Divine Abuse – Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar

Biblical Repentance and the Day of Atonement

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 07:59:41 +0000

Every year in Israel, life comes to a complete halt for one day. Shops close. Roads empty. Even the noise of ordinary existence falls silent. For twenty-four hours, an entire nation stops—not as individuals in isolation, but together. Whether religious Jew or secular, citizen or outsider, everyone is caught up…

The post Biblical Repentance and the Day of Atonement appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

The Apostles’ Creed and Hell

Dr. Eitan Bar — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 08:14:41 +0000

The Apostles’ Creed is one of the earliest and most enduring confessions of Christian faith. Though not written directly by the apostles themselves, it restates an earlier version or encapsulates their fundamental teachings and has served for centuries as a baptismal creed and a standard of orthodoxy. It likely took…

The post The Apostles’ Creed and Hell appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

How Will Humanity’s Story End?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Sat, 09 Aug 2025 08:08:03 +0000

There are two very different ways Christians have told the story of how everything ends.In the first version, the one that’s especially popular in many modern Western churches, the tale begins with Jesus returning in glory. At last, everyone sees the truth and admits He is Lord. The next scene…

The post How Will Humanity’s Story End? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

What is God’s Wrath? Hebrew Old Testament perspective

Dr. Eitan Bar — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 13:32:00 +0000

When many Westerners hear the word “wrath,” they picture a storming deity with clenched fists, ready to smite. For centuries, this image has haunted pulpits and darkened the gospel. But the Hebrew Scriptures offer a very different vision—one far more tragic, far more loving, far more relational, and far more…

The post What is God’s Wrath? Hebrew Old Testament perspective appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

What Are We Saved From?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 15:12:04 +0000

If you are a fundamentalist Protestant or a conservative Catholic, you have likely been taught that salvation means being saved from the Augustinian-Calvinist version of hell – a sadistic eternal torment in hellfire. However, the Bible consistently teaches that salvation is tangible, and that we are saved not from eternal…

The post What Are We Saved From? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Why Did Jesus Die?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 13:04:46 +0000

“For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s life.” (Leviticus 17:11) Life is in the Blood Some things in life are inseparable. You can’t…

The post Why Did Jesus Die? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

This Is Why the Doctrine of Hellfire Is Logically Pro-Abortion

Dr. Eitan Bar — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 08:08:06 +0000

Hellfire, or Eternal Conscious Torment (ECT) in theological terms, is the doctrine held by most Catholics and Protestants (who adopted it from the Catholics) that teaches most people in the world will be tormented in hell forever. Ironically, this doctrine creates a severe moral contradiction because for most people, it’s…

The post This Is Why the Doctrine of Hellfire Is Logically Pro-Abortion appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

The Meaning of ‘Salvation’ in the Hebrew Bible & New Testament

Dr. Eitan Bar — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 11:07:04 +0000

The meaning of Salvation in the New Testament is the same as the meaning of Salvation in Judaism. In Jewish thought, ‘salvation’ encompasses broader concepts than the Catholic-Protestant view of it as a means to avoid eternal torture in hell. For Jews, salvation primarily means enjoying God’s blessings and protection. In Jewish…

The post The Meaning of ‘Salvation’ in the Hebrew Bible & New Testament appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

God Is a Consuming Fire: The Purifying Power of Divine Flame

Dr. Eitan Bar — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 13:22:57 +0000

The phrase “God is a consuming fire” appears multiple times in Scripture, often evoking images of divine judgment and awe-inspiring power. Many interpret this as a fearful concept, associating fire with destruction and wrath. Fundamentalist theologians and pastors, mostly those from the Calvinist tradition, often describe God’s fire as something…

The post God Is a Consuming Fire: The Purifying Power of Divine Flame appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Does a ‘Too Merciful’ God Weaken His Justice?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 14:08:35 +0000

One of the most common concerns among Christians is whether emphasizing God’s love, grace, and mercy somehow diminishes His justice. When someone suggests that we should focus more on God’s kindness, an almost reflexive reaction follows: “Don’t go too far!” as if we might accidentally make God too good. But…

The post Does a ‘Too Merciful’ God Weaken His Justice? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Eternal Conscious Torment (ECT) Serves No Purpose Other Than Cruelty for Cruelty’s Sake

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 11:25:57 +0000

I know—talking about hell makes many Christians squirm in their chairs. Yet I believe hell is perhaps the most crucial yet misunderstood doctrine in Western Christian theology. This is partly because those who believe in Eternal Conscious Torment (ECT) rarely take the time to study the doctrine in its original…

The post Eternal Conscious Torment (ECT) Serves No Purpose Other Than Cruelty for Cruelty’s Sake appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Self-Test: Are You a Modern-Day Pharisee?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 09:53:11 +0000

The Pharisees were a prominent religious group in Jesus’ time, known for their strict adherence to the law. However, some of them—though not all—were particularly harsh, judgmental, and lacked the heart of God’s compassion. Jesus often rebuked them for their hypocrisy, pride, and condemnation of sinners. He exposed their obsession…

The post Self-Test: Are You a Modern-Day Pharisee? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Why ‘Free Will’ is a Terrible Excuse to Send People to Hell

Dr. Eitan Bar — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 10:23:24 +0000

For centuries, the Augustinian-Calvinist interpretation of hell, known as Eternal Conscious Torment (a place where, allegedly, God sadistically tortures people forever), has been defended on the grounds of free will. The popular argument of many fundamentalist evangelists goes something like this: “God doesn’t send people to hell; they choose it…

The post Why ‘Free Will’ is a Terrible Excuse to Send People to Hell appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

The Demonic Aspect of Calvinistic Theology

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 15:00:19 +0000

Calvinism, with its doctrine of predestination and limited atonement, presents a version of God that is not only unjust but also fundamentally unloving. It warps the character of God, distorts the gospel, and creates a cold, exclusionary religious system that destroys both faith and human compassion. 1. Calvinism Teaches That…

The post The Demonic Aspect of Calvinistic Theology appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

The Theological Reason Why Many Fundamentalists Suffer from Anxiety

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 12:37:18 +0000

Having spent over 20 years in a fundamentalist Messianic movement in Israel, one troubling observation was clear: a significant number of adherents struggle with anxiety and OCD, often resorting to antidepressants to cope. I was unaware at the time that Fundamentalism is scientifically linked to anxiety. The root of this…

The post The Theological Reason Why Many Fundamentalists Suffer from Anxiety appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Why the Doctrine of Hellfire (ECT) May Contribute to Religious OCD

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 11:25:54 +0000

The doctrine of Eternal Conscious Torment (ECT) in Hellfire has long been a cornerstone of many fundamentalist Catholic and Protestant traditions. It posits that those who fail to meet specific religious or moral standards will face perpetual, conscious torment in hell. While this doctrine has been used as a motivator…

The post Why the Doctrine of Hellfire (ECT) May Contribute to Religious OCD appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

What If Christians Deconstruct Fundamentalism, Not Jesus?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 21 Jan 2025 20:01:39 +0000

In recent years, a significant wave of Christians has begun to “deconstruct” their faith. While some observers dismiss this trend as abandoning faith or pursuing worldly pleasures, a closer look reveals a more nuanced reality. Most individuals undergoing this process are not rejecting Christianity itself but are instead deconstructing Fundamentalism.…

The post What If Christians Deconstruct Fundamentalism, Not Jesus? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Why Calvinism’s Hellfire (ECT) is Spiritual Child Abused

Dr. Eitan Bar — Sun, 12 Jan 2025 09:36:27 +0000

“Mom, I miss Grandma so much. Is she resting in a better place now?”“Well, sweetie, absolutely not. God may have loved her, but your dear old Grandma is now writhing in agony, engulfed by hellfire, and tortured in the fire for all eternity in God’s merciless dungeon. She’s trapped there…

The post Why Calvinism’s Hellfire (ECT) is Spiritual Child Abused appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

“Justice” According to Fundamentalism

Dr. Eitan Bar — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 10:24:44 +0000

In contrast with the biblical portrayal of justice, which harmonizes retribution with mercy, the Augustinian-Calvinist “Hellfire” view asserts that God’s justice demands a rigid, eternal punishment for any sin. When I say rigid, I mean melting your skin in flames of fire forever and ever, a doctrine that always struck…

The post “Justice” According to Fundamentalism appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

The Doctrine of Hellfire: The Devastating Psychological Effects

Dr. Eitan Bar — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 10:07:14 +0000

This is a short testimony I came across on YouTube from a woman who grew up in what seems a conservative, fundamental Christian home: When I was 6 or 7, I burned my hand and it was excruciating. My mother took the opportunity to say, “Imagine if that feeling was…

The post The Doctrine of Hellfire: The Devastating Psychological Effects appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

What is the Lake of Fire, Sulfur and Smoke in the Book of Revelation?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 09:23:32 +0000

Very little in the book of Revelation could be interpreted literally. While it is crucial to read and study the book thoroughly, appreciating its language, imagery, and themes, it is equally important to recognize the book’s genre and that almost every element in Revelation is steeped in references to Hebrew…

The post What is the Lake of Fire, Sulfur and Smoke in the Book of Revelation? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

What is “Eternal Fire” (Jude 1:7)?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:57:14 +0000

For an article on the meaning of the word “eternal” in Greek and Hebrew, visit here. The Epistle of Jude, which was written to warn of the destructive concourses of false doctrines, is often cited by the Augustinian-Calvinist Eternal Conscious Torment proponents as supporting the concept of hellfire. For instance,…

The post What is “Eternal Fire” (Jude 1:7)? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

What is “Everlasting Destruction”‭ (2 Thessalonians‬ ‭1‬:‭8-9)?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:46:48 +0000

For an article on the meaning of the word “eternal” in Greek and Hebrew, visit here. New Testament’s 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9 is often cited by proponents of Eternal Conscious Torment (ECT) as a key passage supporting the doctrine of hellfire. However, a careful analysis of the text within its context…

The post What is “Everlasting Destruction”‭ (2 Thessalonians‬ ‭1‬:‭8-9)? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Fear God Who Could Throw You Into Hell?! (Matthew 10:28)

Dr. Eitan Bar — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:04:38 +0000

“Then Jesus took the teenage girl and threw her into the fire. As he watched her scream in the flames, he said unto her, ‘Your parents warned you, but you did not listen!'” (Matthew 10:28, according to Calvinism) Sounds too harsh? Sadly, this is exactly how many Christians today read…

The post Fear God Who Could Throw You Into Hell?! (Matthew 10:28) appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

What are the “Gates of Hell” (Matthew 16:18)?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 14:18:48 +0000

Matthew 16 is where Jesus finally introduces the concept of his death and resurrection to his disciples. In verse 18, Jesus declares something that confused many: And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not…

The post What are the “Gates of Hell” (Matthew 16:18)? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

“Lord Lord….”, “I Never Knew You. Away from me, you evildoers!” (Matthew 7:21-23)

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 13:54:05 +0000

There are two kinds of “Christianity.” One is a religion that, on paper, intellectually adheres to all the correct theological recipes and doctrines about Jesus’ Lordship and Divinity. The other is a way of life—represented by the kingdom of heaven—embodied by Christ-like individuals who live out the values Jesus taught…

The post “Lord Lord….”, “I Never Knew You. Away from me, you evildoers!” (Matthew 7:21-23) appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Aren’t we “Born Again” to Avoid Hellfire?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 13:35:05 +0000

Evangelicals, commonly self-identified as “Born-again Evangelicals,” generally interpret “born again” as a profound experience of repentance and faith in Jesus’s sacrifice for sins. This experience is often specific, memorable, and pivotal to their personal testimony. These experiences, usually emotionally charged, can look like reciting a “salvation prayer” from a pamphlet…

The post Aren’t we “Born Again” to Avoid Hellfire? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

What Are the “Unquenchable Fire” and “Wheat and Chaff”?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 13:00:04 +0000

When the Western mind encounters the word “fire,” it often conjures images of witches being burned at the stake, nuclear bombs, or Dante’s depictions of individuals tormented by flames, which has significantly influenced Western Christian theology. However, in the Bible, Judaism, and other ancient civilizations, fire, though potentially painful, primarily…

The post What Are the “Unquenchable Fire” and “Wheat and Chaff”? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

What are “Outer Darkness” and “Gnashing of Teeth”?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 12:42:25 +0000

When these metaphors are taken literally and out of context, their imagery might appear quite terrifying, akin to a vivid depiction of the Augustinian-Calvinist hellfire: But the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Matthew 8:12 They…

The post What are “Outer Darkness” and “Gnashing of Teeth”? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Is the Parable of the Sheep & Goats About Hell? (Matthew 25:31-46)

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 12:27:17 +0000

Jesus presents three parables in Matthew 25: The Parable of the Ten Virgins (verses 1-13), The Parable of the Bags of Gold (verses 14-28), and the one we focus on today, The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats (verses 31-46). Some, Augustine himself included, interpret a section of this parable…

The post Is the Parable of the Sheep & Goats About Hell? (Matthew 25:31-46) appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

The Biblical Concept of Time and Why Hell Won’t Last Forever (Aion / Aionios / Olam)

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 12:13:46 +0000

Justice demands punishment; without it, crimes such as murder and theft would go unchecked, leading to chaos and lawlessness. Retribution is a necessary deterrent to maintain order and protect society. While the opposite extreme of ‘Eternal Conscious Torment’ in Hellfire are those who do not anticipate any form of punishment…

The post The Biblical Concept of Time and Why Hell Won’t Last Forever (Aion / Aionios / Olam) appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

‘Hell’ in the Hebrew Prophets

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 11:50:27 +0000

The Hebrew Prophets also do not contain a Hebrew term equivalent to the concept of hellfire as understood in later Augustine-Calvinist Christian theology. Instead, the Hebrew word “SHEOL,” which simply refers to the realm of the dead, is variably translated in English versions of the Old Testament as “grave,” “underworld,”…

The post ‘Hell’ in the Hebrew Prophets appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

‘Hell’ in the Torah (Pentatuch)

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 11:44:37 +0000

The Hebrew Scriptures, which chronicle God’s relationship with Israel over thousands of years, do not contain a Hebrew term equivalent to the concept of hellfire as understood in later Augustinian-Calvinist theology. Instead, the Old Testament’s Hebrew word “SHEOL” simply refers to the realm of the dead, akin to a grave.…

The post ‘Hell’ in the Torah (Pentatuch) appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Does a Sin Against an Infinite God Merit Infinite Punishment?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 10:30:43 +0000

Once upon a time, a naïve couple lived in blissful ignorance, unaware of their own lack of knowledge. Then, a cunning, malevolent figure exploited their innocence, convincing them they could become all-knowing, just like God. Seduced by this idea, they ate from the Tree of Knowledge, which opened their eyes…

The post Does a Sin Against an Infinite God Merit Infinite Punishment? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Why God Allowed Sin in the First Place?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 10:17:51 +0000

“I’m only human. Of flesh and blood, I’m made. Human. Born to make mistakes.“ (Human, Song by The Human League, 1986) Imagine a game where you put someone in an Escape Room, telling them that unless they figure it out, you’ll burn the room with them in it. It sounds…

The post Why God Allowed Sin in the First Place? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Calvinism’s “God Can’t Stand You” Theology Debunked

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 09:49:50 +0000

An article titled, “Why do I face the consequences of Adam’s sin when I did not eat the fruit?” on the popular Reformed website “GotQuestions” reads: The Bible says, “Sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because…

The post Calvinism’s “God Can’t Stand You” Theology Debunked appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

The Doctrine of ‘Hell’ in Modern Christianity

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 09:39:19 +0000

Here is a brief summary of the most prevalent views on hell in contemporary Christianity, detailing the main advocates and the evolution of each perspective: Annihilationism (Conditionalism) Annihilationism asserts that the wicked will ultimately be destroyed or cease to exist rather than suffer eternally. Annihilationism believes that only the saved…

The post The Doctrine of ‘Hell’ in Modern Christianity appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

The Doctrine of ‘Hell’ in Late Christianity

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 09:34:27 +0000

On July 16, 1054, Michael Cerularius, the Patriarch of Constantinople, was excommunicated from the Christian church based in Rome, Italy. This excommunication marked a critical juncture in the escalating tensions between the Western Roman church (in Rome) and the Eastern Byzantine church (in Constantinople). This division is referred to as…

The post The Doctrine of ‘Hell’ in Late Christianity appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Was Adam’s Relationship With God Broken?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 14:58:55 +0000

If God cannot even look at sinners, it implies that He cannot be near them. If God is unable to be near sinners, it suggests that He hates them. If this is true, then the argument that God must send all sinners—all of humanity—to hellfire is validated. As the renowned…

The post Was Adam’s Relationship With God Broken? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Original Sin Debunked

Dr. Eitan Bar — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 13:07:06 +0000

The doctrine of Original Sin holds that Adam and Eve’s transgression in the Garden of Eden left humanity with permanent guilt. This belief suggests that humans inherit a fundamentally flawed or “totally depraved” nature from birth, thus rendering them guilty from the outset. This belief posits that because of Original…

The post Original Sin Debunked appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Why the God of the Old Testament Wasn’t as Scary as You Think

Dr. Eitan Bar — Sat, 06 Jul 2024 08:04:02 +0000

The Old Testament portrayal of God often evokes images of wrath, judgment, and fear. Many people in the modern Western world—where people actually respect social boundaries and rules—find it difficult to reconcile this image with the God of love and grace presented in the New Testament. However, understanding the historical…

The post Why the God of the Old Testament Wasn’t as Scary as You Think appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

This Is (part of) My Story

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 04 Jul 2024 09:55:06 +0000

If you have followed me long enough, you have probably noticed two things. First, I emphasize love and grace in a way that really annoys some types of religious people. Second, I have developed the same “Matthew 23 style” of antagonistic chutzpah against religious legalism. This is because, ever since…

The post This Is (part of) My Story appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

The Dark Side of the Purity Movement: How Religious Teachings on Sexuality Can Create “Monsters”

Dr. Eitan Bar — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 10:18:27 +0000

Themes of infidelity, adultery, and betrayal are common in stories, movies, songs, and novels, reflecting their presence in human history, as also depicted in biblical narratives. However, the heinous acts of religious leaders, including pastors, priests, and rabbis, involving the sexual abuse of women and children are utterly demonic. In…

The post The Dark Side of the Purity Movement: How Religious Teachings on Sexuality Can Create “Monsters” appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

“By Faith Alone”—Really?!

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 05:33:32 +0000

The phrase “by faith alone” is frequently cited within Evangelicalism, but its interpretation varies significantly between its two main theological camps (Arminianism vs. Calvinism). In fact, I would say that “by faith alone” is nothing more than a placebo in most of Western Christian theology. What do I mean? On…

The post “By Faith Alone”—Really?! appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

9 Reasons Not to Trust Only One Bible Translation

Dr. Eitan Bar — Fri, 24 May 2024 09:12:30 +0000

As a native Hebrew speaker, I recall the first time I read an English translation of the Hebrew Bible and noticed significant differences in some sections. This experience was echoed during my Koine Greek classes, where I saw how translations could diverge greatly from the original text and each other.…

The post 9 Reasons Not to Trust Only One Bible Translation appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

C.S. Lewis’s Free Will vs. Calvinism’s Predestination & Total Depravity

Dr. Eitan Bar — Mon, 20 May 2024 08:03:08 +0000

C.S. Lewis, one of the most influential Christian apologists of the 20th century, is renowned for his profound theological insights and literary contributions. Despite his broad influence within Christian thought, Lewis held specific theological positions that set him apart from other traditions, particularly Calvinism. For instance, C.S. Lewis’s theology is…

The post C.S. Lewis’s Free Will vs. Calvinism’s Predestination & Total Depravity appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

What Most Christians Overlook Regarding Sacrifice in the Bible and Jesus’ Atonement

Dr. Eitan Bar — Fri, 10 May 2024 12:43:16 +0000

Well, perhaps not “most Christians,” but certainly most Protestants (Calvinists, Baptists, Evangelicals, Pentecostals, etc.) and most Catholics. Historically, this overlook made them develop their Theories of Atonement pretty late in the game, disregarding the earlier teachings of the Church Fathers.1 The Models of Atonement held by both the Catholic and…

The post What Most Christians Overlook Regarding Sacrifice in the Bible and Jesus’ Atonement appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Was King David Really Teaching “Original Sin” & “Total Depravity” in Psalm 51:5?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 11:12:52 +0000

Throughout history, scholars and theologians have presented various interpretations to define ‘sin’ and ‘original sin.’ One influential perspective is that of Augustine (354–430), which was later picked up and promoted by Calvin and Luther, who believed that humans are born with a “Destination: Hell” imprinted due to the sin of…

The post Was King David Really Teaching “Original Sin” & “Total Depravity” in Psalm 51:5? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Does God Hate Us, Love Us, Or Both?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 12:25:56 +0000

Imagine explaining to your child that because they are not perfect, you must take them to the backyard, tie them to a tree, and burn them in a fire. However, because you also love them, you decide to burn the dog instead. Your logic, as you explain to your confused…

The post Does God Hate Us, Love Us, Or Both? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

This Is Why God Created Us Limited and Finite and Allows Evil

Dr. Eitan Bar — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 07:46:25 +0000

“God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.”. Genesis 1:31 In our quest to comprehend the intricate subtleties of religious texts, we often grapple with abstract concepts that defy easy understanding. One such notion is the distinction between “good” and “perfect,” especially when considered within the realm…

The post This Is Why God Created Us Limited and Finite and Allows Evil appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

7 Ways Bad Theology Impacts Life

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 16:37:42 +0000

Understanding the profound impact of theology on individuals and communities requires a deep dive into the relationship between beliefs, behaviors, and social structures. Let’s explore how bad theology can lead to the formation of harmful individuals and dysfunctional communities. 1. The Basis of Theology in Shaping Worldview Theology fundamentally shapes…

The post 7 Ways Bad Theology Impacts Life appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Fear, “the one who has authority to throw you into hell” (Luke 12:5) – A Jewish perspective

Dr. Eitan Bar — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 10:54:52 +0000

Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not…

The post Fear, “the one who has authority to throw you into hell” (Luke 12:5) – A Jewish perspective appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Penal Substitutionary Atonement: A Critical Examination

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 12:50:57 +0000

The doctrine of Penal Substitutionary Atonement (PSA) has long been a cornerstone of the Reformed Calvinistic theological framework. It later became the “gospel message” of several post-reformation protestant denominations, such as Baptist, Evangelical, and Pentecostal. What is Penal Substitutionary Atonement (PSA)? Penal Substitutionary Atonement was developed during the Protestant Reformation…

The post Penal Substitutionary Atonement: A Critical Examination appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Acts 13:48 Beyond Calvinism’s Predestination

Dr. Eitan Bar — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 09:03:45 +0000

And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. Acts 13:48 Acts 13:48 has long been a cornerstone for the Calvinistic doctrine of Unconditional Election. This short article endeavors to present a quick…

The post Acts 13:48 Beyond Calvinism’s Predestination appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

“By Their Fruit You Will Recognize Them” and What My Experience in the Messianic Movement Taught Me

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 13:40:01 +0000

Watch out for false prophets [teachers]. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.…

The post “By Their Fruit You Will Recognize Them” and What My Experience in the Messianic Movement Taught Me appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Why “God’s Justice Means He Must Burn You Forever” Is a Terrible Argument for Divine Justice

Dr. Eitan Bar — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 07:30:14 +0000

His holiness is so pure that he cannot forgive without punishing. Stan Mast, Calvinist Preacher Some Christian denominations, such as Calvinists and Evangelicals, rigidly adhere to Penal Substitutionary Atonement (PSA), asserting that God’s holiness demands a rigid punishment for sin. And when I say rigid, I mean melting your skin…

The post Why “God’s Justice Means He Must Burn You Forever” Is a Terrible Argument for Divine Justice appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Sin, Sacrifice and Forgiveness: Judaism vs. Evangelicalism

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 11:25:49 +0000

Forgiveness of sins and sacrifices are core to both religions. In Judaism, forgiveness never depended on the act of killing an animal. The God of the living does not take pleasure in death (Ezekiel 33:11) because death is the very opposite of what God is: life. Instead, the sacrifices symbolized generosity, dedication, celebration, peace, forgiveness, etc.

The post Sin, Sacrifice and Forgiveness: Judaism vs. Evangelicalism appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Appalling Quotes by Preachers of “Divine Abuse”

Dr. Eitan Bar — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 15:20:49 +0000

The Calvinist doctrine of Penal Substitutionary Atonement teaches that God, consumed by wrath, hated, and anger toward humanity, had to torture and abuse Christ in order to spare us: R.C. Sproul, a famous reformed (Calvinist) theologian, said: We always say the Cliché, ‘God Hates the sin, but he loves the…

The post Appalling Quotes by Preachers of “Divine Abuse” appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

The 4 Spiritual (F)laws: A Critique and Why It Never Worked on Jews

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 11 May 2023 12:26:44 +0000

The Jewish people could never relate to the idea that mankind is entirely separated from God's love, as promoted by preachers like Paul Washer and in pamphlets like the "4 Spiritual Laws," because it contradicts the Hebrew Scriptures.

The post The 4 Spiritual (F)laws: A Critique and Why It Never Worked on Jews appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

God’s Wrath and Judgment: What Is It All About?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 05:09:09 +0000

God is not soft on sin, but His judgment intertwines with mercy, aiming to rebuild and elevate the individual. This approach highlights the perfect balance between justice and compassion, ultimately seeking the spiritual growth and redemption of those who have faltered.

The post God’s Wrath and Judgment: What Is It All About? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

What is “Divine Abuse” Model of Atonement?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 13:58:30 +0000

Ok, you got me. There is no theory of atonement called “Divine Abuse,” not officially, at least. It’s an expansion pack on top of the Penal Substitution theory. I put it at the bottom of the list of theories because I don’t think it deserves to be taken seriously. In…

The post What is “Divine Abuse” Model of Atonement? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Did God Commit A Cosmic Suicide? (“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Matthew 27:46)

Dr. Eitan Bar — Sun, 16 Apr 2023 13:44:53 +0000

In this article I critique David Platt's interpretation of Matthew 27:46, which posits that God the Father killed God the Son, expelling Him from the Trinity. This article explores alternative perspectives on this verse, dissecting its theological implications and offering fresh insights into the nature of Jesus' crucifixion and the dynamics within the Godhead.

The post Did God Commit A Cosmic Suicide? (“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Matthew 27:46) appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

“God Is Fear”? 10 Signs That Your Church is Becoming A Cult

Dr. Eitan Bar — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 08:31:07 +0000

Real-life cults differ from Hollywood portrayals, focusing on subtle psychological control rather than bizarre rituals. Members often seem ordinary, friendly, and unaware of their involvement in a cult, making it difficult to recognize and address the hidden manipulation and indoctrination at play.

The post “God Is Fear”? 10 Signs That Your Church is Becoming A Cult appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Logical Critique of 5-Point Calvinism (TULIP): How It Undermines God’s Love and Grace Through Fear and Legalism

Dr. Eitan Bar — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 07:57:54 +0000

Explore how 5-Point Calvinism may actually undermine the very foundations of God's love and grace. By relying on fear and legalism, this theology may lead to a distorted understanding of God's character and salvation.

The post Logical Critique of 5-Point Calvinism (TULIP): How It Undermines God’s Love and Grace Through Fear and Legalism appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Augustine’s Concept of Original Sin and Its Connection to Infant Baptism

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:13:50 +0000

Not many Christians know that Augustine developed the concept of original sin as a way to justify infant baptism and assert the need for salvation through the Church. If not Augustine's Original Sin, how else can we view Romans 5:12?

The post Augustine’s Concept of Original Sin and Its Connection to Infant Baptism appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Are We Separated From God Who Can’t Even Look At Us (Isaiah 59:2)?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:27:15 +0000

Many evangelists preach that God is so holy that He cannot even look upon sin, leading to a permanent separation between God and humanity. But is this really true? This article explores the concept of God's holiness and how it relates to His love, mercy, and grace towards sinners.

The post Are We Separated From God Who Can’t Even Look At Us (Isaiah 59:2)? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Debunking the Calvinistic “Cup of Wrath” Whereby God Allegedly Abused Jesus

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 12:54:18 +0000

Many Christians believe that Jesus' death was a result of God's wrath towards human sin. But was it truly God who poured out the "cup of wrath" on Jesus? This article explores different theological perspectives on this controversial topic.

The post Debunking the Calvinistic “Cup of Wrath” Whereby God Allegedly Abused Jesus appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

Isaiah 53: God Crushed Jesus?

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 11:45:08 +0000

Isaiah 53 raises questions about God's will to crush Jesus. Was this truly divine intent or a potential misinterpretation? Reexamining the text can shed light on its meaning and promote deeper understanding of this pivotal scripture.

The post Isaiah 53: God Crushed Jesus? appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.

10 Harmful Doctrines and Ideas Fundamentalist Christianity Must Outgrow

Dr. Eitan Bar — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 05:38:10 +0000

Does God really hate our imperfections and therefore abused and killed Jesus with His wrath? Delving deeper into these questions can help us uncover the true essence of divine love, which may reveal a more compassionate and understanding relationship with the Creator.

The post 10 Harmful Doctrines and Ideas Fundamentalist Christianity Must Outgrow appeared first on Dr. Eitan Bar | Bible Scholar.