Bible “paraphrases” often are written without any legitimate scholarship. They have an agenda, and pick and choose words to establish their pet doctrines. Unfortunately, they also influence many away from truth.
All evidence, whether biblical or extra-biblical, establishes that baptism is accomplished through immersion in water. The present day practice of baptism through sprinkling or pouring is without scriptural precedent and authority.
One of the common sins of the Pharisees’ was the prominent self-righteous attitude that characterized many in the party. The same attitude sometimes expresses itself among some Christians today as well.
It amazes me that society in general recognizes gambling as a vice, and yet there are some Christians who see nothing wrong with it. Gambling should not be defended by any Christian.
Understanding the history of the Samaritan people helps us both to recognize why the tension between Jew and Samaritan existed, and why Jesus responded to the woman at the well as He did. The Samaritans, having been rejected by the Jews, determined to worship Jehovah in their own way.
There are many seeking truth, and our presence on the Internet allows us to touch the hearts and lives of individuals we may never see or meet.
The question under consideration, “Must one be a member of the church to be saved?”, is commonly asked, and easily answered. Scripture clearly reveals that fellowship in the church, as defined by God, is essential to the redemption of man. Simply put: Yes, one must be a member of the church to be saved.
We should make our appeal to God’s way. Let the home be the home, and the church the church. Congregations need to instruct their young in the ways of truth, establishing them in the glorious gospel. The word of God does not need adornment, and we do a disservice to our children if we think them unable and unwilling to accept the truth of God on His terms.
Its interesting that although these translations are very damaging and misleading, it is still impossible for the “translators” in many cases to mask the truth.
Brethren, understand that God’s people are being led into apostasy by false teachers. We must not allow this to happen to us. And it will not, as the truth of God’s word is courageously proclaimed and heeded by those who love the truth.
We must as a society recognize that abortion is the greatest horror our nation could possibly sanction. It is the wholesale murder of unborn children! And now some are advocating using the dead babies in medical research!
The concept of drifting with regard to “the faith” involves a change of position. As Paul said, “giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons.” While it does not follow that a change of doctrinal position indicates apostasy, it is axiomatic to say doctrinal apostasy consists of a change of doctrinal position. One who once stood for truth now teaches error.
The preaching being done in many places is almost totally positive in its approach, with no room for singling out the leavening agents among us. Our children are being exposed to sin, and they are not inoculated against it! Brethren, we had better wake up to the dangers!
Superstition is common in backward societies, especially those where the Catholic church has a strong presence. However, it is possible that such naïveté (which comes from an open and impressionable mind) will make such people responsive to the truth of the gospel as well. (cf. Acts 17).
