The Doctrine Of Religious Liberty (Freedom)

The Doctrine Of Religious Liberty (Freedom)

Bodie Hodge, M.Sc., B.Sc., PEI

Biblical Authority Ministries, June 23, 2026 (Donate)

There are some religions that force their religion on others—sometimes with the threat of the sword and terror or in other instances, academic pressure. Yet Christianity is unique against these types of religions. We actively refute false religions, and show the truthfulness of the Bible but our job has never been to force Christianity on someone.

Christians openly discuss the faults with other religions and encourage others to trust in Christ and His Word; Image requested by Bodie Hodge*

The reason is obvious—Christians don’t convert people. God does. That is the job of the Holy Spirit to convict someone of their sin and open their heart to the Gospel to say Christ is Lord (1 Corinthians 12:3). It is the job of the Christian to remove all opposition by refuting false worldviews, answering questions about the truth of the Bible, and presenting the Gospel.

Made In The Image Of A  Free God

God created mankind in His image (Genesis 1:26–27). Because God is a personal, rational, free, and moral being, He created people with the ability to think, make decisions, and exercise free choice.

God is completely free in all that He does (i.e., God can do all His holy will), and mankind reflects this aspect of God's nature in a limited way. This does not mean man is equal to God, but it does mean that humans are not robots or machines. We are responsible creatures who make real decisions and are accountable for them.

Sadly, Adam and Eve rebelled against God in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). Their sin brought death, suffering, and corruption into the world. Since that time, every descendant of Adam has been born into a fallen world and possesses a sinful nature.

In a perfect world, there was no fear of animals; after sin, death reigned; Photo by Bodie Hodge

The Fall damaged mankind spiritually, morally, mentally, and physically. Nevertheless, it did not destroy the fact that humans remain image-bearers of God. Even in a fallen condition, people still make choices, think, reason, and act according to their desires.

Freedom And Liberty In A Fallen World

Although the world is cursed because of sin, God continues to grant mankind many freedoms. Throughout Scripture, God does not force obedience through constant coercion. Instead, He commands, warns, teaches, convicts, and calls people to repentance. He allows people to make decisions and then holds them accountable for those decisions (e.g., judgment day).

This principle can be seen throughout the Bible. Joshua challenged Israel, saying, "Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve" (Joshua 24:15). Moses called upon Israel to choose life rather than death (Deuteronomy 30:19). Jesus invited sinners to come to Him (Matthew 11:28). The Bible consistently treats people as morally responsible beings.

At the same time, biblical liberty is never a license for sin. Scripture distinguishes between freedom and lawlessness. Christians are called to use their liberty responsibly. Paul wrote, "For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh" (Galatians 5:13). True freedom is the ability to serve God and others rightly, not the freedom to rebel against God's commands.

Did Man Lose His Free Will At The Fall?

Christians have debated this question for centuries. The Bible clearly teaches that mankind lost his perfect fellowship with God at the Fall. Sin separated humanity from God, and every person became subject to death and judgment (Genesis 3; Romans 5:12).

Scripture also teaches that fallen man cannot save himself. Salvation is a free gift by God's grace and not by human effort (Ephesians 2:8–9).

However, the Bible also shows that people continue to make real choices. They choose whom they will serve, what they will believe, and how they will respond to God's revelation. Fallen humanity is spiritually unable to save itself or earn righteousness before God, but people still possess a will and make decisions every day.

For example, Stephen rebuked his audience by saying, "You always resist the Holy Spirit" (Acts 7:51). Jesus lamented over Jerusalem because many refused to come to Him (Matthew 23:37). These passages show that people are not "mindless" creatures but responsible for their decisions—subject to blessing or judgment.

Different Christian traditions explain the relationship between human freedom and divine grace differently (see your local denomination). Yet nearly all orthodox Christian traditions agree that mankind remains responsible for his actions even after the Fall.

God's Sovereignty And Human Freedom

Some people mistakenly think God's sovereignty and man's freedom are opposites. The Bible presents both as true simultaneously. God is completely sovereign over creation, history, and salvation. Nothing happens outside His ultimate knowledge and control.

Yet God often accomplishes His purposes through the decisions and actions of human beings. It’s not a problem for an all-powerful God to work out His sovereignty through the use of man’s free thought and actions.

Image requested by Bodie Hodge*

One of the clearest examples is the crucifixion of Christ. Jesus was delivered according to God's predetermined plan, yet those who crucified Him were still held responsible for their actions (Acts 2:23).

God's sovereignty and human responsibility operated together. For an all-powerful God, governing the world while allowing human beings to make real choices is not difficult. His wisdom and power are beyond our full comprehension. Scripture teaches both truths and never treats them as contradictions because they are not contradictory. If we think they are contradictory, it should reveal a lot about our own sinful and error-prone nature as a result of the Fall!

Religious Liberty And Civil Freedom

The biblical concept of liberty has greatly influenced many nations throughout history. The idea that individuals possess value because they are made in a free-God's image helped shape concepts such as freedom of conscience, freedom of worship, and protection from religious coercion.

Image requested by Bodie Hodge*

Historically, many Christians argued that faith must be sincere and cannot be forced. A person may be compelled to outwardly conform to a religion, but genuine faith comes from the heart. Because of this, many advocates of religious liberty appealed to biblical principles when defending freedom of conscience.

This does not mean all actions should be permitted. Governments are ordained by God to punish evil and protect the innocent (Romans 13:1–4). Religious liberty does not grant the right to commit crimes or violate God's moral law. Rather, it recognizes that belief itself cannot be forced and that individuals are still going to be held accountable before God for their convictions on judgment day.

Christian Liberty In The Church

Scripture also teaches a category often called "Christian liberty." These are matters where God has not given a direct command. Christians may come to different conclusions on certain non-essential issues while still honoring Christ.

Romans 14 and 1 Corinthians 8 discuss situations where believers may disagree about matters that are not central doctrines of the faith. In such cases, Christians are called to act according to conscience, show charity toward others, festivals, new moons, and avoid causing unnecessary division.

Christian liberties vary depending on the local churches; Image requested by Bodie Hodge*

Every denomination and local church may have different practices regarding these secondary or tertiary matters. Therefore, it is wise to contact your local church or denomination to learn how they understand and apply Christian liberty in specific areas.

Conclusion

The doctrine of religious liberty starts in Genesis with the truth that mankind was created in the image of God. Though the Fall brought sin and death into the world, people remain responsible moral creatures who make real choices.

God sovereignly governs all things while allowing humans to act according to their wills. Scripture teaches liberty, but not lawlessness; freedom, but not rebellion.

True liberty is found in living according to God's truth and ultimately in the freedom that comes through Jesus Christ, who said, "Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed" (John 8:36, NKJV).

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Bodie Hodge, Ken Ham's son in law, has been an apologist defending 6-day creation and opposing evolution since 1998. He spent 21 years working at Answers in Genesis as a speaker, writer, and researcher as well as a founding news anchor for Answers News. He was also head of the Oversight Council.  

Bodie launched Biblical Authority Ministries in 2015 as a personal website and it was organized officially in 2025 as a 501(c)(3). He has spoken on multiple continents and hosts of US states in churches, colleges, and universities. He is married with four children.

Mr. Hodge earned a Bachelor and Master of Science degrees from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (SIUC). Then he taught at SIUC for a couple of years as a Visiting Instructor teaching all levels of undergraduate engineering and running a materials lab and a CAD lab. He did research on advanced ceramic materials to develop a new method of production of titanium diboride with a grant from Lockheed Martin. He worked as a Test Engineer for Caterpillar, Inc., prior to entering full-time ministry.

His love of science was coupled with a love of history, philosophy, and theology. For about one year of his life, Bodie was editing and updating a theological, historical, and scientific dictionary/encyclopedia for AI use and training. Mr. Hodge has over 25 years of experience in writing, speaking and researching in these fields.

*Images generated by ChatGPT

 

The History And Importance Of Father’s Day

The History And Importance Of Father’s Day

Bodie Hodge, M.Sc., B.Sc., PEI

Biblical Authority Ministries, June 21, 2026 (Donate)

“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you. (Exodus 20:12, NKJV)

As a father, this day is special. Any father should love this day but in a secularized culture many fathers come under attack in various ways. So many fathers are left reeling in neglect and brokenness and my heart goes out to them. I understand—I lost my father years ago.

Being a father is hard and often underappreciated. And yet, the expectation is higher than one realizes.

My kiddos with their grandparents on Father's Day; Photo by Bodie Hodge

Honoring your father (and grandfathers) has ancient biblical foundations. It goes back to the example God gave in creation—being our ultimate Father and creator of mankind. He echoes this honor in The 10 Commandments by explicitly naming one’s father and mother to be honored. This should really be a lifelong honoring, but today we set aside days to honor mothers (Mother’s Day) and also Fathers (Father’s Day)

The Origin Of Father’s Day In The USA

Father’s Day is a holiday set aside to honor fathers and recognize their influence in the family and within our greater society. In the United States, the idea is usually credited to Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington.

After hearing a Mother’s Day sermon in 1909, she desired a similar day to honor her father, who had raised six children after the death of their mother. The first local Father’s Day celebration was held in 1910.

Over time, the observance spread across the nation. In 1972, President Richard Nixon signed legislation making Father’s Day a permanent national holiday in the United States.

While Father’s Day itself isn’t a prescribed biblical holiday, the Bible repeatedly commands the honoring fathers and mothers (Deuteronomy 5:16; Ephesians 6:1-3). For Christians, Father’s Day is a reminder to thank God for faithful fathers and father figures who rightly and by god’s grace guide, protect, teach, and encourage their families in godly instruction and living.

The Importance Of Fathers In A Biblical Worldview

From the beginning, God established the family as a foundational institution with the first marriage. Adam was created first and was given responsibility to lead and care for his family under God’s authority (Genesis 2). Throughout Scripture, fathers are called to instruct their children in the ways of the Lord (e.g., Proverbs 22:3-6).

In Deuteronomy 6:6-7, parents were commanded to teach God’s Word diligently to their children. Fathers especially were expected to pass on biblical truth to the next generation. The New Testament echoed this responsibility when he instructed fathers to “bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4, NKJV).

A godly father is more than a provider. We are teachers, protectors, leaders, encouragers, examples, and…we can be goofballs too! Our role is to point our family toward God—in thoughtful and hopefully joyful and fun ways. While no earthly father is perfect, faithful fathers emulate and mimic aspects of God’s love, care, patience, discipline, and provision.

Children Are A Blessing Like Arrows In A Quiver

Modern secular-influenced culture often views children as burdens, inconveniences, or obstacles to personal success. Consider the horrible abortion industry. The Bible presents a very different picture. Scripture declares:

“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one’s youth.” (Psalm 127:3-4, NKJV)

Children are described as blessings from God and compared to arrows in a warrior’s quiver. Just as arrows must be carefully crafted, aimed, and launched, children must be lovingly trained and prepared for life. As a father, I want to love and encourage my children in the things of the Lord while I sometimes spoil them a bit too much in the process!

Image requested by Bodie Hodge*

A wise father invests time in teaching, discipling, and encouraging his children so that they may stand firm in the truth and I’m constantly learning this as a growth process. The goal isn’t merely to raise successful adults, but faithful servants of God who will impact future generations. This is where I want to encourage fathers reading this.

God Is Our Ultimate Father

The Bible teaches that God is the ultimate Father of us all and all creation. In Luke 3:38, Adam is described as “the son of God,” highlighting God’s role as Creator. Since God created Adam, He stands as the ultimate source of human life. As a caveat, Adam isn’t to be confused with the only begotten (i.e., unique) Son of God who is Jesus Christ who is God who took on flesh to save us from our sin.

Nevertheless, throughout the Old Testament, God is often described as a Father to His people. He cared for Israel, protected them, disciplined them, and He even showed them mercy. Unlike human fathers who are limited and imperfect, God is perfect in wisdom, justice, holiness, and love (consider the omni’s of God).

Every good father reflects, even if imperfectly, some aspect of God’s fatherly care. When earthly fathers faithfully lead their families according to Scripture, they provide a glimpse of the greater Fatherhood of God.

God Is Our Ultimate Spiritual Father

Beyond being Creator, God is also the spiritual Father of believers. Through faith in Jesus Christ, Christians are adopted into God’s family. The New Testament repeatedly speaks of believers as “sons of God” and children of God.

Romans 8:14-15 teaches:

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God... you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’”

Likewise, Galatians 4:4-7 explains that believers are adopted into God’s household through Christ. This adoption isn’t merely symbolic. Christians become heirs of God’s promises and members of His family forever.

Because of this relationship, believers can approach God—not merely as a distant Creator—but as a loving heavenly Father who is close to our heart. He hears their prayers, provides for their needs, disciplines them for their good, and promises them an eternal inheritance through Jesus Christ.

Final Remarks

Father’s Day is more than a cultural holiday. It is an opportunity to thank God for the fathers who have influenced our lives and to reflect on the biblical importance of fatherhood. Scripture presents fathers as leaders, teachers, protectors, and examples within the family. Children are described as blessings from God, and fathers are entrusted with helping guide those blessings toward maturity and faithfulness.

The four arrows in our quiver; Photo by Bodie Hodge

Ultimately, every faithful earthly father points beyond himself to the perfect Father in heaven—which is my hope every day. God is the Creator of mankind, the Father of believers through adoption in Christ, and the One whose love and care never fail.

As we celebrate Father’s Day, we can honor godly fathers while giving thanks to our Heavenly Father, from whom every good and perfect gift comes.

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Bodie Hodge, Ken Ham's son in law, has been an apologist defending 6-day creation and opposing evolution since 1998. He spent 21 years working at Answers in Genesis as a speaker, writer, and researcher as well as a founding news anchor for Answers News. He was also head of the Oversight Council.  

Bodie launched Biblical Authority Ministries in 2015 as a personal website and it was organized officially in 2025 as a 501(c)(3). He has spoken on multiple continents and hosts of US states in churches, colleges, and universities. He is married with four children.

Mr. Hodge earned a Bachelor and Master of Science degrees from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (SIUC). Then he taught at SIUC for a couple of years as a Visiting Instructor teaching all levels of undergraduate engineering and running a materials lab and a CAD lab. He did research on advanced ceramic materials to develop a new method of production of titanium diboride with a grant from Lockheed Martin. He worked as a Test Engineer for Caterpillar, Inc., prior to entering full-time ministry.

His love of science was coupled with a love of history, philosophy, and theology. For about one year of his life, Bodie was editing and updating a theological, historical, and scientific dictionary/encyclopedia for AI use and training. Mr. Hodge has over 25 years of experience in writing, speaking and researching in these fields.

* Image generated by ChatGPT 

 

The Doctrine Of Life

The Doctrine Of Life

Bodie Hodge, M.Sc., B.Sc., PEI

Biblical Authority Ministries, June 19, 2026 (Donate)

God is life (John 14:6). He is the Creator of life and Sustainer of life. Life then, is based on a spiritual being because God is spirit (John 4:24).

The creation of Eve; Image requested by Bodie Hodge*

You are reading this because God gave you intelligent life—through your mutual ancestors Adam and Eve who passed life to their descendants all the way down to your generation. But God gave the first man’s his life and upholds that life as it intrinsically passed all way down to all people today.

Regarding physical life, we define it via physical aspects:

1.     breath (e.g., breath of life)

2.     blood (e.g., actively flowing with a heartbeat to take what you breath, eat, and drink to sustain your physical body.

3.     Temperature (range of sustainability)

4.     Adequate bodily form (e.g., you’ve not been smashed by a tower)

5.     Etc.

If these things stop or have major problems, then life in the physical sense ceases. This is death, in a physical reality. So, there is a relationship between life and death (I know you already knew that!).

Eternal Life in Christ Alone

But man is made uniquely in the image of an eternal God. Thus, our souls have an eternal aspect that will go on forever. It is appointed for man to die one (because of sin in Genesis 3 of course), then face judgment.

Man will again have new bodies upon the physical resurrection (in a manner that Christ was physically resurrected) and spend eternity in either:

·       Heaven (eternal life/everlasting life in Heaven—technically a new heaven and a new earth; enjoying God’s goodness forever) or

·       Hell (eternal death/everlasting punishment; where the infinite wrath of God abides on you forever—with nothing good ever and is described as being in a fire burning for all eternity).

So, the matter of attaining eternal life by believing in Jesus Christ, who is God, came in the flesh and died in your place for your sins through His death, burial, and resurrection is of utmost importance. Unrepentant sinners will not be saved from the punishment of their sins because they didn’t receive Jesus Christ, thus they remain condemned.

When one believes in Jesus, their sins are forgiven and Christ’s perfect righteousness is transferred to you (called imputation). This is why you are seen as spotless before God on judgment day.

Doctrine of Life According to the Bible

So far, we have been discussing human life and how it relates to the source of life—and eternal life—God Himself. Yet human beings are not the only living creatures God has made. Animals also possess life, and angels are living spiritual beings. When the Bible discusses life, it presents a comprehensive picture that includes mankind, animals, and angels, all of whom owe their existence to the Creator.

Origin of Life

All life ultimately originates from God. Genesis 1–2 declares that God created the heavens, the earth, and every living thing within them. Unlike any other creature, man was made in the image of God (Genesis 1:26–27). God personally formed Adam from the dust of the ground and breathed into him the breath of life, making him a living being (Genesis 2:7). Human life is therefore unique, reflecting God's image and possessing an eternal aspect.

Animals were also created by God during Creation Week according to their distinct kinds (Genesis 1:20–25). Scripture refers to them as living creatures, using the Hebrew expression nephesh chayyah, meaning "living being" or "living creature." Their existence testifies to God's wisdom, creativity, and provision.

Angels likewise owe their existence to God. They are spiritual beings who were created either before or during the foundation of the world (Job 38:7; Nehemiah 9:6; Colossians 1:16). Though they are not made in the image of God as mankind is, they reflect certain attributes associated with their spiritual nature. God created them to serve Him, worship Him, and carry out His will throughout creation (Hebrews 1:14). For more see Abiogenesis vs. The Law of Biogenesis

Purpose of Life

God created every form of life with a purpose. Human beings were made for fellowship with God. Before sin entered the world, Adam and Eve enjoyed direct communion with their Creator in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:8). Mankind was also commissioned to exercise dominion over the earth, steward creation, reflect God's image, and worship Him. As Solomon concluded, man's chief duty is to fear God and keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

Animals serve an important role within God's creation as well. They display God's creativity, wisdom, and provision. Psalm 104 beautifully describes God's care for the animal kingdom. Although animals are not moral beings and are not accountable before God in the same manner as humans, they remain part of His originally good creation. Nevertheless, they now suffer under the effects of the curse that entered the world through man's sin in Genesis 3.

Angels were created to serve and glorify God. They carry out His commands, minister to His people, and participate in the administration of His purposes throughout history (Psalm 103:20; Hebrews 1:14). Sadly, some angels rebelled against God and became demons. Their rebellion is irreversible, and Scripture teaches that their final destiny is eternal judgment.

Nature of Life

Human life consists of both material and immaterial components. Man possesses a physical body as well as a soul and spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:23). Because mankind is made in God's image, human life possesses inherent dignity and value. Scripture repeatedly emphasizes the sacredness of human life (Genesis 9:6). Death, by contrast, is portrayed as an enemy and intruder into God's good creation (1 Corinthians 15:26). In many respects, death may be viewed as a parasite upon life, disrupting what God originally intended.

Angels are fundamentally different from humans. They are spiritual, non-corporeal beings (Hebrews 1:14), though God may permit them to appear in physical form when carrying out His purposes, as seen in Genesis 18. 

Angels do not marry (Matthew 22:30), possess remarkable intelligence and power, and exist separately from humanity. Some remained faithful to God and are often referred to as the elect angels, while others exercised their ability to rebel and became demons.

Animal life is physical and biological in nature. Like mankind, animals possess the breath of life (Genesis 7:15) and are described as living creatures. However, Scripture never indicates that animals bear the image of God or possess the eternal destiny associated with human beings. While animals have a soulish life in the sense of nephesh chayyah, they occupy a different place within God's created order than mankind.

Death and Destiny

The destinies of humans, animals, and angels differ significantly. Human death entered the world because of sin (Genesis 3; Romans 5:12). Although the physical body dies, the soul continues to exist. Every person will ultimately experience resurrection and judgment (Hebrews 9:27; Daniel 12:2). Those who trust in Christ inherit eternal life in God's presence, while those who reject Him remain under condemnation and face eternal punishment.

Animals eventually return to the dust from which they came (Ecclesiastes 3:19–20). While Scripture speaks extensively about their role in creation, it does not directly reveal an afterlife for animals.

The destiny of angels depends upon whether they remained faithful to God. Holy angels continue to serve in God's presence, while fallen angels await their final judgment. Scripture teaches that Satan and his demons will ultimately be cast into the lake of fire prepared for them (Matthew 25:41; 2 Peter 2:4).

Redemption, Restoration, and Eternal Life

The greatest expression of God's life-giving work is found in redemption through Jesus Christ. Because of Christ's death and resurrection, spiritual life is restored to sinners who trust in Him. Jesus declared that He came so that His people might have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10). Through faith in Christ, believers receive eternal life, forgiveness of sins, and the indwelling Holy Spirit as a guarantee of their future inheritance (Romans 6:23; Ephesians 1:13–14).

God's plan of redemption extends beyond humanity to encompass the restoration/new creation. Romans 8 teaches that creation presently groans under the curse and eagerly awaits its renewal. In the new heavens and new earth, the effects of sin will be removed (Revelation 21-22).

Unlike mankind, fallen angels are offered no plan of redemption. Hebrews 2:16 reveals that Christ's saving work was directed toward mankind, not angels. Faithful angels will continue serving God throughout eternity, while fallen angels will face everlasting judgment.

Ultimately, eternal life is found only in union with God through Jesus Christ. It begins the moment a person places faith in Christ and continues forever. Humans alone are offered this gift through the gospel. 

Angels are eternal but not redeemed; animals are temporal, yet animals will be part of heaven. The doctrine of life therefore teaches that all life is sacred, purposeful, and accountable to the Creator. Human beings occupy a unique position as image-bearers of God, angels serve His purposes as spiritual beings, and animals display His wisdom and creativity—all under the sovereign rule of the living God.

Eternal life is a mysterious union with God (e.g., the church is the bride of Christ), beginning now by faith in Christ and continuing forever (John 17:3). Only mankind is offered this through the gospel (1 John 5:11–12). 

This doctrine affirms that life is sacred, purposeful, and accountable to the Creator. Man holds a unique place in creation (as image bearers), spiritual beings serve divine purposes, and animals reflect God's creativity—all under His sovereign rule.

Biblical Life (Nephesh) Vs. Modern Biological Life—Two Different Definitions

The Bible defines what life is—we often call this "biblical life" (Hebrew: nephesh, chayyah). Biblical life is based on the presence of a soul or consciousness. Man, as well as animals, are defined as life. Plants, protists, like microbes, fungi, rivers, rocks and stars are not defined as life biblically.

Angels and heavenly beings are also considered living having a soul. God, being absolute life and the ultimate life-giving Spirit, not only created all life but sustains and upholds life into existence.

Based on modern classifications, life today is defined differently from the Bible. This is called "biological life" and has to do with biological processes, growth, reproduction, and so on. So many things overlap in this definition, but not all things.

Man and animals are life in both definitions. However, plants, protists like amoebas, and fungi are also “alive” in the biological sense. Viruses are a bit of mess via this definition—so it depends on with whom you are chatting. But rocks, stars, and rivers are not defined as life in this system. 

The Hebrew term nephesh (נֶפֶשׁ), often translated as "soul" or "living being," signifies a creature with consciousness, emotions, and the breath of life. This term is applied to humans and animals but never to plants.

• Man (Body, Soul/Spirit that is made in the image of an eternal God): Genesis 2:7 describes man becoming a nephesh chayyah ("living soul") when God breathed the breath of life into him. This denotes a being with self-awareness and moral responsibility (1 Thessalonians 5:23).
• Animals (body and soul): Creatures like fish, birds, and land animals are also referred to as nephesh chayyah in Genesis 1:20–21, 24, 30, indicating they possess life in a similar, though not identical, sense to humans.
• Plants (body): The Bible does not classify plants as nephesh life. They are described as withering rather than dying, suggesting they lack the soul or consciousness attributed to nephesh beings.

Biological Life

Biological life encompasses all organisms that exhibit growth, reproduction, and metabolic processes. While plants and microorganisms are biologically alive, the Bible does not attribute nephesh to them. Thus, from a biblical perspective, not all biologically living entities possess the "life" that includes a soul or consciousness. Thus, there are key distinctions:

• Consciousness: Nephesh beings have consciousness and emotions; plants do not.
• Moral Responsibility: Man, as nephesh beings, have moral obligations; plants, for example do not. Though animals could be judged for certain things (e.g., Leviticus 20:15-16)
• Death: Nephesh beings experience death; plants are described as withering, not dying in the same sense.

This Relates to the Theological Topic of Death Before Sin

The distinction between biblical life (nephesh life) and biological life has important implications for the doctrine of death before sin.

According to Genesis 1, God completed Creation and declared it "very good" (Genesis 1:31). At that time, Adam and Eve had not sinned, and death had not entered the world through mankind. Scripture repeatedly teaches that death entered the human race through Adam's sin (Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22).

Some people assume that no form of death whatsoever could have occurred before Adam sinned. However, the Bible specifically connects the curse of death to nephesh life—human beings and animals. Plants are never described as nephesh creatures. Since plants were given to man and animals for food from the beginning (Genesis 1:29-30), plant consumption was part of God's original creation before sin entered the world.

This distinction helps explain why Scripture emphasizes the death of creatures possessing the breath of life and a living soul. The death that entered through Adam's sin affected mankind directly and the animal kingdom indirectly because of the curse placed upon creation (Romans 8:20-22). Plants, however, are never described in Scripture as bearing God's image or possessing nephesh life.

Death in rock layers had to be laid down after Adam and Eve sinned. The Flood of Noah's day explain why rock layers have examples of death. Image requested by Bodie Hodge*

This understanding preserves the biblical teaching that death is an enemy (1 Corinthians 15:26), while recognizing the distinctions God Himself makes between different forms of life in Scripture.

Christ: The Lord of Life

The doctrine of life ultimately points us to Jesus Christ. He declared, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). Life is not merely a biological process or a chemical reaction. Life originates from God, is sustained by God, and finds its ultimate purpose in God.

Christ is the Creator through whom all things were made (John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17). He gives physical life to every creature and spiritual life to all who trust in Him. Through His death, burial, and resurrection, He conquered death itself and secured eternal life for His people.

The gospel is therefore a message about life. Those who remain in rebellion against God are spiritually dead and remain under condemnation. Those who repent and place their faith in Christ are born again, receive eternal life, and are adopted into God's family. Eternal life is not merely endless existence; it is a restored relationship with the living God.

One day Christ will return and raise the dead. Believers will receive glorified bodies that can never die, suffer, or decay. The curse will be removed, creation will be restored, and God's people will dwell with Him forever in the new heavens and new earth.

Conclusion

The doctrine of life teaches that God alone is the source of all life. Human beings, animals, and angels owe their existence to Him. Human life is uniquely valuable because mankind alone is made in the image of God. Animals display God's creativity and wisdom, while angels serve His purposes as spiritual beings.

Life is sacred because it comes from God. Death is an intruder that entered the world through sin. Yet through Jesus Christ, God has provided the solution to sin and death. Those who trust in Christ receive forgiveness, righteousness, and eternal life.

From the first breath given to Adam to the resurrection of the saints, the Bible presents a unified message: life comes from God, is sustained by God, and finds its fullest expression in fellowship with God through Jesus Christ. Therefore, the doctrine of life is ultimately a doctrine about the glory of the living God, who alone has life in Himself and freely gives it to His creatures.

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Bodie Hodge, Ken Ham's son in law, has been an apologist defending 6-day creation and opposing evolution since 1998. He spent 21 years working at Answers in Genesis as a speaker, writer, and researcher as well as a founding news anchor for Answers News. He was also head of the Oversight Council.  

Bodie launched Biblical Authority Ministries in 2015 as a personal website and it was organized officially in 2025 as a 501(c)(3). He has spoken on multiple continents and hosts of US states in churches, colleges, and universities. He is married with four children.

Mr. Hodge earned a Bachelor and Master of Science degrees from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (SIUC). Then he taught at SIUC for a couple of years as a Visiting Instructor teaching all levels of undergraduate engineering and running a materials lab and a CAD lab. He did research on advanced ceramic materials to develop a new method of production of titanium diboride with a grant from Lockheed Martin. He worked as a Test Engineer for Caterpillar, Inc., prior to entering full-time ministry.

His love of science was coupled with a love of history, philosophy, and theology. For about one year of his life, Bodie was editing and updating a theological, historical, and scientific dictionary/encyclopedia for AI use and training. Mr. Hodge has over 25 years of experience in writing, speaking and researching in these fields.

 

The Importance Of Biblical Doctrine

The Importance Of Biblical Doctrine

Bodie Hodge, M.Sc., B.Sc., PEI

Biblical Authority Ministries, June 18, 2026 (Donate)

The lack of solid biblical doctrine in a church can cause immense problems. When people in the church are not trained to know the truth from the Bible—then it is easy to fall into error.

Churches—big or small—should be teaching biblical doctrine to keep form falling into error. Image requested by Bodie Hodge*

If You Don’t Learn Doctrine

A church could be led astray by unbiblical teachings of a leader, false prophet, bad interpretations, syncretism (mixing Christianity with another religion), etc. Consider for a moment if a church leader begins teaching something contrary to Bible, all the while saying it was biblical? Sometimes, it even sounds good and right until it is examined and tested against God’s Word carefully. Sadly, this happens all the time.

For instance, have you ever heard a Christian leader say that “Christianity is a relationship, not a religion!”? It sounds good and it’s been repeated for decades—so much so that its origins are shrouded in mystery.

But a quick test against the Bible and you’ll find that God openly calls Christianity a religion in the book of James—twice (James 1:26 and 1:27).

If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. (James 1:26-27, NKJV)

The Christian religion is to be pure and undefiled, with bridled (i.e., restrained, kind, and pure) speech and a life unstained by the world’s false teachings. In other words, Christianity should not be mixed with false religions and the erroneous teachings of the world. Otherwise, believers might be led astray into false doctrine, which can result in improper care for widows and orphans, among other consequences.

Is Christianity a relationship with Christ? Yes, but it is also a religion—the only true religion.[1]

Consider the situation of a new believer who has just received Christ as Lord. They know very little about many doctrines! New believers need to be taught and trained in biblical teaching. That is the essence of Christian education.

Now, what happens in a church if people are not trained in doctrine? First, their spiritual growth can stagnate. Second, they could fall into error. And lastly, they will be less effective in teaching and sharing the Gospel with the next generation—because they are simply not equipped to do so.

The importance of sound biblical doctrine cannot be overstated. One should not expect children or new believers to be experts in Christian doctrine, nor able to defend biblical authority, until they are properly trained. Again, that is the purpose of Christian education!

Training the next generation of believers in doctrine and a reasoned defense of the faith (called “apologetics”) is crucial. This is why apologetics often goes hand-in-hand with doctrinal teachings.

The Levels Of Doctrine: Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary

Primary doctrines are the most important teachings of Christianity because they define the Christian faith itself. These include beliefs such as the Trinity, the deity of Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection, salvation by grace through faith, and the authority of the 66 books of the Bible. If someone rejects these core teachings, they are rejecting essential parts of biblical Christianity. Christians should be united on these foundational truths.

Secondary doctrines are important teachings that affect how churches operate and practice their faith, but Christians can still recognize one another as fellow believers even when they disagree. Examples include the proper subjects and mode of baptism, church leadership, the timing of the administration of the Lord's Supper, eschatology, post-Flood boundary, certain theological debate within the realm of biblical authority (e.g., the Calvinism vs. Arminian debate), and when to rest.

These doctrines often explain why there are different Christian denominations, yet believers who disagree on them can still share the same gospel. But they often staunchly divide on these secondary doctrines.

Tertiary doctrines are teachings that Christians may discuss and debate without causing major divisions in fellowship. Examples include what clothing to wear, what style of music in which to listen and one’s understanding of the role of demons and fallen angels. These topics are worth studying because they help believers understand Scripture more fully, but Christians should show grace and charity toward one another when disagreements arise.

A good rule is: stand firmly on primary doctrines, take solid but gracious views of secondary doctrines, and discuss tertiary doctrines with humility and respect.

A Practical Example

Sadly, many people today reject the plain teaching of Genesis 1–11 regarding origins and reinterpret it to accommodate the Big Bang, millions of years, and evolutionary ideas. Some may argue that this is merely a side issue—a secondary or tertiary doctrine at best. However, this is fundamentally an issue of biblical authority.

Genesis 1-11 is foundational basis for all major doctrines of theology directly or indirectly, here are a few; Image from Presentation Library

There is a clear denial of what the Bible teaches in Genesis 1–11: that God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh. To reject this teaching and instead accept ideas that originate from other worldviews (the Big Bang, millions of years, and evolution are subsets of secular belief systems such as naturalism, evolutionism, secular humanism, and atheism) is a direct denial of the authority of Scripture, which is a primary doctrine.

When a professing Christian does this, he or she abandons what the Lord Jesus Christ has said in His Word, beginning with Genesis. Jesus is God; therefore, the Bible—including Genesis—is the Word of Christ. This, too, is a matter of primary doctrine. Genesis 1–11 serves as the foundation for every major biblical doctrine, either directly or indirectly, and it provides the essential foundation for the Gospel itself.

Genesis should not be casually neglected in favor of ideas that come from false religions or unbiblical worldviews. As a teaching point, notice how many Christians attempt to demote the straightforward and foundational teaching of Genesis 1–11 to the level of a secondary or tertiary doctrine. The reality is that denying Genesis 1–11 is a direct attack on the authority of God's Word.

The Bible, including Genesis, comes with the authority of Jesus Christ Himself. A professing Christian should stand upon that authority, not mock or undermine it.

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Bodie Hodge, Ken Ham's son in law, has been an apologist defending 6-day creation and opposing evolution since 1998. He spent 21 years working at Answers in Genesis as a speaker, writer, and researcher as well as a founding news anchor for Answers News. He was also head of the Oversight Council.  

Bodie launched Biblical Authority Ministries in 2015 as a personal website and it was organized officially in 2025 as a 501(c)(3). He has spoken on multiple continents and hosts of US states in churches, colleges, and universities. He is married with four children.

Mr. Hodge earned a Bachelor and Master of Science degrees from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale (SIUC). Then he taught at SIUC for a couple of years as a Visiting Instructor teaching all levels of undergraduate engineering and running a materials lab and a CAD lab. He did research on advanced ceramic materials to develop a new method of production of titanium diboride with a grant from Lockheed Martin. He worked as a Test Engineer for Caterpillar, Inc., prior to entering full-time ministry.

His love of science was coupled with a love of history, philosophy, and theology. For about one year of his life, Bodie was editing and updating a theological, historical, and scientific dictionary/encyclopedia for AI use and training. Mr. Hodge has over 25 years of experience in writing, speaking and researching in these fields. 

*Image generated by Grok

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[1] Thus, the initial statement “Christianity is a relationship, not a religion” is a bifurcation fallacy (also called an “either-or fallacy”.