Dr. Couch, I understand that some of the best Greek teachers along with yourself hold that the Jews in the book of Hebrews had not accepted Christ as their Savior. They were "hearers" but they had not believed in Him as their Lord as required for salvation. I have felt the same thing as I have read Hebrews. Is this correct?
ANSWER: Yes, you are right. The great Dr. Kenneth Wuest who taught at Moody, and who was one of the best Greek professors of the last century held to this position. As you know, I taught at Moody and was influenced by his spirituality and scholarship. He wrote:
"These Jews had allowed the Holy Spirit to carry them along to the place of repentance. Now … if they should refuse the faith by which they could lay hold of the High Priest as their Savior, and return to the abrogated sacrifices of the First Testament (the animal sacrifices), it would be impossible to bring them back to the act of repentance again. … They refused the light and turned back into the darkness of sin and continued unbelief, so these Hebrews were in danger of doing a like thing. These Jews were like the Hebrew spies at Kadesh-Barnea who saw the land and had the very fruit in their hands, and yet turned back (4:1-13). They were like many sinners who heard the message and then said "The world is too much with us," and then turned back into sin.
They were partakers of the Holy Spirit but this does not mean they were possessors! The Spirit had led them into the act of repentance. The next step would be that of faith. But here they were in danger of turning their backs upon the Spirit and returning again to the sacrifices. They had been led into repentance. Now should they fall away from their profession of faith in the Messiah and back to the sacrifices, it would be impossible to renew them to repentance (6:6-8). The apostle warned these unsaved Hebrews from making such a thing a reality.
Before I had read Wuest's comments I had already come to the position that these Jews were not saved but only professors who had not truly trusted in Christ as Savior! I am very surprised at believers who do not study carefully the Word of God! They are just copy-kats who simply quote what others have said.
Thanks for asking.
--Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
IT REALLY IS ALL OVER!
The majority of Americans will vote for Obama, and this trend to elect liberal men will grow even more so in the far future. Our nation has indeed turned socialistic and liberal. More than likely Obama will get 80% of the black vote, 70% of the Hispanic vote, 70% of union votes, and 100% of all homosexual votes. Too, he will more than likely get 75% of those in their twenties and who are attending our liberal state colleges.
These racial and age groups just don't get it! And with the death of Christianity and the silencing of the same, the apostasy is here. I don't want to take the wrong credit but about three years ago I was saying we were into the Christian and cultural apostasy prophesied in Scripture. Others are now echoing the same tune. Christians need to prepare themselves for persecution; it's on the way and is not far off. The churches are dying and shrinking on the vine. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
These racial and age groups just don't get it! And with the death of Christianity and the silencing of the same, the apostasy is here. I don't want to take the wrong credit but about three years ago I was saying we were into the Christian and cultural apostasy prophesied in Scripture. Others are now echoing the same tune. Christians need to prepare themselves for persecution; it's on the way and is not far off. The churches are dying and shrinking on the vine. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Monday, February 27, 2012
COURSE ON PROPHECY
I will be doing a 3 hour credit course on Prophecy for Scofield Seminary of California (No relation to Scofield Ministries). It will be on the undergraduate and graduate levels. It will not be finished for a month or so. You will have to sign up with Scofield before you can start the study with me. There will be books to purchase, though there will also be some books supplied free for the student body. Email me (drcouch@scofieldprophecystudies.org) if you are interested. There will be notes and CD narration supplied. --Dr. Mal Couch(2/12)
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch (#342)
Dr. Couch, what is the veil in 2 Corinthians 3:15-16?
ANSWER: It is a covering that keeps the Jews from understanding spiritual truth. Because of their hardened heart, the Law when read, has a blinding effect. Now it is not a "blinder" in itself but the Jews misinterpret the Law and turn it into an instrument of self-works in order to obtain salvation. The verses read: "But to this day whenever Moses [the Law] is read, a veil lies over the hearts of the Jews; but whenever a man turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away."
Isaiah 25:6-8 says that there is also a veil that covers the spiritual understanding of all peoples. In the Millennium, from Jerusalem, that covering that is a form of spiritual blindness will be removed. The Lord of Hosts will prepare a lavish banquet "for all peoples" on this mountain (in Jerusalem). He "will swallow up the coverings [the veils] which are over all peoples, even the veil which is stretched over all nations" (vs. 6-7). Psalm 22:27-28 confirms this. "And all the families of the nations will worship before Thee, for the kingdom (Millennial) is the Lord's, and He [will] rule over the nations."
The verses go on and speak of the Messiah but they point out that He indeed is God! "He [the Messiah] will swallow up death for all time, and the Lord God will wipe tears away from all faces." "In that day" He will come, "our God for whom we have waited that He might save us." Notice that the coming One, the Messiah, is God! "This is the Lord for whom we have waited; let us rejoice and be glad in His salvation" (v. 9).
Israel is in blindness because they stumble over the meaning of the Law. But the nations are in blindness because God has in the past rejected them. But the day of redemption will be completed and finalized in the messianic Kingdom. God will "come" in the person of the Messiah and removed blindness from the eyes of the Gentiles, and, He will have finished up and finalized the issue of death "for all time."
On Isaiah 25:6-8 Unger writes: "The blindness focuses on ignorance of the way to eternal life an immortality, first to be removed from the Jews (Psalm 102:13; Rom. 11:12), and then from the Gentiles (Psalm 102:15-16, 21-22)."
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
ANSWER: It is a covering that keeps the Jews from understanding spiritual truth. Because of their hardened heart, the Law when read, has a blinding effect. Now it is not a "blinder" in itself but the Jews misinterpret the Law and turn it into an instrument of self-works in order to obtain salvation. The verses read: "But to this day whenever Moses [the Law] is read, a veil lies over the hearts of the Jews; but whenever a man turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away."
Isaiah 25:6-8 says that there is also a veil that covers the spiritual understanding of all peoples. In the Millennium, from Jerusalem, that covering that is a form of spiritual blindness will be removed. The Lord of Hosts will prepare a lavish banquet "for all peoples" on this mountain (in Jerusalem). He "will swallow up the coverings [the veils] which are over all peoples, even the veil which is stretched over all nations" (vs. 6-7). Psalm 22:27-28 confirms this. "And all the families of the nations will worship before Thee, for the kingdom (Millennial) is the Lord's, and He [will] rule over the nations."
The verses go on and speak of the Messiah but they point out that He indeed is God! "He [the Messiah] will swallow up death for all time, and the Lord God will wipe tears away from all faces." "In that day" He will come, "our God for whom we have waited that He might save us." Notice that the coming One, the Messiah, is God! "This is the Lord for whom we have waited; let us rejoice and be glad in His salvation" (v. 9).
Israel is in blindness because they stumble over the meaning of the Law. But the nations are in blindness because God has in the past rejected them. But the day of redemption will be completed and finalized in the messianic Kingdom. God will "come" in the person of the Messiah and removed blindness from the eyes of the Gentiles, and, He will have finished up and finalized the issue of death "for all time."
On Isaiah 25:6-8 Unger writes: "The blindness focuses on ignorance of the way to eternal life an immortality, first to be removed from the Jews (Psalm 102:13; Rom. 11:12), and then from the Gentiles (Psalm 102:15-16, 21-22)."
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch (#341)
Dr. Couch, how do we explain Christ dying for the sins of those believers in the OT?
ANSWER: The Bible speaks clearly on this issue. The most obvious passage is Romans 3:25. "God displayed [Christ] publicly as a propitiation [place of mercy] in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed." Hodge rightly says "The sins before the coming of Christ (Acts 14:10; 17:30; Heb. 9:15). In this sense Christ tasted sin for every man (Heb. 2:9)."
The ceremonial offerings of bulls and goats never justified the OT believer. The writer of Hebrews notes: "For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins" (Heb. 10:4). The OT believers had already been told this. "In whole burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin Thou [God] hast taken no pleasure" (Psa. 40:6). It was revealed then in verse 7 that the coming of the Messiah was in order to be the One who would take away sin. "Then I [the Messiah] said, 'Behold I have come'" in order to do just that! That is, take away sin!
The Jews were very familiar with Isaiah 53 and the prophecy of the Suffering Servant. Verse 12 makes it certain that by His coming death He would "justify the many." Hebrews goes on and reminds the reader that the priests of the OT were offering sacrifices "which [could] never take away sins" (Heb. 10:11). But when Christ died He made one offering and sacrifice "for sins for all time" and then "sat down at the right hand of God" (Heb. 10:12; Psa. 110:1). Finally: "For by one offering He has perfected [made complete] for all time those who are sanctified" (Heb. 10:14).
Hebrews 9:15 wraps up the argument: "And for this reason He is the mediator for a new covenant in order that since a death has taken place for the redemption of the transgressions that were committed under the first covenant, those who have been called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance." The Mosaic covenant ("the first covenant"} could not finish the issue of sin. Only the New covenant could by the substitutionary death of Christ!
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
ANSWER: The Bible speaks clearly on this issue. The most obvious passage is Romans 3:25. "God displayed [Christ] publicly as a propitiation [place of mercy] in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed." Hodge rightly says "The sins before the coming of Christ (Acts 14:10; 17:30; Heb. 9:15). In this sense Christ tasted sin for every man (Heb. 2:9)."
The ceremonial offerings of bulls and goats never justified the OT believer. The writer of Hebrews notes: "For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins" (Heb. 10:4). The OT believers had already been told this. "In whole burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin Thou [God] hast taken no pleasure" (Psa. 40:6). It was revealed then in verse 7 that the coming of the Messiah was in order to be the One who would take away sin. "Then I [the Messiah] said, 'Behold I have come'" in order to do just that! That is, take away sin!
The Jews were very familiar with Isaiah 53 and the prophecy of the Suffering Servant. Verse 12 makes it certain that by His coming death He would "justify the many." Hebrews goes on and reminds the reader that the priests of the OT were offering sacrifices "which [could] never take away sins" (Heb. 10:11). But when Christ died He made one offering and sacrifice "for sins for all time" and then "sat down at the right hand of God" (Heb. 10:12; Psa. 110:1). Finally: "For by one offering He has perfected [made complete] for all time those who are sanctified" (Heb. 10:14).
Hebrews 9:15 wraps up the argument: "And for this reason He is the mediator for a new covenant in order that since a death has taken place for the redemption of the transgressions that were committed under the first covenant, those who have been called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance." The Mosaic covenant ("the first covenant"} could not finish the issue of sin. Only the New covenant could by the substitutionary death of Christ!
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
Friday, February 24, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch (#340)
Dr. Couch, I have been reading about the Messianic Jewish movement and about how they believe in Jesus. But it seems many put their allegiance in following the Law of Moses. What can you say about them?
ANSWER: There is an explosion of Messianic assemblies here in this country, in Europe and even in Israel. For this I am most grateful. But many groups are not well taught dispensationally. They place themselves under the Law, feeling they have to culturally keep it as Jews. Where there are good dispensational instructors and teachers, this is not happening. In other words, they have a theological problem, and many do not realize their deficiency in this area.
There are certain passages of Scripture they need to thoroughly study: Acts 15 and the Jerusalem Council, the entire book of Galatians, and specific passages such as Romans 3:21-31; 4:13-15. However, what often happens is that the Messianic Jews will argue with these portions of Scripture. Some even go so far as to say that Paul was mistaken in his theology!
If you are confused, I hope you study through these verses, let them speak to you, and take them at face value.
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
ANSWER: There is an explosion of Messianic assemblies here in this country, in Europe and even in Israel. For this I am most grateful. But many groups are not well taught dispensationally. They place themselves under the Law, feeling they have to culturally keep it as Jews. Where there are good dispensational instructors and teachers, this is not happening. In other words, they have a theological problem, and many do not realize their deficiency in this area.
There are certain passages of Scripture they need to thoroughly study: Acts 15 and the Jerusalem Council, the entire book of Galatians, and specific passages such as Romans 3:21-31; 4:13-15. However, what often happens is that the Messianic Jews will argue with these portions of Scripture. Some even go so far as to say that Paul was mistaken in his theology!
If you are confused, I hope you study through these verses, let them speak to you, and take them at face value.
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch (#340)
Dr. Couch, have you ever heard of Cowboy Churches?
ANSWER: Yes, I have. Where I live that are many of them. And it grieves me because this is but a gimmick in order to attract attention for going to church. This is part of the Emerging Church mentality. Use any device in order to get people to come to the services.
Now I want to be clear, I am always glad when the gospel is given. And most of these churches seem conservative and not liberal. But they certainly are not churches as described by the apostle Paul. A church is for the teaching of the saints, giving forth of sound and solid doctrine. A sound church should be making clear the Scriptures and exegeting the Word of God. But these churches simply give short devotionals and have a lot of country music entertainment. Most of the messages are short devotionals with little substance.
Many bring their horses in order to ride around the grounds together when the devotional messages are over. Some have reported to me that you can see in the faces of the younger crowd that they cannot wait for the entertainment to be over so that they can get on with the bar-b-que and then the horse riding. Those coming like to dress up with their cowboy hats and boots. They are into the cowboy mystique and like to play at church, as cowboys!
Many of these churches meet out in pastures or in open barns. Now that does not bother me. To have a biblical church does not mean one has to meet in a church building! But what is really happening is that these cowboys want to continue to play cowboys on Sunday. They like the Western setting, the boots and the hats. And, they need to be honest as to what really attracts them to such meetings.
Most of the "preachers" each Sunday are not well-trained. In fact, they would resent someone saying they should be, in order to clearly present the Scriptures.
Some would argue, "But this cowboy emphasis gets the cowboys here!" But at what cost? If few show up to hear God's Word, without some showmanship attached to the services, this simply tells us that indeed we are in the apostasy and the departure from the truth!
I happen to have some distant relatives who started going to such a church out in West Texas. At first, they raved at how good it was but then they began to slip, and finally they stopped all together. The reason: there really was no substance to what they were hearing. It was all fun and games in order to attract a crowd!
What would you think if we started a Boat Church, or a Chess Church? People who like boating and enjoyed playing chess would show up, but would this be a church meant to teach and instruct believers in the Scriptures? But think about it! Why not a Boating or
Chess playing church? If I can do a Cowboy church, one gimmick is as good as the next!
What disappoints me the most is: Christians are not thinking! They justify their foolishness without analyzing what they are really doing. And many are willing to attend such a church and leave a good Bible teaching assembly. There is an old saying: "Any excuse will do!"
Cowboy churches will probably be but a passing fad. Someday, these folks will wake up and say, "What in the world were we thinking?"
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
ANSWER: Yes, I have. Where I live that are many of them. And it grieves me because this is but a gimmick in order to attract attention for going to church. This is part of the Emerging Church mentality. Use any device in order to get people to come to the services.
Now I want to be clear, I am always glad when the gospel is given. And most of these churches seem conservative and not liberal. But they certainly are not churches as described by the apostle Paul. A church is for the teaching of the saints, giving forth of sound and solid doctrine. A sound church should be making clear the Scriptures and exegeting the Word of God. But these churches simply give short devotionals and have a lot of country music entertainment. Most of the messages are short devotionals with little substance.
Many bring their horses in order to ride around the grounds together when the devotional messages are over. Some have reported to me that you can see in the faces of the younger crowd that they cannot wait for the entertainment to be over so that they can get on with the bar-b-que and then the horse riding. Those coming like to dress up with their cowboy hats and boots. They are into the cowboy mystique and like to play at church, as cowboys!
Many of these churches meet out in pastures or in open barns. Now that does not bother me. To have a biblical church does not mean one has to meet in a church building! But what is really happening is that these cowboys want to continue to play cowboys on Sunday. They like the Western setting, the boots and the hats. And, they need to be honest as to what really attracts them to such meetings.
Most of the "preachers" each Sunday are not well-trained. In fact, they would resent someone saying they should be, in order to clearly present the Scriptures.
Some would argue, "But this cowboy emphasis gets the cowboys here!" But at what cost? If few show up to hear God's Word, without some showmanship attached to the services, this simply tells us that indeed we are in the apostasy and the departure from the truth!
I happen to have some distant relatives who started going to such a church out in West Texas. At first, they raved at how good it was but then they began to slip, and finally they stopped all together. The reason: there really was no substance to what they were hearing. It was all fun and games in order to attract a crowd!
What would you think if we started a Boat Church, or a Chess Church? People who like boating and enjoyed playing chess would show up, but would this be a church meant to teach and instruct believers in the Scriptures? But think about it! Why not a Boating or
Chess playing church? If I can do a Cowboy church, one gimmick is as good as the next!
What disappoints me the most is: Christians are not thinking! They justify their foolishness without analyzing what they are really doing. And many are willing to attend such a church and leave a good Bible teaching assembly. There is an old saying: "Any excuse will do!"
Cowboy churches will probably be but a passing fad. Someday, these folks will wake up and say, "What in the world were we thinking?"
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch (#339)
Dr. Couch, what is the "mystery" Paul speaks about in Romans 16:25?
ANSWER: The language of Romans 16:25-26 is almost identical as found in Ephesians 3:1-6. Actually, the entire section about the mystery is explained in some detail in Ephesians 3:1-11. The mystery Paul speaks about is the church that was not revealed in the OT. "In other generations it was not made known" but it is now revealed to His holy apostles and (NT) prophets by the Spirit (v. 5). Specifically, that the Gentiles have become fellow heirs and members of the body (of Christ). In other words, the church was not described or revealed in the OT, but the knowledge of the church was "made known to me [by] the mystery, as I wrote before in brief" (v. 3). And, "when you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ" (v. 4).
This is about the "stewardship" (dispensation) of God's grace which was given to me for you" (v. 2). The word dispensation (administration) is also used in verse 9. THIS IS WHY I'M A DISPENSATIONALIST!
The amil guys and the progressive dispensationalists try to tell us the church is mentioned in the OT but we just don't recognize it! It is there but just hidden from us! How silly! (Any argument will do when you try to create your own doctrines!) They will do anything to avoid the obvious truth to create their own belief system to fit their preconceived agendas. The Scriptures are not difficult to interpret. Just read them and let them speak what is normal and simple to understand. Paul makes it clear that the church was made know to him in its full understanding. It was revealed to him as the apostle of the Gentiles.
In Romans 16 Paul says the gospel came to the believers in Rome "according to the revelation of the mystery which was kept secret for long ages past" (v. 25). But now it is made known "to all the nations, leading to obedience of faith" (v. 26).
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
ANSWER: The language of Romans 16:25-26 is almost identical as found in Ephesians 3:1-6. Actually, the entire section about the mystery is explained in some detail in Ephesians 3:1-11. The mystery Paul speaks about is the church that was not revealed in the OT. "In other generations it was not made known" but it is now revealed to His holy apostles and (NT) prophets by the Spirit (v. 5). Specifically, that the Gentiles have become fellow heirs and members of the body (of Christ). In other words, the church was not described or revealed in the OT, but the knowledge of the church was "made known to me [by] the mystery, as I wrote before in brief" (v. 3). And, "when you read you can understand my insight into the mystery of Christ" (v. 4).
This is about the "stewardship" (dispensation) of God's grace which was given to me for you" (v. 2). The word dispensation (administration) is also used in verse 9. THIS IS WHY I'M A DISPENSATIONALIST!
The amil guys and the progressive dispensationalists try to tell us the church is mentioned in the OT but we just don't recognize it! It is there but just hidden from us! How silly! (Any argument will do when you try to create your own doctrines!) They will do anything to avoid the obvious truth to create their own belief system to fit their preconceived agendas. The Scriptures are not difficult to interpret. Just read them and let them speak what is normal and simple to understand. Paul makes it clear that the church was made know to him in its full understanding. It was revealed to him as the apostle of the Gentiles.
In Romans 16 Paul says the gospel came to the believers in Rome "according to the revelation of the mystery which was kept secret for long ages past" (v. 25). But now it is made known "to all the nations, leading to obedience of faith" (v. 26).
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch
Monday, February 20, 2012
Obama Mug Shots
Someone just sent me 20 mug shots of criminals. All were wearing sweaters with the name of Obama or his picture. None of the shirts had pictures of George Bush or his name printed out. This has to tell us something. I'll leave it up to you as to what this is saying.
It is no coincidence that our President is carrying out many policies that Hitler put into practice when he took over Germany. We are rapidly moving into deep water. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
It is no coincidence that our President is carrying out many policies that Hitler put into practice when he took over Germany. We are rapidly moving into deep water. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, I've come to the conclusion that there was an "Interim Covenant" with the Jews until the New Covenant came into view for the Gentiles. What do you say?
ANSWER: I believe you are confused, and that you are adding somethings to the book of Acts that are not there. I know of no one who would hold to that position. There is no reason to deny that Acts 2 is the outpouring of the Spirit of God and the beginning of the New Covenant as promised by Christ in 1:5, where He said "You shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now."
What Peter said in 11:15 and in 15:8 is very important. He told the apostles "As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them (Cornelius and his house) just as He did upon us at the beginning" (11:15). And, he said earlier, "Everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins" (10:43), and too, "Surely no one can refuse the water for these to be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit JUST AS WE DID CAN HE?" (10:47). And, "God who knows the hearts bore witness to them, giving them the Holy Spirit, just as HE ALSO DID TO US" (15:8).
The Holy Spirit is the sign for the New Covenant. The expression "The Spirit upon us" is about Acts 2. I believe you are listening to some who have an agenda and who are trying to make a two-step movement with the Spirit and avoiding the pouring out of the Spirit in Acts 2 for some reason. Let the Bible just speak for itself. Don't complicate the issue!
Peter says that what was happening in Acts 2 was mentioned in Joel 2 (Acts 2:16-21), and this is the New Covenant.
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
ANSWER: I believe you are confused, and that you are adding somethings to the book of Acts that are not there. I know of no one who would hold to that position. There is no reason to deny that Acts 2 is the outpouring of the Spirit of God and the beginning of the New Covenant as promised by Christ in 1:5, where He said "You shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now."
What Peter said in 11:15 and in 15:8 is very important. He told the apostles "As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them (Cornelius and his house) just as He did upon us at the beginning" (11:15). And, he said earlier, "Everyone who believes in Him receives forgiveness of sins" (10:43), and too, "Surely no one can refuse the water for these to be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit JUST AS WE DID CAN HE?" (10:47). And, "God who knows the hearts bore witness to them, giving them the Holy Spirit, just as HE ALSO DID TO US" (15:8).
The Holy Spirit is the sign for the New Covenant. The expression "The Spirit upon us" is about Acts 2. I believe you are listening to some who have an agenda and who are trying to make a two-step movement with the Spirit and avoiding the pouring out of the Spirit in Acts 2 for some reason. Let the Bible just speak for itself. Don't complicate the issue!
Peter says that what was happening in Acts 2 was mentioned in Joel 2 (Acts 2:16-21), and this is the New Covenant.
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, on what day was Christ crucified?
ANSWER: No one has been able to question the dating of Dr. Harold Hoehner in his classic book THE CHRONOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF THE LIFE OF CHRIST (Zondervan). Dr. Hoehner shared with me that when he finished the book, he shared his research with a group of scholars from Cambridge University. They could offer no criticism because his work was flawless with the best research available.
He wrote that after the Lord was tried by the Sanhedrin, Pilate, Herod Antipas, and Pilate again, (Matt. 27:1-30; Mark 15:1-19; Luke 22:66-23:25), Jesus was then led to the cross and crucified at 9:00 a.m. And died at 3:00 p.m. And was buried later that day (John 19:16-42). He was the Paschal Lamb (1 Cor. 5:7) who died at the time when the Israelites were sacrificing their own lambs.
He died on Friday, Nisan 14, at 3:00 p.m. One must now determine which year between the extremes of A.D. 26 and A.D. 36 is the most plausible as the year of His crucifixion. There have been several studies in this, and their conclusions are that the only possible times Nisan 14 fell on Friday were in the years of A.D. 27, 30, 33, and 36. Of these A.D. 27 is the least likely astronomically. In that year it is probable that Nisan 14 fell on Thursday rather than Friday. The year of A.D. 30 has also been debated, but it is reasonably certain that Nisan 14 was a Friday that year.
In conclusion, then, the calculations of astronomers would limit the probable years of Christ's crucifixion on Friday, Nisan 14, to the years 30, 33, and 36, with A.D. 27 as an unlikely possibility.
You need to purchase the book mentioned above because it is the best ever written on the subject, but also, it is the best work on Daniel's Seventy Weeks as well.
Thanks for asking. --Dr. Mal Couch(2/12)
ANSWER: No one has been able to question the dating of Dr. Harold Hoehner in his classic book THE CHRONOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF THE LIFE OF CHRIST (Zondervan). Dr. Hoehner shared with me that when he finished the book, he shared his research with a group of scholars from Cambridge University. They could offer no criticism because his work was flawless with the best research available.
He wrote that after the Lord was tried by the Sanhedrin, Pilate, Herod Antipas, and Pilate again, (Matt. 27:1-30; Mark 15:1-19; Luke 22:66-23:25), Jesus was then led to the cross and crucified at 9:00 a.m. And died at 3:00 p.m. And was buried later that day (John 19:16-42). He was the Paschal Lamb (1 Cor. 5:7) who died at the time when the Israelites were sacrificing their own lambs.
He died on Friday, Nisan 14, at 3:00 p.m. One must now determine which year between the extremes of A.D. 26 and A.D. 36 is the most plausible as the year of His crucifixion. There have been several studies in this, and their conclusions are that the only possible times Nisan 14 fell on Friday were in the years of A.D. 27, 30, 33, and 36. Of these A.D. 27 is the least likely astronomically. In that year it is probable that Nisan 14 fell on Thursday rather than Friday. The year of A.D. 30 has also been debated, but it is reasonably certain that Nisan 14 was a Friday that year.
In conclusion, then, the calculations of astronomers would limit the probable years of Christ's crucifixion on Friday, Nisan 14, to the years 30, 33, and 36, with A.D. 27 as an unlikely possibility.
You need to purchase the book mentioned above because it is the best ever written on the subject, but also, it is the best work on Daniel's Seventy Weeks as well.
Thanks for asking. --Dr. Mal Couch(2/12)
Friday, February 17, 2012
Ask Dr.Couch
Dr. Couch, there are some who say that the Bible does not teach a seven year tribulation. A friend, a post-tribulationalist, denies such. What do we say?
ANSWER: We just look at the Bible! Many such folks just can't read very well. Daniel's Seventy-Week prophecy in 9:24-27 make it clear that there is a seven year tribulation. Daniel uses "a week" or "a seven" to describe the 490 years determined on the nation of Israel. The last "week" or seven years is yet to take place. Daniel says the antichrist "will make a firm covenant with the many for one week (seven years) but in the middle of the week, he will put a stop to sacrifice ..." (v. 27). All scholars, no matter what their persuasion, believe this is a seven year period, and it is the period of the seven years of wrath that will fall upon the earth, bring a punishment to the nations, and a purge to the people of Israel.
This is repeated in the book of Revelation but the numbers are explained differently. For example, in 11:2 it says "They will tread under foot the holy city for forty-two months" (or seven years). And the Jewish people "will be nourished for one thousand two hundred and sixty days" (or seven years) (12:6). She will be nourished "for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent" (or seven years) (v. 14).
Finally, the antichrist will have authority to act for "forty-two months" (or seven years) (13:5).
Check out the commentaries of Dr. Paul Benware (Scofield Ministries), Dr. John F. Walvoord, Dr. Merrill Unger, Dr. Mal Couch (Revelation handbook), Dr. Ed Hindson, Dr. Robert Thomas, and others.
Read the good guys, not the guys who don't know what they are talking about!
Thanks for asking.
--Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
ANSWER: We just look at the Bible! Many such folks just can't read very well. Daniel's Seventy-Week prophecy in 9:24-27 make it clear that there is a seven year tribulation. Daniel uses "a week" or "a seven" to describe the 490 years determined on the nation of Israel. The last "week" or seven years is yet to take place. Daniel says the antichrist "will make a firm covenant with the many for one week (seven years) but in the middle of the week, he will put a stop to sacrifice ..." (v. 27). All scholars, no matter what their persuasion, believe this is a seven year period, and it is the period of the seven years of wrath that will fall upon the earth, bring a punishment to the nations, and a purge to the people of Israel.
This is repeated in the book of Revelation but the numbers are explained differently. For example, in 11:2 it says "They will tread under foot the holy city for forty-two months" (or seven years). And the Jewish people "will be nourished for one thousand two hundred and sixty days" (or seven years) (12:6). She will be nourished "for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent" (or seven years) (v. 14).
Finally, the antichrist will have authority to act for "forty-two months" (or seven years) (13:5).
Check out the commentaries of Dr. Paul Benware (Scofield Ministries), Dr. John F. Walvoord, Dr. Merrill Unger, Dr. Mal Couch (Revelation handbook), Dr. Ed Hindson, Dr. Robert Thomas, and others.
Read the good guys, not the guys who don't know what they are talking about!
Thanks for asking.
--Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, can you give a passage that says Christ needed the Holy Spirit in His ministry?
ANSWER: The word NEED is the wrong word. The Spirit of God has determined to work within Christ in order to aid Him in His earthly ministry. Jesus said that He would send the Spirit from the Father, the Spirit of Truth, who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me, and you will bear witness also, ..." (John 15:26). The three persons in the Trinity constitute ONE God, not three Gods. They each have their own function. They just are, and they relate to each other. You cannot use the word NEED as we normally use it. They relate to each other because that is their nature. They have always been in an eternal situation and that will never change.
I recommend Dr. Charles Ryrie and Dr. John Walvoord's books on the Holy Spirit. I don't think they will answer your question but they would certainly give more information on the Spirit that would be very useful for one searching for more information on the work of the Spirit of God.
Thanks for asking. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
ANSWER: The word NEED is the wrong word. The Spirit of God has determined to work within Christ in order to aid Him in His earthly ministry. Jesus said that He would send the Spirit from the Father, the Spirit of Truth, who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me, and you will bear witness also, ..." (John 15:26). The three persons in the Trinity constitute ONE God, not three Gods. They each have their own function. They just are, and they relate to each other. You cannot use the word NEED as we normally use it. They relate to each other because that is their nature. They have always been in an eternal situation and that will never change.
I recommend Dr. Charles Ryrie and Dr. John Walvoord's books on the Holy Spirit. I don't think they will answer your question but they would certainly give more information on the Spirit that would be very useful for one searching for more information on the work of the Spirit of God.
Thanks for asking. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Practical Biblical Skills
MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR SATURDAY, MARCH 17
9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
CLIFTON BIBLE CHURCH
415 West 5th Street
Clifton, TX 76634
Click to View Map
This is an important class led by Dr. Lacy Couch teaching practical biblical skills for those who are hurting, or, for those who want to help the hurting.
Lunch will be provided. Donations will be appreciated
Pre-enrollment is encouraged and can be made through drcouch@scofieldprophecystudies.org
Or by phone: (254) 675-2681
9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
CLIFTON BIBLE CHURCH
415 West 5th Street
Clifton, TX 76634
Click to View Map
This is an important class led by Dr. Lacy Couch teaching practical biblical skills for those who are hurting, or, for those who want to help the hurting.
- How to comfort those who are grieving
- How to walk alongside others dealing with the pain of life
- Dealing with the trials you may be facing
- Many more topics will be discussed
Lunch will be provided. Donations will be appreciated
Pre-enrollment is encouraged and can be made through drcouch@scofieldprophecystudies.org
Or by phone: (254) 675-2681
No children, Please!
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, Millard Erickson says that "the kingdom of God" over which Christ reigns, is present in the church. What do you say?
ANSWER: Erickson has not read carefully. The kingdom of God and the kingdom of heaven are two ways of describing the millennial kingdom. I proved this clearly in my book "An Introduction to Classical Evangelical Hermeneutics." Dr. Walvoord had not seen this before, and before he endorsed my book, agreed with what I had written. As you know he was an outstanding prophecy scholar. Get my book. We have it for sale for $15.00. Make a check out to Scofield Ministries and we will send you a copy (Scofield Ministries, 120 CR 3222, Clifton, TX 76634). This is a book that is making clear interpretation of the Bible. And, it is one of the few interpretative books now available.
Thanks for asking. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
ANSWER: Erickson has not read carefully. The kingdom of God and the kingdom of heaven are two ways of describing the millennial kingdom. I proved this clearly in my book "An Introduction to Classical Evangelical Hermeneutics." Dr. Walvoord had not seen this before, and before he endorsed my book, agreed with what I had written. As you know he was an outstanding prophecy scholar. Get my book. We have it for sale for $15.00. Make a check out to Scofield Ministries and we will send you a copy (Scofield Ministries, 120 CR 3222, Clifton, TX 76634). This is a book that is making clear interpretation of the Bible. And, it is one of the few interpretative books now available.
Thanks for asking. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, How were the Old Testament Jews saved?
ANSWER: They were saved and made righteous by their trust, their faith. Paul uses Genesis 15:6 over and over again to prove this. "And Abraham believed God and He counted it unto him as righteousness." In other words, he and all the OT saints just believed what God had said and the Lord counted it unto him as positional righteousness.
After the coming of Christ, everyone had to trust Christ as the sin-bearer for their salvation. Of course, God saw His Son as the Savior, even for Abraham. The Lord applied the work of Christ for all who trusted what He had said. This was sufficient for God. He was satisfied with the coming work of Christ on the cross. In a sense, salvation is applied back to those who trusted what the Lord had said, and He applies now forward the work of Christ to those of us who now trust what He did for us.
Thanks for asking.
--Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
ANSWER: They were saved and made righteous by their trust, their faith. Paul uses Genesis 15:6 over and over again to prove this. "And Abraham believed God and He counted it unto him as righteousness." In other words, he and all the OT saints just believed what God had said and the Lord counted it unto him as positional righteousness.
After the coming of Christ, everyone had to trust Christ as the sin-bearer for their salvation. Of course, God saw His Son as the Savior, even for Abraham. The Lord applied the work of Christ for all who trusted what He had said. This was sufficient for God. He was satisfied with the coming work of Christ on the cross. In a sense, salvation is applied back to those who trusted what the Lord had said, and He applies now forward the work of Christ to those of us who now trust what He did for us.
Thanks for asking.
--Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Monday, February 13, 2012
LAWLESSNESS IS NOW AT WORK IN THE WORLD
Paul tells us "For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the world" (2 Thess. 2:7).
Evil is now working full-blown in the world but will increase when the Holy Spirit is moved from the earth. This is what the apostle is saying in this passage of Scripture. "Lawlessness" is present now in the world and it is having an effect. By writing "mystery" Paul refers to that which is "too profound for human ingenuity" (BAG), or that is mysterious or illusive in its nature and cannot be comprehended, though evident for it can be seen. Lawlessness is a dark spiritual force that is inspired by Satan himself. It is a rebellion and is in conflict with all that God is and that He sets forth as truth. The man of lawlessness (v. 3), whose power is presently at work in the world, will someday be revealed.
"Already" and even now this attitude of confusion, this lawlessness, is working itself (producing energy). The voice of the verb (a middle or passive in Greek) is important for interpretation. If it is a passive voice, that it means that rebellion against God is going on now. Alford takes lawlessness as "ungodliness—refusal to recognize God's law. Since ungodliness is mysterious, going on now, and it cannot be manifested fully, "its real character and full scope are not yet disclosed." Though rebellion was obvious in Paul's day.
It would someday be evident, this spirit of lawlessness would be incarnate in "the man of lawlessness." This would be when the man of lawlessness would be revealed, the man of sin, the Anti-Christ.
"Only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way." The masculine article "Ho" in front of the participle ("the one who is restraining," or "the Restrainer" - supporting the idea that this is the Holy Spirit.)
This is the only answer that makes sense, though some believe the Holy Spirit leaves the earth when the Church is raptured. Although the Spirit of God has a vital ministry with the Church during this present age of grace. He is still operative during the Tribulation. Men will still come to saving faith during this terrible period, and that work will be accomplished by the Holy Spirit of God.
The Holy Spirit, who is the Restrainer, restrains sin until a certain time period comes about. Then the Restrainer "should become" or come into being! In Greek the passage actually says "He simply moves over, He does not leave." The change has to do with His restraining work not His salvation work.
The Holy Spirit was hindering or restraining when this epistle was written, but He has continued to do so, and will "until He be taken out of the way," or probably more accurately "until He becomes out of the way." "The Spirit shall become out of one sphere into another," or "He that withholds, disappears from the midst, or is taken out of the way, removed." (Ellicott)
Some say "ginomai" cannot be translated "to be taken out of the way," but evidence exists to the contrary that is well in line with Greek usage. "The phrase is used of any person or thing which is taken out of the way. … He that hinders shall be removed" (Alford).
"Ek" with the various verbs it uses can read, "removal out of the way, or midst." That there was someone in the way, the Holy Spirit, who would in the future be taken out of the way, is palpably the point (Ritchie). To be taken out of the way is not to be entirely
removed.
As already hinted at above, the middle voice of "ginomai" may prove helpful in fully understanding this passage. Since the verb "ginomai" is deponent in form it may not denote removal by an outside force but instead be indicating a determined act on the part of the subject, the Restrainer. "The Holy Spirit is going to move out of the way, He is not going to be taken out of the way." Many commentators miss this distinction. The Holy Spirit will continue to exist in order to save the lost during the Tribulation. --Dr. Mal Couch (Thessalonian Commentary, AMG)
Evil is now working full-blown in the world but will increase when the Holy Spirit is moved from the earth. This is what the apostle is saying in this passage of Scripture. "Lawlessness" is present now in the world and it is having an effect. By writing "mystery" Paul refers to that which is "too profound for human ingenuity" (BAG), or that is mysterious or illusive in its nature and cannot be comprehended, though evident for it can be seen. Lawlessness is a dark spiritual force that is inspired by Satan himself. It is a rebellion and is in conflict with all that God is and that He sets forth as truth. The man of lawlessness (v. 3), whose power is presently at work in the world, will someday be revealed.
"Already" and even now this attitude of confusion, this lawlessness, is working itself (producing energy). The voice of the verb (a middle or passive in Greek) is important for interpretation. If it is a passive voice, that it means that rebellion against God is going on now. Alford takes lawlessness as "ungodliness—refusal to recognize God's law. Since ungodliness is mysterious, going on now, and it cannot be manifested fully, "its real character and full scope are not yet disclosed." Though rebellion was obvious in Paul's day.
It would someday be evident, this spirit of lawlessness would be incarnate in "the man of lawlessness." This would be when the man of lawlessness would be revealed, the man of sin, the Anti-Christ.
"Only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way." The masculine article "Ho" in front of the participle ("the one who is restraining," or "the Restrainer" - supporting the idea that this is the Holy Spirit.)
This is the only answer that makes sense, though some believe the Holy Spirit leaves the earth when the Church is raptured. Although the Spirit of God has a vital ministry with the Church during this present age of grace. He is still operative during the Tribulation. Men will still come to saving faith during this terrible period, and that work will be accomplished by the Holy Spirit of God.
The Holy Spirit, who is the Restrainer, restrains sin until a certain time period comes about. Then the Restrainer "should become" or come into being! In Greek the passage actually says "He simply moves over, He does not leave." The change has to do with His restraining work not His salvation work.
The Holy Spirit was hindering or restraining when this epistle was written, but He has continued to do so, and will "until He be taken out of the way," or probably more accurately "until He becomes out of the way." "The Spirit shall become out of one sphere into another," or "He that withholds, disappears from the midst, or is taken out of the way, removed." (Ellicott)
Some say "ginomai" cannot be translated "to be taken out of the way," but evidence exists to the contrary that is well in line with Greek usage. "The phrase is used of any person or thing which is taken out of the way. … He that hinders shall be removed" (Alford).
"Ek" with the various verbs it uses can read, "removal out of the way, or midst." That there was someone in the way, the Holy Spirit, who would in the future be taken out of the way, is palpably the point (Ritchie). To be taken out of the way is not to be entirely
removed.
As already hinted at above, the middle voice of "ginomai" may prove helpful in fully understanding this passage. Since the verb "ginomai" is deponent in form it may not denote removal by an outside force but instead be indicating a determined act on the part of the subject, the Restrainer. "The Holy Spirit is going to move out of the way, He is not going to be taken out of the way." Many commentators miss this distinction. The Holy Spirit will continue to exist in order to save the lost during the Tribulation. --Dr. Mal Couch (Thessalonian Commentary, AMG)
Sunday, February 12, 2012
MAKING YOUNG SOLDIERS STRONG …
How can you make 100 young men, young soldiers, double their strength? You put on the parade grounds 100 your women, virgins, and have them shout and cheer the young men who are marching by. You don't put the young women in the tents or in the sleeping areas with, for example, the young sailors aboard a ship.
What am I talking about?
I have some old documentaries of German troops parading in Berlin before World War II. Thousands of young girls are shouting on the curbs, cheering on the troops as they passed by. This energizes young males like nothing else. Young men love to show off before the young women. It gives them strength and purpose. They will fight bears for the girls. This is now forgotten in America. We put women aboard ships sleeping beside the men--but you know what really happens!
The Bible speaks of the young virgins who cheered for David and his soldiers. When Jerusalem was being destroyed, as recorded in Lamentations, the Bible tells us the young virgins hung their heads. "the daughters of Zion sat on the ground and were silent. They threw dust on their heads, they girded themselves with rough clothing, sackcloth," "The virgins of Jerusalem bowed their heads to the ground" (Lam. 2:10).
Men and women are different. Men need to fight for their women and children. They are carried along when they have a purpose. In America we have become so equal that we are no longer different. The joke is that we pretend that women are the same, are equal with the men in all things; and this is just not so!
Recent articles are telling us that male-ness in this country is being destroyed. Will this be turned around? Probably not. The femi-Nazis have virtually won the war. We are blind as to what the real issues are in the destruction of our culture. Pray for America! --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
What am I talking about?
I have some old documentaries of German troops parading in Berlin before World War II. Thousands of young girls are shouting on the curbs, cheering on the troops as they passed by. This energizes young males like nothing else. Young men love to show off before the young women. It gives them strength and purpose. They will fight bears for the girls. This is now forgotten in America. We put women aboard ships sleeping beside the men--but you know what really happens!
The Bible speaks of the young virgins who cheered for David and his soldiers. When Jerusalem was being destroyed, as recorded in Lamentations, the Bible tells us the young virgins hung their heads. "the daughters of Zion sat on the ground and were silent. They threw dust on their heads, they girded themselves with rough clothing, sackcloth," "The virgins of Jerusalem bowed their heads to the ground" (Lam. 2:10).
Men and women are different. Men need to fight for their women and children. They are carried along when they have a purpose. In America we have become so equal that we are no longer different. The joke is that we pretend that women are the same, are equal with the men in all things; and this is just not so!
Recent articles are telling us that male-ness in this country is being destroyed. Will this be turned around? Probably not. The femi-Nazis have virtually won the war. We are blind as to what the real issues are in the destruction of our culture. Pray for America! --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Saturday, February 11, 2012
BE AWARE OF FAIR-WEATHER FRIENDS
One of the great problems among believers is when a so-called friend in Christ turns against you. And very often, when you have done nothing wrong to them. Too, sometimes they will not tell you what the problem is. They treat you worse than an unbeliever would.
Carnality, fleshliness raises its ugly head. What is amazing is they do not see themselves, they avoid their own sins.
We have been studying the book of Romans and I have been amazed how in Paul's list of depravity, that we often attribute only to the lost, we find Christians practicing the same sins. For example, Paul warns of: evil, wickedness, strife, deceit, envy, malice, slander, arrogance, unloving, and being unmerciful (Rom. 1:29-31). Sounds like some Christian brothers who break fellowship and who then go to war with their fellow brother in Christ!
What is most interesting is the fact that they refuse to say what is wrong. They just sneak off into the night and turn against the other brother without any explanation. I have seen this is one of the most prevalent sins among the children of God.
Watch out for these types. They will cut your liver out! By the way, I have found too that in time, they see the light and come back and apologize. The Spirit of God finally gets through and brings conviction. But often it is too late. The pain has done its dirty deed! --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Carnality, fleshliness raises its ugly head. What is amazing is they do not see themselves, they avoid their own sins.
We have been studying the book of Romans and I have been amazed how in Paul's list of depravity, that we often attribute only to the lost, we find Christians practicing the same sins. For example, Paul warns of: evil, wickedness, strife, deceit, envy, malice, slander, arrogance, unloving, and being unmerciful (Rom. 1:29-31). Sounds like some Christian brothers who break fellowship and who then go to war with their fellow brother in Christ!
What is most interesting is the fact that they refuse to say what is wrong. They just sneak off into the night and turn against the other brother without any explanation. I have seen this is one of the most prevalent sins among the children of God.
Watch out for these types. They will cut your liver out! By the way, I have found too that in time, they see the light and come back and apologize. The Spirit of God finally gets through and brings conviction. But often it is too late. The pain has done its dirty deed! --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Friday, February 10, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, when did Satan fall from his abode with God?
ANSWER: The Bible is not clear on that but it indicates that ultimately he influenced the nations of the earth as they began to grow and multiply. See Ezekiel 28:11-19 and Isaiah 14:11-21. Both passages speak of his fall and influence in poetic language. He shook kingdoms, and wanted to be like God. The peoples of the earth were appalled with him. Being an eternal person, Christ saw him fall from heaven to earth. "I was watching Satan fall from heaven like lightning" (Luke 10:18).
It is not impossible that he fell before Adam turned his back on the Lord, but it certainly happened probably sometime before the sin of Adam and Eve.
Thanks for asking. Thanks for asking.
--Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
ANSWER: The Bible is not clear on that but it indicates that ultimately he influenced the nations of the earth as they began to grow and multiply. See Ezekiel 28:11-19 and Isaiah 14:11-21. Both passages speak of his fall and influence in poetic language. He shook kingdoms, and wanted to be like God. The peoples of the earth were appalled with him. Being an eternal person, Christ saw him fall from heaven to earth. "I was watching Satan fall from heaven like lightning" (Luke 10:18).
It is not impossible that he fell before Adam turned his back on the Lord, but it certainly happened probably sometime before the sin of Adam and Eve.
Thanks for asking. Thanks for asking.
--Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, does God hate sinners? I have heard pastors say that He does not hate people, the lost, and those not saved. What do you say?
ANSWER: While it is true that God so loves the world (Jo. 3:16), it is also true that He despises the lost and repudiates their actions of sin. This is not a contradiction but it is a "both" and an "and." It is true that there are not a lot of verses that speak of the Lord hating sinners but here is a few: (Psa. 31:6; 119:113; Rom. 9:13; and Rev. 2:6). Don't go by what some people say but what the Bible says! Sin and sinners are an abomination to Him. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
ANSWER: While it is true that God so loves the world (Jo. 3:16), it is also true that He despises the lost and repudiates their actions of sin. This is not a contradiction but it is a "both" and an "and." It is true that there are not a lot of verses that speak of the Lord hating sinners but here is a few: (Psa. 31:6; 119:113; Rom. 9:13; and Rev. 2:6). Don't go by what some people say but what the Bible says! Sin and sinners are an abomination to Him. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?
The Bible indicates that early man was highly intelligent and knew far more than we give him credit. Humanity did not simply evolve upward as the secular world tries to claim. For example, the Babylonians knew of the "Horns of Venus." They also wrote of a crest of a planet. How could ancient Babylonian priests watch the phases of Venus without a telescope?
Until the invention of the telescope by Galileo, mankind had known nothing of these satellites. The priests of Babylon could have had a telescope. In the British Museum there is a remarkable piece of rock crystal, oval in shape and ground to a convex form. It was found in Sargon's palace in Nineveh. It looks like a lens from a telescope.
The ancient Egyptians had a special hieroglyphic for the number of one million. But it was not until Descartes and Leibniz in the seventeenth century did the modern world gain any conception of millions in mathematics.
Pythagoras (530 BC) deduced that the earth is a sphere and Aristarchus of Samos (310-230 BC) insisted that it revolves around the sun.
Eratosthenes (276-195 BC) curator of the Alexandrian Library, calculated the terrestrial circumference with a slight error of only 225 miles!
Plutarch gives the distance from the earth to the sun as 804 million stadia. This is almost the figure accepted by astronomy today.
Empedocles (494-34 BC) argues that light required time to travel. He also had a concept of the mutation of the species. Lucretius (95-56 BC) was aware of the uniform speed of falling bodies in a vacuum.
All of this historical evidence are but signposts and large arrows pointing back to the fact that the Bible has a legitimate story to tell. It is inspired by the Spirit of God. Without question, the Scriptures are historical and lead to these truths accurately. We see signs in ancient history of the markers of the Word of God. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Until the invention of the telescope by Galileo, mankind had known nothing of these satellites. The priests of Babylon could have had a telescope. In the British Museum there is a remarkable piece of rock crystal, oval in shape and ground to a convex form. It was found in Sargon's palace in Nineveh. It looks like a lens from a telescope.
The ancient Egyptians had a special hieroglyphic for the number of one million. But it was not until Descartes and Leibniz in the seventeenth century did the modern world gain any conception of millions in mathematics.
Pythagoras (530 BC) deduced that the earth is a sphere and Aristarchus of Samos (310-230 BC) insisted that it revolves around the sun.
Eratosthenes (276-195 BC) curator of the Alexandrian Library, calculated the terrestrial circumference with a slight error of only 225 miles!
Plutarch gives the distance from the earth to the sun as 804 million stadia. This is almost the figure accepted by astronomy today.
Empedocles (494-34 BC) argues that light required time to travel. He also had a concept of the mutation of the species. Lucretius (95-56 BC) was aware of the uniform speed of falling bodies in a vacuum.
All of this historical evidence are but signposts and large arrows pointing back to the fact that the Bible has a legitimate story to tell. It is inspired by the Spirit of God. Without question, the Scriptures are historical and lead to these truths accurately. We see signs in ancient history of the markers of the Word of God. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
OUTSTANDING BARGAIN!
OFFER ENDS: MARCH 15
A wonderful gift for special occasions. For pastors and Sunday school teachers, and all who love the Word of God! Eleven CDs on ISRAELOLOGY. Featuring Dr. Mal Couch, Dr. Andy Woods, and others!
SPECIAL PRICE: A $50 value for only $15.
SUBJECTS:
Various views of Prophecy
Replacing the Church for Israel
The Olive Tree Prophecy
The Day of the Lord
What is the Rapture?
When is the Rapture?
Role of the Law in the Church Age
What does "Being Asleep" mean?
Gog and Magog
Daniel's 70th Week Prophecy
ACT FAST! Send check to:
Scofield Ministries
120 CR 3222
Clifton, TX 76634
A wonderful gift for special occasions. For pastors and Sunday school teachers, and all who love the Word of God! Eleven CDs on ISRAELOLOGY. Featuring Dr. Mal Couch, Dr. Andy Woods, and others!
SPECIAL PRICE: A $50 value for only $15.
- Learn God's program for the nation of Israel.
- Learn what comes next with the Jewish people.
- Perfect for DRIVE TIME Listening and Study!
- Limited edition that will soon be gone!
- A thorough study of PROPHECY and coming EVENTS!
SUBJECTS:
Various views of Prophecy
Replacing the Church for Israel
The Olive Tree Prophecy
The Day of the Lord
What is the Rapture?
When is the Rapture?
Role of the Law in the Church Age
What does "Being Asleep" mean?
Gog and Magog
Daniel's 70th Week Prophecy
ACT FAST! Send check to:
Scofield Ministries
120 CR 3222
Clifton, TX 76634
DEATH PANEL IS HERE!
If you are over forty, be prepared to die! This is a true story. A little girl who needs a transplant cannot receive one because she is mentally challenged. You could be next if the Obama's Death Panel evaluates your needs. This is exactly what Hitler did to those he felt were out of the loop of medical help. We must replace Obama, and do it quickly! Four more years is too much to tolerate in terms of putting up with this man. He has drastically changed America! --Dr. Mal Couch (2/11)
Monday, February 6, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?
More than likely, the earth before the flood was going around the sun perpendicular on its axis. This gave uniform weather for each one year period. The sun was striking the earth continually at the equator giving the canopy and green house effect. The earth was covered with a great cloud canopy that brought about uniform weather year around. There was longevity of life just as the Bible said because radiation was blunted by the clouds.
The flood took place because of the tilt of the earth. What caused that no one knows. With the contrast of weather, hot and cold, the canopy fell bring on a great flood of water that covered the globe. This brought about heat at one end of the earth, say the northern hemisphere, and cold at the other extreme, providing weather patterns. The Bible says this also. "Then there were seasons, summer, fall, winter, and spring." When the water canopy fell the cold trapped the great elephants with food in their mouths in Siberia.
By the way, the creation days were creation days. Because of biological interlocking, these are six 24-hour days. They could not simply represent stages of evolution. The animal kingdom is interdependent. All life is dependent upon all life! The flowers cannot survive without the birds and the bees. Life could not take millions or billions of years to form because of this interdependency. And life does not develop by billions of years and by chance.
Have you ever seen in a documentary the huge flowers that grow the size of a man? And they live only for a day or two? They spring up several inches each hour! Only certain flies are attracted to them. And when the fly starts down into the flower it cannot turn around. As the fly descends into the flower it leaves its pollen in the plant which causes another flower to grow. And this happened by chance? Impossible! --Dr. Mal Couch (2/11)
The flood took place because of the tilt of the earth. What caused that no one knows. With the contrast of weather, hot and cold, the canopy fell bring on a great flood of water that covered the globe. This brought about heat at one end of the earth, say the northern hemisphere, and cold at the other extreme, providing weather patterns. The Bible says this also. "Then there were seasons, summer, fall, winter, and spring." When the water canopy fell the cold trapped the great elephants with food in their mouths in Siberia.
By the way, the creation days were creation days. Because of biological interlocking, these are six 24-hour days. They could not simply represent stages of evolution. The animal kingdom is interdependent. All life is dependent upon all life! The flowers cannot survive without the birds and the bees. Life could not take millions or billions of years to form because of this interdependency. And life does not develop by billions of years and by chance.
Have you ever seen in a documentary the huge flowers that grow the size of a man? And they live only for a day or two? They spring up several inches each hour! Only certain flies are attracted to them. And when the fly starts down into the flower it cannot turn around. As the fly descends into the flower it leaves its pollen in the plant which causes another flower to grow. And this happened by chance? Impossible! --Dr. Mal Couch (2/11)
Sunday, February 5, 2012
DID YOU KNOW?
Early races took the early traditions wherever they went from the beginning Genesis stories. They modified the stories to fit their races, the climates, and the geology they were familiar with. They distorted the truth and put the stories into their own mood of religious errors.
The Genesis account is the purest and it can be trusted under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit with Moses. The biblical account represents the original form these traditions must have assumed. They can be trusted but the false accounts given by the pagan cultures cannot though they have some seeds of truth in them. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
The Genesis account is the purest and it can be trusted under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit with Moses. The biblical account represents the original form these traditions must have assumed. They can be trusted but the false accounts given by the pagan cultures cannot though they have some seeds of truth in them. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, what are the primary sources on the four kingdoms and empires in the book of Daniel?
ANSWER: You also asked about Antiochus Epiphanies. The best historic source on him would be Josephus who is considered one of the best historians of the ancient Jewish world. He is rarely challenged.
The best sources for the four kingdoms (Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome) would be Keil and many other historic sources, both secular and religious. Such sources are almost never challenged. All virtually agree on their identification. So you can depend on Walvoord, Ironside, Showers, and others as to these facts. Few have disagreements. I haven't checked recently but Josephus also would be reliable on this material. Both conservatives and liberals hold firmly to this information.
Thanks for asking.
--Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
ANSWER: You also asked about Antiochus Epiphanies. The best historic source on him would be Josephus who is considered one of the best historians of the ancient Jewish world. He is rarely challenged.
The best sources for the four kingdoms (Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome) would be Keil and many other historic sources, both secular and religious. Such sources are almost never challenged. All virtually agree on their identification. So you can depend on Walvoord, Ironside, Showers, and others as to these facts. Few have disagreements. I haven't checked recently but Josephus also would be reliable on this material. Both conservatives and liberals hold firmly to this information.
Thanks for asking.
--Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Friday, February 3, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, what about 'support groups' for people who are sinners?
ANSWER: We certainly are not "supporting" people in their sin but we can have support groups for those who are seeking forgiveness and who are attempting to turn away from sins that are holding them in their sins! You quoted Matthew 18:15-17. Note that Christ calls those who are struggling "brothers" (v. 15). He says to reprove them "in private" not publicly to hurt them. If the brother listens "you have won your brother" and helped him in his struggle.
If he won't listen then take two or three brothers in order to convict him that "every fact (against him) may be confirmed" (v. 16b). Then if he refuses to change he is to be exposed before the church in order to bring about conviction (v. 17). I have rarely seen such stubbornness in sin though it can happen.
A support group should and can help but it should not be a crutch to keep the brother in his sin.
Thanks for asking.
--Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
ANSWER: We certainly are not "supporting" people in their sin but we can have support groups for those who are seeking forgiveness and who are attempting to turn away from sins that are holding them in their sins! You quoted Matthew 18:15-17. Note that Christ calls those who are struggling "brothers" (v. 15). He says to reprove them "in private" not publicly to hurt them. If the brother listens "you have won your brother" and helped him in his struggle.
If he won't listen then take two or three brothers in order to convict him that "every fact (against him) may be confirmed" (v. 16b). Then if he refuses to change he is to be exposed before the church in order to bring about conviction (v. 17). I have rarely seen such stubbornness in sin though it can happen.
A support group should and can help but it should not be a crutch to keep the brother in his sin.
Thanks for asking.
--Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, did Thomas place his finger into Christ's side?
ANSWER: According to John 20:27 he certainly did. Christ uses the preposition EIS which would certainly mean that Thomas' finger was thrust "into" His side! This became a confirmation to Thomas and to the other disciples that Christ had been run threw with a spear. Thomas could no longer disbelieve that the Lord had suffered but was at that moment standing before His followers alive and well. Thomas had so seen the risen Christ and then "believed" (vv. 28-29).
I am always puzzled when people have objections to the obvious and the clear teaching of Scripture.
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
ANSWER: According to John 20:27 he certainly did. Christ uses the preposition EIS which would certainly mean that Thomas' finger was thrust "into" His side! This became a confirmation to Thomas and to the other disciples that Christ had been run threw with a spear. Thomas could no longer disbelieve that the Lord had suffered but was at that moment standing before His followers alive and well. Thomas had so seen the risen Christ and then "believed" (vv. 28-29).
I am always puzzled when people have objections to the obvious and the clear teaching of Scripture.
Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
The Unfolding Plan of the Bible
The Unfolding Plan of the Bible unfolds the message of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. This booklet is meant to capture visually, and with a written narration, the highlights of biblical history. It has been said, "History is God's history!" He determined the ages past, and where all the events of the world are going.The Lord Jesus Christ is the central figure of the Plan. His coming was prophesied in the past, came to completion 2000 years ago. And the present turmoil in the world will lead to His future Second Coming!
We are sending this booklet, "The Unfolding Plan of the Bible" out to the entire world. Besides English, it is also translated into German and Spanish.
Recently we just finished a booklet in the Yanomomo tribe dialect (45,000 to 50,000 people) for distribution. Besides the New Testament, this is the only book this particular tribe in the Amazon area of South America has written in their native language.
We would like to translate this booklet in other languages as well. Will you help make all of this possible? Someday, in glory, someone will tell you, "Thank you for your making this booklet about the Bible and salvation in the Lord Jesus available to me."
If you would like to donate to this cause or to order tracts to distribute yourself, please call (254) 675-2681.
We wish to thank you again for helping to make this outreach possible to a dying and lost world. "To God be the glory forever!" -- Dr. Mal Couch
Click Here to Preview the Tract.
Ask Dr. Couch
Dr. Couch, are we saints today?
Answer: Yes, we positionally saints "in Christ." In almost all of Paul's letters he starts out addressing the believers as saints. Paul means that positionally we are "holy" because we are related to Him. In our walk and experience we are to live as saints. The Bible says "Be holy for I am holy." That means to be walking sanctified. While we will never become perfect, PERFECT, we are still to do what He asks.
The church is not the kingdom, though we will live with Christ in the kingdom when He returns to establish the Davidic rule on earth. The Bible almost 100% calls the kingdom the millennial reign, though sometimes it speaks of the universal kingdom rule of the Lord over His creation, but this is really just a few times in Scripture.
Christ is presently seated on His Father's throne in heaven (Psa. 110:1-2). But He says: "He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne" (Rev. 3:21). It was told Mary, "[Jesus] will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob (Israel) forever; and His kingdom will have no end" (Luke 1:32-33).
Thanks for asking. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
Answer: Yes, we positionally saints "in Christ." In almost all of Paul's letters he starts out addressing the believers as saints. Paul means that positionally we are "holy" because we are related to Him. In our walk and experience we are to live as saints. The Bible says "Be holy for I am holy." That means to be walking sanctified. While we will never become perfect, PERFECT, we are still to do what He asks.
The church is not the kingdom, though we will live with Christ in the kingdom when He returns to establish the Davidic rule on earth. The Bible almost 100% calls the kingdom the millennial reign, though sometimes it speaks of the universal kingdom rule of the Lord over His creation, but this is really just a few times in Scripture.
Christ is presently seated on His Father's throne in heaven (Psa. 110:1-2). But He says: "He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne" (Rev. 3:21). It was told Mary, "[Jesus] will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob (Israel) forever; and His kingdom will have no end" (Luke 1:32-33).
Thanks for asking. --Dr. Mal Couch (2/12)
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