Category Archives: Church of God

White Paper: Pacifism and the Law of the Thief: A Biblicist Contrast

Abstract This white paper examines the contrast between Christian pacifism and the biblical principle that “the thief has no blood” (Exodus 22:2), which permits lethal defense of life and property under certain circumstances. From a biblicist perspective—one seeking direct correspondence … Continue reading

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White Paper: The Dynamics and Policy Implications of Locked Religious Councils

Abstract This paper examines the practice—found across history and faith traditions—of religious councils being sequestered or “locked in” until a unanimous or majority consensus is reached on doctrinal or disciplinary matters. Such procedures, whether literal or symbolic, aim to ensure … Continue reading

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White Paper: The Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) Through the Lens of Pardes

Abstract This white paper explores the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot) using the Pardes method of biblical interpretation—Peshat (literal), Remez (hint/allegory), Derash (homiletic/midrashic), and Sod (mystical/hidden). Each level unveils dimensions of meaning that connect agricultural joy, historical memory, prophetic hope, and … Continue reading

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White Paper: Levels of Development in Biblicism: Stages of Growth Toward God’s Ways

Executive Summary Biblicism, properly understood, is not merely a commitment to the authority of Scripture, but a living process of transformation through the Word of God. This white paper explores the levels of spiritual development within biblicism—how engagement with Scripture … Continue reading

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Re-centering the Feast of Tabernacles: Restoring God’s Central Place in the Festival: An Internal Teaching White Paper

Prepared for Church Educational and Festival Leadership Use Abstract In recent years, the statement “The Feast of Tabernacles is not about us” has become a recurring theme in Feast messages and administrative announcements. While well-intentioned, the repetition of this phrase … Continue reading

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White Paper: Training Kings and Priests for the Biblical Millennium: A Biblicist Framework

Abstract This white paper outlines a biblicist model of preparation for believers destined to serve as kings and priests (Revelation 1:6; 5:10) in the prophesied millennial reign of Christ. It identifies the scriptural purposes, character traits, and disciplines necessary for … Continue reading

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White Paper: Appearance of Authority vs. Substance of Competence

Executive Summary This paper explores the deep organizational and psychological divide between two archetypes of authority: The Manager Who Wants to Be Seen as Right — valuing image, conformity, and control. The Manager Who Wants People to Look Busy — … Continue reading

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White Paper: Jesus Christ as Lord of the Sabbath: A Biblicist Examination of Authority, Rest, and Misinterpretation

Abstract This white paper explores the biblicist view of Jesus Christ as “Lord of the Sabbath,” examining the theological, moral, and eschatological implications of His claim (Mark 2:28, Matthew 12:8, Luke 6:5). It argues that Christ’s lordship over the Sabbath … Continue reading

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White Paper: The Theology of Gossip in the Bible: Sin, Speech, and Sanctified Communication

Abstract This white paper explores the biblical theology of gossip, situating it within the broader framework of divine ethics regarding speech, truth, and community integrity. It examines scriptural condemnations of gossip across the Old and New Testaments, tracing its connection … Continue reading

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White Paper: The History and Context of Attempts to Bring the Biblical Millennium into Existence and the Extent to Which Biblical Ideals Are Realistic Under Human Rule

Executive Summary Throughout history, religious and political movements have sought to realize the biblical “millennium”—a thousand-year period of peace and divine governance described in Revelation 20 and prophesied in Isaiah, Ezekiel, and other scriptures. The idea of a perfected world … Continue reading

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