Jerry Batson taught religion at several schools of religion, served as associate dean of Beeson Divinity School at Samford University in Birmingham and filled pastorates in Alabama Baptist life throughout his career. He now provides a basic theology lesson for Alabama Baptist readers.
Theology 101 — Thanksgiving: A Christlike Practice
While the example set by the Pilgrims can motivate us to a period of giving thanks to God, the example of Christ furnishes us with an even greater example.
Theology 101 — Thanksgiving: Our Prime Reason
Giving thanks is a Christlike practice. He is on record in the New Testament expressing thankfulness often.
Theology 101 — Glorification: The ultimate goal
Glorification is God’s final removal of sin from the life of His spiritual child so that each one of us will stand before Him in glory throughout eternity.
Theology 101 — Sanctification and Spiritual Disciplines
Scripture reading, prayer and involvement in the church are three elements of the sanctifying process. Our time with the Father and our fellowship with other Christians can help us grow more Christlike.
Theology 101 — Sanctification: Its Meaning
Sanctification may be thought of as the process by which believers cooperate with God’s means of producing holiness or godliness in the life of a sinner who has chosen to respond in repentance and faith to the saving work of Christ.
Theology 101 — Justification: Eternal Results
The fact of justification means that as Christians, we have no basis for entertaining guilt feelings toward God. It goes deeper than how we feel.
Theology 101 — Justification: Its Means
Justification through personal faith is an important Christian doctrine.
Theology 101 — Justification: Its Basis
The expression in Scripture that God justifies forgiven sinners is a rather startling doctrine. In Romans 4:5, the declaration is