Category BRENT’S – Biblical Doctrine

The Preeminence of Christ ~ Part 4 ~ What God’s Word Says & the Prophecies*

The Preeminence of Christ For the Christian, the first and primary rule of Biblical interpretation (“hermeneutics”) centers on the relationship of the “Word of God” (the Bible), to Jesus Christ, referred to as the preeminence (meaning: “above and beyond everything else in importance” – pre [“before”], eminent [“importance”]) of Jesus Christ (Heb. 2:10), in both the Old and […]

The Preeminence of Christ ~ Part 3 ~ Why the 4 Gospels are meant to be Different ~ A Personal Statement & Introduction*

Introduction The following are some of my personal considerations concerning presenting the four different purposes and functions of the four different Gospels. First, let me say why I think it’s important to examine this teaching – it’s because this teaching is meant to fulfill what Romans 10:17 states; “faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word […]

The Preeminence of Christ ~ Part 2 ~ Why the Four Gospels are meant to be Different ~ The Design of God*

Preface (1/2018) Jesus said as is recorded in John 5:38: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” (KJV) Hebrews 10: “Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O […]

The Preeminence of Christ ~ Part I ~ Jesus (John 5:39 & Hebrews 10:7)*

All Believers should know that Jesus Christ is our focus, and that He is preeminent in ALL things. Our Focus Our relationship with God is solely and completely contingent upon Jesus the Christ of Nazareth, Who is not only our Savior, our Lord, our King and our Master; but also the Divine Son of God, […]

Murmuring, No Big Deal; Right? ~ “Yet It is the Deadliest of Sins”

Introductory foundation Understanding the Generic Use of a Word As Compared to the Specific Contextual Analysis is the science of studying Biblical words according to the context in which they exist within God’s Word, as opposed to our current usage of them. A good example can be found in the Biblical word repentance which when […]

Saint – Bondslave

Introduction “Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bondslaves of God.”  (1 Peter 2:16) I once had the following three questions posed to me in a class (This is a subject I am revisiting today, and all Believers need to remember periodically) I was […]

365 Prophecies in the Jewish Old Testament Scriptures Fulfilled by Jesus in the New Testament.

  365 Prophecies in the Jewish Scriptures Fulfilled by Jesus 1. Genesis 3:15…..Seed of a woman (virgin birth)…..Luke 1:35, Matthew 1:18-20 2. Genesis 3:15…..He will bruise Satan’s head…..Hebrews 2:14, 1 John 3:8 3. Genesis 5:24….The bodily ascension to heaven illustrated….Mark 6:19 4. Genesis 9:26-27…The God of Shem will be the Son of Shem…Luke 3:36 5. […]

Eternal Life vs. Eternal Security ~ What is Salvation?

Introduction After publishing this article I decided to change the name because many people misunderstand Eternal Life when it comes to Eternal Security; some think they are antithetical to each other.  They think that eternal security is a heresy, wherein the opposite is true.   But before addressing the article and the text at hand, please allow […]

Dying to Self – Part 3 – Understanding and Application – Enabling Dying to Self.*

Introduction Typically, when presenting a teaching about dying-to-self it would be presented in chronological order: starting with knowledge, continuing on to understanding, then arriving at wisdom. Based on God’s Word, if we want to be wise about dying-to-self, as in approaching any subject in God’s word; wisdom is always coupled with behavior. Therefore, we will […]

Dying To Self Series – Part 2 – Wisdom – The Solution From God’s Word.*

General Introduction The reason I started this series is because of how the Holy Spirit has been working in my life in a special way.  Personal Motivation I have experienced a renewed commitment and zeal of the Spirit concerning my service to our Lord and Savior; in holiness producing love – “love the Christian way.” […]

Dying to Self Series – Part 1 – Knowledge – The Problem – Self and Sin.*

Introduction ( Published Annually) I feel led to take a short break from the “Eternal Security Series,” and go down a different road for a few articles, with a series called “Dying to Self Series.” I have always felt that teaching must be based upon God’s Word and not experience, and that being submissive to […]

Jesus ~ The Ultimate Example of Faith (Notable Original Work) **

  Introduction (2017 Update – Published Annually) This is one of the most important subjects I have ever attempted to teach.  While it is 86 pages long, please go through it slowly and thoroughly, take your time. It is a subject that changed my life. Faith It is because faith is so much more important […]

Does God Have Complete Current Control Or Does He have Ultimate Control Over the Earth – is there a difference?

The answer is God has ultimate control over the earth. (2017 ~ Published Annually) Now before you raise the pitchforks thinking I am speaking heresy, hear me out please. God owns the world; it is his possession as stated in Psalms 24:1, “The earth is the LORD’S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they […]

*The Heart and the Mind ~ What the Biblical word “Heart” Means (12/18)

Introduction (Published Annually) In both the Old Testament (OT) and the New Testament (NT) the word “heart” is used to refer to the whole of the innermost part of the human, NOT merely the emotions. Culturally However, in the twenty-first century English the word “heart” is used to express the emotions as an individual compartment of […]

PART II ~ Where to find a software program that breaks down the Greek grammar of the Textus Receptus And Rules of Textual Criticism, Lower & Higher

The following Question was posed by a follower concerning an article I wrote warning non-Greek-speaking Christians of using Strong’s Concordance Dictionary for Bible word studies  (Which the preface of Strong’s advises against – it provides only generic definitions, not specific to any one verse.). To Understand this question please see: The Problem of Using Strong’s […]

The Whole Armor of God ~ A Short Synopsis

Introduction (Updated ~ September, 2018) For the mature Christian, we understand that we are NOT simply to do the right thing according to God’s word, but to do it the right way, and at the right time – God’s time. The hardest thing for a trained veteran soldier to do is to stand waiting for […]

How does a believer be strong in the Lord?

Introduction The following is a response to a question asked in the comment section regarding my article entitled “Believers do not Pay the Penalty for their Sins, but they May Pay the Consequences” ~ LINK (this is somewhat revised with images added). . . . Comment by Pastor Mike: “How does a believer be strong […]

“Judging ~ Church Discipline ~ Forgiveness & Turning the Cheek*”

Introduction Within our current generation, due to this Ghandi like presentation of Christ, wherein pacifism is the standard; how easy it is to demand that people not use discernment, biblically speaking, judgment; which appears to be so hard-hearted, it appears so unkind. “Let each man stand before his God,” is heard as an excuse to […]

SELF-ESTEEM AND THE SELF-ESTEEM MOVEMENT ~ THE CHURCH HAS JOINED

(See the end of this article for more funny illustrations of this point) In a culture and time that critical thinking skills are no longer taught in our educational system when considering subjects as serious as self-esteem, we need to consider this subject in the light of context (the environment of the subject) and application […]

PART II ~ Where to find software programs that break down the Greek grammar of the Textus Receptus And Rules of Textual Criticism, Lower & Higher (3 Types) – STOP, A large revision will be posted 12/07/2018 –

    The following concerns an article I wrote warning non Greek speaking Christians of using Strong’s Concordance Dictionary for Bible word studies  (Which the preface of Strong’s advises against – it give only generic definitions, not specific to any one verse.).   See: The Problem of Using Strong’s Concordance Dictionary ~ Greek Words ~ […]

Jesus’ Definition of Salvation ~ Eternal life ~*

Introduction  (Scheduled Release) In defining salvation, I have heard many descriptions, formulas, directions, summations and doctrinal statements.  Over the past 50 years, I have listened to many learned theologians, pastors, and Sunday school teachers wax elegant in attempting to explain what being saved is, and is not.  Heard meaning Liturgical words, terms, and phrases (many times […]

What does God’s Word Really say… Eternal Security & Correct Resources*

Introduction  (Scheduled Release) The aim for any diligent student of God’s Word should be to handle the original languages of both Testaments along with the grammar.  The Old Testament Hebrew is vague, which many times makes this point moot, but the Greek is a very precise and detailed language with many nuances found within the grammar, […]

What does God’s Word Really say… “work out your own salvation,” and “grace did more abound”*

Introduction    (Scheduled Release) The aim for any diligent student of God’s Word should be to handle the original languages of both Testaments along with the grammar.   The Old Testament Hebrew is vague, which many times makes this point moot, but the Greek language is a very precise and detailed language with many nuances found within […]

PART I ~ The Problem With Using Strong’s Concordance Dictionary ~ Greek Words ~ Word Studies ~ Greek Dictionaries and Resources ~

(Links Added ~ 11/28/2018) Strong’s Concordance and Dictionary      One thing that many believers do concerning the handling of Greek words, is use Strong’s Concordance’s Dictionary to translate Greek words – this is not only a fundamental error but can lead to devastating conclusions regarding the misunderstanding of many Greek words.  (The last Endnote, number […]

James Does Not Contradict Paul Regarding Faith*

Introduction (03/28/2018) Unfortunately, due to the fact that many of us do not understand koiné Greek we are unaware of many grammatical principles which alter the understanding of some verses when translated into the English vernacular. In Koiné Greek, verbs ending in “oo” indicate that what is already on the inside – is then displayed […]

Jesus ~ The Ultimate Example of Faith (Notable Original Work) **

  Introduction (2018 – I republish this article every few Months, it is one of the most important presentations I have ever done. bb) This is one of the most important subjects I have ever attempted to teach.  While it is 86 pages long, please go through it slowly and thoroughly, take your time. It […]

Jesus ~ Our City of Refuge*

“Speak to the children of Israel, saying, Appoint out for you cities of refuge, whereof I spake unto you by the hand of Moses: That the slayer that killeth any person unawares and unwittingly may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood.”  (Joshua 20:2-3) In this passage we have […]

Figures of Speech ~ Part 2 ~ A Few Examples*

Introduction (2/2018) In part one of “Figures of Speech” (LINK), we technically defined what “Figures of Speech” are and provided a few dozen examples of the different categories in regards to Figures of Speech. In part 2, we will give you specific examples of Figures of Speech, however, we will start off with a very basic […]

Figures of Speech ~ Part 1 ~ A Brief Introduction**

Introduction (2/2018) Hermeneutic (how we study the Bible, by what method we interpret it), the study of the methodological principles of Biblical interpretation, is vast in its scope and beyond the intent of this paper. However, due to the nature of this subject matter, it is important to present a caveat by way of an […]

Why the Four Gospels are meant to be Different – Part 2 – The Cherubim, and the Ensigns of Israel.

  General Introduction* (2017)  What is amazing about the 4 Gospels is that they appear to be quite different from each other – on purpose. The Three, the Synoptic Many great scholars have attempted to create what is referred to as the synoptic (Meaning: “of or forming a general summary,” or in the case of […]

Why the Four Gospels are meant to be Different – Part 1 – The Design of God

Preface (1/2018) Jesus said as is recorded in John 5:38: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” (KJV) Hebrews 10: “Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O […]

What Is Your Spiritual Gift – What Is in Your Hands

Text: Exodus 4:1-5 (12/2017) “And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say, The LORD hath not appeared unto thee. And the LORD said unto him, What is that in thine hand? And he said, A rod. And he said, Cast it on […]

What does God’s Word Really say… Eternal Security & Resources

Introduction (1/17/2016) The aim for any diligent student of God’s Word should be to handle the original languages of both Testaments along with the grammar.  The Old Testament Hebrew is vague, which many times makes this point moot, but the Greek is a very precise and detailed language with many nuances found within the grammar, especially […]

*The Problem With Using Strong’s Concordance Dictionary ~ Greek Words ~ Word Studies ~ Greek Dictionaries and Resources

(ADDED ENDNOTE RESOURCES ~ 11/11/2017)   Strong’s Concordance and Dictionary One thing that many believers do concerning the handling of Greek words, is use Strong’s Concordance’s Dictionary to translate Greek words – this is not only a fundamental error but can lead to devastating conclusions regarding the misunderstanding of many Greek words.  (The last Endnote, number […]

Judging ~ Church Discipline ~ Forgiveness & Turning the Cheek*

Introduction Within our current generation, due to this Ghandi like presentation of Christ, wherein pacifism is the standard; how easy it is to demand that people not use discernment, biblically speaking, judgment; which appears to be so hard-hearted, it appears so unkind. “Let each man stand before his God,” is heard as an excuse to […]

SELF-ESTEEM AND THE SELF-ESTEEM MOVEMENT ~ THE CHURCH HAS JOINED

(See the end of this article for more funny illustrations of this point) In a culture and time that critical thinking skills are no longer taught in our educational system when considering subjects as serious as self-esteem, we need to consider this subject in the light of context (the environment of the subject) and application […]

Problems in the Church – Part 2 – A Lack of Discernment in Believers / The Church

Introduction This article was originally released under the title: “Why so Many Christians Make Bad Choices.” We understand that the English word “church“ (Greek: ekklesia) is NOT referring to a building that people meet in, but is believers as a whole (When used as a noun, with the article “the” preceding it), or as a local assembly […]

Problems in the Church – Part 1 – Studying God’s Word & What it Really Means

Introduction I am commonly asked why has a current church lost its power, being of such a non-affect concerning the world around us. I believe that there are two MAIN (Not only) answers of which I will deal within these next two articles: 1) Laziness, which is seen in a superficial handling of God’s word due […]

The Problem With Using Strong’s Concordance Dictionary.

(08/25/2017)       (The last Endnote, number #5; lists what Bible resources use which Greek New Testament, with colored fonts and a star grading system (the higher the blue star, the better), and some insights into these common Bible research aids – If I get anything wrong please let me know.  Thank you, Lisa.  […]

***The Heart and the Mind ~ What the Biblical word “Heart’ Means (7/29/16)

Introduction  In both the Old Testament (OT) and the New Testament (NT) the word “heart” is used to refer to the whole of the innermost part of the human, NOT merely the emotions. Culturally However, in the twenty-first century English the word “heart” is used to express the emotions as an individual compartment of the inner […]

Jesus ~ The Ultimate Example of Faith (Notable Original Work) **

  Introduction (2017 Update) This is one of the most important subjects I have ever attempted to teach.  While it is 86 pages long, please go through it slowly and thoroughly, take your time. It is a subject that changed my life. Faith It is because faith is so much more important in the daily […]

Jesus’ Definition of Salvation ~ Eternal life ~

Introduction In defining salvation, I have heard many descriptions, formulas, directions, summations and doctrinal statements.  Over the past 50 years, I have listened to many learned theologians, pastors, and Sunday school teachers wax elegant in attempting to explain what being saved is, and is not.  Heard meaning Liturgical words, terms, and phrases (many times a benefit […]

Eternal Security – Its About God (A Notable Work)*

Introduction This author loves old expressions, adages, or insights which display wisdom and insights in a brief presentation.  However, if you remember the old story about how when it comes to communicating verbal information; that if you gathered a group of people in a circle, and start with one person and whisper something in their ear. And then […]

Eternal Life vs. Eternal Security ~ What is Salvation?

Introduction After publishing this article I decided to change the name because many people misunderstand Eternal Life when it comes to Eternal Security; some think they are antithetical to each other.  They think that eternal security is a heresy, wherein the opposite is true.   But before addressing the article and the text at hand, please allow […]

DOES GOD HAVE COMPLETE OR ULTIMATE CONTROL OVER THE EARTH – is there a difference?

The answer is God has ultimate control over the earth. (2017) Now before you raise the pitchforks thinking I am speaking heresy hear me out please. God owns the world; it is his possession as stated in Psalms 24:1, “The earth is the LORD’S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” […]

Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit (Notable Original Work)

Introduction (6/2017 Edit) Of all the questions that I have been asked over more than 40 years, the most frequent and passionate inquiry has always been about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. The greatest fear has been by those that were panicked that they had accidentally committed this unforgivable sin. In the following, you will […]

Why the Four Gospels are meant to be Different – Part 1 – The Design of God

Preface (Revised – 2/2017) Jesus said as is recorded in John 5:38: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” (KJV) Hebrews 10: “Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy […]

James Does Not Contradict Paul Regarding Faith*

Introduction (02/10/2017) Unfortunately, due to the fact that many of us do not understand koiné Greek we are unaware of many grammatical principles which alter the understanding of some verses when translated into the English vernacular. In Koiné Greek, verbs ending in “oo” indicate that what is already on the inside – is then displayed […]

The Rapture and the Second Coming, 2 Events or 1 ~ Compare & Contrast

Introduction* (2017) Regarding the Second Coming, the inconsistencies concerning a single event are staggering, therefore, by necessity, there must be two separate events, with the only answer being the Rapture as one, and the Second Coming of Jesus Christ as the other. One of the arguments of the opponents to the idea of the Rapture is […]

THE DATE JESUS WAS BORN* (Revised)

Introduction  When was Jesus born?  This is not an attack on Christmas, it is a correction of the traditions of men, yet it is the Savior of this universe that is important, not when men choose to celebrate His birth, please see my conclusion in order to gain a greater understanding of what I mean. […]

What does God’s Word Really say… “work out your own salvation,” and “grace did more abound”*

Introduction The aim for any diligent student of God’s Word should be to handle the original languages of both Testaments along with the grammar.   The Old Testament Hebrew is vague, which many times makes this point moot, but the Greek language is a very precise and detailed language with many nuances found within the grammar, especially […]

What Is Your Spiritual Gift – What Is in Your Hands (Edited 2)

Text: Exodus 4:1-5 (Edited) “And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say, The LORD hath not appeared unto thee. And the LORD said unto him, What is that in thine hand? And he said, A rod. And he said, Cast it on […]

Parables & Israel Calling Upon Jesus*

Introduction Parables have often been misunderstood or not taught correctly.  The error was not in the way they are presented but that full and complete information has been missing. A wise scholar once said the problem of the Pharisees was not in their execution of the law, but was instead that they did not go far enough with […]

Judging ~ Church Discipline ~ Forgiveness & Turning the Cheek*

Introduction Within our current generation, due to this Gondi like presentation of Christ, wherein pacifism is the standard; how easy it is to demand that people not use discernment, biblically speaking, judgment; which appears to be so hard-hearted, it appears so unkind. “Let each man stand before his God,” is heard as an excuse to […]

Eternal Life vs. Eternal Security ~ What is Salvation?

Introduction But before addressing the article and the text at hand, please allow me to lay down the foundation in order to better deal with eternal life and those doctrines in which it is a part of, which include statements regarding faith, salvation, Strong’s Concordance & Dictionary in regards to New Testament Greek, and 2 […]

Figures of Speech ~ Part 2 ~ A Few Examples*

Introduction In part one of “Figures of Speech” (LINK), we technically defined what “Figures of Speech” are and provided a few dozen examples of the different categories in regards to Figures of Speech. In part 2, we will give you specific examples of Figures of Speech, however, we will start off with a very basic introduction […]

Figures of Speech ~ Part 1 ~ A Brief Introduction*

Introduction (8/6/16 update) Hermeneutic (how we study the Bible, by what method we interpret it), the study of the methodological principles of Biblical interpretation, is vast in its scope and beyond the intent of this paper. However, due to the nature of this subject matter, it is important to present a caveat by way of […]

Why the Four Gospels are meant to be Different – Part 1 – The Design of God

Preface (8/2016) Jesus said as is recorded in John 5:38: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” (KJV) Hebrews 10: “Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O […]

Jesus ~ Our City of Refuge (Original)

“Speak to the children of Israel, saying, Appoint out for you cities of refuge, whereof I spake unto you by the hand of Moses: That the slayer that killeth any person unawares and unwittingly may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood.”  (Joshua 20:2-3) In this passage we have […]

Self-Esteem and the Self-Esteem Movement in the Church

Introduction By Brent The following article is from John MacArthur’s book, Introduction To Biblical Counseling.   In a culture and time that critical thinking skills are no longer taught in our educational system when considering subjects as serious as self-esteem, we need to consider this subject in the light of context (the environment of the subject) […]

*The Problem With Using Strong’s Concordance Dictionary ~ Greek Words ~ Word Studies ~ and Greek Dictionaries

(ADDED ENDNOTE RESOURCES ~ 11/11/2017)   Strong’s Concordance and Dictionary One thing that many believers do concerning the handling of Greek words, is use Strong’s Concordance’s Dictionary to translate Greek words – this is not only a fundamental error but can lead to devastating conclusions regarding the misunderstanding of many Greek words.  (The last Endnote, number […]

The Heart and the Mind ~ What the Biblical word “Heart’ Means (6/10/16)

Introduction  In both the Old Testament (OT) and the New Testament (NT) the word “heart” is used to refer to the whole of the innermost part of the human, NOT merely the emotions. Culturally However, in the twenty-first century English the word “heart” is used to express the emotions as an individual compartment of the inner […]

How does a believer be strong in the Lord?

Introduction The following is a response to a question asked in the comment section regarding my article entitled “Believers do not Pay the Penalty for their Sins, but they May Pay the Consequences” ~ LINK (this is somewhat revised with images added). . . . Comment by Pastor Mike:  “How does a believer be strong in the Lord?” […]

Problems in the Church – Part 2 – A Lack of Discernment in Believers / The Church

Introduction This article was originally released under the title: “Why so Many Christians Make Bad Choices.” We understand that the English word “church“ (Greek: ekklesia) is NOT referring to a building that people meet in, but is believers as a whole (When used as a noun, with the article “the” preceding it), or as a local assembly […]

Problems in the Church – Part 1 – Studying God’s Word & What it Really Means

Introduction I am commonly asked why has a current church lost its power, being of such a non-affect concerning the world around us. I believe that there are two MAIN (Not only) answers of which I will deal within these next two articles: 1) Laziness, which is seen in a superficial handling of God’s word due […]

Dying to Self – Part 3 – Understanding and Application – Enabling Dying to Self.*

Introduction Typically, when presenting a teaching about dying-to-self it would be presented in chronological order: starting with knowledge, continuing on to understanding, then arriving at wisdom. Based on God’s Word, if we want to be wise about dying-to-self, as in approaching any subject in God’s word; wisdom is always coupled with behavior. Therefore, we will […]

SIGNS OF A CHRISTIAN CULT

Introduction Recently I was involved in any situation concerning a very close family member that had joined an organization that according to many Internet sources was a cult. It was due to the love I have for this person that I invested a small amount of time into defining what the warning signs of a […]

Does James Contradict Paul Regarding Faith

Introduction* Unfortunately, due to the fact that many of us do not understand koiné Greek we are unaware of many grammatical principles which alter the understanding of some verses when translated into the English vernacular. In Koiné Greek, verbs ending in “oo” indicate that what is already on the inside – is then displayed on […]

Jesus’ Definition of Salvation ~ Eternal life ~

Introduction In defining salvation, I have heard many descriptions, formulas, directions, summations and doctrinal statements.  Over the past 50 years, I have listened to many learned theologians, pastors, and Sunday school teachers wax elegant in attempting to explain what being saved is, and is not.  Heard meaning Liturgical words, terms, and phrases (many times a benefit […]

The Preeminence of Christ ~ Part I ~ Jesus (John 5:39 & Hebrews 10:7)

All Believers should know that Jesus Christ is our focus, and that He is preeminent in ALL things. Our Focus Our relationship with God is solely and completely contingent upon Jesus the Christ of Nazareth, Who is not only our Savior, our Lord, our King and our Master; but also the Divine Son of God, […]

Faith made Simple ~ Biblical Faith ~ Faith Defined

Biblical Faith (02/12/2016) One of the major areas wherein this ministry spends an excess amount of time concerns the subject of Biblical faith, which has more to do with establishing a relationship of trust in God, then understood by many as simply a tool of petition (And there is always a place for petition). This […]

*What does God’s Word Really say… “work out your own salvation,” “grace did more abound,” and Insights into Greek Grammar Resources, as well as Lessons from Kenneth Wuest

Introduction (1/17/2016) The aim for any diligent student of God’s Word should be to handle the original languages of both Testaments along with the grammar.  The Old Testament Hebrew is vague, which many times makes this point moot, but the Greek is a very precise and detailed language with many nuances found within the grammar, especially […]

Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit (Notable Original Work)

Introduction Of all the questions that I have been asked over more than 40 years, the most frequent and passionate inquiry has always been about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. The greatest fear has been by those that were panicked that they had accidentally committed this unforgivable sin. In the following you will see that […]

The Rapture and the Second Coming, 2 Events or 1 ~ Compare & Contrast

Introduction (2017) Regarding the Second Coming, the inconsistencies concerning a single event are staggering, therefore, by necessity there must be two separate events, with the only answer being the Rapture as one, and the Second Coming of Jesus Christ as the other. One of the arguments of the opponents to the idea of the Rapture […]

THE DATE JESUS WAS BORN* (Revised)

Introduction  When was Jesus born?  This is not an attack on Christmas, it is a correction of the traditions of men, yet it is the Savior of this universe that is important, not when men choose to celebrate His birth, please see my conclusion in order to gain a greater understanding of what I mean. […]

The Reason for the Season – JESUS

Introduction Due to the corruption of the fallen nature of man, he is a sinner at birth, and no matter what will continue to be a sinner until the day he dies. This is the first fact that we must deal with before going any further in regards to our fellowship with God the Father […]

Dying To Self Series – Part 2 – Wisdom – The Solution – From God’s Word

General Introduction The reason I started this series is because of how the Holy Spirit has been working in my life in a special way.  Personal Motivation I have experienced a renewed commitment and zeal of the Spirit concerning my service to our Lord and Savior; in holiness producing love – “love the Christian way.” […]

The Whole Armor of God ~ A Short Synopsis

Introduction (Updated ~ Sept., 2018) For the mature Christian, we understand that we are NOT simply to do the right thing according to God’s word, but to do it the right way, and at the right time – God’s time. The hardest thing for a trained veteran soldier to do is to stand waiting for […]

A Word From Brent and a Short Article by Warren Wiersbe on the “Whole Armor of God”

From Brent, I wanted to take this opportunity to communicate to the email subscribers and any frequent visitors. Blog-site Practices It has always been my intention to create or republish an article every week.   I believe consistency is very important, though with my outside responsibilities and ministries, far too often I cannot keep up with this commitment […]

Dying to Self Series – Part 1 – Knowledge – The Problem – Self and Sin

Introduction (4th Updated, 11/28/2015) I feel led to take a short break from the “Eternal Security Series,” and go down a different road for a few articles, with a series called “Dying to Self Series.” I have always felt that teaching must be based upon God’s Word and not experience, and that being submissive to […]

Eternal Security Series – Part 2 – Salvation, Repentance, Confession, and Sin Defined

Series Introduction The following article is Part 2 of a series concerning what many refer to as “Eternal Security.”   The term “Eternal Security” is not found in the Bible.  It is a man-made term to describe the teaching that “Once a Christian is saved, they are always saved” – which by its very definition is […]

Eternal Security Series – Part 1 – Galatians 5 – “those that do such things…”

Series Introduction The subject which is referred to as “Eternal Security” has brought major division within Christianity as a whole, whereas some denominations support this doctrine and others deny it. It is a religious doctrine (Meaning: “A teaching of the church”) that many point to and state it was not taught by the church fathers, which […]

The Holy Bible – The Word of God

This book contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners and that happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe and practice it to […]

Who & What to Trust Encyclopedia (2015)

– Who & What to Trust Encyclopedia (01-2016) Be sure to click on “Enable Edit” after opening the downloaded document in order for it to present with its pages and page numbers correctly.  The above link is to a downloadable copy of a word document which is a 88 page concise research dictionary and encyclopedia […]

What Is Your Spiritual Gift – What Is in Your Hands (Edited)

Text: Exodus 4:1-5 (Edited) “And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say, The LORD hath not appeared unto thee. And the LORD said unto him, What is that in thine hand? And he said, A rod. And he said, Cast it on […]

The Problem of Using Strong’s Concordance Dictionary ~ Greek Words ~ Word Studies ~ and Greek Dictionaries

(Major Revision ~ 06/20/2016) Strong’s Concordance and Dictionary One thing that many believers do concerning the handling of Greek words is use Strong’s Concordance’s Dictionary to translate Greek words – this is not only a fundamental error, but can lead to devastating conclusions regarding the misunderstanding of many Greek words.   Language Roots This is because […]

Eternal Life vs. Eternal Security ~ What is Salvation?

Introduction After publishing this article I decided to change the name because many people misunderstand Eternal Life when it comes to Eternal Security; some think they are antithetical to each other.  They think that eternal security is a heresy, wherein the opposite is true.   But before addressing the article and the text at hand, please allow […]

Faith Defined ~ (Notable Work)

Introduction There are 3 points of focus which this ministry maintains; 1) The preeminence of Jesus Christ, 2) The authority and sufficiency of the Word of God, and 3) The presentation of authentic Biblical faith, it is this last subject that we shall now address.  Faith is one of those virtues that seems so obvious, […]

What is Christianity?

Question;   “What Does the Word of God Have to Say About What Christianity Is All about?” (06/19/2015) 1 – Jesus is God John 10:24-33 “Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly. Jesus answered them, I […]

Judging ~ Church Discipline ~ Forgiveness & Turning the Cheek (Notable Work)

Introduction Within our current generation, due to this Gondi like presentation of Christ, wherein pacifism is the standard; how easy it is to demand that people not use discernment, biblically speaking, judgment; which appears to be so hard-hearted, it appears so unkind. “Let each man stand before his God,” is heard as an excuse to […]

Jesus ~ Our City of Refuge

Introduction Perhaps one of the more baffling statements that Jesus made is found in John 5:39, which states: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” The term used in the New Testament “Scriptures“, referred directly to the Old Testament which included the […]

Figures of Speech ~ Part 2 ~ A Few Examples*

Introduction In part one of “Figures of Speech” (LINK), we technically defined what “Figures of Speech” are and provided a few dozen examples of the different categories in regards to Figures of Speech. In part 2, we will give you specific examples of Figures of Speech, however we will start off with a very basic introduction […]

Sin ~ Defined & Examined

Introduction “Sin,” in its most foundational depiction is anything opposed to that which is good (“Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.” ~ 3 John 1:11), and the ultimate depiction of what is good, […]

Proof of Eternal Security ~ Ephesians 2:8 (Notable Work)

Introduction  When dealing with the subject of salvation (Soteriology, meaning: “The study of the doctrine of salvation“) from a Biblical foundation, perhaps the most well-known, most thorough, and most insightful treatment of the subject is found in Ephesians 2:8-10, which states: “For by grace you have been saved through faith0, and that not of yourselves; it is […]

Hebrews 6:4-6 Does Not Teach That a Believer Can Lose His Salvation (Notable Work)

Introduction Hebrews 6:4-6 is one of two passages (The other is Hebrews 10:25-27) in the book of Hebrews that has been used to support the premise that believers can lose their salvation, yet the grammar proves this to be untrue. If you would take the time to consider our previous extensive articles on Eternal Security, […]

Eternal Security – Its About God (A Notable Work)

Introduction This author loves old expressions, adages, or insights which display wisdom and insights in a brief presentation.  However, if you remember the old story about how when it comes to communicating verbal information; that if you gathered a group of people in a circle, and start with one person and whisper something in their ear. And then […]

Corinth’s Problems & Church Discipline

What were the main problems in Corinth?  1. Divisions – Contentions based upon ownership of Different Teachers: “now I beseech you, brethren, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, they all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you but that ye be perfect fit together in the same mind […]

How to Love God’s Way – The Practical Way that All Believers Can Love

Introduction The old expression, “familiarity breeds contempt;” is perhaps never better of use when it comes to the subject of love. Perhaps the reason why being familiar with love becomes makes it harder to understand regarding Biblical love, is because this is an everyday part of our lives, rather it is parental love, spousal love, […]

Jesus ~ The Ultimate Example of Faith! (Notable Original Work*)

Introduction (Update ~ 03/26/2015) This is one of the most important subjects I have ever attempted to teach.  While it is 86 pages long, please go through it slowly and thoroughly, take your time. It is a subject that changed my life. It is because faith is so much more important in the daily life […]

Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit (Notable Original Work)

Introduction Of all the questions that I have been asked over almost 40 years, the most frequent and passionate inquiry has always been about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. The greatest fear has been by those that were panicked that they had accidentally committed this unforgivable sin. In the following you will see that it […]

Short & Sweet – Believers do not pay the penalty for their sins, but they may pay the consequences.

Introduction (Revised 02/06/2016) All born-again believers are aware that Jesus paid for every one of the sins we have ever committed or will commit, without exception. Yet what we do not feel as comfortable in considering is that many times there are dire consequences that we pay for those sins that we perform in the […]

UPDATE – The Incarnation of Christ ~ God’s Essence & Attributes (Notable Original Work)

Introduction – Faith (update) There comes a place where as a Christian Believer, you have to take certain things at face value – on faith. Now, this is not the same as blind faith. Biblical faith is not blind faith, and those that confuse the two, show their either their ignorance or their prejudice.  Biblical faith is […]

Faith Defined ~ (Notable Work)

Introduction There are 3 points of focus which this ministry maintains; 1) The preeminence of Jesus Christ, 2) The authority and sufficiency of the Word of God, and 3) The presentation of authentic Biblical faith, it is this last subject that we shall now address.  Faith is one of those virtues that seems so obvious, […]

Proof of Eternal Security ~ Ephesians 2:8 (Notable Work)

Introduction  When dealing with the subject of salvation (Soteriology, meaning: “The study of the doctrine of salvation“) from a Biblical foundation, perhaps the most well-known, most thorough, and most insightful treatment of the subject is found in Ephesians 2:8-10, which states: “For by grace you have been saved through faith0, and that not of yourselves; it is […]

Parables & Israel Calling Upon Jesus*

Introduction Parables have often been misunderstood or not taught correctly.  The error was not in the way they are presented but that full and complete information has been missing. A wise scholar once said the problem of the Pharisees was not in their execution of the law, but was instead that they did not go far enough with […]

Hebrews 6:4-6 ~ Does Not Teach That a Believer Can Lose His Salvation

Introduction Hebrews 6:4-6 is one of two passages (The other is Hebrews 10:25-27) in the book of Hebrews that has been used to support the premise that believers can lose their salvation, yet the grammar proves this to be untrue. If you would take the time to consider our previous extensive articles on Eternal Security, […]

Regeneration or Faith, Which Must Come First – Hebrews 6:4-6

Introduction (Revision) Before considering this question, we need to define some words. Many theological terms would APPEAR to be opportunities to display spiritual pride, however, in reality they present shortcuts when talking about something without having to further explain the intricacies of what that subject entails – details of understanding are added when using theological terms. Atonement […]

What is Christianity?

Question;   “What Does the Word of God Have to Say About What Christianity Is All about?” (07/25/2014) 1 – Jesus is God John 10:24-33 “Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly. Jesus answered them, I […]

Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit

Introduction (Revision ~ 6/27/14) Of all the questions that I have been asked over almost 40 years, the most frequent and passionate inquiry has always been about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. The greatest fear has been by those that were panicked that they had accidentally committed this unforgivable sin. In the following you will […]

Jesus ~ Our City of Refuge

Introduction Perhaps one of the more baffling statements that Jesus made is found in John 5:39, which states: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” The term used in the New Testament “Scriptures“, referred directly to the Old Testament which included the […]

Jesus ~ The Ultimate Example of Faith (Notable Original Work) !!!

Introduction (Updated ~ 02/03/2016) This is one of the most important subjects I have ever attempted to teach.  While it is 86 pages long, please go through it slowly and thoroughly, take your time. It is a subject that changed my life. It is because faith is so much more important in the daily life […]

UPDATE – The Incarnation of Christ ~ God’s Essence & Attributes (Notable Original Work)

Introduction – Faith (update) There comes a place where as a Christian Believer, you have to take certain things at face value – on faith. Now, this is not the same as blind faith. Biblical faith is not blind faith, and those that confuse the two, show their either their ignorance or their prejudice.  Biblical faith is […]

Pride ~ Part 1 ~ Its Not as Simple as You May Think

Introduction A very wise old preacher once said that whatever a pastor repetitively keeps speaking about indicates what his own obsession is. And in the case of a particular sin that he keeps harping on; guess who has a big problem with that particular sin. Therefore, for the last 40 years I’ve watched self-righteous preachers pounding […]

How to Love God’s Way – The Practical Way that All Believers Can Love

Introduction The old expression, “familiarity breeds contempt;” is perhaps never better abuse that when it comes to the subject of love. Perhaps the reason why being familiar with love becomes makes it harder to understand regarding Biblical love, is because this is an everyday part of our lives, rather it is parental love, spousal love, […]

Regeneration or Faith, Which Must Come First – Hebrews 6:4-6

Introduction (Revision) Before considering this question, we need to define some words. Many theological terms would APPEAR to be opportunities to display spiritual pride, however, in reality they present shortcuts when talking about something without having to further explain the intricacies of what that subject entails – details of understanding are added when using theological terms. Atonement […]

Figures of Speech ~ Part 2 ~ A Few Examples*

Introduction (2/2018) In part one of “Figures of Speech” (LINK), we technically defined what “Figures of Speech” are and provided a few dozen examples of the different categories in regards to Figures of Speech. In part 2, we will give you specific examples of Figures of Speech, however, we will start off with a very basic […]

Leadership & Authority

Introduction (re-edited) Unfortunately, I sent out an unedited version of this article, this is the final draft One of the things that people were astonished concerning Jesus was that He spoke having authority. The point is that He spoke with authority, yet it was not that His speaking was authoritative, or He spoke in a […]

Proof of Eternal Security ~ Ephesians 2:8

Introduction (Update ~ 07/19/2013)  When dealing with the subject of salvation (Soteriology, meaning: “The study of the doctrine of salvation“) from a Biblical foundation, perhaps the most well-known, most thorough, and most insightful treatment of the subject is found in Ephesians 2:8-10, which states: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of […]

Jesus ~ The Ultimate Example of Faith (Notable Original Work) !

Introduction (Major Revision ~ 04/28/2014) This is one of the most important subjects I have ever attempted to teach.  While it is 86 pages long, please go through it slowly and thoroughly, take your time. It is a subject that changed my life. It is because faith is so much more important in the daily […]

Confess Your Sins One to Another – Does This Mean What You Think? (Christians can be Sinless?)

Introduction (Update) We’ve all read the below Scripture, but do we really understand what it means.  And though the immediate context concerns healing and sickness, there is a principle within a wider biblical context concerning the confession of sins to others, which may be misunderstood within the context of open confession in the church. The question […]

To Forgive Someone, Must They Repent (Updated)

The question is: 1. To forgive others, must they ask for forgiveness first? 2. Must they admit that they have wronged us? 3. Must they repent (“to change their mind”) of having wronged us? 4. Must they say they will not do it again? To some, this may seem like ridiculous questions concerning how a Christian […]

Apologetics ~ Part 1 ~ External Proofs Regarding Christ’s Existence & Resurrection – The Real Passover

Introduction The word “apologetics” is derived from the Greek word “apologia,” which means “to make a defense.”   It is used in a reference of a systematic discipline in which a position is defended in a rigorous and analytical fashion. Apologists is a term that was used in the second and third centuries of those Christian teachers […]

Self-Esteem & The Total Depravity of Man

Introduction The following excerpt is from John MacArthur’s book, Introduction To Biblical Counseling.  If it were lacking anything in presenting the Doctrine of the Total Depravity of man and how it relates to the self-esteem movement, we would have written our own paper, however it does not.  It is probably one of the best written […]

A Breakdown of the Lord’s Prayer – The Disciple’s Prayer – Part One

Let’s look at Jesus’ teaching concerning prayer.  First we must realize that this is a prayer that is stated prior to Jesus going to sit at the right hand side of the Father.  It is His instructions while He was still on the earth, yet the template (Jesus doesn’t say that we have to stay […]

Leadership & Authority

Introduction One of the things that people were astonished concerning Jesus was that He spoke having authority.  The point is that He spoke with authority, yet it was not that His speaking was authoritative, or He spoke in a commanding manner; it is that He seated authority in Himself. Display vs. Essence This has less […]

Corinth’s Problems & Church Discipline

What were the main problems in Corinth?  1. Divisions – Contentions based upon ownership of Different Teachers: “now I beseech you, brethren, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, they all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you but that ye be perfect fit together in the same mind […]

What is the Gospel – Specifically Defined by the Bible

 Introduction The English word gospel comes from the Greek word “Euangelizo” translated “good tidings” in certain passages, and “gospel” in others.  The general idea is that gospel literally meant “good news.”    Old Testament In the Old Testament, the Septuagint Greek translation, the word “gospel” could mean any kind of good news1, or even God’s […]

Saint – Bondslave

Introduction I once had the following three questions posed to me in a class (This is a subject I am revisiting today, and all Believers need to remember periodically) I was taking. What is a “Saint,” what is a (Greek) “doulos,” (translated into the English word: “servant” literally rendered: “bond slave” ~ Romans 1:1; Titus 1:1) and […]

The Question of the Ages Regarding the God of Christianity

Introduction The following list of words are used by God to describe the state of man.  Jeremiah 17:9 says, concerning the human heart (See Endnote #1), that “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it?”  The Hebrew word translated “desperately,” means in the literal “incurable.”  With the human heart […]

Biblical Anger Management

Introduction Without getting too far in the weeds, as I normally do, let me start by saying that there is a Biblical principle of “begetting“ (to “beget as seen in Gen. 17:20; Gen. 48:6; Deu. 4:25; Deu. 28:41; 2 King. 20:18; Pro. 17:21; Pro. 23:24; Ecc. 5:14; Ecc. 6:3; Isa. 39:7; Isa. 45:10; Jer. 29:6; Eze. 18:10; […]

We are like the Things we Worship

Introduction Personally, I love expressions which display wisdom; especially those regarding God and his word, such as: “The Bible: in the old the new is concealed, in the new the old is revealed.” “The Bible: in the old the new is contained, in the new the old is explained.” “An apparent Biblical contradiction is the […]

The Bride of Christ – Is Not the Church, Solely

Introduction For many years it has been commonly taught that the “Bride of Christ” is synonymous with the “Body of Christ,” which is the church (1 Corinthians 12:27; Ephesians 4:12), and therefore the two references refer to the same thing. We should remember Christ’s Words: “You make void the word of God by your traditions […]

The Beatitudes – How to Understand Them

Well I’m back.  During the last few months, I have been filling in as pastoral director in charge of chaplaincy at the hospital I work at.  During the last month there have been many deaths and traumas, and supervisory responsibilities which have kept me away from my writing. This assignment should be completed in a […]

Perspective

Introduction Noting that I have not written anything in the last 16 days, I am currently attempting to write 3 important articles, provocative; yet more important hopefully insightful concerning Biblical doctrine. At some future date I will write an article concerning November 6. I am glad to read what Rocky wrote (Thoughts after the election) concerning that which […]

“He comforts the afflicted, and afflicts the comforted” ~ A Prelude to the Article on Self-Esteem

Introduction The previous article in regards to self-esteem and the depravity of man, while meant to be read by all; there is one particular group of individuals that needs it more than others. This group, wherein self-esteem is promoted (Such as Christian psychologists, secular psychologist, Christians in the self-help community, those in the “name it […]

Self-Esteem & The Total Depravity of Man

Introduction The following excerpt is from John MacArthur’s book, Introduction To Biblical Counseling.  If it were lacking anything in presenting the Doctrine of the Total Depravity of man and how it relates to the self-esteem movement, we would have written our own paper, however it does not.  It is probably one of the best written […]

The 4 Gospels ~ Reasons they are Different (A Notable Work)

Introduction (10/12/2012 ~ Expanded, Revised, Fixed, & Reformatted) Unfortunately, While this article has been one of the most viewed, due to the insertion of the table necessary to present it; it has been the most flawed due to the editor’s inability to present it properly.  Recently, I have not only reformatted it in attempting to deal with this […]

Sheep and Wolves

Jesus’ Allusion Concerning Sheep & Wolves Jesus, in speaking about these false prophets used the allusion (an indirect reference to something or somebody by using symbolism) of them coming to the people as “wolves in sheep’s clothing” (see #1) in order to take advantage of them. We understand that Jesus used the allusion of sheep […]

Apologetics ~ Part 1 ~ External Proofs Regarding Christ’s Existence & Resurrection

Introduction The word “apologetics” is derived from the Greek word “apologia,” which means “to make a defense.”   It is used in a reference of a systematic discipline in which a position is defended in a rigorous and analytical fashion. Apologists is a term that was used in the second and third centuries of those Christian teachers […]

Apologetics ~ Part 2 ~ The Trilemma ~ Jesus was Either a Lunatic, a Liar, or Lord

Introduction Part 1 of this series (Apologetics ~ Part 1 ~ External Proofs Regarding Christ’s Existence & Resurrection), dealt with External acknowledgments concerning the existence of Jesus Christ in the form of reference to historians and notable individuals who presented Christ as a historical figure.  Next we dealt with an external proof regarding the resurrection, […]

A Short Theological Dictionary

The following theological terms are actually much simpler than they appear. It is because many of the words are transliterated (see below) from other languages, that they sound intimidating. . Angelology: Is the study of angels. Anthropology: Is the study of man. Anthropomorphism: Is describing human attributes to nonhuman things, such as using emotional type […]

The Leaven of the Pharisees?

Introduction  Before we address the leaven of the Pharisees, and the spiritual insights that can be achieved, wherein faith is grown; the following introduction, while somewhat long is necessary in order to gain a fruitful insight concerning one of the many ways that God’s Word validates itself, thus literally fulfilling Romans 10:17, which states: “Faith […]

Judging ~ Church Discipline ~ Forgiveness & Turning the Cheek

Judgment Within our current generation, due to this Gondi like presentation of Christ, wherein pacifism is the standard; how easy it is to demand that people not use discernment, biblically speaking, judgment; which appears to be so hard-hearted. “Let each man stand before his God,” is heard as an excuse to not exercise biblical judgment.  […]

Introduction to the Book of Romans

Introduction (update) The book of Romans is perhaps the greatest masterpiece on the Christian doctrine ever penned.  It is elegant, intricate, and concise yet thorough.  Paul systematically addresses salvation (1), starting at the beginning with sin and man’s fallen nature (2), and how that man is judged before God outside the law, the result of […]

Eternal Security – Its About God (A Notable Work)

Introduction This author loves old expressions, adages, or insights which display wisdom and insights in a brief presentation.  However, if you remember the old story about how when it comes to communicating verbal information; that if you gathered a group of people in a circle, and start with one person and whisper something in their ear. And then […]

Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit

Introduction Of all the questions that I have been asked over almost 40 years, the most frequent and passionate inquiry has always been about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. The greatest fear has been by those that were panicked that they had accidentally committed this unforgivable sin. In the following you will see that it […]

How to Deal with False-believers

Introduction The other day I received a comment from an individual who attempted to present evidence that the Holy Spirit was validating what they were saying, and what their cult, Mormonism preached (see the comments section concerning  the article: “Meek ~ The Great Example” – Link), when I clicked on their website, their profile stated (verbatim): by brandonlott […]

The Preeminence of Christ ~ Part 7 ~ “Thou madest him a little lower than the angels…” ~ Guardian Angels Addressed

Introduction While this article addresses Angels in general, and what is referred to as “Guardian Angels” specifically; the primary subject is the preeminence of Jesus Christ, as it should be. Guardian Angels are said to be Angels that protect each and every one of us (with specific references concerning children) as individuals, they are said to be the guardians of […]

Sin ~ Defined & Examined

Introduction “Sin,” in its most foundational depiction is anything opposed to that which is good (“Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.” ~ 3 John 1:11), and the ultimate depiction of what is good, […]

To Forgive Someone, Must They Repent (Updated)

The question is: 1. To forgive others, must they ask for forgiveness first? 2. Must they admit that they have wronged us? 3. Must they repent (“to change their mind”) of having wronged us? 4. Must they say they will not do it again? To some, this may seem like ridiculous questions concerning how a Christian […]

Work Out Your Own Salvation ~ Philippians 2:12-13

Introduction (Last Edited: 01/18/2016) The following is one of those passages wherein translating from the original Greek into the English renders it an enigma to many. Philippians 2:12-14 states:   “Wherefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation […]

Who is Your god/God, and Where Does He Live?

Universal Truth Every man has a god.  Many might try to argue the point and assert that they don’t believe in the notion of a higher power.  They may assert that God is a man-made myth and an indication of weak character, low intelligence, or sick emotions.  Many of them believe in evolution, claiming that […]

Judging ~ Church Discipline ~ Forgiveness & Turning the Cheek

Introduction 08/07/2012 –  I am going to be spending the next few weeks working on a most significant subject which must be treated meticulously.  Therefore, in the meantime I’m going to reformat, and update a few prior articles which are also important, but will allow me to spend the time that I need on this […]

Is there a Difference between Jesus being Savior & Jesus being Lord?

                                       Yes, there is a vast difference if you try to seperate the two. Primise It has been said that there are three mindsets concerning presenting the Gospel to the unsaved: 1) those that demand too much, 2) those that demand too little; and 3) those that present the gospel correctly. Concerning those that […]

Legalism ~ PRIDE

How it Works In examining legalism in the Bible we do not find the word “legalism”1 used per se, but we see a good example of it in the Pharisees of Jesus’ day.2  They were a prime example of legalism in action.  In the Pharisees’3 particular way of life, who they were determined what they […]

The Enemy & His Weapons

Introduction – The Enemy The devil is a high angelic creature that before the creation of the human race; rebelled against the Creator and became the chief antagonist of God and man.   We know this from passages in Isaiah, chapter 14 and Ezekiel, chapter 28. Many liberal theologians, to a large extent have refused to […]

Trials – Part 1 ~ Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh

To start with, concerning Paul’s thorn in the flesh, our key text is 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, which says: “It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether […]

All Things to All Men…

Introduction (update) When Paul spoke about “…being all things to all men…, 1” he was not saying to use the world’s contrivances or trappings, or any of the things that are popular in the world to attract people. Paul was not endorsing marketing techniques which rely upon emotional manipulation and attempt to utilize the frailties […]

The Preeminence of Christ ~ Part 4 ~ What God’s Word Says & Prophecies*

The Preeminence of Christ For the Christian, the first and primary rule of Biblical interpretation (“hermeneutics”) centers on the relationship of the “Word of God” (the Bible), to Jesus Christ, referred to as the preeminence (meaning: “above and beyond everything else in importance” – pre [“before”], eminent [“importance”]) of Jesus Christ (Heb. 2:10), in both the Old and […]

The Date Jesus Was Born

Introduction (Updated) The following introduction is my work, with the formula concerning Christ death and resurrection under the heading of “My Conclusion,” which is a very brief summation of the work originally produced by Sir Robert Anderson over 100 years ago. However, there has been scholarship before and after that come to the same consideration. What follows after that is a […]

Self-Esteem & The Total Depravity of Man

Introduction The following excerpt is from John MacArthur’s book, Introduction To Biblical Counseling.  If it were lacking anything in presenting the Doctrine of the Total Depravity of man and how it relates to the self-esteem movement, we would have written our own paper, however it does not.  It is probably one of the best written […]

Daily Picking up Your Cross

Introduction In the last 37 years of being a Christian, I have heard many descriptions of what being a Christian is – sometimes from personal opinions, sometimes from Biblical references. What I want to briefly speak about is not what a Christian is, but what a Christian does. Key Text Luke 9:23: “And He said to them all, […]

The Leaven of the Pharisees?

Introduction (Updated ~ 07/21/2011) Before we address the leaven of the Pharisees and the spiritual insights that can be achieved, wherein faith is grown; the following introduction, while somewhat long is necessary in order to gain a fruitful insight concerning one of the many ways that God’s Word validates itself, thus literally fulfilling Romans 10:17, […]

Jesus ~ Our City of Refuge

“Speak to the children of Israel, saying, Appoint out for you cities of refuge, whereof I spake unto you by the hand of Moses: That the slayer that killeth any person unawares and unwittingly may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood.”  (Joshua 20:2-3) In this passage we have […]

The Incarnation of Christ ~ God’s Essence & Attributes (Notable Original Work)

Introduction – Faith (Complete Revision ~ 03/10/2014) There comes a place where as a Christian Believer, you have to take certain things at face value – on faith.  Now, this is not the same as blind faith. Biblical faith is not blind faith, and those that confuse the two, show their either their ignorance or their prejudice.  […]

Regeneration or Faith

Regeneration vs. Faith – Which Came First? As I stated in last week’s preamble to this particular post, I have found what to me seems to be a trilogy concerning 3 biblical subjects; that of: Judgment Forgiveness Regeneration. Regeneration, is a theological term referred to as the act or process which propagates salvation; and salvation […]

A Preamble to Next Week’s Post

Preamble (Boy, what a mess this was, I was trying to get done too fast – sorry for the typos, and the lack of clarity – please reread, it may make sense now ~ Undated 04/10/2011) The following is a preamble to a blog that will posted by the middle to the end of next week. On […]

Thanks for Your Insights – My Thoughts

First off, let me thank everyone for their insights and opinions concerning the subject of forgiveness. Introduction The old expression that familiarity breeds contempt is a good reason to post questions like this. Sometimes the most dangerous topics within Christianity are those we all know so very well, and therefore end up studying rarely having developed an understanding of the […]

Judging – Church Discipline – Forgiveness & Turning the Cheek

Judging Introduction It is common in Christian circles to hear believers state that “we should not judge other people,” and while we are never to condemn (Greek: kataÌkrima, to render “condemnation” ~ Romans 5:16, 18; 8:1) another person, as this is God’s role and not ours; this statement is not completely true, in fact sometimes […]

It It Finished ~ Paid In Full

Introduction The following is a presentation that I have been doing for almost 20 years, yet am never tire of hearing these words myself. Many people for the sake of unity and peace are willing to compromise certain biblical doctrines, yet anyone that knows me knows that I swing the other way; especially when those […]

The Presentation of the Messiah ~ Prophecy Fulfilled

Introduction The most amazing prophecy in the Bible is Daniel 9:24-27, commonly referred to as “Daniels 70 Weeks” of Israel.  Yet what’s so amazing is the precision of verse 25 which is the crowning touch of this prophecy.  Because it specifically deals with the presentation of the Messiah of Israel.  It presents a formula which […]

Eternal Security ~ Past, Present, Future

The Timeline of Salvation Understanding that the Ephesians passage utilizes the perfect tense, indicating it was something completed in the past, with consequences which are ongoing, in the present and yet in the future as well.  This displays the three tenses of salvation, past, present, and future; which can be examined in Scripture by the […]

Proof of Eternal Security ~ Ephesians 2:8 (Notable Work)

Introduction  When dealing with the subject of salvation (Soteriology, meaning: “The study of the doctrine of salvation“) from a Biblical foundation, perhaps the most well-known, most thorough, and most insightful treatment of the subject is found in Ephesians 2:8-10, which states: “For by grace you have been saved through faith0, and that not of yourselves; it is […]

Faith Bible Ministries Blog ~ An Online Study of the Bible

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” ~~~~~~ This online Bible study series addresses primary New Testament words in their original language - Koinè Greek - as opposed to mainly using the English translations; which is like adding color to a black-and-white picture.

Faith Video Ministries

"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God"

Faith Bible Ministries

"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God"