What
About Abortion?
1.
God views the unborn child as a real person (Psalm 139:13-16;
Exodus 21:22-23) 2. The unborn child is called a "babe"
just like the child already born (Luke 1:41,44; 2:12,16). 3. All
admit that abortion kills something (if not, it would be unnecessary).
But human life only exists when the soul is united with the body
(James 2:26). The Bible doesn't endorse the unscientific view
that human life only begins when one fully exits the birth canal.
3. The Bible mentions a sin called 'without natural affection'
or 'unloving' (Romans 1:31). This is the condition of lacking
the natural love that should exist between children and parents
and a mother or father and their child.
Astrology:
What Does The Bible Say?
1.
It is always soundly condemned (Deut. 4:19). In fact it is just
another form of idolatry. To worship a wooden statue or rock carving
is just as foolish as in fearing the movements of the planets
(2 Kings 17:16). 2. Astrology is powerless to predict anything.
God even challenges the astrologers to deliver on their predictions
or promises (Isaiah 47:13). 3. In the Bible, they are depicted
as being absolutely powerless to penetrate the future or to even
read the mind of another individual (Daniel 2:27; 5:5-16). Like
every other form of idolatry, astrology is condemned because it
is just another human attempt to circumvent dependence upon and
trust in God as the guide for your life (Matthew 4:4; 22:37; Galatians
2:20). To fear or guide your life by the movements in the heavens
is to worship the creation instead of the Creator (Romans 1:25).
Baptism:
Is Baptism Necessary For Salvation?
1.
Jesus placed baptism before salvation, not after it (Mark 16:16).
2. So did Peter (Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21). And Paul (Galatians
3:27; Colossians 2:12-13; Acts 22:16). 3. Jesus and the apostles
inherently linked baptism with faith (Mark 16:16; Galatians 3:26-27;
Colossians 2:12). Thus being baptized is simply trusting in God's
way of saving you.
Baptism:
The Thief On The Cross Wasn't Baptized!
1.
The thief was forgiven under a covenant that ceased at the death
of Jesus. Upon His death the First Covenant ended (the Law of
Moses) and the Second Covenant was instituted (Hebrews 9:15-17;
10:9-10). 2. The command to be baptized in water to obtain the
forgiveness of sins is found following the death and resurrection
of Jesus Christ (Mark 16:16). 3. Since the death and resurrection
of Jesus, all who life, are accountable to the instructions found
in the New Covenant. This is a universal covenant for all mankind
(Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:19). 4. Included in this covenant is the
command to be immersed in water for the remission of sins (Acts
2:38; 8:35-38; 10:47-48; 18:8; 22:16; Ephesians 4:5; Colossians
2:12-13; 1 Peter 3:21). 5. In addition, it is purely assumed that
he wasn't baptized. He may have been baptized under John's baptism,
for he knew about the Kingdom of God (Luke 23:42).
Baptism:
Are Sprinkling And Pouring Scriptural Modes Of Baptizing?
1.
The Greek word rendered 'baptize' or 'baptism' means immerision
(see any Greek lexicon). 2. The Biblical examples of individuals
being baptized support immersion: (a) Much water was necessary
(John 3:23). (b) The need to 'arise' to be baptized (one doesn't
have to move for sprinkling or pouring to take place) (Acts 22:16).
(c) Both baptizer and the person being baptized went down into
the water together (Acts 8:36-38). (d) Baptism is described as
a burial (Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12-13). (e) The word "baptized"
is used in connection with being completely enveloped (1 Corinthians
10:1-2). (f) From the standpoint of history, sprinkling and pouring
originated long after the days of the apostles and the completion
of the New Testament.
Baptism:
Holy Spirit Or Water Baptism?
1.
The baptism commanded is water baptism (Acts 10:47-48). Baptism
in water is inherently linked with preaching Jesus (Acts 8:35-38).
2. Holy baptism was a promise to a selected group of individuals
(John 14:26; Acts 1:4-5), and is recorded as only happening twice
(Acts 2:1-4; 11:15-17). 3. The baptism linked with salvation is
water baptism (1 Peter 3:20-21). It is a baptism that requires
the individual to arise (Acts 22:16). 4. Therefore, the one essential
baptism of Ephesians 4:5, the baptism commanded of every person,
is water baptism, for it is the salvation associated with salvation.
Telling people they are saved prior to being baptized in water
is failing to tell them the truth (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38).
Bible:
Can We Understand It Alike?
1.
Why would God speak, if not to be understood? If God created us
(James 3:9), then He knows the range of our mental capacities.
2. Salvation is inherently tied to understanding the gospel message
(Mark 16:15-16; Romans 1:16; 10:17; Matthew 13:19,23). If one
can't understand, then they can't believe and be saved. 3. We
are commanded to acquire the correct understanding (Eph. 5:17;
2 Timothy 2:15). 4. Paul said that when we read we could understand
it just like he understood it (Ephesians 3:3-5). 5. Jesus rebuked
people for not understanding God's will (Matthew 22:29). 6. God
can create the world out of nothing (Psalm 33:6), but He can't
author a book that all can understand? 7. God commands us to be
united, but then gave us a revelation which is impossible to reach
agreement upon? (John 17:20-21)
Bible:
Are Books Missing From It?
1.
Jesus never accused anyone, nor did He ever predict that the Bible
would be corrupted. In fact, He promised just the opposite (Matthew
24:35; 1 Peter 1:23-25). 2. If books had been removed from the
Old Testament, why didn't Jesus correct the translation He used
when upon the face of the earth? Rather, He viewed the translation
then in existence as the inspired word of God (Matthew 5:17-18).
3. The Dead Sea Scrolls prove that the text of the Old Testament
hasn't been corrupted. 4. The New Testament is backed up by more
manuscript evidence than any other book of antiquity. If we can't
trust the textual accuracy of the New Testament, then we can trust
the text of any ancient document, including the writings of Shakespeare
or the Declaration of Independence. 5. Since man cannot know spiritual
truth by intuition (Isaiah 55:8-9; Proverbs 16:25; 1 Corinthians
2:9-13). All would stand helpless before a corrupted Bible, being
unable to distinguish between what part had been corrupted and
what hadn't. If our only link with God has been hopelessly tainted,
then we are all doomed to fail.
Bible:
Concept Inspired Or Verbally Inspired?
1.
Jesus based an argument upon the tense of a word found in the
text of the Old Testament (Matthew 22:32). Paul based on argument
upon whether a word in the Bible was found in the singular or
the plural (Galatians 3:16). 2. The prophets wanted to know more
about what was being revealed through them (1 Peter 1:10-12).
3. Paul plainly described the inspiration process as God giving
them spiritual thoughts with spiritual words (1 Corinthians 2:13).
The concept and the exact words to use in expressing that concept.
4. Apart from God's revelation, every biblical writer was just
as ignorant about spiritual truth, as any other man or woman (Isaiah
55:8-9; Jeremiah 10:23).
Bible:
Scientifically Accurate?
1.
The same God who created the universe (Genesis 1:1), is the same
God who claims to have authored the Scriptures (2 Tim. 3:16-17).
Therefore, true science and true religion will always be in agreement.
2. Long before man discovered the following scientific truths
or laws, the Bible had mentioned them as fact: (a) The earth is
round (Isaiah 40:22). (b) The water-vapor cycle (Ecc. 1:7). (c)
The law of biogenesis, life comes from life (Genesis 1:11). (d)
The first law of thermodynamics (Genesis 2:1). (e) The second
law of thermodynamics (Hebrews 1:10-12). (f) Woman has a seed
of procreation (Genesis 3:15). (g) Understanding infectious diseases
(Leviticus chapters 13-15). (h) Ocean currents (Psalm 8:8). (i)
Ocean trenches (Job 40:16). 2. Lest we might be tempted to say,
'What does Jesus know about origins, science or creation?' Have
we forgotten that Jesus is the Creator? (John 1:1-3) And that
He created the entire universe, including all the laws which govern
it? (Colossians 1:17)
Bible:
The Final Revelation To Mankind?
1.
Jesus specifically promised that the Holy Spirit would guide the
apostles into all truth (John 16:13; 15:26-27; 14:26). If you
believe that Jesus is the Son of God, then you must believe that
He kept that promise, and that the New Testament contains all
truth (2 Peter 1:3; Jude 3). 2. The New Testament contains God's
revelation for the New Covenant (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Hebrews 8:86ff),
but nowhere is there a promise of another covenant to come. 3.
In the Bible the priesthood of a covenant and the law of that
covenant either stand or fall together (Hebrews 7:12). Seeing
that Jesus holds His priesthood forever (Hebrews 7:24), that in
turn means that the New Testament is the final revelation from
God to mankind.
Bible:
Does Biblical Silence Give Consent?
In
other words, can we do something in the name of God, just as long
as God hasn't specifically condemned it? 1. The clear Biblical
answer is "no". See the following examples (Leviticus
10:1-3; 1 Samuel 15:1-23). 2. Specific instruction in the Bible
about a teaching or practice automatically excludes all other
options in the category under consideration. Some applications:
(a) The element to be baptized in is specific (water) (Acts 8:36;
10:47). (b) The mode of baptism is specific (immersion) (Romans
6:1-4; Colossians 2:12-13). (c) The purpose of baptism is specific
(for salvation) (Mark 16:16). (d) The subjects of baptism are
specific (people who have sinned and who are old enough to understand
and believe for themselves) (Acts 8:36-37; 2:38).
Bible:
Is It Historically Accurate?
1.
The Bible claims to be the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17),
and this claim applies to every Scripture. 2. It is silly to argue
that while God could create the entire universe and all the laws
which govern its present operation (Genesis 1:1; Colossians 1:16)---this
same God made some historical blunders in His revelation. Did
God get an "A" in physics, but a "D" in history???
Which is easier, to create the entire universe out of nothing
(Psalm 33:6-8), or to inspire and miraculously guide various men
to reveal all truth? (2 Peter 1:20-21; John 16:13). 3. Some contend
that while the Bible contains the Word of God (in some places)
is also contains many errors. In contrast, "the sum of Thy
Word is truth" (Psalm 119:160); and "Thy Word is truth"
(John 17:17). Again, if one really believes in God, then which
is easier, create the entire universe and keep it functioning
or keep the Bible from being corrupted? Many today need to heed
the words which Jesus addressed to Thomas, "be not unbelieving,
but believing" (John 20:27).
It
has become increasing popular in various religious circles to
view the Bible and especially the events in the Old Testament
as fictional or mythical. But Jesus won’t allow us to profess
belief in Him while at the same time criticizing His Father’s
Word. Especially, during this time of year when so many are thinking
about Jesus, we need to decide whether we really believe in Him
or not. Jesus and His apostles repeatedly endorsed and viewed
as actual fact the events in the Old Testament, including: Creation
(Matt. 19:4-6; 1 Tim. 2:13-14), the events in Eden (Romans 5:12;
1 Cor. 15:22), Cain and Abel (Heb. 11:4; 1 John 3:12), Seth (Luke
3:38), Enoch (Heb. 11:5), The Flood (Matt. 24:39), Noah and his
family (2 Peter 2:5), Shem and his descendants (Luke 3:35-36),
Abraham (Heb. 11:8), Melchizedek (Heb. 7:1-3), Lot, his wife and
the destruction of Sodom (Luke 17:29), the burning bush (Luke
20:32) and so on. Are you merely giving lip service to Jesus or
are you a believer? (Luke 6:46).
Born
Again: How Is One Born Again?
1.
The new birth involves water and the Spirit (John3:3,5). One is
born of the Spirit when they are convicted by the Spirit's message
(Word of God), and faith is produced in their heart (James 1:18;
Ephesians 6:17; Acts 2:37; Romans 10:17; 1 Peter 1:23). 2. The
water aspect of the new birth is baptism. For baptism stands between
a person and entering the kingdom of God (Acts 2:38; Colossians
1:12-14). Thus the new birth happens when an honest heart hears
the Word of God, accept is, and obeys God's conditions for salvation,
including water baptism for the remission of sins (Mark 16:16).
3. The phrase 'born again Christian' is redundant. One is not
a Christian prior to the new birth. You are either born again
and a Christian or not born again and not a Christian.
Calvinism:
Is It True?
One
of the fundamental doctrines of Calvinism is the idea that people
are born in sin, or born sinners. Such a teaching is false: (a)
The exact opposite is affirmed in Ezekiel 18:4-20. (b) Both Jesus
and Paul viewed children as innocent (Matthew 18:3; 1 Corinthians
14:20). (c) Since the conditions for salvation are hearing the
gospel (Romans 10:17), your own faith (John 3:16), repentance
(Acts 17:30), confession that Jesus is the Son of God (Romans
10:9-10), and baptism (Acts 2:38); we automatically know that
we aren't born sinners, seeing that no path of salvation exists
for babies, infants and young children.
Change:
Can A Person Really Change?
1.
Yes! God commands all men and women to repent (Acts 17:30). Repentance
is a very positive word. It means: (a) Sin isn't genetic or inherent
in our nature (1 Cor. 14:20). (b) I don't have to be enslaved
to my own selfishness or some addictive or compulsive behavior
(1 Corinthians 6:9-11). (c) Neither do I have to live a life in
bondage to all sorts of fears, phobias or superstitions (John
8:32,36; Hebrews 2:15). (d) It also means that real, true and
lasting change is within the reach of everyone, which means that
change isn't dependent upon one's financial resources. All you
need to do is place your confidence in the teachings of Jesus
Christ and apply what He taught (John 8:31-32). Are you tired
of spending alot of money on human methods that don't work? Come
to Jesus (Matthew 11:28-29).
Christianity:
Is It A Crutch?
1.
The first question that must be answered is, "does man need
help?" Merely reading the newspaper will answer that question
in the affirmative. 2. Both the Scriptures and human experience
prove that man is incapable of morally and spiritually guiding
himself (Proverbs 16:25; Jeremiah 10:23; 1 Corinthians 1:26; Romans
1:18-32). 3. If we are tempted to think that our own time is more
enlightened than others, or that our technology will provide the
answer to all our problems, please answer the following question:
'What sin mentioned in the Bible no longer plagues the human race?'
(1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Galatians 5:19-21; Romans 1:29-31). 4.
The truth is that everyone presently alive uses some sort of crutch
as they attempt to cope with life.
Church:
Is One Church Just As Good As Another?
1.
The answer is "no". In the book of Revelation, Jesus
addressed seven congregations and said repent or else to five
of them (2:5,16,20; 3:3,16). 2. Condemnation fell upon congregations
which lacked zeal (2:4; 3:15); tolerated false doctrine and false
teachers (2:14); where compromising God's standards (2:20). 3.
Jesus praised congregations for doctrinal soundness (2:2; 3:10);
exposing false teachers (2:2); remaining morally pure (3:4). 4.
Congregations which refuse to submit to His will are no longer
recognized by Jesus as belonging to Him (2:5)
Church:
Is Church Membership Necessary?
1.
The Church is the body of the saved (Ephesians 1:21-23; 5:23).
The Church is that body of people who have been purchased by the
blood of Christ (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 1:18). 2. Upon baptism, the
last step prior to salvation, the Lord immediately adds you to
the Church (Acts 2:38,41,47; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Colossians 1:12-14).
3. The Church is also called the household of God (1 Timothy 3:15);
bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:24); Temple of God (Ephesians 2:19-22).
4. Therefore, those who claim that one can be a Christian without
being a member of the Church are guilty of teaching false doctrine.
Church:
What Is The Proper Organizational Structure?
1.
Jesus is the sole head of the Church (Ephesians 1:21-23). Which
leaves no room for a human head or headquarters. 2. Each local
congregation was governed by elders, who are also referred to
as bishops, overseers or pastors (Acts 20:17,28; 1 Peter 5:1-3).
We always find a plurality of elders in each congregation (Acts
14:23; Phil. 1:1); and we never find a congregation governed by
one elder/pastor or bishop. 3. Neither do we find bishops overseeing
congregations beyond the congregation which they attend. The oversight
is limited to the congregation of which they were members (1 Peter
5:2). 4. Specific qualifications exist, including, they must be
married men which children who are Christians (1 Timothy 3:1-7;
Titus 1:5-9). 5. This biblical system contradicts any earthly
religious organizational structure which is beyond the local congregation.
Church:
Which Church Should I Attend?
1.
We should first of all recognize that attendance isn’t an optional
matter (Hebrews 10:24-25). You should avoid congregations that
don’t take attending seriously. 2. Make sure that the foundation
is correct, that is, a congregation that teaches that the Bible
is the final authority in faith and practice. That the Bible is
the inspired, infallible and complete Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17;
Jude 3; Revelation 22:18-19). 3. Make sure that the plan of salvation
is correct. Obviously, it would be a fruitless endeavor to attend
where the right answers concerning what one must do to be saved
are not given. One must believe that Jesus is the Son of God (John
8:24); repent of their sins (Acts 2:38); confess their faith in
Christ (Romans 10:9-10); and be baptized, immersed in water for
the remission of their sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 8:35-38; 22:16;
1 Peter 3:21).
Communion/Lord's
Supper:
1.
Christians were commanded to partake of both the bread and the
fruit of the vine (1 Corinthians 11:26). 2. Jesus offered Himself
as a sacrifice for sin, once time for all time (Hebrews 9:24-29).
Therefore, communion is not a re-sacrifice of Jesus. Hence the
elements do not turn into the literal body and blood of Christ.
3. Communion was only served on Sunday (Acts 20:7). Those who
argue that serving it less often would make it more meaningful,
never make the same argument concerning passing the collection
plate. And yet, a weekly observance of the Lord's Supper has as
much Scripture behind it as a weekly offering (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians
11:18-34; 16:1-2; Hebrews 10:25).
Death:
Are People Give A Second Chance After They Die?
1.
Jesus made it clear that after one dies their eternal spiritual
condition is fixed. And that such a fate is determined by whether
you obeyed God or not in this life (Luke 16:19-31). 2. Jesus only
mentioned two eternal possibilities which await mankind, eternal
destruction or eternal life (Matthew 25:46). There is never a
third option that is suggested. 3. Paul spoke of dead non-Christians
as having no hope (1 Thess. 4:13). 4. In view of the sacrifice
of Jesus (John 3:16), the universal nature of the gospel message
(Mark 16:15-16), the proliferation of the Bible and it's plain
and clear message (Ephesians 3:3-5); dying outside of Jesus Christ
is inexcusable (2 Thess. 1:8).
Denominations:
Is Denominationalism Scriptural?
1.
It violates Jesus' prayer for unity, which unity was to be based
on believing the word (message/doctrine) revealed through the
apostles, and recorded in the New Testament (John 17:20-23; see
also 1 Corinthians 1:10; 14:37; 2 Thess. 3:14; 2 John 9). 2. It
violates the "oneness" commanded in Ephesians 4:4-6,
which mentions "one faith" and "one body".
3. The one body isn't composed of differing denominations, but
rather is composed of individual Christians (Romans 12:4-5; 1
Corinthians 12:27). 4. In reading the New Testament, we only read
about one Church, the one that Jesus established (Matthew 16:18).
5. Our plea for professing believers in Jesus, is to come back
to the Bible, abandoning every belief and practice which lacks
book, chapter and verse (1 Peter 4:11; Matthew 15:9); and be content
to be a member of the church which fully submits to Jesus (Ephesians
5:23-24).
Divorce:
What Does The Bible Say?
1.
God hates divorce (Malachi 2:16). 2. To have the right to remarry
following a divorce, the cause for the divorce must have been
the sexual unfaithfulness of your mate (Matthew 19:9; 5:32). 3.
In the absence of sexual unfaithfulness both divorced parties
must remain single or reconcile (1 Corinthians 7:10-11). 4. Marrying
a divorced person, who didn't have a Scriptural right to put away
their former spouse or spouses, will involve you in an adulterous
relationship (Matthew 5:32). 5. Concerning the mate who commits
adultery, that person in Scripture is never given the right to
remarry.
Doctrine:
Is It Important?
1.
"Doctrine" is simply a word that means "teaching".
To say that doctrine isn't important is the same thing as saying
that what Jesus taught is irrelevant. 2. Jesus cannot be separated
from what He taught (John 12:48). 3. The teachings/doctrines found
in the Bible are God's thoughts, His views (Isaiah 55:8-9; 1 Corinthians
2:9-13). 4. Doctrinal deviation is condemned (Galatians 1:6-9;
2 John 9-11; Revelation 22:18-19). 5. If doctrine doesn't matter,
then why all the warnings about false teachers? (Matthew 7:15;
Acts 20:30; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15; 1 Timothy 4:1-4; 2 Timothy
4:2-4; 1 John 4:1). Are these warnings meaningless?
Evolution:
What Is The Bottom Line In The Creation/Evolution Debate?
Creation
claims that an all-powerful, all-wise and eternal God created
everything out of nothing (Genesis 1:1; Psalm 33:6; John 1:3;
Colossians 1:16). Evolution ultimately rests upon the belief that
spontaneous generation occurred (life came from non-life) and
this happened only once and by sheer chance. Spontaneous generation
is something that would contradict all the known laws of science.
Therefore, which miracle, which supernatural event are you willing
to believe? Divine Creation or Spontaneous Generation? Which event
are you willing to stake your eternity destiny upon?
Evolution:
Can It Be Harmonized With The Bible?
Evolution
denies: (a) Life was created (Genesis 1:1). (b) Creation has ceased
(2:2). (c) God created men and women in His image (Genesis 1:26),
and that God created the two genders (Matthew 19:1-4). (d) The
statement made by Jesus, that men and women were created from
the beginning of creation (Mark 10:6). (e) Man was originally
in a garden (an orderly--not a chaotic place, Genesis 2:8). (f)
All living things produce after their kind (Genesis 1:11). (g)
Man fell from a state of innocence (Genesis 3:1ff). (h) Mankind
needs a Savior (John 3:16).
Evolution:
Were the Days In Genesis 1, Millions Of Years In Length?
1.
Each day in this chapter had an evening and a morning (1:5). 2.
The word ‘day’ in this context is used of a literal day, as opposed
longer periods of time such as seasons and years (1:14). 3. God
had Moses parallel the week of Creation with a literal work week
(Exodus 20:9-11), making it clear that the week of Genesis 1 is
identical with what we understand to be a week. 4. Jesus placed
Adam and Eve at the beginning of Creation and not millions or
billions of years from the beginning (Mark 10:6 "from the
beginning of Creation, God made them male and female"). 5.
Through Paul, God made it clear that from the beginning of Creation,
the human race has existed to perceive that the physical Creation
reveals the power of its Creator (Romans 1:20). 6. Finally, any
honest expert in scientific dating methods will tell you that
there is no reliable long-term dating method for fixing the age
of the universe or the age of the earth.
Evolution:
Can Millions Of Years Be Placed Between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2?
1.
Jesus didn’t see such a gap (and He is the Creator, John 1:1-3;
Colossians 1:16). He placed Adam and Eve from the beginning of
creation (Mark 10:6). 2. The Bible doesn’t present a race of people
prior to Adam, which were then destroyed in some major catastrophe.
Rather, Adam is viewed as the first man (1 Corinthians 15:45).
In addition, the Bible also makes it clear that sin and death
resulted from the events in Genesis chapter 3, see 1 Corinthians
15:21-22; Romans 5:12. The gap theory requires millions and billions
of years of struggle, death and sin prior to Adam. Other passages
make it clear that Genesis 1 is one compact unit all happening
within one week (Exodus 20:8-11), and that man has been present
from the beginning of creation (Romans 1:20). If this isn’t enough
time in some people’s minds for God to create the universe, then
just remember that God is going to bring it all to an end in a
much shorter period of time (2 Peter 3:10; 1 Corinthians 15:52).
Evolution:
Can It Be Harmonized With Science?
Evolution
contradicts at least three scientific laws which are mentioned
in the Bible: (a) The First Law Of Thermodynamics (no energy is
presently being created or destroyed) (Genesis 2:2). (b) The Second
Law Of Thermodynamics (everything tends to run down, decay, grow
old--the complete opposite direction of Evolutionary Theory).
The Second Law states that matter is not eternal and that the
universe did have a beginning (Hebrews 1:10-12). (c) The Law of
Biogenesis (life comes from existing life) (Genesis 1:11). Evolution
contends that at some point something came from nothing that that
life came from non-life. Both assertions contradict the Bible
and Scientific Fact.
Faith:
Are We Saved By Faith-Only?
1.
Obviously just one thing doesn't save us, for a true "faith-only"
position would rule out the need for the blood of Christ and the
grace of God (Ephesians 2:8). 2. The following people were not
saved at the point of faith, or by faith-alone (Matthew 7:21-23;
John 12:42-43; James 2:19-26). 3. People who believed were then
told to repent (Acts 2:38); confess Christ (Acts 8:37; Romans
10:9-10); and submit to baptism (Acts 2:38) prior to salvation.
4. True faith is obedient to whatever God requires, and true faith
will rest content with God's conditions for salvation (Colossians
2:12). Are you willing to trust God enough, to allow Him to tell
you what to do to be saved? (Acts 2:37)
Faith:
What Type Of Faith Results In Justification?
1.
Obviously, not a faith that refuses to confess Christ (John 12:42-43).
The idea that a person is justified or saved at the moment they
believe in God or accept that Jesus is the Son of God in their
heart, runs counter to the above verse. 2. God inherently links
justification by faith with the point at which a person is forgiven
of their sins (Romans 4:1-8). 3. Prior to being forgiven, God
makes it clear that a person, besides mentally accepting that
Jesus is the Son of God, must also repent of their sins (Acts
2:38), confess Jesus (Romans 10:9-10) and be immersed in water
or baptized (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21; Acts 22:16).
4. Repentance, confession and baptism are not contrary to or in
addition to faith, rather they are simply a part of a faith that
saves. You see, real faith will trust God’s way of saving us,
faith that results in salvation is a faith that takes God at His
word, and whatever condition or conditions which God places prior
to salvation, this type of faith will obey (Colossians 2:12-13).
Faith
Healers: Is There Any Way We Can Test Their Claims?
1.
When a Christian in the New Testament had the gift of healing:
(a) People were healed immediately (Acts 3:2-8). The miracle didn't
take an extended period of time to begin working--no rehabilitation
or therapy was needed. (b) Hard cases were not weeded out (Luke
7:2; 8:42). (c) Every disease and sickness was cured (Matthew
4:23). How can anyone conscientiously call an event a "healing
explosion", when people come out still blind, deaf and bound
to wheelchairs? (d) Faith wasn't needed on the part of the person
who was being healed (Acts 3:5-6). (e) The presence of unbelievers
didn't stop the healing (Mark 2:1-12). (f) Classes were not taught
on "How To Heal". And a special collection wasn't taken
when people were healed, and neither was there a need for a special
atmosphere.
Fun:
Is God Against It?
1.
We need to realize that God's love for us and our true earthly
and eternal well-being is behind every "Thou shalt not"
in the Bible. God always says "no" for a very good reason
(Deut. 6:24; 1 Peter 3:8-12). 2. True freedom and happiness isn't
found in giving into every impulse or selfish need (Titus 3:3).
3. Everyone eventually serves someone or something. Man only has
two basic choices, that is, obey and be a servant of others or
be a servant of God (Romans 6:13,16; 1 Peter 4:2). All of us are
either servants of human wisdom or Divine revelation. 4. God claims
that His "rules" are light compared to what we face
in the non-Christian world (Matthew 11:28-29; 1 John 5:3). 5.
Any activity which condemns your soul and the souls of others
cannot be labeled as "fun" or the "loving thing
to do" (Romans 13:8-10; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8).
Grace:
Does It Automatically And Unconditionally Remove Sin?
1.
Since Jesus died for all men and yet all aren't saved, the answer
to the above question must be "no" (Titus 2:11; Matthew
7:13-14). 2. First Century false teachers tried to turn the grace
of God into an excuse for sin (Romans 6:1; Jude 4). 3. What grace
does mean is that: (a) You never have the right to give up. (b)
Christianity is designed for imperfect people--people who are
honest enough to admit their sins and repent (Acts 2:38; 1 John
1:8-10). (c) All long as their is life, forgiveness is always
a real possibility. But forgiveness is never automatic or unconditional
(Mark 16:16).
God:
Did Man Invent Him?
Some
have argued that ancient man felt himself so alone and vulnerable
that he invented God to be his protector. 1. But how is it that
man invented a God that man himself can't completely comprehend
(Isaiah 55:8-9; Romans 11:33)? 2. How is it that modern man finds
himself completely unable to improve upon this God that ancient
man supposely invented? What quality or character trait is lacking
or missing in the God that the Bible reveals? 3. How is it that
man invented a God who doesn't let man off the hook? The God revealed
in the Scriptures is holy, righteous, unbending in His moral standards,
and offering salvation on HIs terms and His alone (Exodus 20:5-6;
Acts 4:12). How is it that man invented a God who accepts none
of our excuses, justifications or human rationalizations (Galatians
5:19-21; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Revelation 21:8)?
Gyms:
Can The Church Build One?
1.
According to the Scriptures, the work of the Church includes evangelism
(1 Timothy 3:15); edification (Ephesians 4:11-12); and benevolence
(1 Timothy 5:16). We never find Church funds being used for recreation
or entertainment. 2. When Christians socialized it was always
separate and apart from their gatherings as a congregation (Acts
2:46). In fact, the apostle Paul rebuked the Corinthians for trying
to add social meals to their gatherings (1 Corinthians 11:20-22).
Such activities Paul doesn't merely separate from the worship
by time, but by distance, that is, eat at home (1 Corinthians
11:34). 3. In view of such clear statements, obviously there is
no Divine approval for building a church kitchen. And if this
lacks God's approval, then so would a church gym or family life
center.
Heaven:
What Is Heaven Really Like?
1.
In reality, everyone is yearning and striving for what exists
in heaven. A place of absolute fulfillment, happiness, satisfaction,
meaning and purpose (Revelation 21:4). 2. Unfortunately, Satan
has convinced many of us that we can have complete happiness in
this life, and it can be ours right now! That the path to personal
fulfillment and purpose is found in sinful activities (fornication,
adultery, drunkenness, drugs, etc..) or in striving after earthly
things (fame, wealth, physical comfort), instead of serving God
(Matthew 6:24-34). 3. If we are honest, then we will realize that
utopia won't be found here (Ecclesiastes 2:1-11). For no earthly
pleasure or pursuit can fill up and completely satisfy the soul
of man. Everything in this life has a downside, a let-down. But
such isn't true of heaven (1 Peter 1:4). If you miss heaven, then
you will miss out on what you have spent your whole life yearing
for.
Heaven:
Will It Be Boring?
1.
Heaven isn't mere external existence, for even the lost will exist
forever (Matthew 25:46). 2. Neither is heaven sitting on a cloud
strumming a harp or one long Church service. 3. Heaven is a place
of absolute fulfillment, satisfaction, meaning, purpose and true
joy (Revelation 21:4). 4. The newness and wonder of heaven will
never wear off (1 Peter 1:4). Heaven will never become usual or
boring. 5. Heaven is experiencing the quality of life that God
experiences (Matthew 25:21). 6. Heaven is always having someone
to love and someone who greatly loves you (Revelation 21:7). It
is the ideal relationship--for eternity.
Hell:
It's Not That Bad, Right?
1.
Hell does exist, and Jesus used the Greek word for 'Hell' (Gehenna)
more often than all other New Testament writers combined! (Matthew
5:22,29,30; 10:28; 18:9; 23:15,33; Mark 9:43,45,47; Luke 12:5).
To deny the existence of hell is then to deny the truthfulness
of Jesus Christ. Must we call Him a liar, to make ourselves feel
good? 2. Hell is just as long as heaven (Matthew 25:46). 3. It
is a place of conscious suffering (Matthew 8:11-12; Revelation
20:10). 4. The eternal abode for those who ignore or reject God
(Matthew 7:21-23). 5. A place to be avoided at all cost! (Mark
9:43-47). 6. A place devoid of God's blessings. Which means that
in hell, you will never be loved and never have anyone to love.
7. The good news is that it can be avoided through Jesus Christ
(John 3:16; Mark 16:16; 2 Tim. 2:11-12).
Image
Of God: Man Created In
1.
It means that every human being has the raw potential to serve
God. 2. Even after Adam and Eve sinned, they and their posterity
still remain created in the image of God (James 3:9). Obviously,
no one is born depraved and no one is born with less potential
for goodness and morality than anyone else. No one is born with
an inherent predisposition for a certain sinful practice. Hence,
there isn’t a sin which is genetic or inborn. 3. Thus we must
conclude that all sinful practices, including such things as drunkenness,
drug addiction, child abuse and homosexuality are practices which
are chosen by the individual. And can also be ceased by the individual
(1 Corinthians 6:9-11). 4. To be created in the image of God (Genesis
1:26) means that all of us have a spiritual side that can’t be
satisfied with material possessions or earthly achievements. That
we will never truly find ourselves, until we find God. The good
news is that you can live an unselfish and godly life!
Incarnation:
Was The Purpose Of Jesus' Birth To Bring World Peace?
1.
The peace that Jesus brought was for those who would obey Him
(Luke 2:14 'Peace on earth among men with whom He is pleased.')
2. This peace is found among those who become members of the household
of God, the Church of the living God (Isaiah 2:2-4; Ephesians
2:13-22; 1 Timothy 3:15). 3. There can be no peace for an individual
with God, others, or themselves, until they turn from their sins
(Psalm 32:1-5; Isaiah 59:1-2; Titus 3:3). 4. But all will not
humble themselves before God, and thus Jesus knew that His entrance
into this world would also bring a division between the obedient
and the rebellious (Matthew 10:34-39). On which side of that line
do you presently stand?
Incarnation:
When Was Jesus Born?
1.
The Bible doesn't say on what day or during what month His birth
took place. We are commanded to celebrate not His birth, but His
death, burial and resurrection on every first day of the week
(Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26). 2. Becoming spiritual during
a season of the year, or going to services one day a year doesn't
make one a Christian. God is offended when we come to worship
Him, but at the same time have no plans to change our ways (Proverbs
15:8; Ecclesiastes 5:1-4; Matthew 6:1-4; 1 Corinthians 13:1-4).
3. If one is to serve and worship Jesus, then Jesus must be the
center of our lives on a daily basis (Matthew 6:33; 10:37; Luke
14:26ff).
Jesus
Christ: Is He God?
1.
The Old Testament attaches the titles of Deity to the Messiah
(Isaiah 9:6; Micah 5:2). 2. The New Testament clearly states that
Jesus is as much God as the Father or the Holy Spirit (John 1:1;
Philippians 2:6; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 1:8). 3. The Jewish rulers
were seeking to kill Him because they were convinced that He was
indeed claiming to be equal with the Father (John 5:18; 10:33).
Jesus never corrected their impressions on this point, but only
reinforced His claim (5:23). 4. If Jesus is a created being, then
worshipping Him would be idolatry (Romans 1:25; Matthew 4:10).
Yet, He not only accepted worship (Matthew 8:2-3), but Christians
are commanded to worship Him (Phil. 2:10-11). 5. Unless one believes
that Jesus is Who He claimed to be, one cannot be saved (John
8:24; Romans 10:9).
Jesus
Christ: How Can I Be Sure He Was Resurrected?
Just
examine the evidence. He died upon the cross (Mark 15:43-45),
and the tomb was guarded (Matthew 27:62-66). Therefore: (a) The
body wasn't misplaced, lost or eaten by wild animals. (b) We know
that the Jewish and Roman authorities didn't take the body, for
they stood helpless as Christianity spread. If they had the body
they would have stopped Christianity dead in its tracks. (b) The
disciples didn't remove the body, for the tomb was guarded. (c)
Everyone when to the right tomb (Matthew 27:59-61; John 20:1-10).
(d) The disciples didn't merely imagine that Jesus had been raised,
for hallucinations don't remove bodies (Luke 24:37-43). (e) The
only logical alternative left, is that Jesus was raised from the
dead, and He is the Son of God, the only way to the Father (John
14:6; Acts 4:12).
Jesus
Christ: Can I Really Be Sure He Is The Son Of God?
What
alternatives do we have? Jesus was either: 1. A liar and a deceiver.
But did a liar give us the highest moral standard known to man?
(Matthew chapters 5-7; 22:37-40) 2. He was a lunatic, a crazy
or insane man. But His recorded teachings prove that His intellect
surpassed the intellect of the greatest religious teachers of
the time (Matthew chapter 22). Did a lunatic sum up our entire
meaning and purpose into a short statement? (Matthew 7:12; 22:37-40).
3. He was a good man, but not God. But He didn't merely claim
to be a good man, or a mere religious teacher. Good men don't
claim to be God, when they are not. He claimed to be God! (John
5:17-23; 8:24; 10:33). 4. What option is left?
Jesus:
Is He The Only Way To Eternal Life?
1.
Some people think that it is very harsh to believe as the Bible
teaches, that Jesus is the only way (John 14:6; Acts 4:12; John
3:16). But how can a way to salvation be harsh? Be thankful that
God provided a way! And what right do sinners have in complaining
about how God saves them! 2. Others say that it is arrogant to
claim as the Bible does that only way path leads to heaven (Matthew
7:13-14). But rather, it is very arrogant to claim that one’s
own sincerity, morality and good works have in themselves the
same moral and eternal weight as the blood of the Son of God.
And this is exactly what people are saying when they insist that
God will save the "good moral person" who doesn’t become
a Christian. They are indeed teaching a salvation based on works
of human merit, that man can in fact save himself (Titus 3:5;
Ephesians 2:4-9).
Love:
Does It Cancel Out The Need For Obedience?
1.
Jesus saw both qualities working in complete agreement. True love
will always listen to and obey the teachings of Scripture (John
14:15). Love never resents 'doctrine'. 2. Obedience to the commands
of God, is simply a demonstrate of our love for God (Matthew 22:37-40).
3. The loving thing to do towards another is always to treat them
according to the instructions given us in the Bible (Matthew 7:12;
Romans 13:8-10). 3. Love doesn't remove or supercede God's law,
rather it will always fulfill it's obligations to His law. 4.
Love will always side with the Truth (1 Corinthians 13:6; John
17:17).
Morality:
Can A Good Moral Person Be Saved Without Jesus?
1.
Cornelius was not only a good moral person (Acts 10:22), he was
even a very religious person (10:2). And yet, apart from becoming
a Christian, he was lost (Acts 11:13-14). The same was true for
the zealous and conscientious Saul and Tarsus (Acts 23:1; Galatians
1:14). And same can be said for the Ethopian Eunuch (Acts 8:27-28);
and the rich young ruler (Mark 10:17-23). 2. The issue isn't how
much or little you have sinned, but that you have sinned (Romans
3:23). Even one sin constitutes a debt that no man can remove
or atone for though his own efforts (Luke 7:36-50). 4. It is a
very arrogant claim to suggest that one's own personal goodness
has the same ethical merit as the shed blood of God's own Son.
New
Testament: Is It The Standard For All Time?
Even
some denominations have attempted to argue that the New Testament
does not contain a standard for faith and practice to which Christians
in all succeeding generations must adhere. But the Bible says
otherwise: 1. The words of Jesus, which includes those words revealed
through the Apostles (the New Tesament), will judge all of us
at the last day (John 12:48; Matthew 24:35; 1 Cor. 14:37; Heb.
1:1-2). 2. The moral standard revealed in the New Testament is
binding upon all generations right up tot he Second Coming of
Christ (1 Cor. 6:9-10; Galatians 5:19-21; Revelation 21:8). Yes,
fornication, adultery, and homosexuality will always be wrong.
3. The New Testament is inherently connected with Jesus' High
Priesthood, and seeing that Jesus is a Priest forever (Hebrews
7:24), this means that the Law connected with His Priesthood also
abides forever (Hebrews 7:12). Those who disagree must tell us
which laws in the New Testament are no longer binding and how
do you tell the difference between binding and non-binding laws?
Obscenity:
Merely In The Eye Of The Beholder?
1.
Jesus condemned lustful thinking just as well as the actual act
(Matthew 5:28; Mark 7:20-23). 2. An objective standard of what
is obscene does exist (Ephesians 5:3-6; Galatians 5:19-21). Those
who argue otherwise are simply admitting that they have become
callous to moral and spiritual truth (Ephesians 4:17-19), and
are in need of being taught, instead of doing the teaching (Hebrews
5:12-14). 3. The behavior of those who deal in obscenity proves
that it is a well recognized and objective category. Those who
sell it know exactly what to order and stock. And those who want
to buy it or look at it know exactly where look and what to buy.
Once-Saved-Always-Saved:
Is This True?
1.
The the doctrine of once-saved-always-saved is based on the false
assumption that God has predestined every individual for salvation
or condemnation, regardless of our own personal choices. 2. In
contrast: (a) The Bible asserts the freewill of mankind (Genesis
4:7; Ezekiel 18:20; Acts 17:30). (b) None have been locked into
either salvation or condemnation (Ezekiel 18:21-32; Acts 10:34-35).
(c) Salvation is always presented as available to all--if they
want it (2 Peter 3:9; 1 Timothy 2:4-6). (d) Christians are repeatedly
warned about the possibility of forfeiting their salvation (Matthew
18:15-17; Hebrews 6:4-6; 10:26-31; 2 Timothy 2:11-13).
Pastor:
What Is A Pastor?
1.
The title 'Pastor' applies to the same group of men referred to
as elders or bishops (Acts 20:17,28; 1 Peter 5:1-3). 2. There
was always a plurality of "pastors" in every congregation
(Acts 14:23; 20:17; Phil. 1:1). 3. We never find a congregation
which is be shepherded by just one pastor. We never find pastors
overseeing more than one congregation (1 Peter 5:2). We never
find 'youth' pastors or 'senior' pastors. And we never find women
serving as pastors. The qualifications are specific and include
the qualification of being a man, who is the husband of one wife,
having children who are believers (1 Timothy 3:1-4; Titus 1:5-9).
Pornography:
Is It Harmless?
1.
Far from taking a superficial and naïve view of reality,
Jesus pointed out that the man who lusts after a woman is his
heart, is engaged in doing something that is very evil (Matthew
5:28). 2. The Bible enlightens us and makes us realize that what
we allow into our minds has a tremendous amount of influence upon
our lives. What is harbored in the heart determines what and who
we become (Matthew 15:18-19; Mark 7:20-23). 3. Instead of freeing
or liberating an individual, pornography actually enslaves a person
to their own selfishness. Those who have given free rein to their
lusts, know the misery, frustration, disappointment, and bondage
which pornography breeds (Titus 3:3; Ephesians 2:1-3). There is
hope for the person who is addicted! And remember, the judgment
of God also falls upon those who give their consent, encouragement
and support to those who engage in things which are sinful (Romans
1:32).
Prayer:
What Is The Sinner's Prayer?
1.
Although "pray the sinner's prayer" is a popular modern
denominational response to those asking, "what must I do
to be saved". Neither Jesus nor the apostles ever presented
prayer as the last condition prior to salvation (Mark 16:16; Acts
2:38; 8:35-38; 1 Peter 3:21). 2. The fervent and sincere prayers
of such men as Cornelius and Saul of Tarsus did not cleanse them
of their sins (Acts 10:1-5; 47-48; 11:13-14; Acts 9:11,18; 22:16).
Hence, faith and prayere never made anyone a Christian. 3. The
New Testament is completely silent concerning a certain prayer
that a person prays in order to become a Christian. Thus the practice
of the "sinner's prayer" is a human tradition, which
is an addition to the Word of God (2 John 9). A human tradition
that negates the real conditions for salvation (Acts 2:38).
Preachers:
Must A Preacher Have A College Degree?
1.
The New Testament is silent concerning any sort of secular educational
requirements for preachers. Rather, the Divine qualifications
stress a man who knows what the Bible says and who has the courage
to preach the Word (2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Timothy 4:1-5). 2. In addition,
God also stresses that such a person needs to be a living example
of the truths which he is proclaiming (1 Timothy 4:12; Titus 2:7-8).
3. We should also note that the local congregation and not a religious
school or college is the pillar and ground of the truth (1 Timothy
3:15). In New Testament times it was within the local congregation
that future teachers and preachers were trained (2 Timothy 2:2).
4. Lest we become too impressed with the views of modern society,
we need to remind ourselves that the surrounding culture in any
age is what God calls "the world". In biblical terms,
"the world" is always unenlightened (Acts 26:18), in
bondage to Satan (1 John 5:19), antagonistic to God (1 John 2:15-16),
and to which the Christian is not to conform (Romans 12:1-2).
Prophecy:
Does The Gift Still Exist Today?
1.
As with all biblical questions, the Scriptures must take precedence
over feelings, emotions or personal loyalties (1 Peter 4:11).
2. The truth of the matter is that when the New Testament was
completed, the gift of prophecy ceased, for God had said all that
needed to be said (1 Corinthians 13:8-13). Jesus promised that
the apostles, by the Holy Spirit would be guided into ALL the
truth (John 16:13). And He kept that promise (1 Cor. 2:9-13; Eph.
3:3-5; 2 Peter 1:3). 3. Jude claims that the ‘faith’, the sum
total of Christian teaching had been revealed once for all unto
the saints (Jude 3). 4. Severe condemnations exist for anyone
who attempts to add to or edit the revelation delivered through
the apostles (Galatians 1:6-9; Revelation 22:18-19; 2 John 9).
5. Now, do you believe the writings of the God-endorsed inspired
men (Hebrews 2:3-4; 2 Corinthians 12:12) or do you believe the
words of the person who claims that God is speaking through them
today?
Reincarnation:
Can It Be Harmonized With The Bible?
The
Bible contradicts the theory of Reincarnation: (a) Man has only
one earthly lifetime (2 Samuel 12:23; Ecc. 12:7; Luke 16:25; Hebrews
9:27-28). (b) According to Reincarnation, man eventually saves
himself, something the Bible clearly denies (Titus 3:5; Ephesians
2:8-9; Jeremiah 10:23). (c) There is no room for a Savior in Reincarnation,
which makes the sacrifice of Jesus Christ meaningless and unnecessary
(John 14:6; Acts 4:12). (d) Reincarnation also denies the resurrection
of the dead (1 Corinthians 15:12ff); the existence of hell (Matthew
25:46); and the final judgment (2 Corinthians 5:10).
Religious
Titles: What About Them?
1.
The terms 'elder', 'overseer' and 'pastor' all refer to the same
office (Acts 20:17,28; Titus 1:5-8; 1 Peter 5:1-3). 2. 'Evangelist'
and 'preacher' applies to men who preach the gospel message (2
Tim. 4:5). 3. Never is the word 'reverend' used in reference to
a human being. In fact, it is only applied to God (Psalm 111:9
KJV). 4. Jesus condemned the use of religious titles which elevated
Christians over other Christians (Matthew 23:8-10). To give a
man or group of men the type of reverence that is due God, is
an act of idolatry (Acts 10:25-35; Revelation 22:8-9).
Repentance:
What Is Repentance?
1.
Repentance is turning away from evil, which is sparked by a genuine
sorrow for one's own sin (2 Corinthians 7:10-11). 2. The truly
repentance person doesn't offer excuses for what they have done,
they place the blame solely upon themselves (7:11). 3. You can
tell when someone really repents. Their life now manifests changed
attitudes and behavior (Matthew 3:8; Acts 26:20). You are not
left wondering whether they are truly sorry for the past. 4. Repentance
means that the habitual practice of sin is ceased (1 John 3:6).
5. Since God commands all to repent (Acts 17:30), all men and
women can change, all can live the Christian life. If the Bible
labels an activity as sinful, then we automatically know that
it is something learned and chosen. Rather than a behavior which
is genetic or inborn (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).
Sabbath
Day: Is It Binding Upon Christians?
1.
The Sabbath Day was part of the covenant God made with Israel
at Sinai (Exodus 31:13-18). The seventh day had not been a day
or worship previous to this covenant (Deut. 5:1-3; Nehemiah 9:13-14).
2. This covenant ended when Jesus died on the cross (Colossians
2:14-17). It is part of a covenant that is now obsolete and has
been removed by God (Hebrews 8:13-9:4). 3. To ignore these facts
and insist on religiously observing this day, is to cut oneself
off the grace of God (Galatians 5:1-4). 4. In contrast, the day
of worship (not a mandatory day of rest), under the New Covenant
is the first day of the week (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:1).
Saint:
What Is A Saint?
1.
The term "saint" applies to any Christian and never
used to refer to an elite class of deceased Christians (1 Corinthians
1:2). 2. According to Jesus: (a) Every faithful Christian is equal
in the sight of God, with every other faithful Christian (Matthew
23:8-11). (b) No mere human being has ever lived who departed
from this life with an excess of good works or spiritual riches
of which are available to others (Matthew 25:8-9; Luke 17:10).
(c) There is only one mediator between God and men--Jesus Christ
(1 Timothy 2:5). This leaves no room for any other mediators.
(3) To deify a mere human being is to be guilty of committing
the sin of idolatry (Romans 1:25).
Sin:
Is It Merely A Disease?
1.
Actually sin in the Bible is defined as a transgression of God’s
law (1 John 3:5). 2. We are doing a great disservice to people
if we claim that various sinful addictions are merely diseases,
for we are giving people the impression they are helpless against
such temptations. The good news is that the cycle of any habitual
sinful addiction can be broken (1 Corinthians 6:9-11). 3. Jesus
and other biblical writers noted that the true source of any sin
isn’t a genetic or physical malfunction but a selfish choice which
we have made in our hearts (Mark 7:20-23; James 1:13; 4:1). Sin
is always a moral problem and not a mere physical problem. The
fact that Jesus had a human body (John 1:14) and yet never sinned
(1 Peter 2:22) should prove to us that our body isn’t the real
reason why we sin.
Situation
Ethics: Is Truth Changed By Situations Or Culture?
1.
Situation ethics failed to excuse the following individuals (Genesis
4:1-7; Leviticus 10:1-3; 2 Samuel 6:1-7; Acts 5:1-10; Galatians
2:11-13). 2. God never has put anyone in a no-win situation in
which we must choose between a supposed greater sin and lesser
sin. Or, a situation in which we must choose between the loving-thing
to do or the obedient thing to do (1 Corinthians 10:13; James
1:13). 3. The sins mentioned in the New Testament, will still
be wrong at the end of time (1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:21;
Revelation 21:8). 4. The gospel message is for all cultures (Matthew
28:19). 5. The exact same plan of salvation was preached to people
from various backgrounds, races, cultures and social classes (Acts
2:38; 8:12; 35-38; 18:8).
Speaking
In Tongues: What Does The Bible Say?
1.
Speaking in tongues was the miraculous ability to speak in a foreign
language or dialect, without any previous study or experience
(Acts 2:1-11). 2. Thus, it is incorrect to claim that this was
the ability to speak in an angelic or heavenly language. And neither
was this gift used exclusively or even primarily for private prayers
(1 Corinthians 14:14-16). 3. Non-Christians could perfectly understand
the tongue-speaker (Acts 2:11). 4. This gift was not the proof
that one was a genuine Christian. For all Christians didn't possess
this gift (1 Corinthians 12:30) and some very unspiritual individuals
did (1 Corinthians 3:1-3). 5. This gift ceased, as did all the
miraculous gifts when God's revelation (the New Testament) was
complete (1 Corinthians 13:8-13).
Spiritual
Truth: What Doesn't Determine Or Establish?
1.
Majority rule and the popular views of society (Matthew 7:13-14).
2. Gut feelings, intuition, or human emotions (Proverbs 16:25;
Jeremiah 10:23). 3. The feelings of one's conscience (Acts 26:9).
4. The view of highly educated religious leaders (Matthew 22:29;
Chapter 23). 5. The views of the cultural and intellectual elite,
including the secular academic community (1 Corinthians 1:26).
6. The views of parents or good friends (Matthew 10:37). 7. Tradition
(Matthew 15:1-9). The only thing that establishes the truth is
what God has said (John 17:17).
Suffering:
Does It Disprove The Existence Of God?
1.
God allowed His Own Son to suffer (John 3:16). Obviously, suffering
of innocent individuals is not inconsistent with the fact that
God exists and that He is good. 2. Being created with a freewill,
means that some people might make the wrong choices, and we might
suffer as a consequence of their selfishness (Genesis 4:7ff).
3. Eliminating God doesn't solve the problem, for innocent people
still suffer, even in the world which the atheist lives or wants.
In fact, without God, you have another problem. In a no-God universe
innocent people still suffer, but this time, they suffer in vain!
Does that make you feel better?
Taxes:
Does Becoming A Christian Release Me From Earthly Obligations?
1.
No. Christianity doesn't obilterate our obligation to whatever
civil government we might find ourselves under (Romans 13:1-8;
1 Peter 2:13); the responsibility to treat our employers with
respect (1 Peter 2:18); or honor our parents (Ephesians 6:1).
2. A 'Christianity' that encourages Christians not to pay their
taxes, show disrespect for government officials or parents, and
which also contends that wives no longer need to be in submission
to their husbands (1 Peter 3:1-7), is not the relationship with
God revealed by Jesus Christ. 3. Rather, when one becomes a Christian,
they are to become the best husband, wife, child, parent, citizen,
employee or employer which any society could hope to have (Ephesians
5:22-6:9; Titus 2:1-10; 1 Peter 2:11-3:7).
Tradition:
Is It A Good Thing In Religion?
1.
The word tradition simply means that which has been handed down.
The traditions approved of in the Bible are those teachings which
were handled down to Christians by the Apostles (2 Thessalonians
2:15), and all such teachings are found in the New Testament (Jude
3; 2 Peter 1:3; John 16:13; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). 2. But we run
into a problem when purely human traditions are added to Christianity.
The Bible contains many warnings about adding to the revelation
which God has given man (Galatians 1:6-9; 2 John 9; Revelation
22:18-19). 3. Neither are we left wondering how God feels when
human traditions are placed alongside of His commandments. When
the Son of God came to this earth He specifically rebuked people
who had added human traditions to the Divinely approved religion
(Matthew 15:1-9; Mark 7:1-13). He said that such a combination
makes our worship worthless. Let us make sure that what we are
doing and saying in the name of God is supported by book, chapter
and verse---before we practice it.
Trust:
Can I Trust God With My Life?
1.
He created you in the first place (Genesis 1:26), which means
He know your true needs. 2. He allowed His only Son to die for
your sins (John 3:16; Romans 5:6-8; 8:32). 3. He allows His physical
blessings to come upon evil and ungrateful people (Luke 6:35).
4. He already has proven that He loves you. 5. In view of your
own sins and the foolish choices you have made, the real question
is, 'Can you trust yourself with your own life?' (Romans 6:21)
Truth:
Does Each Generation Discover More Spiritual Truth?
If
we are under the assumption that each new generation will be wiser
and more enlightened then previous generations, we are in for
a shock when we read the Scriptures. 1. Jesus promised that all
truth would be revealed through His Apostles (John 16:13), and
it was (2 Peter 1:3l Jude 3). 2. In the Biblical record we often
find that instead of gaining greater insight into spiritual realities,
future generations can often lose sight of the truth or completely
ignore it (Romans 1:18-32; Judges 2:10). 3. Through His Apostles,
Jesus plainly revealed that following their generation a great
doctrinal apostasy would hit the church (Acts 20:29; 1 Timothy
4:1-3; 2 Timothy 4:2-4). Even while they were alive a good number
of professed Christians were going after various false doctrines
(Galatians 4:11-16; 2 Thess. 1:3; 1 Timothy 1:3; 2 Timothy 2:16-18;
1 John 4:1-3; 3 John 9). For those who are tempted to ridicule
basic Bible teaching as outdated or antiquated, carefully consider
the following, "Thus says the Lord, stand by the ways and
see and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is, and
walk in it; and you shall find rest for your souls" (Jeremiah
6:16).
Truth:
Can I Even Know The Truth?
A
popular idea in our society today is that each one of us is so
influenced by our upbringing, gender, race and culture that we
can only see our version of the truth. All of us are hopelessly
prejudiced by our own preconceived ideas and hence what is truth
for me may not be truth for you. 1. But Jesus doesn’t agree, rather
salvation is inherently linked with knowing the truth (John 8:31-32),
and not just some truth or part of the truth, but a correct, full
and precise knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). In both passages
the Greek words translated ‘knowledge’ mean a full and exact knowledge.
2. God also specifically commands us to make a clear distinction
between our prejudices, opinions, preconceived ideas and His truth
(Proverbs 3:5 "Trust in the Lord will all your heart, and
do not lean on your own understanding"; Ephesians 5:17).
3. God not only believes, but commands all of us to put aside
our opinions and honestly, objectively and courageously study
His revelation (Acts 17:11; 2 Timothy 2:15). You are prepared
to believe the truth, even though it may prove you wrong? (Romans
3:4)
UFO's:
What If Life Is Found Beyond This Planet?
1.
It would be the final blow to the theory of Evolution. The mathematical
chances of life spontaneously arising from non-life just once
are equivalent to zero. But if life or the former existence of
life is found outside of this earth--then what are the mathematical
chances of life arising from nothing (by chance), not once, but
more than once? 2. If life is one day discovered to exist beyond
this earth it will present no problem for the Christian, for God
is the Creator of all life, both physical and spiritual (Colossians
1:16; 1 Corinthians 15:38-41). 3. The Christian already believes
in life-forms from another world, i.e. God (2 Corinthians 13:14);
angels (Hebrews 1:14), etc...3. Extra-terrestrial life has already
visited this planet, the Creator Himself came and died for our
sins (John 1:1-14; 3:16).
Unbelief:
Why Are Some People Unbelievers?
1.
It’s not because some people are predisposed to reject the idea
of God, for all men and women are created in His image (Genesis
1:26-27), which means that all have the same ability to accept
and obey Him. 2. Neither is it due to a lack of evidence concerning
God’s existence (Psalm 19:1; Romans 1:20; Acts 14:15-17). 3. Rather,
unbelief is often rooted in a moral problem rather than an intellectual
problem. A synonym for the word unbelief in the Bible is the term
disobedience (Heb. 3:18-19). Often, people reject the existence
of God because there is some self-serving reason that they don’t
want to obey Him. Admitting that God is, also means admitting
that absolute truth exists, the Bible is His revelation to mankind,
which means we aren’t given the right to ignore or bend moral
truths for our convenience. And a final judgment awaits all of
us, at which we will give an account (2 Corinthians 5:10), and
spent eternity in heaven or hell (Matthew 25:46). So unbelief
is very convenient for the person who wants to be free or moral
responsibility (Psalm 14:1).
Mark
Dunagan | Beaverton Church of Christ | 503-644-9017
www.beavertonchurchofchrist.net | mdunagan@easystreet.com
