God reveals who He is to His people through His name. When Moses asked for God’s name, the Lord answered, “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14). The name Yahweh shows that God is self-existent and faithful. Throughout Scripture, God sometimes adds descriptive titles to His name to reveal how He is working for His people.

One of those names is Yahweh-Nissi — “The Lord is my Banner” (Exodus 17:15). When Israel was attacked by Amalek, Moses stood on the hill with the staff of God. As long as his hands were raised, Israel prevailed. When they lowered, Amalek gained ground. Aaron and Hur helped hold his hands up, and Israel ultimately won the battle. In ancient warfare a banner was a rallying point that told soldiers where to gather and under whose authority they fought. Likewise, God’s people fight under His name and identity.

Another name is Yahweh-Shalom — “The Lord is Peace” (Judges 6:24). When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he was hiding in fear while threshing wheat in a winepress. Yet the angel said, “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior” (Judges 6:12). Though Israel was still oppressed, Gideon trusted God’s promise and called Him peace.

Ultimately these names point forward to Christ. Jesus said, “If I am lifted up… I will draw all men to myself” (John 12:32), and “He Himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14). Whether in battle or fear, Yahweh is both our banner and our peace.

Pastor Joshua uses the Bible version NET

Download: Restoration Theology Student Notes

Recap of Class Journey

• Covered interpreting Scripture: Primacy, perspicuity, textual criticism, translation bias, literary/historical contexts, application.

• Surveyed theologies: Biblical, systematic, analytic, historical, comparative.

• Ended with method to evaluate doctrines (objective rating on how well a doctrine is presented)

Addressing Criticisms of Restorationism

• Criticism 1 (Kevin DeYoung): Don’t interpret apart from creeds/traditions.

  • Response: Luther challenged traditions; Protestants shouldn’t act like Catholics. Traditions ok, but Bible critiques them.

• Criticism 2: “No creed but the Bible” is a creed.

  • Response: Everyone has creeds (beliefs); restorationists can use them but they should be editable

• Criticism 3: Overturn historic consensus.

  • Response: Not chaos; Bible is authority. Historic views ok if biblical; burden on unbiblical traditions.

• Criticism 4: Zipping back to 1st century ignores history.

  • Response: Not ignoring; learn from giants, but Bible first.

Benefits of Restorationism

• Clarity: Methodical approach resolves confusion; evaluates doctrines objectively.

• Unity: Denominations divide; restorationism unites via Bible.

• Evangelism: Intriguing label – “Restorationist” sparks questions.

Conclusion: Changing the World

• Restorationism combines inquiry/tech for authenticity.

• AI levels field; anyone can explore options.

• Time for disagreeing constructively: Debates, books, gatherings in love.

• Move toward truth/unity: Christianismi Restitutio.