For the well-rounded Christian looking to improve their critical thinking skills, here is an accessible introduction to the study of logic (parts 1 & 2) as well as an in-depth treatment of the discipline (parts 3 & 4) from a professor with 6 academic degrees and over 30 years experience teaching. Questions for further reflection are included at the end of each chapter as well as helpful diagrams and charts that are appropriate for use in high school, home school, college, and graduate-level classrooms. Overall, Vern Poythress has undertaken a radical recasting of the study of logic in this revolutionary work from a Christian worldview.
By delving into the intricate and immutable laws of nature, as well as opposing beliefs, the author presents a Christian response to science that urges the world to pay tribute to the God who created nature and cares for it. Original.
“A theologically rich, spiritually edifying exploration of all that the Bible says about an awe-striking reality.” —Dennis Johnson Each time God appears to his people throughout the Bible—in the form of a thunderstorm, a man, a warrior, a chariot, etc.—he comes to a specific person for a specific purpose. And each of these temporary appearances— called theophanies—helps us to better understand who he is, anticipating his climactic, permanent self-revelation in the incarnation of Christ. Describing the various accounts of God’s visible presence from Genesis to Revelation, theologian Vern S. Poythress helps us consider more deeply what they reveal about who God is and how he dwells with us today.
Though the Bible presents a personal and relational God, popular modern worldviews portray an impersonal divine force in a purely material world. Readers influenced by this competing worldview hold assumptions about fundamental issues—like the nature of humanity, evil, and the purpose of life—that present profound obstacles to understanding the Bible. In Inerrancy and Worldview, Dr. Vern Poythress offers the first worldview-based defense of scriptural inerrancy, showing how worldview differences create or aggravate most perceived difficulties with the Bible. His positive case for biblical inerrancy implicitly critiques the worldview of theologians like Enns, Sparks, Allert, and McGowan. Poythress, who has researched and published in a variety of fields— including science, linguistics, and sociology—deals skillfully with the challenges presented in each of these disciplines. By directly addressing key examples in each field, Poythress shows that many difficulties can be resolved simply by exposing the influence of modern materialism. Inerrancy and Worldview's positive response to current attempts to abandon or redefine inerrancy will enable Christians to respond well to modern challenges by employing a worldview that allows the Bible to speak on its own terms.
Study Systematic Theology through the Lens of Truth There are many themes that flow through and unite the entirety of Scripture, and in his latest ebook, scholar Vern S. Poythress explores the relationship between God and truth. In Truth, Theology, and Perspective, Poythress explains how truth informs and confirms what the Bible teaches. In addition to a theology of objective truth, he explains how it is interwoven through each of the major topics in systematic theology, such as revelation, the Bible, man, Christ, salvation, and eschatology. This perspective highlights how the interconnectedness and harmony of Scripture is an extension of God's own truthfulness and how this attribute is manifested in all of creation, prompting us to greater worship and gratitude to God. For Those Interested in Systematic Theology: Particularly college students, seminarians, and pastors Written by Vern S. Poythress: Author of many works on biblical interpretation, science, and history including In the Beginning Was the Word; Redeeming Science; and Inerrancy and Worldview New Perspective: Major topics in systematic theology studied through the lens of truth
Interpersonal relationships are possible for humans because we are created in the image of a Trinitarian God. But if the Trinity is our model for relationships, why is the human condition rife with pain and evil? How are we to think correctly about fallen human relationships and our models for understanding them? Redeeming Sociology advocates a biblically informed model for human relationships—relationships rooted in the Trinitarian character of God, his governance of the world, and his redemption accomplished in Christ. Poythress examines how the breaking of relationships through sin leads to strife, murder, and oppression among human beings and sets cultures against one another. And he shows how these broken relationships are restored through the outworking of redemption in Christ. Though typical sociological models for interpersonal relationships may offer some valuable insights, they are handicapped by a fundamental misunderstanding of humanity. The biblical model that Poythress presents correctly diagnoses the problem of human relationships, so it can likewise prescribe a biblical solution that infuses new meaning and power into how we relate to others made in the image of God.
What if all events—big and small, good and bad—are governed by more than just blind chance? What if they are governed by God? In this theologically informed and philosophically nuanced introduction to the study of probability and chance, Vern Poythress argues that all events—including the seemingly random or accidental—fall under God's watchful gaze and are part of his eternal plan. Poythress tackles questions related to everything from natural disasters to the roll of the dice, explaining how God's sovereignty functions as the lens through which we study subjects such as science, mathematics, modern physics, evolutionary biology, human choice, and gambling. Comprehensive in its scope, this book lays the theistic foundation for our scientific assumptions about the world while addressing personal questions about the meaning and significance of everyday events.
Vern S. Poythress Explains the Laws of Human Reasoning and How to Apply Them in Light of the Gospel Humans use reasoning to understand and order the world around us. We apply this logic in a variety of contexts, from classifying simple objects to considering complex philosophies. But how should our identity as Christians—made in the image of God (Gen. 1:26–27) with minds renewed by the Holy Spirit (Rom. 12:1–2)—inform our reasoning? Vern S. Poythress explains how all human reasoning reflects God's nature. Providing a foundational understanding of God as the source of rationality, Poythress details the 3 fundamental laws of logic—identity, contradiction, and excluded middle—with a strong focus on analogical reasoning. This robust guide explains types of analogy, ethics applied to logic, the use of analogies in the doctrines of God, and more to give readers a renewed perspective on how to use reason as a follower of God. Thorough Study of Reasoning: Explores the 3 fundamental laws of logic along with various kinds of analogy, including syllogistic reasoning, formal deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, and scientific models From the Author of Logic: A God-Centered Approach to the Foundation of Western Thought: This book continues Poythress's look at reasoning, placing it under the lordship of Christ Great for Students, Pastors, and Christian Philosophers: Includes helpful visuals and appendices for learning and applying various systems of logic
Why Is It Critical for Christians to Study the Past? How does knowledge of the past shape Christians' views of God, Christ's redemption, and humanity as a whole? In his new book, Vern S. Poythress teaches Christians how to study and write about the past by emphasizing God's own command to remember his works and share them with the next generation. Readers will explore concepts such as providentialism, Christian historiography, divine purpose, and the 4 basic phases of biblical history: creation, fall, redemption, and consummation. By learning how to appropriately study history, believers will begin to recognize God's lordship over all events and how even minor incidents fit into his overarching plan. Excellent Resource for Seminary Students, Pastors, and Historians: Poythress explains how to write about history, understand God's divine purposes, explore history in the Bible, and more Applicable: Teaches readers how to glorify God by recognizing his deeds throughout history Biblical and Informative: Outlines 4 phases of history and connects them to Christ's redemption
Serious Bible readers all recognize that there are differences between accounts of the same events in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, and no responsible reader can simply sweep these differences under the rug. But can all of the accounts still be reconciled with a belief in biblical inerrancy? Responding to the questions surrounding the gospel narratives, New Testament scholar Vern Poythress contributes a worthy case for inerrancy in the gospels and helps readers understand basic principles for harmonization. He also tackles some of the most complicated exegetical problems, showing the way forward on passages that have perplexed many, such as the centurion's servant, the cursing of the fig tree, and more. All those interested in the authority of Scripture will find in this volume great encouragement and insight as Poythress has provided an arresting case to stem the tide of skepticism.
Who am I? Why am I here? Where do I find meaning? Life is full of big questions. The study of philosophy seeks answers to such questions. In his latest book, prolific author Vern Poythress investigates the foundations and limitations of Western philosophy, sketching a distinctly Christian approach to answering basic questions about the nature of humanity, the existence of God, the search for meaning, and the basis for morality. For Christians eager to engage with the timeless philosophical issues that have perplexed men and women for millennia, this is the place to begin.
What does Christianity have to do with the study of mathematics? Prolific writer and scholar Vern Poythress offers a startling answer to this perplexing question: everything. This groundbreaking book argues that the harmony of abstract mathematical truths, the physical world of things, and the personal world of our thinking depends on the existence of the Christian God. With advanced degrees in mathematics and New Testament studies, Poythress shows that these distinct “perspectives” on mathematics cohere because all three find their origin in God’s consistent character and nature. Whether it’s simple addition and subtraction or more complex mathematical concepts such as set theory and the nature of infinity, this comprehensive book lays a theistic foundation for all mathematical inquiry.
Jesus Christ was not merely a human being. He was not merely a famous religious teacher. Jesus Christ is Lord of all. This radical claim from the Bible has profound implications for every area of life—for every person and every facet of society. Drawing on key biblical texts, Vern Poythress explores what acknowledging the authority of Christ means for the way we should think and act. Unpacking how this authority affects spheres of life such as religion, politics, science, art, education, and the future, Poythress helps us pursue obedience to Christ as an expression of our gratitude and devotion—and our anticipation of the joy promised to us when we serve him with all of our heart.
No interpreter of the creation narratives can avoid interacting with this book." —Derek W. H. Thomas Christians have long discussed and debated the first three chapters of the Bible. How we interpret this crucial section of Scripture has massive implications for how we understand the rest of God's Word and even history itself. In this important volume, biblical scholar Vern Poythress combines careful exegesis with theological acumen to illuminate the significance of Genesis 1–3. In doing so, he demonstrates the sound interpretive principles that lead to true understanding of the biblical text, while also exploring complex topics such as the nature of time, the proper role of science, interpretive literalism, and more.
This one-volume edidition of the Foundations of Contemporary Interpretation series explores current issues in the interpretation of the Bible from the perspective of specific academic disciplines: history, literary criticism, science and theology.
Biblical interpretation is typically viewed as concerned with understanding the human author’s intended meaning. However, for Christians, the Bible is first and foremost God’s Word and must be understood in that light. Helping Christians approach the Bible with God in mind, this book sets forth a more nuanced approach to biblical interpretation that pays attention to both the human and divine origins of these sacred texts. Whether it’s reviewing the three basic steps of interpretation or emphasizing the importance of paying attention to the Christ-centered character of both the Old and New Testaments, this book is a much-needed resource for the church as it wrestles to defend the authority of Scripture in our increasingly relativistic world.
Which translation do I choose? In an age when there is a wide choice of English Bible translations, the issues involved in Bible translating are steadily gaining interest. Consumers often wonder what separates one Bible version from another. The contributors to this book argue that there are significant differences between literal translations and the alternatives. The task of those who employ an essentially literal Bible translation philosophy is to produce a translation that remains faithful to the original languages, preserving as much of the original form and meaning as possible while still communicating effectively and clearly in the receptors' languages. Translating Truth advocates essentially literal Bible translation and in an attempt to foster an edifying dialogue concerning translation philosophy. It addresses what constitutes "good" translation, common myths about word-for-word translations, and the importance of preserving the authenticity of the Bible text. The essays in this book offer clear and enlightening insights into the foundational ideas of essentially literal Bible translation.
Christians often view Jesus’s miracles simply as proofs of his divinity. However, as prolific author Vern Poythress shows in this new book, they also serve as “signs of redemption,” foreshadowing the salvation that Christ accomplished through his cross and resurrection. This means that the stories of Jesus’s miracles—like the calming of the storm or the feeding of the 5,000—are relevant for both Christians and non-Christians alike, clearly pointing to the gospel. After setting forth a framework for viewing all of Jesus’s miracles through this lens, Poythress then reflects on the meaning and significance of 26 distinct miracles recorded in the Gospel of Matthew—helping modern readers understand and apply them to their own lives today.
Originally featured as articles in the ESV Study Bible, these eighteen essays have been repurposed and republished in a convenient format. Covering a diverse range of essential subjects, including how to read the Bible well and why it is reliable, the essays delve into specific topics such as world religions, canon, and archaeology. Useful as both a general overview of the Bible and as a tool for more specific reference and training, readers of this book will grow in their understanding of Scripture and their ability to apply the Bible to their lives. Pastors, lay leaders, students, and other Christians engaged in studying God's Word will benefit from this collection, written by notable contributors, including J. I. Packer, John Piper, David Powlison, and Vern Poythress.
Why Is It Critical for Christians to Study the Past? How does knowledge of the past shape Christians' views of God, Christ's redemption, and humanity as a whole? In his new book, Vern S. Poythress teaches Christians how to study and write about the past by emphasizing God's own command to remember his works and share them with the next generation. Readers will explore concepts such as providentialism, Christian historiography, divine purpose, and the 4 basic phases of biblical history: creation, fall, redemption, and consummation. By learning how to appropriately study history, believers will begin to recognize God's lordship over all events and how even minor incidents fit into his overarching plan. Excellent Resource for Seminary Students, Pastors, and Historians: Poythress explains how to write about history, understand God's divine purposes, explore history in the Bible, and more Applicable: Teaches readers how to glorify God by recognizing his deeds throughout history Biblical and Informative: Outlines 4 phases of history and connects them to Christ's redemption
What does Christianity have to do with the study of mathematics? Prolific writer and scholar Vern Poythress offers a startling answer to this perplexing question: everything. This groundbreaking book argues that the harmony of abstract mathematical truths, the physical world of things, and the personal world of our thinking depends on the existence of the Christian God. With advanced degrees in mathematics and New Testament studies, Poythress shows that these distinct “perspectives” on mathematics cohere because all three find their origin in God’s consistent character and nature. Whether it’s simple addition and subtraction or more complex mathematical concepts such as set theory and the nature of infinity, this comprehensive book lays a theistic foundation for all mathematical inquiry.
Study Systematic Theology through the Lens of Truth There are many themes that flow through and unite the entirety of Scripture, and in his latest ebook, scholar Vern S. Poythress explores the relationship between God and truth. In Truth, Theology, and Perspective, Poythress explains how truth informs and confirms what the Bible teaches. In addition to a theology of objective truth, he explains how it is interwoven through each of the major topics in systematic theology, such as revelation, the Bible, man, Christ, salvation, and eschatology. This perspective highlights how the interconnectedness and harmony of Scripture is an extension of God's own truthfulness and how this attribute is manifested in all of creation, prompting us to greater worship and gratitude to God. For Those Interested in Systematic Theology: Particularly college students, seminarians, and pastors Written by Vern S. Poythress: Author of many works on biblical interpretation, science, and history including In the Beginning Was the Word; Redeeming Science; and Inerrancy and Worldview New Perspective: Major topics in systematic theology studied through the lens of truth
Vern S. Poythress Explains the Laws of Human Reasoning and How to Apply Them in Light of the Gospel Humans use reasoning to understand and order the world around us. We apply this logic in a variety of contexts, from classifying simple objects to considering complex philosophies. But how should our identity as Christians—made in the image of God (Gen. 1:26–27) with minds renewed by the Holy Spirit (Rom. 12:1–2)—inform our reasoning? Vern S. Poythress explains how all human reasoning reflects God's nature. Providing a foundational understanding of God as the source of rationality, Poythress details the 3 fundamental laws of logic—identity, contradiction, and excluded middle—with a strong focus on analogical reasoning. This robust guide explains types of analogy, ethics applied to logic, the use of analogies in the doctrines of God, and more to give readers a renewed perspective on how to use reason as a follower of God. Thorough Study of Reasoning: Explores the 3 fundamental laws of logic along with various kinds of analogy, including syllogistic reasoning, formal deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, and scientific models From the Author of Logic: A God-Centered Approach to the Foundation of Western Thought: This book continues Poythress's look at reasoning, placing it under the lordship of Christ Great for Students, Pastors, and Christian Philosophers: Includes helpful visuals and appendices for learning and applying various systems of logic
Who am I? Why am I here? Where do I find meaning? Life is full of big questions. The study of philosophy seeks answers to such questions. In his latest book, prolific author Vern Poythress investigates the foundations and limitations of Western philosophy, sketching a distinctly Christian approach to answering basic questions about the nature of humanity, the existence of God, the search for meaning, and the basis for morality. For Christians eager to engage with the timeless philosophical issues that have perplexed men and women for millennia, this is the place to begin.
Jesus Christ was not merely a human being. He was not merely a famous religious teacher. Jesus Christ is Lord of all. This radical claim from the Bible has profound implications for every area of life—for every person and every facet of society. Drawing on key biblical texts, Vern Poythress explores what acknowledging the authority of Christ means for the way we should think and act. Unpacking how this authority affects spheres of life such as religion, politics, science, art, education, and the future, Poythress helps us pursue obedience to Christ as an expression of our gratitude and devotion—and our anticipation of the joy promised to us when we serve him with all of our heart.
Many years ago, upon reading Thomas S. Kuhn's work "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions", I was taken aback by the obvious parallels between the subject of that book and the field of biblical exegesis. It seemed strange then-- and more so now after all these years-- that no one had sought to draw out the implications of Kuhn's ideas for better understanding the conflicts that frequently arise over the interpretation of Scripture." --(from the preface) In this new volume of the Foundation of Contemporary Interpretation series, Vern Poythress gives an explanation of the conflicts that often arise between science and the interpretation of Scripture. Novices and experts alike will be fascinated by the author's clear and perceptive account of the relationship between science and hermeneutics. Pythress' analysis will help students of the Bible appreciate the origin and nature of interpretive disputes, aid students in developing exegetical skills, and allow students to examine opposing views.
By delving into the intricate and immutable laws of nature, as well as opposing beliefs, the author presents a Christian response to science that urges the world to pay tribute to the God who created nature and cares for it. Original.
How to Study the Old Testament for Signs of Christ Believers read Scripture to follow Christ and deepen their relationship with him. But since a majority of the Bible was written before Jesus's life and death on the cross, many people rely on the Old Testament for historical context and moral guidance alone. However, when studied in detail, we see how even the Old Testament reveals Christ as the center of God's plan for redemption. Biblical Typology examines how the Old Testament foreshadows Christ, the church, and the consummation through types—or symbols—pointing toward fulfillment. Well-known for his academic yet accessible writing, Vern S. Poythress not only provides examples of types and analogies found in God's word but also teaches readers a practical framework and diagram for effectively examining them throughout Scripture. Readers will learn how to identify and interpret biblical typology for themselves as they deepen their understanding of the Bible and the wisdom of God. Great for Bible Teachers: Teaches pastors, Bible study leaders, and thoughtful lay people how to effectively study biblical typology in the Old Testament Practical How-To: Not only examines Scripture for examples of Christ in the Old Testament but teaches how readers can find types for themselves Uses Helpful Tools: Introduces a practical framework and diagram to effectively interpret typology within the Old Testament Academic yet Accessible: Written by scholar, professor, and author Vern S. Poythress
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