Churches Of Christ/are infants born sinners

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Follow-Ups to Answer from Expert Brent Jobe, DVM

Joe Norman wrote at 2009-06-01 19:00:54
I would like to add some thoughts to consider. First, it seems your neighbor does not understand covenants at all. The Psalms are part of the Old Covenant and we are in the New Covenant.



Also, the word "psallo" does generally refer to singing and in the Old Covenant, the instrument is usually specified. In Eph.5:19 the instrument to accompany our voices is mentioned...it is the heart.



Also, the words of Paul (from God) are a command. IF Paul had meant musical instruments to accompany our singing, the wording would demand that EVERYONE play the instrument. This is just not possible.



Last, the temple in the Old Covenant was an external building. In the New Covenant, the temple is made up of the people. Only the voice and the heart can enter the temple of the New Covenant.

Philip wrote at 2009-09-04 22:22:21
" The phrase "for that all have sinned" must necessarily be the portion of the passage that your neighbor relies upon.  It must certainly refer to those who know right from wrong, and is used as an exaggeration to express the univerality of sin among accountable people. "

This is the complete opposite of what the text says. Go back and look at the context. People don't die because they are innocent, including babies, people die because they are guilty of sin. In the case of babies, it was original sin.

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Brent Jobe, DVM

Expertise

Specifically able to help one defend the plan of salvation, especially immersion for the remission of sins with emphasis on both the English and Greek. Very able to assist someone in refuting the doctrine of salvation by faith only before and without any further acts of obedience. Capable, but certainly not a scholar, in other areas of doctrine: church organization, music in worship, eternal security, etc, but do not claim the same degree of knowledge of these subjects. I would view myself, as well as the church that I attend, as very mainline, possibly (and hopefully) tending toward conservative. I can express the liberal viewpoint, if one so desires, although I believe it to be dangerous and divisive.

Experience

Avid reader and possess original editions of most debates concerning baptism and faith alone. I am familiar with both sides of the issue, and have probably heard every argument advanced against the necessity of baptism. I truly feel that I can help other members of the church who may have been asked difficult questions, and I will take the time to thoroughly answer - in English, Greek, and possibly ancillary statements, though uninspired, from 1st, 2nd, and 3rd century Christians. Member of the church for about 30 years - 6th generation at the same congregation.

Organizations
Religiously, none other than the local congregation. Professionally, of course, quite a few, but none that would apply in this context.

Education/Credentials
I am a veterinarian (DVM) by profession and have practiced for twenty years. Almost all of my religious education other than the usual (family, attending services) was derived at the feet of Foy E. Wallace, Jr. If I cannot answer your question, I have direct contact with Judge Alan Highers and Dr. Jimmy Allen, both men of considerable knowledge and debating experience: if I am not satisfied with my answer, I can call upon them for additional information. The writings and sermons of N. B. Hardeman are among my favorites.

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