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Ambassador Baptist Church
1926 Babcock Blvd
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
(412)477-3210

You Are Here: Bridge / Galley / Ask The Pastor / Complete Lisitng

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If you have a doctrinal question or item you would like to learn more about, just send it to us at "Ask the Pastor". We will post the answer on-line. Simply click on a question to see an answer. The questions are posted by date with the newest at the bottom of the list. Happy Reading. Of Course you can always conduct a search on the search engine page.

---------- Complete Lisitng ----------

I have a couple questions about Eph. 4:4-16. In verse 4 when he says there is one "body", what is he referring to? What does he mean when he says that Christ "lead captivity captive"? In verse 9, what does he mean when he says, " he descended into the lower parts of the earth" ? Is that talking about being in the tomb? How does this tie into the gifts he has given us and the edifying of the saints?

I have enclosed an article where Bro. ----- teaches that Jesus went to the fires of Hell for three days to pay for our sins because the Bible says that Christ's soul was not left in Hell. He says that all the Old Testament saints went to Heaven as soon as they died because Hell can only refer to a place of torment. He says that in Luke 16 "Abraham's bosom" is Heaven, and that when Christ said the thief on the cross would be with Him in Paradise that meant that the thief was going directly to Heaven, and that since Jesus is omnipresent He was going to be in suffering in Hell and in Heaven with the thief at the same time. What do you think about this?

What do we know from the Word of God about what Heaven is like right now for those who have passed on before us? People really get confused and make statements about the dead walking the streets and eating fruits and talking with family and friends. A believer who has died is a spirit with out a body....

My wife and I were married for many years and she divorced me and is living with another man. If she marries this man will they be one flesh?

I heard that the Westboro Baptist Church may picket the funerals for the children killed in the tragedy in Connecticut, claiming that God wanted this to happen. What are your thoughts?

There are so many churches out there these days and would like to find which is right for my family and I. I am having a hard time and was wondering if you would tell me if you consider yourself to be one of this type of Baptist church, and why?

I use the King James for personal study, although I own several other translations as well (The Amplified Bible, NASB and ESV), and occasionally refer to them when I am studying a difficult passage. (sometimes they help to clarify, other times they do not.) My question is this: how, if you truly believe that the King James Bible is the only version worthy of use today, do you explain the inclusion of the Apocrypha in the 1611 edition?

I have a question on salvation and baptism. I made a profession of faith and later was baptized. Since that time I have had doubts and so I called upon Christ to save me again. I have not followed through with baptism again because I am not sure when I was saved. Because I have not been baptized again does this mean that I have not genuinely repented?

I recently heard someone say that in the pastor's home the ministry comes first before his wife and family. He is to be consumed with the ministry; it is his first priority, and his wife should accept that. What are your thoughts on this?

Explain some of the issues involved in the "King James Only" controversy.

In Dr. Weeks articles concerning Pastoral Theology, he says that a pastor's wife should be "quiet, not boisterous". Does this mean that she is not allowed to voice an opinion, nor exercise her gifts in church?

How do you come to the conclusion that there is no such thing as a universal, invisible church?

What is your response to those who say that you can only be saved through the King James Version? Also, I recently saw a video where men from Detroit Seminary, Bob Jones, Northland, and other schools said that the King James should not be an issue, and those who make it an issue are dividing fundamentalism. Any comments?

You mention a couple problems with Baptists.

Hello, I was watching Fiddler on the roof, and it made me wonder how all the Jewish people ended up in other lands than Isreal, and why didn't they go home to their land instead of staying in Russia, as an example, especially since everyone seemed to hate them?

When you accept JESUS as your Savior do you go to heaven, unless you renounce JESUS as Savior, or every time you sin do you lose your place until you repent? I have been studying and found scripture Galatians 5:19-21. I believe that I am saved. Is Satan just trying to confuse me?

Why and what is the Biblical basis for it? Do you believe that it is to be practiced in today's church? What are the requirements for it? Is it for anybody? If it should be used for the healing, why isn't it used more often?

Does the term "touch not God`s anointed" refer to Pastors of today? And if so or not so can you explain?

Does God ever tell a Pastor who is having a problem with a Church member, who is in sin, that God is going to kill them for there sin...ie... going against the Pastor of a Local IFB Church. Are there any New Testament examples of this?

What do You think about divorce in the book of Matthew?

There is somewhere in the Bible where Jesus told someone to leave their family behind to go and follow Him. My husband feels that God is calling him to preach the word. I am really excited for him and willing to help him all I can. He has been told that he may even have to leave me and our 4 children and give us up to serve God. I know the high priority that God holds in marriage and family and I also know that there will be times that he will have to be away. Could you tell me of some scriptures that would help him in his decisions about leaving the family? I would appreciate it.

Recently, I heard someone one give his testimony, and he said that the Holy Spirit is in all of us. Some one else said that this is not true because the Holy Spirit becomes apart of us when we accept Christ into our hearts. Can you help me?

I need Bible proof for babies going to heaven.I know that God told David that he would see his baby again, but if we are born into sin then when does it go into affect? Give me more proof that children are going to heaven if they are killed as youths.

What about the "age of accountability" ?

Where in the Bible does it talk against "speaking in tongues" and why isn't it to be practiced today?

I have always believed in God. I went to a Baptist pre-school and kindergarden. As I grew older, my family became very involved in the community and in sports. So as I was growing up, our family didn't go to church that much; the older I got, the less we went. My girlfriend's family doesn't think that I am a Christian. I think that is God's sign for me to become more involved in church, to get me to come back. I never lost faith. Now it can grow stronger and I can learn what I've missed out on all these years.

I am a student at an Independent Fundamental Baptist Bible College and have been recently compelled to reach a decision. This is the question I have. If two fundamental Baptists start off agreeing that the King James Bible is the correct version and then the one decides after a period of time that he will use the NIV or NASV, is it scriptural to withdraw fellowship? Isn't it true that the first churches fellowshipped because they had all things in common and they were in one accord with each other? I have tried not to be ignorant and have tried to study to shew myself approved unto God. I understand the different manuscripts used and the process involved to bring us the Word of God. Is this proper reason to see a fellowship split apart? I personally think it is. If we can't agree on the Word of God, than we can't agree on anything, can we?

When Paul refers to double honor ( I Timothy 5:17), is he referring to money?

Was Paul being prideful when he said I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith? Is there any time that pride is OK?

In certain scriptures in the Bible it states that all sins shall be forgiven but elsewhere states that a murderer can not enter the Kingdom of Heaven which leads me to the question, can a murderer be forgiven?

Where in the Bible does it speak against gambling? How are the lottery and investing in the stock market different?

If a person has been diagnosed with a "condition" and the doctors tell you that you have a limited amount of time to survive, must you accept God's will for your life or is it OK to ask Him to change His will and permit remission or healing instead? I believe that He still works miracles of healing today, but is it right to not accept His perfect will? I would appreciate any input if possible.

I am one who believes that NOTHING can separate me from the love of the Father; my salvation has nothing to do with me and everything to do with Christ's finished work on the cross. However, I am poorly equipped to "counter" the scriptural basis of the many around me who oppose this doctrine. Will you please send me as much information as you can about your stance on the subject?

We recently had a discussion of the verse "train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it." I have heard people teaching that that verse means you should raise a child in the way he is bent towards like being a doctor, plumber, so forth. When we asked this question at -----------, they also gave that answer. They said they had just seen to many good Christian people raise kids that have gone wrong. Please give us your opinion on the matter.

Does a Church have to hang Baptist over the door or have Baptist in it's name to be a Baptist Church? The Church I am referring to practices all the doctrines of the Baptist Faith, but the people just DO NOT want Baptist in the name.

I have been a Christian for about two years now and want nothing more in life than to be the best Christian I can be. The problem is that I very much have an obssesive-compulsive type personality and have been struggling with severe habitual sin (I'm talking sin that is specifically outlined in many verses). I know what the Bible says about it, I know its wrong and just find myself incapable of stopping for an extended period of time. I can't not be in the position where it is around because it all starts in my head and will always be with me.

Unfortunately...it doesn't end just in my mind. I have had some minor success trying to give it all to Him, but I always break down, because I guess I am not good at truly giving it to Him. Any advice? Will it get easier as I get older?

Can you give me scriptural verses that teach that the Bible alone is our sole authority and that the Bible is the only source for God's Word. When was the Bible put together?

Do you consider Disney movies [Snow White, Aladdin, Beauty & Beast, etc.] harmless entertainment or something that we should keep away from our kids?

What do you believe about inter-racial marriages?

Is a Christian supposed to "walk in the Law"?

What should a pastor's duties be, according to the Bible?

Someone has hurt me very much. He has asked for forgiveness, but as far as I have been able to see things, even though I have forgiven him, it still does very little about the repercussions of what has been going on for the past couple years. God forgives us, but he doesn't make everything come up roses afterward.

Why does John 1:1 start with the phrase, "In the beginning" ? I find that's one of the reasons why the JHW's say that Christ Jesus had a beginning.

In the concept of the trinity, how many independent power sources are there?

I read the following letter in our local paper. What do you think of these statements?

"The Catholic church is the only universal Christian church that has existed since the time of Jesus. Every other group is an offshoot of the Catholic church. The Eastern Orthodox churches broke away from unity with the pope in 1054. The Protestant communities were established during the Reformation, which began in 1517. Only the Catholic church existed in the 10th century, in the fifth century, and in the first century, faithfully teaching the doctrines given by Christ to the apostles. The line of popes can be traced back, in unbroken succession, to Peter himself. This is unequalled by any institution in history."

We recently visited an Independent Baptist Church and was told that drums and guitar music were not welcome in the church. Is this true for all Independent Baptist Churches? If so, why? If you are using your gift for the Lord and His music, why would this not be allowed?

My youth administrator told us not to believe what people say but to look it up for ourselves, so I would like to know where I can find the verse in the Bible that says pre-marital sex is a sin.

Is it wrong to be proud of the fact that I am a member of the United States Military? Is it wrong to be proud of a job well done? Is it wrong to be proud to be an American? Is it wrong to be proud of my son when he does well at what he does? None of these are personal issues that I have accomplished on my own. I figured that if you gave glory to God for gracing you with all of the above then how would it be priding in yourself?

My pastor recently said that he did not think the church needs deacons (we currently don't have any). My pastor is not the only preacher I know that doesn't want deacons. I feel that these preachers have heard all these horror stories from college and other Pastors over the years, and that maybe they are fearful to some degree. What is your opinion about this?

Last week my Pastor and I had a discussion concerning women wearing pants to the services and the ladies fellowships. I told him that I thought this to be a preferential position that he has the right to set. I told him I would support him on that if that is his preference. However, we further discussed my qualifications to be a deacon of our church. He felt that because my wife has worn jeans to some of the ladies fellowship meetings in the past that I didn't qualify to be a deacon. My position is that I can support my Pastor if this is his preference for church attire and meetings, but I don't agree with him concerning this being a qualification to be a deacon. Please give me your thoughts.

Please tell me why verses and words are deleted and changed, resulting in new versions of the Bible.

I was physically & sexually abused by my father. The Bible says I should forgive those who sin against me, but I am having a tough time forgiving my father. One reason would be the effects it still has on my daily life. I was raised in a church-going baptist family and this also caused confusion for me. He would abuse me Saturday, then take me to church twice on Sunday. For a long time I wanted nothing to do with the church. I still loved my Lord, but I guess I just didn't trust him to protect me. Recently, I have gone back to church. I am doing my best to get my life the way it should be. But not being able to forgive my father is hindering me in my spiritual walk. I was once told I did not have to forgive him because he had not repented or acknowledged any wrongdoing. Is this true?

I took a religion class last semester in college and he mentioned canons that were not in the bible.... where can I find these?

If we get every little detail right, but we lack love, it is all for naught any way, so shouldn't we be concentrating on love and understanding rather than quibbling about which version of the Bible to use?

It comes to my attention that Independent Baptists are very strict in their ways. For example, they can't dance or listen to other music that does not glorify God. Is this true? Another example is that when you meet a girl you are not allowed to be in the same room with her alone. I am just so very confused...

I recently met someone who is an independent Baptist. But we all believe in the all-mighty Lord...

Should a Christian have a cross tattooed on his body? What about in Revelation where it states that on Christ's thigh was written "King of kings and Lord of lords"?

"And everyone who will speak a word against the Son of Man, it shall be forgiven him; but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it shall not be forgiven him". (Luke 12:10) What does this verse really mean? I hope it doesn't mean what I think it does, or I am destined for Hell regardless of my faith.

Growing up as a Seventh-day Adventist I was always taught one can't be sure of their salvation, unlike what you teach. It seems to me the Bible shows that one can loose their salvation. After all we have free will right? We can choose to walk away from God and be fruitless. I was baptized and confessed my faith at 13, yet I have done much evil in my life since that precious age. Now that I am older I am wiser , yet I still struggle with smoking. I have tried hard to stop to no avail. Does this mean I am not saved anymore? Would this be considered defiling God's temple? The Bible says that those who defile his temple will not inherit the kingdom of God. I know if I continue to smoke I will be destroyed in the end. You would think this would be enough reason for me to quit. I want to do so good, yet I do so bad, I don't understand it. I think someone felt like that in the Bible and wrote of it, I can't think of where though, but it describes how I feel. Do you know which one I'm thinking of?

Is there anything in the Bible that is prophetic about the number 15 ?

I know it's a sin to smoke, but what does the Bible say about taking pills to help you quit? Does it matter as long as you quit?

Isn't the Bible complete? What Bible should we be reading? What about the Old Testament?

How do you get the HOLY SPIRIT?

How do you know what you were put on earth for?

Last week a friend and I got into a discussion over the qualifications for a Pastor. My friend took the argument that a Pastor should be someone who has gone through a lot of "bad" things, so that they can effectively relate to the people to whom he is called to pastor.But I don't find this in scripture. I find that the scriptures teach to preach the Gospel or the Word of God - not one's experiences

I have a friend who thinks that he has committed the "Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit." He said that he feels terrible that one time he cursed the Holy Spirit directly, and now he seems to have an interest in Christianity, but he still thinks he could go to Hell from what he thinks is the "unpardonable sin." I told him that if he is feeling convicted and terrible for cursing the Holy Ghost, that the Spirit is apparently not cutting Himself off from him and He is still striving with him now.

Could you please give me some advice on preaching.

Was Judas Iscariot a christian?

In Luke 1, when the angel comes to Zacharias and tells him that his wife will have a baby, he asks in verse 18, "how shall I know this." Then in the same chapter the angel comes to Mary and told her she would have a baby, and in verse 34 she asks "how shall this be." My question is - why was Zacharias punished for unbelief and Mary was not, when they both asked the angel basically the same question?

I am currently taking a course on Homiletics. I would appreciate your answers to the following questions: 1. Was your training in homiletics adequate? 2. What areas could you have used more help in? 3. What is the most important area in sermon preparation?

I have a question regarding my position as Assistant Pastor. I feel and have been told by my Pastor and his wife that they feel like I am trying to take over the church. They have Pastored for 30 years. I love my Pastor and have started preaching revivals and special meeting to show them I am not aafter their pulpit. My family an i are growing spiritually sick from this situation. When we coem from the meetings they will not talk to us at all. Could you please advise. Thank You.

Of the Baptist churches (or others), which is most like the Waldensians and Anabaptists? I have been studying church history of a few months now and I am greatly troubled that all of the Protestant churches came from Catholicism.

After being diagnosed with a terminal condition and told that your "time is running out," what should a Christian be doing or have already done for the final preparations? What is the best way for a Christian to face death?

I am wondering how a version of the Bible that came about so late in the scheme of things (KJV) could be better than the original. I am using the KJV and the NIV, and I really don't even know what the original Christians used. Could you help me with a brief history of the use of the Bible.

When you write that divorce and remarriage limits an individual's ability to assume leadership in the church, I guess by what you are saying that Jesus was lying when He said: "Who the Son sets free is free indeed." It is this type of bondage that he came to deliver us from. I will pray for you.

What about King James? Wasn't he after his own ways?

How did the people writing the King James Version obtain the manuscripts? I thought the Catholic Church at that time had the manuscripts

I feel that the Lord has called me to the mission field, as a missionary to the military, however I feel Him also calling me to a church in Ohio. My wife has the same burdens and we believe that the Lord is not the Author of confusion. We are not financially ready to take on either calling and feel it will not be a good testimony if we are to fall short of any obligations we have already made. We also have four children and don't want to put them in any position where we might scar them in their growth as children and Christians. Should we wait, and see the only church in this community close, or go by faith, and continue to pray about Guam and our military service men and women. To what calling should I surrender?

When one accepts God's gift of eternal life again in prayer (because of doubts, or that person can not remember, or for other reasons), what do you think is God's response? Does that person got saved though he repeated?

What are your thoughts on the pastor's rights and abilities to first identify "qualified" persons to place in leadership positions (deacons/deaconesses/trustees) and then to appoint them to those positions. I know that the congregation should affirm those decisions, however, should they (the congregation) have full authority in selecting those persons and agree with them electing themselves? How does this parallel with Jesus' selection of the disciples?

Why was Judas selected as a disciple and what eventually happened to Judas when he betrayed Jesus?

The Bible clearly indicates the qualifications for the pastor, deacons and their wives. Does the Bible speak of Trustees? Should they be appointed by the pastor or selected and elected by themselves? What are their responsibilities? Should Deacons and Trustees "run" the church?

What would your suggestions be for the pastor to do in the following situation. There is currently a conflict because the pastor has attempted to remove the Chairman of the Trustee Board from the board because of insolent behavior with the pastor, including cursing at him and threatening him, failure to respond to pastoral authority, failure to keep the pastor informed of activities, carrying out activities without pastoral approval, nasty behavior with church members and community members. This behavior is not only evident in the church but in his employment as well. Is this type of behavior a benefit to the church and the body of Christ as a whole? Should a person be allowed to remain in a leadership position? The problem is, the congregation sees it as "your word against his" and supports the trustee. How can this be rectified? Does the pastor have the authority to remove this person? How can this be communicated to the congregation so they understand how it hinders ministry?

I feel that the Bible tells me that I am to obey my pastor and I don't have a problem with that. My struggle comes because I have reached a place that I feel I must leave our staff because the pastor and I do not work together well. I have been at the same church for many years and have given 200 percent, but my pastor will not acknowledge me publicly, refers to me as "him", and has told me many times that I do not live up to the expectations of my calling (without naming specific areas). What does the Bible say I should do if my pastor says and does things that I feel are unjustified. I have persevered, but really am struggling because more and more work keeps being put on me to do and I'm not given any support staff to help...I do not believe my pastor would give me a good recommendation to another church even though I feel I do a great work for God.

We have many women evangelists and ministers, that visit our church, but they are not allowed to sit in the pulpit or preach from the pulpit. The Pastor says that he does not believe in a woman in the pulpit. I feel as if he is sending mixed messages. What is your opinion on this matter?

I am going to be graduating college soon and I am having trouble figuring out what the future holds for me. I have absolutely no idea, except that I am open to ANYTHING that God has for me, and I know what talents I have. I look at figuring God's plan for me through my own talents as limiting God. But then, I just have no idea what God would have me do then. Any advice?

Why was 'Revelation' written by John, and not Linus?

Why are the 10 commandments listed differently in Exodus than this church teaches them.

I am engaged to be married in about a year. I am a 24 year old saved Christian and my fiance is not saved and not religious at all. My problem is that my fiance is so reluctant and negative when it comes to being saved. I pray for him every day and I just don't know what to do anymore. I am so frustrated and confused.
Is God is trying to give me a message that it won't work, or if I should continue to pray and hope that everything falls into place? I am beside myself about this. My fiancé knows how much this means to me but still feels pressured and that everyone is trying to make him do something that he doesn't want to do. He feels everyone should accept him the way he is. I pray and pray and things only seem to get worse as far as his coming to the Lord is concerned. I have faith that he will eventually come to the Lord but I am so frustrated by his negativity and harsh words...

I am really hurting in my soul today and pray you can help me with my Biblical problem. In 1988 I repented of sin and accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior ( I thought I did). I experienced a new life. I walked with the Lord and put His Word in my life. I studied hard and witnessed hard. I was taught eternal security (once saved always saved was not true). I felt the call to preach in my life and I joined a Baptist church in 1992. In 1995 I fell away from the Lord after feeling my call to full time ministry would never be attained in the local church. I went back to a life worse then prior to my "conversion". I hit the bars and lived very ungodly. However, with my step dad dying (who I dearly loved), I began to cry out to God. I repented by reading the 51st Psalm a great deal. I left the bars and began to read the Word of God again but I was very troubled because I do believe the Bible teaches eternal security and I know some men in the Bible (David, Peter, Jonah) did have some temporary lapses but they didn't walk away from God like I did (In longevity and in depth of prolonged sin). I have a pretty good knowledge of the Bible but I am deeply concerned about my situation as it applies to scripture. I believe the Bible teaches eternal security for sure but there are passages that make me wonder if A. I was truly saved in the first place and if I was how could I fall so deep into sin again. B. If I was enlightened and turned from the Lord can I ever be restored to repentance again. The passage haunting me in the OT is in Ezekiel 18:24,26 I know the content of the chapter but this passage sheds light on NT teachings about those who knew the right way and then left it and those people CANNOT be restored. I feel so very sick to my soul. I feel there is absolutely NO HOPE for me now that I confessed Christ for 7 years of my life and honestly lived by faith in Christ and then walked away and went to the bottom of the barrel in sin and now I read this passage in Ezekiel and then think of II Peter 2:20-22 and Hebrews 2:3 I can't lie: I am feeling very horrible (mentally and emotionally) in my heart and mind today. I know within the teaching of eternal security is the teaching a truly saved person would not walk away like I did, but my question is how can I come back? I have REPENTED and turned from my sin and I a member of a Baptist church. I am a mess (mentally and emotionally today) and I need the answer to this question. In Ezekiel and in the NT there are warnings for those who know the truth and turn like I did (Hebrews 10:26 included). I feel what I did puts me in this group Ezekiel speaks of in 18:24,26 and I am very frightened, as I well should be. Do you have any insights or comments?

Can a woman be an evangelist?

Please define the roles of Evangelist and Ministers. I been called to be an Evangelist, and ordained by my pastor, but not trained. I preach once a month. Now, my pastor wants to address me as Minister. Please explain to me the different roles.

I would like to know the qualifications of your Sunday School teachers.

Dear Pastor, I read something on the internet where you stated that the Greek word "katastole" was translated into the English as "modest apparel." I looked at "katastole" in the Greek Lexicon and I didn't find quite that definition. I also read Cathy Corle's article which said that the word "apparel" in King James' day meant "long flowing garment." She said that if you looked at the archaic meaning for the word in an old Oxford English dictionary you would see that it means this. I have not been able to confirm this either. I need to know your source on this matter.

I believe that Christians should follow the law (of course, not unto your salvation). You can't pick and choose what you are going to do and what you aren't. Jesus came to fulfill the law not to destroy it. He fulfilled the law, so the ceremonial stuff is not for us but we are still suppose to tithe, spank our children, follow the Ten Commandments, have a day of rest etc. so why not the other stuff? If you read Acts 15 there were people telling the Gentiles that they had to be circumcised. When the apostles were fixing this doctrine problem they told the Christians that they did not have to be circumcised. I believe they only meant that they did not have to be circumcised to be saved, because if you read on they tell them to keep other parts of the law like not eating blood and not fornicating.

In our church we have been told that the only fruit a Christian can have is that of winning souls to Christ. Is this true?

I recently heard a preacher say that when we stand before Christ we are only going to be judged by our works (particularly our soul-winning), not our doctrine. He inferred that doctrine was not all that important as compared to our works. Do you agree with this.

What does "support the Pastor" really mean? Agreeing with everything he says? Can I disagree with some things and still support the Pastor?

How do you feel about a women keeping silent in the church? Do you have them ask their husbands at home or can they openly ask questions?

Do you feel it is OK for a Christian to have satellite or cable TV?

What do you believe about "church succession"?

I have been divorced and remarried. However, my second husband recently passed away. Is it wrong for me to seek another husband if my first is still alive. I am much confused about the verse in Romans and Corinthians about, "as long as your husband is alive and your married to someone else you are called an "adulteress". Please help.

If women are not to be ministers, evangelists, or over men, then why has he blessed and used women like Paula White, Joyce Meyer's, and Juanita Bynum? Not to mention a host of other wives of pastor's who have their own ministry like sister Copeland, sister Jakes, sister Hagee, and sister Duplantis.
If you look at churches today a big percentage of the church is women. Men don't want to take up the calling God has for them. God will use who He needs to use to get His purpose accomplished. When God is using these women in a powerful way to heal the sick, set the captive free, tear down the stronghold of the enemy, it is difficult to see your argument.
Your argument has valid points from the scripture, but the Bible teaches us that when Jesus left he sent back the Holy Spirit. There was also the day of Pentecost where people were baptized in the Holy Ghost. That gave us the power to do the things Jesus did and I don't think God said this is only for men, you women stay in your corner and keep your mouth shut. They have the same opportunity to receive that same power. And with that power comes the anointing to preach the gospel, heal the broken hearted, preach deliverances to captives, and heal the blinded eyes

Does the Bible teach that God intends for people to only eat vegetables?

Is it biblically permissible for a divorced minister to resume a pastorate?

Part 1: Would it be wrong to reconcile with your first husband according to Deuteronomy 24:4?
Part 2: I'm confused. If this Old Testament law was given to the Jews and not the Gentiles then why would this Deuteronomy clause apply to me? I divorced my husband. I have truly regretted marrying again. I have asked the Lord for forgiveness. If I have truly repented from divorce and remarriage would not this allow me to remarry my first husband? We have recently attempted to reconcile, but he is currently married...

My question is: "When did the word pastor first get used in Christendom?

I have a question as to why Cain's offering was rejected, and Abel's was accepted. I was taught as a child that Cain's sacrifice was wrong because of what it was. I do believe that when God covered Adam and Eve with animal skins that it was a picture of the blood sacrifice that Christ would have to make. However, nowhere do I see that God killed the animals in front of Adam and Eve. Nowhere does He tell them to do this. I don't read where Cain and Abel grew up seeing their parents offer sacrifices and being told that this was the only sacrifice that God wanted.
It seems to me that we read a lot into this story. It has bothered me that Cain's wasn't accepted because it wasn't an animal sacrifice when I don't see that as a requirement. Reading Matthew Henry's book shed new light on this. Gen. 4:3 says that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground. Henry says that this is "left over fruit" i.e. fruit that wasn't harvested and may not have been good fruit. Cain gave God what was left over and not the best. Abel gave God the firstlings of the flock - the best that he had. This makes more sense to me. God didn't accept Cain's offering because it was not the best; it was just what Cain didn't need. Any thoughts?

My husband and I have been married for almost 1 year but there is something we are consistently having problems with. My husband grew up Baptist, and I grew up Catholic but at the age of 14, I started going to a Non-denominational Christian church where I was saved. This church has great meaning to me being that I was saved here and learned so much biblically when I went there. My husband does not like the church because he does not agree with the music they play. They do not sing hymns like they do at the Baptist church, however, they do sing Christian songs. We decided to compromise and agreed we would go to a church we both liked now that we are married. We have not been able to find a church that we both truly agree on yet. We have been going to a Baptist church lately and my husband does not want to seem to keep looking anymore. He said that he has to be the spiritual leader in the family and feels that this church will be best for our walk with Christ. I don't mind going to this church, however, I still like to go to my old church on Saturday night's here and there just to get the singing and service that I love. He said that he does not want me to do that especially when we have kids. He said if I did do that he might have to divorce me. Now what do you think I should say to that. I don't think that going to my church Saturday nights every now and then is wrong if I am going to the Baptist church on Sunday.

Do you understand or see a need for true Christian psychologists? I mean true Ph.D. level clinical psychologists; not the fake ones like Jay Adams?

I grew up in a Baptist home, and I recently graduated from Christian college. I plan on getting married in a few months to a man I met in college.
When I was nine years old my dad had an affair with a woman from church and left my mom. We begged him to stay, but he left anyway. A few weeks later he returned, but nothing was ever said about it. My relationship to him changed forever. I was no longer a "Daddy's girl". He never does anything with me, nor tells me that he loves me. I put myself through college without my parents' help, and they don't do anything for me except provide the bed that I sleep in.
I am getting married soon. My dad has established such harsh rules about my dating that I almost hate him. He forbids us to date to events at the college simply because he can. He wants us to spend time together, but only at my house. We can't talk on the phone unless my folks are in the room. This has been going on for a year and a half. Because of this, we are sneaking around. I now go on activities without telling Dad. We go out on dates when my parents think I am 'at work'. We hang out together when my parents don't know. We talk on the phone after my family goes to bed. I sneak off and lie to my parents. If they found out I would be 6 feet under. But I really don't care; if they don't give me the love every daughter needs and does not allow me to spend time with the only one who shows me love, than I will disobey them.
Here's my question, am I wrong? If I am, how do I fix it and what should I do?

What is the Scriptural basis for supporting missions through Faith Promise?

Can you speak to verses like Psalms 109:10 and 12? I must admit that it was hard to read them, having taken in fatherless children ourselves...I can't imagine not taking any orphans in or showing pity to them even if I knew their biological father had been a monster. We know that the New Testament calls us to aid the fatherless and widowed, calling it true religion. And Psalm 113 refers to God aiding the poor and destitute....which these would be. I don't doubt that the Scriptures, even these seemingly harsh words, have God's stamp of approval, I just don't understand why He would call for a blind eye to orphans. Perhaps in this particular instance, these were adult children already given in to wickedness?

I had learned at one time that we only sin against God. We can do wrong to our fellow man and therefore sin against God in doing so. Sin is something that is particular between us and God. That is why David says he has sinned only against God. He wronged or offended or hurt the others the but sinned only against God. The word "sin" is peculiar between man and God. The wayward son when he goes home to his father says I have sinned against God in your sight. Is there something in the Greek and Hebrew that changes in translation?

Why do you believe the way you do about music, and what books would you recommend that I read to learn more about the subject?

What do you think about the Apostles' Creed?

I have suffered for many years from a terrible fear of public speaking. Do you think prayer is sufficient to conquer this fear, or would seeking counseling, medication, etc. show a lack of faith?

What does the Bible mean when it says, "The last shall be first and the first shall be last, many are called, but few are chosen" ?

What is a woman to do when she is basically forced to divorce? My friend was "unequally yoked" to a non-believer. He announced he was in love with an old friend. The husband offered to stay married but he wanted to have the other woman too. Rather than that, my friend agreed to a divorce after much counseling. She has hidden from the Lord and is harboring such resentment. She has turned away from fundamental/biblical churches because she feels she is now labeled an adulteress.

A Response to a Roman Catholic's Criticisms

If a married man's wife is not a Christian but the husband is, will this exclude them from church membership? It has been brought to my attention that most pastors want both the husband and wife to be church members. If this is not possible than the one who is saved can still attend the church giving full support as if he is a member until his wife, hopefully gets "saved" with encouragement from the church of course. Is this true?

Should one be excluded from becoming a church member if they hold membership in the Freemasons even if they are inactive in that organization, and should they let the pastor know of such membership?

I had a question about the dispute over 1 John 5:7-8. I've read in several places that originally, Erasmus didn't have it in his first couple of editions, and then he only put it in once he was presented with a copy that had been taken from a manuscript that only had it in the margins in the 5th century or something. I realize that it does not change the doctrine of the Trinity, but I would like to have more understanding concerning this passage.

A friend of mine is looking for a church, and wrote: "We're reading a book called Ekklesia that talks about the roots of the Biblical church. It presents a totally different model for church than what we typically see here: house churches instead of bigger institutional church buildings, interactive, open meetings where every brother can give a word of instruction, song, prophecy, tongue/interpretation, etc; elder-led church governance as opposed to a hierarchy ruled church, celebrating the Lord's supper as a full meal rather than a wafer and little cup, etc." Do you have any thoughts on the above?

Can you tell me a Biblical reason why Barak Obama is NOT the antichrist??

*1. My dad is an atheist who can't understand the Bible (as in the KJV syntax) and doesn't believe it's anything more than some old writings of some guys who started something that took off (probably because people were stupid and superstitious and science wasn't advanced enough to explain it to them)
*2. My neighbors are Sunni Muslims who believe with all their hearts that Jesus is a prophet, not the Son of God. They don't believe in the New Testament, but truly believe a prophet named Mohammed wrote the Quran while inspired by God.
*3. Many of my friends are Mormons who believe that our Bible is flawed and corrupted and that a guy named Joseph Smith was visited by an angel of God who straightened out the whole corrupted mess and gave Joe the truth.
My question is: How do you witness to these people? If they don't believe in the Bible at all or believe that it is corrupted, how can I use Bible verses to explain anything?

What does it mean to be "born again", and who is "born again"?

Can I be re-baptized,or would it be re-crucifying Christ all over again?

Do you believe in the Rapture?

I am a student writing a research paper on the Creationism-Evolutionism argument, and I want to make sure I am being fair and thorough in my interpretation of both sides. Here are some points that I'd like to make certain I am not misrepresenting, according to what I understand of the Baptist view of Evolutionary theory;
1) Scientists have no proof that evolutionary theory has any basis in fact.
2) The lack of evidence is proof that the theory is untrue.
3) The bible alone provides a literal, accurate, and infallible description of the Universe’s origin.
Do you feel these are fair and representative, or do you disagree with these statements?

How do you know when to leave something at God's feet after praying and when to pray continuously for the same thing?

What is your position on Spirit Baptism from I Corinthians 12:13?

Why are you not a Calvinist?

What do you believe about Pastor or Elder/Deacon Rule, with members voting only for their Pastor/Elder/Deacons?

Could you please explain the Masons and the Masonic Lodge? It sounds like a cult to me. Is there a group of them that is OK?

My wife who is a DEVOUT Oprah Winfrey follower and a devout believer in "being a good person gets you to heaven," Over the past nearly 13 years that I have tried to live for the Lord I have endured more persecution than I can handle. However, we are both at home right now due to unemployment, and as a result I am never any more than a few feet away from her at any given moment, plus I am virtually surrounded by determined, adamant, and in some cases psychotic heathen. I have come to the point where I have no other choice but to give up on ever being able to live a Christian life again. I have backslidden to the point where I cannot come back. There are just too many obstacles. In the past I have enjoyed all the happiness that comes with being with my fellow Christians. But for the past several weeks I have been totally and completely removed from all my fellow Christians so now I have nobody. I will always BELIEVE that Jesus is the ONLY way to Heaven, but I can no longer live the life. My only hope is that the Lord will allow me a chance to repent before my time comes.

Just wondering if you could point me to any additional information on "stole" and "katastole". Doesn't seem to be much available

I know that sex outside of marriage is wrong, but what does the Bible say that a couple should do if they fall into this mess? Does the Bible say that the couple should get married?

I read you article on Monasticism with great care. I do not dispute the facts of what you wrote, but I do think that some of your conclusions are very wrong. Your view "All these various extremes were practiced for the purpose of obtaining salvation." I think misses the point of monasticism entirely. Such ascetic practices are not done to win God's favor and through this salvation but rather to be in communion with God. I know many monastics and they would be offended by such beliefs that their actions are undertaken for salvation's purpose. They quite well understand that man is saved through the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, monastics take up Christs words “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” (Matthew 19:21). It's all about following Christ, communion with Christ and loving Christ.

About 9 years ago, I prayed with my pastor and asked to be saved. I felt happy and at peace for a few days after. I knew I should be baptized and I went through baptism at our Baptist church home.What really has sometimes worried me is my feelings at my baptism...I remember feeling somewhat embarrassed and wondering if people would be thinking phrases like, "wow she's just now getting saved...what's wrong with her?" And it didn't help that I really don't like a crowd of people watching me! Even though I am a believer in Jesus I am afraid that I will be judged on how I felt at my baptism, like "why weren't you happy to be baptized,"...

If God has always been before there were angels and God was the only being, was He lonely being the only one?

Did cave men go to heaven? Why does the Bible not mention cave men?

Why does the Bible not mention dinosaurs but we have fossils to prove their existence?

From N.T. times on, if a person asks Jesus into their lives, He never leaves. We have verses to back that up. What assurance did people have in the O.T. of that? If a person loved God and followed Him but made some wrong choices and was backslidden, did he go to Paradise when he died?

I am a member of a Baptist church, and I have a question about my pastor's leadership. Below is a list of things he has either done or said during the past year and a half that I have been a member.

Members joining without a church vote
Assignment of church officers without a church vote
Deciding where money goes without a church vote
Leadership assigned without a church vote
Missionaries taken on, removed, or sent out without a church vote
"I'm the pastor, I can do whatever I want."
"Don't question your pastor."
"God leads me, so you must follow me."
"You must follow me because I'm your pastor."
"Your pastor is asking you to ..."
"Your pastor needs you to ..."
"You should serve me."

He also has the following characteristics:

He travels but you don't. It all about you helping him achieve "his" ministry.
No one has permission to go anywhere except where he says, when he says.
He refuses to release the people to God's call in their life.
He is always training you for ministry but you never graduate because you never quite measure up.
People leave suddenly and those who leave are leaving hurt.
No Transparency. He leads a secret life with a short list of approved followers that he will allow near.
No accountability of leadership to the church body
Extreme emphasis is placed on the authority of the pastor
Loyalty to the pastor is stressed
Decisions are made by the pastor on behalf of the congregation. In many cases, church members have no idea how the church money is spent

How I should respond to these things?

When did the Hypostatic Union of Christ end?

I'm a young pastor. How would you respond if you were accused of dictatorship and authoritarianism? I feel like there are adversaries on every side.

I have some questions about Job, particularly 1:5. It always bothered me that Job offered the sacrifices until I realized that there were no Levites yet. But what still bothers me is that it seems that Job offered the sacrifices in case his family had sinned. Wouldn't offering sacrifices in case they had sinned while not knowing if they had sinned be presumptuous? Shouldn't his sons and daughters at least bring the offerings to Job and have him sacrifice them or somehow acknowledge to him that they needed forgiveness? When it says that Job "sent and sanctified" them, does it mean that he sent for them to be there when he sacrificed? Finally, verse 18 says the sons and daughters were feasting in the oldest brother's house, but verse 19 says the house fell on the "young men". Now I know that at the end of Job, he has 10 children again and it is double because his first ten would be with him in Heaven. So is the phrase young men generic?

When were angels created?

I'd like more understanding on verses II Corinthians 13: 4-10. What is the weakness he is talking about and what does he mean by the term reprobate? How does the "weakness" in verse 4 compare to being "weak" in verse 9?

I am a member of a Baptist church, and I have a question about my pastor's leadership. Below is a list of things he has either done or said during the past year and a half that I have been a member.

I have three questions:

1. So the devil never was or did any good?

2. Why did God even bother to create him?

3. I thought God didn't create evil?

I have a question about I John 3:4-10

In what context/meaning are the words of Jesus when he refers to "SON of MAN"? Does it have different applications?

Do you think we can say for sure that Abimelech was not a worshiper of God. (the king that Abraham gave Sara to for his harem)?

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