Todd Dennis
DEVELOPER AND CURATOR
PreteristArchive.com
(Est. 1996)
“BEST PROPHECY WEBSITE ON THE INTERNET”
Call to Ministry (1979) | Youth Camps, Presby/Luther/NonDenom (79-91) | Youth Missions, AZ/CA/Mexico (83-87) | BBS/Website/Forum Administrator (85-current) – First site called “The Arctic Circle” (all ASCII) | Street Preacher, ASU (Mill and University)/ND | Prison Ministry Preacher (91) | President, AGO Christian Fraternity Theta Chapter (91-92) – First excommunicate in AGO’s 72-year history | President, Campus Bible Ministries UAF (92-93) | Panelist, Jerry Springer Show, Episode #669 “Unconventional Christian Teachings” (September 09, 1993) | Youth Pastor, Indianapolis Baptist Temple (93-94) | Trained with Publisher Jonathan Byrd’s Rare Books & Bibles library | Graduate of Temple Baptist College – Entered Master’s Program (94) | ORDAINED: OCTOBER 9, 1994 (23rd Birthday) | Senior Pastor, Unregistered Baptist Church (94-98) | Embraced Fulfilled Eschatology (96) – Launched Preterist Archive website 10.1.96 | Renounced Full Preterism; Systematized Preterist-Idealism (06) | Lecturer (91-current)
With Eddie Walter (1998)
“Up to about 2006-2007, the Hyper-Preterist community found its unifying force in Todd Dennis’s now-classic “Preterist Archive.” On its mystic pages, Hyper-Preterists banded together, shared their opinions, laid down the parameters of the faith, encouraged one another, and even staged public debates with orthodox theologians. When, however, Todd renounced Hyper-Preterism in 200(6), identifying it as a dangerous heresy, the fragile unity was broken. With no more nexus of leadership, the movement began to splinter, eventually breaking into a number of opposing “camps.” This has been the main trend of Hyper-Preterism for the past three years. ” http://preteristnews.com/2010/07/08/how-hyper-preterists-lost-the-ball/
Best Independent Summation Yet
C. Preterist Idealism
This system was first developed by former Full Preterist Todd Dennis, and presented at the first annual “Carlsbad Eschatology Conference” in 2007 (hosted by Kurt Simmons); though it integrates elements from Preterism and other systems. Preterist Idealism teaches that the historical fulfillment of prophecy constitutes only the “shadows” of an eternal spiritual substance which believers obtain “in Christ.” New Testament typology is vertical rather than horizontal; and meant to point to the higher realties of the Christian life, rather than foreshadow things to come. Idealism relies heavily on the allegorical interpretation of prophetic texts. The system has a small number of adherents, most of them former Full Preterists.
http://preteristnews.com/2010/04/27/a-brief-survey-of-christian-eschatology/ |
Escape From Tribulation: Pella/Jerusalem as a Type
–Jerusalem as a Picture of the Heart–
Luke 21:20-24, “When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near. Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, and let those who are inside the city depart, and let not those who are out in the country enter it, for these are days of vengeance, to fulfill all that is written.” |
Luke 21:34-36, “Watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” |
Ps 31:4 “Free me from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge |
1Ti 6:9 – People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. // Re 20:9 And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them. // Ps 32:7 – You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah
EXHAUSTIVE ARCHIVE (under construction)
- 2013: Church-state relations and the Book of Revelation
- 2009: The figure used in Hebrews 9 is the Tabernacle in the Wilderness, not Herod’s Temple in Jerusalem Seeking to represent for the author of Hebrews, in the face of the proposition that Hebrews 9:8 refers to one of Jerusalem’s temples. “Futurist commentators who wish to mystically make Paul’s figure in Hebrews 9 refer to a temple in Jerusalem (such as a supposed future “third temple”) are misreading the passage as well as those who wish to make Paul’s figure refer to the fall of Jerusalem by the armies of Titus in AD70.”
- 2009: Hyper Preterism’s AD70 Focal Point is Fundamentally Different From Christianity’s Focal Point of the Cross “When the life of Jesus was draining away on the cross, He Himself noted that the redemptive work had been accomplished, in saying “it is finished”. Finished (Tetelestai, from the verb teleo) means “to complete, to accomplish”. Though some HyPs may try to diminish the meaning of the cross and Jesus’ declaration prior to His sacrificial death (which diminishment in itself serves as a litmus test for error), it was of the utmost significance. In fact, in order to maintain continuity with Christianity, it must remain the central focus. To diminish the centrality of the cross for redemptive accomplishment is to fundamentally alter the message that has been handed down and delivered throughout all generations. To diminish the cross event is not just a small matter of end times disagreement; Rather, it is an attack on the very foundations of Christianity.”
- 2008: On Leaving Full Preterism After A Decade – And The Doctrinal Advancement Which Comes From Properly Seeing AD70 As Symbol, Not Substance “Though full preterist systems don’t dispute that spiritual truths can be taken as applications of AD70, this idealist hybrid takes exactly the opposite view — that AD70 was the application of the spiritual realities. ..The most common complaint against the full preterist view is its inability to answer the “what now?” questions… but there is a concern that runs much deeper. By identifying the corporate “consummation of the ages” as having been settled for all time in AD70, the individual believers’ “transition period” is removed from today, being made a first century reality alone. This error neglects the importance of the “glory to glory” process at work in the life of the believer, and chooses rather to accept that there is no sin, death, or devil to be contended with today. In short, full preterist doctrine chooses the corporate over the individual, and this betrayal results in much suffering.”
AD70 is awesome! ..when used as a template of how Jesus has worked, is working, and will work. When seen as a single working 2,000 years ago… not so much.
- 2008: The Lord Jesus Christ : Telos and Eschaton
- 2008: Israel’s History a Type – From Beginning to Very End
- 2008: Matthew 10:23 is NOT a “Preterist Time Indicator” pointing to AD70 “It has become a working assumption of Hyper Preterism that the “coming” passages in the New Testament refer to AD70. And the eisegetical presupposition that Matthew 10:23 is a “(Hyper) Preterist time indicator” is considered to be unassailable, even though there is not a hint of reference to AD70 in the text or context of the chapter from which to support this conclusion.”
- 2008: Matthew 16:28 is NOT a “Preterist Time Indicator” pointing to AD70 “Why would we expect the Lord to perform his acts of power and glory just once — be it in the past or the future? What good does that do all the other generations? It seems to me that all prophecy ultimately finds its accomplishment in Christ internally and personally, as opposed to externally and historically. Even the cross must be received, and each follower must bear it as Jesus said.”
- 2008: Matthew 26:64 is NOT a “Preterist Time Indicator” Pointing to AD70 “In short, the usage of “Apo Arti” in Matthew 26:64 [Apo (“from” – Strongs 575) and Arti (“now on” – Strong’s 737)] is highly suggestive of the themes that have been previously offered at this blog ; that is, a series of revelatory recognitions of the power and glory of Jesus Christ’s dominance by friend and foe alike. Though the typically pret-friendly Weymouth translation would like to make Jesus say “later on, you will see..” this is not really honest. I would rather say that it was simply a mistake, but I find it impossible to believe that neither Richard Francis Weymouth (“If this belief ever obtains general acceptance the earlier date of the Apocalypse will also be regarded as fully established. For it will then be seen that the book describes beforehand events which took place in 70 A.D.”) nor Earnest Hampden-Cook (co-editor and author of “The Christ Has Come”) were aware of the importance of this passage regarding their Preterist assumptions. However, not only is there no sense of futurity in this very emphatic Greek phrase, but rather we see quite the opposite.”
- 2008: The Two Ingredients of an Effective Refutation of Hyper Preterism ; and, Dangrous or Wrong?
- 2006: An Interview with Virgil Vaduva on Preterist Terminology and Hybrids
- 2006: Hebrews 12:25-29: Jerusalem as the Heart“Looking closer at the “promised land,” we can see how the spiritual intent was revealed through fulfilled prophecy in Israel’s day. Though there was an appearance in the promises to Abraham of an ultimate fulfillment in reference to the everlasting possession of a particular tract of land in history, we know from New Testament revelation that the intent was regarding spiritual things in Christ. Though the promise found natural fulfillment in “Preterist Israel”, it was given to signify the true, greater fulfillment in “Ideal Israel” — with actual participants from all nations, throughout all generations (including ours).
“you are not far from the kingdom”
WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID
- 2011: Rod Edwards: “Todd Dennis, perhaps one of the most famous ex-hyperpreterists was accused by then leading hyperpreterist Virgil Vaduva of being “motivated by an irrational zeal which is clouding his mind and controls him and all he does” (source). Anyone that knows Dennis knows he is almost too gracious”
- 2011: Sam Frost: “Well, he never quotes the line from Chilton, either, delivered at his conference about the Paradise Mandate being “consummated” POST AD 70. Chilton had a “consummation” and never left Reformed soteriology. Todd Dennis has even weighed in here agreeing largely with what our research showed (and from Talbot’s personal conversations). When Chilton “full preterism” he did not have in mind the “full preterism” we see today…..”
- 2011: Sam Frost “Todd Dennis, who owns Preterist Archive, which is celebrated as perhaps the best Preterist website out there, has recently published material from Daniel Lamont, D.D., Professor Emeritus of Practical Theology in the University of Edinburgh ; President of the Inter-Varsity Fellowship (1945-46). Good company.” (Many thanks for the kind word and the interesting article) // “I must admit Mr. Dennis, your website is indeed the most insightful on preteristic and historic material for the church in general. I truly enjoy visiting it.” (Source)
- 2010: Roderick Edwards – “Todd Dennis was instrumental in the online promotion of hyperpreterism. It was Dennis’ archivist work that gave material to the hordes of hyperpreterist websites that have come & gone since. But even as Dennis renounced hyperpreterism, he was purposely slow & discerning about speaking out against it. Like many former-hyperpreterists, perhaps Dennis wanted to wait & see if there was anything of value he could keep from the “movement”. He probably held out hope (as I did during the last 5 years of being a hyperpreterist) that maybe if the movement could be made more “evangelical”, more “conservative” that it could be legitimate. As Dennis has patiently waited, giving the hyperpreterist movement the benefit of the doubt as if maybe they were just going through growing pangs, the movement has been increasingly moving further & further away from anything that we would recognize as historically Christian. ” (Former Hyper Preterist Speaks Out)
- 2010: Roderick Edwards – “A. Modern Hyper-Preterist Movement 1990s (Although there were a smattering of online hyperpreterist groups, perhaps the start was with the website, PreteristArchive by Todd Dennis. “
- 2010: Brian Simmons – ” This system was first developed by former Full Preterist Todd Dennis, and presented at the first annual “Carlsbad Eschatology Conference” in 2007 (hosted by Kurt Simmons); though it integrates elements from Preterism and other systems. Preterist Idealism teaches that the historical fulfillment of prophecy constitutes only the “shadows” of an eternal spiritual substance which believers obtain “in Christ.” New Testament typology is vertical rather than horizontal; and meant to point to the higher realties of the Christian life, rather than foreshadow things to come. Idealism relies heavily on the allegorical interpretation of prophetic texts. The system has a small number of adherents, most of them former Full Preterists. ” (A Brief Survey of Christian Eschatology)
- 2009: “In Todd’s case, as in the case of others who WERE full-prets at one time, this is willful and destructive.Todd et al. know better because they “have tasted the heavenly gift” of freedom, and rejected it. All because, by their own testimony, God just might happen to be too gracious for them – god forbid, He may even want all to enter into blessedness with Himself. Whether this conclusion is true or not (and personally believe it is), Todd et al. have a responsibility to study the scripture and “show themselves approved,” rather than base their theology on the rejection of what might possibly be (although arguably, I admit) a conclusion that turns their stomach. This is Judaizing at its worst. To deny grace to some is foreign to the gospel of Jesus. It’s one thing to state categorically that someone must exercise faith to experience the blessedness of afterlife, it’s quite another to tell God how gracious He is allowed to be. To me, that’s where Todd et al. have returned to their vomit – placing the demands of the Law upon others, while accepting God’s grace in light of their own failures.” Jude, the first hyper-preterist heretic
- 2009: “It should be refered here, that a big lump of historical grounds pertaining the development of American Preterism was not available when Ice pent his paper. Todd Dennis , conservator of the Preterist Archive , has been able to follow the rise of “ Full-of-the-moon Preterism “ to American Universalism which throve during the first one-half of the Nineteenth century.”
- 2009: Mike Loomis – “On a side note, I’ve been fortunate enough to get to know Todd on a personal level over the last few years and have seen first hand his desire to make information on preterist eschatology available to the whole wide world, no matter what the cost. Back in late 2006, Todd and I had arranged to go to a book store located in Pasadena California called, “The Archive.” No connection to The Preterist Archive. Just a strange coincidence I guess you could say. After spending a couple of hours browsing through the incredible and seemingly unending selection of Christian works both new and used we took our selections to the clerk to make our purchases. As my transaction was being finalized, Todd’s face lit up like a kid in a candy store when he saw the collection of antique leather bound books located on the wall behind the counter. The clerk asked him if he wanted to take a look. Without hesitation Todd swiftly made his way behind the counter and started browsing through the books one after the other. And then he stopped. His eyes focused in on a relatively small and rather plain looking book. A first edition of “The Truth of the Christian Religion” by Hugo Grotius, translated from the Latin by Jean LeClerc from 1709. Measuring at best 5 x 7 x 1.5 inches thick. Todd carefully removed this relatively tiny treasure from the shelf and as he began to open it, you could hear the age of this book as its spine made noises like an old man with a sore back in the morning after a rough nights sleep. Todd’s face lit up like a child on Christmas morning. He knew exactly what this book was. The author, Hugo Grotius had long been credited as being the first author to openly adopt the preterist view. This title was among many of the long forgotten books that Todd had spent many years looking for. A book that he thought would only ever be confined to the dusty corners of attics and quiet university libraries where most would likely never have access to it much less desire to. As he was carefully turning the pages he asked the clerk how much it would cost to take this book home today. 120 dollars he said. And without even a second thought Todd secured this small, almost forgotten, pocket sized book from 1709 that clearly demonstrated an early growth in understanding of preterist eschatology and was willing to if necessary break the binding on it so that it could be scanned and posted on the Preterist Archive. Made available for the whole world to see for many generations to come at the click of a mouse. A relatively small price to pay considering some of the other titles he’s secured from half way around the world with sellers asking upwards of 2500 dollars.” (Preterism: 2000 years in the making)
- 2009: Brian Simmons – “Within just two years, I have witnessed a spectacle truly amazing. A theology which was formerly one of the great wonders of the internet world has caught fire, and is now burning to cinders. When did this conflagration start? It began in 2006, when Todd Dennis, curator of Preterist Archive.com, announced his rejection of the Hyper-Preterist position. Almost immmediately the solidarity of the movement showed signs of weakening. A furious wave of attack was launched against Todd and others who began defecting from the Hyper-Preterist scene.” (A Building on Fire)
- 2009: Rod Edwards: “I want to here, publicly apologize & ask Todd forgiveness for so rudely opposing him while I was STILL a hyperpreterist. To use the vernacular of the 20-30 something crowd associated with the hyperpreterist movement, I want to say, “Todd is one brave dude!” He has had to endure (sometimes alone, except for Christ), the barbs of former hyperpreterist friends who have done everything from claim he is suffering from emotional problems to saying the only reason he left hyperpreterism is due to a personal issue. They don’t seem to want to realize that people can & do leave the cult because they realize it is a cult.”
- 2008: “TNA” Todd Dennis’ over reaction is HIGHLY emotional. I hadn’t been to Preterist Archive in a long time and was also a bit shocked by it changing over and taking on a very negative unfounded view of Full Preterism. But I must agree with Dave in that I think Todd could not deal with the implications and ‘freaked out’ for lack of a better term. Todd has also adopted a very odd view of Preterism which seems to combine Preterism with Historicism and is called Idealism. The problem that I see with this is that it faces the exact same issues that Historicism does, in that things are basically archetypes and not so much rooted in reality. Todd is off his rocker, particularly when we note that he tries like all non True Preterists to accuse us of the Hymeanean heresy – which BIBLICALLY was a timing issue, but of course Todd and his ilk make it out to something it is not. I am deeply disappointed that Todd has allowed emotions and anxiety to trump reason and logic. Tsk, tsk.” (http://www.talk-grace.com/archive/index.php/t-1179.html)
- 2007: David Embury – “Pantelism hasn’t taken over prêterism at all – that is more Todd Dennis’ over-reaction when realising the true “inclusive” implications of prêterism and not being able to refute them [which is what occurred when he invited some of us to explain our position on his message board he once had]. He subsequently ditched full prêterism.” (http://www.talk-grace.com/archive/index.php/t-1179.html)
- 2007: Ed Stevens – “Todd Dennis’ presentation on the implications of the Dead Sea Scrolls for Preterism was superb! It was material I have not seen any preterist ever deal with. That one lesson is worth the price of the whole set! “
- 2007: “Theolog” – “Todd Dennis was never a full preterist he was only pretending to be one because he thought it sensational and knows that sensationalism sells. He is all about money not Jesus.. I considered the idealist view 20 years ago and realized it was really just another form of allegory. Just how many interpretations are there to any given verse? a million?????? How many interpretations do you accept for any given verse???? Todd’s going for the bucks. There is no money in being a full preterist yet I’m supprised he couldn’t see that before making the claim of being a preterist.”
- 2007: Larry Siegle – “Todd Dennis, who for more than a decade has been the “guardian” of all things preterist, has collected in his “Archive” hundreds of valuable documents confirming the historical roots and foundation of preterism from the days of the apostles to our present time. The PreteristArchive has been acknowledged as a place where all approaches to eschatology are considered and documented with a sense of freedom and openness, even those whose doctrinal stance and faithfulness to the word of God has been dubious at best. “
- 2006: Don Hendricks – ” Todd Dennis, to whom I am deeply indebted for his credentials of service to the Preterist movement through the website, brought to the conference a broad historical perspective on what we face and where we are in our desire for reformation in Christian thought. He pointed out many in church history who pioneered this recovery of historic eschatological view. I had the deep impression in my heart that Todd has arrived where I desire to be. I hope some day to heal and be no longer wounded or angry at those who ex-communicate me from fellowship. Todd is a brother who models a theology flowing with the uplifting reality of Jesus’ presence in our lives bringing us into the holy city.” (2006 NCMI)
- 2004: H.L. James – “I must say before continuing, that the Preterist Archive, and the format that Todd Dennis has adopted there, has made it possible to really go over the TAAHP (and other articles) with a fine-tooth comb. This is because readers can post their own comments and critiques just below the articles that are posted on the Preterist Archive. Kudos to Todd Dennis and Glory to God for this feature.”
- 1998: In April 1995, the Antioch Baptist Church in Bismarck, North Dakota, drew 50 people to hear Eugene Schroder and Graham County, Arizona Sheriff Richard Mack, author of From My Cold Dead Fingers. According to the Bismarck Tribune, the meeting was coordinated by Pastor Todd Dennis who said, “Just like 200 years ago when our founding fathers questioned their government, so are we.” (Preaching the Patriot Gospel)
ARTICLES
THE DOCTRINAL DEPOT & PRETERIST ARCHIVE
Quest Magazine
1997
To the monthly readers of Quest, we have changed our format this month to introduce you to our web site and to the pastor who made our participation in this media possible.
Our ministry had our first contact with Pastor Todd Dennis through a phone call. The good pastor had seen copies of our newsletter and questioned why we were not on the Internet. Our ministry had been considering designing our own “page” but found the cost a bit prohibitive. Pastor Todd invited us to climb on board his Internet Train and we have been on-line ever since.
As we have gotten to know Pastor Todd from his writings, we have come to appreciate his talent, his knowledge, and his Christian spirit.
Recently, we posed several questions to him in an effort to get to know him better. We share this interview with you.
How did you become interested in fulfilled eschatology? Describe your feelings when you first heard about it and how long after you heard, did it become biblical truth for you?
Becoming interested in fulfilled eschatology came as a result of a continual stream of studies that began, in earnest, while a student at a dispensationalist college. Initial studies were fueled by a great number of doctrinal questions that were not answered by the system of doctrine being taught, nor by those sincere people teaching it. Questions continued to pile up unanswered. My dissatisfaction with the system itself grew.
Interestingly, an introduction to the Christian Identity movement [while going to a Dispensationalist college] helped me identify the great errors of the Dispensational system. And it was while studying the Identity doctrine that I received the refutation of both it and Dispensationalism in the carnalizing of spiritual/eternal passages.
Several passages became very clear under the light of a non-carnal nation of Israel:
Gal. 4:22-26 For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by the bondwoman and one by the free woman. But the son by the bondwoman was born according to the flesh, and the son by the free woman through the promise. This is an allegory: for these women are two covenants, one proceeding from Mount Sinai bearing children who are to be slaves; she is Hagar. Now this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to the present Jerusalem, for she is in slavery with her children. But the Jerusalem above is free; she is our mother.
II Cor. 4:18 while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
I Cor 15:46 However, the spiritual is not first, but the natural; then the spiritual.
The doctrine of the Church/Israel relationship, as well as the nature of Christ’s kingdom and His kingship became evident to me in this light.
In the midst of such studies, I was still a Futurist. There were still many points that were hard to be understood, most notably such verses as Galatians 5:5 and 1 Peter 4:13. These verses implied that the promises of salvation and redemption were yet future to the writers and only to be revealed with Christ.
It was then that my studies began on the history of the Christian Church, which led me to the Works of Josephus. His historical writings confirmed that which was written in Scripture relative to the fulfillment of portions of Matthew 24.
Still “holding out” on the coming of Christ, however, and never coming to an explanation of time-frame verses, I promised the Lord to continue my studies. It was then that recognition of my erroneous futurist presuppositions sank in. [Sensing the impending victory..] Wanting an unbiased, Holy Spirit-led perspective to Scripture I determined to study no book save the Scriptures — allowing the Bible to simply interpret itself. Studies lead to Acts 3:19-21 Repent, therefore, and return, that your sins may wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord; and that He may send Jesus, the Christ appointed for you; whom heaven must receive until the period of restoration of all things about which God spoke the mouth of His holy prophets from ancient time.
It became clear that the judgment occurred in that generation, and that the New Heavens and Earth were directly related to the New Covenant. I was free from the chains of demanding the Scripture mean something other than what it said. What liberty!
Throughout my studies, I always had supreme confidence that God did not will me to be ignorant of His Word. I was able to faithfully pursue as He enlightened my mind. Being a pastor during this time of study, increased the potential for meltdowns of frustration. I was leading my dispensationalist! futurist church down the path behind me. I began a practice of preaching my previous week’s study which could be proven from Scripture, and with which I had peace. There were three times when I was still working on my doctrinal message late into Saturday night before preaching it the next morning. God was faithful to give me the wisdom that I needed and for which I prayed. The revelation I received in my study was as if a light bulb had been switched on.
The most pleasing and rewarding part of the studies was a closer walk with God — we can have all doctrine but if we do not have charity and true love, it serves little purpose. In fact, I cherish the walk with God I gained through the studies much more than the result of the studies themselves. He never, never failed me…. of, course!
In all, my transition from Futurist to Preterist lasted for 36 months until the entire church assembly publicly stood behind my the Preterist position.
Pastor, can you describe your church and the type of service you offer?
The assembly here is called Antioch Baptist Church. It is a small congregation as a result of splits regarding other doctrinal convictions. In 1985, we were an assembly of over 250. It was then that the 501c3 church corporation followed the Lord out of a corporate, contractual status with the State and stood solely under the authority and headship of Jesus Christ. First the lawyers left, then the doctors, and all the influentia. Various parents were put in jail for their placing their children in the assembly’s unlicensed Christian school.. and then more left.
The pruning can be good and profitable when people leave on doctrinal grounds. In all, over 200 people left. Since then, the assembly has grown stronger and closer to each other. In spite of the small size, we have three publishing related ministries: PreteristArchive.com/Doctrinal Depot, New Heavens Printing and Publishing, and my evangelical ministry to other States. I was in Fairbanks, Alaska in June, and will be in Bismarck on July 22 and in Indianapolis in October.
Our service on Wednesday evening includes a Bible study and a prayer service at 7:00 P.M. On Sunday morning our preaching service begins at 10:00 A.M. which is typically doctrinal teaching, e.g. the nature of the Resurrection and other doctrinal – applications of Fulfilled Eschatology. The 6:00 evening service focuses upon the life application of Scriptures.
Please provide information on your Internet work including home page address, articles you are interested in receiving and other pertinent information.
After setting up The Doctrinal Depot on the Internet, others who see the Scriptures from the preterist perspective found me. I am meeting many, many more.
The Internet site was born out of a desire to put the spectrum of my personal doctrinal belief (unregistered church, Baptistic line of believers/martyrs, autonomous local church, full preterist, proper relationship with civil government) on-line and to show others my study of the Scriptures. The Josephus Archive was the first big addition to the site. It was to be the cornerstone.
When given the opportunity to expand beyond 2 Mb [9/11/2002-280Mb], I created “Dispensational Dementia,” “Mistaken Identity,” and the Preterist Archive.
I am interested in publishing any articles people may wish to submit, provided they do not deny the fundamental doctrines of the Bible. I would love to see more people involved in international ministries. Fulfilled Eschatology materials are scant. We have an opportunity to make an impact that will last for centuries. The opportunities on-line are unparalleled in the history of Christian teaching!
Pastor Todd Dennis
Antioch Baptist Church |
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PRESENTATIONS FROM CONFERENCE
Starlight: “I got to sit in live at Carlsbad and watch Todd develop his presentation culminating in his third lecture which blew my mind. I was extremely impressed with Todd’s spiritual manner even though I disagree with some of his separatist leanings.”
- The Dead Sea Scrolls and Fulfilled Eschatology
- The (New) History of Full Preterism, Part One
- The (New) History of Full Preterism, Part Two
“Todd Dennis’ presentation on the implications of the Dead Sea Scrolls for Preterism was superb! It was material I have not seen any preterist ever deal with. That one lesson is worth the price of the whole set!”
Earliest Known Full Preterism and Universalism
(pdf)
“Todd Dennis, to whom I am deeply indebted for his credentials of service to the Preterist movement through the website, brought to the conference a broad historical perspective on what we face and where we are in our desire for reformation in Christian thought. He pointed out many in church history who pioneered this recovery of historic eschatological view.
I had the deep impression in my heart that Todd has arrived where I desire to be. I hope some day to heal and be no longer wounded or angry at those who ex-communicate me from fellowship. Todd is a brother who models a theology flowing with the uplifting reality of Jesus’ presence in our lives bringing us into the holy city. Favorite thoughts from Todd- The defense of the Dispensational view has become a “Culture of Deception” that can oppress believers with chains. It was always about Jesus, not Israel and the Land. Let your understanding of who you really are in Christ, take over your daily life.” D.H. |
ANTIOCH BAPTIST CHURCH
(1996)
While pastoring an Unregistered Baptist church in North Dakota, my heart and conscience were compelled toward a totally fulfilled eschatology in Jesus Christ.
Antioch Baptist Church, Friends and Family: Bismarck, ND, PD – Clifton Bjur – Warren Burkholz – Kevin Craig – Sarah Craig – Susan Craig – Ron Craig – Michelle Dennis – Todd Dennis – Thomas Dennis – Susanna Dennis – Bridget Dennis – Justin Gabel – Kaylyn Gabel – Rory Gabel – Stefanie Gabel – Ida Kluth – Rod Larson – Freda Larson – John Lewis – Sheriff Richard Mack – Nancy Moffit – Palma Monge – Linda Payer – Darcy Pittinger – Brittany Pittinger – Alexander Pittinger – Harvey Pittinger – Mert Pittinger – Ida Pittinger – Ray Salzer – Gene Schroeder – Edna Steinwand – Stanley Steinwand – Bobby the Vagrant – Fran Welch – Cathy Walter – Eddie Walter – Sara Walter – Darlene Schmidt – Warren Schmidt – David Young – Laurie Young – Will Young – Ethan Young – Tony
SERMON AUDIO MESSAGE LIST
Pastor – Todd Dennis; Organ – Fran Welch; Piano – Michelle Dennis
*Lecture prior to ABC
Month |
Day |
A/P |
Bible Text |
Subject |
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*1991 |
Maricopa County Jail |
February |
10 |
A |
Matthew 13:3-9 |
Growing and Changing |
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1994 |
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July |
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Jeremiah 6:16 |
John Lewis Church Meeting |
October |
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Lester Rohloff |
Report on Government Seizure of Church |
October |
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Ron Craig |
Dispensationalist Pre-Tribulational Rapture |
October |
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Ron Craig |
501c3 Status and Church Licensure |
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December |
7 |
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1995 |
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Christ’s Ministry of Reconciliation |
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Chronology of the First Century |
January |
8 |
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I John 1:8 |
Sin and its Consequences |
January |
14 |
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Tribulation Period is Past |
February |
20 |
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I Peter 2:13-14 |
Authority and Government |
April |
23 |
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Hebrews 13:5 |
The Forsaken |
June |
9 |
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Nat’l CLC Conv. |
Authority |
August |
23 |
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John 8:43-46 |
Dealing with Disagreement |
September |
3 |
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The Mystery of His Will |
October |
2 |
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Hebrews 8:8 |
Abiding Validity of Law |
October |
9 |
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Psalm 103:17-18 |
Israel’s Betrothal and Marriage |
November |
5 |
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Isaiah 59:21 |
Called and Chosen |
November |
12 |
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II Cor. 5:17 |
Who are God’s Chosen? |
November |
26 |
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Old Covenant of Promise |
December |
3 |
A |
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Desolation of Jerusalem |
December |
3 |
B |
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From Daniel to Desolation |
December |
10 |
A |
Zechariah 8 |
Tracking God’s People: Temple Past |
December |
10 |
P |
Leviticus 20:12 |
Tracking God’s People: Temple Present |
December |
17 |
A |
Hebrews 4 |
Walking with a Clear Conscience |
December |
17 |
P |
Isaiah 8:12 |
Jacob vs. Esau Forever! |
December |
19 |
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Gov’t Shutdown is Good |
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1996 |
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January |
3 |
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Isaiah 43 |
Our Eternal Home |
January |
7 |
A |
Matthew 24 |
Desolations Determined |
January |
7 |
P |
Matthew 24 |
Abominable Sign Preceding |
January |
14 |
A |
Matthew 24:34 |
Tribulation Period Has Passed |
January |
14 |
B |
Matthew 24:34 |
No Pre-Tribulational Rapture |
January |
21 |
A |
Hebrews 11 |
Glorious Faith |
January |
21 |
P |
Hebrews 11 |
Yielding to God’s Will |
January |
24 |
P |
Matthew 18:22 |
Seventy Times Seven=AD70 |
January |
28 |
A |
Matthew 21:43-44 |
Kingdom of Heaven at Hand |
January |
28 |
P |
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No Millennial Reign of Christ |
February |
2 |
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Christian Identity Forum
(Rapid City, SD) |
February |
4 |
A |
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Day of Christ at Hand |
February |
4 |
P |
Revelation 21:1-3 |
Our Eternal Home |
February |
18 |
P |
Hebrews 4:12 |
Power of Discernment |
February |
21 |
P |
|
Awareness and Spirit Walking |
February |
25 |
A |
Genesis 11 |
Shadow of Things to Come – Inheritance (What?) |
February |
25 |
P |
Acts 13:32-33 |
Shadow of Things to Come – Inheritance (For Whom?) |
March |
3 |
A |
Paoli, IN |
Inheritance |
March |
31 |
A |
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Kingdom of God in Prophecy |
March |
31 |
P |
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Grieving the Spirit |
April |
7 |
A |
John 8:12 |
Give Glory Due |
April |
7 |
P |
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Authority in the Gospels |
April |
10 |
P |
Psalm 119 |
Gimmel |
April |
14 |
A |
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Death and Eschatology |
April |
14 |
P |
Psalm 119 |
God’s Law |
April |
17 |
P |
Psalm 119 |
Dalet |
April |
21 |
A |
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Baptisms |
April |
21 |
P |
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Israel |
April |
28 |
A |
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Eternal Fatherhood |
April |
28 |
P |
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Flesh and Spirit Contrast |
May |
5 |
A |
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The Pen is Mightier |
May |
5 |
P |
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Christ as Focus of All |
May |
12 |
A |
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Lucifer as Christ in New Versions |
May |
12 |
P |
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Consumed with Dying |
May |
19 |
A |
Isaiah 11:10 |
Reading the Prophets |
May |
19 |
P |
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Spiritual Warfare Today |
May |
26 |
A |
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Israel by Inheritance |
June |
2 |
A |
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Traits of the Spirit |
June |
2 |
P |
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Four Theories of Law |
June |
9 |
A |
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Covenant of Christ |
June |
9 |
P |
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Covenantal Nature of Gov’t |
June |
16 |
A |
Revelation 20 |
Satan Has Been Overcome |
June |
16 |
P |
Revelation 21 |
Availability to the Spirit |
June |
23 |
A |
|
Repentance and Brokenness |
June |
23 |
P |
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Pentecost Today |
June |
30 |
A |
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Brokenness and Repentance |
June |
30 |
P |
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Tabernacle of David |
July |
7 |
A |
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Trusting and Waiting – I |
July |
7 |
P |
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Final Authority? |
July |
14 |
A |
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Wait with Prayer |
July |
14 |
P |
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Rejoice in Morning |
July |
21 |
P |
Daniel 9 |
Hope of the Fathers |
July |
24 |
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Proverbs 30:33 |
Care in Prayer |
July |
28 |
A |
Revelation 1:1 |
Opposing Covenants |
July |
28 |
P |
Revelation 1:3 |
Shortly Come to Pass |
August |
25 |
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September |
21 |
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Psalm 78 |
Parabolic Speech Signals the Eternal |
October |
1 |
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PreteristArchive.com Online |
October |
6 |
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Old Testament Festivals Fulfilled in Christ |
October |
13 |
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Revelation of the Glory of Christ |
October |
20 |
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Revelation 21 |
The Bride of Christ is Married Now! |
November |
10 |
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Matthew 24:34 |
When is the Second Coming of Christ? |
November |
17 |
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II Corinthians 5 |
Two Dilemma of Christ’s Ministry |
November |
24 |
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II Peter 3:10 |
Day of the Lord and New Heavens |
November |
26 |
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Hebrews 12:25 |
A Kingdom Cannot Be Shaken |
December |
1 |
A |
Matthew 24 |
New Heavens/Earth Conclusion |
December |
1 |
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I Corinthians 15 |
Death is Swallowed Up in Victory! |
December |
22 |
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Galatians 3:15 |
Three (or so) Fatal Flaws of Futurist Christianity |
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1997 |
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January |
12 |
P |
Isaiah 35 |
Interpreting the NT by the OT |
January |
19 |
A |
Genesis 2:17 |
What Type of Death in Genesis 2 and 3? |
January |
19 |
P |
Prov. 3:5 |
Joshua and the Plan of Redemption |
January |
26 |
A |
Genesis 2:17 |
More on What Type of Death |
January |
26 |
P |
Prov. 3:5 |
More on Brokenness |
February |
2 |
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February |
2 |
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February |
9 |
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Revelation of Redemption |
February |
12 |
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February |
16 |
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Revelation of Redemption II |
February |
23 |
A |
Genesis |
Brothers – Cain/Abel |
February |
23 |
B |
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Awareness |
March |
2 |
A |
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March |
2 |
P |
Galatians 6 |
Walking in the Spirit |
March |
9 |
A |
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Flood as a Type of Day of Lord in A.D.70 |
March |
9 |
P |
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Tongues – I |
March |
16 |
A |
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March |
16 |
P |
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Tongues – II |
March |
23 |
A |
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Which Day was Christ Crucified? |
March |
23 |
P |
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The Lord’s Supper & Observation |
April |
13 |
A |
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Tongues – III |
April |
13 |
B |
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Redemption and Return of Christ |
April |
27 |
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I Corinthians 15:44 |
The Resurrection |
May |
4 |
P |
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On the “Heavens and Earth” |
May |
18 |
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Walking in Spirit |
Bitterness |
May |
25 |
A |
Walking in Spirit |
Living Presence of Chist |
May |
25 |
P |
Walking in Spirit |
What About Pain and Sorrow? |
June |
1 |
A |
Walking in Spirit |
Determination to Walk in the Spirit |
June |
15 |
A |
Conference |
Introduction to Fulfilled Eschatology |
June |
15 |
P |
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Introduction to Fulfilled Eschatology – II |
June |
29 |
A |
Walking in Spirit |
Emotional Detachment |
June |
29 |
P |
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Book of Revelation: When Written? |
July |
6 |
A |
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Presence Everlasting – Part I |
July |
6 |
P |
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Book of Revelation: Subject Matter |
July |
13 |
I |
Seminar |
New Testament Eschatology and Fulfillment |
July |
13 |
II |
Seminar |
New Heavens and Earth is Gospel |
July |
29 |
A |
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Higher Thinking: The 60s? |
July |
29 |
P |
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Higher Thinking: Philosophers? |
August |
3 |
A |
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Resurrection in the Gospel of John |
August |
3 |
P |
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Resurrection in the New Testament |
August |
31 |
A |
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Sovereign Grace: Introduction |
August |
31 |
P |
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Book of Revelation: Ephesus |
September |
7 |
A |
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Son of God; Second Man – I |
September |
14 |
A |
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Son of God; Second Man – II |
September |
14 |
P |
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Book of Revelation: Smyrna |
September |
21 |
A |
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Son of God; Second Man – III |
September |
21 |
P |
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Book of Revelation: Pergamos |
September |
28 |
A |
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Death of Death in Christ |
September |
28 |
P |
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Book of Revelation: Pergamos |
November |
9 |
A |
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Ecclesiastes – I : Archetypes and History |
November |
16 |
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Nietzsche and Dead Christianity |
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1998 |
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January |
18 |
A |
Matthew 22:7 |
Types of Prophetic Scripture: Parables |
January |
18 |
P |
Matthew 24:34 |
Critical Texts |
February |
1 |
P |
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Day of the Lord |
March |
15 |
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Hebrews 8:13 |
Covenant Passover |
March |
30 |
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II Corinthians 4:18 |
The Connectedness of Man – Flesh vs. Spirit |
March |
30 |
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Galatians 6:16 |
The Israel of God |
March |
30 |
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Joshua 1 |
The Meaning of Life (and how to succeed according to Joshua) |
July |
31 |
A |
SGP Seminar
(San Diego, CA) |
All the Promises of God in Him |
August |
1 |
A |
SGP Seminar
(San Diego, CA) |
All the Promises of God in Him |
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2006 |
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NCMI Conference |
The Heart of Jerusalem |
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NCMI Conference |
Retrograde Hermeneutics |
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2007 |
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Carlsbad Conference |
DSS & Fulfilled Eschatology |
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Carlsbad Conference |
(New) History of Full Pret – A |
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Carlsbad Conference |
(New) History of Full Pret – B |
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2006 Preterist Fellowship
CHARTS FOR FULL PRETERISTS TO
CONSIDER THE IDEALIST DIFFERENCE
Typical Chronological Squabbles Miss the Heavenly View
Beware of Extreme Preterism!
|
Credit Where Credit Is Due (2006)
Todd Dennis is a soft-spoken man; in fact when I spoke with him he seemed to be much more willing to listen rather than say much in return, and his overall gracious attitude and kindness is readily shown throughout every corner of his well-known website, The Preterist Archive. Todd was kind enough to take precious time out of his busy schedule to answer a few questions, and I am very much thankful for his generosity throughout this interview.
Virgil Vaduva: Your website is one of the first sites I ran across when I started to study Preterism. Can you tell us a little about what prompted you to start Preterist Archive and how it all came about?
Todd Dennis: While pastoring a Dispensationalist church in the mid 1990s, the Spirit was leading me into greater undestanding of the history and context of the New Testament period. What was unexpected, though, was that the closer my perspective became to that of the New Testmanet period and the expectations of the people in that era, the more alientated I became from the beliefs and expectations of the Futurist Christians in my own era.
As the differences between what I had been taught by men and what was being revealed from Above became more pronounced, I sincerely wondered if I was the only one in the world who was being shown such things. Immediately upon coming online at the start of 1995, my goal was to find anyone else on the Internet who was being shown the same first century fulfillment of eschatology. Failing to find anyone else, it seemed important to make a website which could serve as a beacon to reach out to the theologically-minded world, and also to support likeminded refugees from Futurism that might be found online.
It was about a month or two after starting the website that a brother emailed me to share that the view I was presenting was historically called “Preterism”. Armed with that term, my search for materials intensified and began to yield large quantities of writings during, and even prior to, the Christian era which associated the fall of Jerusalem with the fulfillment of eschatology. As a result of these finds, it seemed natural to strategically organize the website into a posture for the propagation of the Preterist view, and also as a means of comforting and organizing the large number of persecuted Preterists who were contacting me into a united and viable theological front.
Virgil: How is Preterist Archive doing now and what new projects are you working on?
Todd: Though the project is now over ten years old, these same two goals have generally been maintained. However, over time many other goals have been added – especially the organization of preteristic literature into clearly defined categories. This year has been quite busy in this regard. Most notably, the website has ceased being a mouthpiece for the “Full Preterist” movement it helped sculpt, and no longer places that view up on a pedestal. Having seen the goal of Preterism’s acceptance to the theological round table fulfilled, and with the advent of many other websites which present and defend a “Full Preterist” view, there is no longer the urgency to present that particular view as there was in 1995. Instead, PreteristArchive.com is now offering a more broad “Encyclopedic” approach, serving as a clearinghouse for the study of all aspects of fulfilled eschatology.
Virgil: What do you think about the demographics of Preterism? What one characteristic is important and common to your audience on Preterist Archive?
Todd: I’m not that interested or involved with the nuts and bolts of the “ism” aspect of the Preterist approach. However, it is impossible to ignore the trends that present themselves from many angles, such as through the reception of emails.
What seems to be the distinctive angle of the archive is that the overwhelming majority of readers are of Futurist persuasion. Though Preteristic minded people often visit and contribute materials to the site, the average visitor is only “pret-curious”, in both positive and negative ways. This is particularly satisfying to me personally (and explains the increasing shift toward a completely balanced approach), as a great number of the people who come to the website in an antagonistic mindset, seeking anything to discredit the view any way possible, leave their quest forever affected for the better. There are a large number of such people now in leadership roles of the “Modern Preterist Movement”.
One focus of the website, that tends to cater to the common between Futurists and Preterists alike is appreciation for proof of the historicity of Christianity and its approaches to eschatology. Seeing as how ever modern system is the result of development throughout the Christian era, all can enjoy archeological or papyrological revelations which point to the beliefs and practices of the ancient era of the faith. When this approach is tied into to the historical events surrounding the Roman-Jewish war, the pursuit takes on a powerful dimension that unites history and theology.
Virgil: As one who runs a major Preterist website, do you see Preterism as an “Internet-only aberration” as it has been often labeled by detractors?
Todd: That is an easy charge to make, considering the high visibility of the Internet; I feel certain, though, that the number of people out there who are being led by the Spirit in isolation far outnumber those currently online. These people are sadly isolated, and in most cases are completely unaware of terms such as “Preterism”. In due time, and as the world increasingly gets wired, I’m sure they will be able to likewise find comfort and fellowship online.
Besides, the literary world, independent of the Internet, has become highly involved with preteristic thought. And even more significant seems to be the converging of all disciplines of scientific and theological inquiry, and the recognition of the role the events of AD70 have had in the formation of the modern world.
Virgil: As you well know, there are many differences between Full Preterists and other eschatological positions that are Preteristic in nature. Do you think these differences are reconcilable, and if so how?
Todd: These different views are all reconcilable in Christ. I believe that the Grand Truth is not Preterist or Futurist.. but that it is spiritual in nature represented by the person of Jesus Christ. Therefore, as we will share a focus on things above, we will find our earthly differences diminishing. Though some may feel more comfortable looking below and pointing out the weaknesses of others, I believe we are called to seek the healing of the Body of Christ by pointing at our King and pointing out His power and glory.
Virgil: You recently made an interesting proposition regarding the semantics of Preterism, namely renaming Full Preterism as Modern Preterism. When I think of the word “Modern” I think in philosophical terms associated with 20th century thought, as opposed to “Postmodernism” for example. How do you use these terms and why do beneficial to refer to Full Preterism in terms of “Modern Preterism?
Todd: This move was strictly for the organizational purposes of the website. Though some have tried to take these terms and use them in theological conversation, that was not the intention behind the shift in terminology. The main goal of the reclassification of terms was to form a more clear spirit of inquiry at the site — one which doesn’t enter into the tug of war over the typical terminology. Utilizing terms such as “full” or “consistent” or “hyper” in association with “Full Preterism” — or, even worse, the tendency to use of the term “Preterism” to organize “Full Preterist” though really missed the mark. People feel passionately about this topic on all sides, so I wanted to find organziational terminology that was above all else fair.
“Historical Preterism” is used to organize to all developed forms of “Partial Preterism” throughout the centuries, whereas “Modern Preterism” is used to organize those strictly “Full Preterist” views developed popularly in the 20th Century.
Associating the term “Modern” with 20th Century seems very appropriate and fair to all sides — particularly considering how incredibly recent is the literary origin of this approach. In my decade of intense searching, it appears that the middle of the 20th century is the earliest era of a published consistent fully (Christian) preterist approach. That is not to say that one is not to be found earlier (or was not held earlier, as a developed approach was almost certainly held by someone prior to then), just that the popular systematized form of “Full Preterism” as we know it today is of modern origin. On a side note, there actually is a pre-Christian form of Full Preterism that is Jewish in origin, and dates back to the first century B.C., but that is categorized under “Jewish Sources”.
Virgil: In my personal interactions I have observed that semantics often get in the way of constructive dialogue. For example, Partial Preterists call us “Hyper Preterists,” (in a somewhat derogatory manner). What descriptive term do you use to describe Preterism in your interactions in order to avoid conflict and create an atmosphere conducive to dialogue?
Todd: I tend to use the term “preteristic” when speaking of an approach of fulfilled prophecy relating to “end things”, because so much is typically added to the rudimentary “Preterist” idea. As we strip away all of the other aspects of theology that we add to the idea of first century eschatological fulfillment, a certain rudimentary, embryonic form appears — one that is very much in line I think with the First Century Palestinian idea. If it is given that there is a ‘kerygma’ form of the gospel, then this idea would be that for end-times fulfillment. To me, this ‘kerygma’ form is actually the *true preterism*, and is shared by both partial and full preterists alike.
Part of my 2006 classification shift has been to be more specific in the identification of full preterist views. Though many “Full Preterists” speak of “we preterists” or “us preterists”, believing that there is a cohesive form of that approach, it seems to me that there really is no such thing as a systematic “Full Preterism” that stands on its own without resort to other aspects of one’s theology. In every case, that end-times view is tied to one soteriology or another, creating a “Hybrid Preterism” between the two.
So to me all “Full Preterists” are “Hybrid” to some extent. My own personal “Hybrid Preterism” connects fulfilled eschatology with a Spiritual Idealist point of view. (For those who are interested there are materials being gathered on this view at the site, and I’ll be presenting it formally at the New Creation Ministries conference at the end of July in Arizona.) Others are more comfortable in a Reformed/Calvinistic Hybrid approach, whereas others may be more comfortable operating in an Hybrid of Preterism and “Emergent” theology. I think it is very important though, for the sake of clarity and honesty, not to confuse any of these hybrids with the fundamental Preterist idea itself. Eschatology is about “last things” for a reason, as we are defined much more by our soteriology more than our eschatology. If the cross of Christ isn’t the focal point of our fellowship, then we are certain to find disappointment and despair in trying to unite around anything else.
So, in the spirit of “fair play” and “full disclosure”,I feel like it is the responsibility of “Full Preterist” to present their own view as simply a hybrid of Preterism, clearly stating the other aspects of theology that truly define their view.
Virgil: You mentioned the surge of Preterist eschatology within the controversial Emergent Church. At least one solid Preterist book has come out of the Emergent Church, and Brian McLaren has been a strong proponent of Preterist eschatology. What do you think about these developments, and how do you think they are affecting the Preterist movement?
Todd: Emergent Preterism is just one of the many hybrids out there. There are hybrids of emergent, calvinism, arminianism, universalism, christian identity, and probably any other system available out there. It has just as much right to exist as any does any other system of religious thought. Ultimately, though, I believe that all systems fall short of the mark, and only serve to comfort us in our general ignorance of the eternal, invisible, spiritual system within the Kingdom of Christ and God.
Virgil: Todd, thanks again for taking time to answer these questions. May God continue to bless your ministry! Do you have any closing comments for the Planet Preterist readers?
Todd: My best advice to all Christians is to love one another. As we think and talk about Preterism it is important to keep the exercise in its proper perspective. If we can keep the basis of our fellowship on conforming to the image of Christ, then we will manifest much more brotherly love towards the body. If, however, we insist or expect others to conform to our image and our theology, then we sow the seeds of dissapointment, anger and division.
We really mustn’t take ourselves or our ideas too seriously. I truly believe that the magical thinking of “A Preterist Reformation” has taken the idea backward instead of foreword. It is so easy to focus on AD70 that we can easily forget about AD30 — or for that matter what it means for us in AD2006.
Re: Credit where credit is due: An Interview with Todd Dennis
by amie on Sunday, June 04 @ 15:23:10 PDT
“Ultimately, though, I blieeve that all systems fall short of the mark, and only serve to comfort us in our general ignorance of the eternal, invisible, spiritual system within the Kingdom of Christ and God.”
If “all systems fall short of the mark”, then there would truly be no reason to dismiss any one for another – nor would one be justified in declaring any other “wicked” imo.
“Love one another” sounds great as does the non-insistence and non-expectation of others conformity to our image and our theology (referring to Mr Dennis’s last reply). Certainly demanding such inspires people to divide, and cast off others in the name of said theology and image.
Interesting.
Amie
Re: Credit where credit is due: An Interview with Todd Dennis (Score: 1)
by psychohmike on Sunday, June 04 @ Thank you Virgil, And thank you Todd.
Re: Credit where credit is due: An Interview with Todd Dennis (Score: 1)
by EWMI on Sunday, June 04 @ 17:12:50 PDT
Thank you both for this interview. Many have come to appreciate Todd’s hard work and even handed attitude to all.
Re: Credit where credit is due: An Interview with Todd Dennis (Score: 1)
by Dana_Nathan_Salsbury on Sunday, June 04 @ 21:07:12 PDT
I’m so glad to see Virgil & Todd united in this movement. The two sites have their strengths via the personalities of their authors. I think Todd is an incredible servant, and his borderline obsessive-compulsive research provides the validation of preterist claims. He has left the gate open for people to fairly investigate preterism, which represents us as transparent.
When my wife saw Van Impe stuff on Todd’s site, it really set her at ease that I wasn’t luring her into cultish thinking. Then when we went through the Virgil’s outline, it convinced her.
God bless you both!
-Dana
Re: Credit where credit is due: An Interview with Todd Dennis (Score: 1)
by Flakinde on Monday, June 05 @ 07:38:54 PDT
I am always so blessed whenever I hear or read my brother Todd. As a person, he is a true example for my life, as I believe he shines a Christ-centered attitude, which as he very well states, disintegrates all our petty wars against each other.
Thank you Virgil, for giving some attention to this dearest brother. To all, please don’t pass off Todd’s call to pay attention to the first things.
Blessed in His rest,
Alexander Rodríguez
What do YOU think ?
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“I enjoy your website. It is one of the few, if indeed there are any others, that allow a person to freely study the fulfilled eschatological view.”
Date: 21 Feb 2013
Time: 10:04:11
Your Comments:
Dear Todd Dennis,
Thank you so much for Preterist Archive. Some years ago, I went to a class that was a Bible College by extension. I had to choose between Pre, Mid, and Post Trib Rapture as an essential part of the class requirement. I chose post trib since it made the most sense of the three to me, but at that time my teacher admitted that there are “kingdom now” people who believe in none of the above options. That was news to me. Later, people were trying to say that Jesus was going to come back because of the fig tree “prophecy”. So I read it, and found the fig tree did not actually represent the nation of Israel, it was just a parable talking about watching the signs of the time. Then I began to read other scriptures which were supposedly speaking of the second coming to see if they had been mis-taught to me as well. To my surprise they all spoke of the destruction of the Temple and defeat of Jerusalem by the Romans. By the time I was done, I was a preterist. Your site helped me understand all the old testament prophecies about the “end” times. I love that you explain the differences in types of preterists. It helps me a lot to understand how to explain to others what I believe. It is so freeing that I cannot put it into words. Simply, I am very happy to be a “partial” preterist. I do not fear antichrist or some dreaded 3 1/2 year period of demonic terror. I am not superstitious. I am at peace, knowing my role in the world is to gain territory for my king against the adversary, and when it is over, after resurrection, there will be no more need of a kingdom for there will be no more opposition, and all will be turned over to the Father. I explain this to people based on scriptures, and it helps them to be less fearful too. It is so good to help my brothers and sisters in Christ to not have a victim mentality any more. Most of the time I keep my mouth shut, in groups, but one on one I share my views when it seems appropriate. Well, I probably sound like I’m gushing. God bless.
Date: 04 Jul 2013
Time: 06:45:23
Your Comments:
Hi There,
Fantastic website! It must be the best Preterist resource on the net. It has been very fairly done and as you say rightly ‘balanced.’
Thank you for your diligence, thoughtfulness and industry.
In Christ
Breadcrumb.
Date: 17 Feb 2013
Time: 16:59:12
Your Comments:
Todd… Great work. Dual fulfillment, futurism… Or simply idealistic understanding that how God deals with man… And how independent Christian remnants have always been the ones to deliver the truth through the centuries… This church and state battle.. Where both are fighting the truth (priests and Rome vs. Christians who fled) is always how it will be. With AD 70 like culminating events… All throughout history.
Date: 18 Feb 2013
Time: 15:28:39
Your Comments:
Very nice Todd. Downright eloquent!
Duncan
Date: 26 Dec 2010
Time: 19:28:21
Your Comments:
I just want to say a BIG “Thank You” to Todd Dennis for all his help. I am a 66-y-o Bible teacher, and try to always be accurate and honest in how I interpret Scripture. I accept the AD 70 judgment on the “old order”, but a lot of other stuff seamed cold and hopeless and un-personal. Reading Todd Dennis’ articles REALLY helped me find my way back to center. I am shocked, however, to see his picture. I thought he was an old man! A WISE, OLD MAN! Instead, he is very young for having such wisdom. My hat’s off to you – for not letting the oldsters intimidate you, and for standing up for the Truth. And for your meekness, humility and honesty.
Love,
Rose Kendall, Minnesota
Date: 17 Mar 2010
Time: 09:52:04
Your Comments:
Praise God!
I will be moving to Alaska soon, I’m looking for a Real PRETERIST church body. I have studied with preterists all of my born-anew-life, 31 years! They lead me to Christ, so I have got THY real deal early on!
Thank you,
Lamont Stipp
Date: 28 Feb 2010
Time: 07:59:46
Your Comments:
What do I think? Let me ask a question: Are you serious? You have missed the point completely.
Date: 02 Feb 2009
Time: 20:32:37
Your Comments:
This is deep, and more than just physical, My heart was touched. I have already begun to see these things, as I do my own studies in His word. Thank you for your concern for the souls of others.
Patricia
Date: 5 Feb 2008
Time: 03:11:26
Comments:
Todd Although you and I do not really know each other I believe that our interaction has been both positive and brotherly over the past few years. I have always maintained a great deal of respect for you and for your convictions even though I may not always agree with your conclusions about every subject.
You invested your heart and soul into gathering the resources that went into the founding and formation of “The Preterist Archive” as a place where students of the word could gather to discern the truth and to look at various aspects of preterism from an objective standpoint. I respect that goal and intent.
I wish you well and that God’s blessings will follow you where ever your journey takes you. My personal thanks and admiration to you for all that you have done!
Even if you have moved past preterism you have devoted a considerable amount of time and energy researching the history of the doctrine and I just could not stand to see it all just disappear into cyberspace. You are doing a great job and I appreciate your work.
LS
Date: 2 Feb 2008
Time: 11:36:02
Hi Todd
Been away for a while and I felt moved to see where you were at. Your recent essay on Matthew 16:27-28 and what it means strikes me as a deeper, truer understanding of what Jesus was promising (not merely prophesying, but promising… well spotted, Todd!)
Date: 28 Jan 2008
Time: 09:38:11
Comments:
Hi Todd
A friend told me that you had renounced hyper preterism. I praise God for His work in your life to lead you out of that heresy! You are a blessed man! : )
I am elder of a church in (Midwest), and a few years ago we had a dreadful time dealing with some hyper-preterists that were among us. As Paul predicted in 2Ti 2:17-18, their teachings severely harmed the faith of several of the saints before it could be stopped. Some have still not recovered.
Anyhow, I truly rejoice when I hear of someone leaving the hyper preterist camp. Congratulations!
Jesus Is Wonderful!
Date: 28 Jan 2008
Time: 16:18:33
Comments:
Todd, Ten minutes ago I read your announcement of renouncing hyperpreterism, and it took my breath away. I had to force back tears. For several years, those people made my life miserable. I can’t tell you how good it feels to see you take your principled and courageous stand. God bless you!!!!
Date: 24 Feb 2007
Time: 19:33:11
Comments:
Where do I start? I found your web site and what a find indeed….full of material that gives a scholastic foundation to eschatology. I turned away from futuristic thought years ago. It didn’t have the ring of truth to me. Preterism captivates my attention but the extreme forms can and will lead to a quiet despondency and indifference if not checked. Your presentation of Jerusalem as an image of the heart brought me a deep sense of God’s presence with me. I wept as I read your presentation leading up to Psalm 46 and applied it to my sometimes tumultuous life situation. Thank you my friend. I haven’t sensed the beginning of a reformation of my heart quite like this for sometime. The words of Isaiah ” Comfort ye, comfort ye my people” does indeed speak to me unlike it ever has before.
Date: 20 Sep 2006
Time: 06:02:03
Comments:
Thanks Todd, You have been an ongoing inspiriation to me and PA is a regular landing pad. Curiously the other day I was struggling with similar issues to yours. I seem to have landed at something like the Idealist/Preterist position.
For what it is worth, be encouraged to steer away from the need to criticise hardcore MPMer’s. I think we are all heading to some form of idealism.
Date:30 Oct 2003Time:10:16:54
Comments
I think you’re wrong. And I remind you that misinterpreting Gods word is a dangerous thing. You are walking on thin ice when you try to change what God is saying……… The truth is clear as crystal, it’s too bad your hatred and anti-semitism won’t let you see it……
Todd,
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