RAMP Inspired

Previously we discussed the RAMP presentation for the existence and authority of God. (Resurrection, Archeology, Manuscripts–or Miracles, and Prophesy.) That approach is not new or original. Take a look at the source. 2 Peter 1
16 For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. 17 For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, such an utterance as this was made to Him by the Majestic Glory, “This is My beloved Son with whom I am well-pleased”— 18 and we ourselves heard this utterance made from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.

19 So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts. 20 But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one’s own interpretation, 21 for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.

Peter was encouraging his readers to remember and stay true to the message that they had heard. He expands on this by declaring that what he and the other disciples had preached was not “cleverly devised tales.”

Look at the outline: R Resurrection. “...the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” He was not just talking about the incarnation. There was not a lot of power displayed there. But the “coming alive.’ That theme suffused Peter’s writings from Pentecost on. He was overwhelmed by the resurrection. And indeed the entire life of Jesus.

A Archeology. He and they did not need to dig up historical proofs of Jesus. As Peter put it, they were “eyewitnesses.” Not, “I was,” but “we were.” There were a bunch, over 500, and they all told the same story. One witness may be disbelieved. Two witnesses may contradict each other with differing interpretations or understanding of events, but if 500 agree and stick with the story for life, it is compelling.

And this witness was not confined to just the resurrection story. They saw His “majesty,” particularly when Jesus was transformed on the mountain. (Note: Not all 500 saw everything, but reliable witnesses did. Two or three witnesses are required to confirm anything. Deuteronomy 16:15.

M Miracles. They not need manuscripts, as they were the authors. But miracles did abound, beginning with the resurrection and the transfiguration. This also refers back to the “cleverly devised tales.” They were actual events and the attestation was impeccable. There was no doubt.

(Note: There are no contemporary historians that deny the credibility of Jesus or the miracles. Even that great and reliable source of scholarship, Wikipedia, lists none. The “doubt” about the historicity of these things is an artifact of 19th century critics and not real scholars. Ed comment.)

And P for Prophesy. Verses 19-21 expand upon that, because Peter knew that coming generations would need a “more sure word” to preserve their faith and enable them to persevere. (See note above) They (We)  have the prophetic word and an assurance of its origin and author. (Notice the Trinity embedded in the passage. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all Witnesses to us. Excuse the pun.)

So our friends at GOT LIFE? did not invent this idea. They copied it from the Apostle Peter. Can’t think of a much better source than that. Peter wants us to RAMP up our efforts to persevere and present the message to the world. He wants the day star to rise in the hearts of everyone we meet.

Go and meet more. Tell them all.