Biblical Questions & Answers
by James Swinton
Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
* ABOMINATIONS of God, What Are the?:
16 These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: 17 A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, 18 A heart that devises wicked plan, Feet that are swift in running to evil, 19 A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren(Proverbs 6:16-18,19).
* ABRAM Justified by Faith, Was?: Yes, 5 Then He brought him outside and said, “Look now toward heaven, and count the stars if you are able to number them.” And He said to him, “So shall your descendants be.”6And he believed in the LORD, and He accounted it to him for righteousness (Genesis 15:5-6).
* ABRAHAM COVENANT, What Was the?: (Gen.12:1-2, 3-4,5-6,7). [See also COVENANTS, What are The?]
* ADULTERY, What's? Who is an adulterer/adulteress? "Adultery is voluntary sexual intercourse between a married man [or woman] and someone other than his wife [her husband]" (Merriam Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 10th Edition, p 17, 1993). Biblical definition of adultery: (Mark 10:11-12; Luke 16:18). "An adulterer/adulteress is a man or woman who commits adultery" (ibid., p 17). If you marry a married person, which is adultery, and the former mate you were married to dies, he or she isn't any longer an adulterer/adulteress (Romans 7:3 NKJV).
*ACCUSATIONS, Did Christ Defend Himself Because of? No (Mark 15:3-5).
* ACTS 2:16-20, When Was? (Acts 2:16-17,18-19,20): Acts 2: 17-18 took placed at this time on the Day of Pentecost, which was prophesied in (Joel 2:28) and stated in (Acts 2:16), “But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel”. (Acts 2: 19-20) refer to the wrath of God (Day of the Lord) which is yet to come.
* ACTS 2:39, What Was the Promise In?: “For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off..." (Acts 2:39). What ‘promise’ does Peter refer to here? This refers to the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38).
*ALCOHOL DRINKS (See "WINE").
* ANCESTORS WORSHIP: [Qs] Can ancestors, those who have died, be used as mediators between God and mankind, which are living? ~ After death, the soul and the spirit return to God (II Corinthians 5: 6-8), but can they be used as mediators between God and mankind?
[A]“For there is…one mediator between God and man, the man... Christ Jesus” (I Timothy 2: 5).
* ANGELS, What Are?: Satan and his fallen angels are called “sons of God” (Job 1:6; 2:1; 38:7); they are spirits (Psalms 104:4; Hebrews 1:7,13,14). God’s angels are ministering spirits sent forth to minister to us (Hebrews 1: 14). Little children have their own angel (Matthew 18:1-2,3-4,5-6,10).
Angels can take human form: "Do not forgetful to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels unaware” (Hebrews 13:2).
* APOSTASY Means, What Does? It is a falling away from biblical truths, fundamental biblical doctrines; having a belief, but their behavior is not the same.
*APOSTLES (the seventy) had the authority over the power of demons and Satan (Luke 10:17-18,19-20).
* APOSTLES Be Doing in the Kingdom of God, What Will the?: They will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel (Luke 22:29-30). The twelve apostles: (Matthew 10:2-3,4; Acts 1:26): Andrew, Bartholomew, James, John, James, Judas who was replaced by Matthias, Judas Iscariot, Matthew, Peter, Philip, Simon, and Thomas.
* APOSTLES & PROPHETS of (Ephesians 2: 19,20), Who Are the?: (God’s household built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets : Paul, Silas, and Timothy are the apostles (I Thessalonians 1:1; 2:6); prophet Agabus (Acts 21:10-13). “By the grace of God has given me, I laid a foundation…no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ” (I Corinthians 3: 10-11). Paul’s gospel was received by direct revelation from Jesus Christ (Galatians 1: 11-12).
* ARMOUR OF GOD, What Is the?:
(Ephesians 6:11-12,13-14,15-16,17).
* ASTROLOGY, What Is?: (See DEMONISM, What is?].
* ATONEMENT, What is the meaning of?: (See SIN/ ATONEMENT, What Is?).
*BAPTISM, What is the meaning? The word "baptism" is never translated in the New Testament; instead, it is transliterated. The Greek word "baptism" means "identification." It really has nothing to do with water, as often it is speaking of something where water is not involved. It sometimes has to do with something wet and sometimes with things which are dry. Let me illustrate: In First Corinthians 10 the Bible says Israel was baptized unto Moses while passing through the sea. They were now identified with Moses as God's people and no longer in bondage. The only people who got wet were the Egyptians who were in pursuit and drowned. This provides a wonderful picture of the Christians today who are identified with Christ and no longer are in bondage to the world.
John the Baptist said the Lord would baptize them with the Holy Spirit and fire. Believers would be identified with Him as the Church, His body, by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13), but unbelievers would be identified with judgment (fire).
When we are baptized in water, we show outwardly that we have had a wonderful work performed in our heart by believing in Jesus and are identified with all other believers in Christ; only to mankind not God.
Although baptism is commanded to be administered to all those who have believed in Christ, it cannot save or contribute to our salvation, else we could say that works were necessary to be saved. The Scripture makes it very clear that no works on our part are necessary for salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5).
* BAPTISM of Ephesians 4:5, What Is This ONE?: It is the operation of the Spirit whereby believers are made one with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3: 26-27; Colossians 2:9-10,11-12), and made members of “one body,” the “body of Christ” (I Corinthians 12:13,27; Galatians 3: 26-27,28-28).
* BAPTISM, What Is the Meaning of DRY?: Baptism of Moses [identified – placed into union with Moses] (I Corinthians 10:1-2; Exodus 14: 13-14,15-16,21-22); baptism of the Cross (Luke 12:50); baptism of the Holy Spirit places you into the body of Christ when you accept Jesus as personal Savior (I Cor. 12:13); baptism of fire (Matthew 3:11) refers to Gehenna (Matthew 3:12; 13:39-40,41-42,43).
*BAPTISM, What Was John's? "I indeed baptize you with water into repentance..." (Matt.3:11a).
*BAPTISM, What Is Christ's? "...He will baptize with the Holy Spirit* and fire**" (Matt. 3:11b).
*The apostles received it on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 1:4-5,8; 2:1-2,3-4). What did Peter teach about receiving the Holy Spirit? "Then Peter said to them, 'Repent, and let everyone of you be baptize in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you, and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call" (Acts 2:38).
**When Christ returns on judgment day, He will baptize with fire, an unquenchable fire (Matt. 3:10, 12).
* BAPTISM, What Is the Meaning of WET?: John 1:31 (Baptism means “placing into” [neither wet or dry]; the words “with water” let you know this is wet baptism. Baptism of John (Matthew 3: 1-3,4-7,8-10,11 - The requirement is you must change your mind, “repent” (Matt.3: 2); the visible sign is here (Matt. 3:3); baptism pictures what you have already done in your mind – it shows that you have changed your mind. Baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3: 13-14,15): The purpose of Jesus’ baptism was “to fulfill all righteousness.” What does this mean? In His baptism, He fulfilled all Old Testament requirements under the law – the body of truth found in the Old Testament [see SIGNS – Water Baptism].
* BAPTISM by WATER - What Its Original Purpose? It was for the remission of sins (Mark 1:4; Acts 2:38); it symbolized washing away sins (Acts 22:16; Matthew 3:11a). Today we have forgiveness of sins through Christ’s blood (Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14). We are totally identified with Jesus Christ the moment we trust Christ (I Corinthians 12:13 [that’s Holy Spirit baptism]).
* BAPTISM OF ACTS 1:5, What Is the?: It was by Christ (Mark 1:7, 8; John 1:33). Why? That the apostles might be empowered from on High with signs, wonders and miracles to bear witness to their Messiah’s resurrection (Acts 1:8).
* BAPTISM OF (I COR. 12: 13), What Is the?: It was by the Holy Spirit. This is the one baptism of (Ephesians 4:5).
* BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT Places You Into the Body of Christ, Does?: Yes (I Corinthians 12:13).
* BELIEVE IN JESUS, Why?: Forgiveness of sins is believing in Christ Jesus - we are justified by believing in Him (John 3:15-16, 18, 36; 5:24; 6:29, 40; Acts 13:38-39). There is salvation to everyone that believe (Romans 1:16). The righteousness of God is upon all them that believe (Romans 3:22). You will not be ashamed if you believe on Him (Romans 9:23). The promise of the Holy Spirit by faith of Jesus Christ [is] given to them that believe (Galatians 3:14,22). He that comes to God must believe that He is (Hebrews 11: 6). Demons also believe in Jesus Christ (James 2: 19; Mark 1:24,34; 3:11).
* BELIEVERS’ RESURRECTION & DESTINATION, What is the?: [See THESSALONIANS (FIRST) 4:14., WHAT IS THE MEANING OF?]
* BIBLE, How Do We INTERPRET the?: See “SCRIPTURES HAVE MORE THAN ONE APPLICATION, CAN?"
*Birthday/Christmas Celebration a Sin, Is? This video answers this question: Click on "Videos Worth Watching" & select "Is Birthday/ Christmas Celebration a Sin?"
* BLACKS IN THE BIBLE, Are There? Those who are directly referred to as "black":
- Nimrod was the son of Cush (Genesis 10:8). Cush, the son of Ham (Gen.10:6) is primarily credited with producing the Negro race in the following countries: Egypt, Ethopia and Libya. Nimrod is the grandson of Ham and the great grandson of Noah (Gen.10:1).1 He became first of the kings. [1] Wayne Perry, “The Black Race & the Bible,” The African Culture Heritage Topical Bible [Pneuma Life Publishing, 1995], p. 15.
~ Abraham married Hagar, an Egyptian woman while in the land of Canaan (Genesis 16:2-3,4). Hagar bare Ishmael to Abraham (Gen. 16: 15). Ishmael was blessed [God can not bless wrong/sin] (Gen. 16:20). [“In the Bible the word for Egypt is Mizraim, which is the name of one of the sons of Ham who founded the country” (Genesis 10: 6; I Chronicles 1: 8) [2] Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary,
[N.Y.: Thomas Nelson Publishes, 1986], p. 323
- Asenath, an Egyptian woman who married Joseph (Genesis 41:45), had two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim.
- Moses married an Ethiopian (black) woman (Numbers 12:1) Why did Moses marry a black woman? Perhaps he was also black. “Mirian and Aaron complained that Moses married a Cushite woman [‘And the sons of Ham: Cush…’(Genesis 10:6). If Ham’s son Cush was Black, then the Egyptian were Black.”
- [from the The New Bible Commentary: Revised, (N.Y.: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing, 1984), p. 182].
- Salmon and Rahab who had Boaz: Rahab, the harlot, dwelled in Jericho with the Isralites after they captured it (Joshua 2:1; 6:25). Jericho was in Cannaan; Rahab was a Canaanite, a Black woman. Rahab is mention in the genealogy of Christ: Jesus, the son of God, “…And Salmon begat Booz [Boaz] of Rachab [Rahab]…(Matthew 1:1,5). “A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham: Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth” (Matthew 1:5). There are two women mentioned in Christ genealogy, from Abraham to Joseph – one was Rahab, a Black woman.
- Lucius from Cyrene [Northern part of Africa] (Acts 13:1).
- Simon from Niger (Acts 13:1)
- Simon, a Cyrenian, bore Christ’s cross (Luke 23:26).
- An eunuch from Ethiopia (Acts 8:26-27,28-29,30-39).
Thoughts to Ponder
- Why didn't the Canaanites see any difference between the people of Egypt when Joseph buried his father Jacob in Canaan? (Gen. 50:7-8,11).The Canaanites called all of them, Joseph, Pharaoh's household and officers, Egyptians. Read context Gen. 49:29-30,31-32,33; Gen. 50:1-2,3-4,5-6,7-8,9-10,11.
The Answer: There wasn't any difference in appearance between the Egyptians and the Hebrews ~ called Israelites at that time. - How was Moses able to grow-up from a child to an adult living in Pharaoh household if Moses did not look like in appearance as an Egyptian? Read context: Ex. 2:10,11.
The Answer: There wasn't any difference in appearance between the Egyptians and the Hebrews ~ called Israelites at that time. - How can a race of people spend 40 years in the desert if they had light complexion skin? Only dark complexion people can endure the desert climate of hot temperatures. That's why Africans were captured, enslaved and brought to the U.S. and other locations to work in the hot climate.
- Why did the Midian daughters call Moses an Egyptian? (Ex. 2:19).
The Answer: They believed he was an Egyptian; he looked like one.
- Why was Paul thought to be an Egyptian? (Acts 21:38).
that time.
* BLASPHEMY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT Be Committed, When Can the?: It can only be committed in this world [the time of Christ], and the age [world] to come [millennium] (Matthew 12:31-32).
* BLESS THOSE THAT BLESS YOU - Curse him who curses you - Who does this refer to?: (Genesis 12:3).
* BLESSINGS CONDITIONAL, Are? – Is is based on RIGHTEOUSNESS?: See LAW, What is THE?.
* BLESSINGS to the World Through Israel - What Does This Mean?: Genesis 12: 1-3; 22:16-18; 26:4; 28:14; Isaiah 49:6; Zechariah 8:22.
* BLESSINGS OF GOD, What Are the?: Are we to compare the blessings of God to the world’s standard (material blessings)? God has blessed us “with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3).
* BLOOD OF CHRIST, Do We Have Redemption Through the?: Yes - We have forgiveness of sins (Ephesians 1:7; Colossians 1:14); declared righteous [justified] (Romans 5:9); made near (Ephesians 2:13); peace (Colossians 1:20); we have been purchased (Acts 20:28).
* BOOK OF LIFE, What Is the? It records the names of all who have personally received Christ as Savior. Originally all members of the human race were listed in it, but when a person dies without accepting Jesus Christ, his name is blotted out (Revelation 3:5; I John 5:5).
[Source: Robert Thieme, Jr. "Witnessing", R.B. Thieme Jr. Ministries, 1975, p 14]
* BOOK OF Works, What Is the?: It contain the names of unbelievers. Unbelievers are judged according to their work (Revelations 20:13). At the Last Judgment every unbeliever who stands at the judgment bar is there because of unbelief (John 3:18; 3:36). An example of attempted salvation by works is found in Romans 9:30 (Gentiles attained to righteousness which is by faith). Israel which followed after the law of righteousness [kept the Mosaic Law] has not attained because they sought it not by faith in Jesus Christ, but by the works of the law (Rom. 9:31-32,33).
[Source: Robert Thieme, Jr. "Witnessing", R.B. Thieme Jr. Ministries, 1975, p 14]
* BORN-AGAIN (for the Body of Christ), What Is the Meaning of?: The basic issue is the doctrine of regeneration. “That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said unto you, 'You must be born again'” (John 3:6-7). It is the Spirit of God giving birth to a new life, a divine life and nature. It is of Divine nature (II Pet.1:4). It is being born of God - “that which is born of the Spirit is spirit…”.
Conclusion: “Born-again” means one who has accepted Christ’s sacrifice, dying and shedding His blood on the Cross for their sins (see SIN/ATONEMENT); accepted Christ as personal Savior; one who has been given the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 6:19; Romans 8:9,11; Acts 5:32) which helps to transform you into a new creation (creature). See CREATURE, NEW.
[Source: Richard Jordan, "Do You Really Want to be 'Born Again'?", Grace Journal, Oct. 1988]
* BRIDE OF CHRIST, Who Is the?: Christ is the bridegroom (John 3:28-29). Jerusalem (new) comes to the earth for the bride [the 12 tribes of Israel] ruled by the 12 apostles of the Lamb [Christ] (Revelation 21: 1-2, 9-10,11-12,13-14).
*BROTHER, Who Is Our?: Those who are members of the Body (Matthew 18:15-16,17). Notice the question, "How often shall my brother sin against me" (Matt. 18:21).
* Brothers and sisters, Did JESUS have?: (Matthew 12: 46-47,48-49,50; 13:54-55,56; John 2:12; 7:5; Mark. 6:3; Psalms 69:8).
*CHILDREN Have Angels, Does? Yes, "...these little ones...their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 18:10). These little ones are called children in Matt. 18:2.
* CHILDREN, What is the Age of Accountability for?: See “Salvation –What is the Age of Accountability?.”
* CHOICE, Do We Have FREE ?: Yes (Romans 6:11-12, 13 [yield yourself to God]; Rom. 6:19 [yield to righteousness]); put off the old man and put on the new man (Ephesians 4:22-23-24).
* CHRIST, Who Is?: “I am”; He is the source of everlasting life (Matthews 9:39). “...I am the bread of life...” (John 6:35). “...I am the light of the world...” (John 8:12). “...I am the door...” (John 10:7). “I am the good shepherd...” (John 10:11). “...I am the resurrection and the life; he that believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live (John 11:25). “...I am the way, the truth and the life” (John 14:6). “In Him was life” (John 1:4).
* CHRIST RESURRECTED, Was?: Yes [See RESURRECTED of CHRIST?]
* CHRIST Minister to Israel, Was?: Yes, see “JESUS MINISTER TO ISRAEL, WAS?”
* CHRIST, What Is the Meaning of IN?: See “SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS, WHAT ARE OUR?”
* CHRIST Crucified On a Tree, Was? Yes (I Peter 2:24). Christ was God of the Old Testament (I Corinthians 10:1-2,3-4); is our Mediator (I Timothy 2:5); is the head of the Body (Ephesians 1:22-23;5:23; Colossians 1:18); is God and the Son of God (I John 5:20; I John 1:3; Matthew 23:36,39,42,44); LIVES IN US (Galatians 2:20; Colossians 1:27); PRINCE [originator] OF LIFE (Acts 3:15).
* CHRIST Keep the Mosaic’s Law, Did?: Yes, see “MOSAIC’S LAW, Did Christ Keep the?.”
* CHRISTIAN, What Is A?: It is one who believes and accepts:
(1) Jesus Christ as God (I John 5:20; John 1:1-2,3,14; I Timothy 3:16).
(2) He died on the Cross as a substitute for mankind’s sin [He’s his/her Savior] (II Cor. 5:21; Matthew 27:24-51; Colossians 1:14).
(3) He was buried and rose from the dead the third day (II Corinthians 15:3-4).
(4) He/she continues to grow in the knowledge of God by studying God’s Words (I Timothy 2:15).
(5) Overcoming sin (Romans chapter 6).
Noah's Webster's Dictionary (internet) says a Christian is "One who believes, or professes or assured to believes, in Jesus Christ, and the truth as taught by Him, especially, one whose inward and outward life in conformed to the "doctrines of Christ".
Christ said to be a Christian you must be born again. What does this means? "...if anyone is in Christ, he [she] is a new creation, old things are passed away [Examples: living together as man and wife, fornicating (sex outside of marriage), adultery (having an affair while being married), stealing (taking something that don't belong to you), hatred (not loving all mankind regardless of race], all things become new" (I Cor. 6:9-10,11). Your outward will usually display your inward.
"He who overcomes shall inherit all things...But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death" (Rev.21:7-8).
* CHRISTIANITY, What Is?: It is a relationship. The phrase ‘in Christ,’ ‘in Him,’ and ‘in Christ Jesus” stress the fact that Christianity is a new position. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, old things are passed away; behold, all things become new”(II Corinthians 5:17).
[Source: Orville V. Smith, "Difference", Journal of Pauline Dispensationalism, March 1993, p 354]
*CHRISTIAN, What Are the Benefits of a Born Again?
(1) Your sins are paid for by Jesus Christ [See ATONEMENT].
(2) Receives the gift of the Holy Spirit to guide: “…He will guide you into all truth…” (John 16:13); it leads: “But if you are led by the Spirit…” (Gal. 5:18). [Hint: For the Holy Spirit to be effective in one’s life, we have to yield to it.]
(3) Eternal security [See ETERNAL SECURITY]: A true born again Christian can not lose their salvation – you will know them by their fruit – even though they will slip and sin. As long as you are human, fleshly, you will sin until you are glorified, changed from mortal to immortal.
(4) Heaven is your reward: “For our citizenship is in heaven…” (Phil.3:20a). You will receive heavenly rewards for those works you have done in Christ name: “…each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor” (I Cor. 3:8).
(5) Prayer – communicate directly to God through Jesus Christ: “For through Him we…have access to the Father” (Eph. 2: 18); you will always have a direct link to God. You do not have to go to a temple or church building to talk to Him because you are the temple of God: “Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is you whom you have from God…” (I Cor. 6:19a).
* CHRISTIANS Have the Spirit of God, Do?: Yes (Romans 8:9). Do they sin after salvation? Yes (I John 1:5-6,7-8,9-10); they imitates unbelievers (Ephesians 5:5; I Cor. 6:9-10,11).
* CHURCH (Gr. ecclesia – called out ones), What Is the Meaning of?:
(1) Old Testament Church in the wilderness (Acts 7:38).
(2) unlawful assembly of unbelievers at Ephesus (Acts 19:39).
(3) Kingdom Church that is to built upon Peter’s confession (Matthew 16:18).
(4) The Church – the Body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:24). Israel was God’s covenant people (I Peter 2:9; Deuteronomy 10:15; Exodus 19:1, 5-6), but the church is now His holy people (Ephesians 1:4-5).
* CHURCH, Where Is GOD’S TRUE?: The true church is spiritual, heavenly church of God, not a man-made church established by man. It is composed of every born-again Christian in all the world. “For you are all the children of God through faith1 in Christ Jesus”(Galatians 3: 26). You become a part of God’s church by trusting in the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God (I John 5:20) who had no sin (II Corinthians 5:21); what He has done – dying on the Cross (Matthew 27:24-50), shedding His blood (Hebrews 9:22,26) that we may have forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:14).
1faith (#4102 Gr. pistis) means moral conviction (of religious truth)2…especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; however, church (#1577 Gr. ekklesia) means a calling out, i.e. a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation. [Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance] 2 Religious truth is based upon the fundamentals of Christian doctrines.
* CHURCH When It Comes Together, What Is the Purpose of the?: It’s to build-up one another, “...Let all things be done unto edification” (I Corinthians 14:26). It’s to hear the Word of God (Eccl.5:1). See also “WORSHIP, What Is?”
* CHURCH DOCTRINES, What Are the?
- Bible is the inerrant Word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit (Psalms 12: 6-7; 138:2; II Timothy 3:16; I Corinthians 2:12-13).
- Deity of Christ (John 1:1,14; 5:58; I John 5:20; Ephesians 3:9).
- Virgin birth of Christ (Isaiah 7:14 fulfilled in Matthew 1:22-23,24-25).
- Historic creation of man (Genesis 2:7). Mankind didn’t evolve through evolution.
- Deprivation of man – separated from God by birth because of sin (Romans 5:12). The solution: to be born-again.
- Substitution death of Jesus Christ, who knew no sin, was made sin for us (II Corinthians 5: 21; Colossians 1:14).
- Bodily resurrection of Christ from the grave the third day (I Corinthians 15:3-4).
- Literal return of Christ to the earth (Zechariah 14: 1,4; Matthew 24:29-42).
- Resurrection to eternal life: heaven or hell (John 3:36).
- Trinity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit; they are One (Matthew 28:19; John 14:16-17,26; I John 5:7).
- One-way to Heaven and that is through Jesus Christ the Messiah (Phil.3:20; Ephesians 1:3; 2:6; Col. 3:1-2,3; John 10:9; 14:6).
- Salvation is by grace through faith not by works; it is the gift of God (Ephesians 2:8-9).
* CIRCUMCISION, What Is?: A token (Genesis 17:11); the sign (Romans 4:11); the heart (Deuteronomy 10:16); Leviticus 26:40-41,42; Jeremiah 4:4; 6:10; 9:26); looking forward (Deuteronomy 30:6); refers to an inward circumcision “that of the heart and in the spirit” (Romans 2:28-29); the “little flock” (Luke 12:32) comprised the true circumcision, the believing remnant – those who inwardly possessed what they outwardly professed (Matthew 21:43). Circumcision has been done away (Acts 15:23-24, 28-29; Galatians 5:1-2).
* COMMANDMENTS, Are We to Obey the?:
[1st-3rd] Flee idolatry (I Corinthians 10:14).
[5th] honor father and mother (Ephesians 6:2).
[8th] steal no more (Ephesians 2:28).
[9th] lying (Ephesians 4: 25; Colossians 3:9).
[6th]-[10th] Rom.13:9).
The summary of the law “is fulfilled on one word [love] even this: thou shall love thy neighbor as thyself” (Galatians 5:14).
* COMMISSION Today, What Is Our?: After the great commission was given to the 12 apostles (Matthew 28:18-19,20; Mark 16: 16-17,18; Luke 24:46-47,48; John 20:21-22,23; Acts 1:7-8), Christ raised up Paul and gave him a new commission (Acts 9); the leader of the twelve made a solemn agreement with Paul that he should go to the Gentiles while they confined the ministry to Israel (Galatians 2:1,7-8,9); our commission today: the ministry/the word of reconciliation of reconciling people to Christ – the “good news” that God is not imputing their trespasses unto them (II Corinthians 5:18-19). All Christians, men and women, are to proclaim this “good news.” Under both commissions we are to proclaim the gospel of Christ.
* COMMISSION, What Was Our Lord’s First?: He commanded the apostles not to go to “the Gentiles, and do not enter a city of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” (Matthew 10:5-6). The twelve were to preach “...the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 10:7). Our Lord Himself said, “I was sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 15:24). Jesus Christ was only sent to Israel because He was “…to affirm the promises made unto the fathers...” (Romans 15:8).
* COMMUNICATION, How Are We To?: Do not let corrupt words proceed out of your mouth (Ephesians 4:29); evil speaking (Ephesians 4:31); foolish talking (Ephesians 5:4). Also read Isaiah 50:4; Colossians 4:6.
* CONTRADICTIONS in the Bible, Are There Any? (Scriptures are made clear when you interpret them under the dispensation of law and the dispensation of grace):
- (1) Eat only herbs (Genesis 1:29 [to Adam and Eve in the garden] vs animals (Genesis 9:3) [to Noah after the flood] vs eat certain animal (Leviticus 11:1-22).
- (2) Forgive others in order to be forgiven (Matthew 6:12,14-15) vs forgive because Christ has already forgiven us (Ephesians 4: 32; Colossians 3:13).
- (3) John 13:5-15 (John 15:15 – I have given you an example – do as I have done – washing one another feet [Christ talking to His disciples during the Feast of Passover – John 13:1]) vs. I Corinthians 11:23–30 (no feet washing observed by the Church of God at Corinth – I Corinthians 1:2).
- (4) Love, bless, do good, pray for enemies that you may be children of God (Matthew 5:44-45) vs by faith in Jesus you are all the children of God (Galatians 3:26).
- (5) Christ told the little flock to “sell all” and “give alms” (Luke 12:33, which was obeyed (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-33,34-35 – they now had all things in common) vs parents should “lay-up” – have a saving for their children and provide for them (II Corinthians 12:13; I Timothy 5:8).
- (6) Swear by the name of God (Deuteronomy 6:13; Psalms 63:11) vs swearing forbidden (James 5: 12; Matthew 5:34).
- (7) By works a man is justified (James 2:14) vs to him that works not his faith is counted for righteousness (Romans 4:5; Galatians 5:4).
- (8) “Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He [the Father] takes away: and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes” (John 15:2) vs under grace we are exhorted to let the Word cleanse us by studying the Word and letting it dwell in our hearts by faith: “That He might sanctify and cleanse her [the church] with the washing of water by the Word” (Ephesians 5:26).
- (9) Christ commanded His disciples don’t carry money to provide for their expenses when they carried the gospel to Israel (Matthew 10:5,9; Mark 6:8-9; Luke 9:1-2,3-4,5-6; Luke 10:1-24) vs provide for your own expenses (Luke 22:35-36).
- (10) If our righteousness don’t exceed the Scribes and Pharisees, we won’t be in the Kingdom of God (Matthew 5:20) [This makes salvation conditional] vs we are saved by grace through faith – it is the gift of God (Ephesians 2:8-9); no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by observing the law (Romans 3:20).
- (11) Mercy is received by being merciful (Psalms 18:25) vs mercy is received by grace (Ephesians 2:4-5; Titus 3:5).
- (12) Love your enemy (Matthew 5:43-44). [Why? - Matt. 5: 45, "That you may be sons of your Father vs "For you are all sons of God through faith in Jesus Christ (Gal. 3:26).
*CORINTHIANS (FIRST) 14:34 “Women keep silence in the churches” (I Cor. 14:34). Is the Apostle Paul actually making this statement for the Corinth church and for Christian church today?- “Paul is here protesting against the disturbance of services by feminine chatter – the meaning of speak in church (I Cor. 14: 34-35). Some of the women (they sat apart from men) were perhaps calling out questions, and commenting knowingly on things said in the service. Paul did not condemn women to complete silence in the church for he mentions some able to prophesy (I Cor. 11:5; cf. Acts 21:9)…Only in quietness could the Word of God be heard and absorbed.” [Guthrie, D. & J.A., The New Bible Commentary: Revised. Carmel: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1970, p. 1070]
- If Paul meant women aren’t allowed to speak in church, he would be contradicting the teaching that “we are all one in Christ, neither male nor female” (Galatians 3:28).
- “Paul is here protesting against the disturbance of services by feminine chatter – the meaning of speak in church (I Cor. 14: 34-35). Some of the women (they sat apart from men) were perhaps calling out questions, and commenting knowingly on things said in the service. Paul did not condemn women to complete silence in the church for he mentions some able to prophesy (I Cor. 11:5; cf. Acts 21:9)…Only in quietness could the Word of God be heard and absorbed.” [Guthrie, D. & J.A., The New Bible Commentary: Revised. Carmel: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1970, p. 1070]
“ In the first two verses he [Paul] writes about the gospel he had preached to them by the receiving of which they had been saved, but he does not define the content of faith required for salvation…Note in verses 3-6 the recurrence of ‘that’, ‘and that’ and ‘after that.’ There is a whole string of items which Paul is ‘delivering unto’ the Corinthians believer…if we demand that, in order to be saved, the sinner believe that He was buried, we should also demand that he believe that He was seen of Peter, etc., in order to be saved…in I Corinthians 15, Paul states the good news (gospel) by receiving of which they had been saved – ‘Christ died for our sins’ – following by string of facts which he was delivering unto them, including that of His burial (incidental, neutral, and thus zero good news), etc., etc.”
* COVENANT, WHAT IS THE OLD & NEW?:
OLD (Exodus 19: 5-6,7-8; Ex. chap. 20-24:8) – this contains the Ten Commandments (Gen. 20:1-17), laws governing the use of slaves (Gen. 21:2-3,4-5,6), and the principle of an eye-for-an-eye in all cases involving legal disputes (Gen. 21:24-25). Israel also agreed that a man who killed an ox which he had stolen must repay the owner five oxen to compensate for his lost and inconvenience (Gen. 22:1). Israel was required to kill all witches (Gen. 22:18); every seventh year they were to let their land lay idle (Gen. 23:10-11); they were not permitted to have idolatrous images (Gen. 23:24); they were required to war against the Canaanites and to conquer their land (Gen. 23:27-28,29-30,31-32,33); the Old Covenant demanded the appearance of all Israelite males at the central sanctuary during the three annual festival seasons (Gen. 23:14-15,16-17).
NEW (Jeremiah 31:31-32,33-34; Hebrews 8:10-11,12-13; for Israel – Romans 9:3-4; Heb. 8:8). New Covenant and Old Covenant are for Israel (Romans 9:3-4); you [Israelites (Acts 3:12)] are children of the covenant (Acts 3:25); they are the recipients of he New Covenant by grace (Jeremiah 31:31; Hebrews 8:8 [The days come says the Lord, that I will make a new covenant with the House of Israel]) – cf. Titus 2:11. The Body of Christ falls under the umbrella of the New Covenant – they are partakers of Israel’s spiritual blessings (Romans 15:27; cf. Ephesians 1:3-4,5-6); in Christ, we are no longer strangers from the covenants of promise (Ephesians 2:12-13); the New Covenant is for all peoples who are the spiritual seed of Abraham (Galatians 3:28-29). See also COVENANTS, What Are the?
[Sources: Earnest Martin, "The New Covenant and the Christian", Foundation for Biblical Research, 1974, pp 1-2,4; and Paul Sadler, "What We Believe", Bearean Searchlight, May 1994, p 84]
* COVENANT, WHAT ARE THE PROMISES OF THE NEW?: (Jeremiah 32: 39-40; Ezekiel 36:26-27).
* COVENANTS, What are the?: (Abrahamic, Palestinian, Davidic & New Covenant are related to the Millennium) - Abrahamic Covenant (1) promises of a national land (Genesis 12:2; 13:14-15,16-17,18; 15:18); (2) promise of many descendants to form a great nation (Gen. 12:2; 13:16; 17:2-3,4-5,6); (3) promise of redemption, national and universal (Gen. 12:3; 22:15-16,17-18; Gal. 3:14-15,16). Palestinian Covenant develops the land promise of the Abrahamic Covenant (Deuteronomy 30:3-4,5; Ezekiel 20:33- 34,35-36,37, 42-43,44). This covenant gave Israel particular assurance of final, permanent restoration to the land. David Covenant has to do with promises of dynasty, nation, and throne (II Samuel 7:11,13,16; Jeremiah 33:20-21). The Messiah’s kingly rights come from this covenant. New Covenant has particularly to do with Israel’s spiritual blessings and redemption (Jer. 31:31-32,33-34,35-36,37-38, 39-40; Ezekiel 36:26-27; Hebrews 8:6-7,8-9,10-11,12-13). The Body of Christ also falls under the umbrella of the New Covenant; they are partakers of Israel’s spiritual blessings (Romans 15:27; cf. Ephesians 1:3-4,5-6).
[Source: Robert Brock, "Millennial Studies", Nov. 1983]
* CREATION: Did God Created All Things by Jesus Christ?: (Ephesians 3:9; John 1:1-2,3, 10,14; Col. 1:13-14,15-16,17; Hebrews 1:2; Genesis 1:26; Psalms 33:6,9).
* CREATION: Can God’s creation be clearly seen by the creation of those things in this world ? (Romans 1:20).
* CREATURE, What is the meaning of NEW? (II Corinthians 5:17):
- (1) In Christ we are “blessed...with every spiritual blessings” (Ephesians 1:3); complete in Him (Colossians 2:10); “That you were enriched in everything by Him...” (I Corinthians 1:5).
- (2) New Creature – Christ is all (Colossians 3:11), is our life (Col. 3:4), our mind (Philippians 2:5), our walk (Ephesians 5:2), lives in me (Galatians 2:20), and is being formed in us (Gal. 4:19). We have “put on Christ” (Galatians 3:27). Put on the new self (Ephesians 4:24 thru end of book). Conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ (Philippians 1:27). Consider yourself dead to sin (Colossians 3:5,8-9,10). New creation refers to our identity.
- (3) Old Things - Condemnation (Romans 5:8), made sinners (Rom. 5:20), and death (Rom. 5:21), which we received from Adam (Rom. 5:12-13,14).
- (4) Become New – The key to living as a new creature/to having the power of God working inside of you: “...be transformed by the renewing of your mind...” (Romans 12:2 [develop a totally new mind set, a new preoccupation – thinking like God thinks]). “...be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God; let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body...yield yourself to God” (Romans 6:11-12,13 KJV). [See also SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS, WHAT ARE OUR?]
*CREMATION: The Bible does not specifically deal with cremation of the body. The Bible states that the body of a believer should be put into a sleeping place until the resurrection because the Lord is coming and the body is going to be raised up (I Thes. 4:13-14,15-16,17-18). Note that it is the body, not the soul, that is in the grave. The soul is eternal. It never sleeps or dies but goes directly to heaven when released from the body.
When you and I bury loved ones who know Christ, we have the confidence that we will see them again. When we bury them in the soil, it is like planting a seed in the ground: “It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption” (1 Corinthians 15:42).
* DARKNESS/LIGHT - Has God called us out off darkness into light?: I Peter 2:9.
* DAYS, Are We to Judge Any Christian for OBSERVING? - in regard to what he eats or which day he esteems:(Romans 14:1-2,3-4,5-6). The last part of Rom. 14:5-6 say if one wishes to observe days, it is entirely up to him. (See also Colossians 2:16)
* DEATH! IS THIS THE END? To read this article click on Death! Is This the END? [above]
* DEATH, Are We to Be Judged After?: It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment (Hebrews 9:27).
* DEBATES/DISPUTES, Are We to AVOID? (Titus 3:9; I Timothy 1:4).
*DEFILES A MAN, What? (Mark 7:21-22,23). Listen to what the person is saying, that's what in their soul; their mouth will reveal what's in their heart.
* DEITY, IS CHRIST A?:
- “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him…And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us… (John 1:1-2,3,14).
- “…God, who created all things through Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 3:9).
- “…God was manifested in the flesh…(I Timothy 3: 16).
- “There are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit: and these three are one” (I John 5:7).
- “And we know that the Son of God is come… His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God…”(I John 5:20).
- John 8:58 [the “I AM” is identical to Exodus 3:14; 20:2; and Isaiah 43:10-11,12-13).
- Old Testament: “I have sworn by Myself… That to Me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall take an oath” (Isaiah 45:23) compare with New Testament: “And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:11).
- Old Testament: “I am the Lord…My glory will I not give to another…” (Isaiah 42:8) compare with New Testament: “And now, O Father, glorify Me together with yourself with the glory which I had with You before the world was” (John 17:5).
- “The first man [Adam] was of the earth,made of dust: the second Man [Jesus Christ] is the Lord from heaven” (I Corinthians 15:47).
- “For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily” (Colossians 2:9).
- “Behold, He [Christ] is coming with clouds [See Matthew 24:30]…I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, says the Lord, who is, and who was to come, the Almighty” (Revelation 1:7-8).
- Old Testament: “For unto us a child is born… His name shall be called…the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father…(Isaiah 9:6) compared with New Testament: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child… His name Emmanuel, which is translated, 'God with us'” (Matthew 1:23).
* DEMONISM (Divination), What Is?: “…There shall not be found among you anyone who …practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens or a sorcerer, one who conjures spells, or a medium or a spiritist, or one who calls on the the dead. 'For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord…” (Deuteronomy 18:10-11,12) [cf. I Corinthians 10:20-21]. Other demonic practices which are opposed to the will and worship of God: astrology “…Let now the astrologers, the stargazers, the monthly prognosticators [example: horoscopes], stand up, and save you from shall come upon you. Behold …they shall not deliver themselves…(Isaiah 47:13-14); belomancy (divination by arrows, Ezekiel 21:21); divination by dreams (Deuteronomy 13:1-2,3-4); idolomancy (consultation of the TERAPHIM, the household gods of antiquiry, Judges 17:5); necromancy (contact with and inquiry of the dead – punishable by death, Leviticus 19:31; 20:6), also see Deuteronomy 18:9-10,11-12 and II Kings 23:24; splanchnomancy (divination by inspection of the viscera, Ezekiel 21:21). All these are the doctrines of demons (I Tim.4:1). [Source: Robert B. Thieme Jr Ministeries, 5139 W. Alabama, Houston, TX 77056]
* DEMON POSSESSED, Can Christians Be?: While believers can come under demon influence, they cannot be demon possessed. No demon can enter where the Spirit of God resides (I Corinthians 6:19-20).
* DEMONS Do, What Can? They can both influence and control the activities of mankind (unbelievers). Demons are capable of imparting supernatural strength (Luke 8:29), and inflicting physical abnormalities (Luke 13:11-12,13-14, 15-16,17). By satanic design, a “daughter of Abraham” was so severely crippled as to be doubled over for ‘eighteen years” (Luke 13:11,16). Our Lord delivered her from her plight one Sabbath day (Luke 13:16). Demons can cause dumbness (Matthew 9: 32-33) and blindness (Matthew 12:22). They are able to induce insanity and suicidal mania (Luke 8:26-35) and often responsible for personal injury to their victims (Mark 9:17-18). Once they have established control over a human body, these evil spirits can come and go at will (Luke 11:24-25,26). This latter facts accounts for the apparent success of many a would-be exorcists.
* DEPENDENCE, Is Mankind to Be Independence of the Lord Rather Than?: YES “Submit to God...” (James 4:7). “...present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God” (Romans 12:1). "...you are complete in Him” (Colossians 2:10). “Commit your way to the Lord; trust also in Him (Psalms 37:5). “Trust in the Lord…lean not on your own understanding… acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6). “Cursed is the man who trusts in man …Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord” (Jeremiah 17: 5,7). [See cf. Isaiah 31:1; II Chronicles 32:7-8.]
* DISPENSATION OF GOD, Was Paul a Minister of the? Yes (Colossians 1:25; I Corinthians 9:17; Ephesians 3:2).
*DIVORCE, What Are The Grounds For A?
- Sexual Immorality: Divorce is allowed if either party, man or woman, for "sexual immortality"* (Matthew 19:9). *Sexual immortality refers to extra martial sex, prostitution, homosexuality, and even bestiality** (Nelson's NKJV Study Bible [commentary, vs. 19:9 immorality, p 1609], copyright 1997 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission).**Sexual relations between a human being and a lower animal (Merriam Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 10th Edition,
p 108, 1993). - Unbeliever married to a believer desires to leave: Divorce is permitted if you are married to an unbeliever and he or she desires a divorce (I Corinthians 7:12-13, 14-15).
- Uncleanness in mate: Divorce was permitted by Moses if a husband found uncleanness in his wife; and a certificate of divorce was given to her (Deut. 24:1). A certificate of divorce allowed the the woman to remarry (Deut. 24:2). But if the second husband also write her a certificate of divorce, her first husband was not allowed to remarry her (Deut. 24:3-4).
- Physical and/or verbal abuse:
"And let none deal treacherously* with the wife of his youth. For the LORD God of Israel says, 'That He hates divorce...Therefore take heed to your spirit, That you do not deal treacherously*'” (Malachi 2:15b-16). "And did not God make [you and your wife] one [flesh]? Did not One make you and preserve your spirit alive? And why [did God make you two] one? Because He sought a godly offspring [from your union]. Therefore take heed to yourselves, and let no one deal treacherously* and be faithless to the wife of his youth. For the Lord, the God of Israel, says: I hate divorce and marital separation and him who covers his garment [his wife] with violence. Therefore keep a watch upon your spirit [that it may be controlled by My Spirit], that you deal not treacherously* and faithlessly [with your marriage mate] (Malachi 2:15-17 Amplified Bible). *Treacherously means: To the Lord, attitudes of indifference to marriage vows and duties are the acts of the traitor (Nelson's NKJV Study Bible [commentary, vs. 2:16 treacherously, p 1561], copyright 1997 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission).
* DOCTRINES (ORTHODOX) OF CHRISTIANITY , What Are the? [See CHURCH DOCTRINE, WHAT ARE THE?.]
* DOCTRINES, Name Some FALSE: (I Timothy 4:1-2,3-4,5 [forbidding to marry; abstain from meats]).
* DREAMS, Does God Speak to His People Through?: (See VISIONS, Does God Speak to His People Through?)
* DRUG ADDICTION, What Is?: Galatians 5:20 “witchcraft.” The translators rendered “witchcraft,” however, the Greek word PHARMAKEIA originally meant “drug addiction,” the very word from which we got our English word “pharmacy.”
* END TIMES, What Does God Say Is Going to Happen In the?: Matthew 24’s chapter and Mark chapter 13. [See also SECOND COMING OF CHRIST, When Is the?]
* ETERNAL SECURITY Biblical, Is?: Yes “Being confident of this very thing, that He which has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6). No one can take it away (Romans 8:39); "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus..." (Rom. 8:1); ...does not fade away, reserved in Heaven for you (I Peter 1:4-5); he who believes on Him is not condemned (John 3:18); ...he who...believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment... (John 5:24); ...the ones who comes to Me, I will no means cast out (John 6:37); whoever believes in Him [Christ] should not perish, but have eternal life (John 3:15); I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish, and neither shall any one snatch them out of My hand (John 10:28); ...God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son...you who believe in the name of the Son of God [Jesus Christ]...know that you have eternal life (I John 5:11-12,13); ...he who believes on Him will by not means be put to shame (I Peter 2:6); Holy Spirit seals us in Christ (Ephesians 1:13; 4:30; II Timothy 2:19; I Corinthians 1:8; II Corinthians 1:2-,22). [See also Isaiah 38:17; 44:22; 53:3-4,5-6; Daniel 6:17; Micah 7:9; Psalms 32:1; 85:2; 103:12; I John 1:7; I Peter 2:24; and scriptures under SIN.] But there's a condition, you must truly be saved. Those who are living a life of continual, habitual sin isn't saved (I John 3:5-6).
* EVIL, Are Christians to Abstain From All Appearance of?:
Yes (I Thessalonians 5:23).
* FAITH, Are We to Be Justified by?: Yes,we are justified by faith apart from the deed of the law (Romans 3:28); having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1); man is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ…by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified (Galatians 2:16); ...the just shall live by faith (Romans 1:17); we are to live by faith of the Son of God (Galatians 2:20); an evil and adulterous generation seek after signs (Matthew 12:38-39; 16:1-2,3-4); we walk by faith, not by sight (II Corinthians 5: 7). “…waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. For we were saved in this hope…we eagerly wait for it with perseverance” (Romans 8:23-24,25); “receiving the end of your faith - the salvation of your souls” (I Peter 1:9). God “...has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3).
* FAITH, Was Abraham justified by? Yes (Genesis 15:5-6).
* FAITH, What Is? It is hearing the Word of God/taking God at His Word (Romans 10:17). “…whatsoever is not of faith is sin” (Romans 14:23).
* FAITH VS. FAITH + WORKS, What Is the Difference Between?: “For by grace you have been saved through faith…it is the gift of God [refers to God’s faith], not of works..” (Ephesians 2:8-9) vs. James 2:14-26 “Can faith save him? (James 2:14)…faith by itself…is dead (James 2: 17)…faith without works is dead (James 2:20)…faith was working together his [Abraham’s] works, and by works faith was made perfect (James 2:22)…justified by works, and not by faith only (James 2:24) …faith without works is dead also (James 2:26). There are two different gospels presented here: (1) the Gospel of the Kingdom – God’s program for Israel (James 2:14-15,16-17,18-19,20-21,22-23,24-25,26). (2) the Gospel of the grace of God – God’s program for the Gentiles under Paul’s ministry (Ephesians 2:8-9). Works are not involved in salvation today: Romans 3:20,27; 4:5; 9:11; 11:6; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 2:9; II Timothy 1:9; Titus 3:5.
* FATHER, Should We Call a Priest?: No! It originated with Baal worship (Judges 17:10-11); call no man upon earth “Father” [as a title] (Matthew 23:9).
* FATHER Without Jesus, Can We Have Access to the? No (See "JESUS WITHOUT THE FATHER, Can We Have Access to?)
* FASTING in the NEW TESTAMENT, Are There Any Examples of?: Yes, Paul fasted for three days (Acts 9:9); while certain prophets and teachers were worshiping the Lord at Antioch and fasting, the Holy Spirit told them to separate Barnabas and Saul for the work they were called for (Acts 13:1-2,3); Paul and crew fasted for fourteen days (Acts 27:33); Paul fasted often (II Corinthians 11:27); Paul and Barnabas praying and fasting for the elder in …(Acts 14:23).
* FEAR, Has God Given Us the Spirit of?: No (I Timothy 1:7).
* FEET WASHING, Should We Do?: No!
See CONTRADICTIONS in the Bible, Are There Any? (#3)
*Foods of the Bible, What Are the?Click on the following websites:
Foods of the Bible - Bible Foods with Scripture References
Bible Diet - Health and Life Bible Foods
Bible Animals - Complete List of Bible Animals with Scripture ...
Food and the Bible - POINTS OF TRUTH MINISTRIES - CRUSADE ... (I recommend the article they have on biblical foods only.)
* FRUITS, Are Christians to Bear?: Yes, “...You shall know them by their fruits...” (Matthew 7:15-16,19). Under law, the fruitless were pruned from believing Israel. On the day of judgment they will be cast into the lake of fire - bearing fruit in one’s life is not an option, but a necessity. These so-called believers were never saved to begin with - this is true of those who have merely made a profession, but never really placed their faith in Christ. Under grace, the following scriptures indicate that the believer should live a godly life in Christ Jesus (Romans 6:4; Ephesians 2:10; 4:1), but this is not always the case. The Corinthians, Paul called them saints (I Corinthians 1:2), were guilty of envy, strife, contention, divisions, fornication, heresy, greed, etc. (I Corinthians 3:3; 5:1, 9-10,11; 6:9-10,11). There is, however, grave consequences for living an ungodly careless life – loss at the Judgment Seat of Christ.
[Source: Paul Sadler, "The Believer's Walk", Berean Searchlight, Nov. 1995]
See "JUDGED, ARE BELIEVERS TO BE?"
* FORNICATION, Does God Asks Us To Abstain from? Yes (I Corinthians 4:3); flee [make this your immediate and continual practice]; fornication violates the resident of the body which is for the Lord (I Corinthians 6:13).
* GAYS Be in God's Kingdom, Will? No (I Corinthians 6:9; Romans 1:26-27).
* GENESIS 6:1-4, What Is the Meaning of? (Gen. 6:1-2,3-4,5-6) The sons of God married daughters of men: The sons of God refer to angels, not men, “Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan came also among them” (Job 1:6). “Again there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord..” (Job 2:1).
Angels can take human form: "Do not forgetful to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels unaware” (Hebrews 13:2).
* GENTILES To Be Blessed in the Old Testament, How Was? They were to be blessed through the rise and salvation of Israel (Isaiah 60:1-2,3). By nature, Gentiles which have not the law, do the things contained in the law (Romans 2:14); they are not to keep the law of Moses (Acts 15 [note Gen. 15: 5,19-20,24,28-29]).
* GIFTS, What Are the SPIRITUAL?: Each member of the Body of Christ has been given at least one gift to be used in His service: ministry, teaching, exhortation, mercy, giving, and ruling (Romans 12:6-7,8):
- Ministry – Gift of ministry examples: witnessing, writing tracts, handing out tracts, visiting shut-ins, encouraging others, praying, song leader, organist, pianist, organizer, typist of manuscripts, greeter, proofreader, technical support in audio and visual aid, layout and design, and volunteer work.
- Teaching (the ability to organize and communicate their thoughts in a clear, understandable way. Examples: Adult teacher in a local assembly, Bible Studies, Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Good News Clubs, Youth Group, Bible Institute, conferences, and seminars.
- Exhortation (counselor) who is skillful in helping the individuals through the fires of personal tribulation.
- Mercy is the gift of compassion.
- Giving – the Word of God teaches us that we are to give in accordance with how God has prospered us (I Corinthians 16:2).
- Ruling relates to those in leadership: elder, deacon, superintendent, president, dean, and administration. [Source: Paul Sadler, "Consecrated For the Service of Christ", Berean Searchlight, Aug. 1995]
* GOD, Is It True a Person Is a Fool If He Has Said In His Heart There Is NO? Yes (Psalms 53:1). God can be clearly be seen by creation of those things in this world (Romans 1:19-20).
* GOD OF THE OLD TESTAMENT, Who Is?: God and the Word (John 1:1-14). God created all things by Jesus (Ephesians 3:9; Colossians 1:12-13,14-15,16-17,18). The Rock with Moses was Christ (I Corinthians 10:1-2,3-4). There are two Lords, “The Lord said unto my Lord…” (Psalms 110:1). No man has seen the Father (John 1:18; 5:37).
*GOD'S WILL FOR YOUR LIFE, What's? (Rom.12:1,2 NLT).
* GOSPEL, WHAT IS The? It means “good news”: The gospel of the kingdom (Matthew 4:23; the gospel of Jesus Christ (Mark.1:1; Romans 1:9; 1:16 – it is the power of God unto salvation); gospel of the kingdom of God (Acts 20:24); our gospel (II Corinthians 4:3); gospel of peace (Ephesians 6:15); gospel of circumcised [committed to Peter] and the gospel of uncircumcised [committed to Paul] (Galatians 2:7); gospel of salvation (Ephesians 1:13); gospel of the glory of the blessed God (I Timothy 1:1); and the eternal gospel (Revelation 14:6).
* GOSPEL, What is the FALSE?: “I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ to different gospel…but there are some who trouble you, and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we [Paul and Barnabas], or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed” (Galatians 1:6-7,8). Paul stated that “…the gospel of uncircumcised had been committed me, as the gospel of circumcised was to Peter [the twelve apostles]…” (Galatians 2:7-8,9). Paul said mankind should not harmonize the simplicity of the gospel of Christ with philosophy (Colossians 2:8).
* GOSPEL With Flattering Words, Are We to Preach the? No (I Thessalonians 2:5).
* GOSPEL FOR SALE, Is the?: No, “For neither at any time used we flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness1…” (I Thessalonians 2:5). 1 Paul never preached the gospel "as a mask to hide greed" [commentary comment on I Thes.2:5].
* GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM, Is The Apostles’ Gospel Called the? Yes (Matthew 4:23; 9:35; 24:14; Mark 1:14; Luke 9:2,6); the apostles had no idea Christ would die (Eph. 3:1-2,3).
[Source: Robert Brock, "Studies in Ephesians", Journal in Pauline Dispensationalism, Dec. 1992]
* GOVERNMENT, Should Christians Submit to the?: Yes, submit to ordinances of those in authority (I Peter 2:13-14,15-16); let every soul be subject to higher powers – they are appointed by God; if you resist, you will bring judgment on yourself (Romans 13:1-2). We should pay our taxes (Romans 13:6-7). Pray for those in authority (I Timothy 2:1-2,3-4), be subject, obey rules and authorities, ready for every good work [deed] (Titus 3:1).
* GRACE DOCTRINES, What Are the?:
- Through the fall of Israel salvation has come to the Gentiles (Romans 11:11-12,13-14,15).
The Church, the Body of Christ is made up of Jews and Gentiles without distinction (I Corinthians 12:13; Galatians 3:27-28).- We have been given the commission of reconciliation – God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself (II Corinthians 5:18-19).
- Salvation by grace through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9); terms of salvation: Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection presented as good news (Romans 10:9,13; I Corinthians 15:3-4).
- Our spiritual baptism into Christ is by the Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 12:13).
- We are blessed with all spiritual blessings in the heavenly places [see SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS].
- We are seated with Christ in the heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6).
- We have a heavenly hope and calling (Ephesians 2:19; Philippians 3:20).
- Pre-tribulation rapture( I Thes. 4:13-14,15-16, 17).
[Source: Paul Sadler, "The Manifold Wisdom of God"' Berean Searchlight, May 1997, p 78]
* GRACE OF GOD, What Is the?: Righteousness does not come by the law, but by the grace of God (Galatians 2:21); we were under law before faith came (Galatians 3:23); we are saved by Christ’s grace (Titus 3:4-7).
*HANDKERCHIEF OR APRON Be Used To Be Sent For Healing, Can A? Yes, according to Acts 19:11,12 NLT.
*HEALED, By Whose Stripes Are We? We are healed by the stripes of Jesus Christ (I Pet. 2:24).
* HEALING, Is the Lack of Faith or Spirituality the Reason for the Absence of ? (No, look at the Corinthian church): They were rebuked for their carnality, envying, strife, and division (I Corinthians 3:3), immorality (I Cor. 5:1), dishonesty and oppression of each other (I Cor. 6:7-8), unfaithfulness in giving (I Cor. 9:11-12,13-14), selfishness and pride (I Cor. 11:21-22) – and at the same time, abound in miraculous gifts (I Cor. 1:7; 12:8-10,11; 14:12,18,26). Paul’s thorn in the flesh was not removed (II Corinthians 12:7-8,9-10); drink wine for infirmities (I Timothy 5:23); Miletum was left sick (II Timothy 4:20).
* HEATHENS (Genesis 2:9), Who Are?: They are heathens not because they have never heard the gospel, but because they have heard it and rejected the truth (Romans 1:18-32). The unsaved Jew [the “uncircumcised in heart and ears” among Israel] was counted in unbelief among the heathen [the uncircumcised Gentiles] (Romans 11:30-31,32; 2:28-29; Acts 7:51).
[Source: Robert Thieme, Jr, "Witnessing", R.B. Thieme Jr. Bible Ministries, 1975, p.11]
* HEAVEN Where Our Citizenship, Is? Yes (Philippians 3:20; Ephesians 2.6; 1:3: Colossians 3:1-3). See also BELIEVERS’ RESURRECTION AND DESTINATION under THESSALONIANS (FIRST) 4:14.
HEAVENS, Where are the Three?: (1st) The firmament (Genesis 1:8); (2nd) that part of the universe where the planets and the stars are (Psalms 8:3); (3rd) the place of God abode (II Corinthians 12:2,4; Revelations 2:7; 22:1-2; Isaiah 66:1).
* HELL, What Is? (1) Gr. Hades, “The region of departed spirits of the lost (It never denotes the grave, nor is it the permanent region of the lost; in point of time it is, for such, intermediate between the decease and the doom of Gehenna… it is to give up those who are there [Rev. 20:13], and is to be cast into the lake of fire [Rev. 20 14]).” [W.E. Vine, An Expository of N..T. Words, Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, pp 517,518] “Hades or the place (state) of departed souls [James Strong, Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, Grand Rapids, MI: World Bible Publishers, 1986, #86].
Other Scripture Examples: “...will be brought down to Hades...” (Matthew 11:23; Luke 10:15; “For You will not leave my soul in Hades” (Acts 2:27); “...I have the keys of Hades and of death” (Revelations 1:18); “...Death and Hades followed with him” (Rev. 6:8); “...death and Hades delivered up the dead...” (Rev. 20:13); “Then death and Hades were cast into the lake (Rev. 20:14).” [Ibid., p 641]
(2) Gr. Tartatus, “the deepest abyss of Hades; to incarcerate in eternal torment: cast down to hell [II Peter 2:4]” Ibid., #5020
“The verb tartaroo translated ‘cast down to hell’ in II Peter 2:4…the place where those angels whose special sin (Genesis 6:1-2,3-4; Isaiah 14:12-13,14-15) is referred to in that passage are confined ‘to be reserved unto judgment’”
[W.E. Vine, p 543].
(3) Gr. Gehenna, “a valley of Jerusalem, used (fig.) as a name for the place (or state) of everlasting punishment: - hell” [James Strong, #1067].
Scriptures examples: “...whoever says to his brother ...'You fool!' shall be in danger of hell fire” (Matthew 5:22); “…body to be cast into hell” (Matt. 5:29); ...fear Him who is able to 'destroy' both soul and body in hell” (Matt. 10:28); “...two eyes to be cast into hell fire” (Matt. 18:9); “...How can you escape the condemnation of hell?" (Matt. 23:33)”; “having two feet to go to hell” (Mark 9:43); “having two eyes to be cast into hell” (Mark 9:47); “But I say...fear Him who.....has power to cast into hell” (Luke 12:5); “And the tongue...it is set on fire by hell (James 3:6).”
*HELL, Who Will Be In? Revelation 21:8; I Cor. 6:9-10,11.
* HOLY, Should Believers Be?: Yes, God has called us to holiness (I Thessalonians 4:7); present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service (Romans 12:1); He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all conduct (I Peter 1:15). Holy means separated – to be set apart/belongs to God. Christ lives in us (Galatians 2:20).
* HOLY SPIRIT, Questions About the:
Q1) Can it be taken away?
Answer: During the Old Testament Period the Holy Spirit could be taken away (Psalm 51:11), but it can not be done today (Eph. 1:13).
Q2) Does it dwells in all believers/Christians?
Answer: Yes, the HOLY SPIRIT dwells within each believer today (I Corinthians 3:16, 6:19-20; Romans 8:11; Acts 5:32; Ephesians 1:13; 3:16).
Q3) Is the Holy Spirit a person?
Answer: Scriptures reveals to us that the Holy Spirit is a person:
His activities: (a) He gives commands (Acts 8:29, 13:2); (b) He teaches (John 14:26; Luke 12:12); (c) He guides, hears, reveals (John 16:13); (d) He prays for us, makes intercession for us to the Father on the behalf of our troubles/problems (Romans 8:26-27); (e) He leads us (Galatians 5:18). His personality (attributes) – (a) He has will (I Corinthians 12:11), (b) intellect (Romans 8:26), (c) sensibility (Romans 15:30; Ephesians 4:30). His capabilities – (a) He can be lied to (Acts 5:3); (b) tested [tempted] (Acts 5:9); (c) resisted (Acts 7:51); (d) slandered (Matthew 12:31). Masculine personal pronouns – revealed as divine person (Matthew 28:19; John 15:26; 16:13-14).
Q4) Are there any examples in the New Testament where
the Holy Spirit did anything?
Answer: Yes, there are examples of the HOLY SPIRIT in action in the New Testament:
(1) Forbids Paul to preach in Asia (Acts 16:6).
(2) Forbids Paul also to go to Bithynia ( Acts 16: 7).
(3) It directed Philip to an Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:29-30). (4) The Spirit of the Lord caught Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more (Acts 8:39).
(5) It directed Peter (Acts 10:19-20,21-22; 11:12).
(6) It separated Paul and Barnabus for the work of the ministry (Acts 13:2-3,4). (7) The Holy Spirit warned Agebus that there would be a famine in Judia (Acts 11:28).
Q5) What does the Holy Spirit do for believers at the time of their salvation? What is the baptism of the H.S.?
Answer: The HOLY SPIRIT in each believer, after accepting Jesus Christ as their personal savior, does the following :
(1) Baptism of the Spirit through which we are placed into union with Christ and become members in the Body of Christ – The Family of God (I Corinthians 12:13). You are totally identified with Christ the moment you trust in Christ.
(2) Regeneration or the new birth, by which we are made spiritual alive (John 3:3-4,5-6,7; Titus 3:5).
(3) He resides in you: the indwelling of the Spirit enables you to function in the Christian life (I Corinthians 6:19-20). (4) Sealing of the Spirit, a guarantee of the security of a believer (Ephesians 1:13; 4:30; II Timothy 2:19; I Corinthians 1:8; II Corinthians 1:21-22).
(5) The Holy Spirit bestows at least one spiritual gift to each believer (I Corinthians 12:4-5,6-7,8-9,10-11; Ephesians 4:11).
Q6) How was the H.S. received in the Old Testament?
Answer: The HOLY SPIRIT in the Old Testament was received two ways: (1) A believer could ask for and receive the Holy Spirit, as Elisha did (II Kings 2:9-10; or (2) the Holy Spirit was given directly from the Lord to judges, kings, priests, prophets, or to someone performing a special function for the Lord for as long as the task required the Spirit’s enabling power – Joshua (Numbers 27:18), Daniel (Daniel 4:8), Joseph (Genesis 41:38), to make holy garments (Exodus 28:3), to seventy men to judge Israel (Numbers 11:17,25), Othniel to judge Israel (Judges 3:10), Jephthah (Judges 11:29), Gideon (Judges 6:34), Samson (Judges 13:24-25). Those who had the Holy Spirit could lose Him when they sinned (Psalms 51:11; I Samuel 16:14). But the Holy Spirit can not be taken away today (Ephesians 1:13).
Q7) Is the Holy Spirit A Deity?
Answer: Yes, the HOLY SPIRIT is a DEITY: He is Omnipresent (Psalms 139:7); Omniscient (I Corinthians 2:10-11); Eternal (Hebrews 9:14); Sovereign (Acts 16:6-7); Holy (Exodus 17: 2-3,4-5,6-7; Hebrews 3:7-8,9; 10:15-16,17; Isaiah 6:8-9,10; Acts 28:25-26,27; Jeremiah 31:31-32,33-34).
Q8) Were believers at Pentecost suppose to pray for the
coming of the Holy Spirit?
Answer: The 120 were to "wait" not pray for it (Acts 1:4-5).
Q9) How do you receive the Holy Spirit?
Answer: The Holy Spirit is given to those who believes by faith in Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:14, 22).
* HOLY SPIRIT of PROMISE, Are Christians SEALED With the?: (Ephesians 1:13); it is the ‘pledge’ of our inheritance (Ephesians 1:14).
* HOLY SPIRIT POSSESSED By All Christians, Is the?: Only Christians possess Him (dwells in all believers and is the pledge of our inheritance (Ephesians 1:14).
* HOLY SPIRIT, What Are the RESPONSIBILITIES of the?: He prays (makes intercession) for us to the Father on the behalf of our troubles/problems (Romans 8:26-27); He can lead us (Gal. 5:8), but He does not possess us to the point where we have not any control over our bodies. Christ also makes intercession for us (Romans 8:34).
* HOLY SPIRIT seals us in Christ, Does the? Yes, we have the earnest of the Spirit (II Corinthians 1:22); quench not the Spirit Spirit (I Thessalonians 5:19); grieve not the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30); it dwells in all Christians (Romans 8:9,11; Ephesians 1:13; 3:16; I Corinthians 3:16; 6:19-20; Acts 5:32).
* HOLY SPIRIT DO AT PENTECOST, What Did the?: The
120 were to “wait,” not pray for it (Acts 1:4-5). The believers at Pentecost were filled with the Holy Spirit because the time had arrived for its fulfillment.
*HOLY SPIRIT Our Guide/Teacher, Is the? Yes(John 16:13).
The Holy Spirit helps us to understand Scripture w/the aid of one who have the spiritual gift of teaching (Eph. 4:11). A Bible dictionary and a concordance are helpful tools to help you study the Bible. You don't need commentaries written by men expressing their opinion.
* HOROSCOPE, Is It Biblical to Use the?:
No (See DEMONISM, What Is?).
* HUMAN NATURE, What Is?: This is what Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, stated regarding his nature – “O wretched man that I am!…with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin” (Romans 7:24-25). Works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-20,21).
* INTERPRET the Bible, How to?: (See “SCRIPTURES HAVE MORE THEN ONE APPLICATION, CAN?"
* ISRAEL, Why did God choose? (Deuteronomy 7:6-7,8).
* ISRAEL Been Set Aside, Has? Yes (Romans 11:11-12,15).
* ISRAEL God’s Covenant People, Was? Yes (I Peter 2:9; Deuteronomy 10:15; Exodus 19:1,5-6).
* JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES, What Are the Teachings of?:
- “The Bible says that actually there is only ‘one faith’ (Ephesians 4:5). Who, then are he ones who form the body of true worshipers today? We do not hesitate to say that they are Jehovah’s Witnesses.” [You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth, N.Y.: Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, 1982, p. 190] Biblical truth: See CHURCH, GOD’S TRUE.
- HEAVEN: “…ONLY 144,000 TRIED AND FAITHFUL PERSONS WILL BE TAKEN THERE TO RULE W/CHRIST”, [Ibid. p 124]. [Biblical truth: See ONE HUNDRED FORTY-FOUR THOUSAND.
- “…SATAN IS THE ORIGINATOR OF THE TRINITY DOCTRINE.” [LET God Be True, Brooklyn: Watchtower Bible and Tract Society,1946 ed, p. 101.] “No, there is no trinity.” [Ibid., p 111] Biblical truth: See TRINITY IN THE BIBLE.
- DENY THE DEITY OF CHRIST – “…Jesus was ‘the Son of God,’ not God Himself.”[“The Word” Who Is He?, p. 20.] Biblical truth: See DEITY OF CHRIST.
- “…THE HOLY SPIRIT IS THE INVISIBLE ACTIVE FORCE OF ALMIGHTY GOD that moves his servants to do His will” [Let God Be True, p. 108] Biblical truth: See HOLY SPIRIT IS A PERSON.
- SALVATION is BY WORKS: “Immortality is a reward for faithfulness…” [Let God Be True, p 74]. Biblical truth: See SALVATION.
- DENY THE BODILY RESURRECTION OF THE LORD JESUS and CLAIM INSTEAD THAT HE WAS RAISED A “DIVINE SPIRIT BEING”: (a) “This firstborn from the dead was raised from the grave, not a human creature, but a spirit” [Ibid., p 276]. (b) “…Jehovah God raised Him from the dead, not as a human Son, but as a mighty immortal spirit Son” [Ibid., p 40]. Biblical truth: See RESURRECTION OF CHRIST.
- MANKIND WILL NOT SEE THE GLORIFIED RETURN OF CHRIST: “Such hope to see the glorified Jesus coming seated on a white cloud where every human eye will see Him…Since no earthly men have seen the Father…neither will they see the glorified Son” [Ibid., p 186]. Biblical truth: See JOHN 14:2 (CHRIST SECOND COMING).
- HELL IS NOT A PLACE OF TORTURE FROM WHICH ONE CAN NEVER ESCAPE: “The doctrine of a burning hell where the wicked are tortured eternally after death cannot be true…” [Ibid., p 99]. Biblical truth: See HELL #3 Gehenna.
* JESUS Come to MINISTER To, Whom Did?: He came only to minister to Jews/Israel to confirm the promises made unto the fathers (Romans 15:8). The Israelites are the children of the prophets (Acts 3:25-26). An example of Christ stating He came only to minister to the Israelites: [context Matt. 15:21-22,23-24,25-26,27-28] Matt. 15:24 “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the House of Israel.” But Israel rejected Christ, “He [Christ] came unto His own, and His own received Him not (John 1:11). “But now in Christ Jesus you who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ… has broken down the middle wall of partition between us [Jews and Gentiles] (Ephesians 2:13-14).
* JESUS CHRIST God, Is? (I John 5:20; John 1:1-2,3, 14; I Timothy 3:16 [God was manifested in the flesh].
* JESUS CHRIST COMING a SECOND TIME, Is? [Yes, see JOHN 14:2,, WHAT IS THE MEANING OF? “CHRIST SECOND COMING.”]
* JESUS Without the Father, Can We Have Access To?: If you deny that Jesus is Christ, you have not access to the Father (I John 2:22-23). You should honor the Son as you honor the Father (John 5:23-24).
* JEW/GENTILE, Is There Any Difference Between? No (Romans 10: 12). In Christ there is neither Jew nor Gentile [no distinction] (I Corinthians 12:13; Galatians 3:27-28).
* JOHN 3:5 “Born of water," What Is the Meaning of? Water often symbolizes the “Word of God” (John 15:3 cf. 17:17; Ephesians 5:26). A man must come under the sound of the “Word,” combined with conviction of the Holy Spirit to be born again: “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God,” with lives and abides forever” (I Peter 1:23).
[Source: Paul Sadler, "question Box", Berean Searchlight, April 1996, p 53]
* JOHN 14:2, What is the meaning of? "In My Father’s house are many mansions…I go to prepare a place for you”(John 14:2). The Father’s house is a reference to the temple in Jerusalem (John 2:13-14,15-16,17), the millennial temple spoken by Ezekiel in Ezek. 43:1-2,3-4,5-6,7. In the millennial temple there will be “many mansions.” Ezekiel teaches us that there will be living quarters for the priests and Levites who minister in the things of God (Ezekiel 40). “I go to prepare a place for you” should be understood in the light of the parable of the ten pounds (Luke 19:12-13). The nobleman is Christ, who returns to heaven so that He might receive the kingdom from His heavenly Father. In His absence believing Israel will be observed to determine whether or not they have been trustworthy in carrying out the Great Commission. Their position, authority and rewards in the kingdom age will depend upon their faithfulness to what is recorded in the four gospels. Christ second coming: “Where I am there you may be also” (John 14:3). When the Son of Man return is His glory He will actually stand on the Mount of Olives (Job 19:25; Zechariah 14:1,4). Upon His return to Jerusalem Christ will overthrow the kingdoms of the world and establish His kingdom of righteousness for one thousand years. One of the first matters of business will be the reconstruction of the temple prophesied by Ezekiel. At this point in time three promises are fulfilled that were made with the disciples: (1) "And I bestow upon you a kingdom...sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel” (Luke 22:29-30). (2) “In my Father’s house are many mansions” (John 14:2). (3) “I will come again and receive you into myself; that where I am, there you may be also” (John 14:3).
[Source: Paul Sadler, "Is the Rapture Taught in John 14:3?", Berean Searchlight, Sept. 1993. pp 69-172]
* JUDGE NOT your brother, What Is the Meaning of? It means condemn – to pass sentence (Matthew 7:1-2,3-4,5; James 4:11).
* JUDGED, ARE BELIEVERS [Christians] TO BE? Yes, Christians will be tried for their service (I Corinthians 3:13-14,15-16,17). After testifying about our works, the ‘fire’ of I Corinthians 3:13 will test out works to see if they will burn up. We will be rewarded for what remains. It is also called the “Judgment Seat of Christ” (II Corinthians 5:8-9,10; Romans 14:10-11,12 [the BEMA SEAT]).
* JUDGED, How Will UNBELIEVERS Be?: It will be based upon their human good in the great white throne judgment, not their sins (Revelation 20:11-12,13).
* KILLED, Has God Ever Approved of Anyone Being? Yes, He destroyed seven nations (Acts 13:19 [Deuteronomy 7:1]); God commanded Moses to put to death a man for picking up stick on the Sabbath (Numbers 15:32-33,34-35,36).
* KINGDOM OF GOD offered to Israel, Was the? Yes (Exodus 19:5-6).
* KINGDOM OF GOD/GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM preach by Jesus, Was the? Yes (Matthew 4:23; 9:35; Mark 1:14) and by the disciples? (Luke 9:2,6). The disciples didn’t preach about Christ death, because they had no idea Christ would die (Luke 18:31-32,33-34).
* KINGDOM (law) vs. BODY OF CHRIST (grace), Explain. [See LAW vs. GRACE.]
*LAW, Are We To Beware of Those Who Teach Religious? Yes (Luke 20:46 NLT).
* LAW Put to Death? "Gentiles...by nature do the things in the law" (Romans 2:14); obedient to the law commanded to be kept in order to prosper (Joshua 1:7-8); Christ fulfilled/obeyed the law (Matthew 5:17); "Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes"[those who place their trust Him] (Romans 10:4); "By Him everyone who believes is justified...you could not be justified by the law of Moses" (Acts 13:39 NKJV); we are no longer under the law (Galatians 3:24-25); the covenant of the Old Testament/Mosaics law is dead (Ephesians 2:15).
"You also have become dead to the law through the body of Christ...But now we have been delivered from the law [letter of the law]...that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter" (Romans 7: 4,6 NKJV).
"...He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses*, having wiped out the the handwriting of requirements that was against us...He has taken out of the way, having nailed it to the Cross* (Colossians 2:13-14 NKJV). *Not only were our personal sins forgiven at the Cross, but those rules that condemned us have also been removed by the death of Christ.
"Having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances..." (Ephesians 2:15 NKJV)
* LAW Abolished, Is the? Yes (II Cor. 3:7-8,9-10,11-12, 13-14,15-16).
* LAW Fulfilled, How Is the?“It is fulfilled in one word [love] even this: you should love your neighbor as yourself” (Galatians 5:14).
* LAW For, Whom Was the MOSAIC’S?: They are not for the Gentiles nor the church today (Romans 2:12-13,14; 6:14; Acts 15:5, 25; Galatians 2:19); they were for Israel (Exodus 19:3; 20:1; Leviticus 26:46; Deuteronomy 4:1,8; Romans 3:19; 9:4). Believer today are under a higher law (Romans 8:2-3,4).
* LAW, What Does God Say About Obeying the?: (a) If [conditional] you obey My voice and keep My commandment (Exodus 19:5-6); (b) God exhorts Israel to remember and observe God’s commandments lest they be driven out of Canaan and scattered (Deuteronomy 4:23-24,25-26,27); (c) If you be willing and obedient (Isaiah 1:19-20).Under grace God says: (a) all who rely on observing the law are under a curse (Galatians 3:10; Deuteronomy 27:26); (b) no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by observing the law (Romans 3:20).*LIARS: Will they be in God's Kingdom? "...all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death (Revelation 21:8).
* LORD’S PRAYER, Are Christians Suppose to Repeat the?: No, the disciples were not to pray this prayer or any prayer repetitiously (Matthew 6:5-6,7).
* LORD’S SUPPER, What Is the?: Events leading to the death of Christ (Matthew 26:1-2,3-4,5, 36-57; 27:1-2, 11-29); His crucifixion (27:62 thru 28:8); a remembrance of His death (Luke 22:14-15,16-17,18-19,20); Last Supper observed by the Corinthian Church (I Corinthians 11:18-30).
* LOVE THEIR BROTHER, Are Christians Commanded to?: Yes, if you don’t have love for you brother, but have hatred for him, you abides in death – he’s a murderer and has not eternal life (I John 3:14,15); he that love not loves not, knows not God, for God is love (I John 3:8); he that dwells in love, dwells in God, and God in him (I John 4:16); he that loves not his brother whom he has not seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? (I John 4:20). “For brethren…by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word… You shall love your neighbor as yourself; But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another!" (Galatians 5:13-15). Love is the fulfilling of the law (Romans 13:10). [See also Matthew 22:37-38.]
* LOVE Toward God & Christ, Should We Demonstrate Our? Yes (Ephesians 6:24; Matthew 22:37-38).
* LOVE GOD, Is It True All Things Work Together for Good for Those Who? Yes (Romans 8:28).
* LUKE 19:12,13, What Is the Meaning of? [See JOHN 14:2, What Is the Meaning of?]
*MAN That Defiles Him, What's In [See "DEFILES A MAN...]
* MANKIND At His Best State All Together Vanity, Is? Yes (Psalms 39:5).
* MARRY UNBELIEVERS, Does God Commands Christians NOT TO? Yes (II Corinthians 6:14).
* MATERIALISM Godly, IS?: No, "...they are the enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly...who set their mind on earthly things" (Philippians 3:18,19); set your mind on things above, not on things that are on earth (Colossians 3:2); no soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life (II Timothy 2:4); Demas, who loved this present world, left Paul (II Timothy 4:10); what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? (Mark 8:36).
* MATTHEW 3:11 (baptized with fire), What Is The Meaning Of?: This refers to Gehenna, the unquenchable fire (Matthew 3:12; 13:39-40,41-42,43). [See “HELL” Gehenna.]
*MATTHEW 16:18, What Is the Meaning? "...you are Peter, and on this rock1 I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it" (Matt. 16:18).
1Refers to Christ:"...all our fathers...they drank that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ" (I Cor. 10:4). Read also Isa. 17:10; Matt. 7:24-25.
* MEATS Biblical, Is Eating?: Eat vegetables only (Genesis 1:29,30); we can eat all meats (Genesis 9:3); eat meats with restrictions (Leviticus 11). Don't judge anyone in regard to what they may eat (Romans 14:2,3; Colossians 2:16).
* MEDIUM Biblical, Is the Use of a? (No, see DEMONISM, What Is?)
* MEDIATOR, Is Christ is Our? Yes (I Timothy 2:5). We have access to the Father through Christ (Ephesians 2:18).
* MESSIAH/CHRIST, Is There Any Difference in the Meaning of? No, they both mean the same; one is Hebrew and the other is Greek.
* MILLENNIUM, Will Israel Observe These Practices During the?: Yes, circumcision (Ezekiel 44:9); sacrifices (Ezek. 43:18); sabbatical and jubilee years (Ezek. 46:17); observance of days, months, times and years (Ezek. 45:21-22,23-24,25; Ezekiel 46:17); annual feast days required (Zechariah14:16-17,18; Revelation 20:1-2,3-4,5-6,7).
* MIND Be Set On, What Should Our?: (See THOUGHTS Life Be Like, What Should Your?)
* MINISTERING THE WORD, Should We Ask for Help When?: Yes, Paul asked for prayer that God would open-up a door for the Word (Colossians 4:1-2,3).
*MINISTER, What Are the Qualifications of A?
I Timothy 3:1-7
If a man desire the position/office of a bishop/overseer, he desires a good work (I Timothy 3:1); must be blameless, husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach (I Tim. 3:2); not given [addict] to wine [in excess, see Ephesian 5:18, also I Tim. 5:23], not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous [loving money] (I Tim. 3:3), one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?) (I Tim. 3:4-5); not a novice [means beginner; new Christian; one who isn't well grounded in Scriptural understanding]...(I Tim. 3:6).
II Timothy 2:24-25
" A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition..."
Titus 1:7-9
He must be able to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who preach for self-benefit and contradicts: "7 For a bishop[a] must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, 8 but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, 9 holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict".
* MINISTERS, Does SATAN Have?: Yes (II Corinthians 11:14-15; Matthew 7:21-22,23; II Timothy 3:5) [Turn away from those who reject the preaching of the Cross/the blood of Christ (the Deity of Christ or His finished work)].
* MINISTRY, Does Every Member of the Body of Christ (men and women) Have to Be in? Yes, we are all to carrying out the ministry of reconciliation – the “good news” that God isn’t imputing their trespasses to them (II Corinthians 5:18-19). [See also WOMEN PREACHER.]
* MINISTRY TO, Whom Did Jesus COME TO?: [See “JESUS Came To Minster To, Whom Did?”]
* MINISTRY of the Twelve and Paul, What Is the Difference Between the?: The twelve concern the establishment of the Kingdom of God on this earth for Israel (Matthew 10:6-7; Daniel 2:44), and Paul the gospel of grace for the Body of Christ in heavenly places (Romans 3:21-22,23-24, 25-26, 27-28; Ephesians 1:3,7; 2:7).
* MONEY/RICHES The Root of All Evil, Is the Love of?: (I Timothy 6:5-6,7-8,9-10).
* MOSIC’S LAW, Did Christ Keep the?: He was circumcised (Luke 2:21); a sacrificial offering was made upon His behalf (Luke 2:24); kept the Feast of Passover with parents (Luke 2:41-42); taught during the Feast of Tabernacles (John 7:2,14,37); made under law (Galatians 4:4); He directed His disciples to keep the law (Matthew 23:2-3 w/Matt. 28:20); Paul preached Judaism before he became a Christian (Galatians 1:13-14).
* MURDER, What Is the Punishment for?: (Genesis 9:5-6; Exodus 21:12; Numbers 35:30; Romans 13:3-4).
* MYSTERY of Christ, What Is the?
- The dispensation of grace is now offered to the Gentiles; they're to be fellow heirs; Jews and Gentiles are to have equal status in the body of Christ and partakers of His promise in Christ (Ephesians 3:1-2, 3-4, 5-6).
- New baptism of Ephesians 4:5 is performed by the operation of the Holy Spirit who spiritually identifies us with Christ death, burial, and resurrection. Upon the moment of belief in Christ Jesus, the Holy Spirit places us in the Body of Christ where we are sealed with the Holy Spirit until the day of redemption (I Corinthians 12:12-13; Ephesians 1:13-14,15; 4:5).
- Salvation by grace, not by works: Sinners are saved by grace through faith apart from the works of repentance and the law (Romans 4:5; 3:24; I Corinthians 15:3-4; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:7).
- A new commission of reconciliation – In this age of grace, God is no longer imputing their sins unto them; they can be wonderfully saved simply be receiving His gracious offer of reconciliation (II Cor. 5: 14-15, 16-17, 18-19,20; Rom. 5:6-7,8-9, 10- 11).
- A new expectation – "the Blessed Hope”: Our hope is both heavenly in sphere and position (I Thes. 4:13-14, 15-16,17-18; Titus 2:13; Ephesians 1:3; 2:4-5,6-7; Philippians 3:20; Colossians 3:1-2,3; I Corinthians 15:51-52).
- The Lord’s Supper (I Cor. 10:16,21; 11:23-24,25-26) is a memorial, a remembrance of His death.
- The Judgment Seat of Christ (II Corinthians 5:10- 11; Romans 14:10-11,12; I Corinthians 3:10-11,12-13,14-15) is for believers only, and only some will receive rewards.
- Israel SET ASIDE TEMPORARY (Romans 11:25): The phrase “in part” shows that it’s only a temporary setting UNTIL the fullness of the Gentiles [refers to the completion of the Body of Christ] comes to an end. After this fullness, God will once again resume His program for Israel. This BLINDNESS is seen in Acts 28:27-28. This setting aside of Israel is called a “fall,” the “diminishing,” an the “casting away” (Romans 11:11-12,15).
[Source: Paul Sadler, "Characteristics of the Mystery", Berean Searchlight, April 1992, pp 47-48]
* MYSTERY, Why Is It Called the ? (a) It was kept secret (Romans 16:25); (b) it was hid in God (Ephesians 3:9); (c) it was hid from ages and from generations (Colossians 1:26; Ephesians 3:5);revealed to Paul in a series of revelations (Acts 26:16; 22:17-18; II Corinthians 12:1,7) from Jesus by direct revelation (Galatians 1:11-12; Ephesians 3:7; Acts 20:24; Colossians 1:23,25).
* MYSTERY (UNDER GRACE) & PROPHECY (UNDER LAW), What Is the Difference Between?:
- MYSTERY: A body – a living organism (I Corinthians 12:12,27; Ephesians 4:12-13,14-15,16).
- MYSTERY: A body given a position in heaven (Ephesians 1:3; 2:5-6; Colossians 3:1-2,3).
- MYSTERY: Christ its Head (Ephesians 1:19-20,21-22,23; Colossians 1:18).
- MYSTERY: Body chosen in Christ before the world began, but "kept secret since the world began" (Romans 16:25; Ephesians 1:4-5,6-7,8-9,10-11; 3:5-6,7-8,9).
- MYSTERY: Jew and Gentile placed on the same level before God (Romans 11:32, 12th chapter; Ephesians 2:16-17).
- MYSTERY: Gentiles blessed through Israel’s obstinacy (Acts 13:44-45,46; Romans 11:28-29,30-31,32).
- MYSTERY: Gentiles blessed through Israel’s fall (Acts 28:27-28; Romans 11:11-12,15).
- Mystery concerns individuals (Romans 10:12-13; II Cor. 5:14-15,16-17).
- Mystery concerns “all spiritual blessings in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 1:3; Colossians 3:1-2,3).
- MYSTERY explains Christ's present absence from the earth (Ephesians 1:20-21,22-23; Colossians 3:1-2,3).
- MYSTERY: Salvation by grace through faith alone lies at the heart of the mystery (Romans 3:21-22,23-24,25-26; 4:5; Ephesians 2:8-9).
- MYSTERY program committed particularly to Paul (Ephesians 3:1-2,3,8-9; Colossians 1:24-25,26-27).
- MYSTERY revealed through one man, Paul (Galatians 1:1,11-12; 2:2, 7,9; Ephesians 3:2-3).
- MYSTERY: Paul understood and longed that others might understand the mystery revealed through him (Eph. 1:15 -16, 17-18, 9-20,21-22,23-24,25-23; 3:14-21; Colossians 1:9-10; 2:1-2,3).
[Source: C. R. Stam, Things That Differ, 1985, pp 64-66]
* NEW CREATION LIFE STYLE, What Is the?: Shall we continue is sin? (Romans 6:1-4); yield to God instead to sin (Romans 8:11-12,13); set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth (Colossians 3:1-2).
* ONE FLESH of Genesis 2:24, Mathew 19:5, and Ephesians 5:31, Define the: It means having sexual relationship (I Corinthians 6:16).
* ONE HUNDRED FORTY FOUR THOUSAND (144,000), Who Are the?: In "You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth," page 124 under the section 'How Many Go to Heaven', it quotes from Revelation 14:1,3: "...the Bible reveals that only 144,000 tried and faithful persons will be taken there to rule with Christ." Revelation 14:1,3 does not say the 144,000 were taken from the earth to heaven, but were redeemed/saved from the great tribulation on earth; they are from each of the twelve tribes of Israel (Revelation 7:4-5,6-7,8-9, 13-14). Note: The twelve apostles will be sitting on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel (Luke 22:29-30).
* OFFERINGS, Are We to Give?: Yes, give according to what we have (II Corinthians 8:12); he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly...God loves a cheerful giver (II Corinthians 9:6-7,8-9).
* PASTORS/TEACHERS, Why Do We Have?: The chief Shepherd is Jesus Christ (I Peter 5:1-2,3-4), the great Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20-21); a good Shepherd (John 10:1-2,3-4,5-6,7-8,9-10,11) because He died for us (I Peter 2:24). "For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls" (I Peter 2:25). Paul exhorted the Ephesians elders to "...take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you OVERSEERS, to SHEPHERD the church [why?]...wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock" (Acts 20:28-29). Jesus told Peter to "Feed My Sheep" (John 21:15-16,17). [For more information on this subject, click on Women As Teachers & Pastors in Church? ]
Conclusion: God has commissioned and provided pastors and teachers to teach His flock the Word of God: "And He Himself gave some...pastors and teachers...for the edifying the body of Christ...to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine...may grow up in all things into Him who is the head - Christ...cause growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love" (Ephesians 4:11-12,13-14,15-16). Even though members in the Body of Christ have God's Holy Spirit (I Corinthians 6:19) to help them understand God's Words, you will find learning the Word of God correctly with guidance. This is one the ways God has provided for His people to grow, increase in the knowledge of the God (II Peter 3:18; Colossians 1:10). You are doom to failure without proper guidance - not accepting a pastor nor teacher God has provided for you. We are to be like Bereans (Acts 17:10-11), checking and studying the Word of God to see what they are teaching is correct: "Be diligent to present yourself approved of God ['Study to show thyself approved of God...' (II Tim. 2:15 KJV)], a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (II Timothy 2:15 New Kings James Version). Know one should go off to themselves expecting to be taught by the Holy Spirit only. God has provided pastors and teachers to teach us. He has ordained that pastors and teachers be held to a higher standard (James 3:1). If a pastor or a teacher is teaching error, find one that is teaching correctly. Be a Berean! Please note that the qualifications for elders are strict (I Timothy 3:1-2,3-4,5-6,7).
The twelve apostles were taught directly by Jesus (John chapter 13-17). The first four disciples chosen (John 1:35-51); the twelve disciples listed (Matthew 10:2-3,4). After Christ departed from His disciples to return to His Father in Heaven, He said the Holy Spirit would remind them of the things He taught them (John 14:25-26). Paul's gospel was received by direct revelations from Jesus Christ (Galatians 1:11-12).
*PAUL Called An Egyptian, Why Was? (Acts 21:38) Paul was called an Egyptian because he look like one. Paul said he was a Jew from Taraus (Acts 21:39).
* PAUL Chief of Sinners, Was?: (I Timothy 1:12-13,14-15); why did Paul receive mercy? (I Tim. 1:16).
* PAUL'S EPISTLES, What Are?: Pre-prison epistles (I & II Thessalonians, I & II Corinthians, and Romans [written during his early ministry during the Book Acts]). Paul's prison epistles (Ephensians, Philippians Colossians, and Philemon).
*PRAISE GOD, Why? After Israel praise God, He responded (II Chron. 20:19-20,21-22). After Lydia from Thyatira worshipped God, He opened her heart (Acts 16:14); afterward she accepted the preaching of Paul (Acts 16:15). David appointed people to praise God (I Chron. 15:16). Praise the Lord is mention throughout Psalms: 7:17; 9:1-2; 13:6; 22:22; 28:2,7; 33:1-2,3; 69:30; 81:1-2,3; 95:1-2,6; 96:1-2,4; 105:2; 106:1; 113; 134:2; 135:1-3; 138:1-2; 144:9; 146:1-2; 147:1, 7,12; 148:1-2,3-4,5,7, 13-14; 149:1-2,3, 150. “Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, And bless the Lord” (Ps 134:2). We should praise God because we are “His own special people…who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (I Peter 2:9).
*PRAY, Why?
(1) There is a devil (the wicked one) who constantly throws out darts after us to defeat us (Eph. 6:16).
(2) The apostles considered prayer as very important in their ministry (Acts 6:4).
(3) Prayer was part of the life of Christ, “Now it came to pass in those days that He went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God” (Luke 6:12). Prayer is part of His present ministry, “who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us” (Romans 8:34). “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).
(4) Prayer is part of the ministry of the Holy Spirit, “…the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groaning which cannot be uttered” (Romans 8:26).
(5) Prayer is the will of God, “Pray without ceasing… for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (I Thes. 5:17-18).
(6) We are to pray to God as Paul prayed for boldness to preach the gospel: “Praying always…for me, that utterance may be given me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel” (Eph. 6: 18-19); “Continue earnestly in prayer…that God would open to us a door for the word…that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak” (Colossians 4:2-3,4).
*PREACHING OF THE GOSPEL BY THE DISCIPLES ACCOMPLISHED BY SIGNS, WAS the? Yes (Mark 16:20).
*PROPHECY, Unfulfilled:
- [1] Rapture (Romans 5:2; 8:17-18,23,25; 11:25; 12:12; 13:11-12).
[2] Judgment Seat of Christ (Rom. 14:10-12). - [3] Tribulation Period (Rom.5:9).
- [4] Second Coming of Christ (Rom. 11:26-27; 16:20).
- [5] Millennial Kingdom (Rom.8:19,21; 11:12,15; 15:8-9,10-12).
- [6] Great White Throne Judgment
(Rom.2:2-3,5-6,16;3:6;5:9;12:19).
*PROPHET, What's The Sign - Evidence Of A True? (Deut. 18:22).
*Question God, Do We Have a Right to? No (Romans 9:20-21).
*RACISM, Does The Bible Condone? Click on article “Does The Bible Condone Racism?”, which answer this question.
*RECONCILED TO GOD, How Can Mankind Be? Our commission today is the ministry of reconciliation (II Cor. 5:18-19).
(1st) We must accept that all men are sinners [this includes you], “…all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Jesus Christ became identified with sinners so as to take their place: “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (II Cor.5:21).
(2nd) Believe that “The wages of sin is death [eternal death], but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom.6:23).
(3rd) Accept Christ’s death-His sacrifice on the Cross for us, “…Christ died for the ungodly…God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners. Christ died for us…having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him” (Romans 5:6-7,8-9).
(4th) “If you confess with your mouth [to*]the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Rom.10:9). Scripture says, “For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth, confession is made unto salvation” (Rom.10:10).
*to “For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Rom.10:13).
*REVEREND: Is okay for ministers to use "Rev." as a title?
No, it is a name associated with God -"...holy and REVEREND is His name (Psalm 111:9b KJV,AV,ASV). Call no man your father on earth (Matt. 23:9) [this does not refer to your physical father].
*REWARDS, What Are Our? The original apostles were promised a reward of sitting on the 12 thrones governing the 12 tribes of Israel (Matt. 19:18). Christians are to do good works (Eph. 2:10; I Tim. 6:11), but they are not for salvation because salvation is a free gift (Eph. 2:8-9; Rom. 4:6; 5:18,19). Christians are to receive their reward according to their own labor (I Cor. 3:8). The Greek word MISTHOS, translated 'reward' means wages, is payment for work or services; this looks back to the parable of laborers (Matt. 20: 1-3,4-6,7-9,10-12,13-15,16) and to the parable of the talents (Matt.25:14-30). Christians should build with gold, silver, and precious stones, so that their 'works' will not be burned up (I Cor. 3:12-13,14-15).
[Resource: Robert Brooks, "Unfilled Prophecy in Paul's Letters", Journey of Pauline Dispensationalism, June 1995, p 545]
*Righteousness Obtained, How Is? By faith (Romans 9:31-32). Man's righteousness to God is as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6).
*SALVATION BASICS, What Are the?
- Know that you are a sinner - everyone has sinned and come short of God's standard (Rom. 3:23 NLT). The penalty for sin is death (Rom. 3:26 NLT). Everyone has sinned and come short of God's standard (Rom. 3:23 NLT).
- You can be set free from the penalty of sin through Jesus Christ (Rom. 3:24 NLT); when you believe in Jesus, you as a sinner is declared to be right with God (Rom. 3:26).
- You inherited sin and death through Adam and and eternal life through Christ (Rom. 5:12-13, 14-15 NLT).
- You must confess and believe that God raised Jesus from the dead and are now made right with God (Rom. 10:9-10).
*SALVATION Obtained, How Is? We are saved solely and completely by believing that Christ died for our sins
(I Cor. 15:3 NLT) and He rose again (I Cor. 15:17 NLT); we are saved by His life (Rom. 5:10 NLT). We are saved by grace through faith, not of works (Eph. 2:8,9). Read also Rom. 3: 20, 23-25, 27-28; 4:5; 9:30-31, 32-33; Gal. 2:16; Titus 3:5.
*SALVATION AVAILABLE ONLY IN THE NAME OF JESUS, Is?
Yes, according to Acts 4:10,12, you can only be saved by the name of Jesus Christ.
*SALVATION, What Is The Age of Accountability For? Those nineteen years and under (Num.14:29) were accepted as not having knowledge between good and evil in the time of Moses (Deut.1:39). What about little ones who die before they reach the point of personal accountability? David had faith that his little child, like himself, was saved (II Sam.12:23). So it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish (Matt. 18:14); Deut. 1:39).
*SANCTIFICATION, Should We Seek? Yes, Christians should seek to live a holy life so that God may use them for His work: II Tim. 2:20-21, 22-23, 24-25,26. See also Eph.2:9; Titus 2:11-12,13-14; 3:3-4.8. Also see "HOLY".
*SATAN' DECEPTION In The Garden, What Was? Satan deceived Eve by saying God was holding something good back from them, "...you will be like God, knowing good and evil" (Gen. 3:5).
*SATAN'S MINISTERS Appear To Be God's Apostles, Can? Yes, according to II Cor.11:12-13,14-15.
*SATAN HAVE POWER, Does? Yes, he does.
- He attempted to overthrow God's kingdom (Isa. 14:12-13,14).
- He [See Ezek.28:13], through the serpent, caused Eve to eat the forbidden fruit (Gen.3:3,6).
- He had control of the physical kingdoms on the earth during Christ's ministry to Israel, because he offered them to Christ (Luke 4:5-6,7) but after Christ's ascension He replaced Satan's authority on the earth (Matt.28:18); in Christ name, we as Christians have authority over Satan and his powers (Luke 10:17-18, 19-20 NLT). Christ has delivered us from the power of darkness (Col.1:13); He has disarmed the spirited rulers and authorities of this world because of the Cross (Col.2:15 NLT).
- Satan filled the heart of Ananias to lie to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3).
- Paul was commissioned by Christ to deliver nonbelievers from the power of Satan (Acts 26:16-17,18).
- God allowed Satan to place a thorn in the flesh of Paul (II Cor.12:7).
- In the end the end times Satan's ministers will perform great signs and wonders (Matt.24:24).
*SELF Because of Accusations, Should We Defend Our? No, Jesus example (Mark 15:1-2,3-4,5).
*SICKNESS, Can Sin Be A Reason For? Yes, according to Luke 5:18-19,20-21,22; John 5:6,11,14.
*SURETY, What Does the Bible Say About? (Co-signing for another person's debt?)
Proverbs 17:18, "A man devoid of understanding shakes hands in a pledge,
And becomes surety for his friend" (New Kings James Version).
"It’s poor judgment to guarantee another person’s debt or put up security for a friend" (New Living Translation).
"A man void of good sense gives a pledge and becomes security for another in the presence of his neighbor" (Amplified Bible).
Proverbs 22:26, "Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge, One of those who is surety for debts" (New King James Version).
"Don’t agree to guarantee another person’s debt or put up security for someone else" (New Living Translation).
Proverbs 11:15b, "But one who hates being surety is secure" (New King James Version).
"It’s safer not to guarantee another person’s debt" (NLT).
"He who hates suretyship is secure [from its penalties]" (Amplified Bible).
*TEACHER TODAY, Who Is Our? See "HOLY SPIRIT Our Guide".
*USURY To One Another, Are Brothers In the Lord Forbidden To Charge? Yes (Lev. 25:36; Neh. 5:7; Ps. 15:5).
* WINE: Noah drank some wine and was drunken (Genesis 9:20-21 [You can not get drunk from drinking grape juice]). Lot also became drunk after his daughters encouraged him to drink too much wine (Gen. 19:30-31,32, 33-34, 35-26, 37-38).
~Thou shall bestow thy money for wine or strong drink (Deut. 14:26).
~Melchizedek, the priest of the most high God, brought forth bread and wine (Gen. 14:18).
~God's people shall drank wine during the millennium (Amos 9:14).
~Wine makes glad of the heart of man (Ps.104:15).
~Wine can cause a person to get drunk (Prov.23:29b-35).
Drink thy wine with a merry heart (Eccl. 9:7).
~Jesus called a 'winebibber' because He drank wine (Matt. 11:19).
~Drink a little wine for thy stomach's sake (I Tim. 5:23).
~No drunkard shall inherit God's kingdom (I Cor. 6:10; Gal. 5:21).
~Paul condemned the Corinthians for getting drunk during the Lord's Supper (I Cor.11:20-21,22).
~Be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess (Eph. 5:18 KJV).
*WORSHIP GOD, How Do We Truly? (Rom.12:1 NLT).
[TO BE CONTINUED]
