Desde aquí espero contribuir a la transmisión de la verdad cristiana, basándome en las Escrituras y la tradición patrística, pero sin descartar otras fuentes.
Este escrito trata del sentido del tiempo a la luz de la revelación de Cristo. Establece una dife... more Este escrito trata del sentido del tiempo a la luz de la revelación de Cristo. Establece una diferencia entre el tiempo cuantificable y el tiempo cualitativo. Comenta la relación entre Dios y el tiempo, así como entre la creación y el tiempo. Define el tiempo bíblico como un tiempo dotado de sentido y orientado a un fin, es decir, al cumplimiento de un propósito. Trata brevemente del vocabulario griego utilizado en la septuaginta y el Nuevo Testamento para referirse al tiempo. Y señala la necesidad de comprender los términos temporales referidos a Dios en Biblia, a luz del conjunto de la revelación, y no a partir de traducciones de diccionario. Critica la noción de eternidad como extensión ilimitada de tiempo. Señala la inadecuación de la representación rectílinea del tiempo en la teología cristiana. Y culmina comentando brevemente el carácter único de Jesucristo como creador del tiempo, nacido en el tiempo, y heredero de todo tiempo.
This essay deals briefly with the meaning of time in the light of Christ's revelation. It establishes a difference between quantifiable time and qualitative time. It comments on the relationship between God and time, as well as between creation and time. It defines biblical time as a time endowed with meaning and oriented toward an end; that is, toward the fulfillment of a purpose. It briefly deals with the Greek vocabulary used in the Septuagint and the New Testament to refer to time. It points out the need to understand the temporal terms referring to God in the Bible in the light of the whole of revelation and not from dictionary translations. It criticizes the notion of eternity as an ilimitated extension of time. It points out the inadequacy of the rectilinear representation of time in Christian theology. It concludes by briefly commenting on the unique character of Jesus Christ as the creator of time, born in time, and heir of all time.
Este escrito propone una lectura del tema del "buen pastor" en el Evangelio de Juan. Destaca la i... more Este escrito propone una lectura del tema del "buen pastor" en el Evangelio de Juan. Destaca la importancia teológica y pastoral del mismo, así como su relación con la tradición profética de Israel. La intención del trabajo es brindarle al lector no experto ciertos criterios y observaciones que le permitan profundizar el tema, más allá de la interpretación simplista que lo reduce a ser sólo una metáfora del amor y cuidado de Jesús por los suyos. Pues esa interpretación no es incorrecta, y es válida en una catequesis de niños, pero resulta insuficiente para el cristiano que quiere profundizar su relación con el Señor profundizando en su Palabra.
This paper proposes a reading of the theme of the "good shepherd" in the Gospel of John. It highlights the theological and pastoral importance of the theme, as well as its relationship with the prophetic tradition of Israel. The intention of the work is to provide the non-expert reader with certain criteria and observations that will allow him to delve deeper into the theme, beyond the simplistic interpretation that reduces it to only a metaphor for Jesus' love and care for his own. For even if this interpretation is correct, and is valid in a catechism for children, it is insufficient for the Christian who wants to deepen his relationship with the Lord by delving into his Word.
Este breve trabajo trata acerca de la condición de "hijos de Dios" de los cristianos, y del "nuev... more Este breve trabajo trata acerca de la condición de "hijos de Dios" de los cristianos, y del "nuevo nacimiento". Critica a las distorsiones del cristianismo humanista contemporáneo acerca del tema. Y luego comenta la noción de hijos de Dios y de nuevo nacimiento de acuerdo al Nuevo Testamento, y en especial del Evangelio de Juan. En el curso del comentario se tratan incidentalmente otros asuntos, como los diversos significados del agua en Juan y en el Antiguo Testamento, la interpretación sacramentalista del texto de Juan, la diferencia entre la promesa de Cristo y la promesa de la serpiente, y otros. Termina con una caracterización del camino de los hijos de Dios como unión amorosa con Cristo y entre sí.
This brief work deals with the condition of Christians as "sons of God" and the "new birth." It criticizes the distortions of contemporary humanistic Christianity on the subject. It then comments on the notion of sons of God and new birth according to the New Testament, and especially the Gospel of John. In the course of the commentary, other matters are treated incidentally, such as the different meanings of water in John and in the Old Testament, the sacramentalist interpretation of the text of John, and the difference between the promise of Christ and the promise of the serpent. It ends with a characterization of the path of the sons of God as loving union with Christ and with each other.
En este escrito se comenta el juicio religioso al Señor Jesús considerado como una lucha entre el... more En este escrito se comenta el juicio religioso al Señor Jesús considerado como una lucha entre el Espíritu de la verdad y el espíritu de la mentira. Comienza destacando la importancia del discernimiento espiritual. Luego hace una breve caracterización de dicho discernimiento. Se destaca la necesidad del mismo en la lectura del Nuevo Testamento y la exégesis. Despúes se comenta el juicio propiamente dicho. Y termina con un comentario acerca de la penetración del espíritu de mentira en el mundo actual, y una llamada a la oración.
This essay discusses the religious trial of the Lord Jesus, considering it a struggle between the Spirit of Truth and the spirit of lies. It begins by highlighting the importance of spiritual discernment. Then it briefly characterizes this discernment. It highlights the need for it in the reading of the New Testament and in exegesis. Then it discusses the trial itself. It concludes with a commentary on the penetration of the spirit of lies in the present world, and a call to prayer.
Este trabajo contiene distintas observaciones acerca de la necesidad de oír al Espíritu Santo en ... more Este trabajo contiene distintas observaciones acerca de la necesidad de oír al Espíritu Santo en la lectura de la Biblia, y del Nuevo Testamento en particular. Se critican ciertas distorsiones en la comprensión de las Escrituras que son propias del racionalismo moderno. Y se invita al lector a leer la Palabra de Dios sin suspicacia, con fe sincera y sencillez de corazón. Confiando en que el Señor lo guiará.
This work contains various observations about the need to listen to the Holy Spirit in reading the Bible, and the New Testament in particular. Certain distortions in the understanding of the Scriptures that are characteristic of modern rationalism are criticized. And the reader is invited to read the Word of God without suspicion, with sincere faith and simplicity of heart, trusting that the Lord will guide him.
Este breve escrito trata de la contaminación del Cristianismo por el saber secular moderno. Apunt... more Este breve escrito trata de la contaminación del Cristianismo por el saber secular moderno. Apunta a diferenciar claramente la perspectiva bíblica y la perspectiva de la ciencia y las disciplinas modernas. Destaca la importancia de la palabra apostólica, y llama a leer la Escritura sin suspicacia, con fe sincera y sencillez de corazón. Pues, como se suele decir, la Biblia es su propio intérprete.
This short essay deals with the contamination of Christianity by modern secular knowledge. It aims to clearly distinguish the biblical perspective from the perspective of modern science and disciplines. It stresses the importance of the apostolic word and calls for reading Scripture without suspicion, with sincere faith and simplicity of heart. For, usually it says, the Bible is its own interpreter.
En este escrito se comenta un pasaje del Evangelio de San Juan (Jn 5), en el cual Jesús cura mila... more En este escrito se comenta un pasaje del Evangelio de San Juan (Jn 5), en el cual Jesús cura milagrosamente a un paralítico en un día sábado, y eso da lugar a una confrontación entre el Señor y las autoridades del templo, y en el contexto de ese conflicto Jesús revela su identidad de Hijo de Dios. No se trata de una exégesis versículo a versículo sino que se toman grandes grupos temáticos y se los comenta. Los grupos temáticos son cinco: el estanque de Betesda y su significado. La curación del paralítico por el poder sobrenatural de la palabra del Señor Jesús. El conflicto suscitado en relación al sábado. La revelación del Hijo de Dios, de su misión salvadora y su carácter de Juez. Y el testimonio del Padre respecto del Hijo. Se termina con una breve reflexión acerca de la tensión entre el templo, como lugar de la autoridad religiosa, y el estanque, como lugar del pueblo necesitado y enfermo al cual se dirige Jesús.
This text comments on a passage from the Gospel of St. John (Jn 5), in which Jesus miraculously heals a paralytic on a Saturday, and this gives rise to a confrontation between the Lord and the temple authorities, and in the context of this conflict, Jesus reveals his identity as the Son of God. It is not a verse-by-verse exegesis, but rather large thematic groups are taken and commented on. There are five thematic groups: the pool of Bethesda and its meaning; the healing of the paralytic by the supernatural power of the word of the Lord Jesus; the conflict raised in relation to the Sabbath; the revelation of the Son of God, of his saving mission and his character as Judge; and the testimony of the Father regarding the Son. It ends with a brief reflection on the tension between the temple, as a place of religious authority, and the pool, as a place of the needy and sick people to whom Jesus addresses himself.
Este escrito reúne una serie de ocho reflexiones breves sobre distintos temas asociados al camino... more Este escrito reúne una serie de ocho reflexiones breves sobre distintos temas asociados al camino cristiano: el amor de Dios y los elegidos; la diferencia entre el Espíritu Santo y los espíritus impuros; el pecado considerado más allá de su dimensión moral; el sentido del mandamiento del amor; la gnosis entendida como una matriz doctrinal anti bíblica que subyace a muchas doctrinas, filosofías y movimientos diferentes presentes en el mundo actual; la incapacidad de la razón natural para comprender las verdades cristianas; la concepción de Dooyeweerd sobre el motivo religioso básico; y la relación asimétrica que existe entre la voluntad divina y la humana.
This writing brings together a series of eight brief reflections on different topics associated with the Christian path: the love of God and the elect; the difference between the Holy Spirit and impure spirits; sin considered beyond its moral dimension; the meaning of the commandment of love; gnosis understood as an anti-biblical doctrinal matrix that underlies many doctrines, philosophies and movements present in the world today; the inability of natural reason to understand Christian truths; Dooyeweerd's conception of the basic religious motif; and the asymmetric relationship that exists between the divine and human will.
Este escrito trata del exterminio de Canaán narrado en el Libro de Josué. Se enfoca en la violenc... more Este escrito trata del exterminio de Canaán narrado en el Libro de Josué. Se enfoca en la violencia divina y su naturaleza. Comienza por reivindicar la verdad bíblica en contra de las críticas contemporáneas que apelan a la historiografía y la arqueología moderna para negar la realidad de la conquista. Luego se comenta el exterminio, subrayando su carácter divino y exponiendo las limitaciones del enfoque moral para explicarlo. Después se comentan las nociones de anatema e idolatría, y su relación con los poderes de las tinieblas. Finalmente se expone brevemente el significado tipológico de la conquista en sus dos dimensiones, soteriológica y escatológica. A tal efecto se citan ciertas observaciones de los Padres de la Iglesia. En el epílogo se define el tema tratado como un ejemplo paradigmático del combate cristiano.
This writing deals with the extermination of Canaan, narrated in the Book of Joshua. It focuses on divine violence and its nature. It begins by vindicating biblical truth against contemporary criticism that appeals to modern historiography and archeology to deny the reality of the conquest. The extermination is then discussed, focusing on its divine character and exposing the limitations of the moral approach to explaining it. Then the notions of anathema and idolatry, and their relationship with the powers of darkness, are discussed. Finally, the typological meaning of the conquest in its soteriological and eschatological dimensions is briefly explained. For this purpose, certain observations of the Fathers of the Church are cited. In the epilogue, the topic discussed is defined as a paradigmatic example of Christian combat.
Este escrito trata de la creación y del hombre desde una perspectiva profético escatológica. Se c... more Este escrito trata de la creación y del hombre desde una perspectiva profético escatológica. Se comentan diversos tópicos: el dilema teológico de la caída de la humanidad, la concepción de Calvino y de Ireneo de Lyon sobre la misma, la inconmensurabilidad entre la voluntad divina y la humana, las aporías de la libertad entendida como libre albedrío, la diferencia entre libre albedrío y la verdadera libertad otorgada en Cristo. Y finalmente, en el epílogo, se resumen muy abreviadamente todas las cuestiones tratadas.
This writing deals with creation and man from a prophetic eschatological perspective. Various topics are discussed: the theological dilemma of the fall of humanity, the conception of Calvin and Irenaeus of Lyon on it, the incommensurability between the divine and human will, the aporias generated when freedom is understood as free will, the difference between free will and the true freedom granted in Christ. And finally, in the epilogue, all the issues discussed are briefly summarized.
El texto contiene observaciones respecto de la esencia de la justicia divina que fue revelada en ... more El texto contiene observaciones respecto de la esencia de la justicia divina que fue revelada en Cristo. Se trata de puntos de partida para una profundización y ampliación posterior. Aún así, se publican con la esperanza de que el lector encuentre en las mismas un estímulo para su propio estudio y reflexión. Los temas tratados son: la justicia de Dios, la Caída, la idolatría, la ley mosaica, la ley de Cristo, el Juicio, la libertad cristiana, y otros.
Este escrito parte de una pregunta: ¿cuál es el lugar de la persona en la recepción de la gracia?... more Este escrito parte de una pregunta: ¿cuál es el lugar de la persona en la recepción de la gracia? Para comenzar a contestar dicha pregunta recurrimos a una observación de Kierkegaard, la cual debe entenderse en el contexto de su desacuerdo con Lutero acerca de la pasividad del hombre en la recepción de la gracia. No adherimos al pensamiento de Kierkegaard pero tomamos en cuenta su observación como punto de partida para la indagación. Luego tratamos someramente algunos temas importantes de la doctrina cristiana de la gracia: la soberanía de Dios, la crítica del libre albedrío, la predestinación, el nuevo nacimiento, y otras. El trabajo termina alentando al lector a conocer los grandes debates teológicos sobre la gracia. Y ante todo, a leer asiduamente las Escrituras e invocar incesantemente el divino Nombre del Señor Jésús.
This writing is based on a question: what is the place of the person in the reception of grace? To begin to answer this question, we part upon an observation of Kierkegaard, which must be understood in the context of his disagreement with Luther about the passivity of man in the reception of grace. We do not adhere to Kierkegaard's thought, but his observation is taken into account as a starting point for the investigation.Then we briefly discuss some important topics of the Christian doctrine of grace: the sovereignty of God, the criticism of free will, predestination, the new birth, and others. The work ends by encouraging the reader to learn about the great theological debates about grace. And above all, to read the Scriptures assiduously and incessantly invoke the divine Name of the Lord Jesus.
Este escrito trata acerca de la primera epístola de San Juan. No es una exposición didáctica de l... more Este escrito trata acerca de la primera epístola de San Juan. No es una exposición didáctica de la misma, ni una exégesis completa y detallada, sino que se toman ciertos temas claves y se los comenta. Por eso se da por sentado el conocimiento previo de la epístola.
Los grantes temas tratados son: Dios es luz. Diferencia entre amor humano y amor cristiano. Mundo. Vida eterna. Pecado.
El objetivo del trabajo es, por un lado, corregir distorsiones bastante frecuentes en la interpretación de la epístola; y por otro lado, ofrecer al lector no experto algunos criterios que le ayuden a profundizar el mensaje de la misma y sus implicaciones.
This writing is about the first epistle of Saint John. It is not a didactic exposition of it, but rather certain key themes are taken and commented on. Foreknowledge of the epistle is taken for granted.
The major themes discussed are: God is light. Difference between human love and Christian love. World. Eternal life. Sin.
The objective of the work is, on the one hand, to correct quite frequent distortions in the interpretation of the epistle; and on the other hand, offer the non-expert reader some criteria that will help them deepen its message and its implications.
Este trabajo denuncia la idolatría historicista que penetró en el ámbito de los estudios bíblicos... more Este trabajo denuncia la idolatría historicista que penetró en el ámbito de los estudios bíblicos. Se comenta el carácter problemático de la historia, tal como los propios historiadores reconocen abiertamente, a fin de romper la ilusión de objetividad que produce la historia en la mayoría de la gente. Se define la historia secular como una reconstrucción realizada desde una perspectiva culturalmente condicionada. Y se plantea que, dado que esa perspectiva prescinde de Dios o lo niega, no puede erigirse en norma para la genuina comprensión de las Escrituras. Luego se expone brevemente el concepto de historia sagrada, y finalmente se afirma que es la Biblia la que permite iluminar la historia secular y no al revés. En el epílogo se menciona la degradación de la historia en el nihilismo posmoderno, el cual no distingue entre relato histórico y relato de ficción; y se alude brevemente a la relación entre el nihilismo y la voluntad de poder. Por último se invita al lector cristiano a leer la Biblia con fe y encontrar las respuestas a sus inquietudes dentro de la propia revelación.
Este trabajo trata del relato bíblico de los hermanos Caín y Abel desde una perspectiva tipológic... more Este trabajo trata del relato bíblico de los hermanos Caín y Abel desde una perspectiva tipológica cristiana. Comienza por explicar brevemente cómo debe entenderse la tipología en este contexto. Luego aborda el relato de los hermanos centrándose en la preferencia de Dios por Abel. Se pasa revista a las principales explicaciones que los exegetas han dado de dicha preferencia. Luego se comenta la explicación que remite la preferencia divina al valor expiatorio de la sangre, y se señalan los puntos fuertes y débiles de esa lectura. Finalmente se llega a la interpretación tipológica centrada en el carácter cristológico de la ofrenda de Abel. Luego se habla de Caín y su relación con la serpiente del Génesis. También se mencionan al pasar otras interpretaciones tipológicas acerca de los hermanos. Por último se plantea que los hermanos representan la posición de los hombres frente a Dios. Y por lo tanto, un cristiano debería reconocerse en Caín por sus pecados y en Abel por su redención en Jesucristo.
Este escrito trata acerca de los patrones narrativos bíblicos y los principios que los rigen. Den... more Este escrito trata acerca de los patrones narrativos bíblicos y los principios que los rigen. Dentro de ese marco, el trabajo se enfoca en los patrones de Babel y de Pentecostés. Se comparan uno y otro subrayando sus diferencias, y en especial respecto a la relación entre los hombres y Dios implicada en cada caso. Finalmente se hace referencia al modo en que los patrones revelados en la Biblia se concretan en nuestro tiempo.
This work deals with the biblical narrative patterns and the principles that govern them. But the idea of narrative pattern here does not have a literary or semiotic sense but rather a theological one. The Bible is considered a revelation of God for men that illuminates the reality of the world and reveals the essential truths of human existence and history. Within this framework, the work focuses on the patterns of Babel and Pentecost. They are compared to one another, emphasizing their differences, especially with respect to the relationship between men and God involved in each case. Finally, reference is made to the way in which the patterns revealed in the Bible materialize in our time.
En este escrito se explora la naturaleza de las visiones del Apocalipsis y su simbolismo. El prob... more En este escrito se explora la naturaleza de las visiones del Apocalipsis y su simbolismo. El problema central a desarrollar es definido mediante dos preguntas: ¿Realmente vio y oyó Juan las visiones que relata en el Apocalipsis? Y si fuera así, ¿las relata tal como las vio y oyó, o las arregló a posteriori para hacerlas corresponder con otras visiones de las Escrituras? A partir de ahí, se trata el origen de las visiones, sus paralelismos con otras visiones de las Escrituras, la naturaleza de las visiones y su simbolismo, la clave hermeneútica que enseña el propio Apocalipsis, la relación entre el simbolismo visionario, las realidades del mundo terreno y los acontecimientos históricos. Luego se habla de la enseñanza general del Apocalipsis acerca de los símbolos de Dios y del Aversario, y de su importancia para comprender el mundo actual. Finalmente en el epílogo se contesta puntualmente a las dos preguntas inciales del escrito, y se expresa brevemente el propósito general del Libro.
In this writing, the nature of the visions of the Apocalypse and its symbolism are explored. The central problem to be developed is defined by two questions: Did John really see and hear the visions that he relates in the Apocalypse? And if so, does he relate those visions as he saw and heard them, or did he rearrange them to match other visions in Scripture? From there, it deals with the origin of the visions, their parallels with other visions of the Scriptures, the nature of the visions and their symbolism, the hermeneutic key taught by Revelation itself, and the relationship between visionary symbolism, the realities of the terrestrial world, and historical events. Then it talks about the general teaching of the Apocalypse about the symbols of God and the Adversary, and their importance to understanding the world today. At last, in the epilogue, the two initial questions of the book are promptly answered, and the general purpose of the book is briefly expressed.
Este trabajo trata de poner de manifiesto la dimensión cristológica del Padre Nuestro. Es decir q... more Este trabajo trata de poner de manifiesto la dimensión cristológica del Padre Nuestro. Es decir que la oración del Señor no sólo nos fue entregada por Jesús sino que Él mismo, Jesucristo, es su perfecto cumplimiento. Así, todas las invocaciones y peticiones de la oración, desde la invocación inicial “Padre Nuestro” hasta la doxología final, todo lo que la oración dice fue hecho posible para nosotros por medio de nuestro Señor Jesús. Recorrimos una a una cada línea del Padre Nuestro apoyados en el Nuevo Testamento y en varios Padres de la Iglesia. Y terminamos invitando a rezarlo con la mayor asiduidad posible. Esperamos que los lectores encuentren aquí referencias y observaciones que le permitan profundizar en el inagotable contenido de la oración cristiana por excelencia, el Padre Nuestro.
This work tries to show the Christological dimension of the Our Father, the Lord prayer. It means this prayer was not only delivered to us by Jesus, but He Himself, Jesus Christ, is the perfect fulfillment of it. Thus, all the invocations and petitions of the prayer, from the first word "Father" to the final doxology, everything that the prayer says was made possible for us through our Lord Jesus. We have relied on the New Testament and on several Fathers of the church. We went through each line of the Our Father one by one, and ended with an invitation to pray it as often as possible. We hope that readers will find here references and observations that allow them to delve into the inexhaustible content of the Christian prayer par excellence, the Our Father.
En este breve escrito se realizan siete consideraciones acerca del santo Nombre de Jesús. Comienz... more En este breve escrito se realizan siete consideraciones acerca del santo Nombre de Jesús. Comienza haciendo referencia al carácter divino de dicho nombre; continúa con un comentario sobre su significado en arameo y hebreo y su valor teofórico; sigue con una referencia al modo en que el Nombre del Señor está escondido en numerosos pasajes del Antiguo Testamento; luego considera la trasliteración del nombre Jesúa al griego y el modo en que comunidad primitiva restituyó el significado perdido en la misma; después comenta el sentido genuino de la devoción al Nombre, y corrige el error de asumir que el Nombre de Jesús sólo tiene valor espiritual y poder en lengua hebrea; a continuación comenta una imagen que alude al misterio de la participación del Nombre en la naturaleza de la Persona divina a la cual nombra y hace presente; y termina con una consideración acerca del valor devocional del Nombre, invitando al lector a invocarlo de modo constante.
In this short writing, seven considerations are made about the holy Name of Jesus. It begins by referring to the divine character of that name; continues with a comment on its meaning in Aramaic and Hebrew and its theophoric value; it follows with a reference to the way in which the Name of the Lord is hidden in numerous passages of the Old Testament; then considers the transliteration of the name Jesus into Greek and the way in which the primitive community restored the meaning lost in it; after that comments on the genuine meaning of devotion to the Name, and corrects the mistake of assuming that the Name of Jesus only has spiritual value and power in the Hebrew language; then he comments on an image that alludes to the mystery of the participation of the Name in the nature of the divine Person whom he names and makes present; and ends with a consideration about the devotional value of the Name, inviting the reader to invoke it constantly.
En este artículo se comentan las palabras de Jesús "todavía un poco, y no me veréis; y de nuevo u... more En este artículo se comentan las palabras de Jesús "todavía un poco, y no me veréis; y de nuevo un poco, y me veréis" consignadas por San Juan en su Evangelio (Jn 16:16). En primer lugar se recuerda el contexto en el cual aparecen las mismas. Luego se circunscribe el tema a tratar: el cual gira en torno al significado del tiempo aprehendido en la fe; un tiempo cuyo fundamento y finalidad es la presencia de Cristo. Después se comentan las observaciones de diversos teólogos antiguos, medievales y modernos acerca del asunto: Agustín, Juan Crisóstomo, Cirilo de Alejandría, Tomás de Aquino, Lutero y Calvino. De cada uno de esos autores sólo se toman aspectos parciales de sus exégesis. Por lo tanto aquí no se trata de un trabajo histórico-exegético sino sólo de un intento de alcanzar, recurriendo a diversas fuentes, una visión sobre el sentido de las palabras de Jesús. En la conclusión se llama especialmente la atención sobre la importancia que dichas palabras tienen para nosotros hoy. Pues esas palabras definen la meta de la existencia temporal de cada cristiano.
This article comments on the words of Jesus "A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me" recorded by Saint John in his Gospel (Jn 16:16). First, the context of those words is remembered. Then the subject to be dealt with is circumscribed: time considered from the point of view of the believer's relationship with Jesus Christ, and more specifically with his presence. After that, the observations of various ancient, medieval and modern theologians on the subject are commented: Augustine, Chrysostom, Cyril of Alexandria, Thomas Aquinas, Luther and Calvin. Only partial aspects of their exegesis are taken from each of these authors. Therefore, this is not a historical-exegetical work but only an attempt to reach, using various sources, a vision of the meaning of Jesus' words. In the conclusion, attention is especially drawn to the importance that these words have for us today, since defines the goal of the existence of every Christian.
Este escrito trata del sentido del tiempo a la luz de la revelación de Cristo. Establece una dife... more Este escrito trata del sentido del tiempo a la luz de la revelación de Cristo. Establece una diferencia entre el tiempo cuantificable y el tiempo cualitativo. Comenta la relación entre Dios y el tiempo, así como entre la creación y el tiempo. Define el tiempo bíblico como un tiempo dotado de sentido y orientado a un fin, es decir, al cumplimiento de un propósito. Trata brevemente del vocabulario griego utilizado en la septuaginta y el Nuevo Testamento para referirse al tiempo. Y señala la necesidad de comprender los términos temporales referidos a Dios en Biblia, a luz del conjunto de la revelación, y no a partir de traducciones de diccionario. Critica la noción de eternidad como extensión ilimitada de tiempo. Señala la inadecuación de la representación rectílinea del tiempo en la teología cristiana. Y culmina comentando brevemente el carácter único de Jesucristo como creador del tiempo, nacido en el tiempo, y heredero de todo tiempo.
This essay deals briefly with the meaning of time in the light of Christ's revelation. It establishes a difference between quantifiable time and qualitative time. It comments on the relationship between God and time, as well as between creation and time. It defines biblical time as a time endowed with meaning and oriented toward an end; that is, toward the fulfillment of a purpose. It briefly deals with the Greek vocabulary used in the Septuagint and the New Testament to refer to time. It points out the need to understand the temporal terms referring to God in the Bible in the light of the whole of revelation and not from dictionary translations. It criticizes the notion of eternity as an ilimitated extension of time. It points out the inadequacy of the rectilinear representation of time in Christian theology. It concludes by briefly commenting on the unique character of Jesus Christ as the creator of time, born in time, and heir of all time.
Este escrito propone una lectura del tema del "buen pastor" en el Evangelio de Juan. Destaca la i... more Este escrito propone una lectura del tema del "buen pastor" en el Evangelio de Juan. Destaca la importancia teológica y pastoral del mismo, así como su relación con la tradición profética de Israel. La intención del trabajo es brindarle al lector no experto ciertos criterios y observaciones que le permitan profundizar el tema, más allá de la interpretación simplista que lo reduce a ser sólo una metáfora del amor y cuidado de Jesús por los suyos. Pues esa interpretación no es incorrecta, y es válida en una catequesis de niños, pero resulta insuficiente para el cristiano que quiere profundizar su relación con el Señor profundizando en su Palabra.
This paper proposes a reading of the theme of the "good shepherd" in the Gospel of John. It highlights the theological and pastoral importance of the theme, as well as its relationship with the prophetic tradition of Israel. The intention of the work is to provide the non-expert reader with certain criteria and observations that will allow him to delve deeper into the theme, beyond the simplistic interpretation that reduces it to only a metaphor for Jesus' love and care for his own. For even if this interpretation is correct, and is valid in a catechism for children, it is insufficient for the Christian who wants to deepen his relationship with the Lord by delving into his Word.
Este breve trabajo trata acerca de la condición de "hijos de Dios" de los cristianos, y del "nuev... more Este breve trabajo trata acerca de la condición de "hijos de Dios" de los cristianos, y del "nuevo nacimiento". Critica a las distorsiones del cristianismo humanista contemporáneo acerca del tema. Y luego comenta la noción de hijos de Dios y de nuevo nacimiento de acuerdo al Nuevo Testamento, y en especial del Evangelio de Juan. En el curso del comentario se tratan incidentalmente otros asuntos, como los diversos significados del agua en Juan y en el Antiguo Testamento, la interpretación sacramentalista del texto de Juan, la diferencia entre la promesa de Cristo y la promesa de la serpiente, y otros. Termina con una caracterización del camino de los hijos de Dios como unión amorosa con Cristo y entre sí.
This brief work deals with the condition of Christians as "sons of God" and the "new birth." It criticizes the distortions of contemporary humanistic Christianity on the subject. It then comments on the notion of sons of God and new birth according to the New Testament, and especially the Gospel of John. In the course of the commentary, other matters are treated incidentally, such as the different meanings of water in John and in the Old Testament, the sacramentalist interpretation of the text of John, and the difference between the promise of Christ and the promise of the serpent. It ends with a characterization of the path of the sons of God as loving union with Christ and with each other.
En este escrito se comenta el juicio religioso al Señor Jesús considerado como una lucha entre el... more En este escrito se comenta el juicio religioso al Señor Jesús considerado como una lucha entre el Espíritu de la verdad y el espíritu de la mentira. Comienza destacando la importancia del discernimiento espiritual. Luego hace una breve caracterización de dicho discernimiento. Se destaca la necesidad del mismo en la lectura del Nuevo Testamento y la exégesis. Despúes se comenta el juicio propiamente dicho. Y termina con un comentario acerca de la penetración del espíritu de mentira en el mundo actual, y una llamada a la oración.
This essay discusses the religious trial of the Lord Jesus, considering it a struggle between the Spirit of Truth and the spirit of lies. It begins by highlighting the importance of spiritual discernment. Then it briefly characterizes this discernment. It highlights the need for it in the reading of the New Testament and in exegesis. Then it discusses the trial itself. It concludes with a commentary on the penetration of the spirit of lies in the present world, and a call to prayer.
Este trabajo contiene distintas observaciones acerca de la necesidad de oír al Espíritu Santo en ... more Este trabajo contiene distintas observaciones acerca de la necesidad de oír al Espíritu Santo en la lectura de la Biblia, y del Nuevo Testamento en particular. Se critican ciertas distorsiones en la comprensión de las Escrituras que son propias del racionalismo moderno. Y se invita al lector a leer la Palabra de Dios sin suspicacia, con fe sincera y sencillez de corazón. Confiando en que el Señor lo guiará.
This work contains various observations about the need to listen to the Holy Spirit in reading the Bible, and the New Testament in particular. Certain distortions in the understanding of the Scriptures that are characteristic of modern rationalism are criticized. And the reader is invited to read the Word of God without suspicion, with sincere faith and simplicity of heart, trusting that the Lord will guide him.
Este breve escrito trata de la contaminación del Cristianismo por el saber secular moderno. Apunt... more Este breve escrito trata de la contaminación del Cristianismo por el saber secular moderno. Apunta a diferenciar claramente la perspectiva bíblica y la perspectiva de la ciencia y las disciplinas modernas. Destaca la importancia de la palabra apostólica, y llama a leer la Escritura sin suspicacia, con fe sincera y sencillez de corazón. Pues, como se suele decir, la Biblia es su propio intérprete.
This short essay deals with the contamination of Christianity by modern secular knowledge. It aims to clearly distinguish the biblical perspective from the perspective of modern science and disciplines. It stresses the importance of the apostolic word and calls for reading Scripture without suspicion, with sincere faith and simplicity of heart. For, usually it says, the Bible is its own interpreter.
En este escrito se comenta un pasaje del Evangelio de San Juan (Jn 5), en el cual Jesús cura mila... more En este escrito se comenta un pasaje del Evangelio de San Juan (Jn 5), en el cual Jesús cura milagrosamente a un paralítico en un día sábado, y eso da lugar a una confrontación entre el Señor y las autoridades del templo, y en el contexto de ese conflicto Jesús revela su identidad de Hijo de Dios. No se trata de una exégesis versículo a versículo sino que se toman grandes grupos temáticos y se los comenta. Los grupos temáticos son cinco: el estanque de Betesda y su significado. La curación del paralítico por el poder sobrenatural de la palabra del Señor Jesús. El conflicto suscitado en relación al sábado. La revelación del Hijo de Dios, de su misión salvadora y su carácter de Juez. Y el testimonio del Padre respecto del Hijo. Se termina con una breve reflexión acerca de la tensión entre el templo, como lugar de la autoridad religiosa, y el estanque, como lugar del pueblo necesitado y enfermo al cual se dirige Jesús.
This text comments on a passage from the Gospel of St. John (Jn 5), in which Jesus miraculously heals a paralytic on a Saturday, and this gives rise to a confrontation between the Lord and the temple authorities, and in the context of this conflict, Jesus reveals his identity as the Son of God. It is not a verse-by-verse exegesis, but rather large thematic groups are taken and commented on. There are five thematic groups: the pool of Bethesda and its meaning; the healing of the paralytic by the supernatural power of the word of the Lord Jesus; the conflict raised in relation to the Sabbath; the revelation of the Son of God, of his saving mission and his character as Judge; and the testimony of the Father regarding the Son. It ends with a brief reflection on the tension between the temple, as a place of religious authority, and the pool, as a place of the needy and sick people to whom Jesus addresses himself.
Este escrito reúne una serie de ocho reflexiones breves sobre distintos temas asociados al camino... more Este escrito reúne una serie de ocho reflexiones breves sobre distintos temas asociados al camino cristiano: el amor de Dios y los elegidos; la diferencia entre el Espíritu Santo y los espíritus impuros; el pecado considerado más allá de su dimensión moral; el sentido del mandamiento del amor; la gnosis entendida como una matriz doctrinal anti bíblica que subyace a muchas doctrinas, filosofías y movimientos diferentes presentes en el mundo actual; la incapacidad de la razón natural para comprender las verdades cristianas; la concepción de Dooyeweerd sobre el motivo religioso básico; y la relación asimétrica que existe entre la voluntad divina y la humana.
This writing brings together a series of eight brief reflections on different topics associated with the Christian path: the love of God and the elect; the difference between the Holy Spirit and impure spirits; sin considered beyond its moral dimension; the meaning of the commandment of love; gnosis understood as an anti-biblical doctrinal matrix that underlies many doctrines, philosophies and movements present in the world today; the inability of natural reason to understand Christian truths; Dooyeweerd's conception of the basic religious motif; and the asymmetric relationship that exists between the divine and human will.
Este escrito trata del exterminio de Canaán narrado en el Libro de Josué. Se enfoca en la violenc... more Este escrito trata del exterminio de Canaán narrado en el Libro de Josué. Se enfoca en la violencia divina y su naturaleza. Comienza por reivindicar la verdad bíblica en contra de las críticas contemporáneas que apelan a la historiografía y la arqueología moderna para negar la realidad de la conquista. Luego se comenta el exterminio, subrayando su carácter divino y exponiendo las limitaciones del enfoque moral para explicarlo. Después se comentan las nociones de anatema e idolatría, y su relación con los poderes de las tinieblas. Finalmente se expone brevemente el significado tipológico de la conquista en sus dos dimensiones, soteriológica y escatológica. A tal efecto se citan ciertas observaciones de los Padres de la Iglesia. En el epílogo se define el tema tratado como un ejemplo paradigmático del combate cristiano.
This writing deals with the extermination of Canaan, narrated in the Book of Joshua. It focuses on divine violence and its nature. It begins by vindicating biblical truth against contemporary criticism that appeals to modern historiography and archeology to deny the reality of the conquest. The extermination is then discussed, focusing on its divine character and exposing the limitations of the moral approach to explaining it. Then the notions of anathema and idolatry, and their relationship with the powers of darkness, are discussed. Finally, the typological meaning of the conquest in its soteriological and eschatological dimensions is briefly explained. For this purpose, certain observations of the Fathers of the Church are cited. In the epilogue, the topic discussed is defined as a paradigmatic example of Christian combat.
Este escrito trata de la creación y del hombre desde una perspectiva profético escatológica. Se c... more Este escrito trata de la creación y del hombre desde una perspectiva profético escatológica. Se comentan diversos tópicos: el dilema teológico de la caída de la humanidad, la concepción de Calvino y de Ireneo de Lyon sobre la misma, la inconmensurabilidad entre la voluntad divina y la humana, las aporías de la libertad entendida como libre albedrío, la diferencia entre libre albedrío y la verdadera libertad otorgada en Cristo. Y finalmente, en el epílogo, se resumen muy abreviadamente todas las cuestiones tratadas.
This writing deals with creation and man from a prophetic eschatological perspective. Various topics are discussed: the theological dilemma of the fall of humanity, the conception of Calvin and Irenaeus of Lyon on it, the incommensurability between the divine and human will, the aporias generated when freedom is understood as free will, the difference between free will and the true freedom granted in Christ. And finally, in the epilogue, all the issues discussed are briefly summarized.
El texto contiene observaciones respecto de la esencia de la justicia divina que fue revelada en ... more El texto contiene observaciones respecto de la esencia de la justicia divina que fue revelada en Cristo. Se trata de puntos de partida para una profundización y ampliación posterior. Aún así, se publican con la esperanza de que el lector encuentre en las mismas un estímulo para su propio estudio y reflexión. Los temas tratados son: la justicia de Dios, la Caída, la idolatría, la ley mosaica, la ley de Cristo, el Juicio, la libertad cristiana, y otros.
Este escrito parte de una pregunta: ¿cuál es el lugar de la persona en la recepción de la gracia?... more Este escrito parte de una pregunta: ¿cuál es el lugar de la persona en la recepción de la gracia? Para comenzar a contestar dicha pregunta recurrimos a una observación de Kierkegaard, la cual debe entenderse en el contexto de su desacuerdo con Lutero acerca de la pasividad del hombre en la recepción de la gracia. No adherimos al pensamiento de Kierkegaard pero tomamos en cuenta su observación como punto de partida para la indagación. Luego tratamos someramente algunos temas importantes de la doctrina cristiana de la gracia: la soberanía de Dios, la crítica del libre albedrío, la predestinación, el nuevo nacimiento, y otras. El trabajo termina alentando al lector a conocer los grandes debates teológicos sobre la gracia. Y ante todo, a leer asiduamente las Escrituras e invocar incesantemente el divino Nombre del Señor Jésús.
This writing is based on a question: what is the place of the person in the reception of grace? To begin to answer this question, we part upon an observation of Kierkegaard, which must be understood in the context of his disagreement with Luther about the passivity of man in the reception of grace. We do not adhere to Kierkegaard's thought, but his observation is taken into account as a starting point for the investigation.Then we briefly discuss some important topics of the Christian doctrine of grace: the sovereignty of God, the criticism of free will, predestination, the new birth, and others. The work ends by encouraging the reader to learn about the great theological debates about grace. And above all, to read the Scriptures assiduously and incessantly invoke the divine Name of the Lord Jesus.
Este escrito trata acerca de la primera epístola de San Juan. No es una exposición didáctica de l... more Este escrito trata acerca de la primera epístola de San Juan. No es una exposición didáctica de la misma, ni una exégesis completa y detallada, sino que se toman ciertos temas claves y se los comenta. Por eso se da por sentado el conocimiento previo de la epístola.
Los grantes temas tratados son: Dios es luz. Diferencia entre amor humano y amor cristiano. Mundo. Vida eterna. Pecado.
El objetivo del trabajo es, por un lado, corregir distorsiones bastante frecuentes en la interpretación de la epístola; y por otro lado, ofrecer al lector no experto algunos criterios que le ayuden a profundizar el mensaje de la misma y sus implicaciones.
This writing is about the first epistle of Saint John. It is not a didactic exposition of it, but rather certain key themes are taken and commented on. Foreknowledge of the epistle is taken for granted.
The major themes discussed are: God is light. Difference between human love and Christian love. World. Eternal life. Sin.
The objective of the work is, on the one hand, to correct quite frequent distortions in the interpretation of the epistle; and on the other hand, offer the non-expert reader some criteria that will help them deepen its message and its implications.
Este trabajo denuncia la idolatría historicista que penetró en el ámbito de los estudios bíblicos... more Este trabajo denuncia la idolatría historicista que penetró en el ámbito de los estudios bíblicos. Se comenta el carácter problemático de la historia, tal como los propios historiadores reconocen abiertamente, a fin de romper la ilusión de objetividad que produce la historia en la mayoría de la gente. Se define la historia secular como una reconstrucción realizada desde una perspectiva culturalmente condicionada. Y se plantea que, dado que esa perspectiva prescinde de Dios o lo niega, no puede erigirse en norma para la genuina comprensión de las Escrituras. Luego se expone brevemente el concepto de historia sagrada, y finalmente se afirma que es la Biblia la que permite iluminar la historia secular y no al revés. En el epílogo se menciona la degradación de la historia en el nihilismo posmoderno, el cual no distingue entre relato histórico y relato de ficción; y se alude brevemente a la relación entre el nihilismo y la voluntad de poder. Por último se invita al lector cristiano a leer la Biblia con fe y encontrar las respuestas a sus inquietudes dentro de la propia revelación.
Este trabajo trata del relato bíblico de los hermanos Caín y Abel desde una perspectiva tipológic... more Este trabajo trata del relato bíblico de los hermanos Caín y Abel desde una perspectiva tipológica cristiana. Comienza por explicar brevemente cómo debe entenderse la tipología en este contexto. Luego aborda el relato de los hermanos centrándose en la preferencia de Dios por Abel. Se pasa revista a las principales explicaciones que los exegetas han dado de dicha preferencia. Luego se comenta la explicación que remite la preferencia divina al valor expiatorio de la sangre, y se señalan los puntos fuertes y débiles de esa lectura. Finalmente se llega a la interpretación tipológica centrada en el carácter cristológico de la ofrenda de Abel. Luego se habla de Caín y su relación con la serpiente del Génesis. También se mencionan al pasar otras interpretaciones tipológicas acerca de los hermanos. Por último se plantea que los hermanos representan la posición de los hombres frente a Dios. Y por lo tanto, un cristiano debería reconocerse en Caín por sus pecados y en Abel por su redención en Jesucristo.
Este escrito trata acerca de los patrones narrativos bíblicos y los principios que los rigen. Den... more Este escrito trata acerca de los patrones narrativos bíblicos y los principios que los rigen. Dentro de ese marco, el trabajo se enfoca en los patrones de Babel y de Pentecostés. Se comparan uno y otro subrayando sus diferencias, y en especial respecto a la relación entre los hombres y Dios implicada en cada caso. Finalmente se hace referencia al modo en que los patrones revelados en la Biblia se concretan en nuestro tiempo.
This work deals with the biblical narrative patterns and the principles that govern them. But the idea of narrative pattern here does not have a literary or semiotic sense but rather a theological one. The Bible is considered a revelation of God for men that illuminates the reality of the world and reveals the essential truths of human existence and history. Within this framework, the work focuses on the patterns of Babel and Pentecost. They are compared to one another, emphasizing their differences, especially with respect to the relationship between men and God involved in each case. Finally, reference is made to the way in which the patterns revealed in the Bible materialize in our time.
En este escrito se explora la naturaleza de las visiones del Apocalipsis y su simbolismo. El prob... more En este escrito se explora la naturaleza de las visiones del Apocalipsis y su simbolismo. El problema central a desarrollar es definido mediante dos preguntas: ¿Realmente vio y oyó Juan las visiones que relata en el Apocalipsis? Y si fuera así, ¿las relata tal como las vio y oyó, o las arregló a posteriori para hacerlas corresponder con otras visiones de las Escrituras? A partir de ahí, se trata el origen de las visiones, sus paralelismos con otras visiones de las Escrituras, la naturaleza de las visiones y su simbolismo, la clave hermeneútica que enseña el propio Apocalipsis, la relación entre el simbolismo visionario, las realidades del mundo terreno y los acontecimientos históricos. Luego se habla de la enseñanza general del Apocalipsis acerca de los símbolos de Dios y del Aversario, y de su importancia para comprender el mundo actual. Finalmente en el epílogo se contesta puntualmente a las dos preguntas inciales del escrito, y se expresa brevemente el propósito general del Libro.
In this writing, the nature of the visions of the Apocalypse and its symbolism are explored. The central problem to be developed is defined by two questions: Did John really see and hear the visions that he relates in the Apocalypse? And if so, does he relate those visions as he saw and heard them, or did he rearrange them to match other visions in Scripture? From there, it deals with the origin of the visions, their parallels with other visions of the Scriptures, the nature of the visions and their symbolism, the hermeneutic key taught by Revelation itself, and the relationship between visionary symbolism, the realities of the terrestrial world, and historical events. Then it talks about the general teaching of the Apocalypse about the symbols of God and the Adversary, and their importance to understanding the world today. At last, in the epilogue, the two initial questions of the book are promptly answered, and the general purpose of the book is briefly expressed.
Este trabajo trata de poner de manifiesto la dimensión cristológica del Padre Nuestro. Es decir q... more Este trabajo trata de poner de manifiesto la dimensión cristológica del Padre Nuestro. Es decir que la oración del Señor no sólo nos fue entregada por Jesús sino que Él mismo, Jesucristo, es su perfecto cumplimiento. Así, todas las invocaciones y peticiones de la oración, desde la invocación inicial “Padre Nuestro” hasta la doxología final, todo lo que la oración dice fue hecho posible para nosotros por medio de nuestro Señor Jesús. Recorrimos una a una cada línea del Padre Nuestro apoyados en el Nuevo Testamento y en varios Padres de la Iglesia. Y terminamos invitando a rezarlo con la mayor asiduidad posible. Esperamos que los lectores encuentren aquí referencias y observaciones que le permitan profundizar en el inagotable contenido de la oración cristiana por excelencia, el Padre Nuestro.
This work tries to show the Christological dimension of the Our Father, the Lord prayer. It means this prayer was not only delivered to us by Jesus, but He Himself, Jesus Christ, is the perfect fulfillment of it. Thus, all the invocations and petitions of the prayer, from the first word "Father" to the final doxology, everything that the prayer says was made possible for us through our Lord Jesus. We have relied on the New Testament and on several Fathers of the church. We went through each line of the Our Father one by one, and ended with an invitation to pray it as often as possible. We hope that readers will find here references and observations that allow them to delve into the inexhaustible content of the Christian prayer par excellence, the Our Father.
En este breve escrito se realizan siete consideraciones acerca del santo Nombre de Jesús. Comienz... more En este breve escrito se realizan siete consideraciones acerca del santo Nombre de Jesús. Comienza haciendo referencia al carácter divino de dicho nombre; continúa con un comentario sobre su significado en arameo y hebreo y su valor teofórico; sigue con una referencia al modo en que el Nombre del Señor está escondido en numerosos pasajes del Antiguo Testamento; luego considera la trasliteración del nombre Jesúa al griego y el modo en que comunidad primitiva restituyó el significado perdido en la misma; después comenta el sentido genuino de la devoción al Nombre, y corrige el error de asumir que el Nombre de Jesús sólo tiene valor espiritual y poder en lengua hebrea; a continuación comenta una imagen que alude al misterio de la participación del Nombre en la naturaleza de la Persona divina a la cual nombra y hace presente; y termina con una consideración acerca del valor devocional del Nombre, invitando al lector a invocarlo de modo constante.
In this short writing, seven considerations are made about the holy Name of Jesus. It begins by referring to the divine character of that name; continues with a comment on its meaning in Aramaic and Hebrew and its theophoric value; it follows with a reference to the way in which the Name of the Lord is hidden in numerous passages of the Old Testament; then considers the transliteration of the name Jesus into Greek and the way in which the primitive community restored the meaning lost in it; after that comments on the genuine meaning of devotion to the Name, and corrects the mistake of assuming that the Name of Jesus only has spiritual value and power in the Hebrew language; then he comments on an image that alludes to the mystery of the participation of the Name in the nature of the divine Person whom he names and makes present; and ends with a consideration about the devotional value of the Name, inviting the reader to invoke it constantly.
En este artículo se comentan las palabras de Jesús "todavía un poco, y no me veréis; y de nuevo u... more En este artículo se comentan las palabras de Jesús "todavía un poco, y no me veréis; y de nuevo un poco, y me veréis" consignadas por San Juan en su Evangelio (Jn 16:16). En primer lugar se recuerda el contexto en el cual aparecen las mismas. Luego se circunscribe el tema a tratar: el cual gira en torno al significado del tiempo aprehendido en la fe; un tiempo cuyo fundamento y finalidad es la presencia de Cristo. Después se comentan las observaciones de diversos teólogos antiguos, medievales y modernos acerca del asunto: Agustín, Juan Crisóstomo, Cirilo de Alejandría, Tomás de Aquino, Lutero y Calvino. De cada uno de esos autores sólo se toman aspectos parciales de sus exégesis. Por lo tanto aquí no se trata de un trabajo histórico-exegético sino sólo de un intento de alcanzar, recurriendo a diversas fuentes, una visión sobre el sentido de las palabras de Jesús. En la conclusión se llama especialmente la atención sobre la importancia que dichas palabras tienen para nosotros hoy. Pues esas palabras definen la meta de la existencia temporal de cada cristiano.
This article comments on the words of Jesus "A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me" recorded by Saint John in his Gospel (Jn 16:16). First, the context of those words is remembered. Then the subject to be dealt with is circumscribed: time considered from the point of view of the believer's relationship with Jesus Christ, and more specifically with his presence. After that, the observations of various ancient, medieval and modern theologians on the subject are commented: Augustine, Chrysostom, Cyril of Alexandria, Thomas Aquinas, Luther and Calvin. Only partial aspects of their exegesis are taken from each of these authors. Therefore, this is not a historical-exegetical work but only an attempt to reach, using various sources, a vision of the meaning of Jesus' words. In the conclusion, attention is especially drawn to the importance that these words have for us today, since defines the goal of the existence of every Christian.
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Papers by Lázaro Lameiro
This essay deals briefly with the meaning of time in the light of Christ's revelation. It establishes a difference between quantifiable time and qualitative time. It comments on the relationship between God and time, as well as between creation and time. It defines biblical time as a time endowed with meaning and oriented toward an end; that is, toward the fulfillment of a purpose. It briefly deals with the Greek vocabulary used in the Septuagint and the New Testament to refer to time. It points out the need to understand the temporal terms referring to God in the Bible in the light of the whole of revelation and not from dictionary translations. It criticizes the notion of eternity as an ilimitated extension of time. It points out the inadequacy of the rectilinear representation of time in Christian theology. It concludes by briefly commenting on the unique character of Jesus Christ as the creator of time, born in time, and heir of all time.
This paper proposes a reading of the theme of the "good shepherd" in the Gospel of John. It highlights the theological and pastoral importance of the theme, as well as its relationship with the prophetic tradition of Israel. The intention of the work is to provide the non-expert reader with certain criteria and observations that will allow him to delve deeper into the theme, beyond the simplistic interpretation that reduces it to only a metaphor for Jesus' love and care for his own. For even if this interpretation is correct, and is valid in a catechism for children, it is insufficient for the Christian who wants to deepen his relationship with the Lord by delving into his Word.
This brief work deals with the condition of Christians as "sons of God" and the "new birth." It criticizes the distortions of contemporary humanistic Christianity on the subject. It then comments on the notion of sons of God and new birth according to the New Testament, and especially the Gospel of John. In the course of the commentary, other matters are treated incidentally, such as the different meanings of water in John and in the Old Testament, the sacramentalist interpretation of the text of John, and the difference between the promise of Christ and the promise of the serpent. It ends with a characterization of the path of the sons of God as loving union with Christ and with each other.
This essay discusses the religious trial of the Lord Jesus, considering it a struggle between the Spirit of Truth and the spirit of lies. It begins by highlighting the importance of spiritual discernment. Then it briefly characterizes this discernment. It highlights the need for it in the reading of the New Testament and in exegesis. Then it discusses the trial itself. It concludes with a commentary on the penetration of the spirit of lies in the present world, and a call to prayer.
This work contains various observations about the need to listen to the Holy Spirit in reading the Bible, and the New Testament in particular. Certain distortions in the understanding of the Scriptures that are characteristic of modern rationalism are criticized. And the reader is invited to read the Word of God without suspicion, with sincere faith and simplicity of heart, trusting that the Lord will guide him.
This short essay deals with the contamination of Christianity by modern secular knowledge. It aims to clearly distinguish the biblical perspective from the perspective of modern science and disciplines. It stresses the importance of the apostolic word and calls for reading Scripture without suspicion, with sincere faith and simplicity of heart. For, usually it says, the Bible is its own interpreter.
This text comments on a passage from the Gospel of St. John (Jn 5), in which Jesus miraculously heals a paralytic on a Saturday, and this gives rise to a confrontation between the Lord and the temple authorities, and in the context of this conflict, Jesus reveals his identity as the Son of God. It is not a verse-by-verse exegesis, but rather large thematic groups are taken and commented on. There are five thematic groups: the pool of Bethesda and its meaning; the healing of the paralytic by the supernatural power of the word of the Lord Jesus; the conflict raised in relation to the Sabbath; the revelation of the Son of God, of his saving mission and his character as Judge; and the testimony of the Father regarding the Son. It ends with a brief reflection on the tension between the temple, as a place of religious authority, and the pool, as a place of the needy and sick people to whom Jesus addresses himself.
This writing brings together a series of eight brief reflections on different topics associated with the Christian path: the love of God and the elect; the difference between the Holy Spirit and impure spirits; sin considered beyond its moral dimension; the meaning of the commandment of love; gnosis understood as an anti-biblical doctrinal matrix that underlies many doctrines, philosophies and movements present in the world today; the inability of natural reason to understand Christian truths; Dooyeweerd's conception of the basic religious motif; and the asymmetric relationship that exists between the divine and human will.
This writing deals with the extermination of Canaan, narrated in the Book of Joshua. It focuses on divine violence and its nature. It begins by vindicating biblical truth against contemporary criticism that appeals to modern historiography and archeology to deny the reality of the conquest. The extermination is then discussed, focusing on its divine character and exposing the limitations of the moral approach to explaining it. Then the notions of anathema and idolatry, and their relationship with the powers of darkness, are discussed. Finally, the typological meaning of the conquest in its soteriological and eschatological dimensions is briefly explained. For this purpose, certain observations of the Fathers of the Church are cited. In the epilogue, the topic discussed is defined as a paradigmatic example of Christian combat.
This writing deals with creation and man from a prophetic eschatological perspective. Various topics are discussed: the theological dilemma of the fall of humanity, the conception of Calvin and Irenaeus of Lyon on it, the incommensurability between the divine and human will, the aporias generated when freedom is understood as free will, the difference between free will and the true freedom granted in Christ. And finally, in the epilogue, all the issues discussed are briefly summarized.
This writing is based on a question: what is the place of the person in the reception of grace? To begin to answer this question, we part upon an observation of Kierkegaard, which must be understood in the context of his disagreement with Luther about the passivity of man in the reception of grace. We do not adhere to Kierkegaard's thought, but his observation is taken into account as a starting point for the investigation.Then we briefly discuss some important topics of the Christian doctrine of grace: the sovereignty of God, the criticism of free will, predestination, the new birth, and others. The work ends by encouraging the reader to learn about the great theological debates about grace. And above all, to read the Scriptures assiduously and incessantly invoke the divine Name of the Lord Jesus.
Los grantes temas tratados son: Dios es luz. Diferencia entre amor humano y amor cristiano. Mundo. Vida eterna. Pecado.
El objetivo del trabajo es, por un lado, corregir distorsiones bastante frecuentes en la interpretación de la epístola; y por otro lado, ofrecer al
lector no experto algunos criterios que le ayuden a profundizar el mensaje de la misma y sus implicaciones.
This writing is about the first epistle of Saint John. It is not a didactic exposition of it, but rather certain key themes are taken and commented on. Foreknowledge of the epistle is taken for granted.
The major themes discussed are: God is light. Difference between human love and Christian love. World. Eternal life. Sin.
The objective of the work is, on the one hand, to correct quite frequent distortions in the interpretation of the epistle; and on the other hand, offer the non-expert reader some criteria that will help them deepen its message and its implications.
This work deals with the biblical narrative patterns and the principles that govern them. But the idea of narrative pattern here does not have a literary or semiotic sense but rather a theological one. The Bible is considered a revelation of God for men that illuminates the reality of the world and reveals the essential truths of human existence and history. Within this framework, the work focuses on the patterns of Babel and Pentecost. They are compared to one another, emphasizing their differences, especially with respect to the relationship between men and God involved in each case. Finally, reference is made to the way in which the patterns revealed in the Bible materialize in our time.
In this writing, the nature of the visions of the Apocalypse and its symbolism are explored. The central problem to be developed is defined by two questions: Did John really see and hear the visions that he relates in the Apocalypse? And if so, does he relate those visions as he saw and heard them, or did he rearrange them to match other visions in Scripture? From there, it deals with the origin of the visions, their parallels with other visions of the Scriptures, the nature of the visions and their symbolism, the hermeneutic key taught by Revelation itself, and the relationship between visionary symbolism, the realities of the terrestrial world, and historical events. Then it talks about the general teaching of the Apocalypse about the symbols of God and the Adversary, and their importance to understanding the world today. At last, in the epilogue, the two initial questions of the book are promptly answered, and the general purpose of the book is briefly expressed.
This work tries to show the Christological dimension of the Our Father, the Lord prayer. It means this prayer was not only delivered to us by Jesus, but He Himself, Jesus Christ, is the perfect fulfillment of it. Thus, all the invocations and petitions of the prayer, from the first word "Father" to the final doxology, everything that the prayer says was made possible for us through our Lord Jesus. We have relied on the New Testament and on several Fathers of the church. We went through each line of the Our Father one by one, and ended with an invitation to pray it as often as possible. We hope that readers will find here references and observations that allow them to delve into the inexhaustible content of the Christian prayer par excellence, the Our Father.
In this short writing, seven considerations are made about the holy Name of Jesus. It begins by referring to the divine character of that name; continues with a comment on its meaning in Aramaic and Hebrew and its theophoric value; it follows with a reference to the way in which the Name of the Lord is hidden in numerous passages of the Old Testament; then considers the transliteration of the name Jesus into Greek and the way in which the primitive community restored the meaning lost in it; after that comments on the genuine meaning of devotion to the Name, and corrects the mistake of assuming that the Name of Jesus only has spiritual value and power in the Hebrew language; then he comments on an image that alludes to the mystery of the participation of the Name in the nature of the divine Person whom he names and makes present; and ends with a consideration about the devotional value of the Name, inviting the reader to invoke it constantly.
This article comments on the words of Jesus "A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me" recorded by Saint John in his Gospel (Jn 16:16). First, the context of those words is remembered. Then the subject to be dealt with is circumscribed: time considered from the point of view of the believer's relationship with Jesus Christ, and more specifically with his presence. After that, the observations of various ancient, medieval and modern theologians on the subject are commented: Augustine, Chrysostom, Cyril of Alexandria, Thomas Aquinas, Luther and Calvin. Only partial aspects of their exegesis are taken from each of these authors. Therefore, this is not a historical-exegetical work but only an attempt to reach, using various sources, a vision of the meaning of Jesus' words. In the conclusion, attention is especially drawn to the importance that these words have for us today, since defines the goal of the existence of every Christian.
This essay deals briefly with the meaning of time in the light of Christ's revelation. It establishes a difference between quantifiable time and qualitative time. It comments on the relationship between God and time, as well as between creation and time. It defines biblical time as a time endowed with meaning and oriented toward an end; that is, toward the fulfillment of a purpose. It briefly deals with the Greek vocabulary used in the Septuagint and the New Testament to refer to time. It points out the need to understand the temporal terms referring to God in the Bible in the light of the whole of revelation and not from dictionary translations. It criticizes the notion of eternity as an ilimitated extension of time. It points out the inadequacy of the rectilinear representation of time in Christian theology. It concludes by briefly commenting on the unique character of Jesus Christ as the creator of time, born in time, and heir of all time.
This paper proposes a reading of the theme of the "good shepherd" in the Gospel of John. It highlights the theological and pastoral importance of the theme, as well as its relationship with the prophetic tradition of Israel. The intention of the work is to provide the non-expert reader with certain criteria and observations that will allow him to delve deeper into the theme, beyond the simplistic interpretation that reduces it to only a metaphor for Jesus' love and care for his own. For even if this interpretation is correct, and is valid in a catechism for children, it is insufficient for the Christian who wants to deepen his relationship with the Lord by delving into his Word.
This brief work deals with the condition of Christians as "sons of God" and the "new birth." It criticizes the distortions of contemporary humanistic Christianity on the subject. It then comments on the notion of sons of God and new birth according to the New Testament, and especially the Gospel of John. In the course of the commentary, other matters are treated incidentally, such as the different meanings of water in John and in the Old Testament, the sacramentalist interpretation of the text of John, and the difference between the promise of Christ and the promise of the serpent. It ends with a characterization of the path of the sons of God as loving union with Christ and with each other.
This essay discusses the religious trial of the Lord Jesus, considering it a struggle between the Spirit of Truth and the spirit of lies. It begins by highlighting the importance of spiritual discernment. Then it briefly characterizes this discernment. It highlights the need for it in the reading of the New Testament and in exegesis. Then it discusses the trial itself. It concludes with a commentary on the penetration of the spirit of lies in the present world, and a call to prayer.
This work contains various observations about the need to listen to the Holy Spirit in reading the Bible, and the New Testament in particular. Certain distortions in the understanding of the Scriptures that are characteristic of modern rationalism are criticized. And the reader is invited to read the Word of God without suspicion, with sincere faith and simplicity of heart, trusting that the Lord will guide him.
This short essay deals with the contamination of Christianity by modern secular knowledge. It aims to clearly distinguish the biblical perspective from the perspective of modern science and disciplines. It stresses the importance of the apostolic word and calls for reading Scripture without suspicion, with sincere faith and simplicity of heart. For, usually it says, the Bible is its own interpreter.
This text comments on a passage from the Gospel of St. John (Jn 5), in which Jesus miraculously heals a paralytic on a Saturday, and this gives rise to a confrontation between the Lord and the temple authorities, and in the context of this conflict, Jesus reveals his identity as the Son of God. It is not a verse-by-verse exegesis, but rather large thematic groups are taken and commented on. There are five thematic groups: the pool of Bethesda and its meaning; the healing of the paralytic by the supernatural power of the word of the Lord Jesus; the conflict raised in relation to the Sabbath; the revelation of the Son of God, of his saving mission and his character as Judge; and the testimony of the Father regarding the Son. It ends with a brief reflection on the tension between the temple, as a place of religious authority, and the pool, as a place of the needy and sick people to whom Jesus addresses himself.
This writing brings together a series of eight brief reflections on different topics associated with the Christian path: the love of God and the elect; the difference between the Holy Spirit and impure spirits; sin considered beyond its moral dimension; the meaning of the commandment of love; gnosis understood as an anti-biblical doctrinal matrix that underlies many doctrines, philosophies and movements present in the world today; the inability of natural reason to understand Christian truths; Dooyeweerd's conception of the basic religious motif; and the asymmetric relationship that exists between the divine and human will.
This writing deals with the extermination of Canaan, narrated in the Book of Joshua. It focuses on divine violence and its nature. It begins by vindicating biblical truth against contemporary criticism that appeals to modern historiography and archeology to deny the reality of the conquest. The extermination is then discussed, focusing on its divine character and exposing the limitations of the moral approach to explaining it. Then the notions of anathema and idolatry, and their relationship with the powers of darkness, are discussed. Finally, the typological meaning of the conquest in its soteriological and eschatological dimensions is briefly explained. For this purpose, certain observations of the Fathers of the Church are cited. In the epilogue, the topic discussed is defined as a paradigmatic example of Christian combat.
This writing deals with creation and man from a prophetic eschatological perspective. Various topics are discussed: the theological dilemma of the fall of humanity, the conception of Calvin and Irenaeus of Lyon on it, the incommensurability between the divine and human will, the aporias generated when freedom is understood as free will, the difference between free will and the true freedom granted in Christ. And finally, in the epilogue, all the issues discussed are briefly summarized.
This writing is based on a question: what is the place of the person in the reception of grace? To begin to answer this question, we part upon an observation of Kierkegaard, which must be understood in the context of his disagreement with Luther about the passivity of man in the reception of grace. We do not adhere to Kierkegaard's thought, but his observation is taken into account as a starting point for the investigation.Then we briefly discuss some important topics of the Christian doctrine of grace: the sovereignty of God, the criticism of free will, predestination, the new birth, and others. The work ends by encouraging the reader to learn about the great theological debates about grace. And above all, to read the Scriptures assiduously and incessantly invoke the divine Name of the Lord Jesus.
Los grantes temas tratados son: Dios es luz. Diferencia entre amor humano y amor cristiano. Mundo. Vida eterna. Pecado.
El objetivo del trabajo es, por un lado, corregir distorsiones bastante frecuentes en la interpretación de la epístola; y por otro lado, ofrecer al
lector no experto algunos criterios que le ayuden a profundizar el mensaje de la misma y sus implicaciones.
This writing is about the first epistle of Saint John. It is not a didactic exposition of it, but rather certain key themes are taken and commented on. Foreknowledge of the epistle is taken for granted.
The major themes discussed are: God is light. Difference between human love and Christian love. World. Eternal life. Sin.
The objective of the work is, on the one hand, to correct quite frequent distortions in the interpretation of the epistle; and on the other hand, offer the non-expert reader some criteria that will help them deepen its message and its implications.
This work deals with the biblical narrative patterns and the principles that govern them. But the idea of narrative pattern here does not have a literary or semiotic sense but rather a theological one. The Bible is considered a revelation of God for men that illuminates the reality of the world and reveals the essential truths of human existence and history. Within this framework, the work focuses on the patterns of Babel and Pentecost. They are compared to one another, emphasizing their differences, especially with respect to the relationship between men and God involved in each case. Finally, reference is made to the way in which the patterns revealed in the Bible materialize in our time.
In this writing, the nature of the visions of the Apocalypse and its symbolism are explored. The central problem to be developed is defined by two questions: Did John really see and hear the visions that he relates in the Apocalypse? And if so, does he relate those visions as he saw and heard them, or did he rearrange them to match other visions in Scripture? From there, it deals with the origin of the visions, their parallels with other visions of the Scriptures, the nature of the visions and their symbolism, the hermeneutic key taught by Revelation itself, and the relationship between visionary symbolism, the realities of the terrestrial world, and historical events. Then it talks about the general teaching of the Apocalypse about the symbols of God and the Adversary, and their importance to understanding the world today. At last, in the epilogue, the two initial questions of the book are promptly answered, and the general purpose of the book is briefly expressed.
This work tries to show the Christological dimension of the Our Father, the Lord prayer. It means this prayer was not only delivered to us by Jesus, but He Himself, Jesus Christ, is the perfect fulfillment of it. Thus, all the invocations and petitions of the prayer, from the first word "Father" to the final doxology, everything that the prayer says was made possible for us through our Lord Jesus. We have relied on the New Testament and on several Fathers of the church. We went through each line of the Our Father one by one, and ended with an invitation to pray it as often as possible. We hope that readers will find here references and observations that allow them to delve into the inexhaustible content of the Christian prayer par excellence, the Our Father.
In this short writing, seven considerations are made about the holy Name of Jesus. It begins by referring to the divine character of that name; continues with a comment on its meaning in Aramaic and Hebrew and its theophoric value; it follows with a reference to the way in which the Name of the Lord is hidden in numerous passages of the Old Testament; then considers the transliteration of the name Jesus into Greek and the way in which the primitive community restored the meaning lost in it; after that comments on the genuine meaning of devotion to the Name, and corrects the mistake of assuming that the Name of Jesus only has spiritual value and power in the Hebrew language; then he comments on an image that alludes to the mystery of the participation of the Name in the nature of the divine Person whom he names and makes present; and ends with a consideration about the devotional value of the Name, inviting the reader to invoke it constantly.
This article comments on the words of Jesus "A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me" recorded by Saint John in his Gospel (Jn 16:16). First, the context of those words is remembered. Then the subject to be dealt with is circumscribed: time considered from the point of view of the believer's relationship with Jesus Christ, and more specifically with his presence. After that, the observations of various ancient, medieval and modern theologians on the subject are commented: Augustine, Chrysostom, Cyril of Alexandria, Thomas Aquinas, Luther and Calvin. Only partial aspects of their exegesis are taken from each of these authors. Therefore, this is not a historical-exegetical work but only an attempt to reach, using various sources, a vision of the meaning of Jesus' words. In the conclusion, attention is especially drawn to the importance that these words have for us today, since defines the goal of the existence of every Christian.