You are here: Home / Archives for Cults

Why the King James is Not a Perfect Inspired Translation

08/15/2013 45 Comments

KJVThe King James Bible translation was great piece of work for its day but is it really the perfect infallible word of God for all time? I do not think so. Due to archeology and scholarship, we have gained a lot of knowledge about the ancient world since 1611 and modern Bibles reflect this much more accurate and informed scholarship. For example, the Masoretic text of the Old Testament dates to AD 1000 but today we have access to the Dead Sea Scrolls (with Old Testament fragments back to 200 BC) and thousands of Ugaritic and other texts that inform us about the context of the Old Testament. In 1611, this stuff was buried under ground. Translations like the ESV are far superior to the KJV because they reflect this new knowledge.

As far as the discussion concerning NT manuscripts, Dr. Dan Wallace has penned a fine essay here. What you will find is that the KJVonlyist arguments are very misleading and trade on fear. Studying church history reveals that scribes added things over time rather than taking them out. The verses KJVonly people claim have been removed are additions, usually by Catholic scribes.  We want to study the inspired word not a medieval Catholic’s additions (as in the case of 1 John 5:7 KJV).

If you like the King James Bible and prefer to use it then I have no problem with that. This post is directed toward those KJV-only people who argue that God inspired the KJV translators to preserve a perfect inerrant translation of his word in 1611. This idea is easily disproved but persists with a cultist tenacity.

I joined a Facebook group called “King James Bible Debate” but I quickly discovered the members did not really want to debate. After the numerous pleasantries concerning me being a Jesuit plant were offered, I presented an argument that went unanswered… silence…  and I mean crickets were chirping… a few red herrings and non sequiturs were proffered and, then I was hurriedly banned from the group ( I suppose for being Jesuit). It’s very revealing when a group must silence dissent in order to preserve the paradigm – it is how cults always operate. The argument that got me banned is as follows:

 

  1. The God of the Hebrews hates false gods (Judges 2:17; Jer. 14:22; 18:15).
  2. The Greek term pascha means ‘passover’ and the KJV translators rendered it as passover 28 times. “Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called the Passover.” (Lk 22:1, AV)
  3. However, they rendered the same exact same term as “Easter” in Acts 12. “And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.”(Ac 12:4, AV)
  4. The English word “Easter” is derived from the name of an Anglo-Saxon goddess, Ēostre, a form of the widely attested Indo-European dawn goddess. Saint Bede the Venerable, an Anglo-Saxon theologian, historian, and chronologist, best known today for his Historia ecclesiastica gentis Anglorum recorded in the 8th century that it was it derived from Eostre, or Eostrae, the Anglo-Saxon goddess of Spring and fertility.
  5. The God of the Bible would never inspire a translator to name His holy feast day after a pagan goddess (Isaiah 42:8). This violates His character and holiness.

Therefore, the King James Bible is not a perfect inspired translation. This seems decisive enough to dismiss the central claim of the KJVonly cult but in light of a dispute over etymology I’ll offer one more argument that is similarly devastating to the “perfect translation” idea.

  1. When Luke wrote the book of Acts, he had an actual date and time in mind. There was no “Easter” celebration in Jerusalem in the AD 60s when Acts was composed. Luke meant the Jewish passover feast and it is well established that the early church celebrated Jesus resurrection during passover.

The paschal feast thus took place in the primitive Church at the same time as the Jewish Passover, that is, on the night of the 15th Nisan, and by the date rather than the day. The feast had, however, a very different character from the Jewish Passover, though without denying its derivation from this. [1]

  1. Due to replacement theology and anti-Semitism, the Council of Nicea defined Easter specifically so it was not on the date of the Jewish Passover. Constantine wrote:

    2. And in the first place, it seemed very unworthy for us to keep this most sacred feast following the custom of the Jews, a people who have soiled their hands in a most terrible outrage, and have thus polluted their souls, and are now deservedly blind. Since we have cast aside their way of calculating the date of the festival, we can ensure that future generations can celebrate this observance at the more accurate time which we have kept from the first day of the passion until the present time….  — Emperor Constantine, following the Council of Nicaea [2]

  2. Thus, by definition Easter does not denote the date that the inspired author Luke intended.

Therefore, the KJV is not a perfect inspired translation.

When your belief system is hinged on something as precarious as absolute perfection from a group of fallible men, one counterexample implodes the house of cards.

The doctrine of biblical inerrancy applies to the original autographs written in Hebrew, Aramaic and Koine Greek. Although we do not have those originals, the science of textual criticism, as employed by Holy Spirit led scholars, gives a Greek New Testament text that we can confidently assess to be around 99% true to the originals in modern editions like the NA28. Translations are another matter. Some concepts in Hebrew and Greek do not translate to English directly, so no English translation is infallibly perfect, it is not even possible,  because they all must compromise at points. But thanks to hard working scholars and archeologists, we have a very accurate rendering of the ancient text that we can trust for all maters of faith and doctrine.

 


[1] Gerhard Kittel, Geoffrey W. Bromiley, and Gerhard Friedrich, eds., Theological Dictionary of the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1964–), 902.

[2] “Emperor Constantine to all churches concerning the date of Easter” http://www.fourthcentury.com/index.php/urkunde-26

Filed Under Apologetics Tagged With Cults, KJVonlyism

The Watchtower Meets the Pleiadeans

07/14/2013 32 Comments


early_watch_tower_coverA few people have asked why I included the Jehovah’s Witnesses in my list of groups with strange extraterrestrial doctrines in Exo-Vaticana.  First, it is essential to recognize that the Jehovah’s Witnesses believe themselves to be the only true religion and have consistently taught that all others are of the devil. That includes evangelicals of all stripes. A lesser known but pertinent fact is that the founders of Watchtower Bible and Tract Society held beliefs similar to modern UFO cults. We submit two examples from their officially sanctioned literature. The JW cult began as a splinter group when founder Charles Taze Russell (1852–1916) broke ties with the Adventists in the wake of several date setting failures. His following grew as his publishing arm “Zion’s Watch Tower Tract Society” spread his strange doctrines far and wide. In Thy Kingdom Come(1891), the third of a seven volume series, he argues that Jehovah resides on a star called Alcyone in the Pleiades star cluster located in the constellation Taurus. Arguing more like an Ancient Astronaut Theorist than a theologian, he wrote concerning the center of the cosmos:

Astronomers are not yet fully agreed as to what or where that center is. Some, however, believe that they have found the direction of it to be the Pleiades, and particularly Alcyone, the central one of the renowned Pleiadic stars. To the distinguished German astronomer, Prof. J. H. Maedler, belongs the honor of having made this discovery. Alcyone, then, as far as science has been able to perceive, would seem to be ‘the midnight throne’ in which the whole system of gravitation has its central seat, and from which the Almighty governs his universe.[1]

Taken at face value, this drastically diminishes divine omnipresence to a specific location within the material universe, an idea far removed from biblical Christianity which holds that God transcends His material creation being present everywhere at the same time (Ps. 139:7-9). Russell also denied the doctrine of the trinity. Interestingly, the Pleiades cluster is the claimed home of the so-called Nordic aliens popularized by contactees like “Billy” Eduard Albert Meier who started the FIGU cult. Meier, infamous for his hoaxed flying saucer photographs, issues antichristian rants coupled with new age teachings dictated by Semjase, an alleged Pleiadean.[2] The correlation between the Pleiades and diverse cult groups suggests a common spiritual source albeit not space aliens. Russell was also particularly fond of Egyptian symbolism such as the winged sun disk, an emblem tracing deep into the Old Kingdom (26 BC) as the mark of Horus, a deity believed to incarnate as Pharaoh.

JW sun disc

Winged Sun Disk in J.W. Literature

 Nimrud_stele_winged_sun

Nimrud Stele (Egypt 9th century BC)

Certainly, the biblical narrative paints Pharaoh as an idolatrous oppressor of God’s people who hard heartedly opposed Moses. In fact, God specifically associates him with Satan, the great dragon (Eze 29:3). From Egypt, the Pharaohic symbol spread to Mesopotamia and even as far as Persia and became more generally associated with divinity, royalty and power in the Ancient Near East. Mysteriously, it has also been discovered in the records of ancient cultures as far away as South America and Australia. Thus, it meets Carl Jung’s definition of a culturally transcendent archetype. In the middle ages, it appears in alchemical works and grimoires. Accordingly, its popularity with nineteenth century occultists suggests Russell was no stranger to their works. In fact, just prior to his publication, the winged-sun-disk was featured in magical works by the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, Helena Blavatsky’s Theosophical Society, the Rosicrucian Order, and Freemasonry. This makes for strange bedfellows indeed.

Given all the above, the winged sun disk was an extremely odd pretense to Bible study. Employing a syncretic hermeneutic, he justified it with a metaphor from Malachi, “the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings” (4:2) a prophecy to be fulfilled by Christ as “the light of the world” (John 8:12). Nevertheless, its occult connotations suggest this application was reckless at best and, at worst, indicative of a syncretistic occultism. Considering his bizarre Great Pyramid teachings, the weight of the evidence supports the latter.

Russell_Pyramid

Russell’s Pyramid Memorial Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Most cult-apologetics texts discuss Russell’s failed predictions that Christ would return in 1874 then revised to 1914. However, it is lesser known they were based on the Great Pyramid, a monument he believed to hold the key to prophecy. Based on various internal measurements and convoluted mathematics he originally arrived at 1874 as the dawn of the tribulation:

 Thus the Pyramid witnesses that the close of 1874 was the chronological beginning of the time of trouble such as was not since there was a nation — no, nor ever shall be afterward. And thus it will be noted that this “Witness” fully corroborates the Bible testimony on this subject…” [3]

As time passed uneventfully, he manipulated a few of the numbers and moved the date forward:

Thus the Pyramid witnesses that the close of 1914 will be the beginning of the time of trouble such as was not since there was a nation — no, nor ever shall be afterward. And thus it will be noted that this “Witness” fully corroborates the’ Bible testimony on this subject…” [4]

Given his prayers were directed toward Alcyone, a Pleiadic star, alongside his obsession with all things Egyptian, one might conclude Russell was subject to same deceiving spirits who inspire UFO cults and alien contactees. In fact, one might argue that Charles Taze Russell is a spiritual ancestor to the modern Pleiadean contactee. A few years after the 1914 date passed, Russell died. A new excuse we needed as 1914 came and went.

Another fanciful rationale for the downfield creep of the eschatological goal posts helped smooth the transition while Joseph Franklin Rutherford (1869-1942) picked up the pieces. A highly educated and charismatic leader, he played a primary role in their doctrinal development and growth. It was under Rutherford’s leadership that the smallish fringe group grew into the incorporated juggernaut called “The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society” known commonly as “Jehovah’s Witnesses.” However, his prodigious success as a religious huckster far outmatched any alleged competence in biblical exegesis. Retaining his mentor’s characteristically syncretic hermeneutic, from Job 38:31 and 2 Chronicles 6:21 he also derived a Pleiadean theology:

 The constellation of the Pleiades is a small one compared with others which scientific instruments disclose to the wondering eyes of man. But the greatness in size of other stars or planets is small when compared to the Pleiades in importance, because the Pleiades is the place of the eternal throne of God. [5]

It boggles the mind to assess the damage inflicted upon the divine attributes of Christian orthodoxy but suffice it to say biblical theology does not lead to the conclusion that the triune God can be spatially located within creation. Think of it this way, because God created all things (including the Pleiades), He is necessarily external to that creation, although he may enter into it as he so chooses.

[1] Charles Taze Russell, Thy Kingdom Come, vol. III of Millennial Dawn series, (Allegheny, PA: Tower Publishing, 1891), 327.

[2] “The Pleiadean Ishwish Semjase’s: Spiritual Teachings”  http://semjase.net/semjeng11.html (accessed 11/29/2012).

[3] Charles Taze Russell, Thy Kingdom Come, Studies In The Scriptures, vol. 3, 1904 edition.

[4] Charles Taze Russell, Thy Kingdom Come, Studies In The Scriptures, vol. 3, 1910 edition.

[5] J. F. Rutherford, Reconciliation, 1928, p. 14.

banner

 

Filed Under Apologetics Tagged With Cults, jehovahs witnesses, UFO Religions

The Trademark of a Cult: Faith vs. Works

03/08/2011 25 Comments



A cult is any group that defines itself in Christian terms, but denies one or more of the essentials of historic biblical Christianity. For example, the many Mormons that have recently posted here want to be considered true Christians, and even use Christian language borrowed from scripture, but always with a tell tale flaw. While they may use the Christian vocabulary, they do not use the normal Christian definitions. The fundamental doctrine of grace is good example.

We like to take pride in our accomplishments. Yet, the bible teaches that “all our righteous acts are like filthy rags,” (Is 64:6). It seems very counterintuitive that salvation is not something you can earn with your good behavior but that it is a free gift from God. Paul wrote to the Ephesian church,“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. ” (Eph 2:8–9)

This doctrine of unmerited grace appears in no other world religion. It is just not the sort of idea men would come up with, thus I believe it is an authenticating characteristic of Christianity. Accordingly, the converse is a sure mark of a cult. Men like Joseph Smith or Charles Taze Russell always pervert the Gospel into a personal achievement.

Cults like Mormonism and the Jehovah’s Witnesses make good works the means of salvation. Joseph Smith was brazen enough to add to God’s word in his crudely crafted work of fiction. He wrote, “For we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do” (2 Nephi 25:23). This exactly what one would expect in a man-made religion. Yet, surely our behavior counts?

In converse, Christianity makes salvation the means of good works. James the brother of Jesus wrote, that “faith without works is dead” (Jms. 2:17). Cults often use this argument by James to justify their works based salvation. It may seem that James is contradicting Paul’s teaching yet really he is not. James is addressing false converts, who claim to be Christians but show no evidence of it in their lives. When read in context, James’ point is not that works are the basis for salvation but the result of it.

If you are a Christian, this is a sure way to guard against pride. The next time you feel some well deserved satisfaction in your works, consider this:

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. ” (Eph 2:10)

According to scripture, it wasn’t even your idea! Doesn’t leave much to boast on… does it?

Filed Under Apologetics Tagged With 2 Nephi 25:23, Charles Taze Russell, Cults, Ephesians 2:8-9, Faith, Jehovah's Witness, Joseph Smith, Mormons, Seventh Day Adventist, Works

Whose Dominion?

05/04/2010 23 Comments

The church of Jesus Christ is the most important institution in the world. The assembly of the redeemed, the company of the saints, the children of God are more significant in world history than any other group, organization, or nation. The United States of America compares to the church of Jesus Christ like a speck of dust compares to the sun. The drama of international relations compares to the mission of the church like a kindergarten riddle compares to Hamlet or King Lear. And all pomp of May Day in Red Square and the pageantry of New Year’s in Pasadena fade into a formless grey against the splendor of the bride of Christ. [i] – John Piper:  The Cosmic Church

Amen! Indeed the Church will outlive the world system and all of it’s corruption. I mean the Church as an organism not an organization. As the bride of Christ, the redeemed body of believers, not a building, denomination or institution. But I am concerned because the Church, while in the world but is not supposed to be of the world . I believe we have a serious problem in the Church. Let me be clear that I affirm that it is not only appropriate to pray for our country and leaders it is a biblical mandate (1 Timothy 2:1-2). However, politics should never supersede the welfare of the Church. Enter May Day 2010 in Washington, D.C. where mainstream evangelicalism meets dominionism.

I am deeply troubled that respected evangelical leaders like Dr. James Dobson and Tim Wildmon are (perhaps unwittingly) associating with heretical dominionists for political expediency. Here is a apt encapsulation of the problem at Herescope. I also suggest listening to Derek and Sharon Gilbert’s take on it at PID Radio. Sharon brilliantly observed the parallel between the seven mountains of influence in dominionist theology and the seven hills on which the whore of Babylon sits in Revelation 17:9. It may not be hyperbole, the Bible warns of an end time politicized counterfeit religion. The May Day event included the New Apostolic Reformation which is the freshly revamped Latter Rain cult of Todd Bently infamy right alongside of main stream evangelicals.[ii] When high profile evangelical leaders  rubber stamp events associated with cults and rub shoulders with dominionists aren’t they lending credibility to a false socio-political gospel?

“If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. ” (John 15:19) We are not supposed to reclaim the world through political influence.

“Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” (John 18:36)

There will be a glorious day when Christ comes to institute the Millennial kingdom. But it is His alone to take back, not ours. We are to preach the gospel, make disciples and watch for his return. Satan took dominion from Adam when he sinned and only Jesus can take it back. Are you so bold to usurp Jesus’ job description? When Satan took Jesus up on the mountain to tempt him he offered him the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worship. Satan said “To you I will give all this authority and their glory, for it has been delivered to me, and I give it to whom I will. If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours.” (Luke 4:6–7, ESV) Notice that it is Satan who gives political authority to whom he wills.  Jesus didn’t deny that Satan indeed had that authority.  In fact, it would not have been a temptation for Jesus otherwise. Instead Jesus refused to worship him. In other words, Jesus refused to make an idol out of political power.  Let us be imitators of Jesus.

[i]Piper,John.http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/Sermons/ByDate/1981/289_The_Cosmic_Church/(accessed 05/03/2010).

[ii]Discernment Research Group. http://herescope.blogspot.com/ (accessed 05/03/2010).

Also see: http://hearkenthewatchmen.com/article.asp?id=181

Filed Under Apologetics Tagged With AFA, C. Peter Wagner, Cults, Dominionism, Heresy, Mayday, New Apostolic Reformation, Seven Mountains, Whose Dominion?
Newer Posts »