The Nature of Preexistence in the New Testament [12 pages]
by Anthony Buzzard rated at 2.0 (7 votes so far)
The so-called "preexistence" of Jesus in John refers to his "existence" in the Plan of God. The church has been plagued by the introduction of non-biblical language. There is a perfectly good word for "real" preexistence in the Greek language (pro-uparchon). It is very significant that it appears nowhere in Scripture, but it does in the writings of Greek church fathers of the second century. These Greek commentators on Scripture failed to understand the Hebrew categories of thought in which the New Testament is written.
books
These books, written by people from diverse backgrounds, express the simple truth that God is one. Some of them are more scholary while others are more autobiographical. In addition, a few of them are available to read online. If you would like more in depth treatment of christian monotheism, these books are the next step to take. Note: if you know of other books, not listed here, please leave us feedback.
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The Holy Spirit is Not a Person Distinct From The Father
by Ray Faircloth [10 pages]
rated at 1.6 (out of 6 votes)
Evidently the holy spirit is not a 3rd person within the formula of a trinity; but rather is God’s own spirit—His mind powerfully expressed into action as outreach to his creation. Since his exaltation to the right hand of God Jesus also expresses his spirit—his mind into action as outreach to his disciples. Because holy spirit means God’s thoughts (and therefore also Jesus’ thoughts)—His mind projected to the receptive human mind, we can say that we have God’s spirit when we are considering the holy Scriptures i.e. when reading/studying them, discussing them or in living our lives in a way that is in harmony with them, including prayer. In this way we are empowered to do God’s will in its many aspects. Also the spirit of God has such power that it brought the universe into being, and will be the power (in Christ’s hands) that brings “the new heavens and earth” into being in the future.