The Acknowledgement of Extremes

Image from www.hyperpreteristarchive.com (Todd Dennis)

THE PURPOSE of this article is to acknowledge and to discuss the fact that extremes do exist within the framework of biblical preterism. [1]  In recent years, a zealous host of “former” preterists has arisen, shielded within the ranks of Futurist evangelical “orthodoxy” and determined to destroy that for which they once rejoiced and gladly endured the reproach and disdain of their contemporaries–the same ones who now congratulate their departure from such a “damnable heresy.”

The Law of Faith in Operation

OPERATION of the Law of Faith in action is evidenced throughout the Scriptures in a variety of ways.  The best definition of faith is simply that of, “taking God at His Word.” Sometimes faith seems reasonable–from a human standpoint, in other instances, not so much.  There is no “magic formula” or “sacred incantation” associated with the operation of faith in the lives of God’s dealings with people.

One great Biblical example of the operation of faith is associated with a great Commander of the army of Syria–Naaman who had been victorious in battle with the help of the Lord (II Kings 5:1).  Naaman was afflicted with leprosy–a terrible, disfiguring, skin disease (v. 1) for which there was no known cure at the time.

A “young girl” who is not named in the Scriptures, who had been abducted from the land of Israel, suggested to the wife of the Commander that there was a Prophet of God in Samaria who could heal Naaman of his awful disease (v. 2-4).  A letter was sent from Naaman to the King of Israel regarding the matter and the message reached the ears of Elisha, “the man of God” (v. 5-8), accompanied by expensive gifts from the King of Syria (v. 5).