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The correct interpretation of this passage depends on four things — the meaning of “law,” the significance of “faith,” and a consideration of these terms in both the immediate and remote contexts of scripture. We must note at the outset that respectable scholars hold slightly different views on c...
Three verses in the New Testament include the word “pastor” (in various forms): Ephesians 4:11, Acts 20:28, and 1 Peter 5:2. In Ephesians 4:11, Paul discusses various roles that Christ placed in the church. He intends for “pastors and teachers” to serve in the church. The expression “pastors and ...
No, it wouldn't. Note the following factors: 1. The term "unknown" is not in the original text. The King James translators added it. It is unwarranted and unnecessary. 2. In 1 Corinthians 14, the nature of the "tongues" must match those defined earlier in the New Testament (i.e., human languages;...
Before we obey the gospel, we are dead in sin (Eph. 2:1). But the question is, to what does this refer: the physical body or a spiritual condition? It refers, of course, to our spiritual condition. The passages cited in the question (Rom. 6:3-8; Col. 2:11-12) discuss the spiritual life we can hav...
The Samaritans accepted only the Pentateuch (Genesis through Deuteronomy) as Scripture, yet they confidently anticipated the Messiah. In the Temple court, Peter preached: ““Moses indeed said, A prophet shall the Lord God raise up unto you from among your brethren, like unto me; to him shall ye he...
When we discuss the fact that we “hear God,” we are considering what God fundamentally communicates about the plan of salvation and how we can obey it. Of course, God “speaks” through his creation (Ps. 19:1; Rom. 1:20). But this general revelation of God does not specify how we can be saved from ...
There are three important reasons this language does not mean Jesus was raised from the grave on Saturday. Compare the Witness Testimony The first thing we need to do is compare the Gospel accounts. When we do, we find that the other Gospel accounts clearly show that this visit occurred on the fi...
One of the most difficult tasks for the Bible student is attempting to discuss the attributes of God with great precision. The divine qualities are so infinite, and our minds so finite, that we scarcely can fathom the Creator's marvelous features. In attempting to accommodate our limited scope of...
Since the New Testament does not address this concern specifically, one must draw a reasonable conclusion from the available evidence. My personal view is that, in the circumstances you describe, an adult son's defection does not necessarily disqualify the brother from serving as an elder. My rea...
Many sincere Bible students frequently misunderstand this passage. It is also a source of some division. Let's explore the meaning. Walking in the Light First, 1 John 1:7 teaches that we have ongoing forgiveness only so long as we "walk in the light." Part of that "light" shows that we petition G...
As with many Bible-related questions, the answer lies in how words and concepts are defined. Let's think about what are the real differences between monotheism and polytheism. Monotheism The original religion of ancient mankind was monotheism. Monotheism is the worship of one, true Supreme Being....
First, let me point out that the term "swear," as employed in our modern society, has two distinct senses. It is used as an equivalent for profanity, which, of course, no Christian should ever use. The term "swear" may also refer to a legal oath. The question above concerns this latter usage. Is ...
There are those known as “conditionalists” who argue for the eventual annihilation of the wicked. The gentleman asking this question does not appear to be in this category, but he repeats a charge familiar to their theology. Conditionalists frequently suggest that Bible students believing in the ...
There are many ideas that people have about who will be in Heaven. Since no one on Earth today has ever personally experienced going to Heaven, all we have to go on is what has been revealed and confirmed through the Scriptures. What Does the Bible Actually Say About Who Will Go to Heaven? First,...
There are two views concerning the meaning of the phrase "new heavens and new earth." Since they represent opposing viewpoints, one of them must be false. The phrase indicates that heaven could be a new, literal, physical Earth or simply a figurative way of referring to heaven itself. The Premill...
It's not surprising that some cultists, who deny the deity of Christ, avoid worshiping the Lord. What's shocking is that some—who are quite sincere, but should know better and hopefully will learn better—are expressing opposition to the idea that Christ is worthy of worship. For example, one man ...
My first impression is that such a suggestion reflects the disposition of a carnal mind that is seeking justification for worldliness! I must observe, however, that such a view of this passage is not uncommon, even among Bible commentators. For example, C. H. Waller wrote: "From this it is clear ...
In Paul's letter to Timothy, he instructs his young protege to teach: “that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works (1 Ti...
Before analyzing Proverbs 14:4, it's important to note that, contrary to popular belief, the Bible aims to guide us in every aspect of life. It does not divide life into secular and religious spheres. Instead, God has given us principles for righteous living in all areas (1 Peter 1:3). That impor...
First, I would dispute the chronological theory that suggests the Universe is billions of years old. I do not believe there is indisputable scientific evidence supporting that view, and I believe there is substantial evidence against it. I have discussed this briefly in my book, Creation, Evoluti...
