REFUTING THE A.D. 70 THEORY - 1
REFUTING THE A.D. 70 THEORY - 1
Yeow Chin Kiong
To "refute" is to prove that a statement or theory is incorrect or false through sound reasoning and evidence. It is our verbal or written response to a view expressed by others that we do not agree with, hoping to change their mind about that view. Our refutation presupposes that our view on the same matter is correct and we intend to persuade the person expressing a contrary or different view to change his mind aboùt it and accept our view.
Christianity is, above all, the religion of Bible authority. It lays paramount emphasis on truth as well as what may be termed an adversorial method of ascertaining truth. Proverbs 18:17 instructs us, "The first one who pleads his cause seems right, until his neighbor comes and examines him." The only basis for truth is the contents of the Bible itself, properly handled (John 17:17; 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Peter 1:19-21). An important point of 2 Peter 1:19-21 is that inspired scripture must be interpreted or understood by, or with reference to, other inspired scripture. With regard to correct interpretation of God's word the final court of appeal can only be God's word itself and sound reasoning.
As important as a proper method of pursuing doctrinal discussion or debate with those of different viewpoint is our purpose of doing so. Every opportunity for such a meeting of divided or opposing opinions is an opportunity for BOTH sides to ascertain the trustworthiness of what is believed measured against what the Bible says. It may be that both parties have had a wrong interpretation of scripture on a particular matter, made evident in an open yet detailed discussion of differing interpretations. With all who have a different opinion about a doctrine from yourself, apply the attitude required by 2 Timothy 2:24-26. With a brother within the church with a difference of interpretation, apply 2 Thessalonians 3:13-15. In all such encounters, pray that the exchange of ideas will bring glory to God and offence to none, but provide many with the opportunity to be saved (1 Corinthians 10:31-33)
Never enter a personal discussion or debate on Bible doctrinal matters with a "blank slate" of a mind. Put some effort to read up about the history of the view you are preparing to refute (especially its main lines of argument and favorite scriptures used or rather misused). Prepare a list of main sources used by the "other side" and try to locate them in published form or from the Internet. Of course, collect your own main lines of argument and supporting scriptures and arrange your argument besides quotations of the contested doctrine held by the "other side". Do note that a particular line of argument may have been replaced by a newer line of argument and you must be aware of both.
These are some important preliminary matters to remember before you enter into any comparative study of doctrinal belief. We will proceed to consider the theory of A.D. 70 as taught by some brethren and present a scriptural refutation of it.