Tongues, demons, and dinosaurs; what do they have in common? They were all topics for discussion around our table on Easter. And it’s probably not as weird as it might seem. Questions about all three tend to come up as those new to the faith begin digging in a little deeper.
Zach Marcopulos, Grace’s boyfriend, became a Christian shortly after coming to ISU, and is now serving as an intern with Encounter, the campus ministry. His relationship with Grace brought him to our table, and he often shares questions that have come up working with students and in his personal study. I’m honored that he comes to me with questions, and delight in trying to answer them.
To answer the question about tongues I took him to Pentecost and the gift given to the apostles that enabled them to preach in native languages to those who had gathered. We then discussed the confusion that arose in Corinth about gifts of the Spirit, and the variety of gifts available today, and their purpose.
I affirmed the existence of demons in the Bible, and how Jesus and the apostles did indeed cast them out. We talked about the nature of spiritual warfare today, and I expressed my doubts about current attempts at exorcism due to no biblical instruction on how to do it.
Dinosaurs took us back to creation and various ways the word “day” was used. Great sea monsters were created on the fifth “day” and creatures that sound like dinosaurs are mentioned in Job. Their former existence on earth can’t be denied. The question is simply when.
The next day he texted with a question about predestination. I told him that foreknowledge plays a role in who God predestines to become like His Son, but the offer of salvation is open to all.
We obviously went beyond what I have written here, but I share this to encourage you to ask me anything. In fact, I’ll even join you around your table, if you ask.
God Bless, Rick
Chatham Christian Church 