The document serves as a comprehensive course outline discussing world religions, contrasting Christianity with various belief systems, including Eastern religions, other monotheisms, and pseudo-Christian sects. It emphasizes the importance of understanding different worldviews, definitions of key terms, and how to interact respectfully with members of other religions while introducing them to Christianity. Additionally, it explores the nature and characteristics of the Christian worldview, including the reality of the physical and spiritual realms and the nature of God.

1. World ReligionsWorld Religions
John Oakes, PhD andJohn Oakes, PhD and
Dan ConderDan Conder

2. 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 WitnesSeventh Day AdventismJehovah’s WitnesSeventh Day Adventism
G. Christian Denominations We Should Know More AboutG. Christian Denominations We Should Know More About
-- Roman CatholicismRoman Catholicism
- Seventh Day Adventism- Seventh Day Adventism
- Pentacostalism- Pentacostalism

3. Reading SuggestionsReading Suggestions
The Universe Next DoorThe Universe Next Door. James Sire Intervarsity Press. James Sire Intervarsity Press
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:Essay: Apologetics and the Christian World ViewApologetics and the Christian World View J. OakesJ. 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
The Compact Guide to World ReligionsThe Compact Guide to World Religions Dean C. Halverson.Dean C. Halverson.
Answering IslamAnswering Islam Geissler and SaleebGeissler and Saleeb
Answering Jewish Objections to JesusAnswering Jewish Objections to Jesus BrownBrown
TheThe Qur’anQur’an
Mormonism: What Does the Evidence and Testimony Reveal?Mormonism: What Does the Evidence and Testimony Reveal?
John OakesJohn Oakes

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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?
– Scientology?Scientology?
– Suggestion: Let’s not use this word.Suggestion: Let’s not use this word.

7. 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 personal gods.governed by many personal 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, Manichaeism, Taoism, Albigensianism)(Zoroastrianism, Manichaeism, Taoism, Albigensianism)

8. 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 single personal all-powerfulcreated/governed by a single personal all-powerful
spiritual being.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.

9. 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.

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

11. 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)

12. God
Islam
BuddhismMysticism
Ba’hai
Another Point
of View:
Different
Paths to the
Same Goal?
Christianity

13. 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/worldBut…. On the most basic level of theology/world
view, all other religions (except Judaism?) areview, all other religions (except Judaism?) are
incommensurate with Christianityincommensurate with 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.

14. 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 incompatiblewith one another. Biblical theism is incompatible
with all these other world views.with all these other world views.

15. 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

16. 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/panentheism and Stoicism/deismEpicureanism/panentheism 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.

17. 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.

18. 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

19. 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.

20. 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.

21. 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 worldOur job in the rest of this course is to compare this world
view to that of other religions and to analyze which is theview to that of other religions and to analyze which is the
“best” world view.“best” world view.

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

23. 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

24. 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

25. 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 Vishnu.Krishna The eighth emanation of Vishnu.
 Rama Seventh incarnation of Vishnu.Rama Seventh incarnation of Vishnu.
Hero of the Ramayana.Hero of the Ramayana.
 Devi Chief female deity. The power (shakti) thatDevi Chief female deity. The power (shakti) that
animates the cosmos.animates the cosmos.
 Lakshmi Female consort of Vishnu. Godess ofLakshmi Female consort of Vishnu. Godess of
prosperity.prosperity.
Lakshmi

26. Principle gods of Hinduism (cont.)Principle gods of Hinduism (cont.)
 Shakti Divine MotherShakti Divine Mother
 Ganesh god of wisdom and intellectGanesh god of wisdom and intellect
 Kali avatar of ShaktiKali avatar of Shakti

27. Brahma: The
4-headed god
Shiva:
The
Destroyer
Vishnu: The
Sustainer

28. Krishna, Incarnation/avatar of deity
Rama, Hero of the Ramayana

29. 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 otherMythic adventures of Rama, Krishna and other
avatars of Vishnu.avatars of Vishnu.
 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.

30. 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

31. 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.

32. 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, landlords, warriors.Kings, landlords, warriors.
 Vaishayas merchantsVaishayas merchants
 Shudras servant/trade classesShudras servant/trade classes
 UntouchablesUntouchables

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

34. 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
 According to the Visnu Purana one mahaAccording to the Visnu Purana one maha
yuga = 4,320,000,000 yearsyuga = 4,320,000,000 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
 1000 maha yugas = 1 kalpa (Brahma day)1000 maha yugas = 1 kalpa (Brahma day)
 2 kalpas x 365 = 1 brahma year2 kalpas x 365 = 1 brahma year

35. 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

36. 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

37. 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

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

39. 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?
– Better than postmodernism or naturalism!Better than postmodernism or naturalism!
– Our Purpose? To disappear. Our Value? None.Our Purpose? To disappear. Our Value? None.
 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.

40. 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.

41. 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, Hinduism,New Age is a syncretistic blend of Gnosticism, Hinduism,
Spiritualism, Mysticism, Buddhism and Paganism.Spiritualism, Mysticism, Buddhism and 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 I think the wholeOnce we begin to see that we are all God, then I think the whole
purpose of life is to re-own the God-likeness within us.”purpose of life is to re-own the God-likeness within us.”

42. BackgroundBackground
Start with a shaker of the occultStart with a shaker of the occult

Transcendentalism Ralph Waldo Emerson Truth through humanTranscendentalism Ralph Waldo Emerson Truth through human
intuition.intuition.

Theosophy (divine wisdom) Madame Blavatzky.Theosophy (divine wisdom) Madame Blavatzky.

I AM mysticism Guy Ballard Ascended Masters “channeled”I AM mysticism Guy Ballard Ascended Masters “channeled”
through Ballard and his son.through Ballard and his son.
Stir in some HinduismStir in some Hinduism

All of these relied heavily on Hindu theology and practice.All of these relied heavily on Hindu theology and practice.

ReincarnationReincarnation

PantheismPantheism

Meditation (but New Age does not seek to escape the world)Meditation (but New Age does not seek to escape the world)
Combine with Greek Philosophy/Gnosticism/Mystery ReligionCombine with Greek Philosophy/Gnosticism/Mystery Religion

Man has a spark of the divineMan has a spark of the divine

Need a guru to initiate you into deeper truthsNeed a guru to initiate you into deeper truths

Interpret the Bible allegorically-let it tell a storyInterpret the Bible allegorically-let it tell a story

43. Background (cont.)Background (cont.)
Add just a touch of paganismAdd just a touch of paganism

Mother Goddess/the divineMother Goddess/the divine
female/priestesses/feminismfemale/priestesses/feminism
Combine it all together with a Post-modernCombine it all together with a Post-modern
reaction to scientific materialism/rationalismreaction to scientific materialism/rationalism

Experiential religionExperiential religion

No sin (because we are god)No sin (because we are god)
You get the ultimate man-made (Western) religion. AllYou get the ultimate man-made (Western) religion. All
religion is truth.religion is truth.

44. This is very appealing!This is very appealing!
You get the ultimate man-made (Western) religionYou get the ultimate man-made (Western) religion
Enlightenment is realizing the truth that you are God.Enlightenment is realizing the truth that you are God.
There is no sin. Sin (if it exists) is ignorance.There is no sin. Sin (if it exists) is ignorance.
The goal is self-realization.The goal is self-realization.

45. Response to New Age ReligionResponse to New Age Religion
New Agers claim their religion is reasonable, but it is not.New Agers claim their religion is reasonable, but it is not.

Their revelation through channeling is self-contradictory.Their revelation through channeling is self-contradictory.
All religions are not the sameAll religions are not the same

Christianity: One triune God. A personal God.Christianity: One triune God. A personal God.

Islam: One impersonal God. Predestination. God cannot haveIslam: One impersonal God. Predestination. God cannot have
a son.a son.

Hinduism: Many gods, pantheismHinduism: Many gods, pantheism

Buddhism: No god—God is irrelevantBuddhism: No god—God is irrelevant

Zoroastrianism: Dualism—good vs evilZoroastrianism: Dualism—good vs evil

Confucianism: PolytheismConfucianism: Polytheism
Jesus:Jesus:

We are not GodWe are not God

We have a sin problem. “Just as man is destined to die once,We have a sin problem. “Just as man is destined to die once,
and after that to face judgment.” Hebrews 9:27and after that to face judgment.” Hebrews 9:27

46. 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 am God?Does it make me a better person to think that I am God?
Does this solve the problem of evil and of sin?Does this solve the problem of evil and of sin?

47. 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, deistic orPantheistic, deistic or
arguably non-theistic. Aarguably non-theistic. A
philosophy, a psychology.philosophy, a psychology.

48. 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/priestlyasceticism and sensuality/priestly
Hinduism.Hinduism.
 Created the eight-fold path to enlightenmentCreated the eight-fold path to enlightenment
(nirvana).(nirvana).

49. 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.

50. 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 thought.Right thought.
 Right speech.Right speech.
 Right actions.Right actions.
 Right livelihoodRight livelihood
 Right effortRight effort
 Right mindfulnessRight mindfulness
 Right meditationRight meditation

51. 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.

52. The Goal of BuddhismThe Goal of Buddhism
The goal of Buddhism is nirvana: as state ofThe goal of Buddhism is nirvana: as state of
non-beingness—to lose one’s individuality,non-beingness—to lose one’s individuality,
which was an illusion in the first place.which was an illusion in the first place.
Buddhist TheologyBuddhist Theology
The question of God is not important. BuddhaThe question of God is not important. Buddha
was officially agnostic. Buddha was almostwas officially agnostic. Buddha was almost
certainly pantheistic in outlook, but a Buddhistcertainly pantheistic in outlook, but a Buddhist
can be a pantheist, a deist, even an atheist,can be a pantheist, a deist, even an atheist,
but definitely not a theist.but definitely not a theist.

53. Schools/Sects of BuddhismSchools/Sects of Buddhism
 Mahayana (the greater vehicle) China, Korea, Japan,Mahayana (the greater vehicle) China, Korea, Japan,
Viet Nam. Ideal of the bodhisattva. Stresses the divineViet Nam. Ideal of the bodhisattva. Stresses the divine
nature of the Buddha. Many mini-buddhasnature of the Buddha. Many mini-buddhas
(bodhisattvas). Nirvana possible for all. Boddhisatvas(bodhisattvas). Nirvana possible for all. Boddhisatvas
help us to achieve nirvana.help us to achieve nirvana.
 Theravada Sri Lanka, Thailand, Burma, Cambodia, Laos.Theravada Sri Lanka, Thailand, Burma, Cambodia, Laos.
A more pure form of Buddhism? Nirvana achievable forA more pure form of Buddhism? Nirvana achievable for
the very few truly committed. More ascetic in practice.the very few truly committed. More ascetic in practice.
 Vajrayana/Tantric Stresses tantric practices, rituals,Vajrayana/Tantric Stresses tantric practices, rituals,
initiations, mystical power. Tibet, Mongolia. Similar toinitiations, mystical power. Tibet, Mongolia. Similar to
Gnosticism.Gnosticism.
 Others: Zen. (Japan, meditation to achieve nirvana)Others: Zen. (Japan, meditation to achieve nirvana)
Pure Land (Pure Land (“Namu-Amida-Butsu”)

54. The Spread of BuddhismThe Spread of Buddhism

55. 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,Lay” Buddhists follow the five precepts,
which are, 1. do not kill 2. do not steal. 3.which are, 1. do not kill 2. do not steal. 3.
do not have sex. 4. do not lie and 5. dodo not have sex. 4. do not lie and 5. do
not get drunknot get drunk
 Meditation is a big part of many BuddhistMeditation is a big part of many Buddhist
traditions, involving the saying of a mantra.traditions, involving the saying of a mantra.
(Om Mani Padme Hum).(Om Mani Padme Hum).

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

57. 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.

58. Final Questions About Buddhism
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 that the physical world is an illusion?
Is it true that the universe is eternal, and cyclical?
Is it good to practice dispassion rather than compassion?

59. 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

60. 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 reachgoal: escape the body to reach
nirvana through ascetic practices.nirvana through ascetic practices.
 Reincarnation (samsara)Reincarnation (samsara)
 KarmaKarma
 PantheisticPantheistic
 Most important concept: Ahimsa—Most important concept: Ahimsa—
non-injury.non-injury.
The
Svastika
a symbol of
samsara
(rebirth)

61. Jaina Scripture: AgamaJaina Scripture: Agama
 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.
 Angas. Teachings of MahaviraAngas. Teachings of Mahavira
 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.

62. Jaina PracticeJaina Practice
Jainas wear mouth
covering and carry
brooms to avoid
killing

63. 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.

64. 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 ageshappiness and purity. Time spans ages
and sizes of people get much larger.and sizes of people get much larger.
 Avsarpini: A period of progressiveAvsarpini: A period of progressive
sorrow and immorality. Time spans,sorrow and immorality. Time spans,
ages and sizes of people get muchages and sizes of people get much
smaller.smaller.
 Great teachers in the past lived forGreat teachers in the past lived for
millions or billions of years and weremillions or billions of years and were
thousands of meters tall.thousands of 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 cosmologyAn extremely complicated cosmology
with multiple levels of worlds/heavens.with multiple levels of worlds/heavens.
A representation
of Jain Cosmology

65. 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

66. 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

67. 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).
 ““The temple and the mosque are one, so too, areThe temple and the mosque are one, so too, are
puja (Hindu worship) and [Muslim] prostration.”puja (Hindu worship) and [Muslim] prostration.”

68. 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.

69. 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? Also influential in Korea andreligion? Also influential in Korea and
Viet Nam.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.

70. 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.

71. Confucian ScripturesConfucian Scriptures
The Five Great Books Ching = classic.The Five Great Books Ching = classic.
1.1. I-Ching 1000 BC. Book of divination, magic.I-Ching 1000 BC. Book of divination, magic.
Ying/Yang cosmology “Book of Changes”Ying/Yang cosmology “Book of Changes”
2.2. Shu-Ching. History, ancient documents,Shu-Ching. History, ancient documents,
speeches.speeches.
3.3. Shih-Ching 800-600 BC. Poetry used extensivelyShih-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..
4.4. Li Chi. Book of ceremonial rites and etiquite.Li Chi. Book of ceremonial rites and etiquite.
200 BC – 200 AD.200 BC – 200 AD.
5.5. Ch’un Chiu. History of one Chinese province.Ch’un Chiu. History of one Chinese province.
Collected by Confucius?Collected by Confucius?

72. Scriptures of Confucianism (cont.)Scriptures of Confucianism (cont.)
 The Four Great BooksThe Four Great Books
 1.1. Lun Yu. “The Analects of Confucius.” WrittenLun Yu. “The Analects of Confucius.” Written
down 400 BC. The sayings of Confucius, especiallydown 400 BC. The sayings of Confucius, especially
on ethics and government.on ethics and government.
 2.2. Meng Tzu. Written by Mencius, 371-289 BC.Meng Tzu. Written by Mencius, 371-289 BC.
Mencius helped to make Confucius’ teachings aMencius helped to make Confucius’ teachings a
national philosophy in China. Treatises on goodnational philosophy in China. Treatises on good
government and the essential goodness of humans.government and the essential goodness of humans.
 3.3. Ta Hsueh. (Great learning) Unknown authorTa Hsueh. (Great learning) Unknown author
around 350 BC. Philosophy of the self-made man andaround 350 BC. Philosophy of the self-made man and
the ideal leader.the ideal leader.
 4.4. Chung-Yung Written by Tfu Su, grandson ofChung-Yung Written by Tfu Su, grandson of
Confucius. Harmonious development of humanConfucius. Harmonious development of human
nature, decorum, sincerity, other virtues.nature, decorum, sincerity, other virtues.

73. Confucian PhilosophyConfucian Philosophy
 The most important concept: JenThe most important concept: Jen
 Jen = ideal humanity = moral perfectionJen = ideal humanity = moral perfection
 Confucius was, in essence, a humanist.Confucius was, in essence, a humanist.
 Theology: God = “Heaven” an impersonalTheology: God = “Heaven” an impersonal
moral power/principlemoral power/principle
 Because of the I-Ching, Confucian theologyBecause of the I-Ching, Confucian theology
tends toward dualismtends toward dualism

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

75. 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.”

76. 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.
 Q: Is this a “good” world view?Q: Is this a “good” world view?

77. Types of TaoismTypes of Taoism
 PhilosophicalPhilosophical
– Stresses philosophy, meditation, religiousStresses philosophy, meditation, religious
speculation.speculation.
 ReligiousReligious
– Stresses the occult. Genii, immortals, exorcism,Stresses the occult. Genii, immortals, exorcism,
astrology, achievement of long lifeastrology, achievement of long life
– The ideas of Feng shui (from burial practices) QiThe ideas of Feng shui (from burial practices) Qi
(chi) and ying/yang are all found in religious(chi) and ying/yang are all found in religious
Taoism.Taoism.
– ““Therefore it is best to bury the dead deep in dryTherefore it is best to bury the dead deep in dry
land, and shallow in smooth plains. The Book saysland, and shallow in smooth plains. The Book says
once the depth is properly achieved,once the depth is properly achieved, feng shuifeng shui willwill
complete itself. Thecomplete itself. The qiqi ofof yin and yangyin and yang flows outflows out
and thus becomes wind…”and thus becomes wind…”

78. Philosophical TaoismPhilosophical Taoism
A quote from the Tao Te Ching:A quote from the Tao Te Ching:
Tao called Tao is not TaoTao called Tao is not Tao
Names can name no lasting name.Names can name no lasting name.
Nameless: the origin of heaven and earth.Nameless: the origin of heaven and earth.
Naming: the mother of ten thousand things.Naming: the mother of ten thousand things.
Empty of desire, perceive mystery.Empty of desire, perceive mystery.
Filled with desire, perceive manifestations….Filled with desire, perceive manifestations….
The entrance of the Mysterious FemaleThe entrance of the Mysterious Female
Is called the root of Heaven and EarthIs called the root of Heaven and Earth
Endless flow of inexhaustible energy….Endless flow of inexhaustible energy….
Great Tao overflows to the left, to the right.Great Tao overflows to the left, to the right.
All beings owe their life to it, and do not depart from it.All beings owe their life to it, and do not depart from it.
It acts without a name. It clothes and nourishes allIt acts without a name. It clothes and nourishes all
beings…beings…

79. ShintoShinto
 The traditional polytheistic/animist ancientThe traditional polytheistic/animist ancient
religion of Japan.religion of Japan.
 One can be Buddhist (temple) and ShintoOne can be Buddhist (temple) and Shinto
(shrine) at the same time.(shrine) at the same time.
 Japanese emperors are descended from theJapanese emperors are descended from the
gods.gods.
An excerpt from a Shinto “scripture.”:An excerpt from a Shinto “scripture.”:
Some time later the brother of Ameratsu, named his Brave-Swift-Some time later the brother of Ameratsu, named his Brave-Swift-
Impetuous-Male-Augustness did a number of things which causedImpetuous-Male-Augustness did a number of things which caused
grave offense and fright to the sun goddess. For example, hegrave offense and fright to the sun goddess. For example, he
caused damage to be done to the rice fields, and he also flayedcaused damage to be done to the rice fields, and he also flayed
backward a “heavenly piebald horse” and flung it through the roofbackward a “heavenly piebald horse” and flung it through the roof
of the hall where Aneratsu was weaving garments for the gods….of the hall where Aneratsu was weaving garments for the gods….

80. 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?

81. 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.

82. Theology and TeachingTheology and Teaching
 Monotheistic.Monotheistic.
 God is unknowable/impersonal “The most Exalted,God is unknowable/impersonal “The most Exalted,
the Inaccessible.” (like Islam)the Inaccessible.” (like Islam)
 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.”

83. 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 scripture.many! An somewhat open scripture.

84. Other World ReligionsOther World Religions
 Zoroastrianism—Dualistic religion withZoroastrianism—Dualistic religion with
origins in Persia. Worship of Ahura Mazda; aorigins in Persia. Worship of Ahura Mazda; a
fire god.fire god.

85. SummarySummary
 The theologies of world religions areThe theologies of world religions are
fundamentally and diametrically opposed tofundamentally and diametrically opposed to
one another. Many paths to the same God isone another. Many paths to the same God is
a ludicrous philosophy.a ludicrous philosophy.
 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).

86. InitiativeInitiative
Human approachHuman approach TruthTruth
GodGod GodGod
MankindMankind MankindMankind

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

88. JudaismJudaism

89.  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?
Cultural Division:
Sephardic (Spain, Palestine,
Mediterranean)
vs
Ashkenazi (Eastern European,
may still speak Yiddish)

90. Major Branches of JudaismMajor Branches of Judaism
 Orthodox -2 millionOrthodox -2 million
 Conservative – 4.5Conservative – 4.5
millionmillion
 Reformed 3.75 millionReformed 3.75 million
 Unaffiliated & Secular –Unaffiliated & Secular –
4.5 million4.5 million
•Most Jews today do notMost Jews today do not
strictly hold to the Lawstrictly hold to the Law
•Many of Israel's Jews areMany of Israel's Jews are
secular - nonobservant andsecular - nonobservant and
either nonreligious or eveneither nonreligious or even
agnostic / atheistagnostic / atheist
•Religious Jews are in theReligious Jews are in the

91.  333-164 BC – Greek Period – Hellenization of Holy Land;333-164 BC – Greek Period – Hellenization of Holy Land;
 164-63 BC Maccabean Period. Jewish independence. Rise of164-63 BC Maccabean Period. Jewish independence. Rise of
Hasidim Synagogue & religious parties (Sadducees, Essenes,Hasidim Synagogue & religious parties (Sadducees, Essenes,
Pharisees)Pharisees)
 63BC—634AD – Roman period63BC—634AD – Roman period
 70AD – Jewish War results in the destruction of Herod’s70AD – Jewish War results in the destruction of Herod’s
Temple, Sanhedrin & sacrificial system. Pharisees becomeTemple, Sanhedrin & sacrificial system. Pharisees become
dominant force in Judaism. Council of Jamnia solidifies thisdominant force in Judaism. Council of Jamnia solidifies this
position. Synagogue system replaces Temple Judaism.position. 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 ofChristians, especially after Christianity became the religion of
the Roman Empirethe Roman Empire
Post Old-Testament Jewish History

92.  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.

93.  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

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

95. PhariseesPharisees
 Descended from the HasidimDescended from the Hasidim
Holy Ones in 2Holy Ones in 2ndnd
Century BCCentury BC
 Represented more of the commonRepresented more of the common
peoplepeople
 Stressed holiness of life; created aStressed holiness of life; created a
body of laws to prevent peoplebody 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

96. 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

97. EssenesEssenes
 Ascetic, monastic sectAscetic, monastic sect
 Rejected priesthood in Jerusalem as corrupt.Rejected priesthood in Jerusalem as corrupt.
 No personal possessions, very strict observation ofNo personal possessions, very strict observation of
community & Sabbath rules, many washings.community & Sabbath rules, many washings.
 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
 Was John the Baptist was an Essene? No!Was John the Baptist was an Essene? No!

98. ZealotsZealots
 Jewish anti-Roman groups using both politicalJewish anti-Roman groups using both political
& military tactics. Many factions.& military tactics. Many factions.
 Began in 6AD by Judas Maccabees based onBegan in 6AD by Judas Maccabees based on
inspiration of Phinehas (Numbers 25:11)inspiration of Phinehas (Numbers 25:11)
 ““Sicarii” (‘Dagger-men’) most extreme branch;Sicarii” (‘Dagger-men’) most extreme branch;
carried short daggers, stabbing their enemiescarried short daggers, stabbing their enemies
in broad daylight .in broad daylight .
 Responsible for the Jewish War, which led toResponsible for the Jewish War, which led to
the destruction of the Templethe destruction of the Temple
 Simon the Zealot’ an apostle. Barabbas a zealotSimon the Zealot’ an apostle. Barabbas a zealot
 Acts 21:38 – ‘4,000 Assassins’ – ‘4,000 Terrorists’Acts 21:38 – ‘4,000 Assassins’ – ‘4,000 Terrorists’
 Last Zealot Stronghold, Masada, fell in May 74ADLast Zealot Stronghold, Masada, fell in May 74AD

99. Modern Judaism: Orthodox vs.Modern Judaism: Orthodox vs.
ReformedReformed
 Most obvious division today is betweenMost obvious division today is between
Orthodox & Progressive JewsOrthodox & Progressive Jews
 Orthodox Jews adhere to a very strictOrthodox Jews adhere to a very strict
biblical & oral law (Talmud).biblical & oral law (Talmud).
 Diligently follow Sabbatical laws &Diligently follow Sabbatical laws &
Kosher regulations. (In their own eyes noKosher regulations. (In their own eyes no
other Jews are really Jews.)other Jews are really Jews.)
 Modern Messiahs (Rabbi Schneerson, forModern Messiahs (Rabbi Schneerson, for
example)example)

100. Reformed JudaismReformed Judaism
 Began in Germany in the 18Began in Germany in the 18thth
CenturyCentury
 Influenced by the Enlightenment.Influenced by the Enlightenment.
 Adapted to local culture, compromise on traditionsAdapted to local culture, compromise on traditions
 Stress scientific inquiry and critical evaluation. ForStress scientific inquiry and critical evaluation. For
some the Torah is not factual & bindingsome the Torah is not factual & binding
 Changes in ritual law worship and dietary lawsChanges in ritual law worship and dietary laws
encouraged; “people friendly” version of Judaism.encouraged; “people friendly” version of Judaism.

101. 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
 Came to prominence in the 12Came to prominence in the 12thth
and 13and 13thth
centuries incenturies in
France and Spain.France and Spain.
 Possesses secret & mystic “truths” Esoteric belief.Possesses secret & mystic “truths” Esoteric belief.
 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
 Isaac Newton, Madonna, Britney Spears, Paris Hilton,Isaac Newton, Madonna, Britney Spears, Paris Hilton,
Demi Moore, Ashton Kutcher, Mick JaggerDemi Moore, Ashton Kutcher, Mick Jagger

102. 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

103. The SynagogueThe Synagogue
 Place of Jewish communal worship, reading ofPlace of Jewish communal worship, reading of
scripture and prayerscripture and prayer
 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
 Since 70AD this has been the center of JewishSince 70AD this has been the center of Jewish
religious & cultural lifereligious & cultural life
 Rabbis, Bar- and Bat- MitzvahsRabbis, Bar- and Bat- Mitzvahs

104. Strange ReligionsStrange Religions
 Christian ScienceChristian Science
 MormonismMormonism
 ScientologyScientology
 Many more….Many more….

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

106. 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. (4 million at peak)adherents. (4 million at peak)
 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.” Pantheism.Pantheism.
 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 beliefs no disease.→false beliefs no disease.→

107. 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.”

108. 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.

109. 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.

110. 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.

111. “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.”

112. ScientologyScientology
 Founder L. Ron HubbardFounder L. Ron Hubbard
 A science fiction writer who took hisA science fiction writer who took his
fiction seriously.fiction seriously.
 WroteWrote DianeticsDianetics The Modern Science ofThe Modern Science of
Mental Health,Mental Health, 19501950
 Established Church of Scientology,Established Church of Scientology,
1954.1954.
 Tom Cruise, 2006; “Psychology isTom Cruise, 2006; “Psychology is
pseudoscience.”pseudoscience.”
 John Oakes, 2006: “Scientology isJohn Oakes, 2006: “Scientology is
pseudoscience.”pseudoscience.”

113. 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.”

114. 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.

115. 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?”

116. ISLAM & JIHAD:ISLAM & JIHAD:
A RELIGION OF PEACE?A RELIGION OF PEACE?
Dr. Douglas JacobyDr. Douglas Jacoby
Dr. John OakesDr. John Oakes

117. Islam: 1.2 Billion AdherentsIslam: 1.2 Billion Adherents

118. Islam: Sunni and ShiaIslam: Sunni and Shia

119. ISLAM, 7ISLAM, 7thth
century ADcentury AD
FIVE PILLARSFIVE PILLARS
 ConfessionConfession
 AlmsgivingAlmsgiving
 PrayerPrayer
 FastingFasting
(Ramadan)(Ramadan)
 PilgrimagePilgrimage
(Hadj)(Hadj)

120. ISLAM, 7ISLAM, 7thth
century ADcentury AD
SIXSIX PILLARS?PILLARS?
 ConfessionConfession
 AlmsgivingAlmsgiving
 PrayerPrayer
 FastingFasting
(Ramadan)(Ramadan)
 PilgrimagePilgrimage
(Hadj)(Hadj)
 JihadJihad

121. MOHAMMEDMOHAMMED

122. MOHAMMEDMOHAMMED
•• Claimed Gabriel spoke to himClaimed Gabriel spoke to him
when he was 40 (610 AD)when he was 40 (610 AD)
 Turned from persuasion to warfareTurned from persuasion to warfare
 Attacked caravansAttacked caravans  attackattack
cities/nationscities/nations
 Conversion at sword-pointConversion at sword-point
 Mohammed ordered assassination ofMohammed ordered assassination of
those who mocked him in theirthose who mocked him in their
poems.poems.
•• Massacred 700 Jews in MedinaMassacred 700 Jews in Medina
 Fifteen wivesFifteen wives

123. AFTER MOHAMMEDAFTER MOHAMMED
•• Mohammed dies AD 632.Mohammed dies AD 632.
•• Islam spreads from Persia toIslam spreads from Persia to
Spain within 200 years.Spain within 200 years.
•• Islam splits into two majorIslam splits into two major
sects, Sunni and Shia oversects, Sunni and Shia over
caliphate.caliphate.
Sufism a mystical sect of IslamSufism a mystical sect of Islam

124. I. History of IslamI. History of Islam
II. The Qur’anII. The Qur’an
III. Islamic “evidences”III. Islamic “evidences”
IV. GraceIV. Grace
V. Jihad and terrorismV. Jihad and terrorism

125. Qur’an and paradiseQur’an and paradise
““The true servants of Allah will be wellThe true servants of Allah will be well
provided for, feasting on fruit andprovided for, feasting on fruit and
honored in gardens of delight. Reclininghonored in gardens of delight. Reclining
face to face upon soft couches, they shallface to face upon soft couches, they shall
be served with a goblet filled at abe served with a goblet filled at a
gushing fountain… delicious to thosegushing fountain… delicious to those
who drink it. They shall sit with bashful,who drink it. They shall sit with bashful,
dark-eyed virgins, chaste as thedark-eyed virgins, chaste as the
sheltered eggs of ostriches.”sheltered eggs of ostriches.”
-- 37:40-49. See also-- 37:40-49. See also
78:32ff.78:32ff.

126. ““Bible corrupt!”Bible corrupt!”
““Qur’an only is pure.”Qur’an only is pure.”

127. Based on “revelations” fromBased on “revelations” from
Gabriel to Mohammed.Gabriel to Mohammed.
Compiled in the 7Compiled in the 7thth
centurycentury
AD (the 600s).AD (the 600s).
Contains 114 chapters, orContains 114 chapters, or
suras, arranged fromsuras, arranged from
longest to shortest. Quitelongest to shortest. Quite
repetitive.repetitive.
About 80% the length of theAbout 80% the length of the
New Testament.New Testament.

128. 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.

129. 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.
.

130. • 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.

131. WOMENWOMEN

132. Qur’an and wivesQur’an and wives
““Marry women of yourMarry women of your
choice, two, three, or four.”choice, two, three, or four.”
-- 4:3-- 4:3
Sexual relations with captiveSexual relations with captive
female slaves is acceptablefemale slaves is acceptable
23:5,623:5,6
70:3070:30

133. Qur’an and womenQur’an and women

““Men have authority over womenMen have authority over women
because Allah has made the onebecause Allah has made the one
superior to the other, and becausesuperior to the other, and because
they spend their wealth to supportthey spend their wealth to support
them. Good women are obedient…them. Good women are obedient…
If they are rebellious, rebuke them,If they are rebellious, rebuke them,
beat them, and send them to bed.”beat them, and send them to bed.”
-- 4:34-- 4:34

134. Quranic view of biblical inspirationQuranic view of biblical inspiration
 Follow the InjilFollow the Injil
5:475:47
(( euvaggelioneuvaggelion ))
(below)(below)
 Follow the O.T.Follow the O.T. 6:92, 37:117,6:92, 37:117,
40:5340:53
 ““Qur’an unchanged”Qur’an unchanged” MSMS
Discoveries...Discoveries...
““The people of the Injil shall rule in accordance withThe people of the Injil shall rule in accordance with
Allah’s revelations therein. Anyone who does notAllah’s revelations therein. Anyone who does not
rule in accordance with Allah’s revelations --rule in accordance with Allah’s revelations --
these are the wicked!”these are the wicked!”
Inconsistency: Use OT and NT to refute Christians.Inconsistency: Use OT and NT to refute Christians.
Why, if the scriptures are “corrupt”?Why, if the scriptures are “corrupt”?

135. Quranic view of biblical inspirationQuranic view of biblical inspiration
Inconsistency: Use OT and NT toInconsistency: Use OT and NT to
refute Christians. Why, if therefute Christians. Why, if the
scriptures are “corrupt”?scriptures are “corrupt”?

136. 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, 19:303:49, 5:110, 19:30

137. Theory of AbrogationTheory of Abrogation
 Whatever Mohammad said later “abrogates”Whatever Mohammad said later “abrogates”
his previous sayings.his previous sayings.
 Examples: Only 4 wives Jihad?Examples: Only 4 wives Jihad?

138. 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
41:12 7--“heavens”, stars, comets in41:12 7--“heavens”, stars, comets in
“lowest heaven“lowest heaven
34:9, 52:44—34:9, 52:44—Piece of sky falls andPiece of sky falls and
kills someonekills someone
36:4, 23:14--Man deposits child into36:4, 23:14--Man deposits child into
the motherthe mother

139. Purported Prophecies (I)Purported Prophecies (I)
Deut 18:15-18Deut 18:15-18
1515
The Lord your God will raise up for you aThe Lord your God will raise up for you a
prophetprophet like me from among your ownlike me from among your own
brothersbrothers. You must listen to him.. You must listen to him. 1616
For this isFor this is
what you asked of the Lord your God at Horebwhat you asked of the Lord your God at Horeb
on the day of the assembly when you said,on the day of the assembly when you said,
"Let us not hear the voice of the Lord our God"Let us not hear the voice of the Lord our God
nor see this great fire anymore, or we willnor see this great fire anymore, or we will
die.“die.“ 1717
The Lord said to me: "What they say isThe Lord said to me: "What they say is
good.good. 1818
I will raise up for them a prophetI will raise up for them a prophet likelike
you from among their brothersyou from among their brothers; I will put my; I will put my
words in his mouth, and he will tell themwords in his mouth, and he will tell them
everything I command him.everything I command him.

140. Purported Prophecies (I)Purported Prophecies (I)
Deut 18:15-18Deut 18:15-18—“From among their—“From among their
brothers”brothers”
Cf. Deut 17:15 (brotherCf. Deut 17:15 (brother ≠≠ foreigner)foreigner)
Deut 34:10Deut 34:10—“Since then no prophet has—“Since then no prophet has
risen in Israel like Moses, whom the Lordrisen in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord
knew face to face, who did all thoseknew face to face, who did all those
miraculous signs and wonders the Lordmiraculous signs and wonders the Lord
sent him to do in Egypt”sent him to do in Egypt”
Like Moses = miraculous signs andLike Moses = miraculous signs and
wonders, which Mohammed never did,wonders, which Mohammed never did,
but Jesus clearly did.but Jesus clearly did.

141. Purported Prophecies (III)Purported Prophecies (III)
Deut 33:1-2Deut 33:1-2This is the blessing that Moses the manThis is the blessing that Moses the man
of God pronounced on the Israelites before hisof God pronounced on the Israelites before his
death.death. 22
He said:He said:
““The LORD came from SinaiThe LORD came from Sinai
and dawned over them from Seir;and dawned over them from Seir;
he shone forth from Mount Paran.he shone forth from Mount Paran.
He came with myriads of holy onesHe came with myriads of holy ones
from the south, from his mountainfrom the south, from his mountain
slopes.”slopes.”
Muslims claim:Muslims claim: Sinai = MosesSinai = Moses
Seir = JesusSeir = Jesus
Paran = MohammedParan = Mohammed
Paran is nowhere near Mecca (Hab 3:3)Paran is nowhere near Mecca (Hab 3:3)

142. Purported Prophecies (III)Purported Prophecies (III)
JnJn 14:16—parakletos14:16—parakletos  periclytospericlytos
(praised one)—without any MS supp.(praised one)—without any MS supp.
Moreover, 14:26 shows the helper isMoreover, 14:26 shows the helper is
the Spirit.the Spirit. Jn 16—The helper to abideJn 16—The helper to abide
forever. (M is dead.) 14:26—Helper toforever. (M is dead.) 14:26—Helper to
be sent in Jesus’ name; but no Muslimbe sent in Jesus’ name; but no Muslim
would allow this! Besides, Acts 1:5—would allow this! Besides, Acts 1:5—
helper to come in not many days – nothelper to come in not many days – not
in the 7in the 7thth
century!century!

143. I. History of IslamI. History of Islam
II. The Qur’anII. The Qur’an
III. Islamic “evidences”III. Islamic “evidences”
IV.IV. GraceGrace
V. Jihad and terrorismV. Jihad and terrorism

144. Islam on SinIslam on Sin
““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 with Allah). No—association (of other gods with Allah). No
forgiveness.forgiveness.

146. Salvation by own effortSalvation by own effort
(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.

147. Predestination
In Islam, Allah determines everything, even
who will choose to follow him.
Inshallah
2:142, 6:39 6:125

148. 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.

149. I. History of IslamI. History of Islam
II. The Qur’anII. The Qur’an
III. Islamic “evidences”III. Islamic “evidences”
IV. GraceIV. Grace
V.V. Jihad and terrorismJihad and terrorism

150. • Is terrrorism caused by following the
Qur’an?
• Can terrorism be justified by reading the
Qur’an?

151. ““The verse of the sword”The verse of the sword”

““But when the forbidden months areBut when the forbidden months are
past, then fight and slay the idolaterspast, then fight and slay the idolaters
wherever ye find them, and takewherever ye find them, and take
them, and prepare them eachthem, and prepare them each
ambush. But if they repent andambush. But if they repent and
establish worship and pay the poorestablish worship and pay the poor
due, then leave their way free.”due, then leave their way free.”
----
9:59:5

152. Qur’an and JihadQur’an and Jihad
““Wage war on them until the infidels are noWage war on them until the infidels are no
moremore and Allah’s religion reignsand Allah’s religion reigns
supreme.”supreme.”
8:12 Cut off their finger tips, stab them in8:12 Cut off their finger tips, stab them in
the neck.the neck.
48:16,17 Atone for sin by killing in war.48:16,17 Atone for sin by killing in war.
 47:4-6 Martyrdom47:4-6 Martyrdom →→ Heaven.Heaven.

153. Qur’an and punishment of enemiesQur’an and punishment of enemies
““The punishment of those whoThe punishment of those who
wage war against God and hiswage war against God and his
Apostle, and strive with might andApostle, and strive with might and
main for mischief through the landmain for mischief through the land
is: execution, or crucifixion, oris: execution, or crucifixion, or
cutting off of hands and feet fromcutting off of hands and feet from
opposite sides, or exile from theopposite sides, or exile from the
land.” (5:36)land.” (5:36)

154. 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?

155. ISLAM:ISLAM:
Action steps for disciplesAction steps for disciples
 Read the Qur’an. Take notes.Read the Qur’an. Take notes.
 Read Geisler and Saleeb,Read Geisler and Saleeb, Answering Islam.Answering Islam.
 Aim to become culturally aware. Read theAim to become culturally aware. Read the
newspaper, watch the news, keep an eye onnewspaper, watch the news, keep an eye on
foreign affairs.foreign affairs.
 Share your faith and study with Muslims.Share your faith and study with Muslims.
 Share about the God of Christianity vs theShare about the God of Christianity vs the
God of IslamGod of Islam
 Share about the Jesus of Christianity vs theShare about the Jesus of Christianity vs the
Jesus of IslamJesus of Islam

156. The 5 Pillars of IslamThe 5 Pillars of Islam
1.1. Recite the profession of faith:Recite the profession of faith:
“There is no God but Allah,“There is no God but Allah,
Mohammed is his prophet.”Mohammed is his prophet.”
2.2. Pray five times a dayPray five times a day
3.3. Pay the tax for the poorPay the tax for the poor
4.4. Fast during RamadanFast during Ramadan
5.5. Do the Hajj (the pilgrimage)Do the Hajj (the pilgrimage)

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

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

159. Joseph Smith 1805-1844Joseph Smith 1805-1844
DivinerDiviner
TreasureTreasure
HunterHunter
ReligiousReligious
FraudFraud

160. Early HistoryEarly History
 1823 A visit by the angel Moroni1823 A visit by the angel Moroni
– You will be given golden plates on the hillYou will be given golden plates on the hill
Cumorah. Join no religious group.Cumorah. Join no religious group.
 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 headUsed the “Urrim and the Thummim” with his head
in a hat to translate the Book of Mormon.in a hat to translate the Book of Mormon.
 Conveniently, God took the golden plates back toConveniently, God took the golden plates back to
heaven.heaven.
The Hill Cumorah

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

162. WANDERING IN THE WILDERNESSWANDERING IN THE WILDERNESS
 Palmyra, New YorkPalmyra, New York
 Kirtland, OhioKirtland, Ohio
 Independence,Independence,
MissouriMissouri
 Far West, MissouriFar West, Missouri
 Nauvoo, IllinoisNauvoo, Illinois
 Salt Lake Valley,Salt Lake Valley,
UtahUtah

163. JOSEPH SMITH AND SIDNEY RIGDONJOSEPH SMITH AND SIDNEY RIGDON
Sydney Rigdon

164. General Joseph Smith

165. BRIGHAM YOUNGBRIGHAM YOUNG

166. The Mormon ScriptureThe Mormon Scripture
 The Book of MormonThe Book of Mormon
– A grade B religiousA grade B religious
fantasy about thefantasy about the
Jaredites and theJaredites and the
Nephites.Nephites.
 The Pearl of Great PriceThe Pearl of Great Price
with the Doctrine and thewith the Doctrine and the
Covenants.Covenants.
 The Bible, “so long as it isThe Bible, “so long as it is
correctly translated.”correctly translated.”

168. Did Jesus come to the New World?

169. 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

170. Pearl of Great PricePearl of Great Price
 ““Moses”Moses”
 Book of AbrahamBook of Abraham
 Joseph Smith: A HistoryJoseph Smith: A History
 Articles of FaithArticles of Faith

171. Doctrine and CovenantsDoctrine and Covenants
 First published 1833. Material addedFirst published 1833. Material added
laterlater
 138 sections138 sections
 Revelations to and later by JosephRevelations to and later by Joseph
SmithSmith
 A small number of added revelationsA small number of added revelations

172. MORMON TEACHINGSMORMON TEACHINGS
1. The Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost are three
separate gods.
2. There are many gods. D&C 76:58, Abraham 3.
3. The Father and the Son, in heaven, have physical flesh-
and-blood bodies. D&C 130:1-3, 32.
4. Eternal Progression. Humans in the highest level of the
celestial kingdom can be glorified and become gods,
eventually even over a planet of their own. D&C 93,
139:10, Abraham 3.
5. Jesus and Satan were spiritual brothers. Abraham 3:25-
28.
6. God has a mother—our Mother in Heaven.

173. Mormon Teachings (cont.)Mormon Teachings (cont.)
7. There was a complete falling away of the early Church.
Joseph Smith reestablished the Kingdom of God on earth in
1830. D&C 21.
8. Revived Levitical Priesthood. D&C 13:1f.
9. Revived Melchizedek Priesthood. D&C 68:15f.
10. Three Kingdoms of God: the celestial, terrestrial and
telestial. D&C 76.
11. Baptism for the dead. D&C 124:29, 128.
12. Pre-existence of human souls that determines their
station in life. D&C 138:56.
13. Celestial (eternal) marriage, Celestial families. Still
believed but its sister doctrine polygamy has been
abandoned. D&C 131, 132

174. Mormon Teachings (cont.)Mormon Teachings (cont.)
14. Plural marriage (polygamy). Not officially practiced
by the Utah church since 1890. D&C 131, 132.
15. Nearly everyone goes to one of three levels of
heaven: the celestial, terrestrial and telestial (this was
described as virtual Universalism above). D&C 76.
16. Miracles such as modern day revelation, prophecies,
tongues, etc. are still in effect. , Articles of the Faith 7.
17. Jesus was conceived through God having sexual
relations with Mary. This makes God the Father a
polygamist. Most modern Mormons do not accept this
belief.

175. Mormon Teachings (cont.)Mormon Teachings (cont.)
18. People with darker skins are cursed, filthy and
loathsome—especially blacks. Moses 7:8-11, Abraham
1:22. Mormon 5:15. 1 Neph 11:13. ” 2 Nephi 5:21.
19. There are many planets, with advanced spiritual
beings—gods—over them. D&C 93, Moses 1:23, 29, 33.
20. “Great and precious promises” have been removed
by wicked men from the Bible, so that it is not
complete, which is why the Book of Mormon is needed.
1 Nephi 13:26-27.

176. 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 polytheistic.Mormonism is polytheistic.
– ““I will preach on the plurality of gods. I have alwaysI will preach on the plurality of gods. I have always
declared God to be a distinct personage, Jesus Christ adeclared God to be a distinct personage, Jesus Christ a
separate and distinct personage from God the Father, andseparate and distinct personage from God the Father, and
the Holy Ghost was a distinct personage and a Spirit: andthe Holy Ghost was a distinct personage and a Spirit: and
these three constitute three distinct personages and threethese three constitute three distinct personages and three
Gods.”Gods.” Teachings of Joseph Smith,Teachings of Joseph Smith, p. 370p. 370..
– From Joseph Smith’s most famous sermon: “God himselfFrom Joseph Smith’s most famous sermon: “God himself
was once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sitswas once as we are now, and is an exalted man, and sits
enthroned in yonder heavens!... I am going to tell youenthroned in yonder heavens!... I am going to tell you
how God came to be God. We have imagined andhow God came to be God. We have imagined and
supposed that God was God from eternity. I will refutesupposed that God was God from eternity. I will refute
that idea, and take away the veil so that you may see…that idea, and take away the veil so that you may see…
He was once a man like us; yea that God himself, theHe was once a man like us; yea that God himself, the
Father of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same as JesusFather of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same as Jesus
Christ himself did.Christ himself did.

177. RacismRacism
 Mormons 5:15 “Indians are dark filthy andMormons 5:15 “Indians are dark filthy and
loathsome.”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 who2 Nephi 5:21 “Dark skin are loathsome. Those who
marry dark skinned are cursed.”marry dark skinned are cursed.”
 Blacks were admitted to the priesthood by newBlacks were admitted to the priesthood by new
revelation in 1978.revelation in 1978.

178. The Salt Lake City Temple
Modern Mormonism
15 million members
Very effective
world evangelism
Temples
Bizarre temple
ceremonies
Strong families

179. 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.

180. REACHING OUT TO MORMONSREACHING OUT TO MORMONS
 This is my testimony….. Emotion vsThis is my testimony….. Emotion vs
reason.reason.
 Mormons behave more “Christian”Mormons behave more “Christian”
than most who claim to be Christian.than most who claim to be Christian.
 Do not attack Joseph Smith personallyDo not attack Joseph Smith personally
 Not likely to convert a missionaryNot likely to convert a missionary
 Friendship/familyFriendship/family
 Study on “Covenants” Joe FieldsStudy on “Covenants” Joe Fields

181. 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?

182. 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

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

184. Charles Taze Russsel

185. Historical BackgroundHistorical Background
Influenced by Millerites and the AdventistInfluenced by Millerites and the Adventist
movementmovement
William Miller: Jesus will come back October,William Miller: Jesus will come back October,
18441844
Russel establishes The Watchtower, 1879Russel establishes The Watchtower, 1879
Rejects the Trinity 1882Rejects the Trinity 1882
Predicts the end of the world in October, 1914Predicts the end of the world in October, 1914
Dies 1916 “Judge” Rutherford takes over.Dies 1916 “Judge” Rutherford takes over.

186.  ““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,Changes name to Jehovah’s Witness,
19311931
 Began predicting Armageddon toBegan predicting Armageddon to
occur in 1975occur in 1975
 Oops…..!Oops…..!

187. FundamentalFundamental Theology of JW’sTheology of JW’s
 Jesus is not God. He is a created being.Jesus is not God. He is a created being.
 The Holy Spirit is not Deity or a person, butThe Holy Spirit is not Deity or a person, but
a force of God.a 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 apostateThe Church became completely apostate
until 1870’suntil 1870’s

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

189. The Watchtower SocietyThe Watchtower Society
God’s faithful and discreet slave MatthewGod’s faithful and discreet slave Matthew
24:45-4724:45-47
““God’s sole channel of communication to HisGod’s sole channel of communication to His
people.”people.”
““Avoid independent thinking or questioningAvoid independent thinking or questioning
the counsel that is provided by God’sthe counsel that is provided by God’s
invisible organization.”invisible organization.”
““We recognize not only Jehovah God as ourWe recognize not only Jehovah God as our
father, but his organization (Thefather, but his organization (The
Watchtower Society) as our mother and theWatchtower Society) as our mother and the
wife of our Father, Jehovah God”wife of our Father, Jehovah God” (The(The
Watchtower, May 1, 1957, p. 285)Watchtower, May 1, 1957, p. 285)

190. 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 fromDesigned to protect members from
corrupted non-Christian translations (likecorrupted non-Christian translations (like
NIV and so forth)NIV and so forth)
 John 1:1 The word wasJohn 1:1 The word was a ga god….od….

191. 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.

192. 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

193. 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

194. The Holy Spirit is not DeityThe Holy Spirit is not Deity
 ““The Holy Spirit is not a person, but is a powerfulThe Holy Spirit is not a person, but is a powerful
force that God causes to emanate from himself toforce that God causes to emanate from himself to
accomplish his holy will (accomplish his holy 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 SpiritMark 1:10, Acts 2:, etc describe the Holy Spirit
coming on or filling up people. A person cannot docoming on or filling up people. A person cannot do
this. (see Eph 3:19)this. (see Eph 3:19)
 Genesis 1:2 (NWT) “God’s active force was workingGenesis 1:2 (NWT) “God’s active force was working
to shape the earth”to shape the earth”

195. 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, MattMatthew 12:32 (see Rev 13:6, Matt
27:39)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

196. 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—Claim: Jesus is never called Jehovah—
Therefore he cannot be God.Therefore he cannot be God.
Claim: The word Jehovah was removed fromClaim: The word Jehovah was removed from
most of the OT by superstitious Jews.most of the OT by superstitious Jews.
Claim: The word Jehovah was removed fromClaim: The word Jehovah was removed from
the NT by early apostate Christians.the NT by early apostate Christians.

197. ResponseResponse
 To the ancients, the name of a person stood for theTo the ancients, the name of a person stood for the
person.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)Manuscript evidence (ex the Rylands Papyrus)
absolutely rules out even the possibility of Jehovahabsolutely rules out even the possibility of Jehovah
being removed from the NT.being removed from the NT.

198. 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”All go to a common hell called “soul sleep”
when they die to await being recreated bywhen they die to await being recreated by
God.God.
 If they are not re-embodied by God, theyIf they are not re-embodied by God, they
simply cease to exist—no punishment at allsimply cease to exist—no punishment at all
for sins.for sins.

199. Soul SleepSoul Sleep
 144,000 of Revelation 7 will be in spiritual heaven144,000 of Revelation 7 will be in spiritual heaven
with Jesus (the “little flock” of Luke 12:32)with 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 inMatthew 6:10 NWT “Let your will take place, as in
heaven, also upon earth”heaven, 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 withLuke 23:43 NWT “I tell you today, you will be with
me in Paradise.me in Paradise.
 Matt 25:46 NWT “And these will depart intoMatt 25:46 NWT “And these will depart into
everlasting cutting-off.”everlasting cutting-off.”

200. 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

201. Evangelizing Jehovah’s WitnessesEvangelizing Jehovah’s Witnesses
It is very difficult to evangelize active JWsIt is very difficult to evangelize active JWs
They are very well trained in how to argue.They are very well trained in how to argue.
Do not get into arguments with JWs.Do not get into arguments with JWs.
Love and relationship more likely to help thanLove and relationship more likely to help than
arguing scripture interpretation.arguing scripture interpretation.

202. Seventh Day AdventismSeventh Day Adventism
Ellen and James White

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

204. 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

205. Important Teachings of 7Important Teachings of 7thth
Day AdventismDay Adventism
 Adventism: Jesus came in theAdventism: Jesus came in the
“Investigative Judgment in 1844 (based on“Investigative Judgment in 1844 (based on
Daniel 8) Emphasis on premillenialism.Daniel 8) Emphasis 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

206. Evangelizing 7Evangelizing 7thth
Day AdventistsDay Adventists
 Suggestion: Do not start by attacking EllenSuggestion: Do not start by attacking Ellen
G. WhiteG. White
 Sabbath:Sabbath:
– Acts 20:7Acts 20:7
– Rev 1:10Rev 1:10
– Church history is unanimousChurch history is unanimous
 Law-keeping:Law-keeping:
– More than one kind of law? Ceremonial law?More than one kind of law? Ceremonial law?
– Galatians 2:21, 3:10-12, 5:2-4 Colossians 2:13-Galatians 2:21, 3:10-12, 5:2-4 Colossians 2:13-
2323

207. RomanRoman
CatholicismCatholicism
APLAAPLA
Manila, Jan 2010Manila, Jan 2010

208. History of CatholocismHistory of Catholocism
 Unlike other “Christian” groups, Catholics canUnlike other “Christian” groups, Catholics can
legitimately claim to be a primitive church whichlegitimately claim to be a primitive church which
can trace its origins to the New Testament churchcan trace its origins to the New Testament church
(as can “Orthodox” and Coptic Christians)(as can “Orthodox” and Coptic Christians)
 To some extent, the story of Church history is theTo some extent, the story of Church history is the
story of the gradual corruption and paganizationstory of the gradual corruption and paganization
of the Roman Catholic Church, especially after ADof the Roman Catholic Church, especially after AD
325325
 Authority is found through “apostolic succession,”Authority is found through “apostolic succession,”
not the scripture.not the scripture.

209. The Big Problem with Catholicism: AuthorityThe Big Problem with Catholicism: Authority
 The Rule of Faith (in other words tradtion)The Rule of Faith (in other words tradtion)
 The “Church”The “Church”
 ScriptureScripture
In that order!!!In that order!!!

210. Apostolic SuccessionApostolic Succession
 Authority of the Roman Church has traditionallyAuthority of the Roman Church has traditionally
been based on supposed apostolic succession,been based on supposed apostolic succession,
with Peter as the first “pope” or bishop of Rome.with Peter as the first “pope” or bishop of Rome.
 Matthew 16:17-19Matthew 16:17-19 .. You are Peter (rock, stone,You are Peter (rock, stone,
petrospetros) and on this rock (bedrock, large rock,) and on this rock (bedrock, large rock,
petrapetra) The “rock” that the church will be built on) The “rock” that the church will be built on
is not Peter. It is the confession and the fact thatis not Peter. It is the confession and the fact that
Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God.Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God.

211. Does Tradition have authority?Does Tradition have authority?
 Catholics use NT language about traditions toCatholics use NT language about traditions to
justify authority of extra-biblical tradition (2justify authority of extra-biblical tradition (2
Thess 3:6, Rom 16:17, Phil 3:17, etc.)Thess 3:6, Rom 16:17, Phil 3:17, etc.)
 Mark 7:1-13 Jesus: “You nullify the word of GodMark 7:1-13 Jesus: “You nullify the word of God
by your tradition that you have handed down.”by your tradition that you have handed down.”
“They worship me in vain, teaching as doctrines“They worship me in vain, teaching as doctrines
the traditions of men.”the traditions of men.”

212. False Doctrines in CatholicismFalse Doctrines in Catholicism
 Prayer to God through Mary and the saints. 1Prayer to God through Mary and the saints. 1
Timothy 2:5Timothy 2:5
 Original Sin. Infant Baptism Ezekiel 18:19-→Original Sin. Infant Baptism Ezekiel 18:19-→
2020
 Transsubstantiation. (The elements in theTranssubstantiation. (The elements in the
Lord’s Supper literally become flesh and blood)Lord’s Supper literally become flesh and blood)
 Lord’s Supper is a sacrifice. Luke 22:19 “Do thisLord’s Supper is a sacrifice. Luke 22:19 “Do this
in remembrance of me.”in remembrance of me.”
 Immaculate Conception. (Mary was born from aImmaculate Conception. (Mary was born from a
virgin)virgin)

213. False Doctrines (cont.)False Doctrines (cont.)
 Sacramentalism. Power in the act rather than inSacramentalism. Power in the act rather than in
faith and repentance.faith and repentance.
 Special class of Christian priests 1 Peter 2:9 2Special class of Christian priests 1 Peter 2:9 2
Corinthians 5:17-20.Corinthians 5:17-20.
 Purgatory. Works salvation.Purgatory. Works salvation.
 Salvation is found, not “in Christ” but in the church.Salvation is found, not “in Christ” but in the church.
Irenaeus:Irenaeus: She [ie. the church] is the entrance to life; allShe [ie. the church] is the entrance to life; all
others are thieves and robbers.others are thieves and robbers.

214. Traditions which “nullify the Word of God”Traditions which “nullify the Word of God”
 Church calendarChurch calendar
 Statues, icons, vestmentsStatues, icons, vestments
 Celibacy of priestsCelibacy of priests
 Monks, nuns, asceticismMonks, nuns, asceticism
 Popes, cardinals, archbishops, etc.Popes, cardinals, archbishops, etc.

215. JOHN OAKES
8/10/2011
Pentecostalism/Charismatic
Movement

216. Outline
History of Pentecostalism
History of Charismatic Movements
A Doctrinal Response
A Correct Approach to the Holy Spirit

218. History of Pentacostalism
Holiness Revival Movement US, UK late 1800s
Charles Parham, 1901, Topeka Bible School
Asuza, California, April 9, 1906: The starting gun of
the Pentacostal Movement
 Speaking in tongues
 Spontaneous worship
 Interracial
 William Seymour
 Wesleyan

219. History of Pentacostalism (cont.)
First split: Reformed/Baptist Pentacostals
Jesus Only/Oneness Pentacostalism 1913
Assemblies of God 1914 End of interracial work.
Wesleyan
 Church of God, Church of God in Christ, Pentacostal Holiness
Reformed
 Assemblies of God, International Four Square
Oneness
 United Pentecostal Church International, Assemblies of the
World

220. Pentecostalism Today
11,000+ denominations
200 million + members
Assemblies of God 60 million +
Common Characteristics
 Experiential/Emotional Christianity
 Eschatological Emphasis
End Times
 “Fundamentalists”

221. Charismatic Movement
A Broader Term
Any Christian who also
practices miraculous gifts
of the Holy Spirit can be
described as “Charismatic.”
400 million worldwide

222. History of Charismatic Movements
Egypt, Delphi, Sibylline Oracle, Occult, Mediums
Montanist Movement late first century
Heugenots and Jansenists 17th
century
Early Quakers 17th
century
Shakers and Mormons 19th
century

223. What Should Our Response Be?
Doctrinal Response
Correct Emphasis on the Holy Spirit

224. Doctrinal Response
Purpose of Miraculous Gifts Hebrews 2:3-4
Examples of Miraculous Gifts Acts 8:9-17
Means of Imparting Miraculous Gifts 2 Tim 2:6 or 1
Tim 4:14?
Is the “one baptism” (Ephesians 4:5) the Baptism of
the Holy Spirit? (Acts 1:5)
Will tongues and other miraculous gifts cease? 1 Cor
13:8-10 Zech 13:1-6 (but be careful about proof
texting)

225. Doctrinal/Historical Response
Early Church evidence Irenaeus, Chrysostom,
Augustine.
Montanists, etc.
Don’t overreact. God still works miracles today, but
he does not give miraculous gifts to individuals.
It comes down to the question of modern-day
revelation.

226. A Healthy View of the Holy Spirit
James Gitre: “Charismatic teaching has cast a long
shadow on the theological landscape.”
John 14:16-18, John 16:5-7
 He is a comforter and counselor
 We are not orphans. Him living in us is about a relationship.
 We are better off that Jesus went away!

227. The Holy Spirit’s Role In Our Lives
He lives in us. Acts 5:1-4, Acts 5:29-32.
His role is principally relational. Phil 2:1, 2 Cor 2:13
We can be more or less filled with the Holy Spirit.
Acts 6:2-3, 1 Thess 5:16-19.
The Holy Spirit will prompt and influence us. Acts
8:29-31.
The Holy Spirit helps us in our prayers.
Romans 8:26-27

228. The Holy Spirit’s Role In Our Lives
The Holy Spirit raises up leaders in the church.
Acts 13:2-4, Acts 20:25-29.
He helps us to understand God’s word and his will in
our lives. John 16:8-11.
He helps us to overcome sin. John 16:8-11,
Romans 8:6-14.
The Holy Spirit is a seal, a mark, a guarantee.
Ephesians 1:14-14 (but we can insult and blaspheme
the Spirit and drive him out of our lives Hebrews
10:26-31)

229. Let us…
Be filled with the Spirit. Romans 8:14
Serve God by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 7:6
Be led by the Spirit. Romans 8:14.
Keep in step with the Spirit. Galatians 5:25.