Inter-racial Relationships:

Feb. 2006 What does the Bible say about inter-racial relationships? Thanks for your question. It's an interesting one. If by inter-racial you mean black and white, then I can tell you that the Bible makes no distinction. That is not inter-racial because the Bible says we are all one race, the human race, we are all descendants of one man and one woman. When God confused the language of the people at the tower of Babel (Genesis 11), it caused them all to scatter and go separate ways. It seems logical that people that are separated would pass on certain body type traits that would, over time develop into a distinct group easily distinguished from others. For example, the blacks, or the Asian people or the American Indians. These differences in skin color, hair color, body type or shape of the eyes are all very minor differences when you look at the over all genetic picture. This doesn’t make different races but different kinds. Just as there are different kinds (breeds) of dogs, they are still all just dogs. The Bible doesn't prohibit marriages to different kinds of people. But there is a very strong warning against marriage to someone of another religion. The reason, we are told, is because your spouse will influence your beliefs and draw you away from God if they are of another faith. God has been very clear on this point and very emphatic. Look at the following verses: Amos 3:3 Can two walk together, except they be agreed? 2 Cor 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? Exo 34:16 And thou take of their daughters unto thy sons, and their daughters go a whoring after their gods, and make thy sons go a whoring after their gods. Deu 7:3-4 Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son. For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly. Neh 13:26-27 Did not Solomon king of Israel sin by these things? yet among many nations was there no king like him, who was beloved of his God, and God made him king over all Israel: nevertheless even him did outlandish women cause to sin. Shall we then hearken unto you to do all this great evil, to transgress against our God in marrying strange wives? 1 Cor 7:39 The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord. I hope this helps answer your question. God Bless.

  Women In the Bible:

Jan. 2006 I would like to know the number of named and unnamed women are there is the Holy Bible. Marie I'm sorry I don't know that information. I'd have to read through the whole Bible and keep count (which I just might do). It would be an interesting study. But I don't think I'll have an answer for you anytime soon. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful.

  Homosexuals:

Jan. 2006 Hi, I agree with you about homosexuals. See it is reeping what you sow, if you sow in to be come homosexual you will become homosexual but they can become straight. It doesn't matter what sex you are, see what causes people to be born homosexuals is humans choices. God doesn't make hetrosexuals, homosexuals, pain, joy, happiniess, or suffering HUMAN CHOICES DO.

  Women Preachers:

Jan. 2006 All are equal in the eyes of the lord Man and woman were made in GODS image In salvation, there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female. But in my mind, it does not follow that responsibility for feeding and correcting the flock of God, for administering the sacraments instituted by Christ, and for teaching sound doctrine is gender non-specific A male-only episcopate will declare that we have a divided priesthood and indeed two classes of Christians - men who can lead the church, and women who cannot...I have not presented the case for women bishops on theological grounds, because the theological debate about the ordination of women was concluded in this church once women were accepted as deacons and priests. Our prayerful study of the Scriptures, and our examination of church history and tradition, convinced us that this move was 'of God'. In the past nine years, that conviction has been resoundingly confirmed as we have seen and experienced the priestly ministry of women." Dr. Muriel Porter theologians regard 1 Timothy as a later forgery. They note the numerous references in the Bible, in early Christian writings that never made it into the Bible, and in archeological evidence which show that women did indeed play an active leadership, ministering and teaching roles in the very early Christian church. Quoting Elisabeth Schussler Fiorenza: "The Pauline literature and Acts still allow us to recognize that women were among the most prominent missionaries and leaders in the early Christian movement, They were apostles and ministers like Paul, and some were his co-workers. They were teachers, preachers and competitors in the race for the gospel." Paul acknowledges that there were female apostles and ministers. He also referred to women prophesizing in church. They might conclude that the restrictions in Corinthians were most likely intended to control specific actions by some women, at some churches, and at a particular time. They would not necessarily have been intended to refer to the status of women today. Many liberals believe that the passage 1 Corinthians 14:34b-35 was inserted into the original writing by an unknown person at an unknown date. Since it was not part of the original writing, it cannot be considered authoritative. women can be preachers all are equal in the eyes of the lord Thank for your email. I understand that this is a very controversial topic in the Christian community. However, I don't make excuses for what the Bible says. When I read in 1 Tim 2:12 it tells me that women are not to teach or have authority over men. It's very clear. Now, if you want to take parts of the Bible and delete them, that's up to you but I'm not going along with it. You quoted the passage in Galatians that all Christians are equal. And that is certainly true: Gal 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. The first thing I notice about this verse is that Paul is talking about salvation. In matters of salvation we are all equal. Gal 3:26-27 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. So, yes we are all equal. It should be noted that by quoting this verse I makes me wonder if you somehow feel that those called to teach are somehow greater than those that aren't. We are all equal in Christ, from the preacher to the secretary to the janitor. We are not all called to the same position in the body of Christ however. Some are called to be preachers, some evangelists, some janitors, etc. 2 Cor 2:27-31 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. [Are] all apostles? [are] all prophets? [are] all teachers? [are] all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. Everyone is called to a different position in the body of Christ and all are equal no matter what their calling. However, God's Word states that women are not called teach or have authority over men. Who are we to tell God he is wrong?

  Bad Attitude:

Jan. 2006 what does the bible say about having a bad attitude? Thank you for your question. Unfortunately, I'm not real sure what you mean by "bad attitude." That could be anything from a child who talks back to his parents or a criminal who shots up a McDonald’s. So, I will take "bad attitude" to mean strife or contention. With that in mind, Have a look at Pro 3:30 Strive not with a man without cause, if he have done thee no harm. Pro 20:3 [It is] an honour for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will be meddling. Phil 2:3 [Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 2 Tim 2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all [men], apt Eph 4: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. I hope this helps some.

  Labor:

Jan. 2006 where in the bible does it say anything about unfair labor? You know, I don't really find anything in the Bible about unfair labor. What I find is an admonition that whatever circumstances you find yourself in, do the best you can. I think about Joseph being sold into slavery a being a servant of Potiphar. He did the best job he could and God honored that. (Gen 39) 1 Cor 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. In Ephesians we are told that we are to do our jobs as if Jesus was a supervisor, without complaint: Eph 6:5-8 Servants, be obedient to them that are [your] masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether [he be] bond or free. In the next verse there is a directive to bosses on how to behave to those that are working for you: Eph 6:9 And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him. I don't see a lot of stuff in the Bible about demanding your "rights." It speaks more about your responsibility t o perform to the best of your ability no matter what circumstances you find yourself in. Also have a look at Matthew 20:1-16.

  Bible:

Jan. 2006 My name is Simon and am an african who got saved and have believed in the gospel of Jesus Christ.I kindly ask you to give me one copy of BIBLE for my reading and if posible the one with old and new testaments please. Thanks you very much. Sincerely, Simon Dear Simon: If you send me the address you want me to ship the Bible to, I would be happy to send you a Bible. God Bless you

  Rewards:

Jan. 2006 I would like for someone to answer, why do people always think because someone receives a car, house, financial increase that these things only come from God, especially if that are not walking in the will of God? I now the Bible says: God reigns on the just and the unjust, but I also believe that Satan is a rewarder of them that serve him. I try to teach people that all blessings doesn't come from God especially if you do are not living God's way. I hope I have not confused you. But I am a child of God and I can't stand when people say that God has richly blessed them when I know that they are adulters. Please help me, can you give me scriptures to back that all blessings don't come from God? Thank you, Leatha Leatha, thank you for question. I really can't find a verse that says that Satan rewards people with good things. And I'm not sure I would say that all blessing don't come from God because we are told in Job 12:6 that even the wicked are prospered by God. However, there are plenty of verses that tell us that the wicked will sometimes prosper in this world. Really we shouldn't be surprised by that or perplexed, because for the time being, Satan is the god of this world (Eph 6:12, 2 Cor 4:4, Jn 12:31, Jn 14:30, Jn 16:11). So, we shouldn't be surprised that the wicked prosper. Here are some verses that tell us that the wicked will sometimes prosper and do well in this world: Job 12:6 The tabernacles of robbers prosper, and they that provoke God are secure; into whose hand God bringeth abundantly. Psa 37:35 I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. Psa 73:3-5 For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. For there are no bands in their death: but their strength is firm. They are not in trouble as other men; neither are they plagued like other men. Psa 73:12 Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches. Jer 5:27-28 As a cage is full of birds, so are their houses full of deceit: therefore they are become great, and waxen rich. They are waxen fat, they shine: yea, they overpass the deeds of the wicked: they judge not the cause, the cause of the fatherless, yet they prosper; and the right of the needy do they not judge. Jer 12:1-2 Righteous art thou, O LORD, when I plead with thee: yet let me talk with thee of thy judgments: Wherefore doth the way of the wicked prosper? wherefore are all they happy that deal very treacherously? Thou hast planted them, yea, they have taken root: they grow, yea, they bring forth fruit: thou art near in their mouth, and far from their reins. You know, Psalm 73 speaks about this issue and verse 21 seems to sum up your feelings. I think it's worthwhile to read the whole thing: Psalm 73 1 Truly God is good to Israel, even to such as are of a clean heart. 2 But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well nigh slipped. 3 For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 4 For there are no bands in their death: but their strength is firm. 5 They are not in trouble as other men; neither are they plagued like other men. 6 Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment. 7 Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish. 8 They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily. 9 They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth. 10 Therefore his people return hither: and waters of a full cup are wrung out to them. 11 And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High? 12 Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches. 13 Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency. 14 For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning. 15 If I say, I will speak thus; behold, I should offend against the generation of thy children. 16 When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me; 17 Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end. 18 Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction. 19 How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors. 20 As a dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image. 21 Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins. 22 So foolish was I, and ignorant: I was as a beast before thee. 23 Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand. 24 Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. 25 Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. 26 My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. 27 For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. 28 But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works. I'm sorry I couldn't be more helpful.

  Baptism:

Jan. 2006 I would like to know who you believe God is? and how do you baptize what name do you use when you baptize? I have a few other questions but I might ask later. Thank You I'll answer the second question first..."how do you baptize?" My church follows the directive of Jesus given in Matthew: Mat 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost Now before I get angry emails... I know that in Acts it says to baptize in Jesus' name and some denominations believe that if the preacher doesn't say the actual words "in Jesus' name" while you are going down in the water, then you really haven't been baptized. Further, they will say that you aren't saved if you haven't been baptized, and if you should be hit by a bus and killed on the way home from the church, you will not go to heaven but actually go to hell because you weren't baptized correctly (this is hogwash). Here is the verse most often used to support that view: Act 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost If you look at all the verse in Acts that use that phase, "in the name of Jesus," it becomes clear that it is talking about the authority of Jesus. We are to baptize through the authority of Jesus. If someone owes me money and I send my employee to collect that debt. I'm sending that employee in my name; under my authority. Jesus in his authority said to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. When he said that, he was saying the same thing... in the authority of God. We know from 1 John that these three are one: 1 Jn 5:7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. So, you see, if these three are one, that it really doesn't change the outcome any if you baptize saying "in Jesus' name" or if you baptize saying "in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost." The whole point of baptism is to show obedience to Jesus. To demonstrate to the world around us the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.: Col 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. I would recommend that you have a look at the Bible verses that pertain to baptism. They are listed on the page What Does the Bible Say About ...Baptism. Now concerning the first question of who do I believe God is. I can only go by what I'm told in the Bible. I believe that God is the creator of the everything: Gen 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth Psa 33:6 By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. That He is the sovereign ruler of the universe: Psa 93:1-2 The LORD reigneth, he is clothed with majesty; the LORD is clothed with strength, wherewith he hath girded himself: the world also is stablished, that it cannot be moved. Thy throne is established of old: thou art from everlasting. That He is all knowing, Job 34:21 For his eyes are upon the ways of man, and he seeth all his goings That He is all powerful. Luke 1:37 For with God nothing shall be impossible I believe that there is One God Deu 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: That God consists of three persons in One: 1 John 5:7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. Thanks for your question. Have a great day.

  Comment:

Jan. 2006 Hello, I just want to say. . thanks so much for answering my question. I visit your page from time to time when I seek certian answers and it has really been a blessing