A Teaching Ministry of
Dr. Robert C. Crowder
General Articles
This section features a collection of theological essays, biblical reflections, and ministry-related writings authored by Dr. Robert C. Crowder, Th.D. These articles address a variety of topics that extend beyond structured studies or book-based commentaries, offering thoughtful engagement with Scripture, doctrine, and Christian practice. Each entry is rooted in a conservative Baptist, dispensational framework and is intended to serve both lay readers and ministry leaders who seek a deeper understanding of the Word of God. The aim is to provide clear, theologically sound material that strengthens faith, sharpens discernment, and supports spiritual growth.
General Articles Section
This article explores the critical difference between legalism and true liberty in Christ, as taught in the epistle to the Galatians. Dr. Robert C. Crowder examines how legalism distorts the gospel by replacing grace with human effort, leading to bondage instead of freedom. Through a clear comparison of law and grace, supported by Scripture, readers are encouraged to stand firm in the liberty Christ provides, resting in His finished work rather than striving for righteousness by the flesh.
This article explores the biblical city of Colosse, the recipient of Paul’s epistle to the Colossians. Once a prominent city in Asia Minor, Colosse had declined in importance by the first century A.D., yet it remained a crossroads of cultural, religious, and philosophical thought. The study examines its geographical setting, historical background, religious influences—including spiritual compromise and blended beliefs—and the Christ-centered response given by the Apostle Paul. This historical and theological overview equips students to better understand the context behind the book of Colossians and the challenges faced by early Christians in a spiritually diverse world.
This article examines first-century Corinth, a bustling Roman city of wealth, diversity, and moral complexity. Dr. Robert C. Crowder explores Corinth’s geographical importance, cultural life, religious pluralism, and philosophical climate, providing crucial background for understanding Paul’s ministry and letters to the Corinthians. Learn how Corinth’s unique setting made it both a strategic mission field and a spiritual battleground for the early church.
This article examines the internal conflicts that challenged the unity and development of the early Christian church. Despite being founded by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, the church faced numerous growing pains—ranging from leadership factions and moral failings to doctrinal controversies and cultural tensions. Drawing from the New Testament, the article explores disputes in Corinth, the use of spiritual gifts, Gentile inclusion, and the need for sound doctrine. Each struggle became a shaping force that clarified the church’s theological boundaries and reaffirmed the importance of unity in Christ and truth in teaching.
This article explores the significance of Ephesus in the New Testament era—its thriving ministry under Paul, its role as a missionary hub, and its later spiritual decline as warned in Revelation. Dr. Robert C. Crowder traces the rich doctrinal teachings of Ephesians, the city’s cultural and religious backdrop, and Christ’s call for the church to return to its first love. A vital study of how sound doctrine and sincere devotion must walk hand in hand.
This article explores the five warning passages in the Book of Hebrews, explaining their context, meaning, and relevance for believers today. Each warning calls the Christian to vigilance, growth, and reverence. Written in a devotional narrative format, this piece is ideal for Bible teachers, students, and serious readers of Scripture seeking to understand the spiritual cautions found in one of the New Testament's most theologically rich books.
Foundations For Deeper Study
This Bible Study Guide equips believers with simple yet effective tools to study Scripture with greater clarity and purpose. It teaches how to identify important terms and concepts, organize insights, and reflect prayerfully on God’s truth. Ideal for personal use, discipleship groups, or classroom instruction.
This article explores how Jewish people in biblical times managed ceremonial cleanliness while engaging in everyday tasks like butchering and tanning, which required contact with dead animals. Using Scripture from Leviticus and Acts, it explains the distinction between ceremonial and moral cleanliness, and how tradesmen like Simon the tanner could remain faithful to God's law while performing their work. The article also contrasts ancient practices with modern Jewish customs and highlights how Christ's sacrifice has fulfilled the ceremonial law for believers today.
This in-depth study walks through the Old Testament Tabernacle, examining each part from the Gate to the Holy of Holies, and shows how every element points to Jesus Christ. Written from a conservative Baptist, dispensational perspective, this article helps believers see Christ more clearly in the shadow of the Tabernacle.
Mercy At The Mercy Seat
A full-length theological and doctrinal article on the doctrine of propitiation, exploring its Old Testament foundation, New Testament fulfillment, and significance in the atoning work of Jesus Christ. Includes Chicago-style footnotes and a full bibliography.
This comprehensive article explores the various Old Testament offerings—including the Burnt, Grain, Peace, Sin, Guilt, Heave, Wave, Firstfruits, Drink, Purification, and Presentation offerings—and their spiritual significance in Israel’s worship. Each offering served a purpose: atonement, thanksgiving, dedication, or purification. These sacrifices, while rooted in Levitical law, foreshadowed the ultimate fulfillment found in Jesus Christ. The article compares how each offering type is fulfilled in the New Testament, particularly through the atoning work of Christ. It emphasizes that while the physical sacrificial system ended, the principles of gratitude, devotion, repentance, and worship remain active through the believer’s life, now offered as a “living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1) in Christ.
Examines the origin and development of the titles "Rabbi" and "Rabboni" from Old Testament roots in 2 Kings 18:17 through their New Testament usage—particularly in the Gospels—and explores their spiritual significance, especially in reference to Jesus.
This article addresses a believer’s struggle with Romans 13:1–7 in light of modern governments that promote immoral policies. From a conservative Baptist, non-Calvinistic viewpoint, it affirms that God ordains human government for justice and order, even under wicked rulers. However, biblical submission to authority is not blind obedience. The article outlines when believers must obey God rather than man, drawing on examples such as Daniel, Shadrach, and the apostles. It emphasizes lawful resistance, bold gospel witness, and unwavering trust in God’s sovereignty. The piece affirms Baptist convictions on religious liberty and the biblical separation of church and state, while calling for Christian engagement, truth-telling, and readiness to suffer for righteousness.
The Biblical Offices of Pastor and Deacon
This study explores the biblical offices of Pastor and Deacon, examining their distinct roles, qualifications, and responsibilities as outlined in the New Testament. Rooted in a conservative Baptist perspective, the paper provides a thorough analysis of how pastors serve as spiritual shepherds and overseers, while deacons support the church through practical service. With scriptural references and historical context, this work emphasizes the complementary nature of these roles, unified in their purpose to glorify Christ and edify the local church.
The Language of Love In The Bible
This article traces the evolution of the Hebrew root word “rav” from its Old Testament use as a term for political leadership to its spiritual elevation in the titles “Rabbi” and “Rabboni” in the New Testament. It explores how these titles highlight Christ’s role as teacher, master, and intimate Lord, emphasizing the theological weight they carry and their continuing significance in the believer’s relationship with Jesus.
This chart outlines the Seven Feasts of the Lord as found in Leviticus 23, presenting their Hebrew names, biblical references, historical purposes, and their prophetic fulfillment in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. These feasts not only structured Israel’s worship calendar but also point forward to key aspects of the gospel—Jesus as the Passover Lamb, the Firstfruits of the Resurrection, and the coming King. This tool is designed to enhance understanding of how the Old Testament feasts foreshadow New Testament truths and deepen appreciation for God's redemptive plan through Christ.
This article explores the rich spiritual leadership that shaped the early church in Ephesus, highlighting Paul’s intense two-year ministry and the lasting contributions of Aquila, Priscilla, Apollos, Timothy, and the Apostle John. Dr. Robert C. Crowder examines how Ephesus became a missionary hub for Asia Minor and a model for doctrinal faithfulness, pastoral care, and gospel proclamation amidst spiritual opposition.
This article explores the differing theological perspectives regarding the origin of the Church, an essential question in ecclesiology. It outlines five main views: the Church beginning in the Old Testament (Covenantal View), with Jesus’ ministry, at Pentecost (the most commonly held view among Dispensationalists and traditional evangelicals), with Paul (Ultra-Dispensational View), or as part of an ongoing Kingdom reality. Each position is supported by Scripture, theological arguments, and notable proponents. The article concludes by noting that one’s interpretation depends largely on their theological framework, and appreciating these views deepens understanding of the Church's place in God's redemptive plan.
This article traces the development of leadership in the early Christian church, beginning with its entirely Jewish origins and expanding to include Gentile believers as the gospel spread beyond Jerusalem. It examines the key figures, pivotal events like the Jerusalem Council, and the theological implications of a unified body of Jewish and Gentile leaders serving under the lordship of Jesus Christ.
Who was Melchizedek? Appearing only briefly in the biblical record, this enigmatic priest-king of Salem blessed Abraham, received tithes, and vanished from the narrative as suddenly as he arrived. Yet, his presence reverberates throughout Scripture—from Genesis to Psalms to Hebrews—pointing forward to the superior priesthood of Jesus Christ. This article explores the historical background, theological significance, and typological role of Melchizedek in redemptive history.
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