questions regarding the meaning or usage of Christian terminology
Questions tagged [terminology]
404 questions
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In what different ways is the word "cult" used as a label inside Christianity?
The word "cult" gets bandied about quite a bit, but is there an official definition or some kind of formula which can be used to consistently identify whether a group is a cult or not? Baring an absolute standard, what are the various usages and who…
Caleb
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Can Christianity be objectively defined?
Orthodox Christianity is considered to be what comes from the Old and New Testament but many denominations/religions call themselves Christians without adhering strictly to the Bible as we know it today. I am specifically thinking of Mormons and by…
Jeff
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Who uses the term "God-talk", and what do they mean?
I've seen many books and articles that use the word God-talk. This seems, often, to be used as a friendlier alternative to theology, which comes from the Greek θεός (theos) for God, and λόγος (logos) for word, talk, discourse, etc., and therefore…
James T
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What does "amen" mean?
One of the most common responses that Christians make is to say the word "amen". Here's an example from a Mass:
Priest: May almighty God bless you, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
All: Amen.
What does this expression mean?
Alypius
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What exactly is hermeneutics and exegesis?
Two terms that get thrown around on this site a lot are 'hermeneutics' and 'exegesis.' To the layman, what exactly do these terms mean?
Affable Geek
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What is the difference between lust and sexual desire?
How can two people possibly have a sexual relationship without each objectifying the other to some degree, which is lust? I was taught that lust is "excessive or unrestrained sexual desire" — assuming that I also truly love her, how much can I…
Lee Sleek
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How does the New Testament define a Christian and a non-Christian, a brother in Christ and not a brother in Christ?
How does the New Testament define a brother in Christ? According to the New Testament, what makes a human a brother in Christ? And also, according to the New Testament, which people are definitely not Christians, definitely not brothers in Christ?
I…
brilliant
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What's the right terminology here for what God's allowing something, but not blessing it?
What's the right terminology here for when God's allowing something, but not blessing it?
I once had it, but now I forgot. It's something about two different types of God's will. One is kind of "allowing" will, for example, in such things like…
brilliant
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Does Scripture actually call Jesus' disciples " believers?"
I'm currently working on a Bible Study Titled "from believer to follower" Closer to God through his Word. I actually can't find one Instance where us saints/disciples, etc. are called believers! I realize the word is in some translations of the…
Reg Campsall
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Judges vs kings
What is the difference between judges and kings in the OT? I understand that judges judged disputes between people; but, I have finally started reading the Bible cover to cover and am shocked at the warring and land acquisition they were into. So …
Eva Lados
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On nominal Christianity
Yesterday crossed this article which has a strong stand against something called "nominal Christianity".
From reading the article, I couldn't understand some points I'd like clarification in
what "nominal Christianity" really is
the problems with…
Tiago Martins Peres
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4
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Is there a word for describing the existence of a unique or controversial interpretation of Christianity within a denomination?
So obviously different sects or denominations have different interpretations and apply different emphasis to various teachings of the bible, but I'm wondering if there is a word to describe when a person or sect has a certain belief that is unique…
Brimby
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3
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Who are the "Non-Evangelical Protestants"?
I think this is an important question, because there is this group called "Non-Evangelical Protestants" that research articles may use in order to distinguish them from "Evangelical Protestants" and "Catholics".
I have a hunch that they are…
Double U
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Is there a Christian equivalent to the Wiccan 'fluffy bunnies'?
It is known that Wiccan 'fluffy bunnies' are the types of people who self-identify as "Wiccans" but really don't go anywhere beyond self-identification and using stereotypical associations of Wicca. They have been criticized for not being true…
Double U
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What does it mean / how do you know / how would you explain "God is working" or "God is at work"?
Usually this phrase may come up during testimonies or used at church.
How would you explain it to someone who asks "How do you know it was God at work?" (usually an unbeliever)
Suppose someone has gone through major changes after accepting Christ.…
watda
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