Showing posts with label Bible in 52 weeks. Show all posts

Monday, December 12, 2011

Titus 3:5 - Is Baptism Necessary for Salvation?

English: Gian Lorenzo Bernini - Dove of the Holy Spirit (ca. 1660, stained glass, Throne of St. Peter, St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican)

Does Titus 3:5 “Washing for Regeneration”

Mean that Baptism is Necessary for Salvation?

Dr. Jay A. Quine

Titus 3:5

He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit.

The word “regeneration” is a noun of action (like “love,” or “war” or “wash”). When put in the genitive case, it can be taken two ways: either subjective genitive or objective genitive.

If it were objective genitive (“regeneration” as the object of the verbal thought) it would read, “washing for regeneration,” where the washing produces the regeneration.

If it were subjective genitive (“regeneration” as the subject of the verbal thought) it would read, “washing of (or even “by”) regeneration,” where the regeneration produces the cleansing.

Which is it?

The answer is found in the next phrase! CONTEXT saves the day once again!!!

The phrase “renewing by the Holy Spirit” is the exact same kind of genitive construction. This cannot be taken as an objective genitive or else you would have “renewing for the Holy Spirit.” But clearly it is the Holy Spirit who does the renewing, not that we are renewed then receive the Holy Spirit. So this phrase must be a subjective genitive “renewing of (or even “by”) the Holy Spirit.”

Since this second phrase is subjective genitive it is VERY LIKELY that Paul intended the two phrases to be subjective genitive. This would be normal Greek syntax. Furthermore, Paul frequently strings many genitives together to be used the same way as here. It would be VERY UNUSUAL for him to use one and then the other uses of the genitive case back to back.

Therefore, Titus 3:5 is not saying that baptism (the “washing”) is FOR regeneration, but that the washing is of what regeneration produces, namely, washing BY regeneration.

Monday, November 28, 2011

How to Interpret The Parables of Jesus

Book Recommendation

Interpreting the Parables of Jesus -- Some Helpful Notes

First, look at some Figures of Speech used in the Parables

1. Simile – a stated likeness.

Example: “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves, therefore be as shrewd as snakes ad as innocent as doves.” Matt 10:16

2. Metaphor – an unstated or implied likeness.

“I am the gate for the sheep,” John 10:7

3. Proverbs – a short powerful statement used to communicate a specific truth.

“Man was not made for the Sabbath, but the Sabbath was made for man.” Mark 2

4. Parable – a story transferring truth through a specific known realm to an specific unknown realm. OT Example: 2 Sam 12:1-4 where Nathan reconstructs David’s sin in the form of a parable.

5. Allegory – a story not based on reality to communicate an unknown truth. OT Example: Judges 9

Christ’s Use of Parables

Amount of use: Approximately 1/3 of His teaching is in the form of parables.

Reason He used Parables:

“The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. This is why I speak to them in parables: Though seeking, they do not see; though hearing they do not understand. In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.” Matt 13:11-14.

Point: Jesus used the parables to reveal truth to some, but to hide it from others. He did this because he did not want to add more responsibility to unbelievers by imparting truth to them for which they would be held responsible.

Background to His use of Parables

1. John the Baptist calls the people to repent and thus prepare themselves to meet the Messiah and be received into His kingdom.

2. Jesus publicly offered himself as the Messiah to a waiting nation, Matt 4:17.

3. Jesus authenticates His message by the miracles He performed, Matt 8—9.

4. The people express willingness to accept Him as Savior and Sovereign, but ask their leadership, “Could this be the Son of David? Matt 12:23.

5. The leaders ascribe Christ’s miracles to the power of Satan, and therefore state that He could not be the Messiah.

6. Christ in turn indicates that He was setting the nation aside and withdrawing from that generation the offer of the kingdom. The Davidic Theocracy would be postponed until some future time of His return.

7. Christ teaches in parables certain truths of God’s program in view of the postponement of the Kingdom.

How to Interpret the Parables

In a parable no attempt is made to transfer from an unknown realm to another unknown realm. The transference is always from a known realm to an unknown realm.

First Principle: The focus is the Sovereign Rule of God in view of the Kingdom of Heaven / God.

Second Principle: The information given is previously “unknown” (described as “mysteries of the kingdom”). It is information which is unknown because of the rejection and postponement of the Kingdom until Christ’s second advent.

Third Principle: Observe the context. Each parable was designed to solve a question or problem His hearers were or would be facing. Example: Luke 11:5-7 stems from the request from verse 1, “Lord, teach us to pray.”

Fourth Principle: Study the parable itself to determine what point is at issue. Focus on the point, and not on other features not at issue.

Fifth Principle: Study the allusion made---the reality or known realm upon which the parable and its point is based. The interpreter must therefore be thoroughly conversant with the history, geography, culture and customs of Biblical times.

Then interpret the parable. Enjoy the process. It will enrich your life.Quine

Saturday, August 27, 2011

How to Get More of God's Grace

Statue of King David by Nicolas Cordier in the...

King David, Nicola Cordier,
post by Jay QuineJames 4:15 "Humble"
Many of us learned a definition of grace as unmerited favor. We cannot get more grace by performing better; we do not get less grace by doing worse. Yet the Bible says it is possible to get more grace. “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humbled.” Want to be in the zone of God’s grace? Be humbled. Be crushed. Be humiliated.

When King David fled Jerusalem in fear of his own son Absalom, he was humiliated. Yet he said, “God may return me to worship here, but even if He does not, He will do what is good.” David gave his reputation, his future, his family to God. He was transparent and made no attempt to hide it. Be humbled, and enjoy the grace of God.

Friday, August 26, 2011

Be Hospitable to All

1 Peter 4:9 The Forgotten Gift of Hospitality

Do your guests feel welcome? Turn it around; Have you ever gone to someone’s house and immediately felt like you are part of the family? How do they do it? It is one thing to be treated as a special guest, but quite another to feel such hospitality and be so relaxed to let your guard down and be yourself.

The Bible tells us that the person with the gift of hospitality creates that warm, welcoming, refreshing atmosphere so even strangers are treated as friends. Hospitality is a spiritual gift that in our dining-out culture is not so evident today. Give it a try; and employ it in serving one another, as a good steward of the abundant grace of God.

Other stuff on giftedness

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Why Do You Hurt Those Who Helped You?

Do Good to All Men-- even the one who helped you! Romans 12:9

Our family has three cats, one rabbit, a hamster and a lizard. I said to one of the cats “do not bite the hand that feeds you.” I have often found that the people we help the most are often the ones that hurt you the most.

The bible directs us to “do good to all men.” For the destitute on the street corner, have a care package pre-made and ready to hand out. To the teacher at school, write a note of appreciation. To your assistant at work, explain how much you appreciate their work. Give your children a hug. Pray for your friends. Ask God to help your enemies. Let me, Dr. Jay Quine remind you that only God is good. But he uses agents like you to carry out his character to others. No one is good, so let the Lord work through you.

Thursday, August 18, 2011

A Crucified but Risen Christ! by Jay A. Quine

Christ before Pilate, Mihály Munkácsy, 1881

Jesus Crucified!!! Matthew 27:22
The Romans kept a firm grip on peace, enforced by the power of the state. Every traitor was tried, and if guilty, nailed to a cross to die. Hanging on the cross, a traitor may continue to rail against Rome, but Rome always won. Pontius Pilate held the record for more crucifixions of any governor. He maintained order. So it was significant that he declared Jesus innocent. But the hardened crowd demanded, “Crucify Him. Crucify Him.” So Jesus would join the thousands so crucified as they nailed his arms and ankles to a cross. And like all others, Jesus died. It looked like Rome won again. This is Dr. Jay Quine, remember the crucifixion of Jesus, and that this time He rose to change Rome and the world forever.

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Remember the Cup and the New Covenant, by Quine

Jesus: Remember me. Posted by QuineThe "Cup" of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 11

At the Passover meal a Jewish family was to remember the blessings God gave the exodus generation. One of those blessings was the law of Moses. But the prophets promised a new law would come called the new covenant. At the end of the Passover celebrated with the disciples Jesus held up a cup and said, “This cup is the new covenant by my blood.” The cup represents the new covenant. We are to remember this word when we celebrate communion together. As you hold the cup think about the new covenant. God promised the forgiveness of sins, and changing our heart of stone to a heart of flesh. Jesus has done this for us, by his death. This is Dr. Jay Quine, remember the word.

A Snap-Shot Summary of Romans, Jay A. Quine

QUINE’S SUMMARY OF THE BOOK OF ROMANS

INTRODUCTION

The Greetings and Introduction of Paul

1:1 Paul Describes Himself

1:2-7 Knowing Christ Results in the Obedience of Faith

1:8-15 Paul's desire to visit Rome

1:16-17 The Righteousness of God is Revealed by Faith

1:1 - 17

DOCTRINE OF JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH

God Righteously Condemns the Human Race

1:18-32 The Willful Rebel is Condemned

2:1-16 The Self-Righteous is Condemned

2:17-3:8 The Jew is Condemned

3:9-20 All Who Ever Lived Are Condemned

1:18 - 3:20

God is Righteous in Saving Sinners

3:21-31 The Provision of Righteousness by Faith

4:1-25 Abraham Illustrates Righteousness by Faith

5:1-11 Our Expectation from being Justified

5:12-21 An Explanation of Imputed Righteousness

3:21 - 5:21

God is Righteous in Sanctifying Believers

6:1-23 The Believer's Freedom From Sin

7:1-25 The Believer's Freedom From the Law

8:1-11 The Believer's Relationship to the Holy Spirit

8:12-39 The Believer's Relationship to Christ and Secure Eternity

6:1 - 8:39

God is Righteous in His Dealings with Israel

9:1-29 God was Righteous in Choosing Israel

9:30 - 10:21 God is Righteous in Rejecting Israel

11:1-36 God is Righteous in Restoring Israel

9:1 -11:36

LIVING IN RESPONSE TO GOD’S GRACE

God is Righteous in Morphing Our Lives

12:1-2 Mind Morph Described

12:3-8 Mind Morph Shown by Service

12:9-21 Mind Morph Shown by Love

13:1-7 Mind Morph Shown by Civil Obedience

13:8-14 Mind Morph Shown by Behavior

14:1-21 Mind Morph Shown by Giving up Rights

15:1-13 Mind Morph Shown by Agreement with Christ

12:1 - 15:13

CONCLUSION

Paul’s Ambitions Plans and Greetings to Friends

15:14-33 Paul’s Ambitions Plans

16:1-16 Paul’s Friends; The Call of Rufus

16:17-20 Don’t be Pray; Obey

16:21-27 The Message Resulting in the Obedience by Faith

15:14 - 16:27

Friday, August 12, 2011

Jay Quine address the "Benefit" of Old Testament Promises

Torah inside of the former Glockengasse synago...

Romans 6:21-22 "Benefit"
If my neighbors tore down their house and built a multi-million dollar mansion, the value of my house would increase. I did nothing, but as a third party I receive the benefit of another’s expense. That’s the concept the Bible uses for the benefit we have from God’s promises in the Old Testament. We are blessed by the promises given to Israel. This is Dr. Jay Quine. Remember the word “Benefit”. What benefit were you deriving from the things of which you are now ashamed? But now being freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome eternal life. Thank God for our neighbor Israel as you enjoy the benefits and blessings of eternal life today.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Jay Quine: Remember the Word "Angel"

The Guardian Angel, Oil on canvas, 225 x 143 c...

Guardian Angels in the Bible, post QuineHebrews 1:14

My cousin once told me she couldn’t wait to get to heaven when she would be changed into an angel and fly on wings. Is that what will happen to us? The Bible makes it clear that you and I are human, and angels are, well angels. We will always be human and they will always be angels. In fact, their job is to serve us. The concept of guardian angels is found in Hebrews 1:14. They are “ministering spirits, sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation.” This is Dr. Jay Quine. Remember the word, “angel”, not that you will ever be one, but they are in some way serving us even now. Is one in your car next to you, or is he riding on the hood. Thank God for your guardian.

First Peter - Submission's Meter

Written by the Apostle Peter, c. A.D. 64

By reciting the greatness of God Who called them through the Gospel, recalling the example of Christ, and by expounding both positive and negative principles of conduct inherent in their election, Peter exhorts and encourages believers to live in hope and practical holiness with a view to convert those who viewed their faith with suspicion. Peter wrote from Rome around A.D. 64.

Chapter 1:1—2:10 Christian Salvation

After identifying his readers as believers living in various provinces of Asia Minor (1:1-2), Peter describes the greatness of their salvation (1:3-12). Their faith contains a confident expectation of the future ("living hope," 1:3-5), yielding present joy (1:6-9), based on the past expectancy of the prophets to the amazement of the angels (1:10-12). Their salvation has certain results: a practical separation from sin (1:13-16), deep reverence for God (1:17-21), and a heart-felt love for others (1:22-25). Finally, their salvation has as its goal their maturity (2:1-3), and serving others before God as believer-priests (2:4-10).

Chapter 2:11—3:11 Christian Submission

Because non-Christians in their community looked upon their faith with suspicion, Peter exhorts his readers to evangelize them through their example of excellent living by obeying civil authority (2:11-17), submitting to their masters/employers (2:18-25), maintaining peaceful marriages (3:1-7), and by living in peace and being a blessing to others before God (3:8-12).

Chapter 3:12—5:14 Christian Suffering

Even though they were persecuted for their faith, Peter encourages them to continue expressing their faith in their lives (3:13-17), just as Christ did in His suffering (3:18-22). Peter reminds them that the purpose for suffering is to mature them and grant them the opportunity to represent the gospel to others (4:1-19). Finally, Peter encourages church leaders to enjoy leading God's people knowing that God cares for them all (5:1-14).

Quine's View of the Key Verse: 1 Peter 3:8-9

"To sum up, let all be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing."

Hope for All - The Gospel of Luke, by Jay Quine

The Gospel of Luke

Written by Luke (in Caesarea or Rome), c. AD 60

Luke wrote his gospel to compile an account of the life and ministry of Jesus to show that He was the incarnate Son of God who became the son of man, and although He is the Messiah for Israel, He came with a global offer of salvation to provide a way for any to enter the Kingdom of God.

Chapter 1:1—4:13 Jesus’ Relationship with Man is World-Wide

Throughout this entire section, whether at the birth announcement or upon His baptism, Jesus is declared to be one who has come to save “all peoples” of the earth.

Chapter 4:14—9:50 Jesus’ Ministry is Global

Compared with the other Gospel accounts, Luke records Jesus’ visit to “other cities” in Galilee (5:12), and beyond “from one city and village to another” (8:1). This global perspective is verified in His explanation of the Gentile Centurion’s response, “not even in Israel have I found such great faith” (7:9).

Chapter 9:51—19:27 Jesus’ Global Ministry Climaxes in Jerusalem

This major didactic section of Luke’s gospel records Christ’s teaching concerning the coming kingdom. The section begins with the sending of the 70 to proclaim the message (chapter 10) and ends with the reminder that regardless of position, the Kingdom of God is available to everyone -- by faith (19:1-27).

Chapter 19:28—23:56 The Condemnation of Jesus has Universal Efficacy

This section records the arrest, trials, and crucifixion of Jesus, and through the lips of the Gentile Centurion, Luke affirms the Savior’s innocence to the world.

Chapter 24:1-53 Victory for Any by Jesus

Affirming the angel’s announcement to the shepherds (2:10-11), the resurrected Jesus instructs His disciples that “forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in His name to all the nations.” His salvation is sufficient for any who believe.

Quine's View of the Key Verse: Luke 2:10-11

“And the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’”

Summary of the Gospel of Mark

A Composite of the Gospel of Mark

Written by Mark, c. AD 54-68 (during Nero’s Reign)\

Mark recorded selected events from the life and ministry of Jesus to present the gospel to those in Rome by proving that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of Man, and Son of God Who came to serve mankind even unto death.

Chapters 1:1—8:26 Jesus Serves the Multitudes

The Son of God is introduced through the ministry of John the Baptist identifying Him, and after baptizing Him the voice of God confirming Him as the “Son”. After Satan’s attempt, Jesus ministers in Galilee and beyond (Tyre, Decapolis), demonstrating His power and authority over all creation (even the demons address him as the “holy one of God”) thereby authenticating His message.

Chapters 8:27—10:52 Jesus Serves the Disciples

After Peter’s dramatic identification of Jesus as the Christ (8:27-33), Jesus instructs them in discipleship. A true disciple is a true servant, not only of God, but of others (10:45).

Chapters 11:1—16:20 Jesus Serves the World

Riding into Jerusalem as the King did nothing to convince the leaders of Israel that Jesus was the Son of God. In His teaching in Jerusalem Jesus demonstrates His infinite wisdom, and that even David looked forward to this day. But the leaders reject Him, and after the Passover meal He is arrested, tried, and crucified. It is His death where He exemplifies His service, and that He is the Son of God, recognized even by the soldier standing by. Thus, no tomb could hold Him.

Quine's view of the Key Verse: Mark 10:45

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Jay Quine on the Gospel According to Matthew

The Gospel of Matthew - an astonishing message!

Matthew wrote to show unbelieving Jews in Palestine that Jesus is the promised Messiah, and King. He also wrote to encourage those converted that although He has turned to Gentiles, the Lord has reserved a future for Israel. Matthew’s focus is therefore the Messianic/Kingly character of Jesus while showing that as a consequence of being rejected, God now looks to Gentiles in the current administration of His program.

Chapters 1—4 Early Life and Ministry of Jesus

The genealogy (from Abraham-David-Captivity-Jesus) confirms Jesus as the promised King. The announcement to Joseph identifies the Child as the one who brings salvation. In His baptism, not only is He identified with John’s message of repentance, but is anointed (as kings were) by the Spirit. Even in temptation He remains noble.

Chapters 5—9 The King Proclaims His Standards; Reveals His Authority

The King offers a heightened standard—one of nobility (5:1-16); an internal (not only demonstrable) focus; a gallant lifestyle (6:1—7:12). Jesus then invites all to be citizens of the Kingdom (7:13-29). Punctuating his invitation, He heals the clean and unclean (8:1-22), commands the natural and supernatural (8:23—9:17), and restores life, sight, and sound (9:18-38). His claim to forgive sin is clearly of God.

Chapters 10:1—16:12 The King and His Kingdom Offer is Rejected

Even though rejected and accused of being empowered by Satan (10:1--11:1), the King still extends peace and rest to those burdened by an oppressive religious system (11:28-30). Through parables, Jesus explains to the disciples God’s new administration.

Chapters 16:13—20:28 The King Reveals Himself to the Disciples

After explaining that He must die, Jesus reveals His transfigured glorious state to three disciples (16—17). He institutes administrative (church discipline) and lifestyle changes (divorce, rewards) applicable in the new administration (18—20).

Chapters 20:29—25:46 The King’s Presentation and Predictions

The King rides into His city; is rejected by the people; is challenged by the leaders. After announcing judgment upon Israel, Jesus responds to the disciple’s questions, explaining events and circumstances leading to His return.

Chapters 26—28 The King’s Passion to the Cross and Resurrection

The trials and crucifixion demonstrate the King’s Messianic service to His people. Yet, it is not in death but in His resurrection that His claim as King is validated. He sends the disciples to preach the Kingdom message to the world.

Key Verse: Matthew 11:28—30

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls, for My yoke is easy, and My load is light.”

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

“Spiritual Surprise” Ephesians 4:7-10 by Dr. Jay A. Quine

Image by Western via Flickr

“Spiritual Surprise”

Ephesians 4:7-10

Jay Quine's legal experience includes working as deputy prosecuting attorney and municipal court judge in Washington State. Dr. Jay A. Quine has also been in private legal practice focusing on business and corporate law and continues to provide consulting for religious and non-profit organizations concerning legal issues.

Dr. Jay A. Quine received his Masters in 1990 and Ph.D. in 1997 from the Dallas Theological Seminary; J. D. from the University of Idaho College of law in 1983 and his B. S. from Washington State University in 1980.

As we get older our lives significantly change. For example, once retired, we are no longer preoccupied with how to make a living, and the tasks before us at work. Likewise, our bodies change, so that even though we have the time to take lessons, we physically may not be able to play the piano like we have always dreamed—at least not learn as well as a child with nimble agile fingers. We can’t sing like we used to. We can’t think as clearly; bake as well; our timing is off. We don’t have the physical strength of our youth anymore. As the reality of aging truths mount it can conjure up a fear. “Afraid,” one older gentleman told me upon retirement, “I’m afraid of becoming useless.” One of the worst horrors of the human soul is the fear of being useless.

A study of spiritual gifts may surprise us in that we soon see we can lay aside the fear of becoming useless. It is not because God promises to keep us strong, or sharp, or on key as we grow old. Instead He promises to give us a gift that won’t fade, but only continue to mature and get better with age. This is because it is a supernatural thing—not dependent upon us or our decaying physical minds and bodies, but dependent upon the Spirit of God. And because it is a supernatural thing, not a natural but a spiritual gift, it has a unique purpose. As a result of fulfilling this purpose, that haunting feeling of uselessness vanishes.

Your spiritual gift is by God’s sovereign grace.

Ephesians 4:7

“But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift.”

Make sure you notice two things in this verse. First, spiritual gifts are given to “each one of us.” Each and every Christian, whether young or old, experienced or new in the faith, advanced or primitive, has a spiritual gift. We may not know what it is or how to use it, but the Lord has given it.

This leads to the second observation, that these gifts are “given.” They are bestowed by God. They are not things we acquired by our training (even though gifts can be developed as we mature) or by degree. Just like salvation, they are fully given as gifts by virtue of God’s grace.

However, unlike salvation they differ “according to the measure of Christ’s gift.” In other words, the Lord measures out a certain gift for one person, and a different gift for another all under His selection and control.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Monday, November 28, 2011

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Saturday, August 27, 2011

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Friday, August 26, 2011

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Sunday, August 14, 2011

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QUINE’S SUMMARY OF THE BOOK OF ROMANS

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Wednesday, August 10, 2011

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