A Comparison of the Progressive Dispensationalism of John MacArthur to the Covenant Theology of Reformed Baptists

Posted on March 19, 2022September 4, 2024 by markwchristy

By Mark W. Christy, PhD (Note: The author of the article affirms John MacArthur’s progressive dispensationalism as well as his position on the doctrines of grace. Since many in the Reformed community also uphold the doctrines of grace, this article is meant to help both covenantalists and dispensationalists better understand the key differences between their positions.) Given the increased liberalization of many Baptist churches, more and more of their parishioners are turning to Reformed...

Evidence that Ananias and Sapphira were Saved

Posted on February 28, 2022March 1, 2022 by markwchristy

By Mark W. Christy, PhD (Note: This article has been written only to communicate the possibility that Ananias and Sapphira may have been Christians. Given the lack of definitive evidence, the case for their salvation remains a matter for open speculation.) Luke, in Acts 2:37-47, presents the first church as a utopia devoted to the love of God and each other, so much so that members “began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need.” Wh...

Paul’s Call to Humble Self-Examination: Harmonizing 1 Corinthians 4:3 and 11:28

Posted on January 22, 2022January 22, 2022 by markwchristy

By Mark W. Christy, PhD In 1 Corinthians 11:28, Paul adamantly proclaims that “a man must examine himself.”[1] This, however, may surprise his readers given his earlier admission in 4:3: “I do not even examine myself.” To resolve these seemingly divergent statements, this article will seek to determine Paul’s underlying meaning in 4:2-5. For Paul, his refusal to self-examine in 4:3 is specifically related to his deferral to God’s judgment in His heavenly court. For this reason, he accords...

Was Paul Guilty of Reviling the High Priest?: A Hermeneutical Study of Acts 23:1-5

Posted on January 22, 2022January 22, 2022 by markwchristy

By Mark W. Christy, PhD Standing before the Council, Paul confronted the high priest Ananias for his unlawful act which was committed when Ananias ordered that Paul be struck even though Paul had not yet been accused, much less been found guilty, of a crime (Acts 23:1-2). Specifically, Paul reproached the high priest by saying, “God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall! Do you sit to try me according to the Law, and in violation of the Law order me to be struck?” (23:3).[1] Those who...

Avoiding the Hermeneutical Trap of Arminianism: Part 7 – 2 Peter 3:9

Posted on November 15, 2021November 15, 2021 by markwchristy

By Mark W. Christy, PhD (This series has been adapted from several sermons that covered verses relied upon by Arminians to defend their stance. In order to properly undergird their position, the Arminians are tasked with finding clear biblical support for the human will being an active part (and therefore, completely free and beyond the control of God’s sovereign will) of the salvation process. If this can be accomplished, then they must, of necessity, engage the verses that appear to direct...