What is the Symposium theme and why was it chosen?
The theme of the symposium centers on eschatology/prophecy. Eschatology deals with the study of end times prophecies and world events, which would include ones understanding of the "Rapture", the Second Coming of Christ, the Tribulation, the Millennial Kingdom, and Future Judgments etc. In addition to that there are a number of eschatological views two of which will be under consideration for this event.
The reason for choosing this particular subject is that the Bible warns us that in latter days there will be false prophets. For example one of the more recent ones would include Harold Camping, who did a massive advertising campaign saying there would be a rapture back in May of 2011 with a final judgment sometime after. Of course this did not come to pass and because of this and many other false predictions and misunderstandings concerning end-time events, there has been an increase in skepticism among Christians, about the value of studying eschatology. Through a proper interpretive approach to scripture one is less likely to fall victim to false prophets.
Eschatology is a great biblical subject that offers hope to the people of God and the study of it helps to steer people away from false prophets, false teachers and also helps to ground us more firmly in the Bible and offers hope both now and in the future
The two men who will be presenting their arguments are Gary George, pastor of Sovereign Grace Baptist in Southbridge Ma, and Anthony Miller pastor of Gace Baptist Church in Shrewsbury MA.
I have known brother Gary for close to 28 years and brother Anthony for close to 4 years. Both are good brothers and friends in the Lord.
Gary’s Background -
Gary is a graduate of Holy Cross College where he was a theology major. It was here where he came to know the Lord as his personal Saviour. He also attended Gordon-Conwell Seminary in the 80’s. Gary is known for his evangelistic zeal and apologetics. Over the years Gary has debated Orthodox Priests, Catholic Theologians, and seminary professors.
Gary has also authored a book titled – Hermeneutical Flaws of Dispensationalism focusing on the hermeneutical key in both the Old and New Testament passages that dispel Dispensation teaching concerning the 7-year tribulation, reinstitution of Temple worship, and Jewish Millennium.
Gary will be giving his argument for the Amilleniall/Reformed position
Anthony’s Background -
Anthony received Christ as Saviour while a freshman at Worcester State University. Among the numerous positions, he served as a campus chaplain. He is also an adjunct professor at Carolina College of Biblical Studies instructing in courses on Philosophy, theology, and apologetics. He is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Ministry in Apologetics at Southern Evangelical Seminary.
Brother Anthony will be presenting arguments for the Dispensational position.
Both men will be addressing the subject of biblical hermeneutics and why having a sound approach to hermeneutics is important when studying biblical prophecy.
Pastor Gary George - Soveriegn Grace Chapel Pastor Anthony Miller - Grace Baptist Shrewsbury