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Ep 638My MAIN challenge to Flat Earth Proponents

There are several links to additional stuff you might be interested in: 1) An article on "raqia" or the Hebrew word we often see translated as "firmament." The big debate on this word is whether it implies the sky has a hard, solid dome or if it's just talking about an expansive space. I didn't cover it in today's video because it isn't about the shape of the earth. But, people are interested, so CLICK HERE for an article that Cultish put together on the topic. 2) Cultish is a very interesting show which covers lots of fringe topics and a variety of groups from Charles Manson's group, to Masons, to the JW's strange Bible translation, to the "cult of right wing politics." CLICK HERE to visit their YouTube channel.And CLICK HERE for their website.You can also find them on whatever podcast app you use. Allow me to react to some of the kinds of comments I expect to get on this video, since they also came in on the Cultish version of this interview which released earlier, and to make a few requests for those inclined to consider them. 1) "Mike is biased and untrustworthy, disingenuous, and generally bad."My response: That's a lot of bad stuff about me, but you haven't touched my reasoning or handled the Bible in context in order to demonstrate your position. Please comment below with Bible verses that, when examined in full context, promote your view. And please don't just post a verse, post your interpretation of it, as well, so that we can all understand and learn. 2) "No flat earth proponents use those verses. Mike isn't dealing with the real Bible verses we use."My response: That's definitely not true. I got these verses from flat earthers, I didn't make them up. However, it's true that many of those who say the Bible supports a flat earth never really get around to offering specific verses that you can examine. They tend to just reference the Bible more vaguely or lean on what someone else says about the Ancient Near East. If you reject these as flat earth Bible verses, then you actually agree with me that those who use them (and plenty do) are misinterpreting the Bible for their purposes. However, if you have OTHER verses that support a flat earth, then please comment below with Bible verses that, when examined in full context, promote your view. And please don't just post a verse, post your interpretation of it, as well, so that we can all understand and learn. 3) "You should have a flat earth proponent on to talk about this stuff for themselves."My response: No thanks. I don't need to have every single person on my channel who I disagree with. Imagine the apostle Paul inviting Judaizers on tour with him or cowriting Galatians with someone who disagrees with him for, you know, objectivity. That's silly. I can handle views without turning my entire ministry into a debate and interview platform. I read plenty of flat earth literature and looked at plenty of videos from proponents in order to make sure I got Bible verses that were really being used to support that side. This complaint is merely a way of ignoring what I've said and saying I should have done something totally different. I'm not your puppet, and this response ignores careful Bible study instead of considering it. I've got books by Rob Skiba and Dean Odle, and have had a private and long conversation with Dean Odle just to be...

Jul 13, 20222h 7m

Ep 637One UNbiblical belief that will kill your marriage.

I know it can feel oppressive to constantly hear that we have such a high calling to self-sacrifice and self-examination. But it's only oppressive to our flesh. And if you don't kill that sinful selfishness, it will kill everything else. My website: https://BibleThinker.org

Jul 11, 202210 min

Ep 636Yes, spouses should join their finances, unless…

You know, there's one benefit of sharing bank accounts that I never mentioned in this video. It's the reality that you can't hide things as easily when you both can see what the money is being spent on. This inability to hide expenses is a good thing since grievous sins are often nurtured in the dark. Thank you to Lisa Laizure, of “Women’s Bible Study” for organizing and hosting this event. Her ministry website is HERE. My website https://BibleThinker.org

Jul 8, 20221 min

Ep 63520 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 77)

0:12 {People we Shouldn’t Pray For?} My father believes that there are people we do not (or should not) pray for. He backs it up with John 17:9, saying that it may even be a sin to pray for people we shouldn’t pray for. I would love to hear your thoughts! 8:22 {Truth in Love when Family is in Sin} My fiancé's sibling is transgender. I'm scared our future children will think it is a good thing and that it’s right. His family accepts this lifestyle unquestionably. I don't want to cut them out of our lives, but I don't know what else to do to protect our family. How can I be obedient to God and still be loving to his sibling and the rest of the family? 12:43 {Spiritual vs. Political Progressivism} Isn't Progressive Christianity simply the outcome of forcing progressive/leftist ideology onto Christianity? Should we even make the distinction between politically & religiously progressive beliefs? 19:04 {Witnessing to a Dying Loved One} My grandpa is dying, and doesn't have long. He has dementia/Alzheimer’s now and has never been a Christian. Is it too late to share the Gospel with him? If not, how do I do it effectively? 23:32 {About House Churches} What do you think of the house church movement (Francis Chan)? 29:04 {About Levirate Marriages} Why did God endorse levirate marriage? Isn’t it wrong to pressure a man to marry someone he doesn’t want to? And since marriage will supposedly end in Heaven, is love not a factor for God? 35:08 {Must Pastors be Married?} Does 1 Timothy 3:2 mean that I must have a wife to be a pastor? What about a man who doesn’t have a wife? 40:56 {Are Illusionists’ Tricks Sinful?} Is there anything wrong with learning sleight of hand magic or using it in evangelism? 46:16 {About Marriage in Heaven} In Matthew 22:23-29, Jesus rebukes the Sadducees for trying to trap Him, saying they don’t know the Scriptures. Where in the Scriptures is this topic of marriage in Heaven mentioned? 51:03 {About the Census: Luke 2} Is there any extrabiblical evidence for the census in Luke 2? I heard it would be a pretty dumb idea to send people to their place of birth if you later want them to pay taxes from their current home. 57:46 {About Jesus’ Divinity Upon His Death} Was Jesus still fully God when He died? What happened to His divinity between God "turning His face away" and the resurrection? 1:01:37 {Navigating Marital Struggles} What should a Christian wife do if her husband doesn't want to work on their marriage, expects her to do almost everything when it comes to responsibilities, and doesn't provide enough for her needs? 1:06:09 {Overcoming Self-Consciousness} Mike how can we be less self-aware or self-conscious? It stops me from preaching to anybody because my thoughts tell me I'm being disingenuous. 1:09:00 {Ideas for What to Pray About} I have issues praying every day because I feel like I don’t have anything to pray about. What would you suggest, to help with this? 1:10:49 {Is Islam an “Abrahamic Faith” that Saves?} How do I defend the Christian faith with my family when they always bring up Genesis 22:18, arguing that Islam can also lead to salvation because it's an Abrahamic faith? 1:16:01 {Should I Correct my Christian Boss?} I work for a company that is owned by a professing Christian. He makes inappropriate jokes. I don't know if rebuking or correcting my boss is proper or not. How do I go about this? 1:20:08 {Catholic vs. SDA School for Children?} Would it be better to send my children to a Catholic School or a 7th Day Adventist school? We are looking to take our children out of public schools, and these are the two options available to us. 1:22:28 {Guiding a Wayward Teen} How do I respond to my 17 year old daughter who is persistent in being with her boyfriend who is an unbeliever and has fallen into sexual immorality? 1:25:48...

Jul 2, 20221h 34m

Ep 634Lead Pastor Tries and Fails to Quote the Bible for Pro-choice Legislation

Reading the Bible in context is all it takes to solve most of these bad teaching issues. This is Senior Pastor Mike Thomas, from Radiant Church in Seattle, Washington. Original video can be found HERE. Thank you to Woke Preacher Clips for making these sorts of clips available for needful discussion. Here's me on Twitter. My website, with hundreds of hours of free content helping you learn to think biblically about everything: https://BibleThinker.org

Jul 1, 202216 min

Ep 633Who cares about the real Jesus? Give us "Meme Jesus!"

There's a popular, fairly progressive Christian meme that has made the rounds online. It pretends to refute a "colonizer Jesus" and to support a "historical Jesus." But it turns out to just be another piece of poorly thought out propaganda. Proving once again that lots of people care very little about understanding Jesus and care very much about claiming that Jesus is supportive of their agenda. You all said that I should walk through this popular progressive meme and unpack it. We aren't going to shoot for talking points or picking sides here, unless the "side" is Jesus' side. This will be a thoughtful analysis of each point in this popular meme.

Jun 27, 20221h 33m

Ep 63220 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 76)

0:24 {The “What is a Woman?” Bandwagon} Do you think that the now famous question "What is a Woman?" is a relevant area of focus for biblical Christians? Doesn't the Gospel naturally address these issues we face today? 18:54 {Helping Friends be Biblical} Most of my friends claim to be Christians, but they support “pride month.” It depresses me that they encourage gay marriage which the Bible clearly says is a sin. How do I talk to them about this? 25:16 {Friends vs. Servants of Christ?} In John 15:15, Jesus tells the apostles, “No longer do I call you servants, but friends.” How do we properly approach our position as “friends of Jesus” while not neglecting to still serve Him? 29:01 {Is John 1 about the Bible?} What does John 1:1-4 say about the importance of the Bible? Should we worship the Bible? Some say they won't read the Bible, but at the same time say they are Christian. 34:37 {Are there Sins we Really Can’t Help Doing?} How can I reconcile 1 Corinthians 10:13 after decades of struggling with sloth, bad work ethic, sin at work, etc.? I’m praying for forgiveness, but was recently diagnosed with ADHD. I now see I can’t help it without meds. 41:26 {Was the Bible Written w/Chapters & Verses?} Since the Bible wasn't written with chapters and verses, how should that impact our reading of the current translations? 43:40 {Why Don’t the Jews Believe?} What is your understanding as to why the Jews don’t believe in Jesus and are waiting on someone else to come? 49:59 {About Receiving the Spirit} If we are to believe that you receive the Holy Spirit when you believe, why does there seem to be a separation from believing and receiving in Acts 19:1-2? 52:12 {Are Cards Inherently Sinful?} Are playing cards wrong? My parents think they are wrong even if I’m not playing Poker or anything like that. They think that there is some kind of evil in the card itself. 56:40 {Will We Fall into Sin in Heaven?} If Satan was able to disobey and sin against God in Heaven (along with him persuading others to sin), how do we know we will not sin against God when we are home with Him? I’m struggling with this question. 1:01:07 {Should Christians be Organ Donors?} I am wondering how Christians should think about organ donation? Is there a clear answer in Scripture? 1:03:43 {Loving God vs. Fearing Punishment} I find that I fear Hell rather than love God. Prayer and Bible reading feel like selfishly avoiding Hell more than devotedly pursuing God. How do I stop my fear from getting in the way of my relationship with God? 1:08:37 {Marriage in Heaven?} Since Jesus says that wives will be had in Heaven in Matthew 19: 29, why do most Christians say marriage won't exist in Heaven? 1:13:42 {Mental vs. Spiritual Health Struggles} When I talk to some people about my mental health struggles, they suggest that the cause is a spiritual issue. How do I explain that being a faithful Christian doesn't mean I can't struggle? 1:17:42 {What is an Apostate?} What is an apostate? Can they come back to God? 1:19:32 {About Elisha & the Bears} How can we explain 2 Kings 2:23-24 in context? it involves Elisha and a group of young mockers who then get killed by 2 bears. 1:26:58 {Should Immoral Things Be Illegal?} Should biblically immoral mean illegal? Surely if sin harms the community, then all legal sin harms society and should be against the law. 1:29:28 {Fellowshipping as an Introvert} I am worried that being an introvert is keeping me from congregating in the church. Does this mean that I'm truly not saved? Where is the joy that I'm supposed to have in the Lord? Please help. 1:33:05 {Was Elihu in Job Correct?} In Job 32:7-9, the Lord tells Job’s 3 friends to sacrifice burnt offerings because they haven’t spoken truth, but the Lord didn’t mention Elihu. Does that mean Elihu was correct in hi...

Jun 24, 20221h 42m

Ep 631Pt. 7: The Egalitarian "Silver Bullet" Bible Verse - Women in Ministry Series

Did you know that there is an egalitarian “silver bullet” Bible verse? Many egalitarians (who hold that women can rightly be elders, or any other position in the church) see Galatians 3:28 as such a powerful and wide-sweeping statement that it overrules any interpretation of any other passage in the Bible that would restrict roles of women in any fashion. In my own experience, every egalitarian knows about this but many complementarians do not. In this video, part 7 of my Women in Ministry series, I’ll be doing a detailed analysis of egalitarian scholar, Cynthia Long Westfall’s case for why Galatians 3:28 is such a pivotal passage for understanding women’s roles and for proving that complementarian views are fundamentally wrong. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28 After years of being a bit confused about the topic of women in ministry I set out to spend months researching the topic in great detail to produce this exhaustive teaching series on the topic. CLICK HERE for the playlist of ALL the videos in this series (more will be added as I make them). Resources you may be interested in: My notes from today Discovering Biblical Equality is the most updated work from a slew of egalitarian scholars. While I thoroughly disagree with it in a somewhat continual manner, it's a good resource for cutting edge egalitarian scholarship. The publisher, IVP, was kind enough to send me an advanced copy when I first started this research project. Ben Witherington's 1981 paper, "Rite and Rights for Women" CLICK HERE for my video on the Hebrew Roots Movement in regards to Acts (this relates to my claim that Jews and Gentiles did, indeed, have differences in the church in some ways) CLICK HERE for my video on what the Bible teaches about slavery I have other references and data in my notes from this series, which you can freely have through my website https://BibleThinker.org

Jun 21, 20221h 53m

Ep 63020 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 75)

Today's Time Stamps: 0:14 {Can Christians ever Sue Christians?} Does 1 Corinthians 6 prohibit believers from ever taking other believers to court? Is there ever an appropriate time to take a brother “before unbelievers”? 20:43 {Working for God Without Selfishness} How can I do work for God to receive a reward but not be seeking to put myself first, such as in Luke 22:24-30? 25:50 {Are Secret Churches “Denying God Before Men?”} Do secret churches in countries where Christianity is illegal contradict Matthew 10:32-33? 28:50 {Is Rapture Theology Biblical?} Is it true that rapture theology didn't exist before the 19th century and that it’s a relatively modern interpretation? 33:00 {Anxiety about Hell} I've become anxious about the thought of eternal torment in Hell. If that's the punishment for our sins, wouldn't it have been best for unbelievers never to be born? 39:30 {Understanding Philippians 4} Philippians 4:8 confuses me because so many true things are none of the other things on the list. A lot of truth is just the opposite. I read books about true things that are not the other things. 44:03 {Is Eternal Subordinationism Biblical?} I read recently that the idea that God the Son has been eternally submissive to God the Father is heresy (Arianism). Is that true? Was Jesus only temporarily submissive to God the Father while on Earth? 47:32 {Prayer for a Struggling Marriage} Would you please pray for my wife and I? I know it's a vague request without much detail, but we are struggling in our marriage and prayers are much needed. 48:53 {Balancing Duties as a Young Leader} I am a full time high school/youth pastor whose role involves a lot of leadership and administrative duties. As a young person, I find it challenging and catch myself trying to overcompensate. Advice? 51:28 {Breaking the Sin Cycle of Lust} I’m a 15 year old that has struggled with lust for such a long time, and I honestly don’t know what to do anymore. It feels like I will never get out of this constant sin cycle. Could you please help me? 54:37 {Dealing with Toxic People} What biblical counsel would you give for dealing with toxic people, especially Christian family members you live with, who are oftentimes mentally and emotionally unhealthy to be around? x 58:18 {Why Would God Give us our Heart’s Desires?} Why would God give us the desires of our hearts (Psalm 37:4) if the heart is deceitful above all things (Jeremiah 17:9)? 1:04:56 {About OT Sacrifices} In the Old Testament sacrificial system, there seems to be a lot of required sacrifices. How often were those sacrifices required, and who was required to offer them? Was it just the heads of households? 1:07:24 {Volunteering vs. Getting a Paying Job?} I'm 31, living with my unbelieving parents. They're pushing me to get a real job, but I feel I should continue volunteering to keep a Foundation alive that's barely holding on. Any biblical advice? 1:11:05 {About the Joy of the Lord} What is the “joy of the Lord,” and how is it our strength? 1:13:48 {Can we be Refilled with the Spirit?} Is it unbiblical to ask for a "refilling of the Holy Spirit"? Don't we already have Him living inside us? I hear this a lot at my church, and I don't know what to think of it. 1:16:57 {The Descriptions of Jesus in Scripture} After reading Daniel 10 and Revelation 1, I was wondering what the connection is between the descriptions of the visions. The description of Jesus in Revelation is so similar to the description given in Daniel 10. 1:19:13 {When Israel is Mentioned in Scripture} In the Bible, when Israel is mentioned in the context, is it referring more to the people or to the land (country)? (Ex: Romans 11:26) 1:22:43 {When Science Cannot Answer} As a new Christian who was raised to follow science first, how can we extract t...

Jun 17, 20221h 32m

Ep 629Why I am NOT suing Joel Osteen - Final update on my copyright strike and a personal message to Joel.

I plan to post a very edited version of the Joel Osteen review video in about 3 months. It will only use a small portion of his original video and it will be uploaded after my copyright strike has faded off my record with YouTube. The edited down version will just consist of every time that Joel quoted the Bible. Unfortunately, he distorted the meaning of the Bible every time, except once, in the "Let it Go" sermon. My website:https://BibleThinker.org

Jun 10, 202221 min

Ep 62820 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 74)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro1. 0:09 {Is it Helpful to Offer “Thoughts & Prayers”?} Following a tragedy, people will often say, “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who are affected,” which is often followed by angry or mocking non-believer comments such as, “Your prayers clearly aren’t working. Do something that will actually help like changing the laws.” What are some proper, biblical ways to respond to that sort of position?2. 10:02 {How Creative Can Worship Be in Church?} I would like your views on flag waving (as the Lord is my banner), dancing, and body painting as part of “creative worship” in church. When I questioned these things, Zechariah 1: 20-21 was quoted to me. Since creativity is inspired by God, am I being overly cautious and resisting change which is from God?3. 18:02 {Can Legalism be Spiritually Abusive?} Our pastor and denomination as a whole requires that any women serving (even volunteers) must only wear skirts, and that only the KJV is God's Word (every other version is a "perversion") and requires tithing. Are these things spiritual abuse?4. 25:25 {Does Scripture talk about Sex Slaves?} What’s your advice on how to approach numbers 31:15-18 (the passage about sex slaves)?5. 32:58 {Discerning God’s Will and Calling} How do I know if I’m called to preach? My family depends on my income, and I don’t want to unwisely step into anything against God’s will, but I feel I must evangelize much more than I can now.6. 38:15 {Why is Deborah not Mentioned in Hebrews 11?} I’ve appreciated your Women in Ministry series so much. Regarding Deborah, why do you suppose her name is not mentioned with the other 4 Judges in Hebrews 11: 32, but Barak is mentioned?7. 40:25 {How to Biblically Choose Who to Date?} How should mental health issues affect dating for Christians (both one's own issues and a spouse candidate's potential issues)? Overall, what things should be considered when choosing to start dating?8. 43:41 {What are the “Best Spiritual Gifts”?} What do you think Paul is referring to in 1 Corinthians 12: 31 when he says to desire "the best gifts"?9. 48:23 {Are Anti-Abortion Laws Biblical?} Is it biblical to make abortion unavailable to others by law? Or is it better to support organizations like Mom's House who help single moms with having a baby?10. 52:02 {Did Adam & Eve’s Offspring Commit Incest?} Does Genesis lead us to believe that if every person came from Adam, then there was incest between Adam and Eve's offspring to create mankind?11. 56:26 {Can we Only Have Belief through the Spirit?} “Only by the Spirit can one believe” … Can this be considered gaslighting unbelievers and a way of compensating for a lack of enough evidence? Please help my pain, I'm struggling.12. 1:00:58 {Tips for Ministering to Youth at Camp} Youth camp is in two weeks. Suggestions for ministering to teenagers?13. 1:04:01 {Why does Satan Tempt Believers?} Why does the devil bother to tempt people to sin if they are already saved? What's the gain for him?14. 1:05:48 {What do we Make “Our Own” In Phil. 3?} In Philippians 3: 12, what is Paul referring to when he says "...I press on to make it my own"? Make what his own? Help me. I am really confused.15. 1:10:04 {Rapture vs. Second Coming?} Do you think the rapture and the second coming could be different events? I have heard some Christians suggest this, explaining how the rapture will come before the tribulation.16. 1:14:44 {Should We Close Our Eyes & Bow While Praying?} I was wondering, is it biblical to close your eyes and bow your head while you pray, or is that a tradition that has been made up over time?17. 1:18:27 {Does Infant Salvation Conflict w/Original Sin?} How can we believe in the doctrine of Original Sin and also believe that if a child dies they go to Heaven? Inheriting Original Sin from Adam makes every child that dies u...

Jun 3, 20221h 33m

Ep 627Pt. 6: Things I Didn't Know as a Complementarian - Women in Ministry Series

After years of being a bit confused about the topic of women in ministry, I set out to spend months researching the topic in great detail to produce this exhaustive teaching series on the topic. In today's teaching we will cover several topics that, to be honest, I didn't really think much about as a complementarian. These egalitarian arguments really do challenge some complementarians ideas in a good way. Though I can't agree with them all the way through. 1) Was Jesus training women to be rabbis/teachers?2) Does the fact that women were persecuted imply that they were in leadership?3) What about the egalitarian argument that men and women both can have the gifts of teaching or leadership? If women are gifted in those areas, can't they express those gifts in the biblical role of elder?4) The Bible clearly indicates that all believers are priests. Does this mean that women, who are also priests in Christ, can be elders? And does this challenge the idea that a man is the priest of his home?5) If women in the NT times freely prophesied at church gatherings, to mixed sex audiences, why can't they teach in that same context? Doesn't prophecy involve an element of teaching? CLICK HERE for the playlist of ALL the videos in this series (more will be added as I make them). CLICK HERE for John MacArthur's paper, which I referenced in today's video. You can also find more videos freely available on my website:https://BibleThinker.org Time Stamp Guide: 0:00 – Intro 7:12 Persecuted women = women leaders 17:50 Jesus trained women to be rabbis 28:23 If NT women are priests, they can be elders, too 59:35 Women prophets = women elders 1:33:38 Spiritual gifts in women means they can teach and lead2:08:53 Today’s conclusion and summary

May 30, 20222h 13m

Ep 62620 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 73)

0:00 - Intro 0:49 {Conviction vs. Condemnation} Can you help me process the difference between “conviction” and “condemnation”? I know it’s right to feel sorry when I sin, but where’s the fine line between that feeling and allowing my guilt to cripple me and make me feel like a failure who is unclean before God? 14:09 {Thoughts about IVF} What are your thoughts about IVF? I’ve been battling infertility for a few years, but I’m concerned about whether IVF is biblically acceptable, especially about discarding the extra embryos. Is it equal to abortion to discard the embryos even if we can't guarantee they will grow if planted in the womb? 18:32 {Did the Father Turn His Face Away?} Did the Father really turn His face away from Jesus on the cross? 24:27 {About the Witness in John 8} In John 8:13-19, Jesus testifies that the Father is His witness. Given the emphasis on 2 witnesses in the Law, why did He not mention the Holy Spirit in this point? The absence is conspicuous. 31:06 {Are Ministry Raffles & Lotteries Biblical?} What does the Bible say about ministries that raise money using raffles, lotteries, or giveaways? Would you give money to them? They appeal to my (and presumably others’) carnality. Is this sinful? 37:01 {The Trinity: Can We Ever be 100% Certain?} I've been fighting doubts and "what ifs" about the Trinity lately, and though I'm confident in the answers I've gotten, I fear I'll never be certain about it again. Any advice? 45:02 {Help Understanding Gossip} I’ve been confused about what type of talk is considered “gossip.” I don’t want to be doing it, but sometimes it’s hard for me to tell if it’s gossip or not. How do I tell what is and isn’t gossip? 49:32 {Are there Differing Accounts of Who Saw Jesus?} How should we explain the differing accounts of people who saw Jesus after He rose? Some verses say women saw Him first, and others say men. 52:04 {Is it Biblical to Spank Children?} Is it biblical for parents to spank their children? Does it model Christian character? Any advice for parents on how to biblically discipline their children, especially young children (around 2 years old)? 57:47 {About the Treasure/Pearl in Matthew 13} Is Matthew 13:44-46 about us finding salvation in Jesus, OR is it about Jesus giving all for us? Is the treasure/pearl our salvation in Jesus? Or is it our value to Him? 1:02:38 {Wisdom in Applying for Ministry Jobs} I'm pursuing a degree in religion, and considering looking for ministry jobs. Is it right of me to apply for ministry jobs I might not be qualified for and trust the church to make a good decision? 1:04:13 {Clarifying a Confusing Verse} What’s your opinion on Genesis 3:16? ESV says “contrary to” and other translations say “for.” It can’t be both, can it? I’m so confused by it. 1:09:39 {Did God Command Balaam & then Become Upset?} Why does God get angry with Balaam in Numbers 22:20-22 for going when it seems He just told him to go in verse 20? 1:16:01 {About Repentance & Rebuke} Can you talk about Luke 17:3? Should you rebuke someone after they repent? 1:19:23 {Does God Only Speak through Scripture?} Does God still speak to us? I have heard it said that if you want to hear God speak, read your Bible; and if you want to hear Him speak audibly, read the Bible out loud. I believe God does still speak, but I’m conflicted. 1:25:43 {Why is Transgender Surgery Wrong?} If Christian work is restorative: healing the sick, clothing the naked, etc. to create "foretastes" of Heaven, then why is transgender surgery wrong? Isn't that also restorative/fixing disorder? 1:31:53 {About Prophecy in Matthew’s Gospel} A Muslim asked: “Why did the Gospel of Matthew ascribe the prophecy in Isaiah 7 to Jesus, when that prophecy described events which didn’t happen within centuries in Jesus’ lifetime?” 1:36:16 {Lo...

May 20, 20221h 45m

Ep 62520 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 72)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro1. 0:25 {Do we Need Religion to have Morals?} How would you respond to this statement?: “You don’t need religion to have morals. If you can’t determine right from wrong, then you lack empathy, not religion.” 2. 6:19 {Can we be Sure of the Resurrection?} In Acts 25: 20, if Festus and Agrippa can't be sure of the resurrection claim, how can we be sure now?3. 12:23 {Comments on Reincarnation/Simpsons’ Prophecies?} Do you have any suggestions to help a believer of reincarnation? Ex: Ryan Hammons has 55 verified statements about having a past life. Also, Bible prophecies mean nothing since The Simpsons have predicted the future many times.4. 16:38 {Was I Really Saved in the Past?} Was I ever really saved and had a relationship with Christ if I left heterosexuality and embraced my same sex attraction and married my wife?5. 20:46 {Resolving a “Contradiction”} Does Ezekiel 18: 20 contradict the stoning of Achan and his family in Joshua 7: 24-26 (the idea of original sin passed down through Adam) and 2 Samuel 12: 13-15?6. 29:59 {Do we “Just Believe” to be Saved?} To be saved, all we need to do is believe? Like how I believed that Santa was real when I was younger? Or is there more to this belief?7. 33:19 {How are Miracles Proof if Satan Can Also Do Them?} One of the proofs you've put forward that the Bible is from God is miracles and prophecy. If we see that Satan is also able to do miracles, like Pharaoh's magicians, then why are those things proof it’s from God?8. 36:53 {Can an Infinite God relate to Finite Creation?} How can an infinite God relate to a finite creation? Compared to infinity, our world's age is nothing, be it 10,000 years or billions. Same with the size of universe.9. 39:44 {Could God Exist but Not be Perfectly Good?} Atheist here. What stops a supernatural but not perfectly good being from being the author of the miracles in the Bible, especially when you already accept the existence of supernatural beings?10. 43:57 {Does Creating Time Require Time?} An atheist posited this question: If God created time, doesn't that require time, to create time?11. 46:09 {Is a Belief in God an Attempt to Personalize the Impersonal?} An atheist claims: “Belief in God is what happens when social brains try to explain an impersonal universe. Personal explanations for impersonal events fail to deal with logic of uncertainty.” Any help?12. 51:38 {How can Jesus be Sinless if “Unclean” at Times?} My professor brought up this question and I need to know your opinion. According to Hebrew Scripture, anything not of God’s perfect eschatological view is sin (human excretion, etc.). So how can we say Jesus is sinless?13. 54:46 {Should Mormons Celebrate Christmas and Easter?} As a Mormon, since you'd consider us non-Christian, should we be allowed to celebrate Christmas or Easter?14. 57:29 {Why Christianity vs. Other Religions?} Why should a person be Christian over another monotheistic religion which claims to be the truth, such as Islam?15. 1:01:55 {Why does God Allow Children to have Cancer?} Why does God allow children to get cancer and other terminal illnesses?16. 1:08:07 {Why Didn’t God Show Sodom Miracles?} In Matthew 11: 23-24, Jesus says that Sodom would have been saved if they had seen His miracles. Why, then, didn’t God perform miracles so that they would believe? Doesn’t He want everyone to be saved?17. 1:14:43 {If God Doesn’t Change, Why do His Rules?} From a non-Christian friend: If God doesn’t change over time, how come He commands Jews not to eat certain foods in the Old Testament, but deems them OK in the New Testament?18. 1:17:46 {Can God Give Commands when He Forced us to Exist?} Is it fair for God to demand our everything when we are forced to exist? I know Christ died for us, but it seems unfair to go through such suffering and sacrifice to receive sal...

May 14, 20221h 32m

Ep 624Pt. 5: Were Women Apostles in the New Testament? - Women in Ministry Series

I spent months researching the topic of women in ministry so that I could present you with this exhaustive analysis of everything the Bible says about it. Was Mary Magdalene "an apostle to the apostles" as NT Wright claims?Was Junia an apostle, as a consensus of NT scholars believe?If so, what kind of apostle was she and does that mean that women can be elders, too? The basic view of the egalitarians (who see no role differences for men and women regarding leadership in the church) is that women were in the highest possible realm of leadership in the NT since some of them were apostles. They conclude that this means women can be in any leadership role, including pastor or elder. The basic view of the complementarians (who say that the role of elder is preserved for men) is that women were either not apostles at all or that they only were in the sense of being missionaries. Some say this means that in a period of church planting a woman can have a transitory role of authority and teaching over men but that the permanent role of elder is reserved for men. Others say that even though they were missionaries it is reasonable to think that they had different roles than male missionaries in their work. As always, we will be going deep. Here are my notes from this study. If you’re looking to check my references, here’s where you will find them:https://biblethinker.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/5-Women-apostles-2.docx CLICK HERE for Burer and Wallace's paper from 2001 on why Junia is not an apostle. Richard Bauckham's response is on pages 192-200 (Kindle edition) of Gospel Women: Studies of Named Women in the Gospels. CLICK HERE for Burer's response to critics. He gives a ton more evidence for his position that Junia was well known to the apostles but not one of them. I really hope more scholars will interact with this paper. CLICK HERE for the playlist of ALL the videos in this series (more will be added as I make them). You can also find more videos freely available on my website:www.biblethinker.org

May 10, 20221h 17m

Ep 62320 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 71)

1. 1:33 {How to Respectfully Correct our Husbands} As a Christian wife, what are some principles I can apply in order to respectfully and lovingly offer my husband correction when needed? 2. 10:27 {Can we Trust what Moses Wrote?} Besides simply “the Bible says so” and biblical figures certifying them, how do we trust revelations that what Moses wrote of others’ lives and/or words (all of Genesis) are things those people actually said/happened?3. 17:23 {Should I Get Re-Baptized?} If I was baptized as a teen and "messed up" a bunch, even not going to church as I should, should I get re-baptized after "coming to my senses" and trying to live for God again?4. 21:41 {Responding to Others about Divorce} How do you handle Christians who don’t believe that your divorce was biblical? He was a narcissist/sociopath who convinced them before he died that I was the problem, and my children won’t speak to me.5. 24:33 {Wisdom for Young Marrieds} Do you have any advice or mistakes to avoid for a young marriage?6. 31:14 {Struggling with Repeated Sin} There are sins listed in 1 Corinthians 6 that seem to send people to Hell. I struggle often with gluttony and anger. I repent, but I fall back into it often. What’s the difference?7. 38:41 {How to Interpret Proverbs} Verses in Proverbs often seem like unrelated thoughts. Their vague quality makes it hard to know how to interpret them correctly. How do you determine the context of these verses?8. 46:10 {Can Christians Work for Secular Businesses?} Should Christians work for businesses that include agendas promoting sin (like Disney)? It has a diverse product but sinful ideas are included. How do we make sure we’re not being unequally yoked in non-marital situations?9. 50:57 {Should we Command People to be Healed?} Should we command for someone to be healed, or ask God for someone to be healed (Acts 3:6)? Do we have the very same authority of the Apostles to perform miracles (Mark 16: 17-18)?10. 59:04 {Are the Beatitudes Eschatological?} Can it be said that the Beatitudes are eschatological? I've heard that the word “blessed” can be better translated as “blissful” in them.11. 1:03:05 {Speaking the Truth in Love – Abortion} How do we discuss abortion in a way that doesn't push people away from the Gospel? Despite being very careful to speak up with gentleness, I'm still getting accused of being hateful, and blocked.12. 1:05:41 {Bearing with One Another's Conscience} The Bible says to bear with brethren of weaker faith. If instrumental music is a liberty, shouldn’t we bear with those who believe a cappella is the right way and not use instruments?13. 1:08:13 {About Pastors Purchasing Sermons} What are your thoughts about pastors purchasing sermons and not acknowledging the original author, basically plagiarizing another pastor? It has been a huge problem at our former church.14. 1:12:46 {Who Were the Spirits in Prison?} Who are the spirits in prison Jesus preached to in 1 Peter 3: 19?15. 1:17:26 {Is it Sometimes Biblical to Pray for Death?} Is there ever a biblical case to pray for someone to die? Didn't Paul pray for the destruction of some peoples’ flesh for the spirit to be saved in the day of judgment?16. 1:22:32 {About Medical Marijuana Use} I have an incurable sleep disorder that my Doctor has authorized the use of Marijuana for as it is one of the few things that helps. Should I pray for healing or keep taking this drug that I hate?17. 1:26:13 {God’s Voice or My Own Thoughts?} How do I differentiate between God's voice and my own intrusive thoughts?18. 1:32:35 {True Believer but No Life Change?} Is it possible to believe in Jesus yet never have a change of life? My father has cheated and lived with his mistress. he said he believed in Jesus, yet he never came back home to live with his family.19. 1:35:20 {Do Women Always Need a Male Head?} If there is a Christian adult woman whose fat...

May 6, 20221h 45m

Ep 62220 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 70)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:1. 0:34 {Why Did Jesus’ Body Still Have Marks?} Why did Jesus' resurrected body still bear the scars and injuries which brought about His death? It is my understanding that our own resurrected bodies will be perfect in every way, not merely those we had just prior to death. I, for one, want all my absent teeth and hair back! Why wasn't Jesus' body also perfect, as ours will be?2. 10:28 {Typology in Noah’s Story?} Do you think Noah could be a “type” of Christ? Why or why not?3. 13:18 {Learning to Desire our Study Time} How do I develop a craving for solid biblical teaching? I really enjoy your content, but I become bored easily. It’s easy for me to get distracted in my free time.4. 16:25 {Is Evolution Contrary to Belief in God?} I've noticed many people don't believe in God because of evolution. Is evolution contrary to God? Could God really have created the earth in 6 literal days? Can God “speed up” the creation process?5. 25:26 {Was Adam the First Man?} It seems in Genesis 1, that God creates humanity and blesses them, but then later in Genesis 2, God creates Adam as a representative in Eden. Doesn’t Scripture teach Adam was the first man?6. 31:09 {Are Angels Made in the Image of God?} In a previous episode, you stated that angels are not made in the image of God. Is that really something that we can state definitively?7. 34:32 {God/Satan in our Dreams?} Does God and/or Satan visit us in dreams?8. 39:12 {Was Simon Magus Repentant?} In Acts 8:9, Do you think Simon Magus was aware that he wasn’t right with God before Peter rebuked him? Some commentaries assume that he was never truly repentant, but some say he was genuine.9. 43:56 {Can We “Over-Study” the Bible?} Is it possible to over-study Scripture & theology? I feel like I constantly burn myself out on God's Word, but I also feel terrible if I go too long (like a day or two) without studying it.10. 46:33 {Where Did Satan’s Rebellion Come From?} Since God is not the author of evil and didn't create a kingdom with temptation or evil beings, how did Lucifer's pride and rebellion come about?11. 50:27 {How Intimate Before Marriage is Appropriate?} I think sexual intimacy prior to marriage (i.e., clothed sexual touching/rubbing) is sinful, but my fiancée disagrees. What do I do, as a soon to be husband, when we disagree on what is sinful?12. 58:15 {Resolving a “Contradiction”} About generational sin: Exodus 34:7 vs Ezekiel 18:20…can you please explain how we should understand this apparent contradiction?13. 1:03:51 {Is a Continuous Drunkard Saved?} Are you still saved if you can't stop drinking?14. 1:07:48 {Does God Control our Free Will?} In Proverbs 21:1 it says, "The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord. Like the rivers of water He turns it wherever He wishes." Does that mean God controls the king's free will?15. 1:09:53 {How was Solomon Wise since he Turned Away?} How was Solomon considered to be the wisest man on Earth and yet he, too, turns away from God in his old age? He also doesn't seem to recognize his sinful ways. He doesn't even ask God to relent.16. 1:12:01 {Witnessing Opportunity vs. Spiritual Trap!} I met some Muslims who were evangelizing, and I went up to them to challenge their beliefs. They invited me to a Ramadan dinner at a mosque. Should I go, or would that be a spiritual trap?17. 1:13:28 {Are Court Weddings Recognized by God?} I watched the whole marriage series and didn’t find anything about this: my wife and I have been married for 8 years (through the court) and she claims God doesn’t acknowledge it. Thoughts?18. 1:16:13 {About Jesus’ 40 Days in the Desert} I saw a video where you said “3 days and nights” was a Jewish idiom. Is 40 days in the desert the same, or is the Bible referring to 40 as just a long time that can be tangible (40 days, 40 nights, 40 years, etc.)?19. 1:19:09 {Can...

Apr 15, 20221h 35m

Ep 621Pt. 4: Women Leaders in the New Testament - Women in Ministry Series

I spent months researching the topic of women in ministry so that I could present you with this exhaustive analysis of everything the Bible says about it. Today we are surveying the New Testament to look for examples of women in positions of leadership. We will examine claims that there were women apostles, women elders, women deacons, and various other hints that some say offer us evidence of women in very significant leadership positions in the New Testament. We will also get into 1 Timothy and Titus and the requirements that Paul gives for elders and deacons.CLICK HERE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HQSlQLYQsE&list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuBtpJlwi7F5JYw3N5pKyLC&t=0s) for the playlist of ALL the videos in this series (more will be added as I make them). Marriage Conference - https://womensbiblestudy.com/marriage-questions-conference/ You can also find more videos freely available on my website:https://BibleThinker.org VIDEO MAP: 0:00 - Intro & Overview1. 3:00 What egalitarians claims about women leaders2. 7:18 Was Nympha an overseer?3. 13:47 Were homeowners overseers?4. 26:22 Were Euodia and Syntyche leaders?5. 33:20 What about Priscilla?6. 59:03 What is an overseer, elder, bishop or pastor?7. 1:00:58 Were women “elders”?8. 1:15:16 Were letter carriers approved teachers?9. 1:23:36 Col. 3:16 and women teaching10. 1:26:24 Paranoid masculinity11. 1:29:24 What exactly is a deacon?12. 1:36:04 Was Phoebe a deacon?13. 1:41:04 Egalitarian overreach on deacons.14. 1:53:16 1 Tim. 3, deacons’ wives or deaconesses?

Apr 13, 20222h 5m

Ep 620Biblical (or not) exceptions to the "don't separate” “don’t divorce" rules.

Allow me to say three things to those who would want to push back against my views here:1) This is a somewhat rushed summary of my teaching on the topic which can be found here with great detail. These videos represent a long, careful case for each point I have made: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHtBvJzugPJp9P5X1T-hA91j 2) If you disagree, then please consider responding not only with your own arguments but with a fair handling of my arguments. Very often I see responses which simply ignore all I've said, and the evidence, and Scripture which I have used to establish my case. 3) Let's remember what it means to be part of the body of Christ. We will one day be worshiping God, in glory, with full joy and fellowship together. Juli Slattery's content and podcast can be found here:https://www.authenticintimacy.com/ My website: https://BibleThinker.org

Apr 11, 202248 min

Ep 61920 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 69)

What's the point of the prodigal son's brother? Why is he in the story, upset about the celebration and getting no celebration of his own? Today's Time Stamps: 1. 0:47 {About the Parable of the Prodigal Son} Can you please teach us about the Parable of the Prodigal Son, specifically focusing on the obedient son who stays in his father's house and ends up resenting his prodigal brother? It seems like there's no real benefit to being the obedient son in that situation. Am I missing cultural context that would enhance my understanding of this parable?2. 13:44 {Did David Not Understand Heaven?} In Psalm 6:5 David asks God to spare his life because "For in death there is no remembrance of you; in Sheol who will give you praise?" Does David not have a belief or understanding of Heaven at this point in his life?3. 17:32 {About “The Last Reformation”} Have you heard of a movement called The Last Reformation, started by Torben Sondergaard in Denmark? Now he’s based in the U.S., but it has grown worldwide. Would you consider it a cult?4. 19:09 {About the Devil’s Disguise} The devil, according to 2 Corinthians 11:14, disguises as angel of light, but can't fight against himself (Mark 3:24) or his kingdom won't stand. What if in disguising himself, he condemns himself?5. 22:41 {Raising Children with an Unbelieving Spouse} My husband doesn't believe in God and our 6 year old has started to notice and is asking why daddy doesn't believe. How should I approach this in a way that's helpful and honors my husband and God?6. 26:16 {Biblical or Unbiblical Use of a Verse?} Many Christians use "The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away" from Job (1:21) to explain difficult things such as the death of a loved one. Is this biblical, or is it a misinterpretation of Job?7. 32:19 {Drawing Near to God on Spiritual Holidays} First Easter being saved! Do you have any suggestions for some God honoring ways to spend Good Friday and Holy Saturday? I’m so excited and want to do whatever is in my power to feel especially close to Christ.8. 36:40 {Strengthening our Faith When Others are Doubting} I have been doubting lately because I know of so many people deconverting even after finding apologetics. It makes me question my reasoning at times. What are your thoughts on this?9. 41:53 {Why Don’t We Have To Obey the Sabbath?} It seems the only commandment of the 10 that we don't still HAVE to follow is the Sabbath. If it was as important as the other 10, why are they all still upheld without exception and not that one?10. 44:33 {Handling Local Church Concerns} I’m afraid our church is being unknowingly influenced by progressivism. Ex: People love the podcast “the bible for normal people” with Pete Enns. Should we be worried? How do I share my concerns?11. 48:31 {When a Spouse Refuses to Follow Scripture} Can you help a brotha out on what to do if your wife says she will never be a biblical wife for her husband? She is a believer.12. 51:33 {Should We Bring Back Crusades?} Do you think that churches should bring back Gospel crusades? As I was saved at one in the 70s. These days, no one wants to preach the Gospel, but rather, do community works.13. 56:03 {Was Marriage Different in Biblical Times / Premarital Sex} Some say the biblical prohibition against premarital sex no longer applies since marriage then was so different. How was marriage different then, and how should that impact our view of sex now?14. 1:02:09 {Does Scripture Teach Familial Marriage?} 1 Corinthians 7:36-38 seems like Paul is saying someone can marry their own daughter. The translations usually say fiancée but when I looked at the Greek the word used means virgin daughter.15. 1:05:08 {Does John 6 Teach Faith as a Work?} I recently watched your Calvinism series and you didn't address John 6:28-29 where Jesus calls belief "work.” I don't think it defeats Romans 3:27. What do you think?16. 1:09:06...

Apr 8, 20221h 28m

Ep 61820 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 68)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro 1:05 {Advice for a Difficult Marital Situation} My husband has joined a “Christian” cult where women are taught they'll go to Hell if they wear makeup, trousers, jewelry, etc., and I refuse to follow that teaching. He will not listen to the counsel of our pastor. Should I submit to his decision to leave our biblical church and be a part of the cult? He now thinks of me as "not saved" and I'm considering leaving the house. 11:50 {Does Moses Refer to himself as YHWH?} Why does Moses refer to himself as YHWH in Deuteronomy 29:6? 16:34 {The Beatitudes in Luke vs. Matthew} The beatitudes in Luke 6:20-21 seem to have a different emphasis than those in Matthew 5 (physical poverty/hunger in Luke vs. spiritual poverty/hunger in Matthew). Much of the discourse in Luke 6 seems to cover similar teaching points as the Sermon on the Mount, so should the beatitudes in Luke be understood as the same as those in Matthew? If they are different, what is the takeaway from Luke's beatitudes? 22:08 {Were Adam & Eve Cursed?} When reading Genesis 3:16 (especially in the KJV), I’m under the impression that Adam and Eve were not cursed, but only the Earth. Could you please weigh in on this? 26:28 {Advice for Entering College & Adulthood} I’m turning 18 this year, and have been a Christian for 2 years now. I’m looking at colleges now because I’m a junior in high school. Any advice for looking at colleges and going into adulthood? 31:47 {About 1 Cor. 5 & Banning Abortion} Does 1 Corinthians 5:12-13 mean we shouldn't pass laws to ban abortion for "outsiders"? 38:26 {Can Pagan Traditions be Redeemed?} Are things with proven or supposed Pagan origins (such as wedding rings or birthday candles) to be avoided, according to Scripture? Or are they able to be redeemed? 43:20 {How Much to Confess Past Sins} I have some past sins that are pretty bad and very shameful. Do I need to confess these sins to my family and friends? I've confessed them to God and a personal pastor. 46:53 {Encouragement for a Progressive Friend} My friend has always been a strong Christian and is now struggling with same-sex attraction. He has adopted progressive thoughts on the Bible. How can I encourage him otherwise? 49:35 {Can We Do God’s Will Without Realizing It?} As a kid, my mom taught me to treat others as you would want them to treat you. I remember living by this, but I didn't know it came from Jesus. Does this show us that we can do God's will without realizing it? 53:26 {Can We Hear the “Still Small Voice” Today?} Pastors have preached about this “still small voice” that approached Elijah when he was distressed in the caves. Is this something we are supposed to be waiting and staying still to listen to today? 57:50 {How to Be Content While Suffering} God has blessed my life and I know it could be worse, but I'm severely disabled and sometimes I feel so trapped in my body that I want to die, but know that I can't. How do I learn to be content? 1:04:40 {Understanding Jesus’ Atonement} Is it more accurate to say that Jesus' death was sufficient for all rather than that He paid for all? Otherwise, wouldn't there be people in Hell right now for sins that Jesus already paid for? 1:10:35 {About YEC & “Mockers”} How do you interpret 2 Peter 3:4 (in context)?I’ve heard Young Earth Creationists compare the mockers to people who say rates like erosion or radioactive decay are unchanging and deny the biblical creation account. 1:16:58 {How Important is a Church’s Statement of Faith?} How important is a church's statement of faith? If a church has a basic, correct statement but adds and emphasizes serious errors in their services, what would you think they're really about? 1:19:39 {Settling an Interpretive Disagreement} Can you help settl...

Apr 1, 20221h 40m

Ep 617Pt. 3: How Women Could and Couldn’t Lead in the Old Testament - Women in Ministry Series

I spent months researching the topic of women in ministry so that I could present you with this exhaustive analysis of everything the Bible says about it. Today we are surveying the Old Testament to look for examples of women in positions like leadership. We'll see Deborah, an actual "judge" of Israel who definitely exercised real authority in ancient Israel with God's approval. How does that impact our view of women's roles? Was Deborah limited in her role in any way? We'll look at Miriam and ask if she was a leader like Moses during the time of Exodus. Many egalitarians claim that there are quite a few women in leadership roles in the Old Testament. Women as civic authorities, royal authorities, prophetesses (and there's no denying that one!). While there are more women in roles that carry some degree of authority than many of us have realized, we still need to answer the question of why they were forbidden from being priests in the service of God even though pagan religions had female priests. I'll tackle both sides and try real hard not to go beyond the text of Scripture. I want to make sure that whatever my understanding of the New Testament teaching on women in ministry is, it's consistent with God's overall revelation and example of how He used women in the Old Testament. CLICK HERE for the playlist of ALL the videos in this series (more will be added as I make them). You can also find the videos and my notes freely available on my website:https://BibleThinker.org Video Map for Quick Reference:0:00 Introduction & Part 1&2 Recap 13:49 Miriam as a Leader of Israel 34:54 Huldah the Prophetess 42:42 Isaiah’s Wife 43:54 Noadiah 47:24 Deborah the Judge 1:11:28 Jezebel 1:14:15 Athaliah 1:16:57 Esther 1:35:09 Why Weren’t Women Priests? 1:49:57 Conclusions 1:50:58 Coming Up Next in Part 4

Mar 28, 20221h 53m

Ep 616The Hidden Unchristian Belief of TOP Progressive Christian Influencers

I spent over a week reading and listening to progressive Christian influencers, trying to find some sort of central belief that connects them all together in a way that makes sense. I think I finally understand it. It's actually pretty simple. And it's not about Jesus. The teaching you are watching was given at the Battle for the Next Generation Conference in Palm Springs, put on by DesertApologetics.com in February of 2022, sponsored by World Gospel Mission. Check their website for info on other events they do. My website: https://BibleThinker.org

Mar 24, 202256 min

Ep 615She asked me to talk about politics.

Timestamps to help you find what you want:0:00 Intro1:46 Don’t expect the wrong thing5:47 How to navigate when people are angry about politics11:02 Who can I trust on political topics?12:03 Is it biblical to get involved in protests and political debates?19:59 Are people naturally prone to embrace bondage and create tyranny?23:31 What are some things God requires of all governments?24:47 What the NT said to people in governmental roles26:22 Is it a lost cause for Christians to influence culture?34:50 For those struggling to “respect” horrible people in government41:21 Was Jesus a socialist? Nah.49:35 The hijacking of Jesus52:41 Some hope54:12 Progressives and their error56:35 Are things only going to get worse? Kira Davis’ podcast “Just Listen to Yourself”: Spotify Apple Google or search for her on whatever you use. My website https://BibleThinker.org

Mar 21, 20221h 13m

Ep 61420 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 67)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro1. 0:35 {How to have More Self Control} You mentioned in a past session the issue of “becoming slaves to our desires” instead of "just doing the right things we don't feel like doing." Whether it’s reading Scripture, doing the housework, eating the right things, etc., I struggle with this daily, and my whole house is a disaster. Please, can you offer some advice on how to target this issue?2. 12:27 {Is Marriage Required after Kissing or Sex?} Some say that because my ex-boyfriend and I French kissed, we must marry. We broke up 2 years ago and he didn't answer when I asked to talk. I want to be free to marry someone else, but I'm scared to sin against God. Help. How can I know I am free?3. 16:34 {Why Isn’t the Greek OT More Authoritative?} Why isn’t the Greek Old Testament more authoritative? Its manuscripts are older and are referenced in the New Testament. E.g., Jesus mentions Greek version of Isaiah 61 with “blind” in Luke 4:18.4. 20:54 {Is it Unfair that Certain People Receive God’s Forgiveness?} People in my life push against "saved by faith alone" asking “How can people like Hitler accept Jesus right before death and then go and sit in Heaven next to Mother Teresa? How do I address that?5. 26:47 {About the Elect & The Tribulation} Can you be saved but not elect? I’m confused by Mark 13:20. Will the elect be taken by the rapture, or will they suffer during the Tribulation?6. 30:35 {Is Self-Forgiveness Biblical?} Any thoughts on self-forgiveness? Do you think it’s biblical?7. 34:33 {Is Contraception Sinful?} Why do people say there is no biblical basis against contraception when God kills Onan for it (Genesis 38:8-10)? And the punishment for that is not death according to Deuteronomy 25:7-10.8. 41:07 {About Parachurch Ministries / CRU} What do you think of parachurch organizations like Cru? They don't seem biblical to me because they assume the duties of a local church. I would love to know what you think.9. 43:35 {About Conviction of Sin} How can someone know if they are truly feeling convicted about something? I am trying to get right with God, and I sometimes feel everything I do is damning. I don’t want to sugarcoat things – I want to be realistic.10. 48:41 {Will we See the Father & Jesus in Heaven?} Jesus said that no one has seen the Father except Himself. Do you think when we get to Heaven, that we will be able to see the Father, as well as Jesus?11. 50:48 {Did Moses Write in Hebrew or Hieroglyphics?} I am curious about the theory that Moses wrote in Egyptian Hieroglyphics, not Hebrew. Arguing for an oral tradition, not a written text. I had never heard this before, and I'm a little baffled.12. 52:47 {Scriptural Support for Continuationism} Is there Scripture that supports being a Continuationist? I am a "soft-charismatic," but personal experience is not convincing to a Cessasionist claiming I'm being unbiblical, or even heretical.13. 56:30 {Could a Gentile Become a Jew in the OT?} In the Old Testament, God worked with the Israelites. Could a Gentile become a Jew in the Old Testament and be saved?14. 59:52 {Can Christians Marry Non-Christians?} Would you recommend marrying someone of a different religion? Say, Seventh Day Adventist, for example?15. 1:02:51 {About the Fall of Satan} How could the devil fall, being perfect (moral excellence), knowing the full comprehension of God? How could he even think evil thoughts?16. 1:05:14 {About the “Lying Spirit” in 1 Kings} How do you interpret the lying spirit in 1 kings 22?17. 1:12:26 {Theism vs. Biblical Christianity} I’m a theist, but I am not a Christian. What are some attributes of God? And how does Jesus exhibit them in specific situations in the Bible? Could you please pray that God gives me confirmation in my mind of the deity of Jesus? Or at least whether or not Jesus rose from the dead. No mat...

Mar 18, 20221h 30m

Ep 613Pt. 2: Was Women's Submission Just a Curse to Be Overturned? - Women in Ministry Series

There are some REALLY important debates about Genesis 1-3 and what they say about God's ideal for men and women and their relationships. Today I'm going DEEP on those issues. Here's a small sample of what we'll get into: Does Genesis 1 giving dominion over the Earth to women as well as men mean that egalitarians are right in their contention that no authority differences based on gender should exist? Does Genesis 2 have indications that before the fall, Adam had a leadership role in his relationship with Eve? Lots of debate on this issue! Does Genesis 3:16, which says the husband will rule over his wife, actually mean that he will have control of her sexual desires? Dr. Linda Belleville argues for this. Can we say that male leadership in a marriage is only the result of the fall, and we should therefore try to overturn it as much as possible just like we try to overturn other elements of the curse? Was Adam a sexless being until after Eve was made? Dr. Phyllis Trible thinks so. Does Adam show leadership of Eve by giving her a name? Why is Adam made before Eve? Why does Satan tempt Eve first? Why does Adam seem to bear greater responsibility and consequences for the fall? Was Eve meant to be Adam's "savior" and not his "helper"? Today's video will be longer than usual, but I'm going to plow through a ton of content and I think it will give you simple clarity at the end, so don't feel overwhelmed by all the issues and debates. I'm going to do my best to make it as clear as I can and help you walk away with solid understanding of the nature of men and women in the image of God and their relationship to each other, both before and after the fall. Here are some resource links you might be looking for: CLICK HERE for the first video in this series discussing how many people bypass the Bible completely on this topic. CLICK HERE for Dr. David Freedman's paper saying "ezer kenegdo" (helper fit for him) actually means "power equal to him." CLICK HERE for Dr. Mark Steven Francois' video which gives the closest thing to a skilled breakdown of that paper that laymen can mostly follow. CLICK HERE for Dr. Ramsay's paper on “Is Name-Giving an Act of Domination in Genesis 2:23 and Elsewhere?” The Catholic Biblical Quarterly, vol. 50, no. 1, Catholic Biblical Association, 1988, pp. 24–35. CLICK HERE for the playlist of ALL the videos in this series (more will be added as I make them). You can also find the videos and my notes freely available on my website:https://BibleThinker.org

Mar 15, 20222h 10m

Ep 61220 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 66)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro1. 0:24 {Should we Follow our Hearts?} "Follow your heart" is a popular mantra, but is not encouraged in some Christian circles. I understand that Jeremiah 17.9 says "the heart is more deceitful than all else and is desperately sick," but Proverbs 4.23 says "the springs of life" flow from our hearts. Also, since God's word is written on our hearts (Jeremiah 31.33), shouldn't we follow our hearts?2. 15:36 {Will We Have Memories in Heaven?} I recently heard people at my church say that when we get to Heaven our memories will essentially be wiped, and we won’t have any knowledge of our friends/family who are in Hell. Thoughts?3. 23:25 {Are Job and Jonah Historical?} My pastor says Job and Jonah are probably not historical events, but more poetic lessons. How do I decide true stories from parables in the Old Testament without questioning everything?4. 28:04 {Does Regeneration Precede Faith?} Is it first that you are born again and by that you confess Jesus as Lord and get Salvation, or you confess Jesus as your Lord first, and by that you get born again and will be granted Salvation?5. 32:45 {Comparing Paul & Joseph Smith} Compared with Paul, is Joseph Smith such a novelty? E.g., they both had a vision of Jesus only they reported on, introduced new teachings, weren’t prophesied of by Jesus, and were martyred as result of ministry.6. 42:53 {About Aggressive Countries/Leaders} Can you please explain what the Bible says we should do about an aggressor like Putin, and should other countries intervene to help Ukraine?7. 46:19 {Pastor Mike’s Favorite Attributes of God} What is your personal favorite aspect/quality of each member of the Trinity?8. 47:45 {Deconstruction vs. Deconversion} Is deconstruction just another term for deconversion? Why can't we deconstruct deconstructionism?9. 52:25 {Does God Sometimes Not Know Things?} Why does God ask, “Who told you that you were naked?” in Genesis 3:11? Does He not know?10. 53:37 {Help for a Tough Marital Situation} What do you do when your spouse, who claims to be a Christian, has separated/said they want a divorce when they don’t have biblical grounds, and the church that married you won’t confront them?11. 57:47 {Why did Paul Preach to the Jews?} Why did Paul go to Jerusalem to preach to the Jews in the temple when it seems he knew very clearly he was called to be an apostle to the Gentiles? He chose Jerusalem before he went to Rome.12. 1:01:18 {Does God Forgive “Extreme” Sins?} A loved one is struggling with the idea that God would forgive an abuser or a murderer if they started following God after their evil actions. What can I say to help them through this doubt?13. 1:04:57 {About Harry Potter & Lord of the Rings} Biblically thinking, are The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter different regarding sorcery? Lots of Christians disapprove of Harry Potter, yet admire LOTR. Is this distinction biblically justified?14. 1:09:55 {Should we Desire to Read Scripture Daily?} Shouldn't a truly born-again believer desire to read the Scriptures regularly (even daily)? How should I approach and encourage a "Christian" who doesn't?15. 1:12:21 {Reformed Theology vs. Calvinism} What’s the difference between “Reformed theology” and Calvinism? It seems like the two are different, but also the same. Just curious to know all the different groups within this body of believers.16. 1:14:07 {How to “Carry our Cross”} How should we carry our cross in a practical sense?17. 1:17:28 {Reconciling the Accounts of Jesus’ Birth} How can the accounts of Jesus' birth in Matthew and Luke be reconciled when Josephus says that Quirinius didn't become governor until after the banishment of Archelaus?18. 1:21:44 {About Gog & Magog} I thought Gog & Magog in Revelation 20:8, and the Gog & Magog war in Ezekiel 28:2 were talking about the...

Mar 11, 20221h 31m

Ep 611It is biblical to leave a truly abusive spouse. But be careful.

This is merely a snippet from 2 years ago when I did my 3 hour teaching on "Divorce and Remarriage: Everything the Bible says about It" back in May of 2020. This video may raise more questions than it answers for some people, but I promise I've got the answers to those questions and more in the big video. Here's a link to the FULL VIDEO with time stamps to help you find just what you need:https://youtu.be/N2pC6ZikbYo I'm Mike Winger and my goal is to help you learn to think biblically about everything. I've got a free, searchable database of over 600 videos on my website here:https://BibleThinker.org

Mar 10, 20227 min

Ep 610Pt. 1: Why We Can't Think Biblically About It - Women In Ministry Series

For years, I’ve refused to answer the question about women in ministry. Because I worried I might be wrong, and was fearful of how big of an impact my teaching can have in the life of another. I take that issue very seriously. I spent the last few months doing an in-depth research project on women in ministry. My goal was to read the best egalitarian scholars on the topic and see if I might change my position. To be totally open with you, I actually WANTED to become egalitarian. That may sound strange to some, but I’m just being honest about my own motivations. Now that my research is close to done, I’m going to present you with the “Women in Ministry” series; a thorough and systematic study of the topic, looking at all relevant biblical passages, historical research, linguistic studies, and philosophical concerns, interacting with the most recent scholarship on the issue (and there is a lot of it). This will be a somewhat exhaustive series to go over everything the Bible teaches on the topic and engage in all the important debates you will want to know about. Each video will cover different issues/passages of Scripture, and I’ll try to present the content in a way that helps you make informed decisions for yourself, and not just to parrot me. But I’m not interested being one of those people who pretends they don’t have their own opinions on the topic. So, after months of focused research, here are my general conclusions, which I will go on to support with great detail over the next 10 videos. I think egalitarian views (which hold there are simply no role differences related to authority between men and women in the government of the church) are obviously false. I mean that I went into this study hoping I’d see really strong and thoughtful cases for egalitarian views from top scholars and I saw, over and over again, insufficient evidence, poor reasoning, inconsistent positions, and bad Bible study practices. I don’t say ANY of that as a way of slapping at the sincerity or good will of those scholars. I think many of these scholars are strongly committed to Jesus and are my genuine brothers and sisters in Christ. But, as a result of studying this topic in detail, hoping to change my own mind and focusing on the work of egalitarian scholars, I am actually far more confidently complementarian than I was before. However, I have changed my mind on some important issues, and would consider my self a “soft complementarian” who holds that the biblical role of “elder” is reserved for men but that women have been FAR too restricted in other ways because of clumsy and incomplete views of complementarians, and sometimes simply because Christians aren’t quite sure where to draw the lines so they are overly cautious and unnecessarily limiting to women (and often to themselves). What I’m saying here is that I agree with many egalitarian complaints about abuses, restrictions, and general disrespect toward women that has been too common in complementarian circles. I’ve seen it firsthand many times, and I think Scripture offers us needed correction. So, I am rather firm in saying egalitarian interpretations are generally flawed, but that complementarians have much to refine and even remove from their own views, though the biblical core remains quite sound. I offer the above explanation as I introduce this series simply because I respect your intelligence and want to be as open as possible with you all. In today’s video, I’ll walk through the biggest reason why I’m not egalitarian as I discuss philosophical beliefs that egalitarians often bring into the debate which make it impossible for them to be open to following the Bible if it leads toward complementarian views. I’ll try to apply this standard fairly on both sides and set a tone for the debate that refuses to use polemics, ethics, or philosophy in a way that taints our opinions before we approach the biblical text and ask “what should I think about th...

Mar 8, 20221h 9m

Ep 609This is what spiritual abuse looks like.

Ed's 4 hour long church service which this clip came from. The clip I used starts at 30 minutes in: https://youtu.be/ISDvpdtzomM You may think I've picked the worst example of Ed's behavior, but I really haven't. Ed can be seen doing all manner of far stranger and more extreme things in other videos. I chose this example to offer an analysis of how to identify this kind of spiritual abuse in an effort to help people caught up in it to do two things: First, to get out from under the control of dangerous leaders. Second, to realize that those bad leaders do not represent true Christianity so that people who've been burned by them won't turn away from Christ, the perfectly humble leader, as a result. I've got over 600 videos helping you learn to think biblically about everything, and I promise not to make up stuff about your family tree. My website: https://BibleThinker.org

Mar 5, 202235 min

Ep 60820 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 65)

I answer questions every Friday live on YT at 1 p.m. Pacific time. Wait till the live stream actually starts, post your question with a "Q" at the beginning, and try to check your wording for clarity. I apologize ahead of time if I don't get to your question. I know that can be dissapointing, but we try to prioritize questions I haven't answered before so you might check my website to see if your question has already been addressed in a previous stream. You can do so with the link below, using the "clip search" feature that takes you to specific moments in specific videos. Here's my website with a new clip search feature for finding exactly where in a video a particular issue is addressed. https://BibleThinker.org 1. 0:00 {Only One Way to Evangelize?} Before Jesus left, He gave us the Great Commission: "Go spread the Gospel and make Disciples." Sounds good, I can do that. But since Jesus didn't tell us exactly how to share the Gospel (He just tells us to do it), can we share the Gospel however we want, or do we have to do it a certain way?2. 13:05 {Is Modalism Heresy?} Why is modalism considered such heresy? I think it’s incorrect, but many people question the very salvation of those who hold to this doctrine. How vital to salvation is the correct understanding of the Trinity?3. 16:58 {When You’re Far from God} My heart is hardened, I’m backslidden, a carnal Christian…whatever you want to call it. I am so far from God right now. I want to love Him, but I don’t. I’m afraid of Hell. What can I do to heal?4. 21:23 {Why Didn’t Jesus Inherit Adam’s Sin?} Since Jesus was fully man, as well as fully God, according to the hypostatic union, how did He not inherit Adam's sin that all men inherit according to Psalm 51:5?5. 25:27 {Is the Resurrection Proof of Jesus’ Deity?} What should I say to someone who isn’t impressed with the resurrection of Jesus proving that He is God? I don’t think there is a better miracle explaining who God is and what He does.6. 28:17 {Advising Others on Theologically Bad Content} What do you say to Christians who say they have been blessed by the movie “The Shack” and other Progressive content, even though it is filled with New Age themes and Progressive Christianity?7. 31:37 {Explaining a Confusing Passage of Scripture} Is the man in Matthew 22: 11-13 thrown out for not doing good works, considering Revelation 19:8?8. 36:17 {Transubstantiation, Consubstantiation, & Symbolism} What are your thoughts on the Lutheran view of communion (consubstantiation in contrast to the Catholic transubstantiation)? What would be a good case for an entirely symbolic view?9. 44:36 {Exceptions to Marital Submission?} Your 1 Peter 3:1-6 teaching said Abigail's story was the only valid exception for wives not submitting to husbands. Why was “life threatening situations” the lens in which you interpreted her example?10. 47:17 {Is a Fear of Sin Biblical?} I find myself feeling paranoid and anxious because I'm scared to fall into sin. I'm no longer in bondage to sin, but I feel like the fear of sin can hold me captive. Is the fear of sin biblical?11. 48:59 {Help for Overcoming Pride} I struggle with pride. I hate that. Even with a past as filthy as mine that I’ve been forgiven for, I still catch myself looking at other people sideways. How can I be more loving?12. 54:12 {About “Not Boasting of Tomorrow”} In James 4: 13-17, The conclusion (v. 17) seems unrelated to vv. 13-16. I don’t see how it relates specifically to not boasting of tomorrow. Is it just a general statement that could be said after any command?13. 57:52 {Tongues: Heavenly or Earthly Language?} When we pray in tongues in private prayer time, is this a heavenly language, or an earthly language?14. 1:01:21 {About the Law, Works, & Salvation} I've watched both of your videos on the Old Testament law. I get that we don't need to kee...

Mar 5, 20221h 25m

Ep 60720 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 64)

Your questions can get answered live during my next stream by doing the following:1- Wait until after the stream begins. 2- Post a clear, concise question in the live chat with a "Q" at the beginning. How to understand the Old Testament law (Part 1):https://youtu.be/qoGKJEENngc How to understand the Old Testament law (Part 2):https://youtu.be/Qdbg5Yj8040 "How correct is Kenneth Copeland?" (This is the teaching on prayer in faith that is answered with a “no” and how to reconcile that with Jesus saying that if we believed we would have what we asked.) https://youtu.be/VvA5ZWDSdmo This is the “Battle for the Next Generation” apologetics conference I’m speaking at in Palm Springs, CA on February 25-26 of 2022. You can watch the livestream with half off with this promo code: "WINGER10" (only $10) http://desertapologetics.com Here's my website with a new clip search feature for finding exactly where in a video a particular issue is addressed. https://BibleThinker.org 1. 0:33 {About “Binding and Loosing”} In Matthew 16: 19, what does the Bible mean in terms of "binding" and "loosing," and how do we rightly understand and apply that concept today?2. 25:28 {Giving to Different Ministries} If I don't feel edified by the watered-down milk preaching at my local church, it is wrong to give less money to the local church and more money to online ministries that I spend hours listening to? 3. 28:50 {Should we “Cut Someone Off” in Life?} How do I know if I am doing the right thing by cutting off a very toxic family member? I still pray for him, but I think he is dangerous and unbalanced and he refuses to get help.4. 31:32 {Defending the Trinity} What are your thoughts on the argument against the Trinity that points out the lack of a Trinitarian controversy (like that of Nicaea) in the time of Acts and the writing of the New Testament?5. 33:36 {About False Prophets} How should we interpret Deuteronomy 13:6-9? Part of chapter is often used on Mormons for Joseph Smith being a false prophet...but if rejecting a false prophet is required, would it follow that this is required, too? This chapter - all or nothing?6. 38:38 {“Being the Light” in Difficult Situations} As a new believer, I feel I won’t be able to go to my sister-in-law’s house again because they smoke weed at every gathering. How do I find balance between being the light & not being in certain situations?7. 41:19 {Leading with Confidence, Not Cockiness} I just came into a lead role in a local ministry where many of the other adults are older than I. I want to be confident, but not cocky; Firm, but able to learn. Any tips?8. 44:52 {About Cult Shunning/Shaming} How can we differentiate the instructions given by Paul in 1 Corinthians 5: 11 & by Jesus in Matthew 18: 15-17 with the shunning/shaming practices of certain cults like Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons, etc.?9. 49:01 {About Jesus’ Suffering} Did Jesus need to have suffered the most pain ever for Him to be worthy to save us? How should we answer the objection that some people have supposedly suffered worse pain, i.e. from torture or the Holocaust?10. 52:29 {Praying for and Trusting in God’s Will} How should I pray? I prayed for my husband's health, and shortly thereafter, he died suddenly & unexpectedly. Oftentimes, I feel that my will is out of sync with Yahweh's. It hurts.11. 55:36 {Do Modern Translations Hide Mythology?} Why do modern translations hide so much mythology? Leviathan and Behemoth are animals. Isaiah 34: 14, Lillith is an owl. Psalm 96: 5, Gods are idols and not demons. I fear this leads to materialism.12. 59:46 {Witnessing Well at Work} I've had some really good conversations with friends at work about being a Christian. What are some good tips for me to continue talking to them without it seeming like I'm pushing it on them...

Feb 11, 20221h 34m

Ep 60620 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 63)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro1. 0:19 {About the “Serpent Seed” Doctrine} What are your thoughts about the “Serpent Seed Doctrine” which states that the serpent mated with Eve in the Garden of Eden as the first sin, and that the offspring of their union was Cain?2. 15:00 {Difficult Passages – Trusting in God’s Goodness} How do you respond to 1 Samuel 15:3 that includes in the command "child & infant"? It doesn't ruin my trust in God's goodness, but it is hard to understand/explain. Any insight you have is appreciated!3. 21:56 {About Mars Hill / Pr. Mark Driscoll} What are the lessons we all can learn from Mark Driscoll and the “Rise and Fall of Mars Hill”?4. 24:49 {Are Dating Apps OK?} Should a Christian use Christian dating apps? I don’t see anything wrong with meeting people through these apps, but when I try to use them, I feel guilty. Does the Bible guide us somehow on this?5. 28:34 {Intellectual Agreement vs. Faith in Christ} I believe I'm trusting in Jesus' death and resurrection for salvation, but I have OCD and can't control my thoughts. So how do I know if I'm really trusting, or just agreeing with facts intellectually?6. 31:06 {Reaching Difficult Students for Christ} I'm a high school teacher at a school that’s heavily influenced by culture and broken homes. The students lack respect, and hate following rules. How can I reach these students that appear far from God?7. 33:38 {About Seraphim, Snakes & Satan} If the word “seraphim” is derived from the same Hebrew root word for snake, it is really a stretch to say that Lucifer (who is a seraphim) in the Garden of Eden could have appeared reptilian?8. 37:34 {Staying in Fellowship While Working} I just moved to a new city, and I work every Sunday. How do I find a church family if I work every Sunday?9. 38:33 {Encouragement for New Bible Teachers} I'm a recent MDiv graduate who gets questions from friends and family about the Bible. I do a study and answer them, and they respond with "that's what I thought." Any encouragement to keep trying?10. 41:57 {Watching Inappropriate Content} Do you think it’s a sin to watch movies or shows that make inappropriate jokes and have some language? Or is it only a sin when we personally make crude jokes and use that language?11. 45:30 {Refuting a Calvinist Interpretation} I am not a Calvinist, but I am having a very hard time finding a non-Calvinist interpretation of Acts 13:48.12. 49:45 {Which OT Teachings are for Us Today?} How are some biblical teachings like hair length considered cultural and specific only to ancient times, when other things apply even today, like homosexuality?13. 52:49 {Theological Disagreements in Marriage} Should a husband refuse to go to a hyper-Charismatic church that his wife wants to attend, and rather attend his own church that emphasizes the Bible?14. 54:50 {About being “Unequally Yoked”} What does being “unequally yoked” look like?15. 57:45 {About the “7 Mountain Mandate”} Could you explain why the “7 Mountain Mandate” is wrong theology? It is so popular and, on the surface, seems like such a good idea.16. 1:01:25 {Do Salvation Numbers = Biblical Practices?} Should we always see new souls coming to Christ as a sign/indicator that the Lord was with us in a particular event, service, or mission field?17. 1:04:40 {Attending No Church vs. an Unbiblical Church?} Is it better to attend a church you disagree with in theology, rather than not attending church at all?18. 1:06:41 {Do Sources of Inspiration Matter?} I want my music to glorify God. When I make music with computer though, I worry a lot about the sources of my inspiration. Any tips or principles to ensure that I’m not being influenced by ungodly sources?19. 1:09:33 {Should We Have “Home Altars”?} What are the biblical parameters for altars in the home. Are they still biblical?20. 1:13:09 {...

Feb 5, 20221h 19m

Ep 60520 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 62)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 Intro1. 0:04 {My Fault if Someone’s Not Saved?} I know God is in control, but since prayer and fasting makes a difference, is it my fault if someone is not saved because I didn’t pray or fast enough for them? I feel responsible when I eat or forget to pray.2. 9:31 {About the 2 Witnesses / Rapture?} It seems like the 2 witnesses in Zechariah 4 and Revelation 11 are like two peoples instead of individuals, as Romans 11: 17-21 speaks of olive trees/branches being Jews/Gentiles. If so, would the rapture be the "calling up" of them?3. 17:01 {Does Romans Teach Works for Salvation?} Does Romans 6: 22 preach salvation by works? John Piper claims that this verse suggests that at final salvation, our works coming from sanctification result in eternal life.4. 24:30 {Does God Grant People Faith? / Calvinism} How would you interpret the end of Matthew 11 in a non-Calvinist way, since it seems at a quick read to me that God grants people faith?5. 29:55 {Thinking Biblically about Trends} There is a trend in many young male Christians where they are wearing earrings, painting nails, fixing eyebrows, and putting on makeup. Help me think biblically about this, as it's a bit shocking.6. 35:04 {Advice for being a Godly Man} I just turned 18 today, and for the past few months, I've been struggling with the transition into adulthood. Got any advice for someone trying to become the man God wants them to be?7. 39:22 {Does Blindness Cover Sin?} In John 9: 41, Jesus says, "If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin..." What does it mean to be "blind" in this context? Does this blindness also cover sin?8. 45:43 {Discerning Extrabiblical Prophecies} When should extrabiblical prophecy be accepted or rejected? I don’t know how to discern or “test the spirits,” and I don’t want to be overly dismissive, even if the claims seem astonishing.9. 51:34 {About Submission in Marriage} If a husband's rule over his wife was a curse of the fall, why is it taught as God-ordained in the New Testament? Aren't husbands and wives called to submit to each other under the New Covenant?10. 54:18 {Right and Wrong Public Worship/Prayer} In Matthew 6:5, Jesus says not to pray like people in public who try to get attention. Would that include praying and worshiping in church?11. 58:18 {Interpreting the Psalms} In Psalm 2: 12, What does the psalmist mean by this verse in its non-messianic context?12. 1:02:23 {Judging & Correcting Non-Believers} Are we supposed to judge those outside of the Church, and do we have any right to control/direct what they do (Romans 1: 32; 1 Corinthians 5: 12)?13. 1:06:30 {Theological Differences while Dating} I've just discovered my long-term girlfriend does not believe homosexuality is a sin, and I'm really struggling with anxiety regarding this. Is it wrong to break up over this, and how should I approach this?14. 1:09:04 {How Does the HS Guide Us?} I'm a new born-again Christian and I'd like to know, how does the Holy Spirit guide us?15. 1:12:34 {Resources for Seniors} Are there any good sources for ministering to seniors you can recommend?16. 1:13:07 {Is Sheol/Hades the Same as Hell?} Are the biblical references to Sheol/Hades necessarily Hell? Some Christian traditions have it as the underworld, with Hell only being something after the resurrection.17. 1:15:45 {Abortion OK - Babies will Go to Heaven?} What would you say to a vicar who says that abortion isn't the biggest issue or problem for God as the babies will end up in Heaven anyway?18. 1:20:58 {Did Jesus Come to Abolish the Law?} Why does Paul say in Ephesians 2: 15 “…by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances…” when Jesus said that He did not come to abolish the law in Matthew 5: 17?19. 1:27:14 {Book of Ecclesiastes – Enjoying Life?} When the teacher in Ecclesiastes says to enjoy life, in the...

Jan 28, 20221h 34m

Ep 60420 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 61)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Introduction1. 0:34 {What does it mean that God IS Love?} What does it mean that God IS love, rather than just saying that He is loving or that He loves us?2. 9:37 {Is it Wrong to have Vaxxed & Non-Vaxxed Services?} My church has decided to have 2 different services: one for those who have gotten the vaccine, and one for those who have not. I love my pastors, but I disagree with this approach, and I see it as divisive. Is this something I should leave the church over? I wouldn’t think Jesus would ever be for this option.3. 14:38 {Should we Worship the Holy Spirit?} Why isn't the Holy Spirit mentioned in any of the instances in Revelation when praise is being given to the Father and the lamb if He is to be worshiped as separate? For example: Revelation 5: 13.4. 19:48 {About Jannes & Jambres} Why does Paul mention Jannes and Jambres in 2 Timothy as being part of the Exodus story when they weren’t? Did he have a different exodus? Is he referring to an extra-biblical book so authoritatively?5. 26:55 {Is Being Poor a Godly Virtue?} In Luke 16: 19-31 we read the story of Lazarus and the rich man and it seems that the only thing Lazarus did to deserve Paradise was being a sick beggar. Does this story teach virtue in being poor?6. 35:36 {How to Respond to Friends’ Ungodly Behavior} How should I respond when hanging out with friends who cuss / curse or play foul music celebrating sinful behavior, some of them being believers?7. 39:12 {About “Twilight” relating to Passover} What does “twilight” mean when the Passover lamb is sacrificed? Is it the start of the 14th, or the end leading into the 15th (first day of unleavened bread)?8. 40:28 {How to Forgive the Abuse of a Loved One} My disabled daughter w/ MS was abused by her ex (hit, pushed her head through a wall, broke her jaw twice requiring three surgeries, told her he’s going to have her killed, & more). I know I should forgive him, but how?9. 45:10 {When to Lovingly tell Someone they’re Deceived} If you spend years lovingly bringing scripture to someone in a religion that corrupts it, hoping to open their eyes but fail, is it wrong to finally say directly they've been deceived, and that the religion is a lie?10. 47:46 {About “Dynamic Omniscience} Could you please explain and give your take on the Open Theist position called " dynamic omniscience" and how biblical or unbiblical the position is?11. 50:18 {Called to be Single? How to Know} How do you know if God has called you to be single?12. 1:01:39 {Did Jesus Not Know Who Touched Him?} In Luke 8: 45, Jesus asks who touched His garment while in a crowd. Did Jesus really not know who had touched Him, nor that this miracle would take place?13. 1:06:23 {About Jews & the Great Tribulation} I heard a pastor claim that 2/3 of Jews will die during the Great Tribulation, and the ones who survive will become Christians. Is this what Paul was referring to with “all Israel will be saved”?14. 1:13:26 {Can Mental Issues Sometimes be Demonic?} Could my Generalized Anxiety Disorder and OCD be a demonic issue rather than a mental health issue? I'm a believer, but I suffer from both of these issues and I feel trapped.15. 1:17:02 {Was Creation an Incarnation of God?} What do you think of Richard Rohr's claim that "creation was the first incarnation of God"?16. 1:19:51 {About “Boot Camp” Churches} What is your opinion on "Boot Camp" Churches such as Elevation and Newspring that say that their church is for unbelievers and is not a permanent space for believers to remain?17. 1:22:26 {About the Virgin Birth} Is the virgin birth an invention by Matthew to buff up the Gospel narrative? The "double-fulfillment" of Isaiah's prophecy sounds like a convenience interpretation. Does the virgin birth matter?18. 1:25:20 {Overcoming Fear while Witnessing} I am currently attending...

Jan 21, 20221h 34m

Ep 60320 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 60)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Introduction1. 0:37 {Tips for Consistent Bible Reading} I’ve been pretty terrible with reading my Bible in past years, and I really want to stay in God’s Word this year (and always). Can you please give me some advice on how to read my Bible consistently? I always start reading plans, fall behind, then just stop reading altogether.2. 7:48 {Were OT Sacrifices Purely Symbolic?} Did Levitical sacrifices really do anything beyond point people to Jesus? Hebrews 10:4 and Romans 3: 25 tell us that Jesus' atonement was applied retroactively to Old Testament saints, so were their sacrifices only symbolic?3. 12:36 {Do Pastors Have Authority over Believers?} A lot of people in my circle talk about being under the "covering" and authority of their pastor and elders. Is this a thing?4. 16:31 {Tips for Reading Scripture w/Children} It seems like the more I try and teach my kids the Word (ages 8,12 yrs.) the more they say the Bible is boring and groan every time I want to read with them. I’m getting discouraged. Suggestions?5. 19:22 {When to be Re-Baptized} If I lacked repentance at the time of my baptism years ago as a teen, should I be rebaptized now as an adult? This past year I've experienced true, heart-felt repentance and now I just want to obey.6. 23:32 {Does the P. of Talents demand Physical Work?} My preacher uses the Parable of Talents to say we must go out to do work for the Lord. I have chronic illness and I don't have energy for stuff outside of my family. Does this mean I waste my talents?7. 30:47 {Why Didn’t Adam Stop Eve?} Since Adam was sinless before the fall, why didn't he fulfill his role as a husband when Eve was tempted by the serpent (it seems like he was nearby)?8. 37:40 {Legal, but Is It Moral / Biblical?} In bodybuilding, the usage of performance enhancing drugs are not illegal and are used by higher level competitors. As a Christian, would those drugs be considered sinful to utilize as a tool to be competitive in the pro league?9. 42:32 {How is the Bible Perfect, Written by Humans?} According to Scripture, all humans are flawed. There are no examples of humans being perfect, apart from Christ. Therefore, how can anyone deem the Bible 100% perfect when its authors were imperfect?10. 44:27 {A Prayer Request from Pastor Mike} Today I want to know how we can all pray for YOU and your ministry.11. 46:03 {Who are the Watchers in Daniel 4?} Who are the “watchers” of Daniel 4: 17? Do they play an end times role?12. 51:23 {Advice for a Transgender Situation} My baby’s kindergarten has hired a transgender person who advocates. If kids ask, they will say that he is a trans. My baby is just 1 yr. old. Is it even safe for her to be with this confused person? Any advice?13. 55:52 {Comfort from Scripture after a Breakup} My girlfriend (devout Catholic) and I (devout "protestant") broke up recently after dating for a year. We wanted to get married, but we broke up due to our faiths. Where can I read for comfort?14. 57:27 {Will we be Judged for our Words or Intentions?} Will God judge us for what we said, or for what we meant by those words?15. 59:43 {Understanding the Trinity} How should we understand the "power dynamic" within the Trinity specifically as it applies to "sending" (filioque clause in mind)? Does the Father have a sort of "sending" authority over the Son & the Spirit?16. 1:02:33 {About the “Little gods” Theory} Can you explain a biblical view of the "little gods" theory (Psalm 82:6 and John 10: 34)?17. 1:12:34 {About Jacob’s “Wrestle” with God} Did Jacob really "wrestle" with God? Why does Genesis make it sound as though he "won" this fight?18. 1:15:04 {About the “Tongues of Angels”} 1Corinthians 13:1 refers to "speaking in the tongues of men and of angels." The tongues of men are just different languages, but what are tongues of angels?19. 1...

Jan 14, 20221h 28m

Ep 602How did we miss this?

I don't think I have ever heard someone say it quite like this. J. Warner Wallace's new book, Person of Interest, can be found here:https://www.amazon.com/Person-Interest-Jesus-Matters-Rejects-ebook/dp/B08NHXN7G7/ Here's my website with a new clip search feature for finding exactly where in a video a particular issue is addressed. https://BibleThinker.org

Dec 21, 202157 min

Ep 60120 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 59)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Introduction1. 0:46 {How to “Take Every Thought Captive”} What does it mean to "take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ" in 2 Corinthians 10:5? What are some examples of how we can live this out?2. 9:04 {Advice for a Difficult Church Situation} My daughter and her father-in-law visited the church I attend. They brought my 3 month old Grandson who was making loud sounds. One of the attendants asked them to leave. Now I have mixed feelings about this church. Should I continue to attend?3. 11:08 {Can Remarried People Serve in Church?} A divorced lady in my church recently got remarried to someone else. The church is not allowing remarried couples to serve in any area of the church. Is this biblical?4. 14:03 {Why are there Sacrifices if Jesus is our Sacrifice?} Why are there sacrifices (more specifically, sin offerings) in the millennial temple on Earth (ex. Ezekiel 42: 13)? I don't get it since Jesus was the final and perfect sacrifice.5. 20:07 {Surrendering to God when it’s Difficult} I'm double-minded and depressed. I want real salvation but have a hard time fully surrendering. Good works and prayer feel like pushing a boulder up a hill. Any advice?6. 24:14 {What is Love, According to the Bible?} Define love according to the Bible. Is it a feeling? Act? Choice? This is very important to me because it will inform how I view if I was loving or not in situations.7. J. 30:42 {Does Sanctification Continue in Eternity?} Do you think sanctification is complete upon our death and resurrection, or do we continue to “improve” throughout eternity?8. 32:57 {How to be Calm & Kind on Social Media} I often find myself being rude on social media. I don’t mean to be, but it just gets the better of me. How do you approach people, consistently, in such a loving manner?9. 36:12 Angels, Free Will, & Did God Command Satan to Rebel?} How would you react to someone who claims that angels don't have free will, and that by extension, God commanded Satan to rebel? Hoping to address the issue and the heart here, thanks!10. 39:41 {Biblical Help when Struggling with Infertility} I recently have had intense disappointment and grief in my life re: fertility and am struggling with not knowing God's path for my life. Do you have any biblical help to heal and move forward?11. 42:26 {Is Luke a “Social Justice Gospel”?} The book of Luke is being described as the "social justice gospel” in Progressive circles. What do you think about Luke being described as the social justice gospel?12. 46:00 {About the Vows in Numbers 30} What specific examples of vows or oaths do you think Numbers 30 was referring to?13. 50:16 {Refuting WMSCOG Theology} I was approached by the Mother God cult in a department store, and they used Galatians 4: 26. How could I bring clarity to this verse for them next time?14. 56:22 {Should we Choose a Denomination Right Away?} I'm a new convert. I love God. However, since I'm a new convert I haven't "chosen" a denomination yet. Must I hurry and choose one? Right now, I'm just happy reading the Bible, believing, and praying.15. 58:44 {About “Seal” & “Deposit” in 2 Cor.} What is the meaning of the words "seal" and "deposit" in 2 Corinthians 1: 22?16. 1:02:18 {Lovingly Calling Out Sin} How do I love and exhort a close family member who knows & believes the Gospel but doesn't seem bothered by some sinful choices (e.g., going to rowdy parties, getting drunk)?17. 1:06:41 {About Leviathan} What are your thoughts on Leviathan? Do you believe he is an actual creature, or more symbolic? Where is he now?18. 1:14:48 {What if I Don’t Live near a Bible-based Church?} What do you do when there are only Jehovah’s whiteness, Catholic, and extremely Progressive churches within a day’s drive of where you live?19. 1:15:33 {What to Do when a Spouse Turns from Faith...

Dec 17, 20211h 27m

Ep 600Dealing with Skeptics and Progressive Christians on The Bob Dutko Show

If you'd like to see more of the Bob Dutko Show it can be found here:https://wmuz.com/bobdutko/ I'm Mike Winger and I have tons of FREE content, helping you learn to think biblically, on my YouTube channel or on my website (which includes a search feature helping you find exactly what you are looking for): https://BibleThinker.org

Dec 13, 202118 min

Ep 59920 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 58)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Introduction1. 0:45 {Theology Books for Teens/College Age} My 17 yr. old son is into theology. Do you have any theology books you’d recommend for teens/college students that aren’t weighty reads, but offer good, biblical answers to Christian questions? Something that will interest a teenager without getting lost into a huge textbook. 2. 4:24 {Does God Bless in Material Ways?} Does God still bless us in material ways, or was that just for the old covenant and now He solely blesses us in spiritual ways?3. 9:05 {How Does God Speak to Us?} How does God communicate to us outside of the Bible? Does He speak through mediums like words, numbers, coincidences, etc.?4. 12:38 {About Separation from Bishops} How is separation from all bishops okay when all “early church fathers” (especially Cyprian & Ignatius) taught that separation from your bishop can call into question your salvation (Cyprian Epistle 26, Ignatius Phil.)?5. 18:39 {About Revelation/Great Tribulation} Do you have any idea why Revelation 7:14 in the NLT says these are the ones who died, but other translations say they came out of the Great Tribulation?6. 21:40 {How to Initiate Gospel Conversations} How do I start conversations about Jesus with strangers/acquaintances?7. 23:25 {About the Extent of the Atonement} Do the two different stances on the extent of the atonement (unlimited and definite) ultimately represent two different gospels? This is a fear of mine.8. 27:09 {Does Prayer Have a Required Formula?} I talk to God in my head and pray during the day, but my thoughts drift and sometimes I realize I never said “amen.” I know that He’s listening, but if it’s not formatted like a prayer, does it still count?9. 29:00 {How to Find Counsel in Scripture} How do I go about searching the Scriptures to help me find a solution or to come to a decision in an area of my life?10. 32:16 {About being Born of God/of the Spirit} Prior to Pentecost, was anyone “born of God/Spirit” as the Spirit hadn’t been given yet (John 1:13; 3:1-7; 7:39)? Can this discredit regeneration preceding faith/total inability?11. 34:22 {Was Historical Proof of Biblical Events Just Made Up?} I heard that the historians’ consensus for the Patriarchs, the Exodus, and the Conquest of Canaan was that they didn’t happen but were made up later. Any input on this?12. 36:42 {If we Confess our Doubts, Are We Still Saved?} I was having doubts about the atonement, and I was questioning if I really believed it. I had thoughts about me not believing. Am I still saved if confessed those and do believe now?13. 43:08 {Was Jesus Rich? & How to Challenge False Claims} Someone told me “Jesus was rich and that was how He was able to feed the 5,000 and their families.” I know that’s wrong, but where do they find these theories and how do I help them see that’s not true?14. 46:33 {How to Share a Summary of the Gospel} Do you have a simple way to share the Gospel? How can we know what to say to be obedient and share the Gospel effectively without missing any of the essentials?15. 48:42 {Thinking Biblically about Covid Restrictions} My province has new Covid mandates that my pastor is implementing. Reduced attendance, vaccine passport checks, and masks even while singing. I think this is unbiblical. What can I do?16. 52:53 {Advice for Finding a Godly Spouse / Our Desires} I’m 23 yrs. old. 6 yrs. ago, my attraction to women just disappeared. This messed with my head a lot, and also, because of physical problems, I can’t approach girls in order to find a wife. Please, can you advise me?17. 54:29 {Was David’s Son Punished for David’s Sin?} In a past video, it sounded like Mike said David's child dying was "collateral damage.” How is that not punishment for David's sins?18. 59:32 {Did God’s Promise Change?} Why did the promise for honoring your parents change...

Dec 10, 20211h 9m

Ep 59820 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 57)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Introduction1. 0:10 {Is Hypnosis OK for Christians?} What does the Bible say about hypnosis as a form of medical treatment? I struggle with food addiction and have heard that it can help by reaching the subconscious. However, I want to be super careful not to dip into the supernatural demonic realm that can sometimes happen during yoga sessions when "channeling your inner-self" and "connecting with the universe."2. 9:26 {Was the Temple Ever Cleaned?} Blood was sprinkled around the altar in the Tabernacle and Temple. Did the priests ever clean up all the blood splatter? Or just let it accumulate? I cannot find the answer in Scripture.3. 11:51 {About the Evidence of the Spirit} In Acts 8, how did they know when the Samaritans had and had not received the Holy Spirit? Pentecostals teach that it must have been tongues. Is there another explanation?4. 18:36 {What is the Light in Gen. 1?} What is the light in Genesis 1:3? Some say the light is a spiritual force, Jesus, stars, the Big Bang, etc. I know it’s not Jesus, but I’m getting a lot of feedback in a group without any real solid answers.5. 24:46 {Should We Apologize for Every Past Sin?} Should Christians apologize to everyone from their past? I had so much anxiety, messaging people from high school about every lie or mean comment I could think of, even some things people didn't remember.6. 30:11 {About Pastors Preaching on Certain Sins} How would you respond to a pastor who says “I don't need to teach that a particular practice is a sin”? What dangers do you think are there if someone doesn't recognize certain sins?7. 33:46 {Are Works Required? (Sheep & Goats)} Does John 5: 29 or the Parable of Sheep and Goats mean that Jesus taught we need works to be saved? It seems to align with the mid-acts dispensational view.8. 37:46 {What is a Relationship with God?} What does a relationship with God look like practically?9. 42:10 {About Limited Atonement} If the extent of Jesus’ death was for all, but the application of His death was only for His sheep, why does Jesus say that He lays down His life for His sheep in John 10: 15 (v. 16 clarifies extent, right?)?10. 45:56 {About Demons Confessing Jesus’ Identity} Why did demons always announce Jesus' true identity when they were in His presence? Wouldn't they rather lie and claim He was a false prophet or something to deceive others? (Ex: Luke 4: 33-34)11. 48:04 {Should We Pray Once or Repeatedly?} I’ve heard several teachings about prayer and I’m a bit confused. Are we to pray once, believe we have it, and walk in faith? Or should we pray repeatedly until God gives us an answer?12. 52:16 {About Boundaries w/Unsaved Friends} I turned away from God 14 yrs. ago, but got saved this summer. My "best friend" has since made many bad remarks about me AND God. I only hear from him if HE needs something. Do I cut him off, or show him love?13. 54:55 {Should we Use the Word “Christian”?} The original definers of the word “Christian” were the enemies of Jesus’ followers. What authorizes us today to define who is/isn’t a Christian? Especially if we don’t know what their OG criteria was?14. 58:08 {About Ephraim / Israel} Often when I see Ephraim mentioned, it looks to me like God is referring to all of Israel. Have I misunderstood something? Why does He use this tribe? My reading today: Jeremiah 31:6 (?), 18, & 20.15. 1:01:01 {About YT Ads} As a fellow YouTuber, do you get concerned about the ads your viewers see on your videos?16. 1:03:37 {About Lifting Hands in Worship & Others Watching Us} I have trouble lifting my hands during worship songs, though commanded in Psalms. I can’t get over the mental block that I’m trying to look good to people around me. Do I have a weak conscience, or am I disobeying Scripture?17. 1:06:23 {Thoughts on Veganism} What are your thoughts on Vegani...

Dec 3, 20211h 25m

Ep 597Are You a Pop-Christian or a Real Christian?

This concerns me deeply. All my content is free and it's meant to help you go DEEP into the word of God and strengthen your relationship with Christ. This is the last clip from my video collaboration with Allen Parr and I hope that you've benefitted from it. My website. Tons of free, searchable content helping you learn to think biblically about everything: https://BibleThinker.org

Nov 29, 202118 min

Ep 596Allen Parr's Concerns about Seventh Day Adventists

This is one of several clips I will be uploading from a big video I did with Allen Parr evaluating a few different religious groups in light of biblical Christianity. Subscribe to my channel to get notified when the other videos in this series go up. Here is Allen Parr's channel. I recommend you check it out: https://youtube.com/user/thebeatagp Allen's videos on SDA...Allen's deep dive on the SDA:https://youtu.be/VvXlQKBgSS0His video on responding to SDA teaching on the sabbath:https://youtu.be/UCmpQSta1Ck My website. Tons of free, searchable content helping you learn to think biblically about everything:https://BibleThinker.org

Nov 25, 202123 min

Ep 595My Response to Roman Catholic Apologist Trent Horn's Rebuttal of Me

Trent Horn has over 8 hours of video content "refuting" me. Today, I'm going to respond to some of that content. Because there is FAR too much to do a thorough response to, I will be reacting to one of his recent videos point by point. Here's Trent's video:https://youtu.be/4OTf-rR6O_o This can be a bit awkward for me, to be honest, because I don't want to spend time "defending myself" but I don't intend for this to be that. The issues we are discussing here are really important and I think that Trent Horn's videos are doing more to sow confusion than they are to offer any kind of proper refutation to the things I have said (and still hold) regarding Roman Catholic claims. I hope you will consider this response thoughtfully and, if you are a Roman Catholic, know that I do not do this with any personal animus toward you at all! What I think we should all agree on is that if the pope is who the Roman Catholic church says he is, then we all need to submit to him - but if he is not, then an open opposition to such claims is only an expression of loyalty to God. If Roman Catholicism is true in its claims to have authority over all believers, then we need to all submit. If it is false, and if it is propagating various doctrines of man, then it is only a kindness to tell others about it. This issue is worth discussing, for love of God and love of man. My teaching on James 2 and a Catholic vs. a Protestant view: https://youtu.be/eDNPHuCsEms My long debate on baptism and whether it saves (with time stamps): https://youtu.be/x2TfBVNuuY8 Depending on the response to this video, I may make another dealing with the rest of Trent Horn's "rebuttal" because there are some very serious problems with what he has said. But because this video is already going to be really long, I have chosen to focus on the first half of his video which deals primarily with justification. I'm Mike Winger and my website, with all free content, is: https://BibleThinker.org

Nov 22, 20211h 59m

Ep 594Catholicism Isn't a Cult... But I Have Serious Concerns

ANNOUNCEMENT! The podcast you're listening to was offered a refutation by Roman Catholic apologist Trent Horn. I'm going to be giving a response to that refutation on this coming Monday, November 22 at 1 p.m. Pacific time. Here's the link to that response:https://youtu.be/hIAVbck93pc This is one of several clips I will be uploading from a big video I did with Allen Parr evaluating a few different religious groups in light of biblical Christianity. Subscribe to my channel to get notified when the other videos in this series go up. Here is Allen Parr's channel. I recommend you check it out: https://youtube.com/user/thebeatagp More videos of mine related to Catholicism below... Why I can't be a Roman Catholic (2 hour, detailed video): https://youtu.be/7ZVHHmCOjOg The "justified by works" passage in James 2 explained from a Protestant perspective:https://youtu.be/eDNPHuCsEms In this video, I deal with Roman Catholic apologists and Scripture they use to try to say that purgatory is in the Bible:https://youtu.be/UzVzn8h7jnM Explaining and defending Sola Scriptura:https://youtu.be/tJxjKAcn78I My website. Tons of free, searchable content helping you learn to think biblically about everything:https://BibleThinker.org

Nov 18, 202124 min

Ep 593What's up with the "Black Hebrew Israelites"? Allen Parr explains.

This is one of several clips I will be uploading from a collaboration I did with Allen Parr evaluating a few different religious groups in light of biblical Christianity. Subscribe to my channel to get notified when the other videos in this series go up. If you enjoyed this, you will probably enjoy a lot of the content that Allen Parr has. Here is his channel, I recommend you check it out: https://youtube.com/user/thebeatagp This is Allen Parr's much longer video on this topic, if you want to get a lot more info:https://youtu.be/TsXBNwo2pNw My website. Tons of free, searchable content helping you learn to think biblically about everything:https://BibleThinker.org

Nov 15, 202120 min

Ep 59220 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 56)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Introduction1. 0:16 {Was the Flood Overkill?} In Genesis, God destroys the world saying that the world has become unholy, but He saves Noah. Why couldn't He just do something bad to the people instead of doing all of the work to start over after the flood?2. 5:46 {Will Unbelievers Bow?} Does “every knee shall bow” refer to each person when they die and stand before God, or mankind collectively at the return of Jesus? If it's the latter, does this mean unbelievers will be forced to do this?3. 10:35 {Is it Sin, or Am I Legalistic?} A pastor told me it was a sin to watch Star Wars & Dragon Ball Z & listen to rock music because they're Pagan. I'm willing to give these up if they are, but how do I know if it's a sin or legalism?4. 16:35 {About Pastor Nathan Finochio} What do you know about Nathan Finochio? My daughter was invited to a youth event where he is the main preacher, but I'm not sure if I should let her attend.5. 17:44 {About Judgment, Sinners, & New Jerusalem} After the Great White Throne judgment and the Second Death (Revelation 21: 10), where do the sinners come from that are kept outside the New Jerusalem (Revelation 22: 15)?6. 21:53 {Taking Communion Unworthily} In 1 Corinthians 11: 30 when Paul says you can get weak, sick, or die if taking the last supper in an unworthy manner, what specific sins are punishable by death?7. 28:42 {About Tongues & God’s Will} If the Holy Spirit gives tongues, how is it that anyone uses it against the will of God, if the Spirit only does what the Father wills? (For example, misusing it in church services.)8. 30:50 {Anxiety about Repenting of Every Sin} How can I deal with the urge to ask for forgiveness for nearly every intrusive thought, feeling, and temptation? If I'm asking out of anxiety, am I asking in vain? I don't want to treat sin lightly.9. 33:33 {When a Spouse is Unrepentant} How should we approach a situation where one spouse is doing something potentially harmful to the health of the family, yet won't quit? Ex: vaping inside of the home.10. 37:17 {Do Paul & God Keep Secrets?} Regarding Paul's vision of Heaven in 2 Corinthians 12, Why can't Paul tell us what he saw? Did he see something bad? Why do Paul and God have to be secretive and hide things?11. 43:09 {Does Scripture Value Children?} In the book of Job, his children were killed as part of his trials. At the end, he was blessed with more children. This has always bothered me. Why does it appear that children are disposable like that?12. 45:57 {Is “Accepting Jesus” Man-Centered Soteriology?} Is it man-centered thinking to say that “Jesus died for everyone but it is only applied to you if/when you accept it”? Are we the ones who give the cross its power? I’d Like to hear your thoughts on this.13. 48:23 {Coming Back to the Lord after Doubting} I wanted to ask if you have any biblical guidance on coming back to your Christ-like identity when you've fallen into doubt.14. 53:25 {Can People be Tricked into Hell?} Can people be tricked into Hell, such as people born into false religions or North Korea? If so, how is that fair?15. 56:33 {About Praying for the Sick} How should James 5: 13-16 be interpreted in the light of praying for the sick to be healed, especially in church? I’ve seen people praying for others expecting them to be healed immediately.16. 1:00:25 {About the Trinity / Divine Simplicity} Isn't it problematic to affirm the Trinity while rejecting the metaphysical hermeneutic that was used to articulate/defend the doctrine (e.g., divine simplicity) in the early centuries?17. 1:02:40 {Should We Correct Non-Believers’ Sins?} What is the Christian’s role in bringing up non-believers’ specific sins? Should we, at all? I hear people reference John 16:8. How should we best evangelize to non-believers?18. 1:06:31 {About Jews, Prophecy, &a...

Nov 12, 20211h 21m

Ep 591Analyzing a typical Joel Osteen sermon

This is not a hit piece. I just think that it can be really helpful to evaluate Joel Osteen's extremely popular teaching through the eyes of a teacher who cares an awful lot about representing the Bible properly. We often hear of problems with teachers when someone gathers just the most offensive, problematic, or otherwise inflammatory parts of their teachings and evaluates them. I am not doing that today. I'm grabbing a recent, random Joel Osteen sermon to have a "typical" example of his teaching. We will look at how he uses the Bible, what his general teaching style is, and how a Christian can evaluate and discern what to accept and reject. In the video, I will be referencing my series, How to Find Jesus in the Old Testament, and I highly recommend you check it out. It's been the most spiritually rewarding Bible series I've ever done:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHsHyvMtfgOgSPU6zEnCvxUO I'm Mike Winger and my website, with all free content, is:https://BibleThinker.org

Nov 8, 20212h 4m

Ep 59020 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 55)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Introduction1. 0:45 {About Church Discipline} Can you please explain what the Bible says about local churches having a process of “church discipline” and how that should be carried out? Should it be rare, or a regular part of church life? Where should leaders draw the line when deciding if someone made a minor mistake vs. someone needing discipline?2. 13:02 {Is Baptism Required?} Why does the Bible sound like baptism is required for salvation in some places (eg. Mark 16: 16)? Does Acts 1:5 answer what KIND of baptism IS required (Holy Spirit baptism)? And what did Jesus mean by “to fulfill righteousness”?3. 18:31 {About Tithing & “Prosperity” Teachings} My church says a declaration before tithing. Part of it is: "I am believing Him for advancements, God-ideas, blessings & increases, financial freedom, & breakthroughs." Is this a prosperity church red flag?4. 22:00 {Are Murder Mysteries Appropriate for Believers?} I watched your video on Halloween, and I’m wondering what your thoughts are on murder mystery dinner parties (and for that matter, murder mysteries in general). Is it wrong to be entertained by them?5. 25:17 {Why does Pastor Mike Love Jesus?} I would love to know, why do you love Jesus?6. 26:52 {About Doubt, Truth, & Bias} My friend is doubting his faith and reality because he claims there's no way to discern truth objectively without some sort of bias. How would you answer him?7. 31:06 {Can Sons be Punished for Parents’ Sins?} Don't questions like 2 Kings 5: 27, 2 Kings 9:8, and Exodus 12: 29 contradict Ezekiel 18: 20 which says that sons cannot be punished for the sins of their fathers?8. 34:44 {Should We Ever Hate People?} Should we hate the evil doer (e.g., those who promote or perform abortion) or should we just keep their salvation in mind? Or can we do both at the same time?9. 38:19 {Can the Deceased Send us Signs?} How do you explain to someone that their dead loved one is not sending signs to them, no matter how convincing those signs are?10. 40:43 {About Questionable Worship Lyrics} I play guitar at my church. I don’t always agree with the theology couched in some songs. I don’t sing lines I don’t agree with, but I am still on stage. Would love to hear your general thoughts on this!11. 43:02 {How to Repent When We’re Not “Feeling” It} How do I repent unto salvation (repent and be saved) when I do not want to? I am asking from the current place of being unsaved.12. 45:04 {About the Fear of Eternity} A student recently shared a fear of hers: the idea of eternity, even if in Heaven. I have to admit I struggle with this, as well. Any advice for me, for how I can comfort her from the Bible?13. 49:45 {About our Music Choices} Is it OK to listen to old music from former Christians, like Kevin Max or Ray Boltz? Is their music prior to them leaving Christ OK to listen to?14. 52:36 {About Adam & Eve / Sin Nature} Were Adam and Eve created WITH a sin nature at their creation? If not, why then did they choose to sin in the first place, all the while God having called His creation good?15. 54:44 {About God being our Loving Father} I've been a believer for a very long time, but still struggle with the concept of God as loving Father. Mainly due to my upbringing. How do I overcome this? The doubt is overwhelming.16. 57:50 {Clashing Translations?} In 1 Corinthians 7, whom do verses 36-38 address? Some versions add "daughter," implying fathers, but ESV, in using "his betrothed" and "his passions" seem to indicate a groom.17. 1:01:44 {How to Witness to an Angry Person} My friend has left Christianity. His family is a bit extreme and aggressive with their faith, and he says they are what pushed him away from his. If I try to talk with him, he gets angry. What can I do?18. 1:04:31 {How to Tell if a Sermon is Biblical} How does one recogniz...

Nov 5, 20211h 13m

Ep 589The Jehovah's Witnesses Religion Quickly Explained and Refuted

This is one of several clips I will be uploading from a collab I did with Allen Parr, evaluating a few different religious groups in light of biblical Christianity. Subscribe to my channel to get notified when the other videos in this series go up. If you enjoyed this, you will probably enjoy a lot of the content that Allen Parr has. Here is his channel. I recommend you check it out:https://www.youtube.com/user/thebeatagp Tips on how to practically reach JWs with the gospel of Christ: https://youtu.be/0bpu7hDoWOQ Why Jehovah's Witnesses are wrong about blood transfusions: https://youtu.be/3QJhSEbxF4o JWs teaching on the resurrection of Christ as well as the second coming is examined and refuted in this video:https://youtu.be/t79qwFwj6g4 My interview with former JWs:https://youtu.be/OVWKWq8Sj2I JWs are taught that Jesus died on a stake, not a cross. This video gives tons of evidence supporting the cross:https://youtu.be/RS2ytQahPSE My longer video on JW beliefs, practices, and errors: https://youtu.be/lE5KQHf8fX0 My website. Tons of free, searchable content helping you learn to think biblically about everything:https://BibleThinker.org

Nov 1, 202118 min