March 19, 2025

The Presbyter's Argument for One God and Two Testaments

A presbyter, a disciple of the apostles, offered a compelling argument for the unity of God across both the Old and New Testaments. This perspective addresses the claims that the world was created by beings other than the one God, such as angels or other powers. The presbyter's reasoning, preserved and passed down, emphasizes consistency in doctrine and the proper understanding of scripture.

The Foundation: One Creator God

The core of the presbyter's argument rests on the belief in one God, the creator of all things. He refutes the notion that angels or other deities were involved in creation. To deviate from this singular Creator, the presbyter argues, leads to contradictions and inconsistencies impossible to reconcile. This concept is rooted in the teachings of Moses, "God said, Let there be light: and there was light" (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt), and affirmed in the Gospel, "All things were made by Him; and without Him was nothing made" (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt). The apostle Paul also supports this view, stating, "There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father, who is above all, and through all, and in us all" (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt).

Two Testaments, One God

The presbyter acknowledged the existence of two Testaments but maintained they were both ordained by the same God for the benefit of humanity. These testaments were not contradictory but served distinct purposes in God's overall plan. The first Testament, he argued, was not given without reason. It served to prepare humanity for God and provided a type of heavenly things, foreshadowing what was to come in the Church. It subdued those to whom it was given to the service of God, and contained a prophecy of things to come, in order that man might learn that God has foreknowledge of all things (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt).

The Importance of Apostolic Doctrine

The presbyter highlights the importance of interpreting scripture within the context of established apostolic doctrine. Diligently reading the scriptures in the company of the presbyters in the Church, among whom is the apostolic doctrine, (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt) is crucial for achieving a consistent understanding. This emphasizes the role of tradition and the continuity of teaching from the apostles to the leaders of the Church. This ensures a correct and unified understanding of God's word.

Conclusion

The presbyter's argument offers a framework for understanding the relationship between the Old and New Testaments and the nature of God. By asserting the singularity of God as the creator and sustainer of all things, and by emphasizing the role of apostolic tradition in interpreting scripture, the presbyter provides a powerful defense against those who would introduce alternative cosmologies or divide the unity of God's plan. His teachings serve as a reminder of the importance of adhering to sound doctrine and seeking guidance from those who faithfully preserve the teachings of the apostles.