For the past few decades, I have been doing research, with an emphasis on Bible prophecy and chronology. My research has shown that many of the traditional interpretations of prophecy, especially those found in the Book of Daniel, and academic timelines of Ancient Near East chronology are in error. Religious institutions have long acted as gatekeepers of theological interpretation, resisting changes that challenge traditional doctrines and assumptions. This is particularly evident in the fields of biblical prophecy and Ancient Near Eastern chronology, where new research often reveals inconsistencies in established interpretations. Overcoming institutional intransigence requires a strategic approach that fosters critical engagement, bypasses rigid hierarchies, and cultivates openness to historical truth.
Here is the plan I am following to overcome institutional resistance …
- Engage Individuals, Not Institutions – Institutions tend to resist change to preserve their authority, but individuals—scholars, students, and laypeople—may be more receptive. Focus on one-on-one or small-group discussions. Publish accessible materials that stimulate curiosity and independent thought. Encourage independent verification of research rather than reliance on institutional doctrine.
- Leverage Digital Platforms – With religious institutions controlling traditional publishing and seminaries, digital media offers a powerful alternative. Use websites, YouTube, and free PDF publications to disseminate research. Create engaging content with clear visuals to illustrate historical evidence. Encourage online discussion forums where scholars and laypeople can exchange ideas.
- Present Undeniable Historical and Textual Evidence – Resistance is strongest when traditional views seem unassailable. Challenge them with well-documented research. Provide clear, organized rebuttals to traditional interpretations based on historical sources. Show how traditional interpretations rely on assumptions rather than documented facts. Highlight inconsistencies within institutional doctrines.
- Engage Non-Traditional Scholars – Seminary-trained theologians often operate under institutional constraints, but independent researchers and secular scholars may have more freedom. Collaborate with scholars outside theological circles, such as historians and archaeologists. Present findings in interdisciplinary academic forums where religious dogma holds less influence.
- Encourage Critical Thinking Among Believers – Many believers want to align their faith with truth. Equip them to think critically about doctrine without undermining their faith. Use the Socratic method to ask questions that expose weaknesses in traditional positions. Frame discussions around seeking truth rather than dismantling belief systems.
- Demonstrate Verifiable Accuracy – Many traditional interpretations collapse under historical scrutiny. Provide a framework that aligns with real events. Show how revised interpretations fit the historical record more accurately. Challenge institutions to test their models using historical markers rather than inherited assumptions.
- Avoid Direct Confrontation with Institutional Leaders – Challenging authority figures directly often results in immediate dismissal. Cultivate private conversations where leaders feel safe engaging with new ideas. Offer a way for institutional figures to explore new research without feeling publicly challenged.
- Publish in Academic and Secular Arenas – If religious journals refuse engagement, seek publication in broader academic circles. Publish in historical and archaeological journals where secular credibility can pressure institutions to respond. Use peer-reviewed research to establish credibility outside theological confines.
- Highlight Institutional History of Change – Remind institutions that doctrine has evolved over time. Cite historical shifts, such as the abandonment of egocentrism and evolving interpretations of biblical archaeology. Show that resistance to change has precedent, but progress is inevitable.
- Create Alternative Communities of Discussion – If institutions refuse to engage, build independent networks of discussion. Establish study groups, forums, or even home fellowships for serious engagement. Encourage open-minded exploration of biblical and historical truth without institutional restrictions.
Conclusion
Religious institutions often resist change, but history shows that persistent engagement, the dissemination of undeniable evidence, and the cultivation of independent inquiry can overcome institutional intransigence. By strategically bypassing gatekeepers, engaging open-minded individuals, and leveraging modern platforms, new research can gradually reshape theological understanding and bring biblical studies closer to historical truth. Needless to say, your prayer for the success of this endeavor is requested and appreciated.
All of my research is set forth in the various publications offered on this website. For a list of my publications, see Free Digital Books.