The Gary DeMar Podcast

Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 109
Gary responds to a critic who challenges his interpretation of "this generation" in Matthew's gospel. The critic claims Gary is assuming what he has to prove, but Gary shows the opposite. Words like "generation" can be somewhat arbitrary, but when this phrase is read in other parts of the NT, especially Acts 2, it becomes clear that it is not about many generations, but about a very particular one: those hearing Jesus' words in the first century.

Gary begins to discuss the book of Revelation and points out important details that most modern Christians dismiss. Although the Bible is written FOR us, it wasn't written TO us. The vast majority of the New Testament is recording historical events and their significance. These past events still have great importance and meaning, especially for vindicating Jesus' authoritative claims about His identity.

Hermeneutics is the art and practice of interpretation. We use hermeneutics every day whether we realize it or not. We interpret not only the words people say, but how they say them and in what context. Understanding the Bible requires the same carefulness and deliberateness that we apply to the words and actions we encounter and interpret in our everyday lives.

Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 108
Gary concludes his response to Ayo, who had questions about preterism and decided to return to dispensationalism. Gary shows how various passages in the New Testament, both in the Gospels and the Epistles, refer to the same first-century events. Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John were all speaking about what was happening, or about to happen, to them and their countrymen, not people thousands of years in their future.

Gary concludes his interview with Pastor Greg Chacon by dealing with questions about Israel. Dispensationalism has given most Christians an unhealthy allegiance to Israel and the belief that they must support whatever it decides politically. Eschatology has consequences, and good intentions can be used to promote evil agendas. Modern prophecy advocates are trying to rebuild the first century with a rebuilt "Roman empire" and a third temple in Jerusalem.