-6; Romans 13:1-7), and external freedom through diplomacy and military force. – Citizens of a nation have a responsibility to their nation, including (a) Obeying the Laws (Romans 13:7; 1 Peter 2:13-17), (b) Paying Taxes (Matthew 22:17-22; Romans 13:7), (c) Honoring the Salt of the Earth Principle (in which spiritual growth and maturity have an impact on the nation), and (d) Praying for Government Leadership (1 Timothy 2:2). Furthermore, in nations that have participatory government, the believer may enjoy many vital forms of Christian service. Voting, service in government leadership and administration, military service, jury duty, and many others qualify. See also Nation's Responsibility to its Citizens.
Common Grace – Common grace is the general blessing God displays towards all mankind. It includes material provision, (Matthew 5:45), the restraint of sin and of judgment as evidenced by man’s ability through the ministry of the Holy Spirit to come to the knowledge of Jesus Christ and salvation. (Luke 6:35; Romans 3:25; Ephesians 2:7; Titus 3:4)
Communion – See Lord's Table.
Confession – From the Greek word /homologeo/, which literally taken means to agree, or say the same thing, but especially in a judicial context, to agree to the charges of wrongdoing. In the Bible, to confess our sins means to agree with God that what we thought, said, or did is in violation of what He defines as right. Confession is the basis for our restoration to fellowship. When we confess our sins, He responds in a faithful and just manner to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (Psalm 32:5; 1 John 1:9). God is faithful and just because He is satisfied with Christ’s work on the cross regarding that sin. (1John 2:1-2). See Abiding in Christ.
Congruity Argument – An argumentum a priori, from Naturalistic Theism, that asserts the existence of God in the following syllogism: Major Premise: The postulate which best explains the related facts is probably true. Minor Premise: The existence of God best explains the facts related to our mental, moral, and worshipping nature, as well as the facts of the material universe. Conclusion: God—the ultimate architect—must exist. (see Anthropological, Cosmological, Teleological, and OntologicalArguments).
Conscience – A native human faculty, placed in the human soul by God, that monitors human action according to a system of norms and standards (Romans 2:14-15; 1 Corinthians 8:12; Tit 1:15). The human conscience provides a major argument for the existence of God, in that it recognizes that violations of a moral law outside of oneself are followed by a feeling of foreboding and fear of judgment. Since this moral law is not self-imposed, and the threat of judgment is not self-executing, they respectively argue for the existence of a holy will that has imposed the law, and a punitive power that will execute the threats of judgment.
Convicting Ministry – This is a present ministry of God the Holy Spirit, by which He causes the individual sinner to comprehend Gospel truths related to the "sin, righteousness, and judgment" of John 16:7-11. Scripture reveals that the minds of unbelievers are blinded by Satan to the light of the gospel (2 Corinthians 4:3; 2 Corinthians 4:4). The veil over the eyes of the unbeliever is removed by the convicting ministry of the Holy Spirit. "Sin" refers to the unpardonable sin— "they believe not on me" ( John 16:9). "Righteousness" is the imputed righteousness of Christ, without which the unbeliever must rely on his own inadequate relative righteousness. "Judgment" is an allusion to the Cross of Christ, where He efficaciously ( John 1:29) bore the sin of the world and wrought a judgment against "the prince of this world," Satan ( John 16:11; cf. Colossians 2:14-15). The unbeliever is then convinced that it is a pardon which he cannot achieve on his on behalf, but rather, he must believe in the work of Christ, as his substitute, for salvation.
Cosmogony – That branch of cosmology that seeks to explain the origin of the universe and its diverse parts.
Cosmological Argument – The argumentum a posteriori from Naturalistic Theism, asserts the existence of God, and has as theMajor Premise: Everything begun (every effect) must have an adequate cause. The effect is dependent upon its cause for its existence, and no effect can be its own cause. It is not possible to assert that that which does not exist could be a cause, since nothing could produce something. (Ex nihilo, nihil fit, i.e. "out of nothing, nothing can arise.") The cause must be sufficient and appropriate to the effect. Minor Premise: The universe is an effect. Conclusion: The universe must have an adequate and sufficient cause. This Cause must be self-sufficient, self-existent, and eternal. And, only God can fulfill this. Proponents of this approach have been John Locke (1632-1704) and John Howe (1630-1705). (see Anthropological, Congruity, Teleological, and Ontological Arguments).
Cosmology – "A cosmology is a world-view, a philosophy of life and meaning, and provides the basic ontological framework within which are found a person's interpretations and decisions. A cosmology seeks to understand the origin, meaning, and destiny of all things. The two dominant extant cosmologies are evolutionary uniformitarianism and Biblical. The evolutionary uniformitarianism cosmology attributes the origin and development of all things in the universe to innate laws and processes eternally resident therein, without beginning or end, and without recourse to a transcendent Creator and Sustainer of the universe. The Biblical cosmology insists that the origin, nature, and destiny of the universe can only be fully comprehended in terms of the creating, sustaining, and consummating activity of a transcendent—yet personal—God, as uniquely revealed in the Book which is His written Word." (H. M. Morris).
Cosmos – From the Greek word for organization (also, known in theology as Cosmos Diabolicus). Satan’s organization for evil( Ephesians 6:11-12), which has the ultimate objective of glorifying Satan above God (Isaiah 14:12-14). It is Satan’s intent to devour human beings and especially Christians toward this goal (1 Peter 5:8). The content of the cosmic system is deceptive human viewpoint projected through the world system (1 John 2:15-17). Satan has been a deceiver from the beginning of human history (Genesis 3:1-6). The fleshly body, which contains the sin nature, is a key asset of Satan’s cosmos (1 Peter 2:11), but also demons, and demon-possessed and demon-influenced humanity work together in the cosmos toward his aims (1 Timothy 4:1).
Covenant Theology – A system of theology (replacement system of theology) which views the whole of Scripture as being covered by two covenants: the covenant of works and the covenant of grace. It rejects the dispensational position that God administers different periods of history in different ways.
Covenants to Israel – A series of five unconditional and conditional treaties between God and the Jewish race (progeny of Abraham and Sarah). The unconditional covenants rely solely upon the character of God for fulfillment. The Mosaic Covenant was a conditional and temporary covenant. ( Exodus 19:5). The unconditional covenants include the Abrahamic Covenant, which establishes the Jewish race and the future nation of Israel (Genesis 12:1-3); the Land Covenant which secures the deed to the Land ( Genesis 15:18; Numbers 31:1-12; Deuteronomy 30:1-9; Joshua 1:3-4; Isaiah 11:10-12; Jeremiah 23:3-8; Ezekiel 37:21-25); the Davidic Covenant, which established the perpetuity of the throne of David through Christ (2 Samuel 7:8-16; Psalm 89:20-37; 2 Chronicles 21:7; Isaiah 55:3 cf. Acts 13:34; Luke 1:32; Acts 2:29-30); and the New Covenant, which will embody the salvation and regeneration of all Israel (Jeremiah 31:31-34). The "signs" associated with the covenants to remind people of God's plan are: Noahic = rainbow; Mosaic = Sabbath; Abrahamic = circumcision; Land = Jews in the Land; Davidic = a descendant of David on the throne.
Other non-Jewish covenants include the Edenic (Genesis 2:16), Adamic (Genesis 3:15), and Noahic (Genesis 9:6) covenants.
Creationism – This term is used in two contexts: the first is in the area of origins for a belief in an ex nihilo creation of the universe, in contrast to evolutionary theories of the origin of the universe and life; the second is in the area of the origin and transmission of the soul, in contrast to Traducianism.
Creationism (Immediate vs. Mediate) – Immediate creation indicates the direct, creative act of God ex nihilo, i.e. without the use of existing materials or secondary causes. He brought into being, immediately and instantaneously, our entire visible and invisible universe (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16). Mediate creation contemplates “those acts of God which are also denominated ‘creation,’ but which do not originate things ex nihilo; they, instead, shape, adapt, combine, or transform existing materials” [Thiessen, p. 161]. Both the man (the dust of the ground, Genesis 2:7) and the woman (Adam, Genesis 2:20-22) were created mediately out of existing materials. All biological human life since the original creation of Adam has been formed mediately through human procreation.
Creationism (Ex-Nihilo Creation of the Universe) – When applied to the universe, creationism indicates the theological view that the heavens and earth resulted from the act of an infinite and eternally sovereign God who created ex nihilo, rather than according to any of the theories proposed by evolutionary uniformitarianism. The original creation of the universe is attributed in the Scriptures to the Second Person of the Trinity (Revelation 4:11; John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17), was accompanied by the celebration of the "morning stars" with the joyous shouts by "all of the sons of God" (Job 38:4-7), and neither determines nor demands a young or an old age of the earth. The best of scholars have disagreed on the interpretation of Genesis 1 and 2; however, three views of the historical creation are prominent among conservative theologians. (For a summary of the three main views see Allen P. Ross, Creation & Blessing, A Guide to the Study and Exposition of Genesis, Baker, 718-723).
1. Original creation: Original creation was a perfect creation from a perfect God (Genesis 1:1, 31; Isaiah 45:18), accomplished by our Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17), and celebrated by the angels (Job 38:4-7). Genesis 1.1 is an introduction. Genesis 1.2 describes the state of the primordial building blocks at the beginning of the six 24-hour days of creation. And Genesis 1:3 ff describes the activities of God over the seven literal days, while He fashioned the earth for the habitation of a new order of creation—man. The fall of Satan occurred either (a) after the seventh day, but before the fall of man, (b) before creation began, with no physical effect on the earth, or (c) before creation was completed, with no physical effect on the earth.
2. Original creation and restoration (The Gap View): Original creation was a perfect creation from a perfect God (Genesis 1:1,31; Isaiah 45:18), accomplished by our Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17), and celebrated by the angels (Job 38:4-7). However, creation became "without form and void" (Genesis 1:2); such chaos is presumed to be associated with the fall of Satan. The Holy Spirit was the agent in the ensuing activities (Genesis 1:3 ff), accomplished in a literal seven-day period, for the purpose of restoring a judgment-ridden earth in preparation for the habitation of a new order of creation—man. Two restoration views have been held through the centuries. Evidence exists that as early as the second century A.D. a time lapse between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2 was understood as the time of the angelic revolt. A modification of this ancient view came into vogue in the early 19th century as a way to compromise a literal interpretation of Genesis with the long ages alleged by historical, uniformitarian geology. This view held to an old age of the earth, and attempted to insert the geologic ages and the evolution of man into the gap.
3. Restoration or A Relative Beginning: This view is similar to the gap view, because it assumes that the fall of Satan brought about judgment and chaos, but it places that period of indeterminate duration before Genesis 1:1. In this view,Genesis 1:1 is an introduction to the narrative of restoration—a summary statement for Chapter 1:3—2:3. Genesis 1:2 has three circumstantial clauses or statements about what the earth was like when “God said” in Genesis 1:3. This restoration was a relative beginning, not original creation, and was necessitated by the fall of Satan and subsequent judgment. Genesis 1:2 describes the chaos at the time when God began restoration. Genesis 1:3–ff provides the details of the restoration of earth for man’s habitation. John 1:3 precedes Genesis 1:1.
2. Original creation and restoration (The Gap View): Original creation was a perfect creation from a perfect God (Genesis 1:1,31; Isaiah 45:18), accomplished by our Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17), and celebrated by the angels (Job 38:4-7). However, creation became "without form and void" (Genesis 1:2); such chaos is presumed to be associated with the fall of Satan. The Holy Spirit was the agent in the ensuing activities (Genesis 1:3 ff), accomplished in a literal seven-day period, for the purpose of restoring a judgment-ridden earth in preparation for the habitation of a new order of creation—man. Two restoration views have been held through the centuries. Evidence exists that as early as the second century A.D. a time lapse between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2 was understood as the time of the angelic revolt. A modification of this ancient view came into vogue in the early 19th century as a way to compromise a literal interpretation of Genesis with the long ages alleged by historical, uniformitarian geology. This view held to an old age of the earth, and attempted to insert the geologic ages and the evolution of man into the gap.
3. Restoration or A Relative Beginning: This view is similar to the gap view, because it assumes that the fall of Satan brought about judgment and chaos, but it places that period of indeterminate duration before Genesis 1:1. In this view,Genesis 1:1 is an introduction to the narrative of restoration—a summary statement for Chapter 1:3—2:3. Genesis 1:2 has three circumstantial clauses or statements about what the earth was like when “God said” in Genesis 1:3. This restoration was a relative beginning, not original creation, and was necessitated by the fall of Satan and subsequent judgment. Genesis 1:2 describes the chaos at the time when God began restoration. Genesis 1:3–ff provides the details of the restoration of earth for man’s habitation. John 1:3 precedes Genesis 1:1.
Creationism (Human Soul) – When applied to the human soul, creationism is meant to distinguish between the origin of man's soul and the origin of his body. According to this view, each human soul is immediately created by God and simultaneously imparted to the body at birth.
Creator – Scripture is clear in describing our Lord Jesus Christ as the Creator of the universe. ( Revelation 4:11; John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17; Hebrews 1:10-11 cf., Psalm 102:25-26; Hebrews 11:3) Genesis 1:2, Job 26:13 refer to the participation by the Holy Spirit in creation as well as God the Father’s instrumentality in Psalm 104:30 and Malachi 2:10. (See also Psalm 102:25; 1Corinthians 8:6).
Crucifixion – The torture and execution of a person by fixation to a cross. This barbaric method of capital punishment originated with the Phoenicians and Persians, was practiced by Alexander the Great, and spread to the Roman Empire. There it was applied for the most serious of capital crimes.
Culpability – The important principle from the Mosaic Law which states that each person is responsible for his own sins (Deuteronomy 24:16). This principle is an important clarification of the four-generation curse (Exodus 20:4-6; Deuteronomy 5:8-10). While it is true that a person inherits the sin nature from his father, he does not inherit the actual sins of his father, and is not culpable for them. If, however, the son repeats the sins of his father, he is culpable for those repeated sins.
Cycles of Discipline – A system of discipline for Israel, the counterpart of the system of blessing (Leviticus 26:1-3). God disciplined Israel to get them to return to His plan and purpose for them. Each of the five "cycles" (Thieme), or "Chastisements" (Scofield), is more intense and becomes increasingly harsh, ending with the destruction of the nation because of hardened rejection of God and His national plan for Israel. (Leviticus 26:14-17; Leviticus 26:18-20; Leviticus 26:21-22; Leviticus 26:23-26; Leviticus 26:27-39).
Creator – Scripture is clear in describing our Lord Jesus Christ as the Creator of the universe. ( Revelation 4:11; John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17; Hebrews 1:10-11 cf., Psalm 102:25-26; Hebrews 11:3) Genesis 1:2, Job 26:13 refer to the participation by the Holy Spirit in creation as well as God the Father’s instrumentality in Psalm 104:30 and Malachi 2:10. (See also Psalm 102:25; 1Corinthians 8:6).
Crucifixion – The torture and execution of a person by fixation to a cross. This barbaric method of capital punishment originated with the Phoenicians and Persians, was practiced by Alexander the Great, and spread to the Roman Empire. There it was applied for the most serious of capital crimes.
Culpability – The important principle from the Mosaic Law which states that each person is responsible for his own sins (Deuteronomy 24:16). This principle is an important clarification of the four-generation curse (Exodus 20:4-6; Deuteronomy 5:8-10). While it is true that a person inherits the sin nature from his father, he does not inherit the actual sins of his father, and is not culpable for them. If, however, the son repeats the sins of his father, he is culpable for those repeated sins.
Cycles of Discipline – A system of discipline for Israel, the counterpart of the system of blessing (Leviticus 26:1-3). God disciplined Israel to get them to return to His plan and purpose for them. Each of the five "cycles" (Thieme), or "Chastisements" (Scofield), is more intense and becomes increasingly harsh, ending with the destruction of the nation because of hardened rejection of God and His national plan for Israel. (Leviticus 26:14-17; Leviticus 26:18-20; Leviticus 26:21-22; Leviticus 26:23-26; Leviticus 26:27-39).
D
Davidic Covenant – See Covenants to Israel.
Day of the Lord – A period of time extending from the Rapture of the Church to the creation of the new heavens and the new Earth. (Revelation 19:19 *see Scofield notes; Isaiah 10:20; Joel 1:15*; Zephaniah 1:7)
Death, Christian – At physical death, the believer's soul and spirit separate from the human body and are immediately in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:8). For the believer, death involves a promotion (Philippians 1:21,23), being face to face with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8), a new home (John 14:1-6), eternal life (John 11:25; John 20:31; 1 John 5:11-12), and an eternal inheritance (1 Peter 1:4-5). Moreover, death for the believer does not involve condemnation or judgment (Romans 8:1), or more death, sorrow, crying, or pain (Revelation 21:4).
Degrees of Punishment – Scripture teaches that there are degrees of rewards for believers in eternity. However, principles of hermeneutics would demand that the antithesis—degrees of punishment—cannot be assumed, but rather, must be specifically stated. In the case of John 3:36, both thesis and antithesis are stated: "He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life; and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him." Scripture is equally plain that unbelievers all spend eternity in punishment for the same sin—rejection of Christ as Savior. Since all unbelievers will remain in everlasting punishment for the exact same sin, it is not reasonable to conclude that there are degrees of punishment. Furthermore, degrees of punishment would negate the existence of a literal Lake of Fire, as well as the doctrine of unlimited redemption. The phrase in Matthew 10:15 "more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than for that city" may imply that spending eternity in the Lake of Fire will be more frustrating for those unbelievers who personally knew Jesus Christ than for those from Sodom and Gomorrah.
Deism – The belief that God is transcendent but not immanent. That is, God is present in creation only by His power, not in His very being and nature.
Deity, Attributes – (See Essence of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, (below) Trinity.)
Deity – Essence of the Father – Sovereignty (Matthew 6:13; Matthew 11:25; Ephesians 3:14; Psalm 103:19); Righteousness (John 17:25; 2 Corinthians 5:21); Justice (1 John 1:9); Love (John 3:16; John 16:27; John 17:23-24; Romans 5:8; Ephesians 2:4; 1 John 3:1; 1 John 4:9, 16); Eternal Life (John 5:26; Galatians 4:4; 1 Peter 1:2); Omniscience (Matthew 24:36; Matthew 11:27; 1 Peter 1:2); Omnipresence (John 10:38); Omnipotence (Matthew 6:13; Acts 1:7; Acts 2:32; Gal 1:1); Immutability (James 1:17); Veracity (Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18)
Deity – Essence of the Son – Sovereignty (Colossians 1:16-17 cf. Psalm 102:24-27 and Hebrews 1:10-11; Matt 28:18; John 1:3, 10,31); Righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:22; 1 John 2:29; 3:5); Justice (John 5:22; John 5:27; Acts 3:14; 2 Pet 3:9; Rev 20:11-12); Love (John 15:13; John 13:1, 34; John 14:21, 31; 2 Corinthians 5:14; 1 John 3:16); Eternal Life (John 1:1-3; John 8:58; John 10:28; John 17:2-5; Ephesians 1:4; Col 1:15-17); Omniscience (Colossians 2:2-3; Matthew 9:4; Matthew 11:27; Matthew 16:21; Matthew 24:25; John 1:49; John 2:24-25; John 4:29; John 6:64, 66; John 10:15; John 12:33; John 13:1, 3, 11; John 16:30; John 21:17; 1 Corinthians 1:24; 1 Corinthians 4:5; Colossians 2:2-3; Revelation 2:23); Omnipresence(Matthew 18:20; Matthew 28:20; Colossians 1:27; John 14:23; Acts 17:27; Ephesians 1:23); Omnipotence (John 1:3; 1 Corinthians 1:24; 1 Corinthians 5:4; 1 Corinthians 15:25-28; Philippians 3:21; Colossians 1:16-17); Immutability (Hebrews 1:10-12; Hebrews 6:17; Hebrews 7:24; Hebrews 13:8); Veracity (John 14:6; John 17:17; John 1:14,17; John 8:32; Ephesians 4:21; 1 John 5:20; Revelation 3:7)
Deity – Essence of the Holy Spirit – Sovereignty (1 Corinthians 12:3,11; Job 26:13; Isaiah 48:16; Mark 1:12); Righteousness(Romans 1:4; John 16:7-8; Ephesians 5:9); Justice (Romans 1:4; John 16:8,11); Love (Galatians 5:22; Romans 5:5; Romans 15:30); Eternal Life (Hebrews 9:14; John 6:63; John 14:16; Galatians 6:8); Omniscience (Romans 8:16, 26; 1 Corinthians 2:10-11, 14; 1 Timothy 3:16; John 14:26; John 16:12-13); Omnipresence (Psalm 139:7-10; Romans 8:9; Ephesians 2:18-22); Omnipotence (Acts 1:8; Micah 3:8; Zechariah 4:6; Romans 15:13, 19; Ephesians 3:16, 20; 1 Peter 3:18; Genesis 1:2ff; Luke 1:35); Immutability (Hebrews 6:17-18); Veracity (John 16:13; John 14:17; John 15:26; Acts 5:1-11; 1 John 5:6; Ephesians 5:9)
Demon Influence / Activity – Demon influence is thought transference of Satanic doctrine to the soul and personality of theunbeliever, or to the believer living in the cosmic system (1 Timothy 4:1). It is accomplished through both demonic and human agents, primarily through demon possession, and secondarily through every mode of communication, in person to person contact, literature, theatre, music, etc. The degree of demon influence depends on how long the believer resides in the cosmic system without the use of confession of personal sin, restoration to fellowship with God, and the filling by means of the Holy Spirit. Demon influence should be distinguished from demon possession. Demons are active in and behind some religious ritual (1 Corinthians 10:20). (Romans 1:18-25; 1 Corinthians 10:14, 19-21).
Demon Possession – Demon possession is defined as demon invasion of the body of the unbeliever only. Generally, this occurs by means of demonic religious ecstasy, and is often accompanied by music which encourages ecstatic experience, and drugs. In contrast, demon influence is the demon invasion of the soul with satanic thought. Satanic thought is not expressed in terms of evil, but in terms of improving this world, doing nice things for one's fellow man, and supporting crusades. It is false thinking, comprised of the policy and principles by which Satan operates.
Depravity – The state of fallen of man from the viewpoint of God. Man was created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26-27). However, in Adam's sin the race fell, inherited a sinful nature, became alienated from God, and man is totally unable to retrieve his lost condition by his own effort (Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:22-23; Romans 5:12; Ephesians 2:12). His sinfulness—upon which the wrath of God is presently being revealed—is characterized by every form of sin in thought, word, and deed (Romans 1:18, 24-32; Romans 3:23). Only by God’s grace, obtained only through personal faith in Jesus Christ alone can salvation and spiritual life be obtained (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Diaspora (Dispersion) – The scattering of the twelve tribes of Israel as a result of the fifth cycle of discipline: Leviticus 26:33, "And I will scatter you among the heathen,..." James 1:1 "... to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad..." (1 Peter 1:1; John 7:35)
Dichotomous – Unregenerate mankind has no active human spirit and consequently consists of only two component parts – body and soul (1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 4:12). See Human Spirit.
Dispensationalism – Dispensations pertain to the divine administration of human affairs from Adam through the end of time. A dispensation is defined traditionally as a period of time during which a particular revelation of God’s mind and God’s will is operative, and during which man is tested as to his obedience to that specific manifestation of God’s will, plan, and purpose. Orientation to both time and to human history is vitally necessary for understanding God’s plan and God’s purpose for the believer's life. Each divine administration, or Dispensation, is related to a definite period of human history.
Three major distinctives comprise the sine qua non of a dispensational theology:
Davidic Covenant – See Covenants to Israel.
Day of the Lord – A period of time extending from the Rapture of the Church to the creation of the new heavens and the new Earth. (Revelation 19:19 *see Scofield notes; Isaiah 10:20; Joel 1:15*; Zephaniah 1:7)
Death, Christian – At physical death, the believer's soul and spirit separate from the human body and are immediately in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:8). For the believer, death involves a promotion (Philippians 1:21,23), being face to face with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8), a new home (John 14:1-6), eternal life (John 11:25; John 20:31; 1 John 5:11-12), and an eternal inheritance (1 Peter 1:4-5). Moreover, death for the believer does not involve condemnation or judgment (Romans 8:1), or more death, sorrow, crying, or pain (Revelation 21:4).
Degrees of Punishment – Scripture teaches that there are degrees of rewards for believers in eternity. However, principles of hermeneutics would demand that the antithesis—degrees of punishment—cannot be assumed, but rather, must be specifically stated. In the case of John 3:36, both thesis and antithesis are stated: "He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life; and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him." Scripture is equally plain that unbelievers all spend eternity in punishment for the same sin—rejection of Christ as Savior. Since all unbelievers will remain in everlasting punishment for the exact same sin, it is not reasonable to conclude that there are degrees of punishment. Furthermore, degrees of punishment would negate the existence of a literal Lake of Fire, as well as the doctrine of unlimited redemption. The phrase in Matthew 10:15 "more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment, than for that city" may imply that spending eternity in the Lake of Fire will be more frustrating for those unbelievers who personally knew Jesus Christ than for those from Sodom and Gomorrah.
Deism – The belief that God is transcendent but not immanent. That is, God is present in creation only by His power, not in His very being and nature.
Deity, Attributes – (See Essence of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, (below) Trinity.)
Deity – Essence of the Father – Sovereignty (Matthew 6:13; Matthew 11:25; Ephesians 3:14; Psalm 103:19); Righteousness (John 17:25; 2 Corinthians 5:21); Justice (1 John 1:9); Love (John 3:16; John 16:27; John 17:23-24; Romans 5:8; Ephesians 2:4; 1 John 3:1; 1 John 4:9, 16); Eternal Life (John 5:26; Galatians 4:4; 1 Peter 1:2); Omniscience (Matthew 24:36; Matthew 11:27; 1 Peter 1:2); Omnipresence (John 10:38); Omnipotence (Matthew 6:13; Acts 1:7; Acts 2:32; Gal 1:1); Immutability (James 1:17); Veracity (Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18)
Deity – Essence of the Son – Sovereignty (Colossians 1:16-17 cf. Psalm 102:24-27 and Hebrews 1:10-11; Matt 28:18; John 1:3, 10,31); Righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:22; 1 John 2:29; 3:5); Justice (John 5:22; John 5:27; Acts 3:14; 2 Pet 3:9; Rev 20:11-12); Love (John 15:13; John 13:1, 34; John 14:21, 31; 2 Corinthians 5:14; 1 John 3:16); Eternal Life (John 1:1-3; John 8:58; John 10:28; John 17:2-5; Ephesians 1:4; Col 1:15-17); Omniscience (Colossians 2:2-3; Matthew 9:4; Matthew 11:27; Matthew 16:21; Matthew 24:25; John 1:49; John 2:24-25; John 4:29; John 6:64, 66; John 10:15; John 12:33; John 13:1, 3, 11; John 16:30; John 21:17; 1 Corinthians 1:24; 1 Corinthians 4:5; Colossians 2:2-3; Revelation 2:23); Omnipresence(Matthew 18:20; Matthew 28:20; Colossians 1:27; John 14:23; Acts 17:27; Ephesians 1:23); Omnipotence (John 1:3; 1 Corinthians 1:24; 1 Corinthians 5:4; 1 Corinthians 15:25-28; Philippians 3:21; Colossians 1:16-17); Immutability (Hebrews 1:10-12; Hebrews 6:17; Hebrews 7:24; Hebrews 13:8); Veracity (John 14:6; John 17:17; John 1:14,17; John 8:32; Ephesians 4:21; 1 John 5:20; Revelation 3:7)
Deity – Essence of the Holy Spirit – Sovereignty (1 Corinthians 12:3,11; Job 26:13; Isaiah 48:16; Mark 1:12); Righteousness(Romans 1:4; John 16:7-8; Ephesians 5:9); Justice (Romans 1:4; John 16:8,11); Love (Galatians 5:22; Romans 5:5; Romans 15:30); Eternal Life (Hebrews 9:14; John 6:63; John 14:16; Galatians 6:8); Omniscience (Romans 8:16, 26; 1 Corinthians 2:10-11, 14; 1 Timothy 3:16; John 14:26; John 16:12-13); Omnipresence (Psalm 139:7-10; Romans 8:9; Ephesians 2:18-22); Omnipotence (Acts 1:8; Micah 3:8; Zechariah 4:6; Romans 15:13, 19; Ephesians 3:16, 20; 1 Peter 3:18; Genesis 1:2ff; Luke 1:35); Immutability (Hebrews 6:17-18); Veracity (John 16:13; John 14:17; John 15:26; Acts 5:1-11; 1 John 5:6; Ephesians 5:9)
Demon Influence / Activity – Demon influence is thought transference of Satanic doctrine to the soul and personality of theunbeliever, or to the believer living in the cosmic system (1 Timothy 4:1). It is accomplished through both demonic and human agents, primarily through demon possession, and secondarily through every mode of communication, in person to person contact, literature, theatre, music, etc. The degree of demon influence depends on how long the believer resides in the cosmic system without the use of confession of personal sin, restoration to fellowship with God, and the filling by means of the Holy Spirit. Demon influence should be distinguished from demon possession. Demons are active in and behind some religious ritual (1 Corinthians 10:20). (Romans 1:18-25; 1 Corinthians 10:14, 19-21).
Demon Possession – Demon possession is defined as demon invasion of the body of the unbeliever only. Generally, this occurs by means of demonic religious ecstasy, and is often accompanied by music which encourages ecstatic experience, and drugs. In contrast, demon influence is the demon invasion of the soul with satanic thought. Satanic thought is not expressed in terms of evil, but in terms of improving this world, doing nice things for one's fellow man, and supporting crusades. It is false thinking, comprised of the policy and principles by which Satan operates.
Depravity – The state of fallen of man from the viewpoint of God. Man was created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26-27). However, in Adam's sin the race fell, inherited a sinful nature, became alienated from God, and man is totally unable to retrieve his lost condition by his own effort (Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:22-23; Romans 5:12; Ephesians 2:12). His sinfulness—upon which the wrath of God is presently being revealed—is characterized by every form of sin in thought, word, and deed (Romans 1:18, 24-32; Romans 3:23). Only by God’s grace, obtained only through personal faith in Jesus Christ alone can salvation and spiritual life be obtained (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Diaspora (Dispersion) – The scattering of the twelve tribes of Israel as a result of the fifth cycle of discipline: Leviticus 26:33, "And I will scatter you among the heathen,..." James 1:1 "... to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad..." (1 Peter 1:1; John 7:35)
Dichotomous – Unregenerate mankind has no active human spirit and consequently consists of only two component parts – body and soul (1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 4:12). See Human Spirit.
Dispensationalism – Dispensations pertain to the divine administration of human affairs from Adam through the end of time. A dispensation is defined traditionally as a period of time during which a particular revelation of God’s mind and God’s will is operative, and during which man is tested as to his obedience to that specific manifestation of God’s will, plan, and purpose. Orientation to both time and to human history is vitally necessary for understanding God’s plan and God’s purpose for the believer's life. Each divine administration, or Dispensation, is related to a definite period of human history.
Three major distinctives comprise the sine qua non of a dispensational theology:
(1) a literal interpretation of Scripture, where possible,
(2) a distinction between Israel and the Church, and
(3) the glorification of God as the overall purpose of Scripture and the believer's life. Dispensationalism is in contrast to replacement theological systems.
(2) a distinction between Israel and the Church, and
(3) the glorification of God as the overall purpose of Scripture and the believer's life. Dispensationalism is in contrast to replacement theological systems.
The vast majority of the Bible deals with three such Dispensations: (1) the Dispensation of Israel, a Theocentric Dispensation from the Exodus to the birth of Christ, (2) the present Dispensation of the Church, a Christocentric Dispensation, from Pentecost to the Rapture of the Church, and (3) the future eschatological dispensation of Christ’s 1000-year kingdom, theologically designated as the Millennium. There should be no blurring or confusion of Israel and the Church.
Dispensationalism is a system of interpreting human history expressed in terms of divine revelation. The inerrancy of the Word of God is the source for looking at history from the Divine Viewpoint. Therefore, dispensation is a technical theological term used primarily by the apostle Paul in the presentation of the mystery doctrine of this Church Age (Eph 3:8-10). In every dispensation, the plan of salvation is identical—God saves man by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.
Divided Kingdom – After King Solomon, the kingdom of Israel was divided (c. 926 B. C.) into a Northern Kingdom (Israel) under Jeroboam I and a Southern Kingdom (Judah) under Rehoboam (1 Kings 12:1-20). The Northern Kingdom went out under the fifth cycle of discipline, c. 721 B. C., going into the Assyrian captivity, after Samaria fell to Sargon II. The Southern Kingdom also went out under the fifth cycle of discipline into the 70-year Babylonian captivity (Jeremiah 25:11), beginning c. 605 B. C., with the first deportation under Jehoiakim, and the last deportation after the fall of Jerusalem, c. 586 B. C. The Babylonian captivity ended by a decree of Cyrus (Ezra 1:1-3), with the return of the remnant and rebuilding of the Temple, c. 536 B. C.
Divine Decrees – The decrees of God are His eternal, holy, wise, and sovereign purpose, comprehending simultaneously all things that ever were or will be in their causes, conditions, successions, and relationships, and determining their certain fruition. This very complex theological doctrine involves God's master plan for the human race, including His plan for every Christian.
Divine Establishment – Laws or Principles ordained by God for the survival, stability, protection, freedom, and perpetuation of the human race, during all of human history, and irrespective of form of government. These principles are for believers and unbelievers alike. They provide for freedom so that the individual has maximum opportunity to fulfill God's plan for his life. Divine establishment includes the four divine institutions of volition, marriage, family, and civil government (Also, see Divine Institutions).
Divine Good – Christian service or deeds performed by a believer who is filled with the Holy Spirit. (Antonym: Human Good)
Divine Institutions – Four founding principles for all mankind ordained by God and governed by the laws of Divine Establishment for the perpetuation, stability, protection, and freedom of the human race: 1. the individual; 2. marriage; 3. family; 4. civil government. Each institution is regulated by a corresponding authority: 1. volition; 2. husband; 3. parents; 4. a system of laws.
Divine Providence – That continuous activity of God whereby He makes all the events of the physical, mental, and moral phenomena work out His purpose, and that this purpose is nothing short of the original design of God in creation. While evil has entered the universe, it is not allowed to thwart God's original, benevolent, wise, and holy purpose. Also, see Eternal Security and Sustaining Ministries of Christ.
Divine Viewpoint – Divine Viewpoint is the thinking of God as it relates to any subject. It is the goal of the Christian to reach a level of maturity such that his viewpoint on any subject agrees with God's viewpoint, giving him the ability to understand God's plan for his life. Such viewpoint is gained from the inculcation of Biblical truth.
Ecclesiology – Ecclesiology is the study of the Doctrines of the Church—a major division of Systematic Theology. The Church is a spiritual organism made up of all born-again persons of the Church Age—from Pentecost to the Rapture—irrespective of their affiliation with Christian organizations (Ephesians 1:22-23; Ephesians 5:25-27; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14). The Church is united together into the Body of Christ, of which He is Head. Every local church has the right under Christ to decide and govern its own affairs.
Efficacious Grace – A ministry of the Holy Spirit whereby the faith of an unbeliever is acknowledged and made effective for salvation. Without the work of the Holy Spirit, the volition of an unbeliever could not independently result in eternal life. (2 Corinthians 6:1-2) Synonym: Baptism by means of the Holy Spirit
Elect Angels – A term used (1 Timothy 5:21) to distinguish the angels who remained loyal to God from fallen angels (Matthew 25:41; Jude 1:6). See Angelic Conflict.
Election – Scripture teaches two clear and indisputable doctrinal truths. One truth reveals that God sovereignly chooses His own in Christ; the other truth reveals that man possesses the function of volition, able to receive or reject God’s uniquely born Son. God's Sovereignty is taught in Job 42:2; Psalm 135:6; Isaiah 46:9-10; Jeremiah 1:5; Matthew 24:22, 24, 31; Luke 18:7; Romans 8:29-33; Galatians 1:15; 2 Timothy 2:10; 1 Peter 1:1-2. Human Volition is taught in Genesis 2:15-17 cf. Genesis 3:6; Genesis 3:16, John 20:30-31; Acts 16:30-31; Romans 10:11-13; 1 John 5:9-13. Also, see Free Will Viewpoint.
Empiricism – The philosophical theory attributing the origin of all knowledge to experience, observation, and experiment — applied especially to British philosophy from Locke to Hume. Empiricism is contrasted with faith, as a system of perception, in that empiricism is meritorious while faith is non-meritorious.
Enduement – During the Age of Israel, a small group of believers—rulers, judges, priests, prophets, writers of Scripture, artisans of the Tabernacle and Temple, and others—were given special powers from the Holy Spirit, providing to them wisdom, understanding of doctrine, leadership qualities, ability to prophesy, etc. (Exodus 31:1-11; Exodus 35:30; Exodus 36:1; 1Kings 7:14)
Epistle – A written message. The term employed to designate twenty-one of the twenty-seven writings of the New Testament. Paul's Epistles number fourteen (including Hebrews). The General Epistles number seven.
Equality in Christ – All believers are equal in Christ and there are no racial, economic, gender, intelligence, nationality, or social distinctions before God. Galatians 3:28 says, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for you are all one in Christ." (Romans 10:12; Galatians 5:6; Colossians 3:11).
Eschatology – The study of the End Times—a major division of Systematic Theology. See Rapture, Tribulation, Second Coming of Christ, Millennium, Eternal State.
Essence of God – The nature or attributes of the person of God. Divine essence includes Sovereignty, Righteousness, Justice, Love, Eternal Life, omniscience, omnipresence, Omnipotence, Immutability, Veracity. God is one in Essence and three in personality. (Also, see Trinity, Essence of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit)
Establishment – See Divine Establishment
Eternal Life (1) – The attribute of God that describes His absolute existence outside the boundaries of time. God, being the Author of time, is in no way constrained by it. There has never been, and there never will be a time when He did not or will not exist. His existence has no beginning or ending. Exodus 15:18; Deuteronomy 33:27; Job 19:25; Job 36:26; Psalm 41:13; Psalm 90:2; Psalm 93:2; Psalm 102:27; Psalm 135:13; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 40:28; Lamentations 5:19; Daniel 4:34; Micah 5:2; John 1:1-24; John 5:26; John 8:58; John 10:28; John 14:16; John 17:2-3,5,24; 1 Peter 1:2; Ephesians 1:4; Ephesians 3:21; Colossians 1:15-17; 1 Timothy 1:17; 1 Timothy 6:16; Hebrews 1:11-12; Hebrews 7:25; Hebrews 13:8; 1 John 1:1; 1 John 2:25; 1 John 5:11-12,20; Revelation 1:4,8,11,18; Revelation 4:9-11; Revelation 5:14; Revelation 10:6
Eternal Life (2) – An everlasting relationship with God reserved in Heaven for all believers the moment they express faith alone in Jesus Christ alone.
Eternal Security – The salvation of all believers is kept secure forever. When a sinner, in a moment of time, believes once in the Lord Jesus Christ as his own personal Savior from the penalty of sin (everlasting death), he is saved completely and forever and can never be lost, no matter what he or anyone else does, even if he stops believing in Christ as Savior. God does, however, discipline an erring son as a beloved child when necessary. A belief in God’s merciful and secure salvation is not a license for careless living but, on the contrary, a powerful incentive for godly living. (Psalm 37:24; Romans 3:21-28; 5:8-10, 15, 17, 20;8:1, 32, 35, 38-39; 12:1-2; John 10:27-30; 1 Corinthians 1:4-9; 2 Timothy 2:13; Hebrews 10:14; 12:6-13; 1 Peter 1:3-5; 2 Peter 3:9; Jude 1:1; Jude 1:24). The doctrine is also called Assurance and Preservation of the Saints.
Eternal State – The souls of those who have trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation do at death immediately pass into His presence, and there remain in conscious bliss until the resurrection of the body at His coming, when soul and body reunited shall be associated with Him forever in glory; but the souls of unbelievers remain after death in conscious misery until the final judgment of the great white throne at the close of the Millennium, when soul and body reunited shall be cast into the Lake of Fire, not to be annihilated, but to be punished with everlasting separation from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power (Luke 16:19-26; Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; 2 Thessalonians 2:11-15;Jude 1:6; Jude 1:7; Revelation 20:11-15).
Evangelism – The communication of the Gospel to unbelievers. While witnessing is the responsibility of every believer in Christ, God the Holy Spirit bestows the spiritual gift of evangelism on some believers. The issue in evangelism is not sin, but rather the fact that the sins of the world were poured out on Jesus Christ and judged, making faith alone in Christ alone the only issue. (Acts 1:8; 2 Timothy 4:5; Romans 1:14-16; 2 Corinthians 3:3; 5:17-21; 1 Corinthians 3:11-16; Philippians 4:1) (Also, see Missionary, Witnessing.)
Evil – The policy of Satan, including his strategy for the fallen angels, for Adam in the garden, for mankind in all dispensations, and for the world system, of which he is ruler. Evil is not restricted to sinfulness, but includes a system of ill-motivated human good, designed to bring about a Millennium-like era on Earth (2 Corinthians 11:14). Satan is incapable of administering his world system. Within the Biblical framework, evil is bounded, having a beginning in the garden and an ending at the Great White Throne Judgment. Within the Pagan framework, evil exists eternally.
Evolutionary Theory – The theory that all forms of animal life, including humans, must have gradually developed from earlier and simpler forms; that there must have been a slow increase of organization and complexity of living forms during geologic history. Also, see Cosmology.
Exegesis – The science which applies the principles of hermeneutics in order to extract Biblical truth from the Scriptures. It is distinguished from hermeneutics which is the science which establishes the principles (or bases) upon which a true analysis of the Scriptures must proceed. Exegetical theology includes the studies of Biblical languages, Biblical archaeology, Biblical hermeneutics, and Biblical theology. Exegesis proceeds word-by-word, verse-by-verse, point-of-grammatical-syntax by point-of-grammatical-syntax, through the original language of Scripture.
Expiation – That aspect of Christ's work on the Cross that canceled the debt for the penalty of sin. The penalty of sin is spiritual death which results in physical death.
Exposition – The proclamation of Biblical truth either orally or in written form.
F
Faith – Faith means confidence, trust, to hold something as true.
Faith in Jesus Christ –The whole of creation is fallen and separated from its Creator, ever since Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the Garden of Eden. God determined a plan to reconcile man to Himself. To redeem man from his sins, a sacrifice had to be made. This is because God required the shedding of blood for the remission of sin. The only One qualified to make a perfect sacrifice—to die in the place of sinners—was the sinlessGod-man Jesus Christ. He came to earth and laid down his life on the cross to ‘pay’ for the sins of mankind. He died and rose again on the third day, being the firstborn from the dead. This sacrifice propitiated the Father. The penalty for his sins removed, man is able to enter into fellowship with God. By believing or having faith in this Truth regarding Jesus Christ, mankind is redeemed and saved from damnation. In the future, he will also be resurrected and have eternal life. (John 1:12,29; John 3:15-18, 36; John 5:24; John 6:40; John 11:25-27; John 19:30; Romans 3:22-26; Romans 5:1, 9; Romans 6:1-10; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 2 Corinthians 5:19-21; Ephesians 5:6; Titus 2:14; Hebrews 9:12; 1 Peter 1:3-5; 1 John 1:7; 1 John 2:2) God saves man by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone. No works before, during, or after the moment of faith in Christ contribute anything to the free gift of forgiveness and eternal life. Good works, however, are important—not to secure eternal salvation—but to honor the Lord. Those works that God deems as good will result in receiving eternal rewards. God neither overrules man’s volition nor implants in it an uncontrollable drawing to accept or reject His provision of salvation. Man appropriates salvation solely by means of faith in Jesus Christ alone, whose death and resurrection are the basis of man’s salvation. (Acts 16:31; Acts 4:12; John 1:12; John 3:16, 18; John 5:24; John 6:40; John 20:31; Ephesians 1:7; Ephesians 2:8-10; 1 Peter 1:18-19; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 John 5:11-12).
No other acts (other than faith in Christ), such as a willingness to obey, having sorrow for or turning from one’s sins, one’s baptism, or one’s submission to the Lordship of Christ, may be considered a part of faith as a condition for receiving eternal salvation. The saving transaction provided by God for the sinner consists simply of the giving and receiving of a free gift that is without cost to the believer. The new believer’s eternal salvation is secure forever. (John 4:10; Romans 4:5; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; Revelation 22:17).
Faithfulness of God – One of God’s attributes, which includes His reliability in fulfilling His promises: Salvation (1 Corinthians 1:9); Security in believer’s salvation (2 Timothy 2:13); Cleansing and forgiveness of sin (1 John 1:9); No testing beyond ability (1 Corinthians 10:13); Sanctification (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24); Stability (1 Thessalonians 3:3); Answering prayer ( Psalm143; Acts 10:31; Philemon 1:22; Hebrews 5:7; James 5:15, 16b; 1 Peter 3:12); Discipline (Leviticus 26:14-39; Psalm 119:75; Hebrews 12:5-11); Giving wisdom (James 1:5); Works through believers (Philippians 1:6); Resurrection (Romans 4:17; John 5:29; Titus 1:2); Giving of temporal and eternal rewards (Ruth 2:12; Job 34:11; James 1:12; Matthew 5:12; 6:4-7; 1 Corinthians 3:14; 2 John 8; Revelation 22:12); Judgment (Psalm 58; Hosea 4:6-10; Colossians 3:25); His keeping of His covenant promises (Genesis 12; Genesis 13:15; 2 Samuel 7:13, 16; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Jeremiah 33:20-21; Deuteronomy 1:8; Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalm 89; Isaiah 25:1; Isaiah 62:1-12; Hebrews 6).
Fall of Man – When Adam was created, he had a body, soul, and spirit (Genesis 2:7). He had the ability to sin but not the nature to sin. When Adam did sin, death entered the world. (Genesis 2:17). In this condition, Adam heard and participated in a statement of the Gospel message in Genesis 3:15 and Genesis 3:20. Genesis 3:21 implies that God acknowledged Adam and the woman’s salvation by covering their nakedness with the skins of slain animals. The result of the Fall is that all humans are born “In Adam”—a place of spiritual death (separation from God) (Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 2:14; Ephesians 2:1, 5)—and with a nature to sin (Romans 3:23; Romans 7:23).
Fall of Satan – Satan possesses volition—free will—which he exercised in rebellion against God, which caused his fall (Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:15-17; Matthew 25:41; Luke 10:18; Revelation 20:10).
Fallen Angels – A large number of angels, possibly one-third of the angelic creation, followed after Satan in his fall (Revelation 12:4).
Family Priesthood – The practice recorded in Genesis where the head of the family acted as a priest for it (Genesis 8:20; Genesis 26:25; Genesis 31:54); there was also a legitimate non-family priesthood during that era, as evidenced by the person of Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18-20). It was a practice for the Age of the Gentiles. Although the family priesthood is an excellent example of the leadership of the husband, it is in no way intended as an organizational pattern to supplant the local church during the present dispensation.
Father – The first Person of the Trinity. The Bible reveals that God the Father is co-equal, co-infinite, and co-eternal in power and glory with God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. He is identical in nature, having the same attributes and perfections as the Son and Holy Spirit, but is distinguished from them in His person and role within the Trinity. “…because God the Father has set His seal on Him.” (John 6:27); “from God our Father” (Romans 1:7); “God the Father” (Galatians 1:1, 3); and many additional passages.
Feasts – There are seven major Feasts instituted by God, outlined in Exodus 12 and 13, Leviticus 23, Numbers 28-29, and Deuteronomy 16. The first festival in the spring and early summer lasts 8 days and includes Passover (14 day of Nisan), the Feast of Unleavened Bread, and the Barley wave offering (15-21st day of Nisan). The Feast of Weeks, or Harvest, or “day of Firstfruits” (called Pentecost in New Testament times) follows 50 days later. The fall festivals of the seventh month, Tishri, include Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, and Feast of Tabernacles (Booths) (15-21st day of Tishri). See Christology.
Fellowship with Christ – See Abiding in Christ, Confession of Sin, Spiritual (2).
Filling by means of the Holy Spirit – The absolute status of being in fellowship with God mandated to every Church Age believer (Ephesians 5:18); provision of the power of God to execute the Christian life. This condition may be lost through sinning, but is recovered through privately naming or acknowledging sins to God the Father (1 John 1:9). The Filling by means of the Holy Spirit was continuous in the life of the Christians’ Role Model, Jesus Christ.
Final Revolt of Satan – Our Lord Jesus Christ will reign on earth for the 1,000 years of the Millennium, during which time Satan is bound in the “abyss.” At the conclusion of the Millennium, Satan is released from this bondage “for a little season” (Revelation 20:3). His release allows him to deceive the nations of earth and to lead them in a revolt against Christ’s reign. After the failure of this final revolt, Satan is cast into the Lake of Fire forever (Revelation 20:7-10).
First Resurrection – See Resurrection.
Firstfruits – At the Feast of Passover/Unleavened Bread on the day of Firstfruits, the first sheaf of barley was cut, brought in, and waved before YHWH as a dedication offering (Leviticus 23:9-14). The Feast of Firstfruits portrayed the resurrection of Christ, “the first fruits of those who are asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). The feast occurred on the day after the Passover Sabbath, on the first day of the week, even as Christ was raised on the first day of the week. Like the Feast of Firstfruits, the resurrection of Christ anticipates the harvest which is to follow, the resurrection of the saints.
Flesh – One of three foes—the world, the flesh, and the devil—with which the Christian wrestles. The word “flesh” is frequently used in Scripture as a synonym for our fallen nature inherited from Adam through physical birth. (Romans 7:18; Romans 8:3,5,7-9; Galatians 5:16-26). See Sin Nature.
Flood – The Judgment Flood of Genesis 7. The wickedness of man is the reason for the flood (Genesis 6:5-7, 11-13). On God’s instruction, Noah built an ark in which he, his family, and sufficient pairs of animals were saved during the flood. Isaiah attested to the authenticity of the flood in Isaiah 54:9. Our Lord attested to the flood as an historically literal event in Matthew 24:37 and Luke 17:26. Peter speaks of the flood in 1 Peter 3:20 and 2 Peter 2:5. The flood is also widely attested to by the ancients in archaeological artifacts such as The Sumerian King List, cuneiform tablets from Nippur in central Babylonia, 2000+ B. C. Other extra Biblical writings attest to the account as well.
Foreknowledge – One of God’s divine attributes is omniscience. Foreknowledge, an attribute of God’s omniscience, includes God’s simultaneously knowing all future acts, events, situations, and decisions.
Forgiveness – see Salvation
Free Will Viewpoint – Scripture teaches that it is impossible for God to be unfair to any person, and since He loves all men equally, desires all men to be saved, wanting none to perish (2 Peter 3:9). He freely and graciously offers salvation to all men. God employs the drawing ministries of the Father and the Son and the convicting ministry of the Holy Spirit to make it possible for any member of the human race to receive the Lord Jesus Christ (Isaiah 45:21; John 3:16; John 6:44; John 12:32; John 16:7-11; Acts 10:34-35; Acts 16:31; Romans 5:8; Romans 8:32; 1 Timothy 2:4; 1 John 2:2). Scripture reveals man as possessing the function of volition, able to receive or reject God’s uniquely born Son (John 1:9-13; John 3:16, 36; John 6:47; John 20:30-31; Acts 16:30-31; Romans 10:11-13; 1 John 5:9-13).
Faith – Faith means confidence, trust, to hold something as true.
Faith in Jesus Christ –The whole of creation is fallen and separated from its Creator, ever since Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the Garden of Eden. God determined a plan to reconcile man to Himself. To redeem man from his sins, a sacrifice had to be made. This is because God required the shedding of blood for the remission of sin. The only One qualified to make a perfect sacrifice—to die in the place of sinners—was the sinlessGod-man Jesus Christ. He came to earth and laid down his life on the cross to ‘pay’ for the sins of mankind. He died and rose again on the third day, being the firstborn from the dead. This sacrifice propitiated the Father. The penalty for his sins removed, man is able to enter into fellowship with God. By believing or having faith in this Truth regarding Jesus Christ, mankind is redeemed and saved from damnation. In the future, he will also be resurrected and have eternal life. (John 1:12,29; John 3:15-18, 36; John 5:24; John 6:40; John 11:25-27; John 19:30; Romans 3:22-26; Romans 5:1, 9; Romans 6:1-10; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 2 Corinthians 5:19-21; Ephesians 5:6; Titus 2:14; Hebrews 9:12; 1 Peter 1:3-5; 1 John 1:7; 1 John 2:2) God saves man by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone. No works before, during, or after the moment of faith in Christ contribute anything to the free gift of forgiveness and eternal life. Good works, however, are important—not to secure eternal salvation—but to honor the Lord. Those works that God deems as good will result in receiving eternal rewards. God neither overrules man’s volition nor implants in it an uncontrollable drawing to accept or reject His provision of salvation. Man appropriates salvation solely by means of faith in Jesus Christ alone, whose death and resurrection are the basis of man’s salvation. (Acts 16:31; Acts 4:12; John 1:12; John 3:16, 18; John 5:24; John 6:40; John 20:31; Ephesians 1:7; Ephesians 2:8-10; 1 Peter 1:18-19; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 John 5:11-12).
No other acts (other than faith in Christ), such as a willingness to obey, having sorrow for or turning from one’s sins, one’s baptism, or one’s submission to the Lordship of Christ, may be considered a part of faith as a condition for receiving eternal salvation. The saving transaction provided by God for the sinner consists simply of the giving and receiving of a free gift that is without cost to the believer. The new believer’s eternal salvation is secure forever. (John 4:10; Romans 4:5; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; Revelation 22:17).
Faithfulness of God – One of God’s attributes, which includes His reliability in fulfilling His promises: Salvation (1 Corinthians 1:9); Security in believer’s salvation (2 Timothy 2:13); Cleansing and forgiveness of sin (1 John 1:9); No testing beyond ability (1 Corinthians 10:13); Sanctification (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24); Stability (1 Thessalonians 3:3); Answering prayer ( Psalm143; Acts 10:31; Philemon 1:22; Hebrews 5:7; James 5:15, 16b; 1 Peter 3:12); Discipline (Leviticus 26:14-39; Psalm 119:75; Hebrews 12:5-11); Giving wisdom (James 1:5); Works through believers (Philippians 1:6); Resurrection (Romans 4:17; John 5:29; Titus 1:2); Giving of temporal and eternal rewards (Ruth 2:12; Job 34:11; James 1:12; Matthew 5:12; 6:4-7; 1 Corinthians 3:14; 2 John 8; Revelation 22:12); Judgment (Psalm 58; Hosea 4:6-10; Colossians 3:25); His keeping of His covenant promises (Genesis 12; Genesis 13:15; 2 Samuel 7:13, 16; Jeremiah 31:31-37; Jeremiah 33:20-21; Deuteronomy 1:8; Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalm 89; Isaiah 25:1; Isaiah 62:1-12; Hebrews 6).
Fall of Man – When Adam was created, he had a body, soul, and spirit (Genesis 2:7). He had the ability to sin but not the nature to sin. When Adam did sin, death entered the world. (Genesis 2:17). In this condition, Adam heard and participated in a statement of the Gospel message in Genesis 3:15 and Genesis 3:20. Genesis 3:21 implies that God acknowledged Adam and the woman’s salvation by covering their nakedness with the skins of slain animals. The result of the Fall is that all humans are born “In Adam”—a place of spiritual death (separation from God) (Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 2:14; Ephesians 2:1, 5)—and with a nature to sin (Romans 3:23; Romans 7:23).
Fall of Satan – Satan possesses volition—free will—which he exercised in rebellion against God, which caused his fall (Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:15-17; Matthew 25:41; Luke 10:18; Revelation 20:10).
Fallen Angels – A large number of angels, possibly one-third of the angelic creation, followed after Satan in his fall (Revelation 12:4).
Family Priesthood – The practice recorded in Genesis where the head of the family acted as a priest for it (Genesis 8:20; Genesis 26:25; Genesis 31:54); there was also a legitimate non-family priesthood during that era, as evidenced by the person of Melchizedek (Genesis 14:18-20). It was a practice for the Age of the Gentiles. Although the family priesthood is an excellent example of the leadership of the husband, it is in no way intended as an organizational pattern to supplant the local church during the present dispensation.
Father – The first Person of the Trinity. The Bible reveals that God the Father is co-equal, co-infinite, and co-eternal in power and glory with God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. He is identical in nature, having the same attributes and perfections as the Son and Holy Spirit, but is distinguished from them in His person and role within the Trinity. “…because God the Father has set His seal on Him.” (John 6:27); “from God our Father” (Romans 1:7); “God the Father” (Galatians 1:1, 3); and many additional passages.
Feasts – There are seven major Feasts instituted by God, outlined in Exodus 12 and 13, Leviticus 23, Numbers 28-29, and Deuteronomy 16. The first festival in the spring and early summer lasts 8 days and includes Passover (14 day of Nisan), the Feast of Unleavened Bread, and the Barley wave offering (15-21st day of Nisan). The Feast of Weeks, or Harvest, or “day of Firstfruits” (called Pentecost in New Testament times) follows 50 days later. The fall festivals of the seventh month, Tishri, include Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, and Feast of Tabernacles (Booths) (15-21st day of Tishri). See Christology.
Fellowship with Christ – See Abiding in Christ, Confession of Sin, Spiritual (2).
Filling by means of the Holy Spirit – The absolute status of being in fellowship with God mandated to every Church Age believer (Ephesians 5:18); provision of the power of God to execute the Christian life. This condition may be lost through sinning, but is recovered through privately naming or acknowledging sins to God the Father (1 John 1:9). The Filling by means of the Holy Spirit was continuous in the life of the Christians’ Role Model, Jesus Christ.
Final Revolt of Satan – Our Lord Jesus Christ will reign on earth for the 1,000 years of the Millennium, during which time Satan is bound in the “abyss.” At the conclusion of the Millennium, Satan is released from this bondage “for a little season” (Revelation 20:3). His release allows him to deceive the nations of earth and to lead them in a revolt against Christ’s reign. After the failure of this final revolt, Satan is cast into the Lake of Fire forever (Revelation 20:7-10).
First Resurrection – See Resurrection.
Firstfruits – At the Feast of Passover/Unleavened Bread on the day of Firstfruits, the first sheaf of barley was cut, brought in, and waved before YHWH as a dedication offering (Leviticus 23:9-14). The Feast of Firstfruits portrayed the resurrection of Christ, “the first fruits of those who are asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). The feast occurred on the day after the Passover Sabbath, on the first day of the week, even as Christ was raised on the first day of the week. Like the Feast of Firstfruits, the resurrection of Christ anticipates the harvest which is to follow, the resurrection of the saints.
Flesh – One of three foes—the world, the flesh, and the devil—with which the Christian wrestles. The word “flesh” is frequently used in Scripture as a synonym for our fallen nature inherited from Adam through physical birth. (Romans 7:18; Romans 8:3,5,7-9; Galatians 5:16-26). See Sin Nature.
Flood – The Judgment Flood of Genesis 7. The wickedness of man is the reason for the flood (Genesis 6:5-7, 11-13). On God’s instruction, Noah built an ark in which he, his family, and sufficient pairs of animals were saved during the flood. Isaiah attested to the authenticity of the flood in Isaiah 54:9. Our Lord attested to the flood as an historically literal event in Matthew 24:37 and Luke 17:26. Peter speaks of the flood in 1 Peter 3:20 and 2 Peter 2:5. The flood is also widely attested to by the ancients in archaeological artifacts such as The Sumerian King List, cuneiform tablets from Nippur in central Babylonia, 2000+ B. C. Other extra Biblical writings attest to the account as well.
Foreknowledge – One of God’s divine attributes is omniscience. Foreknowledge, an attribute of God’s omniscience, includes God’s simultaneously knowing all future acts, events, situations, and decisions.
Forgiveness – see Salvation
Free Will Viewpoint – Scripture teaches that it is impossible for God to be unfair to any person, and since He loves all men equally, desires all men to be saved, wanting none to perish (2 Peter 3:9). He freely and graciously offers salvation to all men. God employs the drawing ministries of the Father and the Son and the convicting ministry of the Holy Spirit to make it possible for any member of the human race to receive the Lord Jesus Christ (Isaiah 45:21; John 3:16; John 6:44; John 12:32; John 16:7-11; Acts 10:34-35; Acts 16:31; Romans 5:8; Romans 8:32; 1 Timothy 2:4; 1 John 2:2). Scripture reveals man as possessing the function of volition, able to receive or reject God’s uniquely born Son (John 1:9-13; John 3:16, 36; John 6:47; John 20:30-31; Acts 16:30-31; Romans 10:11-13; 1 John 5:9-13).
G
Gabriel – A member of the Angelic creation with rank of archangel, who, in Scripture, is often a messenger to humans. His name means “warrior,” or “man of God.” He was the chosen messenger to Daniel (Daniel 8:16; 9:21); to Zechariah, announcing the birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:19); and to the virgin Mary (Luke 1:26-33). As archangel, one of his duties is to fight with the demons who influence the rulers of the world’s nations. In Daniel 9, Gabriel had been participating in the invisible warfare in and about the head of the government of Persia (Daniel 10:13, cf. Ephesians 6:12). He apologized to Daniel for arriving late. But after 21 days of struggle with the “prince” (demon) of the kingdom of Persia, he was reinforced by Michael (another archangel – Daniel 10:21; Daniel 12:1; Jude 1:9), allowing Gabriel to come to answer Daniel’s prayer (Daniel 10:12).
Gehenna – “Gehenna” means valley of Hinnom, the valley south of Jerusalem where a continually burning fire consumed the city refuse. This became an apt name for the eternal punishment of the wicked. (Bible Knowledge Commentary) See Lake of Fire.
Gentiles – In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word goyím, translated “Gentiles” or “nations,” usually refers to any non-Jewish peoples. Nehemiah 5:8. The Greek word “eqno” in the plural indicates “heathen” or “gentiles.”
God – There exists one Triune God, Creator of all things, eternally existing in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, co-equal in power and glory, and identical in nature, having the same attributes and perfections (Deuteronomy 6:4; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Matthew 3:16-17).
Gospel – The Apostle Paul defined the Gospel in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, “... the Gospel that I preached to you ... by which also you are saved... that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.” Paul hereby states clearly that one is saved by believing in Christ’s paying the penalty for one’s sins on the Cross and accepting Him as one’s personal Savior. The Gospel is full and free deliverance from the penalty of sin on the basis of simple faith in Jesus Christ, the vicarious sin bearer (Ephesians 2:8-10).
Gospels – A term that collectively refers to the first four books of the New Testament. Matthew describes the Coming One as a King. Mark presents Him as a Servant. Luke emphasizes the Humanity of our Lord. John presents Jesus Christ with emphasis on His Deity.
Grace – God’s free gift of unmerited favor. Grace is all that God is free to do for man on the basis of the saving work of Jesus Christ on the Cross; the gracious work of God on behalf of man even when man deserves the exact opposite (Romans 5:8; Rom 5:10; Rom 5:20). Man, through his own work, can never accomplish or achieve the favor of God. (Antonyms: Legalism and Religion).
Great Gulf Fixed – See Hades.
Great White Throne Judgment – The final judgment for unbelievers. Since they rejected the person of the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior, all of their good and evil acts will be evaluated to determine if their acts are sufficient for eternal life. However, unbelievers will be found wanting and will receive a just condemnation (John 5:22, 27; Revelation 20:12-15).
Greek – Koine (“common” or “shared”) Greek was a Greek dialect that grew out of Classical Greek. It became a widespread language from the time of Alexander the Great’s conquests in the fourth century B. C. to about 330 A.D., throughout the Hellenistic world. This is the language in which the Septuagint and New Testament were written. See Languages of Scripture.
Guardian Angels – Angels who minister to believers (Hebrews 1:14, “Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?”).
Gabriel – A member of the Angelic creation with rank of archangel, who, in Scripture, is often a messenger to humans. His name means “warrior,” or “man of God.” He was the chosen messenger to Daniel (Daniel 8:16; 9:21); to Zechariah, announcing the birth of John the Baptist (Luke 1:19); and to the virgin Mary (Luke 1:26-33). As archangel, one of his duties is to fight with the demons who influence the rulers of the world’s nations. In Daniel 9, Gabriel had been participating in the invisible warfare in and about the head of the government of Persia (Daniel 10:13, cf. Ephesians 6:12). He apologized to Daniel for arriving late. But after 21 days of struggle with the “prince” (demon) of the kingdom of Persia, he was reinforced by Michael (another archangel – Daniel 10:21; Daniel 12:1; Jude 1:9), allowing Gabriel to come to answer Daniel’s prayer (Daniel 10:12).
Gehenna – “Gehenna” means valley of Hinnom, the valley south of Jerusalem where a continually burning fire consumed the city refuse. This became an apt name for the eternal punishment of the wicked. (Bible Knowledge Commentary) See Lake of Fire.
Gentiles – In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word goyím, translated “Gentiles” or “nations,” usually refers to any non-Jewish peoples. Nehemiah 5:8. The Greek word “eqno” in the plural indicates “heathen” or “gentiles.”
God – There exists one Triune God, Creator of all things, eternally existing in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, co-equal in power and glory, and identical in nature, having the same attributes and perfections (Deuteronomy 6:4; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Matthew 3:16-17).
Gospel – The Apostle Paul defined the Gospel in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, “... the Gospel that I preached to you ... by which also you are saved... that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.” Paul hereby states clearly that one is saved by believing in Christ’s paying the penalty for one’s sins on the Cross and accepting Him as one’s personal Savior. The Gospel is full and free deliverance from the penalty of sin on the basis of simple faith in Jesus Christ, the vicarious sin bearer (Ephesians 2:8-10).
Gospels – A term that collectively refers to the first four books of the New Testament. Matthew describes the Coming One as a King. Mark presents Him as a Servant. Luke emphasizes the Humanity of our Lord. John presents Jesus Christ with emphasis on His Deity.
Grace – God’s free gift of unmerited favor. Grace is all that God is free to do for man on the basis of the saving work of Jesus Christ on the Cross; the gracious work of God on behalf of man even when man deserves the exact opposite (Romans 5:8; Rom 5:10; Rom 5:20). Man, through his own work, can never accomplish or achieve the favor of God. (Antonyms: Legalism and Religion).
Great Gulf Fixed – See Hades.
Great White Throne Judgment – The final judgment for unbelievers. Since they rejected the person of the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior, all of their good and evil acts will be evaluated to determine if their acts are sufficient for eternal life. However, unbelievers will be found wanting and will receive a just condemnation (John 5:22, 27; Revelation 20:12-15).
Greek – Koine (“common” or “shared”) Greek was a Greek dialect that grew out of Classical Greek. It became a widespread language from the time of Alexander the Great’s conquests in the fourth century B. C. to about 330 A.D., throughout the Hellenistic world. This is the language in which the Septuagint and New Testament were written. See Languages of Scripture.
Guardian Angels – Angels who minister to believers (Hebrews 1:14, “Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister for those who will inherit salvation?”).
H
Hades – Or Sheol; the temporary subterranean holding cell for certain humans and angels who await final judgments: Old Testament believers who waited for the final judgment of their sins on the cross; unbelievers who wait for the final condemnation at the Great White Throne Judgment; and likewise fallen angels. Hades is said to be comprised of three compartments, each corresponding to a category of creature: Abraham’s Bosom, or Paradise, (Luke 16:22-23; Luke 23:43) the compartment for the dead Old Testament believers, who waited for the judgment of their sins on the cross to be transferred to Heaven, which took place simultaneously with the ascension of Jesus Christ, when He “led captive captives” (Ephesians 4:8); Torments, (Luke 16:23-25) which remains the place of abode for dead unbelievers from all eras of human history, until the Great White Throne Judgment; After the Great White Throne Judgment, the unbelievers will be transferred to the Lake of Fire (or Gehenna) (Revelation 20:15); The final compartment of Hades is Tartarus, a cognate of the Greek verb tartarow, where “cast them down to hell” (NKJV) should be literally translated “consigned to Tartarus” (2 Peter 2:4). This is where the fallen angels who plotted against mankind are kept until their Last Judgment (Genesis 6:1-4 cf. 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6). Between Abraham’s Bosom and Torments there is a Great Gulf Fixed (Luke 16:26). Sheol is the Old Testament equivalent of the New Testament Hades.Sheol is sometimes synonymous with “the grave.” (Job 14:13; Psalm 9:17; Psalm 88:3; Ezekiel 32:21).
Hamartiology – The Doctrine of Sin (See Sin.)
Happiness – Sharing the Happiness of God. Inner happiness does not depend upon people, circumstances, or the circumstances of life. The believer is instructed to have an attitude of optimism, confidence, animation, and joy in the face of adversity, stress, and pressure. When one’s Spiritual Life takes precedence over circumstances, one carries God’s happiness as a constant companion (Job 5:21-22; Psalm 1:1-2; Psalm 40:4; Proverbs 29:18; Philippians 4:10-13).
Haven for the Jews – Nations that bless Israel will be blessed (Genesis 12:3). The Jews, as a dispersed people in the world, are often the target of Satanic persecution; Godly nations will become a safe haven for the Jews.
Head of the Body – One of seven scriptural illustrations that describe the relationship between Christ and His Church. The analogy represents the Church as the Body of Christ, with Christ as the Head. (Acts 2:47; 1 Corinthians 6:15; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14; Ephesians 2:16; Ephesians 4:4-5, 16; Ephesians 5:30-32; Colossians 1:24; Colossians 2:19).
Healing – A temporary spiritual gift, abolished with the completion of the canon of Scripture (See Spiritual Gifts).
Heart – A metaphorical term, from the Greek kardia (or Hebrew lēhv) , referring to various aspects of the human soul as the seat of mentality, conscience, or volition. The heart is described as “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9), while a “pure heart” can be the source of love (1 Timothy 1:5). The meaning of the word is highly dependent on the context.
Heathenism – A heathen is an unbeliever—someone who has heard and rejected the Gospel. (Romans 1:18-32; 2 Peter 2:1-16). Nations and people may be characterized by heathenism. Heathenism does not mean absence of opportunity, for the gospel is available to all, regardless of geography. (Titus 2:11; Colossians 1:6; Romans 10:18). See also Age of Accountability.
Heaven – Scripture speaks of three heavens (2 Corinthians 12:2). The first heaven is the earth’s atmosphere, the air which is above the ground where the birds fly, (Job 35:11; Hosea 2:18), and from which the rains come, (Genesis 7:11; Acts 14:17. The second heaven is the outer space of the physical universe, the abode of stars, planets, and other heavenly bodies (Genesis 1:1,8, 14-15). The third heaven is the abode of God and angels, (1 Kings 22:19; Psalm 102:19; Isaiah 63:15). After Jesus Christ’s resurrection and ascension, humanity was permitted into heaven for the first time. After His resurrection, He led the dead believers, who had been in Abraham’s Bosom, to the third heaven. The believer’s eternal future is in heaven (John 14:2-3;Colossians 1:5; 1 Peter 1:4-5).
Hebrew – The language of the Hebrews, in which the great majority of the Old Testament was written. See Languages of Scripture.
Heirship – An inheritance is activated upon the death of the owner of an estate (Hebrews 9:16-17). Usually, in biblical times, an heir was a son, either by birth or adoption. Regeneration by faith alone in Christ alone causes all believers to be born into the family of God (Galatians 3:26; John 1:12; Romans 8:16-17). The believers in Christ are adopted so that they receive the status of an adult son. Heirship is related to justification (Titus 3:7), redemption, and the New Covenant (Hebrews 9:15). Our inheritance is incorruptible and contributes to our Eternal Security (1 Peter 1:4-5).
Hell – See Hades.
Hermeneutics – The science and art of interpretation of Scripture. Hermeneutics establishes the rules to which a true analysis of the Scriptures must adhere for objectivity and accuracy in producing the intent and meaning of the original autograph. The objective of hermeneutics is to achieve the normal (literal), grammatical, and historical meaning of Scripture. Due regard must be given to the meaning of words, the form of sentences, and the peculiarities of idiom in the original language employed. Interpretation must proceed according to the local and/or more general context. Scripture must be compared with Scripture.
High Priest – See Royal Priesthood.
Holiness – The state of being set apart for a special purpose. Biblical holiness includes purity and freedom from evil. God is holy (Psa. 99:5, 9); elect angels are holy (Mark 8:38; Revelation 14:10); and Christians are to be holy, (Leviticus 19:2; Ephesians 1:4; 5:27).
Holy Spirit – The Holy Spirit is the third member of the Trinity, co-equal, co-infinite, and co-eternal with the Father and the Son, identical in His essence, but different in personality and work. The ministry of the Holy Spirit is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ. During this age, the Holy Spirit’s ministry includes the following: convincing an unbelieving world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8-11); the Holy Spirit regenerates believers at the moment of belief in Christ, indwelling them, baptizing them into the Body of Christ, and sealing them unto the day of redemption (John 3:7-8; Ephesians 1:13-14; Romans 6:3); the Holy Spirit knows the depths of God and reveals them to believers in Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 2:10-16); He imparts at least one spiritual gift to every believer (1 Corinthians 12:7); it is the duty of every believer to be filled by the Holy Spirit, who guides, instructs, empowers (Ephesians 5:18).
The Holy Spirit inspired the completed canon of Scripture (John 16:12-15 cf. 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
The Holy Spirit continues to minister to believers throughout their lives, enabling them by His power to live the Christian life by grace, so as to produce the holy fruit of Christ-like character (Ephesians 3:16-20; Ephesians 5:18-21; Galatians 5:22-23). Each believer is commanded to walk (live moment by moment) by means of the Holy Spirit, but the Spirit is grieved or quenched by acts of personal sin (Romans 8:14; Galatians 5:16, 25; 1 Thessalonians 5:19).
Homosexuality – Any sexual activity between persons of the same sex. The prototypical teaching of the Bible related to sexual behavior is found in Genesis 1:27 and 2:23-24, which stands as the pattern by which all sexual relations are measured in Scripture. This created archetype is the foundation of sexual relations (Ephesians 5:22-33; 1 Corinthians 6:16). Consequently, all sexual acts outside of the marriage of one male and one female are stated to be immoral and sinful by Scripture. Homosexual acts are declared in both the Old and New Testaments as being abhorrent, unnatural, and contrary to the purposes of God. (Leviticus 18:22-29; Leviticus 20:13; Romans 1:24-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 ; 1 Timothy 1:10; Jude 1:7). However, those who have been enslaved by homosexuality may subsequently be saved (1 Corinthians 6:9-11), recover from previous behavior, and grow to spiritual maturity.
Human Body – The material part of the human constitution, comprised of cell tissue, genetic information, and the functions necessary to sustain living material. The human body is physical and mortal and does not include a soul or spirit, which are immaterial and immortal. The human body of the believer is said to be the sanctuary of the Holy Spirit...we are to glorify God in our bodies (1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 2 Corinthians 6:16; cf. John 2:21). Yet the flesh is also the seat of the sin nature, the seat of temptation to the soul; hence there is a constant inward warfare between the Spirit and the flesh (Romans 7:15-24; Galatians 5:17-21).
Human Freedom – The human soul has free will, with the ability to choose between right and wrong. Every National Entity, as a divine institution, has a responsibility to protect its citizens’ rightful use of volition and freedom of choice. Governments should not institute any man-concocted restraints on the release of creative human energy based on human freedom1 Timothy 2:1-4. God ordained constraints on human activities are necessary. Of course, human release of destructive energy should be restrained or punished, particularly when it infringes on the volition of other citizens or on other divine institutions.
Human Good – Deeds produced under the control of the sin nature are sometimes called “human good.” The believer withunconfessed sin in his life is not spiritual but carnal (controlled by the sin nature ). The good deeds of a carnal Christian are indistinguishable from good deeds performed by an unbeliever and have no spiritual value; they will be burned up at the judgment seat of Christ (1 Corinthians 3:11-15). (Antonym: Divine Good.) (Also, see Confession of Sin.)
Human Soul – The immaterial part of mankind made up of self-consciousness, mentality, conscience, emotion, and volition. Historically, Biblical scholars and philosophers have disagreed on the origin of the human soul, and, three dominant views are extant.
Hades – Or Sheol; the temporary subterranean holding cell for certain humans and angels who await final judgments: Old Testament believers who waited for the final judgment of their sins on the cross; unbelievers who wait for the final condemnation at the Great White Throne Judgment; and likewise fallen angels. Hades is said to be comprised of three compartments, each corresponding to a category of creature: Abraham’s Bosom, or Paradise, (Luke 16:22-23; Luke 23:43) the compartment for the dead Old Testament believers, who waited for the judgment of their sins on the cross to be transferred to Heaven, which took place simultaneously with the ascension of Jesus Christ, when He “led captive captives” (Ephesians 4:8); Torments, (Luke 16:23-25) which remains the place of abode for dead unbelievers from all eras of human history, until the Great White Throne Judgment; After the Great White Throne Judgment, the unbelievers will be transferred to the Lake of Fire (or Gehenna) (Revelation 20:15); The final compartment of Hades is Tartarus, a cognate of the Greek verb tartarow, where “cast them down to hell” (NKJV) should be literally translated “consigned to Tartarus” (2 Peter 2:4). This is where the fallen angels who plotted against mankind are kept until their Last Judgment (Genesis 6:1-4 cf. 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6). Between Abraham’s Bosom and Torments there is a Great Gulf Fixed (Luke 16:26). Sheol is the Old Testament equivalent of the New Testament Hades.Sheol is sometimes synonymous with “the grave.” (Job 14:13; Psalm 9:17; Psalm 88:3; Ezekiel 32:21).
Hamartiology – The Doctrine of Sin (See Sin.)
Happiness – Sharing the Happiness of God. Inner happiness does not depend upon people, circumstances, or the circumstances of life. The believer is instructed to have an attitude of optimism, confidence, animation, and joy in the face of adversity, stress, and pressure. When one’s Spiritual Life takes precedence over circumstances, one carries God’s happiness as a constant companion (Job 5:21-22; Psalm 1:1-2; Psalm 40:4; Proverbs 29:18; Philippians 4:10-13).
Haven for the Jews – Nations that bless Israel will be blessed (Genesis 12:3). The Jews, as a dispersed people in the world, are often the target of Satanic persecution; Godly nations will become a safe haven for the Jews.
Head of the Body – One of seven scriptural illustrations that describe the relationship between Christ and His Church. The analogy represents the Church as the Body of Christ, with Christ as the Head. (Acts 2:47; 1 Corinthians 6:15; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14; Ephesians 2:16; Ephesians 4:4-5, 16; Ephesians 5:30-32; Colossians 1:24; Colossians 2:19).
Healing – A temporary spiritual gift, abolished with the completion of the canon of Scripture (See Spiritual Gifts).
Heart – A metaphorical term, from the Greek kardia (or Hebrew lēhv) , referring to various aspects of the human soul as the seat of mentality, conscience, or volition. The heart is described as “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9), while a “pure heart” can be the source of love (1 Timothy 1:5). The meaning of the word is highly dependent on the context.
Heathenism – A heathen is an unbeliever—someone who has heard and rejected the Gospel. (Romans 1:18-32; 2 Peter 2:1-16). Nations and people may be characterized by heathenism. Heathenism does not mean absence of opportunity, for the gospel is available to all, regardless of geography. (Titus 2:11; Colossians 1:6; Romans 10:18). See also Age of Accountability.
Heaven – Scripture speaks of three heavens (2 Corinthians 12:2). The first heaven is the earth’s atmosphere, the air which is above the ground where the birds fly, (Job 35:11; Hosea 2:18), and from which the rains come, (Genesis 7:11; Acts 14:17. The second heaven is the outer space of the physical universe, the abode of stars, planets, and other heavenly bodies (Genesis 1:1,8, 14-15). The third heaven is the abode of God and angels, (1 Kings 22:19; Psalm 102:19; Isaiah 63:15). After Jesus Christ’s resurrection and ascension, humanity was permitted into heaven for the first time. After His resurrection, He led the dead believers, who had been in Abraham’s Bosom, to the third heaven. The believer’s eternal future is in heaven (John 14:2-3;Colossians 1:5; 1 Peter 1:4-5).
Hebrew – The language of the Hebrews, in which the great majority of the Old Testament was written. See Languages of Scripture.
Heirship – An inheritance is activated upon the death of the owner of an estate (Hebrews 9:16-17). Usually, in biblical times, an heir was a son, either by birth or adoption. Regeneration by faith alone in Christ alone causes all believers to be born into the family of God (Galatians 3:26; John 1:12; Romans 8:16-17). The believers in Christ are adopted so that they receive the status of an adult son. Heirship is related to justification (Titus 3:7), redemption, and the New Covenant (Hebrews 9:15). Our inheritance is incorruptible and contributes to our Eternal Security (1 Peter 1:4-5).
Hell – See Hades.
Hermeneutics – The science and art of interpretation of Scripture. Hermeneutics establishes the rules to which a true analysis of the Scriptures must adhere for objectivity and accuracy in producing the intent and meaning of the original autograph. The objective of hermeneutics is to achieve the normal (literal), grammatical, and historical meaning of Scripture. Due regard must be given to the meaning of words, the form of sentences, and the peculiarities of idiom in the original language employed. Interpretation must proceed according to the local and/or more general context. Scripture must be compared with Scripture.
High Priest – See Royal Priesthood.
Holiness – The state of being set apart for a special purpose. Biblical holiness includes purity and freedom from evil. God is holy (Psa. 99:5, 9); elect angels are holy (Mark 8:38; Revelation 14:10); and Christians are to be holy, (Leviticus 19:2; Ephesians 1:4; 5:27).
Holy Spirit – The Holy Spirit is the third member of the Trinity, co-equal, co-infinite, and co-eternal with the Father and the Son, identical in His essence, but different in personality and work. The ministry of the Holy Spirit is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ. During this age, the Holy Spirit’s ministry includes the following: convincing an unbelieving world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8-11); the Holy Spirit regenerates believers at the moment of belief in Christ, indwelling them, baptizing them into the Body of Christ, and sealing them unto the day of redemption (John 3:7-8; Ephesians 1:13-14; Romans 6:3); the Holy Spirit knows the depths of God and reveals them to believers in Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 2:10-16); He imparts at least one spiritual gift to every believer (1 Corinthians 12:7); it is the duty of every believer to be filled by the Holy Spirit, who guides, instructs, empowers (Ephesians 5:18).
The Holy Spirit inspired the completed canon of Scripture (John 16:12-15 cf. 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
The Holy Spirit continues to minister to believers throughout their lives, enabling them by His power to live the Christian life by grace, so as to produce the holy fruit of Christ-like character (Ephesians 3:16-20; Ephesians 5:18-21; Galatians 5:22-23). Each believer is commanded to walk (live moment by moment) by means of the Holy Spirit, but the Spirit is grieved or quenched by acts of personal sin (Romans 8:14; Galatians 5:16, 25; 1 Thessalonians 5:19).
Homosexuality – Any sexual activity between persons of the same sex. The prototypical teaching of the Bible related to sexual behavior is found in Genesis 1:27 and 2:23-24, which stands as the pattern by which all sexual relations are measured in Scripture. This created archetype is the foundation of sexual relations (Ephesians 5:22-33; 1 Corinthians 6:16). Consequently, all sexual acts outside of the marriage of one male and one female are stated to be immoral and sinful by Scripture. Homosexual acts are declared in both the Old and New Testaments as being abhorrent, unnatural, and contrary to the purposes of God. (Leviticus 18:22-29; Leviticus 20:13; Romans 1:24-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 ; 1 Timothy 1:10; Jude 1:7). However, those who have been enslaved by homosexuality may subsequently be saved (1 Corinthians 6:9-11), recover from previous behavior, and grow to spiritual maturity.
Human Body – The material part of the human constitution, comprised of cell tissue, genetic information, and the functions necessary to sustain living material. The human body is physical and mortal and does not include a soul or spirit, which are immaterial and immortal. The human body of the believer is said to be the sanctuary of the Holy Spirit...we are to glorify God in our bodies (1 Corinthians 3:16; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 2 Corinthians 6:16; cf. John 2:21). Yet the flesh is also the seat of the sin nature, the seat of temptation to the soul; hence there is a constant inward warfare between the Spirit and the flesh (Romans 7:15-24; Galatians 5:17-21).
Human Freedom – The human soul has free will, with the ability to choose between right and wrong. Every National Entity, as a divine institution, has a responsibility to protect its citizens’ rightful use of volition and freedom of choice. Governments should not institute any man-concocted restraints on the release of creative human energy based on human freedom1 Timothy 2:1-4. God ordained constraints on human activities are necessary. Of course, human release of destructive energy should be restrained or punished, particularly when it infringes on the volition of other citizens or on other divine institutions.
Human Good – Deeds produced under the control of the sin nature are sometimes called “human good.” The believer withunconfessed sin in his life is not spiritual but carnal (controlled by the sin nature ). The good deeds of a carnal Christian are indistinguishable from good deeds performed by an unbeliever and have no spiritual value; they will be burned up at the judgment seat of Christ (1 Corinthians 3:11-15). (Antonym: Divine Good.) (Also, see Confession of Sin.)
Human Soul – The immaterial part of mankind made up of self-consciousness, mentality, conscience, emotion, and volition. Historically, Biblical scholars and philosophers have disagreed on the origin of the human soul, and, three dominant views are extant.
1. Creationism: This view holds that each human soul is an immediate creation of God. It is united with the body at some early stage of development, traditionally at birth, though some recent discussion has placed this at conception. Only the body is propagated from past generations. This view does not validate abortion.
2. Traducianism: This view holds that the human race was immediately created in Adam, with respect to the soul as well as the body, and that both are propagated through mediate creation through human procreation.
3. Pre-existence: This view holds that souls pre-exist in a previous state, and enter the body at some early stage of development. This theory, often associated with reincarnation, also holds that sin and death are the result of sin in a previous existence. Christianity has never held this position.
2. Traducianism: This view holds that the human race was immediately created in Adam, with respect to the soul as well as the body, and that both are propagated through mediate creation through human procreation.
3. Pre-existence: This view holds that souls pre-exist in a previous state, and enter the body at some early stage of development. This theory, often associated with reincarnation, also holds that sin and death are the result of sin in a previous existence. Christianity has never held this position.
Human Spirit – Mankind was created as a trichotomous being, having body, soul, and human spirit. The human spirit is the immaterial part of man designed by God to convert, to store, and to utilize spiritual phenomena (Romans 8:16 cf. Romans 9:1;1 Corinthians 2:14). Because of spiritual death and the imputation of Adam’s Original Sin to each human being, all are born into a dichotomous state, lacking the human spirit. The human spirit is created by the Holy Spirit at the moment a person expresses faith alone in Christ alone and passes from spiritual death to Spiritual Life (John 3:6). This is regeneration. The human spirit is corruptible and correctible, (1 Thessalonians 5:23). Human viewpoint—the opposite of divine viewpoint—is any attitude regarding any subject without the benefit of, and perspective gained from, Biblical truth. Human viewpoint is the viewpoint of the immature Christian, who has little ability to understand God’s plan for his life.
Hypostatic Union – The presence of two natures, undiminished deity (John 1:1-3, 14, 18; John 8:58; John 10:30; John 14:9;Hebrews 1:1-3; Hebrews 8-12) and true humanity (John 1:14; Romans 5:15, 18-19; 1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 2:14-18; Hebrews 4:15; Hebrews 4:2; 2 John 1:7), in the one person of Jesus Christ, both natures being inseparably united, without loss or mixture of separate identity, without loss or transfer of properties or attributes, the union being personal and eternal. The biblical teaching of the hypostatic union was the culmination of centuries of bitter debate among early Christians. It is derived not from church fiat or creed but from the Bible itself, the only proper origin for any doctrine. Jesus Christ, from the moment of the incarnation, is both fully man and fully God. The testimony concerning His two natures comes entirely from Scripture, in the form of direct statement, the testimony of others, and self-testimony.
Hypostatic Union – The presence of two natures, undiminished deity (John 1:1-3, 14, 18; John 8:58; John 10:30; John 14:9;Hebrews 1:1-3; Hebrews 8-12) and true humanity (John 1:14; Romans 5:15, 18-19; 1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 2:14-18; Hebrews 4:15; Hebrews 4:2; 2 John 1:7), in the one person of Jesus Christ, both natures being inseparably united, without loss or mixture of separate identity, without loss or transfer of properties or attributes, the union being personal and eternal. The biblical teaching of the hypostatic union was the culmination of centuries of bitter debate among early Christians. It is derived not from church fiat or creed but from the Bible itself, the only proper origin for any doctrine. Jesus Christ, from the moment of the incarnation, is both fully man and fully God. The testimony concerning His two natures comes entirely from Scripture, in the form of direct statement, the testimony of others, and self-testimony.
I
Image of God – The immaterial, invisible essence of mankind (Genesis 1:26-27). The pattern God used to create mankind was Himself. Our immaterial essence includes volition, emotion, self-consciousness, conscience, and mentality. See Human Soul.
Immanence of God – While God’s attribute of transcendence emphasizes His state of existence as being different from and superior to ours (Isaiah 46:9-10), the doctrine of God’s immanence reminds us that He is not distanced from us in a way that renders personal attention and communication with Him impossible. In fact, the Bible portrays God as One who is deeply involved in human history and individual lives. Both His presence and His power are a vital part of the universe and the world of men. For example, Psalm 139:7-10 indicates that besides being present everywhere, God can also be present to provide guidance and assistance. He is far different from and superior to us, and yet He can have personal interactions with human beings. God is both transcendent and immanent, and these two attributes do not contradict or diminish each other. (Not to be confused with imminent.)
Immaterial Part of Man – The human soul of man, together with the human spirit of regenerate man (Hebrews 4:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 1 Corinthians 15:44; Genesis 2:7).
Immensity – God’s infinity related to space. He is not limited or circumscribed by finite space, all of which is dependent on Him. (1 Kings 8:27; 2 Chronicles 2:6; Jeremiah 23:24; Psalm 139:7-10; Isaiah 66:1).
Imminent – Capable of occurring at any moment. The Rapture of the Church is said to be imminent (Colossians 3:4; 1 Corinthians 1:7; 1 Peter 4:7; James 5:8; Revelation 3:11), since there are no prophecies which must be fulfilled prior to that event. (Not to be confused with immanent.)
Immutability – An absolute attribute of God. God is not capable of or susceptible to change, either by increase or by decrease, by development or by self-evolution. He is unchangeable, invariable, and permanent in His essence and character (1 Samuel 15:29;Psalm 102:24-27; Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 1:11-12; Hebrews 6:17-18; Hebrews 13:8; James 1:17).
Impeccability – The doctrine of Christology which asserts that during the incarnation Jesus Christ did not in fact commit any act of sin (2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 1:19; 1 Peter 2:22). He remained sinless, though His temptations were real (Matthew 4:1-11;Hebrews 4:15).
Imprecatory Prayer – A prayer in which God is asked to bring about justice or harm to someone else. Examples are found in Psalms 35, 55, 58-59, among others.
Imputation – The judicial act of crediting a debit or credit to someone’s account. Imputation means to attribute a quality, faculty, or an act to an entity which may or may not naturally possess such characteristic. E.g. The condemnation of Adam’s original sin is credited to each person at birth. God’s Eternal Life is credited to each person at the moment of faith in Jesus Christ. (See following.)
Imputation of Adam’s Sin – The crediting of Adam’s sin to the whole human race (“imputed sin”) (Romans 5:12-21), in which God imputes to us (charges to our account) what was antecedently our own (what actually belonged to us in the first place). Where Romans 5:12 says that “death passed upon [logizomai]all men, for that all have sinned,” death is stated to be part of our spiritual heritage from Adam. Spiritual death has been reckoned or debited to our account. Adam’s sin was not his alone. It was placed into every human being’s account. The result of this imputation is total depravity.
Imputation of Man’s Sin to Christ on the Cross – The second type of imputation (Isaiah 53:5.6,11; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24) involves God the Father imputing to the Lord Jesus Christ that which did not belong to Him. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says that “He [Christ] was made to be [logizomai]sin for us, even though he knew no sin...” This is the Biblical concept of substitution; Christ died as a substitute for us, paying the penalty for our sins, not His own sins—He was sinless (Isaiah 53:4-6). The verse does not say that Christ became a sinner, but that sin which was not His was credited to His account.
Imputation of God’s absolute righteousness to the believer – A third imputation is of God’s absolute righteousness to the account of the believer in Christ (Romans 4:5-6,21-24; 2 Corinthians5:21; Galatians3:6; ). This third type of imputation occurs when God imputes (credits) to the sinner that which is not antecedently his own. Again, 2 Corinthians 5:21, “that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” Here, the actual perfect righteousness of God is credited to us. This righteousness, which is placed on the credit side of our ledger, is known as imputed righteousness.
Incarnation of Christ – The Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, became man, without ceasing to be God, having been conceived of the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35), and born of the virgin Mary (Isaiah 7:14 cf. Matthew 1:18), in order that He might reveal God, redeem sinful man, and come to the aid of those who are tempted. He accomplished our redemption through His spiritual death on the cross as a substitutionary sacrifice. Our redemption is made sure to us by his literal physical resurrection from the dead (John 1:1-2,14, 18; Romans 3:24-25; Romans 4:25; 1 Peter 1:3-5). The Lord Jesus Christ is now in Heaven, exalted at the right hand of God, where as the high priest for His people, He fulfills the ministry of Representative, Intercessor, and Advocate (Hebrews 2:14-18; Hebrews 4:14-16; Hebrews 9:24; Hebrews 7:25; Rom 8:34; 1 John 2:1-2).
Indwelling of Christ – One of the present (Church Age) ministries of our Lord Jesus Christ is His indwelling of the believer, whereby through His Word and by the power of His Holy Spirit, His holy character is manifest in the lives of those who seek Him and love Him, forming a living hope for resurrection and eternal reward. (Ephesians 3:17; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 1:27, cf. Colossians 3:16; John 14:20-21; Romans 8:9-11; 2 Corinthians 13:5).
Indwelling of the Father – One of the present (Church Age) ministries of our heavenly Father is His indwelling of the believer, a guarantee of the unity of all Christians (Ephesians 4:6).
Indwelling of the Holy Spirit – A permanent status acquired at the moment of salvation by every Church Age believer, which transforms the body into a temple for the simultaneous indwelling of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19).
Inerrancy of the Scriptures – Scripture, having been inspired by God the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21), is free from all falsehood, fraud, or deceit. The sinfulness and human limits of the writers of Scripture did not in any way introduce distortion or falsehood into God’s Word. Also, the absence of the original autograph of the Scriptures does not render the assertion of inerrancy invalid or irrelevant (Job 36:4; Psalm 19:7).
Image of God – The immaterial, invisible essence of mankind (Genesis 1:26-27). The pattern God used to create mankind was Himself. Our immaterial essence includes volition, emotion, self-consciousness, conscience, and mentality. See Human Soul.
Immanence of God – While God’s attribute of transcendence emphasizes His state of existence as being different from and superior to ours (Isaiah 46:9-10), the doctrine of God’s immanence reminds us that He is not distanced from us in a way that renders personal attention and communication with Him impossible. In fact, the Bible portrays God as One who is deeply involved in human history and individual lives. Both His presence and His power are a vital part of the universe and the world of men. For example, Psalm 139:7-10 indicates that besides being present everywhere, God can also be present to provide guidance and assistance. He is far different from and superior to us, and yet He can have personal interactions with human beings. God is both transcendent and immanent, and these two attributes do not contradict or diminish each other. (Not to be confused with imminent.)
Immaterial Part of Man – The human soul of man, together with the human spirit of regenerate man (Hebrews 4:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 1 Corinthians 15:44; Genesis 2:7).
Immensity – God’s infinity related to space. He is not limited or circumscribed by finite space, all of which is dependent on Him. (1 Kings 8:27; 2 Chronicles 2:6; Jeremiah 23:24; Psalm 139:7-10; Isaiah 66:1).
Imminent – Capable of occurring at any moment. The Rapture of the Church is said to be imminent (Colossians 3:4; 1 Corinthians 1:7; 1 Peter 4:7; James 5:8; Revelation 3:11), since there are no prophecies which must be fulfilled prior to that event. (Not to be confused with immanent.)
Immutability – An absolute attribute of God. God is not capable of or susceptible to change, either by increase or by decrease, by development or by self-evolution. He is unchangeable, invariable, and permanent in His essence and character (1 Samuel 15:29;Psalm 102:24-27; Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 1:11-12; Hebrews 6:17-18; Hebrews 13:8; James 1:17).
Impeccability – The doctrine of Christology which asserts that during the incarnation Jesus Christ did not in fact commit any act of sin (2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 1:19; 1 Peter 2:22). He remained sinless, though His temptations were real (Matthew 4:1-11;Hebrews 4:15).
Imprecatory Prayer – A prayer in which God is asked to bring about justice or harm to someone else. Examples are found in Psalms 35, 55, 58-59, among others.
Imputation – The judicial act of crediting a debit or credit to someone’s account. Imputation means to attribute a quality, faculty, or an act to an entity which may or may not naturally possess such characteristic. E.g. The condemnation of Adam’s original sin is credited to each person at birth. God’s Eternal Life is credited to each person at the moment of faith in Jesus Christ. (See following.)
Imputation of Adam’s Sin – The crediting of Adam’s sin to the whole human race (“imputed sin”) (Romans 5:12-21), in which God imputes to us (charges to our account) what was antecedently our own (what actually belonged to us in the first place). Where Romans 5:12 says that “death passed upon [logizomai]all men, for that all have sinned,” death is stated to be part of our spiritual heritage from Adam. Spiritual death has been reckoned or debited to our account. Adam’s sin was not his alone. It was placed into every human being’s account. The result of this imputation is total depravity.
Imputation of Man’s Sin to Christ on the Cross – The second type of imputation (Isaiah 53:5.6,11; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24) involves God the Father imputing to the Lord Jesus Christ that which did not belong to Him. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says that “He [Christ] was made to be [logizomai]sin for us, even though he knew no sin...” This is the Biblical concept of substitution; Christ died as a substitute for us, paying the penalty for our sins, not His own sins—He was sinless (Isaiah 53:4-6). The verse does not say that Christ became a sinner, but that sin which was not His was credited to His account.
Imputation of God’s absolute righteousness to the believer – A third imputation is of God’s absolute righteousness to the account of the believer in Christ (Romans 4:5-6,21-24; 2 Corinthians5:21; Galatians3:6; ). This third type of imputation occurs when God imputes (credits) to the sinner that which is not antecedently his own. Again, 2 Corinthians 5:21, “that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” Here, the actual perfect righteousness of God is credited to us. This righteousness, which is placed on the credit side of our ledger, is known as imputed righteousness.
Incarnation of Christ – The Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, became man, without ceasing to be God, having been conceived of the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35), and born of the virgin Mary (Isaiah 7:14 cf. Matthew 1:18), in order that He might reveal God, redeem sinful man, and come to the aid of those who are tempted. He accomplished our redemption through His spiritual death on the cross as a substitutionary sacrifice. Our redemption is made sure to us by his literal physical resurrection from the dead (John 1:1-2,14, 18; Romans 3:24-25; Romans 4:25; 1 Peter 1:3-5). The Lord Jesus Christ is now in Heaven, exalted at the right hand of God, where as the high priest for His people, He fulfills the ministry of Representative, Intercessor, and Advocate (Hebrews 2:14-18; Hebrews 4:14-16; Hebrews 9:24; Hebrews 7:25; Rom 8:34; 1 John 2:1-2).
Indwelling of Christ – One of the present (Church Age) ministries of our Lord Jesus Christ is His indwelling of the believer, whereby through His Word and by the power of His Holy Spirit, His holy character is manifest in the lives of those who seek Him and love Him, forming a living hope for resurrection and eternal reward. (Ephesians 3:17; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 1:27, cf. Colossians 3:16; John 14:20-21; Romans 8:9-11; 2 Corinthians 13:5).
Indwelling of the Father – One of the present (Church Age) ministries of our heavenly Father is His indwelling of the believer, a guarantee of the unity of all Christians (Ephesians 4:6).
Indwelling of the Holy Spirit – A permanent status acquired at the moment of salvation by every Church Age believer, which transforms the body into a temple for the simultaneous indwelling of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19).
Inerrancy of the Scriptures – Scripture, having been inspired by God the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21), is free from all falsehood, fraud, or deceit. The sinfulness and human limits of the writers of Scripture did not in any way introduce distortion or falsehood into God’s Word. Also, the absence of the original autograph of the Scriptures does not render the assertion of inerrancy invalid or irrelevant (Job 36:4; Psalm 19:7).
Infallibility of the Scriptures – Scripture, having been inspired by God the Holy Spirit, is true and reliable in all the matters it addresses. It does not fail. Infallibility and inerrancy may be distinguished, but not separated.
Infinity – An Absolute Attribute of God, related to His power, resources, and mode of being that are boundless (Psalm 147:5).
Inherent Sin – See Sin
Inspiration – God the Holy Spirit so supernaturally directed the human writers of Scripture, that without waiving their human intelligence, vocabulary, individuality, literary style, personality, personal feelings, or any other human factor, His complete and coherent message to mankind was recorded with perfect accuracy in the original languages of Scripture, the very words bearing the authority of divine authorship. “Inspiration” is translated from the Greek, θeopneustos, literally meaning “God-breathed.” “No progress has ever been made in formulating doctrine from the Bible when men have doubted the inspiration of the Scriptures in all its parts” (Chafer, VII, p.201). (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; 2 Peter 3:16; 1 Corinthians 2:16).
Verbal inspiration means that, in the original manuscripts, the Holy Spirit guided in the choice of words used. Human authorship was respected to the extent that the writer’s literary style and vocabulary were employed, but without the intrusion of error.
Plenary inspiration means that the accuracy which verbal inspiration secures is extended to the entire Bible, so that it is inerrant and infallible in all of its parts.
Intercalation – An introduction or insertion of an additional day or period of time into a calendar. An example is the insertion of February 29 between February 28 and March 1 in leap years. The Church Age was inserted into the Age of Israel, between Daniel’s 69th and 70th weeks. The completion of the Age of Israel will come at the end of the Church Age; the final portion of Israel’s dispensation is the Great Tribulation.
Intercession by our Lord Jesus Christ – The present ministry of our Lord, “who is even at the right hand of God,” includes being our intercessor (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 2:14-18; 7:25). Moreover, since Christ is also the sole mediator between God and men (1 Timothy 2:5), it follows that there is no place for any other intercessor or mediator. Those who claim that saints or angels can be influenced to intercede for us are incorrect, and cast doubt on the perfect adequacy of the intercession of Christ on our behalf. Our Lord clearly taught that no man can come to the Father except by Him (John 14:6; Hebrews 7:25), and that our approach to and requests to God are to be made in His name (John 14:13-14; John 15:16; John 16:23, 24, 26; Acts 4:12).
Intercession by the Holy Spirit – A synonym for the ministry of the Holy Spirit related to God’s Word. “We know not what we should pray for as we ought...” (Romans 8:26-27) because we are ignorant of God’s will for our lives. Therefore, God the Holy Spirit intercedes for us that we might understand it through Scripture (1 Corinthians 2:11).
Internationalism – After the flood, as a consequence of natural factors, the peoples of the earth organized themselves into nations (Genesis 10:1-5,32). Immediately Satan saw the advantage of controlling all the nations of the world under one government. This was the Babel conspiracy (Genesis 11:1-9). Internationalism is the plot of Satan to dominate of the world through government, perpetrating his policies of slavery on all. As recorded in Genesis 11:1-9, God separated the human race into national entities, separated by geographical and linguistic barriers which help prevent the destruction of the race. Such protection is similar to the protection from sinking by hull damage provided by the construction of water-tight sections in a ship’s hull. If one national entity is involved in apostasy or pursues detrimental policies, other nations will survive that former nation’s destruction. Nations serve to perpetuate freedom for the Gospel (1 Timothy 2:1-4). The Great Tribulation is characterized by Satan’s international domination of the world through one world nation (Daniel 7:23-25).
Interpretation of Scripture – The application of hermeneutical principles in order to obtain the original meaning of the BibleBible.
Isagogics – The interpretation of Scripture within the framework of its cultural or historical setting. Interpretation is not dependent on Isagogics, and therefore Isagogics are not determinative of meaning. They do however help to shed further light on the meaning within Scripture. An example of isagogics would be understanding from secular sources the wedding customs of Israel as they would apply to the wedding at Cana, especially regarding the dispensing of wine (John 2:1-11).
Israel, Dispensation of – The dispensation of Israel, also known as the Jewish Age, began with the establishment of the Nation of Israel, at the time of the Exodus, culminating the transitional age of the patriarchs in which God established the Jewish race, and ended with the incarnation of Christ. There remains yet seven years in the Age of Israel, the Great Tribulation, Daniel’s 70th week (Daniel 9:24-27).
Israel, New Covenant to – See Covenants to Israel.
Infinity – An Absolute Attribute of God, related to His power, resources, and mode of being that are boundless (Psalm 147:5).
Inherent Sin – See Sin
Inspiration – God the Holy Spirit so supernaturally directed the human writers of Scripture, that without waiving their human intelligence, vocabulary, individuality, literary style, personality, personal feelings, or any other human factor, His complete and coherent message to mankind was recorded with perfect accuracy in the original languages of Scripture, the very words bearing the authority of divine authorship. “Inspiration” is translated from the Greek, θeopneustos, literally meaning “God-breathed.” “No progress has ever been made in formulating doctrine from the Bible when men have doubted the inspiration of the Scriptures in all its parts” (Chafer, VII, p.201). (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; 2 Peter 3:16; 1 Corinthians 2:16).
Verbal inspiration means that, in the original manuscripts, the Holy Spirit guided in the choice of words used. Human authorship was respected to the extent that the writer’s literary style and vocabulary were employed, but without the intrusion of error.
Plenary inspiration means that the accuracy which verbal inspiration secures is extended to the entire Bible, so that it is inerrant and infallible in all of its parts.
Intercalation – An introduction or insertion of an additional day or period of time into a calendar. An example is the insertion of February 29 between February 28 and March 1 in leap years. The Church Age was inserted into the Age of Israel, between Daniel’s 69th and 70th weeks. The completion of the Age of Israel will come at the end of the Church Age; the final portion of Israel’s dispensation is the Great Tribulation.
Intercession by our Lord Jesus Christ – The present ministry of our Lord, “who is even at the right hand of God,” includes being our intercessor (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 2:14-18; 7:25). Moreover, since Christ is also the sole mediator between God and men (1 Timothy 2:5), it follows that there is no place for any other intercessor or mediator. Those who claim that saints or angels can be influenced to intercede for us are incorrect, and cast doubt on the perfect adequacy of the intercession of Christ on our behalf. Our Lord clearly taught that no man can come to the Father except by Him (John 14:6; Hebrews 7:25), and that our approach to and requests to God are to be made in His name (John 14:13-14; John 15:16; John 16:23, 24, 26; Acts 4:12).
Intercession by the Holy Spirit – A synonym for the ministry of the Holy Spirit related to God’s Word. “We know not what we should pray for as we ought...” (Romans 8:26-27) because we are ignorant of God’s will for our lives. Therefore, God the Holy Spirit intercedes for us that we might understand it through Scripture (1 Corinthians 2:11).
Internationalism – After the flood, as a consequence of natural factors, the peoples of the earth organized themselves into nations (Genesis 10:1-5,32). Immediately Satan saw the advantage of controlling all the nations of the world under one government. This was the Babel conspiracy (Genesis 11:1-9). Internationalism is the plot of Satan to dominate of the world through government, perpetrating his policies of slavery on all. As recorded in Genesis 11:1-9, God separated the human race into national entities, separated by geographical and linguistic barriers which help prevent the destruction of the race. Such protection is similar to the protection from sinking by hull damage provided by the construction of water-tight sections in a ship’s hull. If one national entity is involved in apostasy or pursues detrimental policies, other nations will survive that former nation’s destruction. Nations serve to perpetuate freedom for the Gospel (1 Timothy 2:1-4). The Great Tribulation is characterized by Satan’s international domination of the world through one world nation (Daniel 7:23-25).
Interpretation of Scripture – The application of hermeneutical principles in order to obtain the original meaning of the BibleBible.
Isagogics – The interpretation of Scripture within the framework of its cultural or historical setting. Interpretation is not dependent on Isagogics, and therefore Isagogics are not determinative of meaning. They do however help to shed further light on the meaning within Scripture. An example of isagogics would be understanding from secular sources the wedding customs of Israel as they would apply to the wedding at Cana, especially regarding the dispensing of wine (John 2:1-11).
Israel, Dispensation of – The dispensation of Israel, also known as the Jewish Age, began with the establishment of the Nation of Israel, at the time of the Exodus, culminating the transitional age of the patriarchs in which God established the Jewish race, and ended with the incarnation of Christ. There remains yet seven years in the Age of Israel, the Great Tribulation, Daniel’s 70th week (Daniel 9:24-27).
Israel, New Covenant to – See Covenants to Israel.
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Jehovah – The name Jehovah [LORD] means “The Self-Existent One,” or as in Exodus 3:14, “I AM WHO I AM.” Consequently, Jehovah is “the eternal I AM.” The Hebrew four-letter word (tetragrammaton) YHWH (Jehovah or Yahweh) is used in the Old Testament for any member of the Trinity. Considering this name too sacred to pronounce, the Jews used Adonai as a substitute for YHWH and by adding the vowels from Adonai to the consonants of YHWH to form the term Yahweh.
Jehovah, Angel of – A pre-incarnation appearance of Jesus Christ. One of various translations, including “Angel of Yahweh” and “Angel of the LORD.” Also, see Theophany.
Jesus Christ – The unique Theanthropic Person of the Universe. Jesus Christ, in His hypostatic union, is both undiminished deity and true humanity in one person. His two natures are inseparably united without loss or mixture of separate identity, without loss or transfer of properties or attributes, the union being personal and eternal. During the incarnation, Jesus Christ operated under the policy of kenosis (Philippians 2:5-8). In His deity, He is the Second Person of the Trinity, co-equal with the Father and the Holy Spirit, identical in essence, but different in personality and work (Colossians 1:15-17; Hebrews 1:3). He was born of a virgin (Matthew 1:23), lived a life of sinless perfection (2 Corinthians 5:21) in order to be the mediator between God and man (Hebrews 2:14) and set the perfect example for all humanity (Hebrews 4:14-16). He died for the sins of all mankind (1 Timothy 2:6), satisfying the perfect Justice of God the Father with His sacrifice (1 John 2:2); He rose from the dead into an imperishable resurrection body as the firstborn of a new creation and a declaration of His Sonship (Romans 1:4; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). After five weeks, He ascended into Heaven, where He sat down at the right hand of the Father, where He now resides (Hebrews 1:3; 12:2), representing believers in Him (1 John 2:1; Hebrews 10:13). He will return for His church at the Rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:14-18). Jesus Christ is the Messiah, the “anointed one” of Israel, destined to be their king on earth at His second coming, and whose rule will last for a literal 1000 years (Revelation 19:11-16; Revelation 20:1-6).
Jehovah – The name Jehovah [LORD] means “The Self-Existent One,” or as in Exodus 3:14, “I AM WHO I AM.” Consequently, Jehovah is “the eternal I AM.” The Hebrew four-letter word (tetragrammaton) YHWH (Jehovah or Yahweh) is used in the Old Testament for any member of the Trinity. Considering this name too sacred to pronounce, the Jews used Adonai as a substitute for YHWH and by adding the vowels from Adonai to the consonants of YHWH to form the term Yahweh.
Jehovah, Angel of – A pre-incarnation appearance of Jesus Christ. One of various translations, including “Angel of Yahweh” and “Angel of the LORD.” Also, see Theophany.
Jesus Christ – The unique Theanthropic Person of the Universe. Jesus Christ, in His hypostatic union, is both undiminished deity and true humanity in one person. His two natures are inseparably united without loss or mixture of separate identity, without loss or transfer of properties or attributes, the union being personal and eternal. During the incarnation, Jesus Christ operated under the policy of kenosis (Philippians 2:5-8). In His deity, He is the Second Person of the Trinity, co-equal with the Father and the Holy Spirit, identical in essence, but different in personality and work (Colossians 1:15-17; Hebrews 1:3). He was born of a virgin (Matthew 1:23), lived a life of sinless perfection (2 Corinthians 5:21) in order to be the mediator between God and man (Hebrews 2:14) and set the perfect example for all humanity (Hebrews 4:14-16). He died for the sins of all mankind (1 Timothy 2:6), satisfying the perfect Justice of God the Father with His sacrifice (1 John 2:2); He rose from the dead into an imperishable resurrection body as the firstborn of a new creation and a declaration of His Sonship (Romans 1:4; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4). After five weeks, He ascended into Heaven, where He sat down at the right hand of the Father, where He now resides (Hebrews 1:3; 12:2), representing believers in Him (1 John 2:1; Hebrews 10:13). He will return for His church at the Rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:14-18). Jesus Christ is the Messiah, the “anointed one” of Israel, destined to be their king on earth at His second coming, and whose rule will last for a literal 1000 years (Revelation 19:11-16; Revelation 20:1-6).
Judgment Seat of Christ – The assessment of all Church Age believers’ lives of service will happen after the Rapture of the Church. (Romans 14:10; 1 Corinthians 3:9-15; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 John 4:17). The purpose of the evaluation is to determine gain or loss of rewards in eternity.
Jury Duty – See Citizen's Responsibility to His Nation.
Justice – An attribute related to God's Holiness that describes His infinite, absolute fairness and authority over His creation in terms of blessing, reward, judgment, and condemnation. With God, there is no favoritism. It is impossible for Him to be unfair. (Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalms 47:8; Psalms 97:2; Psalms 119:137; Isaiah 45:21; Jeremiah 23:5; John 5:22, 27; Acts 3:14; Acts 17:31; 2 Peter 3:9; 1 John 1:9; Revelation 20:11-12.) Also, see Essence of God.
Justification – Justification is the judicial act by God, declaring the qualification of a human being for some blessing from Him. At the moment of faith in Jesus Christ as Savior, God simultaneously imputes (credits) to the sinner His own Righteousness, “that we might be made the righteousness of God in him” (2 Corinthians 5:21), and pronounces us justified (Romans 3:23-24). Justification occurs only by grace (on the basis of Christ’s death) through faith (Romans 3:26, 28). Salvation justification is only possible because of propitiation (1 John 2:1-2). We possess justification because one perfectly qualified man stands between each person and God: The Man Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 2:5). Consequently, we are qualified to sustain a relationship with God forever. (Romans 4:4-5; Romans 5:1; Romans 8:29-30; Galatians 3:24; Titus 3:7). There is also a justification for reward and blessing, which comes on the basis of the application of the mind of Christ in thought, word, and deed, which James refers to as a “justification from works” (James 2:21-24).
Just War – A term first used by Augustine. The principle of "Just War" rests in the moral judgment that rightly constituted public authority is under a strict moral obligation to defend the security of those for whom it has assumed responsibility. See National Entity.
Jury Duty – See Citizen's Responsibility to His Nation.
Justice – An attribute related to God's Holiness that describes His infinite, absolute fairness and authority over His creation in terms of blessing, reward, judgment, and condemnation. With God, there is no favoritism. It is impossible for Him to be unfair. (Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalms 47:8; Psalms 97:2; Psalms 119:137; Isaiah 45:21; Jeremiah 23:5; John 5:22, 27; Acts 3:14; Acts 17:31; 2 Peter 3:9; 1 John 1:9; Revelation 20:11-12.) Also, see Essence of God.
Justification – Justification is the judicial act by God, declaring the qualification of a human being for some blessing from Him. At the moment of faith in Jesus Christ as Savior, God simultaneously imputes (credits) to the sinner His own Righteousness, “that we might be made the righteousness of God in him” (2 Corinthians 5:21), and pronounces us justified (Romans 3:23-24). Justification occurs only by grace (on the basis of Christ’s death) through faith (Romans 3:26, 28). Salvation justification is only possible because of propitiation (1 John 2:1-2). We possess justification because one perfectly qualified man stands between each person and God: The Man Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 2:5). Consequently, we are qualified to sustain a relationship with God forever. (Romans 4:4-5; Romans 5:1; Romans 8:29-30; Galatians 3:24; Titus 3:7). There is also a justification for reward and blessing, which comes on the basis of the application of the mind of Christ in thought, word, and deed, which James refers to as a “justification from works” (James 2:21-24).
Just War – A term first used by Augustine. The principle of "Just War" rests in the moral judgment that rightly constituted public authority is under a strict moral obligation to defend the security of those for whom it has assumed responsibility. See National Entity.
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Kenosis – During the incarnation, our Lord Jesus Christ voluntarily restricted the independent use or expression of the relative attributes of His deity when that independent expression would violate the Father's plan for the incarnation (Philippians 2:5-8). At no time did our Lord employ His deity in order to resist a temptation or pass a test in His humanity (Matthew 4:1-12). Our Lord Jesus Christ voluntarily took upon Himself true humanity in order to become the true mediator between God and man, and so redeem mankind from sin, propitiate God the Father concerning sin, and to reconcile mankind to God. Furthermore, He became man in order to become man’s example (Hebrews 2:18; 4:12-16) and hope (Hebrews 12:1-2), and to win the great strategic victory in the Angelic Conflict (Hebrews 2:14). This doctrine is taught by phrases such as, "But He deprived Himself of the proper function of deity, when He had received the form of a servant, although having been born in the likeness of mankind" Philippians 2:7-8 (translation by R. B. Thieme, Jr.).
King of Kings – See Royalty of Christ.
Kinsman-Redeemer – The Old Testament foreshadows Christ as our Redeemer. One who could act as a redeemer (one preserving the name and family of a deceased or impoverished man) in Israel had to be a kinsman (Leviticus 25:48-49; Ruth 3:12– Ruth 4:14; Hebrews 2:14-15). Christ fulfilled this role by becoming a man and by having the sins of the world imputed to Him. Redemption was made by the payment of a price (Leviticus 25:27; Romans 3:24-26; 1 Peter 1:18-19; Galatians 3:13). The entire Old Testament order of redemption is a prophetic picture of Christ who would come to redeem us through the sacrifice of Himself.
Kenosis – During the incarnation, our Lord Jesus Christ voluntarily restricted the independent use or expression of the relative attributes of His deity when that independent expression would violate the Father's plan for the incarnation (Philippians 2:5-8). At no time did our Lord employ His deity in order to resist a temptation or pass a test in His humanity (Matthew 4:1-12). Our Lord Jesus Christ voluntarily took upon Himself true humanity in order to become the true mediator between God and man, and so redeem mankind from sin, propitiate God the Father concerning sin, and to reconcile mankind to God. Furthermore, He became man in order to become man’s example (Hebrews 2:18; 4:12-16) and hope (Hebrews 12:1-2), and to win the great strategic victory in the Angelic Conflict (Hebrews 2:14). This doctrine is taught by phrases such as, "But He deprived Himself of the proper function of deity, when He had received the form of a servant, although having been born in the likeness of mankind" Philippians 2:7-8 (translation by R. B. Thieme, Jr.).
King of Kings – See Royalty of Christ.
Kinsman-Redeemer – The Old Testament foreshadows Christ as our Redeemer. One who could act as a redeemer (one preserving the name and family of a deceased or impoverished man) in Israel had to be a kinsman (Leviticus 25:48-49; Ruth 3:12– Ruth 4:14; Hebrews 2:14-15). Christ fulfilled this role by becoming a man and by having the sins of the world imputed to Him. Redemption was made by the payment of a price (Leviticus 25:27; Romans 3:24-26; 1 Peter 1:18-19; Galatians 3:13). The entire Old Testament order of redemption is a prophetic picture of Christ who would come to redeem us through the sacrifice of Himself.
L
Lake of Fire – The final abode for unbelievers and fallen angels who are eternally condemned and separated from God. Fallen angels were sentenced to the lake of fire sometime before the creation of man (Matthew 25:41). Unbelievers are sentenced by the Lord Jesus Christ at the Last Judgment (Revelation 20:12-15). The lake of fire constitutes literal, fiery, and eternal separation from God (John 3:16, 18, 36; Hebrews 9:27; 10:27). Twelve times in the New Testament the word Gehenna (literally the valley ofHinnom, a place where refuse was burned in Jerusalem) is used figuratively for hell as the final place of the unsaved after judgment, and is thus a reference to the lake of fire.
Languages of Scripture – The original languages of Scripture are Hebrew, koine Greek, and Aramaic.
Legalism – The trend of mankind's sin nature that makes futile attempts through human efforts to earn salvation, spirituality, or the approbation of God by strict conformity to a code of ethics, religion, or morality, such as the Mosaic Law, and results in the production of sin, human good, and evil.
Levitical Priesthood – The Mosaic Law was a conditional covenant. Though God proposed that the nation of Israel be unto Him "a kingdom of priests" (Exodus 19:6), God restricted their priesthood to the Aaronic family because of violation of the Law. Thus, the priesthood during the Age of Israel became a specialized priesthood that operated only within the tribe of Levi (Exodus 28:1). Much of the function of this typical priesthood was involved in administering a Shadow Christology. Also, see Family Priesthood; Royal Priesthood; Covenants to Israel.
Local Church – The Universal Church is visibly functional through fellowship groups, called local churches, meeting in identifiable locations (1 Corinthians 1:1-2). Local churches should be autonomously governed by their own leadership (Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:5). The congregation is responsible to submit to the authority of its leadership (Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:2-4). The local church assembles for the purposes of worship, communion, Bible study, prayer, fellowship, exercising spiritual gifts, mutual care, discipline, and witnessing (Acts 2:41-47; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; Galatians 6:2; Hebrews 10:24-25). God calls qualified men (Pastors and Teachers) to lead and teach the assembled congregation. Women are neither to teach men nor to exercise authority over men in the church. However, in all other areas of church life and ministry, women may—and should—serve (1 Corinthians 11:3; 1 Corinthians 14:33b–37; 1 Timothy 2:12-15).
Lord's Table / Communion – Our Lord Jesus Christ instituted the Church Age ritual which we call the Lord's Supper, the Lord's Table, the Eucharist, or Communion. The purpose of ritual in every dispensation has been to communicate Biblical truth. The true purpose of the Lord's Table is stated by our Lord at the first observance of the ordinance, when He commanded: "Do this IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME." (Luke 22:19-20). The bread speaks of His sinless perfection. The cup speaks of the "blood of Christ," i.e. His spiritual death on the cross. The specific doctrines we are to remember as we partake of the communion elements are Propitiation and Reconciliation. The communion service echoes the Passover of the Jews, since it was instituted on that very day in the Jewish religious calendar (Luke 22:13). It is also a covenant meal, whereby it points to the payment of Christ’s life for the transgressions under the old covenant of the Mosaic Law (Luke 22:20 cf. Hebrews 9:15-17). Participation in communion is a proclamation of the death of our Lord (1 Corinthians 11:26). And, it is a preview of the eschatological Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Luke 22:15-16 cf. Revelation 19:6-8).
Love, Divine (also, Agape Love) – God's attitude of esteem and regard toward Himself; His concern, mercy, and benevolence toward His created beings. His perfect and unfailing source of all compassion and affection. God IS love (1 John 4:8). Agape love is an expression of love toward another that regards that person’s well-being above one’s own, and desires the very best for him (John 15:13). It comes as a result of the virtue of the one who loves, without reference to the virtue of the one loved (i.e. an abundance or greatness of mercy, Ephesians 2:4-7). God saves mankind because of love, and the Son gives His life toward that objective (John 3:16; Romans 8:32). Toward human beings who possess righteousness there is blessing, guidance, discipline, and forgiveness (1 John 3:1; Hebrews 12:6). Believers are to regard one another with agape love (John 15:12; 1 John 3:16; 1 John 4:7-8).
Lucifer – A designation, together with "son of the morning," applied to Satan (Isaiah 14:12-14).
Lake of Fire – The final abode for unbelievers and fallen angels who are eternally condemned and separated from God. Fallen angels were sentenced to the lake of fire sometime before the creation of man (Matthew 25:41). Unbelievers are sentenced by the Lord Jesus Christ at the Last Judgment (Revelation 20:12-15). The lake of fire constitutes literal, fiery, and eternal separation from God (John 3:16, 18, 36; Hebrews 9:27; 10:27). Twelve times in the New Testament the word Gehenna (literally the valley ofHinnom, a place where refuse was burned in Jerusalem) is used figuratively for hell as the final place of the unsaved after judgment, and is thus a reference to the lake of fire.
Languages of Scripture – The original languages of Scripture are Hebrew, koine Greek, and Aramaic.
Legalism – The trend of mankind's sin nature that makes futile attempts through human efforts to earn salvation, spirituality, or the approbation of God by strict conformity to a code of ethics, religion, or morality, such as the Mosaic Law, and results in the production of sin, human good, and evil.
Levitical Priesthood – The Mosaic Law was a conditional covenant. Though God proposed that the nation of Israel be unto Him "a kingdom of priests" (Exodus 19:6), God restricted their priesthood to the Aaronic family because of violation of the Law. Thus, the priesthood during the Age of Israel became a specialized priesthood that operated only within the tribe of Levi (Exodus 28:1). Much of the function of this typical priesthood was involved in administering a Shadow Christology. Also, see Family Priesthood; Royal Priesthood; Covenants to Israel.
Local Church – The Universal Church is visibly functional through fellowship groups, called local churches, meeting in identifiable locations (1 Corinthians 1:1-2). Local churches should be autonomously governed by their own leadership (Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:5). The congregation is responsible to submit to the authority of its leadership (Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:2-4). The local church assembles for the purposes of worship, communion, Bible study, prayer, fellowship, exercising spiritual gifts, mutual care, discipline, and witnessing (Acts 2:41-47; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26; Galatians 6:2; Hebrews 10:24-25). God calls qualified men (Pastors and Teachers) to lead and teach the assembled congregation. Women are neither to teach men nor to exercise authority over men in the church. However, in all other areas of church life and ministry, women may—and should—serve (1 Corinthians 11:3; 1 Corinthians 14:33b–37; 1 Timothy 2:12-15).
Lord's Table / Communion – Our Lord Jesus Christ instituted the Church Age ritual which we call the Lord's Supper, the Lord's Table, the Eucharist, or Communion. The purpose of ritual in every dispensation has been to communicate Biblical truth. The true purpose of the Lord's Table is stated by our Lord at the first observance of the ordinance, when He commanded: "Do this IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME." (Luke 22:19-20). The bread speaks of His sinless perfection. The cup speaks of the "blood of Christ," i.e. His spiritual death on the cross. The specific doctrines we are to remember as we partake of the communion elements are Propitiation and Reconciliation. The communion service echoes the Passover of the Jews, since it was instituted on that very day in the Jewish religious calendar (Luke 22:13). It is also a covenant meal, whereby it points to the payment of Christ’s life for the transgressions under the old covenant of the Mosaic Law (Luke 22:20 cf. Hebrews 9:15-17). Participation in communion is a proclamation of the death of our Lord (1 Corinthians 11:26). And, it is a preview of the eschatological Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Luke 22:15-16 cf. Revelation 19:6-8).
Love, Divine (also, Agape Love) – God's attitude of esteem and regard toward Himself; His concern, mercy, and benevolence toward His created beings. His perfect and unfailing source of all compassion and affection. God IS love (1 John 4:8). Agape love is an expression of love toward another that regards that person’s well-being above one’s own, and desires the very best for him (John 15:13). It comes as a result of the virtue of the one who loves, without reference to the virtue of the one loved (i.e. an abundance or greatness of mercy, Ephesians 2:4-7). God saves mankind because of love, and the Son gives His life toward that objective (John 3:16; Romans 8:32). Toward human beings who possess righteousness there is blessing, guidance, discipline, and forgiveness (1 John 3:1; Hebrews 12:6). Believers are to regard one another with agape love (John 15:12; 1 John 3:16; 1 John 4:7-8).
Lucifer – A designation, together with "son of the morning," applied to Satan (Isaiah 14:12-14).
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Magi – A term used as the name for priests and wise men among the Medes, Persians, and Babylonians, who were supposed to be adept at the secret learning—interpreters of sacred writings and of signs (Daniel 1:20; Daniel 2:2; Daniel 5:4); conjurers (Daniel 2:10; Daniel 5:7,11); exorcists, soothsayers, magicians, diviners (Daniel 2:2; Isaiah 47:9, 13; Jeremiah 27:9); and casters of nativities, astrologers (Daniel 2:27; Daniel 5:7, 11). Daniel was once the "chief of the governors over all the wise men of Babylon" (Daniel 2:48), which group of colleagues the king believed to be "ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm" (Dan 1:20).
Man – God created the universe by His spoken word (Genesis 1; Psalm 33:6, 9). Man was created in the image and likeness of God, and in Adam’s sin, the human race fell, inherited a sinful nature, and became alienated from God (Genesis 1:26-27; Romans 3:22-23; Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 11:7; Ephesians 2:12). Man is unable to merit eternal salvation and consequently is completely dependent upon God’s grace for eternal salvation (Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:9-18; Romans 6:23; Romans 7:18).
Mark of Cain – A mark placed on Cain by God to protect him from being killed (Genesis 4:15). This was done to Cain because the penalty for murder (Gen 9:6) had not yet been enacted by God.
Marriage – Marriage is a divine institution, designed by God as a stabilizing factor for the entire human race—not just for Christians. While God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are co-equal, having exactly the same essence, the Son chose to submit to the Father's will in taking on the human nature of Jesus Christ and becoming our Savior. Teaching that in Christ we are all equal before God, Galatians 3:28 proclaims, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus." In marriage, the woman, while being equal before God with the man, chooses of her own free will to be in submission to her husband, even as the Son chose to be in submission to the Father's will. In Ephesians 5:22-24 and Colossians 3:18, God the Holy Spirit, through the human writer Paul, exhorts Christian wives to "submit to your own husbands as is fitting unto the Lord." Paul instructs Titus that the older women should teach younger women what is good, which included loving their husbands (Titus 2:4). Ephesians 5:25 clearly commands that a husband is to love his wife "as Jesus Christ loved His church and gave His life for her."
Marriage of the Lamb – see Bridegroom.
Material Part of Man – See Human Body.
Materialism – The view that the facts of experience are all to be explained by reference to the reality, activities, and laws of physical or material substance. Its followers include those naturalists who believe that nature is the whole of reality. In the 20th Century, materialists lost much ground that ultimate reality is not material but rather is the energy that is bound in the atom. Further erosion of the materialist philosophy followed the discovery of neutrinos, which are "particles" that have only spin—without charge or mass.
Mediator – A third party who acts as a go-between or an intermediary between two antagonistic, disagreeing, or estranged parties. Fallen man is antagonistic to the Righteousness and Justice of God. To change such a relationship requires a mediator who is equal to both parties in the mediation. Since God's attributes of righteousness and justice are immutable, only man's fallen condition can be altered to equal God's perfection. To accomplish this, God the Father must be propitiated, and man must be reconciled to God. Therefore, the mediator must redeem man to accomplish this. The hypostatic union qualifies Jesus Christ as the mediator between God and man, “For you see, there is one God in essence, one mediator between God and man” (1 Timothy 2:5-6).
Melchizedek – see Royal Priesthood.
Mentality – One of the components of the Human Soul, in which thinking, analyzing, application, and assimilation of information takes place.
Messiah – The One holding the offices of Prophets, Priest, and King to Israel. Literally, the word means “the Anointed One” in Hebrew, and is equal to “Christ” in the Greek.
Michael – A member of the angelic creation with rank of archangel (Jude 1:9) whose activities include participation in the invisible warfare in and about the heads of government (Daniel 10:13). His role also includes being the guardian of the Jews (Daniel 10:21; Daniel 12:1; Jeremiah 30:5). He fights in Heaven against Satan (Revelation 12:7).
Mid-tribulational Rapture – The belief that the church will be resurrected at the end of the first three and one-half years of the seventieth week of Daniel, having endured the events of the first half of the Tribulation. See Rapture.
Military Service – See Citizen's Responsibility to His Nation.
Millennial Reign of Christ – For a thousand years following His Second Coming, Christ will reign over the nations of the earth with a rod of iron, in righteousness and Justice, with peace (Revelation 20:1-10; Isaiah 9:6-7).
Millennium – A literal period of one thousand years beginning after the Second Advent of Jesus Christ in which He will fulfill all unconditional covenants to Israel, reign on the throne of David, and establish worldwide peace and perfect environment (Revelation 20). See Covenants to Israel.
Miracles – Supernatural manifestations of divine power in the external world, in themselves special revelations of the presence and power of God. A miracle is an interference with nature by supernatural power. Belief in miracles cannot be a product of ignorance or superstition. Belief in miracles, far from depending on an ignorance of the laws of nature, is only possible in so far as those laws are known. How could miracles be surprising unless they were seen to be exceptions to the laws of nature? (Exodus 4:2-5; 1 Kings 18:24; John 5:36; John 20:30, 31; Acts 2:22).
Missionary – One sent on a mission, in particular, one who travels to locations where, it is hoped, people will respond to a clear presentation of the Gospel of Christ. A missionary is a follower of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).
Mosaic Law – The body of law (613 commandments) that were given by God to Moses on Mt. Sinai (Exodus 31:18). The Mosaic Law was an expression of God’s righteousness. “One of the great events in the history of Israel, and perhaps in the history of all mankind, is the giving of the Law. The Law was not given so that the Israelites by keeping it could attain righteousness (Romans 3:20a; Galatians 3:11). A righteous standing (justification) before God has always been only by faith (trust) in God (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4:3, 22; Romans 5:1; Galatians 2:16; Galatians 3:6, 21). The Law functioned to show the Israelites their sinfulness (Romans 3:19-20b; Romans 7:7) in contrast with God’s standards of holiness and righteousness, and to condemn mankind. The Mosaic Law in Exodus has three parts: the Decalogue (Exodus 20:1-21), the Book of the Covenant with civil and religious ordinances (Exodus 20:22 – Exodus 24:11), and ceremonial regulations (Exodus 24:12 – Exodus 31:18).” —Bible Knowledge Commentary
Mystery – The term used by the Apostle Paul (Ephesians 3:1-13) to denote a hitherto undisclosed fact related to the Church Age which was unknown to previous dispensations, namely that Jew and Gentile would now be joined together as co-heirs as believers in Christ. This mystery revealed points to the position that Divine Revelation is progressive. (Romans 16:25-26).
Magi – A term used as the name for priests and wise men among the Medes, Persians, and Babylonians, who were supposed to be adept at the secret learning—interpreters of sacred writings and of signs (Daniel 1:20; Daniel 2:2; Daniel 5:4); conjurers (Daniel 2:10; Daniel 5:7,11); exorcists, soothsayers, magicians, diviners (Daniel 2:2; Isaiah 47:9, 13; Jeremiah 27:9); and casters of nativities, astrologers (Daniel 2:27; Daniel 5:7, 11). Daniel was once the "chief of the governors over all the wise men of Babylon" (Daniel 2:48), which group of colleagues the king believed to be "ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm" (Dan 1:20).
Man – God created the universe by His spoken word (Genesis 1; Psalm 33:6, 9). Man was created in the image and likeness of God, and in Adam’s sin, the human race fell, inherited a sinful nature, and became alienated from God (Genesis 1:26-27; Romans 3:22-23; Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 11:7; Ephesians 2:12). Man is unable to merit eternal salvation and consequently is completely dependent upon God’s grace for eternal salvation (Isaiah 64:6; Romans 3:9-18; Romans 6:23; Romans 7:18).
Mark of Cain – A mark placed on Cain by God to protect him from being killed (Genesis 4:15). This was done to Cain because the penalty for murder (Gen 9:6) had not yet been enacted by God.
Marriage – Marriage is a divine institution, designed by God as a stabilizing factor for the entire human race—not just for Christians. While God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are co-equal, having exactly the same essence, the Son chose to submit to the Father's will in taking on the human nature of Jesus Christ and becoming our Savior. Teaching that in Christ we are all equal before God, Galatians 3:28 proclaims, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus." In marriage, the woman, while being equal before God with the man, chooses of her own free will to be in submission to her husband, even as the Son chose to be in submission to the Father's will. In Ephesians 5:22-24 and Colossians 3:18, God the Holy Spirit, through the human writer Paul, exhorts Christian wives to "submit to your own husbands as is fitting unto the Lord." Paul instructs Titus that the older women should teach younger women what is good, which included loving their husbands (Titus 2:4). Ephesians 5:25 clearly commands that a husband is to love his wife "as Jesus Christ loved His church and gave His life for her."
Marriage of the Lamb – see Bridegroom.
Material Part of Man – See Human Body.
Materialism – The view that the facts of experience are all to be explained by reference to the reality, activities, and laws of physical or material substance. Its followers include those naturalists who believe that nature is the whole of reality. In the 20th Century, materialists lost much ground that ultimate reality is not material but rather is the energy that is bound in the atom. Further erosion of the materialist philosophy followed the discovery of neutrinos, which are "particles" that have only spin—without charge or mass.
Mediator – A third party who acts as a go-between or an intermediary between two antagonistic, disagreeing, or estranged parties. Fallen man is antagonistic to the Righteousness and Justice of God. To change such a relationship requires a mediator who is equal to both parties in the mediation. Since God's attributes of righteousness and justice are immutable, only man's fallen condition can be altered to equal God's perfection. To accomplish this, God the Father must be propitiated, and man must be reconciled to God. Therefore, the mediator must redeem man to accomplish this. The hypostatic union qualifies Jesus Christ as the mediator between God and man, “For you see, there is one God in essence, one mediator between God and man” (1 Timothy 2:5-6).
Melchizedek – see Royal Priesthood.
Mentality – One of the components of the Human Soul, in which thinking, analyzing, application, and assimilation of information takes place.
Messiah – The One holding the offices of Prophets, Priest, and King to Israel. Literally, the word means “the Anointed One” in Hebrew, and is equal to “Christ” in the Greek.
Michael – A member of the angelic creation with rank of archangel (Jude 1:9) whose activities include participation in the invisible warfare in and about the heads of government (Daniel 10:13). His role also includes being the guardian of the Jews (Daniel 10:21; Daniel 12:1; Jeremiah 30:5). He fights in Heaven against Satan (Revelation 12:7).
Mid-tribulational Rapture – The belief that the church will be resurrected at the end of the first three and one-half years of the seventieth week of Daniel, having endured the events of the first half of the Tribulation. See Rapture.
Military Service – See Citizen's Responsibility to His Nation.
Millennial Reign of Christ – For a thousand years following His Second Coming, Christ will reign over the nations of the earth with a rod of iron, in righteousness and Justice, with peace (Revelation 20:1-10; Isaiah 9:6-7).
Millennium – A literal period of one thousand years beginning after the Second Advent of Jesus Christ in which He will fulfill all unconditional covenants to Israel, reign on the throne of David, and establish worldwide peace and perfect environment (Revelation 20). See Covenants to Israel.
Miracles – Supernatural manifestations of divine power in the external world, in themselves special revelations of the presence and power of God. A miracle is an interference with nature by supernatural power. Belief in miracles cannot be a product of ignorance or superstition. Belief in miracles, far from depending on an ignorance of the laws of nature, is only possible in so far as those laws are known. How could miracles be surprising unless they were seen to be exceptions to the laws of nature? (Exodus 4:2-5; 1 Kings 18:24; John 5:36; John 20:30, 31; Acts 2:22).
Missionary – One sent on a mission, in particular, one who travels to locations where, it is hoped, people will respond to a clear presentation of the Gospel of Christ. A missionary is a follower of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).
Mosaic Law – The body of law (613 commandments) that were given by God to Moses on Mt. Sinai (Exodus 31:18). The Mosaic Law was an expression of God’s righteousness. “One of the great events in the history of Israel, and perhaps in the history of all mankind, is the giving of the Law. The Law was not given so that the Israelites by keeping it could attain righteousness (Romans 3:20a; Galatians 3:11). A righteous standing (justification) before God has always been only by faith (trust) in God (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4:3, 22; Romans 5:1; Galatians 2:16; Galatians 3:6, 21). The Law functioned to show the Israelites their sinfulness (Romans 3:19-20b; Romans 7:7) in contrast with God’s standards of holiness and righteousness, and to condemn mankind. The Mosaic Law in Exodus has three parts: the Decalogue (Exodus 20:1-21), the Book of the Covenant with civil and religious ordinances (Exodus 20:22 – Exodus 24:11), and ceremonial regulations (Exodus 24:12 – Exodus 31:18).” —Bible Knowledge Commentary
Mystery – The term used by the Apostle Paul (Ephesians 3:1-13) to denote a hitherto undisclosed fact related to the Church Age which was unknown to previous dispensations, namely that Jew and Gentile would now be joined together as co-heirs as believers in Christ. This mystery revealed points to the position that Divine Revelation is progressive. (Romans 16:25-26).
N
Nation – Genesis 10:1-5, 32 gives the basis for nations as geography, language, and ethnicity. This occurred through the migrations after the flood. Language, as a separate and final factor came about because of the Babel conspiracy, as recorded in Genesis 11:1-9. The nation helps prevent the destruction of the human race, which is a constant threat through Satanic plots of world domination. An illustration of this protective function are the water-tight sections in a ship’s hull; they prevent sinking after hull damage. If one nation is involved in apostasy or pursues detrimental policies, other nations will survive that former nation’s destruction. A nation has the responsibility to provide military security from external forces (also, see Just War); economic security with equal opportunity under capitalism; security in one’s person and property; protection for the divine institution of marriage; a system of jurisprudence; a basic provision for the welfare of impoverished citizens; and an equitable system of taxation. All of this exists so that the Gospel may be an issue of free consideration for the citizens of a nation (1 Timothy 2:1-4). See Citizen’s Responsibility to His Nation.
Naturalistic Theism – While it is the function of Biblical Theism to recognize, classify, and exhibit the truth about God as set forth in His revelation of Himself as recorded in the Scriptures, it is the function of Naturalistic Theism to establish arguments for the existence of God based solely on the grounds of reason in the mentality of the soul. As Chafer has written, “The book of nature is as much God’s book as is the Book of Revelation. The universe is His work and therefore must attest His Being, and, as far as it can advance, unfold His ways.” (Bibliotheca Sacra Volume 95, Vol. 95, Page 264-265, Dallas Theological Seminary, 1938; 2002.) There are five major arguments for the existence of God under this heading: the Anthropological, Cosmological, Congruity, Ontological, and Teleological arguments.
New Covenant to Israel – See Covenants to Israel.
Nation – Genesis 10:1-5, 32 gives the basis for nations as geography, language, and ethnicity. This occurred through the migrations after the flood. Language, as a separate and final factor came about because of the Babel conspiracy, as recorded in Genesis 11:1-9. The nation helps prevent the destruction of the human race, which is a constant threat through Satanic plots of world domination. An illustration of this protective function are the water-tight sections in a ship’s hull; they prevent sinking after hull damage. If one nation is involved in apostasy or pursues detrimental policies, other nations will survive that former nation’s destruction. A nation has the responsibility to provide military security from external forces (also, see Just War); economic security with equal opportunity under capitalism; security in one’s person and property; protection for the divine institution of marriage; a system of jurisprudence; a basic provision for the welfare of impoverished citizens; and an equitable system of taxation. All of this exists so that the Gospel may be an issue of free consideration for the citizens of a nation (1 Timothy 2:1-4). See Citizen’s Responsibility to His Nation.
Naturalistic Theism – While it is the function of Biblical Theism to recognize, classify, and exhibit the truth about God as set forth in His revelation of Himself as recorded in the Scriptures, it is the function of Naturalistic Theism to establish arguments for the existence of God based solely on the grounds of reason in the mentality of the soul. As Chafer has written, “The book of nature is as much God’s book as is the Book of Revelation. The universe is His work and therefore must attest His Being, and, as far as it can advance, unfold His ways.” (Bibliotheca Sacra Volume 95, Vol. 95, Page 264-265, Dallas Theological Seminary, 1938; 2002.) There are five major arguments for the existence of God under this heading: the Anthropological, Cosmological, Congruity, Ontological, and Teleological arguments.
New Covenant to Israel – See Covenants to Israel.
O
Occupation With Christ – During His incarnation, our Lord displayed impeccable spirituality, faith-rest, grace and doctrinal orientation, fulfillment of His destiny, personal and impersonal love, and the happiness of God. With Jesus Christ as our role model in life, our mental attitudes can reflect the ultimate problem-solving perspective through occupation with Him (1 Peter 2:21-23; Hebrews 12:1-3).
Old Sin Nature – see Sin Nature.
Old Testament – The part of the Canon of Scripture extending from Genesis to Malachi written prior to the incarnation of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament includes 39 books according to the modern standard reckoning. The ancient Jews divided the Old Testament into The Law (the Torah, Genesis-Deuteronomy), The Prophets (Nebiim, The Former Prophets include Joshua, Judges, 1-2 Samuel, and 1-2 Kings. The Latter Prophets include the major prophets, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel and the minor prophets Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi), andThe Writings (Kethubim, books of Psalms, Job, Proverbs, Ruth, Song of Solomon, Ecclesiastes, Lamentations, Esther, Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah, and 1-2 Chronicles).
Omnipotence – God’s infinite power. Literally means “all-powerful” and describes God’s infinite ability to accomplish anything He wills, as governed by His holy character (1 Chronicles 29:10-12; 2 Chronicles 20:6; Daniel 4:35; Matthew 6:13; Revelation 1:8). The divine ability to bring a universe into existence out of nothing, by volition alone is a great demonstration of the omnipotence of God, (Genesis 1:1; Psalm 19:1; Colossians 1:16-18); which He continues to sustain by His power, (Colossians 1:16-18; Hebrews 1:3). Likewise the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:4). The Son of God, Jesus Christ, also demonstrated divine omnipotence during the incarnation as a sign of His deity, (John 1:3; John 5:19; John 10:25,38; John 20:30-31; Acts 10:38; 1 Corinthians 1:24). The future resurrection of believers will demonstrate divine power again, (Philippians 3:21), when He comes in glory, (Revelation 12:10) and gives eternal rewards by that same power (1 Peter 5:6). The grace of God is a manifestation of His power in comparison to the inabilities of human beings, (2 Corinthians 9:8-9).
Omnipresence – God, being the Author of Space, is in no way constrained by it. Ubiquitous. Literally means “ever-present” and describes God’s attribute of eternal and simultaneous presence in every place. The result is that God is able to perceive all things. (Deuteronomy 4:39; 1 Kings 8:27; Psalm 139:7-10; Proverbs 15:3; Jeremiah 23:23-24; Amos 9:2; Matthew 18:20; Matthew 28:20; John 14:23; Acts 17:27; Ephesians 1:23).
Omniscience – God’s comprehension of all things. Literally means “all-knowing” and describes God’s attribute of complete and simultaneous knowledge of all things, including the actual and the possible past, present, and future events. (Deuteronomy 32:20; 1 John 3:20; 1 Peter 1:2; Isaiah 40:28; Matthew 9:4; Matthew 11:27; Matthew 24:25, 36; Luke 6:8; Luke 11:17; Luke 4:29; Luke 12:33; Luke 13:1,3,11; Luke 16:30; Luke 21:17; 1 Corinthians 4:5; Revelation 2:23).
Ontological Argument – An occasionally proposed and often ridiculed argumentum a priori, from Naturalistic Theism, that asserts the existence of God in the following syllogism: Major Premise: Man possesses the idea of an absolutely Perfect Being. Minor Premise: Existence is an attribute of perfection, because an otherwise perfect Being who does not exist would not be as perfect as a perfect Being who does exist.
Conclusion: While this reasoning does not prove the existence of an absolutely Perfect Being, it shows what God must be if He does exist. Historical Proponents of this approach: Anselm, Descartes, Leibnitz, Cousin. (also, see Anthropological, Cosmological, Congruity, and Teleological, Arguments).
Original Sin (Adam’s) – See Fall of Man.
Occupation With Christ – During His incarnation, our Lord displayed impeccable spirituality, faith-rest, grace and doctrinal orientation, fulfillment of His destiny, personal and impersonal love, and the happiness of God. With Jesus Christ as our role model in life, our mental attitudes can reflect the ultimate problem-solving perspective through occupation with Him (1 Peter 2:21-23; Hebrews 12:1-3).
Old Sin Nature – see Sin Nature.
Old Testament – The part of the Canon of Scripture extending from Genesis to Malachi written prior to the incarnation of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament includes 39 books according to the modern standard reckoning. The ancient Jews divided the Old Testament into The Law (the Torah, Genesis-Deuteronomy), The Prophets (Nebiim, The Former Prophets include Joshua, Judges, 1-2 Samuel, and 1-2 Kings. The Latter Prophets include the major prophets, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel and the minor prophets Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi), andThe Writings (Kethubim, books of Psalms, Job, Proverbs, Ruth, Song of Solomon, Ecclesiastes, Lamentations, Esther, Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah, and 1-2 Chronicles).
Omnipotence – God’s infinite power. Literally means “all-powerful” and describes God’s infinite ability to accomplish anything He wills, as governed by His holy character (1 Chronicles 29:10-12; 2 Chronicles 20:6; Daniel 4:35; Matthew 6:13; Revelation 1:8). The divine ability to bring a universe into existence out of nothing, by volition alone is a great demonstration of the omnipotence of God, (Genesis 1:1; Psalm 19:1; Colossians 1:16-18); which He continues to sustain by His power, (Colossians 1:16-18; Hebrews 1:3). Likewise the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:4). The Son of God, Jesus Christ, also demonstrated divine omnipotence during the incarnation as a sign of His deity, (John 1:3; John 5:19; John 10:25,38; John 20:30-31; Acts 10:38; 1 Corinthians 1:24). The future resurrection of believers will demonstrate divine power again, (Philippians 3:21), when He comes in glory, (Revelation 12:10) and gives eternal rewards by that same power (1 Peter 5:6). The grace of God is a manifestation of His power in comparison to the inabilities of human beings, (2 Corinthians 9:8-9).
Omnipresence – God, being the Author of Space, is in no way constrained by it. Ubiquitous. Literally means “ever-present” and describes God’s attribute of eternal and simultaneous presence in every place. The result is that God is able to perceive all things. (Deuteronomy 4:39; 1 Kings 8:27; Psalm 139:7-10; Proverbs 15:3; Jeremiah 23:23-24; Amos 9:2; Matthew 18:20; Matthew 28:20; John 14:23; Acts 17:27; Ephesians 1:23).
Omniscience – God’s comprehension of all things. Literally means “all-knowing” and describes God’s attribute of complete and simultaneous knowledge of all things, including the actual and the possible past, present, and future events. (Deuteronomy 32:20; 1 John 3:20; 1 Peter 1:2; Isaiah 40:28; Matthew 9:4; Matthew 11:27; Matthew 24:25, 36; Luke 6:8; Luke 11:17; Luke 4:29; Luke 12:33; Luke 13:1,3,11; Luke 16:30; Luke 21:17; 1 Corinthians 4:5; Revelation 2:23).
Ontological Argument – An occasionally proposed and often ridiculed argumentum a priori, from Naturalistic Theism, that asserts the existence of God in the following syllogism: Major Premise: Man possesses the idea of an absolutely Perfect Being. Minor Premise: Existence is an attribute of perfection, because an otherwise perfect Being who does not exist would not be as perfect as a perfect Being who does exist.
Conclusion: While this reasoning does not prove the existence of an absolutely Perfect Being, it shows what God must be if He does exist. Historical Proponents of this approach: Anselm, Descartes, Leibnitz, Cousin. (also, see Anthropological, Cosmological, Congruity, and Teleological, Arguments).
Original Sin (Adam’s) – See Fall of Man.
P
Paganism – Any worldview other than that based on the Judeo-Christian Bible.
Palestinian Covenant – Land Covenant. See Covenants to Israel
Pantheism – “The belief that God is everything and that everything is God, thus confounding God with nature, matter with spirit, and the Creator with the things He has created... If all nature is God, then human action is not distinct from God but is the very action of God. The whole category of human crime becomes as worthy as virtue itself.” [Chafer].
Parable – A short, fictitious narrative which illustrates a principle of Biblical truth.
Paradise – From ancient Iranian, a “walled garden.” According to Luke 23:43 and 2 Corinthians 4:3-4, the place where souls go immediately after death, Also known as Abraham’s Bosom, (Luke 16:22-23) See Hades.
Passover – A feast of the Jews celebrating the “passing over” of the households of Israel in Egypt on the night before the Exodus. The angel of death bypassed those homes with the blood of the lamb brushed onto the lintels and doorposts. The feast was observed by the eating of a whole lamb with bitter herbs and girded loins (Exodus 12:1-13). The Passover speaks of redemption by blood from Egypt and of Calvary. The festival speaks of our redemption from sin by the Lamb of God (1 Peter 1:19), Christ being our Passover (1 Corinthians 5:7).
Pastor-Teacher – A spiritual gift mentioned in Ephesians 4:11. Through this gift, God calls qualified men to lead and teach in local churches. However, while women are encouraged to serve in all other areas of church life and ministry, they are expressly prohibited from teaching and exercising authority over adult men in the local church. (1 Corinthians 11:3; 14:33-37; 1 Timothy 2:12-15).
Patriarchs – The Greek word (patriarchs) for the Head of a Family. A title assigned to the significant fathers of the Old Testament period. Often mistakenly applied only to those prior to Moses, but in the New Testament the term is applied to Abraham (Hebrews 7:4), to the sons of Jacob (Acts 7:8-9), and to David (Acts 2:29).
Patriotism – See Citizen’s Responsibility to His Nation.
Penalty for Sin – The penalty for sin is spiritual death which, in turn, results in physical death. (Genesis 2:17 cf. Genesis 3:19;Romans 6:23; 1 Corinthians 15:3). The penalty becomes a part of the barrier between God and man. The solution to this part of the barrier is described in the doctrine of expiation. The penalty of sin was paid for at the cross. Rejection of the Gospel of Jesus Christ—refusal to believe—leaves the unbeliever condemned to the Lake of Fire (John 3:18). See Faith alone in Christ Alone.
Pentecost – The date which marks the beginning of the formation of the Church—the Body of Christ. The word is derived from the fifty-day time lapse between Passover and the day of Firstfruits. Pentecost is the second annual festival, known as:
Paganism – Any worldview other than that based on the Judeo-Christian Bible.
Palestinian Covenant – Land Covenant. See Covenants to Israel
Pantheism – “The belief that God is everything and that everything is God, thus confounding God with nature, matter with spirit, and the Creator with the things He has created... If all nature is God, then human action is not distinct from God but is the very action of God. The whole category of human crime becomes as worthy as virtue itself.” [Chafer].
Parable – A short, fictitious narrative which illustrates a principle of Biblical truth.
Paradise – From ancient Iranian, a “walled garden.” According to Luke 23:43 and 2 Corinthians 4:3-4, the place where souls go immediately after death, Also known as Abraham’s Bosom, (Luke 16:22-23) See Hades.
Passover – A feast of the Jews celebrating the “passing over” of the households of Israel in Egypt on the night before the Exodus. The angel of death bypassed those homes with the blood of the lamb brushed onto the lintels and doorposts. The feast was observed by the eating of a whole lamb with bitter herbs and girded loins (Exodus 12:1-13). The Passover speaks of redemption by blood from Egypt and of Calvary. The festival speaks of our redemption from sin by the Lamb of God (1 Peter 1:19), Christ being our Passover (1 Corinthians 5:7).
Pastor-Teacher – A spiritual gift mentioned in Ephesians 4:11. Through this gift, God calls qualified men to lead and teach in local churches. However, while women are encouraged to serve in all other areas of church life and ministry, they are expressly prohibited from teaching and exercising authority over adult men in the local church. (1 Corinthians 11:3; 14:33-37; 1 Timothy 2:12-15).
Patriarchs – The Greek word (patriarchs) for the Head of a Family. A title assigned to the significant fathers of the Old Testament period. Often mistakenly applied only to those prior to Moses, but in the New Testament the term is applied to Abraham (Hebrews 7:4), to the sons of Jacob (Acts 7:8-9), and to David (Acts 2:29).
Patriotism – See Citizen’s Responsibility to His Nation.
Penalty for Sin – The penalty for sin is spiritual death which, in turn, results in physical death. (Genesis 2:17 cf. Genesis 3:19;Romans 6:23; 1 Corinthians 15:3). The penalty becomes a part of the barrier between God and man. The solution to this part of the barrier is described in the doctrine of expiation. The penalty of sin was paid for at the cross. Rejection of the Gospel of Jesus Christ—refusal to believe—leaves the unbeliever condemned to the Lake of Fire (John 3:18). See Faith alone in Christ Alone.
Pentecost – The date which marks the beginning of the formation of the Church—the Body of Christ. The word is derived from the fifty-day time lapse between Passover and the day of Firstfruits. Pentecost is the second annual festival, known as:
(1) “The Feast of Weeks” (Exodus 34:22; Deuteronomy 16:10, 16; 2 Chronicles 8:13) because it was celebrated seven weeks, or fifty days, after Passover (Leviticus 23:15, 16);
(2) “The Feast of Harvest” (Exodus 23:16) because it concluded the harvest of the later grains;
(3) “The Day of Firstfruits” (Numbers 28:26) because the first loaves made from the new grain were then offered on the altar (Leviticus 23:17). In general, it celebrated the wheat harvest—the arrival of God’s provision. It was on the Feast of Pentecost that the spiritual gifts first came to the disciples, 50 days after the Passover death of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:1-4), primary manifest in the temporary spiritual gift of tongues.
(2) “The Feast of Harvest” (Exodus 23:16) because it concluded the harvest of the later grains;
(3) “The Day of Firstfruits” (Numbers 28:26) because the first loaves made from the new grain were then offered on the altar (Leviticus 23:17). In general, it celebrated the wheat harvest—the arrival of God’s provision. It was on the Feast of Pentecost that the spiritual gifts first came to the disciples, 50 days after the Passover death of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:1-4), primary manifest in the temporary spiritual gift of tongues.
Pentateuch – See Torah.
Permanent Spiritual Gifts – See Spiritual Gifts.
Perseverance of the Saints – Three major views of perseverance are prominent among theologians.
Permanent Spiritual Gifts – See Spiritual Gifts.
Perseverance of the Saints – Three major views of perseverance are prominent among theologians.
1. The Calvinist View – Perseverance of the saints is the “P” in the Calvinist TULIP. In this view, “They whom God hath accepted In His Beloved, effectually called and sanctified by His Spirit, can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace; but shall certainly persevere therein to the end, and be eternally saved” (Westminster Profession of Faith, Chapter XVII, Section 1). In this view, the Christian’s life will always attest to his faith. An implication of the doctrine is that those who do not persevere to the end are not saved, and, by extension, have not believed.
2. The Arminian View – The Arminians assert that believers, even those who have been saved, may lose their salvation, and hence they dispute the validity of the doctrine of eternal security and deny any guarantee of perseverance.
3. The Free Grace View – The Free Grace view of the Scriptures states that those who have, at any time in their lives, believed in Jesus Christ are saved, that this salvation is made eternally and unconditionally secure by God. However, this eternal salvation does not guarantee a perseverance in the faith in this life. Christians can, and do, go astray, and sadly many Christians do not recover from this state, even to the point of denying their faith (2 Timothy 2:13). See Eternal Security
2. The Arminian View – The Arminians assert that believers, even those who have been saved, may lose their salvation, and hence they dispute the validity of the doctrine of eternal security and deny any guarantee of perseverance.
3. The Free Grace View – The Free Grace view of the Scriptures states that those who have, at any time in their lives, believed in Jesus Christ are saved, that this salvation is made eternally and unconditionally secure by God. However, this eternal salvation does not guarantee a perseverance in the faith in this life. Christians can, and do, go astray, and sadly many Christians do not recover from this state, even to the point of denying their faith (2 Timothy 2:13). See Eternal Security
Personal Sin – See Sin.
Physical Death – The Scriptures teach that physical death is a result of spiritual death—the penalty of sin. (Genesis 2:17 cf. Genesis 3:19; ) Physical death is the destiny of every human being save those believers of the rapture generation, (Job 14:1-4; Romans 5:12; Romans 6:23; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22) Through Christ’s death we are saved from the ravages of physical death, (1 Corinthians 15:56; 2 Corinthians 5:2,4; 2 Timothy 1:10). At physical death, the human soul is separated from the human body (1 Kings 17:21), and in the case of Christian death, then death is no longer a penalty, but a preference, and the soul goes to be with the Lord, who paid the penalty (2 Corinthians 5:8; Psalm 16:10; Philippians 1:21, 23; 1 Thessalonians 4:13, 14;Revelation 21:4). At death, the unbeliever’s soul goes to Torments to await the Great White Throne Judgment.
Pneumatology – The study of the Holy Spirit—a major division of Systematic Theology.
Polytheism – The extra-Biblical belief and teaching that there is more than one god, whose perfections and functions are distributed to multiple limited gods. Polytheism is in contrast to the clearly monotheistic view of Scripture - “Jehovah our Elohim is one Jehovah.” (Deuteronomy 6:4). See Trinity.
Position in Adam – The unbeliever’s Position (or Standing) as being “in Adam” (1 Corinthians 15:22; Romans 5:12) recognizes his being unqualified to live with God in eternity. See Positional Truth.
Positional Truth – At the moment of belief in Christ, the new believer is united with Christ in His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension. This is the baptism by means of the Holy Spirit. (John 14:20; John 17:20-22; Acts 1:5; 1 Corinthians 12:13;Ephesians 4:5).
There are two absolute relationships between man and God that are pertinent in understanding Positional Truth. There is an everlasting (or “eternal”) relationship with God that the believer possesses as of the moment of salvation, which is unconditional. The unconditional relationship that belongs to the true believer in Jesus Christ is described herein as the believer’s position or standing. The Position (Standing) of any human being is an absolute – i.e. one is either “In Christ,” or one is “In Adam”; one is either a “believer,” or one is an “unbeliever” (John 3:36; 1 Cor 15:22). The two states are mutually exclusive, and the second state, in Christ, is permanent. The believer’s Position In Christ is permanent (Romans 8:38-39). It is not progressive (as is maturity); is not an emotional or ecstatic experience; and, is not related to human merit.
There is also a temporal (moment by moment) relationship with God that is conditional. The conditional relationship is categorized herein as “spirituality,” which is an absolute temporal relationship with God. At any moment in time, the believer is either “spiritual” (empowered by the Holy Spirit) or “carnal” (controlled by the human sin nature). Again, the states are mutually exclusive, but unlike the position in Christ, both may be temporary states according to human volition. The terms used to distinguish a person’s Spirituality (State, Condition) are “Spiritual” or “Carnal,” as well as “In Fellowship with God” or “Out of Fellowship,” and again “empowered by the Holy Spirit” or “controlled by the Sin Nature.” The carnal believer, though ineffective as a Christian, is as much In Christ as is the spiritual believer (1 John 1:5-9).
Positional Truth may be further categorized. The believer’s position In Christ is the direct result of the believer’s being “baptized” into Christ by the Holy Spirit at the moment of belief in Christ as personal Savior. In theology, the term “baptize” is closely related to the word “identification,” and is used with seven connotations. The believer in Christ shares the past, present, and future with Jesus Christ: The past, because he is crucified with Christ and raised again into a new life (Romans 6:6-8;Galatians 2:20); the present because He sits at the right hand of the Father in Heaven, (Colossians 3:1-2; Ephesians 2:6); the future because we share His eschatological destiny, 1 Thessalonians 4:17).
Postmillennial View – A virtually extinct theological belief that Jesus Christ will not return visibly and personally until after the Millennium.
Prayer – Prayer is communication with God. Today, it is that provision of the royal priesthood whereby the Church Age believer has access and privilege to communicate directly with God, without any intermediary other than our Lord Jesus Christ. The purpose of the communication is to confess our personal sins, to present our adoration and praise to God, to give thanks, as an expression of gratitude and humility, to intercede for other believers, and to convey (petition) for our own personal needs in intimate conversation with God. Prayer reveals the greatness and power of God (Jeremiah 33:3), and is a vital avenue for application of God’s Word. Prayer is to be done according to the will of God, (1 John 5:14-15; Psalm 66:18) unselfish (James 4:3), the product of sound thinking (1 Peter 4:7), and accompanied by faith (Matthew 21:22). God the Father is the proper addressee of prayer (Matthew 6:9; Ephesians 3:14; 1 Peter 1:17), the Holy Spirit is the empowerment of prayer (Ephesians 6:18), and Jesus Christ is the access and authority for prayer (Ephesians 3:12; John 14:13-14 – praying in His name = authority). Christ gives an agenda for prayer in His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:9-13). The result of prayer in any matter is peace (Philippians 4:6-7).
Pre-Existence of Christ – Jesus Christ always existed. His existence preceded His incarnation. There never was a time when He was not God. He is eternal. “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever” (Hebrews 13:8; John 1:1).
Predestination – A Biblical term that attests to the certainty of the salvation of the believer in Christ. Predestination is never stated to relate to actions, events, or to the destiny of the unsaved. (Romans 8:28-30; Ephesians 1:4-5, 9; Ephesians 3:11; cf. Acts 4:28). Predestination is related to foreknowledge and election (Romans 8:29; Romans 11:2; 1 Peter 1:2, 20).
Premillennial View – The Biblical view that the visible and personal return of Jesus Christ will precede His one thousand-year reign.
Preservation of the Saints – See Eternal Security
Preservation of the Scriptures – A deduction that God protects the Scriptures from destruction. It is considered inconceivable that God would provide His complete and coherent message to mankind and then fail to preserve it through the ages.
Preservation of the Universe – Jesus Christ is in providential control of the universe that He created. “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together” (Colossians 1:17). From the material bonds which hold together the atom to the galaxies in the heavens, all things are held together by His word (Hebrews 1:3) in the same way that the universe was called into being by His Word (Colossians 1:16; John 1:3; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Genesis 1:1). Also, see Sustaining Ministry.
Pre-Tribulational Rapture – The Biblical view that the Rapture of the Church will precede the Tribulation.
Priesthood of the Believer – See Royal Priesthood.
Prophecy – The phenomenon of Prophecy is distinct and unique to the revelation of God’s eternal Plan to mankind. There are two kinds of prophetic utterances: the forthtelling, which is the preaching of principles, which often included the promise or threat of divine action based on human decision; and the foretelling, which is the more familiar form of “predictive” prophecy. Many Old Testament passages prophesied the coming Messiah (Luke 24:27, 44). In fact there exist more than 300 Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah alone. There are many other prophecies regarding Israel and the Gentile nations, and historic personages. Examples of Messianic prophecies are Psalm 22 (the manner of Christ’s death) and Isaiah 53 (the nature of the Messiah and the meaning of His death). An example of non-messianic prophecy is Isaiah’s prediction of Cyrus’ role in Israel’s history, Isaiah 44:28 – Isaiah 45:1. This prediction came well over 100 years before Cyrus’ advent on the scene of world history (prophecy, ca. 700 B.C.; reign of Cyrus 559-530 B.C.). The eschatological prophecies have yet to be fulfilled.
Prophet – One who is divinely inspired to communicate God’s will to his people, and to disclose the future to them.
Propitiation – The divine side of the work of Christ on the Cross. Propitiation addresses God’s recognition of what Christ accomplished on behalf of mankind, whether men enter into the blessings of it or not. Propitiation means satisfaction: The Justice and righteousness of God were satisfied with the work of Christ (1 John 2:1-2). As a result of propitiation, God is able to justify believers.
Physical Death – The Scriptures teach that physical death is a result of spiritual death—the penalty of sin. (Genesis 2:17 cf. Genesis 3:19; ) Physical death is the destiny of every human being save those believers of the rapture generation, (Job 14:1-4; Romans 5:12; Romans 6:23; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22) Through Christ’s death we are saved from the ravages of physical death, (1 Corinthians 15:56; 2 Corinthians 5:2,4; 2 Timothy 1:10). At physical death, the human soul is separated from the human body (1 Kings 17:21), and in the case of Christian death, then death is no longer a penalty, but a preference, and the soul goes to be with the Lord, who paid the penalty (2 Corinthians 5:8; Psalm 16:10; Philippians 1:21, 23; 1 Thessalonians 4:13, 14;Revelation 21:4). At death, the unbeliever’s soul goes to Torments to await the Great White Throne Judgment.
Pneumatology – The study of the Holy Spirit—a major division of Systematic Theology.
Polytheism – The extra-Biblical belief and teaching that there is more than one god, whose perfections and functions are distributed to multiple limited gods. Polytheism is in contrast to the clearly monotheistic view of Scripture - “Jehovah our Elohim is one Jehovah.” (Deuteronomy 6:4). See Trinity.
Position in Adam – The unbeliever’s Position (or Standing) as being “in Adam” (1 Corinthians 15:22; Romans 5:12) recognizes his being unqualified to live with God in eternity. See Positional Truth.
Positional Truth – At the moment of belief in Christ, the new believer is united with Christ in His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension. This is the baptism by means of the Holy Spirit. (John 14:20; John 17:20-22; Acts 1:5; 1 Corinthians 12:13;Ephesians 4:5).
There are two absolute relationships between man and God that are pertinent in understanding Positional Truth. There is an everlasting (or “eternal”) relationship with God that the believer possesses as of the moment of salvation, which is unconditional. The unconditional relationship that belongs to the true believer in Jesus Christ is described herein as the believer’s position or standing. The Position (Standing) of any human being is an absolute – i.e. one is either “In Christ,” or one is “In Adam”; one is either a “believer,” or one is an “unbeliever” (John 3:36; 1 Cor 15:22). The two states are mutually exclusive, and the second state, in Christ, is permanent. The believer’s Position In Christ is permanent (Romans 8:38-39). It is not progressive (as is maturity); is not an emotional or ecstatic experience; and, is not related to human merit.
There is also a temporal (moment by moment) relationship with God that is conditional. The conditional relationship is categorized herein as “spirituality,” which is an absolute temporal relationship with God. At any moment in time, the believer is either “spiritual” (empowered by the Holy Spirit) or “carnal” (controlled by the human sin nature). Again, the states are mutually exclusive, but unlike the position in Christ, both may be temporary states according to human volition. The terms used to distinguish a person’s Spirituality (State, Condition) are “Spiritual” or “Carnal,” as well as “In Fellowship with God” or “Out of Fellowship,” and again “empowered by the Holy Spirit” or “controlled by the Sin Nature.” The carnal believer, though ineffective as a Christian, is as much In Christ as is the spiritual believer (1 John 1:5-9).
Positional Truth may be further categorized. The believer’s position In Christ is the direct result of the believer’s being “baptized” into Christ by the Holy Spirit at the moment of belief in Christ as personal Savior. In theology, the term “baptize” is closely related to the word “identification,” and is used with seven connotations. The believer in Christ shares the past, present, and future with Jesus Christ: The past, because he is crucified with Christ and raised again into a new life (Romans 6:6-8;Galatians 2:20); the present because He sits at the right hand of the Father in Heaven, (Colossians 3:1-2; Ephesians 2:6); the future because we share His eschatological destiny, 1 Thessalonians 4:17).
Postmillennial View – A virtually extinct theological belief that Jesus Christ will not return visibly and personally until after the Millennium.
Prayer – Prayer is communication with God. Today, it is that provision of the royal priesthood whereby the Church Age believer has access and privilege to communicate directly with God, without any intermediary other than our Lord Jesus Christ. The purpose of the communication is to confess our personal sins, to present our adoration and praise to God, to give thanks, as an expression of gratitude and humility, to intercede for other believers, and to convey (petition) for our own personal needs in intimate conversation with God. Prayer reveals the greatness and power of God (Jeremiah 33:3), and is a vital avenue for application of God’s Word. Prayer is to be done according to the will of God, (1 John 5:14-15; Psalm 66:18) unselfish (James 4:3), the product of sound thinking (1 Peter 4:7), and accompanied by faith (Matthew 21:22). God the Father is the proper addressee of prayer (Matthew 6:9; Ephesians 3:14; 1 Peter 1:17), the Holy Spirit is the empowerment of prayer (Ephesians 6:18), and Jesus Christ is the access and authority for prayer (Ephesians 3:12; John 14:13-14 – praying in His name = authority). Christ gives an agenda for prayer in His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6:9-13). The result of prayer in any matter is peace (Philippians 4:6-7).
Pre-Existence of Christ – Jesus Christ always existed. His existence preceded His incarnation. There never was a time when He was not God. He is eternal. “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and for ever” (Hebrews 13:8; John 1:1).
Predestination – A Biblical term that attests to the certainty of the salvation of the believer in Christ. Predestination is never stated to relate to actions, events, or to the destiny of the unsaved. (Romans 8:28-30; Ephesians 1:4-5, 9; Ephesians 3:11; cf. Acts 4:28). Predestination is related to foreknowledge and election (Romans 8:29; Romans 11:2; 1 Peter 1:2, 20).
Premillennial View – The Biblical view that the visible and personal return of Jesus Christ will precede His one thousand-year reign.
Preservation of the Saints – See Eternal Security
Preservation of the Scriptures – A deduction that God protects the Scriptures from destruction. It is considered inconceivable that God would provide His complete and coherent message to mankind and then fail to preserve it through the ages.
Preservation of the Universe – Jesus Christ is in providential control of the universe that He created. “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together” (Colossians 1:17). From the material bonds which hold together the atom to the galaxies in the heavens, all things are held together by His word (Hebrews 1:3) in the same way that the universe was called into being by His Word (Colossians 1:16; John 1:3; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Genesis 1:1). Also, see Sustaining Ministry.
Pre-Tribulational Rapture – The Biblical view that the Rapture of the Church will precede the Tribulation.
Priesthood of the Believer – See Royal Priesthood.
Prophecy – The phenomenon of Prophecy is distinct and unique to the revelation of God’s eternal Plan to mankind. There are two kinds of prophetic utterances: the forthtelling, which is the preaching of principles, which often included the promise or threat of divine action based on human decision; and the foretelling, which is the more familiar form of “predictive” prophecy. Many Old Testament passages prophesied the coming Messiah (Luke 24:27, 44). In fact there exist more than 300 Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah alone. There are many other prophecies regarding Israel and the Gentile nations, and historic personages. Examples of Messianic prophecies are Psalm 22 (the manner of Christ’s death) and Isaiah 53 (the nature of the Messiah and the meaning of His death). An example of non-messianic prophecy is Isaiah’s prediction of Cyrus’ role in Israel’s history, Isaiah 44:28 – Isaiah 45:1. This prediction came well over 100 years before Cyrus’ advent on the scene of world history (prophecy, ca. 700 B.C.; reign of Cyrus 559-530 B.C.). The eschatological prophecies have yet to be fulfilled.
Prophet – One who is divinely inspired to communicate God’s will to his people, and to disclose the future to them.
Propitiation – The divine side of the work of Christ on the Cross. Propitiation addresses God’s recognition of what Christ accomplished on behalf of mankind, whether men enter into the blessings of it or not. Propitiation means satisfaction: The Justice and righteousness of God were satisfied with the work of Christ (1 John 2:1-2). As a result of propitiation, God is able to justify believers.
R
Rapture of the Church – The term rapture comes from the Latin raptio (caught up), and as used in this phrase, refers to the uniting of the Church with Christ at His second coming. The next great event in the fulfillment of prophecy will be the coming of the Lord Jesus in the air to receive to Himself the "dead in Christ" (all dead Church Age believers) and to remove the believers who are alive at His coming, both groups of which will receive their resurrection bodies. This event is otherwise known as the exit resurrection or translation of the Church (1 Corinthians 15:51-57; Philippians 3:20-21; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10; 1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 1 Thessalonians 5:10; Titus 2:11-14; 1 John 3:2). The Rapture occurs at the end of the Church Age, shortly before the Tribulation begins. This imminent, personal, and pre-tribulational coming of our Lord Jesus Christ is the "Blessed Hope" of Titus 2:13, and has a vital bearing on the personal life and service of the believer who will be judged and receive rewards or loss of rewards at the Judgment (Bema) Seat of Christ. Note: The word "Rapture" does not occur in Scripture. The Greek word associated with the Rapture of the Church is anastasis, better translated "resurrection."
Rationalism – A system of perception that is dependent wholly on the use of the cognitive and logical powers of reason. Philosophical rationalism is contrasted with faith, as a system of perception, in that rationalism is meritorious while faith is non-meritorious. While faith is the means of salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9), rationalism has a proper role in the perception, categorization, understanding, and assimilation of Biblical truth.
Reconciliation – Peace with God – The manward side of the work of Christ on the Cross, in apposition to propitiation, the Godwardside of the Cross. The doctrine of reconciliation addresses, collectively, the whole work of Christ on the Cross, whereby He removed the otherwise insurmountable barrier (estrangement) between God and man: Personal sin (removed by redemption), the penalty of sin (removed by expiation), man's position in Adam (see Positional Truth), physical birth (removed by regeneration), God's perfect character (satisfied by propitiation), and man's relative righteousness (removed by justification and imputation). (2 Corinthians 5:18; Ephesians 1:10-12; Ephesians 2:14-17; Ephesians 4:3; Ephesians 6:15; Colossians 1:20-21).
Redemption – The saving work of Jesus Christ on the Cross whereby every human being is purchased from the slave market of sin in which he was born (spiritual death) and delivered to the freedom of grace. Redemption is realized when a person is born again by faith alone in Christ alone (Gospel). (Cf. Mark 10:45; Romans 3:24; 1 Corinthians 1:30; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:13-14; 1 Peter 1:18-19).
Regeneration – The theological term for spiritual birth, or being "born again;" the imputation of Eternal Life at the moment anyone expresses faith in Jesus Christ for eternal salvation. (see Gospel) At that moment, the believer is identified with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4), entered into His body through the baptism by means of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13), Who creates a human spirit, and the now regenerate person passes from spiritual death to Spiritual Life (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15; 1 Peter 1:23-24).
Relative Righteousness – A term used to explain that human righteousness is adequate only in comparison with or relative to other humans, but is totally inadequate when compared to God's absolute or perfect righteousness (Isaiah 64:6; Matthew 23:27-28;Luke 16:15).
Religion –
Rapture of the Church – The term rapture comes from the Latin raptio (caught up), and as used in this phrase, refers to the uniting of the Church with Christ at His second coming. The next great event in the fulfillment of prophecy will be the coming of the Lord Jesus in the air to receive to Himself the "dead in Christ" (all dead Church Age believers) and to remove the believers who are alive at His coming, both groups of which will receive their resurrection bodies. This event is otherwise known as the exit resurrection or translation of the Church (1 Corinthians 15:51-57; Philippians 3:20-21; 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10; 1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 1 Thessalonians 5:10; Titus 2:11-14; 1 John 3:2). The Rapture occurs at the end of the Church Age, shortly before the Tribulation begins. This imminent, personal, and pre-tribulational coming of our Lord Jesus Christ is the "Blessed Hope" of Titus 2:13, and has a vital bearing on the personal life and service of the believer who will be judged and receive rewards or loss of rewards at the Judgment (Bema) Seat of Christ. Note: The word "Rapture" does not occur in Scripture. The Greek word associated with the Rapture of the Church is anastasis, better translated "resurrection."
Rationalism – A system of perception that is dependent wholly on the use of the cognitive and logical powers of reason. Philosophical rationalism is contrasted with faith, as a system of perception, in that rationalism is meritorious while faith is non-meritorious. While faith is the means of salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9), rationalism has a proper role in the perception, categorization, understanding, and assimilation of Biblical truth.
Reconciliation – Peace with God – The manward side of the work of Christ on the Cross, in apposition to propitiation, the Godwardside of the Cross. The doctrine of reconciliation addresses, collectively, the whole work of Christ on the Cross, whereby He removed the otherwise insurmountable barrier (estrangement) between God and man: Personal sin (removed by redemption), the penalty of sin (removed by expiation), man's position in Adam (see Positional Truth), physical birth (removed by regeneration), God's perfect character (satisfied by propitiation), and man's relative righteousness (removed by justification and imputation). (2 Corinthians 5:18; Ephesians 1:10-12; Ephesians 2:14-17; Ephesians 4:3; Ephesians 6:15; Colossians 1:20-21).
Redemption – The saving work of Jesus Christ on the Cross whereby every human being is purchased from the slave market of sin in which he was born (spiritual death) and delivered to the freedom of grace. Redemption is realized when a person is born again by faith alone in Christ alone (Gospel). (Cf. Mark 10:45; Romans 3:24; 1 Corinthians 1:30; Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:13-14; 1 Peter 1:18-19).
Regeneration – The theological term for spiritual birth, or being "born again;" the imputation of Eternal Life at the moment anyone expresses faith in Jesus Christ for eternal salvation. (see Gospel) At that moment, the believer is identified with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4), entered into His body through the baptism by means of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13), Who creates a human spirit, and the now regenerate person passes from spiritual death to Spiritual Life (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15; 1 Peter 1:23-24).
Relative Righteousness – A term used to explain that human righteousness is adequate only in comparison with or relative to other humans, but is totally inadequate when compared to God's absolute or perfect righteousness (Isaiah 64:6; Matthew 23:27-28;Luke 16:15).
Religion –
1 A system of belief that may involve a creed, a cult, faith, or persuasion regarding one’s beliefs, doctrines, or ritualistic practices.
2 A system whereby man by his own effort and merit attempts to gain salvation or the approbation of God. Christianity is a relationship with Jesus Christ, by grace through faith in Him as Savior from the penalty of sin. Religion can be a part of Satan’s cosmic system. (Luke 12:1; Colossians 2:23)
2 A system whereby man by his own effort and merit attempts to gain salvation or the approbation of God. Christianity is a relationship with Jesus Christ, by grace through faith in Him as Savior from the penalty of sin. Religion can be a part of Satan’s cosmic system. (Luke 12:1; Colossians 2:23)
Of the five uses of religion in the AV, three are translations of the Greek noun threskia which means demonstrative ceremonial worship by overt piety (Acts 26:5; James 1:26-27). The other two uses are translated from ioudaismos which is a reference to Judaism or Jewish religious practices in New Testament times (Galatians 1:13-14). The New Testament does not use the word “religion” to refer to Christianity.
Replacement Theology – A theological system which believes that the Church has replaced the failed and unrepentant Israel in God's Plan. Replacement theologies consider that Israel is the Church of the Old Testament and that the Church is the Israel of the New Testament, and heir to all of the divine promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in a 'spiritual' form. This is contrasted with a dispensational theological system which believes that Israel is God's chosen people, set aside temporarily in the Church Age, but restored to a position of blessing and fruitfulness in the Millennial Kingdom.
Restraining Ministry – A term used to describe one aspect of the present ministry of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is said to have restrained wicked mankind in the days of Noah (Genesis 6:3). And when He ceased opposing the wickedness of man, the judgments of God came upon the world. The Holy Spirit's restraining ministry is accomplished today by His empowering the lives of spiritually self-sustaining believers, mature with Biblical truth, who are called the Salt of the Earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16). At the Rapture of the Church, while the Holy Spirit will remain on Earth as He was during the Age of Israel, this special restraint will be removed during the Tribulation, as the salt, the light, and the mature believers are removed. Among the Holy Spirit's ministries is His convincing and convicting ministry related to "sin, righteousness, and judgment" (John 16:7-11). This ministry must also tend to restrain sin as people are convicted of the judgment related to sin. There is prophecy concerning a significant ministry of the Holy Spirit in the Millennium, in which He again restrains sin and encourages holy character (Isaiah 32:15f; Isaiah 44:3-5; Ezekiel 36:26f; Zechariah 12:10).
Resurrection – The theological term that means to be raised physically from the dead and to receive an incorruptible, immortal body, never again to be subject to death, just like that received by Jesus Christ upon His resurrection. So far, our Lord Jesus Christ is the only Person in history who has been resurrected (Luke 24:39; 1 Corinthians 15:20,23; Hebrews 10:9-14; 1 Peter 1:3-5). There are two general resurrections: The first resurrection is for believers only, and involves eternal life in a resurrection body that is incorruptible (Daniel 12:2; John 5:24,29; 1 Corinthians 15:20-22; Revelation 20:6,13). It includes Jesus Christ. (See Rapture of the Church.) The second resurrection is for unbelievers only, and it ends with the Last Judgment and the Lake of Fire (Matthew 25:41; 1 Corinthians 15:24; Revelation 20:5-15; John 5:28-29; 2 Peter 3:9). All unbelievers are resurrected at the end of time at the great white throne and then cast, in some kind of body, into the Lake of Fire forever. This occurs at the end of the Millennium when unbelievers are judged. This body intensifies the eternal punishment of that Lake of Fire. Resurrection must be contrasted with resuscitation.
Resurrection Body – One can infer that the resurrection body is recognizable: The scars in Jesus' hands, feet, and side were recognizable (Psalm 22:16; Zechariah 12:10; John 20:25-29). He was recognized by His disciples as the One who died and rose again. After the resurrection, Jesus Christ ate food (Luke 24:42-43). Christ had a true body which could be felt (Matthew 28:9;Luke 24:39; John 20:17). His resurrection body could breathe (John 20:22). His resurrection body had flesh and bone (Luke 24:39-40). His resurrection body could walk through a closed door (Luke 24:36; John 20:19). He disappeared at will (Luke 24:32). In His resurrection body, our Lord was totally aware of Biblical truth (Luke 24:27, 44). However, our memories will not contain sorrow over lost friends and relatives (Revelation 21:4). Philippians 3:21 and 1 John 3:2 indicate that our resurrection bodies may be adult in size.
Resuscitation – The return by a person from the dead in a body of corruption, who subsequently dies. This is not resurrection. Lazarus returned from the dead. He had been in the grave for several days, and he came out wrapped in his grave clothes. He subsequently died again (John 11). Also, the widow’s son at Nain (Luke 7:11f). The same is true of Paul, who was buried under a rock pile in Lystra after having been stoned to death. A short time thereafter, he was brought back from the dead (1 Corinthians 15). Elijah and Elisha each resuscitated boys (1 Kings 17:22-23; 2 Kings 4:32-37; 8:5).
Revelation – The action of God whereby He reveals Himself to man. This occurs in general, written, and special forms (Deuteronomy 29:29). (see following Revelation terms.)
Revelation, General – The revelation by God through His creation (Psalm 19:1-6; Romans 1:18-32; Romans 2:14-15; Acts 14:17;Matthew 5:45; Acts 17:28-29).
Revelation, Special – The revelation by God through His intervening in history by means of miracles, theophanies, dreams, and visions.
Revelation, Written – The completed canon of Scripture, inspired by God the Holy Spirit through the writing of men. See Canon, Inspiration.
Revived Roman Empire – Daniel 9:26 teaches that Jerusalem would be destroyed by a nation, out of which would come the Beast of the Tribulation. Since the Roman Empire was that nation in A. D. 70, the Beast must come from a Revived Roman Empire. (Sir Robert Anderson).
Righteousness – An attribute, related to God's Holiness, that describes His absolute perfection in character and Person. The Source of all Divine Good in the universe. Intrinsic, uncreated, untarnishable, absolute perfection (Deuteronomy 32:4; Ezra 9:15; Psalm 47:8; Psalm 48:10; Psalm 97:2; Psalm 119:137; Psalm 145:17; Jeremiah 23:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:21; John 17:25; Deuteronomy 32:4; 1 Peter 2:22; 1 John 2:29; 1 John 3:5; Revelation 16:5). Also see Essence of God.
Royal Priesthood– Jesus Christ is the High Priest of a Royal Priesthood. Christ was made a Priest by God Himself (Hebrews 5:4-10). A priest is one who ministers in sacred things, who may offer sacrifices on an altar, and who acts as a mediator between man and God. Our Lord, as the High Priest, ministered in sacred things (Hebrews 5:1), offered Himself, a sacrifice to God (Hebrews 9:26), and is the true Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5) between man and God. His Priesthood is an eternal and Royal Priesthood, after the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 5:5-6, 9). His present ministry includes intercession (Romans 8:34;Hebrews 7:25). While the Old Testament priesthoods were specialized, the Royal Priesthood is universal, because all Church Age believers are in union with Christ and consequently share in His royalty and priesthood. Believers of the Church Age form a holy and a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:5, 9; Revelation 1:6; Revelation 5:10; Revelation 20:6) because of their relationship to the High Priest, our Lord Jesus Christ. As the Old Testament priest was born into the priestly family of Levi, so also is the Church Age believer born into the royal family through regeneration. Also, see Family Priesthood; Levitical Priesthood.
Royalty of Christ – The Davidic Covenant established the perpetuity of the throne of David through Christ (2 Samuel 7:8-16; Psalm 89:20-37; 2 Chronicles 21:7; Isaiah 55:3 cf. Acts 13:34; Luke 1:32; Acts 2:29-30). The Royalty of Jesus Christ as it relates to the Davidic Covenant is revealed in the genealogies of Matthew (which presents Christ as the King of Kings) and Luke (which presents Christ as the Son of Man). Matthew 1:6-7, 16 shows the line of Jesus from David, through Bathsheba and Solomon, to "Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus." Luke 3 shows the line from David, through Nathan, to Mary. While the legal right to David's throne passed to Christ through Joseph as His legal father, the actual physical lineage could not be passed through Joseph, because of the Coniah curse on that line (Jeremiah 22:30; 36:30). The lineage of Christ through Mary to Adam through Nathan (Luke 3:31), however, shows both the connection to David and to the "seed of the woman" (Genesis 3:15). Both lines are given to show Jesus' rightful claim to David's throne, and was attested to by the angel, Gabriel, when he said to Mary, "the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David" (Luke 1:31; cf. Acts 2:29-30). "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in Heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth" (Ephesians 2:9-10).
Replacement Theology – A theological system which believes that the Church has replaced the failed and unrepentant Israel in God's Plan. Replacement theologies consider that Israel is the Church of the Old Testament and that the Church is the Israel of the New Testament, and heir to all of the divine promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in a 'spiritual' form. This is contrasted with a dispensational theological system which believes that Israel is God's chosen people, set aside temporarily in the Church Age, but restored to a position of blessing and fruitfulness in the Millennial Kingdom.
Restraining Ministry – A term used to describe one aspect of the present ministry of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is said to have restrained wicked mankind in the days of Noah (Genesis 6:3). And when He ceased opposing the wickedness of man, the judgments of God came upon the world. The Holy Spirit's restraining ministry is accomplished today by His empowering the lives of spiritually self-sustaining believers, mature with Biblical truth, who are called the Salt of the Earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16). At the Rapture of the Church, while the Holy Spirit will remain on Earth as He was during the Age of Israel, this special restraint will be removed during the Tribulation, as the salt, the light, and the mature believers are removed. Among the Holy Spirit's ministries is His convincing and convicting ministry related to "sin, righteousness, and judgment" (John 16:7-11). This ministry must also tend to restrain sin as people are convicted of the judgment related to sin. There is prophecy concerning a significant ministry of the Holy Spirit in the Millennium, in which He again restrains sin and encourages holy character (Isaiah 32:15f; Isaiah 44:3-5; Ezekiel 36:26f; Zechariah 12:10).
Resurrection – The theological term that means to be raised physically from the dead and to receive an incorruptible, immortal body, never again to be subject to death, just like that received by Jesus Christ upon His resurrection. So far, our Lord Jesus Christ is the only Person in history who has been resurrected (Luke 24:39; 1 Corinthians 15:20,23; Hebrews 10:9-14; 1 Peter 1:3-5). There are two general resurrections: The first resurrection is for believers only, and involves eternal life in a resurrection body that is incorruptible (Daniel 12:2; John 5:24,29; 1 Corinthians 15:20-22; Revelation 20:6,13). It includes Jesus Christ. (See Rapture of the Church.) The second resurrection is for unbelievers only, and it ends with the Last Judgment and the Lake of Fire (Matthew 25:41; 1 Corinthians 15:24; Revelation 20:5-15; John 5:28-29; 2 Peter 3:9). All unbelievers are resurrected at the end of time at the great white throne and then cast, in some kind of body, into the Lake of Fire forever. This occurs at the end of the Millennium when unbelievers are judged. This body intensifies the eternal punishment of that Lake of Fire. Resurrection must be contrasted with resuscitation.
Resurrection Body – One can infer that the resurrection body is recognizable: The scars in Jesus' hands, feet, and side were recognizable (Psalm 22:16; Zechariah 12:10; John 20:25-29). He was recognized by His disciples as the One who died and rose again. After the resurrection, Jesus Christ ate food (Luke 24:42-43). Christ had a true body which could be felt (Matthew 28:9;Luke 24:39; John 20:17). His resurrection body could breathe (John 20:22). His resurrection body had flesh and bone (Luke 24:39-40). His resurrection body could walk through a closed door (Luke 24:36; John 20:19). He disappeared at will (Luke 24:32). In His resurrection body, our Lord was totally aware of Biblical truth (Luke 24:27, 44). However, our memories will not contain sorrow over lost friends and relatives (Revelation 21:4). Philippians 3:21 and 1 John 3:2 indicate that our resurrection bodies may be adult in size.
Resuscitation – The return by a person from the dead in a body of corruption, who subsequently dies. This is not resurrection. Lazarus returned from the dead. He had been in the grave for several days, and he came out wrapped in his grave clothes. He subsequently died again (John 11). Also, the widow’s son at Nain (Luke 7:11f). The same is true of Paul, who was buried under a rock pile in Lystra after having been stoned to death. A short time thereafter, he was brought back from the dead (1 Corinthians 15). Elijah and Elisha each resuscitated boys (1 Kings 17:22-23; 2 Kings 4:32-37; 8:5).
Revelation – The action of God whereby He reveals Himself to man. This occurs in general, written, and special forms (Deuteronomy 29:29). (see following Revelation terms.)
Revelation, General – The revelation by God through His creation (Psalm 19:1-6; Romans 1:18-32; Romans 2:14-15; Acts 14:17;Matthew 5:45; Acts 17:28-29).
Revelation, Special – The revelation by God through His intervening in history by means of miracles, theophanies, dreams, and visions.
Revelation, Written – The completed canon of Scripture, inspired by God the Holy Spirit through the writing of men. See Canon, Inspiration.
Revived Roman Empire – Daniel 9:26 teaches that Jerusalem would be destroyed by a nation, out of which would come the Beast of the Tribulation. Since the Roman Empire was that nation in A. D. 70, the Beast must come from a Revived Roman Empire. (Sir Robert Anderson).
Righteousness – An attribute, related to God's Holiness, that describes His absolute perfection in character and Person. The Source of all Divine Good in the universe. Intrinsic, uncreated, untarnishable, absolute perfection (Deuteronomy 32:4; Ezra 9:15; Psalm 47:8; Psalm 48:10; Psalm 97:2; Psalm 119:137; Psalm 145:17; Jeremiah 23:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:21; John 17:25; Deuteronomy 32:4; 1 Peter 2:22; 1 John 2:29; 1 John 3:5; Revelation 16:5). Also see Essence of God.
Royal Priesthood– Jesus Christ is the High Priest of a Royal Priesthood. Christ was made a Priest by God Himself (Hebrews 5:4-10). A priest is one who ministers in sacred things, who may offer sacrifices on an altar, and who acts as a mediator between man and God. Our Lord, as the High Priest, ministered in sacred things (Hebrews 5:1), offered Himself, a sacrifice to God (Hebrews 9:26), and is the true Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5) between man and God. His Priesthood is an eternal and Royal Priesthood, after the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 5:5-6, 9). His present ministry includes intercession (Romans 8:34;Hebrews 7:25). While the Old Testament priesthoods were specialized, the Royal Priesthood is universal, because all Church Age believers are in union with Christ and consequently share in His royalty and priesthood. Believers of the Church Age form a holy and a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:5, 9; Revelation 1:6; Revelation 5:10; Revelation 20:6) because of their relationship to the High Priest, our Lord Jesus Christ. As the Old Testament priest was born into the priestly family of Levi, so also is the Church Age believer born into the royal family through regeneration. Also, see Family Priesthood; Levitical Priesthood.
Royalty of Christ – The Davidic Covenant established the perpetuity of the throne of David through Christ (2 Samuel 7:8-16; Psalm 89:20-37; 2 Chronicles 21:7; Isaiah 55:3 cf. Acts 13:34; Luke 1:32; Acts 2:29-30). The Royalty of Jesus Christ as it relates to the Davidic Covenant is revealed in the genealogies of Matthew (which presents Christ as the King of Kings) and Luke (which presents Christ as the Son of Man). Matthew 1:6-7, 16 shows the line of Jesus from David, through Bathsheba and Solomon, to "Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus." Luke 3 shows the line from David, through Nathan, to Mary. While the legal right to David's throne passed to Christ through Joseph as His legal father, the actual physical lineage could not be passed through Joseph, because of the Coniah curse on that line (Jeremiah 22:30; 36:30). The lineage of Christ through Mary to Adam through Nathan (Luke 3:31), however, shows both the connection to David and to the "seed of the woman" (Genesis 3:15). Both lines are given to show Jesus' rightful claim to David's throne, and was attested to by the angel, Gabriel, when he said to Mary, "the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David" (Luke 1:31; cf. Acts 2:29-30). "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in Heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth" (Ephesians 2:9-10).
S
Sabbath – The word is principally used for the seventh day of the week—our Saturday. God blessed and made holy the seventh day of the week because on that day he ceased from His work in creation, having completed it (Genesis 2:1-3). Omnipotent God did not need rest! There is no command for any portion of humanity to observe the Sabbath in the Genesis account. Rather, “The Sabbath was the sign, seal, and token of the Mosaic Covenant. As long as that covenant was in effect, the Sabbath Law was mandatory. Dispensationalism teaches that since the Law of Moses has been rendered inoperative, then the Sabbath command no longer applies.” (Arnold Fruchtenbaum, Israelology, p.652). Two principles help understand God’s reason for the Sabbath: The first is that the Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath (Mark 2:27). This indicates the symbolic and didactic nature of the Sabbath. The second is that Jesus Christ is the Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:27). Jesus Christ was the architect of God’s creation (Colossians 1:15-18), and the essence of the Sabbath is as a pointer to Him.
Sacrifice – A reference to the sacrifice of animals and agricultural products as a symbolic ritual. The sacrifices of the Old Testament period foreshadowed the person and work of Jesus Christ, and various aspects of relationship with God, teaching through physical acts the realities of God’s plan. They are not limited to Israel: Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:2-4), Noah (Genesis 8:20), and Abraham (Genesis 12:8) all practiced sacrificial rituals. Jesus Christ our Savior "gave Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savor." (Ephesians 5:2). His sacrifice is once for all, being complete and efficacious for all humanity, (Hebrews 10:12). He is the fulfillment of the Passover (1 Corinthians 5:7), acting both as High Priest (Hebrews 5:5;Hebrews 5:6) and as the sacrificial lamb (John 1:12) on the altar. Human self-sacrifice is the noblest of acts, (John 15:13).
Sadducees – A religious party which existed among the Jews in the days of our Lord, the others being the Essenes and the Pharisees. By and large, the Sadducees were wealthy and worldly. The Sadducees believed that there is no life after physical death (Matthew 22:23; Mark 12:18; Luke 20:27; Josephus, Wars, II, Ch.8 §14), because such doctrine is not specifically stated by Moses, their great Lawgiver.
Salt of the Earth – Mature believers, in fellowship with God, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, are said to be the salt of the Earth (Matthew 5:13). The analogy is of salt as an unseen preservative. During the Church Age, this is related to the restraining ministry of the Holy Spirit. Sometimes, nations are used by God to further His plan for mankind. Spiritually mature believers within a nation, operating within the Salt of the Earth principle, can participate in God's Plan by fulfilling the divine mandates of evangelism, communication, custodianship of Biblical truth, providing a haven for the Jews, and sending missionaries abroad.
Sabbath – The word is principally used for the seventh day of the week—our Saturday. God blessed and made holy the seventh day of the week because on that day he ceased from His work in creation, having completed it (Genesis 2:1-3). Omnipotent God did not need rest! There is no command for any portion of humanity to observe the Sabbath in the Genesis account. Rather, “The Sabbath was the sign, seal, and token of the Mosaic Covenant. As long as that covenant was in effect, the Sabbath Law was mandatory. Dispensationalism teaches that since the Law of Moses has been rendered inoperative, then the Sabbath command no longer applies.” (Arnold Fruchtenbaum, Israelology, p.652). Two principles help understand God’s reason for the Sabbath: The first is that the Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath (Mark 2:27). This indicates the symbolic and didactic nature of the Sabbath. The second is that Jesus Christ is the Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:27). Jesus Christ was the architect of God’s creation (Colossians 1:15-18), and the essence of the Sabbath is as a pointer to Him.
Sacrifice – A reference to the sacrifice of animals and agricultural products as a symbolic ritual. The sacrifices of the Old Testament period foreshadowed the person and work of Jesus Christ, and various aspects of relationship with God, teaching through physical acts the realities of God’s plan. They are not limited to Israel: Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:2-4), Noah (Genesis 8:20), and Abraham (Genesis 12:8) all practiced sacrificial rituals. Jesus Christ our Savior "gave Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savor." (Ephesians 5:2). His sacrifice is once for all, being complete and efficacious for all humanity, (Hebrews 10:12). He is the fulfillment of the Passover (1 Corinthians 5:7), acting both as High Priest (Hebrews 5:5;Hebrews 5:6) and as the sacrificial lamb (John 1:12) on the altar. Human self-sacrifice is the noblest of acts, (John 15:13).
Sadducees – A religious party which existed among the Jews in the days of our Lord, the others being the Essenes and the Pharisees. By and large, the Sadducees were wealthy and worldly. The Sadducees believed that there is no life after physical death (Matthew 22:23; Mark 12:18; Luke 20:27; Josephus, Wars, II, Ch.8 §14), because such doctrine is not specifically stated by Moses, their great Lawgiver.
Salt of the Earth – Mature believers, in fellowship with God, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, are said to be the salt of the Earth (Matthew 5:13). The analogy is of salt as an unseen preservative. During the Church Age, this is related to the restraining ministry of the Holy Spirit. Sometimes, nations are used by God to further His plan for mankind. Spiritually mature believers within a nation, operating within the Salt of the Earth principle, can participate in God's Plan by fulfilling the divine mandates of evangelism, communication, custodianship of Biblical truth, providing a haven for the Jews, and sending missionaries abroad.
Salvation – The gift of God brought to man by grace and received by personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, whose substitutionary spiritual death paid the penalty for and thus provided for the forgiveness of our sins. The one who believes in Jesus Christ has forgiveness of sins (Ephesians 1:7), and is saved from eternal condemnation in the Lake of Fire (John 3:18). Since it is impossible for God to be unfair to any person (Acts 10:34-35), and since He loves all men equally (John 3:16), desires all men to be saved (Titus 2:11), is not willing that any should perish (2 Peter 3:9), and invites all men to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4), He freely and graciously offers salvation to all men. He uses the drawing ministries of the Father and the Son (John 6:44; John 12:32), the convicting ministry of the Holy Spirit (John 16:8-11), witnessing, and missionary activities to make it genuinely possible for any member of the human race to receive the Lord Jesus Christ (Isaiah 45:21; John 1:12; Romans 5:8; Romans 8:32; Ephesians 2:8-10; 1 John 2:2).
Sanctification – Almost every time the word "Sanctification" is used in the Scriptures, "set apart unto God" is implied. Sanctification is the setting apart of a person or an object for a special purpose. The object is usually indicated in the context. Positional Sanctification is the result of baptism by means of the Holy Spirit, (1 Corinthians 12:13; 2 Thessalonians 2:13). ExperientialSanctification involves the state of fellowship with God (1 Peter 1:14-15) and the process of spiritual growth (Romans 8:29;12:2), at any moment the believer is filled with the Holy Spirit. Ultimate Sanctification is the state of every believer in eternity future – (Ephesians 5:27; Philippians 3:21) 1 John 3:2. Sanctification does not indicate any particular life style or "saintly" attitude.
Satan – An angel—a created being—who, in the ancient past sinned from arrogance and aspiration to the throne of God (Ezekiel 28:12-17; Isaiah 14:12-17). He is the open and declared enemy of God and man. The Greek word Diabolos (DiaboloV) means "accuser," "slanderer," or "maligner." Satan sometimes accuses us before the Father's Throne of Grace (Job 1:6-7), on which occasions our Lord Jesus Christ acts as our defense attorney (1 John 2:1). Satan participates in the temptation of human beings (Matthew 4:2-11). God's Word teaches that Satan leads the fallen angels in the Angelic Conflict, a universal and invisible spiritual conflict. His future confinement will be to the Lake of Fire with all fallen angels and unbelieving humans. There they will experience everlasting conscious torment, (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 12:7-9; 20:10).
Scripture – The Holy Scriptures are the infallible Word of God, were inspired by God the Holy Spirit, are reliable in all matters addressed, are free from all falsehood, fraud, or deceit, and are without error in the original autographs. The Bible is God's complete revelation for the salvation of men, and the divine and final authority for all Christian faith and life. (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Matthew 5:18; John 16:12-13; Psalm 138:2b; Isaiah 40:8). (Also, see Canonicity, Sufficiency.)
Sealing by the Holy Spirit – A ministry of the Holy Spirit to all believers, by which He seals believers' salvation, with Eternal Security as the result. (2 Corinthians 1:21-22; Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 4:30.)
Second Advent of Christ – The Great Tribulation will be climaxed by the premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ to set up His kingdom on Earth (Zechariah 14:4-11; Matthew 24:29-44; Acts 1:11; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10; Revelation 19:11-21).
Second Death – The second death is the final condemnation of fallen angels and human unbelievers into the Lake of Fire. There are three events associated with the second death: (1) The Beast and the False Prophet cast into the Lake of Fire (Rev 19:20); (2) One thousand years later, Satan is cast into the Lake of Fire (Rev 20:10); (3) Unbelievers are resurrected (second resurrection) and cast into the Lake of Fire (Rev 20:11-14).
Self-Consciousness – An attribute of the Human Soul: one's awareness of one's own existence.
Septuagint – The earliest Greek translation of the Hebrew Old Testament, from the third and second centuries B. C. (reign of Ptolemy Philadelphus 285-246 B. C.), used by some of the writers of the New Testament. It is valuable for understanding the meaning of Hebrew words and passages because of its relative proximity to the original Hebrew text. It is commonly referenced as “LXX.”
Session of Christ – The Lord Jesus Christ in His glorified body is now seated in Heaven (Heb 9:24), exalted at the right hand of God the Father, where He presently fulfills the ministries of Representative, Intercessor (Rom 8:34; Heb 7:25) and Advocate(Rom 8:34; Heb 7:25; 1 John 2:1-2) as the High Priest for His people.
Shadow Christology – The Levitical Priesthood operated during the Age of Israel as a specialized typical priesthood, and involved the administration of a Shadow Christology. The shadow Christology was a system of teaching tools that illustrated doctrines related to the coming Jewish Messiah. These teaching tools were outlined to Israel in Codex II of the Mosaic Law and included things, events, and ceremonies, which together portrayed Christ, salvation, and fellowship with God. The construction of the Tabernacle, and later the Temple, the various articles of furniture, the feasts and holy days, the offerings, and the rituals all spoke of the promised Messiah, Who would some day come in the flesh. The ceremonial rituals of the Mosaic Law are said to have been "a shadow of good things to come" (Hebrews 10:1; Hebrews 8:5; Colossians 2:17). Some of the teaching tools may be classified as types, if there is a New Testament statement identifying the antitype. When Christ later came in the incarnation, the reality fulfilled the shadows and made the shadow Christology obsolete. Thus Colossians 2:17 and Hebrews 8:13 together suggest the question, "Why observe the obsolete shadows when you have the real thing?"
Shekinah Glory – During the Age of Israel the Shechinah Glory was the preincarnate Christ, appearing as a pillar of fire by night, a cloud by day, or a bright light over the Ark of the Covenant in the Tabernacle or Temple (Exodus 25:21-22; Leviticus 26:11-12; Hebrews 9:5). During the Church Age, the Shekinah Glory is the indwelling of Christ in the believer (1 Corinthians 3:16;6:19-20; 2 Corinthians 6:16; Colossians 1:27-29).
Sheol – See Hades.
Sin – A condition of man that constitutes part of the barrier between man and God. Scripture reveals three categories of sin: Imputed Sin, Inherent Sin, and Personal sin. Imputed Sin: God credits to every member of the human race the responsibility and penalty for Adam’s sin (Romans 5:12; Romans 5:18-19; 1 Corinthians 15:22). (Also, see Imputation of Adam's Sin.) Inherent Sin (sin nature): Every person inherits a sinful capacity that causes and leads him to commit personal acts of sin (Romans 6:6; Romans 7:17-18; Ephesians 4:22). Personal Sin: Any mental (thought), verbal (word), or overt activity (deed) that violates the character, standards, and will of God. (Romans 3:23; Mark 7:20-23; Romans 6:12-13; 2 Corinthians 10:5; James 3:5-6).
Sin Nature – The sin nature was originally acquired by Adam at his fall after he sinned. Everyone since Adam and Eve has been born with an Old Sin Nature, passed down to all mankind in procreation (1 Timothy 2:13-14; Romans 5:12; Ephesians 2:1;Psalm 51:5) It is an integral part of every human being. At birth, God imputes Adam’s original sin to the sin nature (Romans 5:12), resulting in spiritual death (Psalm 58:2-5; Matthew 15:19), the Sovereignty of the sin nature over human life (Romans 6:12), and total depravity of all humanity (Jeremiah 17:9; Psalm 58:2-5; Matthew 15:19), except Jesus Christ. It is the source of temptation to commit sin, human good, and evil inherent in human beings; the center of rebellion toward God when in control of the soul. The sin nature is composed of an area of strength which produces human good, an area of weakness which produces Personal sin, trends toward legalism or antinomianism, and lust patterns. Because of the virgin birth, Jesus Christ was born without a sin nature. The Old Sin Nature is referred to by specific nomenclature: the Flesh (Romans 8:3-4; Galatians 6:12;John 3:6; Ephesians 2:3), Old Man (Ephesians 4:22; Colossians 3:9; Romans 6:6), carnal ( Romans 7:14; 1 Corinthians 3:3;Romans 8:6-8), the principle of Sin (Romans 5:12; Romans 6:12; Romans 7:14; 1 John 1:8; Psalm 51:5), and Heart ( Matthew 12:34; Matthew 15:19; Jeremiah 17:9; Psalm 58:2-5; Mark 7:21-23). The Old Sin Nature causes mankind to be desperately ("incurably") wicked (Jeremiah 17:9) and, at best, produces human good (Isaiah 64:6).
Son of God – See Jesus Christ.
Sonship – See Adoption.
Soteriology – The study of the doctrines related to salvation—a major division of Systematic Theology—including the accomplishments of Christ in His death, the Gospel of Christ, the salvation of believers in Christ, God’s plan for believers in time, and the Eternal Security of those believers.
Soul – See Human Soul.
Sovereignty – The attribute of God that describes His authority over all He creates. The divine prerogative by which all things have been assigned their absolute respective places in creation. (1 Chronicles 29:10-13; 2 Chronicles 20:6; Psalm 83:18; 135;Proverbs 21:1; Daniel 4:17, 32, 35; Matthew 6:13; Luke 18:7; Job 9:7-9; Job 42:2; Isaiah 9:6-7; Isaiah 40:28; Isaiah 46:9-10;Jeremiah 1:5; Jeremiah 23:5; Acts 17:24; 1 Timothy 6:15; Galatians 1:15; Colossians 1:16-18; Revelation 19:12,15-16).
Spirit – See Human Spirit.
Spiritual Death – Separation from God and His fellowship because of sin. Spiritual death is the penalty for sin that God declared to Adam as recorded in Genesis 2:17. Adam died spiritually, i. e. could have no fellowship with God, because of his personal sin in the garden. As a result of spiritual death, Adam later died physically (Genesis 5:5). Remember that Adam hid himself. We usually refer to Adam's spiritual death by the term "the fall," which means essentially the same thing—separation from fellowship with God—but connotes further consequences to the whole race. One result of the fall is that Adam's sin was imputed to the whole race, with the result that all men are born spiritually dead. Furthermore, the nature to sin is passed down by the male in procreation. This type of sin is called inherent sin. Therefore, the sin associated with a person's state of spiritual death at birth includes both imputed and inherent sin. Regeneration by the Holy Spirit makes spiritually alive the one who believes in Christ as Savior (Ephesians 2:1-2; Galatians 3:26-27). As a spiritually living human being, the believer can have fellowship with God, intermittently interrupted by temporal death (the result of personal sin). Fellowship with God can be restored by private confession of that sin (1 John 1:9).
Spiritual Gifts – The Holy Spirit sovereignly bestows spiritual gifts to every believer. These gifts are God-given abilities that Christians should employ to serve one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. God used some spiritual gifts (such as apostleship, miracles, tongues, interpretation of tongues, healing, discerning spirits, and prophecy) that were temporary in nature as signs (Isaiah 28:11; cf. 1 Corinthians 14:21-22) to unbelieving Jews and as a validation of the New Testament message and its messengers in lieu of the completed canon of Scripture (1 Corinthians 13:10). The temporary gifts legitimately functioned until the completion of the canon of Scripture, ceasing by the end of the first century (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, 28-30; 1 Corinthians 13:8-10; 1 Corinthians 14:21-22; Ephesians 2:20; Ephesians 4:11; Hebrews 2:3-4; 1 Peter 4:10). Other spiritual gifts are permanent, and include: pastor-teacher, evangelism, missionary, exhortation, teaching, administration, giving, showing mercy, and helps.
Spirituality – Jesus said, "God is spirit" (John 4:24). In a different place, Jesus characterized "spirit" as follows, “Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” (Luke 24:39), indicating that God is immaterial and incorporeal. References in Scripture that may seem to imply that God has hands, feet, eyes, ears, etc. are anthropomorphisms.
Spiritual (1) – Spiritual Life – From spiritual death to new life: The unregenerate person is said to be yucikoV (psuchikos) in the Scriptures. Jude 1:19, where yucikoV is translated into English as "sensual," further defines this word used for the natural, unregenerate, soulish person as "having not the Spirit." The unregenerate person is dichotomous, having no active human spirit (nor indwelling Holy Spirit) and consequently consists of only two component parts—body and soul. At the moment of regeneration, the Holy Spirit creates an active human spirit in the new believer, and the now regenerate person passes from spiritual death to spiritual life. The Scriptures use the Greek word pneumatikoV (pneumatikos) on twenty-five occasions to denote "he that is spiritual."
Spiritual (2) – The absolute status of the Christian, who is either (a) in fellowship with God through having no unconfessed personal sin and the resulting filling by means of the Holy Spirit or (b) in carnality as the result of personal sin. A Christian may be either pneumatikos (pneumatikos) or sarkikos (sarkikos), but not yucikos (psuchikos). The believer has been saved from yucikos (soulish without spirit) by Christ; he may be delivered from sarkikos (flesh, carnal) by dependence on, and right relationship to the indwelling Holy Spirit through confession of sin. The believer has the ability to be spiritually self-sustaining—to maintain fellowship with God. In fellowship with God, the believer's task is to mature, to grow in the knowledge of Biblical truth, and to handle the blessings and trials of life in occupation with Christ. Spirituality is not a result of a pious life, acts of penance, asking for forgiveness, feeling sorry for sin, or any other emotion, feeling, or work. Also, see Christian Life and Abiding in Christ.
Sufficiency of the Scriptures – Scripture states that it is able to equip us for every good work. In addition, the Lord states that He has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness through the body of knowledge wherein His great and precious promises are recorded. Therefore, we believe that the Bible alone, as one applies it to his life, is a sufficient resource to prepare the believer to handle all the problems and exigencies of life and ministry (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:3-11).
Sustaining Ministry – The ministry by which the deity of Christ holds together the atomic structure of the universe, (Colossians 1:17; Hebrews 1:3) Also, see Preservation of the Universe.
Systematic Theology – The collecting and scientific arrangement of materials from exegetical theology, and to a lesser extent from historical theology, into logical categories under the great theological headings of Theology Proper, Christology, Pneumatology, Bibliology, Angelology, Anthropology, Soteriology, Israelology, Ecclesiology, and Eschatology. It includes the comparing, exhibiting, and defending of all facts from any and every source concerning God and His works.
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Tartarus – See Hades.
Teleological Argument – (also known as the “intelligent design” theory) The argumentum a posteriori, from Naturalistic Theism, that asserts the existence of God, from the presence of order and adaptation in the universe. The fact of design, which is exhibited in every created thing, exposes the acumen and rational purpose of a Creator. This manifest intent which characterized all of God's works is illustrated—as nearly as the finite can illustrate the infinite—by the fact of design and purpose which is exhibited in the achievements of men, which achievements, because of this design, display the acumen and rational purpose of men. None of the naturalistic arguments for the existence of God have such a large number of available illustrations of intelligent design. For example, the complicated retinal chemistry for seeing in color is perfectly useless without very complicated brain circuitry—which is perfectly useless without the complicated retinal chemistry. For a human to see in color, he simultaneously must have acquired two phenomenally intricate systems that are independently of no value at all. This argues for simultaneous design of both and, consequently, the existence of a Designer. Historical Proponents of this approach: Cicero, William Paley (1743-1805). (Psalm 94:9; Psalm 94:10.) (See Anthropological, Cosmological, Congruity, and Ontological Arguments)
Teleology – The study of evidences of divine design, function, or purpose in nature or history.
Temporal Death – The state of the believer who has unconfessed sin in his life. Confession of that sin directly to God the Father is the solution which restores fellowship with God (Romans 8:6). [Synonyms: Carnality, out of fellowship; Antonym: Spiritual]
Temporary Spiritual Gifts – See Spiritual Gifts
Tetragrammaton – A reference to the four letters that make up the nominative "JHWH," translated Jehovah or Yahweh. In various contexts this word may refer to any member of the Trinity.
Theanthropic Person – Jesus Christ is the Theanthropic Person of the universe (Theos = God + Anthropos = Man). The word "Theanthropic" connotes the presence of two natures, undiminished deity and true humanity, in the one person of Jesus Christ. Both natures are inseparably united, without loss or mixture of separate identity, without loss or transfer of properties or attributes, the union being personal and eternal. Also, see Jesus Christ, hypostatic union (John 1:14; John 8:58; John 10:33;John 17:5; Romans 8:3; Philippians 2:5-9; 1 Timothy 2:5; 1 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 2:16-17).
Theism, Biblical – It is the function of Biblical Theism to recognize, classify, and exhibit the truth about God as set forth in Hisrevelation of Himself as recorded in the Scriptures. This is in contrast to the function of Naturalistic Theism – to establish arguments for the existence of God based solely on the grounds of reason in the mentality of the soul.
Theism, Naturalistic – While it is the function of Biblical Theism to recognize, classify, and exhibit the truth about God as set forth in His revelation of Himself as recorded in the Scriptures, it is the function of Naturalistic Theism to establish arguments for the existence of God based solely on the grounds of reason in the mentality of the soul. (See Anthropological,Cosmological,Congruity, Ontological, and Teleological Arguments.)
Theocracy of Israel – The form of government among the early Israelites, in which Jehovah was recognized as their supreme civil ruler, and His laws were taken as the statute book of the kingdom. The period of Theocracy was from the Exodus to the coronation of King Saul. It will occur again in the Millennium.
Theodicy – The assertion and defense of the goodness and Justice of the Sovereignty of God in spite of evil in the world. Refers to any attempt to justify the ways of God to man. In order for a theodicy to be successful, it must demonstrate that God is omnipotent, omniscient, and just despite the existence of evil.
Theology Proper – The study of God—a major division of Systematic Theology—including viewpoints from both Naturalistic and Biblical Theism.
Theonomy – Refers to government by God, especially by His law. Theonomists argue that modern civil laws should enforce the letter of Old Testament law and that such laws should carry the same penalties as they did in the theocracy of Israel, a viewpoint contrary to the dispensational viewpoint.
Theophany – A manifestation of God in visible and bodily form before the incarnation of Christ. The theophanies are chiefly the appearances of Christ as the “Angel of the LORD,” which occur throughout the entire Old Testament. That the ten appearances are Christ is supported as follows: (1) The Second Person of the Trinity is the visible God of Scripture; (2) The Angel of the LORD no longer appears after the incarnation; (3) Both the Angel of the LORD and Christ are "sent by the Father;" and (4) The Angel of the LORD could not be the Father or Holy Spirit (John 1:18). Christ also appeared in many forms other than the Angel of the LORD [Jacob wrestling with God (Genesis 32:24-32), etc.]. Theophanies are used as one proof of the pre-existence of Christ. Appearances of Christ after the resurrection are called Christophanies.
Tongues – See Spiritual Gifts.
Torah (Law) – The name of the first of the three divisions of the Hebrew canon — Torah (Law), Nebiim (Prophets), and Kethubim (Writings). The Torah comprises the "Pentateuch" or "Five Books of Moses.”
Torments – See Hades.
Traducianism – The theological view that the human soul is transmitted through human procreation. This view was originated in the early church by Tertullian (c.160-230), who also held to a material view of the soul.
Transcendence – While God's attribute of immanence indicates that He is not distanced from us, but in fact is deeply involved in human history and individual lives, His transcendence emphasizes that the superior state or form of existence in which God lives is different from and superior to that of human beings (Isaiah 46:9; Ephesians 4:6) or angels. His transcendence also implies that He is capable of controlling everything that exists in the universe that He created (Isaiah 46:10). Divine transcendence is eternally prior to and exalted above the universe which he created (Isaiah 40:25-26). The total of God's divine essence is above and beyond the universe and at the same time indwells or fills the universe. While His understanding is incomprehensible (Isaiah 40:27-28; 55:8-9), He is knowable because He reveals Himself to us. God is both transcendent and immanent (Ephesians 4:6), and these two attributes do not contradict or diminish each other.
Transfiguration – Our Lord’s transformation on the Mount of Transfiguration (Matthew 16:28 – Matthew 17:2). The Greek verbmetamorphoo, from which the English word metamorphism is derived, means to change or to transform, causing a radical change of form, structure, appearance, or substance.
Tribulation – The eschatological seven literal years (Daniel 9:27; Revelation 11:3; 12:6) which is the end of the Age of Israel and of divine discipline against Israel, following the Rapture of the Church, and terminating with the Second Advent of Christ. The Church Age is an intercalation—a period of time inserted into the Age of Israel. The Tribulation is the fulfillment of Israel's seventieth and last week, the latter half of which is the time of Jacob's trouble, the great tribulation (Daniel 9:24-27; Jeremiah 30:7; Matthew 24:15-21; Revelation 6:1—19:21). (See Dispensation.)
Trichotomous – Consisting of three component parts. Regenerate mankind consists of: body, soul, and spirit. (1 Thessalonians 5:23;1 Corinthians 15:44; Hebrews 4:12). (Also see Dichotomous.)
Trinity – The Bible reveals that there exists only one Triune God, Creator of all things, eternally existing in three eternal persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, co-equal, co-infinite, and co-eternal in power and glory, and identical in nature, having the same attributes and perfections. While God is one in Essence, He expresses Himself as three distinct, though co-equal, personalities: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. The doctrine of the Trinity is clearly a monotheistic revelation from Scripture (Deuteronomy 6:4; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Matthew 3:16-17; Luke 3:21-22; Genesis 1:1-2; Genesis 6:3; Psalm 51:11;Isaiah 40:13; Isaiah 48:16; Haggai 2:4-5; John 1:1-2; John 14:7; John 16:8-13; John 17:5,24; Ephesians 1:11; Ephesians 3:11;Hebrews 10:7; 1 Timothy 2:5; 1 Corinthians 2:10; Philippians 2:6; Micah 5:2
Tartarus – See Hades.
Teleological Argument – (also known as the “intelligent design” theory) The argumentum a posteriori, from Naturalistic Theism, that asserts the existence of God, from the presence of order and adaptation in the universe. The fact of design, which is exhibited in every created thing, exposes the acumen and rational purpose of a Creator. This manifest intent which characterized all of God's works is illustrated—as nearly as the finite can illustrate the infinite—by the fact of design and purpose which is exhibited in the achievements of men, which achievements, because of this design, display the acumen and rational purpose of men. None of the naturalistic arguments for the existence of God have such a large number of available illustrations of intelligent design. For example, the complicated retinal chemistry for seeing in color is perfectly useless without very complicated brain circuitry—which is perfectly useless without the complicated retinal chemistry. For a human to see in color, he simultaneously must have acquired two phenomenally intricate systems that are independently of no value at all. This argues for simultaneous design of both and, consequently, the existence of a Designer. Historical Proponents of this approach: Cicero, William Paley (1743-1805). (Psalm 94:9; Psalm 94:10.) (See Anthropological, Cosmological, Congruity, and Ontological Arguments)
Teleology – The study of evidences of divine design, function, or purpose in nature or history.
Temporal Death – The state of the believer who has unconfessed sin in his life. Confession of that sin directly to God the Father is the solution which restores fellowship with God (Romans 8:6). [Synonyms: Carnality, out of fellowship; Antonym: Spiritual]
Temporary Spiritual Gifts – See Spiritual Gifts
Tetragrammaton – A reference to the four letters that make up the nominative "JHWH," translated Jehovah or Yahweh. In various contexts this word may refer to any member of the Trinity.
Theanthropic Person – Jesus Christ is the Theanthropic Person of the universe (Theos = God + Anthropos = Man). The word "Theanthropic" connotes the presence of two natures, undiminished deity and true humanity, in the one person of Jesus Christ. Both natures are inseparably united, without loss or mixture of separate identity, without loss or transfer of properties or attributes, the union being personal and eternal. Also, see Jesus Christ, hypostatic union (John 1:14; John 8:58; John 10:33;John 17:5; Romans 8:3; Philippians 2:5-9; 1 Timothy 2:5; 1 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 2:16-17).
Theism, Biblical – It is the function of Biblical Theism to recognize, classify, and exhibit the truth about God as set forth in Hisrevelation of Himself as recorded in the Scriptures. This is in contrast to the function of Naturalistic Theism – to establish arguments for the existence of God based solely on the grounds of reason in the mentality of the soul.
Theism, Naturalistic – While it is the function of Biblical Theism to recognize, classify, and exhibit the truth about God as set forth in His revelation of Himself as recorded in the Scriptures, it is the function of Naturalistic Theism to establish arguments for the existence of God based solely on the grounds of reason in the mentality of the soul. (See Anthropological,Cosmological,Congruity, Ontological, and Teleological Arguments.)
Theocracy of Israel – The form of government among the early Israelites, in which Jehovah was recognized as their supreme civil ruler, and His laws were taken as the statute book of the kingdom. The period of Theocracy was from the Exodus to the coronation of King Saul. It will occur again in the Millennium.
Theodicy – The assertion and defense of the goodness and Justice of the Sovereignty of God in spite of evil in the world. Refers to any attempt to justify the ways of God to man. In order for a theodicy to be successful, it must demonstrate that God is omnipotent, omniscient, and just despite the existence of evil.
Theology Proper – The study of God—a major division of Systematic Theology—including viewpoints from both Naturalistic and Biblical Theism.
Theonomy – Refers to government by God, especially by His law. Theonomists argue that modern civil laws should enforce the letter of Old Testament law and that such laws should carry the same penalties as they did in the theocracy of Israel, a viewpoint contrary to the dispensational viewpoint.
Theophany – A manifestation of God in visible and bodily form before the incarnation of Christ. The theophanies are chiefly the appearances of Christ as the “Angel of the LORD,” which occur throughout the entire Old Testament. That the ten appearances are Christ is supported as follows: (1) The Second Person of the Trinity is the visible God of Scripture; (2) The Angel of the LORD no longer appears after the incarnation; (3) Both the Angel of the LORD and Christ are "sent by the Father;" and (4) The Angel of the LORD could not be the Father or Holy Spirit (John 1:18). Christ also appeared in many forms other than the Angel of the LORD [Jacob wrestling with God (Genesis 32:24-32), etc.]. Theophanies are used as one proof of the pre-existence of Christ. Appearances of Christ after the resurrection are called Christophanies.
Tongues – See Spiritual Gifts.
Torah (Law) – The name of the first of the three divisions of the Hebrew canon — Torah (Law), Nebiim (Prophets), and Kethubim (Writings). The Torah comprises the "Pentateuch" or "Five Books of Moses.”
Torments – See Hades.
Traducianism – The theological view that the human soul is transmitted through human procreation. This view was originated in the early church by Tertullian (c.160-230), who also held to a material view of the soul.
Transcendence – While God's attribute of immanence indicates that He is not distanced from us, but in fact is deeply involved in human history and individual lives, His transcendence emphasizes that the superior state or form of existence in which God lives is different from and superior to that of human beings (Isaiah 46:9; Ephesians 4:6) or angels. His transcendence also implies that He is capable of controlling everything that exists in the universe that He created (Isaiah 46:10). Divine transcendence is eternally prior to and exalted above the universe which he created (Isaiah 40:25-26). The total of God's divine essence is above and beyond the universe and at the same time indwells or fills the universe. While His understanding is incomprehensible (Isaiah 40:27-28; 55:8-9), He is knowable because He reveals Himself to us. God is both transcendent and immanent (Ephesians 4:6), and these two attributes do not contradict or diminish each other.
Transfiguration – Our Lord’s transformation on the Mount of Transfiguration (Matthew 16:28 – Matthew 17:2). The Greek verbmetamorphoo, from which the English word metamorphism is derived, means to change or to transform, causing a radical change of form, structure, appearance, or substance.
Tribulation – The eschatological seven literal years (Daniel 9:27; Revelation 11:3; 12:6) which is the end of the Age of Israel and of divine discipline against Israel, following the Rapture of the Church, and terminating with the Second Advent of Christ. The Church Age is an intercalation—a period of time inserted into the Age of Israel. The Tribulation is the fulfillment of Israel's seventieth and last week, the latter half of which is the time of Jacob's trouble, the great tribulation (Daniel 9:24-27; Jeremiah 30:7; Matthew 24:15-21; Revelation 6:1—19:21). (See Dispensation.)
Trichotomous – Consisting of three component parts. Regenerate mankind consists of: body, soul, and spirit. (1 Thessalonians 5:23;1 Corinthians 15:44; Hebrews 4:12). (Also see Dichotomous.)
Trinity – The Bible reveals that there exists only one Triune God, Creator of all things, eternally existing in three eternal persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, co-equal, co-infinite, and co-eternal in power and glory, and identical in nature, having the same attributes and perfections. While God is one in Essence, He expresses Himself as three distinct, though co-equal, personalities: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. The doctrine of the Trinity is clearly a monotheistic revelation from Scripture (Deuteronomy 6:4; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Matthew 3:16-17; Luke 3:21-22; Genesis 1:1-2; Genesis 6:3; Psalm 51:11;Isaiah 40:13; Isaiah 48:16; Haggai 2:4-5; John 1:1-2; John 14:7; John 16:8-13; John 17:5,24; Ephesians 1:11; Ephesians 3:11;Hebrews 10:7; 1 Timothy 2:5; 1 Corinthians 2:10; Philippians 2:6; Micah 5:2