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24
May
2025

Ephesians 1:11 – Chosen in Christ, Not Irresistibly Forced

Irresistibly Forced

Ephesians 1:11 sits in a rich section of Paul’s letter, where he praises God for the blessings believers have in Christ. Many read this verse as a statement about God predestining everything that happens—including who will believe. But that interpretation stretches Paul’s meaning beyond the context. Verse 11 actually restates and builds on what Paul already said in verse 5. Far from supporting determinism, this passage highlights God’s loving plan for those who choose Christ. Paul affirms God’s sovereignty without suggesting that anyone is irresistibly forced into salvation.

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Posted by Eddie Lawrence in Calvinism, Ephesians
17
May
2025

Baptismal Regeneration: How It Misses the Mark

Baptismal Regeneration

When we discuss biblical topics, we need to define key terms clearly. I’ve realized that in past conversations about baptismal regeneration, I didn’t always share the same definition as others in the room. In those cases, we just left confused; no real harm done. But the experience reminded me how easily unclear terms can derail a conversation. In other settings, that kind of confusion could create serious misunderstandings. What do people mean by baptismal regeneration? Before diving in, let me clarify what I mean by each term. 

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Posted by Eddie Lawrence in Baptism
10
May
2025

What Is a Sacrament (and Are They Even Real)?

Sacrament

What is a sacrament? Most people have heard the word, but few can define it clearly. What counts as a sacrament, and why do churches call certain rites by that name? Where did the term come from—and is it even in the Bible?

While many Christians treat sacraments as essential to church life, the concept is a post-biblical invention that emerged centuries after the inspired authors completed the New Testament. Sacraments emerged centuries later as church leaders sought to codify certain church rituals. It wasn’t until the 12th century AD that the Catholic Church formalized the seven sacraments they now recognize.1

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Posted by Eddie Lawrence in Misconceptions, Word Studies
03
May
2025

Interpreting End-Time Prophecy Is Futile

Prophecy

Jesus fulfilled many Old Testament prophecies, but some Bible prophecies still await their fulfillment. He secured the ultimate victory, but the enemy still resists. The powers of darkness continue to fight, and God has not yet revealed His final move. So we still wait for prophecies about the last days, Christ’s return, and the final defeat of evil to unfold. Some prophecy is yet to be fulfilled.

No one, humans, angels, or the devil, unraveled the mystery of the Messiah’s first coming. I believe end-time prophecy works the same way. God continues to conceal His plan. He doesn’t tip His hand to the enemy. He kept His purpose hidden before Jesus came, and He still keeps it hidden.

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Posted by Eddie Lawrence in Eschatology
26
Apr
2025

The Hidden Mystery of Prophecy

Mystery

Everyone loves a good mystery. We’re curious about what’s concealed, eager for a satisfying reveal. We want to know what we don’t know. The Bible speaks of mysteries too; not fiction, but divine truths God hid for ages. Paul speaks of such a mystery; one that reshapes how we understand history, salvation, and the will of God.

However, the Bible doesn’t use the word “mystery” exactly the way we do. When Paul speaks of mystery, he isn’t referring to something that is currently hidden, but something that was once hidden and now is revealed. Klyne Snodgrass explains:

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Posted by Eddie Lawrence in Ephesians