Tag Archives: jesus

White Paper: Apparent Flatness, Actual Hierarchy: The Disjunct Between Clerical Perception and Lay Experience in the United Church of God

Posted on May 30, 2025 by nathanalbright

Earlier this evening, I was sent a short (roughly 6 minute) video from the Chairman of the Council of Elders for the church I attend in which this minister expressed his thinking that the United Church of God had learned … Continue reading →

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White Paper: Succession in the Melchizedek Priesthood — A Biblical Analysis in Contrast to Levitical and Roman Catholic Models

Posted on May 17, 2025 by nathanalbright

What are the thoughts of readers concerning issues of succession? It is a subject that for various reasons has come up frequently in discussion recently. Executive Summary Succession is a critical element in understanding religious authority and continuity within sacred … Continue reading →

Posted in Bible, Biblical History, Christianity, Church of God, History | Tagged , , , , , , , | 12 Comments

WHITE PAPER: From Costly Consequences to Cheap Grace: David, Bathsheba, and the Real Path to Restoration

Posted on May 15, 2025 by nathanalbright

I was listening to the recent sermon by Mr. John Elliott citing David’s behavior and how the Bible views him as an invitation to move people out of boxes. Here is my reply to that specific citation and a discussion … Continue reading →

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Members Of The Body, But Not Members Of The Corporation

Posted on May 4, 2025 by nathanalbright

Executive Summary This white paper examines the fundamental disconnect that occurs when church members are considered spiritual members of the Body of Christ but lack legal membership in the church corporation that receives their tithes, offerings, and service. This structure … Continue reading →

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Finding Comfort In Romans 8:28

Posted on March 23, 2025 by nathanalbright

[These are the prepared notes for a split sermon given to the United Church of God congregation in Portland, Oregon on Sabbath, March 22, 2025.] Good afternoon to you all, and I hope you are finding good comfort here on … Continue reading →

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Anointed And Judged

Posted on January 28, 2025 by nathanalbright

The Bible presents a complex picture of how individuals and nations can be both chosen by God for a specific purpose and held accountable for their actions in fulfilling that purpose. This tension is evident in the examples of Jehu, … Continue reading →

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On The Difficulties Of Understanding Parables

Posted on January 24, 2025 by nathanalbright

Parables present unique challenges for understanding that extend far beyond simple problems of translation or historical distance. At their core, they operate through multiple simultaneous layers of meaning, requiring readers to grasp both literal narratives and deeper spiritual or moral … Continue reading →

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On Developing A Framework To Deal With Pagan Elements In Chrisitan Worship: Part Two

Posted on December 25, 2024 by nathanalbright

Biblical Worship Practice Examination Guide Introduction This examination guide is designed to help believers thoughtfully evaluate worship practices through careful consideration of Scripture. The questions are structured to examine both potentially problematic elements that may have entered worship as well … Continue reading →

Posted in Bible, Biblical History, Christianity, Church of God, History, Musings | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments