1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free… Read More
Q&A 1014 – Sighing in the Spirit
Some of Watchman Nee’s writings speak of ways in which a spirit can "sense." He calls this intuition. Examples are Mark 2:8 (perceiving in his spirit), Mark 8:12 (He sighed… Read More
Q&A 0179 – Soul and spirit
In Hebrews 4:12-13, what is the difference between soul and spirit? Is this human spirit or Holy Spirit? — Julio Carranza What’s the difference between soul and spirit? Hebrews 4:12… Read More
GALATIANS 5
1 For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. 2 Listen! I, Paul, am telling you that if… Read More
Psalm 51
Here are a podcast and notes for Psalms 51: Create in Me a Pure Heart (34 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as”… Read More
Detoxing a Church / Holy Spirit and Doctrine
IBTM Newsletter 27 Sept 2023 Good afternoon from beautiful Morecambe! (Photo taken from end of our street.) Today’s offerings: An interview with Scott McKnight on Detoxing a Church An invitation… Read More
What Happens When We Die? – by Gordon Ferguson
Introduction Probably all religious people have questions about what happens when we die. Many of them believe that we cease to exist at death until the resurrection at the end… Read More
Q&A 1456 – Praying in the Spirit?
I have some questions about 1 Corinthians 14:14: “If I pray in tongues, my spirit is in prayer but my mind is unfruitful.” I understand that today there no longer exists the… Read More
Q&A 0981 – The Spirit envies?
James 4:5 is often translated: "Or do you suppose that the Law speaks in vain when it says that the Spirit, whom God has caused to live in us, longs… Read More
1 CORINTHIANS 12
1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. 2 You know that when you were pagans, you were enticed and led astray… Read More
Silly Putty Bible Study
AUTHOR Greg Koukl Published on 09/01/2023 To celebrate Stand to Reason’s 30th anniversary, we’ll be republishing classic issues of Solid Ground that represent some of the foundational ideas characterizing our… Read More
Don’t Grieve the Spirit (Daniel C. Berk)
Holy Spirit 4 July 5th, 2016 God Grieves From Within I’ve been here in St. Louis for a few days now before a North American conference begins, and I’m inspired by… Read More
JOHN 14 – B
15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always, 17… Read More
1 CORINTHIANS 2
1 When I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come proclaiming the mystery of God to you in lofty words or wisdom. 2 For I decided to… Read More
No Barriers to the Spirit, by Malcolm Cox
No barriers to the Spirit “…but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.” 1 Cor 2:3–5… Read More
Q&A 1485 – Do angels have the Holy Spirit?
Good evening! A young Christian just asked if angels have the Holy Spirit. I never thought about it: Is “having” the Spirit necessary in heaven? The Spirit is there….. We’re given… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 42
Click on the arrow to play the podcast (20 minutes), or right click here, in order to download, save, and listen later. 4:1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test… Read More
ACTS 1
In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions… Read More
1 JOHN 4
1 Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2… Read More
The Unity of the Spirit and “Lines of Fellowship”
Unity of the Spirit and “Lines of Fellowship” – Matt Dabbs Paul was much more ecumenical than I was growing up. The more I read Paul the more divisive… Read More
Q&A 0035 – Gifts of the Spirit
I have always been troubled by Acts 8:14-19. One explanation I have been told is that the Holy Spirit discussed here means only the miraculous gifts of the Spirit, and… Read More
MATTHEW 12 – B
22 Then one was brought to him who was demon-possessed, blind and mute; and he healed him, so that the blind and mute man both spoke and saw. 23 And… Read More
MATTHEW 3
1 In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand! 3 For this is… Read More
JOHN 16
1 “I have said these things to you to keep you from stumbling. 2 They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, an hour is coming when those who… Read More
ROMANS 8 – B
18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. 19 For the… Read More
Q&A 0764 – When did Jesus receive the Spirit?
My Bible group asked me a question I was unable to answer, and so I seek your advice. Did Jesus receive the Holy Spirit at birth? I know John the… Read More
Q&A 0727 – The Spirit
In Acts 8, why wasn’t the indwelling Spirit given to the Samaritans at their baptism? Why did the apostles have to lay hands on them for them to receive the… Read More
The Seven Sacraments
Note: The following was constructed from an 8-part series in our 2022 newsletter. Catholicism’s Seven Sacraments The Council of Trent (1545-1563) affirmed: “If anyone says that the sacraments… are not… Read More
Gordon Fee Obituary—Christianity Today
Gordon Fee once told his students on the first day of a New Testament class at Wheaton College that they would—someday—come across a headline saying “Gordon Fee Is Dead.” “Do… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 28
Jesus has been preparing his apostles for the persecution to come (15:18 into chapter 16). Persecuting Christians will come to be seen as service to God (v.2). John’s gospel was… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 16
Click on the arrow to play the podcast (19 minutes), or right click here to download and listen later. 32 The Pharisees heard the crowd muttering such things about him, and the… Read More
MARK 1 – A
1 The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. 2 It is written in the prophet Isaiah: Look, I am going to send my messenger in… Read More
ACTS 2 – A
1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled… Read More
ACTS 19
1 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the… Read More
Campbell Bible Study
Campbell Study MILLENNIAL HARBINGER, NEW SERIES. VOLUME III.—–NUMBER I. ================================================================= B E T H A N Y, VA. JANUARY, 1839. ================================================================= BIBLE READING NOTHING is more talked about amongst professors, and nothing… Read More
2 CORINTHIANS 3
1 Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, as some do, letters of recommendation to you, or from you? 2 You yourselves are our letter of… Read More
Q&A 0929 – John’s Baptism and the Spirit
You wrote that those who received John’s baptism probably didn’t get baptized again. So how then did they get the indwelling or seal of the Holy Spirit? Did John’s baptism… Read More
Q&A 0674 – Water baptism and Holy Spirit Baptism
I would like to study the water and HS baptism as one in the same theme. Do you have some scriptures or a study on that? Yes, chapter 24 of… Read More
Q&A 0444 – Praying in the Spirit
In Ephesians 6:18, Paul talks about praying in the Spirit. How can we do this? — L.V. (Virginia Beach) In Ephesians, as well as in 1 Corinthians (14:14) and Jude… Read More
SOM 02—Poor
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). There are at least 20 beatitudes uttered by Jesus in the N.T. (8 in Matthew,… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 7
We come to the ever-popular John 3! While most who profess Christ know only verse 16, the entire chapter is chock-full of incredible passages. For example, verse 16 requires faith… Read More
Q&A 1460 – Muhammad prophesied in the Bible?
I happened to watch a video by a Muslim apologist. He claims that the Comforter mentioned in the Bible [in John 14] is Muhammad, and that he is also mentioned in… Read More
LUKE 1 – B
8 Once when Zechariah’s division was on duty and he was serving as priest before God, 9 he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to… Read More
Linguistic Insight: Galatians 5:19-23
19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions; 21and envy, drunkenness,… Read More
JOHN 3 – A
1 Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews. 2 He came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are… Read More
ACTS 5
1 Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. 2 With his wife’s full knowledge he kept back part of the money… Read More
ACTS 8
1 And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered… Read More
1 CORINTHIANS 6
1 When any of you has a grievance against another, do you dare to take it to court before the unrighteous, instead of taking it before the saints? 2 Do… Read More
1 CORINTHIANS 14
1 Pursue love and strive for the spiritual gifts, and especially that you may prophesy. 2 For those who speak in a tongue do not speak to other people but… Read More
GALATIANS 6
1 Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other’s… Read More
EPHESIANS 4
1 I, then, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to live in a manner worthy of the call you have received, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience,… Read More
Q&A 1629–Jesus goes, the Spirit comes?
Why did Jesus say he had to go in order for the Holy Spirit to come to the disciples? – T.K. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep… Read More
Holy Spirit series 1: Introduction
Listen to the introductory podcast in a series on the Spirit (17 minutes), in which I begin to share about my experience in the Charismatic Movement, and broach the subject… Read More
Q&A 0072 – Holy Spirit – Acts 10
I have a question about baptism and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. There are certainly numerous accounts in the Bible indicating that baptism is an integral part of… Read More
Q&A 0033 – Paul filled with the Spirit?
You said on page 212 of The Spirit that Ananias laid his hands on Paul so that he would receive his sight, but Acts 9:17 also says "and be filled… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 41
From the mention of rebirth (“born of him” in 2:29), John moves into praise for God and his love for us as his children. He reminds us that the reason… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 26
Having heard Jesus’ prediction of his betrayal, and death, the apostles are understandably anxious. That is why in 14:1 Jesus tries to calm them. We too may have our own reasons for… Read More
Responses to the Paradigm Shift series
Here is an assortment of comments on the Paradigm Series, sent in from all over the world (Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Australia). We have edited some of them… Read More
Q&A 0378 – Evil spirits
I often read in the Bible about some evil spirit torturing people. How should I see that? Is it just a kind of interpretation of a (mental) illness, or were… Read More
LUKE 12 – A
1 Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: “Be on your… Read More
JOHN 4 – A
1 When Jesus knew that the Pharisees heard He was making and baptizing more disciples than John 2 (though Jesus Himself was not baptizing, but His disciples were), 3 He… Read More
Q&A 0108 – The Use of “Lord” and “God” in the N.T.
You said in your article The Trinity that the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Spirit is God, but that the Father is not the Son, the… Read More
Report: Minneapolis/St Paul, by David Barnes
The Minneapolis/St.Paul Church of Christ enjoyed a weekend filled with inspirational teaching from Dr. Douglas Jacoby. The weekend saw extra encouragement as the brothers and sisters from Madison, WI joined… Read More
Q&A 0007 – The Trinity
Can you recommend reading material about ‘Trinity’ theology? — Joel Hughes, Triangle, North Carolina Many works – thousands of pages! – have been written about the Trinity. Because this is… Read More
ROMANS 12
1 Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship. 2… Read More
1 CORINTHIANS 4
1 Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. 2 Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy. 3 But… Read More
EPHESIANS 2
1 You were dead in your transgressions and sins 2 in which you once lived following the age of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air,… Read More
2 TIMOTHY 1
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God according to the promise of the life which is in Christ Jesus, 2 To Timothy, my beloved child:… Read More
HEBREWS 3
1 Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the apostle and high priest of our confession, Christ Jesus, 2 who was faithful to him who appointed him, as… Read More
1 JOHN 3
1 How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world… Read More
Holy Spirit 7
In this seventh and final podcast in the series on the Spirit, we consider further areas in which the Spirit works. In particular, we consider what it means to the… Read More
Q&A 0057 – An evil spirit from God?
In 1 Samuel 19:9 and 16:14 it states that an evil spirit from the Lord came upon Saul, and in James 1:13 it states God does not tempt anyone. How… Read More
The Trinity and Latter-day Saints
The Trinity and Latter-day Saints By David Baggett | Bulletin Roundtable Aug 11 In this month’s Roundtable discussion, the team is tackling topics related to other religions (see Part 1 by Paul… Read More
The Nature of Christian Unity: Historical Understandings of Churches of Christ
The Nature of Christian Unity: Historical Understandings of Churches of Christ Written by Douglas A. Foster, The below are excerpts from a paper presented at the Stone-Campbell Dialogue in June… Read More
Solitude Shapes Community and Mission, Brandon Bradley
Can We Begin With Solitude? I am honored that John Teal, one of my former students at CCCB, asked me to contribute to the Common Grounds discussion. He asked me… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 43
Two of the most encouraging verses in the Bible are found in 1 John 5. Verse 3 says God’s commands aren’t burdensome. Walking in the light—and basking in it—isn’t only… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 32
We continue our study of the crucifixion, from the middle of John 19. Click on the arrow to play the podcast (24 minutes), or right click here, to save and listen… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 9
The story of the Samaritan woman is well known. She is a stranger to Jesus, as he is to her. But his interaction speaks volumes about what it means to… Read More
Q&A 1393—The meaning of Luke 11:13
What is Jesus talking about in Luke 11:13, since we receive the Spirit at baptism? — S.F. Here’s the passage, in case anybody isn’t familiar with it: 11 “Which of you… Read More
Q&A 1385 – With human divinity, is there a “quadrinity”?
Is there a quadrinity? Clearly, the Bible supports the triune nature of God. Moreover, the Scriptures demonstrate mutual love, honor, submission, and dependency between each part. I cannot help but notice… Read More
Decision-making & the Will of God
To hear Decision-making & The Will of God (48 minutes), click on the play button below: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or… Read More
MARK 9
1 And he said to them, “I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God come with power.”… Read More
LUKE 3 – A
1 In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar — when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod tetrarch of Galilee, his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and… Read More
Apologetics: The Real Jesus of History, by Joel Stephen Williams
Material found and used with permission from www.DoesGodExist.org. The Real Jesus of History by Joel Stephen Williams Since many have undertaken to set down an orderly account of the events… Read More
JOHN 7 – B
32 The Pharisees heard the crowd muttering these things about Him, so the chief priests and the Pharisees sent temple police to arrest Him. 33 Then Jesus said, “I am… Read More
JOHN 19 – B
17 They took Jesus, therefore, and He went out, bearing His own cross, to the place called the Place of a Skull, which is called in Hebrew, Golgotha. 18 There… Read More
Q&A 0164 – John’s baptism
In Acts 19:1-7, the men Paul spoke to were disciples. Where were those men standing with God if they had repented and been baptized and forgiven of their sins? What… Read More
ACTS 10 – B
34 Then Peter began to speak: “I now realise how true it is that God does not show favouritism 35 but accepts men from every nation who fear him and… Read More
ACTS 11
1 The apostles and the brothers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. 2 So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers… Read More
THE 5 SHORT BOOKS OF THE BIBLE: JUDE
COMMENTS General: The short epistle was written by Jude (Judas), one of the four brothers of Jesus Christ (Matthew 13:55-56), and warns against the godlessness of false teachers espousing libertinism…. Read More
ROMANS 7
1 Or do you not know, brethren (for I am speaking to those who know the law), that the law has jurisdiction over a person as long as he lives?… Read More
JUDE 1 – B
11 Woe to them! They followed the way of Cain, abandoned themselves to Balaam’s error for the sake of gain, and perished in the rebellion of Korah. 12 These are… Read More
Q&A 0937 – The Spirit and Isaiah 61
Isaiah 61:1 tells of the binding up of the brokenhearted and freedom for the captives. "The spirit of the sovereign Lord is on me." Who is me? I always thought… Read More
Q&A 0906 – Righteousness imparted by the Spirit?
When Jesus died on the cross, did he impart his righteousness to us through the Holy Spirit? Please help me also with scriptural references. — Art The answer is yes… Read More
Q&A 0516 – “Big” sins and “small” sins (blasphemy against the Spirit)
I have often heard it said that there are no such thing as "big sins" or "small sins," since all deserve death in the eyes of God. But in Mark… Read More
Why So Many Unreached People? / Egalitarian? / Harry Potter a Christian Story?
11 October 2023 The IBTM Newsletter Good afternoon from London! I’m down here on a fellowship visit, seeing old friends from our ministry in the ‘80s and early ‘90s. (They… Read More
Prism 04: Israel, or Christ? Herod, or Jesus? (Matt 2:13-23)
Hosea 11:1—When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son. 2 The more they were called, the more they went away; they kept sacrificing to the Baals and burning offerings to… Read More
Ten Practices That Will Lead To Greater Unity, by Rubel Shelly
Written by Rubel ShellySeptember 2022 Edition The following article is reproduced by permission of its author, Rubel Shelly. This list of ten practices was handed out at Harbor: The Pepperdine Bible… Read More
August Issue of The Worldview Bulletin-Pt. 1
August Issue of The Worldview Bulletin-Pt. 1 Gnosticism | Spiritual Transformation of the Body Sep 3 Greetings from The Worldview Bulletin team! In this August issue, Paul Copan explains and critiques… Read More
Standing at the Crossroads
Standing at the Crossroads One Sunday in the 1980s, serving as a campus minister, I found myself standing at the crossroads in front of our church building. I was debating… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 14
Click on the arrow to play the podcast (20 minutes), or right click here to download and listen later. 6:37 Everything that the Father gives me will come to me, and… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 3
Having set the stage with his prologue (vv.1-18), John the evangelist now begins the story proper. In this lesson (22 minutes), we cover John 1:19-34, which details the first two… Read More
Messianic Prophecy
Any study of prophecy eventually leads us to Christ. Prophecies about the Messiah are called “Messianic” prophecies. The term “messiah” comes from the Hebrew Massiah, which means “anointed one.” The… Read More
Q&A 1140 — The end of the miraculous age
I’ve been considering the Holy Spirit. I wonder: if you were left only to the scriptures, what would you conclude about the Holy Spirit and whether or not the miraculous aspect… Read More
Q&A 0837 – Christians do not need to obey law?
The apostle Paul says that law was abolished. This means that there is no law to follow and no law to condemn us (when we break it), doesn’t it? Now,… Read More
MATTHEW 10 – A
1 He called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out evil spirits and to heal every disease and sickness. 2 These are the names of… Read More
Q&A 0571 – Practical repentance: Smoking
If you’re studying the Bible and are a smoker but haven’t been baptized yet, should being a smoker stop you from being baptized?… Most smokers haven’t been immersed, therefore they… Read More
Q&A 0275 – Pelagianism
Recently, an article I read accused my church of Pelagianism. From the context, it seems Pelagius believed Adam’s sin was not passed down from generation to generation, except in the… Read More
JOHN 1 – C
29 The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is he… Read More
ACTS 2 – B
37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 Peter replied, “Repent and… Read More
ACTS 4
1 The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. 2 They were greatly… Read More
ROMANS 15
1 We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please his neighbor for his good,… Read More
EPHESIANS 1
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, to the holy ones who are (in Ephesus) faithful in Christ Jesus: 2 grace to you and peace… Read More
EPHESIANS 5
1 So be imitators of God, as beloved children, 2 and live in love, as Christ loved us and handed himself over for us as a sacrificial offering to God… Read More
EPHESIANS 6
1 Children, obey your parents (in the Lord), for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother.” This is the first commandment with a promise, 3 “that it may… Read More
1 THESSALONIANS 5
1 Now concerning the times and the seasons, brothers and sisters, you do not need to have anything written to you. 2 For you yourselves know very well that the… Read More
2 THESSALONIANS 2
1 As to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we beg you, brothers and sisters, 2 not to be quickly shaken in… Read More
1 JOHN 5
1 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. 2 This is how we know… Read More
Miscellaneous Audio Lessons
Being a teacher: Do You Have What it Takes? (1995) 02-08-2008-Douglas-Jacoby-Do-All-Roads-Lead-to-God 03-25-2007-Douglas-Jacoby-Why-Does-a-Good-God-Allow-Evil 04-18-2010-Jacoby-Kinnard-Sermon-on-the-Mount 06-18-2006-Douglas-Jacoby-Messianic-Prophecy 07-05-2012-Douglas-Jacoby-Culture-War 07-05-2012-Douglas-Jacoby-How-to-Read-the-Bible-for-All-Its-Worth 07-09-2013-Douglas-Jacoby-Interview-on-WORD-FM 07-15-2013-Douglas-Jacoby-The-Holy-Spirit-Miracles-Today 07-15-2013-Douglas-Jacoby-The-Holy-Spirit-the-New-Testament 07-15-2013-Douglas-Jacoby-The-Holy-Spirit-the-Old-Testament 07-26-2006-Douglas-Jacoby-Messianic-Prophecy 08-01-2007-Douglas-Jacoby-Church-History 09-09-2007-Douglas-Jacoby-Why-We-Can-Trust-The-Bible 10-09-2007-Douglas-Jacoby-Reaching-A-Postmodern-World 10-18-2006-Douglas-Jacoby-One-Lord 11-29-2009-Douglas-Jacoby-Ministry-Update Douglas-Jacoby-Apologetics-315-Interview
Watchman Nee on Soul & Spirit, by Gordon Ferguson
WATCHMAN NEE’S TEACHING ON SOUL AND SPIRIT: A FORM OF NEO-GNOSTICISM A Review By Gordon Ferguson My Introduction To Watchman Nee and Witness Lee In my first ministry job, I… Read More
Holy Spirit 3
Our third podcast (17 minutes) covers a number of scriptures, like Acts 19 (Sons of Sceva), 2 Thessalonians 2:9ff (the powerful delusion), Matthew 6 (“many words,” a possible reference to… Read More
Holy Spirit 4
Click below to listen to Holy Spirit lesson 4 (11 minutes). Scriptures referred to in this podcast include 1 Corinthians 14:23; John 16:23; Luke 1:15, John 10:41; and 1 Corinthians… Read More
Q&A 0303 – The Spirit Doctrine of Kardec
I would like you to help me understand Matthew 17:1-13. Did Jesus communicate with the dead? How does this relate to the spirit doctrine of Kardec? — Márcio (Salvador Brazil)… Read More
8 Ways We Normalize the Abnormal | Crossway Articles
The Norm Should Be Love God has made it clear that the norm for his children should be love. It is the thing that the listening and watching world should… Read More
From Five Fingers to Five Steps – Jack R. Reese
From Five Fingers to Five Steps Written by Jack Reese – Excerpt from “At the Blue Hole,” Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., Grand Rapids, 2021. Reprinted with permission. Scott (Walter… Read More
Isaiah: Judgment & Justice—Reflection 31
The Glory of the Lord We’ve covered a lot of territory—66 chapters of the Word of God (5.5% of the entire Bible), rich in content, metaphor, and power. As we… Read More
Isaiah: Judgment & Justice—Reflection 26
A House of Prayer for All Nations 56:1-8—Justice and righteousness intimately connected. “Son of man” (v.2) is a Hebraic expression meaning mortal. No one is excluded, e.g. foreigners and eunuchs…. Read More
CLEAN – podcast 18, The Slave Girl of Acts 16:16 (= NT character podcast 62)
To listen to CLEAN podcast 18, The Slave Girl of Acts 16:16 (14 minutes), click on arrow. To download and listen later, right click here and choose ‘save target as’ or ‘save link as’. Introduction… Read More
Q&A 1590—Smoking mushrooms, the spiritual world, and marijuana
Douglas and John, would you please address the issue of Christians smoking mushrooms, especially for healing, from an eastern medical perspective? What about the spirit world? I know some believers who… Read More
Sharing Solitude in Community – Brandon Bradley
Sharing Solitude in Community – Brandon Bradley In my last article, we explored Henri Nouwen’s idea of a wagon wheel as a simple model of the balance of solitude and… Read More
Patrons, Prophets, and Preachers, by Rob Kranz
Respond to this post by replying above this line New post on Stepping into the Jordan Patrons, Prophets, and Preachers by Rob Kranz One of the advantages of teaching is that I always… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 27
Click on the arrow to play the podcast (18 minutes), or right click here, save and listen later. Chapter 15 tells us about our relationship to Jesus (vv.1-17), using three different… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 12
Today we finish our study of John 5. Click on the arrow to play the podcast (20 minutes), or right click here to download and listen later. 19 Jesus said to them, “Very… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 8
Click on the arrow to play the podcast (18 minutes), or right click here to save and listen later. 16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son,… Read More
TEAMwork, by Steve Kinnard
OCTOBER 30, 2017 / STEVEKINNARD TEAMwork A Bible Talk for Athletes (and everyone else) Opening question: Name someone who has been a great teammate to you. Explain why. I think of a… Read More
A Disciplined Life – Proverbs 20
Click on the arrow to listen to the podcast (21 minutes), or download it by right-clicking here. Salient points: Beware alcoholism (v.1). Indiscipline (v.4) cannot wait, or pace itself…. Read More
Q&A 1342 — Response to The Gay Debate: The Bible & Homosexuality
I am reaching out to a woman who has a gay brother. This man is in a committed relationship and is also a committed church member in a large denomination that… Read More
Jacoby PUBLICATIONS
BOOKS & AUDIO Books Advanced Christian Training (1986) Till the Nets are Full (formerly Shining Like Stars). Also available in Vietnamese. The Powerful Delusion (1987) I Was Hungry! The Christian… Read More
Happy Purim!
Purim — The Upside Down Holiday (by Phillip Lester) Greetings and shalom (peace). If you didn’t know it – this is a special day. Today is Purim! In a world of… Read More
OT20-Caleb.mp3
For O.T. Lesson 20, Caleb (23 minutes), click on the play button below: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and… Read More
Who’s Fat?
Listen to the podcast “Who’s Fat?” (17 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and you can download the… Read More
Q&A 0728 – Is “the perfect” the completed Bible?
I have tried to study about the Holy Spirit, its works and gifts, and all the myriad themes entailed in this insurmountable topic. We learn in 1 Corinthians 13 that… Read More
MATTHEW 5 – A
1 Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them saying: 3… Read More
MARK 1 – B
9 At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptised by John in the Jordan. 10 As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw… Read More
MARK 3
1 Another time he went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. 2 Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so… Read More
MARK 1 – C
21 They went as far as Capernaum, and at once on the Sabbath he went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22 And his teaching made a deep impression… Read More
Q&A 0705 – John the Baptist in prison
When do you think John the Baptist was taken into prison in relationship to Jesus’ ministry? It seems like one account says that after Jesus got back from the wilderness,… Read More
Q&A 0692 – Surrender
Could you please explain the concept of surrender as it applies to "letting go and letting God"? I hear this over and over, but I’m not sure that I know… Read More
Q&A 0677 – Spirits
I recently visited a charismatic church. The sermon was about strengthening the spirit, or, as they put it, "Getting the wuss out of you!" The main scripture was Numbers 13:29,… Read More
LUKE 2 – B
21 On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise him, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he had been conceived. 22 When… Read More
LUKE 4 – A
1 Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, 2 where for forty days he was tempted by the… Read More
Linguistic Insight: palingenesia (rebirth)
This is the word appearing in Titus 3:5, where we read, “He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His… Read More
JOHN 3 – B
22 After this Jesus and his disciples went into the Judean countryside, and he spent some time there with them and baptized. 23 John also was baptizing at Aenon near… Read More
JOHN 6 – B
22 The next day the crowd that had stayed on the opposite shore of the lake realized that only one boat had been there, and that Jesus had not entered… Read More
JOHN 15
1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. 2 He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes… Read More
Holiday Preparation – November 20, 2005
North River Church of Christ: Sermon 20 NOV ’05 Holiday Preparation (5 Principles) HOLIDAY SPIRIT For many of us, 2006 promises to be one of the best years in a… Read More
Q&A 0075 – Why did speaking in tongues disappear?
I’ve been studying out different religious doctrines for a while. One that I am looking for a stronger answer to is the practice of speaking in tongues. It’s evident that… Read More
ACTS 6
1 In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily… Read More
ACTS 13 – A
1 In the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul…. Read More
ACTS 20
1 When the uproar had ended, Paul sent for the disciples and, after encouraging them, said good-bye and set out for Macedonia. 2 He travelled through that area, speaking many… Read More
1 CORINTHIANS 5
1 It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that is not found even among pagans; for a man is living with his… Read More
2 CORINTHIANS 11
1 I wish you would bear with me in a little foolishness. Do bear with me! 2 I feel a divine jealousy for you, for I promised you in marriage… Read More
2 CORINTHIANS 13
1 This is the third time I am coming to you. “Any charge must be sustained by the evidence of two or three witnesses.” 2 I warned those who sinned… Read More
EPHESIANS 3
1 Because of this, I, Paul, a prisoner of Christ (Jesus) for you Gentiles — 2 if, as I suppose, you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace that… Read More
Judge Not!
Douglas Jacoby, Stockholm 1990 The following study is useful for anyone who has heard that we should never “judge.” Certainly, a judgmental spirit is wrong and unbecoming of a believer,… Read More
1 PETER 1
1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the chosen sojourners of the dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, 2 in the foreknowledge of God the Father, through… Read More
Holy Spirit 2
In lesson 2, we examine scriptures in Colossians 2, Deuteronomy 13, and 1 Samuel 19. 1 Kings 13 contains another superb illustration of the danger of elevating anything above the… Read More
Most adult US Christians don’t believe Holy Spirit is real: study
Most adult US Christians don’t believe Holy Spirit is real: study By Leonardo Blair, Christian Post Reporter Parishioners of Lakewood Church led by Pastor Joel Osteen pray together during a service… Read More
Holy Spirit Series by Daniel C. Berk
Part 2 of Daniel’s series on the Holy Spirit can be read in his newsletter here. To sign up for all of his newsletters, go to www.danielcberk.com.
The Holy Spirit / Der Heilige Geist, Part 3
Third of 3 classes done by Douglas in Berlin, Germany on 20 October 2015. Audio and video options below. Audio: Video:
The Holy Spirit / Der Heilige Geist, Part 2
The second of 3 classes done in Berlin, Germany on 13 October 2015. Audio: Video:
Holy Spirit 6
To hear the sixth podcast (11 minutes), click on the link below. Scriptures mentioned include John 14 (the go-to chapter on the indwelling); Acts 13:1-4; Romans 8:14, Galatians 5:18; Psalm… Read More
Holy Spirit 5
2 Timothy 1:7; 2 Corinthians 3:17-18; Acts 10:24; and other passages were referred to in the fifth podcast. To hear this podcast (15 minutes), click below. Click here to download.
Baptism with the Holy Spirit
Introduction In 1976 after I my “conversion experience “1 I began attending charismatic prayer meetings. I continued to go because there were lots of food nice girls and a high… Read More
Video Highlights: Can You Explain This Essential Doctrine?
Why the Trinity Is Biblical October 2023 Video Highlights:The Bible Is Clear about the Trinity Is the Holy Spirit God? In this 12–minute excerpt from Stand to Reason University, Robby Lashua… Read More
Q&A 1648—What is Commonwealth Theology?
Q: What is “Commonwealth Theology”? Is it true that we who are non-Jews have Jewish blood in our veins, and are the “House of Ephraim”? .PDF version TEXT VERSION (following]… Read More
Q&A 1637—Are the sexual standards of Scripture “cultural”? (And a word on inerrancy)
I have heard that the biblical authors did not understand sexual orientation or the concept of loving, monogamous gay relationships as we do today—making their writings obsolete. My thinking is… Read More
How to conduct a spiritual review and preview-Malcolm Cox
Review and Prepare: Revelation 2:18-29 Here are some notes you might like to use for a spiritual review of 2022 and to help prepare spiritually for 2023. The videos I… Read More
What Plato Got Right and Wrong
What Plato Got Right and Wrong By Louis Markos May 25, 2022 From the point of view of orthodox Christianity, the essential flaw in the Platonic system is its incessant… Read More
The Church of Loveless Orthodoxy
A truly excellent new release—and one I’ve greatly enjoyed reading—was authored by my Canadian friend, biblical scholar Jeff Weima. Dr. Weima is Professor of New Testament at Calvin Theological Seminary. Diligent… Read More
What Should I Do To Become a Christian Teacher?, by John Oakes
Adapted with permission from Evidenceforchristianity.org I [John Oakes] have been serving as a teacher in one way or another for more than thirty years. It is my career, as a professor… Read More
Brother Lawrence
Introduction We may be tempted to conceive of Christian history as a vast wasteland stretching from the post-apostolic period till fairly modern times; yet this is not quite accurate. Even… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 33
John 19 concludes with the burial of Jesus. Now, in John 20, it is Sunday morning, the third day since the crucifixion—and the tomb is empty! Click on the arrow… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 25
Jesus speaks to the apostles in chapters 13-16, on the eve of his death. For an excellent study on John 13:31-17:26, read The Last Discourse, by James Greig. Even though he knows… Read More
Q&A 1477 – Same-day conversion / baptism?
In Luke 19:9-10, Jesus said to Zacchaeus, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to… Read More
Romans E (2:17-29)
Romans E (18 minutes) continues the study of the typical weaknesses of religious people, particularly hypocrisy and condescension. Click here to download. Isaiah 52:5 — God’s people often misrepresent him… Read More
THRIVE! (sample chapter)
Don’t Just Survive. Thrive! Using Psalms to Help You Soar Table of Contents Thriving—or Just Surviving? Psalm 23 Two Paths: Psalm 1 God’s Word in the Psalms: Psalms 19 &… Read More
OT28-Saul.mp3
For O.T. Lesson 28, Saul (18 minutes), click on the play button below: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and… Read More
Matters of Conscience — A Deeper Look, by Gordon Ferguson
Common Misconceptions The study of conscience biblically is a very interesting study, due partly to how misunderstood the subject actually is by many. For example, it is common to hear… Read More
2006 International Teachers’ Seminar feedback
Responses to the 12th Annual International Teachers’ Conference (November 2006, Washington DC) “The conference was a very encouraging and fulfilling time! In the spirit of Psalm 18:25, I was very… Read More
Q&A 1330 – Censorship of Christian Songs
Censorship of Christian Songs — replies: Ferguson, Jacoby, and Oakes It seems that many modern evangelical songs stress blessings and grace, with little emphasis on discipleship or repentance. Some song… Read More
Q&A 1307 – Should I Be Re-baptized?
This is a question that comes up repeatedly. Some of the reasons given are as follows: The person did not understand Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. The person was confused… Read More
Prayer & Fasting
To hear Prayer & Fasting (40 minutes), click on the play button: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and… Read More
Apollos
For N.T. Character Study 21, Apollos (27 minutes), click on the play button below: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target… Read More
Q&A 1257 – Division
Can you elaborate on the idea of godly division v. sinful division? — Ed Good question. I hope these general comments about division help clarify the issue at hand. God… Read More
Heaven is for Real (Or Is it?)
Listen to Heaven is for Real—Or Is It? (18 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and you can… Read More
Pentecost
Here you will find a podcast plus notes on Pentecost (9 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and you… Read More
Q&A 1087 – Patristic Support for Infant Baptism?
I was reading some of the early Christian writings recently and was surprised to come across references to infant baptism in the Church from such patristic heavyweights as Iraneus (130-202), Origen (185-254), Tertullian… Read More
Reincarnation
Listen to Reincarnation I (12 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and you can download the podcast and listen… Read More
Speaking in Tongues
Speaking in Tongues is 28 minutes in length. To listen, click on the play button below: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save… Read More