81 Aspects Of Christian Doctrine With Conflicting Scriptures.

1. Salvation by Faith vs. Works

• For Faith Alone:
  • Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
• For Works:
  • James 2:24: “Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.”

Argument For: Salvation is a free gift of God, and works do not earn salvation but are evidence of genuine faith.

Argument Against: True faith produces good works, and without works, faith is dead and ineffective.

2. Eternal Security (Once Saved, Always Saved)

• For Eternal Security:
  • John 10:28-29: “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
• Against Eternal Security:
  • Hebrews 6:4-6: “For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened… if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance.”

Argument For: Jesus promises eternal life and security to His followers, and no one can take them from His hand.

Argument Against: The possibility of falling away is clear in passages like Hebrews 6, indicating that salvation can be lost.

3. Predestination vs. Free Will

• For Predestination:
  • Romans 8:29-30: “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son.”
• For Free Will:
  • Revelation 22:17: “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”

Argument For: God predestines certain individuals for salvation, which emphasizes His sovereignty.

Argument Against: People have the free will to choose salvation, as God invites “whosoever will” to come.

4. Baptism as Necessary for Salvation

• For Baptism:
  • Mark 16:16: “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.”
• Against Baptism:
  • Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

Argument For: Baptism is an essential outward sign of inward faith and obedience to Christ.

Argument Against: Salvation is by grace through faith alone, with baptism being a symbolic act of faith rather than a requirement for salvation.

5. The Trinity (God as Three-in-One)

• For the Trinity:
  • Matthew 28:19: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”
• Against the Trinity:
  • John 14:28: “Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.”

Argument For: Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the Father are co-equal and co-eternal, forming one God in three persons.

Argument Against: Jesus and the Father are distinct persons, with Jesus subordinated to the Father, suggesting a non-Trinitarian view.

6. Jesus’ Deity vs. Humanity

• For Deity:
  • John 1:1, 14: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.”
• For Humanity:
  • Mark 13:32: “But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.”

Argument For: Jesus is fully God, and the Word became flesh to dwell among us.

Argument Against: Jesus was fully human, having limitations like not knowing the time of the end, which suggests His humanity.

7. The Role of the Law (Old Covenant vs. New Covenant)

• For Following the Law:
  • Matthew 5:17: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.”
• Against Following the Law:
  • Romans 7:6: “But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter.”

Argument For: Jesus came to fulfill the law and its requirements, and believers should follow its moral principles.

Argument Against: Christians are freed from the law, and salvation is not by observing the law but through faith in Christ.

8. Suffering as a Christian

• For Suffering:
  • 2 Timothy 3:12: “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”
• Against Suffering:
  • John 10:10: “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

Argument For: Christians will face persecution and suffering for their faith, as this is part of living a godly life.

Argument Against: Jesus offers an abundant life, implying that suffering should not be the defining characteristic of a believer’s experience.

9. The Gift of Tongues

• For Tongues:
  • 1 Corinthians 14:5: “I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied.”
• Against Tongues:
  • 1 Corinthians 14:19: “Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.”

Argument For: Tongues are a valid spiritual gift that can edify the church and should be pursued.

Argument Against: Paul values prophecy over tongues because it is more edifying for the church, and tongues should not dominate the worship service.

10. The Millennium (Christ’s Thousand-Year Reign)

• For the Millennium:
  • Revelation 20:4: “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God… and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”
• Against the Millennium:
  • John 18:36: “Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.”

Argument For: Revelation teaches a literal thousand-year reign of Christ on Earth.

Argument Against: Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world, suggesting the millennium is symbolic or spiritual rather than physical.

11. Forgiveness and Repentance

• For Repentance:
  • Acts 3:19: “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out.”
• For Grace without Repentance:
  • Romans 5:20-21: “Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound.”

Argument For: Repentance is necessary for the forgiveness of sins, as it is an act of turning away from sin and toward God.

Argument Against: God’s grace covers sin abundantly, and forgiveness is a free gift that does not necessarily require a specific act of repentance, though it is part of the process.

12. Judgment and the Final State of the Wicked

• For Eternal Punishment:
  • Matthew 25:46: “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.”
• For Annihilation (Destruction):
  • Matthew 10:28: “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.”

Argument For: Eternal punishment is the clear teaching of Scripture, and the wicked will suffer forever in hell.

Argument Against: The punishment is destruction or annihilation, meaning the wicked cease to exist rather than being eternally tormented.

13. The Role of Women in the Church

• For Women’s Leadership:
  • Galatians 3:28: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”
• Against Women’s Leadership:
  • 1 Timothy 2:12: “But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.”

Argument For: In Christ, there is no distinction between male and female in terms of gifting and calling, and women can hold leadership roles in the church.

Argument Against: The New Testament emphasizes male leadership in the church, and women are not to assume authority over men in spiritual matters.

14. The Nature of Hell (Fire, Darkness, Separation)

• For Hell as Fire:
  • Matthew 25:41: “Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.”
• For Hell as Outer Darkness:
  • Matthew 8:12: “But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

Argument For: Hell is a place of eternal, conscious torment in fire, a punishment for the wicked.

Argument Against: Hell is described as “outer darkness,” implying separation from God and eternal suffering without necessarily involving fire.

15. Healing in the Atonement

• For Physical Healing:
  • 1 Peter 2:24: “Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.”
• Against Physical Healing:
  • 2 Corinthians 12:7-9: “And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh… For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”

Argument For: Healing is part of Christ’s atonement, and believers have access to physical healing as a result of His sacrifice.

Argument Against: While healing may occur, not every Christian will experience physical healing, and some suffer as part of God’s plan for their lives.

16. The Lord’s Supper (Communion)

• For Real Presence:
  • John 6:53-56: “Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.”
• For Symbolic Presence:
  • 1 Corinthians 11:26: “For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.”

Argument For: The bread and wine are the actual body and blood of Christ, and believers partake of His true presence during communion.

Argument Against: The bread and wine are symbolic, representing Christ’s body and blood, and serve as a reminder of His sacrifice.

17. The Second Coming of Christ

• For a Literal Second Coming:
  • Acts 1:11: “Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.”
• For a Spiritual Return:
  • Luke 17:20-21: “And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.”

Argument For: Jesus will return physically and visibly to the earth in the future, as prophesied in Scripture.

Argument Against: Christ’s return is more spiritual, with His reign beginning in the hearts of believers rather than a physical return to earth.

18. The Nature of God’s Sovereignty vs. Human Responsibility

• For God’s Sovereignty:
  • Proverbs 16:9: “A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.”
• For Human Responsibility:
  • Joshua 24:15: “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve… but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Argument For: God is sovereign and in control of all things, including human decisions and actions.

Argument Against: Humans are responsible for their own decisions and must choose to follow God.

19. Spiritual Gifts

• For the Continuation of Spiritual Gifts:
  • 1 Corinthians 12:7-11: “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal… but all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.”
• Against the Continuation of Spiritual Gifts:
  • 1 Corinthians 13:8-10: “Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.”

Argument For: Spiritual gifts, including speaking in tongues and prophecy, are still active today and are for the edification of the church.

Argument Against: Some spiritual gifts, such as prophecy and tongues, were meant to cease once the Scriptures were completed and the perfect (or complete) revelation of God was given.

20. The Sinfulness of Humanity

• For Total Depravity:
  • Romans 3:10-12: “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.”
• Against Total Depravity:
  • Romans 2:14-15: “For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness.”

Argument For: Humanity is completely fallen and unable to do anything good apart from God’s grace, as sin has corrupted every part of human nature.

Argument Against: While humanity is fallen, some moral good can be found, as seen in the actions of those who live according to their consciences.

21. God’s Will and Human Suffering

• For God’s Sovereign Will in Suffering:
  • Romans 8:28: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
• Against the Idea that Suffering is Always God’s Will:
  • 2 Corinthians 12:7-9: “And lest I should be exalted above measure… there was given to me a thorn in the flesh… For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”

Argument For: All suffering has a purpose in God’s plan, and even difficult circumstances work for the good of those who love God.

Argument Against: Not all suffering is a result of God’s will. Sometimes, suffering is allowed but not directly willed by God, as seen in Paul’s “thorn in the flesh.”

22. The Holy Spirit and Gifts of the Spirit

• For Continuing Gifts of the Spirit:
  • 1 Corinthians 12:7-11: “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal… but all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.”
• Against the Continuing Gifts of the Spirit:
  • 1 Corinthians 13:8-10: “Charity never faileth… but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease… But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.”

Argument For: Spiritual gifts, such as healing, prophecy, and tongues, are still in operation today and should be sought for the edification of the church.

Argument Against: Spiritual gifts were only for the early church, and with the completion of the New Testament, the “perfect” revelation of God, the need for such gifts has ceased.

23. Christ’s Atonement for All vs. Limited Atonement

• For Universal Atonement (Christ Died for All):
  • John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
• For Limited Atonement (Christ Died Only for the Elect):
  • John 10:15: “As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.”

Argument For: Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is for the salvation of all people, and anyone who believes in Him can be saved.

Argument Against: Christ’s atonement was specifically for the elect—those whom God has chosen to save—and is not universally applied to everyone.

24. Sin and the Nature of Temptation

• For the Idea that Temptation is External:
  • James 1:14-15: “But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.”
• For the Idea that Temptation is External and From the Devil:
  • Matthew 4:1: “Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.”

Argument For: Temptation comes from within a person’s desires and weaknesses, and sin originates in the heart.

Argument Against: Temptation often comes externally, from the devil or from the environment, which can influence a person’s behavior.

25. The Resurrection of the Dead

• For a General Resurrection of the Dead:
  • 1 Corinthians 15:52: “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.”
• For a Resurrection of the Righteous Only:
  • John 5:28-29: “Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.”

Argument For: At the end of time, all the dead will be resurrected, both the righteous and the wicked, with judgment following.

Argument Against: Only the righteous will be resurrected to eternal life, and the wicked will experience a resurrection leading to judgment and damnation.

26. The Eternal State of Believers

• For Eternal Life with God:
  • John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
• For a New Earth:
  • Revelation 21:1: “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.”

Argument For: Believers will experience eternal life with God in heaven after death, as a reward for their faith.

Argument Against: The final hope for believers is not only heaven but a new heaven and new earth, where God will dwell with His people in a renewed creation.

27. The Authority of Scripture

• For the Inerrancy of Scripture:
  • 2 Timothy 3:16: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
• For the Authority of Scripture but Not inerrancy:
  • 1 Corinthians 13:9: “For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.”

Argument For: The Bible is without error and fully authoritative in all matters of faith and practice, as it is divinely inspired.

Argument Against: While the Bible is authoritative, its human elements and partial knowledge reflect imperfections in how God’s message was conveyed through people.

28. The Nature of Christ’s Kingdom

• For a Literal Kingdom on Earth:
  • Revelation 20:4: “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them… and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”
• For a Spiritual Kingdom:
  • Luke 17:20-21: “And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.”

Argument For: Christ will return to establish a literal, physical kingdom on Earth, reigning for a thousand years.

Argument Against: Christ’s kingdom is spiritual, not physical, and exists in the hearts and lives of believers now.

29. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit

• For a Separate Experience from Salvation:
  • Acts 2:4: “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
• For the Holy Spirit at the Moment of Salvation:
  • Romans 8:9: “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.”

Argument For: The baptism of the Holy Spirit is a distinct event that occurs after salvation, empowering believers for service and ministry.

Argument Against: The Holy Spirit dwells in believers at the moment of salvation, and there is no separate experience of being “baptized” by the Spirit.

30. Christian Unity and Denominations

• For Unity in the Body of Christ:
  • Ephesians 4:4-6: “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.”
• For Diversity of Denominations:
  • Romans 14:5: “One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.”

Argument For: Christians should strive for unity, as all believers are part of one body with one Lord.

Argument Against: Differences in doctrine and practice are inevitable, and Christians should respect diverse views while remaining committed to the essentials of the faith.

31. Predestination and Free Will

For Predestination (God’s Sovereignty in Salvation):

• John 6:44 – “No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.”

For Free Will (Human Choice in Salvation):

• Revelation 22:17 – “And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”

Argument For: God predestines those who will be saved, ensuring that His divine will is accomplished.

Argument Against: Salvation is offered freely to all, and individuals must personally choose to accept or reject it.

32. Baptism and Its Role in Salvation

• For Baptism as Necessary for Salvation:
  • Mark 16:16: “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.”
• For Baptism as a Symbolic Act, Not Essential for Salvation:
  • Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

Argument For: Baptism is a necessary step in the process of salvation, as Jesus commanded it as part of the Great Commission.

Argument Against: Salvation is by grace through faith alone, and baptism is a public expression of faith rather than a requirement for salvation.

33. The Security of the Believer

• For Eternal Security (Once Saved, Always Saved):
  • John 10:28-29: “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.”
• Against Eternal Security (The Possibility of Falling Away):
  • Hebrews 6:4-6: “For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost… if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh.”

Argument For: Once a person is saved, they cannot lose their salvation, as God’s grip on them is unbreakable and eternal.

Argument Against: It is possible for believers to fall away from the faith, and they must remain faithful to the end to inherit eternal life.

34. The Role of Good Works in Salvation

• For Good Works as Evidence of Salvation:
  • James 2:17: “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.”
• For Salvation by Faith Alone, Apart from Works:
  • Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

Argument For: Good works are a necessary outgrowth of genuine faith and are evidence that one has truly been saved.

Argument Against: Salvation is not earned by works but is a gift of grace, and no works can contribute to salvation.

35. Christ’s Nature (Fully God and Fully Man)

• For Christ’s Full Divinity and Humanity:
  • Colossians 2:9: “For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.”
• For Christ’s Humanity and His Dependence on God:
  • Matthew 26:39: “And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.”

Argument For: Jesus Christ is both fully God and fully man, embodying both natures simultaneously.

Argument Against: While Jesus is fully human and experienced temptation and suffering, His divinity is expressed in submission to God the Father, showing His role as fully dependent on God.

36. The Sabbath Day

• For the Sabbath as a Day of Rest:
  • Exodus 20:8-10: “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work.”
• For the Sabbath as Fulfilled in Christ:
  • Colossians 2:16-17: “Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.”

Argument For: The Sabbath is a day of rest given by God for the benefit of His people, and it should still be observed by believers.

Argument Against: The Sabbath was a shadow of the rest to be found in Christ, and believers are not bound to observe it in the Old Testament sense.

37. Christ’s Role as Mediator

• For Christ as the Only Mediator Between God and Man:
  • 1 Timothy 2:5: “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”
• For Multiple Mediators (Saints, Priests):
  • James 5:16: “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”

Argument For: Jesus Christ is the only mediator between God and man, and no one else can intercede on behalf of humanity in the same way.

Argument Against: While Christ is the primary mediator, others can intercede on behalf of others, such as saints or righteous believers.

38. The Second Coming and the Rapture

• For the Rapture of the Church Before the Tribulation:
  • 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17: “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”
• For the Church Going Through the Tribulation:
  • Matthew 24:29-31: “Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened… and then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven… and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.”

Argument For: The church will be raptured before the tribulation begins, sparing believers from God’s wrath during this period.

Argument Against: Believers will go through the tribulation, and Christ will return immediately afterward to gather His people.

39. Tithing and Giving

• For Tithing as a Requirement for Believers:
  • Malachi 3:10: “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”
• For Giving Voluntarily, Not Tithing:
  • 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”

Argument For: Tithing (giving 10% of one’s income) is a biblical mandate and an act of faith and obedience to God’s Word.

Argument Against: Tithing was part of the Old Covenant, and under the New Covenant, believers are encouraged to give generously and cheerfully, not necessarily by a set percentage.

40. The Holy Spirit’s Role in Conviction and Conversion

• For the Holy Spirit Convicting the World of Sin:
  • John 16:8: “And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.”
• For Human Responsibility in Responding to the Gospel:
  • Acts 17:30: “And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent.”

Argument For: The Holy Spirit plays an active role in convicting people of their sin and drawing them to salvation.

Argument Against: While the Holy Spirit convicts, individuals are responsible for responding to the gospel call, and God commands all people everywhere to repent.

41. Salvation and the Role of the Law

• For Salvation Being Through Faith, Not the Law:
  • Romans 3:28: “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”
• For the Law as a Guide to Righteousness:
  • Matthew 5:17: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.”

Argument For: Salvation is through faith alone, not by adhering to the law, as no one can perfectly keep the law.

Argument Against: The law serves as a guide to living righteously, and even though it cannot save, it points to God’s holy standards.

42. The Kingdom of God and the Church

• For the Church as the Present Kingdom of God:
  • Luke 17:21: “Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.”
• For the Kingdom of God Being Future and Literal:
  • Matthew 6:10: “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”

Argument For: The kingdom of God is already present in the lives of believers, as they are part of God’s reign now.

Argument Against: The kingdom of God is still to come in its fullness, and believers pray for its future establishment when God’s will will be fully done on Earth.

43. Jesus as the Son of God vs. His Divine Authority

• For Jesus Being the Son of God:
  • John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
• For Jesus’ Divine Authority:
  • John 14:9: “Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father.”

Argument For: Jesus is fully the Son of God, a distinct person from God the Father, and is to be worshipped as such.

Argument Against: Jesus, as the Son, is one with the Father and possesses full divine authority, demonstrating that He is God Himself, not separate in essence from God.

44. The Power of Prayer and God’s Will

• For Prayer Changing God’s Will:
  • James 5:16: “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.”
• For God’s Will Being Unchanging:
  • Psalm 33:11: “The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.”

Argument For: Prayer is powerful and effective in bringing about change in God’s actions, especially when the prayers align with His will.

Argument Against: God’s will is unchanging and sovereign, and prayer does not alter His eternal purposes, though it may change the heart of the one praying.

45. The Role of the Church in Salvation

• For the Church as Essential for Salvation:
  • Acts 2:47: “Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.”
• For Salvation Being Independent of the Church:
  • Acts 16:31: “And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.”

Argument For: The church is the community of believers through which God works, and one must be part of the church to be saved.

Argument Against: Salvation is by faith alone in Jesus Christ, and while the church is important, it is not the means of salvation.

46. Grace and the Law

• For Grace Abolishing the Law:
  • Romans 6:14: “For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.”
• For Grace Fulfilling the Law:
  • Matthew 5:17: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.”

Argument For: Grace frees believers from the condemnation of the law, and they live under grace rather than trying to follow the law for righteousness.

Argument Against: Grace does not nullify the law but fulfills it, and believers are called to live in obedience to God’s moral standards.

47. The Nature of Sin

• For Original Sin Affecting All People:
  • Romans 5:12: “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.”
• For Sin Being a Personal Choice, Not Inherited:
  • Ezekiel 18:20: “The soul that sinneth, it shall die: the son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.”

Argument For: All humans inherit a sinful nature from Adam and are born with a propensity to sin, making salvation necessary.

Argument Against: Each person is responsible for their own sin, and they are not held accountable for the sin of others, even Adam.

48. The Role of Women in the Church

• For Women Being Silent in the Church:
  • 1 Corinthians 14:34-35: “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak… but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law.”
• For Women Participating in the Church:
  • Galatians 3:28: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”

Argument For: Women should not speak or hold authority in the church, based on the teachings of Paul, and their role is more passive and supportive.

Argument Against: In Christ, there is equality, and women are equally empowered to serve in the church, including leadership and teaching roles.

49. The Role of the Holy Spirit in the Believer’s Life

• For the Holy Spirit Empowering Believers for Service:
  • Acts 1:8: “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
• For the Holy Spirit as a Comforter and Teacher:
  • John 14:26: “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.”

Argument For: The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live godly lives and to be witnesses for Christ in the world.

Argument Against: The Holy Spirit primarily comforts, guides, and teaches believers, helping them to grow in their faith and knowledge of God.

50. The Nature of the Resurrection Body

• For a Literal, Physical Resurrection Body:
  • 1 Corinthians 15:52-54: “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.”
• For a Spiritual Resurrection:
  • 1 Corinthians 15:44: “It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.”

Argument For: The resurrection will involve a physical transformation, and believers will receive new, glorified bodies in which they will live forever.

Argument Against: The resurrection body is spiritual in nature, not bound by physical limitations, reflecting a deeper, spiritual reality.

51. The Nature of Christ’s Sacrifice

• For Christ’s Sacrifice Being Once for All:
  • Hebrews 10:10: “By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”
• For the Need for Ongoing Sacrifices:
  • 1 Corinthians 11:26: “For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.”

Argument For: Christ’s sacrifice was sufficient to atone for all sins for all time, and there is no need for repeated sacrifices.

Argument Against: Christ’s sacrifice is continually remembered through the Lord’s Supper (Communion), and believers are to proclaim His death until He returns.

52. The Nature of the Church

• For the Church Being Universal:
  • Matthew 16:18: “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
• For the Church Being Local:
  • Acts 14:23: “And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.”

Argument For: The Church is a universal body of believers, and Christ is building His Church that will prevail against all forces.

Argument Against: The church is a local gathering of believers, and individual local churches should be autonomous and self-governing.

53. The Role of Angels

• For Angels Being Active in Ministering to Believers:
  • Hebrews 1:14: “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?”
• For Angels Being Distinct and Separate from Human Experience:
  • Colossians 2:18: “Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.”

Argument For: Angels are ministering spirits sent by God to assist and protect believers, fulfilling an active role in God’s work.

Argument Against: Worship or excessive focus on angels is discouraged, as they are not to be elevated or sought after apart from God.

54. The Relationship Between Faith and Works

• For Faith Without Works Being Dead:
  • James 2:26: “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.”
• For Faith Alone Being Sufficient for Salvation:
  • Romans 3:28: “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.”

Argument For: True faith results in good works; they are evidence of a living, vibrant faith.

Argument Against: Works do not save; salvation is solely by faith, and good works naturally flow from a genuine faith in Christ.

55. The Role of the Law of Christ

• For the Law of Christ Replacing the Old Law:
  • Galatians 6:2: “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
• For the Continued Relevance of the Mosaic Law:
  • Matthew 5:17: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.”

Argument For: Believers are called to follow the “law of Christ,” which focuses on love, mercy, and grace, and fulfills the spirit of the Mosaic law.

Argument Against: The moral principles of the Old Testament law are still relevant for believers and serve as a guide to righteous living.

56. The Nature of Eternal Life

• For Eternal Life Being a Gift:
  • Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
• For Eternal Life Being Earned:
  • Matthew 25:46: “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.”

Argument For: Eternal life is a free gift given by God through faith in Jesus Christ, not something earned by human effort.

Argument Against: Eternal life is a reward for those who live righteously, and there is a sense in which believers must persevere in faith and good works to inherit it.

57. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit

• For Baptism of the Holy Spirit as an Empowering Experience:
  • Acts 1:8: “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
• For the Holy Spirit Being Received at Salvation:
  • 1 Corinthians 12:13: “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.”

Argument For: The baptism of the Holy Spirit is a separate and empowering experience from salvation, enabling believers to live out their faith with power.

Argument Against: Every believer receives the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation, and there is no subsequent “baptism of the Holy Spirit” distinct from initial salvation.

58. The Nature of Jesus’ Return

• For Jesus’ Return Being Imminent:
  • Matthew 24:36: “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.”
• For a Defined Period Before Jesus’ Return:
  • Revelation 20:1-3: “And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years.”

Argument For: The return of Christ is imminent and could happen at any time; believers should always be prepared.

Argument Against: There are signs and a period of tribulation that must take place before Christ’s return, including the binding of Satan and the establishment of His kingdom.

59. The Purpose of the Law

• For the Law as a Schoolmaster Leading to Christ:
  • Galatians 3:24: “Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.”
• For the Law as a Permanent Moral Standard:
  • Romans 2:14-15: “For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness.”

Argument For: The law was given to lead people to Christ by showing them their sin and need for a Savior.

Argument Against: The law still serves as a moral guide for living, even for Christians, as it reflects God’s eternal standards of righteousness.

60. The Authority of Scripture

• For Scripture as the Final Authority:
  • 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”
• For the Church’s Authority in Interpreting Scripture:
  • 2 Peter 3:16: “As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.”

Argument For: Scripture is the ultimate authority for faith and practice, and all doctrine should be tested against the Word of God.

Argument Against: The Church has been entrusted with the authority to interpret Scripture, and without its guidance, individuals may misinterpret the Bible.

61. Jesus as the Only Way to Salvation

• For Jesus Being the Only Way:
  • John 14:6: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
• For Salvation Being Accessible Through Other Means:
  • Acts 10:35: “But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.”

Argument For: Jesus is the exclusive means of salvation; no one can come to God except through Him.

Argument Against: God accepts those who fear Him and do what is right, suggesting that salvation may be available to righteous individuals in other nations, beyond those who explicitly follow Christ.

62. The Eternity of Hell

• For Hell Being Eternal:
  • Matthew 25:46: “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.”
• For Hell Being Temporary or Annihilation:
  • Revelation 20:14: “And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.”

Argument For: Hell is eternal, and its punishment is unending for those who are condemned.

Argument Against: Hell’s punishment may be temporary, and the ultimate destruction or annihilation of the wicked is depicted in the “second death.”

63. The Role of Israel in God’s Plan

• For Israel Having a Special Role in God’s Plan:
  • Romans 11:26: “And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob.”
• For the Church Replacing Israel:
  • Galatians 3:29: “And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.”

Argument For: Israel still has a special place in God’s plan, and the promises made to Israel will be fulfilled.

Argument Against: The Church has inherited the promises given to Israel, and all believers, regardless of ethnicity, are now part of God’s chosen people.

64. Predestination and Free Will

• For Predestination:
  • Ephesians 1:5: “Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will.”
• For Free Will:
  • Revelation 22:17: “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”

Argument For: God predestines individuals for salvation and determines who will be saved, based on His sovereign will.

Argument Against: Individuals have the free will to choose salvation, and God’s invitation is extended to anyone who desires to accept it.

65. The Timing of the Rapture

• For a Pre-Tribulation Rapture:
  • 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17: “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”
• For a Post-Tribulation Rapture:
  • Matthew 24:29-31: “Immediately after the tribulation of those days… he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.”

Argument For: The rapture occurs before the tribulation, sparing believers from the time of God’s wrath on Earth.

Argument Against: The rapture happens after the tribulation, when Christ returns to gather His people at the end of the age.

66. The Second Coming of Christ

• For Christ’s Return Being Visible to All:
  • Revelation 1:7: “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.”
• For Christ’s Return Being Invisible to the World:
  • 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17: “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout… and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds.”

Argument For: Christ’s return will be visible to all, and every eye will witness His glorious appearing.

Argument Against: Christ’s return will be experienced by believers, who will be caught up to meet Him in the air, but the world will not see Him in the same way.

67. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Sanctification

• For the Holy Spirit Being the Primary Agent of Sanctification:
  • 1 Corinthians 6:11: “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”
• For Sanctification Involving Personal Effort:
  • Philippians 2:12: “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”

Argument For: The Holy Spirit plays an essential role in sanctification, transforming believers into the image of Christ through His power.

Argument Against: Believers must actively work on their sanctification, cooperating with the Holy Spirit and striving to live according to God’s will.

68. The Extent of Atonement

• For Christ Dying for All People:
  • 1 John 2:2: “And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.”
• For Christ Dying Only for the Elect:
  • Matthew 1:21: “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.”

Argument For: Christ’s atonement was for everyone, and His sacrifice provides the opportunity for salvation to all.

Argument Against: Christ’s atonement was specifically for the elect, those whom God has chosen for salvation.

69. The Concept of Justification

• For Justification by Faith Alone:
  • Romans 5:1: “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
• For Justification Being a Process Involving Works:
  • James 2:24: “Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.”

Argument For: Justification is a one-time act of God, and it is received through faith alone, not based on any works.

Argument Against: Justification involves both faith and works; while faith is essential, works demonstrate the authenticity of that faith.

70. The Power of Faith

• For Faith Moving Mountains:
  • Matthew 17:20: “And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.”
• For Faith as Trust, Not Magic:
  • James 4:3: “Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask with wrong motives, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.”

Argument For: Faith, even as small as a mustard seed, has the power to accomplish great things, including miracles.

Argument Against: Faith is not a tool for personal gain, and it must be aligned with God’s will; asking with wrong motives prevents the manifestation of God’s power.

71. The Nature of the Church’s Authority

• For the Church Having Authority Over Believers:
  • Matthew 18:18: “Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
• For Christ Being the Head of the Church:
  • Ephesians 1:22: “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church.”

Argument For: The Church, guided by Christ, has authority to bind and loose, exercising God’s will on Earth.

Argument Against: Christ is the ultimate authority over the Church, and while the Church may make decisions, it is always subject to Christ’s headship.

72. The Doctrine of the Trinity

• For the Trinity Being a Doctrine:
  • Matthew 28:19: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”
• For the Absence of the Trinity in Scripture:
  • John 14:28: “Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.”

Argument For: The doctrine of the Trinity is clearly revealed in Scripture, with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit being distinct persons, yet one in essence.

Argument Against: Some argue that the Bible does not explicitly teach the doctrine of the Trinity, and that Jesus’ statements about the Father’s greater authority suggest a hierarchy of persons, not an equality of essence.

73. The Nature of Jesus’ Divinity and Humanity

• For Jesus Being Fully God and Fully Man:
  • John 1:14: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”
• For Jesus Being a Created Being:
  • Colossians 1:15: “Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature.”

Argument For: Jesus is both fully divine and fully human, possessing two natures in one person.

Argument Against: Some interpretations suggest that Jesus is the “firstborn” or created being, implying that He is distinct from God the Father in essence.

74. The Role of Good Works in Salvation

• For Good Works Being Essential to Salvation:
  • Matthew 7:21: “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”
• For Salvation Being by Faith Alone:
  • Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

Argument For: Good works are a necessary evidence of genuine faith, and they demonstrate obedience to God’s will.

Argument Against: Salvation is by grace through faith, not by works, so that no one can boast. Works flow from salvation, but they are not the basis for it.

75. The Meaning of Jesus’ Death

• For Jesus Dying as a Substitutionary Atonement:
  • Isaiah 53:5: “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.”
• For Jesus Dying as a Moral Example:
  • 1 Peter 2:21: “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps.”

Argument For: Jesus’ death was a substitutionary sacrifice, taking the punishment for sin in place of believers, thus making atonement for them.

Argument Against: Jesus’ death is primarily seen as a moral example for believers to follow in their own lives, showing how to endure suffering and injustice.

76. The Doctrine of the Righteousness of God

• For God’s Righteousness Being Unchanging:
  • Psalm 11:7: “For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.”
• For God’s Righteousness Being Revealed Through Christ:
  • Romans 3:22: “Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference.”

Argument For: God’s righteousness is perfect, unchanging, and an inherent part of His nature, and it requires that He uphold justice.

Argument Against: The righteousness of God is revealed through Christ’s sacrificial work, and is accessible to all who believe, highlighting His grace and mercy rather than His wrath alone.

77. The Immutability of God

• For God Being Unchanging:
  • Malachi 3:6: “For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.”
• For God Changing His Mind:
  • Exodus 32:14: “And the Lord repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people.”

Argument For: God is immutable, meaning He does not change in His nature, character, or purposes, ensuring His promises and justice are constant.

Argument Against: In certain instances, such as with Israel in Exodus, God is shown as “repenting” or changing His course of action, indicating a relational dynamic with His people.

78. The Security of the Believer

• For Eternal Security:
  • John 10:28-29: “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.”
• For the Possibility of Falling Away:
  • Hebrews 6:4-6: “For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost… if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance.”

Argument For: Believers are eternally secure in Christ, and nothing can separate them from His love or cause them to lose their salvation.

Argument Against: It is possible for a believer to fall away from the faith, and those who do may find it impossible to be restored to repentance.

79. The Role of the Law in the Christian Life

• For the Law Still Having a Purpose for Believers:
  • Romans 7:12: “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.”
• For Believers Being Freed from the Law:
  • Romans 7:6: “But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter.”

Argument For: The law is good and holy, showing God’s standard for righteousness, and it still serves as a guide for Christian living.

Argument Against: Believers are no longer under the law but are freed from it, living according to the spirit, not by following the letter of the law.

80. The Role of Prayer

• For Prayer Being Essential for the Believer:
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:17: “Pray without ceasing.”
• For Prayer Not Being Necessary for Salvation:
  • Luke 18:9-14: The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector shows that humility, not prayer, is the key to justification.

Argument For: Prayer is an essential part of the Christian life, a means of communicating with God and expressing dependence on Him.

Argument Against: While prayer is important, it is not a means of salvation in itself; humility and repentance before God are the keys to salvation.

81. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Conviction

• For the Holy Spirit Convicting the World of Sin:
  • John 16:8: “And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.”
• For Human Responsibility in Conviction:
  • Acts 2:37: “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?”

Argument For: The Holy Spirit actively convicts the world of sin, leading individuals to repentance and faith in Christ.

Argument Against: While the Holy Spirit convicts, human beings also play a role in responding to that conviction, as seen in the actions of the crowd in Acts.