In “three principles for interpreting parables” Jefferson Vann reflects on hermeneutics to help understand The parables in general, and the Rich Man & Lazarus in particular. Apart from his statements about himself, the parables Jesus told are the most unique elements of his teaching ministry. It is not that parables themselves are unique to Jesus. No, the Old … [Read more...]
about Enoch
In “about Enoch” Jefferson Vann addresses three myths about this Old Testament character, and discusses the choices that Enoch made which we should all make. Hebrews 11:5-6 (Disciple’s Literal New Testament) “By faith Enoch was removed, so as not to see death: “And he was not found because God removed him”. For before the removal, he has been attested to have pleased God. … [Read more...]
reply to JF, January 2021
In "reply to JF, January 2021" Jefferson Vann discusses questions from someone who is investigating conditionalism. The comments (in italics) I am responding to today came from JF -- someone who is investigating conditionalism and reacting to the content of our site. I thought responding to the questions would be a helpful way to clarify the views we express on the Afterlife … [Read more...]
a conditionalist evaluation of the DLNT
In "a conditionalist evaluation of the DLNT" Jefferson Vann evaluates a recent translation. The Disciples’ Literal New Testament is a unique approach to New Testament Translation. While seeking a literal rendering, it also breaks from the standard verse-by-verse format. While it includes verse numbers, it is designed to go with the paragraph flow of the original … [Read more...]
born a King
In "born a King" Jefferson Vann reflects on the significance of Jesus being proclaimed as a king. I sang in a Christmas Cantata years ago, and the words keep coming back to me each Christmas. The Cantata was entitled “Born A King” by John W. Peterson. “Born a King On that Christmas Long Ago Silver Stars were all aglow Angels came to earth below, and … [Read more...]
Ezekiel’s use of nefesh
In “Ezekiel’s use of nefesh” Jefferson Vann shows that this Hebrew word often translated soul does not imply something immortal. In fact, it implies something mortal. With other Hebrew word studies, I have concluded that the word nefesh (נֶפֶשׁ), does not mean a person’s immortal soul, in spite of it often being translated as soul in English versions. Instead, I have argued … [Read more...]
JOY TO THE WORLD
In "JOY TO THE WORLD" Jefferson Vann explains that the world's ultimate joy will happen when Christ returns. JOY TO THE WORLD John 16:20-24 (JDV) “I am honestly telling you, you will weep and mourn, but the world will rejoice. You will become sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn to joy. When a woman is in labor, she has pain because her hour has come. But when she has … [Read more...]
Prince of What?
In “Prince of What?” Jefferson Vann explains how Jesus is really the Prince of Peace. One of my favourite Christmas memories dates back when I was in the army, stationed in Germany. Penny and I had been part of the brigade Choir, and the choir put on a wonderful Cantata on campus. We were also invited to be part of a local Christmas celebration. We sang “Silent Night” and … [Read more...]
underdogs and overdogs
In “underdogs and overdogs” Jefferson Vann shares a sermon on 1 Timothy chapter 6.” (All references are to 1 Timothy 6, Common English Bible) Paul’s letters to Timothy were filled with practical advice that Timothy needed to deal with the situations he encountered as a missionary in Ephesus. The 6th chapter of 1 Timothy dealt with the conflict that was brewing there. It … [Read more...]
Q&A – Mortality and Psalm 118:17
In “Q&A - Mortality and Psalm 118:17” Jefferson Vann answers a question about human mortality. In a recent Facebook message, one of my former students – Pastor R.C. from the Philippines, asked: “Sir do you mind if I may asked what is your interpretation of Psalm 118:17 in the context of our view of Immortality as the exclusive attribute of God at the present time. … [Read more...]