Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:    0:38 {Avoiding the Appearance of Evil?} You recently said, "Scripture says: avoid the appearance of evil." I was wondering, if 1 Thessalonians 5:22 is the verse you were thinking of, isn't that Scripture referring to staying away from partaking in evil, not abstaining from things that look like you're partaking in evil to others? 17:49 {About Jesus’ DNA} What was Jesus' DNA? Was Jesus' DNA 100% from God, or did He have Mary's human DNA? Perhaps it's the same DNA as Adam, since Jesus is the 2nd Adam? 23:25 {Angels Ascending &amp; Descending?} What did Jesus mean in John 1:51? Was it a specific word for Nathanael, or does it apply to everyone? Would really love some clarity. 30:58 {Brotherly Support vs. Enabling Legalism} How do we balance being careful not to stumble a fellow believer, while also not catering to someone's legalism? 37:24 {Polygamy in Scripture?} Polygamy? Exodus 21:10–11 says if he takes to himself another woman, he may not reduce her food, her clothing, or her conjugal rights. Clearly, God is speaking of multiple wives. Your thoughts? 44:11 {Negative Words = Neg. Consequences?} In WOF (Word of Faith) circles, 2 Kings 4:8-37 is an example of why you shouldn’t speak or pray negatively about your situation. What is the actual idea of this passage? 53:41 {Envy vs. Jealousy?} Is there a difference between envy and jealousy? Can you describe what the difference is biblically? 56:09 {Did Joseph Fail to “Test the Spirits”?} 1 John 4 says to “test the spirits.” But Mary's husband, Joseph, didn't appear to do this when he had the dream to flee to Egypt. How should we understand or interpret this? 1:00:20 {Must we “Wait for God” before Salvation?} Can you get saved whenever? My church teaches that God must first “knock on your heart” before you can respond and accept salvation. This leads to some people wanting to be saved, but waiting. 1:05:51 {Clarifying a Difficult Passage} A local UMC pastor preached on Matthew 18:21-35. She said scholars say that Matthew added verses 34-35 and that the master does not represent God. I've never heard this take and it sounds concerning. Any insight? 1:09:12 {Why Didn’t Jesus Baptize?} Why didn’t Jesus water baptize anyone Himself (John 4:2)? 1:13:20 {Do Not Evangelize to Some People?} Are there situations or groups of people for whom we shouldn't share the Gospel? Acts 16:6-7 seems to say so, but I'd love to hear your insight on the topic and your interpretation of this passage. 1:17:21 {Godly Headship Carried Out} What does a husband being the head of the wife actually mean he does? I don't find any actionable steps or clear examples in the Bible. Does he boss her around or just be a good man? 1:22:20 {Do We Each Have a “Calling”?} How do we know how we (individually) are meant to serve the Lord? 1:25:32 {Thoughts on Genesis 1/Creation} I've recently seen Inspiring Philosophy's video on Genesis 1. He says that it's most likely mirroring the near East tradition of assigning purpose rather than actual creation. Thoughts? 1:34:09 {Song of Solomon = Christ &amp; Church?} I am currently studying Song of Solomon, and I was wondering, do you believe that it represents Christ and the Church? I have an issue with that, as the book describes a sexual relationship. 1:37:30 {Can Same-Sex Attractions Change?} I'm a Christian, converted this year. I've felt the Holy Spirit inspire me to live a better life in many ways. But I still struggle with one thing. I'm gay and I struggle to see how my attraction could change. 1:40:35 {DND, Harry Potter, etc.} The Bible is clear about its stance on sorcery and witchcraft. My husband and I play DND and some people were having an issue with this and potentially also with books containing magic. What are your thoughts? 1:45:39 {Godly Dating Practices} What is the best way to date for marriage as a Christian? Is there a good way to sift through people to find someone equally yoked? 1:49:05 {Loving the Lord with Everything} I’ve been wondering about the great commandment Jesus gives in Matthew 22:36. Seems like a Deuteronomy 6 quote, but why does Jesus change the last quality from “might” to “mind”?    Bonus Q! 1:52:02 Were they really taking the Hobbits to Isengard?   Here's Christopher Yuan's book, Holy Sexuality: https://amzn.to/3O6tr1g (affiliate link)   To ask a question, all you need to do is wait till after the stream starts (which means waiting until I'm actually on screen talking), post a question in the live chat with a Q at the opening of it, and be as clear as you can. Thanks!   Today's stream is going to start off with a verse that I only recently realized I had used wrongly for years. It's not clickbait, this is a bit embarrassing but a good lesson for me to share with others.

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: <ol> <li>0:38 {Avoiding the Appearance of Evil?} You recently said, "Scripture says: avoid the appearance of evil." I was wondering, if 1 Thessalonians 5:22 is the verse you were thinking of, isn't that Scripture referring to staying away from partaking in evil, not abstaining from things that look like you're partaking in evil to others?</li> <li>17:49 {About Jesus’ DNA} What was Jesus' DNA? Was Jesus' DNA 100% from God, or did He have Mary's human DNA? Perhaps it's the same DNA as Adam, since Jesus is the 2nd Adam?</li> <li>23:25 {Angels Ascending &amp; Descending?} What did Jesus mean in John 1:51? Was it a specific word for Nathanael, or does it apply to everyone? Would really love some clarity.</li> <li>30:58 {Brotherly Support vs. Enabling Legalism} How do we balance being careful not to stumble a fellow believer, while also not catering to someone's legalism?</li> <li>37:24 {Polygamy in Scripture?} Polygamy? Exodus 21:10–11 says if he takes to himself another woman, he may not reduce her food, her clothing, or her conjugal rights. Clearly, God is speaking of multiple wives. Your thoughts?</li> <li>44:11 {Negative Words = Neg. Consequences?} In WOF (Word of Faith) circles, 2 Kings 4:8-37 is an example of why you shouldn’t speak or pray negatively about your situation. What is the actual idea of this passage?</li> <li>53:41 {Envy vs. Jealousy?} Is there a difference between envy and jealousy? Can you describe what the difference is biblically?</li> <li>56:09 {Did Joseph Fail to “Test the Spirits”?} 1 John 4 says to “test the spirits.” But Mary's husband, Joseph, didn't appear to do this when he had the dream to flee to Egypt. How should we understand or interpret this?</li> <li>1:00:20 {Must we “Wait for God” before Salvation?} Can you get saved whenever? My church teaches that God must first “knock on your heart” before you can respond and accept salvation. This leads to some people wanting to be saved, but waiting.</li> <li>1:05:51 {Clarifying a Difficult Passage} A local UMC pastor preached on Matthew 18:21-35. She said scholars say that Matthew added verses 34-35 and that the master does not represent God. I've never heard this take and it sounds concerning. Any insight?</li> <li>1:09:12 {Why Didn’t Jesus Baptize?} Why didn’t Jesus water baptize anyone Himself (John 4:2)?</li> <li>1:13:20 {Do Not Evangelize to Some People?} Are there situations or groups of people for whom we shouldn't share the Gospel? Acts 16:6-7 seems to say so, but I'd love to hear your insight on the topic and your interpretation of this passage.</li> <li>1:17:21 {Godly Headship Carried Out} What does a husband being the head of the wife actually mean he does? I don't find any actionable steps or clear examples in the Bible. Does he boss her around or just be a good man?</li> <li>1:22:20 {Do We Each Have a “Calling”?} How do we know how we (individually) are meant to serve the Lord?</li> <li>1:25:32 {Thoughts on Genesis 1/Creation} I've recently seen Inspiring Philosophy's video on Genesis 1. He says that it's most likely mirroring the near East tradition of assigning purpose rather than actual creation. Thoughts?</li> <li>1:34:09 {Song of Solomon = Christ &amp; Church?} I am currently studying Song of Solomon, and I was wondering, do you believe that it represents Christ and the Church? I have an issue with that, as the book describes a sexual relationship.</li> <li>1:37:30 {Can Same-Sex Attractions Change?} I'm a Christian, converted this year. I've felt the Holy Spirit inspire me to live a better life in many ways. But I still struggle with one thing. I'm gay and I struggle to see how my attraction could change.</li> <li>1:40:35 {DND, Harry Potter, etc.} The Bible is clear about its stance on sorcery and witchcraft. My husband and I play DND and some people were having an issue with this and potentially also with books containing magic. What are your thoughts?</li> <li>1:45:39 {Godly Dating Practices} What is the best way to date for marriage as a Christian? Is there a good way to sift through people to find someone equally yoked?</li> <li>1:49:05 {Loving the Lord with Everything} I’ve been wondering about the great commandment Jesus gives in Matthew 22:36. Seems like a Deuteronomy 6 quote, but why does Jesus change the last quality from “might” to “mind”?</li> </ol> Bonus Q! 1:52:02 Were they really taking the Hobbits to Isengard? Here's Christopher Yuan's book, Holy Sexuality: <a href="https://amzn.to/3O6tr1g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://amzn.to/3O6tr1g</a> (affiliate link) To ask a question, all you need to do is wait till after the stream starts (which means waiting until I'm actually on screen talking), post a question in the live chat with a Q at the opening of it, and be as clear as you can. Thanks! Today's stream is going to start off with a verse that I only recently realized I had used wrongly for years. It's not clickbait, this is a bit embarrassing but a good lesson for me to share with others.

20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 104)

If you want to know more about The Passion Translation, you can find it in these links: CLICK HERE for an overview of issues for those who want the "big picture." CLICK HERE for my full playlist of interviews with top scholars that I hired to do reviews of The Passion Translation. These guys are all experienced in working on major Bible translations. They reviewed TPT and helped us take a look "under the hood." I'm Mike Winger and it's my goal to help people learn to think biblically about everything. My website: https://BibleThinker.org

If you want to know more about The Passion Translation, you can find it in these links: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EtXBxAuZ3g&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for an overview of issues for those who want the "big picture." <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBC2z0URxYE&amp;list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuv-ISp_iIw1WL8zaEm86L8&amp;index=1&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for my full playlist of interviews with top scholars that I hired to do reviews of The Passion Translation. These guys are all experienced in working on major Bible translations. They reviewed TPT and helped us take a look "under the hood." I'm Mike Winger and it's my goal to help people learn to think biblically about everything. My website: <a href="https://BibleThinker.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://BibleThinker.org</a>

Confronting the pastor who uses The Passion Translation.

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:    0:53 {The Sin of Sodom} What Was the Sin of Sodom &amp; Gomorrah? 30:37 {Proper Posture for Prayer} Does God really care about our physical position while we pray or praise and worship? Does He care whether we are standing, sitting, bowing, etc.? 33:31 {Why isn’t Dan Listed?} In Revelation 7, 12 x 1200 are listed from 11 of the 12 tribes. Dan isn't listed. What's up with that? 39:11 {How to View Mythical “gods”} How should we view mythical gods? Were they real? They had to come from somewhere to get the idea, right? 41:44 {Casting Out = Abolishing?} How do you reconcile Galatians 4:28-31 with Jesus saying He didn’t come to abolish the Law? Casting them out kind of seems like abolishing. 45:11 {How to Explain Perceived Miracles} How can I respond with Scripture to my Catholic friend who says, “I’ve seen Mary &amp; saints do miracles when my dad was in the ICU. That’s why it’s hard to leave the catholic religion: I’ve seen It”? 47:22 {Created More Obedient?} If God knew humans would rebel in the garden, and that humanity is so prone to rebellion, why didn't He create us more suitable to be obedient to Him? Was His plan to always to perfect us in Christ? 53:23 {Is a Lack of Structure &amp; Liturgy Problematic?} What do you think about tradition and church liturgy? Is it not a problem that contemporary churches lack beauty and tradition in their doctrine? 58:32 {Will the Gospel Reach All Nations Soon?} It seems that Jesus, in Matthew 24:14, indicates that His return will come once the Gospel is preached to all nations. Can we assume this will happen sooner rather than much later? 1:02:29 {Jesus = Michael the Archangel?} Is Michael the Archangel Jesus? I once heard a pastor give praises and prayers to Michael on the pulpit, and when I asked him about it, he referenced a few Scriptures but I’m just not fully convinced. 1:06:41 {About Behemoth &amp; Leviathan} Can you shed some clarity on what exactly is behemoth and leviathan in the Old Testament? 1:08:24 {Jesus Indwelt by the Spirit?} Was Jesus indwelt by the Holy Spirit, or was it His own divine nature that sustained Him while on Earth in His human form? 1:11:45 {Healing: By Faith or By God?} In Luke 8:43-48, Jesus says, “Your faith has made you well.” He didn’t say God did it, but her faith. How is this different than the Law of Attraction as told by New Agers? 1:17:25 {Hellfire &amp; Brimstone Preaching} What are your thoughts on the "Hellfire and Brimstone" style of preaching? Is there any truth in it? 1:22:19 {Is Debt Inherently Sinful?} I have a question on debt. Do you see debt as sinful, or is it something that can become sinful if abused, like alcohol consumption? Any clear biblical lines on the issue? 1:25:39 {When Believers Disagree} Can you give me any advice on living in unity with other brothers and sisters in Christ? I always try to keep secondary issues secondary, but I’ve heard “Well, your secondary issues are someone else’s primary issues.” 1:29:53 {Using “Preferred Pronouns”?} I am a manager for a large retailer, and I have recently had two employees request that I address them by their non-binary pronouns. Do you have any thoughts on how I should proceed? 1:34:36 {The Doctrine of Inspiration} What evidence and encouragement can you offer a believer who is struggling to trust the doctrine of inspiration? I know that it’s true, but I struggle with doubt. 1:38:03 {Teaching PSA to Our Youth} My ex is Muslim. He taught our kids that God’s forgiveness is enough and there is no need for God to die for our sins. Do you have any ideas on how to discuss Penal Substitution with a 9 yr. old? 1:41:14 {Are David &amp; Solomon in Hell?} I’ve always wondered why David and Solomon get a pass. David had 7 wives and 70 concubines. Solomon had 70 wives and 700 concubines. If "no fornicators will enter," are David and Solomon in Hell?     BibleThinker mugs can be found HERE (note: I don't make a penny off these, but $5 per mug will be donated to missions work.) Evidence for the Bible series: click HERE Jesus in the Old Testament series: click HERE Polygamy video I mentioned: click HERE

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: <ol> <li>0:53 {The Sin of Sodom} What Was the Sin of Sodom &amp; Gomorrah?</li> <li>30:37 {Proper Posture for Prayer} Does God really care about our physical position while we pray or praise and worship? Does He care whether we are standing, sitting, bowing, etc.?</li> <li>33:31 {Why isn’t Dan Listed?} In Revelation 7, 12 x 1200 are listed from 11 of the 12 tribes. Dan isn't listed. What's up with that?</li> <li>39:11 {How to View Mythical “gods”} How should we view mythical gods? Were they real? They had to come from somewhere to get the idea, right?</li> <li>41:44 {Casting Out = Abolishing?} How do you reconcile Galatians 4:28-31 with Jesus saying He didn’t come to abolish the Law? Casting them out kind of seems like abolishing.</li> <li>45:11 {How to Explain Perceived Miracles} How can I respond with Scripture to my Catholic friend who says, “I’ve seen Mary &amp; saints do miracles when my dad was in the ICU. That’s why it’s hard to leave the catholic religion: I’ve seen It”?</li> <li>47:22 {Created More Obedient?} If God knew humans would rebel in the garden, and that humanity is so prone to rebellion, why didn't He create us more suitable to be obedient to Him? Was His plan to always to perfect us in Christ?</li> <li>53:23 {Is a Lack of Structure &amp; Liturgy Problematic?} What do you think about tradition and church liturgy? Is it not a problem that contemporary churches lack beauty and tradition in their doctrine?</li> <li>58:32 {Will the Gospel Reach All Nations Soon?} It seems that Jesus, in Matthew 24:14, indicates that His return will come once the Gospel is preached to all nations. Can we assume this will happen sooner rather than much later?</li> <li>1:02:29 {Jesus = Michael the Archangel?} Is Michael the Archangel Jesus? I once heard a pastor give praises and prayers to Michael on the pulpit, and when I asked him about it, he referenced a few Scriptures but I’m just not fully convinced.</li> <li>1:06:41 {About Behemoth &amp; Leviathan} Can you shed some clarity on what exactly is behemoth and leviathan in the Old Testament?</li> <li>1:08:24 {Jesus Indwelt by the Spirit?} Was Jesus indwelt by the Holy Spirit, or was it His own divine nature that sustained Him while on Earth in His human form?</li> <li>1:11:45 {Healing: By Faith or By God?} In Luke 8:43-48, Jesus says, “Your faith has made you well.” He didn’t say God did it, but her faith. How is this different than the Law of Attraction as told by New Agers?</li> <li>1:17:25 {Hellfire &amp; Brimstone Preaching} What are your thoughts on the "Hellfire and Brimstone" style of preaching? Is there any truth in it?</li> <li>1:22:19 {Is Debt Inherently Sinful?} I have a question on debt. Do you see debt as sinful, or is it something that can become sinful if abused, like alcohol consumption? Any clear biblical lines on the issue?</li> <li>1:25:39 {When Believers Disagree} Can you give me any advice on living in unity with other brothers and sisters in Christ? I always try to keep secondary issues secondary, but I’ve heard “Well, your secondary issues are someone else’s primary issues.”</li> <li>1:29:53 {Using “Preferred Pronouns”?} I am a manager for a large retailer, and I have recently had two employees request that I address them by their non-binary pronouns. Do you have any thoughts on how I should proceed?</li> <li>1:34:36 {The Doctrine of Inspiration} What evidence and encouragement can you offer a believer who is struggling to trust the doctrine of inspiration? I know that it’s true, but I struggle with doubt.</li> <li>1:38:03 {Teaching PSA to Our Youth} My ex is Muslim. He taught our kids that God’s forgiveness is enough and there is no need for God to die for our sins. Do you have any ideas on how to discuss Penal Substitution with a 9 yr. old?</li> <li>1:41:14 {Are David &amp; Solomon in Hell?} I’ve always wondered why David and Solomon get a pass. David had 7 wives and 70 concubines. Solomon had 70 wives and 700 concubines. If "no fornicators will enter," are David and Solomon in Hell?</li> </ol> <ul> <li>BibleThinker mugs can be found <a href="https://www.zockollpottery.com/shop" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a> (note: I don't make a penny off these, but $5 per mug will be donated to missions work.)</li> <li>Evidence for the Bible series: click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuhA0RPKZFHVcjIMN_-F596" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a></li> <li>Jesus in the Old Testament series: click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHsHyvMtfgOgSPU6zEnCvxUO" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a></li> <li>Polygamy video I mentioned: click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/RF5suDf2yC8?feature=share" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a></li></ul>

20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 103)

As I am uploading this video, I realize there's a confusion that could easily arise. I'll try to clear it up here: The NT does not teach all believers to actually attend literal synagogues. Nor do we have any examples I know of where Gentile converts to Christianity ever attended, or were told to attend synagogues literally. I am speaking here of the common practice of evangelism where we seek out public opportunities and locations to tell people about Jesus and the Gospel. This is an area where Christians in general could use a lot more boldness and intentionality. Go for it! My website: https://BibleThinker.org

As I am uploading this video, I realize there's a confusion that could easily arise. I'll try to clear it up here: The NT does not teach all believers to actually attend literal synagogues. Nor do we have any examples I know of where Gentile converts to Christianity ever attended, or were told to attend synagogues literally. I am speaking here of the common practice of evangelism where we seek out public opportunities and locations to tell people about Jesus and the Gospel. This is an area where Christians in general could use a lot more boldness and intentionality. Go for it! My website: <a href="https://BibleThinker.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://BibleThinker.org</a>

Do We Need to “Go to Synagogue”?

Today's first question is about 4 passages in the Bible that supposedly show God lying.   Time Stamps:    0:01 {God Lied 4 Times??} I’ve recently had someone use Jeremiah 20:7, Matthew 16:28, the lack of immediate death in Genesis 3, and Cain’s exile in Genesis 4 as “evidence” that God is a liar. How would you respond? 38:46 {Animal Death Before the Fall?} If animal death occurred prior to the fall, wouldn’t that mean God called animal death/suffering “very good?” If we later see a wolf dwelling with a lamb, wouldn’t that indicate that prior to the fall, that was what we had enjoyed? 45:12 {Avoid the Appearance of Evil?} You recently said, "Scripture says: avoid the appearance of evil." I was wondering, if 1 Thessalonians 5:22 is the verse you were thinking of, isn't that verse referring to staying away from partaking in evil, not abstaining from things that look like you're partaking in evil to others? 48:19 {Human Souls vs. Animal Souls} Does Ecclesiastes 3:18-21 teach that there is no difference between the spirits of humans and those of animals? I’ve heard this claim from those who reject an immortal soul. 55:07 {Has Jesus Always Had a Physical Body?} What form did Jesus exist in before He was conceived in Mary’s womb? Did He have a physical body before that? 57:27 {Evangelism Required for Salvation?} Is our salvation based not only on being saved and accepting Jesus into our life and believing in Him, but also on a need to be spreading the Word of God (the Bible)? 1:01:37 {Is Repentance a Change of Mind?} If repentance (metanoia) literally means “change of mind,” then why do we say repentance means changing our mind/attitude about sin? Why isn't it changing our minds from unbelief to belief? 1:04:16 {Theocracy &amp; Theonomy} Could Christ's commission to disciple the nations in Matthew 28:19 mean the Christianization of countries and nation-states, or does it apply only to individual people? 1:11:18 {Will We Judge Angels?} 1 Corinthians 6:3 states that we will judge angels. What do you think Paul means by this, and is there any other reference about us judging angels? 1:14:18 {Cursing &amp; Blessing in the OT} When prophets such as Elisha cursed or blessed people, was it God who put it in their minds to do that, or did they have a Spirit-given ability to do such things without having to consult Him? 1:18:00 {Does the HS Help Us or Take Over?} Does the Holy Spirit enhance who we are, as in assisting us in Godly behavior? Or does He, at times, take over completely so that we behave, see, and feel things opposite of our ungodly flesh? 1:24:20 {The Purpose of Scripture in Eternity} Matthew 5:18 seems to say some Scripture will pass away at the end times, but Matthew 24:35 appears to contradict this. What use might we have for Scripture in the next life where there is no temptation to sin? 1:27:55 {Are We to Administer Revenge Ourselves?} Someone said it was okay to exact revenge on pedophiles, and they used Matthew 18:6 to justify it. Is that what this Scripture really means or allows for? 1:32:14 {Death on the New Earth?} Why is there a reference to death and a lifespan (albeit a long one) in Isaiah 65:20 when speaking of the New Earth? 1:34:37 {Will We Remember our Lives in Heaven?} Do you think we will remember our earthly lives in Heaven, given that there is nothing negative in Heaven and this world is so full of negative things and memories? 1:40:24 {The Serious Sin of Blasphemy} Why do so many Christians take the Lord’s name in vain? I know several Christians (even two pastors) who do this often. Should we tell them they’re in sin? 1:43:25 {What did Jesus Mean?} What do you think Jesus meant when He said "The first shall be last and the last shall be first" in Matthew 20:16? 1:46:53 {Can our Conscience make Sex a Sin?} My question is about stronger vs. weaker consciences. Is it possible to make sex into a sin, and if so, how should the "strong" treat the "weak"? 1:53:30 {The Law of Agency} How do you respond to non-trinitarians who use the "Law of Agency" to dismiss the scriptural evidence for the Trinity in regard to Jesus, etc. claiming He is not God, but simply God's agent? 1:57:21 {The Book of James vs. Jacob} I was looking at the Greek in James' epistle (1:1) and his name in the Greek is Iakobos. Why do we call it "the Book of James" if the Greek more closely resembles Jacob (Iakobos)?    Links I mentioned:    Different Christian views of the End Times: CLICK HERE Jesus as the Angel of the LORD: CLICK HERE My discussion about Theonomy with Joel Webbon: CLICK HERE A biblical case for the death penalty: CLICK HERE

Today's first question is about 4 passages in the Bible that supposedly show God lying. Time Stamps: <ol> <li>0:01 {God Lied 4 Times??} I’ve recently had someone use Jeremiah 20:7, Matthew 16:28, the lack of immediate death in Genesis 3, and Cain’s exile in Genesis 4 as “evidence” that God is a liar. How would you respond?</li> <li>38:46 {Animal Death Before the Fall?} If animal death occurred prior to the fall, wouldn’t that mean God called animal death/suffering “very good?” If we later see a wolf dwelling with a lamb, wouldn’t that indicate that prior to the fall, that was what we had enjoyed?</li> <li>45:12 {Avoid the Appearance of Evil?} You recently said, "Scripture says: avoid the appearance of evil." I was wondering, if 1 Thessalonians 5:22 is the verse you were thinking of, isn't that verse referring to staying away from partaking in evil, not abstaining from things that look like you're partaking in evil to others?</li> <li>48:19 {Human Souls vs. Animal Souls} Does Ecclesiastes 3:18-21 teach that there is no difference between the spirits of humans and those of animals? I’ve heard this claim from those who reject an immortal soul.</li> <li>55:07 {Has Jesus Always Had a Physical Body?} What form did Jesus exist in before He was conceived in Mary’s womb? Did He have a physical body before that?</li> <li>57:27 {Evangelism Required for Salvation?} Is our salvation based not only on being saved and accepting Jesus into our life and believing in Him, but also on a need to be spreading the Word of God (the Bible)?</li> <li>1:01:37 {Is Repentance a Change of Mind?} If repentance (metanoia) literally means “change of mind,” then why do we say repentance means changing our mind/attitude about sin? Why isn't it changing our minds from unbelief to belief?</li> <li>1:04:16 {Theocracy &amp; Theonomy} Could Christ's commission to disciple the nations in Matthew 28:19 mean the Christianization of countries and nation-states, or does it apply only to individual people?</li> <li>1:11:18 {Will We Judge Angels?} 1 Corinthians 6:3 states that we will judge angels. What do you think Paul means by this, and is there any other reference about us judging angels?</li> <li>1:14:18 {Cursing &amp; Blessing in the OT} When prophets such as Elisha cursed or blessed people, was it God who put it in their minds to do that, or did they have a Spirit-given ability to do such things without having to consult Him?</li> <li>1:18:00 {Does the HS Help Us or Take Over?} Does the Holy Spirit enhance who we are, as in assisting us in Godly behavior? Or does He, at times, take over completely so that we behave, see, and feel things opposite of our ungodly flesh?</li> <li>1:24:20 {The Purpose of Scripture in Eternity} Matthew 5:18 seems to say some Scripture will pass away at the end times, but Matthew 24:35 appears to contradict this. What use might we have for Scripture in the next life where there is no temptation to sin?</li> <li>1:27:55 {Are We to Administer Revenge Ourselves?} Someone said it was okay to exact revenge on pedophiles, and they used Matthew 18:6 to justify it. Is that what this Scripture really means or allows for?</li> <li>1:32:14 {Death on the New Earth?} Why is there a reference to death and a lifespan (albeit a long one) in Isaiah 65:20 when speaking of the New Earth?</li> <li>1:34:37 {Will We Remember our Lives in Heaven?} Do you think we will remember our earthly lives in Heaven, given that there is nothing negative in Heaven and this world is so full of negative things and memories?</li> <li>1:40:24 {The Serious Sin of Blasphemy} Why do so many Christians take the Lord’s name in vain? I know several Christians (even two pastors) who do this often. Should we tell them they’re in sin?</li> <li>1:43:25 {What did Jesus Mean?} What do you think Jesus meant when He said "The first shall be last and the last shall be first" in Matthew 20:16?</li> <li>1:46:53 {Can our Conscience make Sex a Sin?} My question is about stronger vs. weaker consciences. Is it possible to make sex into a sin, and if so, how should the "strong" treat the "weak"?</li> <li>1:53:30 {The Law of Agency} How do you respond to non-trinitarians who use the "Law of Agency" to dismiss the scriptural evidence for the Trinity in regard to Jesus, etc. claiming He is not God, but simply God's agent?</li> <li>1:57:21 {The Book of James vs. Jacob} I was looking at the Greek in James' epistle (1:1) and his name in the Greek is Iakobos. Why do we call it "the Book of James" if the Greek more closely resembles Jacob (Iakobos)?</li> </ol> Links I mentioned: <ul> <li>Different Christian views of the End Times: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/xmw0uVLunwU?feature=share" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></li> <li>Jesus as the Angel of the LORD: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryCyQ4N08Q0&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></li> <li>My discussion about Theonomy with Joel Webbon: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jbbfx4YAj2A&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></li> <li>A biblical case for the death penalty: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/gf259Qv2qv4?feature=share]" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></li></ul>

20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 102)

This is not a video primarily about LGBT stuff. It's about Jesus. It's about not letting interest groups tell a fake story about a fake Jesus and thereby highjack the Lord of all creation to teach some ideology that He would never have supported. Historically, theologically, and logically, it's just not right to say such things. My website: https://BibleThinker.org

This is not a video primarily about LGBT stuff. It's about Jesus. It's about not letting interest groups tell a fake story about a fake Jesus and thereby highjack the Lord of all creation to teach some ideology that He would never have supported. Historically, theologically, and logically, it's just not right to say such things. My website: <a href="https://BibleThinker.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://BibleThinker.org</a>

Stealing Jesus for LGBT ideology.

NOTE: THIS IS NOT A Q&amp;A I don't imagine this video will be of wide interest, but for those who want to watch, this is in celebration of the 8 year anniversary of when I started making regular content online. I have a number of random issues I'll be discussing, and I'll also be interacting with the chat. Again, this is not a Q&amp;A. Even though I may glance at the chat here and there and interact in real time (which I don't do during teaching videos), I won't be gathering 20 questions and answering them like I do in the Q&amp;A videos. The next Q&amp;A is Friday, June 23 at 1 p.m. PT.

NOTE: THIS IS NOT A Q&amp;A I don't imagine this video will be of wide interest, but for those who want to watch, this is in celebration of the 8 year anniversary of when I started making regular content online. I have a number of random issues I'll be discussing, and I'll also be interacting with the chat. Again, this is not a Q&amp;A. Even though I may glance at the chat here and there and interact in real time (which I don't do during teaching videos), I won't be gathering 20 questions and answering them like I do in the Q&amp;A videos. The next Q&amp;A is Friday, June 23 at 1 p.m. PT.

Just winging it (8-year anniversary stream)

I've shared specific verses from the Quran so that people can double check for themselves. For more on this topic, I recommend you check out the book Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus by former Muslim, Nabeel Qureshi.CLICK HERE for some of his content in video form. It's very powerful.   My website: https://BibleThinker.org

I've shared specific verses from the Quran so that people can double check for themselves. For more on this topic, I recommend you check out the book Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus by former Muslim, Nabeel Qureshi. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBGK-8fjpHM&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for some of his content in video form. It's very powerful. My website: <a href="https://BibleThinker.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://BibleThinker.org</a>

Surprising things I learned reading the Quran.

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro    0:08 {Is the Canon Closed?} Why can no new books of the Bible be written? Why is the canon closed? 26:49 {Must we Share our Faith in Every Circumstance?} Looking at 1 Peter 3:15-17, what would you say to anyone who would ask you about "the hope you have in you"? And are there times or certain people who you wouldn't bother providing that answer to (e.g., someone you know isn't really interested in the answer and just seeks to make fun of you)? 33:27 {How did the Thief on the Cross Know?} The thief on the cross believed Jesus would come into His kingdom, despite knowing that Jesus was going to die. How might that be, since even the disciples didn’t grasp this until the resurrection? 36:58 {How to Reach a Wiccan} What can or should I say to a Wiccan relative who wants to have seances to reach her dead son? She’s not a believer, so should I just hold my tongue? 39:53 {The Man in Mark 14} Who was the man in Mark 14:51-52? Could it be that this was somehow Jesus Himself escaping? As an unbeliever, how should I approach my readings? Any questions I should keep in mind? 45:42 {Understanding Parallel Prophecies} Is there a process you go through to understand parallel prophecies? For example, 2 Samuel 7:14 seems to be about Jesus, but clearly not completely because he doesn’t commit iniquity. 53:11 {Different Personalities in the Trinity?} Do the different Persons of the Trinity have different personalities? Would God the Father, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit act in a different way than the others in a given situation? 55:54 {Do Heavenly Rewards Support LDS Doctrine?} Every time you answer a question about rewards in Heaven, I can't help but think of the LDS levels of Heaven. How do I debate with them when they use rewards as the basis for their belief about there being different levels of Heaven? 1:03:13 {Can a Christian Struggle to Obey God?} Can a Christian still struggle with submitting completely to God? Or is that a symptom that you're not truly saved? 1:05:20 {About the “Two Witnesses” in Rev.} Who are the two witnesses in the book of Revelation, and is it possible for them to be people that are walking the Earth today that are not in the Bible? 1:11:01 {Are Casual Conversations Sinful?} Someone argued with me that because of Matthew 12:36 (every idle word…), all jokes and fun conversations are sinful, and that Jesus never spoke in a casual, non-serious way. Is this true? 1:16:54 {Should We Still Forgive when Not Asked?} Do we still need to forgive others if they don’t ask for forgiveness? My grandma believes that as Christians, we don’t forgive unless the other person repents and asks for forgiveness. 1:20:17 {Christian Creators: Make This Content!} As a YouTube pastor, do you have any suggestions for content you would like to see Christians make? I'm in seminary and I’m thinking about making videos, but I wonder what I should create (if I did). 1:22:56 {Being Open about Sexual Sin} Do you have any advice on how to come out (for lack of a better word) to my Christian parents about being same-sex attracted and addicted to pornography? I know Christianity is true. 1:27:23 {Does Titus 3:5 Teach Calvinism?} What is a non-Calvinist way of understanding regeneration in Titus 3:5? 1:31:34 {Is God’s Love Actually Conditional?} If the Bible says God loves those who love Him, thereby making a condition we have to fulfill for His love (Proverbs 8:17, John 14:21, 23), can we still say that God's love is unconditional (John 3:16, etc.)? 1:35:43 {Lessons from a Peculiar Bible Story} What is the lesson for us from 1 Kings 13:11-24 where the man of God is deceived by the old prophet, eats with him, and is killed by the lion? 1:46:28 {About Catholic Claims: Eucharistic Miracle} Have you ever heard of the apparent eucharistic miracle that Catholics point to? How would you respond to it and how they claim that the apparent miracle has been scientifically verified? 1:48:57 {Baptized Believer, but Not Indwelled?} Acts 8:16 says that believers in Samaria were baptized but hadn’t yet received the Spirit. Can one believe and be baptized without receiving the Spirit? 1:54:05 {Overcoming Anxiety while Witnessing} I always get anxiety and my heart starts beating fast whenever I try to speak up about social or biblical Issues to my family (mainly my dad who is a Progressive Christian). How can I overcome this?     CLICK HERE for my full series through the Gospel of Mark with lots of theology and apologetics. CLICK HERE for my video examining Matthew's use of "fulfilled," or why Bible prophecy confuses you. CLICK HERE for why I think Calvinism is unbiblical. Michael Kruger's useful book, Canon Revisited, can be found HERE. 

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro <ol> <li>0:08 {Is the Canon Closed?} Why can no new books of the Bible be written? Why is the canon closed?</li> <li>26:49 {Must we Share our Faith in Every Circumstance?} Looking at 1 Peter 3:15-17, what would you say to anyone who would ask you about "the hope you have in you"? And are there times or certain people who you wouldn't bother providing that answer to (e.g., someone you know isn't really interested in the answer and just seeks to make fun of you)?</li> <li>33:27 {How did the Thief on the Cross Know?} The thief on the cross believed Jesus would come into His kingdom, despite knowing that Jesus was going to die. How might that be, since even the disciples didn’t grasp this until the resurrection?</li> <li>36:58 {How to Reach a Wiccan} What can or should I say to a Wiccan relative who wants to have seances to reach her dead son? She’s not a believer, so should I just hold my tongue?</li> <li>39:53 {The Man in Mark 14} Who was the man in Mark 14:51-52? Could it be that this was somehow Jesus Himself escaping? As an unbeliever, how should I approach my readings? Any questions I should keep in mind?</li> <li>45:42 {Understanding Parallel Prophecies} Is there a process you go through to understand parallel prophecies? For example, 2 Samuel 7:14 seems to be about Jesus, but clearly not completely because he doesn’t commit iniquity.</li> <li>53:11 {Different Personalities in the Trinity?} Do the different Persons of the Trinity have different personalities? Would God the Father, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit act in a different way than the others in a given situation?</li> <li>55:54 {Do Heavenly Rewards Support LDS Doctrine?} Every time you answer a question about rewards in Heaven, I can't help but think of the LDS levels of Heaven. How do I debate with them when they use rewards as the basis for their belief about there being different levels of Heaven?</li> <li>1:03:13 {Can a Christian Struggle to Obey God?} Can a Christian still struggle with submitting completely to God? Or is that a symptom that you're not truly saved?</li> <li>1:05:20 {About the “Two Witnesses” in Rev.} Who are the two witnesses in the book of Revelation, and is it possible for them to be people that are walking the Earth today that are not in the Bible?</li> <li>1:11:01 {Are Casual Conversations Sinful?} Someone argued with me that because of Matthew 12:36 (every idle word…), all jokes and fun conversations are sinful, and that Jesus never spoke in a casual, non-serious way. Is this true?</li> <li>1:16:54 {Should We Still Forgive when Not Asked?} Do we still need to forgive others if they don’t ask for forgiveness? My grandma believes that as Christians, we don’t forgive unless the other person repents and asks for forgiveness.</li> <li>1:20:17 {Christian Creators: Make This Content!} As a YouTube pastor, do you have any suggestions for content you would like to see Christians make? I'm in seminary and I’m thinking about making videos, but I wonder what I should create (if I did).</li> <li>1:22:56 {Being Open about Sexual Sin} Do you have any advice on how to come out (for lack of a better word) to my Christian parents about being same-sex attracted and addicted to pornography? I know Christianity is true.</li> <li>1:27:23 {Does Titus 3:5 Teach Calvinism?} What is a non-Calvinist way of understanding regeneration in Titus 3:5?</li> <li>1:31:34 {Is God’s Love Actually Conditional?} If the Bible says God loves those who love Him, thereby making a condition we have to fulfill for His love (Proverbs 8:17, John 14:21, 23), can we still say that God's love is unconditional (John 3:16, etc.)?</li> <li>1:35:43 {Lessons from a Peculiar Bible Story} What is the lesson for us from 1 Kings 13:11-24 where the man of God is deceived by the old prophet, eats with him, and is killed by the lion?</li> <li>1:46:28 {About Catholic Claims: Eucharistic Miracle} Have you ever heard of the apparent eucharistic miracle that Catholics point to? How would you respond to it and how they claim that the apparent miracle has been scientifically verified?</li> <li>1:48:57 {Baptized Believer, but Not Indwelled?} Acts 8:16 says that believers in Samaria were baptized but hadn’t yet received the Spirit. Can one believe and be baptized without receiving the Spirit?</li> <li>1:54:05 {Overcoming Anxiety while Witnessing} I always get anxiety and my heart starts beating fast whenever I try to speak up about social or biblical Issues to my family (mainly my dad who is a Progressive Christian). How can I overcome this?</li> </ol> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uj81y0U7Tmw&amp;list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuGenHwUdeiQ5M-uj5XW4sF&amp;index=1&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for my full series through the Gospel of Mark with lots of theology and apologetics.</li> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RTMcCS_r-s&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for my video examining Matthew's use of "fulfilled," or why Bible prophecy confuses you.</li> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/oxakEl8BYBE?feature=share" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for why I think Calvinism is unbiblical.</li> <li>Michael Kruger's useful book, Canon Revisited, can be found <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1433505002/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</li> </ul>

20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 101)

Some people think of “sinners and tax collectors” as categories of people who Jesus treats as if they are oppressed and misunderstood. The reality is that Jesus treats all people as if even the best of us are “sinners and tax collectors” when it comes to our need for repentance and God’s grace. When you see yourself as you are, it will become so encouraging that Jesus called this lousy tax collector to follow Him. It means that Jesus calls you, as well, even though you (and me) aren’t worthy.

Some people think of “sinners and tax collectors” as categories of people who Jesus treats as if they are oppressed and misunderstood. The reality is that Jesus treats all people as if even the best of us are “sinners and tax collectors” when it comes to our need for repentance and God’s grace. When you see yourself as you are, it will become so encouraging that Jesus called this lousy tax collector to follow Him. It means that Jesus calls you, as well, even though you (and me) aren’t worthy.

You probably don’t know this.

Learn to think biblically about everything! Teaching theology, apologetics, and verse-by-verse Bible studies. Mike Winger teaches with clarity, doesn't shy away from controversial topics, and always seeks to teach the Bible accurately. This podcast will equip you to know and defend the Christian faith and understand the Bible in a deeper way.

0:00 - Intro    0:09 {AI – Image of the Beast?} What are your thoughts on Chat GPT (and AI in general)? As Christians, should we be concerned about this type of technology? Is it OK to experiment with, or should we "steer clear"? 27:13 {Worshiping at Work: Divided Attention?} Is it bad to listen to worship music when you're working? I prefer it over secular music, but I also feel guilty for not giving it my full attention. Is this treating it as entertainment? 31:34 {Speaking Over Our Lives} Is “speaking something over your life” a biblical concept? A Christian said something like, “If you were going to die in one week, how would you live? I'm not speaking that over your life though!” 38:36 {God Sent an Evil Spirit?} 1 Samuel 16:14 and 1 Samuel 19:9 speak of an “evil spirit from the Lord” tormenting Saul. How could a holy/righteous and loving God give him a tormenting spirit? 46:07 {Disqualified from our Rewards?} Since sanctification is a work of the Holy Spirit, and we will never be fully sinless in this life, how do we not become disqualified from/lose rewards in Heaven (1 Corinthians 9:27)? 52:56 {The Biblical Way to Get Married} Why do we have to have an ordained pastor to get married? Is there Scripture to back this up? If two people make a commitment to each other and God, is that enough? 58:53 {What Does Evil Music Sound Like?} If we took away the lyrics from music, would there still be such a thing as “bad music” or “evil music”? If so, what does evil music sound like? 1:01:04 {Do We Still Have a Sin Nature?} Does flesh = sin nature? Adam &amp; Eve sinned, even without a sin nature. After salvation, we still have the flesh (Romans 7:18), but we’re dead to sin/not slaves to sin (Rom 6:2-7). Does this mean we no longer have a sin nature? 1:06:34 {Can We Go Outside of Scripture for Context?} I've heard 1 Corinthians 4:6 used to say not to go "outside" of scripture (e.g., learning history to help interpret biblical context). Your thoughts? 1:14:34 {The Origin of Sunday Worship} When is the earliest, in church history, that we see Christians worshiping on Sunday instead of the Sabbath? Did it begin with the Catholic Church, or was it before? 1:19:23 {What Makes “Drag” Wrong?} Drag queen culture is championed by the LGBTQ movement, and therefore feels immoral by association, but I find it hard to put a finger on why drag by itself is biblically wrong. Any thoughts? 1:24:09 {Eating Meat After the Flood} In Genesis 9:3, why did God allow us to start eating meat after the flood? 1:27:28 {Using Cannabis Before Quiet Time?} I take mild cannabis edibles for my ADHD. On them I have wonderful quiet times in prayer and Bible study. Would it be rightly dividing Scripture to say this is how I personally am being “sober-minded”? 1:32:42 {John 15 – Will I be “Taken Away”?} What are your thoughts on John 15:2 and the Greek word for "takes away"? I've heard that it would be more accurately translated as "raise up." This word seems to change the meaning of the verse. 1:39:07 {Do God &amp; Satan Talk?} Is the devil talking to God in today’s generation like in the book of Job? If angels are warring with demons, can we assume there is communication? 1:43:20 {Which Faith is True?} How can I know I have the right faith? I've been watching many apologetics videos since I first found your videos over four years ago, and many Catholics, reformed believers, and evangelicals all have convincing arguments. 1:49:02 {About the Shroud of Turin} What are your thoughts on the Shroud of Turin? 1:52:13 {Leading Others to Biblical Teachings} My family member LOVES Joel Osteen. What are some thoughtful questions I could ask that would naturally lead them to a more biblical, Christ-centered understanding of the Gospel? 1:55:08 {Rulers &amp; Authorities; Manifold Wisdom} Can you explain Ephesians 3:10 (ESV)? Who are the "rulers and authorities in heavenly places," and how is the "manifold wisdom of God" made known to them through the church? 2:00:10 {1 Jn. 2:2 &amp; Limited Atonement} Doesn't 1 John 2:2 blow the Calvinist doctrine of Limited Atonement straight out of the water?    Links and videos I mentioned:    Why I think limited atonement and universalism are both unbiblical: CLICK HERE Responding to James White and other Calvinist teaching on limited atonement: CLICK HERE Joel Osteen misuses the Scripture over and over: CLICK HERE Different end times views explained: CLICK HERE Gavin Ortlund's content on Catholicism is generally really good - here's one example from his channel "Truth Unites": CLICK HERE

0:00 - Intro <ol> <li>0:09 {AI – Image of the Beast?} What are your thoughts on Chat GPT (and AI in general)? As Christians, should we be concerned about this type of technology? Is it OK to experiment with, or should we "steer clear"?</li> <li>27:13 {Worshiping at Work: Divided Attention?} Is it bad to listen to worship music when you're working? I prefer it over secular music, but I also feel guilty for not giving it my full attention. Is this treating it as entertainment?</li> <li>31:34 {Speaking Over Our Lives} Is “speaking something over your life” a biblical concept? A Christian said something like, “If you were going to die in one week, how would you live? I'm not speaking that over your life though!”</li> <li>38:36 {God Sent an Evil Spirit?} 1 Samuel 16:14 and 1 Samuel 19:9 speak of an “evil spirit from the Lord” tormenting Saul. How could a holy/righteous and loving God give him a tormenting spirit?</li> <li>46:07 {Disqualified from our Rewards?} Since sanctification is a work of the Holy Spirit, and we will never be fully sinless in this life, how do we not become disqualified from/lose rewards in Heaven (1 Corinthians 9:27)?</li> <li>52:56 {The Biblical Way to Get Married} Why do we have to have an ordained pastor to get married? Is there Scripture to back this up? If two people make a commitment to each other and God, is that enough?</li> <li>58:53 {What Does Evil Music Sound Like?} If we took away the lyrics from music, would there still be such a thing as “bad music” or “evil music”? If so, what does evil music sound like?</li> <li>1:01:04 {Do We Still Have a Sin Nature?} Does flesh = sin nature? Adam &amp; Eve sinned, even without a sin nature. After salvation, we still have the flesh (Romans 7:18), but we’re dead to sin/not slaves to sin (Rom 6:2-7). Does this mean we no longer have a sin nature?</li> <li>1:06:34 {Can We Go Outside of Scripture for Context?} I've heard 1 Corinthians 4:6 used to say not to go "outside" of scripture (e.g., learning history to help interpret biblical context). Your thoughts?</li> <li>1:14:34 {The Origin of Sunday Worship} When is the earliest, in church history, that we see Christians worshiping on Sunday instead of the Sabbath? Did it begin with the Catholic Church, or was it before?</li> <li>1:19:23 {What Makes “Drag” Wrong?} Drag queen culture is championed by the LGBTQ movement, and therefore feels immoral by association, but I find it hard to put a finger on why drag by itself is biblically wrong. Any thoughts?</li> <li>1:24:09 {Eating Meat After the Flood} In Genesis 9:3, why did God allow us to start eating meat after the flood?</li> <li>1:27:28 {Using Cannabis Before Quiet Time?} I take mild cannabis edibles for my ADHD. On them I have wonderful quiet times in prayer and Bible study. Would it be rightly dividing Scripture to say this is how I personally am being “sober-minded”?</li> <li>1:32:42 {John 15 – Will I be “Taken Away”?} What are your thoughts on John 15:2 and the Greek word for "takes away"? I've heard that it would be more accurately translated as "raise up." This word seems to change the meaning of the verse.</li> <li>1:39:07 {Do God &amp; Satan Talk?} Is the devil talking to God in today’s generation like in the book of Job? If angels are warring with demons, can we assume there is communication?</li> <li>1:43:20 {Which Faith is True?} How can I know I have the right faith? I've been watching many apologetics videos since I first found your videos over four years ago, and many Catholics, reformed believers, and evangelicals all have convincing arguments.</li> <li>1:49:02 {About the Shroud of Turin} What are your thoughts on the Shroud of Turin?</li> <li>1:52:13 {Leading Others to Biblical Teachings} My family member LOVES Joel Osteen. What are some thoughtful questions I could ask that would naturally lead them to a more biblical, Christ-centered understanding of the Gospel?</li> <li>1:55:08 {Rulers &amp; Authorities; Manifold Wisdom} Can you explain Ephesians 3:10 (ESV)? Who are the "rulers and authorities in heavenly places," and how is the "manifold wisdom of God" made known to them through the church?</li> <li>2:00:10 {1 Jn. 2:2 &amp; Limited Atonement} Doesn't 1 John 2:2 blow the Calvinist doctrine of Limited Atonement straight out of the water?</li> </ol> Links and videos I mentioned: <ul> <li>Why I think limited atonement and universalism are both unbiblical: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAKyQrAO3ps&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></li> <li>Responding to James White and other Calvinist teaching on limited atonement: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shpZMRhr4uM&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></li> <li>Joel Osteen misuses the Scripture over and over: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHtQSQYPjzg&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></li> <li>Different end times views explained: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmw0uVLunwU&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></li> <li>Gavin Ortlund's content on Catholicism is generally really good - here's one example from his channel "Truth Unites": <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ytYX4dXpRo&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></li></ul>

20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 100)

You can have free access to all interviews and scholarly papers on this topic right here.   Watch the interviews on YouTube HERE.   Get the papers and/or interviews free on my website (no signup required) HERE.   For the sake of the body of Christ we need to be aware of the problematic "translation" that is strangely and undeservedly popular, due to the reckless endorsement of pastors who should know better. I did NOT search for scholars who would oppose TPT. I did NOT check to see what denomination they were from. Nor did I ask them to slam the work or provide a particularly negative review. I simply hired scholars who were well-qualified and asked them each to review a different book from The Passion Translation of the Bible. They unanimously agree that it isn't what it pretends to be. Their full reviews and papers are available to you at the links above.   My website: https://BibleThinker.org

You can have free access to all interviews and scholarly papers on this topic right here. Watch the interviews on YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuv-ISp_iIw1WL8zaEm86L8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Get the papers and/or interviews free on my website (no signup required) <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbmpmU0M2Q0lHSlJaNUh0cUd0a2NJMTlyU1hDUXxBQ3Jtc0ttMFpUeVNuZk1lU04wS3dOeVNxcmdXOTA3OUM2dkdKNmpWQWpSbGhPQWpqMUJIVzdXVElEWG91V2hwUC1yUHFFdVlPRWY5cmZOU2xZUmd6MzF0ZTZYR3N1RG9GVzM1eUtfeDJ2YTF6djdFTlh6T0ZCOA&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fbiblethinker.org%2Fthe-passion-project%2F&amp;v=7ku7GA5IynQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>. For the sake of the body of Christ we need to be aware of the problematic "translation" that is strangely and undeservedly popular, due to the reckless endorsement of pastors who should know better. I did NOT search for scholars who would oppose TPT. I did NOT check to see what denomination they were from. Nor did I ask them to slam the work or provide a particularly negative review. I simply hired scholars who were well-qualified and asked them each to review a different book from The Passion Translation of the Bible. They unanimously agree that it isn't what it pretends to be. Their full reviews and papers are available to you at the links above. My website: <a href="https://BibleThinker.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://BibleThinker.org</a>

The Bible "Translation" That "Needs a Surgeon General's Warning"

This is a delicate issue because the terms of the discussion push an evaluation of the person who is failing to find God. I hope that listeners can hear that I am not trying to offer any personal attacks on individuals, but am trying to offer an analysis of how a claim like "I'm trying to find God and I am not finding Him" can actually involve a situation more complicated than a simple, sincere, two-dimensional search. Without labeling people with specific explanations for their particular situation, I can acknowledge several layers to this issue which undercut this argument's power as evidence that God does not exist.   My honest hope and prayer for those who feel they are seeking God and failing to find Him is that they would continue seeking as sincerely as they can and wait on God to open their eyes to Him.   Perhaps you find my answer unsatisfactory. In that case you might be interested in a more detailed answer from a philosopher who is better versed in such things. CLICK HERE.   My website: https://BibleThinker.org

This is a delicate issue because the terms of the discussion push an evaluation of the person who is failing to find God. I hope that listeners can hear that I am not trying to offer any personal attacks on individuals, but am trying to offer an analysis of how a claim like "I'm trying to find God and I am not finding Him" can actually involve a situation more complicated than a simple, sincere, two-dimensional search. Without labeling people with specific explanations for their particular situation, I can acknowledge several layers to this issue which undercut this argument's power as evidence that God does not exist. My honest hope and prayer for those who feel they are seeking God and failing to find Him is that they would continue seeking as sincerely as they can and wait on God to open their eyes to Him. Perhaps you find my answer unsatisfactory. In that case you might be interested in a more detailed answer from a philosopher who is better versed in such things. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8KJ1sBWy1g&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>. My website: <a href="https://BibleThinker.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://BibleThinker.org</a>

A powerful argument against Christianity.

Jesus called out sin in others, except when He didn't. This question takes more wisdom than a simple, hard and fast rule will allow. Here are a few thoughts and a relevant passage of Scripture for you to consider. Hopefully it helps you figure out if you should call out sin or keep your mouth shut. My website: https://BibleThinker.org

Jesus called out sin in others, except when He didn't. This question takes more wisdom than a simple, hard and fast rule will allow. Here are a few thoughts and a relevant passage of Scripture for you to consider. Hopefully it helps you figure out if you should call out sin or keep your mouth shut. My website: <a href="https://BibleThinker.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://BibleThinker.org</a>

When to confront sin vs keep your mouth shut.

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:    0:01 {Infinite Punishment for Finite Crimes?} Why does God give infinite punishment for finite crimes? Even from a biblical point of view, not every crime is prescribed the same punishment. So why, then, can a person never serve the entirety of their punishment in Hell? 28:35 {Why Did God Allow Sin?} If God knew that humans would fall into sin, why did He allow us to live in this fallen world and not take us straight to Heaven? 34:36 {Has Christianity Changed Over Time?} How do you know the Christianity you believe is the same they were practicing in the early Church if history says Constantine and the Greeks changed things? 39:06 {Why Won’t Christians Marry Non-Christians?} A woman stopped dating me because of worldview differences. I believe in a higher power and wouldn’t have pulled her away from her faith. It hurt badly. Why do some Christians do that? She seems indoctrinated (“can’t marry a non-Christian”). 43:49 {Is Christianity Itself a Cult?} How is Christianity like (or not like) a cult in either definition and/or practice? 47:46 {Is Every Good Thing an Answered Prayer?} Why are some people so quick to celebrate when God answers “small” prayers, but they overlook the fact that He didn’t answer “bigger” prayers like healing someone of cancer? 53:12 {Why Aren’t Mormons Christians?} Ex-Mormon here. Surely all Christians believe things about God that are incorrect, but they're still saved. What makes the LDS different? How are my misconceptions acceptable when theirs aren't? 1:02:12 {Are Miracles Unreliable?} If Satan and his workers can perform miracles to mislead people, why should I believe Christians when they tell me to look at miracles, or when Jesus says to look at His miracles? 1:07:05{Why Does God Allow Painful Grieving?} Why did God allow My cat to be attacked by a dog if He could have stopped it? We are heartbroken. 1:10:07 {Did Jesus Know He’d be Resurrected?} Did Jesus know He was only going to die for 3 days and it wouldn’t actually be for eternity? And why did the father require a sacrifice if it wasn’t for eternity? 1:14:18 {Did Jesus Exist &amp; Is Scripture Really Inspired?} What proof is there that Jesus really existed, and if the Gospels were written by man, how do you prove they were inspired by God and not by man? 1:20:55 {Why does God Require Prayer?} Why would God require prayer for what He knows He SHOULD heal? 1:25:07 {Can Non-Believers Come to Church to Observe?} Are there any good rules of thumb for atheists attending a church service for the purposes of learning? Assuming they have no intention of conversion, is this considered rude or invasive? 1:27:23 {Is God Egotistical?} Isn’t it egotistical for God to ask us to worship Him? 1:31:14 {Why does God Expect Perfection?} The Bible says, “Be perfect as your father in Heaven is perfect.” Why would God, knowing that we will always be sinful when we are in flesh, expect perfection? 1:34:46 {Is the Bible Just a Storybook?} How can you believe in a storybook (referring to the Bible)? This was actually a question I faced several times when I stayed in Germany for a while. 1:37:21 {Does God Know Every Choice We’ll Make?} Does God already know what choices we will make? Does He just know the outcome of every single option, or are there maybe two or a couple possible options for everyone’s choices? If the first, what's the point? 1:40:48 {Was YHWH a “Storm god”?} I have been hearing atheists &amp; Muslims saying our God YHWH was originally a storm god. Has this been proven archeologically? Any implications on our faith? Any thoughts on that? 1:42:01 {Stumbled by Theological Doctrines?} The different theologies like cessationism &amp; continuationism can be a stumbling block for unbelievers and cause confusion. How can this be explained to them? 1:43:38 {Are Older Texts More Likely to be True?} What about other books like the Vedic texts that are older than the gospels? Should “older” equal more accurate or true?1:47:35 Bonus Q: Why is he still babbling and not demonstrating his god exists?    Videos I mentioned:   Playlist on Mormonism - Click Here   Penal Substitutionary Atonement: answering how Jesus' death for us works - Click Here   Michael Heiser's video on if Yahweh was a "storm god" - Click Here   Mike Licona interview on Jesus mythicism - Click Here   Evidence for the Bible playlist - Click Here   Full Gospel of Mark series - Click Here

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: <ol> <li>0:01 {Infinite Punishment for Finite Crimes?} Why does God give infinite punishment for finite crimes? Even from a biblical point of view, not every crime is prescribed the same punishment. So why, then, can a person never serve the entirety of their punishment in Hell?</li> <li>28:35 {Why Did God Allow Sin?} If God knew that humans would fall into sin, why did He allow us to live in this fallen world and not take us straight to Heaven?</li> <li>34:36 {Has Christianity Changed Over Time?} How do you know the Christianity you believe is the same they were practicing in the early Church if history says Constantine and the Greeks changed things?</li> <li>39:06 {Why Won’t Christians Marry Non-Christians?} A woman stopped dating me because of worldview differences. I believe in a higher power and wouldn’t have pulled her away from her faith. It hurt badly. Why do some Christians do that? She seems indoctrinated (“can’t marry a non-Christian”).</li> <li>43:49 {Is Christianity Itself a Cult?} How is Christianity like (or not like) a cult in either definition and/or practice?</li> <li>47:46 {Is Every Good Thing an Answered Prayer?} Why are some people so quick to celebrate when God answers “small” prayers, but they overlook the fact that He didn’t answer “bigger” prayers like healing someone of cancer?</li> <li>53:12 {Why Aren’t Mormons Christians?} Ex-Mormon here. Surely all Christians believe things about God that are incorrect, but they're still saved. What makes the LDS different? How are my misconceptions acceptable when theirs aren't?</li> <li>1:02:12 {Are Miracles Unreliable?} If Satan and his workers can perform miracles to mislead people, why should I believe Christians when they tell me to look at miracles, or when Jesus says to look at His miracles?</li> <li>1:07:05{Why Does God Allow Painful Grieving?} Why did God allow My cat to be attacked by a dog if He could have stopped it? We are heartbroken.</li> <li>1:10:07 {Did Jesus Know He’d be Resurrected?} Did Jesus know He was only going to die for 3 days and it wouldn’t actually be for eternity? And why did the father require a sacrifice if it wasn’t for eternity?</li> <li>1:14:18 {Did Jesus Exist &amp; Is Scripture Really Inspired?} What proof is there that Jesus really existed, and if the Gospels were written by man, how do you prove they were inspired by God and not by man?</li> <li>1:20:55 {Why does God Require Prayer?} Why would God require prayer for what He knows He SHOULD heal?</li> <li>1:25:07 {Can Non-Believers Come to Church to Observe?} Are there any good rules of thumb for atheists attending a church service for the purposes of learning? Assuming they have no intention of conversion, is this considered rude or invasive?</li> <li>1:27:23 {Is God Egotistical?} Isn’t it egotistical for God to ask us to worship Him?</li> <li>1:31:14 {Why does God Expect Perfection?} The Bible says, “Be perfect as your father in Heaven is perfect.” Why would God, knowing that we will always be sinful when we are in flesh, expect perfection?</li> <li>1:34:46 {Is the Bible Just a Storybook?} How can you believe in a storybook (referring to the Bible)? This was actually a question I faced several times when I stayed in Germany for a while.</li> <li>1:37:21 {Does God Know Every Choice We’ll Make?} Does God already know what choices we will make? Does He just know the outcome of every single option, or are there maybe two or a couple possible options for everyone’s choices? If the first, what's the point?</li> <li>1:40:48 {Was YHWH a “Storm god”?} I have been hearing atheists &amp; Muslims saying our God YHWH was originally a storm god. Has this been proven archeologically? Any implications on our faith? Any thoughts on that?</li> <li>1:42:01 {Stumbled by Theological Doctrines?} The different theologies like cessationism &amp; continuationism can be a stumbling block for unbelievers and cause confusion. How can this be explained to them?</li> <li>1:43:38 {Are Older Texts More Likely to be True?} What about other books like the Vedic texts that are older than the gospels? Should “older” equal more accurate or true? 1:47:35 Bonus Q: Why is he still babbling and not demonstrating his god exists?</li> </ol> Videos I mentioned: Playlist on Mormonism - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi-tJmIiOS7OiXmZg8ikq8Eh0OPwfEi1N" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Click Here</a> Penal Substitutionary Atonement: answering how Jesus' death for us works - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=la0SkKC091s&amp;list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHttVR0rkvhBfA-IKrg5SGcp&amp;index=6&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Click Here</a> Michael Heiser's video on if Yahweh was a "storm god" - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3c_i3o2E1H0&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Click Here</a> Mike Licona interview on Jesus mythicism - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dQuw1g428c&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Click Here</a> Evidence for the Bible playlist - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuhA0RPKZFHVcjIMN_-F596" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Click Here</a> Full Gospel of Mark series - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuGenHwUdeiQ5M-uj5XW4sF" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Click Here</a>

20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 99)

0:00 - Intro    0:56 {“Work Out” My Salvation??} What does it mean to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling"? Is that a literal statement? 20:14 {Did Jesus Bodily Rise if He Appeared in the Flesh?} Jehovah's Witnesses claim that Jesus was resurrected as a spirit only (not a bodily resurrection) since He appeared in a locked room, and if He was in the flesh He couldn't have done that. What are your thoughts in response to this? 25:06 {Honoring Parents through Marital Friction} How can I honor and love my parents biblically when they take offense at and criticize my wife and I for every little thing we do? It's making my wife anxious, and we're going to have a baby. We want a relationship with them, but they seem committed to bitterness. 30:44 {Can Non-Believers bear the Fruit of the Spirit?} Can someone who is not a Christian show the fruit of the Spirit? 34:28 {Will Sharing Tough Truth Ruin our Witness?} I'm afraid to talk about issues like abortion, LGBT, etc. for fear that I'll turn people off so much that they won't listen AT ALL when I try to share the Gospel. How can I resolve this? 43:54 {How Do We “Abstain from Blood” Today?} How, as 21st century Christians, should we understand the decree for gentile believers to abstain from blood (Acts 15:20, 28, 29)? 53:28 {Are there Really Any “Righteous” People?} Do the Righteous live by faith, or is no one Righteous? How do we reconcile these ideas without compromising their original meaning? 58:38 {Does Sincerity = Salvation?} I have a Muslim friend that I speak with regularly about God. I am a firm Christian, but I question how other God-fearing people who have been indoctrinated into a specific religion are not saved. 1:04:17 {Could the HS be Feminine?} Could the Holy Spirit be feminine? A biblically sound, wiser, older Christian in my life is unsure about this. He brings up decent arguments affirming this view, but then there's John 15:26. Thoughts? 1:09:01 {Has God Hidden What We Need to Know?} What are your thoughts on Mathew 11:25? I was raised in the Branham cult where there is a great deal of anti-intellectualism. They also claim that God has blinded most Christians from Branham. 1:14:41 {Will We Receive Anything We Ask of God?} The Bible says, “Ask and you shall receive.” I asked Jesus to save my mother, but He didn’t. Then why did He say, “Ask and you shall receive”? 1:21:03 {Resolving Translational Differences} Why does 1 Corinthians 11:16 seem to have opposite meanings depending on the translation? How should we understand it? 1:24:30 {Missing Verses? Is My Bible Reliable?} I've just learned that some Bibles are missing passages. How should we approach the Bible knowing some verses have been left out? 1:32:27 {Why Is There Still Evil on Earth?} My 10-year-old wants to know, if Satan was defeated, then why is there still evil on the planet? I couldn’t think of a good way to answer her. Help? 1:36:43 {What is “Hyper-Charismatic”?} Please explain what "hyper-charismatic” means. Thank you. 1:39:27 {Why was Achan’s Household Punished?} Ezekiel 18:20 says that the son shall not suffer for the iniquity of the father. How do you explain the story of Achan in Joshua 7:25 where he and his household were stoned and burned because of his sin? 1:47:17 {Did YHWH Lose to the “god” of Moab?} Did Yahweh lose to the god of Moab in 2 Kings 3:27? 1:58:54 {Is There a Temple in Heaven?} Is there a literal temple in Heaven, or is that meant to be understood figuratively? I have always understood that the temple/tabernacle on Earth were to represent truths about Heaven. 1:59:54 {Using Time Wisely in Marriage} My husband likes to spend hours on meaningless videos or gaming. How can I talk to him about how he spends his time as a Christian, especially that our young kids see this? 2:02:24 {Why is Bible Reading Important?} How is it important to read our Bibles outside of the church setting? And is there scripture to back this up? Why is it important to you to read your Bible?     CLICK HERE for my video on how Jehovah's Witnesses say that Jesus never physically rose from the dead Does Acts teach us to follow the Law of Moses? Response to Hebrew Roots teachings: CLICK HERE CLICK HERE for my teaching on the Serpent Seed Doctrine and the Branham cult CLICK HERE for my study of the "name-it-and-claim-it" verse CLICK HERE for the 6 hour "head covering" video CLICK HERE for my 3 video playlist on all things related to how we got our NT and how reliable it is

0:00 - Intro <ol> <li>0:56 {“Work Out” My Salvation??} What does it mean to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling"? Is that a literal statement?</li> <li>20:14 {Did Jesus Bodily Rise if He Appeared in the Flesh?} Jehovah's Witnesses claim that Jesus was resurrected as a spirit only (not a bodily resurrection) since He appeared in a locked room, and if He was in the flesh He couldn't have done that. What are your thoughts in response to this?</li> <li>25:06 {Honoring Parents through Marital Friction} How can I honor and love my parents biblically when they take offense at and criticize my wife and I for every little thing we do? It's making my wife anxious, and we're going to have a baby. We want a relationship with them, but they seem committed to bitterness.</li> <li>30:44 {Can Non-Believers bear the Fruit of the Spirit?} Can someone who is not a Christian show the fruit of the Spirit?</li> <li>34:28 {Will Sharing Tough Truth Ruin our Witness?} I'm afraid to talk about issues like abortion, LGBT, etc. for fear that I'll turn people off so much that they won't listen AT ALL when I try to share the Gospel. How can I resolve this?</li> <li>43:54 {How Do We “Abstain from Blood” Today?} How, as 21st century Christians, should we understand the decree for gentile believers to abstain from blood (Acts 15:20, 28, 29)?</li> <li>53:28 {Are there Really Any “Righteous” People?} Do the Righteous live by faith, or is no one Righteous? How do we reconcile these ideas without compromising their original meaning?</li> <li>58:38 {Does Sincerity = Salvation?} I have a Muslim friend that I speak with regularly about God. I am a firm Christian, but I question how other God-fearing people who have been indoctrinated into a specific religion are not saved.</li> <li>1:04:17 {Could the HS be Feminine?} Could the Holy Spirit be feminine? A biblically sound, wiser, older Christian in my life is unsure about this. He brings up decent arguments affirming this view, but then there's John 15:26. Thoughts?</li> <li>1:09:01 {Has God Hidden What We Need to Know?} What are your thoughts on Mathew 11:25? I was raised in the Branham cult where there is a great deal of anti-intellectualism. They also claim that God has blinded most Christians from Branham.</li> <li>1:14:41 {Will We Receive Anything We Ask of God?} The Bible says, “Ask and you shall receive.” I asked Jesus to save my mother, but He didn’t. Then why did He say, “Ask and you shall receive”?</li> <li>1:21:03 {Resolving Translational Differences} Why does 1 Corinthians 11:16 seem to have opposite meanings depending on the translation? How should we understand it?</li> <li>1:24:30 {Missing Verses? Is My Bible Reliable?} I've just learned that some Bibles are missing passages. How should we approach the Bible knowing some verses have been left out?</li> <li>1:32:27 {Why Is There Still Evil on Earth?} My 10-year-old wants to know, if Satan was defeated, then why is there still evil on the planet? I couldn’t think of a good way to answer her. Help?</li> <li>1:36:43 {What is “Hyper-Charismatic”?} Please explain what "hyper-charismatic” means. Thank you.</li> <li>1:39:27 {Why was Achan’s Household Punished?} Ezekiel 18:20 says that the son shall not suffer for the iniquity of the father. How do you explain the story of Achan in Joshua 7:25 where he and his household were stoned and burned because of his sin?</li> <li>1:47:17 {Did YHWH Lose to the “god” of Moab?} Did Yahweh lose to the god of Moab in 2 Kings 3:27?</li> <li>1:58:54 {Is There a Temple in Heaven?} Is there a literal temple in Heaven, or is that meant to be understood figuratively? I have always understood that the temple/tabernacle on Earth were to represent truths about Heaven.</li> <li>1:59:54 {Using Time Wisely in Marriage} My husband likes to spend hours on meaningless videos or gaming. How can I talk to him about how he spends his time as a Christian, especially that our young kids see this?</li> <li>2:02:24 {Why is Bible Reading Important?} How is it important to read our Bibles outside of the church setting? And is there scripture to back this up? Why is it important to you to read your Bible?</li> </ol> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t79qwFwj6g4&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for my video on how Jehovah's Witnesses say that Jesus never physically rose from the dead</li> <li>Does Acts teach us to follow the Law of Moses? Response to Hebrew Roots teachings: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mI5wiDTHpgE&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dOS4d8wU9U&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for my teaching on the Serpent Seed Doctrine and the Branham cult</li> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmSKp39U5Ng&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for my study of the "name-it-and-claim-it" verse</li> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=keXayp7JXf4&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for the 6 hour "head covering" video</li> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuzJhPtmrgqpVoXhjvqiIjW" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for my 3 video playlist on all things related to how we got our NT and how reliable it is</li></ul>

20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 98)

I'm hoping and praying that God would use this to comfort those who need comfort and to shine a light on those who are living dangerously, so they can make a true faith commitment to Jesus. Trust in Jesus, follow Jesus, be real about it. My website: https://BibleThinker.org

I'm hoping and praying that God would use this to comfort those who need comfort and to shine a light on those who are living dangerously, so they can make a true faith commitment to Jesus. Trust in Jesus, follow Jesus, be real about it. My website: <a href="https://BibleThinker.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://BibleThinker.org</a>

When to be scared you're NOT a genuine Christian.

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro    0:56 {Self-Loathing vs. Self-Love?} As Christians, how do we deal with self-loathing without indulging in and practicing too much self-love? 26:19 {Evolved from Monkeys?} From a biblical standpoint, is there any reason that Christians believe we evolved from monkeys? I'm confused why some Christians believe that, and I’m curious if it’s purely a worldview standpoint? 37:50 {Who Are God’s Chosen People?} I had a debate with a friend about Israel still being God's chosen people. Doesn't Romans 9:6-8 and Galatians 3:28-29 communicate that God's chosen people are anyone who places their faith in Jesus? 48:20 {Do Animals Sin?} Are animals able to sin? They kill for food and sometimes it appears this may be likened to murder, but what does the Bible say about this? 51:28 {Should our Main Focus be Evangelism?} John Wesley says, “You have one business on this earth: to save souls.” Is Christlikeness or spiritual maturity chiefly a means to an end – of bringing people to Christ (Romans 8:29, 2 Corinthians 3:18, 2 Peter 3:18)? 55:00 {Setting Biblical Boundaries as Parents} I had a domestic violence upbringing, and I now have a son of my own. I have fears of family telling me how to parent my son. How do I set healthy biblical boundaries that protect my son and honor Christ? 59:19 {Bored in the OT!} How do I read the Old Testament without getting bored and distracted 2 minutes in? 1:02:13 {How to be a Worthwhile Servant} What makes a servant worthwhile to Christ? It seems like in Matthew 25, the servant was cast into outer darkness because he did not DO enough. 1:09:29 {Understanding a Difficult Passage} I'm struggling to interpret Judges 19:2, 25 on why the concubine suffered abuse. Some have said God was punishing her for adultery. How do I understand this without reading into the text? 1:23:18 {Who Sinned First?} I have been asked, "Was Adam's sin the first sin?" Something along the lines of: “Wasn't Satan the first one that sinned?” Thoughts? 1:25:00 {How to “Work Out Our Salvation…”} What does it mean to "Work out your salvation with fear and trembling"? Is that a literal statement? 1:28:07 {Is Nepotism Sinful?} Is nepotism a sin? My church was founded by my grandpa, my dad is the senior pastor, and my brother is a youth leader. I do believe they legitimately earned these roles, but others at my church don’t. 1:35:16 {Repentance After Death?} Can someone repent after death? Hebrews 9:27 seems to say “no,” BUT Revelation 2:21-27 seems to suggest “yes” for it is the “unwillingness” to repent that condemns. I really hope the latter is true. 1:41:23 {Did Adam Know Right from Wrong?} I was talking to an atheist and they asked, “If Adam had not yet eaten of the tree of knowledge, therefore not knowing disobedience, how can God hold him accountable and judge him for it?” 1:46:09 {The Waters “Above the Expanse”} What do you think the waters “above the expanse” are in Genesis 1:6-8? 1:49:01 {How to Biblically Process Grief} How do we deal with grief in the right &amp; biblical way? I lost my dad months ago by sudden death. I feel worried, I’m angry, and I cry. I’m so tired of the rollercoaster feelings. 1:53:07 {About Foul Language} What makes language foul? Is it the words themselves, or the context? Like if I use a word in a friendly way, is it still considered foul language? 1:57:37 {Can Evolution be Plausible?} Do you think evolution is plausible theologically? I have never heard a good response to how there would have been death before the fall. 2:01:39 {How Could Satan Stand in God’s Presence?} If sin cannot enter God's presence, how could Satan present himself before God in the book of Job? 2:06:12 {Witnessing to Strangers} What’s your favorite way to witness to strangers?    CLICK HERE for my video showing the Bible does not teach a flat Earth.   CLICK HERE for my Romans playlist. The entire book, verse-by-verse.   CLICK HERE for the video I mentioned on replacement theology.   Here are my quick rules for questions:1) We take questions from the LIVE chat, but only after the stream has actually begun.2) Please include one or two Bible verse references if they are relevant to your question. I may have a hard time finding them depending on how you word your question.3) It helps if you put a capital Q at the beginning of your question. That way we can easily spot it in the live chat, which can move rather quickly.4) Please don't spam your question multiple times as everyone doing that makes the live chat hard to deal with.

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro <ol> <li>0:56 {Self-Loathing vs. Self-Love?} As Christians, how do we deal with self-loathing without indulging in and practicing too much self-love?</li> <li>26:19 {Evolved from Monkeys?} From a biblical standpoint, is there any reason that Christians believe we evolved from monkeys? I'm confused why some Christians believe that, and I’m curious if it’s purely a worldview standpoint?</li> <li>37:50 {Who Are God’s Chosen People?} I had a debate with a friend about Israel still being God's chosen people. Doesn't Romans 9:6-8 and Galatians 3:28-29 communicate that God's chosen people are anyone who places their faith in Jesus?</li> <li>48:20 {Do Animals Sin?} Are animals able to sin? They kill for food and sometimes it appears this may be likened to murder, but what does the Bible say about this?</li> <li>51:28 {Should our Main Focus be Evangelism?} John Wesley says, “You have one business on this earth: to save souls.” Is Christlikeness or spiritual maturity chiefly a means to an end – of bringing people to Christ (Romans 8:29, 2 Corinthians 3:18, 2 Peter 3:18)?</li> <li>55:00 {Setting Biblical Boundaries as Parents} I had a domestic violence upbringing, and I now have a son of my own. I have fears of family telling me how to parent my son. How do I set healthy biblical boundaries that protect my son and honor Christ?</li> <li>59:19 {Bored in the OT!} How do I read the Old Testament without getting bored and distracted 2 minutes in?</li> <li>1:02:13 {How to be a Worthwhile Servant} What makes a servant worthwhile to Christ? It seems like in Matthew 25, the servant was cast into outer darkness because he did not DO enough.</li> <li>1:09:29 {Understanding a Difficult Passage} I'm struggling to interpret Judges 19:2, 25 on why the concubine suffered abuse. Some have said God was punishing her for adultery. How do I understand this without reading into the text?</li> <li>1:23:18 {Who Sinned First?} I have been asked, "Was Adam's sin the first sin?" Something along the lines of: “Wasn't Satan the first one that sinned?” Thoughts?</li> <li>1:25:00 {How to “Work Out Our Salvation…”} What does it mean to "Work out your salvation with fear and trembling"? Is that a literal statement?</li> <li>1:28:07 {Is Nepotism Sinful?} Is nepotism a sin? My church was founded by my grandpa, my dad is the senior pastor, and my brother is a youth leader. I do believe they legitimately earned these roles, but others at my church don’t.</li> <li>1:35:16 {Repentance After Death?} Can someone repent after death? Hebrews 9:27 seems to say “no,” BUT Revelation 2:21-27 seems to suggest “yes” for it is the “unwillingness” to repent that condemns. I really hope the latter is true.</li> <li>1:41:23 {Did Adam Know Right from Wrong?} I was talking to an atheist and they asked, “If Adam had not yet eaten of the tree of knowledge, therefore not knowing disobedience, how can God hold him accountable and judge him for it?”</li> <li>1:46:09 {The Waters “Above the Expanse”} What do you think the waters “above the expanse” are in Genesis 1:6-8?</li> <li>1:49:01 {How to Biblically Process Grief} How do we deal with grief in the right &amp; biblical way? I lost my dad months ago by sudden death. I feel worried, I’m angry, and I cry. I’m so tired of the rollercoaster feelings.</li> <li>1:53:07 {About Foul Language} What makes language foul? Is it the words themselves, or the context? Like if I use a word in a friendly way, is it still considered foul language?</li> <li>1:57:37 {Can Evolution be Plausible?} Do you think evolution is plausible theologically? I have never heard a good response to how there would have been death before the fall.</li> <li>2:01:39 {How Could Satan Stand in God’s Presence?} If sin cannot enter God's presence, how could Satan present himself before God in the book of Job?</li> <li>2:06:12 {Witnessing to Strangers} What’s your favorite way to witness to strangers?</li> </ol> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/qePiXK_8Agc?feature=share" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for my video showing the Bible does not teach a flat Earth. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHvQ9G4NCvuiN4Evbp13uQa1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for my Romans playlist. The entire book, verse-by-verse. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4xwzInRySA&amp;t=0s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for the video I mentioned on replacement theology. Here are my quick rules for questions: 1) We take questions from the LIVE chat, but only after the stream has actually begun. 2) Please include one or two Bible verse references if they are relevant to your question. I may have a hard time finding them depending on how you word your question. 3) It helps if you put a capital Q at the beginning of your question. That way we can easily spot it in the live chat, which can move rather quickly. 4) Please don't spam your question multiple times as everyone doing that makes the live chat hard to deal with.

20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 97)

Learn to think biblically about everything. Countless hours of free content available here or at my website, https://BibleThinker.org

Learn to think biblically about everything. Countless hours of free content available here or at my website, <a href="https://BibleThinker.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://BibleThinker.org</a>

Who will Jesus reject? It might not be what you think.

If you don't know what's wrong with the phrase, please take a moment to think it through with me. My website: https://BibleThinker.org

If you don't know what's wrong with the phrase, please take a moment to think it through with me. My website: <a href="https://BibleThinker.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://BibleThinker.org</a>

I’m embarrassed I ever said, "I'm spiritual but not religious."

Love Mike’s teaching/ explaining biblical truths. I have been listening for over a year. He is a SOLID student of the Word.

Biblical

Thank you Mike Winger for studying and sharing God’s Word and His heart with us!

🧠➕❤️ Gentle. Thoughtful. Objective.

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