Proclaiming Another Jesus

Deceivers, Messiah

When certain “super-apostles” began to undermine his teachings, Paul reminded the church that the “serpent beguiled Eve in his craftiness,” and he went on to warn against anyone who might appear among believers “proclaiming another Jesus, whom we did not preach, or a different spirit, or a different gospel.”

God's One Household

Church, Fulfillment

A charge commonly heard in popular preaching is “replacement theology.” It is usually hurled against anyone who claims a promise from the Hebrew Bible made originally to Israel now finds its fulfillment in the church. But the accusation misses the point. The New Testament teaches neither “replacement theology” nor the idea that God has two distinct covenants and peoples, each with a separate eternal destiny.

Well-Qualified High Priest

His Death, His Priesthood

The priesthood of Jesus is a key subject of Hebrews. He became the “merciful and faithful high priest” who now intercedes for “his brethren.” This is anticipated in the opening paragraph, including the uniqueness of his priesthood, by declaring that he “achieved the purification of sins,” and then afterward, he “sat down” in God’s presence.

Everlasting Glory

Gospel, Resurrection

The resurrection is not a major subject in Paul’s “pastoral” letters, but he does raise the subject when dealing with the problem of false teachers in Ephesus. As he stated to Timothy, “God did not give us a spirit of fear but of a sound mind.” The theme of “sound teaching” is prominent in the three pastoral letters, and the future resurrection is a prime example of the apostolic doctrines.

A Female Apostle?

Church, Ministry

Proponents of appointing women as apostles in the church cite Paul’s reference to someone named “Junia” in his letter to the churches of Rome as evidence that the early church had female apostles. Apparently, his description of her as being “of note among the apostles” proves she was one.

Howling Imposters

Apostasy, Deceivers, False-Prophets

Christ’s final block of teaching that he gave on the Mount of Olives includes several warnings about coming “deceivers” and “false prophets” intent on misleading the saints, warnings reiterated and expanded in the writings of the apostles. And his discourse began with stern warnings to “beware lest anyone deceive you.”