Brian Tamaki: I have never denied Jesus' resurrection

Bishop Brian Tamaki. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Opinion

Bishop Brian Tamaki, of Destiny Churches New Zealand, responds to Garth George's column accusing him of dropping 'doctrinal bombshells' that separate this church from the mainstream:

I fully affirm the death and bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ, which has always been and continues to be a founding doctrine of Destiny Church.

I point out the distinct difference between the pre-resurrected Jesus of Nazareth, who was limited by his flesh body, and the post-resurrected Jesus Christ.

In regards to the issue of "the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ", the Bible clearly states there are different types of bodily forms (1 Corinthians 15:40-45).

The bodily form of Jesus of Nazareth changed after his resurrection (John 20:19).

* There are natural and spiritual bodies (1 Corinthians 15:44).

* Celestial bodies and terrestrial bodies (1 Corinthians 15:40).

* And so it is written, "The first man Adam became a living being". The last Adam became a life-giving spirit (1 Corinthians 15:45).

Mark 16:12 says, after resurrection, "He appeared in another form ...".

The body of Jesus was definitely transfigured at his resurrection into a glorified body, same body that was Jesus of Nazareth that died, but different substance (as outlined in the three points above).

His body could pass through walls and closed doors, and appear and disappear (John 20:19). It was the same body but it had changed.

I have never denied the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ but have given a more thorough and clearer understanding of the resurrected form of Jesus Christ, post resurrection, and how it relates to the believers and the church today.

The allegations made by one individual Mark Vrankovich (who is he?) are simply an attempt to attract attention towards himself.

The allegations are selective and well out of context.

People are welcome to review all of my messages on this topic for full context and understanding.

Bishop Brian Tamaki

Destiny Churches New Zealand