New Testament Commentary by Wayne Jackson

 

New Testament Commentary by Wayne Jackson

Perhaps one of the more anticipated volumes among preachers is a commentary on the whole New Testament; however, there are many commentaries on the whole Bible, Old Testament, New Testament, or individual books of the Bible. What makes this particular commentary so anticipated by several preachers is the scholar doing the commenting!

Some have a negative view of commentaries regardless of who has written it. They tend to think that somehow commentaries are on the same level as a creed; however, such is not the case at all. Some creeds certainly provide commentary on the Bible; however, creeds include a level of imposing authority that is missing from a commentary. No, commentaries are not Creeds, Confessions of Faith, Articles of Faith, etc.

I often explain that a commentary is only as good as the one doing the commenting! If I have a really difficult question relating to the Bible that I just cannot figure out from the resources I possess, then I have written to brother Jackson and asked. Sometimes he gives me a direct response, sometimes he will forward me an article he has written, or sometimes he refers me to a book that might help my study. If I value his studious mind from years of disciplined study, then why would I be opposed to having his thoughts pertaining to the comments in book form arranged according to verses of the Bible? Generally, a commentary is a person’s (or group’s) thoughts on a given passage arranged in order of book, chapter, and verse. Is there a difference between asking a question and getting an answer from a preacher or reading his answer in written form? No. Again, it depends on who is doing the answering/writing.

Of course, writing a commentary on any book of the Bible is an ambitious task, but to write a commentary on the entire New Testament is quite a formidable project. It is why I laughed out loud when I read brother Wayne’s statement in the Preface: “After chastising myself more than once for embarking upon such a daunting project, I threw myself into the delightful enterprise, laboring for long days, week after week, until I finished with the draft a few days under a year.” Brother Wayne plans to continue writing his commentary series on the Old Testament. We pray that the Lord extends his life to where he can enjoy the satisfaction of completing this project!

As Editor of the Christian Courier since 1964, brother Wayne has published it monthly, plus books, which have benefited many in our brotherhood. The web site ChristianCourier.com has been a blessing to many looking for solid and balanced answers to a host of religious questions whether for personal study or to share with others. Brother Wayne has freely shared with us the fruits of his scholarly study for years. Of course, books cost money, so we need to be willing to support sound writing if we want to have such for the future. I hesitate to use the word “brief” in describing this commentary. I prefer to use the word “concise” instead. It is arranged by the books of the New Testament and verses are organized around major points in outline format. Each book of the New Testament has an introduction including authorship, date, purpose, etc.

Be sure to obtain a copy of this volume for the church library and for your personal study before it goes out of print!

**Note** Since the printing of this book review, A New Testament Commentary has sold through its first two editions. It is now available in the third edition in hardback format.

Originally printed in the West Virginia Christian, Vol. 24, No. 8, August 2017, p. 8. Reprinted by permission.

Science and the Bible, Wayne Jackson

Science and the Bible, Wayne Jackson
Does science contradict or confirm the Bible?  An interesting question!  The answer often depends on what one accepts as “science”.  The Bible does not contradict scientific facts; however, there have been contradictions between the Bible and scientific theories or hypotheses.  Some would claim there is no difference in the statement just written; however, they would be mistaken.  Scientific theories come and go; however, facts remain.  One should keep this distinction in mind when examining the subject of the Bible and Science.  Some atheists attempt to blur the lines between scientific facts and scientific theories; e.g., evolution is a scientific theory, but one must remain focused on facts when looking at a comparison between the Bible and science.

An excellent book showing the scientific accuracy of the Bible is Wayne Jackson’s The Bible and Science.  This book examines several areas of science and shows that when the Bible touches on these areas of science it does so accurately.  Fields of science the book examines include astronomy, oceanography, geology, biology, anthropology, and others. 

Brother Jackson does an excellent work of pointing out that there are limitations of science, despite the claims of some modern fanatical evolutionary scientists.  He also cites examples of where scientists have missed the mark on more than one occasion.  He also discusses alleged inaccuracies of the Bible in relation to science.  It should be noted that scientific theories are not the only sources of perceived conflict between Science and the Bible.  Some have either mistranslated or misinterpreted the Bible resulting in perceived contradictions; however, further analysis of the Biblical text revealed no actual contradiction.

The Bible & Science also discusses well known scientists who believed the Bible and went on to make incredible discoveries.  Men such as Johann Kepler, Blaise Paschal, Robert Boyle, Isaac Newton, Michael Faraday, Louis Pasteur, George Washington Carver, and Wernher von Braun.  Quite an impressive group of scientists who did not see a conflict between science and the Bible, and the list could be expanded.  We truly live in a time of impressive scientific discovery.  The more scientists explore, the far more complex matters appear than they originally thought.  One wonders if some of these scientists have not given consideration to the principle that a greater degree of complex design points to a greater, more complex mind which created these designs!  Wernher von Braun is an example of a scientist who saw no conflict between modern scientific inquiry and the existence of God:

“It is difficult for me to understand a scientist who does not acknowledge the presence of a superior rationality behind the existence of the universe as it is to comprehend a theologian who would deny the advance of science.  Far from being independent or opposing forces, science and religion are sisters…There is certainly no scientific reason why God cannot retain the same position in our modern world that He held before we began probing His creation with the telescope and cyclotron”  (As quoted by Wayne Jackson, The Bible & Science, p. 126).

Perhaps it would be well to remind ourselves that the issue is not just the harmonization of the Bible with Science.  The critical issue is the explanation of Bible writers who wrote thousands of years ago.  These ancient writers not only wrote correctly about scientific matters but also avoided some of the superstitious nonsense long refuted by scientists years ago which one finds in other ancient writings.  How were these writers of the Bible able to reveal scientific matters beyond their ability to prove?  They were guided by the mind that created them all including the book that tell us so—God.

Originally printed in West Virginia Christian, Vol. 19, No. 8, August 2012, p. 8. Reprinted by permission.

A Study Guide to Greater Bible Knowledge, Wayne Jackson

A Study Guide to Greater Bible Knowledge, Wayne Jackson

Some of us have been richly blessed with godly parents who have made it a priority to take us to Bible classes, worship services, gospel meetings, etc. They taught us the Bible at home and made sure we had excellent reading materials to instruct us in the way of the Lord. They lovingly and patiently answered our questions and followed up to make sure we had a sound understanding of God’s word (Prov. 22:6; Eph. 6:1-4). If you have been blessed with godly parents, possibly this article will be an occasion to thank your parents (and God) again. (If they are no longer with you, you can still thank God for them.) However, not all of us have had this blessing. Some of us may be new Christians striving to get a grasp of the Bible, ideas on how to study it effectively, and tools that can assist. Learning God’s Word is critical for not only the church but the survival of our nation. In Amos 8:10-12 there is mention of a famine of the word of God in the land, and the problems it created. In the United States, there is such a famine--not in the lack of Bibles but in the lack of reading, respect and serious study of it. But where do we begin trying to remedy the situation for someone who may not have the foundation of instruction we often take for granted? How can we help new Christians begin the life journey of drinking more and more deeply from the living fountain found in God’s Word?

This is where Wayne Jackson’s book A Study Guide to Greater Bible Knowledge can be of assistance. In chapter 8 on “Tools for Bible Study”, brother Jackson opens the chapter with one of my favorite quotes by T. W. Brents:

“If you will show us a man who reads nothing but the Bible,
we will show you one who reads and understands very little of it.”

There are reference materials available that can help others learn more about the Bible. Of course some books are better than others, but one should not ignore many of the great aids available by those who have devoted much of their lives to just one facet of Bible study. In hours we can learn what others have spent years investigating. This book helps provide not only foundation information but also guidance on how to dig deeper.

The book provides an overview of Bible History and an analysis of the books in the Bible. It discusses principles in sound interpretation of the Scriptures and various approaches one can use in study the Scriptures. It includes a chapter on the study of Bible words (etymology), grammar or syntax, and the equally important topic of context. Some do not like to study vocabulary…and it shows. Jesus used the very tense of verbs in the Old Testament to refute the critics of His day. Surely if Jesus focused on the very tense of the verb and criticized the Sadducees for not doing so, our scholarship should be no less precise.

All these subjects and more are covered in this volume in a concise manner and written on a level that new Christians can read and begin their journey to greater Bible knowledge. It would be an excellent guide for the new Christian to read and then come back with follow-up questions. Each chapter includes discussion questions that would be of assistance for a new converts class. Brother Jackson is a first rate scholar who recognizes that scholarship veiled in unnecessary complexity is of little value. In fact, words that do not teach are in direct contradiction to the meaning of “scholarship”. This is not to exempt one from working at their study. Brother Jackson is an excellent researcher who writes to be understood. I have profited from his writings in the Christian Courier and his books for several years. I have always appreciated his commitment to write to be understood by new or average Bible students seeking to advance and grow. In Hebrews 5:12-14, the writer admonishes his audience that their lack of study has inhibited his ability to communicate to them fully. Brother Jackson’s work provides an effective guide to transition from the milk of the Word to its meat. Jesus said “Blessed our those who hunger and thirst after righteousness for they shall be filled.” (Matthew 5:6, NKJV) Use this book to help yourself and others gain access to the eternal food and drink of God’s Word.

The Bible On Trial, Wayne Jackson

The Bible On Trial, Wayne Jackson

In the earlier days of the Restoration Movement, J. W. McGarvey wrote extensively to combat modernists who were attacking the integrity of the Bible. For example, McGarvey’s book Jesus & Jonah is a direct response to the modernistic attack to deny the miraculous intervention of God with Jonah. The modernist seeks to treat the text of Jonah as an allegory in order to claim it was more a work of fiction rather than fact. McGarvey pointed out that Jesus quoted the events as literal and even applied the encasement in the sea creature of Jonah with the encasement of His own body in the tomb (Matthew 12:38-41). Who will you believe--Jesus or the radical critic?

Sadly, there are those of among our brotherhood who have been influenced by such modernists. In October 2008 issue of The Christian Chronicle, there were two reviews of the soon to be released liberal/modernist “hit piece” on the Bible from ACU Press, The Transforming Word, by Editor-in-Chief, Mark Hamilton, Ph.D. In his review, Cecil May made the following observation about its treatment of Isaiah, “So the commentary says at least three authors over the course of three centuries wrote this long, prophetic book, though Jesus and the apostles quote from all parts of it and invariably ascribe its words to Isaiah.” Again, who knows best, Jesus or these radical critics? Make no mistake! This product from ACU is a direct attack on the integrity of the Scriptures. Here is a recommendation—do not buy this product from ACU! An even better recommendation—purchase Wayne Jackson’s book The Bible on Trial in order to protect yourself and the congregation from these assaults on the Bible. I had the pleasure of discussing his book with brother Jackson. He mentioned that the book is partly in response to this one volume commentary from ACU Press. However, there are few direct references to the ACU product in the book since it is broader in scope to include these attacks and others from an array of critics. By the time I finished reading brother Jackson’s book, I had the same feeling as when I have read J. W. McGarvey’s defense against the radical critics of his day--if the matter were not so serious it would be funny how they have twisted themselves into such a ridiculous state! I stand amazed at the Bible, woven-by-God, and its ability to withstand criticisms of its integrity from assaults unknown by its writers when directed by the Holy Spirit.

The Bible on Trial draws on brother Jackson’s excellent material in the Christian Courier plus it is supplemented by additional material he has recently written to make a stalwart defense of the Bible. The material is very enjoyable reading and includes quotations from luminaries of the past who served as presidents, judges, scientists, et al., who recognized the integrity of the Scriptures. Brother Jackson cites conservative writers outside of the brotherhood who have made similar investigations into the Bible. Also, brother Jackson cites the more prevalent works of radical critics so one can know their works as to guard against them. Brother Jackson states the purpose of The Bible on Trial as “The biblical documents are characterized by an amazing variety of evidences that authenticate the Book’s claim of divine origin. In this volume some of these proofs will be discussed. Too, theories and arguments of the Bible’s hostile critics will be addressed. Let infidelity put the Scriptures on trial. Let the prosecution attempt to make the case that the Old Book is a mere fraud. The defense will respond. The reader will be the jury, and the verdict will be reflected in the lives of those who judge the case. Ultimately, all will stand before the Great Judge and give account for their verdict!” (p. xv.)

Do not miss this vital book, The Bible on Trial. Purchase copies for your personal & church libraries, for your children & grandchildren, and begin a signup list for members of the congregation to purchase the book. Possibly the congregation may pay the freight expense as an extra incentive for members to purchase this book for themselves. Encourage lessons from this material to be preached from the pulpit and taught in classrooms. Do not miss this significant contribution by Wayne Jackson to fortify our faith from attacks without, and now sadly within, upon the Christian faith.

Originally printed West Virginia Christian, Vol. 16, No. 2, February 2009, p. 2. Reprinted by permission.

Fortify Your Faith, Wayne Jackson

Fortify Your Faith, Wayne Jackson 

On the title page is a fuller title for this continually relevant work by Wayne Jackson, “Fortify Your Faith…In an age of doubt.” In the days when Jesus walked the earth, there were at least three responses to Him. First, there were believers who recognized with absolute certainty based on the Scriptures and accompanying signs/proofs performed by Jesus and His disciples that Jesus is the Son of God. Second, were the unbelievers, the ones who in spite of ample evidence refused to accept Jesus truly came from His Father in Heaven. Third was the sort who did not really care to investigate the actual evidence. This is like Pontius Pilate when he pejoratively asked Jesus at his trial “What is truth?” Sadly, today we have too many who ought to be believers but are more like Pilate in that they are not true seekers of the Truth. It is not that there is no evidence. It is not that the evidence is all that difficult to find. It is not that the evidence is inconvenient to weight. No, the primary reason that more are becoming like Pilate is refusal to “…prove all things, hold fast to that which is good.” Notice that this is the challenge the Bible makes…search, prove & know that it is indeed the revelation of God to mankind! Too few are forfeit the challenge and are like Esau selling their birthright for a bowl of pleasures that last for a season. Do not let this happen to you or your loved ones. There are many excellent sources of evidence for Christianity. Wayne Jackson’s book, Fortify Your Faith, is a brief but powerful presentation of the evidence dealing with the existence of God, the fallacy of evolution, the unholy alliance of forcing evolution into creationism, the meaning of inspiration, and the evidence for the inspiration hence authority of the Scriptures. The material is truly excellent even though the edition I have is 1974. But do not let a book that is over 30 years old cause you to pass it by. It illustrates just how long the evolutionists’ game has been lost by failing to not only prove their case, and their inability to answer how creationism fits more in harmony with true science then their untenable theory. The perpetuation of Darwinian Evolution survives more from ignorance than an objective pursuit of truth. Here is a question that is found in Fortify Your Faith to consider with your friends. Brother Jackson writes:

Time is measured in various ways. The earth revolves around the sun every 365 days, the year. It is inclined 23.5 degrees on its axis, determining the seasons. The moon revolves around the earth each 30 days, the month. The day is determined by the rotation of the earth on its axis each 24 hours. Thus, the natural movements of the solar system mark the years, seasons, months and days; but what determines the week? (Page 35.)

That sure is a good question for those who seek to force evolution into the Bible via the Day-Age Theory is it not? Brother Jackson proceeds to quote Alexander Campbell who recognized the significance of this fact back in 1859 when Campbell noted in Familiar Lectures on the Pentateuch,

This is a question of great importance [where did the week come from?]—a question that staggers the boldest of infidels, and the most expert of theorists. The subject has developed much ingenious thought, and profound reasoning, but we affirm that nothing on earth or in heaven can be assigned as an argument for the week, aside from the fact that the heavens and the earth were created in six days of twenty-four hours each. (Page 35.)

If you know a person struggling with their faith and want to provide them evidence to help strengthen their faith, then provide them with a copy of Wayne Jackson’s book, Fortify Your Faith. If you can afford to do so, purchase a copy and read it in public places. If someone asks about the content, give him or her the book to read. Who knows what will come of that! (Be sure to include the church address & phone.) It is brief but powerful reading.

Originally printed in the West Virginia Christian, Vol. 23, No. 11, November 2016, p. 8. Reprinted by permission.

The Mythology of Modern Geology, Wayne Jackson

The Mythology of Modern Geology, Wayne Jackson

What an excellent title for such an important topic! Indeed the Evolutionary Uniformitarianism dogma is just that—a myth! One finds it ironic that evolutionists slander Christians with charge that our faith is based on a book of myths when a clearer example of evolutionary myths would be hard to find.

This booklet contains important information; which is devastating to one of the main pieces of “evidence” for an ancient earth. Uniformitarianism argues the layers of the earth have been laid over great spans of time. As brother Jackson points out the number of years it took to complete this layering depend on how much time the evolutionists need for their theory. A point that Wayne Jackson makes that should not be overlooked is that the amount of time estimated for the creation of these layers and the age of the earth tends to double roughly every 20 years for the last century! Jackson cites various estimates ranging from 4.3 billion years to 70 billions years, to a trillion years, and another estimate where probably all evolutionists will end up—“infinitely old”.

The book points out several impasses for evolutionary uniformitarianism—missing layers, shuffled layers, layers “millions of years” old on top of layers much younger with several layers between the two, fossils in the wrong layers, and one of the more damaging pieces of evidence—polystrate fossils (fossils that intersect multiple layers of strata). How does one explain a fossilized tree trunk that bisects multiple layers of strata when the layers are millions (or billions) of years old? Of course evolutionists have a response, but is their response convincing? Some evolutionists point to excavations that have polystrate fossils in layers that have been recently been laid in place. A follow-up question—if a person can find a polystrate tree fossil in multiple layers that have recently been laid down, then how does one differentiate some layers as “recent” and other layers as “millions of years” old when they are of similar depths? Plus, keep in mind that if all the strata layers were intact “uniformally”; i.e., no missing layers, the depth would be 130 miles deep. However the actual depth of the layers of Earth strata is 25-30 miles. How can layers claimed to be laid down over “millions of years” when trying to date the earth as “infinitely old” on one hand can then be claimed to be laid down in “few years” in an attempt to explain away the polystrate fossil argument but keep the earth strata layer still around 30 miles deep?

Of course, the evolutionists are going to continue their assaults against Christianity and the Bible. Wayne Jackson quotes Alexander Campbell whose statement in 1859 illustrates that attacks against the Genesis account of a young earth being created in six 24-hour days have been going on for some time. It illustrates that evolutionists have been trying to prove their case for nearly 150 years yet many scientist continue to not believe the evolutionary propaganda. Guess the evolutionists need more time, again! The full statement by Alexander Campbell reads:

We are aware that some writers of modern, as well as of ancient, time, think the Mosaic account of creation should be discarded as erroneous, because the various strata of earth, according to Geology, evince a higher antiquity than five or six thousand years. The geological theory differs in some respects, from the record given by Moses. Nevertheless, we affirm his statement to be true, and shall stand or fall by it; because it does not conflict with the scope and meaning of the six days labor, as we understand them. We place the inspired record, as given by Moses, under a divine commission, against all the theories founded upon nature or science, as interpreted by man; and we believe the Mosaic account will grow brighter and brighter, as the geological theory fades and recedes into comparative oblivion. (Alexander Campbell, Familiar Lectures on the Pentateuch, p. 69.)

This booklet is informative reading that every adult, parent, student should read. It is affordable so multiple copies could be purchased to share with others who need to know this vital information.

Bible Words & Theological Terms Made Easy, Wayne Jackson

Bible Words and Theological Terms Made Easy –
A Practical Handbook, Wayne Jackson

Those who know me well realize I am an admirer of religious books and an avid student of Biblical Hebrew and Greek words and their usage. Some may not realize that, while I am a graduate of Freed-Hardeman University, I do not have a degree in Bible or Biblical Languages. I must rely more heavily on the research of others who have dedicated their lives to study one of the many areas relating to the Bible—language, geography, archaeology, apologetics, etc. As a consequence, I am always looking for materials that range in degree of difficulty with an eye for materials that will help someone new to an area of study whether they are a mature Christian not as familiar in a particular disciple or a new convert beginning their journey to a greater knowledge of God’s word. I have often admired radio commentator Rush Limbaugh’s use of the expression “making the complex understandable”. Indeed there are things that are either complex because the subject is deep and weighty or are complex because some desire to make things appear to be more complex than may actually be. Wayne Jackson usually writes at the level for the beginning to medium-level student but does so from a scholar standpoint that truly makes the “complex understandable”. He founded and edited the Christian Courier for over 40 years. If you are not reading the Christian Courier, then it is highly recommended you begin doing so. Wayne Jackson’s writings can also be found on the Internet at www.christiancourier.com.

This practical handbook is just that--practical. As Jackson writes on the back cover,

“This volume has not been designed for scholars who have the ability, the time, and the resources to consult compositions that are much more erudite than this abbreviated effort. This book is intended for the average Christian student, the new convert, the Bible class teacher, or even the busy minister, who, on occasion, may need to utilize a quick reference source.”

Wayne’s introduction to the work is excellent and should be read first. I particularly enjoyed his discussion about whether the words or thoughts are inspired. He drives the point home when he wrote “Jesus once declared that man must direct his life by the “words” that proceed from God (Mt. 4:4). If those “words” are not to be found in the Bible, where, pray tell, are they?” (Page v).

This reference work is more than a discussion of words found in the Bible. It also includes entries for each book of the Bible with a concise overview of the book. Plus, terms that are used in reference to Bible study are found; e.g., exegesis. Plus, there are terms that are used in religious discussion among various groups that are defined (and corrected when necessary) such as the rapture, extreme unction, universalism, etc. There are an estimated 8,600 Hebrew and Aramaic words and 5,600 Greek words in the Bible. (The number of English words exceeds 6,000.) One can literally spend their entire lives in study of these words and be enriched by doing so. This book, which is approximately 200 pages, is far from comprehensive but it is not meant to be. This book is intended as a starting point for those who want to begin their journey of learning more about the words of the Bible and related words used in theological circles. It is a valuable reference work to begin this journey on the right step.

Treasures from the Greek New Testament for the English Reader, Wayne Jackson

Treasures from the Greek New Testament for the English Reader, Wayne Jackson

Treasures from the Greek New Testament for the English Reader, Wayne Jackson Archaeology is a fascinating field and offers insights that have puzzled many until it unearths the missing pieces of the puzzle to present a clearer picture of the situation. For example, it was commonly thought back in the 19th century that the language of the New Testament was so unique that it was used by the Holy Spirit exclusively. There were four basic types of Greek known at the time: Homeric, Attic, Byzantine and Modern. Archaeologists discovered that this specialized Greek was not so unique, and in fact was widely used in correspondence, legal documents and was the language of the common people. This type of Greek is referred to as koine or Hellenistic Greek. It was the predominant form of Greek after the death of Alexander the Great and was used throughout the known world approximately 300 years before and after the life of Christ. One source says the Roman Empire used this form of Greek as much as they did Latin in their writings. Wayne Jackson writes:

“Koine Greek was the most precise instrument for the expression of human thought that the world has ever known. Little wonder then that, in the providence of God, this medium is used to convey the final revelation of heaven to humankind.” (Preface).

The study of a foreign language is very rewarding, but not everyone has taken the opportunity to study a language other than English. Studying Latin for a year in high school, I was fascinated to learn the history, culture and other aspects of the Roman Empire where Latin was predominantly utilized. Attempting to learn a new language is a daunting task to many, but accessing koine Greek has been made easier due to the work of religious scholars who have developed tools for those unlearned in the language so these can also explore the sacred text. The challenge is often “Where do I begin?” This makes Wayne Jackson’s book so valuable. It is written for those who have not had the opportunity to study koine Greek. The book is simplistic in its approach, but weighty in its applications to the New Testament. It deals with the letters, moods, tenses, prepositions, articles and other areas of Greek grammar. The book includes an extensive bibliography referencing other works that may help one reach the next level in their study of this vital language. Plus, there is a very helpful Scripture index that will be important for those seeking to incorporate what they have learned into their study. One point that is imperative one knows: be aware of the background of a writer when reading their religious material. This is likewise true when studying writers on the Greek language and their application to doctrine. Wayne Jackson does an excellent job of pointing out the bias of some writers in relation to the Greek preposition eis. Some attempt to twist this preposition in Acts 2:38 to teach that baptism is for sins previously forgiven rather than for the purpose of removing sins. For example, “Noted grammarian A. T. Robertson, of Baptist persuasion, in a discussion concerning eis in Acts 2:38, confessed that sometimes theologian’s opinion must take precedence over the grammar.” (page 78). Imagine that…it does not matter what the Greek reads, what matters is what Robertson thinks it should read! It would be difficult to find a more clear confession of a theologian’s bias with the sacred text. Treasures from the Greek New Testament for the English Reader indeed is a valuable introduction to a world of enriching study of the language of the New Testament.

Originally printed in the West Virginia Christian, Vol. 23, No. 5, May 2016, p. 8. Reprinted by permission.

Biblical Figures of Speech, Wayne Jackson

Biblical Figures of Speech, Wayne Jackson

How many can remember arguing with our siblings and use an expression that our parents heard and we were in trouble. Some of us may have been tempted to use the line “It is just a figure of speech!” as if that helped the matter any. Figures of speech can get us in a lot of trouble if we are not careful to understand what exactly they mean.

The same is true with figures of speech in the Bible—we better recognize figures of speech or it can get us in trouble as well. Wayne Jackson does an excellent job of dealing with two serious mistakes that have led many to serious misinterpretation of the Scriptures—Mistaking the Literal for the Figurative and Mistaking the Figurative for the Literal. He gives very good tools one should use to identify figurative language; e.g., when the sense of the expression contradicts other plain nonfigurative passages.

One may not realize just how large the subject of figures of speech in the Bible can be. E. W. Bullinger’s Figures of Speech Used in the Bible is over 1100 pages. Bullinger catalogs some 200 distinctive figures of speech in the Bible, but estimates there are over 500 instances of figures in the Bible. That makes the study quite daunting. One should have a good working knowledge of this field, and Wayne Jackson’s byline of the book “a practical guide to understanding the figurative language of the Bible” is quite accurate.

Wayne Jackson has chapters dealing with specific types of figures of speech including similies, similitudes, allegories, metaphors, metonymy, synecdoche, hyperbole, prolepsis, parables and typology. For those of us whose eyes begin to glaze over when discussing the difference between a metaphor and a simile, the book gives biblical example of these figures that are very enriching. In the chapter on Metonymy, Jackson writes:

The English term “metonymy” derives from two Greek roots, meta (a change), and onoma (name), hence, “a change in name.” The word has come to signify the process whereby the name of an object is changed to something else for the purpose of intensifying a comparison. An illustration will help clarify the nature of this figure of speech.

A group of Pharisees once warned Jesus that Herod Antipas wanted to kill him. The Lord responded, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today, and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course’” (Lk. 13:32 ESV). Christ might have said, “Herod is like a fox.” Had he expressed it in that way, he would have employed a simile. Or, he could have suggested, “Herod is a fox.” That would have been a metaphor. Instead, he dramatized the matter even more when he said, “Go tell that fox!” The ruler’s name is changed to the animal of comparison; Herod becomes the fox! The Lord may have been capitalizing upon the tendency of the fox toward malicious destructiveness; hence, the expression may be roughly equivalent to our term “varmint.” Such would surely harmonize with the ruler’s character—this weakling who beheaded God’s prophet (John the Baptizer) at behest of an evil woman. (Jackson, pp. 91-92).

Biblical Figures of Speech is very practical and informative. It is a work to introduce one to the field of hermeneutics—the interpretation of the Scriptures. If one does not know where to begin in this area of study, this is an excellent book to start with.

The Parables in Profile, Wayne Jackson

The Parables in Profile, Wayne Jackson

There are several books available on the parables of Jesus. One of my personal favorites is a small volume published in 1978 by Wayne Jackson entitled The Parables in Profile: Exegetical Outlines of the Parables of Christ. I totally agree with Wayne Jackson’s assessment of the parables of Christ:

In that marvelous galaxy of teaching that came from the lips of Christ, a solar system of parables has instructed and thrilled multiplied thousands for nearly twenty centuries. The Lord’s parables contain some of the most preachable and teachable material in the New Testament and no good teacher can afford to ignore this depository [the parables, DRK] of divine information. (Jackson, Back Cover)

This volume contains outlines, word studies, and background information of the parables that are very profitable for study and teaching. The material is concise but contains multiple references that can easily be expanded to further enrich one’s study of the material. I particularly appreciate Wayne Jackson’s guidelines for studying the parables. One guideline he suggests is not to press a parable beyond its intended design to teach something that contradicts plain teaching in other passages. The book also contains several applications to our lives today that many need to be taught or even reminded of (Hebrews 5:12-14).

Wayne Jackson has published a monthly periodical of biblical studies entitled the Christian Courier for over 36 years now. He has published several volumes on various topics. He also publishes an electronic version of the Christian Courier on the Internet at http://www.christiancourier.com/. I have known brother Wayne and his family for several years. In fact, I went to school with both of his sons, Jared and Jason, at Freed-Hardeman University. If you are looking for some stimulating reading, then subscribe to the Christian Courier and review other materials he has available from the web site. The congregation where I attend purchases two bundles of the paper for distribution. We also have all of his books in the church library as well. I have recommended his works consistently and have always had positive feedback from those seeking more information on a given topic he has researched.

In 1998, this book on the parable was revised and reprinted with a new typeset that is more attractive and easier to read. The information is basically the same so if one has the earlier edition of the book it would make a nice gift to pass on if you purchase the new revision for yourself.

Originally printed West Virginia Christian, Vol. 8, No. 12, December 2001, p. 5. Reprinted by permission.

The Acts of the Apostles from Jerusalem to Rome, Wayne Jackson

The Acts of the Apostles from Jerusalem to Rome, Wayne Jackson

The establishment and growth of the New Testament church is very accurately written by the physician Luke in the book of the New Testament known as “Acts”. The church grew from a relatively small group on the Pentecost following Jesus’ crucifixion to over 20,000 by the death of Stephen. It would continue to grow, reaching huge numbers to the point that the city of Rome even had more than 100,000 Christians. Indeed, the history of the establishment and growth of the church is exciting to read and study.

Wayne Jackson has written an excellent commentary on the book of Acts that is exciting to read as one studies Acts. I have had a copy of the book and have also secured copies of the book for my children to read as they grow older. I suggested a congregation use this book for their study in the adult class since they were beginning a study on Acts. At the time, a special price was offered for a case of Jackson’s book. They decided to go ahead and use the book. They were very pleased with the book. In fact, the only complaint they had about the book was the text from Acts at the beginning of a new section was too small. (The writing done by Wayne Jackson was large enough to read; however the text for Acts is in smaller print and hard to read for some.) The book is written in such a way that it makes sitting down and reading it from start to finish a very rewarding and enjoyable experience. Sometimes commentaries are not known for the easy reading, but brother Jackson has written a very profitable book for all to be able to read, understand, and learn more about events during the growth of the early church.

The book is around 450 pages and is filled with historical background, supplemental information from historical sources, and archaeological finds that have silenced some of the charges of critics against the writing of Luke as inaccurate. Indeed, Luke was an accurate historian and archaeology has always confirmed this to be true.

In the Appendix are articles on themes that relate to the book of Acts and are very profitable reading. The Appendix includes the following subjects: Miracles, Demons, The Historicity of Jesus, The Trial of Jesus, The Use of “Believe” in Acts, The Epistles of Paul Arranged Chronologically With Pertinent Data, and Outline of the Book of Acts.

Wayne Jackson preaches for the church of Christ in Stockton, CA and has done so for many years. He has also written and published the Christian Courier, which is a monthly periodical on Biblical Studies that I highly recommend. He has also written several other commentaries and books on various religious subjects. Occasionally there will be a special bargain pack of all of his books currently in print. I encourage all congregations to seek to add all of his works to the church library. He is a widely respected writer among us. I have known Wayne Jackson now for several years and went to school with his sons, Jared and Jason, and one of his daughters-in-law, Sandy. If you have not visited www.ChristianCourier.com and read the wealth of material available for free, then you need to do so. His wife also has a web site called “Women of Hope”. His son, Jared, also writes material for children called “Christian Courier for Kids” that is excellent.

Originally printed West Virginia Christian, Vol. 11, No. 11, January 2004, p. 8. Reprinted by permission.

Notes From the Margin of My Bible, Wayne Jackson

Notes From the Margin of My Bible (Volumes One and Two), Wayne Jackson

A good friend of mine (unfortunately not a Christian) has a list of principles of sound Bible study in her Bible from when she was young. These principles were so valid that I copied them into my own Bible. These principles of sound Bible study include:

1) Praying for guidance.
2) Being able to accept correction.
3) Proving all things.
4) Realizing the Scriptures never contradict themselves.
5) Not changing the Scriptures to suit yourself.
6) Checking the contents (and contexts) carefully.
7) Gathering all relating Scriptures.
8) Accepting the Bible as its own best interpreter.
9) Not organizing poorly chosen scriptures to support an argument.
10) Using several translations.
11) Not trying to establish doctrine with Bible helps.
12) Marking your Bible.

All of these principles have merit. Marking your Bible is one practice which can help you learn more about the Bible, increase your retention, and teach the Bible more effectively. I used to consider my copy of the Bible as rather holy and writing on it as a form of desecration; however, it is not holy and sacred in that sense. I began making notes in my Bible which has increased my retention and made my copy of the Scriptures more precious to me.

Perhaps you are a novice as to what to write in your Bible. An excellent place to begin is with the two above books by Wayne Jackson which are now combined into a single volume. He deals with 191 difficult passages of the Old Testament and 187 of the New Testament. Suggested methods of markings are sometimes provided. Each book is indexed by the passages it deals with for easier reference to difficult texts you want more information on. I have finished with Volume One on the Old Testament myself and the notes are rich in material. For example, a difficult passage is Zechariah 11:12-13. Men with no regard for the inspiration of the Bible such as William Barclay claim Matthew made a mistake when attributing this passage to Jeremiah (Matthew 27:9). Brother Jackson points out that Matthew states this was spoken by Jeremiah and that Zechariah states part of his writings were the words of God “proclaimed by the former prophets” (Zechariah 7:7). So one can easily tell the inspiration of the Bible is valid and Mr. Barclay is the one who made the mistake, not Matthew. Additional “Notes From The Margin of My Bible” appear in the Christian Courier which he publishes, and in the Restorer, which are beneficial. You can also find Wayne Jackson’s materials on the Internet at http://www.christiancourier/.

The best pen I have found for writing in my Bible is called a Pigma Pen made by Micron. The pens are slightly difficult to find but are well worth the search. The ink does not bleed through to the other side of the page, interfering with the backside, and the ink is permanent so it prevents smudges. The pens also come in a variety of colors and tip sizes. Please be sure to test the pen to make sure it performs to your satisfaction prior to marking in your Bible.

Originally printed in West Virginia Christian, Vol. 9, No. 7, July 2002, p. 8. Reprinted by permission.