Editorial -- By: Anonymous

Journal: Journal of Dispensational Theology
Volume: JODT 15:46 (Dec 2011)
Article: Editorial
Author: Anonymous


Editorial

During studies for the Master of Apologetics (nearly a decade ago), training was also completed in an Apologetics Evangelism Partnership, which was a unique (albeit much appreciated and needed) emphasis from a foremost mission board. At the time of earning the Master of Apologetics, there were not many Christian institutions offering this emphasis as a major. Happily, two other alma maters (one of which includes Tyndale Seminary!) now offer degrees in apologetics. Throughout the formal studies and certification training, it seemed that many Christians were familiar with the study of apologetics. Lately, in ministry throughout this year (esp.), the question has been asked frequently with regard to “What is apologetics”? In teaching at a church worship service recently, this was the primary question asked. Perhaps the emphasis upon biblical eschatology for the past few decades has resulted in a deficiency in another important matter, that is, the priority of being equipped to “make a defense” (1 Pet 3:15) to anyone who asks with regard to the believer’s hope. (Certainly, the banality of the “church growth” movement and the sterility of many “pastors/elders” in their shepherding is a primary factor.) Therefore, it is with delight that the current JODT is published because there is an emphasis upon apologetics in the articles.

The December 2010 “Editorial” noted some exceptional and unique aspects of the biblical record. Kenneth R. Cooper’s article not only expands upon these unique aspects, but also provides several significant characteristics that answer why one should “believe the Bible.” A frequent quotation among apologists is Pascal’s statement that fallen humanity strives in vain to satisfy the “infinite abyss” that “can be filled only with an infinite and immutable object; in other words by God himself” (Pensées 148/428). The article addressing postmillennialism and Marxism by David Q. Santos demonstrates the truthfulness of the assertion. Santos argued that the “innate awareness of God” impacts all life, and is evident in the attempt to recreate the “utopian world” of Genesis 2 (i.e. the longing for this “utopia” can only be satisfied by the second coming, “in other words by God himself”). An evidence for the reliability of Scripture is the validity of the text, which is established by the documents of the original manuscripts. Brian H. Wagner clarified the issues with regard to the New Testament documents, and how this affects the doctrine of inspiration. Some readers will certainly disagree with Wagner’s preference for the Byzantine family of manuscripts, as opposed to the Alexandrian (of which, this reader would be the first); nevertheless, his argument is coherent and worth understanding. Ja...

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