Articles & Study Papers
by Larry J. Walker
© 1995-2006
P.O. Box 36, La Pine, Oregon 97739 USA
Table of Contents
The
Meaning of "Paradise"
What did Jesus promise the thief on the cross in response to his dying request,
"Remember me when you come in your kingdom"? Jesus assured the man, "You shall
be with me in Paradise." Many use this passage to document their belief that
heaven is the reward of the righteous. But is this what Jesus meant? Just what
is "Paradise?" Let's take a closer look at this classic section of Scripture to
find out what it really means.
Tale of two
Citations
Many claim
that Ephesians 2:15 and Colossians 2:14 do away with the laws of the Old
Testament. Properly understood, these passages reveal critically important
truths of New Covenant theology that uphold the law of God for New Testament
Christians.
Pentecost
As is the case with all of the Holy Days of the Bible
that offer "a shadow of things to come" in the plan of God (Colossians 2:16-17),
Pentecost is rich with meanings for us today. It celebrates the fact that we
have received "the firstfruits of the Spirit" (Romans 8:23) and that God's
people are "firstfruits" of God's spiritual creation (James 1:18) in
anticipation of a special spiritual harvest yet to be reaped. In fact God has a
much larger harvest in mind even beyond this early "firstfruits" harvest.
The Real "Lord’s
Supper"
Many churches conduct a service they call "The Lord's Supper."
Variations of this ceremony are also dubbed "Communion" and "Eucharist" in other
churches. What does "Lord's supper" refer to? The expression occurs only
in 1 Corinthians 11:20. Could this be the official name for the new ceremony
that Jesus instituted for the Church? If so, why is this term found only in
this one passage of scripture? What about "Communion" and "Eucharist?" What
does the Bible say about this most important subject?
What Does it Mean to be "Born
Again"?
What does it mean to be "born again?" Does it refer to an event that occurs in
this life? Or does it occur at the resurrection?
The
Promise of the Parakletos
How should we understand what Jesus meant in John
14 regarding the promise of a "Helper" or "Comforter"?
Understanding
the Fortress Mentality
A few years ago, during the doctrinal crisis we were engaged in at the time,
I found myself battling an emotional reaction that I had never experienced
before. In the midst of a heavy bombardment of theological material, I felt a
wave of fear sweep over me. My thoughts went something like this: "What if
we are wrong?". Maybe we are just a bunch of wet-behind-the ears, smart
alecks who don’t know what we’re talking about. Maybe the mainstream
churches are right after all."
Pro’s & Cons of
Godly Leadership
We all experience leadership—both as leaders and as those being led.
Leadership can be found in the home, on the job and in church. Leadership is a
fundamental part of being an elder. The principles of God’s law are the same
in any frame of reference.
Head-to-Head and
Heart-to-Heart
Communication is one of the most important processes of human life, yet in
many ways an area of the greatest need for improvement.
A Critical Look at Colossians 2:16-17
Further Information on Colossians 2:16-17
The Story of Rest, The Rest of the Story
Which Commandments Did Jesus Break?
What Do you Mean, "New Covenant"
Points & Lessons from Jerusalem Conference (Acts 15)
Summary Points on the Law & Covenants
Church Government, What Does the Bible Say?
Let’s Stop the Rancor Over Rank
These study papers may be freely duplicated and distributed in the interest of truth and understanding. Any commercial use of this paper without the written permission of the author is strictly prohibited. Comments and constructive criticism are always welcome. Address Larry J. Walker, P.O. Box 36, La Pine, OR 97739.
Copyright © 1995-1996 by Larry J. Walker, minister, United Church of God. All rights reserved. Internet address: lwalker@ucgbend.org
