Bible Question:
I came across this quote and I had to append it to the forum after all the discussion on Election – Free Will and Calvinism - Arminianism “… in Romans 9, which deals with one of the thorniest theological problems in the Bible: predestination. It comes on very strongly on the side of divine election, which may lead you to conclude that Paul was a Calvinist and not an Armenian. I, however, believe he was both. You see, I believe that in most of the great theological controversies that have separated the Church, there has been light on both sides. Each side quotes the Scriptures that support them and ignores the Scriptures that are against them. I personally believe that it is logically possible to find an interpretation that affirms both truths. I believe it is the inevitable choice you have to make if you believe the whole Bible.” Quote by Derek Prince in the Summer 2001 issue of Christians for Israel Today. Could we all search for that middle ground Derek Prince talks about? I like his last sentence it is something you have to do if you believe the whole Bible. |
Bible Answer: Ed In the early days of Christianity, similiar questions were being asked. One of the first times was when Gentiles were being converted to Chrisitanity and they were not required to follow Jewish laws or customs. The Church of Jerusalem, which, at the time, was the head of the Christian Church, strongly questioned whether Gentiles could become Christians, and if so, wouldn't they have to follow Jewish Laws. The Bishops of the Church met at a Council and debated the issue and came to the conclusion that Christianity was for all people and in fact, may be practiced differently - as long as the core belief was the same. The Bishops then searched for the one unifying - defining statement - which would define whether a person was a true Christian or not. The Apostles Creed was selected as the 'Rule of Faith'. Tradition states that the Apostles Creed was first written, by the Apostles, on the original Pentecost. In this way, as the Apostles traveled and converted - all twelve Apostles had on single unifying standard. I think this is the common ground you are seeking. Brian |