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Is there any mention of God the Mother in the Bible?
Question: Good day, Is there any mention of God the Mother in the Bible? I have to prepare for a group that is going to convince me from the Bible that it does teach about God the Mother. Answer: I’m assuming you have run into members of the World Mission Society Church of God. This…
Read MoreWhen did people start calling God, “Abba Daddy” or “Papa?”
Question: What are your thoughts on calling God “Abba Daddy” or “Papa?” In reading the thoughts of others and their reason for using this phrase, I was wondering when this came about. Answer: The phrase “Abba, Father” came about when Jesus called out to God in an hour of need before his crucifixion. “And He…
Read MoreIs it wrong to give a bribe in a country where bribery is prevalent and demanded?
Question: Please, is paying a bribe to someone who demands it before justice is practiced a sin? The public sector and almost every institution in my country are choked with extortioners and people expecting bribes. Employment in the public sector is found by paying something to politicians and “middlemen” before one is given employment. This…
Read MoreWas Timothy’s father an Aramean?
Question: In Was Timothy’s father a non-believer? you said, “In the end, I think all you can state is that Timothy’s father was of Greek nationality.” But Acts 16:1 (translated from Aramaic Peshitta, based on Younan) says, “And he arrived at the medintha [city] Derbe and at Lostra. Now there was there a certain talmida [student]…
Read MoreCan plays and skits about Bible stories be used to teach children during a VBS?
Question: Can plays and skits about Bible stories be used to teach children during a VBS? Answer: A Vacation Bible School (VBS) is basically a gospel meeting for kids. The Bible shows teaching being done in a variety of ways: A fig tree was killed (Matthew 21:21), Idols and worldly poets were cited (Acts 17:23,28), Children…
Read MoreI learned a lot from your post about avoiding sex before marriage
Question: Hello, I have read the post on avoiding sex before marriage. I have learned a lot. I hope that I will be able to stick to what the word says and that my relationship won’t fail because we are trying to stay pure. Thank you for the advice. Answer: You’re welcome.
Read MoreI recently slept with a guy. Is there any hope for me?
Question: Hello Sir, I’ve sinned against God. I am gay. I slept with a guy just recently. Please, is there any hope for me to inherit God’s kingdom? I’m really confused. Please help me. Answer: The same passage that says that homosexuals cannot inherit the kingdom of God also says that fornicators, adulterers, and drunkards…
Read MoreHow could Ananias give Paul the Holy Spirit?
Question: If Paul was an apostle, he was supposed to receive the Holy Spirit from another apostle or directly from God, yet he received it from a disciple. I thought only apostles had the ability to give the Holy Spirit. Answer: “But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of…
Read MoreWe just don’t feel connected with this church
Question: We have attended our current congregation for several years. Good sound teaching, but we don’t feel a connection with anyone. My wife has wanted to try other congregations, but I don’t like to change. Recently she has been ill and has not felt like attending for over a month, and no one even asked…
Read MoreIs a church secretary or treasurer a permanent position?
Question: I want to know whether a church secretary, treasurer, etc. once appointed or chosen to that post is permanent, or they can be rotated on a tenure basis. Answer: There is no such office in the church as a secretary or treasurer. Duties, such as these, are usually filled by deacons. If there is…
Read MoreIn regards to fellowship halls, it seems you gave two different answers
Question: I was reading through some of your questions and answers regarding fellowship halls. I’m a little confused. In one post about the subject, someone asked if they could still worship as long as they didn’t attend the meal. The answer was yes and Revelation 3:4 was cited. In a different question, someone asked about using the building…
Read MoreExcellent job in preaching the truth in love
Question: Greetings brother in Christ! Just wanted to let you know I stumbled upon your site while doing some Bible research. I appreciate your Q&A section and articles. Excellent job in preaching the truth in love. Answer: Thank you for the encouragement.
Read MoreI’ve suffered from OCD too
Question: I was searching for answers to my mental condition, and I came across your site. I read the story of a person who was worried about a certain problem. I’ve suffered the same thing since 2007. I’ve been on medication since then. The medication does help, but it’s not a cure for OCD thoughts,…
Read MoreHow far can you go with your girlfriend in regard to intimacy?
Question: Hi Jeff, How far can you go with your girlfriend in regard to intimacy? Answer: Let’s start with what most people would agree would be going too far: sexual intercourse or fornication. Sexual acts outside of marriage are sinful and are covered under the word “fornication.” In Greek, the word is porneia. It is…
Read MoreShould Christians take part in Muslim celebrations?
Question: Should Christians take part in the Eid-el-Kabir (Sallah) celebration of Muslims as a way of building peace and unity in a country where the citizens are predominantly Christian and Muslim? How should Christians respond to an invitation by Muslims to eat their Sallah ram (food)? Answer: Eid-el-Kabir (Sallah) is a holy day and a…
Read MoreShould I stop using social media that advertises abortions?
Question: I was on Instagram and saw an ad for Planned Parenthood. it made me so mad! I immediately reported it as offensive. But should I just stop using it altogether? Would it be wrong for me to make a post about why abortion is evil? I’m a woman and wouldn’t want to overstep my…
Read MoreIs Christianity a myth?
Question: Hey Mr. Jeffrey, I’m taking a philosophy class, and we are studying how the Greeks used mythology in the past to make sense of their world. I asked the professor to explain what a myth is and he said “a story you don’t believe.” I knew I could’ve picked that answer apart, but I…
Read MoreIf I committed adultery in the past, does that mean I can never marry?
Question: Hello brother, After studying the Bible more, I look back on my life and feel ashamed of the sinful acts I’ve committed. I’m now at the point where I’m ready to marry, but I wonder if I scripturally can. I’ve never been married, but in my past, I have been unpure as a single…
Read MoreWhat if I’m not good enough for God?
Question: I read something on your website about a statement made that says that if a person could not be trusted with things on earth, then why would God trust him with things in heaven? Does this mean if somebody is a complete failure, they have no hope of even getting to heaven? How does…
Read MoreShould the church ask its members to borrow money for its building project?
Question: Hi Jeff, Is right to borrow money for the sake of contributing to building a worship hall for the church? We are encouraged by our minister, as individual brethren, to do so since it is an important project of the church. Answer: The Bible teaches that being in debt is not a sin, but…
Read MoreGod never speaks to us in verbal language
Question: Peace be with you; We’re dealing with God’s word, not conversation between two people, so God never speak to us in verbal language. Best wishes. Answer: I left this note as it was sent. I have to admit, I’m puzzled because there are so many wrong concepts presented in so few words. The Bible…
Read MoreI get teased for being a Christian
Question: Hi there, I have many questions, and I need your help badly. I am the only Christian in my family and in my high school. Others tease me once I mention that I am a Christian in my country. Answer: You’ve come to the right place because I tend to have many answers. “Blessed…
Read MoreDo you know of good Inductive Study guides?
Question: Does anyone know a good Inductive Study Guide for study on how to learn the Scripture? I know there are items out there, but I was trying to locate one that members of the Church of Christ have reviewed and found to be of sound teaching. So many folks really do not know how…
Read MoreIs there a minimum level of faith needed to become a Christian?
Question: I have been a Christian for many years. When I was baptized I came up out of the water and began to doubt if I really believed in Christ. I was under much emotional stress at that time. I did not let this doubt stop me from worshiping, but I always seemed to feel…
Read MoreIs it wrong to attend events where people might be drinking or smoking?
Question: I have had some best friends since my school days, years ago. I am the only person among them who is baptized. We all meet twice a year and during that meeting they all drink and smoke. I don’t drink or smoke since I was baptized. They are all good, sincere people and don’t…
Read MoreDoes Jesus’ blood continually cleanse us from all sin?
Question: The Bible says we will give an account of our life and sin, but God washes away our sins at baptism and the blood of Christ continually cleanses. He forgives us and remembers no more, so is there judgment where our sin is remembered, or are we as white as snow because of Jesus’…
Read MoreWhat is meant by ruling with a rod of iron?
Question: What did the Apostle John mean, when he wrote that Christ, the child, “was to rule all nations with a rod of iron” in Revelation 12:5? Answer: We are given an image of the kingdom, the universal church, coming into being after Jesus was resurrected and went back up to the Father. Reading a…
Read MoreHow can we be confident that God will answer our prayers?
Question: Hello, I have a question regarding prayer, one which I have submitted to numerous places. I’ve tried to present it in the most concise and intellectually understandable language I can think of but have received in response almost an outright refusal to acknowledge what it is I am asking. Whether it is deliberate or…
Read MoreWere only Levites allowed to use instruments in worship?
Question: Dear sir, Please help me resolve a question regarding the use of instrumental music in worship by Christians. Although it is not prohibited specifically, the fact that God specified singing ought to warrant its prohibition through the principle of “silence of the Scriptures” as indicated by Hebrews 7:14. The problem is that, under the…
Read MoreIf I disagree with a brother or a leader, am I being rebellious?
Question: If a brother gives me a challenge do I have to take that challenge? If I choose not to, am I being rebellious? Or what if I disagree with a leader? Answer: It probably depends on what the brother is challenging you to do, but the general answer is “no.” We help each other…
Read MoreIs getting pregnant by artificial insemination when you are not married a sin?
Question: When I was in my thirties and no man would marry me, I had twins by sperm donation. There wasn’t any sexual sin involved in the conception, if that matters. I personally don’t think it does, but you would know better than me. Anyway, I know that isn’t what the Bible says is the…
Read MoreIf someone attends, but hasn’t become a member, and then stops coming, should you withdraw from him?
Question: Someone begins attending a congregation but does not ask to be a member there. He starts forsaking the assembly. Can you withdraw from him? He was baptized. Answer: Before I answer the question, I want to note that some congregations add people to their membership simply because they keep attending services at the local…
Read MoreMy son is no longer attending church, so is it wrong to pick up my grandchildren?
Question: If my son is baptized but not attending, and my daughter-in-law is not baptized, is it wrong to pick up my grandchildren? Answer: Be careful not to blame kids for their parents’ sins. You seem to be mixing your son’s disobedience as if it was also your grandchildren’s. Each person is responsible for his…
Read MoreHow many are going to heaven?
Question: How many are going to heaven? Answer: We don’t know how many there will be. There is no upper limit on how many heaven could hold. Descriptions of heaven tell us that there will be a great multitude of all who followed God through the ages. “After these things I looked, and behold, a…
Read MoreAre the Ten Commandments separate from the Law of Moses?
Question: I am a member of the Lord’s church. I ask for your help in helping me answer the below response from two who believe that the Sabbath has not been abolished. The site they are referring to is your site on the subject of Answering the Sabbath Observance that I forwarded to them, hoping that would…
Read MoreDo you need a sign from God before you are able to date or marry someone?
Question: Hello, I am seeking godly advice on dating, but primarily on marriage. Advice about dating; and Do you need a sign from God to be able to marry, or can you choose your spouse yourself based upon biblical guidelines alone? To a 20-year-old guy who has never been in a relationship and never asked…
Read MoreI have had guilt since I let an escort do oral sex on me
Question: Hello, The other day I spent the night with an escort but did not have sex. I am still a virgin in my 30’s. I did, however, receive protected oral sex for several minutes. Since then I have had immense guilt over it. I have had depression since I was a teenager and have…
Read MoreShouldn’t the man sleeping with me divorce his wife?
Question: Hello, I am a 32-year-old female. I have three children. I was married but divorced. I met a guy, and he was a very good friend. He introduced me back into church and has helped me through so many hard times. I used to actually think that he was perfect. He is a very…
Read MoreThe text doesn’t say that the men of Sodom wanted to force sex on the strangers
Question: Hello, I have a query about your website pertaining to what would be considered a misinterpreted passage of the Bible. Please explain why your interpretation of Genesis 19 implies they were intent on forcing a homosexual act on these two visitors when no Bible version actually says that. What it clearly says is that their…
Read MoreWhy do people seem happy living in sin?
Question: Dear brother, I write this to you ashamed, but I have to admit how I feel. I have been a Christian for many years now; however, I have struggled with sin in my life constantly. I feel as though it all stems from a rebellious attitude inside of me. It seems like the only…
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