Separation / Miscellaneous Flashcards
Explain personal and ecclesiastical separation and when should a believer separate from another believer?
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Personal Separation:
- Personal separation emphasizes the idea that believers should lead lives that are separate from the world and its sinful influences.
- 2 Corinthians 6:17 (KJV): “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” This verse is often cited to support personal separation, encouraging believers to be separate from worldly influences.
- Romans 12:2 (KJV): “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” This verse underscores the idea of not conforming to the patterns of the world but renewing one’s mind.
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Ecclesiastical Separation:
- Ecclesiastical separation is the principle of maintaining separation at the church level, particularly in terms of affiliations with other churches or religious groups. It involves avoiding partnerships or associations with those that do not share the same doctrinal beliefs or standards.
- 2 John 1:10-11 (KJV): “If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.” This verse is often referenced to support the idea of not receiving or supporting those who do not adhere to the same doctrine.
- Ephesians 5:11 (KJV): “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.” This verse encourages believers to avoid fellowship with practices or beliefs that are contrary to the teachings of Christ.
Can a woman be a pastor of a church? Can she be a teacher of men or a mixed group of men and women?
1 Timothy 2:12 - “But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.”
1 Timothy 3:2 - “A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach.”
Titus 1:6-7 - “If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre.”
What method of hermeneutic would you use when interpreting the Scriptures, including prophetic passages, and why? Explain how dispensational theology would affect your view of interpretation of the Scriptures.
The method of hermeneutics that I would use when interpreting the Scriptures is the literal-grammatical-historical method, which seeks to understand the intended meaning of the original author in his historical and cultural context. This method recognizes that the Bible is a book written by human authors inspired by God and seeks to understand their original intent in the text.
Dispensational theology affects the interpretation of Scriptures by emphasizing the importance of understanding the progressive revelation of God throughout history, including the various dispensations or periods of time in which God relates to humanity in different ways. This approach also recognizes the distinction between God’s plan for Israel and the church and interprets prophetic passages in light of these distinctions.
Some KJV verses to support this approach to hermeneutics are:
* 2 Timothy 2:15 - “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (emphasis added)
* Nehemiah 8:8 - “So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.” (emphasis added)
* 2 Peter 1:20-21 - “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” (emphasis added)
Give the Biblical definition of marriage, and explain why homosexuality, lesbianism, and transgender practices are unbiblical
The biblical definition of marriage is the union of one man and one woman in a covenant relationship established by God. This definition is seen from the very beginning of the Bible in Genesis 2:24 where it says, “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”
Homosexuality, lesbianism, and transgender practices are considered unbiblical because they go against God’s design for marriage and human sexuality. In the Old Testament, homosexual acts were explicitly condemned as an abomination (Leviticus 18:22, 20:13). In the New Testament, the apostle Paul also condemned homosexual behavior in Romans 1:26-27.
Furthermore, the Bible teaches that gender is determined by God at birth and is not subject to change. Deuteronomy 22:5 states, “The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman’s garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the Lord thy God.”
In summary, the Bible defines marriage as a union between one man and one woman, and homosexuality, lesbianism, and transgender practices are considered unbiblical as they go against God’s design for marriage and human sexuality.
What Baptist distinctives would be the basis for personal and ecclesiastical separation? Explain.
Baptist distinctives that serve as the basis for personal and ecclesiastical separation are rooted in their theological beliefs and principles. These distinctives emphasize autonomy, the authority of Scripture, and the purity of the local church. Here’s an explanation of how these distinctives relate to the practice of separation, along with relevant KJV Bible verses:
1. Autonomy of the Local Church:
- Baptists strongly emphasize the autonomy of the local church, which means that each individual congregation is self-governing and responsible for its own decisions and practices.
- 1 Corinthians 5:4 (KJV): “In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
- The autonomy of the local church allows for the exercise of discernment and separation from associations or individuals whose beliefs or practices are inconsistent with the church’s convictions.
2. Authority of Scripture:
- Baptists hold a high view of the authority and sufficiency of Scripture. They believe that the Bible is the ultimate authority for faith and practice.
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (KJV): “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
- This commitment to the authority of Scripture guides Baptists in discerning what teachings and associations align with biblical truth.
3. Purity of the Church:
- Baptists place a strong emphasis on maintaining the purity of the local church. This involves maintaining sound doctrine and moral integrity within the congregation.
- 2 Corinthians 6:14 (KJV): “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?”
- The principle of separation is often applied when there are doctrinal deviations, moral compromises, or associations that could compromise the church’s witness.
4. Doctrinal Distinctives:
- Baptists have specific doctrinal distinctives, such as believer’s baptism by immersion, the priesthood of believers, and salvation by faith alone. These convictions can lead to separation from groups or individuals with differing beliefs.
- 1 Peter 2:9 (KJV): “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.”
5. Separation from Sin:
- Baptists believe in the importance of personal holiness and separation from sinful practices.
- 2 Corinthians 6:17 (KJV): “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.”
- This principle extends to avoiding partnerships or affiliations that may compromise one’s commitment to holy living.
In summary, Baptist distinctives that underlie personal and ecclesiastical separation are based on their theological convictions regarding the autonomy of the local church, the authority of Scripture, the purity of the church, doctrinal distinctives, and separation from sin. These principles guide Baptists in making decisions about associations and partnerships, ensuring that they align with their understanding of biblical truth and the integrity of the local church.
Are there Biblical instructions that command a believer to separate from another believer?
Yes, there are biblical instructions that provide guidance on situations where a believer may need to separate from another believer under certain circumstances. These circumstances are generally related to issues of sin, false doctrine, and unrepentant behavior. Here are some KJV Bible verses that highlight the principle of separation within the context of the local church:
1. Church Discipline for Unrepentant Sin:
- Matthew 18:15-17 (KJV): “Moreover, if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.”
- This passage outlines a process for addressing a fellow believer’s sin, which can result in separation if there is no repentance.
2. Avoiding False Teachers:
- Romans 16:17 (KJV): “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned, and avoid them.”
- Believers are instructed to identify and avoid those who promote false teachings that contradict the core doctrines of the faith.
3. Separation from Unbelievers in Spiritual Matters:
- 2 Corinthians 6:14 (KJV): “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?”
- While this verse primarily addresses relationships with unbelievers, it underscores the importance of not being spiritually entangled with those whose beliefs or practices are contrary to the faith.
4. Separation from Those in Persistent Sin:
- 1 Corinthians 5:11 (KJV): “But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.”
- In this passage, believers are instructed not to associate closely with those who claim to be believers but are living in unrepentant sin.
It’s important to note that the principle of separation from another believer is typically applied in cases of unrepentant sin or false teaching that threatens the spiritual well-being of the individual believer or the integrity of the local church. The goal is often to encourage repentance, restoration, and the preservation of sound doctrine within the body of believers.
What are the Baptist distinctives; and are Baptists protestant? Explain why or why not?
B- bible of the final authority 2tim 3:16
A - autonomy of a local church col 1:18, Matt 18:20
P - priest hood of the believer 1peter 2:5
T - two ordinances
Baptism Matthew 28:19-20
Lords table Corinthians 11
I - independent soul liberty John 3:36
S - separation of church and state Roman’s 13
T - two offices Phil 1:1
What method of hermeneutic would you use when interpreting the Scriptures, including prophetic
passages, and why? Explain how dispensational theology would affect your view of interpretation
of the Scriptures.
Interpreting the Scriptures, including prophetic passages, requires a hermeneutical approach that respects the text’s historical, grammatical, and literary context. This approach is often referred to as the grammatical-historical method of interpretation. It seeks to understand the original intent of the biblical authors and the meaning of the text within its cultural and linguistic context. Here’s why this method is important and how dispensational theology may affect one’s view of interpreting the Scriptures:
1. Grammatical-Historical Method:
- Contextual Understanding: The grammatical-historical method emphasizes the importance of understanding the context in which the text was written. This includes considering the original languages, grammar, syntax, and cultural background.
- Authorial Intent: It seeks to discern the author’s intended meaning and how the original audience would have understood the text.
- Literal Sense: This method emphasizes a literal interpretation of the text, unless the context suggests a figurative or symbolic meaning.
- 2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV): “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
2. Dispensational Theology:
- Dispensational theology is a framework that divides biblical history into distinct dispensations or periods during which God interacts with humanity differently. This perspective may affect one’s interpretation in the following ways:
- Literal Fulfillment: Dispensationalists often hold to a view of literal fulfillment of biblical prophecies, especially those related to the future, such as the second coming of Christ and the millennium.
- Israel-Centered: Dispensational theology often places a strong emphasis on the future role of Israel in God’s plan, interpreting many Old Testament prophecies in relation to Israel’s restoration.
- Future Focus: It tends to view certain prophetic passages as referring to future events that have not yet been fulfilled, particularly during the dispensation of the millennium.
- Revelation 20:4 (KJV): “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”
While the grammatical-historical method provides a strong foundation for understanding the Scriptures in their historical context, dispensational theology may influence the way certain prophetic passages are interpreted. Dispensationalists often expect a future, literal fulfillment of many prophecies, particularly those related to the end times and the restoration of Israel.
What are the spiritual gifts and where are they found in the Bible? Which gift/s do you believe you
have been given?
Spiritual gifts are abilities or talents given to believers by the Holy Spirit for the purpose of serving and edifying the body of Christ, which is the church. The Bible mentions various spiritual gifts in several passages, particularly in the writings of Paul. Here are some of the spiritual gifts mentioned in the Bible and relevant KJV Bible verses:
1. Prophecy:
- 1 Corinthians 12:10 (KJV): “To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues.”
2. Speaking in Tongues (Languages) and Interpretation of Tongues:
- 1 Corinthians 12:10 (KJV): “To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues.”
3. Wisdom:
- 1 Corinthians 12:8 (KJV): “For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit.”
4. Knowledge:
- 1 Corinthians 12:8 (KJV): “For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit.”
5. Faith:
- 1 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV): “To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit.”
6. Healing:
- 1 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV): “To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit.”
7. Miracles:
- 1 Corinthians 12:10 (KJV): “To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues.”
8. Discerning of Spirits:
- 1 Corinthians 12:10 (KJV): “To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues.”
9. Apostleship:
- 1 Corinthians 12:28 (KJV): “And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.”
10. Teaching:
- 1 Corinthians 12:28 (KJV): “And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.”
11. Helps (Assistance):
- 1 Corinthians 12:28 (KJV): “And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.”
12. Administration (Governments):
- 1 Corinthians 12:28 (KJV): “And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.”
13. Giving:
- Romans 12:8 (KJV): “Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.”
14. Exhortation:
- Romans 12:8 (KJV): “Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.”
15. Mercy:
- Romans 12:8 (KJV): “Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.”
16. Pastor-Teacher (Shepherding and Teaching):
- Ephesians 4:11 (KJV): “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.”
These are some of the spiritual gifts mentioned in the Bible, and it’s important to note that individuals may have different combinations of these gifts. The specific gifts given to each believer are determined by the Holy Spirit for the purpose of building up the body of Christ.
