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How do you respond to Acts 4:27–28?

The Christians in Jerusalem proclaim to the Lord, “…both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, gathered together against our holy servant Jesus… to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place.”

This passage tells us that Herod, Pilate, the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel carried out God’s predestined plan, not that they were individually predestined to carry out God’s plan. That Jesus was going to be killed was settled ahead of time. Who would kill him was not.

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Greg and Paul Tag Team to Answer Your Questions

Greg Boyd and Paul Eddy answered questions submitted from Woodland Hills Church and podcasters during all three services this last Saturday and Sunday. They covered a wide range of topics so, chances are, you’ll find something here of interest to you. You can download audio or video from the three services below: Saturday evening service…

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What is the significance of Deuteronomy 8:2?

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