Comments by the leader of the Scottish Christian Party on the secular, scientific, political and ecclesiastical scene and the application of Christianity to personal and public life.
The Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark and Luke) have many similar stories, but with very slight variations. For example, Mark tells us Jesus healed blind Bartimaeus Mk 10:46, but Matthew tells us that Bartimaeus had another blind companion Mat 20:30, with the same request at the same time Mat 20:33. However, Mark mentions only one; he …
Continue reading The Synoptic Solution to the Synoptic Problem
In his inaugural address on 19 Mar 2013, Francis the new Roman Catholic pope in Rome finished by praying to the dead. He said: "I implore the intercession of the virgin Mary, saint Joseph, saints Peter and Paul, and saint Francis that the Holy Spirit may accompany my ministry..." So he thinks that the Holy …
I used to say that the Roman Catholic pope in Rome never answers questions, and is not accountable to others. At least, he now answers questions. During the resignation of Ratzinger from the Roman papacy, a discussion on BBC Scotland asked the question whether the job was too much for one man. A papal advisor, …
The kingdom of heaven is not the same as the kingdom of God, as some preachers and commentators erronously assert. The kingdom of heaven is that kingdom on God’s earth in which heaven is interested, which heaven promotes, with Christ as its King. It is that spiritual kingdom on earth which acts as the portal …
I have decided to begin an online theological dictionary with definitions of biblical and theological terms. It will probably include and develop into short articles on these and other themes. Much confusion is created in Christian fellowship meetings by failure to define one's terms. Thus people speak at cross-purposes and confusion develops instead of edification …
Many Christians can reel off the five points of Calvinism, but what are the five points of Christian behaviour? They do not exist, because it is more likely to be 505, or 5005. There are systematic theologies galore, but there is no systematic theology on Christian behaviour. There are books on Christian behaviour, but no …
When does human life begin? by Dr John R. Ling, June 2011, The Christian Institute. 45 pp booklet. The blurb states: “When does human life begin? It is a fundamental and decisive question because your answer reveals your understanding of the nature and status of the human embryo. It also shapes your stance on the …
Faith in Jesus Christ as Saviour is not the same as faith in Jesus Christ as my Saviour, nor are these the same as believing that I am saved. The latter is assurance of salvation. Saving faith says: "I believe in Jesus Christ for the salvation of my soul." Assurance of salvation says: "I believe …
Donald's Thoughts 