Questions Answered Part 1 of 4: 2024 onwards
These Questions featured in the Oneida Church of Christ bulletin up through March, 2024. I finished editing the bulletin at the 500th edition on March 17, 2024, however I continue to provide articles and answers via my newsletter, Walk in Wisdom. Please use Response to request to be on the mailing list for my weekly periodical.
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QUESTION: I confessed that God had forgiven my sins before I was baptized. Do I need to be baptized? - 3/17/2024 - NEW
ANSWER: Nothing one confesses can be true if God has stated contrary to it. "This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. [1] If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. [2] If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. [3] If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us." (1 John 1:5-10)
[1] We are in sin, but not saved... Read More
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QUESTION: My dead brother came back from the dead and told me to sell my house – should I do it? - NEW & FEATURED
ANSWER: Let’s reference Deuteronomy: "When you come into the land which the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination to the LORD, and because of these abominations the LORD your God drives them out from before you." (Deuteronomy 18:9-12) ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can I tell when, and what, the Holy Spirit says to me today? - 3/3/2024 NEW & FEATURED
ANSWER: The Holy Spirit has thoroughly spoken to everyone, and carefully written and protected His Words, in a book called “Scriptures.” The resurrected Jesus said, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things.” (Luke 24:44-48) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do you keep quoting the Bible? - 2/25/2024 NEW
ANSWER: It is the final record of what God has said to mankind: "Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. Do not add to His words, Lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar." (Proverbs 30:5-6) God has identified “liars” by permanently defining and describing their lies, and also: BECAUSE there is absolutely no promise in the Bible that there will be ongoing revelations given from God to mankind, but that it is a complete and finished statement. ... Read More
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QUESTION: How much confidence should I have in the Bible message? - 2/18/2024
ANSWER: Beginning with Jesus’ Resurrection, what does it say?
1. Apostles Of Jesus: a. The Twelve Apostles were personally chosen by Jesus (Matthew 10:1-4). b. Only Judas Iscariot was replaced when he committed suicide (Acts 1:15-26). c. The Apostles were eye witnesses of the resurrected Jesus. ... Read More
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QUESTION: If I am already a church member and have been baptized, why should I change? - 2/11/2024
ANSWER: Ask yourself, Into what church were you baptized?
1. The word “church” simply means “assembly.” In Scripture, it was used of the assembly of silversmiths “who made silver shrines of…the great goddess Diana” (Acts 19:24, 27, 32, 41). Jesus Christ promised to build His “church” (Matthew 16:18), and after His resurrection, daily added the saved to it beginning on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:38, 40-41, 47). ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is there so much outcry about the dangers of social media (such as Facebook, Twitter a.k.a. X, Zoom, etc.)? - 2/4/2024
ANSWER: One reason is because it is so difficult, or impossible, to be certain of a stranger’s claim. Please read Joshua 9:1-27 and notice:
1. The Gibeonites presented a faked appearance, lied about their homeplace, falsely claimed to be “servants” and pleaded for peace when they were part of Israel’s enemies! On “social media” it is practically impossible to verify the personal claims, or picture (!) a stranger may present. ... Read More
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QUESTION: There are many people who are doing much good for many other people. Are they saved? - 1/28/2024
ANSWER: Not unless they obey Christ, Who said: "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:15-16) Jesus taught, “I am the door of the sheep” (John 10:7), then, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.” (John 10:1) Ironic that those who rule out baptism as a work think good works, by themselves ought to save anyone! ... Read More
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QUESTION: How are Christians today supposed to help people? Are there miracles today? - 1/14/2024
ANSWER: Jesus was motivated by compassion, which is that deep down, “gut feeling” in one who sees a pitiful condition. 1. Jesus taught that sheep without a shepherd have no sense of direction or protection (Mark 6:34). Christians today have the complete, written Word of God that we may compassionately teach all the misguided, misled, miserable multitudes in our world. They need it and we need to be teaching them. ... Read More
Questions Answered Part 2 of 4: 2020- 2023
QUESTION: After we've gone through a massive buying season, many cannot pay off their credit cards. What can we do? - 12/31/2023
ANSWER: Solomon’s God-given wisdom gave five economic rules in
Ecclesiastes 5 that can avoid this situation. 1. Commit Slowly (Ecclesiastes 5:2-3) Promising a big Christmas or wedding or such like, without considering the cost first, is very foolish. Some people act like Santa Claus can bring many gifts
without understanding that they, not Santa, must pay for them! ... Read More
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QUESTION: Are people more peaceful at Christmas? - 12/24/2023
ANSWER: It certainly seems that way, and it has appeared to give moments to reflect upon God’s Word. Though Jesus brought and promised “peace” only to those who obey His way.
1. Angels announced: "Glory to God in the highest And on earth peace, goodwill
toward men!" (Luke 2:14). It may properly be “peace in men of goodwill.” ... Read More
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QUESTION: God gave us Jesus, what can we give Him? - 12/17/23
ANSWER: God’s “wish list” is noted in Psalm 81:8-16: 1. Remember their Beginning (v. 10) Christians today must learn from Israel's past, as outlined in Romans 15:3-4 and 1 Peter 22-23. 2. Remember that God Cares that men are saved (v.14-15) see 1 Timothy 2:3-4 and 2 Peter 3:9. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Who were the ‘wise men’ who saw baby Jesus? - 12/10/2023
ANSWER: No ”wise men” did see baby Jesus! The Bible account says nothing about their names, origin, or number. All of this has been added by uninspired men to the inspired Bible text, and therefore is only myth, not Bible fact.
1. Let’s refer to the Gospel of Matthew 2:1-2. a. These wise men (Greek, magi) came “after Jesus was born,” not the very day Jesus was born. b. “His star” had been seen “in the East” but the magi had to guess at the king. They came to “Herod the king” in Jerusalem, but Jesus was never “born King of the Jews!” ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do we have to ‘attend church services? - 12/3/23
ANSWER: Because Jesus meets with His disciples when they meet together.
1. The day He was raised from the dead. The first day of the week when Jesus was resurrected (John 20:1-10), "Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, 'Peace be with you.' When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord." (John 20:19-20) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do we have to "confess Christ"? - 11/19/2023
ANSWER: No one has spoken like He did.
1. He spoke boldly. “We have found the Messiah” (John 1:41) "Then the officers came to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, 'Why have you not brought Him?' The officers answered, 'No man ever spoke like this Man!'" (John 7:45- 46)
Whether Jesus preached that great Sermon on the mount, or in Capernaum's
synagogue, the people were astonished at His teaching ... Read More
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QUESTION: I’m hearing about "propaganda." What is it? - 11/12/23 FEATURED
ANSWER: Propaganda is a lie repeated over and over. Since, as Jesus said “the devil … is a liar and the father of it” (John 8:44), then all propaganda is of the Devil! If not, why not?
1. Lies repeated do not become the truth. An angel of the Lord (Matthew 28:2) told the women at Jesus’ tomb on Sunday morning to “go quickly and tell His disciples that He is risen from the dead." ... "Now while they were going, behold, some of the guard ... reported to the chief priests all the things that had happened. When they had assembled with the elders ... they gave a large sum of money to the soldiers, saying, 'Tell them, "His disciples came at night and stole Him away while we slept."' ... and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day." (Matthew 28:11- 15) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Where is God when there is so much chaos? - 11/5/2023
ANSWER: God’s Work is seen all around us if we will notice it.
1. Intelligent Design In Creation (Proverbs 24:3-4; Psalm 14:2) Every house shows the intelligent design by which it is built, kept up, and adorned. Common sense demands that we see intelligence in every building around us. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why can’t all wars stop? - 10/29/2023
ANSWER: Because there have always been “evil men” whose total disregard
for the Word of God can only be limited by God’s judgmental response.
1. There have always been “evil men” beginning with Cain (1 John 3:12). David asked God to, "Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men; Preserve me from violent men, Who plan evil things in their hearts; They continually gather together for war." (Psalm 140:1-2) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Are the Jews God's Chosen People Today? - 10/22/2023
ANSWER: NO, and everyone who keeps repeating this false doctrine is denying that Jesus is the Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, for Jesus preached a new birth (John 3:3) not the Jewish fleshly birth (John 3:4-7).
1. Today’s Jews Are Not God’s Chosen People. In Antioch of Pisidia, Paul preached Jesus Christ: "Through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins; and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses. (Acts 13:38-39) “The law of Moses” was given only to the Israelites (Deuteronomy 5:2-3) and only until Jesus Christ came. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Is the Israeli-Palestinian War a sign of the end of the world? - 10/15/2023
ANSWER: NO, no matter how often, or by how many, that false doctrine is repeated, wars on earth have nothing whatever to do with the end of the world!
1. Signs Of The End. [… The Apostles asked,] “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign when all these things will be fulfilled?" (Mark 13:2, 4)
Jesus listed many “signs:” “wars and rumors of wars,” “earthquakes in various
places,” “famines and troubles” (Mark 13:7-8). Jesus linked “tribulation” connected
to “’the abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet” connected to
Jerusalem’s destruction, which occurred in A.D.70. All of these “signs” were for “this generation” which would “by no means pass away till all these things take place” (Mark 13:30). ... Read More
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QUESTION: “What happened to ‘Columbus Day’?” - 10/8/2023
ANSWER: ... Though meaningful to many Americans, it is left up to the individual States to determine the scope or celebration of it. Special days are a good way to pause and remember.
1. Jewish Special Days. In God’s Law through Moses, the Israelites were given
annual special days in Leviticus 23 which were given to them as reminders that
God had delivered them out of Egyptian bondage. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do people protest? - 10/1/2023
ANSWER: To “protest” simply means “to express disapproval.” There are ways this may be done, but in our day these are mostly violent, rude, ugly and wrong.
1. Acceptably, offering comparison to truth is right. This is as God does: “For the LORD has a complaint against His people, And He will contend with Israel” (Micah 6:2). “Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, But such as keep the law contend with them” (Proverbs 28:4). ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is it so hard to have faith today? - 9/24/2023
ANSWER: Faith takes effort, and many don’t “strive.” "Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able." (Luke 13:24)
1. Struggle To Believe: After Jesus had died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day, He appeared to the Apostles; "When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted." (Matthew 28:17) "Doubted” simply means their mind was divided on how far to go with belief. ... Read More
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QUESTION: “Why is our economy seemingly failing?” - 9/17/2023 FEATURED
ANSWER: People can lie with money. Proverbs 11:1: “Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, But a just weight is His delight.”
1. Whatever is “an abomination to the LORD” is as despicable as anything can be, for that places it along with: dabblers in the supernatural, Deuteronomy 18:9-12; prostitution, Deuteronomy 23:18; perverse heart, Proverbs 11:20; lying lips, Proverbs 12:22; everyone proud in heart, Proverbs 16:5. “Dishonest scales” certainly fit in that list. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do people remember 9/11/2001? - 9/10/2023
ANSWER: Because that overt attack by air on this country’s soil has not ended. Since, then it continues with an invasion on land! Criminals, terrorists, and unchecked diseases are flooding into the contiguous 48 States.
1. Remember Those Terrorists. In remembering the First Responders of 9/11/01, don’t forget the hate-filled terrorists who caused the destruction in the first place! Muslim terrorists seemed to be religious fanatics, just like Jewish “terrorists” who tried to destroy the church of Christ shortly after it started! Before he became a Christian, Paul remembered (Galatians 1:13) ... Read More
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QUESTION: What is the difference between "looting" and "stealing"? - 9/3/2023
ANSWER: There is NO difference, except that ‘looters’ may think they are excused by being in a group doing it.
1. Numbers Do Not Nullify Law. “Though they join forces, the wicked will not go unpunished” (Proverbs 11:21). A “mob” is simply individuals acting at the same time. Stealing is stealing, and each individual is accountable for his/her own action(s). (Acts 17:1-5) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Everyone lies. Isn't the Bible full of lies, too? - 8/27/2023
ANSWER: No, because GOD wrote it, but humans may lie.
1. There are Truth Twisters: Through Isaiah, GOD pronounced, "Woe [to] those who call evil good, and good evil." (Isaiah 5:20) There have always been people who condemn what is good and approve of what is evil. (Psalm 56:5) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Does the Bible say anything about "self-identifying"? - 8/20/2023 FEATURED
ANSWER: Yes, and it doesn't have a good ending.
1. Human judgment is now factual. Solomon said, "Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs the hearts." (Proverbs 21:2) Jesus said, "You are those who justify yourselves before men, but GOD knows your hearts. For what is esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of GOD." (Luke 16:15) ... Read also 1 Corinthians 4:4 and Proverbs 20:9. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is there so much strife and arguing? - 8/13/2023
ANSWER: Because people voice their opinions and feelings, and aren't after truth. "Strife" is battling with someone, and it doesn't matter what the issue is. "Truth" settles everything: "Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the GOD of my salvation; On You I wait all the day." (Psalm 25:5) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Is it wrong to make a profit and have things? - 8/6/2023
ANSWER: No, because Jesus used business principles, without condemnation, to illustrate spiritual lessons.
1. Labor Contracts, Matthew 20:1-16: “A landowner” hires day-laborers for the 12- hour workday on the 1st, 3rd, 6th, 9th and 11th hours of the day, each agreeing “for a denarius a day” wage calling it “whatever is right I will give you.” When the 11th hour workers were paid the same wage as those “who have borne the burden and the heat of the day,” “they complained against the landowner.” ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why aren't Christians more "worldly-wise"? - 7/30/2023
ANSWER: Because they follow Jesus who said:
"I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” (John 8:12) and “He who walks in darkness does not know where he is going.” (John 12:35)
1. He is the Gospel Light (Isaiah 60:1-3) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Being a Christian means we all believe in the same God, what difference does it make how we worship? - 7/23/2023
ANSWER: Being a “Christian” isn’t just a set of rules to make us “good Samaritans,” but we should be devoted to the right God in the right way. We should want God to be “well pleased” (Hebrews 13:16) with our salvation and worship, because:
We know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is no other God but one. For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as there are many gods and many lords), yet for us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and through whom we live. (1 Corinthians 8:4-6) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Since God lays His message on our preacher’s heart, what
difference does it make what the Scriptures teach? - 7/16/2023
ANSWER: You only have your preacher’s word for that inspiration, and the Bible warned: "The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9) Even Jesus said: "If I bear witness of Myself, My witness is not true.” (John 5:31) Miracles and Scripture substantiated His claims (John 5:36-40).
1. Jesus promised the Apostles the Holy Spirit ... Read More
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QUESTION: Evil seems to be abounding, is this ‘the end’? - 7/9/2023
ANSWER: If these are “the end times,” then there is no prediction of it in the entire Bible!
(1) Seeing the Temple in Jerusalem, Jesus predicted its destruction when He said, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone shall be left upon another, that shall not be thrown down.” (Mark 13:2) The Apostles asked, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign when all these things will be fulfilled?" (Mark 13:4) Jesus listed many “signs:” (Mark 13:7-8) ... linked to ... Jerusalem’s destruction, which occurred in A.D.70. All of these “signs” were for “this generation” ... None of these signs had anything whatsoever to do with predicting the 2nd coming of Jesus Christ! ... Read More
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QUESTION: What was the issue about ‘free speech’ the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) ruled on June 30?- 7/2/2023
ANSWER: To summarize, website designer Lorie Smith, refused to create a website for an LGBT (homosexual) customer because it violated her (Lorie’s) religious convictions. SCOTUS ruled in her favor. It has protected personal religious belief over business concerns!
1. Free Speech Is Not A License (Psalm 94:3-4) ... Read More
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QUESTION: If everyone on the face of the earth came from a first family, then how can anyone be “racist”? - June 25, 2023
ANSWER: Evolution is the purest “racist” doctrine that has been taught. It is the government-sponsored explanation of Creation without God, and it has no science or Scripture to support its wild, mythological claims!
1. Interestingly, as scientific facts have been unearthed, Evolutionists named the first DNA-giver as a female named “Eve.” This establishes the Bible fact in Genesis 3:20 ... Read More
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QUESTION: How does Scripture align to contemporary history? I heard it is full of untruths about historical events and people. - June 11, 2023
ANSWER: More Accurately Than External Histories. Every discovery in ancient civilizations, in fact, proves the Bible narrative is the factually established truth.
1) Text Is Completely Preserved. When Jehoiakim, king of Judah, had the prophet Jeremiah’s scroll read to him, he cut it apart and burned in in the fireplace. "At God’s command, Jeremiah took another scroll and gave it to Baruch the scribe, the son of Neriah, who wrote on it ...". (Jeremiah 36:32) ... Read More
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QUESTION: If Evolution has so much science proving it, doesn’t this make the Bible against science? - June 4, 2023 FEATURED
ANSWER: No. There is not one single, scientific fact that supports the mythical dogma of “Evolution.“ There is no fossil evidence of the “in- betweens” that could establish it. 1. Devolving Evolution In one passage, by stating scientific facts, the New Testament destroys the false doctrine of Evolution. "All flesh is not the same flesh, but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of animals, another of fish, and another of birds. There are also celestial bodies and terrestrial bodies; but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. There is one glory of the sun, another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; for one star differs from another star in glory. (1 Corinthians 15:39-41) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Obituaries frequently tell that the deceased was a Christian of the ______ faith. Are there different faiths in Christ? - 5/28, 2023
ANSWER: No. After Jesus went back to Heaven, the Holy Spirit inspired apostles only taught one faith (Ephesians 4:1-6). "The unity of the Spirit" requires no divisions of doctrine. There is only "one body" that Jesus is over (Ephesians 1:22-23). The "one spirit" teaches sinners, "For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body -- whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free -- and have all been made to drink into one Spirit." (1 Corinthians 12:13) ... Read More
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QUESTION: It's confusing; who is telling the truth? - May 21, 2023 FEATURED
ANSWER: Exactly what the Devil does – “gaslighting” — so people are without a solid grasp of complete truth. Since “the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32), we should always “buy the truth and sell it not” (Proverbs 23:23).
1) Jesus said, ”You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. ... he is a liar and the father of it. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe Me.” (John 8:44- 45) Jesus said “the devil” lies because “there is no truth in him.” Should we believe what Jesus said about the devil or what the devil says about Jesus? ... Read More
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QUESTION: Should Christians learn to be more tolerant? - May 7, 2023 FEATURED
ANSWER: No. “Tolerance” is not the same as “patience” or “longsuffering.”
1) “Tolerance” - David wrote: "Do I not hate them, O LORD, who hate You? And do I not loathe those who rise up against You? I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my enemies." (Psalm 139:21-22) “Sin” is “falling short” of God’s commands, and all people do it, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). It was not any sinner David hated, but those whose minds were turned completely away from God. ... Read More
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QUESTION: How important should my family be to me? - April 30, 2023
ANSWER: Not as important as Jesus Christ and His family.
1. Father and Son of God: Judas Iscariot had left to betray Jesus
(John 13:21-30), Peter was told he would deny Jesus (John 13:36-38), and yet Jesus said, “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me” (John 14:1). Faith in God should continue, no matter ... Read More
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QUESTION: The 28-year-old Nashville school shooter who murdered six people March 28, 2023 left a “manifesto” that has not yet been released. Shouldn’t the public know what’s in it? - April 23, 2023
ANSWER: NO. The murderous, twisted (born female, tried to change to male) reasoning used to justify such evil does NOT need to be read, and possibly accepted by anyone else. (Ephesians 5:11-14) ... Read More
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QUESTION: It seems that today, anything goes ... does it? - 4/16/2023
ANSWER: People have “departed from the faith” so that they are “speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron” (1 Timothy 4:1-2). Thus, they feel no “shame” for anything they do!
1. Shame In Nakedness. (Genesis 2:24-25). ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is Social Media trying to recall what someone writes?- April 9, 2023
ANSWER: When things are said “in haste” they seldom have been thought through, and need examination. “Firing from the lip” has caused much confusion and hurt in many souls.
1. Someone may draw a wrong conclusion about God. Psalm 31:22 says, "For I said in my haste, 'I am cut off from before Your eyes;' Nevertheless
You heard the voice of my supplications When I cried out to You." ... Read More
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QUESTION: What significant work(s) can a Christian do to be important to the LORD? - April 2, 2023
ANSWER: No Christian is insignificant to Jesus Christ or His church! In Heaven, John pictured ... those surrounding The Throne of God: "After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!"" (Revelation 7:9-10) AND they have work to do (Revelation 7:13-15). ... Read More
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QUESTION: Will Christ have a kingdom on earth?- March 26, 2023
ANSWER: Not in the future. Since the 1st Century, people saved by Jesus’ blood have been “conveyed into the kingdom of the Son of His love” (Colossians 1:13-14). False teachers teach other than sound doctrine and “do not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ”
1 Timothy 6:3. Every part of Millennial doctrine is "antichrist" 1 John 4:1-3. Premillennialism contradicts Jesus Christ Matthew 16:23 ... Read More
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QUESTION: Should Christians ever “discriminate”? - March 19, 2023
ANSWER: It depends on what one is discriminating.
1. What Is “Discrimination?” “Discrimination” is the quality or power of finely distinguishing,” or making judgments. Making moral judgments based upon what God says, is exactly what God wants us to do. (1 Kings 3:9) Making “judgments” and “discerning” on the basis of “good and evil” is what God's “wisdom” is all about. (Luke 12:56-57) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why does ‘doctrine’ matter? - March 12, 2023
ANSWER: Because it “mattered” to God! Holy Spirit-inspired Paul wrote:
"If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed. But reject profane and old wives' fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come." (1 Timothy 4:6-8) ... Read More
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QUESTION: What do you think about the new technology? - March 5, 2023
ANSWER: Technology is helpful if used for good. (Galatians 6:10; Isaiah 1:17) But applications which shut out the real world will produce no “good Samaritans.” No good works will be done by the selfish!
1. Selfie Worship. People are taking “selfies,” which means they now travel to exotic places ... only to aim the camera at themselves! ... Read More
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QUESTION: Do you celebrate the 40 days of Lent? [which began February 22, 2023] - 2/26/2023
ANSWER: No, because it completely violates what Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount about public displays of worship!
1. Giving (Matthew 6:1-4) Worship and service to God is to be characterised by the expression "secret" (hidden). “To be seen” is our word “theater,” or public display, ... While “theater” may be entertaining, worship and service must appeal to God and not be done to appeal only to people! ... Read More
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QUESTION: Isn't the Revival at Asbury University [[Methodist- Holiness], Wilmore, KY, wonderful? And it’s catching on at Lee U., Cleveland, TN, [Church of God/Holiness/Pentecostal], Cedarville U., Cedarville, Ohio [Baptist], & Samford U. in Birmingham, AL. [Baptist]! - 2/19/2023
ANSWER: Not all excitement, singing, jumping, and clapping is spiritually motivated. Anyone been to a basketball, football, or soccer game? Or attended a rally for any of these?
1. Jesus put us on notice when, confronted by those whose traditional practices meant more to them than God’s Word (Matthew 15:7-9) . ... Read More
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QUESTION: What is Valentine's Day REALLY for? - 2/12/2023
ANSWER: For florists, chocolate makers, jewellers to profit.
1. LOVE INVESTS. If it takes jewellery for a kiss, candy for a smile, or flowers for a hug, your marriage needs fixing. FAST. Love doesn't come down to one day a year. Love is a commitment, for "Love ... does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil." (1 Corinthians 13:5). This applies to both husbands and wives! ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do you not have statues or icons of Jesus or a creche at Christmas? - February 5, 2022
ANSWER: Because God condemns them (1 John 5:20-21). Idolatry puts emphasis on external appearance, which God forbids in His case.
1. The resurrected Jesus proved His body was raised when He told His apostles, "Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have." Read More
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QUESTION: Why do you keep emphasising the exact wording in the Bible? - January 29, 2023
ANSWER: Because Bible truth depends upon it.
1. Altered truth is not truth (Galatians 1:6-8). Jesus said, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptised will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned." (Mark 16:15-16) No alteration saves! ... Read More
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QUESTION: What if a Christian isn't getting anything out of being in the local church? - January 15, 2023
ANSWER: We get out of church what we put into it. (Please read 2 Corinthians 9:6)
1. Because of the Day of Judgment, God "now commands all men everywhere to repent." (Acts 17:30-31) Each individual is responsible for his or her own soul, so Jesus commanded disciples to go and preach (Mark 16:15-16) ... Read More
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QUESTION: If it's a "New Year", why don't some change? - January 8, 2023
ANSWER: "The way of the ungodly shall perish." (Psalm 1:6) The world of the ungodly perished int he Flood in Noah's day (2 Peter 2:5); the destruction of Sodom & Gomorroah was "an example to those who afterward would live ungodly (2 Peter 2:6); and this heaven and earth "ar reserved for fire until the day of Judgment and perdition of ungodly men." (2 Peter 3:7) .... Read More
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QUESTION: Why wish for a "New" Year? - January 1, 2023 FEATURED
ANSWER: Probably to get it over with because it may be completely forgotten within a few weeks. It is a good time to learn from the past.
1. Look Back, But Don’t Re-live Do you “live in the past?” Ecclesiastes 7:10 says this isn't wise. When we have only good memories about the past, we a) have faulty memories; and b) probably haven't learned much. ... Read More
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QUESTION: What can make 2023 a "New" Year? - December 25, 2022
ANSWER: The old adage, "Well begun, half done" rings true. That's why so much emphasis / talk is about "New Year's Resolutions".
The Ending Sets The Beginning: The "end of the year" was as important as "the beginning of the year" to God. (Deuteronomy 11:12; Ecclesiastes 7:8) The beginning is filled with anticipation, hope, and promise, as Paul told the Corinthian Christians in 2 Corinthians 8:10-11. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Was Jesus "born of a virgin"? - December 18, 2022
ANSWER: The only prophecy in Scripture of the "virgin birth" is Isaiah 7:14: "Therefore the LORD Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel."
1. "The virgin" (Hebrew ha almah) means one, specific virgin. All females begin life as virgins, but lose their virginity by copulation and/ or receiving male seed. Almah, a feminine form, occurs six times in the Old Testament ... and it never refers to a married woman. Read More
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QUESTION: Why is the book of Matthew first? - December 11, 2022
ANSWER: Because of why and how it was written.
1. Regarding the 4 biographies of the Life of Jesus Christ on earth:
a. Matthew wrote for Jews with the theme: “Behold, the King.” Jesus “fulfilled” for the first time Old Testament prophecies throughout this account;
b. Mark wrote for Romans with the theme: “Behold, the Servant.” Jesus
“immediately” went about His travels, teaching, and miracles;
c. Luke wrote for Humanity with the theme: “Behold, the Man.” Jesus “saves” anyone who follows Him, regardless of age, sex, circumstance, background, or work;
d. John wrote for Believers and Unbelievers with the theme: “Behold, the Son of God.” Jesus is “the light” of the world because ... Read More
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QUESTION: Is the length of our life already preset? - December 4, 2022
ANSWER: Nothing in the Bible teaches this depressing, fatalistic doctrine, which is fundamental to idolatry, and is practiced in such religions as Hindu, Catholic, ad nauseum.
1) Is It Your Time to Die? Some think “when it’s your time to die, there’s nothing you can do about it.” (Psalm 39:4-6) To "measure my days" means we should count our birthdays to remind us "how frail" we are. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Is there any good use of alcoholic beverages? - 11/27/2022
ANSWER: There are 3 uses of alcohol, each as a medicine, that is, to be used with a very low dose, only for pain relief, out of necessity, briefly at best. They are:
(1) to relieve recurring weakening digestive problems. Paul told Timothy to, No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake and your frequent infirmities. (1 Timothy 5:23). Whether the wine was fermented or not ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is Christmastime so important? - 11/20/2022
ANSWER: The church of Christ did not celebrate Jesus’ birth until a Roman Catholic, Julius, declared December 25 as the date to celebrate it. However, without Jesus’ virgin birth, virgin life, and virgin death, no one could be saved. (Genesis 6:14-15). The Holy Spirit inspired Apostle Paul wrote this summary of why the crucifixion of Jesus Christ is the most important, pivotal moment in human history. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why does it seem that, no matter what people are voted into office, government(s) never seemed to change? - 11/13/2022
ANSWER: Because human nature never changes, and the corruption of power appeals to the worst of human nature! This is seen in advance before the Israelites entered the Promised Land. Moses was given detailed instructions for a king to follow if he was to be given the throne over God’s people (Deuteronomy 17: 14- 20). In order, kings were NOT to: [1] be an alien or foreign-born; [2] depend on military might and outsiders; [3] disregard marriage rules; [4] selfishly prosper financially; [5] ignore God’s Word! ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do we vote for government officials? - 11/6/2022 FEATURED
ANSWER: So godly people might have influence through them.
1) Prayers Answered- “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior”
(1 Timothy 2:1-3).
2) Limits For Caesar- Pharisees asked Jesus a “trick” question: "’Tell us, therefore, what do You think? Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?’ But Jesus perceived their wickedness (Matthew 22:17-21) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Are there real ghosts and goblins? - 10/23/2022
ANSWER: There is more fokelore than fact in these things that scare. No bodies have been released from their graves until Jesus calls us all forth for the Judgment Day (Hebrews 9:27-28).
1. Scared, Of What? What scares you this time of the year? Is it houses haunted by fake "ghosts and goblins?" ... Or is it make-believe "zombies," "vampires," or "werewolves?" The only time dead people walked the earth again was when Jesus Christ died on the cross, an earthquake opened graves (Matthew 27:52-53). ... Read More
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QUESTION: When and where will the Battle of Armageddon take place? - 10/16/2022
ANSWER: There will be NO FUTURE "Battle of Armageddon", nuclear or otherwise, because:
1. The only reference to "Armageddon" is in Revelation 16:12-16. Revelation begins and ends with everything contained in the Book happening "shortly" (1:1; 22:6), "quickly" (2:5; 22:7), and "at hand" (1:3; 22:10). The Book of Revelation specifically dealt with events that happened in the 1st Century, before the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. There is no future "Battle of Armageddon".
2. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do you place so much emphasis on the particular wording in various versions? - 10/9/2022
ANSWER: God inspired men to write the Bible with words, because words convey the ideas God wants each person to understand. Every Bible “version” that deviates from exactly what God has said is not to be trusted. Bible- believers are precisely careful because:
1. God Commands It (2 Timothy 1:13) a. No-one can "hold fast" if the wording is changed from version to verion. b. Word Thieves Abound ... Read More
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QUESTION: If there is supposed to be "separation of church and state", why do politicians like Al Gore, Jr., quote Scripture? Part 2 - 10/2/2022
ANSWER #2: They are proving Jesus to be true (Matthew 22:29) Al Gore, Jr., proponent of "Global Warming / Climate change," tries to link his political false doctrine to a general reference to the Bible. Former Vice President Al Gore spoke to 100 representatives of various Black religious and environmental groups on Tuesday, May 17, ... in the hope of encouraging a joint solution in the ongoing crisis of climate and racial justice. "Nineteen of the 20 hottest years ever measured with instruments have been since 2002 and every day watching the international television news feels like a nature hike right through the Book of Revelation," Gore said. 1. If he thinks Revelation was a prophesy of the future ... Read More
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QUESTION: If there is supposed to be "separation of church and state", why do politicians like Gavin Newsom quote Scripture? - 9/25/2022
ANSWER: Good question, indeed. They are proving Jesus to be true: "You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God." (Matthew 22:29) California Governor Gavin Newsom's campaign for US President has begun with Newsom using Twitter to announce a series of billboards advocating abortion, "paid for by Newsom for California Governor 2022" that he's bought in seven "anti-freedom" states. On some billboards, he has quoted Jesus saying, "'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:31) 1. Abortion is never approved in Scripture. ... Read More
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QUESTION: If we are saved by the grace, mercy, and love of God, why do YOU require baptism? - 9/18/2022
ANSWER: You mention why God saves, the rest of the Gospel is what God requires humans to do and must also be taught.
1. Gospel of Grace: Have you been saved by the “grace of God?” (2 Corinthians 8:9) The word "grace" means offering someone something they do not deserve. (John 1:14) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is there such an outpouring of grief for Queen Elizabeth II's passing on September 8, 2022? - 9/11/2022
ANSWER: For several reasonable characteristics:
1. Longevity: She is the longest-reigning Monarch in England’s history, and at age 96, she was on the throne 70 years! Most people on Earth have only known her as the Queen. Jesus Christ has been on the throne of David in Heaven since He ascended after His resurrection. (Acts 2:30-31) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do you think people are hostile to the Bible? - 9/4/2022
ANSWER: Because they are (hostile)!
1. Jesus said so (John 15:18-19)
2. Paul aid so (2 Timothy 3:12-13) Christians will be persecuted, because the wicked won't change by themselves.
a. Evil in mankind was described by David in Psalm 140:1-3 ... Read More
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QUESTION: Marriage seems unpopular. Why insist on it? - August 28, 2022
ANSWER: Because God requires it! Marriage was determined by God at the Creation and ceremonies should reflect this teaching.
1. Marriage was begun by God. (Genesis 2:22-23; Matthew 24:38; Luke 20:34; Hebrews 13:4) Why aren't you married?
2. Why a Wedding? Matthew 19:4-6 ... Read More
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QUESTION: Since "Evolution" is taught in schools, and shown in museums, TV and movies, doesn't the Bible also teach it? - August 21, 2022
ANSWER: No, because the Bible is right, even if no else accepts what it says. We “are saved, if you hold fast that word which I preached to you -- unless you believed in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:2)! Vain faith is based in “museums, TV & movies” and not based on the truth of Scriptures.
1. There are no “prehistoric people.” (Matthew 1:1-17; Luke 3:23-38; Genesis 1:26-30) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why doesn't the Church of Christ participate with other churches in their practices? - August 14, 2022
ANSWER: Because those who haven’t completed their conversion by being baptized into Christ for the remission of their sins (Acts 2:38), have easily been led to other errors in doctrines and practices. One of the clearest, probably is about Christmas.
1. The Name "Christian" Is "Christian" a label for anyone who believes anything about Jesus Christ? (Acts 11:26) ... Read More
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QUESTION: How should a Christian respond to "Climate Change"? - August 7, 2022
ANSWER: The purely political phrases “climate change/global warming” may spur megalomaniacs to attempt global control, but there is nothing in reality to justify their ambition. Christians realize the facts.
1. No Natural Sign – Only God is in charge of this earth. There is a difference between "natural" happenings and "miraculous" events (Exodus 10:1-2; Exodus 10:21, 23) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Can "Corporate Religion" save anyone? - July 31, 2022
ANSWER: Those who condemn “corporate religion” usually don’t understand either “religion” or “church.”
1. Useless Religion - (Acts 17:22-23) "Religion" literally means "fearing some deity", in this case idols. Some people are very "religious" abou the gods of: power, sex, money, sports, themselves, or things. "Worship without knowing" the God of Heaven and Earth and the Bible is vain. (James 1:26) ... Read More
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QUESTION: What can we do if we are punished for speaking out? - July 24, 2022
ANSWER: Remember, God is in charge, and His people always have the advantage.
1. John the Baptist Called Down Soldiers: (Luke 3:14) "Intimidate" involved violent shaking; "accuse falsely" involved making up charges; "content with wages" meant not using their position to increase their wealth. This description of "bullying" could not be clearer, and the remedy was to "bear fruits worthy of repentance" (Luke 3:8). Indeed, conversion required these agents of government to repent ... Read More
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QUESTION: How do governments get so oppressive? - July 17, 2022 FEATURED
ANSWER: Whey they assume to replace God. When God’s Law through Moses was the Law of the Land, God ruled. When the people demanded “make for us a king to judge us like all the nations” (1 Samuel 8:5), God said, “they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them” (1 Samuel 8:7). God’s Word ruling is good, humans ruling not so much! Voting should keep emphasis on the Bible. ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can a finite mind comprehend an infinite God? - July 10, 2022
ANSWER: There are two premises that make it possible: "He who comes to God must believe that He is, and that he is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." (Hebrews 11:6)
1. "That He is" Creator of the Creation (Psalm 33:6-9) and Controller of Life (Acts 14:15-17)
2. "He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him... Read More
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QUESTION: What about "early summer" this year bringing drought upon food crops? - July 3, 2022
ANSWER: Though water is necessary, there is a “water of life” that is even more needed in our “spiritual drought.”
1. The Summer Drought. Early into Summer, we're already hearing what to do for the drought conditions we're having. No one can do without water: not plants, nor animals, nor people. God prophesied through Amos to the corrupted Northern Kingdom of Israel (Amos 8:11-12). Read More ...
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QUESTION: Why should I trust my faith when many people doubt that faith? - June 26, 2022
ANSWER: Because so many around us seem to have confidence in what they believe, though the Bible teaches otherwise, we seem to question our faith from Scripture.
1. Is Everyone Else Right? David said, "Help, LORD, for the godly man ceases! For the faithful disappear from among the sons of men. They speak idly everyone with his neighbor; With flattering lips and a double heart they speak.” (Psalm 12:1-2) In this day of "political correctness", right words are shouted down and right actions are condemned. ... Read More
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QUESTION: How should Christians face economic uncertainty? - June 19, 2022
ANSWER: First, by recognizing the limitation(s) of money, and Secondly by not pretending things are better than they really are.
1. What Money Can’t Buy David said, "If riches increase, Do not set your heart on them." (Psalm 62:10). Riches cannot buy
a) a Good Name (Proverbs 22:1);
b) Permanence (Proverbs 23:5; Proverbs 27:24); or
c) Salvation (1 Peter 1:18-19; Proverbs 11:28; Mark 4:19). ... Read More
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QUESTION: How do Christians celebrate "Pride Month"? - June 12, 2022
ANSWER: They cannot, according to Scriptures. "And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them." (Ephesians 5:11)
1. Their sin is against Nature. According to Romans 1:22-25, when people worship and serve the Creation instead of the Creator, as in the idolatrous doctrine of Evolution, they have "uncleanness in the lusts of their hearts" (Romans 1:25, Romans 1:26-27) ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can a Christian condemn others? - June 5, 2022
ANSWER: Even the thief on the cross understood he had been “justly” condemned (Luke 23:40-41). Jesus pointed out there will be world-wide condemnation for sins:
“And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.” (John 3:19)
There is only one way to escape that condemnation (Romans 8:1) ... Read More
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QUESTION: What can be done about the shooting massacre that occurred in Uvalde, Texas? - May 29, 2022
ANSWER: Preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every creature. But in the meantime:
1) Speedily execute those who have done the murdering. God said: “Whoever sheds man's blood, By man his blood shall be shed; For in the image of God He made man.” (Genesis 9:6) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why can we not praise God with the instruments they used in the Old Testament? - May 22, 2022
ANSWER: As always, let the Bible speak about its silence.
1. God Was Specific In Giving Details About His Worship. In Exodus 20-40, Leviticus, & Deuteronomy, the priests were never instructed to use instruments of music in connection with the sacrifices offered! Musical instruments were never included in the tabernacle, and later, the temple! ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why are people afraid of "Friday the 13th"? - May 15, 2022
ANSWER: Because they think the Devil is in charge of the number. Jesus said the Devil is a liar (John 8:44-45). The Devil has no respect for human life, for he murders. He has no truth, but only distorts or ignores the truth. He is the originator ("father") of lies, intended to deceive. All this "from the beginning" at Creation. (Genesis 1:1), and Genesis 3. ... Read More
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QUESTION: What is the big deal about “Roe v. Wade”? - May 8, 2022
ANSWER: 1. The Supreme Court of the United States’ (SCOTUS) ruling in Roe v. Wade has remained virtually unchanged since it was handed down on January 22, 1973. The Judges ruled (7-2) that though states did have an interest in protecting fetal life, such interest was not "compelling" until the fetus was viable (placing viability at the start of the third trimester), Roe v. Wade 410 U.S. 113 (1973) Supreme Court of the United States 1973. Thus, all state abortion laws that forbade abortion during the first six months of pregnancy were thereby invalidated. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why can’t people worship God with music instruments, like in Psalms? - May 1, 2022
ANSWER: Because what we say we want to use in worship is not what God wants! Many people use Psalm 150 to justify musical instruments for New Testament praise. Psalm 150 teaches we should praise the LORD, not men! Verse 1: Where to “praise God;” Verse 2: Why “praise God;” Verses 3-5: How to “praise God;” Verse 6: Who is to “praise God.” ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why can't people claim their salvation? - April 24, 2022
ANSWER: Because what we say about our sins may not be what God demands that we do about them. 1 John clarifies it thusly:
1. This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin (1 John 1:5-7) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why will God condemn anyone that He loves? - April 17, 2022
ANSWER: People have selected a few verses of Scripture stating God's love, grace, or mercy, and ignored the rest of the Scriptures!
#1 Unqualified Love of God? The only verse many accept is "God is love" (1 John 4:8). They think that means "God loves me, regardless ochoa I live." The couldn't be more wrong, for Jesus Christ also said (John 14:21) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Can the Bible Be Inspired of God With Its Contradictions? - 4/10/2022
ANSWER: The Bible does not contradict itself, but people who want to reject it will simply cancel out what it says with words, not proof! (this is what “woke” seems to be about). (Hebrews 12:3)
Simply saying the Bible is wrong is no proof that it really is. Consider a few illustrations ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is it so confusing to ‘follow the science’? - 4/3/2022
ANSWER: True “science” is fixed and doesn’t have to be “followed,” but accepted and believed.
O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust, avoiding the profane and idle babblings and contradictions of what is falsely called knowledge-- by professing it some have strayed concerning the faith. Grace be with you. Amen (1 Timothy 6:20-21)
1. The King James Version has the word “science” instead of “knowledge.” Greek word “knowledge,” translated by a Latin textual word “science.” ... Read More
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QUESTION: Should States pass laws that say ‘you can’t say “gay”’? - 3/27/2022
ANSWER: States can pass whatever laws they wish, but whether or not they are contradicting God’s Word is another matter, indeed. Any Government’s “laws” do nothing to change or alter God’s Law, which is always unchanged. ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can we know who is actually a Christian? - 3/20/2022
ANSWER: Since God created the categoty, it is only by letting His Bible describe it. (Acts 11:25-26)
(1) (Matthew 28:19-20) Only disciples can be called "Christians", and no disciples were saved before they were baptized, according to Jesus Christ. Are you a "Christian"? ... Read More
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QUESTION: How do we know we are led by the Holy Spirit? - 3/6/2022
ANSWER: It is problematic that people will listen to the Scriptures for promises of the Holy Spirit's work, but refuse to listen to anything else in the Scriptures where the Holy Spirit explains the fulfillment of His work! Before He was crucified, Jesus told the Apostles: "I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” (John 16:12-13) ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can I pray for corrupt leaders of countries? - 2/27/2022
ANSWER: Because we are commanded to. "Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence." (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
1. Communicate with God in the following ways: “Supplications” = pleas with “please.” This form presents our problem(s) as a request, humbly submitting our needs, begging, if you please. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why aren't churches of Christ more distinct? - 2/20/2022
ANSWER: Because some have watered down their faith. Water seeks the lowest level (Ecclesiastes 1:7). ... People are the same, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of GOD." (Romans 3:23) Always, before the Flood (Genesis 6:5), Israelites in the Wilderness (Hebrews 3:16), and after centuries in the Promised Land (2 Chronicles 36:16), people's morals deteriorate without GOD. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why aren't more people converted to Jesus Christ? - 2/13/2022
ANSWER: Probably because they are waiting for “many other things” not written in the Bible. (Mark 4:33-34)
1. There’s a lot of speculation on what isn't in the Bible. Mark Twain said, “It ain't the parts of the Bible that I can't understand that bother me, it is the parts that I do understand.” Jesus plainly stated, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. (Mark 16:15) ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can you say, “God is in charge,” with so many pressing issues facing us today? - 2/6/2022
ANSWER: Because nothing God has done has been altered. Solomon said: I know that whatever God does, It shall be forever. Nothing can be added to it, And nothing taken from it. God does it, that men should fear before Him. (Ecclesiastes 3:14) Below are a few things God has done that are eternal and do not change, despite human efforts otherwise:
1. Creation. The amount of material substance God brought into existence has not altered (Genesis 1:1), ... READ MORE
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QUESTION: Should I listen to a Preacher if his/her motive is wrong? - 1/30/2022
ANSWER: How can you accuragely judge another’s “motive?” As Paul wrote: For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? (1 Corinthians 2:11) No one knows “motive” unless a person reveals his/her “motive.” A Preacher’s motive is internal, doctrine is external.
1. Willingly Is Best. (1 Corinthians 9:16-18) No Gospel preacher contacts pay before preaching! A gospel preacher is not a "professional" but a "professor", i.e., preaches the Gospel of Christ out of earnestness, not earnings. ... READ MORE
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QUESTION: Do you think Church is important? - 1/23/2022
ANSWER: Paul called it "the church of God which He purchased with HIs own blood." (Acts 20:28) It cost the blood of Christ. Jesus is "the head of the body, the church." (Colossians 1:18) God has made the church important.
1. The Lord's church are the Lord's saved. On Pentecost, after Jesus' resurrection: (Acts 2:37-38). ... Read More
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QUESTION: Is everyone who dies in "Heaven"? - 1/16/2022
ANSWER: One of the most misunderstood Bible concepts is that everyone who dies will be the same "in Heaven, as on earth". No matter what someone's life has been like, it seems at the funeral he/ she will be continuing that life "in Heaven". A family sees their pet dog there playing "fetch"; another knows that their uncle is pulling pranks on Moses; another wants to believe their Mother is cooking special meals for Jesus. ... Read More
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QUESTION: What does the Bible say about "snow"? - January 9, 2022
ANSWER: Though never mentioned when Jesus was born, snow represents the purity of a soul who obeys the gospel of Christ.
1. Snow in the wrong time can't be good. (Proverbs 26:1) Timing is important.
2. Snow in the right time must be good. (Proverbs 25:13)
3. Snow has great value. (Job 38:22) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Has anyone been to Heaven and returned? - 12/26/2021
ANSWER: No, not physically or spiritually.
1. Heaven is physically out of reach. “Indeed My hand has laid the foundation of the earth, And My right hand has stretched out the heavens” (Isaiah 48:13). This is impossible without God. The heavens are so stretched out, that the American spacecraft, New Horizons, the size of a baby grand piano, traveled 9 1/2 years, at 31,000 mph, for over 3 Billion miles ... Read More
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QUESTION: Do the churches of Christ celebrate the birth of Christ? - 12/19/21
ANSWER: We try to only follow what the New Testament says.
1. Christ or Christ-Mass? Jesus said the Pharisees, "In vain they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men." ... (Mark 7:7-9) Do you notice that the "doctrines" and "commandments of men" are practices without any authority from God? The Pharisees wanted to appear even more religious than those who simply obeyed God's Word, so they made up practices to observe, and set aside "the commandments of God". ... Read More
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QUESTION: Where is God when storms cause death? - 12/12/2021
ANSWER: A study of God’s History shows He has answered this question many times.
1. In Times Of Trouble. Israel’s government and religious leaders said... :
to a tree, “You are my father,” And to a stone, “You gave birth to me.” For they have turned their back to Me, and not their face. But in the time of their trouble They will say, “Arise and save us.” ... (Jeremiah 2:27-28) Today the notion that we came from animals is called 'Evolution'. Children are taught that Earth and Time, not God, are responsible for their existences. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is the idea of "Santa Claus" so popular? - 12/5/2021
ANSWER: Everyone loves a giver, especially with little or no requirements added. Solomon wrote, "A present is a precious stone in the eyes of its possessor; Wherever he turned, he prospers." (Proverbs 17:8).
1. A present is a voluntary expression of love or concern from a friend or family member. it was given in the past but remains a present reminder of those thoughts. Truly, it is the thought that counts. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Is speaking the truth to contradict a lie a "conspiracy theory"? - 11/28/2021
ANSWER: The Devil cries "conspiracy theory" whenever someone contradicts the Devil's lie with the truth!
1. A conspiracy theory is defined as, "a theory that explains an event or set of circumstances as the result of a secret pot by usually powerful conspirators" (Merriam Webster online) The Devil's lie to Eve was, "God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil." (Genesis 3:5) This was the first, but certainly not the last, conspiracy theory. ... Read More
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QUESTION: What about a "yard sign" at the church building in Oneida? - 11/21/2021
ANSWER: A printed sign was planted in the yard of our church building in Oneida, TN, by non-members which read: “Receiving the Lord Jesus Christ will take you straight to HEAVEN Read Romans 10:9-13.” The opposite side of that same sign read: “Believing that Acts 2:38 is God’s Plan of Salvation will take you... Straight to HELL!” Since this sign represents so much that is wrong, it should be helpful to notice the following ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do we have to "confess Christ"? - 11/14/2021
ANSWER: No one has spoken like He did. 1. He spoke boldly. "We have found the Messiah." (John 1:41; John 7:45-46) Whether Jesus preached that great Sermon on the Mount, or in Capernaum's synagogue, "The people were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes." (Matthew 7:28-29; Mark 1:22) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Can people be saved without the church? - 11/7/2021
ANSWER: Let the Bible speak as to who is saved and where.
1. Conversion: Saul of Tarsus was told, "Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Acts 22:16), ... John said, "For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ." (John 1:17) ...
2. Saved Without the Church? Paul told the Ephesian elders, "Shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood." (Acts 20:28) ... Read More
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QUESTION: What problem can "illegal immigrants" cause in the church? - October 31, 2021
ANSWER: They can create confusion and lack of respect to the law of the land (US Constitution), exactly the same problem among God's people and the Bible. Within the churches of Christ, allowing outsiders to be accepted on their terms has caused a "mixed multitude" who are always murmuring about the way things are done in the church. In the Old Testament, Egyptians mixed into Israelites (Exodus 12:38; Numbers 11:4-15; Nehemiah 13:1-3) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Does Scripture really support a "trinity" or "godhead"? - October 17, 2021
ANSWER: The Scripture certainly teaches it without ever using the actual word "trinity".
1. There is a Divine Substance ("Deity" or "Godhead") shared by united entities (Romans 1:20; Colossians 1:18-19; Colossians 2:9)
2. These verses state there are Three in the Godhead (Genesis 1:1-3; John 1:1-3; John 1:14; Job 33:4; Matthew 28:18-19; John 14:14-17; 1 Corinthians 12:4-6; 2 Corinthians 13:14) ... Read More
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QUESTION: What did Jesus mean when He said, "Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation"? - 10/3/2021
ANSWER: A government unsupported by its people will fall (Proverbs 14:28). While the Israelites were united under Solomon's God-blessed rule in their Promised Land, the Queen of Sheba said, "Blessed be the LORD your God, who delighted in you, setting you on His throne to be king for the LORD your God! Because Your God has loved Israel, to establish them forever, therefore He made you king over them, to do justice and righteousness." (2 Chronicles 9:8) After Solomon died, their kingdom divided ... Read More
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QUESTION: Doesn't scientific law disprove God's involvement in Creation? - Part 2 - 9/26/2021
ANSWER: No. Scientific facts prove "God's involvement in Creation", as clearly stated in Genesis 1 and 2.
1. There is no proof of crossing "kinds". In order for Evolution to be scientifically established, there must be evidence of in-between "kinds" of life, either in the laboratory or fossil history. EVOLUTIONISTS HAVE NEITHER! What has been done instead is tinkering with the terms used in "phylogeny". ... Read More
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QUESTION: Doesn't scientific law disprove God's involvement in Creation? - Part 1 - 9/19/2021
ANSWER: FACT: Life can only come from life. No nonliving thing has ever produced life! "Test tube" life requires something living in the tube before the experiment begins. EVOLUTION starts its theory with nonliving matter and claims that, if it hangs around long enough, life will occur! Adding "time" to fake "science" cannot inject "life" into the result! There never has been found any mixture of elements that produce life!
BIBLE: Genesis 1:1; Acts 14:15; 1 Timothy 6:13 ... Read More
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QUESTION: Does everything I do glorify God? - 9/12/2021
ANSWER: NO. 1. True, a Christian should glorify God in everything done, but not everything done glorifies God. (1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Corinthians 6:20). Not everything glorifies God (1 Corinthians 6:15-18) This shows that not everything a Christian chooses to do is automatically glorifying to God! Just because something has the ability to, can, commit fornication, doesn't mean God is glorified! ... Read More
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QUESTION: Do I have to be married to be a Good Christian? - 9/5/2021
ANSWER: No. Jesus the Christ, who began the idea of being a Christian, was not married. Paul wrote to the Corinthian church that "I have betrothed you to one husband that I nay present you as a chaste virgin to Christ." (2 Corinthians 11:2) ...
QUESTION: Is it really against Scripture to be physically aggressive or violent with others, including family?
ANSWER: Violence with no lesson to be learned is forbidden (Luke 6:27-29; Romans 12:18; Ephesians 5:28-29) There is absolutely no permission given for a wife to be physically abused, since she is one flesh with her husband. ...
QUESTION: Is disciplining children against the Bible?
ANSWER: No. (Proverbs 29:15) Parenting a child is a Mother/ Father project that requires both "rod and rebuke", not just one of these. ... Read More
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QUESTION: What does it mean that "the fear of the Lord is the beginning of Wisdom" (Psalm 111:10)? - 8/29/2021
ANSWER: All organised, moral, and wise thinking, all absolute truth, begins with "fear" (aka respect, awe, reverence) of the only true, living, loving God. The fear of the LORD:
1. Concludes evidence with God (Hebrews 11:3; Acts 14:15, 17). Living things never came from nonliving things. The cycle of life (rain, seasons, harvest, rejoicing) are the result of the God who Created these things from nothing and directs them through His wise edicts.
2. Improves life (Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 1:7; Proverbs 8:13) ... Read More
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QUESTION: What makes Jesus so special? - 8/22/2021
ANSWER: The name “Jesus” was, and is today, very commonly used, but the New Testament uses the term “the Jesus” to indicate a special person. The New Testament shows us that:
1. John 7:46 - none spoke like Him. (Luke 4:31-32; John 18:19-21) He did not teach as a prophet to whom God had given Him what to say, but as God Himself! When challenged by Jewish religious leaders, Jesus knew people who had heard Him could teach the religious leaders! He knew what God said and meant, because He was God! ... Read More
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QUESTION: Should Christians take handouts instead of a job? - 8/15/2021
ANSWER: “The theory of the Communists may be summed up on one sentence: Abolition of private property.” (“The Communist Manifesto,” Karl Marx) To depend on a handout instead of a job, makes one indebted to the “hander.” Since “the LORD Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:18) means Creator God is in control of all “blessings,” and that includes money and wealth, then let God give us Rules For Riches:
1. THERE IS SILVER SLAVERY: (Proverbs 22:7; Psalm 115:4; Ecclesiastes 5:10) Slavery is not only because of skin or by chains, but by the idol of "silver". Making money becomes the idol of all who let it control their life. It is a totally unsatisfactory ambition. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do some people keep demanding justice and never seem to be satisfied? - 8/1/2021
ANSWER: It seems very few are able to receive TRUE justice.
1. Justice (aka judgment) is the standard of fair and balanced decision in matters of judgment.
Under Moses (Deuteronomy 16:18-20) all judgments (IN OR OUT OF COURTS) tainted by prejudice, or personal advantage, are condemned by God's justice. ...
Under Christ, Jesus offers justice (Matthew 7:1-2; John 5:30; John 7:24) GOD NEVER forbids judging/ justice as long as IT IS BALANCED WITH HIS LAW. Every "justice department" should be influenced by, or based upon, God's word to be just. ... Read More
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QUESTION: If everyone is speaking their "own truth", then what is a lie? - July 25, 2021
ANSWER: First define "truth", then every deviation from that is a lie by definition.
1. Truth is an accurate statement of fact. Truth occurs in 210 Bible verses, not one of which has the plural "truths"! Therefore The Bible does NOT recognize subjective "truths". Since "no lie is of the truth" (1 John 2:21), and truth is to be practiced (1 John 1:6), the Bible is written "to make you know the certainty of the words of truth, that you may answer words of truth" (Proverbs 22:20-21). "Indeed, let God be true but every man a liar," (Romanas 3:4). Bible facts, scientific facts, life events are all sources of "truth" and require a truthful telling of those facts. Truth does NOT CHANGE, but reporting of the truth may change.
2. Deviations all come from the Devil. (John 8:44) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Should Christians be speaking out when they could lose their Facebook or Twitter accounts, or kicked out of school or work? - 7/18/2021
ANSWER: The "intimidation factor" of bullying can have far reaching implication. People may cower in fear that:
1. They would lose to an enemy and become slaves (1 Samuel 17:8-11). But it took a lad of faith to say, "The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of the Philistine." (1 Samuel 17:37) It was NOT David's reckless disregard for his life, but a willingness of faith to save his people! Freedom and Liberty always come at a high price, and only those dedicated to it are willing to pay that price. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Jesus' kingdom is NOT here, it's coming in His second coming, right? - 7/11/2021
ANSWER: NO. This false doctrine's claims deny Scripture.
1. Millennial doctrine is "antichrist," for its claims contradict clear Bible facts about Jesus Christ (1 John 4:1-3). Millennialism ignores what Jesus came to do in the flesh.
2. If He failed to establish His kingdom, then no one has observed the Lord's supper (Luke 22:29-30) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Can a Christian celebrate US Independence Day? - 7/4/2021
ANSWER: Yes. The Declaration of [US] Independence, July 4, 1776, stated: "All men are equal, ... they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." ... This clause admits that:
a. There are "Rights" that come from God to individuals without any guarantee from any government; ... Read More
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QUESTION: What is wrong with "critical race theory" or CRT? - 6/27/2021
ANSWER: It completely contradicts God's teaching about humans, which makes it ungodly. ALL HUMANS are created by God with a physical body and soul (Genesis 1:27; 2:7), ... and NEVER is the color of skin a line of separation. All humans came from Eve (Genesis 3:20), and the one family of Noah (Genesis 9:18-19), so all "skin colors" are simply variations within the same human family. ... CRT is defined as "an intellectual movement ... based on the premise that race is ... a socially constructed category that is used to oppress and exploit people of color ... especially African Americans." By definition, CRT is designed to teach hatred and resentment against "white skinned people", and guilt and self-effacement among those "white skinned people". ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why can't we praise God with the instruments they used in the Old Testament? - 6/20/2021
ANSWER: 1. God was specific in giving details about His worship. In Exodus, Leviticus, and Deuteronomy, the priests were never instructed to use instruments of music in connection with the sacrifices offered. ...
2. David takes credit for authorising instruments for praise. (1 Chronicles 15:15-16; 23:5) Though they were used outside the holy tabernacle, they were assumed to be "musical instruments of God" (1 Chronicles 16:42). They were never authorised by God to be used in the ... temple. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Jesus didn't teach "absolute values", did He? - 6/13/2021
ANSWER: In mathematics, the "absolute value" of a number or integer is its distance from zero. There must be an absolute beginning point for numbers to have value. So also with humans.
1. JESUS CHRIST WAS THE SACRIFICE FOR AN "EVERLASTING COVENANT" AND MAKES CHRISTIANS "COMPLETE IN EVERY GOOD WORK TO DO HIS WILL." (Hebrews 13:20-21) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Didn't the Roman Catholic Church determine what was in the Holy Bible? - June 6, 2021
ANSWER: Let the Bible determine this answer:
1. The 39 books of the Old Testament were set and accepted by Jesus Himself. Of the Old Testament, it was accepted that "No prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for... holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit." (2 Peter 1:20-21) All who quoted from it cited the writer (Acts 2:25-29), book (Acts 1:20), and even a chapter (Acts 13:33). ... Read More
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QUESTION: Scriptures are too old to be relevant in today's world, with modern problems, right? - May 30, 2021
ANSWER: WRONG. If you need to ask, you haven't read Scripture, OR years of my articles in particular.
1. The Cycle of Life proves that what God said is not outdated! Ecclesiastes 1:4, 9-11 reflects God's wisdom. What happens hasn't changed, only the speed and method. Mankind still has the same fleshly aspirations, but with accumulated knowledge of God's World to achieve them.
2. Please read hundreds of articles I have written over the years to show Scripture after Scripture that apply to everyday events. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Eastern religions, e.g., Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, predate the Holy Bible, right? - 5/23/21
ANSWER: WRONG. The Bible story predates all religions, even though the writing of that story took place over time.
1. Nothing predates the Creation except God. (Genesis 1:1; Colossians 1:15-16). All idolatry in all religions have been attempts to make a visible Creator (Romans 1:25).
2. Bible events are passed along and changed to form traditions and misunderstanding, until God inspired men to write the exact details of those events. ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can we know what, or whom, to believe? - May 16, 2021
ANSWER: Always consider the facts and the source of your information. There are far more words with no facts than there are facts. Facts are reality. Truth depicts it accurately.
1. Facts are Facts and Never change (Daniel 7:1; 1 Corinthians 15:1). The facts of the Gospel hadn't changed, Pauls preaching hadn't ... Read More
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QUESTION: What skin color did Jesus have? - 5/9/2021
ANSWER: He had the "universal" human color!
1. God's Human family is ONE. (Genesis 1:26-27) The only physical distinction drawn was between "male and female". (Genesis 3:20) Since all mankind has come from the same woman, it stands to reason that all skin colors (or aviations thereof) are blended together. ... Read More
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QUESTION: What does the Bible teach about "climate change"? - 5/2/2021
ANSWER: 1. "Climate change" is out of our hands. According to www.climate.nasa.gov, "Earth's climate has changed throughout history. ... Most of these climate changes are attributed to very small variations in Earth's orbit that change the amount of solar energy our planet receives." Because of mankind's limited knowledge, variations in the planet's average temperature is solely controlled by "Earth's orbit". ... Read More
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QUESTION: What is the difference between a translation, interpretation, or paraphrase of the Bible? - 4/25/2021
ANSWER: God inspired the very wording of the Scriptures (2 Peter 1;16-21). Scripture did not originate amidst "cunningly devised fables," or myths, fables, traditional lore, or made-up stories. There is no fiction in the Scripture narrative! "Once upon a time" is never in actual Scripture!
1. "Eyewitnesses of His majesty" means there is no hand-me-down, or go-between person who would have made mistakes in reporting ... Read More
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QUESTION: Who are our enemies? - 4/18/2021
ANSWER: An enemy is everyone who opposes those who trust in God, and do the things described by David in Psalm 56:5-6: "All day:
1. "They twist my words" -- By changing the meaning of the words after they are used, Lawyers can make an innocent conversation sound evil. Politicians and some preachers can make good words become wrong (Jude 4; 2 Peter 3:16) ...
2. "Their thoughts are against me for evil." ... Read More
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QUESTION: What is a "Seder Service"? - April 11, 2021
ANSWER: The "seder service" is a recreation and observance of the Jewish Passover from the Law of Moses.
1. It was an annual feast to remind the Israelites of their deliverance from Egypt and beginning of them as a national people. (Exodus 12:1-31; 12:48, 50; John 6:4)
2. Jesus ate the Passover under Moses' Law (Luke 22:14-20) The Apostles left this meeting with endorsement for the Lord's Supper, NOT the Jewish Passover. ... Read More
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QUESTION: What does the Bible say about "Easter Holy Week"? - 4/4/2021
ANSWER: Christians celebrated NO 'holy week' in the New Testament. Christians do NOT re-enact the last week of Jesus' life before the cross.
1. Jesus prophesied the events of His last week (Matthew 20:17-19). The Apostles and Christians "... did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus the Christ" (Acts 5:42), and when scattered, "went everywhere preaching the Word" (Acts 8:4). Teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ certainly includes everything in the gospels... but it is never limited to one week in His life, or teaching about it once in a year.
2. Christians remember... Read More
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QUESTION: Is a politician's church attendance "news"? - 3/28/21
ANSWER: It should not be so! On December 8, 2020, The Washington Post ... article, "Joe Biden Goes to Church. Politics Remains Outside," written by Robin Givhan, said, "Church attendance isn't a measure of one's faith or a substitution for good deeds, but it is a way of singling religiosity." 1. ... Who separated church from state? It was not God, nor the US Constitution, but politicians' lack of faith? ... If "church attendance isn't a measure of one's faith", then what is it? ... Read More
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QUESTION: Is There Life On Other Planets? - March 21, 2021
ANSWER: Only in the godless minds of Evolutionists.
1. God "formed the earth and made it ... to be inhabited" (Isaiah 45:18). Our world, and ourselves, are solid, dramatic proof that God created it this way! (Romans 1:20) There is no proof, evidence, or reason to believe that life as we know it exists elsewhere. 2. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Didn't Jesus approve drinking when He made water into wine? - 3/18/2021
ANSWER: Jesus did NOT make alcoholic wine, nor approve drunkenness in anyone! John 2:1-11 outlines Jesus' first miraculous "sign" which "manifested His glory", and it was "the water that was made wine". This miraculously bypassed the normal time involved in growing, harvesting, and processing the grapes into wine, thus it was a miracle showing His power over time and the elements. It was a sign that God's power was working ... Read More
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QUESTION: Is it wrong to be afraid? - 3/14/2021
ANSWER: The wisdom of Proverbs cannot be surpassed: Proverbs 10:24-25; Proverbs 28:1; Proverbs 29:25. Wicked people have more reason to live in fear because they do not honor God's wisdom in their lives; they naturally assume others also live as they do. Therefore they cannot assume anyone else lives honourably. A guilty conscience makes one afraid, but one who trusts in the LORD feels safe and bold as a lion. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is our government called "godless"? - 3/7/2021
ANSWER: Maybe this incident will illustrate: In a Congressional debate on gender, Representative Greg Steube stated, "... We are seeing the consequences of rejecting God here in our country today." Democrat Representative Gerald Nadler replied, "What any religious tradition describes as 'God's will' is no concern of this Congress." REALLY? 1. Jesus would tell him, "You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God." (Matthew 22:29) Nadler was born into a Jewish family ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why has society changed so quickly? - 2/28/2021
ANSWER: The "fate" of any nation involves only one principle factor: obedience or disobedience to God. 1. The Law of Moses stated, "If you do not obey Me ... I will even appoint terror over you, wasting disease and fever which shall consume the eyes and cause sorrow of heart." (Leviticus 26:14-17) ... The law of Jesus Christ says, "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7) ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can a Christian respond to false charges? - February 21, 2021
ANSWER: Since this is not a new problem, let the Apostle Peter instruct us in 1 Peter 2:15. 1. Let our good conduct make them liars! (1 Peter 2:11-12) 2. Remember the Example of Jesus (1 Peter 2:21-23, quoting Isaiah 53:9). 3. Do not become like them, with false charges (1 Peter 3:8-9) ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can a Christian become a saint? - February 14, 2021
ANSWER: The distinction is between name (Christian) and function (saint), but not in condition (saved). When God told Moses to "Sanctify to Me all the firstborn, ..." (Exodus 13:1-2; Exodus 13:12) To be "sanctified" is to be "set apart" or designated for a particular purpose. Jesus' prayer showed that His followers are "sanctified" (John 17:19) ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can "true love" be recognised? - February 7, 2021
ANSWER: While counterfeit religion gives us a "St. Valentine's Day"; and worships the mythical pagan gods of Lupercus, protector of shepherds and flocks; or Cupid, later substituted with the Roman Catholic "Valentine"; and offers commercialised gifts of flowers, candy, or jewellery; I think of Dorwin Stoddard. ... Read More
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QUESTION: What should a Christian do when there is a change in Government? - January 10, 2021
ANSWER: God's Word helps us make a proper judgment.
Read More1. Watch what they do (Matthew 7:16-20);
2. Only the wicked use violence to gain power (Psalm 11:5; Proverbs 21:7; Psalm 27:12-13; Psalm 55:9);
3. Judge their Judgment (Proverbs 17:13; Proverbs 17:15; Proverbs 24:24-25);
4. Always remember ... Read More
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QUESTION: In your opinion, should "GRAPHE" of James 4:5 be translated as "Scripture"? - January 3, 2021
"Or do you think that the Scripture says in vain, "The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously". (James 4:5)
ANSWER: Every use of the expression "HE GRAPHE" in the New Testament always denotes the inspired Word of God. James 2:8 quotes Leviticus 19:18; James 2:23 quotes Genesis 15:6; and James 4:5 teaches Genesis 6:3. Whether it is a direct quotation, specific reference, or inspired summary of a former message, it always refers to what God has previously said in "writing" (GRAPHE). ... Read More
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QUESTION: Does alcohol have any good use? - October 25, 2020
ANSWER: There are three uses of alcohol, each as a medicine, that is, to be used with a very low dose, only for pain relief, out of necessity, briefly at best. They are: 1) To relieve recurring weakening digestive problems (1 Timothy 5:23; 1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7) ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can a Christian's vote count the most - 10/18/ 2020
ANSWER: Keep Bible principles in mind when casting the vote. 1. Don’t Support Abortion. (Romans 9:11; Exodus 1:16-17; 2 Kings 21:16). God condemned Egypt and Judah, because He hates “Hands that shed innocent blood” (Proverbs 6:17). God-fearing people will not vote for a leader determined to kill babies! 2. Uphold One Who Respects Bible-Believers. (2 Chronicles 34:19) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Grace cancels out all sin, including wilful sin, right? - October 10, 2020
ANSWER: WRONG! God's grace does NOT cancel a person's sin NOR will it save on the Day of Judgment. Here's why: 1. Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD. ... Thus Noah did; according to all that God commanded him, so he did. (Genesis 6:8, 22) ... 2. ... Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ (John 1:17) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Do we need Jesus today? - October 4, 2020
ANSWER: Absolutely! In a hero saturated society, most of whom are make-believe, Jesus has been lost in the shuffle. Super heroes are a human attempt to elevate someone who is worthy of adulation above others. Consider the Real Jesus: 1. Jesus is Only Begotten. (1 John 4:9; John 15:13; Galatians 3:26; 1 John 3:5; John 8:24) ... Read More
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QUESTION: What can save the USA? - October, 2020
ANSWER: "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34) Righteousness is the state or condition of being "right" as defined by God by His commandments and by His example (1 John 3:7; Psalm 119:172; 1 John 2:1). Governments should exist to protect the righteous within their citizenry (Romans 13:3-5). ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why Come to Jesus? - September 6, 2020
ANSWER: Because there never has been, or will be, anyone like Him. (John 7:31, 45-46; Acts 4:10-12). ... 1. Jesus was Sinless (Mark 1:9-11). ... 2. Jesus was Powerful (Mark 2:5, 10-12). ... 3. Jesus Alone Can Save (Galatians 6:14) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why should I be baptized again? I've already been baptized in water. - August 30, 2020
ANSWER: The first time the Gospel of Christ was preached in its entirety was the day of Pentecost... the people were told to "Repent, and let every one of you be baptized..." (Acts 2:38, 41) Repentence by itself did not save them! ... Read More
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QUESTION: How does the Old Testament help us today? - 8/23/2020
ANSWER: A study from Psalm 18:1-50 should help. This psalm is exactly recorded in historical setting in 2 Samuel 22:1-51.
1. In picturing God and His deliverance, anthropomorphisms and theophanies abound. ... According to Jesus Christ, "God is Spirit" (John 4:24) ...
2. David strives to be righteous (obedient to God's will), and God helps and sometimes delivers the righteous from dangerous enemies. ... Read More
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QUESTION: With political campaign promises, Internet articles, and "fake news", who can be trusted for the truth?- 8/16/2020
ANSWER: Surrounded by the sinful (Psalm 12:8), King David points out a most disheartening belief in v4: "Our lips are our own; Who is lord over us?" When even sinners abandon speaking truth, there is no confidence in anyone, anything, anywhere. ... Today, Christians should be "putting away lying, 'Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor," (Ephesians 4:25) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do Christians always give in to evil-doers? - August 9, 2020
ANSWER: Have Christians not read what David said: "Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it." (Psalm 34:14)? Paul rephrased this in Romans 12:9. ... The church of Christ must accept the fact that there is a moral war that is being waged constantly... The capitulators may partially quote and misuse 2 Timothy 2:24. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is there so much hatred today? August 2, 2020
ANSWER: Whatever the rationale or reason for hatred and violence, there can be no question that in the world, hatred is preached and practiced! As a reminder of the ways of the world from which a Christian is delivered, Paul wrote Titus 3:3... hatred is one of a progression of seven attitudes that separate and divide people with conflict and hurt. Hatred is a wrong motive that produces a wrong action, "strife". ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why does it seem the wicked are in charge? - 7/2020
ANSWER: A problem already discussed in Psalm 58. Verses 1-5 show how thoroughly wicked some may become; verses 6-9 ask God to dismantle the strengths of the wicked; and Verses 10-11 mention how satisfied the righteous are when that is done. ... Read More
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Question: What do you think about "reparations" for Afro-Americans because of slavery in the past? - July, 2020
Answer: Here’s a lesson on Settling Old Scores: On January 24, 1972, a Japanese soldier, Shoichi Yokoi, was discovered in Guam, hiding in the jungle for 28 years, thinking World War II had not ended! ... If this sounds surreal, today’s world events are simply people “settling old scores” of history: ... (Judges 2:10-11) ... Read More
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Question: Should the Lord’s Supper be observed every week (on the first day of the week), less regularly, or annually? - July 5, 2020
Answer: This requires, as Bible subjects do, a study of the subject with all pertinent Scriptures presented. 1. Jesus established the supper by using the Passover meal's elements and giving them an entirely new meaning for His disciples (Matthew 26:26 - 30). Read more.
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QUESTION: What must Christians do to remember the crucifixion of Christ? - June, 2020
ANSWER: Simply, preach the Word (2 Timothy 4:2). Don't be distracted (1 Corinthians 2:1-2). ... By following a man-made religious calendar, people have been turned away from that Cross. “Christmas” diverts attention to Jesus’ birth; “Lent” places the emphasis upon human denial; “Easter” skips the cross to Jesus’ resurrection; and “the thief on the cross” makes salvation from a thief rather than Jesus! ... Read More
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Question: What has caused so much rioting? - June 7, 2020
Answer: What began as peaceful protests were commandeered by paid, organized gangsters who steered the crowd into a vicious riot... Why?... According to the political doctrine of Karl Marx, all humanity is divided economically along lines of the “haves” and the “have-nots.” ... Jesus identified one man’s “class envy” of his brother’s inheritance as “covetousness,” which He then condemned (Luke 12:13-21; Galatians 5:19-21) ... Read More
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Question: How long were the days of Creation? - May, 2020
Answer: That there was a "beginning" of the Creation, none seems to dispute. In human experience, we know that everything in our world must have had a beginning. And in Scripture, this is completely true (Revelation 1:8). Only God pre-dates Creation (Hebrews 1:10-12, quoting from Psalm 102:25-27). Jesus Christ believed in the "beginning", because He was there as the "Word" of God (John 1:1-3). ... Read More
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Question: In all seriousness, here are a few reasons I find it virtually impossible that Paul wrote Hebrews... and if you find legitimate holes in my arguments, well then you're clearly communists. - May, 2020
Answer: "Legitimate holes" cannot be dissed like he has done. Reference Hebrews 2:3; 1 Corinthians 16:21; Galatians 6:11; Colossians 4:18; 2 Thessalonians 3:17; Philemon 19 ... Read More
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If the church exists in homes, why does anyone need to assemble? - May 17, 2020 [Full answer is available in Publications On COVID Quarantine 2020]
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QUESTION: Do you think our economy will ever recover?
ANSWER: For every calamity, God promises a recovery. 1. Calamity (or "mischief") can be caused by the wicked. God warns, however, that whatever calamity someone starts will turn on him or her (Proverbs 26:27; Proverbs 24:17-18). God rewards good deeds, but He also rewards evil deeds as well. Don't forget how racial hatred was dealt with in Esther 7:10. ... Read More
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Question: Why does it seem that society is out of control?
Answer: Because the media focuses almost entirely on the “lawless,” or those who are “out of control! 1. The “lawless” are in charge because the “lawful” have not insisted otherwise! (1 Timothy 1:5-11) 2. Those who crucified Jesus Christ were ignoring: (1) Moses’ Jewish Law on guilt: (Deuteronomy 19:15). ... Read More
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QUESTION: What can Christians do when storm destruction occurs? March 8, 2020
ANSWER: The church of Christ began on the Pentecost after Jesus was raised from the dead (Acts 2:22-47) ... and "all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria" (Acts 8:1) ... 1. In the midst of that turbulence of persecution and death, the church gathered together to pray (Acts 12:12) and did what they could: ask God for help. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Are we saved like the thief on the cross? - 3/1/2020
ANSWER: Read Galatians 6:14-15. The Holy Spirit-inspired Apostle Paul wrote this summary of why the crucifixion of Jesus Christ is a most important, pivotal moment in human history. 1. No person has any reason to “boast” (brag), for nothing we do has earned our salvation. (Acts 4:12; 1 Corinthians 3:21) ... Read More
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QUESTION: Did Jesus teach or practice Socialism? - 2/23/2020
ANSWER: False claims about Jesus' teaching have always been circulated by the Devil: (John 2:18-22; Mark 15:29-30; Luke 23:4-15; Matthew 28:11-15). Jesus Christ was nowhere near being a Marxist Communist, for: 1. He never forced "rich" people to give up their wealth to "equalize" with the "poor." He lived under Moses' Law ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why does it seem everyone is branded a "racist"? - February 16, 2020
ANSWER: "Racial discrimination" is racist, nothing else. “Discrimination” is the quality or power of finely distinguishing,” or making, judgments. Making moral judgments based upon what God says, is exactly what God wants us to do. Solomon asked God, “For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?" (1 Kings 3:9). Making judgments and discerning on the basis of good and evil is what God's wisdom is all about. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Are people wrong who love God? - February 9, 2020
ANSWER: Jesus Christ is the discerner of who does, or does not, love God. (John 5:42) Since He knows the hearts, the rest of us must be determined by the following: "By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments." (1 John 5:2) "If anyone says, 'I love God,' and hates his brother, he is a liar. (1 John 4:20-21) ... Read More
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QUESTION: What can Christians do when they are accused of violating "Political Correctness"? - February 2, 2020
ANSWER: "Political correctness" is an expression of false teaching. The Devil is "the accuser of our brethren" (Revelation 12:10). He accuses only, but without proof. It means that everyone who accuses without proving their case is doing the Devil's work. "PC" is simply accusing by labelling but not proving. ... Read More
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QUESTION: How can we tell when God is speaking to us? - 1/26/20
ANSWER: God only speaks today through His written Word, the Bible. (Hebrews 1:1-2; John 5:46-47) Just as Moses' words were written to be read, so Jesus' words have been written to be read. So Paul preached (Acts 13:26-27). The Bible is not called "the Word of God" for nothing! ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do bad things happen to good people? - 1/19/20
ANSWER: Without the Bible, there is no adequate explanation. Reread Genesis 1 - 3 and realise: 1. God's world for humans was perfect, but human sin ruined that setup (Romans 5:12). 2. The curses of Difficulties and Death were placed on Adam & Eve (and subsequently every human) (Job 14:1) Bad things happen as a consequence of sin. 3. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is there so much to fear? - January 12, 2020
ANSWER: Because the wicked are in charge of the media which promotes it. (Proverbs 10:24-25) Wicked people have more reason to live in fear because they do not honour God's wisdom in their lives; they naturally assume others also live as they do. Therefore they cannot assume anyone else lives honourably. ... Read More
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QUESTION: How safe are we in worship? - January 5, 2020
ANSWER: On December 29, 2019, [a church of Christ in Texas was targeted in a mass shooting]. ... 1. The state of Texas had made it legal to carry guns in church worship. ... 2. While police seek a motive for the criminal's action, God has given one for the very first murder in history, and every one since: evil works (1 John 3:11-12). ... Read More
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—–All responses from John T. Polk II—–
Our website content is fully indexed and referenced by Bible book, key words, subject, and topic. Please use the search bar below to enter a keyword, topic, subject or Bible Book.
Questions Answered Part 3 of 4: 2019
QUESTION: There are so many asking for donations, how can I know where to give my money? - December 8, 2019
ANSWER: 'Tis the season for MISS-giving. The idea of gift giving is so widespread that it is easy to make wrong decisions. Consider this information before making donations to the following:
1) Charitable Organizations: On average per $1 raised, nonprofits spend $0.37 for overhead, and advertising alone can cost $0.67. ...
2) Disguised Religion: No one should question that good works done by some groups fall into Matthew 7:21-23; ... Christians must not support religious causes that support churches which do NOT preach the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27) ... The Salvation Army and Goodwill are extensions of the Methodist Doctrine; Samaritan's Purse is an extension of the Baptist church; ... Read More
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QUESTION: Don't scientific discoveries rule out God? - 11/1/2019
ANSWER: Without God, there is no explanation for the absolute identity of humankind as separate from animals.
1. The first surgery was same day (Genesis 1:27; 2:7; 2:21-22). All surgery today follows the same procedure: 1) Create "a deep sleep"; 2) make an opening in the body to work on or remove a part; 3) Close the opening surgically made; 4) Awaken the patient for the healing process. The GOD WHO MADE US WOULD KNOW HOW TO OPERATE ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why do you keep preaching Scripture? It is so out-dated for today; society keeps changing all the time. - 10/27/19
ANSWER: Oh, really? What Jesus said applies to you: "You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God." (Matthew 22:29)
1. God certainly knows more than you (Galatians 4:4-5). ... There had never been, nor would there ever come, such richness of influence than when Jesus came. ... Judaism reached its zenith of corruption (Acts 3:14-15). ... Read More
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QUESTION: Isn't it comforting to know my dead Mother is watching my children growing up? - October 20, 2019
ANSWER: It is a myth to believe that a person, after death, stays in touch with life on Earth. This myth contradicts what God says in the Bible.
1. Jesus clearly described the afterworld in Luke 16:27-31. Jesus clearly indicated that: (a) The rich man knew only what spiritual condition his brothers were in at the time of his death, but not since; (b) No one ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why aren't church of Christ preachers humble like denominational pastors are? - October 13, 2019
ANSWER: The most dangerous false teachers are those who profess their humility and seeming desire for more truth. Those who take "delight in false humility" are "vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind" seem to appeal to the "ignorant and unstable". (Colossians 2:18; 2 Peter 3:16). Those who claim to love brethren who criticize their ways, and progress their "forgiveness" for all who oppose their false teaching are some of the most insidious, hypocritical, arrogant people who ever have claimed to be Christians! ... Read More
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QUESTION: Does the church of Christ believe in miracles today, according to Mark 16:17-18? - October 6, 2019
ANSWER: When a "snake handler" died in Middlesboro, Kentucky, several years ago, Scripture was once again publicly misrepresented.
1. Jesus Christ said the Gospel should be preached to "every creature," but that "signs" proving the truthfulness of that Gospel were for "those who believe" (Mark 16:15-20). The "signs" were for the miraculous beginning of its spread, for the Lord was "working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs" (Hebrews 2:3-4) All believers were NEVER promised these "accompanying signs" because... Read More
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QUESTION: Since humans are causing "climate change", when will the Earth be destroyed? - September 29, 2019
ANSWER: "Climate change", aka "global warming", "global cooling", et al. is purely manmade political propaganda to use for a complete government control of every aspect of human life on Earth. Let's turn to the Bible and see the truth:
1. Only God controls Earth's destiny (2 Peter 3:5-7; 3:10) It is the "day of the LORD", NOT the "day of man"! ... Read More
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QUESTION: If I am saved by grace, what else need I do? - 9/15/19
ANSWER: Grace simply describes favour, desire to help! (John 1:14-17). Grace through Moses' Law now is through Jesus Christ.
1. "Grace and Truth" must stand together. Grace does not save without truth. Since Jesus was "full of grace and truth", the first time He taught in His home synagogue, "all bore witness to Him, and marvelled at the gracious words witch proceeded out of His mouth." (Luke 4:22) His gracious words involved His reading Scripture (Isaiah 6:1-2) and showing its application (Luke 4:16-21). His words of grace were not offered apart from God's Word of truth. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Do my devout friends have to be baptized and go to the same church to be saved with me? - September 1, 2019
ANSWER: "Devout" is from a word meaning "good reverence" that is only used by Luke. ... It is a worthy quality in anyone who has it. The problem is that it depends on what someone is devoted to as to whether or not it saves their soul.
1. Jews were devoutly wrong without Jesus. (Acts 2:5, 14, 23-24, 38)
2. Gentiles were devoutly wrong without Jesus (Acts 10:2; 11:14; 15:7)
3. Saul of Tarsus was making "havoc in the church"... devoted to Moses' Law, but was told to "be baptized" (Acts 8:3; 22:16) ... Read More
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QUESTION: If the Holy Spirit dwells in us, why do we need to go to church and Bible classes? - August 25, 2019 FEATURED
ANSWER: No one would know that "the Holy Spirit dwells in us" except by quoting Scripture. 2 Timothy 1:14: "That good thing which was committed to you, keep by the Holy Spirit who dwells in us." .
1. We cannot ignore verse 13: "Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from em, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus."
2. Follow the God's word in Scripture: a) in Creation (Hebrews 11:3) ... Read More
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QUESTION: If Evolution is true, of what moral value is human life? - 8/18/2019
ANSWER: Evolution is the false doctrine of Creation without God. It replaces god with the idol of Time and Chance. Those who believe in Evolution must consider humans as animals without souls whose deaths are of no special moral value. It has:
1. False Promises (Jeremiah 5:12-13) False preachers teach false ideas and cause people to falsely believe that 1) God either doesn't exist, or doesn't care, or doesn't help; 2) Nothing bad can happen to those who obey God. This causes frustration with, and rejection of, God when something bad does happen. People are "tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, " (Ephesians 4:14) ... Read More
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QUESTION: What can be done about the shooting massacres that occurred in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio? - 8/11/ 2019
ANSWER: Preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every creature. Meanwhile:
1. Speedily execute those who have done the murdering. (Genesis 9:6; Ecclesiastes 8:11; Romans 13:4). Government that doesn't exercise speedy capital punishment for murders is rebelling against God as much as those who commit the murders. If not, why not?
2. Remove all legal rulings and programs that discourage heterosexual marriages. (Genesis 2:24; Mark 10:11-12). ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is there so much indecision about so many things? - August 4, 2019
ANSWER: People haven't made a definite decision about important matters. Barnabas came to Antioch, he "encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord." (Acts 11:23)
1. Some are "double-hearted" (Psalm 12:1-2) In this day of "political correctness" right words are shouted down and right actions are condemned. The "godly and faithful" may resort to idle speech and flattery "with their neighbour," hiding within his or her heart the knowledge of what's right and the fact he is wrong. (Psalm 28:3) ... Read More
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QUESTION: If the Bible is the word of God, why are there so many atheists? - 7/28/2019
ANSWER: There are two kinds of atheists: practical and doctrinal.
1. Practical atheism is described in Titus 1:15-16. Many people practice atheism, that is, they live their lives as though there is no God. They think they exist because of godless evolution; or they are totally in charge of their lives because of humanism, which is human pride elevated over anyone else; or they think their lives are completely hidden in darkness from God's view! They are "without excuse," "futile in their thoughts," and have "foolish hearts" (Romans 1:20-23), and thus live in sin (Romans 1:24-25). ... Read More
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QUESTION: Since God loves everybody, then just leave me alone. - July 7, 2019
ANSWER: Jesus said, "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16). but that is NOT all that Jesus said!
1. God gave Jesus so people in the world of hate could be saved, as Jesus stated in John 3:19; John 7:7; John 15:19; John 17:14. ...
2. God requires the world to repent so they should be saved. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why does it seem that society is out of control? - 6/30/2019
ANSWER: Because the media focuses almost entirely on the lawless, or those who are out of control!
1. The "lawless" are in charge because the "lawful" have not insisted otherwise! (1 Timothy 1:5-11) The people who want to live in violation of any restriction from God's control are allowed to direct: government leadership and legislation; church policies; entertainment values; and educational institutions. ... Read More
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Question: How can Jesus help me with my problems today? - 6/23/2019
Answer: This is best illustrated by reading Scripture. (Mark 6:45-50). Let’s note some parallels with our plight, today. 1. Jesus waited until they were “in the middle of the sea.” Why? They had to realize that He was back on shore and separated from them. But He knew where they were, and what their need was, and how to best help them, didn’t He? Today, we know that “after the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God” (Mark 16:19). But we forget that He knows where we are, what our need is, and how best to help us, don’t we? 2. They were “straining at rowing, for the wind was against them.” Read More
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QUESTION: Why does anyone need "organised religion"? - June 16, 2019
ANSWER: What would be the value of "unorganised" religion?! An "unorganised" church (which means "assembly") is described in Acts 19:32, since God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33) ...
1. What is religion? Paul noted that Athens was very religious (using a word that means "fearful of deity"). Festus explained to King Agrippa ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why is the church of Christ so judgmental, condemning everyone but themselves? - June 9, 2019
ANSWER: How can you see through the fog & smog of judgmental sinners and think condemnation is only coming from Christians?
1. It is NOT wrong to teach what is right. Moses taught Israelites that loving God means keeping His commandments and judgments. (Deuteronomy 7:11-12; Deuteronomy 11:1) In the Bible God has given His judgments about human behaviour. It is not judging to preach God's judgments, for we are not making that judgment ourselves (1 Corinthians 11:31-32). ...
2. Judging is wrong when we are harsher on others than we are on ourselves. (Luke 6:37; Romans 2:1-2)... Read More
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QUESTION: Since "everyone who loves is born of God and knows God" (1 John 4:7), then are homosexuals who love each other "born of God"? - June 2, 2019 FEATURED
ANSWER: This is a very good question in view of our present society. Presenting homosexuality as an "alternate lifestyle" in schools, popularising representatives in movies, entertaining the idea on TV, or defending as "legal rights" with organisations, have all made this sexual concept sound acceptable. Those who oppose such an idea have been made to feel guilty by being labelled as prejudiced, racist, homophobic, or hateful. What can Christians say? 1. Jesus condemned homosexuality by emphasising God's created sexual order was unchanged (Matthew 19:4-5) ... Read More
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Question: Should abortion be outlawed? - May, 2019
Answer: The Bible addresses: (1) When does life begin? (2) Is abortion ever justified? As for (1), David provides an inspired description of God’s working in a birth in Psalm 139:13-16. Since, at the same time, God “forms the spirit of man within him” (Zechariah 12:1), at what point is abortion NOT a “fight against God” (Acts 5:39) in making a new person? ... Read More
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Question: How do we know we can trust the Scriptures? - 5/2019
Answer: The Scrlptures, themselves, prove their truthfulness and reliability when predictions made hundreds of years before, happen as accurately as they were originally written! And, this also shows how precisely the prophecy was worded, how exactly it had been copied and preserved, and how detailed were the events described! No other book in the history of mankind can so clearly show it came from God! ... Read More
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Question: Where did "Mother's Day" come from? - May, 2019
Answer: The first mention of “mother” is when God established the law of marriage: ... After leaving the Garden of Eden with sin, “Adam called his wife's name Eve, because she was the mother of all living” (Genesis 3:20). ... According to the Bible, God’s Law has always honored and included Mothers: "Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you" (Exodus 20:12). ... Read More
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Question: What does the Bible say about "self identification"? April, 2019
Answer: We keep hearing about people who “self-identify” ... The dictionary defines it as, “identification with someone or something outside oneself.” “Self-consciousness” is the awkward feeling that we do not feel comfortable with our surroundings, but we can adjust. “Self-identification” is the fiction that we can actually make ourselves something/someone other than what we really are! “Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Then may you also do good who are accustomed to do evil?” (Jeremiah 13:23) ... Read More
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Question: Whose prayers does God hear? - April, 2019
Answer: Let God tell us. God does NOT listen to those who will not hear Him (Proverbs 15:8; Proverbs 28:9; Daniel 9:13-14). God rejects worship that is not what He commanded. Jesus established the Supper that remembers His death (Luke 22:19-20). Paul preached that example (1 Corinthians 11:23), but the Corinthians did not practice it that same way (1 Corinthians 11:17-22). ... Read More
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Question: What can we, as parents, teach our children about living godly lives today?” March, 2019
Answer: Nothing can beat the reality of God-given wisdom from Solomon in Proverbs 1:1-9:18. Children should learn how to wisely live life, and what pitfalls to avoid. Wisdom stands, and wisdom speaks; there are five ways a "proverb" helps (Proverbs 1:2-4). ... Read More
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Question: How can Christians argue religion when they are forbidden to do that? February, 2019
Answer: Some will condemn any attempt to expose the organization and practice of evil, while harboring those who refuse to change from their evil ways. They make the church of Christ composed of a “mixed multitude” rather than people desiring to be pure from their sins. Ephesians 5:25-27. Have these Christians not read: 1. What David said in Psalm 34:14? ... Read More
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Question: Why is society out of control, and what can be done to change it? February, 2019
Answer: There is little being done to hold everyone responsible for their own actions (Titus 1:15). Add to this the interminable delay in executing justice, and Solomon rightly said: “Because the sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil” (Ecclesiastes 8:11) ... Read More
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Question: What can I do to keep my Christian life in order, when everything around me seems to be changing? February, 2019
Answer: To be sure, there is a great deal that is changing about our immediate world. A Christian will come out better than before, though. I'm immediately thinking of the biblical words "confidence" and "patience."
1) "Confidence" is based upon trust and reliance, and a Christian's "confidence" in God is dependent upon Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 3:4) ... Read More
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Question: What makes you think the church of Christ is better than any other church? February, 2019
Answer: The church of Christ is made up only of people who have accepted, and been saved by, what Jesus taught, not what humans have said about it! 1) The church of Christ was begun on the first Pentecost after Jesus' resurrection, described in Acts 2. The 12 Apostles were baptised in the Holy Spirit, and preached the Gospel of Christ to assembled Jews "from every nation under heaven" (Acts 2:5). ... Read More
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Question: Why do you feel people who believe in Jesus, and have already been saved, are NOT Christians? - January, 2019
Answer: What I "feel" has nothing whatsoever to do with what I preach and teach. And no one has been saved by their own understanding, but without doing what Jesus commands! A) Feelings do not establish doctrine. As Jesus said in Mark 7:7: "And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men." ... Read More
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Question: What is "toxic masculinity"? - January, 2019
Answer: Yet another hate-filled, anti-God lie repeated as if it were true! Labels are no substitute for logic, and become libel when there is no proof from Scripture or experience. As Proverbs 17:15 states, "He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, Both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD." ... Read More
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Question: Should we believe in a God different from everyone else's God? - January, 2019
Answer: The Bible is the gradual unfolding of the revelation of GOD, and therefore, it is His verbally inspired "Christian Evidence Textbook." 1. The beginning of all rational thought is "God", as in Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. ... Read More
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QUESTION: Why does it seem that, no matter what people are voted into office, government(s) never seem to change? - 1/6/ 2019
ANSWER: Because human nature never changes, and the corruption of power appeals to the worst of human nature! This is seen in advance before the Israelites entered the Promised Land. Moses was given detailed instructions for a king to follow if he was to be given the throne over God's people (Deuteronomy 17:14-20) ... Read More
—– All responses from John T. Polk II —–