The Image of God

Introduction The concept of the image of God lies at the heart of the biblical doctrine of humanity.[1]  That man – both male and female – in some way resembles the Creator provides significant meaning and value for the human race.  Throughout history, theologians and philosophers have said and written many things about what it [...]

Rudolf Bultmann and the Quest for the Historical Jesus

Introduction Among the most influential theologians of the twentieth century stands Rudolf Bultmann (1884-1976).[1]  He was a man of towering intellect whose work continues to exercise a significant influence over theological discussions to this day.  Although more people say negative things about Bultmann than those who have actually read him, he has made many important [...]

The “Works of the Law” in Gal. 2:16

“We who are Jews by birth and not from among ‘Gentile sinners’ know that a person is not justified by works of the law, but through the faithfulness of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, in order that we might be justified through the faithfulness of Christ and not by works of [...]

Micaiah’s Courtroom Vision: 1 Kings 22:19-23

Introduction The historical narrative of 1 Kings 22 is one of the most theologically challenging passages in the Old Testament.[1]  The issues revolve around the actions attributed to YHWH in Micaiah’s vision of the heavenly courtroom (vv. 19-23).[2]  Numerous explanations have been offered in an attempt to reconcile these actions with the way in which [...]

The God of Qoheleth

Introduction Ecclesiastes is generally considered by readers and commentators alike as being primarily a philosophical rather than a theological work.[1]  This approach to the book has often caused many to miss the important dimension of Deity that permeates the message of Qoheleth.  Although it is clear that the author did not intend his work to [...]

The Messianic Mission in Matt. 1:21

 “And she will give birth to a son, and you will call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” [1] Matt. 1:21 Introduction Recent studies have demonstrated how the beginning of each Gospel performs the role of an overture that introduces the main characters, the major themes, and the world [...]

The Soteriological Legacy of Augustine

Introduction Of all the figures in early Christianity, perhaps none has had such a significant influence on both the world in general, and the church in particular, as that of Augustine.[1]  From his day to the present, the ideas he wrestled with and wrote about have continued to inspire and challenge theologians in areas ranging [...]

Junia(s) in Romans 16:7

Introduction In light of the recent and on-going discussions concerning the role of women in ministry both inside and outside the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the identity of the person and position of Junia(s) in Rom. 16:7 has become increasingly important.[1] As Paul draws his letter to a close, he sends his greetings to a number [...]

Moral and Faith Development in Pastoral Ministry

Introduction Despite the hostility of some within the Christian world towards an integration of psychology and religion, an understanding of moral and faith development is “vitally important for anyone who desires to provide soul care.”[1] Indeed, it has been said that in order to reach humanity, we must understand humanity.[2] The following essay will seek [...]

The Meaning of “this generation” and “all these things” in Mark 13:30

Introduction In the eschatological discourse found in the gospel of Mark, Jesus makes an interesting statement that has sparked a whole spectrum of various interpretations from both inside and outside the Christian faith: “Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place” (13:30).[1] The interpretation of this [...]