I recently came across a video by a pastor on Facebook in which he claims that Labubu is demonic. In his vlog, he presents several arguments and even references Scripture to support his position. You can view the two part video in the links at the end of this article. His argument that Labubu, a whimsical collectible art toy, is "demonic" rests on flawed reasoning and reflects a misunderstanding of art, mythology, and creativity. Labubu is, first and foremost, a work of art, created as a fictional character by an artist. While it is true that the creator of Labubu was inspired by Norse mythology, this does not automatically make the toy evil or spiritually harmful. Inspiration does not equate to intent or inherent moral value. To conclude that Labubu is demonic solely because of its resemblance to mythological elements is to commit a logical fallacy, specifically the Post Hoc Ergo Propter Hoc fallacy. This fallacy occurs when someone assumes that because two … [Read more...]
From Gospel Seed to Spiritual Fruit: Examining the Role of Means in Calvinist Theology
The Calvinist doctrine of divine means represents a sophisticated theological framework that illuminates the relationship between God's sovereignty and human instrumentality in salvation. The Canons of the Synod of Dort establish this fundamental principle by drawing a compelling parallel between natural sustenance and spiritual nourishment. This theological construct demonstrates that divine sovereignty operates through established channels, much as physical life requires natural means of sustenance such as eating and sleeping. The doctrine emphasizes that God's supernatural work consistently employs ordained means, particularly in the context of salvation and spiritual growth.The Synod of Dort explicitly affirms that God's supernatural work of regeneration incorporates the gospel as its primary instrument of salvation. This doctrinal position characterizes the gospel as both the "seed of regeneration" and the "food of the soul," establishing its indispensable role in the salvific … [Read more...]
Faith, Works, and Salvation: A Comparative Analysis of Calvin and Arminius’ Theological Perspectives
There is probably no other better showcase with regards to the relationship between faith and works in justification and salvation than the position of the theologians John Calvin and Jacobus Arminius. John Calvin was one of the leaders of the Reformation while Jacobus Arminius studied under Calvin’s successor, Theodore Beza. Calvin’s soteriological views (together with that of other compatible views of other Reformers) became the default view of what is known as “Reformed Soteriology” and is otherwise known as “Calvinism” whereas Arminius’ views are summarized in what is known as “Arminianism.”Calvin’s view was later on summarized what is later known as the five points of Calvinism. The five points were raised in response to the five points raised by the Arminians against Calvin’s position. In discussing a part of the five points of Calvinism, we will be able to compare the difference between Calvinists and Arminian views on the interplay between faith, works, justification, and … [Read more...]
Were the King James Bible Translators Actually Calvinists? A Historical Analysis
Recent debates concerning the theological orientation of the King James Bible translators necessitate a careful examination of historical evidence regarding their doctrinal positions. Historical records strongly indicate that a significant majority of the translators adhered to Calvinist theology or demonstrated strong Calvinistic leanings in their soteriology. Historical Context and Anglican Identity The theological landscape of the Anglican Church during the Elizabethan era, which immediately preceded King James's reign, shows substantial Calvinist influence. Gerald Lewis Bray, a prominent British theologian and Anglican priest, provides crucial insight into this historical reality:"The Thirty-nine Articles of Religion follow the outline of Calvin's Institutes to a surprising extent, and their content is similar... the theologians who shaped Anglican identity in the Elizabethan era were deeply indebted to Calvin, whose major works were quickly translated into English to become the … [Read more...]
Is There Really an Unbroken Succession of Baptist Churches Since Christ?
The concept of Baptist Church Perpetuity, also known as Baptist Successionism, has been a subject of intense debate within Baptist circles. This theory posits that Baptist churches have existed in an unbroken line since the time of Christ and the apostles. However, this claim is not without its critics. Let's examine the arguments for and against this controversial idea. The Case for Baptist Church Perpetuity Proponents of this theory argue that: Jesus promised church perpetuity when He said, "upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" (Matthew 16:18). The church is defined as a local, visible entity composed of properly baptized, organized groups of people, given the exclusive right to propagate in perpetuity until Christ's return. This perpetuity is claimed because it is promised by an all-powerful God. Even in the absence of historical documents, faith in Jesus' promise is sufficient. Various historical groups, such as the … [Read more...]
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