Bible E-Course 5E - Parables

Why did Jesus preach in parables? It’s because people really don’t want the truth.

“All of them have stubborn minds! They refuse to listen; they cover their eyes. They cannot see or hear or understand. If they could, they would turn to me, and I would heal them.” (Matthew 13:15 CEV)

Shepherds

We can learn many important spiritual lessons from Jesus’ farm parables.

“Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were troubled and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matthew 9:36 CEB)

Pastor means shepherd. The ideal political and church leader is pictured as a caring shepherd (Psalm 23; Isaiah 40:11; Jeremiah 3:15; 23:4; Ezekiel 34:23-24; John 10:1-16; 1 Peter 5:1-4). People are burdened by leaders with vain traditions and bad ideas, weighed down in ignorance, neglected and scattered abroad without care and attention.

An urgent task in the church is still to seek and care for lost sheep and bring them into the kingdom.

Seed

The Parable of the Sower reveals four possibilities for the word of the kingdom.

“A farmer went out to scatter seed.” (Matthew 13:3b CEB)

Jesus spoke of sowing the word of the kingdom like an indiscriminate seed sower. There is no target audience. The seed of the kingdom is sown with wild abandon, like spreading the Gospel with faith instead of formulas.

Wheat and Weeds

A man planted wheat.

“but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away.” (Matthew 13:25 ESV)

The church has done much good in the world, like schools, universities, medical care, music, arts, literature, science, human rights, opposing human trafficking, influencing laws, providing orphanages, and caring for the hungry and poor. But the weeds of sin also exist in the church.

God’s sovereign decision is that we may choose (Deuteronomy 30:19; Joshua 24:15; Proverbs 1:29-33; Matthew 7:7-8; Revelation 3:20). God wants children who love Him by choice, not robots. What will happen to the weeds within the church who choose sin?

“So just as the weeds are gathered up and burned with fire, so shall it be at the end of the age.” (Matthew 13:40 NASB)

Jesus attests to judgment and hell more than anybody else. Heretics may deny it, and lenient people may think it harsh, but a loving God will not tolerate lawlessness for eternity.

Righteousness for Christians is by faith in forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Let’s pray for God’s forgiveness and focus on the day when the righteous will shine like the sun.

Mustard Seed

“Another parable He put forth to them, saying: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field, which indeed is the least of all the seeds; but when it is grown it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches.’ ” (Matthew 13:31-32 NKJV)

Exclusive small sects that think they are still that “little flock” (Luke 12:32), totally miss the point of this parable. The “least of all the seeds” is conversational speech, an informal superlative. Jesus’ frequently taught with imagery and hyperbole.

Leaven

“Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.” (Matthew 13:33 KJV)

Leaven spreads. Is it the kingdom growing or sin inside the kingdom? Both seem to be relevant, but this is a parable about the kingdom growing. It’s growing even though the church is so very imperfect.

Hidden Treasure

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” (Matthew 13:44 NIV)

The most valuable treasure of all is in this world but buried. Would we be willing to sell everything for the kingdom of heaven?

Priceless Pearl

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” (Matthew 13:45-46 NKJV)

The buried treasure was found by accident. The pearl was found by someone searching. Both men sold all that they had.

Fishing Net

“Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a fishing net that was thrown into the water and caught fish of every kind. When the net was full, they dragged it up onto the shore, sat down, and sorted the good fish into crates, but threw the bad ones away.” (Matthew 13:47-48 NLT)

Trawlers separate their catch. Many moderns don’t like to hear about hell, but Jesus does not shy away from it. Angels will only confirm what we have already chosen, to avoid God or be near Him. Hell is separation from God. Don’t choose distance from God or neglect salvation.

“There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” (Matthew 13:42 WEB)

Householder

“So he told them, ‘Every student of the Scriptures who becomes a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like someone who brings out new and old treasures from the storeroom.’ ” (Matthew 13:51-52 CEV)

Earthly treasures will all fade, but the new and old treasures of the kingdom of heaven are forever. Do we count the kingdom of heaven as our greatest treasure?

Virgins

Part of being ready for His coming is to have oil in our lamps.

“For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them, but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps.” (Matthew 25:3-4 (ESV)

Perhaps this is the oil of gladness (Psalm 45:7) and the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:38). Definitely a form of spiritual preparedness is mandatory and that always involves the Holy Spirit.

Talents

What does God expect us to do with what Heaven has given us? Why hasn’t God given to us all equally? The kingdom of heaven is like various heavenly investments.

“And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.” (Matthew 25:15 KJV)

Let’s not bury heaven’s investment in us, but work diligently to increase its kingdom value.

Sheep and Goats

It may not be politically correct, but God expects us to love our neighbor who is needy, a foreigner, someone in need of health care or in prison for crimes committed.

“For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger [literally, foreigner], and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.“ (Matthew 25:35-36 NASB)

What will happen to those who fail this modern political test?

“... they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” (Matthew 25:46 NIV)

God’s reign is growing large, giving everyone a chance, gathering good and bad, leaven, hidden, priceless, new and old treasures. Will you have a change of heart and mind and believe the good news of God’s reign? You decide!

Bible E-Course 5D - Jesus' Commands

The Ten Commandments are important, but are we aware of the commandments of Christ? Let’s look at some of Jesus’ commands in the Gospel of Matthew.

Repent

What was an important focus of Jesus’ preaching?

“From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ ” (Matthew 4:17 ESV)

Our English word repent translates words meaning a change of heart and mind, to feel sorrow, and to turn back. There must also be proof or fruit of repentance in action (Matthew 3:8; Acts 26:20; Revelation 2:5; 2:21-22; 9:20-21; 16:9-11). Repentance includes a change of direction in two areas:

1. turning from evil (2 Chronicles 7:14; Ezekiel 18:21; James 5:20) and

2. turning to God (Deuteronomy 4:30; 30:10; 2 Chronicles 15:4; Luke 1:16; Acts 14:15; 15:19; 26:18-20; 1 Thessalonians 1:9).

The Law

Did Jesus abolish the law?

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.” (Matthew 5:17-18 ESV)

Does the letter of the law apply to Christians or the spirit of the law (Romans 2:29; 7:6; 2 Corinthians 3:4-6)?

Reconciliation

How should we keep the peace?

“... First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court.” (Matthew 5:24-25 NIV)

Reconciliation is the goal, though it may not always be possible. In some circumstances, we just have to walk away and wipe the dust off our feet (Matthew 10:14; Mark 6:11; Luke 9:5; Acts 13:51).

Lust

Making a point by exaggeration, how did Jesus want us to avoid lust?

“If your right eye causes you to sin, poke it out and throw it away. It is better to lose one part of your body, than for your whole body to end up in hell. If your right hand causes you to sin, chop it off and throw it away! It is better to lose one part of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.” (Matthew 5:29-30 CEV)

Literal self-mutilation would be against God’s will (Leviticus 19:28; Deuteronomy 14:1; Mark 5:2–5; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Philippians 3:2). Jesus often uses hyperbolic or exaggerated teaching for emphasis. Here Jesus reminds us to take drastic action so as not to look or touch if it leads to adulterous thoughts.

Oaths

Should Christians make silly oaths?

“When you make a promise, say only ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’ Anything else comes from the devil.” (Matthew 5:37 CEV)

Saying some mumbo jumbo, raising your right hand, swearing on a Bible or on your mother’s grave is all just superstitious leverage. Though we may be required by man’s law to do these things, Christians know that in reality they do nothing to guarantee the truth. Jesus encourages us to simply say yes or no without resorting to silly oaths.

Enemies

How should Christians deal with enemies?

“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44 KJV).

What do we do if an enemy is coming over the hill to rape and murder our families? Is there a just war? That debate has gone on for a long time.

Perfection

What should a Christian seek?

“Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48 WEB)

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.” (Matthew 6:33 NASB)

Perfection is the goal, and we all fall far short of it. We still need Jesus.

Judgmentalism

Should Christians be judgmental?

“Do not judge [censure], or you too will be judged.” (Matthew 7:1 NIV)

Does not being judgmental mean that we should be naïve without discernment?

“Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces.” (Matthew 7:6 NKJV)

“Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves.” (Matthew 7:15 NLT)

We need to know who dogs, swine and false prophets are so that we can take appropriate action. Judgmentalism is never appropriate. Not sharing holy things with those who will reject them with disdain and being aware of pretenders are necessary.

Ask, Seek, Knock

Should we persist in prayer?

“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7 NLT)

Golden Rule

What is the golden rule?

“Treat others as you want them to treat you. This is what the Law and the Prophets are all about.” (Matthew 7:12 CEV)

How does that relate to little ones?

“See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10 NIV)

Offenses

How do we handle serious offenses?

“Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother.” (Matthew 18:15 NKJV)

This is for serious infractions and does not encourage being nit-pickers, constantly nagging others. Instead we should patiently bear with one another (Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 3:13). How often?

“Then Peter came and said to him, ‘Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Until seven times?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I don’t tell you until seven times, but, until seventy times seven.’ ” (Matthew 18:21-22 WEB)

Poor

How should Christians treat poor neighbors?

“Whenever you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers, your relatives, nor wealthy neighbors, otherwise they may also invite you to a meal in return, and that will be your repayment. But whenever you give a banquet, invite people who are poor, who have disabilities, who are limping, and people who are blind; and you will be blessed, since they do not have the means to repay you; for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” (Luke 14:12b-14 NASB)

Love

What are our priorities in love?

Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.” (Matthew 22:37-38 NIV)

“And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” (Matthew 22:39 NKJV)

Some Christians love God but not their neighbor. They ignore the needy, the sick, hate foreigners (Matthew 25:31-46) and are goats bound for hell. Some Christians love their neighbor but not God, encouraging sins that God forbids. Like Ephesus they have left their first love (Revelation 2:4). Jesus commands both.

Watchfulness

Are we ready for Christ’s coming?

“So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming. Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.” (Matthew 24:42-44 NLT)

Keep watch means we are spiritually ready at any moment for Christ to come.

 
Great Commission

What is our mission?

“ ‘Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ Amen.” (Matthew 28:19-20 WEB)

These mandates are just some of Jesus’ commandments. There are more. Will you have a change of heart and mind, turning from sin to God, and believe the good news of God’s reign? You decide!

Bible E-Course 5C - Jesus and the Law

Jesus condemned whoever sets aside the least of God’s commands. Let’s examine Jesus’ commentary on the law in the sermon on the mount and understand the spirit of the law.

You ARE Salt and Light

“You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its saltiness, how will it become salty again? It’s good for nothing except to be thrown away and trampled under people’s feet. You are the light of the world. A city on top of a hill can’t be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they put it on top of a lampstand, and it shines on all who are in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before people, so they can see the good things you do and praise your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13-16 CEB)

Jesus said, his disciples ARE salt and light of the world. Let’s be what we already are. Salt preserves and tastes good. Light brightens a dark planet and doesn’t hide. What must be seen? Our good deeds must be seen and our motive must be to glorify God, not ourselves. We can SAY that we have faith, but faith without works is dead (James 2:26).

Law not Abolished

“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:17-20 KJV)

The law and prophets means the Old Testament. Have heaven and earth passed away? There are more ancient copies of the Bible than any other book in history, making it the most reliable ancient document in existence. The Bible is the most historically accurate document in human history.

Jesus endorses the entire Old Testament, including all 613 commandments. Jesus taught how Christians obey the law better than the Pharisees did, in the spirit.

The letter of the law kills (2 Corinthians 3:6) and there is a righteousness by faith (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4:3, 9; James 2:23). For example, circumcision is not of the flesh but the heart (Romans 2:29) and love fulfills the whole law (Romans 13:8-10; Galatians 5:14).

The letter of the law is legalism. The spirit of the law is love. The law teaches us much, but it is only a shadow of things to come. The cross is the reality. Love in action fulfills the law, all of it.

Let’s begin to understand some details of this as the law’s author instructs us.

Murder

“... I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be answerable to the court; and whoever says to his brother, ‘You good-for-nothing,’ shall be answerable to the supreme court; and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell.” (Matthew 5:22 NASB)

Jesus angrily turned over the money-changers’ tables (Matthew 21:12-13), and was angry with the Pharisees’ hard hearts (Mark 3:1-5) without sin (Ephesians 4:26-27). Unrighteous anger (Proverbs 15:18) is discerned by what comes out of our mouths, lies, false accusation, hateful words, verbal abuse. The opposite of murder is to reconcile or settle matters.

Adultery

“... I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” (Matthew 5:28 NIV)

The letter of a law leaves loopholes. Jesus addressed the spirit of the law. Lust can lead to adultery. Exaggerating to make the point, Jesus suggested self-mutilation, a sin. He meant: take drastic steps to avoid adultery.

What about divorce? Jesus’ exception is sexual immorality of any kind and later inspired Paul to add, if the unbeliever departs (1 Corinthians 7:15-17). The general principle is: easy divorce is not God’s way.

Bearing False Witness

Foolish and superstitious oaths don’t guarantee truth. Simply answer yes or no.

“Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’ Anything beyond this is from the evil one.” (Matthew 5:37 NLT)

Ever felt like you are never good enough? Let’s face it! We’ve all been verbally abusive, lustful and broken promises. But it doesn’t end there. Take it to God. It’s over, forgiven! Don’t live in the failures of the past, but in the forgiven life of the people of Christ.

Religious Exhibitionism

Let’s explore our motives in public acts. Jesus said to let our light shine so that others may see our good deeds and glorify God (Matthew 5:16), but then he said,

“Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 6:1 NKJV)

Is there a contradiction? The key is our motive. Is our purpose to show off or give God the glory? He said the same about prayer and fasting.

Model Prayer

There is absolutely nothing wrong with praying the Lord’s Prayer by rote, as long as we are sincere and realize that it is a model covering topics for deeper personal prayer. Let’s not forget Jesus’ instructions:

“Therefore, you should pray like this… “ (Matthew 6:9a HCSB)

Wealth

Society worships wealth. Jesus taught the opposite, to give to the needy, pay generous wages, and make fair business deals. Do we use money as a tool for good, or do we worship it as an idol?

“You can’t serve both God and Mammon.” (Matthew 6:24b WEB)

If we tend to worry about finances, let’s learn to be inspired by God’s amazing provision for birds and flowers.

“Look at the birds of the sky… Learn how the wildflowers of the field grow…” (Matthew 6:26-28 HCSB)

What should our number one priority be?

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33 NKJV)

Rest

Where can we find true rest for our souls? Do we find true rest on a letter-of-the-law Sabbath day, in a literal promised land, or in Jesus and in eternity? Let’s look at the only rest command in the entire New Testament.

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29 NKJV)

Our permanent Sabbath rest is in Jesus in our eternal promised land (Hebrews 3-4). Letter of the law Sabbath-keeping people under Moses and Joshua did not enter true rest. We enter a true Sabbath rest through believing.

“Only people who have faith will enter the place of rest. It is just as the Scriptures say, ‘God became angry and told the people, “You will never enter my place of rest!” ’ God said this, even though everything has been ready from the time of creation.” (Hebrews 4:3 CEV).

So, a rest remains even for Sabbath-keeping people (Hebrews 4:9). A day off is a good thing, but only Jesus can give what a day of rest cannot.

Jesus teaches us to apply every jot and tittle of the law in spirit, because the letter kills, but the spirit gives life (2 Corinthians 3:6). Will you have a change of heart and mind and believe the good news of God’s reign? You decide!

Bible E-Course 5B - Lasting Happiness

What are the secrets of happiness, not just fleeting merrymaking, but that true, permanent happiness, called blessedness? They are not really so secret, but found in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5).

Poor in Spirit

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3 ESV)

Poor people are dispossessed, abandoned, with a deep sense that the world has failed them. Material wealth deceives many into thinking that they are more important than the “little people.” Yet, in reality we are all “wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” (Revelation 3:17b NASB). Acknowledging this, we are more likely to seek the true gold and pure clothing from heaven.

Mourning

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4 NASB)

Mourning is part of repentance. Mourning our own sins and the sins of the world is good. It prepares a heart for change. Fasting is associated with mourning, humbling ourselves before God (James 4:7-10; Isaiah 58). Mourning means there is hope for better decisions next time. If we don’t mourn our sins, we will never change and find comfort. So yes, those that mourn will be comforted.

 
Meekness

“Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5 KJV)

Who is more likely to be favored, the arrogant misfit or the humble team player? Humble people are good company. Gentle people are loved by all and inherit the land while spineless bullies will be long forgotten.

 
Righteousness

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” (Matthew 5:6 NIV)

Jesus promises that if we crave justice and what is right, we will be filled. There is an emptiness that can only be filled by righteousness. Wrong produces pleasure for a night, a headache tomorrow and grinding burdens for life. The secret is that righteousness may be difficult, but it leaves unspoiled happiness for this life and the next.

Mercy

“Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy.” (Matthew 5:7 NKJV)

Lack of mercy creates a police-state like atmosphere of secrecy and distrust. Mercy creates an atmosphere of trust, warm and affirming. Without mercy, we tend to cover up problems and leave them unresolved. In an atmosphere of mercy, we are not afraid to admit mistakes and then they can be worked on.

Pure-Heartedness

“God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God.” (Matthew 5:8 NLT)

This is not naïvety but innocence, a motivation to do good without pretense, to carry no malice or dishonesty in our hearts. The pure hearted look for God in everything and thus see Him.

Peacemakers

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9 WEB)

Peacemakers bring a measure of calm. Jesus said blessed are the peace-MAKERS, not the peace-attempters. Pride may prevent making peace, but necessity demands it. Living in freedom must also include freedom from strife and warfare. Peace does not just happen. It has to be made.

 
Persecution for Righteousness

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12 ESV)

Persecution can be mild harassment or life threatening. A quarter of Christians suffer severe mistreatment worldwide. Persecution is a badge of honor. It confirms that we are on God’s side. The opposite is also true. If everyone loves us, maybe we are doing something wrong. When harassment comes because we did right, it is a blessing.

The Beatitudes are the opposite of worldly thinking. Heavenly thinking brings blessings. Will you have a change of heart and mind and believe the good news of God’s reign? You decide!

Bible E-Course 5A - Preparation for Jesus

Let’s look at the New Testament book of Matthew, which contains the best commentary about the law of Moses, and its application in the spirit for Christians.

First, let’s understand the circumstances of Jesus' birth and John the Baptist’s preparatory ministry.

Names

Names used to be important for their meaning.

“She will give birth to a son, and you will call him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21 CEB)

Jesus’ name means “YHWH (the Lord) saves.” His name is the hope of the whole world (Matthew 12:15-21).

Another name for Jesus is Immanuel, which too has an important meaning.

“ ‘A virgin will have a baby boy, and he will be called Immanuel,’ which means ‘God is with us.’ ” (Matthew 1:23 CEV)

Jesus is the cornerstone of Christianity, His birth, resurrection, salvation, divinity and humanity.

Perpetual Virginity?

Joseph married a virgin.

“But he didn’t have sexual relations with her until she gave birth to a son. Joseph called him Jesus.” (Matthew 1:25 CEB)

Was Mary a Perpetual Virgin? If she was, the word “until” is pointless. A plain reading of the New Testament clearly shows that Jesus had siblings (Mark 6:3; Matthew 13:55; John 7:3; Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5). Some claim they were cousins, but the Greek word for cousins was not used. A prophecy of Jesus plainly states that “my brothers” are “my mother’s sons.”

“I have become estranged from my brothers, And a stranger to my mother’s sons.” (Psalm 69:8 NASB)

Why insist that Mary was a perpetual virgin? Why make it a central dogma when neither Jesus nor the Apostles do so anywhere in the Bible?

John

How did John the Baptist prepare for our Savior? John the Baptist preached a public announcement to prepare. How?

“In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’ This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: ‘A voice of one calling in the wilderness, “Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.” ’ ” (Matthew 3:1-3 NIV)

Repentance is a change of heart but that’s just where it begins. True repentance also is proven by action, fruit.

“Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God.” (Matthew 3:8 NLT)

John the Baptist told the Pharisees to show the fruit of a changed lifestyle. One such fruit is how we treat others.

Fire

John spoke about hell but Jesus spoke more about hell than anyone else in the entire Bible.

“I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clean out His threshing floor, and gather His wheat into the barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” (Matthew 3:11-12 NKJV)

Baptism of fire has two possible meanings: the tongues of fire on the faithful at Pentecost (Acts 2) and the unrepentant baptized or immersed in a lake of fire. The context seems to indicate that John meant hell here.

Should we seek preaching about smooth things that tickle our ears, church traditions that neither Jesus nor the Apostles thought were important enough to even mention, or stay with the New Testament message of repentance and faith? Repentance begins as a change of heart and mind but reveals itself in a life turned from sin and to God. Will you repent and believe the good news of God’s reign? You decide!