Can Christians Have Non-Christian Friends?

Are the Assyrian Church Monophysites or Miaphysites?

Understanding the Assyrian Church: Monophysite or Miaphysite?The Assyrian Church of the East is neither Monophysite nor Miaphysite. Instead, it adheres to a Christological position known as Nestorianism, which distinguishes it from other theological traditions that arose after the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD. To understand this, it’s important to explore the definitions and historical context of these terms.Defining Monophysitism and MiaphysitismMonophysitism: This belief holds that Christ has only one nature, typically a divine one, after the Incarnation. This view was condemned by the Council of Chalcedon.Miaphysitism: Miaphysitism, upheld by the Oriental Orthodox Churches, teaches that Christ has one united nature that is both fully divine and fully human. This view is distinct from Monophysitism and aligns with the theology of figures like St. Cyril of Alexandria.The Assyrian Church’s PositionThe Assyrian Church follows the teachings attributed to Nestorius, emphasizing a clear distinction between the divine and human natures of Christ. This doctrine rejects the union described by both Monophysites and Miaphysites, advocating a "two-natures" Christology without fusion.While not aligned with the Chalcedonian or Oriental Orthodox traditions, the Assyrian Church’s theology highlights its unique historical and theological development. Its perspective on Christology reflects its desire to preserve the full divinity and humanity of Christ without conflating the two natures.

Is the Original Canon of the Bible Inspired?

Is the Original Canon of the Bible Inspired?Yes, Christians believe that the original canon of the Bible is inspired by God. The term "inspired" refers to the belief that the Scriptures were divinely guided by the Holy Spirit in their composition, as affirmed in 2 Timothy 3:16: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”1. What Is the Canon?The biblical canon refers to the collection of books recognized as authoritative Scripture. The Old Testament canon was established based on the Hebrew Scriptures, while the New Testament canon emerged through the early church’s recognition of apostolic writings inspired by the Holy Spirit.2. Criteria for InclusionBooks were included in the canon based on their apostolic origin, alignment with sound doctrine, and widespread acceptance by the early church. Examples include the Gospels, Pauline epistles, and Old Testament writings cited by Jesus (Luke 24:27).3. Evidence of Divine InspirationThe unity, consistency, and transformative power of the Bible across centuries affirm its divine inspiration. Prophecies fulfilled in Jesus Christ, such as Isaiah 53, further validate its authority.ConclusionThe original canon of the Bible is regarded as divinely inspired, providing a trustworthy foundation for faith and practice. Its reliability is affirmed through historical evidence, fulfilled prophecy, and the testimony of the church (Psalm 119:89).

What Day Did Jesus Die?

What Day Did Jesus Die?Jesus was crucified on a Friday, commonly observed as Good Friday in the Christian tradition. This event, central to Christian theology, is recounted in all four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. According to John 19:31, Jesus died before the Sabbath began, indicating that His crucifixion occurred on a Friday afternoon.The Crucifixion TimelineJesus was arrested on Thursday night after the Last Supper and brought to trial early Friday morning. By 9 a.m., He was nailed to the cross, and darkness covered the land from noon to 3 p.m. (Mark 15:33). At approximately 3 p.m., Jesus cried out, "It is finished," and surrendered His spirit (John 19:30).Why Friday?Friday was chosen for Jesus’ crucifixion as it aligned with the Jewish Passover. The sacrificial lamb offered during Passover foreshadowed Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice for humanity’s sins. 1 Corinthians 5:7 refers to Jesus as "our Passover lamb," emphasizing this connection.Significance of His DeathThe crucifixion is more than a historical event; it is a divine act of redemption. As stated in Romans 5:8, "While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." His death signifies the ultimate expression of love and provides believers with the hope of eternal life.Good Friday and EasterJesus’ death on Friday was followed by His resurrection on Sunday, celebrated as Easter. This sequence highlights the victory over sin and death, offering a transformative hope to all who place their faith in Him.

Where Does the Soul Go After Death According to the Bible?

Where Does the Soul Go After Death According to the Bible?The Bible teaches that the soul’s destination after death depends on one’s relationship with God. Scripture describes two primary outcomes: eternal life with God or separation from Him. These teachings emphasize the importance of faith and repentance during one’s lifetime.Immediate Destiny After Death1. For Believers: The Bible assures that those who trust in Jesus Christ are immediately in God’s presence after death. In 2 Corinthians 5:8, Paul writes, "We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord."2. For Unbelievers: Those who reject God face separation from Him. In Luke 16:22-23, Jesus describes the rich man in torment after death, emphasizing the reality of judgment.Eternal Destinations1. Heaven: Believers are promised eternal life in God’s presence. Revelation 21:4 describes heaven as a place where "God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain."2. Hell: For those who reject God, eternal separation in hell is described in Matthew 25:41: "Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels."Why This MattersThe Bible’s teachings on the afterlife remind believers of the urgency to live in faith and share the gospel, pointing others to the hope of eternal life in Christ.