Ordination Theology

Question 1

11. What is anthropomorphism?

Answer 1

The application of human attributes or characteristics to God. God uses anthropomorphism to reveal himself to humanity, it’s part of his condescending to use ways of communicating that humans understand.
Ex 3:20 – I will stretch out my hand and strike Egypt…
Isaiah 30:27-30 – lips, tongue, breath, arm
This does not mean that we should understand God to have a physical body, because we know that he is spirit – John 4:24

Question 2

12. What is divine immanence and divine transcendence; and what is the significance of each for the believer?

Answer 2

Immanence – God is near – he dwells w/ the lowly in spirit (Is 57:15) and knows the very hairs on our head (Matt 10:30) Comfort in times of loneliness or abandonment, also warning that nothing is hidden from him. He is near to all who call on him in truth (Psalm 145:18)
Transcendence – God is over all and above all. In addition to 57:15 which also says “The one who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity…”I dwell in the high and holy place”… Isaiah 55:8 – my thoughts are not your thoughts… Eph 4:6 – One God and Father of all who is over all… God’s nature is spirit, not bound by time or space (John 4:24).
We can take comfort in God knowing the full story and controlling it all, not being bound by time or space. We should not try to understand him or explain him fully to our satisfaction, but be content to receive what he has revealed to us and know what he chooses to make known. We must worship him in Spirit and truth.

Question 3

13. What is the distinction between the ontological and economic Trinity?

Answer 3

Ontological trinity is God in his being – three persons, co-eternal, equal in being, substance, nature, and attributes.
Economic trinity is God in his relation to the world.
1) The Father sent the Son. The Son did not send the Father. (John 6:44; 8:18; 10:36; 1 John 4:14)
a) John 5:37, “And the Father who sent Me, He has borne witness of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form.”
2) Jesus came down from heaven, not to do his own will, but the will of the Father.
a) John 6:38, “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.”
3) Jesus performed the redemptive work. The Father did not.
a) 2 Cor. 5:21, “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
b) 1 Pet. 2:24, “and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.”
4) Jesus is the only begotten. The Father is not.
a) John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.”
5) The Father gave the Son. The Son did not give the Father or the Holy Spirit.
a) John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.”
6) The Father and the Son send the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit does not send the Father and the Son.
a) John 14:26, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things…”
b) John 15:26, “When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father…”
7) The Father has given the elect to the Son. Scripture does not say that the Father gave the elect to the Holy Spirit.
a) John 6:39, “And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that of all that He has given Me I lose nothing, but raise it up on the last day.”
8) The Father chose us before the foundation of the world. No indication that the Son or the Holy Spirit chose us.
a) Eph. 1:4, “just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him…”
9) The Father predestined us to adoption according to the intention of his will. This is not said of the Son or the Holy Spirit.
a) Eph. 1:5, “He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will.”
10) We have redemption through Jesus’ blood, not the blood of the Father or the Holy Spirit.
11) Eph. 1:7, “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.”

Question 4

14. Comment on, and indicate Scriptural support for, Confession of Faith 3.1 with respect to the follow¬ing propositions:
    a)“God, from all eternity, did . . . unchangeably ordain whatsoever comes to pass”;
    b) “yet so, as thereby neither is God the author of sin”;
    c) “nor is violence offered to the will of the creatures”;
    d) “nor is the liberty or contingency of second causes taken away, but rather established.”
    Creation

Answer 4

Eph 1:11 James 1:13 Heb 1:3

Question 5

15. Discuss the infinity of God and the doctrine of creation ex nihilo.

Answer 5

Heaven cannot contain God - 1 Kings 8:27
Nothing compares to him, he is so much greater – Isaiah 40:12-26
He operates outside of time – 2 Peter 3:8 (day=1000 years) or Psalm 90 (1000 years=yesterday)
From his transcendence, it follows that he is not bound by time or space
Creation ex nihilio: God created all that is from nothing. Psalm 104 all, esp 104:24 – in wisdom you made them all. Genesis 1 – ‘Let there be’ – called things into being that were not in existence, from non-existence to existence. Continued existence/stability of creation depends on divine upholding, the distinct function of the Son – Heb 1:3 ‘upholding all things by the word of his power’
God was ‘in the beginning’ – Gen 1 & John 1

Question 6

16. What is “common grace” and what is the function of the doctrine in the theology of creation?

Answer 6

God’s undeserved blessing and gifts given to all men.
God preserves all of creation – Heb 1:3, and though the wicked deserve his displeasure and wrath, he continues to bestow good gifts on them – sun/rain Matt 5:45; Acts 17:25-26 – gives man life/breath/everything, appoints a place for them on the earth. Acts 14:17 – rain, food, satisfying hearts w/ gladness
Rom 2:4 – God’s kindness, tolerance and patience leading to repentance.
Louis Berkhof, : “[Common grace] curbs the destructive power of sin, maintains in a measure the moral order of the universe, thus making an orderly life possible, distributes in varying degrees gifts and talents among men, promotes the development of science and art, and showers untold blessings upon the children of men.”
Providence

Question 7

17. Explain and defend the doctrine of providence, with particular emphasis on the relation between providence and sin.

Answer 7

God’s providence is his upholding, directing, and governing all his creatures and all their actions. Heb 1:3, Acts 17:25, Even the Sparrow’s death is in his hand, something as inconsequential and fleeting as hair is numbered – Matt 10:29-30. God governs nations – Psalm 22:28, and the decisions of men
Humans mean their actions for evil, but God means them for good (Gen 50:20, Acts 2:23)
God: permits evil – Acts 14:16
Punishes evil – Rom 1
Uses evil for good – Gen 50:20
Tests & Disciplines his loved ones w/ evil – Heb 12:4-14
Will one day redeem his people from all evil – Gen 21-22
While he permits sin, he is not the author of it – James 1:13

Question 8

18. What is meant by special providence?

Answer 8

God’s condescension to make himself known to humanity and enter into relationship with them. This relationship he expresses in covenant – first the covenant of works, then the covenant of grace.
Covenant of works – Adam promised life upon condition of perfect obedience, and death upon disobedience – Genesis 2
Covenant of grace – humans promised life, faith in Christ required. John 3:16, Rom 8:10-11 (the promise of life)
Divine Covenants

Question 9

19. What is the Covenant of Works and its relation to the work of Christ?

Answer 9

Covenant of works was the first covenant God made with humanity through Adam – promised life upon perfect obedience and death upon disobedience. Required not eat from tree of knowledge of good and evil. Gen 2
Covenant of works did not cease to exist after fall. Christ kept Covenant of works on our behalf, earning the reward of life eternal. 1 Cor 15:22; Jesus came to fulfill the law – Matt 5:17, and in him the righteous requirements are fulfilled on our behalf Rom 8:4
Note: ‘’law” in 8:4 means Torah, Mosaic law, almost certainly. But Torah was embodiment of same righteous requirement of God’s eternal law, same law which Adam was guilty of breaking.

Question 10

20. What is meant by an “administration” of the Covenant of Grace?

Answer 10

The means by which God’s grace is held forth, offered, and dispensed. Under the old covenant, this was through promises, prophecies, sacrifices, circumcision and Passover. Acts 3:24 (prophets foretold these days, you are sons of the prophets and the covenant) Rom 4 – circumcision the sign & seal Heb 10:1 – sacrifices were a shadow of the good things to come
Under the new, it is dispensed by preaching of the word, lord’s supper, baptism. Rom 10:14, Matt 26, Acts 2.

Question 11

31. Explain the sufficiency of, and continuing ministry of, Christ in His three offices in the experience of the believer.

Answer 11

Prophet – He is God’s final word to us, completing the revelation that God began to make at various times and in various ways – Heb 1:1 In knowing Christ we know the Father – John 14:7
Priest – He purged our sins by himself, then sat down (it is finished – John 19:31, Torn temple veil in Matthew 27) – Heb 1:3, offering himself as sacrifice – Heb 9:26, continues now to make intercession for us – Rom 8:34
King – Jesus sits now at the right hand of the father, ruling over all things – Heb 1&2, He is the head over all things for the church – Eph 1:22, Col 1:18. All things will bow to him – phil 2:10. He is working all things for good for us Rom 8:28, we can submit to his rule b/c it is a loving rule (Eph 5)

Question 12

32. Discuss the ordo salutis, particularly with respect to divine and human agency at each stage.

Answer 12

The order in the application of redemption is found to be, calling, regeneration, faith and repentance, justification, adoption, sanctification, perseverance, glorification. John Murray “Redemption Accomplished and Applied”
Calling – God is the one who calls, and effectually so, and humans are the recipients or the ones called – Rom 8:30, 2 Thess 2:14, Gal 1:6 it’s a summoning or ‘bringing to faith’ (that’s Packer’s term) It is the call of God to faith in Christ – outwardly through the preaching/teaching of his word, inwardly through the enlightening and renewing work of the Spirit.
Regeneration – the act of God in the heart of a believer to make them ‘born again’ – John 3. It is removing their heart of stone, giving them a heart of flesh, cleansing them and putting his spirit in them – Ez 36. It is entirely the work of God. A raising of the dead to life in Christ – Eph 2:5. Faith is the evidence of regeneration – 1 John 5:1
Faith & Repentance – the response of an individual to the call of God. Acts 2, 16 (repent, believe the two responses called for). It is the individual’s response, but it is not of their own making – faith itself is the gift of God – Eph 2:8. But this faith is not forced – God having regenerated the believer’s heart and made them alive, their will is not forced but re-made so that they willingly repent and believe.
Justification – a judicial act of God whereby he pardons sinners and declares them righteous on the basis of Christ’s imputed righteousness. Rom 5:18 – by Christ’s obedience we are made righteous, his obedience is accounted to us.
It is a gift, received by Faith, and it is a just sentence because Jesus was sacrificed on our behalf (Rom 3). He was made sin, so that we might become the righteousness of God – I Cor 5:21. It is a single act by God the judge and received by humans by faith, not a process in which humans cooperate.
Adoption – an act of God whereby we are made his children, with all the rights and priviledges that entails, both legal and filial. Gal 4:4-7. Legally, we have the rights to an inheritance Rom 8:16. We can call God ‘father’ – a cry of love not of fear, and enjoy fellowship with God’s Spirit, which Paul calls the Spirit of Adoption (Rom 8:15). We enjoy the rights and priviledges of our adoption, but do not make it happen – it is God’s work. Jesus instructs his followers to live in light of their adoption – praying to God as father, trusting his provision, receiving his discipline – Matt 6
Sanctification – process whereby God renews the believer in Christ in his image and enables him more and more to die to sin and live to righteousness. Rom 8.13 – the spirit leads us in putting to death the misdeeds of the body. God transforms and renews the mind – Rom 12:2. Sanctification is the growth of the desire for holiness God plants in a person in regeneration. It is God who works in us, but not contrary to our new will, but in line with it, so that Paul can say both that we must work out our salvation (i.e. prove it genuine) and at the same time it is God who works in us both to will and to work what is pleasing to him. Phil 2:12-13
Glorification – God will complete his work in us in glorification – Rom 8:30 & Phil 1:6. Packer says glorification is “God’s completion of what he began at regeneration…our moral and spiritual reconstruction so as to be perfectly and permanently conformed to Christ.” God will raise us w/ a spritiual body like the body of the resurrected Christ – 1 Cor 15. It will be raised in glory and imperishable. God does the raising, we are the ones raised.

Question 13

33. Explain the relation of regeneration and faith.

Answer 13

Regeneration is God giving us new-birth by the Holy Spirit – John 3, removing our dead hearts and giving us new ones – Ez 36, and making us alive in Christ while we were dead in sins Eph 2. Faith is the receiving of Christ (Col 2:6), believing in him (Rom 3:22, John 20:31). This receiving or believing is also a gift from God, but is distinct from regeneration in that regeneration is God’s work on us while we are dead in trespasses (Eph 2) while faith is the result of our regeneration – we are made alive and so we can believe. While faith and regeneration occur in time at the same time, logically regeneration precedes faith, and faith is the outworking of regeneration – it is the response of the new heart we are given.

Question 14

34. What is the difference between “infusing righteousness” and imputation as the ground of justifica¬tion?

Answer 14

Infusing righteousness confuses justification – God’s declaration that we are righteous – with sanctification – the ongoing work of God to make us more and more into his image. As the ground of justification, infusing righteousness teaches that God justifies us finally on the basis of our own righteousness, which is worked as a cooperation between God’s grace and us. The source of righteousness is God and us working together, and in the end it is righteousness that is in us.
Imputation teaches that righteousness comes wholly outside ourselves or any good work we do (Rom 3:21). It is completely Christ’s righteousness, given to us as a gift – Rom 4:22-25, 5:17-19). Imputation places the ground wholly on an ‘alien righteousness’ – one outside ourselves – while infused righteousness finds the righteousness partly in ourselves.

Question 15

35. Explain the work of the Holy Spirit in assurance; with respect to this work, what does the Confession mean by the phrase, “without extraordinary revelation, in the right use of ordinary means”?

Answer 15

Spirit confirms authenticity of faith – Acts 15:8
Spirit confirms in our own hearts our adoption – our status and relationship (Rom 8:16)
We receive Spirit’s assurance through scripture & sacraments – it’s something that comes with faith, not an extra special add-on.

Question 16

36. How are elect infants, and other elect persons incapable of being outwardly called by the ministry of the Word, saved?

Answer 16

By the same regeneration and union with Christ that all other elect are saved.
Luke 1:44 seems to indicate the unborn John’s response to Jesus, though he could not outwardly have professed faith, the Spirit seemed to have already been at work in him.
The Law of God and Christian Obedience

Question 17

37. What are the three uses of the law, and how do these uses continue in the life of the believer?

Answer 17

Mirror – reflecting God’s perfect righteousness and our sin – Rom 3:20, Rom 7:7-11, and to lead us in repentance and faith to Christ - Gal 3:19-24
Restrains evil – civil order, protects innocent from the unjust – Deut 19:16-19, Rom 13:3-4
Guide regenerate in good works that God has planned for them (Eph 2:10) – we are to teach disciples to obey Christ’s commands (Matt 28:20) and our obedience shows our love for God (John 14:15)

Question 18

38. Are works in any sense necessary to salvation? If so, in what sense?

Answer 18

They are necessary as the necessary accompaniment of faith, the instrument of salvation. Faith without works is dead – James 2:17. The Spirit of Christ bears the fruit of Love, joy, peace… Gal 5:22 – this fruit necessarily accompanies the Spirit, and without the spirit we do not have Christ – Rom 8:9. The only true faith is faith working through love – Gal 5:6

Question 19

39. What is a) the goal, b) the motive, and c) the rule of Christian obedience?

Answer 19

Goal – Shaming the enemy and adorning the gospel – Titus 2:7-10, assurance through demonstration of authenticity of salvation – Phil 2:12, presenting a living sacrifice to God – worship and glory to him – Rom 12:1
Motive – Thankfulness for God’s mercy – Rom 12:1; love of Christ – 2 Cor 5:14, John 14:15
Rule – Love God & Love Neighbor – Luke 10:27, God’s law, which is summed up in love for neighbor as self– Gal 5:14. Life according to the Spirit – Rom 8

Question 20

40. What relevance does the civil law of Old Testament Israel have to contemporary politics?

Answer 20

The general equity applies – the principles of justice and fairness that are displayed in it should be carried out by all (1 Cor 9:8-10 Paul applies principle of muzzling and Ox to sharing the fruit w/ those who work), and the principle of restraining evil and upholding the weak and helpless, ought to be followed – Rom 13:1-5 (it instructs obedience, but says the authority carries out this function of restraining evil)

Question 21

41. What, if any, is the difference between the Church’s calling with respect to the state and the Christian citizen’s calling?

Answer 21

The Church’s calling is to rule over the spiritual kingdom of God Matthew 16 (keys to the Kingdom). State is over civil affairs to restrain evil (Rom 13)
Individual citizens must pay taxes (Rom 13:7, Matt 22:21);
Speak well of them – Acts 23:5 (don’t speak evil of your rulers)
Submit to them – Titus 3:1

Be subject to them - 1 Peter 2:13ff

They should govern justly and fairly – Col 4:1 (this speaks of masters, but implies anyone who holds authority)
They may hold office – Paul’s attempt to convert Agrippa in Acts 26 seems to imply he could remain a leader (since he wouldn’t have to become a prisoner like Paul)

Question 22

42. What is your view of “civil disobedience”; are their any laws in force today that you believe you must disobey?

Answer 22

Unless a law requires us to sin against God or each other, we must obey the laws, no matter how oppressive or unjust they are towards us (Rom 13 and the situation Roman Christians often found themselves in).

If they require something contrary to God’s law, then we must obey God - Acts 4:20 (judge for yourselves whether it is better to obey man rather than God)

In the USA I do not know of any, though in other countries yes, such as laws against distributing the Bible or calling people to faith in Christ in Morocco.

Packer points out we must accept the penalty for our civil disobedience, to show respect for God-given authority.

Question 23

43. Is it legitimate for a Christian to participate in war, and if so, under what conditions?

Answer 23

It is legitimate, when required by his government to do so – Luke 3 – Jesus told soldiers to be content w/ their wages – he didn’t say ‘get out of the army’.
If the war the government is waging, however, is not for the protection of the people against evil (Rom 13), then the soldier would be asked to take life unjustly and must therefore disobey.

Question 24

44. What is your view of marriage, divorce, and remarriage after divorce?

Answer 24

Marriage is a bond between a man and a woman instituted by God at creation. It involves companionship, complementing and completing one another, and nakedness without shame (Gen 2:21-25). It embodies the bond of love between Christ and his church (Eph 5).
Divorce is only permitted in the case of sexual immorality (Matt 5:27) and abandonment (1 Cor 7:15). Remarriage after divorce is permitted only in the case of a divorce concluded for the grounds above for the offended party. In the case of the offending party, reconciliation should be attempted if they have come to a place of repentance (??)

Question 25

45. What is your view of the Lord’s Day: its nature, purpose and duties?

Answer 25

God has given us one day in seven to rest, in reflection of his rest on the seventh day (Gen 2). Its purpose is for rest and enjoyment of God’s blessing (Ex 20). Duties include not working (Ex 20) and remembering and enjoying the rest that Jesus has won for us (Heb 4). And acts of mercy Luke 13:10-17; and worship & fellowship Acts 20:7 – gathered together for breaking bread, Paul preaching

Question 26

What is General Revelation and in what sense, if any is it inadequate? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 26

General revelation provides us with the knowledge that God exists. “The heavens declare the glory of God,” says the psalmist. God’s glory is displayed in the works of His hands. This display is so clear and manifest that no creature can possibly miss it. It unveils God’s eternal power and deity (Romans 1:18-23). Revelation in nature does not give a full revelation of God. It does not give us the information about God the Redeemer that we find in the Bible. But the God who is revealed in nature is the same God who is revealed in Scripture. Psalm 19:1-14 ## Footnote WCF - GR not sufficient to give that knowledge of God, and of his will, which is necessary unto salvation #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 27

2. Discuss the relation between God's moral standards and the conscience of the unbeliever; of the believer. ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 27

For the unbeliever: Romans 1:18-32 teaches that fallen man not only knows that the true God exists (verses 20-21), but he also knows that this God has an absolute moral standard which binds all mankind and to which is attached the penalty of death for disobedience (verse 32). In other words, men are aware that there is a covenant of works because the "work of the law" has been "written in their heart" (Romans 2:15) Through his conscience, the unregenerate man can only know God as his Judge. Inheriting original sin from Adam, and worsening his condition by his own actual sins, the sinner is always running away from God and yet at every turn, God thunders out His judgments through the faculty of his own conscience. Believer: \* 1. Reveals sin: Romans 2:14 \* 2. Points us to our need for Christ. \* 3. Reveals to the believer what is pleasing to God. John 14:15 \* 3. Repetitive sin can cause our conscience to be seared:1 Timothy 4:2 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 28

3. What is Special Revelation and in what sense, if any is it inadequate? #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 28

Special Revelation is the knowledge of God and of his will that is necessary for salvation which is contained in the Holy Scriptures. For the purpose of man’s redemption and His own glory, God has committed that which He had in times past revealed through theophanies, dreams, and prophets “wholly unto writing: which maketh the Holy Scripture to be most necessary; those former ways of God’s revealing his will unto his people being now ceased.” God’s special revelation, therefore, is now found in its permanent form in the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments. The understanding that Scripture is God’s special revelation rests on the conviction that God inspired the human authors of Scripture. Paul writes: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16). And Peter adds: “For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21). #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 29

4. Are the ways of God's revealing His will in the past (dreams, visions, theophanies, audible voice etc. still employed by God in the Church today?) ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 29

No. God has committed that which He had in times past revealed through theophanies, dreams, and prophets “wholly unto writing: which maketh the Holy Scripture to be most necessary; those former ways of God’s revealing his will unto his people being now ceased.” God’s special revelation, therefore, is now found in its permanent form in the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments. Hebrews 1:1,2, Hebrews 2:2,3 Matthew 16:15-19 ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 30

5. Is there in the church today the office of prophet, as in the NT (1 Cor 12:28;Eph 4:11)? If so, describe the office. ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 30

No, Christ has fulfilled the office of Prophet and through his Holy Spiirt continues to represent God to man. Hebrews 2:3, I Peter 1:11 ## Footnote We believe that the office of Prophet is extraordinary and has ceased along with the offices of Apostle and Evangelist #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 31

Are men (or women) "carried along" by the Holy Spirit today (2 Peter 1:21) as they were in the NT and is there any information given to the Church today that is "God Breathed" (2 Tim 3:16) apart from Scripture? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 31

No. All 'God breathed' revelation has ceased. The Word of God 2 Tim. 3:16 is the only source of revelation and no longer are men/women carried along by the Holy Spirit. ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 32

Are we to expect that miracle workers minister in the church today; that is, those invested with the gift of healing, commanding nature, etc. so that they can command to be healed as did Peter and Paul? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 32

No. These particular gifts have stopped with the Apostles and the launch of the church. It does not mean that people cannot be healed. But healing should take place within the ordinary means by which god has provided us. Doctors medicine, healthy practices including the church and the elders James 5:14-15 ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 33

Do you agree with the following decisions of PCA General Assemblies? If you disagree, explain your views. ## Footnote “[S]imply affirming the canon is closed, and that supposed new revelations from God add nothing to the deposit of truth found in Scripture does not cover all the negations concerning new revelation from God found in WCF I, 1, 6, and BCO 7-1. These statements of the standards also negate the idea that any extraordinary ways still continue in addition to Scripture as ways by which God verbally uncovers His will to His people.” (M8GA, p. 93.) “Not only is the canon of Scripture closed, but no gift is to be allowed which has the practical effect of functioning as a normative source of truth or divine instruction from God, along side the voice of the Holy Spirit Speaking in the Scriptures.” (M16GA, p. 215) #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 33

yes. ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 34

9. What is illumination and how does it differ from revelation? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 34

Illumination refers to God’s work in the lives of believers to make us able to believe and understand the words of the Bible. This does not mean the Spirit gives us new revelation – rather He applies to our lives the truths contained in His existing revelation. While illumination depends on prior revelation, it must be differentiated from it. 1 Cor. 2:9-11 John 16:13-15 ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 35

10 Describe the proper use, and the limitations, of reason with respect to a. one's acknowledgment of the authority of Scripture and b. one's understanding of the meaning of Scripture? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 35

Authority of Scripture is not established by reason. God establishes the authority of Scripture. Reason is not the foundation of revelation. Reason can never be placed as a higher authority than scripture. Rather, reason reveals that which is hidden or unclear within revelation. These hidden truths may not be discerned by those who lack faith because the Scriptures “breathe something divine.” (ibid.) In order to have this sort of understanding through reason, one must first believe. Those who place reason over revelation as a higher authority treat the instrument as the foundation. Reason does not establish the truths found within the Scriptures. It reveals those truths that have already been established by divine authority. Acts 17 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 36

What is the "Four-fold state of man?" ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 36

I. State of Innocence Pre-Fall Man - Sinless with the ability to sin or not to sin. Gen 5:1-2 II. State of Sin Post Fall Man - Totally Depraved Able to sin, unable not to sin. psalm 5, Rom 1, John 3:6 III. State of Grace Regenerate Man - Able to sin able to not sin.(Romans 7) 2 Cor. 3:18, Ezekiel 36:26 IV. Eternal State - Glorified man - Able to not sin, unable to sin. I Corinthians 15:42-44 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 37

Explain your views with respect to dichotomy and trichotomy ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 37

Dichotomy is a term which signifies a division into two parts: Body and Soul. Trichotomy is a term which signifies a division into 3 parts: Body, Soul, and Spirit. Trichotomy - Taught Scripturally - Hebrews 4:12 sword divides soul and spirit. Ephesians 2:1 This is how a non believer can be both spiritually dead and yet still have a soul and be alive. Body - Connects us to the world Soul - essence of our being Spirit - Connects us with God. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 38

23. What significance does the historicity of Adam have with respect to Federal Vision? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 38

Those in the federal vision camp deny Adam as an actual created being that God established a covenant of works with. Therefore there is a denial that there ever was a 'covenant of works' and a denial that the law given in eden was the same law as sinai. Genesis 2:17, Genesis 3:10 ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 39

24. What is the essential nature of sin; what is its manifestation? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 39

Thus, the essence of all sin is the failure to love God. That is the primary violation. And the essence of sin is most clearly seen in unbelief. This shows up in John 16 where Jesus said He would send the Holy Spirit who would "convict the world of sin...because they do not believe in Me" (John 16:8). In other words, any failure to love and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ is a failure to love God. Thus, the apostle Paul wrote, "If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be damned" (1 Corinthians 16:22). It manifests itself in pride thinking that I know better or I can do it without God's help. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 40

If fallen man is totally depraved, in what sense, if any, can the unregenerated do good works? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 40

Yes but only through Common grace enables man to perform what is generally called civil righteousness or natural good, works that are outwardly in harmony with the law of God, though entirely destitute of any real spiritual quality. Luke 6:33, 2 Kings 10:29, Romans 10:5 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 41

26. Are all sins equal; will all sins be equally punished. In each case, why or why not? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 41

Are all sins equal; No. WSC - Are all transgressions equally heinous - Some sins in themselves and by reason of severity are more heinous in the sight of God than others. Ezekiel 8, Matthew 11:20-24 The idea of gradations of sins is important for us to keep in mind so we understand the difference between sin and gross sin. Again, all of our sins require forgiveness. All of our sins are acts of treason against God. We need a Savior for our “little” ones as well as the “major” ones. But some sins are more significant than others, and we need to identify which these are, lest we fall into the pharisaical trap of majoring in the minors." Will all sins be equally punished? Yes. WSC 84 - What doth every sin deserve? God's wrath and curse both in this life and the life to come. James 2:10, Ezekiel 18:4 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 42

27. Explain the part that each member of the trinity plays in the work of redemption ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 42

The Father elects to save His people in Christ (Eph. 1:4). The Son is appointed and willingly offers Himself as the Savior and Mediator (Luke 22:29; Heb. 10:5–7). The Holy Spirit furnishes Christ with the gifts necessary to accomplish His saving work (Luke 1:35; 3:21–22; 4:18), and also applies the benefits of Christ’s work to those whom the Father gives to the Son (John 6:38–39; 17:4). #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 43

28. Did God die on the cross? explain: ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 43

We should shrink in horror from the idea that God actually died on the cross. The atonement was made by the human nature of Christ. Somehow people tend to think that this lessens the dignity or the value of the substitutionary act, as if we were somehow implicitly denying the deity of Christ. God forbid. It’s the God-man Who dies, but death is something that is experienced only by the human nature, because the divine nature isn’t capable of experiencing death... R.C. Sproul #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 44

29. Briefly define and assess the four theories of atonement including the theologians most associated with the development of those views? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 44

1. Ransom Theory/Christus Victory Sees Jesus as liberating mankind through the payment of ransom through his death. Christus Victory sees Jesus as defeating Satan through his death and liberating mankind from enslavement. - Irenaues (Earlyu Church Fathers) 2. Moral Influence Theory - Peter Abelard - Christ died to influence man toward moral improvement 3. Satisfaction Theory - Anselm of Canterbury- God's offended honor and dignity could only be satisfied by the sacrifice of the God-man. 4. Penal Substitution Theory - Calvin/Reformers sees Jesus death as bearing the punishment as the substitute for man's sin in breaking the law of God (Rom 6:23) #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 45

Explain particular redemption and its relation to the call of the gospel? #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 45

Particular redemption says that Christ died only for his elect. John 17:9 I Peter 2:24 The external call of the gospel is offered to all people, but to the elect he offers an internal call and is irresistible and effectual only for the elect. Romans 8:30, John 6:28-29 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 46

Give a brief definition of: a) A-millenialism b. ) Post-millennialism c. ) Historic Pre-milleninialism d. ) Dispensationl Pre-milennialism #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 46

Give a brief definition of: a**) A-millenialism** Amillennialists insist that the promises made to national Israel, David and Abraham, in the OT are fulfilled by Christ and the Church during this age, which is the millennium, that is the entire period of time between the two advents of our Lord. The "thousand years" are therefore symbolic of the entire inter-advental age. Satan is bound by Christ's victory over him and the establishment of the kingdom of God via the preaching of the gospel, and Satan is no longer free to deceive the nations, through the presence of Christ is reigning in heaven during this period with the martyrs who come out of the great tribulation. At the end of the millennial age, Christ returns in judgement of all men. The general resurrection occurs, final judgement takes place for all men and women, and a new Heaven and Earth are established. 1 Corinthians 15:25 ***b.) Post-millennialism*** Generally speaking, postmillennialists affirm that the millennium is a period of one thousand years of universal peace and righteousness in this world, which precedes the return of Jesus Christ to earth in judgement. There will be universal preaching and acceptance of the Gospel and a complete and total victory fo the kingdom of God over the forces of Satan. Post-mil is an optimistic eschatology. During this period Satan will be effectually bound and Israel will be covnerted. At the end of the period Satan will be released and the period of tribulation will occur culminating in the great battle of Armageddon. Christ will then return in Judment , the resurrection occurs and there is the new creation of a new heaven and a new earth. Matt. 24:34 **c.) Historic Pre-milleninialism** - Jesus began his public ministry the kingdom of God was manifest in his ministry and is now present through the Spirit until the end of the age which will be marked by Christ's return to the earth for judgment. During the period immediately preceding the return of Christ there is great apostasy and tribulation. After Christ's return there will be a period of 1000 years (The millenium) separating the first resurrection from the second resrrection. Satan will be bound and the Kingdom consumated, made visible during this period. At the end of the millenial period, Satan will be lossed and there will be a massive rebellion, immediately preceding the 'second' resurrection or final judgmend and there iwll be the creation of a new heaven and new earth. Hos. 1:9, Rom 9:25-26, Jer.31:33ff, Heb. 8 **d.) Dispensationl Pre-milennialism** Dispensational Premillennialism. As popularized by men like Hal Lindsey and Tim LaHaye, dispensational premillennialism teaches that evil will increase in the world and overpower the church just before Christians are taken up to heaven (the rapture) to escape seven years of persecution. Jesus will return following this tribulation to set up a kingdom based in Jerusalem for one thousand years, after which the wicked are judged and the righteous live in peace forever. But dispensational teaching is grounded in a significant distinction between Israel and the church #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 47

For what purposes in this world should a believer seek to be heavenly minded, or, what is the relation between eschatology and ethics? #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 47

Scripture tells us we should be “looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness” (2 Peter 3:13). God has not abandoned His original design and plan for humanity to rule the earth for His glory. One day, He will reverse the curse and restore what was corrupted by sin. He will come down to dwell with His people on the new earth, bringing His throne, and heaven itself, with Him (Rev. 21:1–4; 22:3) Scripture makes clear that the one central business of this life is to prepare for the next. What we need is a generation of heavenly minded people who see human beings and the earth not simply as they are, but as God intends them to be. Lord's prayer says that we should pray that God's will be done 'on earth as it is in heaven'. That means that we as the church really become God's Kingdom agents here bringing the eschatological reality of heaven and the Kingdom of God manifest her on the earth now. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 48

Justify the eternal duration of Hell ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 48

Perhaps the most frightening aspect of hell is its eternality. People can endure the greatest agony if they know it will ultimately stop. In hell there is no such hope. The Bible clearly teaches that the punishment is eternal. The same word is used for both eternal life and eternal death. Punishment implies pain. Mere annihilation, which some have lobbied for, involves no pain. Jonathan Edwards, in preaching on Revelation 6:15-16 said, “Wicked men will hereafter earnestly wish to be turned to nothing and forever cease to be that they may escape the wrath of God.” Jude 13, Revelation 20:10 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 49

Can a person be "scared" into heaven; if not, why should the doctrine of hell be preached? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 49

NO. Hell is insufficient to save anybody. I mean hell cannot scare anyone into heaven, because heaven is a place for those who love God, not for those who just fear hell. Psalm 63 - Heaven and salvation is a free work of God's grace and cannot be granted apart from the Work of the Holy Spirit in regenerating a person. Therefore fear cannot be the instrument of salvation. We should Preach on Hell first because Jesus himself preached Hell more than any other subject. Hell reminds of the 1. gravity of our sin. 2. The holiness and Justice of God who must punish sin. 3. Points us to the amazing work of Christ as our redeemer and his work for us on the cross. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 50

Explain the practical significance of the headship of Christ over the church: ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 50

Christ, as Head of the Church, is the source of all its authority ( Col 1:18 ). He rules it by His Word and Spirit. This has two important implications:- 1. There must be no interference from outside the Church. No man must come between Christ and His Church. It was in seeking to maintain this principle in the seventeenth century that many Covenanters suffered and lost their lives. 2. There must be no innovation from within the Church. Since Christ is the Head, the Church must take her directions solely from Him. Consequently, the Church is not free to organize herself in response to popular demand (Eph.5:24). This means that the Church is under obligation to receive from Christ the doctrines of her faith, the institutions of her worship, and the principles of her fellowship, order, government and discipline. Whatever Christ commands must be obeyed (John 2:5). The Church must not presume to do that which He has not commanded. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 51

What does the confession mean when it says, with respect to the visible church, "Out of which there is no ordinary possibility of salvation" 25.2 ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 51

Obviously not in the sense that the church itself saves (a blasphemous and heretical notion!). (Only Christ saves, by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, apart from works, including the “work” of church membership.) But in the sense that Christ has entrusted to His visible church the objective, external means by which the elect are brought to justifying faith (especially the Word, for “faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God”) and preserved in faith #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 52

What is the relation between Israel and the Church? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 52

The Church is the true Israel. All of God's elect has been engrafted into the Israel. Not ethnic Israel but the true israel. romans 11 ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 53

What is the work of the church, and by what means does it accomplish that work? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 53

oracles, and ordinances of God, for the gathering and perfecting of the saints, in this life, to the end of the world: and does, by His own presence and Spirit Accomplished through the power of the Holy Spirit. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 54

54. Evaluate the following statements: a) preaching is the exposition and application of the Word of God; b) the preaching of the Word of God is the Word of God. ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 54

A. Preaching is the exposition and application of the Word of God: Preaching of the Word must be handled carefully and the a proper exposition of the Scripture must be done in order to properly proclaim the Word of God. This must include good application. Acts 17 - Paul on Mars Hill. But to have good application the passage must be properly exegeted . B. The preaching of the Word of God is the Word of God. As we receive the true ministers of the Word of God as messengers and ambassadors of God, it is necessary to listen to them as to God himself’ (Genevan Confession 20). The first chapter of the Second Helvetic Confession deals with Scripture as the true Word of God. . . . ‘When this Word of God is now preached in the church by preachers lawfully called, we believe that the very Word of God is proclaimed and received by the faithful.’ As the sub-heading puts it, in a memorable phrase, ‘The preaching of the Word of God is the Word of God.’” #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 55

55. Explain and defend the Regulative Principle, and show its application to the elements of public worship, and the presence of unbelievers in public worship. ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 55

the regulative principle states that “the acceptable way of worshiping the true God is instituted by himself and so limited by his own revealed will” (WCF 21.1). In other words, corporate worship should be comprised of those elements we can show to be appropriate from the Bible. The regulative principles says, “Let’s worship God as he wants to be worshiped.” 4 arguments 1. t is the prerogative of God alone to determine the terms on which sinners may approach Him in worship. Ex 20:4-6 2. The introduction of extra Biblical practices into worship inevitably tends to nullify and undermine God’s appointed worship. (Matthew 15:3,8,9; 2 Kings 16:10-18) 2 Kings 16:10-18 3. That if sinful men were to add any unappointed elements into worship, they would, by this action, be calling into question the wisdom of Jesus Christ and the complete sufficiency of the Scriptures alone. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 4. The Puritans were very adamant to prove that the Bible explicitly condemns all worship that is not commanded by God. Scriptures proving this are the following: Leviticus 10:1-3; Deuteronomy 17:3; Deuteronomy 4:2; Deuteronomy 12:29-32; Joshua 1:7; 23:6-8; Matthew 15:8-13; Colossians 2:20-23 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 56

56. What is the meaning of the Confession when it refers to “some circumstances concerning the worship of God, and government of the Church, common to human actions and societies, which are to be ordered by the light of nature and Christian prudence”? How is this principle distinguished from the Lutheran view of adiaphora? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 56

## Footnote Though Scripture alone is to deetermine the elements of worship and church government, there are circumstances, or incidentals, related to such things that Scripture does not and need to regulate. Ex. the time of day worship is to occur, Scripture commands church government but does not give us the actual rules to follow. "Prudence" should be the guide but is subordinate to the rules of the Word of God. Luther's Adiaphora are what he said were church rites that are neither commanded nor forbidden but introduced into the church with good intention. This is different in that it seems to introduce extra-biblical elements into worship rather than those prescribed in Scripture. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 57

57. Are the tongues that were a part of the worship of the church at Corinth, as described and regulated in I Cor. 14: a) possible for churches in the post-apostolic age, but for some reason rarely so; b) a divine prescription for churches in the post-apostolic age, but most churches disobediently resist; or, c) by divine appointment not available for the church in the post-apostolic age? If you answer c., how to you understand 1 Cor. 14:39, “do not forbid to speak in tongues”? #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 57

Tongues: C. These were sign gifts and active during the apostolic age but have sinced ceased with the end of the apostolic age. There is nothing that needs to be added to the Word of God and the Hoy Spirit continues to minister Through the minsitry of the Word. I Corinthians 14 needs to be seen in light that it was still a part of the Apostolic age and since the end of the age and completion of the canon all sign gifts have ceased. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 58

58. What reality is demonstrated in the duty of the saints to “relieve each other in outward things” and how does this duty relate to the “right each man hath in his goods and possessions”? #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 58

relieve each other in outward things." This somewhat archaic expression refers to physical needs. "Outward things" are life's material necessities, such as food, clothing, and shelter. When we take a hot meal to a family in distress, or welcome a brother or sister who needs a place to stay for a while, or perform a home repair for a widow from our church, we are practicing the communion of the saints. Even though this is something the saints are to to do, The right of personal property is taught throughout the Scriptures. Even in the Jerusalem church, when the followers of Christ shared everything in common (Acts 4:32), the apostles defended the right of individual Christians to hold, sell, or give away their property (Acts 5:4)--a right that preserves the freedom and the joy of generous giving. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 59

59. What is the relation of the children of a believer to the church? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 59

It is clear that the children of Old Testament believers were members of the covenant community. It is equally as clear in the New Testament that children of believers are members of the church. We see this in the way in which the new covenant is administered, in the way in which the children are considered “holy,” in the way in which they are addressed as “saints,” and in the way in which the commandments of the Old Testament, which are covenantally charged, are applied to them. Acts 2:39, #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 60

60. What is the significance of the doctrine of the priesthood of all believers for the daily experience of the believer? #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 60

Priesthood of all believers Peter 2:4-8 and Revelation 1:4-6; 5:6-10 refer to believers as priests (1 Peter 2:9–10). Martin Luther pointed out in his Babylonian Captivity of the Church that “all we who are Christians are priests,” and no believer has greater access to the Creator than any other. Pastors and elders are appointed to teach the church the will of God from His Word (1 Tim. 3:1–7), but they do not represent us before the heavenly throne like the Levitical priests did under the administration of the old covenant. In Christ, there is a true priesthood of all believers. All of us who trust in Jesus alone for salvation have free access into His presence, and all of our lawful vocations are set apart for true God-honoring service. The janitor who does his work to the Lord is in no worse position spiritually than the most gifted preacher on the planet, for all Christians have been declared righteous servants of the creator God. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 61

1. If the Holy Spirit’s work is necessary to bring conviction of truth, what are the use of apologetics and polemics?

Answer 61

Acts 18 – Paul’s reasoned defense of the faith – Spirit uses to bring faith 1 Pet 3:15 – Being prepared to give a defense – Spirit doesn’t need us, but chooses to use us Acts 17 – Spirit uses polemics to expose sin (I proclaim your ignorant refusal to acknowledge God) and Gal 2 – Paul’s confrontation of Peter

Question 62

2. Defend the Protestant view of the canon of Scripture against the claims of Rome.

Answer 62

Tobit, Judith, 1&2 Macabees, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch, + additions to Daniel & Esther. Josephus rejected Jerome rejected Bad theology - magic, prayer for the dead Too much confusion to argue for universal acceptance by church

Question 63

3. Discuss the legitimate concerns and the fatal defects of “liberation theology”.

Answer 63

Privileged place of the poor/oppressed in God’s heart and doing theology from their perspective. In line w/ emphasis in prophets on condemnation of oppression/setting the oppressed free (Jesus’ application of Isaiah’s prophecy in Luke 4 to himself – setting the oppressed free). Jer 22:3 – do justice, deliver from oppression. Micah 6:8 – do justice, love mercy is what God requires. Right to condemn church’s alliance w/ wealth privilege. Church should be on side of weak and oppressed. BUT – Goes too far in emphasizing divine immanence, so that God is seen only in so far as he is setting the oppressed free and reversing poverty. God is identified w/ struggle for freedom from oppression – he cares about that, but he is more than that. He does not belong exclusively to the materially poor. Embraces Marxist economics without critically seeing it as spiritually broken, just as capitalism is. Advocates violent opposition to present system of gov’t/economics, in opposition to Rom 13

Question 64

4. Describe and refute neo-orthodoxy’s view of Scripture.

Answer 64

Barth and Brunner denied that the Bible was the Word of God in an objective sense. They said that the Bible was, at most, a collection of merely human documents. But, they said, God uses these human documents to create an “encounter” with the reader, so that the Bible becomes the Word of God as we read it. Reading the Bible, which is full of factual error, sparks this “encounter.”

 Orthodox Christianity, however, affirms that the Bible is objectively true in all respects while also insisting that we must have a personal relationship with God. There is no need to pit these two things against each other. The Bible is true whether we accept it or not and whether we encounter Jesus Christ or not. The statements of the Bible are inherently revelatory and inherently true whether or not we respond to them. 2 Tim 3:16 is true whether we ‘encounter’ God or not. Heb 4:12 word is living and active – we should seek to encounter God. But this is not dependent on our subjective experience.

Question 65

5. Is the Bible’s view of man’s calling to “subdue and rule over the creation” responsible for the pollut¬ing of the earth? What is the difference between the Bible’s teaching concerning our stewardship over God’s creation and contemporary environmentalism as a form of nature religion?

Answer 65

Gen 1 – made in God’s image, so our rule/dominion should reflect and embody his character/rule. He is not a consumer of the world, but delights in it (it is good). Gave it to us to sustain us (Gen 9), but also to ‘create beauty’ after him (see gift of creative spirit to Oholiab & Bezalel in Ex 36). Contemp enviro worships creation instead of creator (Rom 1). Makes natural world ultimate, not something in which God’s beauty is revealed. We should seek to preserve and uphold that beauty wherever possible, but as those who rule over it in trust, not as those who are ruled by nature.

Question 66

6. Pantheism

Answer 66

Belief in an impersonal god that is identical with the universe (or nature). All forms of reality are modes of god’s being, all things in the world are one, all are god. Spinoza is the father Gen 1 – All things came to being at God’s command. Isaiah 55:8 – God’s thoughts are not our thoughts. He is above/separate from us. All things are sustained by him, but he is outside them – Heb 1:3

Question 67

7. Antinomianism.

Answer 67

Dispensational antinomian view held by Ryrie/Scofield Bible: Possible to have genuine faith w/o good works. Good works do not necessarily accompany faith. Division between accepting Jesus as Savior and as Lord. Can have Jesus as Savior w/o him as Lord. Possible to be justified by faith without any good works at all. Not advisable, not leading to blessing, but possible nonetheless. Neo-orthodox antinomian view – law is not God’s direct command, but means by which Spirit speaks to us, and he may direct us to obey or not obey that law. Spirit-led antinomian view – Spirit leads us, law is not a guide for us. 1 Cor 14:36-37 indicates that Paul was addressing this view – Spirit does not lead in opposition to God’s law, but to see God’s law as his command to us. James 2:17 – faith w/o works is dead. It’s no good. Rom 8 – we live according to Spirit, in step w/ the law of Spirit of life, cannot have X w/o his Spirit who makes us slaves to righteousness Rom 6. 1 Cor 9.21 – not free from gods law, but under x’s law

Question 68

8. Legalism

Answer 68

Setting up a law other than what God requires and trusting obedience to that law to produce righteousness for us. Or focusing on parts of God’s law that we can keep in order to imagine that we are righteous before God because of what we have done. Working for God’s favor Anything that requires us to add to what Christ has done is a reversion to legalism. Rom 3 – there is none righteous; and X brings righteousness apart from the law Col 2 – adding rituals or requirements to X brings nothing. X is the fullness, we need nothing else.

Question 69

9. Liberalism

Answer 69

The root idea that defined liberalism was the influence of the philosophy of naturalism. Naturalism asserts that all reality can be explained in purely natural categories without any appeal to the supernatural. As a result, nineteenth-century liberalism saw a wholesale attack on all things supernatural contained within historic orthodox Christianity. Natural mind is in opposition to God – 1 Cor 2:14 Targeted miracles of Jesus, virgin birth, resurrection. Heb 2:4 – these miracles bear witness to X. God is creator/sustainer of all – Gen 1 Heb 1 Bible just another ancient book – 2 Tim 3:16, 2 Peter 1:21 The mission of the church became no longer an enterprise of bringing personal redemption supernaturally between the soul and God; rather, it sought social redemption by alleviating, as far as possible, human suffering. This gave way to the birth of the so-called “social gospel,” which saw the good news found in the church’s mission to meet the humanitarian needs of society. – Mission of Church is made disciples & teach obedience to X – Matt 28:20

Question 70

10. Romanism

Answer 70

Papal authority/infallibility – Gen 6 (human heart evil all time) Rom 3 also. Matt 23:9 – call no man father on earth Justification confused w/ sanctification, process based on infused righteousness, grace/faith + human cooperation – Eph 2, Rom 3 Transub – Matt 26

Question 71

11. Perfectionism

Answer 71

Perfectionism teaches that there is a class of Christians who achieve moral perfection in this life. To be sure, credit is given to the Holy Spirit as the agent who brings total victory over sin to the Christian. But there is a kind of elitism in perfectionism, a feeling that those who have achieved perfection are somehow greater than other Christians. The “perfect” ones do not officially—take credit for their state, but smugness and pride have a way of creeping in. Receiving the ‘second blessing’ and living a life of victory In one strand of the Wesleyan tradition there is another type of qualified perfectionism. Here the achievement of perfection is limited to a perfected love. We may continue to struggle with certain moral weaknesses, but at least we can receive the blessing of a perfected love. Wesleyan holiness movement Rom 7 – written in the present tense, Paul describing current experience.

Question 72

12. Arminianism

Answer 72

conditional election – based on forseen faith or nonfaith of man; Eph 1:7 – chosen according to purpose of God’s will, not according to forseen faith or the decision of our will unlimited Atonement - adequate for all men, is efficacious only for the man of faith. Rom 6 – united to X in his death – it doesn’t just store up a volume of merit or forgiveness to be distributed, but we are personally each united to him in death & resurrection. Jesus’ death was according to God’s plan (Acts 4) – could not have been for indeterminate ‘whoever’ – Son of God knew who he was dying for. aided by Holy Spirit, person is able to respond to God’s will – Dead in sin (Eph 2) grace is resistible – Rom 9:19 – who can resist his will? believers are able to resist sin but are not beyond the possibility of falling from grace – John 10:29 – none snatched from Father’s hand; Eph 1:13 & 4:30 – sealed w/ holy spirit

Question 73

13. Dispensationalism

Answer 73

- a fundamental distinction between Israel and the church, i.e. there are two peoples of God with two different destinies, earthly Israel and the spiritual church, ^[1]^ - a fundamental distinction between the Law and Grace, i.e. they are mutually exclusive ideas, ^[2]^ - the view that the New Testament church is a parenthesis in God's plan which was not foreseen by the Old Testament, ^[3]^ and - a distinction between the Rapture and the Second Coming of Christ, i.e. the rapture of the church at Christ's coming "in the air" (1 Thess. 4:17) precedes the "official" second coming (to the earth) by 7 years of tribulation. Pre-millenial (though not all premillenials are dispensationalists) Eph 2:11-16 – Jew and Gentile united in X. Not separate peoples, but one. Rom 9:8 – Children of promise were always true children of Abraham, always true Israel, into whom gentiles are now ingrafted – one people of God in all time Gen 3 – protevangelion anticipates X and his church from the very beginning. Promise ‘to Abraham’s Seed’ – Gal 3:29 – all Abraham’s seed Rom 3:31 – gospel of grace upholds the law

Question 74

14. Annihilationism

Answer 74

says that the ultimate judgment of the sinner is not ongoing, eternal punishment in a place called hell, but simply the annihilation of the person’s existence, and that the great punishment, the great loss, that accompanies annihilation is the loss of the happiness promised to those who will live eternally in heaven. Sproul says the symbolic language of hell in the NT is not to be taken literally, that the reality is probably worse than the symbols indicate. Rev 20:5-19 – Devil and angels thrown into lake of fire to be tormented forever, follow by those whose names not written in book of life – doesn’t say they are there forever, but seems to imply that’s the nature of the lake of fire. Matt 25:41 calls this an eternal fire for the devil and his angels

Question 75

15. Asceticism

Answer 75

A lifestyle characterized by abstaining from worldly pleasures in order to draw the practitioner closer to God. Refraining from things for a time to focus on worship/prayer is good and right (Jesus 40 days in wilderness at start of ministry – Luke 4; 1 Cor 7:5) but trusting the abstaining in itself to make us closer to God or more acceptable to him, or setting them up as additional laws and requiring others to follow them, is false and dangerous – Col 2:18-23

Question 76

16. Hedonism

Answer 76

Pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of pain. Not always unbridled – thoughtful hedonists, like Epicureans, seek measured pleasure – too much pleasure brings pain. But pleasure is ultimate rule Part of Eve’s sin – Gen 3:7 – fruit was ‘pleasing to the eye’ Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 – pleasure is vanity (n.b. in light of end of book – pleasure apart from covenant relationship w/ God is vanity. Pleasure in covenant relationship w/ him is gift from him) Life is found in losing life for Christ’s sake – Matt 16:24 – intense pain, not pleasure John 10:10 – Jesus came to give us fullness of life, only in him can we find it, not in pleasure (or pain)

Question 77

Intinction

Answer 77

Dipping the bread into the wine/juice of the cup before consuming it. NOT initially a practice in response to transubstantiation and fear of dripping Christ’s blood – began before transub. Julius 1 in 340 writes against the practice, and it was also banned for a time even after transub & concomitance (belief that Body & Blood were both in bread) was accepted. Relevant passages: Matt 26:26-29 – bread/wine were two distinct, separate acts. 1 Cor 11 – in addition to two separate acts, two separate actions of the recipients – eat bread, drink cup. John 13:26 – Jesus giving bread dipped to Judas, probably was not dipped in ‘the cup’ but in the meat/sauce mixture Lev 1, 3 – separating body & blood in the sacrifices – Jesus body and blood need to be kept separate in our taking Bottom line argument is that it’s not something clearly forbidden by scripture or by adherence to ‘regulative principle’ – or else that it is forbidden by regulative principle and thus needs to be proscribed. ## Footnote

Question 78

Open Theism

Answer 78

God does not certainly know the future, but involves humans in his decision making process and in determining what he will do – he does not yet know what he will do until he interacts with humans. Point to Gen 18 & God’s interaction w/ Abraham re: Sodom & Gomorrah. God has left decisions up to humans, does not exercise control over everything that happens in universe. God has not predetermined the future. Argue that God can still be in ‘ultimate’ control even if he doesn’t control everything. Response: Eph 1:11 – God works all things according to the counsel of his will. Idea of God who controls all but doesn’t know all is ridiculous. God’s change of heart is an anthropomorphism, in line with the entire chapter in which God appears to Abraham in the form of three men. Matt 10:29 – God’s intimate knowledge & control of even the small things Is 46:10 – declaring the end from the beginning, things not yet done Origen refuted this in ‘Against Celsus’

Question 79

Racism ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 79

Racism, also sometimes called racialism, is generally defined as actions, practices, or beliefs that consider the human species to be divided into races with shared traits, abilities, or qualities, such as personality, intellect, morality, or other cultural behavioral characteristics, and especially the belief that races can be ranked as inherently superior or inferior to others, or that members of different races should be treated differently. Galatians 3:28 Genesis 1:27 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 80

Relativism ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 80

Relativism is the concept that points of view have no absolute truth or validity, having only relative, subjective value according to differences in perception and consideration - John 14:6, John 17:17 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 81

Federal Vision ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 81

The Federal Vision movement begain in 2002 in a series of meetings at the Auburn Avenue Presbyterian Church. Here there were a series of lectures that centered around a new paradigm of looking at the covenant, justification and the sacraments. They espouse a hyper-covenantalism which first denies the existence of a covenant of works but rather there was only one covenant of grace. Teachings: Those of the covenant community regardless of whether they are elect are part of the family of God. 2 Facets of election. 1 - Common election - receive blessins for obedience and discipline for disobedience 2 - Special election - savation awarded to those who persevere to the end. Sacaraments - imputation of the efficacy of the thing signified in the sign itself. Teach that Baptism conferrs the benefits of union with Christ - (baptismal regeneration) But also supports paedo-communion - In that their is also efficacy in the continued feeding on the body and blood of Christ and will give the child sustaining grace. Rejection of systematic, or scientific interpretation of scritpure they believe that it should be interpreted through a typological system as opposed to a literal system. Literary analysis. Most importantly they DENY the imputation of Jesus' active obedience tohis followers for Justification. Their argument is that followers are one with Christ and as such share in his resurrected life but do not obtain his righteousness. 2 Cor. 5:21 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 82

Role of Women Complementarian vs. Egalitarian #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 82

## Footnote Egalitarian: God created male and femail as equals in al respects. Entrance of sin - Gen. 3:16 has set woman and man against each other in terms of authority and submission. However in Christ - Gal 3:28 says that the male/female difference has been abolished and are fully equal once again. Complementarian: God created man and woman equals in diginity, value and essence but has given them different foles. Giving the male the responsibility of loving authority over the femail the female to offer willing glad hearted submission to the male. Gen 1:26-27, I Cor 11 and i Timoth 2. Sin introuded into God's creation disrupted this design and the curse of the woman had set her heart against a willing submission to the man. Genesis 3:1-7 In christ Ephesians 5:22-33 and 1 Timothy 2:8-15 should show that God's intention for male leadership and authority should now , in Christ be fully affirmed both in the home and the church. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 83

Reprobation ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 83

Romans 9:14-21, Job 22 If only some are predestined to be saved, then it logically must follow that others are not. Reprobation is the doctrine that there are those predestined to damnation. Reprobation is the reflex of God's action of election. A decision to save some is also a decision not to elect everyone. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 84

Eternal generation of the Son ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 84

It is that eternal and necessary act of the first person in the Trinity, whereby He, within the divine Being, is the ground of a second personal subsistence like His own, and puts this second person in possession of the whole divine essence, without any division, alienation, or change. (Berkhoff Systematic Theology, pg. 94). John 5:26, John 1:1 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 85

Theonomy ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 85

Theonomy might be understood as the conviction that the civil law God gave to Israel in the Old Testament ought to be the law of the land in all nations everywhere. The question instead is what law would God wish us to have. Did God give the civil law (that is, the law as it relates to government) to Israel as an exact paradigm of the ideal law for any state, or not? The Westminster Confession calls us to embrace what the divines called “the general equity” of the law. That is, while there are underlying principles of God’s justice at work in the establishment of Old Testament civil law, there may be fitting and appropriate adjustments to take into account our differing circumstances. Luke 16:16 - Acts 10:28 - Romans 10:4 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 86

Euthanasia ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 86

Active Euthanasia - involves taking direct steps to kill a suffering person. Passive Euthanasia involves the cessasion of the use of the extraordinary life support methods. Issues must be decided in light of God's Word on the sancticy of life. Bend over backwards to insure the maintence of human life. Decision should involve 3 parties. Physicians, family and the clergy. 2 Corinthians 1:8-10 Christians believe that all humans are made in God's image, and are therefore sacred. The following sanctity of life teachings could be applied to euthanasia: “In the image of God” – Genesis 1:26 “Do not kill” – Exodus 20:13 ”You yourselves are God's temple” - 1 Corinthians 3:16 Job ultimately accepts that God has a greater plan than he can comprehend. The most useful passage, echoed elsewhere in the Bible, is: "The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away" - Job 1:21 "My times are in thy hand..." - Psalms 31:15 “Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time?” - Ecclesiastes 7:17 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 87

Hypostatic Union ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 87

(John 8:58, 10:30), but at the incarnation Jesus became a human being (John 1:14). The addition of the human nature to the divine nature is Jesus, the God-man. This is the hypostatic union, Jesus Christ, one Person, fully God and fully man. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 88

Communicable and Incommunicable Attributes ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 88

Incommunicable Attributes: Those attributes which God does not and cannot share with man. 1. His Aseity (self existence) Gen 1:1 3. Infiniity - Job 11:7-9 Perfection Eternity Immensity 6. Immutablity - Malachi 3:6 5. Unity Unitas Singularitatis stresses botht he oneness and unicity of GOd He is numerically one divine being I Cor. 8:6 Unitas Simplicitatatis - God is one and cannot be divided into parts. I and the Father are one. Communicable attributes - attributes that he shares with man to some degree but not to its fullness. Spirtuality of God - John 4:24 Intellectual Attributes Knowledge of God - Psalm 94:9 Isaiah 29 WIsdom of God Rom 11:33 Veracity of God Psalm 96:5, Heb 6:18 Moral Attributes: Goodness of God - Ps 36:9 Holiness of God I Sam 2:2 Isa 57:15 The Righteouness of God -Psalm 119, II Tim 4:8 Attributes of Sovreignty Sovereign will of God Ps. 135:6 Sovereign Power of GOd -Omnipotence Matt 3:9, 26:53 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 89

The Trinity ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 89

The historic formulation of the Trinity is that God is one in essence and three in person. Though the formula is mysterious and even paradoxical, it is in no way contradictory. The unity of the Godhead is affirmed in terms of essence or being, while the diversity of the Godhead is expressed in terms of 3 persons (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) Person speaks to a difference in subsistence not essencce, is a real difference but not an esential differnce. Each member has a specific work The Father initiates creation, redemption and elects to save His people in Christ (Eph. 1:4). The Son is appointed and willingly offers Himself as the Savior and Mediator (Luke 22:29; Heb. 10:5–7). The Holy Spirit furnishes Christ with the gifts necessary to accomplish His saving work (Luke 1:35; 3:21–22; 4:18), and also applies the benefits of Christ’s work to those whom the Father gives to the Son (John 6:38–39; 17:4). Old Testament - Name of God appears in plural form (Elohim) Genesis 1:2 -Sprit hovering over the water Genesis 1:27 - Let us make man in our image Psalm 110 - Lord says to my Lord - sat at my right hand Unity of God affirmed Deut 6:4 New Testament I Cor. 8 - One God, the Father and jesus Christ John 8 - Before Abraham was I am John 1:1 Matthew 28:19, Matthew 13:14, 2 Thess 2:13-14 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 90

Did Jesus die for me? ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 90

2 ways to approach this question. 1. Jesus died not for me but for his Father's glory. Jesus Died for God's Glory. Everything Jesus did was to gloryify His Father in heaven. John 17:4, Joh 8:49 John 12:27 I Peter 4:11 2. Jesus died for me in that he died for the elect not for 'everyone' but only for those whom God elected and were given saving faith. John 17, John 10 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 91

Positional and Progressive Sanctification ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 91

## Footnote **Positional sanctification** is what happens at the moment of salvation. It is called positional because it has to do with our holiness in relation to God. Hebrews 10:10 says, “For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time.” The theology of positional sanctification teaches that we are made holy in God’s sight by Jesus’ death and resurrection. The blood of Jesus cleanses us before God the Father and when He looks upon us He see the holiness and purity of His son **progressive sanctification** happens throughout the life of a believer. We know that when someone gives their life to Christ they don’t become perfect as positional sanctification makes them. Progressive sanctification is the process of becoming holy during a person’s life on earth. It is said to be the process of becoming what we have already been declared. Positional sanctification has declared us as holy and perfect, and progressive sanctification is the process of us moving towards that while we are still alive. Hebrews 10:14 speaks to this progressive state: “For by that one offering He forever made perfect those who are being made holy.” Although we are made perfect by Christ’s sacrifice, we have to continually be made holy in our daily lives to become more like Christ. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 92

Emergent Church ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 92

The Emergent Church is a movement made up of churches calling into question things of orthodoxy and orthopraxy. It is in many ways a reaction to the mega-church/ Marketing movement but also a reaction to creedal, confessional, orhodox Christianity. It falls in line with basic post-modernist thinking it is about experience over words, outward over inward, feelings over truth. These are a reaction to modernism. They reject standards and believe the goal of theology is to enter the discussion of God rather than finding the Right belief of God. Matthew 7:15-20 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 93

What is Justification ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 93

God's legal declaration that we are righteous. On basis of imputed righteousness of Christ - Rom 4:24-25 links the crediting of righteousness w/ the justification we have in X. Rom 5:19 makes clear that it is X's righteousness that is the grounds for our justification. Faith is the instrument of justification - Gal 2:16 #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 94

What is Illumination ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 94

The enlightening of our minds by the Holy Spirit to show us the truth revealed in scripture - Eph 1:17, John 14:26 Spirit reminds us of all that Jesus said and teaches us all things (the 'all things' being equal to what Scripture is useful for, i.e. thoroughly equipping us 2Tim 3.16) 1 cor 2:12-14 - It is the Spirit who enables us to understand the things of God, which are freely given, but not understood by natural man. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 95

Inspiration ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 95

2 Tim 3:16 - all scripture is God-breathed 1 Peter 1:10-11 - Spirit of Christ was speaking in the prophets 2 Peter 1:21 - prophets carried along by Spirit of God Heb 1:1 - God spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets - God's spoke through the prophets. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 96

Views of Creation ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 96

Calendar Day theory Each day was a literal 24-hr day. Yom w/ ordinal always means literal day. Adam was literal man - Rom 5:12 - so was the rest of the creation account. Problems - how was light sustained, earth's position in space w/o a sun, how did plants survive wet ground if it only appeared the day before. Day-Age Each 'yom' was an indetermined period of time. Yom is used in 2:4 to refer to the entire creative work - 'the day when the Lord created..." Also no end to day 7. Literary Framework 'Yom' is literal, but function as a literary framework for God's creative work. 1. 1:5 is named 'Day' even though sun isn't made until day 4 - but this is the naming of day - sun must have been there. evening/morning lead us to believe sun was there. 2. The structure of the 6 days - 1st 3 creation kingdoms, 2nd 3 creature kings. Leads us to think the days are meant to structure the entire presentation 3. 2:5 'because it had not rained' - God used ordinary means of providence to sustain the creation from day 1 - so the light on day 1 must have come from the sun. Necessitates a non-sequential interpretation of the days 4. No evening/morning for day 7, and Heb 4 takes this to be an ongoing 7th day of rest. This marks the passing of 'heaven time', and should be applied to the rest of the days as well. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 97

New Perspectives on Paul according to Dunn, Wright, & Sanders ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 97

E P Sanders: Covenantal Nomism: Keeping the covenant, rather than earning God's favor. "Briefly put, covenantal nomism is the view that one's place in God's plan is established on the basis of the covenant and that the covenant requires as the proper response of man his obedience to its commandments, while providing means of atonement for transgression." Judaism is then not concerned with "how to have a right relationship with God" but with "how to remain his covenant people." This has sometimes been compared to the issue of "keeping" or "losing one's salvation." Dunn: Works of the law do not bring God's favor, but mark out those who are God's covenant people. 'works of the law' are nowhere understood here, either by his Jewish interlocutors or by Paul himself, as works which earn God's favor, as merit-amassing observances. They are rather seen as badges: they are simply what membership of the covenant people involves, what mark out the Jews as God's people Wright: God does not impute his righteousness to us. It is not right for the judge to impute his own righteousness to the defendant. Justification is not how we get into the covenant people, but God's declaration that we already are. Jews saw themselves as still in exile, and Jesus as enacting his part of God's salvation story. Tends to see salvation less in personal/individual terms, more in terms of the people of God as a whole. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; } #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 98

What is the Church ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 98

Eph 2:19-20 God's household, built on apostles & prophets - one household, one people. Gal 3:29 - believers in X are Abraham's children 1 Pet 2:9 - a people belonging to God, reflecting the cov promise to Israel in Ex 6 - you will be my people. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 99

Marks of True Church ## Footnote #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Answer 99

Right administration of word & sacrament. #next\_pages\_container { width: 5px; hight: 5px; position: absolute; top: -100px; left: -100px; z-index: 2147483647 !important; }

Question 100

What is a Miracle and are they still happening today?

Answer 100

According to Packer, 3 senses: 1. Wonder – something that evokes wonder – creates awareness of God. Ps 145 – the wonders he has done. ‘coincidences’, childbirth, these function in this way 2. Mighty work – raising from the dead (Elijah, Elisha, paul, peter, Jesus 3x) – displays of God’s creative power 3. Sign – clustered around exodus, Elijah/sha, & Jesus/apostles. Ex 4/Heb 2 authenticated as God’s messengers and showed God’s power in salvation We expect miracles, at least in the first sense, to continue BUT: According to Sproul: combines the second and third definitions above – they are the true definition of miracles, and do not continue to occur, for the above cited scriptures – otherwise we would have to accept the miracle workers’ message as from God too, a new message.

Question 101

I'm omnisexual

Answer 101

Male & Female, separate, are part of God’s created order, part of our role as image bearers – Gen 1. Sexuality is properly expressed in the context of male/female marriage – Gen 1-2. Messing with these orders is against our own conscience – Romans 1.

Question 102

I'm Omnisexual

Answer 102

Male & Female, separate, are part of God’s created order, part of our role as image bearers – Gen 1. Sexuality is properly expressed in the context of male/female marriage – Gen 1-2. Messing with these orders is against nature and our own conscience – Romans 1.

Question 103

Biblical Obligation to Culture

Answer 103

Gen 1, Psalm 8 – rule over God’s creation, subdue it – i.e. bring order, steward it Acts 14 – God continues to enrich the world, so we should work w/ him in all forms of activity in submission to his will (Rom 12:2) that we might be salt & light – Matt 5