Doctrinal debates and the spirit of Truth.

With the Onething conference focusing on the End-Times, this is a subject sure to provide for much controversy as there are currently many disagreements in the evangelical world concerning the end-time events. In our discussions of end-time doctrine and events, we will inevitably end up swallowing gnats (really annoying things). What we want to avoid is swallowing "camels" (promoting things that are destructive either in our belief systems or carrying on debates that are destructive to fellowship)

I would propose 4 levels of "truth" in discussing the end-times:

1. FULLY GROWN CAMELS
These are basic doctrines that are fully part of orthodox, evangelical Christianity across all streams fully supported by scripture. There is no debate. Denying these doctrines calls into question of whether or not we are actually following Jesus Christ of the Bible.

Some Examples:
- The literal, physical return of Jesus Christ to earth
- The reality of heaven and hell
- The reality of Jesus as judge and that we all will give account before Him.

2. BABY CAMELS
These are doctrines that are very important doctrines that are strongly supported by scripture but where there are still debates based on interpretation among evangelical streams. These are doctrinal positions where clarity will grow and the Church will come to greater understanding as we get closer to the events(baby camels that will "grow up"). We see denying these doctrines as very destructive to following of Jesus Christ radically-especially as we get near the end-times.


Some Examples:
- The nature and role of Israel in the end-times. (note: I believe replacement theology is a very destructive heresy.)
- Understanding the timing of the rapture associated with the 2nd coming. (I also believe that the popular pre-tribulation position is dangerous in it leaves us unprepared and set up for deep bitterness towards God when He doesn't do something many were deeply hoping for.)
- Understanding/avoiding the Mark of the beast (assuming we are still here...placed here due to our current lack of clarity on this- eventually this will "grow up" and get into the first category above.)
-Understanding the essential role of worship and prayer in the End-Times.

It is our "camel" doctrines that we cannot be wrong on during the End-time events.

3. GIANT GNATS:
These are positions that are deeply helpful in preparing ourselves for the End-times. There is some scriptural evidence along with other prophetic activity. Here is where we can make mistakes as some GIANT GNATS look like a Baby camel...especially if we try to get into specifics where the Bible doesn't tell us.

Some examples:
-The role of the United States fit in End-Time prophecy
-Understanding the identity of the 144,000 Jewish evangelists in Revelation 7 and the two witnesses in Revelation 11 are.
- Understanding where the Anti-Christ comes from.

4. SMALL GNATS
These are opinions that are not supported (or denied) by scripture. This gets into "the book of speculations" more than understanding end-time prophecy.

Let the End-time discussion begin!