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Q&A on Difficult New Testament Passages (Craig Blomberg) August 30, 2006

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Bible

Dr. Craig Blomberg is Professor of New Testament at Denver Seminary.  This open-forum was sponsored by The MacLaruin Institute at the University of Minnesota on February 19, 2005.  Dr. Blomberg takes questions form the student and faculty audience on difficult passages in the New Testament.  

 
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The New “Archaeological Study Bible” August 29, 2006

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Archaeological-Study-Bible

I remember one of my academic mentors used to always say, “The only thing better than a short book is a cheap book!”  Well, this one is neither!  It’s quite thick and will cost you about $40.  Nevertheless, this new NIV Archaeological Study Bible is a “must have” for the library of anyone who enjoys watching the archaeologist’s spade turn, or being enlightened by the historian’s explanations of cultural customs within the Bible. (more…)

Making sense of the Trinity August 26, 2006

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trinity

The triune nature of God is possibly one of the most notable distinctives of historical Christianity, sharply separating it from all other theistic world religions (including Christian cults such as Latter-day Saints, Watchtower, etc.).  Historically, all of orthodox Christianity has maintained that while there is only one God in nature or essence, this God reveals Himself in three persons–each one being eternally distinct from the other.  Wow!  That can sound complicated and a bit difficult to get your mind around.  And I would agree that God’s nature is not a simple matter (if it were, it seems likely that the conception might be contrived or invented).  But I think there is one rational argument for God being triune or multi-personal that is compelling to just about anyone (no philosophy degree needed!).  C. S. Lewis makes a brilliantly simple observation in his book, Mere Christianity. (more…)

The Triangle Principle-how to enjoy things August 21, 2006

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triangle--small

Matthew’s Gospel records Jesus telling his listeners to strive first for the kingdom of God and His righteousness and their needs will be taken care of (Mt 6:25-34).  I think Jesus is speaking here of a principle of human happiness and fulfillment.  Your relationship with God and with things (spouse, children, vocation, material possessions) is like a triangle.  Imagine it.  Suppose your are married.  If God is at the top point of the triangle, you and your spouse are each at one of the bottom points.  The triangle principle is that for the two of you to truly meet in the deepest intimacy you must both first pursue God, and you will find one another.  Jesus taught that to truly enjoy anything–in this case, your spouse–you must move toward the top of the triangle.  But why not just move along the bottom line of the triangle directly toward the object of enjoyment?  Isn’t the shortest distance between two points a straight line?  That does seem reasonable.  But here’s the catch.
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God’s will & free will August 16, 2006

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free-will-arrow

I am right now re-reading through what I think is on my top 5 book list–C. S. Lewis’, Mere Christianity.  So, I’m sure that several upcoming blogs will have to do with more of Lewis’ thoughts than with my own.  In book II, Ch. 3, Lewis takes up the question of, “Is this state of affairs [our evil world] in accordance with God’s will, or not?”  After all, how can anything happen that is outside the will of an all-powerful being?  Lewis’ basic answer is to point us to common human relationships to find a possible answer. (more…)

Disappointment With God - Pt 1 of 2 August 11, 2006

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Rob-Cowles

This is a 2-part conversation that I had with Timberline Church’s Executive Pastor Rob Cowles about how we can navigate through those tough times in our lives when we feel disappointed with God.

 

 

 
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Disappointment With God - Pt 2 of 2

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This is part 2 of a 2-part conversation with Pastor Rob cowles.

 
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How to stay Christian in college

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How to stay christian in college

Contrary to what we often hear, your faith is not something “private,” something reserved only for your personal life when your front door is tightly shut.  Rather, it’s something you live amidst real issues in your life.  And I believe that in going to college one’s faith in Jesus is challenged here maybe more than anywhere.  And for this reason, the relationships which are forged with other followers of Jesus is essential.  Yet, not all “Christian” student groups measure up to their title.  If you or someone you know is heading back to the campus this fall, you need to read J. Budziszewski’s (pronounced, “Boo-jee-shef-ski”) How To Stay Christian In College.
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Why we long for superheros! August 9, 2006

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superman

It’s been interesting to see the recent surge of superhero movies in the past few years to hit the theaters (Spiderman, Batman, Superman).  I’m always interested in a psychoanalysis of our culture when there are cultural phenomenon like this.  What need is there in us that longs for and welcomes these superheros?  Several things come to mind . . . one stands out.
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Love & Respect In Your Marriage (Rm 211 @ 9:45)

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Jim-Susan

Jim & Susan Klock (contact us at susankk@peoplepc.com)

As a seasoned professional Christian counselor, Jim and his wife Susan will walk couples through the powerful truths about Love & Respect.  The powerful truth about Love & Respect is that the conflicts couples experience are not the root problem.  Successful couples know that harmony and happiness in marriage are not primarily achieved by solving daily problems.  Though these problems are real, they are not the root issue.  Find out what the root issue is.  This is part of the secret!

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Israel Study Tour Class (Rm 201 @ 11:15)

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Frank Estep

Teacher: Pastor Frank Estep (contact me at contactus@timberlinechurch.org). 

Pastor Frank is the Missions & Outreach Pastor of Timberline Church. 

The Israel Study Tour class is designed primarily to prepare those who have registered for the November 2006 trip to Israel. Others interested in the history and current status of the nation of Israel are welcome to attend.  The class will involve class discussion, live presentation, and videos from the Discovery Channel programming.

 CLASS SCHEDULE: (Sept. 16-Oct. 29)
NOTE: Only the first class will be held on SAT. evening @ 7pm.

Discovering God’s Way of Handling Money (Rm 212 @ 11:15)

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Jim Thurston

Jim Thurston (contact me at jkthurston@comcast.net

NOTE: This is an 8-week class and will run from Sept.10–Oct. 29.
 
Using the time-tested materials of Crown Financial Ministries, this class is an 8-week study which will take an in-depth look at what the Bible says about handling money in these specific areas: Debt, Counsel, Honesty, giving, Word, Saving & Investing, Children.  The format of this class is both video presentation and discussion.  The only cost is the purchase of a $9 workbook, available in the Timberline Resource Center.

This class will take place Sunday mornings @ 11:15 in room # 212.