Jumpstarter 7 of 10

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Question 7

Bercot asks whether someone could simply hand another person the New Testament and say, “Read it,” if asked what their church teaches. What parts of modern church belief or practice might become difficult to defend if Christians limited themselves to the actual language and commands of the New Testament?

Another way to ask: Bercot asks if we could simply give someone the New Testament and say, “Read it,” to explain what our church teaches. What modern church beliefs or practices would be hard to defend using only the New Testament’s own words and commands?

Direct Answer

Based on the transcript, modern churches would struggle to defend beliefs and practices that depend on later vocabulary, interpretive traditions, or explanations for not obeying New Testament commands literally. Bercot especially points to practices commonly omitted or explained away despite being taught by Jesus and the apostles.

Support from Transcript

- He asks, “If someone asked you what your church teaches, would you be able to simply hand them the New Testament and tell them to read it?” - He says if all we need is Scripture, “you should be able to do that.” - He argues churches add “rationalizations of why we do not have to literally obey what's taught in Scripture.” - He lists neglected commands such as head coverings, church discipline, not taking a brother to court, women keeping silent, and holy kisses. - He also lists Jesus’ teachings on nonresistance, lawsuits, earthly treasures, oaths, and divorce. - He says, “no church teaches today and practices all of these things taught in the Scriptures.”

Discussion Follow-ups

The transcript does not evaluate every modern practice, but it clearly questions any practice that requires avoiding or redefining New Testament commands.

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