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What are the fountains of the great deep (Genesis 7:11)? |
Answer
In Noah’s time, when the [great flood](global-flood.html) destroyed the earth, the floodwaters poured forth from two sources: rainfall from above and, from below, vast amounts of subterranean water rising to the surface. Moses records what happened this way: “All the fountains of the great deep were broke... |
What does it mean to expose the works of darkness (Ephesians 5:11)? |
Answer
Ephesians 5:11 delivers a clear directive: “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” The first part of this command urges Christians to avoid sinful deeds, that is, everything contrary to God’s commands. This includes sexual immorality, greed, and foul language (Ep... |
What does it mean that God holds His Word above His name (Psalm 138:2)? |
Answer
Psalm 138 is a song of wholehearted praise and thanksgiving written by King David to the Lord for His wonderful salvation. Depending on the Bible translation, David seems to suggest in verse 2 that God holds His Word above [His name](name-of-God.html):
“I will worship toward Your holy temple,
And... |
Who was Charles Hodge? |
Answer
Charles Hodge (1797—1878\) was an American [Presbyterian](Presbyterians.html) theologian and a professor at Princeton Theological Seminary for most of his adult life. As the leading expounder and defender of conservative Calvinistic theology, Hodge was immersed in several Old School\-New School controvers... |
What are the Garima Gospels? |
Answer
The Garima Gospels are among the oldest biblical manuscripts in existence. Housed in the remote Abba Garima Monastery in the Tigray region of Ethiopia, these manuscripts provide insight into Ethiopian Christianity, art, and culture. The preservation of the Garima Gospels is therefore a part of Ethiopia’s ... |
Were Adam and Eve white? |
Answer
The racial identity of Adam and Eve is a subject of considerable debate and speculation. In the end, whether or not Adam and Eve were white is an issue of little importance.
In many artistic depictions of our first parents, Adam and Eve have white European features. This is simply a matter of ... |
What does it mean that no one can tame the tongue (James 3:8)? |
Answer
The tongue is a bodily organ humans use to form words. Thus, James applies the tongue as a metaphor for speech. He informs Bible readers that “no one can tame the tongue” (James 3:8, NLT). This statement is part of James’ teaching on the challenging problem of controlling our speech (James 3:1–12\).
... |
What does the “foolishness of the message” mean in 1 Corinthians 1:21? |
Answer
The [believers in Corinth](church-in-Corinth.html) were spiritual infants with misunderstandings about the wisdom of God, the principles of His kingdom, and the truth of the gospel message. Thus, in 1 Corinthians 1:18–31, the apostle Paul clarifies that God’s wisdom has long been considered nonsense to un... |
Why did Jesus say, “I have called you friends” in John 15:15? |
Answer
In John 15:1–17, Jesus illustrates His relationship with believers: He is the “[true vine](true-vine.html),” and we are the “branches.” Christ is the center and source of the Christian life. The key to a healthy and productive relationship with Him is abiding in Jesus because, apart from Him, we can do no... |
What does the Bible say about belief? |
Answer
According to the Oxford Dictionary, belief is “something one accepts as true or real; a firmly held opinion or conviction.” For Christians, this means we believe that God exists and has revealed Himself in His authoritative Word (i.e., Scripture). It also means that we trust in His only begotten Son, Jes... |
What is an anthropopathism? |
Answer
The Bible occasionally ascribes human characteristics to God using metaphorical language. Such poetic descriptions, though not literal, make certain stories more relatable for readers. Scholars call these figures of speech anthropomorphisms, meaning “human form.” One type of [anthropomorphism](anthropomor... |
What is the Testament of Job? |
Answer
[Job](life-Job.html) is one of the most well\-known figures in the Bible. Readers have always resonated with the Old Testament book that tells his story. People sympathize with Job as he experiences loss, echo the questions he asks about faith amid suffering, and grow alongside him when God finally speaks... |
What is fiat creationism? |
Answer
The beginning of the universe has fascinated people for millennia. Some think its origin is exclusively the result of natural processes that occurred over billions of years. Others believe the universe materialized when God purposefully spoke it into being. This view—that God created the universe through ... |
What does it mean that all things were made through Him (John 1:3)? |
Answer
John 1:3 states, “All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made” (ESV). This verse is part of John’s opening lines, which parallel Genesis 1:1, likely done on purpose to affirm [Christ’s deity](is-Jesus-God.html). The “him” through which all things were made refers... |
What is the unquenchable fire in Matthew 3:12? |
Answer
In Matthew 3:12, John the Baptist gives a powerful description of Jesus’ role in judgment: “His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and gather his wheat in to the barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire” (ESV). The phrase *unquenchable fire* highlights the ... |
Who wrote the book of Zephaniah? Who was the author of Zephaniah? |
Answer
The [book of Zephaniah](Book-of-Zephaniah.html) is included in the Twelve and is the ninth book among the Minor Prophets. According to the first verse, the prophet Zephaniah composed his work during the reign of Josiah (Zephaniah 1:1\). This suggests that Zephaniah experienced the dark days of kings like ... |
Who wrote the book of Micah? Who was the author of Micah? |
Answer
The [book of Micah](Book-of-Micah.html) is one of the minor prophets in the Old Testament canon. It was written by the [prophet Micah](Micah-in-the-Bible.html), who lived in the eighth century BC.
In the tradition of other prophets, Micah condemned injustice (Micah 2:1–2; 3:1–3\), criticized empty r... |
Who wrote the book of Nahum? Who was the author of Nahum? |
Answer
The [book of Nahum](Book-of-Nahum.html) is part of the Twelve in the Hebrew Bible and is categorized as a Minor Prophet in the Old Testament. Like Obadiah, Nahum did not prophesy against Israel and Judah. Instead, his proclamations of judgment were directed at [Nineveh](Nineveh-in-the-Bible.html), the sam... |
Who wrote the book of Zechariah? Who was the author of Zechariah? |
Answer
The prophet Zechariah is the author of the book bearing his name, as indicated in the first verse (Zechariah 1:1\). Part of the twelve Minor Prophets, the [book of Zechariah](Book-of-Zechariah.html) is placed just before the final Old Testament book. Zechariah was penned during the reign of King Darius of... |
What does it mean that “two nations are in your womb” in Genesis 25:23? |
Answer
Genesis 25:19–26 describes the birth of [Jacob and Esau](Jacob-and-Esau.html). Abraham’s son Isaac was forty years old when he married Rebekah, but they did not have children until he was sixty (verses 20, 26\). While Rebekah was pregnant, “the babies jostled each other within her” (verse 22\). The young ... |
What does “Satan entered into him” mean regarding Judas in John 13:27? |
Answer
In John 13:27, the apostle writes, “Then after \[Judas] had taken the morsel, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, ‘What you are going to do, do quickly’” (ESV). The one who accepted the morsel of bread at the [Last Supper](Last-Supper.html) was Judas Iscariot, who had already planned to betray Jesu... |
What does it mean that “these people honor me with their lips” (Matthew 15:8)? |
Answer
As Jesus traveled around performing miracles, His disciples worshiped Him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God” (Matthew 14:33\). However, the Jewish religious leaders grew more hostile and antagonistic toward Jesus. In Matthew 15, the scribes and Pharisees track Jesus down to confront Him for not keepi... |
What does “whenever you stand praying, forgive” mean in Mark 11:25? |
Answer
During His final week in Jerusalem, Jesus took a moment to reinforce His previous teachings on [prayer](what-is-prayer.html) to His disciples. He emphasized two crucial elements of prayer: faith and forgiveness. He said, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it,... |
What is the spirit of a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7)? |
Answer
In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul writes to Timothy, saying, “God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (KJV). The “spirit of a sound mind” is the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live with discernment, discipline, and self\-control.
The spirit of a sound m... |
Why does God say, “I will open the windows of heaven” in Malachi 3:10? |
Answer
The book of Malachi often serves as ammunition in the [tithing debate](tithing-Christian.html), particularly Malachi 3:10: “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you... |
Who was Adrian Rogers? |
Answer
Adrian Pierce Rogers (1931—2005\) was an American Southern Baptist pastor, author, and broadcaster. He was also a leader, a visionary, and a catalyst for change. His influence was felt far beyond the walls of Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee, where he served as senior pastor for more than thr... |
What is the difference between Judaism and Islam? |
Answer
Christianity, [Judaism](Judaism.html), and [Islam](Islam.html) are Abrahamic religions, as all three view Abraham as a patriarch. They are also monotheistic. In our pluralistic society, these three religions are often seen as fundamentally similar, differing only in peripheral aspects. Judaism and Islam ... |
What does “one new man” mean in Ephesians 2:15? |
Answer
Ephesians 2:14–15 is a central passage in understanding Paul’s thought on the reconciliation of Jews and [Gentiles](what-is-a-Gentile.html) through the finished work of Christ. The verse reads, “He himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostili... |
What does it mean to obey your parents in the Lord (Ephesians 6:1)? |
Answer
In Ephesians 5:21, the apostle Paul urges believers to submit “to one another out of reverence for Christ” (ESV). The meaning of this verse is first explained through the relationship between husband and wife (verses 22–33\), and it is further explained through the relationship between children and paren... |
What are the endless genealogies in 1 Timothy 1:4? |
Answer
In 1 Timothy 1:3–4, Paul urges Timothy to remain in Ephesus to “charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine, nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith” (ESV). Those who are devoted to “endless ... |
What does it mean that “nothing will be impossible with God” in Luke 1:37? |
Answer
In Luke 1:26–38, the angel [Gabriel](angel-Gabriel.html) visits teenage Mary and foretells the birth of Jesus, Israel’s long\-awaited Savior and Son of God. The angel reassures the young virgin, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear... |
What does it mean that the love of the Father is not in him (1 John 2:15)? |
Answer
A theme in John’s letters is love. In 1 John 2:7–11, the apostle encourages believers to exercise brotherly love, which Jesus exemplified. Next, in 1 John 2:12–17, he warns believers about a different kind of love that is contrary to everything God stands for, a love that God despises: “[Do not love the w... |
Who wrote the book of 1 Samuel? Who was the author of 1 Samuel? |
Answer
In our contemporary Bible, there are two books of Samuel, divided based on a difference in content and theme. The [book of 1 Samuel](Book-of-1-Samuel.html) centers on the life of the prophet Samuel, the establishment of monarchy in Israel, Saul’s anointing, his eventual fall, and the coronation of David—a... |
Who wrote the book of Haggai? Who was the author of Haggai? |
Answer
The [book of Haggai](Book-of-Haggai.html), situated among the final books of the Old Testament, is part of the Minor Prophets. It was written by a prophet of God named Haggai. In his short book, Haggai provides a distinctive perspective in Israel’s history and God’s redemptive story as a whole. This proph... |
Who wrote the book of Joel? Who was the author of Joel? |
Answer
The [book of Joel](Book-of-Joel.html) is one of the twelve Minor Prophets. It was written by the prophet Joel. Unlike certain other prophets, such as Hosea and Zechariah, Joel does not reference a ruling king during his time, making it difficult to date the book. Some commentators suggest Joel wrote durin... |
Who wrote the book of Obadiah? Who was the author of Obadiah? |
Answer
The [book of Obadiah](Book-of-Obadiah.html), written by a prophet named Obadiah, is the shortest book in the Old Testament and remains an enigma to many Christians today. Historical information is insufficient to place the text in a proper context. The book of Obadiah addresses Edom and mentions their vio... |
What does it mean to be twisting the Scriptures to their own destruction (2 Peter 3:16)? |
Answer
Second Peter 3:16 states, “There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures” (ESV). In this verse, Peter is referring to [Paul’s letters](Pauline-epistles.html) (see verse 15\), which, importantly, he... |
What does it mean to be light in the Lord (Ephesians 5:8)? |
Answer
Ephesians 5:8 describes followers of Christ and exhorts them: “You are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” From the beginning, the Bible develops and explores the theme of moral dualism, or “good versus evil,” using the contrasting elements of light and darkness. God created light from darknes... |
What does it mean that the gospel is the power of God unto salvation (Romans 1:16)? |
Answer
Jesus anticipated that His followers would sometimes be tempted to feel ashamed of the [gospel](what-is-the-gospel.html). That is why He warned, “If anyone is ashamed of me and my message, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in his glory and in the glory of the Father and the ho... |
What is infantilization? |
Answer
The term *infantilization* cannot be found directly in the Bible, but the concept can be explored in the light of Scripture. *Infantilization* is a relatively modern word. *Merriam\-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary* dates its first known use to 1943\. To infantilize a person is to make that person immatur... |
What does it mean that the world is passing away (1 John 2:17)? |
Answer
The apostle John reminds believers not to become too attached to this world: “Do not [love the world](do-not-love-the-world.html) or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes ... |
What does it mean to dwell together in unity (Psalm 133:1)? |
Answer
King David’s fourth [Song of Ascent](Songs-of-Ascent.html) enthusiastically declares the blessing of unity among God’s people:
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is
For brothers to dwell together in unity! (Psalm 133:1, NASB 1995\).
Using two similes, David describes harmonious living:... |
What does the Bible say about sologamy / autogamy? |
Answer
Sologamy or autogamy is a concept that has garnered attention in recent years, involving a focus on the individual. Sologamy is the act of marrying oneself in a public ceremony, a symbolic act of committing to self\-acceptance and self\-love. In this context, *sologamy* and *autogamy* are synonymous term... |
Who was Kathryn Kuhlman? |
Answer
Kathryn Johanna Kuhlman (1907—1976\) was a [charismatic](Charismatic-movement.html) Christian evangelist whose healing ministry took off in the late 1940s and ’50s. By the 1960s, her ministry had expanded to the national and international level, including a weekly television program, *I Believe in Miracl... |
What is co-inherence? |
Answer
Co\-inherence (or coinherence) denotes a relationship characterized by interdependence and interconnectedness between two or more entities, or different things existing within each other. To inhere is to exist permanently and inseparably in something. Inherent qualities are intrinsic and innate. To *co*i... |
Who was Lottie Moon? |
Answer
Charlotte Diggs “Lottie” Moon (1840—1912\) was a pioneering Southern Baptist missionary, teacher, evangelist, and church planter who lived and worked in China for nearly forty years. Although small in stature—just four feet three inches tall—she was a woman of towering intellect, character, and accomplis... |
What does it mean that the Spirit helps us in our weakness (Romans 8:26)? |
Answer
In Romans 8:18–27, the apostle Paul encourages believers to endure trouble, suffering, and persecution in this present life by holding on to the living hope of our future redemption and “glorious freedom from death and decay” (verse 21, NLT). While we wait, eagerly anticipating that future day “when God ... |
What does it mean to be servant of all (Mark 9:35)? |
Answer
As the disciples traveled with Jesus toward Jerusalem, they argued about who among them was the greatest. Jesus sat the twelve down and explained, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all” (Mark 9:35\). To illustrate His point, Jesus held a small child in His arms and s... |
What does it mean to obey the gospel of God (1 Peter 4:17)? |
Answer
In 1 Peter 4:12–19, the apostle [Peter](life-Peter.html) urges fellow believers not to be surprised or ashamed if they suffer painful trials because of their faith in Jesus Christ. Indeed, Peter frames suffering not as something unintentional or shameful but as part of God’s purpose for our lives. Suffer... |
What is a tetramorph? |
Answer
A tetramorph is a symbolic representation of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John through the imagery of four creatures: Matthew is pictured as a man, Mark as a lion, Luke as an ox, and John as an eagle. This representation is derived from prophetic visions in Ezekiel and Revelation. The word *tetramorph* comes... |
What is progressive theology? |
Answer
Progressive theology attempts to merge liberal values with Christianity. Such merging gratifies left\-wing convictions but does so at the expense of sound biblical theology (Titus 1:9; 2:1\). Liberals generally celebrate the rise of progressive theology because it reflects and promotes their cultural sen... |
What is the Apocalypse of Moses? |
Answer
The Apocalypse of Moses, also known as the Life of Adam and Eve, belongs to a category of literature called the [Pseudepigrapha](pseudepigrapha.html), meaning “false writings.” Despite the book’s title attributing authorship to Moses, historians agree that an anonymous writer composed the work in the fir... |
What is the meaning of “plans in a man’s heart” in Proverbs 19:21? |
Answer
Proverbs 19:21 says, “There are many plans in a man’s heart, Nevertheless the Lord’s counsel—that will stand” (NKJV). The phrase *a man’s heart* refers to one’s innermost thoughts, intentions, and desires that drive his actions. When we examine this proverb, we have a better understanding of the relation... |
What did Jesus mean when He said, “flesh and blood has not revealed this to you” (Matthew 16:17)? |
Answer
In Matthew 16, Jesus tells Peter that “flesh and blood has not revealed this to you” (verse 17, ESV). The statement comes in the context of an important conversation that begins with Jesus asking an [important question](who-do-you-say-that-I-am.html). Here is the lead\-up to the statement:
Now wh... |
What does it mean to have the communion of the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 13:14)? |
Answer
In 2 Corinthians, the apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of restoring relationships with other believers and preserving unity in the church. Therefore, it is fitting that he concludes his letter with this final benediction: “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion o... |
What does it mean to say, “If the Lord wills” (James 4:15)? |
Answer
James 4:1–17 deals with a widespread problem of [worldliness](worldliness.html) among believers. James warns that worldliness produces a critical and judgmental spirit (verses 11–12\) and an ungodly, arrogant reliance on self (verses 13–17\). He notes that some worldly people confidently plan out their f... |
What does it mean that whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world (1 John 5:4)? |
Answer
In 1 John 5:1–12, the [apostle John](life-John-Apostle.html) discusses the victory of the Christian faith. Genuine Christians believe Jesus Christ is the incarnate Son of God and Savior of the world, and they demonstrate that faith through loving God the Father and obeying His commands. Such faith holds ... |
What does it mean to be a bondservant of Christ (Galatians 1:10)? |
Answer
The apostle Paul encountered spiritual enemies in [Galatia](churches-in-Galatia.html) who accused him of compromising the gospel message to make it more palatable to the Gentiles. Speaking rhetorically, Paul resolutely refuted their accusations: “For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please ... |
What does “baptized into his death” mean in Romans 6:3? |
Answer
In Romans 5:12–21, the apostle Paul discusses the widespread problem of sin, which “entered the world through one man \[Adam], and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned” (verse 12\). In Romans 6:3–7, Paul introduces the solution to this universal human problem of... |
What is a Bapticostal? |
Answer
The relatively modern term *Bapticostal* is a combination of the words *Baptist* and *Pentecostal*. The broad definition of *Bapticostal* is someone who, in terms of beliefs and practices, stands somewhere between the traditional [Baptist](Baptists.html) doctrinal positions and those of [Pentecostals](Pe... |
What does it mean that a woman’s long hair is her glory (1 Corinthians 11:15)? |
Answer
The [church in Corinth](church-in-Corinth.html) was experiencing problems of disunity and disorder in their public gatherings. In 1 Corinthians 11, the apostle Paul focuses on the appropriate, God\-glorifying behavior of men and women in communal worship. He acknowledges some of the differences between m... |
What does “you have need of endurance” mean (Hebrews 10:36)? |
Answer
Hebrews 10:36 could be considered an encapsulation of the entire message of the book of Hebrews: “For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised” (ESV). Previously, the author exhorted the reader to “not throw away your confidence, which has a ... |
What are the works of God in John 9:3? |
Answer
In John 9, Jesus and His disciples encounter a man born blind. Turning to Jesus, the disciples ask, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” (verse 2, ESV). The disciples’ question reflects the belief that suffering is always linked to personal sin (or the sin of one’s parent... |
What does it mean that the Spirit searches all things (1 Corinthians 2:10)? |
Answer
In 1 Corinthians 2:10, Paul writes, “The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.” The Greek word for “searches” is *erauná*, which refers to a thorough investigation of something or someone. In this case, the [Holy Spirit](who-Holy-Spirit.html) thoroughly investigates “the deep things of... |
What is kingdom race theology? |
Answer
Kingdom race theology (KRT) is a biblical framework that emphasizes the unity and diversity of God’s people, advocating for racial reconciliation and justice. The term *kingdom race theology* was coined by Dr. Tony Evans to counter the unbiblical ideas found in [critical race theory](critical-race-theory... |
What is kingdom race theology? |
Answer
Kingdom race theology (KRT) is a biblical framework that emphasizes the unity and diversity of God’s people, advocating for racial reconciliation and justice. The term *kingdom race theology* was coined by Dr. Tony Evans to counter the unbiblical ideas found in [critical race theory](critical-race-theory... |
What does “gullible women” mean in 2 Timothy 3:6? |
Answer
In 2 Timothy 3:6, Paul explains how false teachers “creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts” (NKJV). The Greek word for “gullible” is *gunaikaria*, which refers to women who are easily deceived or manipulated. Apparently, there were women... |
How did Jesus die? What was the precise cause of Jesus’ death? |
Answer
The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is one of the most significant events in human history, marking the moment of His ultimate sacrifice for the sins of humanity. This monumental event is not only the foundation of Christianity but is also a testament of Christ’s faithful obedience to the Father (Philippians... |
What is a synod? |
Answer
A synod is a council or assembly usually convened to discuss and decide on matters of church doctrine or administration. The term *synod* comes from the Greek word *synodos*, which means “assembly” or “meeting.” In various Christian denominations, synods have shaped church policies, resolved theological ... |
What is the way of Cain (Jude 1:11)? |
Answer
The author of [Jude](Book-of-Jude.html), most likely the half\-brother of Jesus, wrote to warn believers of the dangers of [false teachers](false-teachers.html) who had crept into the early church. He called these false teachers “ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immoral... |
What does “walk before me, and be blameless” mean in Genesis 17:1? |
Answer
[Abraham](life-Abraham.html) was visited by three men one day; the men turned out to be unusual guests, to say the least, and the visit was life\-changing for Abraham and Sarah. Genesis 18:1–2 says, “The Lord appeared to Abraham near the great trees of Mamre while he was sitting at the entrance to his ten... |
What does it mean that the strength of sin is the law (1 Corinthians 15:56)? |
Answer
First Corinthians 15:56 says, “The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law” (NKJV). Some translations, like the New International Version and the English Standard Version, replace *strength* with *power*, both words reflecting the Greek *dunamis*. The first phrase, *the sting of death i... |
Is Calvinism heresy? |
Answer
No, Calvinism is not heresy. Its core doctrines, though, often summarized by the acronym *TULIP*, have sparked debates across Christian traditions. The degree to which [Calvinism](calvinism.html) is viewed as biblical or unbiblical depends largely on the theological perspective from which it is evaluated... |
Is Arminianism heresy? |
Answer
No, Arminianism is not heresy. Like Calvinism, though, its doctrines have sparked considerable debate within theological circles. The degree to which [Arminianism](arminianism.html) is viewed as biblical or unbiblical depends largely on the theological perspective from which it is evaluated.
Armin... |
How should a Christian view drag queens? |
Answer
The topic of drag queens has become increasingly prominent in contemporary culture. Modern media and entertainment often celebrate drag performances as expressions of identity. However, Christians must examine this phenomenon through the lens of biblical ethics. While society may view drag queens as a ha... |
What does the Bible say about having a teachable spirit? |
Answer
Jesus Christ refers to His followers as “disciples,” a term that means “learners,” making teachability an important characteristic of Christians. According to the Bible, the mind, which is central to learning, isn’t a blank slate at birth because sin has blinded, hardened, and perverted it (2 Corinthians... |
Why are we told to “stand therefore” in Ephesians 6:14? |
Answer
Ephesians 6:14 is part of Paul’s discourse on spiritual warfare. The verse reads, “Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness” (ESV). To understand the significance of the command to “stand therefore,” we should also understand the need to “t... |
What is hyperbole? What are some examples of hyperbole in the Bible? |
Answer
Hyperbole is an extreme exaggeration, usually employed for the sake of emphasis. Hyperbolic expressions are a type of [figurative language](biblical-symbolism.html) and are quite common in everyday conversation. Statements such as *I’m so hungry I could eat a horse*, *she waited forever*, and *he hit tha... |
How should Christian parents respond if one of their children declares as transgender? |
Answer
The saying, “I would rather have a living daughter than a dead son,” or vice versa, is a popular slogan expressing the response some parents have to their child’s declaration of [transgender identity](transsexualism-gender-identity-disorder.html). The saying assumes that, if a son or daughter doesn’t emb... |
How should a Christian view furries? |
Answer
The term *furry* has shown up recently in our culture and refers to someone with a strong interest in humanoid animals. A humanoid is a non\-human entity with human form or characteristics, such as the ability to talk, the wearing of clothes, the expression of emotion, and more. Furries, then, are people... |
Who was Loren Cunningham? |
Answer
Loren Duane Cunningham (1935—2023\) was an American [Assemblies of God](Assemblies-of-God.html) (AG) evangelist and missionary whose charismatic vision helped launch millions of young people into short\- and long\-term missions. In 1965, after identifying a great need to streamline and decentralize the t... |
Who was Bill Bright? |
Answer
William “Bill” Rohl Bright (1921—2003\) was an American [evangelist](what-is-an-evangelist.html) and the founder and president of Campus Crusade for Christ International (now known as Cru in the United States). [Cru](Campus-Crusade-Christ-Cru.html) is one of the largest Christian organizations committed ... |
What is the shelter of the Most High (Psalm 91:1)? |
Answer
In Psalm 91:1, the psalmist declares that, even in the face of overwhelming danger, the person who places his trust in God will live in safety because God Himself will be his protection: “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My r... |
How is the devil like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8)? |
Answer
Some Christians fear the [devil](who-Satan.html), while others ignore him or underestimate his power. In 1 Peter 5:8–11, the apostle Peter urges believers to know their enemy and understand what he is like. As Christians, we are engaged in a life\-and\-death spiritual battle, and it is crucial not to mis... |
What is the meaning of “silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you” (Acts 3:6)? |
Answer
In Acts 3:6, Peter says to a lame beggar, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk” (NKJV). Peter did not have alms to give the beggar, but he gave him something better—he shared the healing power of Jesus with him.
Th... |
When was Genesis written? |
Answer
The [book of Genesis](Book-of-Genesis.html) describes the origins of the universe, humanity, sin, and redemption. Its iconic stories include God’s creation of the world, Adam and Eve’s fall into sin, the global flood in Noah’s lifetime, and the establishment and growth of the nation of Israel. The best e... |
When was Exodus written? |
Answer
The [book of Exodus](Book-of-Exodus.html) tells how God rescued His people from slavery in Egypt and freed them to live holy lives in a covenant with Him. Memorable parts of the story include God striking Egypt with ten plagues of judgment, Israel escaping through the parted waters of the Red Sea, and Go... |
When was Leviticus written? |
Answer
The [book of Leviticus](Book-of-Leviticus.html) is about the holiness of God, the sinfulness of people, and the sacrifices and offerings that enabled ancient Israelites to be in fellowship with God. Although there is less narrative content in Leviticus and more descriptions of ritual laws compared to the... |
When was Numbers written? |
Answer
The [book of Numbers](Book-of-Numbers.html), named for the population counts inside the story, records the 40\-year journey of the Israelites from their stay at Mount Sinai to their encampment near the Promised Land. Details found in Numbers, along with references made elsewhere in the Bible, suggest tha... |
What are some commonalities in Eastern religions? |
Answer
Among the faith traditions classified as an Eastern religion, Hinduism and Buddhism from India, and Confucianism and Taoism from China, are among the largest and most influential. Sikhism and Jainism, from India, and Shinto, native to Japan, are also considered Eastern religions, but they are smaller, mo... |
Who are the Spirit and the bride in Revelation 22:17? |
Answer
Revelation 22:17 proclaims, “The Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come.’ And let the one who hears say, ‘Come.’ And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price” (ESV). In this verse, both the Spirit and the Bride extend an invitation to “Come.” To understand th... |
What is the meaning of “salt loses its saltiness” (Matthew 5:13)? |
Answer
In Matthew 5:13, Jesus says to His disciples, “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.” Salt was an important commodity in the ancient world. Salt that had lost i... |
Why are we told, “Do not worry about your life” in Matthew 6:25? |
Answer
In Matthew 6:25–34, part of the great [Sermon on the Mount](sermon-on-the-mount.html), Jesus speaks to His followers about trusting their heavenly Father’s provision. Jesus has just spoken on the necessity for kingdom servants to offer their total devotion to God, their Master (Matthew 6:19–24\). Those w... |
What does the Bible say about purification? |
Answer
Purification is the process of becoming clean or pure in a physical, moral, or spiritual sense. In Scripture, God calls us to be pure, casting off anything that is unlike Him. Thus, purification is essential for those who draw near to God; it is important in worship, daily living, and becoming more Chris... |
What does “perfecting holiness in the fear of God” mean (2 Corinthians 7:1)? |
Answer
Second Corinthians 7:1 says, “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God” (NKJV). To be cleansed from spiritual and moral uncleanliness, believers must “perfect holiness” in reverent obedience to ... |
What is DEI, and is it compatible with biblical principles? |
Answer
DEI is an acronym for “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.” DEI is a concept in the business world designed to value people’s individual differences, ensure everyone has equal opportunities, and create work environments in which everyone feels welcomed and respected. The stated intention of DEI programs is... |
What is centrism? Should a Christian be a centrist? |
Answer
Believers ought to follow the Holy Spirit’s lead in all things (Jude 1:19\). That may result in enthusiastic approval or rejection of certain ideas and policies. Other times, it may require a humble attempt to find balance (Proverbs 18:17\). The decision to follow the Spirit’s lead should come before con... |
What does it mean that Jesus made Himself of no reputation (Philippians 2:7)? |
Answer
In Philippians 2:7, Paul writes that Jesus “made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men” (KJV). The phrase *made himself of no reputation* means that Jesus “emptied himself,” which is how the ESV renders the first clause of Philippians 2:7\.... |
What does it mean to let love and faithfulness never leave you (Proverbs 3:3)? |
Answer
Proverbs 3:3 gives wisdom about godly living, integrity, and virtue. The verse reads, “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.” This passage communicates the importance of embracing love and faithfulness, urging believers to integrate... |
What does it mean to be kept by the power of God (1 Peter 1:5)? |
Answer
As the apostle Peter opens his first letter, he includes a section of thanksgiving to God for the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:3–12\). God’s gift of salvation produces great anticipation of an indestructible, pure, and eternal inheritance: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus ... |
Subsets and Splits
Top Long Responses
Returns the prompts and responses where the response length falls within a specified range, ordered by decreasing length, which provides basic insight into the distribution of response lengths.