Seeking the Truth From Facts: For Answering Difficult Bible Questions

By Nelson Cheng PhD (H.C) SRF

Embark on a transformative journey through the scriptures with Dr. Nelson Cheng in "Seeking the Truth from Facts. As a seasoned scientist and inventor, Dr. Cheng brings a distinctive and inquisitive mind to the exploration of the Word of God. His commitment to uncovering truths is evident in a career devoted to proving concepts with facts, providing readers with a fresh and analytical perspective on faith.

"Seeking the Truth from Facts" is not just a book; it's a new insight for pastors, teachers, Christians, and pre-believers eager to deepen their understanding of the Word of God. Dr. Cheng's unique approach invites readers to delve into the scriptures with a thirst for knowledge, offering new insights and fresh revelations that resonate with the inquisitive spirit. This book serves as a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper connection to their faith, providing a bridge between science and spirituality.

With clarity and precision, Dr. Nelson Cheng guides readers through the intricate tapestry of the Word of God, unlocking hidden truths that will inspire and uplift. Engaging and enlightening, this book is a must-read for anyone passionate about discovering fresh perspectives on the timeless truth of the Word of God.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Partridge Publishing Singapore
• Release date: Mar 7, 2024
• ISBN: 9781543781403

Book preview

Copyright © 2024 by Nelson Cheng PhD (H.C),SRF.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

www.partridgepublishing.com/singapore

Scripture quotations marked NLT are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Website

Scripture quotations marked NIV are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved. [Biblica]

Unless otherwise indicated, all scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®). Copyright ©2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations marked KJV are from the Holy Bible, King James Version (Authorized Version). First published in 1611. Quoted from the KJV Classic Reference Bible, Copyright © 1983 by The Zondervan Corporation.

Contents

Foreword

Preface

About the Author

Acknowledgements

Chapter 1

What Is The Purpose Of The Book Seeking The Truth From Facts?

Honouring God’s Word

Personal Growth

Discernment

Unity and Reconciliation

Faithfulness to God’s Word

Contextual Understanding

Sound Exegesis

Harmonisation of Scripture

Apologetics and Evangelism

Chapter 2

Why Is It Imperative To Seek The Truth From Facts When Answering Difficult Bible Questions?

Deepening Our Understanding of Christian Faith

Honesty and Integrity

Avoiding Misinterpretation

Strengthening Faith

Being a Witness to Others

Bible Texts Are Multifaceted and Complex

Humility Is Key to Engaging with the Bible

Keeping the Bible Message Honest and True

Evidence-Based Beliefs and Practices

Our Beliefs and Decisions Are Supported by Verifiable Facts

Chapter 3

What Is The Difference Between Biblical Truth And Biblical Fact?

The Definitions of Truth and Fact

The Difference between Biblical Truth and Biblical Fact

Views on Salvation

Are There Any Contradictions between the Two Verses?

Chapter 4

Is Jesus Omniscient? If Yes, Why Did He Say, ‘But About That Day Or Hour No One Knows, Not Even The Angels In Heaven, Nor The Son, But Only The Father’?

‘In the beginning was the Word’

‘And the Word was with God’

‘Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made’:

‘The Son is the image of the invisible God’:

‘The firstborn over all creation’:

‘For in him all things were created’:

‘All things have been created through him and for him’:

‘He is before all things, and in him all things hold together’:

Chapter 5

How Can One Reconcile The Belief That Jesus, As God, Died On The Cross?

In religious and spiritual contexts:

In philosophical contexts:

In a human or animal biology context:

Chapter 6

Why Would God, Who Is Known To Be All-Loving And Forgiving, Not Grant Forgiveness To Those Who Commit Blasphemy Against The Holy Spirit?

Context of Jesus’s Teaching

Repentance and Faith

Chapter 7

How Can One Reconcile The Confession Required In Romans 10:9–10 With The Salvation Of The Thief On The Cross In Luke 23:39–43, Who Seemingly Did Not Make Such A Confession?

Chapter 8

Does Jesus’s Statement In Matthew 5:20 Conflict With The Biblical Concept Of Salvation By Faith?

Chapter 9

How Can One Reconcile The Different Requirements For Salvation Between John 3:5 And Acts 16:31?

Chapter 10

Why Does An All-Powerful And All-Loving God Allow Evil And Suffering In The World?

The Concept of Theodicy

Free Will

Testing and Growth

Mystery of God’s Ways

Chapter 11

Why Is It More Fitting For Christians Today To Devote Themselves To Studying The Revealed Word Rather Than Seeking After Contemporary Prophets To Discern What God Is Communicating?

The Purpose of the Old Testament

The Purpose of the New Testament

Chapter 12

How Can We Elucidate That God’s Choice Of The Jews As The Chosen People Does Not Imply Bias Towards Any Other Race?

Abraham’s Transition to Monotheism:

Abraham’s Significance in Monotheism:

Chapter 13

Based On Scripture, Is It Acceptable For Christians To Choose Cremation As A Method Of Handling Their Remains After They Have Passed Away?

Chapter 14

How Can One Explain That God Is Not Bloodthirsty Despite The Fact That Without Shedding Blood There Is No Remission Of Sins?

Chapter 15

Why Does The Loving And All-Powerful God Allow Evil And Suffering In The World?

Chapter 16

How Do We Reconcile The Triune Nature Of God (Father, Son, And Holy Spirit) With The Concept Of Monotheism?

Chapter 17

How Can One Elucidate That Jesus Is God, Considering His Statements In Mark 10:17–18 And Luke 18:18–19?

Theological Understanding

Chapter 18

How Can One Clarify The Concept Of The Trinity, Given That The Term Itself Is Absent From Biblical Text?

Plurality within the Godhead

Chapter 19

How Can We Evaluate The Historical Credibility Of The Biblical Texts And Their Narratives?

Manuscript Evidence

Archaeological Discoveries

Non-Biblical Sources

Internal Consistency

Eyewitness Accounts

Literary and Genre Analysis

Geographical and Cultural Accuracy

Undesigned Coincidences

Textual Criticism

Non-Christian Sources

Cultural and Anthropological Insights

Consistency with Extra-Biblical Accounts

Early Christian Writings

Societal Impact

Chapter 20

By What Means Can One Substantiate The Existence Of God?

Theology of Time

Cosmological Argument

Concept of Causation

The Universe Began to Exist

Principle of Causality

Uncaused First Cause or Prime Mover

God as the Ultimate Cause

The Kalam Cosmological Argument

Teleological Argument (Argument from Design)

Moral Argument

Experiential and Personal Encounters

Scientific Insights and Compatibility

Chapter 21

Can One’s Salvation Be Predestined By God’s Sovereign Choice?

Definition

Arguments for Predetermination

Arguments against Predetermination

Different Perspectives

Conclusion

Chapter 22

Does Jesus’s Use Of The Term Woman To Refer To His Mother Mary In John 2:4 Contradict The Respect And Honour That The Scriptures Teach Us To Have Towards Parents?

Cultural Context

Parallel Usage

Jesus’s Mission and Timing

Context

Words Spoken by Jesus

The Temple Authorities’ Reaction

‘His Hour Had Not Yet Come’

Expression of Inner Turmoil

Contemplation and Prayer

Purposeful Submission

Theological Significance

Foreshadowing the Garden of Gethsemane

Submission to God’s Will

Dependency on the Father

Judgement According to God’s Will

Not Seeking Self-Glory

Caring for Mary at the Cross

Obeying His Parents in Childhood

Attending to Mary’s Concerns

Chapter 23

Why Is The Word Trinity Not Mentioned In The Bible, Since Christians Believe In The Trinity?

Chapter 24

How Can One Present Evidence Or Arguments To Individuals Who Are Sceptical Of The Resurrection, Aiming To Show That Jesus’s Body Was Not Stolen But Rather That He Truly Rose From The Dead?

Roman Guard at the Tomb

The Guards’ Report

The Unlikelihood of Disciples Overcoming Guards

Fulfilment of prophecies and Jesus’s own predictions

Fulfilment of Prophecies

Jesus’s Own Predictions

Theological Significance

Angel’s Announcement

Confirmation of Jesus’s Crucifixion

Verification through the Empty Tomb

Consistency with Jesus’s Predictions

Fear-Dispelling Message

Physical Presence

Empirical Verification

Contrast with Ghostly Apparitions

Continuity with Predictions

Jesus’s Invitation to Thomas

Addressing Doubt and Encouraging Belief

Thomas’s Profound Confession

Significance of the Confession

Chapter 25

In Accordance With The Scripture Found In John 10:30, Wherein Jesus Declares, ‘I And The Father Are One,’ The Theological Inquiry Arises: Do Jesus And The Father Constitute A Singular Personage?

Chapter 26

Why Is It Crucial For Believers To Approach The Interpretation Of The Book Of Revelation With An Open Mind Rather Than Being Rigid And Dogmatic About Its Meaning?

God’s Glory in Concealing

God’s Wisdom Concealed

The Unfathomable Wisdom of God

Recognising the Mystery of God’s Plan

God’s Ways Are Higher

Avoiding Quarrels over Disputable Matters

Being Open to Correction

The Spirit of Unity amid Diversity

Embracing Humility in Understanding

Acknowledging the Limited Understanding

Seeking Wisdom from God

Exercising Love and Patience

Avoiding Controversies and Quarrels

Chapter 27

How Should Christians Balance Reason And Faith, Especially When Faced With Intellectual Challenges?

Acknowledging the Role of Reason

Testing Ideas and Discernment

Context

Significance

Application

Comparison with Other Scriptures

Guidance from God’s Word:

Role of the Holy Spirit in Discernment

Faith Rooted in Hearing and Understanding

Theological Implications

Application

Chapter 28

Ecclesiastes 12:7—Does It Pertain To All Of God’s Created Beings, Extending Beyond Christians, As They Return To God?

Chapter 29

Why Is The Essence Of Questioning Important When Interpreting Scriptures?

Chapter 30

Is It In Accordance With Biblical Teachings For Spiritual Leaders To Assert That Our Giving Lacks Authenticity Unless It Genuinely Includes A Degree Of Discomfort Or Personal Sacrifice?

Analysis and Exposition

Theological Insights

Implications for Believers

Conclusion

Foreword

Seeking the Truth from Facts is an incredible book that has the power to transform lives. Whether you are a seasoned ministry veteran or a believer seeking the truth, this book is a must-read.

Dr Nelson Cheng’s writing style is exceptional, making the truth easy to understand even for non-believers. The book covers multiple points using biblical passages, providing much-needed clarity to readers.

This book is a valuable resource for pastors and ministry leaders looking to develop study and discipleship groups for the entire church to grow in the word of truth. I highly recommend Dr Nelson’s work for your spiritual growth.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the transformative power of Seeking the Truth from Facts.

Dr Talo Sataraka

Senior Pastor,

New Hope Tokyo

Preface

Seeking the truth from facts can be helpful in reconciling apparent contradictions or inconsistencies within the Bible. Taking an objective and evidence-based approach can aid in understanding the context, historical background, and original intent of the scriptures, which can help address apparent conflicts or discrepancies.

Asking a question does not represent a lack of confidence. It shows that we are willing to learn from what we hear. We should not get stuck in our questions; we should look for answers to our questions. The search for truth must be based on the Bible’s facts by properly dividing God’s Word.

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)

It encourages believers to diligently study and handle the word of God accurately.

But test everything; hold fast what is good. (1 Thessalonians 5:21 NIV)

This verse encourages believers to critically examine and test everything, including biblical teachings, to discern what is true and hold on to what is good.

Cry out for insight and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. (Proverbs 2:3–6 NLT)

This passage highlights the importance of actively seeking wisdom, understanding, and knowledge, as they are valuable and essential in interpreting and understanding the Bible correctly.

Seeking the truth from facts is essential for answering difficult questions from the Bible because it allows us to approach the text with an open and objective mind. The Bible is a complex and ancient document that has been subject to interpretation and translation over the centuries.

Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. (John 8:32 NIV)

Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so. (Acts 17:11 ESV)

This verse describes the Berean Jews as noble because they diligently examined the scriptures to verify the teachings they received, demonstrating the importance of fact-checking and critical examination of biblical teachings.

To understand it accurately, we need to rely on historical context, linguistic analysis, and scholarly research. By seeking the truth from facts, we can avoid imposing our own biases or preconceptions onto the text and instead let the evidence guide our understanding. This approach can help us answer difficult questions from the Bible with more clarity and confidence and avoid misinterpretations or misunderstandings.

Furthermore, seeking the truth from facts can help us reconcile apparent contradictions or inconsistencies within the Bible. By examining the historical and cultural context of the text, we can better understand the original intent of the authors and the meaning behind their words.

It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings. (Proverbs 25:2 NIV)

This verse emphasises the importance of diligently searching and investigating matters, including the truths found in the Bible, to gain a deeper understanding and wisdom.

In short, seeking the truth from facts is crucial for interpreting and understanding the Bible accurately. It enables us to approach the text with humility and intellectual curiosity and helps us find meaningful and relevant insights from this ancient and revered text.

As we read this book, may God help us approach difficult questions about the Bible with curiosity and humility, and rely on evidence and verifiable information to form our beliefs and make decisions. Let’s set aside our biases and preconceptions and seek truth with an open mind and heart.

The idea of seeking truth from facts is a valuable and important approach for all Christians to consider, regardless of their position in church. By striving for a deeper and more nuanced understanding of our faith and the world around us, we can grow closer to God and become more compassionate and informed members of our communities.

Seeking the truth from facts emphasises the importance of seeking truth, as it leads to freedom from ignorance and deception.

The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps. (Proverbs 14:15 NIV)

This verse underscores the importance of critically evaluating information and seeking truth rather than naively believing everything, emphasising the need for discernment and critical thinking.

May God grant us discernment and clarity as we navigate life’s complexities and help us always be guided by his love and compassion. We pray that our pursuit of truth and understanding will lead us closer to you and divine wisdom.

Best regards

Nelson Cheng

About the Author

850499FINAL_Page_014_Image_0001.jpg

Nelson Cheng, the distinguished founder and chairman of Magna Group, assumes a pivotal role in overseeing a diverse portfolio of subsidiaries, including but not limited to Magna International, Magna F.E. Chemical Pte Ltd, Magna Chemical Canada Ltd, Magna Australia Pvt Ltd, and Lupromax International Pte Ltd. A recipient of an honorary doctorate from the University of Baja California in 2015, Cheng’s academic foundation in marine engineering was solidified through a UNDP scholarship.

His prominence as Singapore’s foremost inventor is underscored by an impressive array of achievements, encompassing over 800 chemical, lubricant, disinfectant, surfactant, and anti-corrosion products, with twenty-five patents registered in the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) and Worldwide Intellectual Property (WIPO). Noteworthy is the fact that 230 of these products, distinguished by NATO stock numbers, are distributed across approximately thirty countries.

Cheng’s inventive contributions extend to pioneering technologies in corrosion protection, notably the development of Vappro VCI (vapour corrosion inhibitors), Vappro CRI (concrete rebar inhibitor), molecular reaction surface technology, colloidal corrosion inhibitors, and heat activated technology.

A prolific author, Cheng boasts an extensive body of work that includes nine books and 165 research papers and technical journals, with 167 citations published in esteemed platforms such as NACE, IJETAE, IJCTET, Cambridge University Press, and others. His expertise also extends to contributing chapters on corrosion control in various publications.

Cheng has had the privilege of addressing conferences organised by prestigious institutions, including the Singapore Ministry of Education, Singapore Manufacturers’ Association, Singapore Packaging Council, ASEAN Regional Dialogue on Packaging Sustainability, and events in Qingdao, China, focusing on anti-pollution of the oceans and industry events centred on design, sustainable technology, and packaging.

Recognised on local, regional, and global scales, Cheng has received numerous accolades, including the World Star Packaging Award, World Star Packaging Gold President Award, Asia Star Packaging Award, Singapore Packaging Star Award for green and sustainable packaging technology, and the Top Entrepreneur Award by the Singapore Small Medium Business Association.

Actively engaged in professional associations, Cheng is a member of the American Chemical Society (ACS), Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA), Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE), World Corrosion Organization (WCO), European Federation of Corrosion (EFC), and the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE).

Acknowledgements

850499FINAL_Page_016_Image_0001.jpg

I am thankful to Dr Talo for his invaluable contributions to the fruition of this book, Seeking the Truth from Facts. Dr Talo’s unwavering commitment to academic rigour and his keen intellect have been instrumental in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the content within these pages.

Dr Talo generously dedicated his time and expertise to read and meticulously verify the manuscripts, providing invaluable insights that have undoubtedly enhanced the quality and credibility of this book. His thorough examination and expert opinion have been crucial in upholding the standards of accuracy and authenticity that I aspired to achieve.

I am truly blessed to have had the privilege of working with Dr Talo, whose dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and commitment to scholarly excellence have left an indelible mark on this book. His guidance and constructive feedback have been invaluable, shaping the narrative and enriching the depth of the information presented in this book.

His contributions have undoubtedly elevated the intellectual calibre of this work, and I am profoundly grateful for his collaboration.

With sincere thanks,

Nelson Cheng

850499FINAL_Page_017_Image_0001.jpg

I want to express my deepest gratitude to my brother, James Cheng, on the acknowledgements page of this book. His influence and the profound statement he left in his Bible many years ago, ‘Thoughts are seeds for action,’ have been a guiding light in my life’s journey.

Since embracing this powerful mantra, my life has undergone a remarkable transformation. I transitioned from a procrastinator to a proactive individual, and the impact has been extraordinary. This shift in mindset has propelled me to achieve milestones beyond my wildest dreams.

I am humbled to mention that I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to the scientific business realms, having published over 155 scientific papers, written nine books, and filed more than twenty-five patents. Through sincere dedication and perseverance, I’ve been fortunate to be recognised as one of Singapore’s inventors, receiving various local, regional, and global awards along the way.

None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the grace of God and the seeds of inspiration James planted in my life. His dedication to the mission field and his subsequent journey as a marketplace minister have left an indelible mark on my character and ambitions.

Thank you, James, for being a source of inspiration, wisdom, and unwavering support. Your impact has been immeasurable, and I am forever grateful for the role you’ve played in shaping the course of my life and eternal grateful for God’s divine enablement.

With heartfelt thanks,

Nelson Cheng

Chapter 1

What Is The Purpose Of The Book Seeking The Truth From Facts?

Seeking the truth from facts when answering difficult questions of the Bible is essential because it helps us to approach the text with objectivity, clarity, and accuracy. By taking a fact-based approach, we can gain a deeper understanding of the Bible and avoid misinterpretation or misapplication of its teachings.

Indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. (Proverbs 2:3–5 NIV)

This verse emphasises the importance of seeking wisdom, understanding, and knowledge by searching for it as if it were valuable treasure. Seeking truth from facts requires a similar level of diligence and commitment.

As Christians, seeking the truth from facts is of utmost importance for several compelling reasons:

Honouring God’s Word

The Bible is considered the sacred and inspired Word of God by Christians. By seeking the truth from facts, we honour the integrity of God’s Word and strive to interpret and apply it accurately, respecting its historical and cultural context, literary genres, and intended meaning. This helps us avoid misinterpretation or misapplication that can lead to confusion or false teachings.

Personal Growth

Seeking the truth from facts requires intentional effort, research, and critical thinking. Engaging in the process of investigating and verifying information helps Christians to grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. It encourages us to be lifelong learners and equips us with a deeper understanding of our faith, enabling us to articulate and defend our beliefs with wisdom and confidence.

Discernment

In a world filled with diverse beliefs, opinions, and information, seeking the truth from facts equips Christians with discernment. It helps us distinguish between truth and deception, fact and opinion, and allows us to critically evaluate various sources of information, including theological teachings, cultural norms, and societal trends, considering God’s Word.

Unity and Reconciliation

The Bible is a complex and multifaceted collection of texts, and Christians may encounter apparent contradictions or inconsistencies. Seeking the truth from facts helps us reconcile apparent conflicts, harmonise seemingly disparate passages, and arrive at a cohesive and balanced understanding of God’s Word. This fosters unity among Christians