Delton Lewis Scudder (1940) writes that the problem of evil arises from the theistic attempt to be loyal to the concepts concerning: (1) the sovereignty of God, who is the creator and sustainer of the universe, (2) the reality of evils in the world, and (3) the goodness of God.
SCUDDER, DELTON, LEWIS (1940) Tennant’s Philosophical Theology, London, Oxford University Press.
Edited Twitter version
Scudder writes that the problem of evil arises from the theistic attempt to be loyal to the concepts of the sovereignty of God, the creator and sustainer of the universe, the reality of evils in the world, and the goodness of God.
Presidential Debate: Evolving comments in progress
Photo from economist.com
In my Zoom group Saturday evenings 21:30 PDT, Vancouver time; I estimate five of my friends think Donald Trump will easily defeat Joe Biden, and approximately three friends reason Joe Biden will easily defeat Donald Trump.
I have no definitive, definite opinion: Biden is the more experienced statesmen, while Trump is the aggressive attacking type.
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Debate comments
Dr. Russ
COVID-19
Biden is the more polished debater and wisely looks at the camera on key points.
Anonymous One
Debate comments
Trump keeps calling Covid "The Chinese plague". Very racist.
Dr. Fauci was initially against mask wearing according to Trump.
Trump also said if Biden could get the crowds he would hold rallies with no social distancing just like he does.
Chris needs to jump on Trump more.
Biden, “if you’re going to vote, vote early and vote often”. ie vote more than once omg
Dr. Russ
President Trump appeared strong on law and order, against violence from the far left, then did not clearly enough condemn violence and lack of law and order from the far right.
Anonymous Two
It was only a shit show when Trump was talking. Biden was policy oriented, calm, rational, and clearly concerned about his country. I think he likely won the presidency tonight.
Anonymous Five
I didn't warch it...can't do anything about the American election. Americans don't think like normal people...i only watched a few minutes...
Anonymous Six
Anon 5 = Chucky?
Trump clearly exasperated Biden a few times tonight with talking over him.
Remember when Biden said “will you shut up man” and called him a “clown?”
A BS tactic intended to disrupt that worked more than once this evening.
Dr. Russ
No word from Charles Nelson Chuckles as of yet...
Anonymous Six
I have no way of verifying any claims by either candidate but did burst out laughing a few times as both talked over the other, mostly Trump using it as a tactic to steal Biden's thunder and belittle his points.
Anonymous
Anonymous Seven
I kept thinking, Trump bite your tongue...you’ll come out of it better if you appear as a civil debater...but that’s just not his style. Wallace should have had a loud Jeopardy style buzzer to stop the interruptions.
Photo is from the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David, UWTSD.
Theologian John Frame (1999) notes that for many throughout history and today, the problem of evil is the most serious objection to Christian theism.
Frame (1999: 1).
FRAME, JOHN M. (1999) ‘The Bible on the Problem of Evil: Insights from Romans 3:1-8,21-26; 5:1-5; 8:28-39’, IIIM Magazine Online, Volume 1, Number 33, October 11 to October 17, Fern Park, Florida, Third Millennium.
Thank you to Benny for taking the Zoom meetings photos.
Subjects
Biden versus Trump in a Presidential debate
China's possible political intentions for the western world
Biblical dating standards versus market value dating standards
Another lesson from Master Arne's Dating Tips: Eventually getting that overseas bride, waiting for Mother to die, and avoiding being found dead in an African ditch
I prayed for everyone individually in the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit
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Most Saturday evenings 21:30 PDT, Vancouver time
Russ Murray is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. Topic: Russ Murray's Personal Meeting Room Join Zoom Meeting https://us04web.zoom.us/j/6209164709?pwd=S1FsWWVMSHFTTVh3OWlRalgxT2g1Zz09 Meeting ID: 620 916 4709 Passcode: 0jTaJp
Photo 1: Talen by me after the Zoom meeting.
Photo 2:
Paraphrased
Dr. RNM: Arne I know you DO NOT DRINK, but you always appear like you just finished a twelve pack when you come on Zoom.
Charles Nelson Chuckles: Yes, and at 7 am.
Photo 3: Paraphrased
John Woo (As the everlastingly Zoom absent Bobby Buff mistakenly calls him): I am considering church options.
Dr. RNM: How about Salt Lake City?
Photo 4: Sir Robin was getting into the name changing act. Well-done, sir.
Photo is from the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), 2020
Augustine (born 354-died 430) (388-395)(1964) deduces that God is good and therefore does not commit evil. The cause of evil is therefore not to be traced back to God, but to the person that does evil.
AUGUSTINE (388-395)(1964) On Free Choice of the Will, Translated by Anna S .Benjamin and L.H. Hackstaff, Upper Saddle River, N.J., Prentice Hall.
For more information on incompatibilism and compatibilism in regards to free will and determinism, please see website archives.
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2010 Theodicy and Practical Theology: PhD thesis, the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David, Lampeter
David Hume in 'Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion' explains that geniuses over the ages have continued to look for proofs and arguments concerning God. Hume (1779)(2004: 2). Theodicy would involve demonstrating that God exists and is good even as the problem of evil exists.
Twitter version edited for size.
David Hume explains that geniuses over the ages have continued to look for proofs & arguments concerning God. Hume (1779)(2004: 2). Theodicy would involve demonstrating that God exists and is good even as the problem of evil exists.
2010 Theodicy and Practical Theology: PhD thesis, the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David, Lampeter
The term theodicy arose from G.W. Leibniz’ book in 1710 entitled 'Theodicy'. Leibniz, G.W. (1710)(1998). Robert M.Adams (1996) notes that the word theodicy is from the Greek, as theos is God and dike is
justice. Adams (1996: 794).
2010 Theodicy and Practical Theology: PhD thesis, the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David, Lampeter
• British Columbia, Florida and Norway represented.
• Thank you to my friends for laughingly defending me against some ridiculous claims made in years past about a certain subject (wild guess?) and mentioned by one of my friends 'in the know'.
• The significantly friendly political talk in particular, emphasized the different cultural perspectives on what is considered left and right. What is liberal or conservative? As Sir Robin stated (paraphrased), it varies from Britain, Canada and America. Agreed.
• When I was a child and my parents were in the Amway business, one of the American, Diamond Direct Distributors and a considerable intellectual and conservative (that was a Christian missionary, last time we had contact), named Hank Gilewicz told me (paraphrased):'There are different types of socialism'. In other words, there are various, radical and moderate forms of socialism.
• This just shows what happens when Arne leaves the meeting early to go back to bed. Too bad a Facebook discussion group application, sadly from my android phone, called Arne at 2:40 in the morning GMT+2)time in Norway. He was therefore too sleepy later during the Zoom meeting. When Arne is not cracking 'wild man' jokes these intellectual discussions break out. Imagine that...
• I invite friends together to have laughs and seek the truth with respectful discussions, which is exactly what has been happening by God's grace. The truth, in love, to the highest level is worth seeking: John 14:6
New American Standard Bible
6 Jesus *said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.
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Most Saturday nights 21:30 PDT
Russ Murray is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Russ Murray's Personal Meeting Room
Join Zoom Meeting
With the isolated link below, I have decided after ten years to post my PhD thesis in its entirety with a linked PDF document. I have kept my promise to my readers that I would share the PhD written work and survey results online. I have done so since 2009 with various 'PhD Edits' and like.
However in 2020 it appears that Blogger has evolved sufficiently that I can reasonably post the entire PhD thesis, including the survey results, via PDF link.
Besides my PhD and MPhil 2003: Wales, Bangor, I am open to working on other major projects in the future, but at this time with various work, I am pleased with my Blogger friendly size, yet significantly, intellectually, challenging website writing. Many of the subjects covered have several editions done over the years as I build my knowledge base and of course, also revise. These articles include the academic disciplines of theology, philosophy of religion and biblical studies.
This PDF link has been inconsistent unless it is isolated in the HTML text, so it is the last text in the main body. Thank you.
2010 Theodicy and Practical Theology: PhD thesis, the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David, Lampeter
Facebook has banned Satire Und Theology, where I originally posted this article, since March and has not been willing to discuss the issue, whatsoever.
The source of the intercontinental pargeviews remains a mystery...
I therefore repost this article, on this website and
“I would rather loose and feel like a winner then cheat and feel like a looser.” ― Looney Toons
(Chucky often plays Eidos UEFA 99/00 like he is looney tunes.)
(Chucky thinks Looney Tunes is iTunes for hyper-charismatics.)
“Failure is an opportunity to learn again”
― Bangambiki Habyarimana, The Great Pearl of Wisdom
(Chucky follows this and therefore he fails in matches in order to always learn.)
"Fate does not expect to be fought and will reward those who dare to fight against it.”
― Bangambiki Habyarimana, The Great Pearl of Wisdom
(Chucky thinks that is a quote from the Pearl of Great Price.)
"Success sits on a mountain of mistakes”
― Bangambiki Habyarimana, The Great Pearl of Wisdom
(Chucky needs to play with UEFA clubs from the Alps.)
“The gatekeepers are not there to prohibit you anything, they just want to frighten you away, if you are courageous enough to go through them, they will let you , thinking you are the owner or his so” ― Bangambiki Habyarimana, The Great Pearl of Wisdom
(Chucky reads this as his goalkeepers will not prohibit anything.)
This is the second old game review from my restored Windows XP. Chucky and I have attempted to improve video quality. You Tube too has as well at publish, but we are recording from another live screen and dealing with lighting issues. The You Tube edits made the video worse and so I reposted the videos. Featuring a custom made computer from 2000, made by Mr. Bobby Singh, Khalsa Computers, Manchester, England.
Video 1: August 18, 2016: Bayern Munich 1974 4 v AIK 1
Before my short trip, I 'show Chucky' how it is done. Short five minute demonstration match on how to do it, decently well.
Video 2: August 21, 2016: Chucky is losing his first cancelled match 9-2 and receives an easier second match; which he manages to barely win in extra time 6 to 4.
This is a ten minute match with some silly delays and lighting. You may want to jog, exercise or do your nails, while this thing is playing.
There are some funny quips.
We finish this video with me asking Chucky to compare Actua Soccer 3 (Previous old game review) v. UEFA 99/00, which was also taking place throughout the videos.
Sir Chuckles is sixteen years later, beginning to appreciate the UEFA game even with personal shellackings endured. To be fair, as I have stated, the game has worked better on newer operating systems and with newer video technology.
It originally ran in 'Six Million Dollar Man' slow motion. One can reason out why this game was not played that much over the years.
• Smoke photos from early this evening in Maple Ridge. That is the sun, not the moon.
• Philosophically, I seek good sources for knowledge. I am skeptical, but open to conspiracy theories, but they are not replacement facts by default.
• In my opinion, the radical over-politicization in the United States of America has led in many cases to conspiracy led theories replacing facts based on political considerations.
• Statements (conclusions), premises and conclusions (arguments) should be considered with reasonable objectivity if finding the truth is the objective.
• Validity in deductive arguments is a technical term in logic. Elements (1997: 33).
•If the premises are true, the conclusion must be true. The concept of true premises and false conclusion would be 'inconceivable in a valid argument'. Elements (1997: 33).
Validity is a set of premises supporting a conclusion. Technically in logic the premises do not have to be true, simply valid. Elements (1997: 33).
•Therefore a valid deductive argument can have:
False premises and a true conclusion (FT)
False premises and a false conclusion (FF)
True premises and a true conclusion (TT)
However
True premises and a false conclusion (TF) is invalid.
Valid arguments with all true premises are called sound arguments. These also have a true conclusion.
BLACKBURN, SIMON (1996) Oxford Dictionary of Philosophy, Oxford, Oxford University Press.
CONWAY DAVID A. AND RONALD MUNSON (1997) The Elements of Reasoning, Wadsworth Publishing Company, New York.
LANGER, SUSANNE K (1953)(1967) An Introduction to Symbolic Logic, Dover Publications, New York. (Philosophy).
PIRIE, MADSEN (2006)(2015) How To Win Every Argument, Bloomsbury, London.
• The lead image is from Facebook and is sort of theologically profound and yet unattractive, 'see left' simultaneously.
• The second image is from today. It is sent from Arne in Norway with his brand new and very fashionable, Australian Leather Hat that is associated with Crocodile Dundee. Arne ordered this hat from New York City.
• Alligator Arne? Norwegian wild man?
• I listened to a recent sermon where it was stated (paraphrased) that our western society is significantly in error. Basically, from a biblical worldview, a common secular worldview is in disagreement with biblical Christianity on several key points, including philosophical, moral and ethical. I assuredly agree on key points with the sermon. But at the same time, I reason comparing a biblical Christianity to secular, liberal worldviews would produce many areas of disagreement, but some areas of agreement.
• In a section of my MPhil thesis below I briefly compare Christianity to western liberalism.
• Please note, that in a democracy, I fully support one's right to hold to a worldview, as long as it exists within a reasonable interpretation of maintaining law and order. (Romans 13, 1 Peter 2). In other words, a child sacrifice cult should not be legal, nor should an infanticide or like group, as examples.
• Being politically correct (PC) should not be a measure of whether or not a worldview is practically tolerated or worse, legal. In other words, hurt feelings and offense does not necessarily, in itself, equate to the breaking of law and order. There are laws on the books for slander (statements) and libel (published statement) within defamation, as examples.
• At the same time, I reason that the biblical Christian while being a gospel witness should attempt to live within law and order, within peace with others. Romans 12:18: New American Standard Bible
18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.
• 2003 The Problem of Evil: Anglican and Baptist Perspectives: MPhil thesis, Bangor University
In McGrath’s second chapter entitled Blaming God he mentions some prominent modern twentieth century philosophies and discusses some of the results of these world-views. He noted that atheistic communism and western liberalism had failed to deal with the harsh realities of life that had taken place in the twentieth century, particularly during World War II. Communism and liberalism removed God from the equation, however, to McGrath, it caused more evil to take place. He stated: "Belief in God is a vital restraining factor. It curbs human evil by stressing God’s condemnation of those who inflict suffering on others." McGrath (1992: 11). McGrath believed that neither communism nor western liberalism had eliminated suffering, and thus their disbelief in God was not on strong intellectual footing.
To him, the great suffering which occurred in the twentieth century indicated there was something wrong with human nature, and that many people who attempted to blame God for those woes should, instead, have looked at world philosophies such as communism and western liberalism which ignored God. McGrath stated these philosophies that overlooked God, at the same time, overlooked his love. He noted: "Occasions of history are stained by the tears of our God who was working to bring about the day when ‘there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.’ (Revelation 21:4)." McGrath (1992: 14).
I am in agreement with McGrath that the sinfulness of human nature was overlooked by communist states such as the Soviet Union. In fact, the utopia of socialism actually led to the Soviet Union committing acts of violence in great numbers against their own citizens and those of other nations.
Communism is faulty in that it depends on the state forcing equality among people. This, however, does not end the evil of poverty, for example, but simply takes away initiative from people to advance themselves economically, and gives economic and political power to a select few government and military officials. At the same time, tyranny takes place as these select few must strongly enforce the equality that they see as necessary in order for the communist state to advance.
Christianity, on the other hand, favours shared equality. By this I mean people willingly sharing some, and sometimes all, of what they possess. But the idea is not that a state or ruling counsel should dictate this, but that it should be done willingly in love. With this world view, people have the freedom to willingly help others.
Now with western liberalism, I think it can be argued that, unlike Communism, it does have some major social benefits because it still allows for individualistic human thought which can lead to creativity. When this is taken too far, however, it can be seen that without God, human creativity can only solve few problems because human beings are fallen and imperfect and will still commit evil acts. A person who does not believe in the God and follow Him, can make social progress, but this will be limited because social ethics can make him/her moral but cannot make him/her spiritual as in believing in and following Jesus Christ. A spiritual person seeking God’s guidance should, at least, be theoretically more open to loving and caring for others, to show other people the love God has shown each of them. God’s love being shown within someone should take them beyond morality to a personal concern about the spiritual state of others.
To play devil’s advocate, a critic could claim that Christianity has not solved suffering any better than Communism or especially western liberalism; however, I think McGrath is correct. A belief in God in society and better yet a spiritual relationship with Christ leads to the tempering of evil in a nation and the world. Christianity’s ultimate answer to evil comes through revelation, but at least that has historical evidence of Scripture behind it. Christians are disobedient to God, just as nonbelievers are, and this is probably part of the reason Christianity has not made more social progress. But I still agree with McGrath that Christ’s atoning work and resurrection is the only ultimate answer that remedies evil. This work has, of course, not been completely culminated, but I think the Scriptural evidence supports the idea that Christ will return to restore his creation.
Western liberalism shares some of Christianity’s positive views on sharing and even love, but it depends too much on the goodness of humanity. The twentieth century demonstrates that social evolution in humankind is good, but always limited. This is part of the reason why the advanced, modern, western world still produced a nation like Nazi Germany.
These people were cultured and socialized, but still spiritually blind.
McGRATH, A. (1986) Iustitia Dei, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.
McGRATH, A. (1992) Bridge-Building, Leicester, Inter-Varsity Press.
McGRATH, A. (1992) Suffering, London, Hodder and Stoughton Limited.
Public comments in regards to my recent postings where I stated:
Another good friend, my friendly neighbour, has told me repeatedly that I should present nature videos with theological input and insights, as does the much, much, more well-known than me, Bishop N.T. Wright.
I am thankful (imperfectly) for the part I do in Christ.
I seek in my imperfection, God's perfect will for the work I should accomplish.
Ephesians 5:20
New American Standard Bible
20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to [a]God, even the Father;
Footnotes
Ephesians 5:20 Lit the God and Father
1 Thessalonians 5:16-22
New American Standard Bible
16 Rejoice always; 17 pray without ceasing; 18 in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 19 Do not quench the Spirit; 20 do not despise prophetic [a]utterances. 21 But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; 22 abstain from every [b]form of evil.
Kool image from Florida on the left with me on the right. Sir Robin is not a 007 villain.
A friendly, intellectual discussion on gun control: Norway, Florida, Alberta, British Columbia.
Bonus snoring included...
Sir Robin recounts his 2002 visit to Maple Ridge and his phone call on my behalf to my friendly neighbour, Mr. Bobby Buff: The most beautiful man in Maple Ridge. /span>
'The most enlightened example of civil legislation prior to Moses comes from the Babylonian ruler Hammurabi, who pre-dates Moses by at least 200 years. In this discussion, a comparison and contrast between the two great law-givers is provided, with a focus on the extent to which the law given through Moses shows a clearly superior approach to jurisprudence. For more free resources, please visit www.brucegore.com.'
End citation
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In his brief lecture, Professor Bruce Gore with reasonable objectivity acknowledges the critiques of higher criticism that aspects at least, of the Mosaic Law, are borrowed from earlier ancient sources. Gore briefly admits a few of the similarities and also briefly explains a few crucial differences that counter claims from higher criticism and modern critiques that the Mosaic Law is 'other' ancient mythology. In other words, with no divine source.
Not surprisingly for me, based on Canadian Christian, bible school and seminary training, and British secular education, ancient morality, ethics and law is documented in non-biblical, religious and non-religious contexts. From non-biblical sources, the morality, practical ethics and law would be presented from significantly different worldview perspectives. As I have noted in another recent post, rather than making the Hebrew Bible a 'rip-off' of older versions of world events, and therefore just different mythology, the Hebrew Bible versions claim and present as legitimate religious history with God that revealed self in several texts through scribes and prophets.
Within Christian tradition, this religious history culminates in New Testament era manuscripts and the New Testament books of the modern Bible.
As my background is British, MPhil/PhD work with both theology (biblical) and philosophy of religion (non-biblical) there are many parallels in regards to reasonable truths for God, humanity and reality. There are also significant differences and the revelatory nature of biblical theology and the bible on philosophical theology, as God communicates to humanity in reason, adds the component of God 'speaking for self' through scribes, prophets and apostles. This is different to philosophy of religion that on points can equally be God's truth, but relies on philosophy both religious and secular, with human reason, apart from revelation, in regards to God, humanity and reality.
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BROWNING, W.R.F. (1997) Oxford Dictionary of the Bible, Oxford, Oxford University Press.
COURSON, JON (2005) Application Commentary, Thomas Nelson, Nashville.
ELLISON, H.L. (1986) ‘Genesis’, in F.F. Bruce (ed.), The International Bible Commentary, Grand Rapids, Zondervan.
ELWELL, WALTER AND YARBROUGH, ROBERT W., Third Edition (2013) Encountering The New Testament, Grand Rapids, Baker Academic.
FRETHEIM, TERENCE E. (1985)(2005) ‘The Suffering of God: An Old Testament Perspective’, in Theology Today, Volume 1, Number 1, Bookreview17. Princeton, Princeton Theological Seminary. http://theologytoday.ptsem.edu/apr1985/v42-1-bookreview17.htm
FRETHEIM, TERENCE E. (1994) ‘Is Genesis 3 a Fall Story?’, in Word and World, Luther Seminary, pp. 144-153. Saint Paul, Luther Seminary.
GORE, BRUCE (2015) Moses and the Code of Hammurabi, April 15 2015, You Tube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWXbt667Y6U&t=2s
HAMILTON, VICTOR P. (1988) Handbook on the Pentateuch, Grand Rapids, Baker Book House.
JACKSON, JOHN G. (1941)(2006) Pagan Origins of the Christ Myth, New York, Truth Seeker Co. http://www.nbufront.org/html/MastersMuseums/JGJackson/ChristMyth/ChristMythPart1.html
LA SOR, WILLIAM SANFORD, DAVID ALLAN HUBBARD, AND FREDERIC WILLIAM BUSH. (1987) Old Testament Survey, Grand Rapids, William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company.
MCDONALD, H.D. (1996) ‘Bible, Authority of', in Walter A. Elwell (ed.), Evangelical Dictionary of Theology, Grand Rapids, Baker Books.
MCRAY, J.R. (1996) ‘Bible, Canon of', in Walter A. Elwell (ed.), Evangelical Dictionary of Theology, Grand Rapids, Baker Books.
PAILIN, DAVID A. (1999) ‘Deism’, in Alan Richardson and John Bowden (eds.), A New Dictionary of Christian Theology, Kent, SCM Press Ltd.
PAILIN, DAVID A. (1999) ‘Enlightenment’, in Alan Richardson and John Bowden (eds.), A New Dictionary of Christian Theology, Kent, SCM Press Ltd.
PAILIN, DAVID A. (1999) ‘Process Theology’, in Alan Richardson and John Bowden (eds.), A New Dictionary of Christian Theology, Kent, SCM Press Ltd.
SCHULTZ SMAUEL J, AND GARY V. SMITH, (2001) Exploring the Old Testament, Wheaton, Illinois, Crossway Books.
As noted in my most recent article, the You Tube account connected to this Blogger website on Google has been 'overrun' by my other interests and has a new name. So, this is the last video I needed to switch over to my You Tube account, Russell Norman Murray, on You Tube, which is connected to my second Blogger website.
I think this original video was horrid with the movements, but it satirically proved my point and countered my well-meaning friend and neighbour's suggestion that I could reasonably, copy the professional video work of N.T. Wright. It is too much hassle and the work is not worth the limited reward. I am doing my part with my extensive research, written work and some audio/video, as well as church work, Zoom ministry and advice for friends. So, today I have republished this article with a much edited version of the horrid video.
Many thanks and God bless
Russ
• Watching my mobile video move from left to right, right to left; I am more certain it would be too much work to produce professional videos! My friendly neighbour means well, but heck, he refuses to own a mobile phone! He does not realize the task at hand. At this rate, this would be the motion sickness website.
• To paraphrase my good, well-educated, intellectual friend 'Sir Robin': 'No one wants to listen to a talking head.'
• Another good friend, my friendly neighbour, has told me repeatedly that I should present nature videos with theological input and insights, as does the much, much, more well-known than me, Bishop N.T. Wright.
• I have other versions of 'In Three Minutes', which are presented on both this website and You Tube. These are not among my more popular posts, according to Blogger pageview statistics. These are generally audio only and for good reasons. Professional level video posts would be significant work to produce. I estimate up to ten times more work than written articles, and I have other work to do, of course.
• Besides my three related theological websites, two on Blogger and one on Facebook, I am hosting a weekly Zoom meeting this pandemic. I reason I am doing my part for the Kingdom, obediently but imperfectly.
• Opinions? In comments or rnmred@gmail.com
• 1 Corinthians 12 from the New American Standard Bible.
7 But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
In other words, each Church member has a manifestation of the Holy Spirit for the common good of the Church. I reason I am doing my part for the common good with my website work presently, but I am open-minded to other possible ministry work, including what my friend has suggested, although at this point it is not feasible.
WRIGHT, N.T., Colossians and Philemon, (1986)(1989), IVP, Eerdmans, Grand Rapids.
The Orthodox Study Bible, New Testament and Psalms, (1993) Saint Athanasius Orthodox Academy, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee.
I am a Reformed theologian and philosopher of religion. I do not attend a church within Orthodoxy. My review of this fine academic text continues: Within this Bible there is a Glossary from Reverend John W. Morris, Ph.D.
Trisagion
It is defined as 'Literally. "Thrice Holy.". (809). 'The biblical Trisagion, "Holy, Holy. Holy," is the hymn of the angels before the throne of God. (Is.6:1-5); Rev: 4:8), and is one of the most important hymns of the Divine Liturgy. In the Tradition of the Church, this hymn has been amplified into the Trisagion frequently sung during services and said during prayers: "Holy God, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us." (809).
Further...
'The biblical use of "Holy" three times is an indication of the three Persons in the Godhead.' (809).
Holy God. Holy Mighty. Holy Immortal Have mercy on us.(3)
Glory to the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit, both now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen
All Holy Trinity, have mercy on us. Lord, forgive our sins. Master, pardon our transgressions. Holy One, visit and heal our infirmities, for the glory of Your Name.
Lord, have mercy.(3)
Glory to the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit, both now and forever and to the ages of ages. Amen
Comments
This brief article allows me to learn some more Eastern Orthodox, theological terminology and share it publicly. I appreciate the trinitarian teaching that takes place within the trisagion as liturgy.
Jesus Christ as God incarnate died on the cross for human sin, with the atonement for humanity, chosen humanity (Ephesians 1-2, Romans 8-9). He was resurrected and those in him will be resurrected (1 Corinthians 15, 1 Thessalonians 4).
Colossians 2:9-10 (Him is Jesus Christ) 'New American Standard Bible (NASB)
9 For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, 10 and in Him you have been made [a]complete, and He is the head [b]over all rule and authority; Footnotes: a Colossians 2:10 Lit full b Colossians 2:10 Lit of '
N.T. Wright explains in regard to Colossians 2: 9-10, it is an continuation of 1:19 (109), 'for all the fulness to dwell in him.' (NASB). 'He is uniquely God's presence and his very self'. (109). Wright reasons that Paul is teaching monotheistic doctrine here and not that Jesus Christ is a second deity. (109). Christ is the embodiment of full deity. (109). God the Son, is not a second deity, God the Holy Spirit is not a third deity. The Holy Spirit as God, regenerates those within salvation (Titus 3: 5).
Rare public appearance with a mask, as opposed to simply being socially distant. P.S. I am not working on a 'dome'! This photo does not amplify my short, hopefully stylish hair.
The Orthodox Study Bible, New Testament and Psalms, (1993) Saint Athanasius Orthodox Academy, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee.
WRIGHT, N.T., Colossians and Philemon, (1986)(1989), IVP, Eerdmans, Grand Rapids.
Vancouver 'Howie' demonstrates the use of, what I hope is a CPAP mask. Not good for public use. Function 1-Fashion 0. Saint Chuckles presents yet more online information for the public health. Please see his numerous Facebook posts and ask for Simon.
Arne said he bought this stylish cap from New York City. He provides significant fashion and functionally looks like a kool retired biker and former nightclub bouncer with surprising 'jumping prowess'.
Yet another 'dome off' usually initiated by Arne/Deputy Dawg. Function and Fashion for Arne and the Red Chuckster. It is stated that the 'yellow thing' hanging above my head (the fan switch) has some significant impact on my brain.
Miss CIA was noted to look classically, stylish with a departure from her usual Goth. Function and Fashion for Miss CIA and Deputy Dawg with his Stetson. J.C. Zombie provides the elegant fashionable cap and the functional political background as he prays for world peace.
J.C. Zombie turns from prayer to satire, while Michael and Arne look very stylish and kool in 'Vancouver' and Norway respectively. Arne provides more master class dating tips, as in waiting for your Mother to die, until you make those engagement plans with that overseas bride.
J.C. Zombie and Arne, 'Bikers for Jesus'.
Sir, your arm!!! (Well done)
September 5, 2020 Subjects
Hats and fashion
Jumping for Jesus? (Arne)
A discussion on the risks of attending church with the COVID-19 pandemic.
It is just not the same without Sir Robin. We need 'closs'. ---
Note, I would not use someone's photo without permission. Everyone in our group knows there are captures taken and not just by me, the host. If someone objected, their image would not appear. I have used captures from guests on this website.
Zoom meeting usually every Saturday night, 21:30 PDT. Please see comments for invite.
Before my time and not in Vancouver, but basically the same idea.
When I was very young and then a youth, my Dad had season tickets to the Vancouver Canucks, during part of the 1970's and 1980's. I viewed a few games where excessive violence and/or brawls broke out.
My Dad also had season tickets to the Vancouver Blazers (WHA-World Hockey Association) during their brief existence. In one of the WHA games I remember a Blazer player tossing his broken stick into the crowd.
I saw Bobby Hull play for the original Winnipeg Jets when I was very young.
As for the NHL-National Hockey League, notable violence took place in the penalty box when the Calgary Flames visited the Canucks one game. It seems to me that included a stick being thrown as well.
In fact, one brawl broke out in the seat beside us with a season ticket holder and a virtually challenged person in the standing section, just behind us. This man insisted on throwing popcorn at the season ticket holders, including innocent minor me. This took place when virtually everyone in the arena would stand up during play. After the virtually challenged man had been punched in the head for throwing popcorn, by a person to my right, not my Dad, the virtually challenged man was hauled away by the flashy PNE (Pacific National Exhibition) security in red jackets.
He kept trying to swing his little arms to throw punches, as he was hauled away.
It seems to me a few years earlier, Mr. Blois had hot coffee spilled on his back as a fan stood during one of those games. 'My back'!
The Norwegian Benny Hill/Deputy Dawg tossed food when he sat with me in seats, the time he was invited. This troublemaker was never caught and thought the reaction of the victim/patron was very hilarious.
Repentance without regeneration is not salvation II: If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men
Street Ministry
I very briefly looked at the website of the Vancouver and Canada 'street preacher' in the news. The ministry is Christ's Forgiveness Ministries
In my humble opinion, it is wise to preach and teach the universal sinfulness of humanity (Romans, Galatians, Hebrews, as examples) as opposed to focusing on, or allowing one's ministry to publicly appear to be preaching and teaching against, one type of sin (s). Especially when this approach will lead to private and public confrontation.
Preaching and teaching should be done in such a way that both true biblical love and biblical truth are served. Confrontation is to be avoided as much as it is up to the Christian.
Romans 12:18 New American Standard Bible (NASB) 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.
A header from the Christ's Forgiveness Ministries website states on the image starting with: times of...
Repentance without regeneration is not salvation
Person's need to understand and be moulded by the gospel message before repenting in a biblical sense. At least generally, there are some exceptions, I suppose, listening in relative peace to the gospel message rationally is far more effective for witnessing, as opposed to listening to teaching and preaching within a confrontational environment.
Biblical and New Testament regeneration via the Holy Spirit means there is an embracing of the applied atoning and resurrection work of Jesus Christ, through grace through faith. This regeneration leads to repentance in belief in the triune God. Regeneration related sections, please see Titus 3, John 3 as examples.
PhD, University of Wales, Trinity Saint David, Lampeter, 2010
Edited
Biblically, as persons were (are) regenerated they would hear the call of salvation, repent and believe in Christ. Bavinck (1918)(2006: 53). I would view conversion as an aspect of regeneration, which is the beginning of the Christian experience. Regeneration was to encompass the entire divine plan of recreation from the initial change in persons to the ultimate culmination of a new heaven and new earth. Bavinck (1918)(2006: 53).
God causes this regeneration as primary cause and it is embraced by those in Christ as a secondary cause. The divine, primary cause alone actually saves a person. Secondary cause here means a human being embraces the work of the primary cause as opposed to by force or coercion. This compatibilistic approach therefore features soft and not hard determinism.
This is in no way, human works righteousness and no saved human being, creates his/her own salvation.
As secondary cause, there is belief, by grace through faith, alone.
As secondary cause, for example, I seek God by writing these articles. I embrace my salvation, Christian worldview, theology and the bible; but all the salvific work was accomplished by God and Jesus Christ. I am not forced or coerced to embrace what I am morally accountable for.
God certainly can force or coerce human thoughts, acts and actions, but I reason this would prohibit significant human moral accountability.
Philippians 2: 12-13
New American Standard Version (NASB)
12 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; 13 for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.
Repentance is an aspect of biblical salvation as turning from sin, and accepting the atoning and resurrection work of Christ applied to a person. The salvific work is done by God, not by human acts of faith.
Technically speaking we are regenerated through the Holy Spirit (John 3, Titus 3) and saved by the atoning and resurrection work of Christ being applied to us, by the will of God the Father. Repentance is via a regenerated human nature and will.
On a practical theological basis we can realize that due to universal sinful natures and sinful choices, human beings will not 'catch' every sin to repent of, and as well sometimes because of spiritual blindness, persons will not always specifically repent of sinful choices via sinful nature.
The atoning and resurrection work of Christ covers a regenerated person that therefore demonstrates general repentance within trusting, faith-based, belief.
If compatibilism (my Reformed theological position, and my philosophical position) did actually equate with hard determinism, as some incompatibilists claim in error (and some hard determinists, perhaps claim in error), and not soft determinism, why would God as primary cause will for a human secondary cause in Jesus Christ to embrace, for example, repentance?
A regenerated person in Christ, does not just wake up one morning accepting the atoning and resurrection, gospel work for self, justification and sanctification and having no understanding why that is the case. Repentance is a continual process in a believer's life, as in confessing sin in 1 John.
BAVINCK, HERMAN (1918)(2006) Reformed Dogmatics Volume 2: God and Creation, John Bolt (gen.ed.), Translated by John Vriend, Baker Academic, Grand Rapids.
BAVINCK, HERMAN (1918)(2006) Reformed Dogmatics Volume 3: Sin and Salvation in Christ, John Bolt (gen.ed.), Translated by John Vriend, Baker Academic, Grand Rapids.
