Comparing Christianity to World Religions

Apologetics and WorldApologetics and World
ReligionsReligions
ARSARS
John Oakes, PhD andJohn Oakes, PhD and
Dan ConderDan Conder
May 28,29 2010May 28,29 2010

Course OutlineCourse Outline
A. Introduction to the Topic and DefinitionsA. Introduction to the Topic and Definitions
B. Christianity: What are we comparing to? The ChristianB. Christianity: What are we comparing to? The Christian
world view.world view.
C. Eastern Religions: Pantheism/MonismC. Eastern Religions: Pantheism/Monism
– HindismHindism
– BuddhismBuddhism
– Taoism, Jaina, Confucianism, Shinto, SikkhismTaoism, Jaina, Confucianism, Shinto, Sikkhism
D. Other MonotheismsD. Other Monotheisms
– IslamIslam
– JudaismJudaism
– BahaiBahai
E. Scientology, Christian Science and other strange religionsE. Scientology, Christian Science and other strange religions
F. Pseudo-Christian ReligionsF. Pseudo-Christian Religions
– MormonismMormonism
– Jehovah’s WitnesJehovah’s Witnes
– Seventh Day AdventismSeventh Day Adventism
G. Roman CatholicismG. Roman Catholicism

Class RequirementsClass Requirements
 Reading AssignmentReading Assignment
– Required ReadingRequired Reading
 The Illustrated Guide to World ReligionsThe Illustrated Guide to World Religions by Michael D.by Michael D.
Coogan Oxford University Press.Coogan Oxford University Press.
 Essay: Apologetics and the Christian World View J. OakesEssay: Apologetics and the Christian World View J. Oakes
http://www.evidenceforchristianity.org/index.php?http://www.evidenceforchristianity.org/index.php?
option=com_custom_content&task=view&id=5125option=com_custom_content&task=view&id=5125
– Suggested/Supplemental Reading for Extra CreditSuggested/Supplemental Reading for Extra Credit

The Compact Guide to World ReligionsThe Compact Guide to World Religions Dean C. HalversonDean C. Halverson..
 Answering IslamAnswering Islam Geissler and SaleebGeissler and Saleeb
 Answering Jewish Objections to JesusAnswering Jewish Objections to Jesus BrownBrown
 The Qur’anThe Qur’an
 Etc.Etc.
 Final Exam (essays, mostly)Final Exam (essays, mostly)
 Visit at least two of the following: mosque, temple,Visit at least two of the following: mosque, temple,
shrine, or etc. (and write a brief report).shrine, or etc. (and write a brief report).
 Submit an approx 6 page paper on an approved topic.Submit an approx 6 page paper on an approved topic.

A. What is Religion?A. What is Religion?
 From the Latin: ligate—to tie or bind to the godsFrom the Latin: ligate—to tie or bind to the gods
 Webster: Any system of faith or worship: theWebster: Any system of faith or worship: the
outward manifestation of belief in a supreme oroutward manifestation of belief in a supreme or
superior being.superior being.
 From my SCI 110 class:From my SCI 110 class:
– Religion is a belief in somethingReligion is a belief in something
– The belief is not necessarily substantiated by physical orThe belief is not necessarily substantiated by physical or
material evidencematerial evidence
– Religious knowledge is obtained through holy writings,Religious knowledge is obtained through holy writings,
authority, revelations and religious experiencesauthority, revelations and religious experiences
– Religious believers have faith in such knowledgeReligious believers have faith in such knowledge
 Practical Definition: I don’t know what religion is,Practical Definition: I don’t know what religion is,
but I sure know one when I see one.but I sure know one when I see one.

Things we will not coverThings we will not cover
 Various PhilosophiesVarious Philosophies
– Postmodernism, Secular Humanism,Postmodernism, Secular Humanism,
Scientism/naturalism, Existentialism, Marxism,Scientism/naturalism, Existentialism, Marxism,
Stoicism, Epicureanism, neo-PlatonismStoicism, Epicureanism, neo-Platonism
 More obscure religionsMore obscure religions
– Iglesia de Cristo (Philippines) Falun Gong (China)Iglesia de Cristo (Philippines) Falun Gong (China)
Unification Church (Sun Myung Moon) Paganism/WiccaUnification Church (Sun Myung Moon) Paganism/Wicca
Zoroastianism, Manichaeism, Santaria, etc.Zoroastianism, Manichaeism, Santaria, etc.

What About Cults?What About Cults?
 Webster:Webster:
– 1. A cult is a particular ritual or system of worship.1. A cult is a particular ritual or system of worship.
– 2. Involves devoted or extravagant homage or adoration2. Involves devoted or extravagant homage or adoration
of some figure.of some figure.
– A strong negative connotation in the US.A strong negative connotation in the US.
– Is the Unification Church (Moonies) a cult?Is the Unification Church (Moonies) a cult?
– What about Falun Gong? (1999 declared an “evil cult”What about Falun Gong? (1999 declared an “evil cult”
by PRC)by PRC)
– What about Mormons?What about Mormons?
– Suggestion: Let’s not use this word.Suggestion: Let’s not use this word.

DefinitionsDefinitions
 Animism: Anima = spirit. A religious system whichAnimism: Anima = spirit. A religious system which
includes the belief that spirits inhabit inanimate objectsincludes the belief that spirits inhabit inanimate objects
and phenomena.and phenomena.
 Polytheism: Poly = many. A belief that the universe isPolytheism: Poly = many. A belief that the universe is
governed by many gods.governed by many gods.
 Pantheism (monism): Pan = all. A belief that a spiritPantheism (monism): Pan = all. A belief that a spirit
fills the universe. God is the universe, and we are partfills the universe. God is the universe, and we are part
of God.of God.
– Panentheism: God is in everything (stoicism)Panentheism: God is in everything (stoicism)
 Dualism: A belief that the universe is governed byDualism: A belief that the universe is governed by
nearly equally matched forces of good and evil.nearly equally matched forces of good and evil.
(Zoroastrianism, Manicaeism, Taoism)(Zoroastrianism, Manicaeism, Taoism)

Definitions (cont.)Definitions (cont.)
 Deism: A belief in a distant, uninvolved God who isDeism: A belief in a distant, uninvolved God who is
creator, but does not interact with his creation.creator, but does not interact with his creation.
(Epicureanism)(Epicureanism)
 Monotheism: A belief that the universe isMonotheism: A belief that the universe is
created/governed by a singlecreated/governed by a single
omnipotent/omniscient/omnipresent spiritual being.omnipotent/omniscient/omnipresent spiritual being.
 Asceticism: A belief that enlightenment or a closeAsceticism: A belief that enlightenment or a close
relationship with deity is obtained by an extremerelationship with deity is obtained by an extreme
denial of worldly pleasures and possessions.denial of worldly pleasures and possessions.
Associated with monasteries, monks, nuns, etc..Associated with monasteries, monks, nuns, etc..
 Mysticism: A belief which sees enlightenment andMysticism: A belief which sees enlightenment and
spiritual power coming through meditation/directspiritual power coming through meditation/direct
personal experience of God. Mystical experience maypersonal experience of God. Mystical experience may
be gained through use of drugs, drumming, dance,be gained through use of drugs, drumming, dance,
etc. A highly individualized form of religion.etc. A highly individualized form of religion.

Other important conceptsOther important concepts
 Scripture: The list of primary authoritativeScripture: The list of primary authoritative
writings for a particular religion.writings for a particular religion.
 Inspiration: The belief that a particularInspiration: The belief that a particular
writing, edict or tradition comes by directwriting, edict or tradition comes by direct
communication from divinity, and iscommunication from divinity, and is
therefore perfect and authoritative.therefore perfect and authoritative.
 Myth: A story, presumably fictionalized,Myth: A story, presumably fictionalized,
about a divine interaction with humanabout a divine interaction with human
beings which teaches an important religiousbeings which teaches an important religious
truth.truth.

Jesus Christ: “I came to testify to the truth.”
Pontius Pilate: “What is truth?”

One Point of View:
“Wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and
many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that
leads to life, and only a few find it.” -Jesus of Nazareth (Matthew
7:13-14)
I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except
through me. Jesus of Nazareth (John 14:6)

God
Islam
Buddhis
m
Mysticism
Ba’hai
Another Point
of View:
Different
Paths to the
Same Goal?

Are all religions simply “different paths to the same goal?Are all religions simply “different paths to the same goal?
 There is some similarity between most or allThere is some similarity between most or all
religions.religions.
 All man-made religions contain truth.All man-made religions contain truth.
 But…. On the most basic level of theology, all otherBut…. On the most basic level of theology, all other
religions (except Judaism?) are incommensuratereligions (except Judaism?) are incommensurate
with Christianitywith Christianity
 If Hinduism is right, then Jesus Christ is a deceiverIf Hinduism is right, then Jesus Christ is a deceiver
and an enemy of truth.and an enemy of truth.

The Bible and Other World ViewsThe Bible and Other World Views
 If Genesis 1:1 is true, then animism, polytheism,If Genesis 1:1 is true, then animism, polytheism,
pantheism, dualism, naturalism, deism,pantheism, dualism, naturalism, deism,
postmodernism and every other ism is false.postmodernism and every other ism is false.
 Conflicting world views cannot be accommodatedConflicting world views cannot be accommodated
with one another. Biblical theism is incompatablewith one another. Biblical theism is incompatable
with all these other world views.with all these other world views.

How, then, should we interact with members of otherHow, then, should we interact with members of other
religions?religions?
 Find common ground.Find common ground.
 Give respect where respect is due.Give respect where respect is due.
 Acknowledge the good and do not make personalAcknowledge the good and do not make personal
attacks—especially toward revered people.attacks—especially toward revered people.
 Highlight distinctions in world view/theology andHighlight distinctions in world view/theology and
introduce them to Jesus Christ.introduce them to Jesus Christ.
 This is EXACTLY what Paul did in Acts 17:22-34This is EXACTLY what Paul did in Acts 17:22-34

The Bible and Other World Views (cont.)The Bible and Other World Views (cont.)
 Acts 17:16-34 Paul shares the gospel byActs 17:16-34 Paul shares the gospel by
arguing for the Christian World View.arguing for the Christian World View.
– v. 22-23 Paul finds common ground.v. 22-23 Paul finds common ground.
– v. 24-28 Paul argues for the superiority and thev. 24-28 Paul argues for the superiority and the
truth of the Christian world view as opposed totruth of the Christian world view as opposed to
Epicureanism/pantheism and Stoicism/deismEpicureanism/pantheism and Stoicism/deism
– v. 28 Paul quotes from Aretas a Stoic philosopher.v. 28 Paul quotes from Aretas a Stoic philosopher.
“ For we are his offspring.”“ For we are his offspring.”
– v. 29-31 Having laid the groundwork, Paul pointsv. 29-31 Having laid the groundwork, Paul points
them to Jesus.them to Jesus.
– v. 32-34 Some, but not all were converted.v. 32-34 Some, but not all were converted.

Acts 17:16-34 Paul confronts Greek World ViewsActs 17:16-34 Paul confronts Greek World Views
 God is Creator. He exists outside creation.God is Creator. He exists outside creation.
– Disproves pantheism/Stoicism.Disproves pantheism/Stoicism.
 God is close to us.God is close to us.
– Disproves deism/Epicureanism.Disproves deism/Epicureanism.
 God is personal and has given us anGod is personal and has given us an
individual purpose.individual purpose.
 God will bring all of us to judgment. Evil willGod will bring all of us to judgment. Evil will
be defeatedbe defeated
– Disproves dualism/Gnosticism.Disproves dualism/Gnosticism.

B. Christianity: The Christian World ViewB. Christianity: The Christian World View
 One's world view is theOne's world view is the
perspective one uses toperspective one uses to
process and interpretprocess and interpret
information received aboutinformation received about
the world.the world.
 James W. Sire put it thisJames W. Sire put it this
way, "A world view is a setway, "A world view is a set
of presuppositions (ie.of presuppositions (ie.
assumptions) which we holdassumptions) which we hold
about the basic makeup ofabout the basic makeup of
our world."our world."

James W. Sire,James W. Sire, The Universe NextThe Universe Next
DoorDoor (InterVarsity Press, 1997)(InterVarsity Press, 1997)
A Jain World
View

A “Good” World View DefinedA “Good” World View Defined
A. It is true.A. It is true.
It is consistent with reality.It is consistent with reality.
It is consistent with what we know to be true from experience. ItIt is consistent with what we know to be true from experience. It
works.works.
B. It answers satisfactorily the questions people really wantB. It answers satisfactorily the questions people really want
answered.answered.
What is prime reality/the ultimate cause/the nature of God?)What is prime reality/the ultimate cause/the nature of God?)
What is the nature of external reality-the world around us?What is the nature of external reality-the world around us?
What is a human being?What is a human being?
What happens to a person at death?What happens to a person at death?
Why is it possible for us to know anything at all?Why is it possible for us to know anything at all?
How do we know what is right and wrong?How do we know what is right and wrong?
What is the meaning of human history?What is the meaning of human history?
What is my purpose?What is my purpose?
What is the nature of my relationship, with the "prime reality?"What is the nature of my relationship, with the "prime reality?"
C. It causes those who hold to it to be better people thanC. It causes those who hold to it to be better people than
they would otherwise have been if they held to competingthey would otherwise have been if they held to competing
alternative world views.alternative world views.

The Christian World ViewThe Christian World View
1. The physical world is: a. real b. created out of nothing1. The physical world is: a. real b. created out of nothing
(ex nihilo) and c. essentially good.(ex nihilo) and c. essentially good.
2. There exists an unseen spiritual reality which is not limited2. There exists an unseen spiritual reality which is not limited
to or defined by the physical reality. Human beings have ato or defined by the physical reality. Human beings have a
spiritual aspect to their nature.spiritual aspect to their nature.
3. The creator of both the physical and spiritual realm is the3. The creator of both the physical and spiritual realm is the
God who reveals himself in the Bible.God who reveals himself in the Bible.
4. Human beings have both a physical and a spiritual nature,4. Human beings have both a physical and a spiritual nature,
The spiritual nature is more essential as it is eternal.The spiritual nature is more essential as it is eternal.
5. God is not easily defined but he can be characterized by5. God is not easily defined but he can be characterized by
certain qualities. God is a person. God is love, God is just,certain qualities. God is a person. God is love, God is just,
God is holy, God is omniscient, omnipotent andGod is holy, God is omniscient, omnipotent and
omnipresent.omnipresent.

The Christian World View (cont.)The Christian World View (cont.)
6. Although all God’s creation, including the physical world is6. Although all God’s creation, including the physical world is
good, evil does exist. Such evil is the result of freedom ofgood, evil does exist. Such evil is the result of freedom of
will given to created beings and their subsequent decisionwill given to created beings and their subsequent decision
to use that freedom to rebel--to “sin”to use that freedom to rebel--to “sin”
7. Because of God’s justice and his holiness, those who7. Because of God’s justice and his holiness, those who
choose to rebel against him will ultimately be judged andchoose to rebel against him will ultimately be judged and
separated from God for eternity.separated from God for eternity.
8. The solution to evil, to sin and its eternal consequences is8. The solution to evil, to sin and its eternal consequences is
provided by God through the atoning substitutionaryprovided by God through the atoning substitutionary
sacrifice of Jesus Christ.sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Our job in the rest of this course is to compare this world viewOur job in the rest of this course is to compare this world view
to that of other religions and to analyze which is the “best”to that of other religions and to analyze which is the “best”
world view.world view.

C. Eastern ReligionsC. Eastern Religions
 HinduismHinduism
 BuddhismBuddhism
 JainaJaina
 TaoismTaoism
 ConfucianismConfucianism
 ShintoShinto
 SikkhismSikkhism
 ZoroastrianismZoroastrianism
 Western Monism: New Age ReligionsWestern Monism: New Age Religions

HINDUISMHINDUISM
 The principle religion of India.The principle religion of India.
 Approximately 1,000,000,000Approximately 1,000,000,000
adherents.adherents.
 Began as animism/polytheismBegan as animism/polytheism
 Evolved intoEvolved into
polytheism/pantheismpolytheism/pantheism
 Syncretistic. Hinduism is notSyncretistic. Hinduism is not
really a single religion.really a single religion.
Ganesh: a Hindu deity
God of wisdom and
intellect

History of HinduismHistory of Hinduism
 Aryan invasions about 1500 BCAryan invasions about 1500 BC
 Early animistic religions of Indian subcontinentEarly animistic religions of Indian subcontinent
merged with Aryan/Persian religionmerged with Aryan/Persian religion
 Gradually, a huge pantheon of gods distilled downGradually, a huge pantheon of gods distilled down
to the chief deities, Brahma, Vishnu and Shivato the chief deities, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva

Principle gods of HinduismPrinciple gods of Hinduism
 Brahma Chief god of the pantheon.Brahma Chief god of the pantheon.
 Shiva God of destruction. WorshippedShiva God of destruction. Worshipped
as a male phalus.as a male phalus.
 Vishnu Preserver and protector.Vishnu Preserver and protector.
 Krishna The eighth emanation of Vishna.Krishna The eighth emanation of Vishna.
 Rama Seventh incarnation of Vishna. Hero of theRama Seventh incarnation of Vishna. Hero of the
Ramayana.Ramayana.
 Devi Chief female deity. The power (shakti) that animatesDevi Chief female deity. The power (shakti) that animates
the cosmos.the cosmos.
 Lakshmi Female consort of Vishnu. Godess of prosperity.Lakshmi Female consort of Vishnu. Godess of prosperity.
Lakshmi

Krishna, Incarnation of deity
Rama, Hero of the Ramayana

Scriptures of HinduismScriptures of Hinduism
 Vedas Poems. Ritualistic, priestly. 1500-1000 BC.Vedas Poems. Ritualistic, priestly. 1500-1000 BC.
Especially the Rig Veda. Include the Brahmanas.Especially the Rig Veda. Include the Brahmanas.
 Upanishads Highly philosophical essays aboutUpanishads Highly philosophical essays about
brahman, atman, transmigration of atman, karmabrahman, atman, transmigration of atman, karma
and so forth. 800-600 BC.and so forth. 800-600 BC.
 Epics (Ramayana, Mahabarata, Bhagavad Gita)Epics (Ramayana, Mahabarata, Bhagavad Gita)
Mythic adventures of Rama, Krishna and others.Mythic adventures of Rama, Krishna and others.
 Puranas Largely local legends, myths, many localPuranas Largely local legends, myths, many local
deities. AD 400-1000. This is the “scripture” ofdeities. AD 400-1000. This is the “scripture” of
most local Hindus.most local Hindus.
 Tantras Religious discussions/teachings.Tantras Religious discussions/teachings.

Important Hindu TerminologyImportant Hindu Terminology
 Brahman universal soulBrahman universal soul
 Atman soul, essence atman is partAtman soul, essence atman is part
of a brahman.of a brahman.
 Maya illusionMaya illusion
 Reincarnation a disincarnated soulReincarnation a disincarnated soul
enters a new body, starting a newenters a new body, starting a new
existence (samsara)existence (samsara)
 Shakti powerShakti power
 Karma a principle of cause and effectKarma a principle of cause and effect
 Nirvana oneness with brahmanNirvana oneness with brahman
 Dharma righteousness, teachingDharma righteousness, teaching

Hindu World ViewHindu World View
 Maya. The physical world is an illusion. The physicalMaya. The physical world is an illusion. The physical
world is evil. Suffering is an illusion.world is evil. Suffering is an illusion.
 Brahman. Universal soul. Pantheism.Brahman. Universal soul. Pantheism.
 Atman (soul). When we die, atman is swallowed up inAtman (soul). When we die, atman is swallowed up in
BrahmanBrahman
 The goal: Escape cycle of karma and reincarnationThe goal: Escape cycle of karma and reincarnation
 Nirvana; oneness with the universal soul which isNirvana; oneness with the universal soul which is
within yourself.within yourself.
 The Hindu world view has man looking inward, notThe Hindu world view has man looking inward, not
outward.outward.

Caste SystemCaste System
 A historical remnant of the VedicA historical remnant of the Vedic
system and the interactionsystem and the interaction
between the Aryans and thebetween the Aryans and the
natives of the subcontinentnatives of the subcontinent
 Brahmins the priestly (Aryan)Brahmins the priestly (Aryan)
classclass
 Kshatriyas The ruling class.Kshatriyas The ruling class.
Kings,Kings,
landlords, warriors.landlords, warriors.
 Vaishayas merchantsVaishayas merchants
 Shudras servant/trade classesShudras servant/trade classes
 UntouchablesUntouchables

Modern HinduismModern Hinduism
 Yogic practicesYogic practices
 Gurus (teacher), yogiGurus (teacher), yogi
(practitioners), sadhu (holy(practitioners), sadhu (holy
men)men)
 Transcendental MeditationTranscendental Meditation
 Hare KrishnaHare Krishna
Paramahansa Yogananda

Hinduism and TimeHinduism and Time
 Time is cyclic. There is a “wheel of time.”Time is cyclic. There is a “wheel of time.”
 World is cyclically created by Brahma,World is cyclically created by Brahma,
sustained by Vishnu and destroyed by Shiva.sustained by Vishnu and destroyed by Shiva.
 Creative/destructive cycles called YugasCreative/destructive cycles called Yugas
 A universe lasts for one Brahma day =A universe lasts for one Brahma day =
4,320,000 years4,320,000 years
– Satya yuga (Krita yuga):- 1,728,000 Human yearsSatya yuga (Krita yuga):- 1,728,000 Human years
(already past)(already past)
– Treta yuga:- 1,296,000 Human years (already past)Treta yuga:- 1,296,000 Human years (already past)
– Dwapar yuga:- 864,000 Human years (already past)Dwapar yuga:- 864,000 Human years (already past)
– Kali yuga:- 432,000 Human years (5,110 years haveKali yuga:- 432,000 Human years (5,110 years have
passed; 426,890 years remain).passed; 426,890 years remain). KaliyugaKaliyuga started instarted in
3,102 B.C.; CE 2008 corresponds to3,102 B.C.; CE 2008 corresponds to KaliyugaKaliyuga year 5,110year 5,110

Hindism and Time (cont)Hindism and Time (cont)
 One full cycle =One full cycle =
100 “Brahma100 “Brahma
years” 311years” 311
trillion years.trillion years.
 Then BrahmaThen Brahma
himself dies andhimself dies and
is rebornis reborn

Hindu CosmologyHindu Cosmology
 Many different levels ofMany different levels of
heavens/worlds/hellsheavens/worlds/hells
 These levels are horizontal (flat)These levels are horizontal (flat)
 The physical world is illusory and it isThe physical world is illusory and it is
evilevil
 Lower levels are even more evil thanLower levels are even more evil than
oursours

Popular Hindu CosmologyPopular Hindu Cosmology
The earth is on the back of four
elephants standing on top of a
turtle, encircled by a serpent,
swimming in a sea of milk…
The SutrasThe Sutras

Hindu CosmologyHindu Cosmology
Time is cyclic—like a snake that bites its own tail.
Remember, the world is not real.
Hindu apologetics?

Is The Hindu World View a Good One?Is The Hindu World View a Good One?
 Is it true?Is it true?
– Hindu cosmology (cyclic time, earth on the back of fourHindu cosmology (cyclic time, earth on the back of four
elephants on a turtle swimming in a bowl of milk) iselephants on a turtle swimming in a bowl of milk) is
patently false.patently false.
– The physical world is real and it is good.The physical world is real and it is good.
– Evil is NOT an illusionEvil is NOT an illusion
 Does it answer the important questions?Does it answer the important questions?
– It does better than postmodernism or naturalism!It does better than postmodernism or naturalism!
 Does accepting this world view make one a betterDoes accepting this world view make one a better
person?person?
– Debatable. Better than naturalism. Karma. Self-focusDebatable. Better than naturalism. Karma. Self-focus
and dispassion are not helpful.and dispassion are not helpful.
– Suffering is not real.Suffering is not real.
– Evil is not real.Evil is not real.

BuddhismBuddhism
 Principle religion of Korea,Principle religion of Korea,
Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam,Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam,
Thailand, Burma Sri LankaThailand, Burma Sri Lanka
and China?and China?
 400,000,000 adherents.400,000,000 adherents.
 A reaction against the rigidA reaction against the rigid
priestly system of Hinduism.priestly system of Hinduism.
 Pantheistic, or arguably non-Pantheistic, or arguably non-
theistic. A philosophy, atheistic. A philosophy, a
psychology.psychology.

Life of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha)Life of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha)
 Born into a wealthy family in north IndiaBorn into a wealthy family in north India
about 550 BC.about 550 BC.
 Renounced his birthright. SoughtRenounced his birthright. Sought
nirvana/god through asceticism.nirvana/god through asceticism.
 Decided on a middle path betweenDecided on a middle path between
asceticism and sensuality.asceticism and sensuality.
 Created the eight-fold path to enlightenmentCreated the eight-fold path to enlightenment
(nirvana).(nirvana).

The Spread of BuddhismThe Spread of Buddhism

The Four Noble Truths of SiddharthaThe Four Noble Truths of Siddhartha
 Suffering is not getting what one wants.Suffering is not getting what one wants.
 The cause of suffering is desire which leadsThe cause of suffering is desire which leads
to rebirth.to rebirth.
 The way to end suffering is to end desire.The way to end suffering is to end desire.
 The way to the end of desire and of sufferingThe way to the end of desire and of suffering
is the eight-fold path.is the eight-fold path.
 Buddhism encourages dispassion, notBuddhism encourages dispassion, not
compassion.compassion.

The eight-fold path to bodhi/dharma/nirvana/lack ofThe eight-fold path to bodhi/dharma/nirvana/lack of
sufferingsuffering
 Right viewpoint (the four noble truths).Right viewpoint (the four noble truths).
 Right values.Right values.
 Right speech.Right speech.
 Right actions.Right actions.
 Right livelihoodRight livelihood
 Right effortRight effort
 Right mindfulnessRight mindfulness
 Right meditationRight meditation

Important Terms to Understand BuddhismImportant Terms to Understand Buddhism
 Nirvana awakened state, lack of suffering.Nirvana awakened state, lack of suffering.
 Bodhi awakenment, enlightenment.Bodhi awakenment, enlightenment.
 Bodhisattva an awakened being.Bodhisattva an awakened being.
 Dharma the Buddha’s teachings.Dharma the Buddha’s teachings.
 Sangha the Buddhist community of monks andSangha the Buddhist community of monks and
nuns.nuns.
 Maitreya the second coming of Buddha prophesied.Maitreya the second coming of Buddha prophesied.

Schools/Sects of BuddhismSchools/Sects of Buddhism
 Mahayana (the greater vehicle) China, Korea,Mahayana (the greater vehicle) China, Korea,
Japan. Ideal of the bodhisattva. Stresses theJapan. Ideal of the bodhisattva. Stresses the
divine nature of the Buddha. Many mini-divine nature of the Buddha. Many mini-
buddhas (bodhisattvas).buddhas (bodhisattvas).
 Theravada Sri Lanka, Thailand, Burma. A moreTheravada Sri Lanka, Thailand, Burma. A more
pure form of Buddhism?pure form of Buddhism?
 Zen. An offshoot of Mahayana which emphasizesZen. An offshoot of Mahayana which emphasizes
meditation to achieve nirvana.meditation to achieve nirvana.
 Vajrayana Stresses tantric practices, rituals,Vajrayana Stresses tantric practices, rituals,
initiations, mystical power. Tibet, Mongolia.initiations, mystical power. Tibet, Mongolia.
Similar to Gnosticism.Similar to Gnosticism.

Practices of BuddhismPractices of Buddhism
 Many monks and nuns who live ascetic livesMany monks and nuns who live ascetic lives
 ““Lay” Buddhists follow the five precepts, whichLay” Buddhists follow the five precepts, which
are, 1. do not kill 2. do not steal. 3. do notare, 1. do not kill 2. do not steal. 3. do not
have sex. 4. do not lie and 5. do not gethave sex. 4. do not lie and 5. do not get
drunkdrunk
 Meditation is a big part of many BuddhistMeditation is a big part of many Buddhist
traditions, involving the saying of a mantra. (Omtraditions, involving the saying of a mantra. (Om
Mani Padme Hum).Mani Padme Hum).

Buddhist ScriptureBuddhist Scripture
 The Tripitaka “three baskets” Three sets of theThe Tripitaka “three baskets” Three sets of the
supposedly original sayings and teachings andsupposedly original sayings and teachings and
philosophy of Buddha. These were oral only forphilosophy of Buddha. These were oral only for
about 400 years.about 400 years.
 Disputes over the content of the Tripitaka ledDisputes over the content of the Tripitaka led
eventually to the Theravada, Mahayana and othereventually to the Theravada, Mahayana and other
sects.sects.
 Jatakas Mahayana stories of previousJatakas Mahayana stories of previous
incarnations of Siddhartha Buddha. Buddhism isincarnations of Siddhartha Buddha. Buddhism is
a striving through many lives to come to aa striving through many lives to come to a
bodhisattva state.bodhisattva state.

Buddhist CosmologyBuddhist Cosmology
 Like Jaina, Hinduism, a vertical cosmology,Like Jaina, Hinduism, a vertical cosmology,
with multiple levels/earths/heavens/lokahswith multiple levels/earths/heavens/lokahs
 31 planes of existence, each with 3 realms.31 planes of existence, each with 3 realms.
 Higher ones more blissful, lower ones moreHigher ones more blissful, lower ones more
like hell.like hell.
 Endless cycle of time Cosmic wheel.Endless cycle of time Cosmic wheel.

Borodbur in Indonesia: A Buddhist concept of the world

Questions:
Can we take the Eastern ideas about cosmology
seriously in the context of modern science?
How does this compare to biblical cosmology and
ideas about creation?
Is the Buddhist World View a good one?
Is it True?
Does it provide satisfactory answers to the imporant questions?
Are those who accept this world view better for having done so?

JainismJainism
 Founder: Mahavira ~600-540 BCFounder: Mahavira ~600-540 BC
 Last of 24 gurus. Parshva 750 BC?Last of 24 gurus. Parshva 750 BC?
 Location: India mostly.Location: India mostly.
 About 5,000,000 practitionersAbout 5,000,000 practitioners
 A reaction to worldly, priestlyA reaction to worldly, priestly
HinduismHinduism

Jaina TheologyJaina Theology
 Very strong emphasis on asceticismVery strong emphasis on asceticism
 Siddhartha may have been a followerSiddhartha may have been a follower
before finding a middle way.before finding a middle way.
 We are souls trapped in a body. TheWe are souls trapped in a body. The
goal: escape the body to reach nirvanagoal: escape the body to reach nirvana
through ascetic practices.through ascetic practices.
 ReincarnationReincarnation
 KarmaKarma
 PantheisticPantheistic
The Svastika
a symbol of
samsara
(rebirth)

Jaina ScripturesJaina Scriptures
 The Purvas. Sayings of the 24 gurusThe Purvas. Sayings of the 24 gurus
all the original Purvas were lost.all the original Purvas were lost.
 Agama Sutras Sayings of MahaviraAgama Sutras Sayings of Mahavira
Jaina Sects
Digambaras: Monks are nude, only males can
reach enlightenment.
Shvetambaras: Wear white robes. Women
can be ordained as nuns.

Jaina WorldviewJaina Worldview
 A very strange cosmology. The universe is anA very strange cosmology. The universe is an
infinitely repeating pattern of cycles of time.infinitely repeating pattern of cycles of time.
 One of the gurus lived 70 trillion years and was 3000One of the gurus lived 70 trillion years and was 3000
ft. tall.ft. tall.
 The earth is the center of the universeThe earth is the center of the universe
 The universe has existed forever.The universe has existed forever.
 Five Mahavrata or rules of ascetic livingFive Mahavrata or rules of ascetic living
– Ahimsa. Non-harming (fly-whisk, strain liquids,Ahimsa. Non-harming (fly-whisk, strain liquids,
etc…)etc…)
– Satya. TruthfulnessSatya. Truthfulness
– Asteya. Non-stealingAsteya. Non-stealing
– CelibacyCelibacy
– Non-attachmentNon-attachment

Jain CosmologyJain Cosmology
 The universe has existed forever.The universe has existed forever.
 A cyclic wheel of time.A cyclic wheel of time.
 Utsarpini: A period of progressiveUtsarpini: A period of progressive
happiness and purity. Time spans ages andhappiness and purity. Time spans ages and
sizes of people get much larger.sizes of people get much larger.
 Avsarpini: A period of progressive sorrowAvsarpini: A period of progressive sorrow
and immorality. Time spans, ages and sizesand immorality. Time spans, ages and sizes
of people get much smaller.of people get much smaller.
 Great teachers in the past lived for millionsGreat teachers in the past lived for millions
or billions of years and were thousands ofor billions of years and were thousands of
meters tall.meters tall.
 In the future, people will be even lessIn the future, people will be even less
religious, smaller and live shorter time.religious, smaller and live shorter time.
 An extremely complicated cosmology withAn extremely complicated cosmology with
multiple levels of worlds/heavens.multiple levels of worlds/heavens.
A representation
of Jain Cosmology

SikhismSikhism
 Location: India, especially theLocation: India, especially the
Punjab. 25,000,000 adherents.Punjab. 25,000,000 adherents.
 Founder: Nanak (1469-1539)Founder: Nanak (1469-1539)
 A compromise between IslamA compromise between Islam
and Hinduism.and Hinduism.
 Avowedly monotheistic, but withAvowedly monotheistic, but with
many Hindu ideas.many Hindu ideas.
Nanak, founder
of Jaina

Sikh Teaching and TheologySikh Teaching and Theology
 Reject polytheism but keepReject polytheism but keep
ideas of maya (illusion),ideas of maya (illusion),
samsara (reincarnation),samsara (reincarnation),
karmakarma
 Reject priestly system. AllReject priestly system. All
are equal before the “Trueare equal before the “True
Name.”Name.”
 Opposition to idolatry and toOpposition to idolatry and to
asceticism.asceticism.
 Sikhs do not try to escape theSikhs do not try to escape the
world, but to participate in it.world, but to participate in it.
 Works salvation: “Sin andWorks salvation: “Sin and
sorrow are destroyed bysorrow are destroyed by
hearkening.”hearkening.”
The Golden Temple
Amristar, India

Scriptures of SikkhismScriptures of Sikkhism
 The Adi Granth Compiled by the fifth guruThe Adi Granth Compiled by the fifth guru
Arjun in 1604Arjun in 1604
 The Ganth of the Tenth King: Written by theThe Ganth of the Tenth King: Written by the
last of the ten great gurus of Sikhism Gobindlast of the ten great gurus of Sikhism Gobind
Singh.Singh.
 The Janamsakhis Legends. ObviouslyThe Janamsakhis Legends. Obviously
mythical accounts of the life of Nanak,mythical accounts of the life of Nanak,
including miracles. (Nanak never claimed toincluding miracles. (Nanak never claimed to
be a miracle worker).be a miracle worker).

Sikh PracticesSikh Practices
 The wearing of the male turban isThe wearing of the male turban is
very characteristic.very characteristic.
 Baptism in sugar water holding aBaptism in sugar water holding a
dagger.dagger.
 Sikhs have been warriors. TheySikhs have been warriors. They
have been very militaristic.have been very militaristic.
 Sikhs are immersed in worldlySikhs are immersed in worldly
affairs. Businessmen, merchantsaffairs. Businessmen, merchants
etc.etc.
 Think of Sikhs as the opposite ofThink of Sikhs as the opposite of
Jains.Jains.

ConfucianismConfucianism
 Founded by Confucius Kung Fu Tzu 551-Founded by Confucius Kung Fu Tzu 551-
478 BC.478 BC.
 Principle religion in China? Is it aPrinciple religion in China? Is it a
religion?religion?
Also influential in Korea and Viet Nam.Also influential in Korea and Viet Nam.
 NotNot a religious leader—he accepted thea religious leader—he accepted the
religious superstition of his day asreligious superstition of his day as
sufficient.sufficient.
 Agnostic—“Keep aloof from spiritualAgnostic—“Keep aloof from spiritual
matters, but perform the ceremonymatters, but perform the ceremony
correctly.”correctly.”
 Utilitarian, conservative philosophy.Utilitarian, conservative philosophy.
Each person should accept his position inEach person should accept his position in
society for righteousness and stability.society for righteousness and stability.
Strong emphasis on proper government,Strong emphasis on proper government,
training for holding government office.training for holding government office.

Confucianism (cont.)Confucianism (cont.)
 Practical rather than esoteric.Practical rather than esoteric.
 Ancestor worship stressed.Ancestor worship stressed.
 Later Confucian philosophy involved emphasis onLater Confucian philosophy involved emphasis on
yingying andand yangyang—the competing balance between good—the competing balance between good
vs. evil, physical vs. spiritual, hate vs. love.vs. evil, physical vs. spiritual, hate vs. love.
(Dualism)(Dualism)
Confucianism competed with two other
philosophies: Taoism and Moism. Confucianism,
being more practical, generally won out.

Confucian ScripturesConfucian Scriptures
– I-Ching 1000 BC. Book of divination, magic.I-Ching 1000 BC. Book of divination, magic.
– Shu-Ching. History, ancient documents,Shu-Ching. History, ancient documents,
speeches.speeches.
– Shin-Ching 800-600 BC. Poetry used extensivelyShin-Ching 800-600 BC. Poetry used extensively
by Confucius. Customs concerning courtship,by Confucius. Customs concerning courtship,
marriage, war, agriculture, feasts, sacrifices, etc.marriage, war, agriculture, feasts, sacrifices, etc.
– Li Chi. Book of ceremonial etiquite. 200 BC –Li Chi. Book of ceremonial etiquite. 200 BC –
200 AD.200 AD.
– Ch’un Chiu. History of one Chinese province.Ch’un Chiu. History of one Chinese province.
Collected by Confucius?Collected by Confucius?
– Lun Yu. Written down 400 BC. The sayings ofLun Yu. Written down 400 BC. The sayings of
Confucius, especially on ethics and governmentConfucius, especially on ethics and government
– Analects of Confucius, etc…Analects of Confucius, etc…

Confucianism is a philosophy, a way of life, not
really a religion, although it has accreted ideas
such as “chi” “yin and yang” It can easily
coexist with other religions such as Buddhism,
Taoism and even Christianity.
Chinese symbol for
Confucianism

TaoismTaoism (Daoism)(Daoism)
 Founded by Lao Tzu—a contemporary of Confucius.Founded by Lao Tzu—a contemporary of Confucius.
 Scripture: The Tao Te Ching. Tao = way Te = powerScripture: The Tao Te Ching. Tao = way Te = power
Ching = teachingChing = teaching
 Basic doctrine: Through non-involvement andBasic doctrine: Through non-involvement and
withdrawal, we come to know god/deity. Emphasiswithdrawal, we come to know god/deity. Emphasis
on self-interest. “The religion of selfishness.”on self-interest. “The religion of selfishness.”
 Pantheistic yet Dualistic. Experience God byPantheistic yet Dualistic. Experience God by
contemplating nature.contemplating nature.
 Emphasis on mysticism and magic.Emphasis on mysticism and magic.
““He would not pluck so much as a hair out of his headHe would not pluck so much as a hair out of his head
for the benefit of his fellow man.”for the benefit of his fellow man.”

Taoist World ViewTaoist World View
 Pantheism Tao is an undifferentiated force ofPantheism Tao is an undifferentiated force of
existence.existence.
 Wu-wei: Purposeful inactivityWu-wei: Purposeful inactivity
 Self-focus, emphasis on mysticism and magic.Self-focus, emphasis on mysticism and magic.
 Yin/Yang A balance of forces to be achieved. GoodYin/Yang A balance of forces to be achieved. Good
and evil are coexistent and mutually dependent.and evil are coexistent and mutually dependent.
 Is this a “good” world view?Is this a “good” world view?

Baha’iBaha’i
 Founded by Baha-Ullah 1817-Founded by Baha-Ullah 1817-
18921892
 The Bab 1819-1850 The JohnThe Bab 1819-1850 The John
the Baptist of Baha’ithe Baptist of Baha’i
 Begun in Iran, moved to Iraq,Begun in Iran, moved to Iraq,
Lebanon. Very widely spreadLebanon. Very widely spread
today.today.
 About 7,000,000 adherents.About 7,000,000 adherents.
 A reform movement withinA reform movement within
Islam?Islam?

History and TeachingHistory and Teaching
 The Bab was martyred in 1850The Bab was martyred in 1850
 in 1852 Baha-Ullah claims to have received a vision,in 1852 Baha-Ullah claims to have received a vision,
while in prison, of a divine woman who declared himwhile in prison, of a divine woman who declared him
to be “The Beauty of God amongst you.” ie the nextto be “The Beauty of God amongst you.” ie the next
prophet.prophet.
 Ba’hai is the culmination of all the world’s religions.Ba’hai is the culmination of all the world’s religions.
Moses, Krishna, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad,Moses, Krishna, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad,
Baha’Ullah.Baha’Ullah.
 No priests, no ceremony.No priests, no ceremony.

Theology and TeachingTheology and Teaching
 Monotheistic.Monotheistic.
 God is unknowable “The most Exalted, theGod is unknowable “The most Exalted, the
Inaccessible.”Inaccessible.”
 Baha-Ullah claimed to beBaha-Ullah claimed to be
– The second coming of Christ—that John 14:16 wasThe second coming of Christ—that John 14:16 was
about him.about him.
– The Maitreya—the second coming of Buddha.The Maitreya—the second coming of Buddha.
– The new incarnation of KrishnaThe new incarnation of Krishna
– The fulfillment of the “Day of God” in the Koran.The fulfillment of the “Day of God” in the Koran.
 Strong emphasis on equality, education, peace.Strong emphasis on equality, education, peace.
 Progressive Revelation. “Religious truth is notProgressive Revelation. “Religious truth is not
absolute but relative.”absolute but relative.”

Teachings and Scripture.Teachings and Scripture.
 Salvation through keeping the law as handed downSalvation through keeping the law as handed down
by Baha-Ullahby Baha-Ullah
 Emphasis on good deeds, helping the poor, educationEmphasis on good deeds, helping the poor, education
 Jesus did not die for our sins, because he did notJesus did not die for our sins, because he did not
have to. We are imperfect, but not lost.have to. We are imperfect, but not lost.
 Scripture: The writings of Baha-Ullah. There areScripture: The writings of Baha-Ullah. There are
many! An somewhat open smany! An somewhat open scripture.cripture.

Other World ReligionsOther World Religions
 Shinto—the ancestral religion of Japan. AnimistShinto—the ancestral religion of Japan. Animist
 Zoroastrianism—Dualistic religion with origins inZoroastrianism—Dualistic religion with origins in
Persia. Worship of Ahura Mazda; a fire god.Persia. Worship of Ahura Mazda; a fire god.

SummarySummary
 The theologies of world religions areThe theologies of world religions are
fundamentally and diametrically opposed to onefundamentally and diametrically opposed to one
another. Many paths to the same God is aanother. Many paths to the same God is a
ludicrous philosophy.ludicrous philosophy.
 The truth of the Bible is confirmed byThe truth of the Bible is confirmed by
– Clear evidence of inspiration (fulfilled prophecy, typesClear evidence of inspiration (fulfilled prophecy, types
and foreshadows, historical accuracy, scientificand foreshadows, historical accuracy, scientific
evidence, etc…)evidence, etc…)
– Public miracles worked by Moses, Elijah and others, andPublic miracles worked by Moses, Elijah and others, and
especially by Jesus Christ (Hebrews 2:3,4).especially by Jesus Christ (Hebrews 2:3,4).

A Question: Who reaches out to whom?

InitiativeInitiative
Human approachHuman approach TruthTruth
GodGod GodGod
MankindMankind MankindMankind

Works Salvation: Man
reaches out to God.
Islam
Hinduism
Jaina
Sikkhism
Gnosticism
New Age
Buddhism?
Salvation by Grace:
God reaches out to man.
Judaism
Christianity

New Age: A Very Confusing ReligionNew Age: A Very Confusing Religion
Is it:Is it:
Palm reading?Palm reading?
Channeling?Channeling?
Seances?Seances?
Meditation?Meditation?
Reincarnation?Reincarnation?
Occultism?Occultism?
Gurus?Gurus?
Paganism?Paganism?
Gnosticism?Gnosticism?
Mother Goddess worship?Mother Goddess worship?
Yes… all the above.Yes… all the above.

So, What is New Age, Really?So, What is New Age, Really?
 You are God, I am God, the trees are God, we all areYou are God, I am God, the trees are God, we all are
God!God!
 New Age is Western pantheismNew Age is Western pantheism
 New Age is a syncretistic blend of Gnosticism,New Age is a syncretistic blend of Gnosticism,
Hinduism, Spiritualism, Mysticism, Buddhism andHinduism, Spiritualism, Mysticism, Buddhism and
Paganism.Paganism.
 New Age is Monism! God is everything I am God!!!New Age is Monism! God is everything I am God!!!
““Once we begin to see that we are all God, then IOnce we begin to see that we are all God, then I
think the whole purpose of life is to re-own the God-think the whole purpose of life is to re-own the God-
likeness within us.”likeness within us.”

 Is This a “good” worldview?Is This a “good” worldview?
 Is it true that I am God?Is it true that I am God?
 Does it make me a better person to think that I amDoes it make me a better person to think that I am
God?God?
 Does this solve the problem of evil and of sin?Does this solve the problem of evil and of sin?

SummarySummary
 The theologies of world religions are fundamentallyThe theologies of world religions are fundamentally
and diametrically opposed to one another. Manyand diametrically opposed to one another. Many
paths to the same God is a ludicrous philosophy.paths to the same God is a ludicrous philosophy.
 The world view of Christianity is radically differentThe world view of Christianity is radically different
from any other religion. They cannot both be right!from any other religion. They cannot both be right!
 The truth of the Bible is confirmed byThe truth of the Bible is confirmed by
– Clear evidence of inspiration (fulfilled prophecy,Clear evidence of inspiration (fulfilled prophecy,
types and foreshadows, historical accuracy,types and foreshadows, historical accuracy,
scientific evidence, etc…)scientific evidence, etc…)
– Public miracles worked by Moses, Elijah andPublic miracles worked by Moses, Elijah and
others, and especially by Jesus Christ (Hebrewsothers, and especially by Jesus Christ (Hebrews
2:3,4).2:3,4).

Islamic TheologyIslamic Theology
 Like Christianity and Judaism, Islam isLike Christianity and Judaism, Islam is
monotheisticmonotheistic
 But there are several differences in the theologyBut there are several differences in the theology
of these religions.of these religions.
 In Islam God is more like the neo-Platonic idea ofIn Islam God is more like the neo-Platonic idea of
God—very distant and removed from man.God—very distant and removed from man.

Islamic TheologyIslamic Theology
““Surely good deeds take away evilSurely good deeds take away evil
deeds” (11:114).deeds” (11:114).
KabiraKabira (big sins)—murder, adultery, drunkenness,(big sins)—murder, adultery, drunkenness,
disobeying parents, neglecting Ramadan or Fridaydisobeying parents, neglecting Ramadan or Friday
prayers, gambling, dancing, shaving the beard,prayers, gambling, dancing, shaving the beard,
forgetting the Koran after reading it, usury…forgetting the Koran after reading it, usury…
Forgiveness with repentance.Forgiveness with repentance.
SaghiraSaghira (little sins)—deceit, anger, lust. Forgiveness if(little sins)—deceit, anger, lust. Forgiveness if
greater sins are avoided and good deeds aregreater sins are avoided and good deeds are
performed.performed.
ShirkShirk—association (of other gods—association (of other gods with Allah). Nowith Allah). No
forgiveness.forgiveness.

Salvation by ownSalvation by own
efforteffort
(40:9, 39:61, 7:43)(40:9, 39:61, 7:43)
Charity atones for sinsCharity atones for sins
(2:271,277)(2:271,277)
Earn grace.Earn grace.
Earn favor of Allah.Earn favor of Allah.
Earn salvation.Earn salvation.
Earn paradise.Earn paradise.

Islam: Salvation is earned through the
efforts of those who were pre-selected
by Allah to inhabit a very sensual
paradise.
Christianity: Salvation is granted by
the grace of a loving God to those who,
through faith and repentance and
baptism accept that love.

Islamic Worldview:
God is very distant from mankind
In Islam, Allah determines everything, even
who will choose to follow him.
2:142, 6:39 6:125
Inshallah God willing. It is God’s will that
people suffer.
.

The Biblical World ViewThe Biblical World View
 The physical world is real and it is good. GenesisThe physical world is real and it is good. Genesis
1:311:31
– Only Islam agrees with this conclusion.Only Islam agrees with this conclusion.
 This world is not our home.This world is not our home.
 But, compassion… James 1:27 Micah 6:8But, compassion… James 1:27 Micah 6:8
 Christian groups are responsible for virtually allChristian groups are responsible for virtually all
the world’s efforts to deal with poverty andthe world’s efforts to deal with poverty and
human suffering in general and to work for socialhuman suffering in general and to work for social
justice.justice.

Scriptures of World ReligionsScriptures of World Religions
 And we also thank God continually because, whenAnd we also thank God continually because, when
you received the word of God, which you heardyou received the word of God, which you heard
from us, you accepted it not as the word of men,from us, you accepted it not as the word of men,
but as it actually is, the word of God. 1 Thessbut as it actually is, the word of God. 1 Thess
2:132:13

The Qu’ran; the Scripture of IslamThe Qu’ran; the Scripture of Islam
Based on “revelations” from Gabriel toBased on “revelations” from Gabriel to
Mohammed.Mohammed.
Compiled in the 7Compiled in the 7thth
century AD (the 600s).century AD (the 600s).
Contains 114 chapters, or suras, arrangedContains 114 chapters, or suras, arranged
from longest to shortest. Quite repetitive.from longest to shortest. Quite repetitive.
About 80% the length of the NewAbout 80% the length of the New
Testament.Testament.

• Early Period in Mecca. Muhammad sees
himself as following tradition of Judaism.
Muslims pray toward Jerusalem.
• Early Medina period. Mohammad begins
to be politically powerful. The idea of Jihad
introduced.
• Later Medina and Meccan period.
Muhammad strongly opposed to Jews and
Christianity. Islam definitely a distinct
religion.

Historical errors in the Qur’anHistorical errors in the Qur’an
 Ishmael = IsaacIshmael = Isaac
37:10237:102
 2 trees in Eden = 1 tree2 trees in Eden = 1 tree 20:12020:120
 Noah’s 4th son drownsNoah’s 4th son drowns 11:4311:43
 Zechariah silent 3 days (not 9 months)Zechariah silent 3 days (not 9 months)
3:413:41
 Pharaoh’s magicians repentPharaoh’s magicians repent 20:7020:70
 Judges 7 / 1 Sam 17 conflatedJudges 7 / 1 Sam 17 conflated
2:2492:249
 Jesus’ childhood miraclesJesus’ childhood miracles 3:49, 5:110,3:49, 5:110,

Scientific errors in Qur’an (I)Scientific errors in Qur’an (I)
23:14—23:14—Creation from the clot of bloodCreation from the clot of blood
““Then we made the sperm into a clot ofThen we made the sperm into a clot of
congealed blood; then from that clot wecongealed blood; then from that clot we
made a lump; and we made out of thatmade a lump; and we made out of that
lump bones and clothed the bones withlump bones and clothed the bones with
flesh.”flesh.”
18:86—18:86—Traveling west…Traveling west…
“…“… till, when he reached the setting-placetill, when he reached the setting-place
of the sun, he found it setting in aof the sun, he found it setting in a
muddy spring.”muddy spring.”

Scientific errors in Qur’an (II)Scientific errors in Qur’an (II)
21:33—21:33—Sun and stars orbit the earthSun and stars orbit the earth
12—12—11 planets11 planets
34:9, 52:44—34:9, 52:44—Piece of sky falls and killsPiece of sky falls and kills
someonesomeone
36:4, 23:14 Man deposits child into the36:4, 23:14 Man deposits child into the
mothermother

Is Islam a Good World View?Is Islam a Good World View?
 Is it true? Is Mohammed a prophet?
– Fifteen wives
– Massacre of 700 Jews
– Doctrine of Abrogation
– Science errors
 Does it make its followers better?
– Motivation to help others?
– Are women respected?
– Does emphasis on Jihad lead to loving non-Muslims?

 15 million Jews throughout the world (Mostly in15 million Jews throughout the world (Mostly in
the U.S., Israel & former USSR)the U.S., Israel & former USSR)
 Jews makes up 83% of Israel’s populationJews makes up 83% of Israel’s population
 MoreMore Jews live in the U.S.Jews live in the U.S. than in Israel!than in Israel!
 A higher proportion of American Jews areA higher proportion of American Jews are
religious (i.e., practice Judaism or profess somereligious (i.e., practice Judaism or profess some
form of belief in Judaism) than in Israel!form of belief in Judaism) than in Israel!
Where are they?

Major Branches of JudaismMajor Branches of Judaism
 Conservative – 4.5 millionConservative – 4.5 million
 Unaffiliated & Secular – 4.5 millionUnaffiliated & Secular – 4.5 million
 Reform – 3.75 millionReform – 3.75 million
 Orthodox – 2 millionOrthodox – 2 million
•Most Jews today do not strictly hold to the LawMost Jews today do not strictly hold to the Law
•Many of Israel's Jews are secular - nonobservant andMany of Israel's Jews are secular - nonobservant and
either nonreligious or even agnostic / atheisteither nonreligious or even agnostic / atheist
•Religious Jews are in the minority in IsraelReligious Jews are in the minority in Israel

 333-63BC – Greek Period – Hellenization of Holy Land;333-63BC – Greek Period – Hellenization of Holy Land;
Maccabean Revolt; rise of Synagogue & religious partiesMaccabean Revolt; rise of Synagogue & religious parties
(Sadducees, Essenes, Pharisees)(Sadducees, Essenes, Pharisees)
 63BC-200AD – Roman period63BC-200AD – Roman period
 70AD – Jewish War results in the destruction of Herod’s Temple,70AD – Jewish War results in the destruction of Herod’s Temple,
Sanhedrin & sacrificial system. Pharisees become dominant forceSanhedrin & sacrificial system. Pharisees become dominant force
in Judaism. Council of Jamnia solidifies this position.in Judaism. Council of Jamnia solidifies this position.
Synagogue system replaces Temple Judaism.Synagogue system replaces Temple Judaism.
 132AD – Judean revolt sparked by Roman Emperor Hadrian’s132AD – Judean revolt sparked by Roman Emperor Hadrian’s
building city Aelia Capitolina on top of ruins of Jerusalem. Jewsbuilding city Aelia Capitolina on top of ruins of Jerusalem. Jews
banned from Jerusalem; circumcision of converts forbiddenbanned from Jerusalem; circumcision of converts forbidden
 200-640AD – Period of intense persecution mainly from the200-640AD – Period of intense persecution mainly from the
Christians, especially after Christianity became the religion of theChristians, especially after Christianity became the religion of the
Roman EmpireRoman Empire
Post Old-Testament Jewish History

 634-1096AD – Age of the Gaons – Muslim634-1096AD – Age of the Gaons – Muslim
conquests bring many Jews under Islamic domain,conquests bring many Jews under Islamic domain,
improving quality of life considerablyimproving quality of life considerably
 1096AD – Crusades specifically target Jews; they1096AD – Crusades specifically target Jews; they
are looted & murdered en masseare looted & murdered en masse
 1096-1348AD – Jews expelled from England, not1096-1348AD – Jews expelled from England, not
returning until 1650returning until 1650
 1348 – Jews accused of poisoning wells and causing1348 – Jews accused of poisoning wells and causing
the Black Death. (This resulted in many gruesomethe Black Death. (This resulted in many gruesome
massacres across Europe.)massacres across Europe.)
 1348-1517 – Jewish Influence – After the1348-1517 – Jewish Influence – After the
massacres, Jews allowed to return to their cities,massacres, Jews allowed to return to their cities,
many becoming moneylenders.many becoming moneylenders.
 1492 – Jews in Spain offered choice of converting1492 – Jews in Spain offered choice of converting
to Christianity or leaving the country.to Christianity or leaving the country.
 Wherever they went the exiles had a powerfulWherever they went the exiles had a powerful
impact.impact.

 1517-1700 – Europe in Ferment – Period started with a1517-1700 – Europe in Ferment – Period started with a
era of tolerance as authorities viewed Jews as useful.era of tolerance as authorities viewed Jews as useful.
Massacres in 1648 & 1649 devastated the Jews inMassacres in 1648 & 1649 devastated the Jews in
Poland & the Ukraine.Poland & the Ukraine.
 1700’s-Present – Large numbers migrated to the Americas1700’s-Present – Large numbers migrated to the Americas
(period of Jewish tolerance)(period of Jewish tolerance)
 1880’s – Strong Aryan, anti-semitic movements began in1880’s – Strong Aryan, anti-semitic movements began in
FranceFrance
 WWII – Extermination of 1/3 of world’s JewishWWII – Extermination of 1/3 of world’s Jewish
population – 6 million murderedpopulation – 6 million murdered
 1948 – Zionists pushed for & received the State of Israel1948 – Zionists pushed for & received the State of Israel
for the Jews to have a country once more. Battle for thisfor the Jews to have a country once more. Battle for this
territory still rages todayterritory still rages today

 Jewish Sects in 1Jewish Sects in 1stst
Century (Josephus)Century (Josephus)
– Pharisees (formerly the Hasidim)Pharisees (formerly the Hasidim)
– SadduceesSadducees
– EssenesEssenes
– ZealotsZealots

PhariseesPharisees
 Represented more of theRepresented more of the
common peoplecommon people
 Stressed holiness of life; createdStressed holiness of life; created
a body of laws to prevent peoplea body of laws to prevent people
from breaking laws (‘hedging’)from breaking laws (‘hedging’)
 Not as strict as the EssenesNot as strict as the Essenes
 Created the oral law; eventuallyCreated the oral law; eventually
became the Talmudbecame the Talmud
 Unlike the Sadducees, theyUnlike the Sadducees, they
strongly resisted the Hellenisticstrongly resisted the Hellenistic
cultureculture
 Emerged as the dominant groupEmerged as the dominant group
after 70ADafter 70AD

SadduceesSadducees
 Composed of wealthy aristocrats & priestsComposed of wealthy aristocrats & priests
 Held to a very strict interpretation of the ScripturesHeld to a very strict interpretation of the Scriptures
 Rejected the doctrine of the ResurrectionRejected the doctrine of the Resurrection
 Most members of the Sanhedrin were SadduceesMost members of the Sanhedrin were Sadducees
 Disappeared with Jerusalem destruction in 70ADDisappeared with Jerusalem destruction in 70AD
When John the Baptist saw many of the Pharisees
& Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he
said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned
you to flee from the coming wrath?” – Matthew 3:7

EssenesEssenes
 Ascetic, monastic sect; removed themselves from daily lifeAscetic, monastic sect; removed themselves from daily life
to prevent being polluted by the corrupt worldto prevent being polluted by the corrupt world
 No personal possessions, very strict observation ofNo personal possessions, very strict observation of
community & Sabbath rules, incl. no bowel movementscommunity & Sabbath rules, incl. no bowel movements
 Devoted themselves to study, with a focus on moral &Devoted themselves to study, with a focus on moral &
ethical learningethical learning
 Qumran sect is best known of this group; the Dead SeaQumran sect is best known of this group; the Dead Sea
Scrolls were widely believed to be their workScrolls were widely believed to be their work
 John the Baptist was an Essene? Not!John the Baptist was an Essene? Not!

ZealotsZealots
 Term used to describe Jewish anti-Roman groups usingTerm used to describe Jewish anti-Roman groups using
both political & military tacticsboth political & military tactics
 Covered many different factions; was not a party nameCovered many different factions; was not a party name
 Began in 6AD by Judas Maccabees based on inspirationBegan in 6AD by Judas Maccabees based on inspiration
of Phinehas (Numbers 25:11)of Phinehas (Numbers 25:11)
 ““Sicarii” (‘Dagger-men’) most extreme branch; carriedSicarii” (‘Dagger-men’) most extreme branch; carried
short daggers, stabbing their enemies in broad daylightshort daggers, stabbing their enemies in broad daylight
in large crowds, then joined the outraged crowd, addingin large crowds, then joined the outraged crowd, adding
their own cries of indignationtheir own cries of indignation
 Largely responsible for the beginning of the Jewish War,Largely responsible for the beginning of the Jewish War,
which led to the destruction of the Templewhich led to the destruction of the Temple

ZealotsZealots
 One of the 12 apostles was ‘Simon the Zealot’One of the 12 apostles was ‘Simon the Zealot’
 Barabbas; possibly Paul (Acts 22:3; Galatians 1:14)Barabbas; possibly Paul (Acts 22:3; Galatians 1:14)
 Acts 21:38 – ‘4,000 Assassins’ – ‘4,000 Terrorists’Acts 21:38 – ‘4,000 Assassins’ – ‘4,000 Terrorists’
 Mark 15:7 – ‘The Insurrectionists’Mark 15:7 – ‘The Insurrectionists’
 Last Zealot Stronghold, Masada, fell in May 74ADLast Zealot Stronghold, Masada, fell in May 74AD

Orthodox vs. ReformedOrthodox vs. Reformed
 Most obvious division today is between OrthodoxMost obvious division today is between Orthodox
& Progressive Jews& Progressive Jews
 Orthodox Jews adhere to a very strict biblical &Orthodox Jews adhere to a very strict biblical &
oral law (Talmud).oral law (Talmud).
 Diligently follow Sabbatical laws & KosherDiligently follow Sabbatical laws & Kosher
regulations. (In their own eyes no other Jews areregulations. (In their own eyes no other Jews are
really Jews.)really Jews.)

Reformed JudaismReformed Judaism
 Began in Germany in the 18Began in Germany in the 18thth
CenturyCentury
 Followed philosophies of enlightenment, enjoying theFollowed philosophies of enlightenment, enjoying the
benefits of the lessening persecutionbenefits of the lessening persecution
 Soon many Jews adapted to their culture rather thanSoon many Jews adapted to their culture rather than
holding to their traditionsholding to their traditions
 Using scientific inquiry and critical evaluation someUsing scientific inquiry and critical evaluation some
even taught that man no longer needed to accept theeven taught that man no longer needed to accept the
revelation of the Torah as factual & bindingrevelation of the Torah as factual & binding
 Changes in ritual law & worship were encouraged;Changes in ritual law & worship were encouraged;
dietary laws were abandoned and a more “peopledietary laws were abandoned and a more “people
friendly” version of Judaism was bornfriendly” version of Judaism was born

Kabbalah (Mysticism)Kabbalah (Mysticism)
 Branch of Judaism; meaning ‘Received Tradition’Branch of Judaism; meaning ‘Received Tradition’
 Claims to be the oldest religion; with origins datingClaims to be the oldest religion; with origins dating
back to Adam & Abrahamback to Adam & Abraham
 Possesses secret & mystic “truths”Possesses secret & mystic “truths”
 Claims to hold the long-hidden keys to the secrets ofClaims to hold the long-hidden keys to the secrets of
the universe & mysteries of the human heart & soulthe universe & mysteries of the human heart & soul
 Many similarities to Gnostic movementsMany similarities to Gnostic movements
 Essenes protected their writings, allegedly authored byEssenes protected their writings, allegedly authored by
Cain, Noah & JaredCain, Noah & Jared
 Isaac Newton, Madonna, Britney Spears, Paris Hilton,Isaac Newton, Madonna, Britney Spears, Paris Hilton,
Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher, Mick Jagger, AnthonyDemi Moore, Ashton Kutcher, Mick Jagger, Anthony
KiedisKiedis

Kosher/DietaryKosher/Dietary
RegulationsRegulations
 Kosher – Fit or clean according to Jewish dietary lawsKosher – Fit or clean according to Jewish dietary laws
 Regulations found in the Torah (Lev 11, Deut 14), butRegulations found in the Torah (Lev 11, Deut 14), but
many more added through traditionsmany more added through traditions
 Meat & dairy products can’t be eaten together. (ManyMeat & dairy products can’t be eaten together. (Many
households have 2 sets of dishes to prevent any contacthouseholds have 2 sets of dishes to prevent any contact
 Jewish hotels have 2 kitchens to prevent contaminationJewish hotels have 2 kitchens to prevent contamination
 Animals must be slaughtered & prepared by a ‘shochet’,Animals must be slaughtered & prepared by a ‘shochet’,
trained & ordained in the kosher regulationstrained & ordained in the kosher regulations
 Orthodox Jews follow these regulations meticulously;Orthodox Jews follow these regulations meticulously;
average Jews do notaverage Jews do not

The SynagogueThe Synagogue
 Place of Jewish communal worshipPlace of Jewish communal worship
 Most Jews are members of a Synagogue althoughMost Jews are members of a Synagogue although
that does not mean that they regularly attendthat does not mean that they regularly attend
 Mainly a place for reading scripture & prayerMainly a place for reading scripture & prayer
 Since 70AD (Destruction of the Temple), this hasSince 70AD (Destruction of the Temple), this has
been the center of both religious & cultural lifebeen the center of both religious & cultural life
 May have originated after 586BC to replace templeMay have originated after 586BC to replace temple
worship while in exile, but it developed rapidlyworship while in exile, but it developed rapidly
during the Intertestamental periodduring the Intertestamental period

Christian Science andChristian Science and
Scientology. What doScientology. What do
they have in common?they have in common?
Definitely not science!!Definitely not science!!

Christian ScienceChristian Science
 Founder and chief prophet: Mary Baker EddyFounder and chief prophet: Mary Baker Eddy
1821-19101821-1910
 Headquarters in Boston. Less that 1,000,000Headquarters in Boston. Less that 1,000,000
adherents.adherents.
 Influenced by Phineas Quimby and the “NewInfluenced by Phineas Quimby and the “New
Thought” movement.Thought” movement.
 Quimby: God is “Universal Wisdom andQuimby: God is “Universal Wisdom and
Intelligence.” God is “Presence.” God is “LovingIntelligence.” God is “Presence.” God is “Loving
Principle.”Principle.”
 Emphasis on disease, spiritualism. Disease is anEmphasis on disease, spiritualism. Disease is an
“error, created not by God, but by man.” No“error, created not by God, but by man.” No
false beliefsfalse beliefs →→ no disease.no disease.

Mary Baker EddyMary Baker Eddy
 ““She was subject from infancy toShe was subject from infancy to
convulsive attacks of a hystericalconvulsive attacks of a hysterical
nature and had many nervous fits.”nature and had many nervous fits.”
 Clairvoyance, spiritualism, occultClairvoyance, spiritualism, occult
 ““Cured” by Quimby (but symptomsCured” by Quimby (but symptoms
soon returned)soon returned)
 ““The works I have written onThe works I have written on
Christian Science contain absoluteChristian Science contain absolute
Truth.”Truth.”

Christian Science is neither Christian, nor is it science.
Science?
1990’s 18 documented cases of children
suffering preventable death because parents
refused to take them to a doctor. Convictions
of child endangerment and even manslaughter.
Zero scientific verification
Christian?
Jesus was a mere man. He is an embodiment
of the “Christ Principle.” He is “the highest
possible Inner consciousness.”
He did not die on the cross.
He did not resurrect from the dead.

Theology of Christian Science
Jesus is “divine mind.”
Jesus was a mere human, but an expression of
Christhood.
Salvation is release from ignorance.
Sin, evil, sickness and even death are illusions
which are conquered by denying them.
Q: Will denying cancer make it go away?
The trinity is “Life, Truth and Love.”
No hell.

Scripture of Christian ScienceScripture of Christian Science
 One must use “Science and HealthOne must use “Science and Health
with Key to the Scripture” towith Key to the Scripture” to
properly interpret the Bible.properly interpret the Bible.
 Interpreted the Bible esoterically.Interpreted the Bible esoterically.
Cannot take the miracles,Cannot take the miracles,
resurrection and so forth literally.resurrection and so forth literally.

“The cause of all so-called disease is mental, a
mortal fear, a mistaken belief of conviction of the
necessity and power of ill health.
New York Sun Dec 19, 1898, Eddy “challenged the
world to disprove” that she had healed a variety of
serious illnesses, including cancer
Dr Charles A. Reed (later president of AMA) offered
to present similar cases for her to heal, which she
politely declined.
“If she by her Christian Science, shall cure any one of
them, I shall proclaim her omnipotence from the
housetops; and, if she shall cure all or even half of
them, I shall cheerfully crawl upon my hands and
knees that I may but touch the hem of her walking
dress.”

ScientologyScientology
 Founder L. Ron HubbardFounder L. Ron Hubbard
 A science fiction writer who took his fictionA science fiction writer who took his fiction
seriously.seriously.
 WroteWrote DianeticsDianetics The Modern Science of MentalThe Modern Science of Mental
Health,Health, 19501950
 Established Church of Scientology, 1954.Established Church of Scientology, 1954.
 Tom Cruise, 2006; “Psychology isTom Cruise, 2006; “Psychology is
pseudoscience.”pseudoscience.”
 John Oakes, 2006: “Scientology isJohn Oakes, 2006: “Scientology is
pseudoscience.”pseudoscience.”

TheologyTheology
 Men are “Thetans” (immortal spirits)Men are “Thetans” (immortal spirits)
 God is “All Theta,” “The eighth dynamic.”God is “All Theta,” “The eighth dynamic.”
 Our problem is our “engrams.”Our problem is our “engrams.”
 Engrams are stored impressions in the reactive (vs analytic) mindEngrams are stored impressions in the reactive (vs analytic) mind
of painful experiences carried over from past lives (and duringof painful experiences carried over from past lives (and during
gestation in our mother).gestation in our mother).
 The goal: eliminate your engrams so that you can realize yourThe goal: eliminate your engrams so that you can realize your
true nature.true nature.
 ““Man is not the limited and pitiful body and ego he mistakenlyMan is not the limited and pitiful body and ego he mistakenly
imagines himself to be. He is a thetan whose fundamentalimagines himself to be. He is a thetan whose fundamental
nature is basically good and divine. He is not morally fallen;nature is basically good and divine. He is not morally fallen;
rather he is simply ignorant of his own perfection. His only fallrather he is simply ignorant of his own perfection. His only fall
was into matter, not sin.”was into matter, not sin.”

Scripture of Scientology
All L. Ron Hubbard’s books.
The “Science” of Scientology:
The solution to engrams is “Auditing”
Involves using an electropsychometer to discover the engrams in the
“pre-clear.”
The electropsychometer is a pair of electrodes which detect changes in
conductivity when certain questions are asked by a trained auditor.
Auditor guides the pre-clear to discharge the harmful energy from the
engram.
All this costs a lot of money. This is a religious scam; plain and simple.

ResponseResponse
 Scientology: Jesus was “a shade above clear.”Scientology: Jesus was “a shade above clear.”
 Jesus: John 8:46 “Can any of you prove me guiltyJesus: John 8:46 “Can any of you prove me guilty
of sin?”of sin?”

MORMONISMMORMONISM
ANOTHER TESTAMENTANOTHER TESTAMENT
OF JESUS CHRIST?OF JESUS CHRIST?

OUTLINEOUTLINE
HistoryHistory
The Book of MormonThe Book of Mormon
Mormon TeachingsMormon Teachings
EvangelismEvangelism

Joseph SmithJoseph Smith
DivinerDiviner
TreasureTreasure
HunterHunter
ReligiousReligious
FraudFraud

Early HistoryEarly History
 1823 A visit by the angel Moroni1823 A visit by the angel Moroni
– You will be given golden plates on the hill CumorahYou will be given golden plates on the hill Cumorah
 1827 Dug up golden plates. Written in “Reformed1827 Dug up golden plates. Written in “Reformed
Egyptian.”Egyptian.”
 Used the “Urrim and the Thummim” with his head in aUsed the “Urrim and the Thummim” with his head in a
hat to translate the Book of Mormon.hat to translate the Book of Mormon.
 Conveniently, God took the golden plates back toConveniently, God took the golden plates back to
The Hill Cumorah

 ““His translation complete, Joseph had one further use forHis translation complete, Joseph had one further use for
the golden plates. To assure skeptics that the plates did,the golden plates. To assure skeptics that the plates did,
indeed exist, he showed them toindeed exist, he showed them to several trusted witnesses,several trusted witnesses,
who signed statements affirming that they had beheld thewho signed statements affirming that they had beheld the
plates. In preparation for viewing the plates, the chosenplates. In preparation for viewing the plates, the chosen
witnesses prayed for several hours. After lengthy praying,witnesses prayed for several hours. After lengthy praying,
one witness reported that he saw only an empty box.one witness reported that he saw only an empty box.
Joseph sent him out for additional prayer, after which theJoseph sent him out for additional prayer, after which the
golden plates were fully visible to the witness.”golden plates were fully visible to the witness.”
 Later, all these witnesses became apostate to Mormonism.Later, all these witnesses became apostate to Mormonism.

Understanding MormonismUnderstanding Mormonism
 This is my testimony…..This is my testimony…..
 Emotion-based religion.Emotion-based religion.
 Mormons are, arguably, the most Christian-likeMormons are, arguably, the most Christian-like
group around, and they know it.group around, and they know it.

WANDERING IN THE WILDERNESSWANDERING IN THE WILDERNESS
 Palmyra, New YorkPalmyra, New York
 Kirtland, OhioKirtland, Ohio
 Independence, MissouriIndependence, Missouri
 Nauvoo, IllinoisNauvoo, Illinois
 Salt Lake Valley, UtahSalt Lake Valley, Utah

JOSEPH SMITH AND SIDNEY RIGDONJOSEPH SMITH AND SIDNEY RIGDON

The Mormon ScriptureThe Mormon Scripture
 The Book of MormonThe Book of Mormon
– A grade B religious fantasyA grade B religious fantasy
about the Jaredites and theabout the Jaredites and the
Nephites.Nephites.
 The Pearl of Great Price withThe Pearl of Great Price with
the Doctrine and thethe Doctrine and the
Covenants.Covenants.
 The Bible, “so long as it isThe Bible, “so long as it is
correctly translated.”correctly translated.”
 Mormon 8:18 “Don’tMormon 8:18 “Don’t
demand to see the plates ordemand to see the plates or
you will be killed.”you will be killed.”

Did Jesus come to the New World?

Statements by the Smithsonian Institution and the
National Geographic Society:
•"The Smithsonian Institution has never used the Book of
Mormon in any way as a scientific guide. Smithsonian
archaeologists see no connection between the archaeology
of the New World and the subject matter of the Book."
Official Statement, 1979
•"Neither representatives of the National Geographic
Society nor, to my knowledge, archaeologists connected
with any other institution or equal prestige have ever
used the Book of Mormon in locating historic ruins in
Middle America or elsewhere." Dr. Neal Judd

MORMON TEACHINGSMORMON TEACHINGS
 The Latter Day SaintsThe Latter Day Saints
 Modern-day revelationModern-day revelation
 We are all godsWe are all gods
 PolygamyPolygamy
 RacismRacism
 Baptism for the deadBaptism for the dead
 Scriptures to bear in mind: Galatians 1:6-9,Scriptures to bear in mind: Galatians 1:6-9,
2 Thessalonians 2:5-12, 1 John 2:18-23.2 Thessalonians 2:5-12, 1 John 2:18-23.

The Latter Day SaintsThe Latter Day Saints
 The original church completely fell away with theThe original church completely fell away with the
death of the original apostles. There was nodeath of the original apostles. There was no
legitimate church for about 1700 years.legitimate church for about 1700 years.
 ““This is my testimony, Joseph Smith is a prophetThis is my testimony, Joseph Smith is a prophet
and the Book of Mormon is the Word of God.”and the Book of Mormon is the Word of God.”

We are all gods.We are all gods.
 The Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit areThe Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are
three separate gods.three separate gods.
 Mormonism is polytheism.Mormonism is polytheism.
– ““I will preach on the plurality of gods. I have always declaredI will preach on the plurality of gods. I have always declared
God to be a distinct personage, Jesus Christ a separate andGod to be a distinct personage, Jesus Christ a separate and
distinct personage from God the Father, and the Holy Ghost wasdistinct personage from God the Father, and the Holy Ghost was
a distinct personage and a Spirit: and these three constitutea distinct personage and a Spirit: and these three constitute
three distinct personages and three Gods.”three distinct personages and three Gods.” Teachings of JosephTeachings of Joseph
Smith,Smith, p. 370p. 370..
– From Joseph Smith’s most famous sermon: “God himself wasFrom Joseph Smith’s most famous sermon: “God himself was
once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthronedonce as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits enthroned
in yonder heavens!... I am going to tell you how God came to bein yonder heavens!... I am going to tell you how God came to be
God. We have imagined and supposed that God was God fromGod. We have imagined and supposed that God was God from
eternity. I will refute that idea, and take away the veil so thateternity. I will refute that idea, and take away the veil so that
you may see… He was once a man like us; yea that Godyou may see… He was once a man like us; yea that God
himself, the Father of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same ashimself, the Father of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same as
Jesus Christ himself did.Jesus Christ himself did.

PolygamyPolygamy
 A new revelation against polygamy by the Utah churchA new revelation against polygamy by the Utah church
18901890
 Joseph Smith had at least 30 wives, some less than 15 yrs.Joseph Smith had at least 30 wives, some less than 15 yrs.
old and took many other women as well.old and took many other women as well.
 Celestial marriages.Celestial marriages.
 When our father Adam came into the garden of Eden, he cameWhen our father Adam came into the garden of Eden, he came
into it with a celestial body, and brought Eve,into it with a celestial body, and brought Eve, one of his wivesone of his wives,,
with him. He helped to make and organize this world. He iswith him. He helped to make and organize this world. He is
Michael, the Ancient of Days! About whom holy men have writtenMichael, the Ancient of Days! About whom holy men have written
and spoken—He is our Father and our God, and the only God withand spoken—He is our Father and our God, and the only God with
whom we have to do.”whom we have to do.” Journal of DiscoursesJournal of Discourses vol 1, p 50.vol 1, p 50.
 ““The grand reason why the Gentiles and philosophers of his schoolThe grand reason why the Gentiles and philosophers of his school
persecuted Jesus Christ, was because he had so many wives;persecuted Jesus Christ, was because he had so many wives;

RacismRacism
 Mormons 5:15 “Indians are dark filthy and loathsome.”Mormons 5:15 “Indians are dark filthy and loathsome.”
 1 Nephi 11:13 “dark people are sinful.”1 Nephi 11:13 “dark people are sinful.”
 2 Nephi 5:21 “Dark skin are loathsome. Those who marry2 Nephi 5:21 “Dark skin are loathsome. Those who marry
dark skinned are cursed.”dark skinned are cursed.”
 Officially renounced by new revelation in 1978.Officially renounced by new revelation in 1978.

Other interesting doctrinesOther interesting doctrines
 Baptism for the deadBaptism for the dead
 Modern-day priesthood of MelchizedekModern-day priesthood of Melchizedek
 Baptism in the name of Jesus preached to the NephitesBaptism in the name of Jesus preached to the Nephites
several hundred years BC. A very confused idea ofseveral hundred years BC. A very confused idea of
covenants.covenants.

REACHING OUT TO MORMONSREACHING OUT TO MORMONS
 This is my testimony….. EmotionThis is my testimony….. Emotion
vs reason.vs reason.
 Do not attack Joseph SmithDo not attack Joseph Smith
personallypersonally
 Friendship/familyFriendship/family
 Study on “Covenants” Joe FieldsStudy on “Covenants” Joe Fields

Study #1 The Word of GodStudy #1 The Word of God
What books are identified as the words of God? 2 Nephi 29:13
“…words of the Jews” (Old Testament)
“…words of the list tribes of Israel” (Lost book?)
“…words of the Nephites” (Book of Mormon)
What does “they both shall be established in one” mean? 1 Nephi 13:41
What are “the plain and precious things” that were taken from the Bible?
(1 Nephi 13:28) Please be specific.
Do the Bible and the Book of Mormon have to be in harmony with each other?
What are “the two sticks?” in Ezekiel 37:15-22?
What version of the Bible do you accept as the inspired word of God?
Does God’s word in the Book of Mormon ever contradict God’s word in the
Bible?
Would there ever be any reason to reject the Bible as God’s word?

Study #2 Infinite and Eternal AtonementStudy #2 Infinite and Eternal Atonement
Alma 34:14 / Hebrews 10:1Alma 34:14 / Hebrews 10:1
Book of Mormon
Mosiah 16:14 (148 BC)
2 Nephi 25:24-27 (545 BC)
Alma 33:19-22 (74 BC)
Mosiah 12:31-13:28 (148 BC)
Alma 25:15 (77 BC)
Book of Mormon
Mosiah 4:2,3 (124 BC)
Jacob 4:11 (421 BC)
Jarom 1:11 (399 BC)
Jacob 7 (421 BC)
Alma 7:14 (83 BC)
The Old Testament
Genesis 12:3 (1500 BC)
Numbers 21:4-9 (1500 BC)
Isaiah 53:4-7 (701 BC)
Exodus 12:1 (1500 BC)
Leviticus 4 (1500 BC)
(Hebrews 10:1, Galatians 3:24)
The New Testament
Galatians 3:8 (AD 49)
John 3:14, 12:32 (AD 85-90)
1 Peter 2:21-25 (AD 64)
1 Corinthians 5:7 (AD 54)
Hebrews 9 (AD 60-69)
(Galatians 3:19,23, Colossians 2:14)
Atonement Shadow Atonement Applied

The Jehovah’s WitnessThe Jehovah’s Witness
The WatchtowerThe Watchtower
vsvs
The BibleThe Bible
John Oakes, PhDJohn Oakes, PhD

Historical BackgroundHistorical Background
 Influenced by Adventist movementInfluenced by Adventist movement
 William Miller, October, 1844William Miller, October, 1844
 Russel establishes The Watchtower, 1879Russel establishes The Watchtower, 1879
 Rejects the Trinity 1882Rejects the Trinity 1882
 Predicts the end of the world in October,Predicts the end of the world in October,
19141914
 Dies 1916Dies 1916

 ““Judge” Rutherford takes the reignsJudge” Rutherford takes the reigns
 Predicts the resurrection of Abraham,Predicts the resurrection of Abraham,
Isaac and Jacob to occur in 1925Isaac and Jacob to occur in 1925
 Changes name to Jehovah’s Witness, 1931Changes name to Jehovah’s Witness, 1931
 Began predicting Armageddon to occur inBegan predicting Armageddon to occur in
19751975
 Oops…..!Oops…..!

FundamentalFundamental Theology of JW’sTheology of JW’s
 Jesus is not GodJesus is not God
 The Holy Spirit is not Deity or a person, but aThe Holy Spirit is not Deity or a person, but a
force of God.force of God.
 God’s only acceptable name is Jehovah.God’s only acceptable name is Jehovah.
 Only JW’s will be in heaven.Only JW’s will be in heaven.
 Hell is not a place of punishment.Hell is not a place of punishment.
 The Church became completely apostate untilThe Church became completely apostate until
1870’s1870’s

Jehovah’s Witness Theology (cont.)Jehovah’s Witness Theology (cont.)
 Emphasis on OT lawEmphasis on OT law
No blood transfusionsNo blood transfusions
 Miscelaneous (attempts to mark JW’s as unique)Miscelaneous (attempts to mark JW’s as unique)
Birthdays, etc.Birthdays, etc.
No Military ServiceNo Military Service
No Wearing CrossesNo Wearing Crosses
No pledgingNo pledging

The Watchtower SocietyThe Watchtower Society
God’s faithful and discreet slave Matthew 24:45-God’s faithful and discreet slave Matthew 24:45-
4747
““God’s sole channel of communication to HisGod’s sole channel of communication to His
people.”people.”
““Avoid independent thinking or questioning theAvoid independent thinking or questioning the
counsel that is provided by God’s invisiblecounsel that is provided by God’s invisible
organization.”organization.”
““We recognize not only Jehovah God as ourWe recognize not only Jehovah God as our
father, but his organization (The Watchtowerfather, but his organization (The Watchtower
Society) as our mother and the wife of ourSociety) as our mother and the wife of our
Father, Jehovah God”Father, Jehovah God” (The Watchtower, May 1, 1957,(The Watchtower, May 1, 1957,

The New World Translation of the BibleThe New World Translation of the Bible
 Done by JW members onlyDone by JW members only
 Designed to protect members from corruptedDesigned to protect members from corrupted
non-Christian translations (like NIV and so forth)non-Christian translations (like NIV and so forth)
 John 1:1 The word wasJohn 1:1 The word was a ga god….od….

The Deity of ChristThe Deity of Christ
 Jesus is the first and highest ofJesus is the first and highest of
Jehovah’s creation.Jehovah’s creation.
 Jesus is the archangel Michael.Jesus is the archangel Michael.
 The Arian heresy (Arius, 3The Arian heresy (Arius, 3rdrd
CenturyCentury
AD).AD).
 Claim: Jesus is never worshipped inClaim: Jesus is never worshipped in
the NT.the NT.

Proof-textsProof-texts
·· John 1:1 …. The Word was a god…John 1:1 …. The Word was a god…
 John 3:16 (NWT) Jehovah’s first creationJohn 3:16 (NWT) Jehovah’s first creation
was his only begotten Son.was his only begotten Son.
 Coll 1:15-17 The first-born of (vs over) allColl 1:15-17 The first-born of (vs over) all
creation.creation.
 Jn 14:28 The Father is greater than IJn 14:28 The Father is greater than I
 Jn 20:17 My GodJn 20:17 My God
 1 Cor 15:28 … the head of Christ is God1 Cor 15:28 … the head of Christ is God

ResponseResponse
 Compare Coll 1:16 to Hebrews 2:10Compare Coll 1:16 to Hebrews 2:10
 Hebrews 1:2Hebrews 1:2
 John 8:58 (Exodus 3:14)John 8:58 (Exodus 3:14)
 John 10:30 (see vs. 33)John 10:30 (see vs. 33)
 Coll 2:9Coll 2:9
 John 20:28John 20:28
 Titus 2:13Titus 2:13
 Phil 5,6Phil 5,6
 Zech 12:10Zech 12:10
 Isaiah 9:6,7Isaiah 9:6,7

The Holy Spirit is not DeityThe Holy Spirit is not Deity
 ““The Holy Spirit is not a person, but is a powerful force thatThe Holy Spirit is not a person, but is a powerful force that
God causes to emanate from himself to accomplish his holyGod causes to emanate from himself to accomplish his holy
will (will (Reasoning From Scriptures,Reasoning From Scriptures, 1989, p. 381)1989, p. 381)
Arguments:Arguments:
 The Holy Spirit is never given a nameThe Holy Spirit is never given a name
 Mark 1:10, Acts 2:, etc describe the Holy Spirit coming onMark 1:10, Acts 2:, etc describe the Holy Spirit coming on
or filling up people. A person cannot do this. (see Ephor filling up people. A person cannot do this. (see Eph
3:19)3:19)
 Genesis 1:2 (NWT) “God’s active force was working toGenesis 1:2 (NWT) “God’s active force was working to
shape the earth”shape the earth”

ResponseResponse
 1 Cor 2:101 Cor 2:10
 Eph 4:30Eph 4:30
 Acts 16:6, 8:29Acts 16:6, 8:29
 Matthew 12:32 (see Rev 13:6, Matt 27:39)Matthew 12:32 (see Rev 13:6, Matt 27:39)
 1 Cor 12:111 Cor 12:11
 Acts 13:2Acts 13:2
 John 14:15-17John 14:15-17
 John 16:7-11John 16:7-11
 Matthew 28:18Matthew 28:18

Jehovah is God’s Only NameJehovah is God’s Only Name
 Ezekiel 39:6Ezekiel 39:6
 Matthew 6:9Matthew 6:9
 Exodus 3:15Exodus 3:15
 Romans 10:13Romans 10:13
Claim: Jesus is never called Jehovah—ThereforeClaim: Jesus is never called Jehovah—Therefore
he cannot be God.he cannot be God.
Claim: The word Jehovah was removed from mostClaim: The word Jehovah was removed from most
of the OT by superstitious Jews.of the OT by superstitious Jews.
Claim: The word Jehovah was removed from theClaim: The word Jehovah was removed from the
NT by early apostate Christians.NT by early apostate Christians.

ResponseResponse
 To the ancients, the name of a person stood for the person.To the ancients, the name of a person stood for the person.
 YHWH + ADONAI’s vowels = YAHOWAH Yiddish→ →YHWH + ADONAI’s vowels = YAHOWAH Yiddish→ →
German as Jehovah.German as Jehovah.
 The word Jehovah is not found anywhere in NT or OTThe word Jehovah is not found anywhere in NT or OT
 God has many names in the OT and the NT (Elohim,God has many names in the OT and the NT (Elohim,
Adonai, Father, God, Lord, etc.)Adonai, Father, God, Lord, etc.)
 Jesus never called his Father Jehovah.Jesus never called his Father Jehovah.
 Manuscript evidence (ex the Rylands Papyrus) absolutelyManuscript evidence (ex the Rylands Papyrus) absolutely
rules out even the possibility of Jehovah being removedrules out even the possibility of Jehovah being removed
from the NT.from the NT.

Hell Not a Place of PunishmentHell Not a Place of Punishment
 No conscious existence after death.No conscious existence after death.
 There is no soul apart from a physical bodyThere is no soul apart from a physical body
 Jesus himself ceased to exist when he diedJesus himself ceased to exist when he died
 All go to a common hell called “soul sleep” whenAll go to a common hell called “soul sleep” when
they die to await being recreated by God.they die to await being recreated by God.
 If they are not re-embodied by God, they simplyIf they are not re-embodied by God, they simply
cease to exist—no punishment at all for sins.cease to exist—no punishment at all for sins.

Soul SleepSoul Sleep
 144,000 of Revelation 7 will be in spiritual heaven with144,000 of Revelation 7 will be in spiritual heaven with
Jesus (the “little flock” of Luke 12:32)Jesus (the “little flock” of Luke 12:32)
 The rest (“my other sheep of John 10:16) will live inThe rest (“my other sheep of John 10:16) will live in
physical bodies on a paradise earth.physical bodies on a paradise earth.
Proof-texts:Proof-texts:
 Matthew 6:10 NWT “Let your will take place, as in heaven,Matthew 6:10 NWT “Let your will take place, as in heaven,
also upon earth”also upon earth”
 Ecclesiastes 9:5 “The dead know nothing.”Ecclesiastes 9:5 “The dead know nothing.”
 Luke 23:43 NWT “I tell you today, you will be with me inLuke 23:43 NWT “I tell you today, you will be with me in
Paradise.Paradise.
 Matt 25:46 NWT “And these will depart into everlastingMatt 25:46 NWT “And these will depart into everlasting
cutting-off.”cutting-off.”

ResponseResponse
 Rev 14:9-12 forever and everRev 14:9-12 forever and ever
 Matthew 25:46 everlasting comtemptMatthew 25:46 everlasting comtempt
 Daniel 12:2 Can you have one withoutDaniel 12:2 Can you have one without
another?another?
 Mark 9:44 blessing and cursesMark 9:44 blessing and curses
 Luke 12:46-48 degrees of punishmentLuke 12:46-48 degrees of punishment

Seventh Day AdventismSeventh Day Adventism
APLAAPLA
Manila PIManila PI
Jan, 2010Jan, 2010

Ellen G. White,
Prophetess of 7th
Day Adventism
An epileptic?
Probably
A plagiarizer? Yes!

History of AdventismHistory of Adventism
 Millerite movement 1840sMillerite movement 1840s
 Jesus did not come back in 1844!!!Jesus did not come back in 1844!!!
 Premillenialism, Arianism, Sabbatarianism,Premillenialism, Arianism, Sabbatarianism,
etc.etc.
 Led to 7Led to 7thth
Day Adventism and Jehovah’sDay Adventism and Jehovah’s
WitnessWitness

Important Teachings of 7Important Teachings of 7thth
Day AdventismDay Adventism
 Adventism: Jesus came in the “InvestigativeAdventism: Jesus came in the “Investigative
Judgment in 1844 (based on Daniel 8) EmphasisJudgment in 1844 (based on Daniel 8) Emphasis
on premillenialism.on premillenialism.
 Obedience to Mosaic SabbathObedience to Mosaic Sabbath
 Emphasis on Jewish health lawsEmphasis on Jewish health laws
 Do not believe in HellDo not believe in Hell

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