Apologetics and World Apologetics and World ReligionsReligions

ARS ARS John Oakes, PhD and John Oakes, PhD and

Dan Conder Dan Conder May 28,29 2010May 28,29 2010

Course OutlineCourse Outline

A. Introduction to the Topic and DefinitionsA. Introduction to the Topic and Definitions

B. Christianity: What are we comparing to? The Christian B. Christianity: What are we comparing to? The Christian world view.world view.

C. Eastern Religions: Pantheism/MonismC. Eastern Religions: Pantheism/Monism– HindismHindism– BuddhismBuddhism– Taoism, Jaina, Confucianism, Shinto, SikkhismTaoism, Jaina, Confucianism, Shinto, Sikkhism

D. Other MonotheismsD. Other Monotheisms– IslamIslam– JudaismJudaism– BahaiBahai

E. Scientology, Christian Science and other strange religionsE. Scientology, Christian Science and other strange religions

F. Pseudo-Christian ReligionsF. Pseudo-Christian Religions– MormonismMormonism– Jehovah’s WitnesJehovah’s Witnes– Seventh Day AdventismSeventh Day Adventism

G. Roman CatholicismG. Roman Catholicism

Class RequirementsClass Requirements

Reading AssignmentReading Assignment– Required ReadingRequired Reading

The Illustrated Guide to World ReligionsThe Illustrated Guide to World Religions by Michael D. by Michael D. Coogan  Oxford University Press. Coogan  Oxford University Press. 

Essay: Apologetics and the Christian World View J. Oakes Essay: Apologetics and the Christian World View J. Oakes http://www.evidenceforchristianity.org/index.php?http://www.evidenceforchristianity.org/index.php?option=com_custom_content&task=view&id=5125option=com_custom_content&task=view&id=5125

– Suggested/Supplemental Reading for Extra CreditSuggested/Supplemental Reading for Extra Credit The Compact Guide to World ReligionsThe Compact Guide to World Religions Dean C. Halverson Dean C. Halverson..   Answering IslamAnswering Islam Geissler and Saleeb Geissler and Saleeb Answering Jewish Objections to JesusAnswering Jewish Objections to Jesus Brown Brown The Qur’anThe Qur’an Etc.Etc.

Final Exam (essays, mostly)Final Exam (essays, mostly) Visit at least two of the following: mosque, temple, Visit at least two of the following: mosque, temple,

shrine, or etc. (and write a brief report).shrine, or etc. (and write a brief report). Submit an approx 6 page paper on an approved Submit an approx 6 page paper on an approved

topic.topic.

A. What is Religion?A. What is Religion?

From the Latin: ligate—to tie or bind to the godsFrom the Latin: ligate—to tie or bind to the gods

Webster: Any system of faith or worship: the Webster: Any system of faith or worship: the outward manifestation of belief in a supreme or outward manifestation of belief in a supreme or superior being.superior being.

From my SCI 110 class:From my SCI 110 class:– Religion is a belief in somethingReligion is a belief in something– The belief is not necessarily substantiated by physical or The belief is not necessarily substantiated by physical or

material evidencematerial evidence– Religious knowledge is obtained through holy writings, Religious knowledge is obtained through holy writings,

authority, revelations and religious experiencesauthority, revelations and religious experiences– Religious believers have faith in such knowledgeReligious believers have faith in such knowledge

Practical Definition: I don’t know what religion is, Practical Definition: I don’t know what religion is, but I sure know one when I see one.but I sure know one when I see one.

Things we will not coverThings we will not cover

Various PhilosophiesVarious Philosophies

– Postmodernism, Secular Humanism, Postmodernism, Secular Humanism, Scientism/naturalism, Existentialism, Marxism, Scientism/naturalism, Existentialism, Marxism, Stoicism, Epicureanism, neo-PlatonismStoicism, Epicureanism, neo-Platonism

More obscure religionsMore obscure religions

– Iglesia de Cristo (Philippines) Falun Gong (China) Iglesia de Cristo (Philippines) Falun Gong (China) Unification Church (Sun Myung Moon) Paganism/Wicca Unification Church (Sun Myung Moon) Paganism/Wicca Zoroastianism, Manichaeism, Santaria, etc.Zoroastianism, Manichaeism, Santaria, etc.

What About Cults?What About Cults?

Webster: Webster: – 1. A cult is a particular ritual or system of worship. 1. A cult is a particular ritual or system of worship. – 2. Involves devoted or extravagant homage or 2. Involves devoted or extravagant homage or

adoration of some figure.adoration of some figure.

– A strong negative connotation in the US.A strong negative connotation in the US.

– Is the Unification Church (Moonies) a cult?Is the Unification Church (Moonies) a cult?– What about Falun Gong? (1999 declared an “evil cult” What about Falun Gong? (1999 declared an “evil cult”

by PRC)by PRC)– What about Mormons?What about Mormons?

– Suggestion: Let’s not use this word.Suggestion: Let’s not use this word.

DefinitionsDefinitions

Animism: Anima = spirit. A religious system which Animism: Anima = spirit. A religious system which includes the belief that spirits inhabit inanimate objects includes the belief that spirits inhabit inanimate objects and phenomena.and phenomena.

Polytheism: Poly = many. A belief that the universe is Polytheism: Poly = many. A belief that the universe is governed by many gods.governed by many gods.

Pantheism (monism): Pan = all. A belief that a spirit Pantheism (monism): Pan = all. A belief that a spirit fills the universe. God is the universe, and we are part fills the universe. God is the universe, and we are part of God.of God.– Panentheism: God is in everything (stoicism)Panentheism: God is in everything (stoicism)

Dualism: A belief that the universe is governed by Dualism: A belief that the universe is governed by nearly equally matched forces of good and evil. nearly equally matched forces of good and evil. (Zoroastrianism, Manicaeism, Taoism)(Zoroastrianism, Manicaeism, Taoism)

Definitions (cont.)Definitions (cont.)

Deism: A belief in a distant, uninvolved God who is Deism: A belief in a distant, uninvolved God who is creator, but does not interact with his creation. creator, but does not interact with his creation. (Epicureanism)(Epicureanism)

Monotheism: A belief that the universe is Monotheism: A belief that the universe is created/governed by a single created/governed by a single omnipotent/omniscient/omnipresent spiritual being.omnipotent/omniscient/omnipresent spiritual being.

Asceticism: A belief that enlightenment or a close Asceticism: A belief that enlightenment or a close relationship with deity is obtained by an extreme relationship with deity is obtained by an extreme denial of worldly pleasures and possessions. denial of worldly pleasures and possessions. Associated with monasteries, monks, nuns, etc..Associated with monasteries, monks, nuns, etc..

Mysticism: A belief which sees enlightenment and Mysticism: A belief which sees enlightenment and spiritual power coming through meditation/direct spiritual power coming through meditation/direct personal experience of God. Mystical experience may personal experience of God. Mystical experience may be gained through use of drugs, drumming, dance, etc. be gained through use of drugs, drumming, dance, etc. A highly individualized form of religion. A highly individualized form of religion.

Other important conceptsOther important concepts

Scripture: The list of primary authoritative Scripture: The list of primary authoritative writings for a particular religion.writings for a particular religion.

Inspiration: The belief that a particular Inspiration: The belief that a particular writing, edict or tradition comes by direct writing, edict or tradition comes by direct communication from divinity, and is communication from divinity, and is therefore perfect and authoritative.therefore perfect and authoritative.

Myth: A story, presumably fictionalized, Myth: A story, presumably fictionalized, about a divine interaction with human about a divine interaction with human beings which teaches an important religious beings which teaches an important religious truth.truth.

Jesus Christ: “I came to testify to the truth.”

Pontius Pilate: “What is truth?”

One Point of View:

“Wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” -Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew 7:13-14)

I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Jesus of Nazareth (John 14:6)

God

Islam

Buddhism

Mysticism

Ba’hai

Another Point of View: Different Paths to the Same Goal?

Are all religions simply “different paths to the same goal?Are all religions simply “different paths to the same goal?

There is some similarity between most or all There is some similarity between most or all religions.religions.

All man-made religions contain truth.All man-made religions contain truth.

But…. On the most basic level of theology, all other But…. On the most basic level of theology, all other religions (except Judaism?) are incommensurate with religions (except Judaism?) are incommensurate with ChristianityChristianity

If Hinduism is right, then Jesus Christ is a deceiver If Hinduism is right, then Jesus Christ is a deceiver and an enemy of truth.and an enemy of truth.

The Bible and Other World ViewsThe Bible and Other World Views

If Genesis 1:1 is true, then animism, polytheism, If Genesis 1:1 is true, then animism, polytheism, pantheism, dualism, naturalism, deism, pantheism, dualism, naturalism, deism, postmodernism and every other ism is false.postmodernism and every other ism is false.

Conflicting world views cannot be accommodated Conflicting world views cannot be accommodated with one another. Biblical theism is incompatable with one another. Biblical theism is incompatable with all these other world views.with all these other world views.

How, then, should we interact with members of other How, then, should we interact with members of other religions?religions?

Find common ground.Find common ground.

Give respect where respect is due.Give respect where respect is due.

Acknowledge the good and do not make personal Acknowledge the good and do not make personal attacks—especially toward revered people.attacks—especially toward revered people.

Highlight distinctions in world view/theology and Highlight distinctions in world view/theology and introduce them to Jesus Christ.introduce them to Jesus Christ.

This is EXACTLY what Paul did in Acts 17:22-34This is EXACTLY what Paul did in Acts 17:22-34

The Bible and Other World Views (cont.)The Bible and Other World Views (cont.)

Acts 17:16-34 Paul shares the gospel by Acts 17:16-34 Paul shares the gospel by arguing for the Christian World View.arguing for the Christian World View.– v. 22-23 Paul finds common ground.v. 22-23 Paul finds common ground.

– v. 24-28 Paul argues for the superiority and the v. 24-28 Paul argues for the superiority and the truth of the Christian world view as opposed to truth of the Christian world view as opposed to Epicureanism/pantheism and Stoicism/deismEpicureanism/pantheism and Stoicism/deism

– v. 28 Paul quotes from Aretas a Stoic philosopher. v. 28 Paul quotes from Aretas a Stoic philosopher. “ For we are his offspring.” “ For we are his offspring.”

– v. 29-31 Having laid the groundwork, Paul points v. 29-31 Having laid the groundwork, Paul points them to Jesus.them to Jesus.

– v. 32-34 Some, but not all were converted.v. 32-34 Some, but not all were converted.

Acts 17:16-34 Paul confronts Greek World ViewsActs 17:16-34 Paul confronts Greek World Views

God is Creator. He exists outside creation.God is Creator. He exists outside creation.– Disproves pantheism/Stoicism.Disproves pantheism/Stoicism.

God is close to us.God is close to us.– Disproves deism/Epicureanism.Disproves deism/Epicureanism.

God is personal and has given us an individual God is personal and has given us an individual purpose.purpose.

God will bring all of us to judgment. Evil will be God will bring all of us to judgment. Evil will be defeateddefeated– Disproves dualism/Gnosticism.Disproves dualism/Gnosticism.

B. Christianity: The Christian World ViewB. Christianity: The Christian World View

One's world view is the One's world view is the perspective one uses to perspective one uses to process and interpret process and interpret information received about information received about the world.  the world. 

James W. Sire put it this James W. Sire put it this way, "A world view is a set way, "A world view is a set of presuppositions (ie. of presuppositions (ie. assumptions) which we hold assumptions) which we hold about the basic makeup of about the basic makeup of our world." our world." 

James W. Sire, James W. Sire, The Universe Next The Universe Next Door Door (InterVarsity Press, 1997)(InterVarsity Press, 1997)

A Jain World View

A “Good” World View DefinedA “Good” World View Defined

A. It is true.A. It is true. It is consistent with reality. It is consistent with reality. It is consistent with what we know to be true from experience. It It is consistent with what we know to be true from experience. It

works.works.

B. It answers satisfactorily the questions people really want B. It answers satisfactorily the questions people really want answered.answered.What is prime reality/the ultimate cause/the nature of God?) What is prime reality/the ultimate cause/the nature of God?) What is the nature of external reality-the world around us?What is the nature of external reality-the world around us?What is a human being? What is a human being? What happens to a person at death? What happens to a person at death? Why is it possible for us to know anything at all? Why is it possible for us to know anything at all? How do we know what is right and wrong? How do we know what is right and wrong? What is the meaning of human history? What is the meaning of human history? What is my purpose? What is my purpose? What is the nature of my relationship, with the "prime reality?" What is the nature of my relationship, with the "prime reality?"

C. It causes those who hold to it to be better people than C. It causes those who hold to it to be better people than they would otherwise have been if they held to competing they would otherwise have been if they held to competing alternative world views.alternative world views.

The Christian World ViewThe Christian World View

1. The physical world is: a. real b. created out of nothing 1. The physical world is: a. real b. created out of nothing (ex nihilo) and c. essentially good.(ex nihilo) and c. essentially good.

2. There exists an unseen spiritual reality which is not limited 2. There exists an unseen spiritual reality which is not limited to or defined by the physical reality. Human beings have a to or defined by the physical reality. Human beings have a spiritual aspect to their nature.spiritual aspect to their nature.

3. The creator of both the physical and spiritual realm is the 3. The creator of both the physical and spiritual realm is the God who reveals himself in the Bible.God who reveals himself in the Bible.

4. Human beings have both a physical and a spiritual nature, 4. Human beings have both a physical and a spiritual nature, The spiritual nature is more essential as it is eternal.The spiritual nature is more essential as it is eternal.

5. God is not easily defined but he can be characterized by 5. God is not easily defined but he can be characterized by certain qualities. God is a person. God is love, God is just, certain qualities. God is a person. God is love, God is just, God is holy, God is omniscient, omnipotent and God is holy, God is omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent.omnipresent.

The Christian World View (cont.)The Christian World View (cont.)

6. Although all God’s creation, including the physical world is 6. Although all God’s creation, including the physical world is good, evil does exist. Such evil is the result of freedom of good, evil does exist. Such evil is the result of freedom of will given to created beings and their subsequent decision will given to created beings and their subsequent decision to use that freedom to rebel--to “sin” to use that freedom to rebel--to “sin”

7. Because of God’s justice and his holiness, those who 7. Because of God’s justice and his holiness, those who choose to rebel against him will ultimately be judged and choose to rebel against him will ultimately be judged and separated from God for eternity.separated from God for eternity.

8. The solution to evil, to sin and its eternal consequences is 8. The solution to evil, to sin and its eternal consequences is provided by God through the atoning substitutionary provided by God through the atoning substitutionary sacrifice of Jesus Christ.sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Our job in the rest of this course is to compare this world Our job in the rest of this course is to compare this world view to that of other religions and to analyze which is the view to that of other religions and to analyze which is the “best” world view.“best” world view.

C. Eastern ReligionsC. Eastern Religions

HinduismHinduism BuddhismBuddhism JainaJaina TaoismTaoism ConfucianismConfucianism ShintoShinto SikkhismSikkhism ZoroastrianismZoroastrianism Western Monism: New Age ReligionsWestern Monism: New Age Religions

HINDUISMHINDUISM

The principle religion of India.The principle religion of India.

Approximately 1,000,000,000 Approximately 1,000,000,000 adherents.adherents.

Began as animism/polytheismBegan as animism/polytheism

Evolved into Evolved into polytheism/pantheismpolytheism/pantheism

Syncretistic. Hinduism is not Syncretistic. Hinduism is not really a single religion.really a single religion.

Ganesh: a Hindu deity

God of wisdom and intellect

History of HinduismHistory of Hinduism

Aryan invasions about 1500 BCAryan invasions about 1500 BC

Early animistic religions of Indian subcontinent Early animistic religions of Indian subcontinent merged with Aryan/Persian religionmerged with Aryan/Persian religion

Gradually, a huge pantheon of gods distilled Gradually, a huge pantheon of gods distilled down to the chief deities, Brahma, Vishnu and down to the chief deities, Brahma, Vishnu and ShivaShiva

Principle gods of HinduismPrinciple gods of Hinduism

Brahma Chief god of the pantheon.Brahma Chief god of the pantheon.

Shiva God of destruction. Worshipped Shiva God of destruction. Worshipped

as a male phalus.as a male phalus.

Vishnu Preserver and protector. Vishnu Preserver and protector.

Krishna The eighth emanation of Vishna.Krishna The eighth emanation of Vishna.

Rama Seventh incarnation of Vishna. Hero of the Rama Seventh incarnation of Vishna. Hero of the Ramayana.Ramayana.

Devi Chief female deity. The power (shakti) that animates Devi Chief female deity. The power (shakti) that animates the cosmos.the cosmos.

Lakshmi Female consort of Vishnu. Godess of prosperity.Lakshmi Female consort of Vishnu. Godess of prosperity.

Lakshmi

Krishna, Incarnation of deity

Rama, Hero of the Ramayana

Scriptures of HinduismScriptures of Hinduism

Vedas Poems. Ritualistic, priestly. 1500-1000 BC. Vedas Poems. Ritualistic, priestly. 1500-1000 BC. Especially the Rig Veda. Include the Brahmanas.Especially the Rig Veda. Include the Brahmanas.

Upanishads Highly philosophical essays about Upanishads Highly philosophical essays about brahman, atman, transmigration of atman, karma brahman, atman, transmigration of atman, karma and so forth. 800-600 BC.and so forth. 800-600 BC.

Epics (Ramayana, Mahabarata, Bhagavad Gita) Epics (Ramayana, Mahabarata, Bhagavad Gita) Mythic adventures of Rama, Krishna and others. Mythic adventures of Rama, Krishna and others.

Puranas Largely local legends, myths, many local Puranas Largely local legends, myths, many local deities. AD 400-1000. This is the “scripture” of deities. AD 400-1000. This is the “scripture” of most local Hindus.most local Hindus.

Tantras Religious discussions/teachings.Tantras Religious discussions/teachings.

Important Hindu TerminologyImportant Hindu Terminology

Brahman universal soul Brahman universal soul Atman soul, essence atman is part Atman soul, essence atman is part

of a brahman.of a brahman. Maya illusion Maya illusion Reincarnation a disincarnated soul Reincarnation a disincarnated soul

enters a new body, starting a new enters a new body, starting a new existence (samsara)existence (samsara)

Shakti powerShakti power Karma a principle of cause and effectKarma a principle of cause and effect Nirvana oneness with brahmanNirvana oneness with brahman Dharma righteousness, teachingDharma righteousness, teaching

Hindu World ViewHindu World View

Maya. The physical world is an illusion. The physical Maya. The physical world is an illusion. The physical world is evil. Suffering is an illusion.world is evil. Suffering is an illusion.

Brahman. Universal soul. Pantheism.Brahman. Universal soul. Pantheism.

Atman (soul). When we die, atman is swallowed up in Atman (soul). When we die, atman is swallowed up in BrahmanBrahman

The goal: Escape cycle of karma and reincarnationThe goal: Escape cycle of karma and reincarnation

Nirvana; oneness with the universal soul which is Nirvana; oneness with the universal soul which is within yourself.within yourself.

The Hindu world view has man looking inward, not The Hindu world view has man looking inward, not outward.outward.

Caste SystemCaste System

A historical remnant of the Vedic A historical remnant of the Vedic system and the interaction system and the interaction between the Aryans and the between the Aryans and the natives of the subcontinentnatives of the subcontinent

Brahmins the priestly (Aryan) Brahmins the priestly (Aryan) classclass

Kshatriyas The ruling class. Kshatriyas The ruling class. Kings, Kings,

landlords, warriors.landlords, warriors.

Vaishayas merchantsVaishayas merchants

Shudras servant/trade classesShudras servant/trade classes

UntouchablesUntouchables

Modern HinduismModern Hinduism Yogic practicesYogic practices

Gurus (teacher), yogi Gurus (teacher), yogi (practitioners), sadhu (holy (practitioners), sadhu (holy men)men)

Transcendental MeditationTranscendental Meditation

Hare KrishnaHare Krishna

Paramahansa Yogananda

Hinduism and TimeHinduism and Time

Time is cyclic. There is a “wheel of time.”Time is cyclic. There is a “wheel of time.” World is cyclically created by Brahma, World is cyclically created by Brahma,

sustained by Vishnu and destroyed by sustained by Vishnu and destroyed by Shiva.Shiva.

Creative/destructive cycles called YugasCreative/destructive cycles called Yugas A universe lasts for one Brahma day = A universe lasts for one Brahma day =

4,320,000 years4,320,000 years– Satya yuga (Krita yuga):- 1,728,000 Human years Satya yuga (Krita yuga):- 1,728,000 Human years

(already past) (already past) – Treta yuga:- 1,296,000 Human years (already past) Treta yuga:- 1,296,000 Human years (already past) – Dwapar yuga:- 864,000 Human years (already past) Dwapar yuga:- 864,000 Human years (already past) – Kali yuga:- 432,000 Human years (5,110 years have Kali yuga:- 432,000 Human years (5,110 years have

passed; 426,890 years remain). passed; 426,890 years remain). KaliyugaKaliyuga started in started in 3,102 B.C.; CE 2008 corresponds to 3,102 B.C.; CE 2008 corresponds to KaliyugaKaliyuga year 5,110 year 5,110

Hindism and Time (cont)Hindism and Time (cont)

One full cycle = One full cycle = 100 “Brahma 100 “Brahma years” 311 years” 311 trillion years.trillion years.

Then Brahma Then Brahma himself dies himself dies and is rebornand is reborn

Hindu CosmologyHindu Cosmology

Many different levels of Many different levels of heavens/worlds/hellsheavens/worlds/hells

These levels are horizontal (flat)These levels are horizontal (flat) The physical world is illusory and it is The physical world is illusory and it is

evilevil Lower levels are even more evil than Lower levels are even more evil than

oursours

Angkor Wat: Mount Meru

Popular Hindu CosmologyPopular Hindu Cosmology

The earth is on the back of four elephants standing on top of a turtle, encircled by a serpent, swimming in a sea of milk…

The SutrasThe Sutras

Hindu CosmologyHindu Cosmology

Time is cyclic—like a snake that bites its own tail.

Remember, the world is not real.

Hindu apologetics?

Is The Hindu World View a Good One?Is The Hindu World View a Good One?

Is it true?Is it true?– Hindu cosmology (cyclic time, earth on the back of four Hindu cosmology (cyclic time, earth on the back of four

elephants on a turtle swimming in a bowl of milk) is elephants on a turtle swimming in a bowl of milk) is patently false.patently false.

– The physical world is real and it is good.The physical world is real and it is good.– Evil is NOT an illusionEvil is NOT an illusion

Does it answer the important questions?Does it answer the important questions?– It does better than postmodernism or naturalism!It does better than postmodernism or naturalism!

Does accepting this world view make one a better Does accepting this world view make one a better person?person?– Debatable. Better than naturalism. Karma. Self-focus Debatable. Better than naturalism. Karma. Self-focus

and dispassion are not helpful.and dispassion are not helpful.– Suffering is not real.Suffering is not real.– Evil is not real.Evil is not real.

BuddhismBuddhism Principle religion of Korea, Principle religion of Korea,

Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam, Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Burma Sri Lanka Thailand, Burma Sri Lanka and China?and China?

400,000,000 adherents.400,000,000 adherents.

A reaction against the rigid A reaction against the rigid priestly system of Hinduism.priestly system of Hinduism.

Pantheistic, or arguably non-Pantheistic, or arguably non-theistic. A philosophy, a theistic. A philosophy, a psychology.psychology.

Life of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha)Life of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha)

Born into a wealthy family in north India Born into a wealthy family in north India about 550 BC.about 550 BC.

Renounced his birthright. Sought Renounced his birthright. Sought nirvana/god through asceticism.nirvana/god through asceticism.

Decided on a middle path between Decided on a middle path between asceticism and sensuality.asceticism and sensuality.

Created the eight-fold path to Created the eight-fold path to enlightenment (nirvana).enlightenment (nirvana).

The Spread of BuddhismThe Spread of Buddhism

The Four Noble Truths of SiddharthaThe Four Noble Truths of Siddhartha

Suffering is not getting what one wants.Suffering is not getting what one wants.

The cause of suffering is desire which leads to The cause of suffering is desire which leads to rebirth.rebirth.

The way to end suffering is to end desire.The way to end suffering is to end desire.

The way to the end of desire and of suffering The way to the end of desire and of suffering is the eight-fold path.is the eight-fold path.

Buddhism encourages dispassion, not Buddhism encourages dispassion, not compassion.compassion.

The eight-fold path to bodhi/dharma/nirvana/lack of The eight-fold path to bodhi/dharma/nirvana/lack of sufferingsuffering

Right viewpoint (the four noble truths).Right viewpoint (the four noble truths). Right values.Right values. Right speech.Right speech. Right actions.Right actions. Right livelihoodRight livelihood Right effortRight effort Right mindfulnessRight mindfulness Right meditationRight meditation

Important Terms to Understand BuddhismImportant Terms to Understand Buddhism

Nirvana awakened state, lack of suffering.Nirvana awakened state, lack of suffering.

Bodhi awakenment, enlightenment.Bodhi awakenment, enlightenment.

Bodhisattva an awakened being.Bodhisattva an awakened being.

Dharma the Buddha’s teachings.Dharma the Buddha’s teachings.

Sangha the Buddhist community of monks and Sangha the Buddhist community of monks and nuns.nuns.

Maitreya the second coming of Buddha prophesied.Maitreya the second coming of Buddha prophesied.

Schools/Sects of BuddhismSchools/Sects of Buddhism

Mahayana (the greater vehicle) China, Korea, Japan. Mahayana (the greater vehicle) China, Korea, Japan. Ideal of the bodhisattva. Stresses the divine nature Ideal of the bodhisattva. Stresses the divine nature of the Buddha. Many mini-buddhas (bodhisattvas).of the Buddha. Many mini-buddhas (bodhisattvas).

Theravada Sri Lanka, Thailand, Burma. A more pure Theravada Sri Lanka, Thailand, Burma. A more pure form of Buddhism?form of Buddhism?

Zen. An offshoot of Mahayana which emphasizes Zen. An offshoot of Mahayana which emphasizes meditation to achieve nirvana.meditation to achieve nirvana.

Vajrayana Stresses tantric practices, rituals, Vajrayana Stresses tantric practices, rituals, initiations, mystical power. Tibet, Mongolia. Similar initiations, mystical power. Tibet, Mongolia. Similar to Gnosticism.to Gnosticism.

Practices of BuddhismPractices of Buddhism

Many monks and nuns who live ascetic livesMany monks and nuns who live ascetic lives

““Lay” Buddhists follow the five precepts, which Lay” Buddhists follow the five precepts, which are, 1. do not kill 2. do not steal. 3. do not are, 1. do not kill 2. do not steal. 3. do not have sex. 4. do not lie and 5. do not get have sex. 4. do not lie and 5. do not get drunkdrunk

Meditation is a big part of many Buddhist Meditation is a big part of many Buddhist traditions, involving the saying of a mantra. (Om traditions, involving the saying of a mantra. (Om Mani Padme Hum).Mani Padme Hum).

Buddhist ScriptureBuddhist Scripture

The Tripitaka “three baskets” Three sets of the The Tripitaka “three baskets” Three sets of the supposedly original sayings and teachings and supposedly original sayings and teachings and philosophy of Buddha. These were oral only for philosophy of Buddha. These were oral only for about 400 years.about 400 years.

Disputes over the content of the Tripitaka led Disputes over the content of the Tripitaka led eventually to the Theravada, Mahayana and other eventually to the Theravada, Mahayana and other sects.sects.

Jatakas Mahayana stories of previous Jatakas Mahayana stories of previous incarnations of Siddhartha Buddha. Buddhism is incarnations of Siddhartha Buddha. Buddhism is a striving through many lives to come to a a striving through many lives to come to a bodhisattva state.bodhisattva state.

Buddhist CosmologyBuddhist Cosmology

Like Jaina, Hinduism, a vertical cosmology, Like Jaina, Hinduism, a vertical cosmology, with multiple levels/earths/heavens/lokahswith multiple levels/earths/heavens/lokahs

31 planes of existence, each with 3 realms.31 planes of existence, each with 3 realms.

Higher ones more blissful, lower ones more Higher ones more blissful, lower ones more like hell. like hell.

Endless cycle of time Cosmic wheel.Endless cycle of time Cosmic wheel.

Buddhist Cosmology

Borodbur in Indonesia: A Buddhist concept of the world

Questions:

Can we take the Eastern ideas about cosmology seriously in the context of modern science?

How does this compare to biblical cosmology and ideas about creation?

Is the Buddhist World View a good one?

Is it True?

Does it provide satisfactory answers to the imporant questions?

Are those who accept this world view better for having done so?

JainismJainism

Founder: Mahavira ~600-540 BCFounder: Mahavira ~600-540 BC

Last of 24 gurus. Parshva 750 BC?Last of 24 gurus. Parshva 750 BC?

Location: India mostly.Location: India mostly.

About 5,000,000 practitionersAbout 5,000,000 practitioners

A reaction to worldly, priestly A reaction to worldly, priestly HinduismHinduism

Jaina Theology Jaina Theology

Very strong emphasis on asceticismVery strong emphasis on asceticism

Siddhartha may have been a follower Siddhartha may have been a follower before finding a middle way.before finding a middle way.

We are souls trapped in a body. The goal: We are souls trapped in a body. The goal: escape the body to reach nirvana through escape the body to reach nirvana through ascetic practices.ascetic practices.

ReincarnationReincarnation

KarmaKarma

PantheisticPantheistic

The Svastikaa symbol of samsara(rebirth)

Jaina ScripturesJaina Scriptures

The Purvas. Sayings of the 24 gurus The Purvas. Sayings of the 24 gurus all the original Purvas were lost.all the original Purvas were lost.

Agama Sutras Sayings of MahaviraAgama Sutras Sayings of Mahavira

Jaina Sects

Digambaras: Monks are nude, only males can reach enlightenment.

Shvetambaras: Wear white robes. Women can be ordained as nuns.

Jaina WorldviewJaina Worldview A very strange cosmology. The universe is an A very strange cosmology. The universe is an

infinitely repeating pattern of cycles of time.infinitely repeating pattern of cycles of time. One of the gurus lived 70 trillion years and was 3000 One of the gurus lived 70 trillion years and was 3000

ft. tall.ft. tall. The earth is the center of the universeThe earth is the center of the universe The universe has existed forever.The universe has existed forever.

Five Mahavrata or rules of ascetic livingFive Mahavrata or rules of ascetic living– Ahimsa. Non-harming (fly-whisk, strain liquids, Ahimsa. Non-harming (fly-whisk, strain liquids,

etc…)etc…)– Satya. TruthfulnessSatya. Truthfulness– Asteya. Non-stealingAsteya. Non-stealing– CelibacyCelibacy– Non-attachmentNon-attachment

Jain CosmologyJain Cosmology

The universe has existed forever.The universe has existed forever. A cyclic wheel of time.A cyclic wheel of time. Utsarpini: A period of progressive Utsarpini: A period of progressive

happiness and purity. Time spans ages and happiness and purity. Time spans ages and sizes of people get much larger.sizes of people get much larger.

Avsarpini: A period of progressive sorrow Avsarpini: A period of progressive sorrow and immorality. Time spans, ages and sizes and immorality. Time spans, ages and sizes of people get much smaller.of people get much smaller.

Great teachers in the past lived for millions Great teachers in the past lived for millions or billions of years and were thousands of or billions of years and were thousands of meters tall.meters tall.

In the future, people will be even less In the future, people will be even less religious, smaller and live shorter time.religious, smaller and live shorter time.

An extremely complicated cosmology with An extremely complicated cosmology with multiple levels of worlds/heavens.multiple levels of worlds/heavens.

A representation of Jain Cosmology

SikhismSikhism

Location: India, especially the Location: India, especially the Punjab. 25,000,000 adherents.Punjab. 25,000,000 adherents.

Founder: Nanak (1469-1539)Founder: Nanak (1469-1539)

A compromise between Islam A compromise between Islam and Hinduism.and Hinduism.

Avowedly monotheistic, but with Avowedly monotheistic, but with many Hindu ideas.many Hindu ideas.

Nanak, founder of Jaina

Sikh Teaching and TheologySikh Teaching and Theology Reject polytheism but keep Reject polytheism but keep

ideas of maya (illusion), ideas of maya (illusion), samsara (reincarnation), samsara (reincarnation), karmakarma

Reject priestly system. All Reject priestly system. All are equal before the “True are equal before the “True Name.”Name.”

Opposition to idolatry and to Opposition to idolatry and to asceticism.asceticism.

Sikhs do not try to escape Sikhs do not try to escape the world, but to participate the world, but to participate in it.in it.

Works salvation: “Sin and Works salvation: “Sin and sorrow are destroyed by sorrow are destroyed by hearkening.”hearkening.”

The Golden TempleAmristar, India

Scriptures of SikkhismScriptures of Sikkhism

The Adi Granth Compiled by the fifth guru The Adi Granth Compiled by the fifth guru Arjun in 1604Arjun in 1604

The Ganth of the Tenth King: Written by The Ganth of the Tenth King: Written by the last of the ten great gurus of Sikhism the last of the ten great gurus of Sikhism Gobind Singh.Gobind Singh.

The Janamsakhis Legends. Obviously The Janamsakhis Legends. Obviously mythical accounts of the life of Nanak, mythical accounts of the life of Nanak, including miracles. (Nanak never claimed to including miracles. (Nanak never claimed to be a miracle worker).be a miracle worker).

Sikh PracticesSikh Practices

The wearing of the male turban is The wearing of the male turban is very characteristic.very characteristic.

Baptism in sugar water holding a Baptism in sugar water holding a dagger.dagger.

Sikhs have been warriors. They Sikhs have been warriors. They have been very militaristic.have been very militaristic.

Sikhs are immersed in worldly Sikhs are immersed in worldly affairs. Businessmen, merchants affairs. Businessmen, merchants etc.etc.

Think of Sikhs as the opposite of Think of Sikhs as the opposite of Jains.Jains.

ConfucianismConfucianism

Founded by Confucius Kung Fu Tzu 551-Founded by Confucius Kung Fu Tzu 551-478 BC.478 BC.

Principle religion in China? Is it a Principle religion in China? Is it a religion? religion?

Also influential in Korea and Viet Nam.Also influential in Korea and Viet Nam.

NotNot a religious leader—he accepted the a religious leader—he accepted the religious superstition of his day as religious superstition of his day as sufficient.sufficient.

Agnostic—“Keep aloof from spiritual Agnostic—“Keep aloof from spiritual matters, but perform the ceremony matters, but perform the ceremony correctly.”correctly.”

Utilitarian, conservative philosophy. Utilitarian, conservative philosophy. Each person should accept his position in Each person should accept his position in society for righteousness and stability. society for righteousness and stability. Strong emphasis on proper government, Strong emphasis on proper government, training for holding government office.training for holding government office.

Confucianism (cont.)Confucianism (cont.)

Practical rather than esoteric.Practical rather than esoteric.

Ancestor worship stressed.Ancestor worship stressed.

Later Confucian philosophy involved emphasis on Later Confucian philosophy involved emphasis on ying ying andand yang yang—the competing balance between —the competing balance between good vs. evil, physical vs. spiritual, hate vs. love. good vs. evil, physical vs. spiritual, hate vs. love. (Dualism)(Dualism)

Confucianism competed with two other philosophies: Taoism and Moism. Confucianism, being more practical, generally won out.

Confucian ScripturesConfucian Scriptures

– I-Ching 1000 BC. Book of divination, magic.I-Ching 1000 BC. Book of divination, magic.– Shu-Ching. History, ancient documents, Shu-Ching. History, ancient documents,

speeches.speeches.– Shin-Ching 800-600 BC. Poetry used extensively Shin-Ching 800-600 BC. Poetry used extensively

by Confucius. Customs concerning courtship, by Confucius. Customs concerning courtship, marriage, war, agriculture, feasts, sacrifices, marriage, war, agriculture, feasts, sacrifices, etc.etc.

– Li Chi. Book of ceremonial etiquite. 200 BC – Li Chi. Book of ceremonial etiquite. 200 BC – 200 AD.200 AD.

– Ch’un Chiu. History of one Chinese province. Ch’un Chiu. History of one Chinese province. Collected by Confucius?Collected by Confucius?

– Lun Yu. Written down 400 BC. The sayings of Lun Yu. Written down 400 BC. The sayings of Confucius, especially on ethics and government Confucius, especially on ethics and government

– Analects of Confucius, etc…Analects of Confucius, etc…

Confucianism is a philosophy, a way of life, not really a religion, although it has accreted ideas such as “chi” “yin and yang” It can easily coexist with other religions such as Buddhism, Taoism and even Christianity.

Chinese symbol for Confucianism

TaoismTaoism (Daoism)(Daoism)

Founded by Lao Tzu—a contemporary of Confucius.Founded by Lao Tzu—a contemporary of Confucius.

Scripture: The Tao Te Ching. Tao = way Te = power Scripture: The Tao Te Ching. Tao = way Te = power Ching = teachingChing = teaching

Basic doctrine: Through non-involvement and Basic doctrine: Through non-involvement and withdrawal, we come to know god/deity. Emphasis withdrawal, we come to know god/deity. Emphasis on self-interest. “The religion of selfishness.”on self-interest. “The religion of selfishness.”

Pantheistic yet Dualistic. Experience God by Pantheistic yet Dualistic. Experience God by contemplating nature.contemplating nature.

Emphasis on mysticism and magic.Emphasis on mysticism and magic.

“ “He would not pluck so much as a hair out of his He would not pluck so much as a hair out of his head for the benefit of his fellow man.”head for the benefit of his fellow man.”

Taoist World ViewTaoist World View

Pantheism Tao is an undifferentiated force of Pantheism Tao is an undifferentiated force of existence.existence.

Wu-wei: Purposeful inactivityWu-wei: Purposeful inactivity

Self-focus, emphasis on mysticism and magic.Self-focus, emphasis on mysticism and magic.

Yin/Yang A balance of forces to be achieved. Good Yin/Yang A balance of forces to be achieved. Good and evil are coexistent and mutually dependent.and evil are coexistent and mutually dependent.

Is this a “good” world view?Is this a “good” world view?

Baha’iBaha’i

Founded by Baha-Ullah 1817-Founded by Baha-Ullah 1817-18921892

The Bab 1819-1850 The John The Bab 1819-1850 The John the Baptist of Baha’ithe Baptist of Baha’i

Begun in Iran, moved to Iraq, Begun in Iran, moved to Iraq, Lebanon. Very widely spread Lebanon. Very widely spread today.today.

About 7,000,000 adherents.About 7,000,000 adherents.

A reform movement within A reform movement within Islam?Islam?

History and TeachingHistory and Teaching

The Bab was martyred in 1850The Bab was martyred in 1850

in 1852 Baha-Ullah claims to have received a vision, in 1852 Baha-Ullah claims to have received a vision, while in prison, of a divine woman who declared him while in prison, of a divine woman who declared him to be “The Beauty of God amongst you.” ie the next to be “The Beauty of God amongst you.” ie the next prophet.prophet.

Ba’hai is the culmination of all the world’s religions. Ba’hai is the culmination of all the world’s religions. Moses, Krishna, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad, Moses, Krishna, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad, Baha’Ullah.Baha’Ullah.

No priests, no ceremony.No priests, no ceremony.

Theology and TeachingTheology and Teaching Monotheistic.Monotheistic.

God is unknowable “The most Exalted, the God is unknowable “The most Exalted, the Inaccessible.”Inaccessible.”

Baha-Ullah claimed to be Baha-Ullah claimed to be – The second coming of Christ—that John 14:16 was The second coming of Christ—that John 14:16 was

about him. about him. – The Maitreya—the second coming of Buddha.The Maitreya—the second coming of Buddha.– The new incarnation of KrishnaThe new incarnation of Krishna– The fulfillment of the “Day of God” in the Koran.The fulfillment of the “Day of God” in the Koran.

Strong emphasis on equality, education, peace.Strong emphasis on equality, education, peace.

Progressive Revelation. “Religious truth is not absolute Progressive Revelation. “Religious truth is not absolute but relative.”but relative.”

Teachings and Scripture.Teachings and Scripture.

Salvation through keeping the law as handed down Salvation through keeping the law as handed down by Baha-Ullahby Baha-Ullah

Emphasis on good deeds, helping the poor, Emphasis on good deeds, helping the poor, educationeducation

Jesus did not die for our sins, because he did not Jesus did not die for our sins, because he did not have to. We are imperfect, but not lost.have to. We are imperfect, but not lost.

Scripture: The writings of Baha-Ullah. There are Scripture: The writings of Baha-Ullah. There are many! An somewhat open smany! An somewhat open scripture.cripture.

Other World ReligionsOther World Religions

Shinto—the ancestral religion of Japan. AnimistShinto—the ancestral religion of Japan. Animist

Zoroastrianism—Dualistic religion with origins in Zoroastrianism—Dualistic religion with origins in Persia. Worship of Ahura Mazda; a fire god.Persia. Worship of Ahura Mazda; a fire god.

SummarySummary The theologies of world religions are The theologies of world religions are

fundamentally and diametrically opposed to one fundamentally and diametrically opposed to one another. Many paths to the same God is a another. Many paths to the same God is a ludicrous philosophy.ludicrous philosophy.

The truth of the Bible is confirmed byThe truth of the Bible is confirmed by– Clear evidence of inspiration (fulfilled prophecy, types Clear evidence of inspiration (fulfilled prophecy, types

and foreshadows, historical accuracy, scientific and foreshadows, historical accuracy, scientific evidence, etc…) evidence, etc…)

– Public miracles worked by Moses, Elijah and others, and Public miracles worked by Moses, Elijah and others, and especially by Jesus Christ (Hebrews 2:3,4).especially by Jesus Christ (Hebrews 2:3,4).

A Question: Who reaches out to whom?

InitiativeInitiative

Human approachHuman approach Truth Truth

God God GodGod

Mankind Mankind Mankind Mankind

Works Salvation: Man reaches out to God.

Islam

Hinduism

Jaina

Sikkhism

Gnosticism

New Age

Buddhism?

Salvation by Grace: God reaches out to man.

Judaism

Christianity

New Age: A Very Confusing ReligionNew Age: A Very Confusing Religion

Is it:Is it:

Palm reading?Palm reading?

Channeling?Channeling?

Seances?Seances?

Meditation?Meditation?

Reincarnation?Reincarnation?

Occultism?Occultism?

Gurus?Gurus?

Paganism?Paganism?

Gnosticism?Gnosticism?

Mother Goddess worship?Mother Goddess worship?

Yes… all the above.Yes… all the above.

So, What is New Age, Really?So, What is New Age, Really?

You are God, I am God, the trees are God, we all are You are God, I am God, the trees are God, we all are God!God!

New Age is Western pantheismNew Age is Western pantheism

New Age is a syncretistic blend of Gnosticism, New Age is a syncretistic blend of Gnosticism, Hinduism, Spiritualism, Mysticism, Buddhism and Hinduism, Spiritualism, Mysticism, Buddhism and Paganism.Paganism.

New Age is Monism! God is everything I am God!!!New Age is Monism! God is everything I am God!!!

“ “Once we begin to see that we are all God, then I Once we begin to see that we are all God, then I think the whole purpose of life is to re-own the God-think the whole purpose of life is to re-own the God-likeness within us.”likeness within us.”

Is This a “good” worldview?Is This a “good” worldview?

Is it true that I am God?Is it true that I am God? Does it make me a better person to think that I am Does it make me a better person to think that I am

God?God? Does this solve the problem of evil and of sin?Does this solve the problem of evil and of sin?

SummarySummary The theologies of world religions are fundamentally The theologies of world religions are fundamentally

and diametrically opposed to one another. Many and diametrically opposed to one another. Many paths to the same God is a ludicrous philosophy.paths to the same God is a ludicrous philosophy.

The world view of Christianity is radically different The world view of Christianity is radically different from any other religion. They cannot both be right!from any other religion. They cannot both be right!

The truth of the Bible is confirmed byThe truth of the Bible is confirmed by– Clear evidence of inspiration (fulfilled prophecy, Clear evidence of inspiration (fulfilled prophecy,

types and foreshadows, historical accuracy, types and foreshadows, historical accuracy, scientific evidence, etc…) scientific evidence, etc…)

– Public miracles worked by Moses, Elijah and Public miracles worked by Moses, Elijah and others, and especially by Jesus Christ (Hebrews others, and especially by Jesus Christ (Hebrews 2:3,4).2:3,4).

Islamic TheologyIslamic Theology

Like Christianity and Judaism, Islam is Like Christianity and Judaism, Islam is monotheisticmonotheistic

But there are several differences in the theology But there are several differences in the theology of these religions.of these religions.

In Islam God is more like the neo-Platonic idea of In Islam God is more like the neo-Platonic idea of God—very distant and removed from man.God—very distant and removed from man.

Islamic TheologyIslamic Theology “ “Surely good deeds take away evil Surely good deeds take away evil

deeds” (11:114).deeds” (11:114).

Kabira Kabira (big sins)—murder, adultery, drunkenness, (big sins)—murder, adultery, drunkenness, disobeying parents, neglecting Ramadan or Friday disobeying parents, neglecting Ramadan or Friday prayers, gambling, dancing, shaving the beard, prayers, gambling, dancing, shaving the beard, forgetting the Koran after reading it, usury… forgetting the Koran after reading it, usury… Forgiveness with repentance.Forgiveness with repentance.

SaghiraSaghira (little sins)—deceit, anger, lust. Forgiveness if (little sins)—deceit, anger, lust. Forgiveness if greater sins are avoided and good deeds are greater sins are avoided and good deeds are performed.performed.

ShirkShirk—association (of other gods—association (of other gods with Allah). No with Allah). No forgiveness.forgiveness.

Salvation by own effort Salvation by own effort (40:9, 39:61, 7:43)(40:9, 39:61, 7:43)

Charity atones for sinsCharity atones for sins (2:271,277)(2:271,277)

Earn grace.Earn grace.Earn favor of Allah.Earn favor of Allah.Earn salvation.Earn salvation.Earn paradise.Earn paradise.

Islam: Salvation is earned through the efforts of those who were pre-selected by Allah to inhabit a very sensual paradise.

Christianity: Salvation is granted by the grace of a loving God to those who, through faith and repentance and baptism accept that love.

Islamic Worldview:

God is very distant from mankind

In Islam, Allah determines everything, even who will choose to follow him.

2:142, 6:39 6:125

Inshallah God willing. It is God’s will that people suffer..

The Biblical World ViewThe Biblical World View

The physical world is real and it is good. Genesis The physical world is real and it is good. Genesis 1:311:31– Only Islam agrees with this conclusion.Only Islam agrees with this conclusion.

This world is not our home.This world is not our home.

But, compassion… James 1:27 Micah 6:8But, compassion… James 1:27 Micah 6:8

Christian groups are responsible for virtually all Christian groups are responsible for virtually all the world’s efforts to deal with poverty and human the world’s efforts to deal with poverty and human suffering in general and to work for social justice.suffering in general and to work for social justice.

Scriptures of World ReligionsScriptures of World Religions

And we also thank God continually because, when And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God. 1 Thess but as it actually is, the word of God. 1 Thess 2:132:13

The Qu’ran; the Scripture of The Qu’ran; the Scripture of IslamIslam

Based on “revelations” from Gabriel to Based on “revelations” from Gabriel to Mohammed.Mohammed.

Compiled in the 7Compiled in the 7thth century AD (the 600s). century AD (the 600s).

Contains 114 chapters, or suras, arranged Contains 114 chapters, or suras, arranged from longest to shortest. Quite from longest to shortest. Quite repetitive.repetitive.

About 80% the length of the New About 80% the length of the New Testament.Testament.

• Early Period in Mecca. Muhammad sees himself as following tradition of Judaism. Muslims pray toward Jerusalem.

• Early Medina period. Mohammad begins to be politically powerful. The idea of Jihad introduced.

• Later Medina and Meccan period. Muhammad strongly opposed to Jews and Christianity. Islam definitely a distinct religion.

Historical errors in the Qur’anHistorical errors in the Qur’an

Ishmael = IsaacIshmael = Isaac 37:10237:102 2 trees in Eden = 1 tree2 trees in Eden = 1 tree 20:12020:120 Noah’s 4th son drownsNoah’s 4th son drowns 11:4311:43 Zechariah silent 3 days (not 9 months)Zechariah silent 3 days (not 9 months) 3:41 3:41 Pharaoh’s magicians repentPharaoh’s magicians repent 20:7020:70 Judges 7 / 1 Sam 17 conflatedJudges 7 / 1 Sam 17 conflated 2:2492:249 Jesus’ childhood miraclesJesus’ childhood miracles 3:49, 5:110, 19:303:49, 5:110, 19:30

Scientific errors in Qur’an (I)Scientific errors in Qur’an (I)

23:14—23:14—Creation from the clot of bloodCreation from the clot of blood““Then we made the sperm into a clot of Then we made the sperm into a clot of

congealed blood; then from that clot we congealed blood; then from that clot we made a lump; and we made out of that made a lump; and we made out of that lump bones and clothed the bones with lump bones and clothed the bones with flesh.”flesh.”

18:86—18:86—Traveling west…Traveling west…“… “… till, when he reached the setting-place till, when he reached the setting-place

of the sun, he found it setting in a of the sun, he found it setting in a muddy spring.”muddy spring.”

Scientific errors in Qur’an (II)Scientific errors in Qur’an (II)

21:33—21:33—Sun and stars orbit the earthSun and stars orbit the earth

12—12—11 planets11 planets

34:9, 52:44—34:9, 52:44—Piece of sky falls and kills Piece of sky falls and kills someonesomeone

36:4, 23:14 Man deposits child into the 36:4, 23:14 Man deposits child into the mothermother

Is Islam a Good World View?Is Islam a Good World View?

Is it true? Is Mohammed a prophet?

– Fifteen wives– Massacre of 700 Jews– Doctrine of Abrogation– Science errors

Does it make its followers better?

– Motivation to help others?– Are women respected?– Does emphasis on Jihad lead to loving non-Muslims?

JudaismJudaism

15 million Jews throughout the world 15 million Jews throughout the world (Mostly in the U.S., Israel & former USSR)(Mostly in the U.S., Israel & former USSR)

Jews makes up 83% of Israel’s populationJews makes up 83% of Israel’s population More More Jews live in the U.S.Jews live in the U.S. than in than in

Israel!Israel! A higher proportion of American Jews are A higher proportion of American Jews are

religious (i.e., practice Judaism or profess religious (i.e., practice Judaism or profess some form of belief in Judaism) than in some form of belief in Judaism) than in Israel!Israel!

Where are they?

Major Branches of Major Branches of JudaismJudaism

Conservative – 4.5 millionConservative – 4.5 millionUnaffiliated & Secular – 4.5 million Unaffiliated & Secular – 4.5 million Reform – 3.75 millionReform – 3.75 millionOrthodox – 2 millionOrthodox – 2 million

•Most Jews today do not strictly hold to Most Jews today do not strictly hold to the Lawthe Law•Many of Israel's Jews are secular - Many of Israel's Jews are secular - nonobservant andnonobservant and either nonreligious or even agnostic / either nonreligious or even agnostic / atheist atheist •Religious Jews are in the minority in Religious Jews are in the minority in IsraelIsrael

333-63BC – Greek Period – Hellenization of Holy Land; 333-63BC – Greek Period – Hellenization of Holy Land; Maccabean Revolt; rise of Synagogue & religious parties Maccabean Revolt; rise of Synagogue & religious parties (Sadducees, Essenes, Pharisees)(Sadducees, Essenes, Pharisees)

63BC-200AD – Roman period63BC-200AD – Roman period 70AD – Jewish War results in the destruction of Herod’s 70AD – Jewish War results in the destruction of Herod’s

Temple, Sanhedrin & sacrificial system. Pharisees Temple, Sanhedrin & sacrificial system. Pharisees become dominant force in Judaism. Council of Jamnia become dominant force in Judaism. Council of Jamnia solidifies this position. Synagogue system replaces solidifies this position. Synagogue system replaces Temple Judaism.Temple Judaism.

132AD – Judean revolt sparked by Roman Emperor 132AD – Judean revolt sparked by Roman Emperor Hadrian’s building city Aelia Capitolina on top of ruins of Hadrian’s building city Aelia Capitolina on top of ruins of Jerusalem. Jews banned from Jerusalem; circumcision of Jerusalem. Jews banned from Jerusalem; circumcision of converts forbiddenconverts forbidden

200-640AD – Period of intense persecution mainly from 200-640AD – Period of intense persecution mainly from the Christians, especially after Christianity became the the Christians, especially after Christianity became the religion of the Roman Empirereligion of the Roman Empire

Post Old-Testament Jewish History

634-1096AD – Age of the Gaons – Muslim 634-1096AD – Age of the Gaons – Muslim conquests bring many Jews under Islamic conquests bring many Jews under Islamic domain, improving quality of life considerablydomain, improving quality of life considerably

1096AD – Crusades specifically target Jews; 1096AD – Crusades specifically target Jews; they are looted & murdered en massethey are looted & murdered en masse

1096-1348AD – Jews expelled from England, 1096-1348AD – Jews expelled from England, not returning until 1650not returning until 1650

1348 – Jews accused of poisoning wells and 1348 – Jews accused of poisoning wells and causing the Black Death. (This resulted in causing the Black Death. (This resulted in many gruesome massacres across Europe.)many gruesome massacres across Europe.)

1348-1517 – Jewish Influence – After the 1348-1517 – Jewish Influence – After the massacres, Jews allowed to return to their massacres, Jews allowed to return to their cities, many becoming moneylenders.cities, many becoming moneylenders.

1492 – Jews in Spain offered choice of 1492 – Jews in Spain offered choice of converting to Christianity or leaving the converting to Christianity or leaving the country. country.

Wherever they went the exiles had a powerful Wherever they went the exiles had a powerful impact.impact.

1517-1700 – Europe in Ferment – Period started 1517-1700 – Europe in Ferment – Period started with a era of tolerance as authorities viewed with a era of tolerance as authorities viewed Jews as useful. Massacres in 1648 & 1649 Jews as useful. Massacres in 1648 & 1649 devastated the Jews in Poland & the Ukraine.devastated the Jews in Poland & the Ukraine.

1700’s-Present – Large numbers migrated to 1700’s-Present – Large numbers migrated to the Americas (period of Jewish tolerance)the Americas (period of Jewish tolerance)

1880’s – Strong Aryan, anti-semitic 1880’s – Strong Aryan, anti-semitic movements began in Francemovements began in France

WWII – Extermination of 1/3 of world’s Jewish WWII – Extermination of 1/3 of world’s Jewish population – 6 million murderedpopulation – 6 million murdered

1948 – Zionists pushed for & received the 1948 – Zionists pushed for & received the State of Israel for the Jews to have a country State of Israel for the Jews to have a country once more. Battle for this territory still rages once more. Battle for this territory still rages todaytoday

Jewish Sects in 1Jewish Sects in 1stst Century Century (Josephus)(Josephus)– Pharisees (formerly the Hasidim)Pharisees (formerly the Hasidim)– SadduceesSadducees– EssenesEssenes– Zealots Zealots

PhariseesPharisees

Represented more of the Represented more of the common peoplecommon people

Stressed holiness of life; Stressed holiness of life; created a body of laws to created a body of laws to prevent people from breaking prevent people from breaking laws (‘hedging’)laws (‘hedging’)

Not as strict as the EssenesNot as strict as the Essenes Created the oral law; Created the oral law;

eventually became the Talmudeventually became the Talmud Unlike the Sadducees, they Unlike the Sadducees, they

strongly resisted the strongly resisted the Hellenistic cultureHellenistic culture

Emerged as the dominant Emerged as the dominant group after 70ADgroup after 70AD

SadduceesSadducees Composed of wealthy aristocrats & priestsComposed of wealthy aristocrats & priests Held to a very strict interpretation of the ScripturesHeld to a very strict interpretation of the Scriptures Rejected the doctrine of the ResurrectionRejected the doctrine of the Resurrection Most members of the Sanhedrin were SadduceesMost members of the Sanhedrin were Sadducees Disappeared with Jerusalem destruction in 70ADDisappeared with Jerusalem destruction in 70AD

When John the Baptist saw many of the Pharisees & Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?” – Matthew 3:7

EssenesEssenes Ascetic, monastic sect; removed themselves from Ascetic, monastic sect; removed themselves from

daily life to prevent being polluted by the corrupt daily life to prevent being polluted by the corrupt worldworld

No personal possessions, very strict observation No personal possessions, very strict observation of community & Sabbath rules, incl. no bowel of community & Sabbath rules, incl. no bowel movementsmovements

Devoted themselves to study, with a focus on Devoted themselves to study, with a focus on moral & ethical learningmoral & ethical learning

Qumran sect is best known of this group; the Qumran sect is best known of this group; the Dead Sea Scrolls were widely believed to be their Dead Sea Scrolls were widely believed to be their workwork

John the Baptist was an Essene? Not!John the Baptist was an Essene? Not!

ZealotsZealots Term used to describe Jewish anti-Roman groups Term used to describe Jewish anti-Roman groups

using both political & military tacticsusing both political & military tactics Covered many different factions; was not a party Covered many different factions; was not a party

namename Began in 6AD by Judas Maccabees based on Began in 6AD by Judas Maccabees based on

inspiration of Phinehas (Numbers 25:11)inspiration of Phinehas (Numbers 25:11) ““Sicarii” (‘Dagger-men’) most extreme branch; Sicarii” (‘Dagger-men’) most extreme branch;

carried short daggers, stabbing their enemies in carried short daggers, stabbing their enemies in broad daylight in large crowds, then joined the broad daylight in large crowds, then joined the outraged crowd, adding their own cries of indignationoutraged crowd, adding their own cries of indignation

Largely responsible for the beginning of the Jewish Largely responsible for the beginning of the Jewish War, which led to the destruction of the TempleWar, which led to the destruction of the Temple

ZealotsZealots One of the 12 apostles was ‘Simon the Zealot’One of the 12 apostles was ‘Simon the Zealot’ Barabbas; possibly Paul (Acts 22:3; Galatians Barabbas; possibly Paul (Acts 22:3; Galatians

1:14)1:14) Acts 21:38 – ‘4,000 Assassins’ – ‘4,000 Acts 21:38 – ‘4,000 Assassins’ – ‘4,000

Terrorists’Terrorists’ Mark 15:7 – ‘The Insurrectionists’Mark 15:7 – ‘The Insurrectionists’ Last Zealot Stronghold, Masada, fell in May Last Zealot Stronghold, Masada, fell in May

74AD74AD

Orthodox vs. Orthodox vs. ReformedReformed

Most obvious division today is between Most obvious division today is between Orthodox & Progressive JewsOrthodox & Progressive Jews

Orthodox Jews adhere to a very strict Orthodox Jews adhere to a very strict biblical & oral law (Talmud).biblical & oral law (Talmud).

Diligently follow Sabbatical laws & Diligently follow Sabbatical laws & Kosher regulations. (In their own eyes Kosher regulations. (In their own eyes no other Jews are really Jews.)no other Jews are really Jews.)

Reformed JudaismReformed Judaism Began in Germany in the 18Began in Germany in the 18thth Century Century Followed philosophies of enlightenment, enjoying Followed philosophies of enlightenment, enjoying

the benefits of the lessening persecutionthe benefits of the lessening persecution Soon many Jews adapted to their culture rather Soon many Jews adapted to their culture rather

than holding to their traditionsthan holding to their traditions Using scientific inquiry and critical evaluation some Using scientific inquiry and critical evaluation some

even taught that man no longer needed to accept even taught that man no longer needed to accept the revelation of the Torah as factual & bindingthe revelation of the Torah as factual & binding

Changes in ritual law & worship were encouraged; Changes in ritual law & worship were encouraged; dietary laws were abandoned and a more “people dietary laws were abandoned and a more “people friendly” version of Judaism was bornfriendly” version of Judaism was born

Kabbalah (Mysticism)Kabbalah (Mysticism) Branch of Judaism; meaning ‘Received Tradition’Branch of Judaism; meaning ‘Received Tradition’ Claims to be the oldest religion; with origins Claims to be the oldest religion; with origins

dating back to Adam & Abrahamdating back to Adam & Abraham Possesses secret & mystic “truths”Possesses secret & mystic “truths” Claims to hold the long-hidden keys to the Claims to hold the long-hidden keys to the

secrets of the universe & mysteries of the secrets of the universe & mysteries of the human heart & soulhuman heart & soul

Many similarities to Gnostic movementsMany similarities to Gnostic movements Essenes protected their writings, allegedly Essenes protected their writings, allegedly

authored by Cain, Noah & Jaredauthored by Cain, Noah & Jared Isaac Newton, Madonna, Britney Spears, Paris Isaac Newton, Madonna, Britney Spears, Paris

Hilton, Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher, Mick Hilton, Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher, Mick Jagger, Anthony Kiedis Jagger, Anthony Kiedis

Kosher/Dietary Kosher/Dietary RegulationsRegulations

Kosher – Fit or clean according to Jewish dietary lawsKosher – Fit or clean according to Jewish dietary laws Regulations found in the Torah (Lev 11, Deut 14), Regulations found in the Torah (Lev 11, Deut 14),

but many more added through traditionsbut many more added through traditions Meat & dairy products can’t be eaten together. Meat & dairy products can’t be eaten together.

(Many households have 2 sets of dishes to prevent (Many households have 2 sets of dishes to prevent any contactany contact

Jewish hotels have 2 kitchens to prevent Jewish hotels have 2 kitchens to prevent contaminationcontamination

Animals must be slaughtered & prepared by a Animals must be slaughtered & prepared by a ‘shochet’, trained & ordained in the kosher ‘shochet’, trained & ordained in the kosher regulationsregulations

Orthodox Jews follow these regulations meticulously; Orthodox Jews follow these regulations meticulously; average Jews do notaverage Jews do not

The SynagogueThe Synagogue Place of Jewish communal worship Place of Jewish communal worship Most Jews are members of a Synagogue Most Jews are members of a Synagogue

although that does not mean that they although that does not mean that they regularly attendregularly attend

Mainly a place for reading scripture & prayerMainly a place for reading scripture & prayer Since 70AD (Destruction of the Temple), this Since 70AD (Destruction of the Temple), this

has been the center of both religious & has been the center of both religious & cultural lifecultural life

May have originated after 586BC to replace May have originated after 586BC to replace temple worship while in exile, but it temple worship while in exile, but it developed rapidly during the developed rapidly during the Intertestamental periodIntertestamental period

Christian Science and Christian Science and Scientology. What do Scientology. What do they have in common?they have in common?

Definitely not science!!Definitely not science!!

Christian ScienceChristian Science Founder and chief prophet: Mary Baker Eddy Founder and chief prophet: Mary Baker Eddy

1821-19101821-1910

Headquarters in Boston. Less that 1,000,000 Headquarters in Boston. Less that 1,000,000 adherents.adherents.

Influenced by Phineas Quimby and the “New Influenced by Phineas Quimby and the “New Thought” movement.Thought” movement.

Quimby: God is “Universal Wisdom and Quimby: God is “Universal Wisdom and Intelligence.” God is “Presence.” God is Intelligence.” God is “Presence.” God is “Loving Principle.”“Loving Principle.”

Emphasis on disease, spiritualism. Disease is an Emphasis on disease, spiritualism. Disease is an “error, created not by God, but by man.” No “error, created not by God, but by man.” No false beliefs false beliefs →→ no disease. no disease.

Mary Baker EddyMary Baker Eddy

““She was subject from infancy to She was subject from infancy to convulsive attacks of a hysterical convulsive attacks of a hysterical nature and had many nervous fits.”nature and had many nervous fits.”

Clairvoyance, spiritualism, occultClairvoyance, spiritualism, occult

““Cured” by Quimby (but symptoms Cured” by Quimby (but symptoms soon returned)soon returned)

““The works I have written on The works I have written on Christian Science contain absolute Christian Science contain absolute Truth.”Truth.”

Christian Science is neither Christian, nor is it science.

Science?

1990’s 18 documented cases of children suffering preventable death because parents refused to take them to a doctor. Convictions of child endangerment and even manslaughter.

Zero scientific verification

Christian?

Jesus was a mere man. He is an embodimentof the “Christ Principle.” He is “the highest possible Inner consciousness.”

He did not die on the cross.

He did not resurrect from the dead.

Theology of Christian Science

Jesus is “divine mind.”

Jesus was a mere human, but an expression of Christhood.

Salvation is release from ignorance.

Sin, evil, sickness and even death are illusions which are conquered by denying them.

Q: Will denying cancer make it go away?

The trinity is “Life, Truth and Love.”

No hell.

Scripture of Christian ScienceScripture of Christian Science

One must use “Science and Health One must use “Science and Health with Key to the Scripture” to with Key to the Scripture” to properly interpret the Bible.properly interpret the Bible.

Interpreted the Bible esoterically. Interpreted the Bible esoterically. Cannot take the miracles, Cannot take the miracles, resurrection and so forth literally.resurrection and so forth literally.

“The cause of all so-called disease is mental, a mortal fear, a mistaken belief of conviction of the necessity and power of ill health.

New York Sun Dec 19, 1898, Eddy “challenged the world to disprove” that she had healed a variety of serious illnesses, including cancer

Dr Charles A. Reed (later president of AMA) offered to present similar cases for her to heal, which she politely declined.

“If she by her Christian Science, shall cure any one of them, I shall proclaim her omnipotence from the housetops; and, if she shall cure all or even half of them, I shall cheerfully crawl upon my hands and knees that I may but touch the hem of her walking dress.”

ScientologyScientology

Founder L. Ron HubbardFounder L. Ron Hubbard

A science fiction writer who took his fiction A science fiction writer who took his fiction seriously.seriously.

Wrote Wrote DianeticsDianetics The Modern Science of Mental The Modern Science of Mental Health, Health, 19501950

Established Church of Scientology, 1954.Established Church of Scientology, 1954.

Tom Cruise, 2006; “Psychology is Tom Cruise, 2006; “Psychology is pseudoscience.”pseudoscience.”

John Oakes, 2006: “Scientology is John Oakes, 2006: “Scientology is pseudoscience.”pseudoscience.”

TheologyTheology

Men are “Thetans” (immortal spirits)Men are “Thetans” (immortal spirits)

God is “All Theta,” “The eighth dynamic.”God is “All Theta,” “The eighth dynamic.”

Our problem is our “engrams.” Our problem is our “engrams.”

Engrams are stored impressions in the reactive (vs analytic) mind Engrams are stored impressions in the reactive (vs analytic) mind of painful experiences carried over from past lives (and during of painful experiences carried over from past lives (and during gestation in our mother).gestation in our mother).

The goal: eliminate your engrams so that you can realize your The goal: eliminate your engrams so that you can realize your true nature.true nature.

““Man is not the limited and pitiful body and ego he mistakenly Man is not the limited and pitiful body and ego he mistakenly imagines himself to be. He is a thetan whose fundamental nature imagines himself to be. He is a thetan whose fundamental nature is basically good and divine. He is not morally fallen; rather he is is basically good and divine. He is not morally fallen; rather he is simply ignorant of his own perfection. His only fall was into simply ignorant of his own perfection. His only fall was into matter, not sin.”matter, not sin.”

Scripture of Scientology

All L. Ron Hubbard’s books.

The “Science” of Scientology:

The solution to engrams is “Auditing”

Involves using an electropsychometer to discover the engrams in the “pre-clear.”

The electropsychometer is a pair of electrodes which detect changes in conductivity when certain questions are asked by a trained auditor. Auditor guides the pre-clear to discharge the harmful energy from the engram.

All this costs a lot of money. This is a religious scam; plain and simple.

ResponseResponse

Scientology: Jesus was “a shade above clear.”Scientology: Jesus was “a shade above clear.”

Jesus: John 8:46 “Can any of you prove me guilty Jesus: John 8:46 “Can any of you prove me guilty of sin?”of sin?”

MORMONISMMORMONISM

ANOTHER TESTAMENT ANOTHER TESTAMENT OF JESUS CHRIST?OF JESUS CHRIST?

OUTLINEOUTLINE

HistoryHistory

The Book of MormonThe Book of MormonMormon TeachingsMormon TeachingsEvangelismEvangelism

Joseph SmithJoseph Smith

DivinerDivinerTreasure Treasure

HunterHunterReligious Religious

FraudFraud

Early HistoryEarly History

1823 A visit by the angel Moroni1823 A visit by the angel Moroni– You will be given golden plates on the hill CumorahYou will be given golden plates on the hill Cumorah

1827 Dug up golden plates. Written in “Reformed 1827 Dug up golden plates. Written in “Reformed Egyptian.”Egyptian.”

Used the “Urrim and the Thummim” with his head in a hat to Used the “Urrim and the Thummim” with his head in a hat to translate the Book of Mormon.translate the Book of Mormon.

Conveniently, God took the golden plates back to heaven.Conveniently, God took the golden plates back to heaven.

The Hill Cumorah

““His translation complete, Joseph had one further use for His translation complete, Joseph had one further use for the golden plates. To assure skeptics that the plates did, the golden plates. To assure skeptics that the plates did, indeed exist, he showed them toindeed exist, he showed them to several trusted witnesses, several trusted witnesses, who signed statements affirming that they had beheld the who signed statements affirming that they had beheld the plates. In preparation for viewing the plates, the chosen plates. In preparation for viewing the plates, the chosen witnesses prayed for several hours. After lengthy praying, witnesses prayed for several hours. After lengthy praying, one witness reported that he saw only an empty box. one witness reported that he saw only an empty box. Joseph sent him out for additional prayer, after which the Joseph sent him out for additional prayer, after which the golden plates were fully visible to the witness.”golden plates were fully visible to the witness.”

Later, all these witnesses became apostate to Mormonism.Later, all these witnesses became apostate to Mormonism.

Understanding MormonismUnderstanding Mormonism

This is my testimony…..This is my testimony…..

Emotion-based religion.Emotion-based religion.

Mormons are, arguably, the most Christian-like Mormons are, arguably, the most Christian-like group around, and they know it.group around, and they know it.

WANDERING IN THE WILDERNESSWANDERING IN THE WILDERNESS

Palmyra, New YorkPalmyra, New York Kirtland, OhioKirtland, Ohio Independence, MissouriIndependence, Missouri Nauvoo, IllinoisNauvoo, Illinois Salt Lake Valley, UtahSalt Lake Valley, Utah

JOSEPH SMITH AND SIDNEY RIGDONJOSEPH SMITH AND SIDNEY RIGDON

General Joseph Smith

BRIGHAM YOUNGBRIGHAM YOUNG

The Mormon ScriptureThe Mormon Scripture

The Book of MormonThe Book of Mormon

– A grade B religious fantasy A grade B religious fantasy about the Jaredites and the about the Jaredites and the Nephites.Nephites.

The Pearl of Great Price with The Pearl of Great Price with the Doctrine and the the Doctrine and the Covenants.Covenants.

The Bible, “so long as it is The Bible, “so long as it is correctly translated.”correctly translated.”

Mormon 8:18 “Don’t demand Mormon 8:18 “Don’t demand

to see the plates or you will to see the plates or you will be killed.”be killed.”

Did Jesus come to the New World?

Statements by the Smithsonian Institution and the National Geographic Society:

•"The Smithsonian Institution has never used the Book of Mormon in any way as a scientific guide. Smithsonian archaeologists see no connection between the archaeology of the New World and the subject matter of the Book."

Official Statement, 1979

•"Neither representatives of the National Geographic Society nor, to my knowledge, archaeologists connected with any other institution or equal prestige have ever used the Book of Mormon in locating historic ruins in Middle America or elsewhere." Dr. Neal Judd

MORMON TEACHINGSMORMON TEACHINGS

The Latter Day SaintsThe Latter Day Saints Modern-day revelationModern-day revelation We are all godsWe are all gods PolygamyPolygamy RacismRacism Baptism for the deadBaptism for the dead

Scriptures to bear in mind: Galatians 1:6-9, Scriptures to bear in mind: Galatians 1:6-9, 2 Thessalonians 2:5-12, 1 John 2:18-23.2 Thessalonians 2:5-12, 1 John 2:18-23.

The Latter Day SaintsThe Latter Day Saints

The original church completely fell away with the The original church completely fell away with the death of the original apostles. There was no death of the original apostles. There was no legitimate church for about 1700 years.legitimate church for about 1700 years.

““This is my testimony, Joseph Smith is a prophet This is my testimony, Joseph Smith is a prophet and the Book of Mormon is the Word of God.”and the Book of Mormon is the Word of God.”

We are all gods.We are all gods. The Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are The Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are

three separate gods.three separate gods.

Mormonism is polytheism.Mormonism is polytheism.

– ““I will preach on the plurality of gods. I have always declared I will preach on the plurality of gods. I have always declared God to be a distinct personage, Jesus Christ a separate and God to be a distinct personage, Jesus Christ a separate and distinct personage from God the Father, and the Holy Ghost was distinct personage from God the Father, and the Holy Ghost was a distinct personage and a Spirit: and these three constitute a distinct personage and a Spirit: and these three constitute three distinct personages and three Gods.” three distinct personages and three Gods.” Teachings of Joseph Teachings of Joseph Smith, Smith, p. 370p. 370..

– From Joseph Smith’s most famous sermon: “God himself was From Joseph Smith’s most famous sermon: “God himself was once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned in yonder heavens!... I am going to tell you how God came to be in yonder heavens!... I am going to tell you how God came to be God. We have imagined and supposed that God was God from God. We have imagined and supposed that God was God from eternity. I will refute that idea, and take away the veil so that eternity. I will refute that idea, and take away the veil so that you may see… He was once a man like us; yea that God himself, you may see… He was once a man like us; yea that God himself, the Father of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same as Jesus Christ the Father of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same as Jesus Christ himself did.himself did.

PolygamyPolygamy

A new revelation against polygamy by the Utah church A new revelation against polygamy by the Utah church 18901890

Joseph Smith had at least 30 wives, some less than 15 yrs. Joseph Smith had at least 30 wives, some less than 15 yrs. old and took many other women as well.old and took many other women as well.

Celestial marriages.Celestial marriages.

When our father Adam came into the garden of Eden, he came When our father Adam came into the garden of Eden, he came into it with a celestial body, and brought Eve, into it with a celestial body, and brought Eve, one of his wivesone of his wives, , with him. He helped to make and organize this world. He is with him. He helped to make and organize this world. He is Michael, the Ancient of Days! About whom holy men have written Michael, the Ancient of Days! About whom holy men have written and spoken—He is our Father and our God, and the only God with and spoken—He is our Father and our God, and the only God with whom we have to do.” whom we have to do.” Journal of DiscoursesJournal of Discourses vol 1, p 50. vol 1, p 50.

““The grand reason why the Gentiles and philosophers of his school The grand reason why the Gentiles and philosophers of his school persecuted Jesus Christ, was because he had so many wives; there persecuted Jesus Christ, was because he had so many wives; there were Elizabeth, and Mary, and a host of others who followed him.”were Elizabeth, and Mary, and a host of others who followed him.”

RacismRacism

Mormons 5:15 “Indians are dark filthy and loathsome.”Mormons 5:15 “Indians are dark filthy and loathsome.”

1 Nephi 11:13 “dark people are sinful.”1 Nephi 11:13 “dark people are sinful.”

2 Nephi 5:21 “Dark skin are loathsome. Those who marry 2 Nephi 5:21 “Dark skin are loathsome. Those who marry dark skinned are cursed.”dark skinned are cursed.”

Officially renounced by new revelation in 1978.Officially renounced by new revelation in 1978.

Other interesting doctrinesOther interesting doctrines

Baptism for the deadBaptism for the dead

Modern-day priesthood of MelchizedekModern-day priesthood of Melchizedek

Baptism in the name of Jesus preached to the Nephites Baptism in the name of Jesus preached to the Nephites several hundred years BC. A very confused idea of several hundred years BC. A very confused idea of covenants.covenants.

The Salt Lake City Temple

REACHING OUT TO MORMONSREACHING OUT TO MORMONS

This is my testimony….. Emotion This is my testimony….. Emotion vs reason.vs reason.

Do not attack Joseph Smith Do not attack Joseph Smith personallypersonally

Friendship/familyFriendship/family Study on “Covenants” Joe FieldsStudy on “Covenants” Joe Fields

Study #1 The Word of GodStudy #1 The Word of GodWhat books are identified as the words of God? 2 Nephi 29:13

“…words of the Jews” (Old Testament)“…words of the list tribes of Israel” (Lost book?)“…words of the Nephites” (Book of Mormon)

What does “they both shall be established in one” mean? 1 Nephi 13:41

What are “the plain and precious things” that were taken from the Bible?(1 Nephi 13:28) Please be specific.

Do the Bible and the Book of Mormon have to be in harmony with each other?

What are “the two sticks?” in Ezekiel 37:15-22?

What version of the Bible do you accept as the inspired word of God?

Does God’s word in the Book of Mormon ever contradict God’s word in the Bible?

Would there ever be any reason to reject the Bible as God’s word?

Study #2 Infinite and Eternal Atonement Study #2 Infinite and Eternal Atonement Alma 34:14 / Hebrews 10:1Alma 34:14 / Hebrews 10:1

 Book of Mormon Mosiah 16:14 (148 BC)2 Nephi 25:24-27 (545 BC)Alma 33:19-22 (74 BC)Mosiah 12:31-13:28 (148 BC)

Alma 25:15 (77 BC)

Book of Mormon Mosiah 4:2,3 (124 BC)Jacob 4:11 (421 BC)Jarom 1:11 (399 BC)Jacob 7 (421 BC)Alma 7:14 (83 BC)

The Old Testament Genesis 12:3 (1500 BC)Numbers 21:4-9 (1500 BC)Isaiah 53:4-7 (701 BC)Exodus 12:1 (1500 BC)Leviticus 4 (1500 BC)

 (Hebrews 10:1, Galatians 3:24)

The New Testament Galatians 3:8 (AD 49)John 3:14, 12:32 (AD 85-90)1 Peter 2:21-25 (AD 64)1 Corinthians 5:7 (AD 54)Hebrews 9 (AD 60-69) (Galatians 3:19,23, Colossians 2:14)

Atonement Shadow Atonement Applied

The Jehovah’s WitnessThe Jehovah’s Witness

The WatchtowerThe Watchtower

vsvs

The BibleThe Bible

John Oakes, PhDJohn Oakes, PhD

Charles Taze Russsel

Historical BackgroundHistorical Background

Influenced by Adventist movementInfluenced by Adventist movement

William Miller, October, 1844William Miller, October, 1844

Russel establishes The Watchtower, 1879Russel establishes The Watchtower, 1879

Rejects the Trinity 1882Rejects the Trinity 1882

Predicts the end of the world in October, Predicts the end of the world in October,

19141914

Dies 1916Dies 1916

““Judge” Rutherford takes the reignsJudge” Rutherford takes the reigns

Predicts the resurrection of Abraham, Predicts the resurrection of Abraham,

Isaac and Jacob to occur in 1925Isaac and Jacob to occur in 1925

Changes name to Jehovah’s Witness, 1931Changes name to Jehovah’s Witness, 1931

Began predicting Armageddon to occur in Began predicting Armageddon to occur in

19751975

Oops…..!Oops…..!

FundamentalFundamental Theology of JW’sTheology of JW’s

Jesus is not GodJesus is not God

The Holy Spirit is not Deity or a person, but a force The Holy Spirit is not Deity or a person, but a force

of God.of God.

God’s only acceptable name is Jehovah.God’s only acceptable name is Jehovah.

Only JW’s will be in heaven.Only JW’s will be in heaven.

Hell is not a place of punishment.Hell is not a place of punishment.

The Church became completely apostate until The Church became completely apostate until

1870’s1870’s

Jehovah’s Witness Theology (cont.)Jehovah’s Witness Theology (cont.)

Emphasis on OT lawEmphasis on OT law

No blood transfusionsNo blood transfusions

Miscelaneous (attempts to mark JW’s as unique)Miscelaneous (attempts to mark JW’s as unique)

Birthdays, etc.Birthdays, etc.

No Military ServiceNo Military Service

No Wearing CrossesNo Wearing Crosses

No pledgingNo pledging

The Watchtower SocietyThe Watchtower Society

God’s faithful and discreet slave Matthew 24:45-47God’s faithful and discreet slave Matthew 24:45-47

““God’s sole channel of communication to His God’s sole channel of communication to His people.”people.”

““Avoid independent thinking or questioning the Avoid independent thinking or questioning the counsel that is provided by God’s invisible counsel that is provided by God’s invisible organization.”organization.”

““We recognize not only Jehovah God as our father, We recognize not only Jehovah God as our father, but his organization (The Watchtower Society) as but his organization (The Watchtower Society) as our mother and the wife of our Father, Jehovah our mother and the wife of our Father, Jehovah God” God” (The Watchtower, May 1, 1957, p. 285)(The Watchtower, May 1, 1957, p. 285)

The New World Translation of the BibleThe New World Translation of the Bible

Done by JW members onlyDone by JW members only

Designed to protect members from corrupted Designed to protect members from corrupted

non-Christian translations (like NIV and so forth)non-Christian translations (like NIV and so forth)

John 1:1 The word was John 1:1 The word was a ga god….od….

The Deity of ChristThe Deity of Christ

Jesus is the first and highest of Jesus is the first and highest of

Jehovah’s creation.Jehovah’s creation.

Jesus is the archangel Michael.Jesus is the archangel Michael.

The Arian heresy (Arius, 3The Arian heresy (Arius, 3rdrd Century Century

AD).AD).

Claim: Jesus is never worshipped in Claim: Jesus is never worshipped in

the NT.the NT.

Proof-textsProof-texts

·· John 1:1 …. The Word was a god…John 1:1 …. The Word was a god…

John 3:16 (NWT) Jehovah’s first creation was John 3:16 (NWT) Jehovah’s first creation was

his only begotten Son.his only begotten Son.

Coll 1:15-17 The first-born of (vs over) all Coll 1:15-17 The first-born of (vs over) all

creation.creation.

Jn 14:28 The Father is greater than IJn 14:28 The Father is greater than I

Jn 20:17 My GodJn 20:17 My God

1 Cor 15:28 … the head of Christ is God1 Cor 15:28 … the head of Christ is God

ResponseResponse

Compare Coll 1:16 to Hebrews 2:10Compare Coll 1:16 to Hebrews 2:10

Hebrews 1:2Hebrews 1:2

John 8:58 (Exodus 3:14)John 8:58 (Exodus 3:14)

John 10:30 (see vs. 33)John 10:30 (see vs. 33)

Coll 2:9Coll 2:9

John 20:28John 20:28

Titus 2:13Titus 2:13

Phil 5,6Phil 5,6

Zech 12:10Zech 12:10

Isaiah 9:6,7Isaiah 9:6,7

The Holy Spirit is not DeityThe Holy Spirit is not Deity

““The Holy Spirit is not a person, but is a powerful force that The Holy Spirit is not a person, but is a powerful force that God causes to emanate from himself to accomplish his holy God causes to emanate from himself to accomplish his holy will (will (Reasoning From Scriptures, Reasoning From Scriptures, 1989, p. 381)1989, p. 381)

Arguments:Arguments:

The Holy Spirit is never given a nameThe Holy Spirit is never given a name

Mark 1:10, Acts 2:, etc describe the Holy Spirit coming on or Mark 1:10, Acts 2:, etc describe the Holy Spirit coming on or

filling up people. A person cannot do this. (see Eph 3:19)filling up people. A person cannot do this. (see Eph 3:19)

Genesis 1:2 (NWT) “God’s active force was working to Genesis 1:2 (NWT) “God’s active force was working to

shape the earth”shape the earth”

ResponseResponse

1 Cor 2:101 Cor 2:10

Eph 4:30Eph 4:30

Acts 16:6, 8:29Acts 16:6, 8:29

Matthew 12:32 (see Rev 13:6, Matt 27:39)Matthew 12:32 (see Rev 13:6, Matt 27:39)

1 Cor 12:111 Cor 12:11

Acts 13:2Acts 13:2

John 14:15-17John 14:15-17

John 16:7-11John 16:7-11

Matthew 28:18Matthew 28:18

Jehovah is God’s Only NameJehovah is God’s Only Name

Ezekiel 39:6Ezekiel 39:6 Matthew 6:9Matthew 6:9 Exodus 3:15Exodus 3:15 Romans 10:13Romans 10:13

Claim: Jesus is never called Jehovah—Therefore he Claim: Jesus is never called Jehovah—Therefore he cannot be God.cannot be God.

Claim: The word Jehovah was removed from most Claim: The word Jehovah was removed from most of the OT by superstitious Jews.of the OT by superstitious Jews.

Claim: The word Jehovah was removed from the NT Claim: The word Jehovah was removed from the NT by early apostate Christians.by early apostate Christians.

ResponseResponse

To the ancients, the name of a person stood for the person.To the ancients, the name of a person stood for the person.

YHWH + ADONAI’s vowels = YAHOWAH → Yiddish → YHWH + ADONAI’s vowels = YAHOWAH → Yiddish → German as Jehovah.German as Jehovah.

The word Jehovah is not found anywhere in NT or OTThe word Jehovah is not found anywhere in NT or OT

God has many names in the OT and the NT (Elohim, Adonai, God has many names in the OT and the NT (Elohim, Adonai, Father, God, Lord, etc.)Father, God, Lord, etc.)

Jesus never called his Father Jehovah.Jesus never called his Father Jehovah.

Manuscript evidence (ex the Rylands Papyrus) absolutely Manuscript evidence (ex the Rylands Papyrus) absolutely rules out even the possibility of Jehovah being removed from rules out even the possibility of Jehovah being removed from the NT.the NT.

Hell Not a Place of PunishmentHell Not a Place of Punishment

No conscious existence after death.No conscious existence after death.

There is no soul apart from a physical bodyThere is no soul apart from a physical body

Jesus himself ceased to exist when he diedJesus himself ceased to exist when he died All go to a common hell called “soul sleep” when All go to a common hell called “soul sleep” when

they die to await being recreated by God.they die to await being recreated by God.

If they are not re-embodied by God, they simply If they are not re-embodied by God, they simply cease to exist—no punishment at all for sins.cease to exist—no punishment at all for sins.

Soul SleepSoul Sleep

144,000 of Revelation 7 will be in spiritual heaven with Jesus 144,000 of Revelation 7 will be in spiritual heaven with Jesus (the “little flock” of Luke 12:32)(the “little flock” of Luke 12:32)

The rest (“my other sheep of John 10:16) will live in physical The rest (“my other sheep of John 10:16) will live in physical bodies on a paradise earth.bodies on a paradise earth.

Proof-texts:Proof-texts:

Matthew 6:10 NWT “Let your will take place, as in heaven, Matthew 6:10 NWT “Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth”also upon earth”

Ecclesiastes 9:5 “The dead know nothing.”Ecclesiastes 9:5 “The dead know nothing.” Luke 23:43 NWT “I tell you today, you will be with me in Luke 23:43 NWT “I tell you today, you will be with me in

Paradise.Paradise. Matt 25:46 NWT “And these will depart into everlasting Matt 25:46 NWT “And these will depart into everlasting

cutting-off.”cutting-off.”

ResponseResponse

Rev 14:9-12 forever and everRev 14:9-12 forever and ever

Matthew 25:46 everlasting comtemptMatthew 25:46 everlasting comtempt

Daniel 12:2 Can you have one without Daniel 12:2 Can you have one without

another?another?

Mark 9:44 blessing and cursesMark 9:44 blessing and curses

Luke 12:46-48 degrees of punishmentLuke 12:46-48 degrees of punishment

Seventh Day AdventismSeventh Day Adventism

APLAAPLA

Manila PIManila PI

Jan, 2010Jan, 2010

Ellen G. White, Prophetess of 7th Day Adventism

An epileptic? Probably

A plagiarizer? Yes!

History of AdventismHistory of Adventism

Millerite movement 1840sMillerite movement 1840s

Jesus did not come back in 1844!!!Jesus did not come back in 1844!!!

Premillenialism, Arianism, Sabbatarianism, Premillenialism, Arianism, Sabbatarianism, etc.etc.

Led to 7Led to 7thth Day Adventism and Jehovah’s Day Adventism and Jehovah’s WitnessWitness

Important Teachings of 7Important Teachings of 7thth Day Adventism Day Adventism

Adventism: Jesus came in the “Investigative Adventism: Jesus came in the “Investigative Judgment in 1844 (based on Daniel 8) Emphasis Judgment in 1844 (based on Daniel 8) Emphasis on premillenialism.on premillenialism.

Obedience to Mosaic SabbathObedience to Mosaic Sabbath

Emphasis on Jewish health lawsEmphasis on Jewish health laws

Do not believe in HellDo not believe in Hell

Evangelizing 7Evangelizing 7thth Day Adventists Day Adventists

Suggestion: Do not start by attacking Ellen Suggestion: Do not start by attacking Ellen G. WhiteG. White

Sabbath: Sabbath: – Acts 20:7Acts 20:7– Rev 1:10Rev 1:10– Church history is unanimousChurch history is unanimous

Law-keeping:Law-keeping:– More than one kind of law? Ceremonial law?More than one kind of law? Ceremonial law?– Galatians 2:21, 3:10-12, 5:2-4 Colossians 2:13-23Galatians 2:21, 3:10-12, 5:2-4 Colossians 2:13-23

Roman Roman CatholicismCatholicism

APLAAPLAManila, Jan 2010Manila, Jan 2010

History of CatholocismHistory of Catholocism

Unlike other “Christian” groups, Catholics can Unlike other “Christian” groups, Catholics can legitimately claim to be a primitive church which legitimately claim to be a primitive church which can trace its origins to the New Testament church can trace its origins to the New Testament church (as can “Orthodox” and Coptic Christians)(as can “Orthodox” and Coptic Christians)

To some extent, the story of Church history is the To some extent, the story of Church history is the story of the gradual corruption and paganization of story of the gradual corruption and paganization of the Roman Catholic Church, especially after AD 325the Roman Catholic Church, especially after AD 325

Authority is found through “apostolic succession,” Authority is found through “apostolic succession,” not the scripture.not the scripture.

The Big Problem with Catholicism: AuthorityThe Big Problem with Catholicism: Authority

The Rule of Faith (in other words tradtion)The Rule of Faith (in other words tradtion)

The “Church”The “Church”

ScriptureScripture

In that order!!!In that order!!!

Apostolic SuccessionApostolic Succession

Authority of the Roman Church has traditionally Authority of the Roman Church has traditionally been based on supposed apostolic succession, been based on supposed apostolic succession, with Peter as the first “pope” or bishop of Rome.with Peter as the first “pope” or bishop of Rome.

Matthew 16:17-19 Matthew 16:17-19 . . You are Peter (rock, stone, You are Peter (rock, stone, petrospetros) and on this rock (bedrock, large rock, ) and on this rock (bedrock, large rock, petrapetra) The “rock” that the church will be built on ) The “rock” that the church will be built on is not Peter. It is the confession and the fact that is not Peter. It is the confession and the fact that Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God.Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God.

Does Tradition have authority?Does Tradition have authority?

Catholics use NT language about traditions to Catholics use NT language about traditions to justify authority of extra-biblical tradition (2 Thess justify authority of extra-biblical tradition (2 Thess 3:6, Rom 16:17, Phil 3:17, etc.)3:6, Rom 16:17, Phil 3:17, etc.)

Mark 7:1-13 Jesus: “You nullify the word of God by Mark 7:1-13 Jesus: “You nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down.” your tradition that you have handed down.” “They worship me in vain, teaching as doctrines “They worship me in vain, teaching as doctrines the traditions of men.”the traditions of men.”

False Doctrines in CatholicismFalse Doctrines in Catholicism

Prayer to God through Mary and the saints. 1 Prayer to God through Mary and the saints. 1 Timothy 2:5Timothy 2:5

Original Sin. → Infant Baptism Ezekiel 18:19-Original Sin. → Infant Baptism Ezekiel 18:19-2020

Transsubstantiation. (The elements in the Transsubstantiation. (The elements in the Lord’s Supper literally become flesh and blood) Lord’s Supper literally become flesh and blood)

Lord’s Supper is a sacrifice. Luke 22:19 “Do this Lord’s Supper is a sacrifice. Luke 22:19 “Do this in remembrance of me.”in remembrance of me.”

Immaculate Conception. (Mary was born from a Immaculate Conception. (Mary was born from a virgin)virgin)

False Doctrines (cont.)False Doctrines (cont.)

Sacramentalism. Power in the act rather than in Sacramentalism. Power in the act rather than in faith and repentance.faith and repentance.

Special class of Christian priests 1 Peter 2:9 2 Special class of Christian priests 1 Peter 2:9 2 Corinthians 5:17-20.Corinthians 5:17-20.

Purgatory. Works salvation.Purgatory. Works salvation.

Salvation is found, not “in Christ” but in the church. Salvation is found, not “in Christ” but in the church. Irenaeus: Irenaeus: She [ie. the church] is the entrance to life; all She [ie. the church] is the entrance to life; all others are thieves and robbers.others are thieves and robbers.

Traditions which “nullify the Word of God”Traditions which “nullify the Word of God”

Church calendarChurch calendar

Statues, icons, vestmentsStatues, icons, vestments

Celibacy of priestsCelibacy of priests

Monks, nuns, asceticismMonks, nuns, asceticism

Popes, cardinals, archbishops, etc.Popes, cardinals, archbishops, etc.