MASTER DOCUMENT: iFaith Bible Project 0622 In this series we will proceed more or less chronologically through the New Testament and the Old Testament. There are 119 video messages, being recorded… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 34
As noted in the last message, it is possible that the Gospel of John concluded with chapter 20, and that chapter 21 is an addition, either by the original author or by someone… 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 30
Click on the arrow to play the podcast (19 minutes), or right click here, save and listen later. 18:1 After Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples… 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
A Tour Through John, Lesson 19
This entire chapter illustrates how Jesus is the light of the world (8:12; 9:5). Without him all are blind. Click on the arrow to play the podcast (21 minutes), or right… Read More
Atheism & the Burden of Proof, by Paul Copan
Atheism and the Burden of Proof In conversations with atheists, they may challenge us: “You’re claiming that God exists. Therefore, the burden of proof rests on you, not me. So… Read More
OT50-Hosea.mp3
For O.T. Lesson 50, Hosea (26 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
Q&A 1517 – Dark skin a divine curse?
How can some people say that dark skin is a curse from God? They point to the curse of Ham in Genesis 9. The target of Noah’s curse wasn’t so… Read More
Excellent Science & Religion course, by Denis Lamoureux
This course examines the nature of both science and religion and attempts to explore the possible relationships between them. The primary purpose is to dispel the popular myth that science… Read More
Q&A 1502 – How long are the “days” of Genesis 1?
How long are the days in Genesis 1? Some of my friends insist they can only be regular 24-hour days. Others think they may be long periods of time. I’m… Read More
Early Mormonism
Laying the Foundation Mormonism stands or falls on the word of just one man—its prophet— Joseph Smith Jr. If Joseph Smith lied, if there was no “revelation”, if he is proven… Read More
Why I Am Not a Fundamentalist, by Douglas Jacoby
To hear the podcast (44 mins), Why I Am Not a Fundamentalist, click on the play arrow. To download and listen to it later, right click here and then on ‘save link as’… Read More
Q&A 1478 – Is Survivalism Christian?
What about survivalism? Are these people on the right track biblically? Can Christians be “survivalists”? Survivalism as a popular movement is well worth understanding, especially as some Christians are attracted to… Read More
Proverbs on Politics, Power & Governance
Politics in Proverbs (selected) In 2015, while studying the Proverbs on a visit to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, I was struck with just how many of them are political in… Read More
A Disciplined Life – Proverbs 3
To hear the lesson from Proverbs 3 (20 minutes) click on the arrow. Or you can download it and listen later by right-clicking here. Salient points: Keeping the commands in our… Read More
St. Nick: Historical Core of Xmas Lore
Famous Christians 1: Nicholas of Myra This is the story (16 minutes) of Nicholas of Myra, a 4th century Christian leader, who became “Saint Nick.” Though Christmas lore is nearly… Read More
10 Common Misconceptions about Religion
This is the full article connected with the 10 Nov 2015 newsletter, Answering Skeptics AB Our modern world, especially in the industrialized regions, seems to have a love/hate relationship with… Read More
Evil & Suffering: Cruciform living, pt. 1
This is the full newsletter article for 23 Sept 2015. Evil & suffering Today and next week, when we conclude our exploration of the problem of suffering, we will discuss… Read More
Q&A 1414 – Creation myths, the Great Pyramid, and more
“About two years ago, I had a few atheist friends over who during a conversation about a great many things proposed that the Bible was merely a copy of many… Read More
OT34-Ahab-Jezebel.mp3
For O.T. Lesson 34,Ahab & Jezebel (23 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
Understanding the Apocalypse – Class 4: The Dragon and the Beast
The fourth of 7 classes on the Book of Revelation, taught live at the North River Church of Christ at 9 am on the dates below. To listen now, click… Read More
OT34 Ahab and Jezebel
OT34-Ahab-Jezebel 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 to it later. Download… Read More
Q&A 1400 – Christ in Zechariah
I came across Zechariah 14, and am hearing lots of interpretation, from future apocalyptic to that these events have already happened. Since much of the material in the prophets (like… Read More
The Fall of Rome—And Why We Should Take Notice
Why did Rome (753 BC—AD 476) fall? Was it due to external circumstances (barbarian invasion, famine, plague, etc), or to internal ones? We in the West ought to take notice…. Read More
Q&A 1386 – Elf on a Shelf
What do you think about this “elf on a shelf”? A fictional character watches your children and reports to Santa. They are told to be obedient so that the elf… Read More
Bible & Culture, part 1
To listen to the first lesson in the Bible & Culture series (16 minutes), click below. (Note: for a different lesson on the Bible (Old Testament) and culture, please click… Read More
Q&A 1376 – Did God Kill Uzzah?
Author: John Clayton of Does God Exist? Used with permission. When Richard Dawkins released his now famous atheist rant against God, he opened the door for many arm-chair atheists on… Read More
OT30-David
For O.T. Lesson 30, David (17 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
Dragons and the Bible
Listen to the podcast on Dragons (29 minutes). Click here to download. Mythology in the King James Version Unicorns – 9x in KJV Further comment by Chuck Pike (not in… 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
The Gender of God
To hear The Gender of God (13 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
Christ Through the Ages, 22: Jude–Lordship or License?
Our 22nd lesson in Christ Through the Ages comes from the little letter of Jude. The podcast (11 minutes) is entitled Jude: Lordship or License? I hope it proves spiritually… Read More
Christ Through the Ages, 21: 1-3 John–Christ and Antichrist
Our next podcast is 1-3 John–Christ and Antichrist (12 minutes). To download, right click on the link and click “Save Link As” or “Save target As” – Download Podcast Senses… Read More
Pseudepigraphal Works
Works of the Pseudepigrapha include the Apocalypse of Abraham the Apocalypse of Adam the Testament of Adam the Life of Adam and Eve Ahiqar the Letter of Aristeas Aristeas the… 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
Review of Angels & Demons (Jacoby)
A Christian response to Dan Brown’s Angels and Demons29 August 2009 Dan Brown is a great writer, and knows what the average person will find intriguing. I really enjoyed his… Read More
ANGELS & DEMONS (review by Jason Goble)
Movie Review and Musings on Angels & Demons By Jason Goble After the storm of controversy surrounding Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code and the movie that followed, the first… Read More
52 BIBLE READING TIPS (31-52)
For tips 1-30, please click here. Bible Reading Tip 31: Hebrews This anonymous letter was written to Christians from a Jewish background. They were apparently tempted to return to Judaism, or… Read More
Beyond the Firmament, from John Lang
UPDATE: I read the book and have been in contact with the author. Excellent! -DJ I just finished viewing the videos from the link below and I am going… Read More
Christians Don’t Go to Heaven! — N.T. Wright
TESTING THE FAITHBishop: Christians don’t go to heavenAnglican challenges widespread belief, says believers asleep until God returns Posted: February 10, 20082:49 pm Eastern © 2008 WorldNetDaily A bishop described as "one… Read More
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
Engagements 2007-2024
2024 (events in-person [not online] unless noted) Reykjavik, Iceland — Where Is God in this Crazy World? European School of Missions (Paris, by Zoom)—World Religions (4 sessions in Q1) San… Read More
THEME for International Teachers’ Seminar, Patmos & Ephesus
THEME FOR 13th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL TEACHERS’ SEMINAR PATMOS & EPHESUS, 8-9 NOVEMBER 2007 Having solicited ideas from many teachers worldwide, it seems the best theme for our 2007 rendezvous will… 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
ANTHOLOGY: GREAT QUOTES
In a time of universal deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act. — George Orwell When I have a little money, I buy books; and if I have any… Read More
Slander, Gossip, and Malice, by Mohan Nanjundan
June 2003 The other day a dear friend forwarded an e-mail to me with a negative article about the kingdom attached and someone’s comments on the article. I quickly responded… Read More
52 BIBLE READING TIPS (1-30)
Bible Reading Tip 1: Get a version of the Bible you can understand and enjoy. These days there are numerous readable (and reasonably accurate) translations available to the reader of… Read More
The Lord’s Supper
Putting “Supper” Back in the Lord’s Supper This essay aims to address one of the basics of the faith: our communion. People have often asked such questions as why we… Read More
Q&A 1335 – Does God Have Vision?
Does God have vision for humankind? In 1 Timothy 2:4, God wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. So is it correct… Read More
Household Codes (by Jason Goble)
READING THE HOUSEHOLD CODE IN COLOSSIANS FROM AN ETHICAL PERSPECTIVE BY JASON GOBLE APRIL, 2013 Introduction The ancient church outside the synagogue began its existence in Greco-Roman households making the… Read More
Receiving Christ
Here is a study of the popular evangelical doctrine of Receiving Christ (22 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target… Read More
Stephen
For N.T. Character Study 27, Stephen (21 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 1308 – Meditation
My heart’s desire is to be led by the Holy Spirt and continue to grow daily in my prayer life and Bible study. I do realize that I have my… Read More
Decalogue J: The 10th Commandment
Here are a podcast and notes on Decalogue J: The 10th Commandment (14 minutes) To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target… Read More
Witchcraft
For the podcast on on Witchcraft (30 minutes), listen to the podcast. To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and… Read More
Q&A 1306 – The Plans of Man
[Paraphrased] Hi, Doug! My name is Sergiy Shabashkevich, I was baptized 18 years ago in the Kiev Church of Christ (Ukraine). In the last month I have heard several times… Read More
Mormonism
Here are a podcast and notes on Mormonism (47 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and you can… Read More
OT21-Deborah.mp3
For O.T. Lesson 21, Deborah (21 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
Q&A 1298 – How long were the Israelites in Egypt?
How long were the Israelites sojourners in Egypt? Paul assigns a 430-year interval between the Abrahamic covenant given in Genesis and the Mosaic Law introduced at Sinai. The arithmetic gets… Read More
Seven Compact Evidences Arguments
To listen to Seven Compact 4-point Apologetics Arguments Countering Common Atheist / Skeptic Assertions (20 minutes), click on the play button: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and… Read More
Q&A 1291—Filthy rags
“Even when we do our best, our righteousness is filthy rags in God’s sight (Isaiah 64:6). Do you agree?” No, I do not. Works-salvation is rightly rejected by scripture, but… Read More
Clashing Worldviews
While this lesson may be of general interest, it has been designed specifically for M.A. students in Bible & Theology at Lincoln Christian University. These are my own reflections on… Read More
Hebrews: Bridge between the Testaments
Here are a lesson and notes on Hebrews: Bridge between the Testaments (50 minutes). Bridging books There are several books in the NT that intimate connect with the OT, like… Read More
Baha’i & Tolerance
Here are a podcast and notes on Bahá’í & 21st Century Tolerance (18 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and… Read More
“The Doctrine of Non-Accumulation” (Hertzler)
To hear a review of Roger Hertzler’s book on The doctrine of non-accumulation (30 minutes), click on the play button: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select… Read More
Q&A 1277 – Genesis 12:3
How did God bless the world through Abraham? Genesis 12 says he would bless all nations, but most nations don’t follow the Bible. Blessing is a major theme of the… Read More
The Samaritan Woman
For N.T. Character Study 16, The Samaritan Woman (32 minutes), click on the play button below: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or… Read More
OT17-Balaam.mp3
For O.T. Lesson 17, Balaam (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
Q&A 1252 – Palm branches?
When Jesus makes his triumphal entry into Jerusalem (Palm Sunday), what is the significance or symbolism of the palm fronds? You are referring to the event recorded in John 12:13… Read More
Thanksgiving
Here you will find a podcast plus notes on Thanksgiving (19 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and… Read More
Q&A 1237 – Is God feminine?
A seminarian friend recently referred to God as “she.” I asked why. To paraphrase her answer, “In the original language of the scriptures Holy Spirit is always feminine, or the verb describing what… Read More
NT Character Study 11—John
For N.T. Character Study 11, John (11 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
James
For N.T. Character Study 10, James (12 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 1222 – Apostle John validated the papacy?
I have been speaking to a Roman Catholic friend, and his argument for the validity of the papacy was that John was still alive for the first pope, and there was… Read More
NT Character Podcast 5—Paul
For N.T. Character Study 5, Paul (31 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
Mary
For N.T. Character Study 3, Mary (35 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
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
Harry Potter
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 to it later. Download Podcast… Read More
Q&A 1175 – Inaccurate statements in the Bible?
As an atheist, I bring you no "hate mail" of any kind. I would rather you talk to me through email if at all possible (as busy as you are)…. Read More
Q&A 1159—Review of Tolle’s A New Earth
As a Christian sister, I am very interested in Eckhart Tolle’s A New Earth. What is your opinion about this book? I was just wondering. Tolle’s popular A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose has… Read More
Amos L
Here are a podcast and notes on Amos, lesson L (14 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and you can… Read More
Q&A 1114 – Angels in hell and Satan
2 Peter 2:4 says, "For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment…" Now,… Read More
Amos K
Here are a podcast and notes on Amos, lesson K (19 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and you can download… Read More
Amos J
Here are a podcast and notes on Amos, lesson J (18 minutes). To download the file, please click HERE. If the link does not work when you left-click on it, right-click on the… Read More
Amos H
Here are a podcast and notes on Amos, lesson H (22 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and you can download… Read More
Amos E
Here are a podcast and notes on Amos, lesson E (19 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and you can… 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
Amos A
Here are a podcast and notes on Amos, lesson A (30 minutes). To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and you… Read More
The Sabbath
To hear The Sabbath (40 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
Q&A 1049 – Communion (Lord’s Supper)
THE LORD’S SUPPER Putting "Supper" Back in the Lord’s SupperThis essay aims to address one of the basics of the faith: our communion. People have often asked such questions as… Read More
Judging, Tolerance, Exclusivism
To hear Judging, Tolerance, & Exclusivism (21 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 1028 – The harvest: plentiful or sparse?
I am fully aware that truth cannot contradict truth, so I expect no real contradictions in the Bible. However, this seems to be one that I am wrestling with. I… Read More
Q&A 1011 – Numbers in the Bible
Could you tell me if there is a good reference book about the meaning behind God’s repetition of numbers in the Bible? (3, 7, and 40 come immediately to mind.)… Read More
OT08-Ishmael.mp3
For the O.T. Lesson 8, Ishmael (26 minutes), click on the play button below: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as”… Read More
Q&A 0989 — Okay to take shots (alcoholic)?
There is something that does not sit well with my conscience. Disciples all around me are turning 21 and see no problem in taking shots. Of course they say, "Well,… Read More
Q&A 0965 – The Dake Annotated Reference Bible
I’m wondering if you would take a look at the Dake Annotated Reference Bible, written by Finis Jennings Dake. I don’t agree with some of his theology, but there is… Read More
Q&A 0963 – Did God put dinosaur fossils in the ground?
My dad is a history PhD and teaches at a small private college. We had a small discussion the other day that skimmed the surface of the dinosaur debate. He… Read More
Is It Wrong to be Rich?
4 March 2010 (17 mins) Click on the play button below: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and you… Read More
Q&A 0879 – Matthew 28 a commision for all Christians?
I am contesting that Matthew 28 must be interpreted to imply that all disciples are commanded to go and make disciples of all nations. The premise for this interpretation is… Read More
Q&A 0874 – Hades
I’m reading Revelation for the first time, and I’m confused about the concept of Hades. I read your response in Q&A 0227 which states Hades has two compartments, one for… Read More
Q&A 0868 – Homosexuality in the Bible
I see that you have addressed the topic of homosexuality and the Bible in your Q&A. But I wanted to draw your attention to a short study a man has… Read More
Q&A 0836 – All of Paul’s Corinthian letters inspired?
In your teaching on the Corinthian letters, you indicated that there are at least two other letters written by Paul to these churches. Since those letters have not survived to… Read More
Q&A 0834 – Let us (Genesis 1:26)
Who is God talking to in Genesis 1:26 when he said, "Let us"? Who is the us? A good friend of mine is telling me that God is referring to… Read More
Q&A 0831 – Jesus as a created being
Hebrews 1 and Psalms 2, taken together with several passages including Genesis 1, John 1, 1 John 1, Revelation 19 (Jesus the "Word of God") and Philippians 2 lead me… Read More
Q&A 0815 – Premillennialism and Abraham’s inheritance
The foundation for the premillennial doctrine is the promises made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The land was promised to Abraham and his descendants. Acts 7:5 says, "He (God) gave him… Read More
Q&A 0784 – Psalm 118:8 the true center of the Bible?
Is Psalm 118:8 truly the center of the Bible? One website claims it is, while another kind of proves it isn’t, and it just confused me. I’m still not sure who… Read More
Q&A 0769 – Maitreya
Someone wrote, "Many now expect the return of the awaited world teacher, Maitreya, whether they call him the Christ, Messiah, the fifth Buddha, Krishna, or the Imam Mahdi. Millions now… Read More
Q&A 0730 – Suicidio
‘Yo soy discipulo de la iglesia en Bogotá (Colombia) hace más de 10 años. El mes pasado un hermano se ahorcó en su casa, la iglesia hizo una reunión …… 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
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
MATTHEW 7 – B
13 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the… Read More
MATTHEW 13
1 On the same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the sea. 2 And great multitudes were gathered together to him, so that he got into… Read More
MATTHEW 17
1 Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, led them up on a high mountain by themselves; 2 and he was transfigured before them. His… Read More
MATTHEW 21 – A
1 Now when they drew near Jerusalem, and came to Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go into the village opposite… Read More
MATTHEW 22
1 And Jesus answered and spoke to them again by parables and said: 2 “The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son,… Read More
MATTHEW 24
1 Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and his disciples came up to show him the buildings of the temple. 2 And Jesus said to them, “Do… 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
Q&A 0708 – Baby Baptism
I am truly trying not to "speak where the Bible is silent," and I feel like baptizing children is one of those issues. I see that Jesus called children to… Read More
Q&A 0702 – Homosexuality
I have a question regarding homosexuality. I am a Christian and obviously believe God’s word to be true. The Bible says homosexuality is sinful — something to be repented of…. Read More
Q&A 0657 – Is Satan really guilty?
It seems that Satan was created with the sole purpose of sifting men. God knew that Satan and the other angels would turn from him, before he even created him…… Read More
Q&A 0647 – Keys of the Kingdom
I have been taught that in Matthew 16 Peter was given the keys (plural), and used one in Acts 2 for the Jews then the other in Acts 10 to… Read More
Q&A 0586 – God’s Affection
I have been trying to look for scriptures that speak about God’s affection. As a woman who grew up in a dysfunctional home without men, I long to feel loved… Read More
Q&A 0538 – Heaven and Hell in the O.T.
Why is there so little mention of heaven and hell as an afterlife in the O.T.? And where does Jesus’ understanding of an afterlife come from? — Joel Leiby You… Read More
Q&A 0495 – Where was he quoting from? (John 7)
Jesus says in John 7:38, "Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." Although I believe this is true, there… Read More
Q&A 0492 – Matthew 15:21-28
I have trouble understanding the passage in Matthew 15:21-28. It is hard for me to understand why Jesus chose to compare the woman to dogs. I know that there was… Read More
Q&A 0483 – Who may baptize?
Who can baptize the person who believes in Christ and is prepared to accepted Jesus as his Saviour? Is it necessary to have a priest do the baptism? — Madhu… Read More
Q&A 0451 – Liberal theology
The Jesus Seminar is an increasingly popular, but very liberal, group of scholars (such as Bruce Chilton, author of Rabbi Jesus) who re-interpret the scriptures based upon liberal presuppositions. E.g.,… Read More
Q&A 0429 – Is God in Control?, by Doug Schaefer
With all that seems to be happening around us and in the Christian churches, I keep asking myself, “Is God in control?” What do you say about this? — many… Read More
Q&A 0411 – “In the ministry”
We hear talk a lot about people working "in the ministry," or "getting out of the ministry." What are your thoughts on this? — Will I am very glad that… Read More
Q&A 0379 – Some will not taste death?
I have a question about an alternative reading of Luke 9:27 and parallel passages in the other Gospels. Typically we read that passage to be emphasizing that some of the… Read More
Q&A 0372 – Is the Canon of the 300s dependable?
How can I be sure that the canon decided in the 300s was legitimate since the church had gone so far astray in its doctrine by this point? How can… 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
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 6 – B
17 He went down with them and stood on a level place. A large crowd of his disciples was there and a great number of people from all over Judea,… Read More
LUKE 8 – B
26 They sailed to the region of the Gerasenes, which is across the lake from Galilee. 27 When Jesus stepped ashore, he was met by a demon-possessed man from the… Read More
LUKE 10 – A
1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He… Read More
LUKE 12 – B
35 “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, 36 like men waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and… Read More
LUKE 23 – B
39 One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Christ? Save yourself and us!” 40 But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear… Read More
Q&A 0349 – Prophets
I have often heard people today call their spiritual leaders "prophets." I don’t completely understand the role of prophets in the New Testament. However, in the Old Testament, I thought… Read More
Q&A 0315 – Gog & Magog
In chapter 38 Ezekiel is told to prophesy against Gog of the land of Magog. Who is this person/ nation God is talking about? "Gog and Magog" in Revelation symbolize… Read More
Q&A 0312 – Baptism of Fire
Whenever I share my faith with a highly religious person, the question of fire baptism comes up. What did John mean when he said "I baptize you with water for… Read More
Apologetics: Messianic Prophecy: Deuteronomy 18
How did the early Christians convince their predominantly Jewish hearers that Jesus of Nazareth was the Messiah? Which Messianic prophecies did they lean on? In four installments, we will examine… Read More
Q&A 0278 – “Disciples” only
My church says that the proper term for a true Christian is "disciple," since this is the word that appears hundreds of times in the New Testament. Why don’t I… Read More
Linguistic Insight: eis and baptism
In this article I am replying to a memo emailed to me… I recently read an article on baptism and its purpose. I fully believe baptism is necessary, but some… Read More
Q&A 0257 – Why did Jesus come to earth?
Why did Jesus come to earth? Did he just come to improve our society? Excellent question! Why did he come? What was his mission on this earth? He came to… 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
Gospel of Judas
From Paris Murray (Manila, Philippines): For any interested, here’s the full meal deal on the Gospel of Judas thus far. Very fascinating — there’s a lot to learn hear about… Read More
Q&A 0228 – Dinosaurs
Where are the dinosaurs mentioned in the Bible? How would you answer this question and what scriptures convey the truth about the matter? — Athena Gonzalez The fact is nowhere… Read More
Q&A 0227 – Death and Hades
In Revelation 20:13 it says that "death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them." What exactly is meant by the phrase "death and Hades"? I always thought… Read More
Q&A 0226 – Anthropomorphisms
Genesis 18:20 reads: “The Lord said, ‘The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is so great and their sin so grievous that I will go down and see if what they… Read More
Q&A 0221 – The Perfect in 1 Corinthians 13
Is “perfection” in 1 Corinthians 13 referring to the canonization of the New Testament? I have heard that “perfection” is neuter in the Greek, and so cannot refer to Jesus’… Read More
Q&A 0213 – Once Saved, Always Saved
What is your best answer to counter the "Once Saved, Always Saved" argument? The strongest statement I have seen in the Bible to support the idea of eternal security is… Read More
Q&A 0206 – Luke 22:15-18
My flat-mate and I were discussing Luke 22:15-18, where Jesus says that he will not "eat it again it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God" or drink again… "until… Read More
Q&A 0189 – God and Satan
When I was studying literature at university, I came across writers like Lewis Carroll who, in his book Alice in Wonderland, depicts our life as a chess game between our… Read More
Apologetics: The Problem of Human Suffering
By John and Phyllis Clayton. Used with permission. And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, saying, "Master,… Read More
JOHN 1 – A
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things came… 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
JOHN 9
1 As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”… Read More
JOHN 18 – A
1 After Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the Kidron valley to a place where there was a garden, which he and his disciples… Read More
JOHN 20 – B
19 So when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews,… Read More
JOHN 21 – A
1 After these things Jesus manifested Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, and He manifested Himself in this way. 2 Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus,… Read More
Q&A 0130 – Pain and suffering
Recently I’ve had discussions with two women stuck on one question: "If God is so good and loving, why is there so much pain and suffering for innocent people?" Each time,… Read More
Q&A 0113 – When we die
In some scriptures it appears that we are judged immediately at death (Luke 16:23) while in other scriptures it appears that we are all brought together for a final judgement… Read More
Unity on Three Levels (2005)
A song of ascents. Of David. How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on… Read More
Q&A 0097 – Dual prophecy
Can you explain twofold prophecy? In Daniel, Isaiah, Matthew 24, and Revelation for example there are prophecies already fulfilled, yet some people say they also point to future events. How… Read More
Q&A 0069 – Pauline authorship
I wanted to know what you thought about the authorship of some of the NT books traditionally accepted as written by Paul. For instance, some scholars state that the books… Read More
Q&A 0055 – Baptizing disciples
Lots of people talk about "baptizing disciples." And yet aren’t disciples already Christians? How can this be? This is a very common question. Let me share some relevant thoughts. Baptizing disciples? As you are aware,… Read More
Q&A 0048 – Miscellaneous questions from Genesis 1-11
Were Adam and Eve the only humans God (personally directly) created? Cain went out a got a wife later he built a city etc. Where did these people come from?… Read More
Q&A 0034 – Purified by Faith?
In Acts 15:9, in referring to Cornelius, Peter said that God "purified their hearts by faith." No one has ever used that scripture with me to justify forgiveness of sins… Read More
Q&A 0004 – Saved or Not?
On the one hand, the Bible urges Christians to be fully confident that we are saved, and on the other, to work out our salvation with “fear and trembling.” Yet… 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
ACTS 27
1 When it was decided that we would sail for Italy, Paul and some other prisoners were handed over to a centurion named Julius, who belonged to the Imperial Regiment…. Read More
Do You Want to Get Well? by Gordon Ferguson (2004)
Introduction This article is a written form of a spoken message delivered on March 28, 2004 to the Phoenix Valley Church of Christ. As with the previous sermon, “What Do… Read More
Apologetics: Rome 2004: A faith-building opportunity
The challenge of evangelism is to make the faith real to those who are just coming to faith. We all know that spiritual things become real as one reads the… Read More
THE 5 SHORT BOOKS OF THE BIBLE – 2 John
Introduction John, author of 5 books Gospel of John 1-3 John Revelation of John (the Apocalypse) 2 John was written in later part of 1st century AD Gnosticism (central… Read More
THE 5 SHORT BOOKS OF THE BIBLE – Philemon
Introduction to the series * 2 Tim 3:16-17 — we all need training and teaching. This passage says all scripture is inspired and useful. Includes every book of the Bible,… Read More
Jesus Papyrus Review, by James Greig
Jesus Papyrus Review Emily and I moved to Oxford to start the new millennium, and one thing I was eager to see was the controversial “Jesus Papyrus” a.k.a. P64, a… Read More
Gnosticism, by Andrew Kitchen
The word “gnosticism” comes from gnosis, Greek for “knowledge.” Esoteric or secret knowledge is meant. The Gnostics believed that only an elite few enjoyed special enlightenment. The Gnostic view of… Read More
Church Polity
D. Jacoby, Jan. 2002 Polity 1538. [–L. politia – Gr. politeia ] 1. Civil order. b. Administration of a state; civil government 1715. 2.a A particular form of political organization… Read More
ROMANS 16
1 I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, 2 that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy… 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
GALATIANS 1
1 Paul an apostle– sent neither by human commission nor from human authorities, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead—2 and all the… Read More
GALATIANS 2
1 Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus along with me. 2 I went up in response to a revelation. Then I laid… Read More
GALATIANS 3
1 You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? It was before your eyes that Jesus Christ was publicly exhibited as crucified! 2 The only thing I want to learn from… Read More
GALATIANS 4
1 My point is this: heirs, as long as they are minors, are no better than slaves, though they are the owners of all the property; 2 but they remain… 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
COLOSSIANS 4
1 Masters, grant to your slaves justice and fairness, knowing that you too have a Master in heaven. 2 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude… Read More
1 THESSALONIANS 1
1 Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace. 2 We always give thanks… Read More
1 TIMOTHY 1 – A
1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope, 2 to Timothy, my loyal child in the faith: Grace,… Read More
1 TIMOTHY 6
1 Let all who are under the yoke of slavery regard their masters as worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and the teaching may not be… Read More
PHILEMON
1 Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, to Philemon our beloved brother and fellow worker, 2 and to Apphia our sister, and to Archippus our fellow… Read More
HEBREWS 4
1 Therefore, since a promise remains of entering his rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it. 2 For indeed the gospel was… Read More
HEBREWS 12
1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and… Read More
HEBREWS 13
1 Let brotherly love continue. 2 Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels. 3 Remember the prisoners as if chained with them… Read More
JAMES 3 – A
1 Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers and sisters, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. 2 For all of us… Read More
Smoking
“Smoke pours forth from his nostrils” (Job 41:20). “And the smoke of their torment rises for ever and ever” (Revelation 14:20). Whether the verses above have been properly exegeted or… Read More
1 PETER 2
1 Rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, insincerity, envy, and all slander; 2 like newborn infants, long for pure spiritual milk so that through it you may grow… Read More
1 PETER 5
1 So I exhort the presbyters among you, as a fellow presbyter and witness to the sufferings of Christ and one who has a share in the glory to be… Read More