Class on the Origin and Authority of the New Testament Canon
This week, Aug 4-8, I am teaching my long-running elective at RTS Charlotte entitled, “The Origin and Authority of the New Testament Canon.”
In this class, we will be covering not just the history and development of the canon, but also its theological meaning, and its epistemological foundation. In other words, we will not only discuss when these books were recognized, but we will explore how we know which books belong and which do not.
So, the class will cover the various canonical models present in theological circles today, as well as responding to modern historical-critical scholars who attack its integrity.
One other interesting part of the course is that
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The Brilliant Apologetic Strategy of the Ancient Church
One of the benefits of studying the history of early Christianity is that we quickly realize that what we are facing in the modern day is far from new. Each challenge to the faith might seem new—sometimes leading to an unnecessary panic among some—but the early church faced similar (and often much worse) things before.
The second century was just such a time. Christianity was in its infancy, a bit like a newborn animal on the Serengeti plains, wobbly legs and all. And the world around them was by no means friendly. Attacks came hard and fast from all directions.
But Christians responded. They sharpened their arguments, they clarified their … Continue reading...
How to Have Healthy Disagreements in the Church
During the TGC National Conference this past April, I was part of a panel discussion with Alistair Begg, Gavin Ortlund, and Jen Wilkin on the topic of “How to Have Healthy Disagreements within Your Church.” The panel was hosted by Carl Laferton of the Good Book Company.
I have to say that I can’t imagine many topics more timely than this one. It was encouraging to hear the perspectives of my fellow panelists on how the evangelical community needs more grace, charity and maturity in the way we disagree. Here’s the video:… Continue reading...
What’s the Earliest New Testament Evidence for the Divinity of Jesus?
In the first century, we learn of one of the most remarkable men that has ever lived.
Before he was born, his mother was told he would not be like other men, but would be divine. As an adult, he traveled around delivering his message and performing miracles. He healed the sick, cast out demons, and even raised the dead.
He had a band of disciples around him who regarded him as the son of God. Eventually, his activity caught the attention of the governing authorities who arrested him, put him on trial, and executed him. Later, his followers said that he was alive and seated in the heavenly places.
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What I’ll Be Up to at The Gospel Coalition National Conference
This week I am headed to Indianapolis for The Gospel Coalition National Conference. Looks to be a fun week with a great lineup of speakers and a wonderful theme: “Alive Together: Faithful Living in a Faithless Age” (a study of the book of Ephesians).
In addition to catching up with friends over coffee and meals, my schedule is filled with a number of breakout sessions and panel discussions. Here are the highlights over a very busy two days on Tuesday, April 22, and Wednesday, April 23:
1. TGC Breakout Sessions. I am part of two different TGC-sponsored breakout sessions, and also one for RTS (see #2 below):
Tuesday, 3:30PM.… Continue reading...