Who are the 144,000? 
Who is eligible for the heavenly salvation and who is eligible for the earthly salvation?

Dear Peter,

Thank you for writing us again at Christian Questions Radio. Your questions are good ones. Your understanding is correct that there is a call to a select position in heaven to be made up of 144,000. You asked who are these that have this hope? You also wondered about former JWs as well as those from other religious persuasions who are examining the Truth. You wanted to know if their salvation could be heavenly or would it remain earthly.

We know from the scriptures that there is only one call during the Gospel Age, and that is the high calling to be part of the bride of Christ, composed of 144,000 individuals from every race and nation on the earth. This very special call is mentioned many times in the New Testament letters. In fact, most letters open with greetings to the saints. (See Romans 1:7, 1 Corinthians 1:2, Philippians 1:1, 1 Peter 1:1-2, 2 Peter 1:1-4. Jude 1:1). It is important to remember that God and God alone does the calling. "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." (1 Peter 2:9)

When we consider that the Gospel Age has been in progress for almost 2000 years, we wonder how that call can still be operable. We may think to ourselves that surely the Church must be complete by now. But the loftiness of the call requires total submission to the will of God and sacrifice of self will in every matter of life. Many, although they love the Lord and have made a covenant unto death, fall short by not giving their all to Him. But, there is still hope for this group. Although they will not be part of the very elect overcomers, the 144,000, who inherit immortality, they will, nonetheless, be resurrected to a spirit class. This Great Company is mentioned in Revelation 7:9 as a heavenly class wearing white robes and standing before the throne of the Lamb. "These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." (Revelation 7:14)

Are there some still in the nominal systems that need to come out? We believe there are. And some of them may, indeed, be spirit begotten. But, perhaps there are many more who are just seeking enlightenment, not consecration. The good news is that salvation is all-inclusive. It is heavenly and earthly. When we examine the scriptures we find many references to a future time on earth when God’s Kingdom will be established. (See Isaiah 9:6-7; 35:5-10; 65:21-25; Revelation 11:15; 21:1-4.) In fact, Jesus tells us to pray for that kingdom on earth. "Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10) In this earthly kingdom, all who ever lived, the evil as well as the good, will come forth from their graves and have an opportunity for everlasting life after a period of judgment in which righteousness is learned. And the heavenly class, who followed after Jesus now, submitting their wills to God’s will and practicing righteousness in all aspects of their lives, will be instrumental in helping to restore the billions returning from their graves. This heavenly class will rule with Jesus as his "bride" (Revelation 21:2) for one thousand years (Revelation 20:4), the end result of which is spoken of in Zephaniah 3:9. "For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the LORD, to serve him with one consent."

Thank you once again for your questions. Hope we have shed some light on the matter.

Sincerely,
Christian Questions Radio

Communication with our Children

Dear Susan,

Thank you for writing us at Christian Questions Radio. You stated that your eleven-year-old daughter has a boy friend that gave her candy and a stuffed animal for Valentine’s Day. You wanted to know how you could tell her of your disapproval without cutting off communication with her in the future. You also said that there has been awkwardness when you have discussed her boy friend or sex with her in the past. She has said that she knows and does not want to discuss it.

A parent’s job has never been an easy one and the times in which we live exacerbate an already difficult task. But, daunting as it may be, we are responsible for all aspects of our children’s training and welfare. The Bible gives us some good advice. "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." (Proverbs 22:6) "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother—which is the first commandment with a promise—that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth. Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." (Ephesians 6:1-4)

In these scriptures God is admonishing us as parents to set rules for our children that are reasonable and moral. A parent should explain the reason that the rules are important for the child’s well being. A child needs to feel that the parent cares enough to supervise his comings and goings. Your daughter is an eleven year-old child who needs boundaries. She is just entering puberty and is still years away from high school. She will have plenty of time to have boy friends when she is older and has internalized the moral responsibility needed when dating. To prepare her for that time, you need to talk with her about what she can and cannot do and why. Explain to her that she is not mature enough to date, even though she thinks she is. Also tell her that she cannot date until she has permission from you, and that will be when she is older. Once you have done this, you need to have consequences for violation of your rules. Even though she may complain, she will respect you. At her young age, you are responsible for your daughter’s actions, not her.

Although disciplining a child is hard on both the parent and the child, it is necessary and worthwhile. Your child will thank you later. As the Apostle Paul says in Hebrews 12:7-9 and 11, "Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."

We hope we have helped you. Please write us again with further comments or questions.

Sincerely,
Christian Questions Radio

Is name-calling ever appropriate?

Dear Bill.

Thank you for writing us at Christian Question Radio. You asked if it was ever appropriate while witnessing at an abortion clinic to insult a non-Christian by calling the father a coward for killing his unborn child.

No, we do not feel as Christians that name-calling is appropriate behavior. Even when Jesus harshly rebuked the Pharisees, calling them hypocrites (see Matthew 23:13-36), he never rebuked them individually, but as a class of people. Just because we are against abortion, we do not have the right to insult individuals who disagree with our position. Instead, our focus should be on education. As the holy spirit of God enlightens us, we have a responsibility to let our light shine forth onto others. Insulting them defeats that purpose. The scriptures tell us that we are walking epistles and are judged by our actions and our words. The Apostle Paul writes, "You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everybody." (2 Corinthians 3:2) By demeaning ourselves through name-calling, we lower the high Christian standard that our Lord Jesus set for us. As Christians we desire to walk in our Master’s path. We try to emulate His example as we go forth into the world, bearing witness to the truth, by our words and our lives.

Furthermore, we are incapable of judging others. We do not know their hearts or what is motivating them to act as they do. Only God is able to look at the heart of an individual. Jesus told the Pharisees, "You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me." (John 8:15-16) When speaking on the Mount Jesus said, "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Matthew 7:1-2)

We look forward to the day when all the wrongs of this world will be righted. It will be a thousand-year judgment day in which all who have ever lived will come back from their graves and have an opportunity to learn what true righteousness really is so that they may enjoy everlasting life on earth. Will the unborn that perished because of abortion, or miscarriage, or
accident, etc. have a chance for life as well? We are not sure. Scriptures have little to say about the unborn. But, they do speak of the time after the thousand-year judgment period, a time when everything is brought back into harmony with God and all worship him with one consent. "For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may call upon the name of the LORD, to serve him with one consent." (Zephaniah 3:9).

The best efforts of humankind cannot make a dent in the degradation of fallen man, but our faith sustains us because we know that one day God will right all the wrongs. We cannot even imagine how wonderful his kingdom will be!

We hope we have helped you. Please write us again.

Sincerely
Christian Questions Radio

Is homosexuality really a sin?

Dear Kimberly,

Thank you for writing us at Christian Questions Radio.You asked, “Is homosexuality really a sin? Is it sinful just when it is promiscuous? Is homosexuality wrong if it is in a loving committed, monogamous relationship?”

Although the Bible does not discuss sexual orientation, it does discuss sexual acts. Leviticus 18 tells us with whom it is not appropriate to engage in sexual activity. Leviticus 18: 22 says, “Do not lie with a man as one lies with a woman; that is detestable.” In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul discusses sexual morality and marriage when he says, “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.” (Hebrews 13:4)

We can see from these two scriptures alone that homosexuality is definitely a sin whether it is promiscuous or not. God intended sexual relations to take place only within the confines of marriage between a man and a woman. “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24)  Marriage, in the eyes of God, is a sacred institution and any sexual activity that takes place outside of it, be it homosexual or heterosexual, can be scripturally classified as fornication.  Unfortunately, today’s standards of morality have declined so that sexual cohabitation prior to, or instead of marriage is becoming acceptable behavior. But accepted behavior by the world is not necessarily the right behavior according to God. Our personal feelings, desires, or orientations should not be the dictators of our actions. We are born in sin and inherit all kinds of dispositions in which we fall far short of the way God originally intended His creation to be. Therefore, having a predisposition toward homosexuality is not the real issue for the Christian. It is just another weakness that needs to be altered in order to conform to the will of God. If we call ourselves Christians, we must abide by the rules of Christianity and sacrificing one’s will is part of that discipline.

Everyday each one of us is challenged by fleshly desires. Jesus said when a man lusts after a woman, he has already committed adultery in his heart. Even the thought is a sin. (See Matthew 5:28) So, then, what are we saying to those whose sexual thinking is different from the norm? We are saying the same thing that we would say to a heterosexual. All of us need to bring our thoughts, words and deeds in line with the example set forth in the Bible and modeled by our Master, Jesus. “And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” (Galatians 5:24) The good news is that we have help. In Hebrews 2:18 we find that Jesus suffered when he was tempted, so that he is able to help those who are being tempted.

It is important to stay connected to the Lord in prayer, asking Him for guidance while seeking His will. On should ask Him for strength to overcome weaknesses. He has promised to help us in our time of need. “In my distress I called to the LORD; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears.” (Psalm 18:6) “Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray,  and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.” (Psalm 55:17) “The LORD is nigh unto them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them.” (Psalm 145:18-19) Please remember that on our own, we are weak and can never overcome our flesh, but with the Lord all things are possible. “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” (Isaiah 40:29) “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

Once again, thank you for writing us. In July 2000, we did a program entitled, “What does the Bible say  about Homosexuality?” It has not yet been uploaded onto our web page. But, we would be happy to send you a free CD of the program if you give us your mailing address.

May the joy of the Lord be your strength and may the glory be His!

 

Explain the antichrist?

Dear Vincent,

On Feb. 11th you asked us to explain about the Antichrist. We thank you for your question and would be happy to give you our thoughts on the matter.

The term antichrist is mentioned in 1 John 2:18,22; 4:3 and 2 John 7. But some other references to “antichrist” are “the man of sin,” “the mystery of iniquity,” “that wicked one,” “the son of perdition,” “the beast,” “the man of lawlessness,” and “the secret power of lawlessness.” For example, see 2 Thessalonians 2:3-12 and Rev. 13:18.

According to the Greek, “anti” means “in place of” “instead of,” “a substitution,” or “a correspondence.” It does not mean “against.” Therefore, antichrist means in place of Christ. So, who or what is in place of Christ, a person or a governing system?

2 Thessalonians 2:7 helps us understand. Paul says, ”For the secret power of lawlessness (meaning the
antichrist) is already at work.” In Paul’s day, almost 2000 years ago, the antichrist (or those who were against the true church) was already at work. The concept of the antichrist in this context indicates that it is not literal, but symbolic of an evil religious system, just beginning to bud.

Daniel 7 further illustrates this point. In that chapter the Roman Empire is referred to as a “he.”  There is also symbolism describing the characteristics of the antichrist in Rev. 13 which can be compared with Daniel 7 with special focus on “the other horn which came up” (Dan. 7:20) and spoke “great things” and “blasphemies.” This horn seems to represent the antichrist, which came out of the true church. John (1 John 2:18-22) similarly says that there was a development and that the antichrist came out of that development. “They went out from us, but they were not of us.” (1 John 2:19) This scripture helps us see that the antichrist is a counterfeit system coming out of the true church.

Looking at the antichrist from an historical viewpoint, all the major protestant reformers (Huss, Wycliffe, Luther, etc.) up through the mid-1800’s were in unanimous agreement with Peter Waldo, a twelfth century pre-reformer, who identified the antichrist as a system of falsehood which gradually developed and had its climax in the Papal system. But, interestingly, we see almost a reverse idea today.  The prevalent thought is that the antichrist is coming ... that he is a man who will wreak havoc on the earth and that this havoc will bring about the end.  But this viewpoint is not in harmony with what the scriptures say because the apostles Paul and John tell us that the antichrist was already beginning in the first century.

For more detailed information on the antichrist and why the current Protestant view prevails today, please do not hesitate to write us again. Thank you for your question. We hope we have helped you.

What was the time span between the raising of Lazarus and Jesus’ resurrection?

Dear Sandy,

Your inquiry concerned a statement made on Christian Questions Radio that about two weeks elapsed between Jesus’ telling of the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus and his actual raising of Lazarus from the dead. You wanted to know how that time period was ascertained.

There is no scriptural proof that we are aware of concerning the precise time period of two weeks, but it seems a reasonable conjecture since the raising of Lazarus occurred shortly before our Lord was crucified (see John 12:9-10) and the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus occurs at the end of Luke 16. The next two chapters of Luke contain more parables with no indication that Jesus did any traveling between the
giving of any of them. Then in chapter 19 he rides into Jerusalem on as ass a few days before his crucifixion. To say “two weeks” elapsed is a guess, but it is a short time.

Thank you once again for drawing our attention to this point. A better way of stating the shortness of the timeframe between these two events would have been to say that our best estimate of elapsed time from the speaking of the parable to the raising of Lazarus was two weeks.

We always welcome comments, questions or differing opinions on our programs. Please write us again. You may contact us directly by visiting our web page at: www.christianquestions.net.

Sincerely,
Christian Questions Radio

Who is Paul?

Dear Roderick,

Thank you for submitting your question, "Who is Paul?"
to Christian Questions Radio.  We hope our answer will
aid you in your Bible study.

The Apostle Paul
 
The Apostle Paul is the most remarkable of all the Apostles. 
He was the one directly chosen of God to replace the betrayer, Judas.

Paul was also known as Saul of Tarsus. His father was a wealthy Roman  citizen, and the name Paul was more commonly used in Rome. His family  was strongly Jewish and of the religious Pharisees. Saul was well educated in a religious school attended  only by the sons of the rich. Saul  had advantages in every way:  he was well educated, wealthy, extremely  religious and honored  by his family and countrymen. Acts 22:3

Because Saul was a very dedicated Jew, he served God with all  the zeal  and love that he could. But although he served God with zeal, it was not  based on a knowledge of the wisdom of God.  Rom. 10:2,3 He thought he was  pleasing God when he severely persecuted the Christian Jews for what the law said was  "heresy" punishable by death. He was responsible for giving the command to have the Christian disciple Stephen put to death by stoning.

The last act of persecution Saul would commit would be to order the  Christians of Damascus to trial in Jerusalem. Saul set out with a group of  men, probably soldiers and other religious men, on the road to Damascus to bring who they thought were hated Christians back to Jerusalem. But on the way, he was met with  the most marvelous experience any human would ever know –  an experience which would change his life forever!
 
As Saul traveled at around midday, suddenly there came upon  the group of  men a brightness that was even brighter than that of  the sun. Saul and the  others fell to the ground hearing, "Saul,  Saul, why do you persecute me?"  Saul answered "Who are you,  Lord?" The voice answered, "I am Jesus, the  one whom you persecute." Saul replied, "Lord, what would you have me to  do?" Jesus answered, "Arise and go into the city, and there you  will be  told what to do." Not only did Saul hear the voice of  Jesus, but he saw Jesus in his glory as a Divine, Immortal Spirit Being! 1 Cor. 15:8 The other Apostles saw Jesus resurrected, but they did not see him as a Divine  Spirit. Jesus chose to take  on various human forms to appear to the others,  so they would not be frightened. The other men who traveled with Saul did not see Jesus, they only heard his voice.

The brightness of this vision blinded Saul’s eyes, but it opened  his mind.  When Jesus said to Saul, "Why do you persecute me?"  He meant, "Saul, why do you persecute those who believe in  me?" But why would Jesus come especially to a man like Saul of Tarsus who persecuted to death his  followers? Why didn’t he  just honor the wishes of the Apostles and make  Matthias the  Apostle to replace Judas? God wanted to make a beautiful example out of Saul to show that He could take even the most feared of  men and change his misguided heart to one of the most loving and merciful!  I Cor. 1: 26-29  God also wanted to show how he could prepare such a man from even before his birth and give him the qualities and advantages  needed to perform the  work of a great Apostle. Gal. 1:15  Even before Saul was born,  his family was wealthy, well educated and religious. His father was a Pharisee, and so Saul became a Pharisee. Both were more  familiar  with God’s law than most men. These qualities would make Saul naturally  very useful in the spread of the Gospel to the Jews. But Saul would have to  accept the call to leave all and  follow Christ. God would not make Saul  do anything. Saul had to choose for himself. Acts 9:1-8

Guided by the eyes of his traveling companions, Saul traveled on to  Damascus as Jesus had asked. There he fasted and prayed earnestly to the  Lord to show him what to do. Saul did not cry and say, "Oh, poor me, I’ve  lost my sight!" No, he humbly waited for the direction of the Lord. And  while he did, he received a vision that a man named Ananias would come to him to restore his sight. At this same time Ananias, a faithful disciple of  Jesus, received a vision. The Lord said, "Ananias,arise and go to the house of Judas for there a man from Tarsus named Saul is praying. Go and  restore his sight." But Ananias said, "Lord, this is the man who persecutes  the saints in Jerusalem!" Yet the Lord replied, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel; for I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s  sake." And Ananias did just as the Lord had said. He went straight to Saul,  and laying his hands on him he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus has sent  me to restore your sight and fill you with the Holy Spirit." Just then, loose scales of skin fell from Saul’s eyes and he regained most of his sight. Then  he arose and was baptized. Saul was ready to serve the Lord and willing to  suffer much for his name’s sake. Acts9:10-20 Saul immediately began preaching in Damascus,
proclaiming the name of  Jesus in the synagogues saying, "He is the Son of God!" All were amazed  to hear Saul, the persecutor of Christians, preach the very name he had  despised. Soon the high priests of Damascus became hateful of Saul and plotted to kill him. But the Christians there helped him to escape the city and return to Jerusalem.

When Saul arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to work alongside of the other  Christians there, but they were afraid of this persecutor who had sentenced  their beloved Stephen to death! The Lord then provided for his disciple  Barnabas to come to Saul’s defense. Barnabas explained all that had  happened to Saul and what a wonderful change the Lord had created in  him. He showed how Saul was such a zealous witness for Jesus that he was almost killed. Then the Christians of Jerusalem understood and  welcomed Saul into their fellowship. They witnessed the great power of  their Almighty God!

But imagine how Saul’s family and friends must have felt to see his  conversion. They saw this power of God as the power of Satan overtaking  their beloved Saul. "What an embarrassment you are to the holy nation of  Israel!" they thought. Saul was then persecuted by his family, and all that he  had as a Pharisee and son of a wealthy man was taken from him. Saul was left a man without honor in his family and country, and he went from riches to poverty for the sake of Christ. Acts 9:19-30.
 
Saul was not discouraged by this nor tempted to slow down his zeal for the  Lord. No, he then traveled to Arabia to study the various prophecies and  the law to see how they pointed to his Lord Jesus and how they made clear  God’s plan. For three years he studied, becoming mature as a Christian and  more capable as the chosen instrument of the Lord. Filled with the Holy Spirit and wisdom of God’s plan, he was anxious to return and teach this  plan to all. It is interesting to note that three years is about the same amount  of time in which the other Apostles studied and learned with their master  during his three and a half year ministry. Studying God’s plan and will is  most important for every Christian. 2 Tim. 2:15
 

What is the Christian description of God?

 

Dear Wednesday,

 

Thank you for submitting your question, “What is the Christian description of God?”

God is the term used to denote the Supreme Being, the Creator of all things.

Judaism, Christianity and Islam see God as a being that created the world and rules over the universe.  He is omnipotent (all-powerful), omniscient (all-knowing), omni-benevolent (all-loving), omnipresent (present everywhere at the same time), and immortal (self-existing and everlasting). He is also transcendent, meaning that He is outside space and outside time, and therefore eternal and unable to be changed by earthly forces or anything else within His creation.

God can best be described by his four attributes: justice, power, wisdom and love.  Psalm 89:14 tells us that justice and righteousness are the foundation of God’s thrown while love and faithfulness represent the very essence of his character.  The Apostle tells us “God is love” (1 John 4:8).  We learn of God’s supreme wisdom and power in Isaiah 55:8-11.  “For my thoughts are not your thoughts neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD.  “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts, . . .  so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

 

In addition to being characterized as the Creator, God is also recognized as the   "Heavenly Father.”  His first creation was his Son, the Logos, or Word, by which and through which all things were made (John 1:1-3).  Together God and his Son created the perfect man (Adam) in their own likeness (meaning the ability to think, reason, and make choices) (Genesis 1:26).  After Adam’s sin, God, in His infinite wisdom and love, had a plan for redemption.  His Son, the Logos, came to earth as the perfect man Jesus Christ in order to fulfill this plan to redeem Adam and the entire human race through his death on the cross.  “Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men.” (Romans 5:18)

 

As Christians we perceive the essence of God’s character, his holiness, justice, love and mercy through our understanding of His all-encompassing plan to once again restore all that was lost by Adam in the Garden of Eden.  Therefore, with great rejoicing we proclaim,  “Your righteousness reaches the skies, O God, you who have done great things.  Who, O God, is like you?” (Psalm 71:19-21) 

 

We hope our explanation has helped you understand God’s just and benevolent character.  Please write us again with any further questions.

Praying to God and Jesus

 

Dear Marc,

 

On December 21, 2005 you wrote: “Since only God is to be prayed to and worshipped, the Lord Jesus is God because he is prayed to and worshipped in the following passages:  Acts 1:24-25;  2 Corinthians 12:8;  2 Timothy 4:18;  2 Peter 3:18;  Revelation 5:11-14 and 22:3.”

 

Response: 
As Christians, we pray to God through his Son Jesus Christ because it is only through our belief in the ransom merit of Jesus and our desire to follow God’s will that we can have a relationship with our Heavenly Father through prayer.  Prior to Jesus’ first advent, the Jewish nation had sole access to God through prayer when they followed the Law of Moses and worshipped God and God only.  They were his chosen people, from whom God’s son, Jesus, the Messiah, would be born.  But now, during the Gospel era, all who have come into a heart relationship with our Savior, Jesus, can have access to God’s heavenly throne through prayer.

Before we address your scriptures, we will tell you that we are not a Trinitarian group.  We believe that God and his Son are two separate entities.  God’s very first creative act was his Son, the Word, or Logos, by which and through which all things were made (John 1:1-3; Prov. 8:22-31; John 1:10; Col. 1:15-18; Heb. 1:2). In John 1:1 the Greek definite article is used to distinguish the Father as “the God” from the Son, who is called “a God.”  Although the Greek language contains no indefinite article corresponding to the English “a,” the indefinite article is implied by the context and, therefore, must be included in the English translation.  Benjamin Wilson gives the correct rendering in his Emphatic Diaglott:  “In a beginning was the Word, and the Word was with the God, and a god was the Word.” When translated correctly, John 1:1 becomes significant in its contrast between the Father, who is called “the God,” and the Word or Representative of the Most High God, who is himself “a god.

Colossians 1:15 also addresses the separateness of God and his Son.   “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.”  When we look up “image” in Strong’s Concordance we find it means “a faintness as a copy; to resemble or to be like; representation; resemblance.”  Looking up “firstborn” we discover its meaning to be “foremost in place, order or importance; best, first of all.”  These definitions clarify the meaning of Col 1:15.  We now know that Jesus is a representation of God, a copy in that he resembled God.  He was God’s first, foremost and best creation.  Furthermore, if we look at what Jesus says about himself, we can determine who he is.  Jesus says, “My teaching is not my own.  It comes from him who sent me.” (John 7:16)  This statement verifies the father-son relationship.  In the next verse, Jesus says, “If anyone chooses to do God’s will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.” This statement clarifies the separateness between him and his Father.  God and Jesus have separate wills, and Jesus does the will of God.  “For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me.”(John 6:38)  Jesus says that he and his Father are separate beings and that his Father is greater than he. (John 14:28; 1 Cor. 15:28)

 

After establishing that God and his son are separate beings, we need to determine if Jesus was divine at his creation.  If you believe that Jesus was divine there is a problem because divinity means immortality, and, therefore, inability to die.  Was his death on the cross an act, or pretense?  We think not.  In Revelation 1:18 Jesus says, “I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever!”  If Jesus was divine, what did Paul mean when he stated: "By one [man] shall many be made righteous" (Rom. 5:19), "By man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead" (1 Cor. 15:21). "There is one God, and one mediator between God and man, the man Christ Jesus” (1 Tim. 2:5).  If you believe that Jesus was divine, his death is minimized.  Since Adam was a perfect man who sinned, only another perfect man who did not sin could redeem not only him, but his entire race. God knew that Jesus would need to actually die in order to redeem the fallen human race.  After Jesus fulfilled his mission, he was resurrected divine.  So, now Jesus sits at the right hand of God and is truly like God.  He is immortal and cannot die. 

Addressing your scriptures: Acts 1:24-25; 2 Corinthians 12:8; and 2 Timothy 4:18
In these scriptures, as in many, many others in the New Testament, the Greek word “kurios” is translated as “lord.”  Therefore, it is a matter of judgment and context to determine if it refers to God (Matthew 2:19), Jesus (Matthew 7:21), or some earthly lord (Matthew 18:32).  In your above examples, we presume that the apostles and Paul were praying to Jesus.  The question is then, should they have been praying to Him and does prayer to Jesus violate the first commandment?  We believe that since Jesus is now divine, like his Father, we can make requests to him.  Stephen does so in Acts 7:59-60.  “When they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.’  Then he fell on his knees and cried out, ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them.’” 

2 Peter 3:17-18 states, “Be on guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall from your secure position.  But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  To him be the glory both now and forever!  Amen.”  Apostle Peter tells us to be on guard so that we will not lose the precious truth of Jesus Christ and the ransom he paid. Yes, Jesus is definitely our Lord and Savior.  He died as a man paying the ransom price, so that Adam and his entire race could be redeemed.  Peter was honoring him when he said, “To him be the glory now and forever!”  

 

Revelation 5:11-14 and 22:3 depict the throne scene in heaven with the glorified Jesus pictured as the Lamb.  Revelation 5:13 distinguishes between the two entities of God and Jesus.  “To him who sits on the throne (meaning God) and to the Lamb (Jesus) be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!”  Because of his sacrifice, Jesus has now been glorified with immortality and power, second only to his Father, God.  And all in heaven and all on earth (yet a future picture) and all under the earth (those who have died and are yet to be restored to life – another future picture) sing praises to God and his Son, Jesus.  Revelation 22:3 states that there will be no more curse because all that was lost in Eden will be restored.  Then Jesus will rule on the throne with his Father in that wonderful Millennial Kingdom when the healing of people and nations will take place.  Although this Millennial Kingdom will be the kingdom of God’s dear Son, it will also be the Kingdom of God, because his Son and the glorified Church will be in absolute accord with the Father.  “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them.  They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.  He will wipe every tear from their eyes.  There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’” (Revelation 21:3-4)  Oh, how we long for that glorious day!

 

We hope we have helped you with your understanding of the scriptures you mentioned.  Please feel free to write us again.

Which organization promotes Christian Questions?

Dear Concerned Christian,

On April 5, 2003, you wrote us at Christian Questions inquiring if we are promoted by the Jehovah Witnesses.
 

To this question we answer, no, we are not in any way affiliated with or promoted by the Jehovah’s Witnesses. 

We are independent Christian Bible Students.  We accept the Bible as the inspired Word of God, and study it in its entirety--both the Old and the New Testaments, seeking the harmony of complete Scriptural testimony (2 Timothy 3:16, 17).  We believe that each individual is responsible to personally study and prove the interpretation of the Bible for himself (2 Timothy 2:15).

Our local congregations are totally independent. We have no central headquarters.  In our international fellowship we cooperate with other independent congregations.  The servants or ministers of our churches are elected from within local fellowship on an annual basis, based on the Scriptural qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1.

Is the door to the high calling open or closed?

Dear Eric,

Greetings in our Savior’s most precious name!

Thank you for your letter and greetings of love to all at Christian Questions.  We hope you received, or will shortly receive, a package of 13 tapes on the subjects you requested earlier. 

We appreciated your question in regard to the door to the high calling being open or closed.  We personally feel that it is still open since many are yet being called out and, once called, have the privilege of sacrificing their wills, perfecting their characters, and working in the harvest field by witnessing about God’s beautiful plan for all people.  But the scriptures state that there will come a time when all work will cease.  It is then that we will know that the door is shut because the Church is complete.  "Night is coming, when no one can work." (John 9:4)  We feel that once the last member of the 144,000 very elect is "sealed," then the four angels who are
holding back the four winds of destruction will let those winds loose.  But, this will not happen until the last member of the 144,000 Church class has had an opportunity to make his calling and election sure by proving himself faithful. (Rev. 7:1-4)

We believe there is still time to make a full consecration of our wills to the Lord.  For when we receive his spirit and are led by it, we are sons of God. (Rom. 8:14)  "Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." (Rom. 8:17) During this Gospel Age there has been but one call, and that is to Sonship, in order to complete the Church class, so that the rest of mankind can be liberated from its bondage to decay.  Once the Bride class is complete, blessings for the world can begin to be realized.  "The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed." (Rom. 8:19)

Please be assured that you and your family are in our prayers as you depart for the Persian Gulf.  May God’s will be done in your life as you earnestly seek Him.

Once you accept Jesus, is it possible to fall from grace?

Dear Mr. Crown,

Thank you for visiting our web page (www.christianquestions.net).  We appreciated your comments and hope that we can answer your questions.

You asked that once you accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, is it then impossible to "fall from grace" and lose your salvation?  You said you had been brought up believing that even if you were a "child of God" that you could "fall from grace" and lose your salvation if you continued to deliberately sin.  Now you are being led to believe that if you step out in faith there is nothing you can do to fall from grace.

Your questions and concerns are well taken.  To answer them, we must first ask some other pertinent questions.  Must one become a Christian in order to be saved?  If so, what about the countless millions who have never heard of Jesus?   What about all the good people who are not Christians?  What about those who lived before Jesus’ time?  What about the person who believes, but does not make any changes for the better?  What is their fate?  When we look up the word "condemned" used in John 3:13-21, we find that it really means "to distinguish" or "to separate" (see Strong’s Concordance #2919).  Therefore, Jesus was separating those willing to follow him now from all others.  He fulfilled his mission which was to die so that all would be saved, some now and others later.  The following scriptures are emphatic that Jesus died for everyone who ever lived (and especially for those who believe).  See 1 Tim. 2:3-6; 4:10;  John 5:28-29;  I Corinthians 15:21-23;  Hebrews 2:9; 9:24-28;  Romans 5:12-19;  1 John 2:2.  These scriptures separate the true followers from everyone else and give these followers something different, something special.  The letters of the New Testament were written to these special called out ones.  But the scriptures do not minimize Jesus’ sacrifice for everyone else.  There is a dichotomy in the plan of God --  the spiritual calling out and the blessing of everyone else.  Judgment is an important part of this whole picture.  Those who are called out to sacrifice are judged now.  These are the spirit begotten ones, the ones who have chosen to live a life of sacrifice to do God’s will now.  This class, if faithful, will be part of the heavenly phase of the Kingdom of God.  Those not called out are not judged now, but will be later in the "day of judgment," soon to take place on earth.  Timing is very important in the plan of God. (Acts 26:23; Luke 14:14)  When the class of the called out ones is complete, the judgment of the rest of the world will begin and the end result of that judgment will be the eradication of tears, pain, sorrow, crying and finally death itself. (Revelation 21:1-4)

Having established that there are indeed two
salvations, the first for the true followers of Christ now and the second for the rest of the world later, we can address the question of being "born again" and its implications.  First, we believe that the term "born again" (Strong’s #1080) is not a correct translation in all the cases in which it appears in scripture.  In the context of John 3:1-13, particularly verse 3, "born again" should be translated "begotten," meaning conception, not birth, since one’s spirit birth (in heaven) will take place when one dies.  So, what does spirit begettal imply?  Many Christians feel that once you’ve got the spirit, you’re locked in (guaranteed a seat in heaven).  But we believe  that we have to do something to make this spirit begettal turn into spirit birth.  In 2 Corinthians 5:16-18 and Galatians 6:15-16, we learn that anyone in Christ (spirit begotten) is a "new creature" and would be walking a different path than everyone else.  This path is anything but easy.  Apostle Paul talks about his struggles in Romans 7:15-25.  This "new creature," begotten of the holy spirit, desires to serve God, but our old nature still serves sin.  Battling this dual nature is the struggle of each true Christian. And the battle continues until death.  Nonetheless, Apos. Paul also said, "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 3:14)  "Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air.  No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize." (1 Cor. 9:26-27)  If Apos. Paul had to struggle, we also have a massive fight in front of us.  It is a fight to joyfully do the will of God as we crucify our own wills and desires.  But, although we struggle with our sinful natures we have an advocate in Jesus.  "My dear  children, I write this to you so that you will not sin.  But if anyone does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense--Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.  He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world." (1 John 2:1-2)  How encouraging is this precious promise!  This scripture says that if we sin, there is a way to cancel out that sin -- through Jesus Christ our advocate, who is the ransom for us (now) and for the entire world (later).  "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16)

So, can we fall from grace after having been called to be sons of God and heirs with Jesus and after having been enlightened by the holy spirit?  Yes, it is possible if we turn our backs on Jesus’ sacrifice and go back into the world to sin.  The Apostle has said, "It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace." (Heb. 6:4-6)  But, to fall into this sad condition, one would have to be a deliberately willful sinner, mocking God and his promises. 

But we are not to dwell on this condition.  "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Tim. 1:7)  When we are connected with God through prayer and study of his Word, we maintain his Holy Spirit.  We acquire the spirit of fear when we mentally disconnect, letting go of God and his promises.  Feed upon his promises.  They are the food of the new creation.  "Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the Divine nature." (2 Pet. 1:4) God is ALWAYS there for us.  He NEVER leaves us. "He shall deliver thee in six troubles: yea in seven there shall no evil touch thee." (Job 5:19)  "Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ." (Phil. 1:6)   "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life." (Rev. 2:10)

Yes, God has promised to assist us.  What, then, is our sacrificial role if we are begotten of the holy spirit?  Paul tells us in Romans 12:1-2.  "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship.  Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is --his good, pleasing and perfect will." To be able to be transformed we must now give up of our time, our wealth, whatever we have and put it on the altar of  sacrifice to be used in the Lord’s service.  In so doing, the Lord rewards us with the transformation process.  This change, or metamorphosis, comes from within.  God’s laws become written in our hearts.  We obey because we know it is the right thing to do.  That is the meaning of the transformation required of each Christian.   To get the reward of glory that God has promised to those who love him (1 Corinthians 3:6 16), we have to think like the creatures God intends us to be.   The meaning of sanctification (the process  of being set apart to be made holy) and its two parts, is illustrated in Philippians 2:12-13.  Our part is to work out our salvation by putting our wills on the altar of sacrifice by changing the way we think.  God’s part is to work within us orchestrating our development by giving us experiences.  We are not just maximizing human potential, but we are in the process of becoming something that humans were not intended to be.  We are called to become something special.  The Bible identifies this call as  he high or heavenly call (Philippians 3:14; Hebrews 3:1).  As the new creature which is begotten within us grows, the spiritual qualities of love, mercy, and compassion also grow.  Each of us needs to ask if we are being transformed into a likeness of Jesus or are we just putting on the guise of Jesus while failing to change our thinking, our hearts, our motivation.  Christianity is not just about being nice.  It’s not just about feeding or giving money to the poor.  It is a calling to spirituality beyond human nature.  The mind has to change.  "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 2:5)  Our human nature is sacrificed.   The bottom line is that God has  to call you for that transformation to happen.  The transforming process begins when we give our lives to the Lord and it continues until the end of our course.  The suffering we endure changes us.  God is in charge of our training, and, if we yield ourselves, we will be made into what he wants us to be.  That is what it means to be baptized into Christ.  Those who lead a life of sacrifice now and remain faithful, will become part of the heavenly body of Christ that will have a part in blessing the world of mankind in the future.  A picture of this future earthly phase of the Kingdom can be seen in Micah 4:1-5 and Isaiah 35. 

How privileged we are to have been called to bless the world in the future by assisting in bringing each human up the highway of holiness!  The Kingdom of God will then be manifested on earth and the spirit of God will be poured out upon all flesh (Joel 2:28) and everyone shall know God from the least to the greatest (Jeremiah 31:34).  We can truly say that God has a great plan and everyone, whether in heaven or on earth, has a part in it.

How can I claim to love God when I fall so easily?

This letter is from a struggling Christian, age 22, and married.  When he was a teenager, he was rebellious, drinking and being free sexually.  He then turned to God and dedicated his life to serve the Lord.  He relates:  "However, I regularly feel like an impostor because of my past.  My wife really struggles with and is hurt by my past and recently I have been recalling many of my mistakes and am haunted with memories, images, and desires that I hate.  I hear all these messages on being a ’new creation’ (1 Cor. 5:17) and that someone in God cannot continue to sin.  Yet I constantly struggle with my thoughts, and find myself losing the fire and confidence in God I had a year ago.  I question my motives for serving God, and every time I think of selfish and sinful things I question my salvation. . . . How can I claim to love God when I fall so easily? . . . I can’t seem to shake off the chains of my past. . . . My wife wouldn’t understand me if I said these things, and I don’t have any strong Christians that I am close enough to, to share these thoughts.  I tell God everyday, all the time, in my prayers and thoughts.  So, I’m telling complete strangers over the internet.  I don’t expect you to
have all these answers, I know that ultimately God will work it out,(but) I’m just having a hard time. (Rom. 8:28)  I could use an encouraging word and some prayer if you have the time."

Dear Struggling Christian,

Thank you for your letter and for unburdening yourself.  Please do not be too hard on yourself.  The mere fact that you are aware of your short comings and failures is a very positive step.  You are asking God to forgive you and to give you strength to overcome and to improve.  Your doubts and struggles are not uncommon.  Many, many Christians experience similar trials of the flesh.  But often these struggles are not discussed.  Satan would like us to be discouraged. He would like us to say, "What is the use?  Why bother?  I’m not worthy."  But we know that it is the Father himself who has called us.  He knows our hearts and the love we have for Him.  He would never call anyone who was not able to overcome, with HIS HELP.  On our own we would fail.  But He has provided many promises throughout the Scriptures to aid us in our Christian walk. Please know that we are praying for you and that we will respond to you again in depth.  Please continue to keep looking up.  God is always
there for us.  He never, never forsakes us.  Stay very close to Him in prayer and He will strengthen you.

Below are just a few of the many promises God has given us as we walk this narrow, but wonderful way.  We hope and pray they will uplift and encourage you.

I can do everything THROUGH HIM who gives me strength.  Phil. 4:13

Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.  They are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness.  Lam. 3:22-23

For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.  Isa. 41:13

Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you: he will never leave you nor forsake you.  Deut. 31:6

But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.  Isa. 40:31

My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.  That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties.  For when I am weak, then I am strong.  2 Cor. 12:9-10

And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.  But when you are tempted he will provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.  1 Cor. 10:13

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.  Psa. 73:26 

Let us then approach the throne of grace WITH CONFIDENCE, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in our time of need.  Heb. 4:16

When I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me.  Micah 7:8

BEING CONFIDENT of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.  Phil. 1:6

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.  Perseverance must finish its work so that you maybe mature and complete, not lacking any thing.  James 1:2-4

Jesus, our Big Brother, who experienced everything we are experiencing when he walked upon this earth, has promised to help us and give us rest, if we but call upon him.   "Come to me, all you who are weary and BURDENED, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."  Matt. 11:28-30

Praying with you,
Christian Questions Radio

Reply from A Struggling Christian

Thank you so much for your prayers and your response. Things are much improved from my first letter.  I really don’t know what to say other than I’m very grateful for your prayers because I know how powerful they are!  May God bless you in your radio ministry. Thank you again so much for letting me have the opportunity to share.