Having faith in and believing in the validity of the Scriptures as absolute truth is becoming increasingly critical as we examine these more recent denominations. Paul told Timothy, "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17) That was true in Paul's day and continues to be true today.
The importance of that belief is revealed in this book, as it contains two groups in particular that have compromised on this passage - the Presbyterian Church, taking the position that Scripture has either no error, or, being written by men, contains much error, with numerous views in between, all views being tolerated and accepted by their Constitution. And the other group, the Methodist Church, who claim, "The Bible's true authority does not lie in its verbal inerrancy or even its factual accuracy ... its power is not demonstrated in winning arguments but in transforming lives." To properly understand Scripture, Methodists insist one must filter God's Word through a lens of "tradition, reason, and experience." Why are the Scriptures - God's Holy Word, "profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and training in righteousness" not sufficient today? Why are they being accused of lacking factual accuracy? Why the need to filter them to be understood? Seeking an answer to these is but one goal of this third volume - Denominations: From God or Man? "Let a woman learn in silence, with all submission" (1 Timothy 2:11). This verse and the next, "And I do not permit a woman to teach or have authority over a man, but to be in silence" (2:12), are two of the most misunderstood passages on the issue of women's roles in the public assembly. It's not that women are inferior to men in any way to occupy leadership roles - it has to do with divine choice. Though it is not incumbent upon the Almighty to give a reason for what He decides, Paul, through the Spirit, offers several reasons women are not to hold leadership positions, and neither have anything to do with male-female equality. This book delves into this subject to reveal these truths from God's Word. This third volume continues the series by focusing on four denominations, following a study on the work of John Calvin titled "Calvinism." These denominations include the Presbyterian, Anabaptist, Methodist, and Salvation Army Churches. As with previous volumes, this one seeks to compare each group with the Scriptures and with Christ's church, which He established in the first century.
Lugger, John F.: - John grew up in the Lutheran denomination. After graduating with a bachelor's degree from Ohio State University, he pursued a career in sales management, which allowed him the opportunity to work with congregations of the Lord's church in Ohio and Indiana, and now, with the North Lexington church in Kentucky. His passion for writing began several years ago. Unsurprisingly, his extensive studies and denominational background have given him a unique perspective on authoring this third volume titled "Denominations: From God or Man?"
