• This section lists questions and topics that have come up in dialog with Skeptics and Seekers.

Dear Arwensmallelf,

Thank you for your question.

Jesus' forgiveness is provided to you IF you come into relationship with God through the Gospel. See below...


The Essence of Christianity (the gospel):

All of us have fallen short of the beauty-of-character that God wants for his children. (Romans 3:23).

Because of sin we are separated from God. (Romans 6:23)

God loves you so much that Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay for your sins.

If you commit your life to Christ based on this, you can be in relationship with God today, and in the life to come... (John
3:16)

God invites you to join his family. Will you open the door (of your heart) and invite Jesus in? (Revelation 3:20)

If you are interested in evidence for the existence of God, see here.

If you are interested in God's purpose in creating our Universe, here.

Cordially,
John

Dear Anthony,

Thank you for your question. In response…

No human being would have the power to stop Jesus (even if they went back in time).

Jesus voluntariy died on the cross to make reconciliation between you (and me) and God possible. This was part of God's plan in creating the universe.

For a brief overview of why God created the universe and the Christian gospel, see
here.

Cordially,
John

Dear Vstrelyuk,

Thank you for your question.

Easter -- is a Christian celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ (described in the New Testament in the Bible).

Passover -- is a Jewish feast that celebrates the Angel of Death "passing over" the Jewish homes (protected by God) during the 10th plague against the Egyptian Pharoah who was holding the Jews as slaves in Egypt. This is described in the Old
Testament in the book of Exodus in the Bible.

Jesus was Jewish. He celebrated the Passover with his disciples shortly before he died. He was crucified, died, and was buried in a tomb. On the third day he rose again (came back to life) and he was seen alive by more than 500 people, for a period of about 40 days, before he went up to Heaven.

Cordially,
John

When I stop and think about it, didn't man create the first religions? Didn't man establish the first reigning gods? Didn't man dethrone some (Zeus,Jupiter,etc)and put new ones in the throne? (jesus,YahWeh,etc) Isn't it man who fights and conquers others in order to give power to their respective god? Is not man the one who has shaped the Earth and created many things out of it? Is he not the one with the power to giveth and taketh away? Can he not choose to destroy the Earth? I believe gods and religions are mere tools of man: the true creator. He who rose out of nothingness and shaped the face of the Earth and its creatures.

Dear Forsaken13,

On the contrary, my friend.

There is evidence for the existence of God (as an intelligence that created our entire universe and created human beings).

See here for examples of such evidence.

And there is evidence for the truth of Jesus Christ. See here for examples of such evidence.

Wishing you Joy through Jesus Christ,
John

What is your defination of success in life?

Dear Vafa,

Thank you for your question. In response, my definition of success in life is…

To be content with what I have, and with whatever situation I am in, while living in daily relationship with the God of the
Universe (through Jesus Christ and what he did for me on the cross).

Cordially,
John

Dear Ammok,

I must say that the kind of behavior you describe above does not match my experience with any Christians of any kind through the years.

Having said that…

On behalf of Jesus Christ, I ask your forgiveness for such actions by any individuals who call themselves Christian.

Such behavior is not consistent with the teachings of Jesus Christ.

I have personally found true Christians to be some of the kindest and most loving people I have come across.

Kindness and love is consistent with what Jesus Christ teaches in the New Testament.

Wishing you Peace and Joy through Jesus Christ,
John

Dear Anonymous,

There is no shame in acknowledging that you are a virgin.

You can tell such guys that you intend to stay a virgin until you are married and this is pleasing to God (and you care more about what God thinks than what they think).

Cordially,
John

Dear Anonymous,

I would say that the most inspiring and amazing person alive today is…

Jesus Christ.

Yes he is alive today.

If you are interested in more info about Jesus Christ,
see here...

Cordially,
John

Dear Pacificwaves8,

My favorite scripture on how to be a better person is…

Psalm 1


1. Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.
   
2. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.
   
3. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.
   
4. Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away.
   
5. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
   
6. For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. " (NIV)
   

Why? Because the entire Psalm can easily be memorized and is excellent advice...

However ultimately it is daily relationship with Jesus Christ that helps us to become a better person. For details of how to come into relationship with God, see here.

Cordially,
John

Dear Happybg3,

On the contrary, my friend.

There is evidence for the existence of God (as an intelligence that created our entire universe and created human beings). See here for examples of such evidence.

And there is evidence for the truth of Jesus Christ. See here for examples of such evidence.

Wishing you Peace and Joy through Jesus Christ,
John

Am a recovering catholic..have a son and contemplating baptism (my family)..good point they make.."give your son a religion and let him decide down the line if he wants to continue to believe, but at least give him something to believe in"..i am still trying to figure it out..i like the teachings of buddha, but also the bible has some really good stories to believe in.. i would like a religion that allows questions and dialogue..exchange of ideas and debate...also the service must be energtic and full of life and song..not monotone and repetive (as the catholic ones are..no offense, but i went to mass for 18 years of my life)... any ideas what that can be?? protestant, lutherian, baptist, presbyterian...any leads would help...

Dear Sol,

In answer to your question… I would recommend a non-denominational Evangelical church.

Examples include churches that have the words "Community Church", "Evangelical Church", "Bible Church", "Christian Church" in their name. You can also check out Baptist churches.

The Lutheran and Presbyterian churches are also ok, but would be somewhat more like what you have experienced in the Catholic church (in terms of slower, less energetic church services; though there are likely to be some individual Lutheran and Presbyterian churches that are more energetic in their services).

Cordially,
John

Dear Scott,

Thank you for your question.

My understanding of God's will arises from my reading and studying the Bible.

The more I immerse myself in reading and studying the Bible, and in prayer and Christian meditation, the more my thoughts and decisions are in line with what God wants from us.

On many occasions I have experienced the presence and Peace of God. I have also at times experienced the appearing of thoughts/ information in my head, as you mention, like a conversation... However I always check to make sure that any such information is consistent with what God has said in the Bible -- because the Bible indicates that such thoughts in my head can arise from (a) myself, (b) God, or (c) other spirit beings, and we are told to "test the spirits", and to not automatically trust every thought we have.

If you are interested in more information about Christian Prayer, see here.

Wishing you Joy through Jesus Christ,
John

Dear Anonymous,

The Bible teaches us that all humans are created in the image of God... as a result, all human beings are equal in the sight of God (and should be equal in the sight of human beings as well).

It is based on this Christian teaching (the equality of all races before God) that the Abolitionist movement (which worked against Slavery) was based... and it was on the basis of this Christian teaching that Slavery was ultimately stopped in much of the world.

Having said that... you will find good people and bad people among all races. And we are ALL sinners (in the sense that we rebel against God at various times) and so we all need a Savior (Jesus Christ) no matter what race we are.

If you are interested in more information about this, see here.

Cordially,
John

Dear Anonymous,

Jesus said this to Mary, his mother on earth.

And Jesus was referring to His disciple John (who later wrote the gospel of John, and the letters 1,2,3 John and the book of Revelation).

If you are interested in more information about Jesus, see here.

Cordially,
John

Dear Anonymous,

Not really.

Jesus is presented as being Jewish in the New Testament. And more than a Billion people around the world now look up to this Jewish Messiah.

And most of disciples and apostles of Yeshua the Messiah (Jesus Christ) who God led to write the New Testament books) were Jews as well.

For instance, the following New Testament writers were Jews:



1. Matthew (Jewish disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of Matthew)

2. Mark (disciple of Peter, who was a disciple of Simon Peter, a Jewish disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of Mark).

3. John (Jewish disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of John; 1,2,3 John, Revelation)

4. Paul (Jewish Apostle of Jesus; wrote Romans, 1,2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, 1,2 Thessalonians, 1,2
Timothy, Titus, Philemon)

5. Barnabas (Jewish follower of Jesus; wrote book of Hebrews)

6. James (Jewish apostle of Jesus; wrote book of James)

7. Peter (Jewish Disciple of Jesus; wrote 1,2 Peter)

If you are interested in more information about the Jewish Messiah, Yeshua (Jesus), see here.

Cordially,
John

Dear Anonymous,

Good point… :)

Yes, Jesus was Jewish.

It is interesting to note that most of the disciples and apostles of Jesus Christ (who God led to write the New Testament books) were Jews as well.

For instance, the following New Testament writers were Jews:
1. Matthew (Jewish disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of Matthew)

2. Mark (disciple of Peter, who was a disciple of Simon Peter, a Jewish disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of Mark).

3. John (Jewish disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of John; 1,2,3 John, Revelation)

4. Paul (Jewish Apostle of Jesus; wrote Romans, 1,2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, 1,2 Thessalonians, 1,2
Timothy, Titus, Philemon)

5. Barnabas (Jewish follower of Jesus; wrote book of Hebrews)

6. James (Jewish apostle of Jesus; wrote book of James)

7. Peter (Jewish Disciple of Jesus; wrote 1,2 Peter)

If you are interested in more information about Jesus (the Jewish Messiah), see here.

Cordially,
John

Agree or disagree?

Dear Anonymous,

Intelligent design was not formulated just to counter the Theory of Evolution.

What is Intelligent Design?


Intelligent Design Theory provides a scientific methodology to identify the activity of an Intelligent Designer.

This methodology works extremely well when applied to artifacts in the fields of (a) archeology, (b) forensics, (c) cryptography, (d) anthropology, (e) reverse engineering etc.

Furthermore, the SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) program is founded on this methodology.

Interestingly when the same methodology is applied to Microbiology, evidence is seen for Intelligent Design.

This inference (to Intelligent Design) is acceptable to the vast majority of human beings.

The inference is however opposed by individuals who have a strong prior commitment to Atheism and/or Metaphysical Naturalism.

For more detail see here.

Religion and Science can be mutually complementary (Science is founded on Faith; and so is Atheism/ naturalism; and so is Theism). All of these world-views have a certain amount of faith within them. So Religion and Science should be kept separate or allowed to merge depending on where the evidence points (rather than as a mandatory presuppositional paradigm). Those of us who are really interested in Truth would look for nothing else.

Cordially,
John

Dear Anonymous,

I am a Christian Theist.

No justifications provided, but if you are interested, see here for discussion of why it is rational to believe in God (and in the Christian God).

Cordially,
John

I find that people misunderstand sincere Christians intentions. I only want what's best for people. And Jesus is the best. I want people to go to heaven. I don't push people to change and rarely say anything. If UI am asked, I take the opportunity, it is my duty and hearts desire to share it with them. I only want them to find the true happiness and peace available. I want to see them in heaven. It hurts me to see the turmoil in the world. Yet people seem to think Christians think they are evil. I only have termendous love for them. Anyone else find that others are angry at Christians?

Dear ChristianA,

Very well put... I too find that Christians are often misunderstood (and stereotyped by many individuals who dont like
Christians).

Often people do not understand why Christians share the gospel with others (and are offended by the seeming arrogance of this)... It helps for us to explain kindly to others why we share our Faith (see here for an example of such a response)...

Grace and Peace to you,
John

The other day I ran into an old friend. She seemed really down and shared many problems with me. I want to witness to her, but not come on too strong. I want her to find peace and happiness in Jesus as He is the only answer. What would a good approach be?

Dear Lovesalljesus,

I would recommend the following…

Spend time with your friend, focusing on listening to her and letting her share her problems with you. Show her that you care. And that you empathize with her pain/ difficulties.

And as opportunity arises share with her how you have experienced peace and happiness in similar situations when you relied on Jesus.

In such situations I share how Philippians 4:6-7 has helped me (and how when I am anxious, praying through the Lord's Prayer with my thoughts focused on God; and reciting Psalm 23, again with my thoughts focused on God; -- have enabled me to experience Peace and Happiness from God).

And if your friend has other questions about Christianity, refer her to a good Christian website which answers questions, such as here.

Grace and Peace to you,
John

Dear Mcsit2002,

May you be blessed with Peace through the Prophet Issa (pbuh).

As you know, a true Muslim is one who is submitted to God.

Followers of the Prophet Issa (pbuh) are submitted to God through the teachings of the Prophet Issa (pbuh).


I invite you to obtain a copy of the Injil and read it to see the life and message of the Prophet Issa (pbuh). He was blessed by God with the truth, and he can teach you through the Injil how to live your life toaday so that God will help you in the world and bestow life in Heaven hereafter upon you.

If you would like a copy of the Injil in Arabic, see here. The Injil is also available in Urdu, if you prefer to read it in Urdu.

Peace to you and your family.

Is there any one out there believes in God!?

Dear Religon,

I believe in God... I used to be an atheist but have grown convinced of the reality of the Christian God.

Why?

Because of the combination of intellectual evidence and experiential evidence in my life.

For examples of scientific & intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see here.


Wishing you Peace and Joy through Jesus Christ,
John

You people question nothing over what you believe you know... I'm so tierd of hearing what god DID... What is he doing right NOW. NOTHING!!! How long have you people been waiting for Christs return? Brothers and Sisters God has forgotten about ALL of you.

Dear Anonymous,

On the contrary, many Christians have come to faith in Christ through the process of questioning what they (and humans at large) know.

E.g., see here for examples of questions that some of us have pondered... (and in my case, come to a Theistic conclusion as a result).

Regarding the 2nd coming of Christ: He will return when the time is right. And no, he has not forgotten us (I have had many prayers answered by the Christian God, and so have many other Christians).

Wishing you Peace and Joy through Jesus Christ,
John

Do you believe in a higher power of any sort? Yes or No?

Dear Robot_lords,

I believe in the Christian God
(as in here).

Cordially,
John

Why do atheists always flock to questions regarding religion? If I didn't believe in something, I think I would go elsewhere.

Dear BrianL,

Thank you for your question.

I think some atheists like the challenge of arguing against Christians.

I think some atheists are honestly puzzled at how people can believe things they (the atheists) consider stupid.

And I think some atheists are really "hopeful theists" (hoping in some sense that they will find that there is a God).

For such atheists, there is evidence for the existence of God. See here for instance.

Cordially,
John

How do I forgive someone?

Dear Pacificwaves.rm,

As a Christian I depend on God to help me to forgive others. I pray to God and turn over the issue to Him, tell him that I am hurt by what the other person did, and I ask for God's help to help me to forgive the other person, and to move on past this issue.

This has helped me in the past.

When anger or hurt comes back, I repeat Philippians 4:6-7 (which is God's promise of Peace through Jesus Christ), and the Lord's prayer while focusing my mind on God. These help me to let go of the hurt and anger.

Wishing you Peace and Love through Jesus Christ,
John

I grew up in an agnostic house and the idea of God is totally foreign to me, But I dont understand how people believe in all those stories from the bible, dont they sound kind of unrealistic and riciculous to people?

Dear Ricardoph,

I believe in God... I used to be an atheist but have grown convinced of the reality of the Christian God.

Why?

Because of the combination of intellectual evidence and experiential evidence in my life.

For examples of scientific & intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see here.

When you say that stories in the Bible sound unrealistic and ridiculous, you appear to be referring to the miracles in the Bible.

Given the evidence for the existence of God (see link above), it is rational to infer that God exists.

And given the existence of God, it is rational to infer that miracles are possible. After all, given that there is a God who created our entire universe, parting the Red Sea would not be a difficult feat for him.

Wishing you Peace and Joy through Jesus Christ,
John

Muslims believe in God, but call him Allah. How is this God different from the christian God? Isn't it just a different name because of their different foundation language?

Dear MakeMePurr,

Thank you for your question.

The Muslim God is not the same as the Christian God.

For instance, see the following articles for discussion of the Muslim God and the Christian God.

1. here
2. here
3. From ThatGuy:

Many people will never hear of Jesus. . .?

Suppose someone has lived their entire life and died without having ever met a Christian (it may be possible even today). Do you feel they will be condemned for being born in the wrong place? Similarly, millions of people died centuries before Christ's birth. What of their souls?


---

Dear ThatGuy,

People who never hear of Jesus will be judged by God based on their response to the light they were given.

God has given ALL human beings (a) the evidence of the universe -- i.e., appearance of design in the universe, (b) the conscience and the common core of moral law, (c) a God-shaped vacuum in our hearts...

Each of us responds to these items (above) in different ways. Some people come up with rationalizations to avoid the inference to God. Others follow the evidence and seek God.

God then reveals himself to any person who seeks God with sincerity, humility and perseverance. For example, see (here) for examples of people from a variety of religions who sought God and ultimately came to Christ.

The bottom line is that people who never hear of Jesus will be judged by God based on their response to the light they were given. And this is true for people both before and after Christ's birth.

Cordially,
John

Why is I good gal and none like me?

Dear Gilysse,

God loves you.

In fact he loves you so much that he came to earth in the form of Jesus Christ, lived, died on the cross, and rose from the dead in order to make it possible for you to have a relationship with him (God).

If you are interested in more detail, see here for a description of God's purpose for our universe, for us human beings, and the core of how you can come into relationship with God.

Cordially,
John

Why can't we just follow ONE religion or just forget about it?
As religion is the initial of every war & terrorist acts.

Dear Mocham,

Thank you for your question.

There are many religions because God gives us free will to choose a religion. And different human beings choose different religions.

Given freedom of choice, we will never (humanly speaking) have all human beings choose to follow one religion.

I am afraid you are mistaken when you say that religion is the source of every war and terrorist act. There have been many wars and much suffering caused by Atheists in the name of Atheistic Governments (e.g., the Soviet Union, and various Atheistic Communist nations -- it is estimated that about 70-100 million people were killed by Atheist Governments, where Atheism was their official religion/ideology, in the 20th century).

Having said that, Jesus Christ came to earth to teach us to live in peace with one another.

For more information about the core of what Jesus came to give us, see here

Cordially,
John

Where do Christians get news?
Specifically, where do you get your news?

Dear Anthony,

I get my news from here
for Current-Event blogs...

And From Accessd_c14:

Why is Jesus and Marijuana in the same sentence BLASPHEMY!!!?

What's with all these bible thumpers getting all up in arms when a question about Marijuana and Jesus is asked? BLASPHEMY!!! they yell. Why wouldn't he use marijuana? It's just an herb that btw, GOD created, it's not man made. Marijuana actually helps in relieving pain and suffering, which is why Doctors use it for patients. Why is marijuana blasphemy when it comes to Jesus smoking? Help me understand this.

---

Dear Accessd_c14,

I dont consider it blasphemy for you to ask if Jesus would use Marijuana.

In answer to your question, I do not believe that he would use Marijuana, but he would hang out with pot-heads... :)

He came to save pot-heads the same as anyone else who is willing to come to God ...

Jesus' message is that we can come to God through what Jesus has done for us on the cross:
here

Cordially,
John

I've been ignoring the fact that my parents aren't together no more and not telling no one what I really felt about it. But now I don't know what to do it's kinda hard not to think about it but when I do I get real sad. What should I do?

Dear Happy,

It is natural to feel hurt by your parents divorce.

If you have a close friend that you trust, you could share your pain and grief and let her support you.

It is ok to cry as well. That can help take away some of the grief (the sense of betrayal, sense of loss, sense of shock, sense of instability, sense that something is now missing from your life)...

For me, as a Christian, when I hurt, I take it to God. I have memorized Philippians 4:6-7 in the New Testament. These verses are a promise from God for Peace of Mind when I turn to Him. I remind myself of these verses, recite them from memory, and pray for God to give me peace of mind as he has promised in those verses... And He does (every time).

Also I focus my mind on God, and pray for his Presence (in the name of Jesus Christ) and I recite the Lord's Prayer slowly (concentrating on each word, phrase, and meaning each word)... this helps take away the pain...

Also, I have memorized Psalm 23, and I do the same as above... I recite Psalm 23, while focusing my attention on God, and focusing on meaning each word I am saying...

And I pray for God to protect me and heal me of the pain.

These have all helped me in the past.

I pray that God will bless you with His presence and His Peace today.

Cordially,
John

I want to help my daughter out, but her children are so out of control! Fighting, screaming, climbing... Good grief! I thought MY three were bad! I had ANGELS! Ages are 2 seven year old girls, one 5 year old girl, one-three year old boy (and boy is he a boy! his name should have been dennis...)and last, an 11 month old boy trying to walk. I should have underlined 'trying'.HELP!?

I would recommend any of Dr. James Dobson's books on raising kids (for you and for your daughter -- it is important that both of you are on the same page when it comes to disciplining kids).

Relevant books by Dr. James Dobson:

1. The New Dare to Discipline by James Dobson (Paperback - Jun 1996)

2. The New Strong-Willed Child: Birth Through Adolescence by James Dobson (Hardcover - Jun 2004)

3. Temper Your Child's Tantrums (Pocket Guides) by James Dobson (Paperback - April 1986)

4. Discipline With Love by James Dobson (Paperback - Aug 1981)

5. Bringing Up Boys: Practical Advice and Encouragement for Those Shaping the Next Generation of Men by James C. Dobson (Hardcover - Oct 2001)

6. Parenting Isn't for Cowards : The 'You Can Do It' Guide for Hassled Parents from America's Best-Loved Family Advocate by James Dobson (Paperback - Jan 21, 2004)

Used copies of these books appear to be relatively inexpensive at www.Amazon.com

Cordially,
John
From renuka_oasis:

how to keep one self happy if he or she dont have any resaon of happiness i am 25 years old fuiiy depressed .? i dont have any detail to right.


---

Dear Renuka_oasis,

It is natural for people to feel depressed at times. However if you are depressed ALL the time, please do check with a doctor to ensure you dont have clinical depression (which may need treatment with appropriate prescription drugs).

If you have a close friend that you trust, you could speak of your loneliness and feelings of depression, and let her support you.

It is ok to cry as well. That can help take away some of the sense of depression (act as a catharsis)...

You could also volunteer and encourage another person or persons. In the process of helping others, you could be drawn out of your own depression.

Sometimes people feel depressed when they feel they have no hope or purpose in life.

Committing my life to Jesus Christ has given me hope for today and for the future and a sense of purpose in life (to live in daily relationship with God through what Jesus Christ did for me on the cross, and to help and serve God and to share the love of Christ with other human beings).

For me, as a Christian, when I feel kind of blue (slightly depressed), I take it to God. I have memorized Philippians 4:6-7 in the New Testament. These verses are a promise from God for Peace of Mind when I turn to Him. I remind myself of these verses, recite them from memory, and pray for God to give me peace of mind as he has promised in those verses... And He does (every time).

Also I focus my mind on God, and pray for his Presence (in the name of Jesus Christ) and I recite the Lord's Prayer slowly (concentrating on each word, phrase, and meaning each word)... this helps take away the sense of depression...

Also, I have memorized Psalm 23, and I do the same as above... I recite Psalm 23, while focusing my attention on God, and focusing on meaning each word I am saying...

And I pray for God to protect me and heal me of any emotional pain or feelings of depression.

These have all helped me in the past.

I pray that God will bless you with His presence and His Peace today.

Cordially,
John
From sngozig:

Does anyone have any ideas on how to tame my 11 year old daughter's attitude?
she just started her period two months ago and her attitude is beginning to be unbearable. She is very snappy to everyone and I'm ready to slap her to niceville.


---

Dear Sngozig,

In response to your question...

Tell your 11-year-old that you love her, but that you will not tolerate certain kinds of behavior (detail out what that kind of behavior is). Have this kind of discussion with her when she is feeling ok (not when she is feeling out of sorts).

Be careful to use "I feel" language rather than "you do" language (to keep from throwing her on the defensive). Remind her that you love her.

Be consistent with discipline. Do not threaten anything that you can not or will not deliver. Be consistent in delivering on punishment (or removal of priviledges).

I would recommend any of Dr. James Dobson's books on raising kids for good advice.

Relevant books by Dr. James Dobson:

1. The New Dare to Discipline by James Dobson (Paperback - Jun 1996)

2. The New Strong-Willed Child: Birth Through Adolescence by James Dobson
(Hardcover - Jun 2004)

3. Temper Your Child's Tantrums (Pocket Guides) by James Dobson (Paperback - April 1986)

4. Discipline With Love by James Dobson (Paperback - Aug 1981)

5. Parenting Isn't for Cowards : The 'You Can Do It' Guide for Hassled Parents from America's Best-Loved Family Advocate by James Dobson (Paperback - Jan 21, 2004)

Used copies of these books appear to be relatively inexpensive at www.Amazon.com

Cordially,
John
From Pipsquik:

Whats the best way to get over a breakup? After he has said he loves you?

After a arelationship where he shows you the world and not only tells you he loves but you see it in his eyes, then breaks up with you. How are you supposed to get over that???

---

Dear Pipsquik,

It is natural to feel hurt by this breakup.

If you have a close friend that you trust, you could share your pain and grief and let her support you.

It is ok to cry as well. That can help take away some of the grief (the sense of betrayal, sense of loss, sense of shock, sense of instability, sense that something is now missing from your life)...

For me, as a Christian, when I hurt, I take it to God. I have memorized Philippians 4:6-7 in the New Testament. These verses are a promise from God for Peace of Mind when I turn to Him. I remind myself of these verses, recite them from memory, and pray for God to give me peace of mind as he has promised in those verses... And He does (every time).

Also I focus my mind on God, and pray for his Presence (in the name of Jesus Christ) and I recite the Lord's Prayer slowly (concentrating on each word, phrase, and meaning each word)... this helps take away the pain...

Also, I have memorized Psalm 23, and I do the same as above... I recite Psalm 23, while focusing my attention on God, and focusing on meaning each word I am saying...

And I pray for God to protect me and heal me of the pain.

These have all helped me in the past.

I pray that God will bless you with His presence and His Peace today.

Cordially,
John
From Blood:

SEX DRiVE!!!? why do boys have a higher sex drive then girls? And when they have sex does it feel better to them then it does the girls?

---

I think you are right that boys/men on average have a higher sex drive than women/girls. I would attribute this in part to hormones -- testosterone in boys/men. And in part this can also be because boys/men tend to be visually stimulated to a greater extent than women/girls.

My understanding is that with a gentle and loving partner sex feels great for both partners.

As a Christian I would reserve sex for married spouses who love each other and are committed to each other for life. This reduces the suffering that results from the heartbreak of broken relationships, broken families, divorces, emotional destruction of children, sexually transmitted diseases etc.

Cordially,
John
From Madhavi:

Do you believe in god? why? or why not?

Please give me an honest and straight forward reply that comes from heart and not really the mind. With your answer you can influence many..hence be true.

---

Dear Madhavi,

Thank you for your question.

I believe in the Christian God. I used to be an Atheist but have grown convinced of the reality of the Christian God, in part due to intellectual evidence, in part due to experiential evidence (in my life).

I have had many many prayers answered in my life (after praying to the Christian God). These continue to convince me of the reality of Jesus Christ and his love for me.

I have grown convinced that there is evidence for the existence of God (as an intelligence that created our entire universe and created human beings). See Wishing you Joy through Jesus Christ,
John
From Howie_Simpson:

I am stuck on this zen koan, that a budisatha has 10,000 eyes - which two of them are right? Any suggestion?

You don't need to give me the answer, I just want an idea of where to approach it from, the more of these I learn the less I have any clue what is going on.

---

Dear Howie_Simpson,

Thank you for your question.

The purpose of the Zen Koans is not to come up with a Rational Answer. The purpose of the Koans is to break you of the habit of thinking rationally (and logically) with the intention of getting you to experience a mystical experience of the universe.

So your approach in "trying to solve the problem" is incorrect (at least from a Zen perspective).

I have had mystical experiences myself. Over a period of time I have come to be convinced of the reality of the Christian God and the reality of Jesus Christ (and have experienced mystical experiences within the context of a relationship with God through what Jesus Christ did for me on the cross).

I have grown convinced that there is evidence for the existence of God (as an intelligence that created our entire universe and created human beings). See Wishing you Peace and Love through Jesus Christ,
John

---

From Merielwolf:

Was jesus gay?

I beleive jesus was gay becuase its a sin (in the bible) to lust after the opposite sex. it says no where that its a sin for a man to lust after a man or a woman to lust after a woman. if you know exactly where it is in the the bible that states that jesus was not gay.. please by all mean show me.


---

Dear Merielwolf,

Thank you for your question.

There is no verse in the Bible that says that Jesus was gay. There is no indication in any of his behavior that he was gay.

So I think it is reasonable to infer that he was not gay.

Cordially,
John
From Sharon:

When you are emotionally hurt, what makes you feel better?


---

Dear Sharon,

For me, as a Christian, when I am emotionally hurt, I take it to God. I have memorized Philippians 4:6-7 in the New Testament. These verses are a promise from God for Peace of Mind when I turn to Him. I remind myself of these verses, recite them from memory, and pray for God to give me peace of mind as he has promised in those verses... And He does (every time).

Also I focus my mind on God, and pray for his Presence (in the name of Jesus Christ) and I recite the Lord's Prayer slowly (concentrating on each word, phrase, and meaning each word)... this helps take away the pain...

Also, I have memorized Psalm 23, and I do the same as above... I recite Psalm 23, while focusing my attention on God, and focusing on meaning each word I am saying...

And I pray for God to protect me and heal me of the pain.

These have all helped me in the past.

I pray that God will bless you with His Presence and His Peace today.

Cordially,
John
From Snakestersnake:

If one is raped, do they go to hell for having sex before they are married?


---

Dear Snakestersnake,

Thank you for your question.

The answer is no. A person who is raped will not go to hell for having had sex before they are married.

A person's salvation depends on whether they have truly committed their life to Jesus Christ or not.

A person who rejects Jesus Christ (and the gospel) will end up spending eternity away from God. That has nothing to do with whether they were raped or not.

Cordially,
John
From Mark:

Who is Jesus Christ to you?


---

Dear Mark,

Jesus is God in human form.

Jesus always existed as God -- but, he voluntarily took an ‘inferior’ form, the form of a man, to effect our salvation.

See (here) for more detail if you are interested.

Cordially,
John

---

From Bassgirlwannabe:

Where can I find some good word studies on the Bible?

I am working on a James Commentary paper and I am trying to find an easy word study website besides blueletterbible.com.

Do you know of a website?

---

Dear Bassgirlwannabe,

How about www.crosswalk.com... they appear to have online Bibles and concordances etc...

Cordially,
John
From DizzyFlores:

Reincarnation - whats your take?

I am a firm beleiver in the idea that our souls are born and reborn into different bodies for the specific purpose to learn the lessons that we have failed to learn in previous lives. Then, when all your lessons are learned, NIRVANA . . .

---

Dear DizzyFlores,

Thank you for your question.

I believe that we have only one life on earth. And the way we live that life (and the decisions we make in that one life) will impact our eternity.

The concept of reincarnation comes from Hinduism. Within Hinduism, reincarnation is really a curse (not a blessing). Life is misery, suffering and hell. And we are cursed to endlessly repeat the cycle of misery, suffering and hell.

All the rituals and disciplines within Hinduism are focused on breaking free of this cycle of cursed reincarnation -- by reaching Nirvana (which is a state in which we cease to exist as individuals -- this is a form of self-annihilation -- i.e., a form of personality suicide).

If you are interested, see the book Death of a Guru, by Rabi Maharaj (a Hindu Priest who desperately sought God and ultimately ended up committing his Life to Christ).

Also, see (here) for examples of many individuals who have come out of Hinduism to Christ (in the Section titled "From Hinduism to Christ").

You can hear an interview with this Guru, at this link:
Cordially,
John
From SummerSeason:

Do you pray? Why?

Now that the studies have proven that prayer is hazardous to your health, if you pray, why do you pray? I don't understand
why anyone would continue to do so.


---

Dear SummerSeason,

Thank you for your question.

Yes, I pray to the Christian God.

What is Christian prayer, and why do Christians Pray?
See here for a response.

Cordially,
John
From Imeahgila:

Are religious people stupid or do they like the networking aspect/church dating/Sunday BBQ stuff?


---

Dear Imeahgila,

There are intelligent people as well as stupid people in religion and the same is the case within Atheism, as you probably know.

Many intelligent people have come to the conclusion that there is evidence for the existence of God. For examples of scientific & intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see I pray that God will bless you and your family with Love, Joy and Peace today.

Cordially,
John

---

From Iloveskylerr:

How has your day been?


---

It's been great :)

And yours?

Cordially,
John
From Iloveskylerr:

Which do you prefer -- giving or receiving?


---

I like both giving and receiving -- not so much of material goods -- but rather of kindness and courtesy and the love of Christ... :)

Cordially,
John
From yoyodda:

How would it have been if women laid eggs instead of babies?
God forbid, if someone mistook their egg for that of a hen's.


---

That would be strange indeed.

This could very well be the reason that God decided to not have women lay eggs... :)

Cordially,
John
From Niggel:

Was Christopher COlumbus Jewish?


---

From what I have read, my understanding is that he was a Roman Catholic.

Cordially,
John
From MadAboutYouXO:

What's the difference between a pastor and priest?

---

A priest (e.g., in Roman Catholicism) tends to be an intermediary between God and humans. Hence confession of sins to a priest; Mass by a priest; Exreme Unction by a Priest etc.

A Pastor (e.g., in Protestantism) is more of a shepherd, or a leader, who leads and guides the people in their search for God.

Cordially,
John
From Mryungbp:

How often should I massage my wife while we take a nice hot bath together?


---

As many times as she wants you to... :)

Cordially,
John
From Atheist:

What is your IQ?
Im 13 and mine is 118, is that good or bad? :P


---

118 is reasonable. My understanding is that 100 is supposed to be dead average.

Mine is ball park of 140 or so (for whatever that is worth).

Cordially,
John
From macarthur1977:

On intelligence level woman are the same as men, but on an emotional level, women are different, why and how? Women and men differ on the emotional level, why and how do women differ than men?



---

Men and women were designed by God to complement (and need) one another. Hence the differences, both physically, and
emotionally.

Cordially,
John
From skooterbug:

How are you?



---

Excellent :)

And you?

Cordially,
John
From slc_225:

Christians? I've wondered something. If God's Word says that we are one in Christ--the verse escapes me at the moment--then *why* do we have *so many* denominations? Baptist, Assemblies Of God, Lutheran, Charismatic, Evangelical Free (What does that mean anyway? Does anyone know?), etc.?

I just find this such a curious thing.



---

Some denominations arise due to language and culture differences.

Some denominations arise due to minor theological differences.

See
Cordially,
John
Do you believe that after death people become stars?

Flyingtotahiti

---

Dear Flyingtotahiti,

No I do not... :)

Cordially,
John
Why do women wear high heels? What is the purpose of high heels?

Bubbles

---

Dear Bubbles,

High heels accentuate a woman's figure

However, high heels can be harmful to women -- in terms of causing back-aches, damaging women's feet etc...

Cordially,
John
Do u like India?

Simran_del1

---

Dear Simran_del1,

I like the people from India.

However I am concerned about the increasing persecution of Christians in India (killings, burnings of Churches, beatings, tonsuring of Christian women etc).

Cordially,
John
Why can't people accept that there is no evidence for religion?
Those of you who think there is evidence I'd like to know what it is.

Tom

---

Dear Tom,

You mentioned that you would be interested in evidence for religion...

See
Cordially,
John
Do Muslims believe Jesus is still living?? What is a Muslim synopsis of what they think happened to Jesus? Obviously, Christians believe he died for our sins....but what is taught in the Muslim faith?

Tiger_lamb

---

Dear Tiger_lamb,

Many Muslims believe that Jesus (pbuh) did not die on the cross (that Allah substituted another man on the cross, possibly Judas Iscariot).

And that Jesus ultimately ascended up into heaven, and will return again (in the 2nd coming).

It is interesting to note that though Muslims view Mohammad as a greater prophet than Jesus, it is Jesus (even within Muslim theology) who will return at the 2nd coming and destroy the anti-Christ (and to force the submission of all humans to Allah -- according to Muslim theology).

Cordially,
John
Does the devil answer your selfish prayers to get you further away from God?

Schizm5

---

Dear Schizm5,

Satan has the power to do so.

Cordially,
John
What is the root sin of laziness? How do we deal with Laziness...

ThePykie


---

Dear ThePykie,

The root of laziness is self-centeredness...

(e.g., I dont want to be bothered; I dont want to do anything to help someone else; I dont want to put in the effort to help society etc ... I, I, I...)

To deal with laziness... take it one step at a time... try to accomplish one little thing today despite my desire to do nothing... and accomplish one little thing tomorrow... and one little thing day after tomorrow... do that for a week... then move to 2 little things a day... then 3 little things a day... then 4 little things a day etc... Keep growing.

And pray for God's help to break free of laziness.

Cordially,
John
Why do girls sell themselves so dag on eazy? iz it because theyre ugly and they cant get nobody so they jus sell themselves to any guy possible who would take it in a hurry and would treat it rite for a few sec and throw it away like thrash..

Ne'ne


---

Dear Ne'ne,

Women seem to be wired for relationship (which is not a bad thing).

However this can sometimes lead to women giving themselves to men that they shouldnt give themselves to...

And you are right that sometimes that is due to poor self-image ("I am not pretty enough" etc)...

For a committed Christian, our self-image comes from our relationship with God (and so a committed Christian is less likely to make the kind of mistake above)...

Cordially,
John
Hell and heaven? Who to believe? (sorry about spelling)?

Lucifer gods the 1st angel got pissd on conditions&that god distinguished rights between angels&man Lucifer started revolution 2change this Revolution lost Lucifer left heaven&started hes own refuge.

I imagine god was unhappy about incident,& only infosource about hell is “him”&rumors.Would u advertise ur enemies country as“land where all beings disagree with me/wont follow moral codex can live together in harmony”?We all know this would not be very wise of the bible to say.
What better opportunity 2 make man scared,there is no way verify info anyhow

Dont u think an angel must have been fairly pissd 2 start revolution?+he had followers,so there must have been a#of angels sharing Lucifers opinions

Is it not just a bit weird he/followers are SO UNHAPPY that they started this on a supposedly so wonderful/magical place that every1 supposed to be endlessly happy/content 4ethirnity? Assume angels as pure energy beings are free of schizophrenia/depression,they might had valid/logical reason?


---

I did find your question a bit hard to follow, but...

I would choose to believe God rather than Satan regarding Hell and Heaven... :)

Cordially,
John
Can i rant a while?

Ok, i was rejected yesterday by this girl for the stupidest reason there is-im too ***in' short for her. Is that a bunch of cr** or what? I mean, who left it up to sasquath to decide that im too short. Does that make me less of a person? Does it change who i am? That pissed me off so much.

Musiconecanplay

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Dear Musiconecanplay,

No that doesnt make you less of a person.

However, it may be worthwhile to ask yourself the question -- do you reject a girl/woman based on how she looks? Many guys do... To reject a girl based on how she looks (or to pick a girl based on how she looks) and then to object that a girl rejects you for how you look -- would be a double-standard.

Cordially,
John
I weigh 40 stone, how can i get fatter, as i am seriously under weight?

Jessca_t89


---

Dear Jessca_t89,

Check with your doctor.

People increase in weight when they eat high-calorie foods.

Note: 1 stone = 14 pounds. So 40 stone would be 560 pounds. Did you mean 4 stone...?

Cordially,
John
Why do religious people get so easily offended?

Alright, I am all for people having a religion, but seriously (and this goes especially for Christians, only because I've never said "Allah damn it!") why do you get so defensive when people take your god's name in vain? Obviously, if you believe that I am going to hell for it if I don't repent and my true punishment will be eternal damnation, do you really feel like some defender of your faith by yelling at me for it?

Fret_guy89

---

Dear Fret_guy89,

I am not offended if you were to take God's name in vain (I do think however that you would be unwise to do so -- considering Pascal's wager).

Having said that, I do not find it unreasonable to expect you to be courteous to Christians (and refrain from taking the name of the Christian God in vain).

Cordially,
John
What is your definition of judgement?

Is judgement stating what you observe about someone? Is judgement coming to a conclusion, passing a sentence upon a person and condemning the person to a certain fate?

Sharon

---

All of the meanings that you mention apply.

In practice judgement can mean stating something you observe about some one...

Or it can mean coming to a conclusion...

Or it can mean passing a sentence upon a person (and condemning the person to a certain fate).

Cordially,
John
What is the relation between: chair and bra

Saredka


---

They both hold something up :)

I confess that it is not clear to me how your question is related to God, Christianity, Religion or Spirituality... (apart from the fact that God created both of the items you mention)...

Cordially,
John
How do you define hypocrite? Different people see things in different perspectives...so what is your definition of a hypocrite?

Sharon

---

Dear Sharon, A hypocrite is … a person who uses double-standards (one standard to judge themself and another to judge someone else).

Cordially,
John
Any wiccans? Are there any green witches here? if so email me.x

DonnaMP


---

Dear DonnaMP,

I am not a green witch, but wished to say Hi :)

Wishing you Joy through Jesus Christ,
John
If Jews are god's chosen people, why so much suffering?

Accidentalxr

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Dear Accidentalxr,

Due to human sin (both of anti-Jews and the Jews)... just as with all of us.

The Bible also indicates that Satan would like to destroy anyone who is chosen by God and/or who wants to live as a committed follower of the One true God. This is why the Jews have been persecuted through the centuries, and this is why thousands of Christians have been killed in the 20th Century (and are being persecuted and killed today by anti-Christians).

Cordially,
John
Amrsduck

Whose Entrancing dance proved fatal for John the Baptist?


---

Salome (step-daughter of King Herod).

Cordially,
John
Question for Christians:? OK, most of you whom I've spoken to say that if Jesus WERE married, this would not lessen him. So, why are so many Christians offended by the theory, and by The Da Vinci Code in which the characters assume this theory is fact?

PLEASE Don't bother telling me the book is ficticous, I'm well aware of what parts of the book are true, what's assumed, and what's false. But there IS enough evidence to support the THEORY...why is this offensive?

---

Dear Anonymous,

I am not offended by the theory that Jesus was married.

I just find the arguments put forward in the DVC to be ineffective, and so see no reason to believe the theory that Jesus was married.

Cordially,
John
Why do the JW's deny Jesus is God?

I have been chatting with a JW and she denies Jesus is God. WHY, when the scriptures clearly teach Jesus IS GOD.



NASB
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

John 1:14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Heb 1:8 But of the Son {He says,} "YOUR THRONE, O GOD, IS FOREVER AND EVER, AND THE RIGHTEOUS SCEPTER IS THE SCEPTER OF HIS KINGDOM.

2 Pet 1:1 Simon Peter, a bond-servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who have received a faith of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ:

Titus 2:13 looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus,

John 10:33 The Jews answered Him, "For a good work we do not stone You, but for blasphemy; and because You, being a man, make Yourself out {to be} God."


Rbmath2000

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Dear Rbmath2000,

Because they have been taught by people they trust (the Watchtower organization) that Jesus is not God.

For more discussion of the Jehovah's Witnesses, see
here

and

here

Cordially,
John


---

Actually, Jesus IS Jehovah.
by A. Qurius Muse
Is it possible for a human being to be a God?

Some humans calls themselves a God. This is God's response:

Ezekiel 28.1-10

The word of the LORD came again unto me, saying, Son of man, say unto the prince of Tyrus, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thine heart [is] lifted up, and thou hast said, I [am] a God, I sit [in] the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou [art] a man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of God:

Behold, thou [art] wiser than Daniel; there is no secret that they can hide from thee: With thy wisdom and with thine understanding thou hast gotten thee riches, and hast gotten gold and silver into thy treasures: By thy great wisdom [and] by thy traffick hast thou increased thy riches, and thine heart is lifted up because of thy riches:

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thou hast set thine heart as the heart of God; Behold, therefore I will bring strangers upon thee, the terrible of the nations: and they shall draw their swords against the beauty of thy wisdom, and they shall defile thy brightness. They shall bring thee down to the pit, and thou shalt die the deaths of [them that are] slain in the midst of the seas.

Wilt thou yet say before him that slayeth thee, I [am] God? but thou [shalt be] a man, and no God, in the hand of him that slayeth thee. Thou shalt die the deaths of the uncircumcised by the hand of strangers: for I have spoken [it], saith the Lord GOD.

Is it possible for God to be a human being?

Genesis 1.26, 27

And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
So God created man in his [own] image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

Notice that God made man in His image. If God made man in His image, and God became man, wouldn't God be in His own image?

Jesus was a true man or a true God....explain?

Jesus is Jehovah who formed Himself a sinless human body to dwell in.

The following is a more extended answer to God and the trinity that explains more thoroughly the nature of God, and Christ being THE LORD who spoke in the Old testament.

Gen 1.26 - And God said, Let US make man in OUR image, after OUR likeness: (27) So God created man in HIS [own] image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

Notice that God said (PLURAL) Let "US make man in OUR" image in Genesis 1.26 - And then Genesis 1.27 says "So God created man in (SINGULAR) HIS [own] image." God addresses Himself plurally with the words "US and OUR", and then Genesis 1.27 speaks of God (in third person as a singular Entity), creating man in (SINGULAR) HIS [own] image."

How can God address Himself in Genesis 1.26 as a plural entity and then be spoken of in the next verse as a singular entity?

Simple: Because BOTH are true...

The noun "God" is "perceived" as "singular" when it is actually BOTH "plural" and "singular". The noun "God" is a "corporation" that is identified as a "single entity".

In other words, "God" is actually "A Them" Who together constitute "Him".

Take the letters "G" "O" "D"...

It requres all three letters to "cause" "GOD" to exist. If you remove either letter, "GOD" ceases to exist: "GO" "OD" "GD"

Likewise:

The Father (G)
The Word (O)
The Holy Spirit (D)

"together" constitute "GOD"

When scriptures says:

God, The Father,
God, The Word,
God, The Holy Spirit

It is actually saying:

Elohim, The Father,
Elohim, The Word,
Elohim, The Holy Spirit

Which means that each Entity "together" constitutes "Elohim". To say "God" is to actually say "Corporation" - To address each Member of The Corporation "Individually" is to say "The Father" "The Word" "The Holy Spirit".

Psalm 45.6,7

Thy throne, O God, [is] for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom [is] a right sceptre. Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.

Notice that God directly addresses another as "God".

The Hebrew word for BOTH words "God" in this text is "Elohim". Therefore, "Elohim" calls someone else "Elohim."

Psalm 45 is actually "The Father" speaking (prophetically through David) about and to "The Word" as the pre-incarnate Christ, saying: (1) I speak of the things which I have made touching the king: my tongue [is] the pen of a ready writer. (2) Thou art fairer than the children of men: grace is poured into thy lips: therefore God hath blessed thee for ever. (3) Gird thy sword upon [thy] thigh, O [most] mighty, with thy glory and thy majesty.

Notice in verse 2 it says "God hath blessed thee for ever" and in verse 3, God says to Him "Gird thy sword upon [thy] thigh, O [most] mighty". Who can be "O [most] mighty" other than "God"?

Matthew 28.16-20

Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

Notice the first thing that Christ said: "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth". To have "all power in heaven and in earth" is to be "O [most] mighty" (Psalm 45.3).

Who can be "O [most] mighty" other than "God"?

Now Christ said something interesting:

"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost".

If you look closely, Christ "specifically" stated that the disciples baptize the nations "in the NAME of the Father, AND of the Son, AND of the Holy Ghost". How could Christ tell the disciples to baptize the nations "in the NAME of the Father, AND of the Son, AND of the Holy Ghost" if the name of Son AND the name of the Holy Ghost where not EQUAL TO (AND THE SAME AS) the name of The Father (Elohim)?

To baptize the nations "in the NAME of the Father is to baptize the nations "in the NAME of "God" - To baptize the nations "in the NAME of the Father, AND of the Son, AND of the Holy Ghost" is to baptize the nations "in the NAME of "God".

As for the Holy Spirit being God...

Act 5.1-4

But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, And kept back [part] of the price, his wife also being privy [to it], and brought a certain part, and laid [it] at the apostles' feet. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back [part] of the price of the land? Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.

Notice what Peter said about the Holy Spirit in verses 3 and 4:

"But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost...? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God."

Peter called the Holy Ghost "God".

"God" IS the corporation of "The Father" "The Word" "The Holy Spirit".

1 John 5.7

For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one (or these three are one "God").

To "see" God as a composite of three Who together exist as One, take an egg. The egg consists as three separate components (the egg shell, egg white, and egg yolk). Each component is "individually" called "an egg" - and yet they together constitute "one" egg.

As for Christ being Jehovah...

Christ said in John 5.37 "And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape."

Christ said that no man has ever heard the Father's voice. So who was Moses talking to on Mount Sinai?

It was Christ Himself who speaking to Moses on Mount Sinai.

Exodus 32.31-33

And Moses returned unto the LORD, and said, Oh, this people have sinned a great sin, and have made them gods of gold. Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin--; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book which thou hast written. And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book.

God called Himself "I AM". Christ called Himself "I am."

Exodus 3.13, 14

And Moses said unto God, Behold, [when] I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What [is] his name? what shall I say unto them? And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.

John 8.24

I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am, ye shall die in your sins.

John 8.58

Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.

John 18.1-6

When Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which he entered, and his disciples. And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with his disciples. Judas then, having received a band [of men] and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons. Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye? They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them. As soon then as he had said unto them, I am, they went backward, and fell to the ground.

As for Christ being called God...

John 20.19-28

Then the same day at evening, being the first [day] of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace [be] unto you. And when he had so said, he shewed unto them [his] hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord.

Then said Jesus to them again, Peace [be] unto you: as [my] Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on [them], and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; [and] whose soever [sins] ye retain, they are retained. But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.

The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.

And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: [then] came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace [be] unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust [it] into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.

And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.

John 10.23-33

And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon's porch. Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.

Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me. But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any [man] pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave [them] me, is greater than all; and no [man] is able to pluck [them] out of my Father's hand. I and [my] Father are one.

Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me? The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.

Philippians 2.5-11

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth, and [things] under the earth; And [that] every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

This scripture says plainly...

(5) Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: (9) Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

Which was prophesied in...

Psalm 45.6,7

Thy throne, O God, [is] for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom [is] a right sceptre. Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.

The scriptures has plainly shown that "GOD" is a composite of three Entities Who together have the same name - "Elohim".

I leave you with a "Word Portrait" of "The Word" which reveals Christ as "God" the Creator.

Christ IS the LORD Who spoke in the Old Testament, and thus, IS God who said, "Let there be light."

Revelation 1.8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

John 1.1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made. 10 He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us;


Philippians 2.6,7 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

Colossians 1.15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him: 17 And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist.

Romans 1.20 For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead;

Isaiah 14.18 For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God Himself that formed the earth and made it; He hath established it, He created it not in vain, He formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD; and there is none else.

Isaiah 55.8 For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the LORD. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.

Psalm 19.1 (NIV) The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. 2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. 3 There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. 4 Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.

Source: A. Qurius Muse, used by permission; Reuse requires permission of A. Qurius Muse.

---

What people do you admire and why?

Orangeraspbe>

---

I admire Jesus Christ.

Because of his character and his teachings and his behavior.

Cordially,
John
Sexy_jim_darwin

Why do you think atheists don't have faith


---

All humans have faith in something (including Atheists).

Atheists believe by faith that atheist processes created the entire universe and maintain it.

Cordially,
John
Sexy_jim_darwin

Do you think religion is a big hallucination

---

I used to be an Atheist -- and I thought that Christianity was a crutch for stupid people, and that it was based on blind and irrational faith.

I have since changed my mind.

Cordially,
John
Amrsduck

Who held a feast with dancing when his son returned?

---

The father of the prodigal son :)
Luke 15:11-32

Cordially,
John
Nokemo5000

I don't think that the Mormons are Christians, what do you think?

The Trinity: 3 beings in one GOD. GOD the Father,GOD the Son, and GOD the Holy Sprit. Mormons believe that there are two seperate Gods and don't even think that the holy sprit is a GOD. They don't believe that Jesus Chrsit died for our sins or is our savior. They think the only way we can get to heaven is by good works. Based on Ephesians 2:8-9, that's not true.

---

The Mormon church believes in a God who is not the Christian God (not the God of the Bible), and in a Jesus who is not the Christian Jesus (not the Jesus of the Bible).

According to Mormon theology, the Mormon God is a created being, who has a father and mother in heaven, grand parents, many wives etc. The Christian God is none of the above. The Mormon God was once a man on a planet, and he evolved into God by obedience to the Mormon Gospel.

The Christian God (based on what the Bible teaches) is none of these things (mentioned above).

The Mormon Jesus is a created being who did not exist for ever. And he is the literal blood-brother of Satan. The Mormon Jesus was literally born (in heaven) to a Heavenly mother. And on earth, the Mormon Jesus was born as the result of sexual intercourse between the Mormon God and Mary.

The Christian Jesus (based on the Bible) is none of the above.

Cordially,
John
Oxalaque

Who was the one, or more of them, that decided which books will b in bible?


---

The books that were gathered together into the New Testament were written by disciples and apostles of Jesus Christ (individuals that God led to write the New Testament books).

For instance, the following New Testament writers were:


1. Matthew (disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of Matthew)

2. Mark (disciple of Peter, who was a disciple of Simon Peter, a disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of Mark).

3. John (disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of John; 1,2,3 John, Revelation)

4. Paul (Apostle of Jesus; wrote Romans, 1,2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, 1,2 Thessalonians, 1,2 Timothy,
Titus, Philemon)

5. Barnabas (follower of Jesus; wrote book of Hebrews)

6. James (apostle of Jesus; wrote book of James)

7. Peter (Disciple of Jesus; wrote 1,2 Peter)


The early followers of Jesus knew who were the disciples and apostles of Jesus Christ, and who were eyewitnesses of his resurrection.

Books by these disciples/ apostles and eyewitnesses were recognized by the early church as being authentic (and were gathered into the New Testament).

Cordially,
John
Imrational

If Satan knew that God was omnipotent/omni... how could he expect to win a war in Heaven?

Okay, Satan was created by God. If Satan knew that God was omnipotent/omniscient, how could he expect to win a war in Heaven? Why would he want to rebel if he knew he would lose? Then, once he lost... why would he continue to fight against God, knowing that it was useless? If Revelations is correct, then God already knows what Satan is planning. If Satan is as smart/devious as people say he is... then why would Satan follow God's gameplan for him if he knows that he'll lose?

If God's loving presence is so wonderful that it is a paradise, then why would Satan continue to deny him and strive against Him... knowing that to do so would continue to deny him God's presence? After having experienced Heaven... why would he want to be forever exiled? He knows God firsthand... wouldn't he be begging forgiveness from a "merciful" God and trying to be the best little angel he could?

Doesn't it all seem insane?!? The whole Satan/God thing just sounds like myths made up by children.

---

Satan is being irrational in fighting against God.

Satan knows (or ought to know) that he will ultimately lose, but he continues on his path due to arrogance and pride (and sinfulness).

As we can see around us, many human beings choose to sin against God due to arrogance and pride... If human beings can do this, why not Satan?

Cordially,
John
Egod

Is the FACT that the Jewish God became 3 deities a good example of evolution in religion? Most Christians will agree that Islam have a different god than them, yet they all believe in the same god Moses believed in, is this proof that there is no god and that "god" is only as big as the culture that worships him? The western world see god in a western way while easterners see god in a eastern way...

I see no god just a bunch of delusional people that don't even know the history of their own religions.

What do you think about this religious evolution?

---

Dear Egod,

Is it possible that there is only ONE God, and that some religions are mistaken in their view of that One God?

Cordially,
John
Do you want to know why God exists and yet, why there is so much evil?

God wants us to know that this world is only a test to determine the righteous from the sinner, the believer from the disbeliever, the thankful from the ungrateful, the generous from the miser, the patient from the hasty, and the steadfast from the weak. Yes, there is a lot of evil in this world: this pushes people to think that God does not exist. But if God did not exist, then this world is just a cruel place that has no purpose. People need to understand that the evil in this life is only temporary, and it will be punished, just not now, after death (i.e. Judgement Day; Heaven; Hell). That’s why it makes sense to say there is a God: denying God’s existence is saying that evil prevails and that cannot be true. If it were so, then our lives would have no meaning and good and evil would lose their value: you, for instance, could be considered no better than Hitler – both of you will cease to exist, unpunished, unrewarded for your deeds.

Soli...


---

Dear Soli,

Well said :)

I agree with you...

Cordially,
John
Do you Have something you wanna get off your chest? You know a big secret , or reveal your feelings for someone, or a confession.

Well bowled

---

I love God :)

Cordially,
John
Punk_Boyo_wi...

What do you think about me?
I know it's a stupid question. But what DO you think about me.


---

That you must be human... and aware... and of reasonable intelligence... and self-aware...

Cordially,
John
My bf got really upset when I told him I am bi. I don't understand. Why?
We have been together for a couple of years and I've just discovered my interest in women.

Lenka

---

He may be feeling threatened (kind of like you dont find him to be enough for you)...

Cordially,
John
Mamar

Are we evil like our ancestors? although out the history "human"has killed, burned, slaughtered other humans?

are we evil? although out the history "human” has killed, burned, slaughtered other humans and we are still doing it. Killing, and making other people suffer is an undeniable big part of us humans. can we truly set aside racism, and difference in believes and religious believes? i see that many people have a hot debate between Christians, and Muslims,,,,or Mexicans and Americans....Some of the racial comments are really make me think that we are not all that we clime we are regarding tolerance and humanity, if we get a chance and be in power we might as well kill each other like our ancestors did!

---

Dear Mamar,

The Bible teaches that humans (no matter what race or time or culture) are inclined towards self-centeredness and selfishness ... these self-orientations are called Sin in the Bible... and these self-orientations cause suffering and hurt to others.

I did not believe the Bible at first. But over time I have come to realize that its evaluation of human beings is correct (and that is why you see the evil we humans do today, and that is why you see that throughout history humans have killed burned and slaughtered other humans).

Cordially,
John
Loony_liz

Why does god who states that he loves us so much, predict an apocalypse? what happens to all those people ?

---

Dear Loony_liz,

The Apocalypse is in large part a consequence of Human Sin (and rebellion against God)...

Those who choose to come into relationship with God are promised eternity with God. Those who rebel against God will spend eternity apart from Him.

Cordially,
John
Sweetheart25

If you are a Mormon what are your beliefs? Please use scriptures to back your anwsers on why you believe such things. Do Mormons use the Bible?


---

Dear Sweetheart25,

I am not a Mormon, but have read a lot of materials from the Mormon church, and have spent many hours in discussion with Mormon missionaries.

Mormonism believes in the existence of millions of Gods. The God of this earth (Elohim) was once a man who evolved into God by obedience to the Mormon Gospel. Salvation is through obedience to the Mormon church and Mormon gospel.

See here for more detail.

Cordially,
John
How did one God become 3 and of that 3 how did 1 of them get 3 heads?

Moses's God? Islam, Judaism and Christianity believe in the God that created Adam and Eve, Moses and Abraham...why are they 3 different God's now and why does one of them have three heads?

Anonymous

---

Dear Anonymous,

Islam believes in Allah, the Muslim God who is **not** the same as the Christian God.

Judaism believes in YHWH. The concept of the Jewish God is not incorrect (to the extent that the Torah & Tanach -- Old Testament are used), but is based on a partial revelation of God (just the old testament).

In Christianity we have a more complete revelation of God... Christianity believes in YHWH who came down in the form of Yeshua (Jesus) the Messiah to enable reconciliation between God and humans.

The reference to 3 heads is a likely reference to the Trinity. The Christian notion of the Trinity is that there is only ONE God... However he presents himself to us in three personas (for purposes of effecting the salvation of humans).

Cordially,
John
Mary Prehn,

Have you ever thought about what may happen on 6/6/06?


---

Most likely the world is going to go on as usual on 6/6/06...

Cordially,
John
Waltgarcia

What is the da vinci code?


---

Dear Waltgarcia,

Kind of a murder mystery -- which then weaves in claims that Jesus was married to Mary Magdalene and they had a daughter who became the mom of a royal family in Europe...

Cordially,
John
Ardi_95

Can someone tell me a story of muslims that readed QURAN or someone told to you? Allah created too much stories like peigamber Muhamed, or Yousuf Islam. Can someone tell me another story about any man that exist and his/her life was with ALLAH? please???

---

Dear Ardi_95,

Today I heard a story about a man who read the Quran and the references that the Quran made to Jesus Christ made him curious about Jesus ... so he obtained a New Testament and read the gospels to learn about Jesus, and he ended up committing his life to Jesus Christ.

See Rowi

Can we invent a speed of light spaceship that can maintain human pressure? If is true why NASA can't invent?

---

Science finds that matter can not be accelerated to the speed of light. As you get close to the speed of light (according to Einstein) the mass increases towards infinity... Hence a spaceship can not travel at the speed of light (or faster).

Cordially,
John
Karthik naga...

Why is the temperature change during latent heat transfer for any substance, not recorded by a thermometer?


---

There is no temperature change during latent heat transfer.

The heat you put into the system is going into causing a phase change in the system.

Cordially,
John
Nwohiosteve

How is it possible that the parallel triangle can oppose graviton particles (or gravity waves)? Please explain the physical properties of the parallel triangle and its relation to antigravity phenomenon.


---

Dear Nwohiosteve,

This sounds like a category error...

A triangle is a mathematical construct. A graviton is believed to be a physical entity.

They are in completely different realms, and can not interact with each other.

Furthermore, I am not aware of any such thing as a parallel triangle. Parallel lines can not be used to create a triangle.

Cordially,
John
Qidon2

If you send digital info at many times the speed of light can it be retrieved before it left?

---

As far as we can tell, neither matter nor information can travel at greater than the speed of light.

The only exception appears to be the EPR experiment (but it is difficult to see how that could be used to send info across a distance).

So in practice, the answer to your question is no.

Cordially,
John
Pemtola

What are the reasons when the soil resistivity data (measurments) does not agree with simulation data? The top layer seems to have higher resistivity? The measurements were taken along 5 traverses(three long traverses and two short traverses). The surface layer of the two traveses, one short and one long, suggests a high resistivity for top layer or surfac layer.


---

Differences in soil moisture would make soil resistivity data change.

And so would the degree of ionicity of the soil; that would depend on the kinds of minerals in the soil (which are likely to
vary as well)...

Cordially,
John
Dnghandhi

How to meas.Molten Aluminium & Cast Iron Temp? Is Infrared Thermo. suitable?
Is Infrared thermometer Or Infrared Sensor Suitable for measuring Molten Aluminium, & Molten cast Iron Temperature?


---

I expect that an infrared sensor should be ok for measuring these temperatures.

Cordially,
John
Santosh_thief

If a person owns a piece of land do they own it all the way down to the core of the earth?

---

Depends on the local government.

In some countries, mining (or mineral) rights are separate from land-surface use rights, and may have to be purchased separately.

Cordially,
John
Questioner_q...

What is the milky way?


---

It is the name of our galaxy.

Cordially,
John


---

Santosh_thief

If the "black box" flight recorder is never damaged during a plane crash, why isn't the whole airplane made out of the same material?

---

The weight of the plane would be too high.

Also, black box flight recorders do sometimes get damaged.

Cordially,
John
minorklozone

If 10 is divided by 3 equals 3.endless 3, then it must have a certain numbers of point 3's to become 10 ?


---

Ten 0.3's make 3.0.

So you would need 33.333333333333333 (infinitely repeating) 0.3's to make 10.

Cordially,
John
Ind_ulge

How do the planets hold to their orbits around the sun?

I know its something to do with gravitational forces but then, wouldn't the order of the planets be in accordance with their relative sizes and distances from the sun?

---


Each planet is attracted to the Sun by the Sun's gravity.

However each planet is traveling at a certain speed tangential to its orbit.

The sun's gravity curves (pulls in) the trajectory of the planet.

The faster the planet is moving, the further it can get away from the Sun.

A kind of balance between the speed of the planet and the Sun's gravity at the location of the planet result in the final orbit of the planet.

If we were to speed up a planet, its orbit would move outwards.

If we were to slow down a planet, its orbit would move inwards (towards the Sun).

Cordially,
John
Ram

Why does any body with mass has gravitational power?

---

Einstein postulated that the presence of mass warps the local space-time around the mass.

Other mass-containing bodies interact with the warped space-time and we perceive the resulting behavior as being evidence of "gravitational power".

However why does mass warp space-time? We dont know... but we take it as a faith-based black-box within science.

Cordially,
John
Ngotuan13491...

Is waterbending possible? Is there such thing as hydrokinesis?

I'm wondering because all my science teachers say that it's physically impossible to waterbend, because you can't send your brain's electrical wave through the air to control the water's movement. They say that hydrokinesis is term used in those sci-fi movie.


---

I have seen no compelling evidence that waterbending / hydrokinesis is possible.

Cordially,
John
B82

What makes the formation of a cloud???


---

Water evaporates from lakes, streams, the ocean; goes up into the air as water vapor.

Dust particles then provide nucleii for the water vapor to start condensing into droplets. These droplets then scatter light.

Very small droplets scatter blue light. Medium sized droplets scatter green light. Larger droplets scatter Red light.

Together, these scatter Red, Green, Blue light which combine to provide white light.

And so, we have white clouds :)

Cordially,
John
Iridzu

For me it is a very impresive, amazing and incredible thing the waterspout. Whats your favorite Phenomena?

---

Yes I am impressed by water spouts, and tornadoes as well.

Also, earthquakes, ball lightning, sprites, Aurora Borealis.

Cordially,
John
Nyc14gauge1

I tried fixing my TV set and accidently created a small wormhole instead. What did I do wrong?


---

You didnt do anything wrong.

All you have to do is document your results, get them independently verified and you are guaranteed a Nobel Prize.

:)
Cordially,
John
Stinkerbell

How does the sun burn when there is no oxygyn in space? or is there???
This question was passed on to me by a very smart 13 yr old named Nathan and Im trying to help the little guy out.... also it does kinda boggle me as well lol :p

---

In the sun, Hydrogen fuses with Hydrogen to form Helium (and a small percentage of higher elements).

This process is referred to as Nuclear Fusion. Such fusion gives off the energy that we perceive to be "burning".

Cordially,
John
Prakashn

Is there anything beyond proton and neutron in an atom?


---

Electrons.

Also, protons and neutrons are themselves made up of Quarks.

Three quarks combine to make a Proton. And three quarks combine to form a neutron.

In addition to these, the strong force (which holds the protons and neutrons) is believed to be mediated by Gluons.

Cordially,
John
Ian_ejb2001

Do you believe in god and things like heaven, jesus and the saints and all the prophets? do you?

---

I do (except for the Saints in the popular or Catholic sense).

Cordially,
John
Aryeebebe

Why do so many people pick on USA citizens but get on board to the Nation? whether they have been invited to or not? If all other nations would emulate what has made USA this great nation then they (US citizens) would not have to deal with 13mil illegal immigrants and everyones nation will be good enough for them.


---

The USA was established based on Christian Principles, and these have contributed to God's blessing it so much in the past (resulting in the high standard of living).

This high standard of living attracts people from all around the world.

Now however, as the USA has moved away from Christianity, its greatness is decreasing. And with time it is likely to not be as attractive to people from other countries (but that may be 30 years from now).

People pick on US citizens -- sometimes out of envy, sometimes because of scapegoating by leaders in other countries, sometimes because of perceived arrogance...

Cordially,
John
Rxqueen

Christian opinions on Dynamic equivalence or Formal correspondence translations of the Bible.?

I like formal correspondence translations better, but to each their own.

Personally,I enjoy it because, I would rather make up my own conclusions about the word of God, rather than let the someone make it up for me. I dont truly find it that confusing.If I do, I pray about it!


---

One option is to use both kinds of translations... One can clarify a passage that the other didnt...

Cordially,
John
Sinned

What can guarrantee my acceptance into God's kingdom?
Is Jesus true to what He said he was?

---

Jesus Christ can guarantee your acceptance into God's kingdom.

For more detail see here and
here

Cordially,
John
Aryeebebe

Like many great nations have come to the end of their rule, is the USA aware that the end is nigh? The 21st century is widly said to be 'The Asian' Century. What would America do when it is no longer the worlds super power? They need to start educating their citizens about other nations and what they are about before they are no longer able to survive when their reign is over.

---

There is room for other countries to rise up and help improve the entire world... The problem with China (which is likely to be the next superpower) is that there is not a strong set of checks and balances to limit the power of its top leaders. That is a concern to some of the Asian nations around China.

The fact that Asia is growing in wealth and technology does not mean that the USA is doomed in any sense. The USA will continue to do well in terms of technology and wealth while Asia improves as well (in terms of wealth).

Cordially,
John
Noname

Why did literacy increase after Johann Gutenberg ibvented the printing press?


---

Because this dropped the price of books, and the common people were able to afford books for the first time...

Cordially,
John
Cdog61

Everyone has heard of things that make you go hmm so spill it?
Ever hear something so incredibly stupid it made your head turn ?


---

The Universe created itself...

Cordially,
John
Copyeditor

Does MAN looses his faith and peace because of MONEY? Are we humans become SELFISH?


---

Many people do lose their faith and peace of mind due to money.

Money itself is not evil. However money does have the power to corrupt us.

Cordially,
John
Cdog61
Sexy versus Slutty where do you draw the line? When does someone go from sexy to slutty


---



That I think is in the eye of the beholder...

The Bible teaches Christians to dress modestly so we do not cause others to stumble.

Cordially,
John
Sashateddy2

Are short people worse off than tall people?

---

Nope. Both short people and Tall people are made in the image of God (in terms of personhood) and so are of equal worth in the eyes of God (and should be of equal worth in our eyes as well).

Cordially,
John
ZORRO

When Judas betrayed Jesus, Judas committed suicide. Do you think Judas went to Heaven? God allowed satan to enter into Judas so that Judas would betray Jesus according to scriptures. Since God willed that, wouldn't it be right to allow Judas to enter Heaven seeing how Judas knew not what he was doing till after Jesus gave up His spirit on the cross?


---

Good question. There is a sense in which I do empathize with Judas, and feel sad for him. Unfortunately however, I dont think Judas entered Heaven.

Looks like he was sorry for having betrayed Jesus, but he did not turn to God in repentance (he killed himself instead).

Judas made the choice to betray Jesus of his own free will. Satan's involvement was after Judas decided to betray Jesus...

Cordially,
John
Yada3afjdaoaur
Can Hindus drink the milk of the cow?

---

Yes.

Cordially,
John
sec350
In which country or regions of world people are more honest?

---

In regions where the people are committed Christians.

Cordially,
John
Templar2329

Can you make me believe?

Bring it on. I want to see who can do the best job at convincing me that God is real, without any "faith" stuff. Faith is not an argument, it is just a word meaning "im saying this, cause i dont have any better argument". I will laugh at your efforts.


---

Questions like this are sometimes asked by Hard-Skeptics (who are not open to any evidence for the Existence of God at all), and sometimes are asked by others (who are potentially open to evidence for the Existence of God).

If you wish to look into the existence of God, see
here
for examples of evidence for the Existence of God.

Cordially,
John


---

Memphis_rayns

Who gave someone the right to name the higher power above us "God" or "Allah" and who defines which is better? I mean think about it! Who took that right to just say "Oh we're better cause we have a different god" This is the kind of BS why war's get started! And what cowardly B****** allow themselves to say "Oh this is a war in "his" name!"???


---

God is a generic term for the Creator of the Universe.

Allah is the personal name of the Muslim God (over time the Arabic word changed in usage to also be applied to God in general -- however when the majority of the world, including Muslims, use the word Allah, they mean the Muslim God).

Muslim theologians confirm that the Muslim God is NOT the same as the Christian God.

Cordially,
John
Zardofoz7765

Why do idiots have a compulsion to make fun of God.They are just sealing their own destiny?

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Dear Zardofoz7765,

Those that make fun of God do so because they do not know Him.

Once we experience the Love and the Kindness of the Christian God, our response is to love him (rather than try to make fun of Him).

Cordially,
John
Remag15

Christians, I would love to worship your God! -if I only knew if it's really true or not...can you help?
Please read...

I need an experienced Christian that I can instant message. My main problem with Christianity is that I have know idea why
God won't prove Him(It)self to each of us personally. If everybody in the world was a Christian, and each claimed to have personally experienced God, but He never came to me, I STILL would have trouble. I find it so suspicious that God hasn't come to me personally, and I am curious as to why it would have to be this way.

***please read my objections...

1. The world would be a much better place if God proved himself to each of us personally.
2. We would have free will, we could still choose to do God's will or be evil.
3. The "relationship" we still would have. (Hard to have a relationship with my mind's image of God only)
4. The entire system would work better.
5. It's ridiculous to say that God wouldn't have wanted to save us without sacrificing Himself. In the system I am describing, the Son wouldn't have had to die.


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Remaq15,

I would be happy to dialog with you. You can email me through this website.

In the meantime, see here ( Cordially,
John
Jackdinah

Are Mormons liked or disliked by most people?

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I like Mormons, though I am not one.

If you would like to see what Mormonism believes and teaches, see
here

Cordially,
John
islam-qa

Do you believe in the day of Judgment? Meaning people will be resurrected and judged.


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Yes, I do.

Cordially,
John
The_Guy

Why does Jesus want to kill me?

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Dear The_Guy,

What brings you to that conclusion?

Cordially,
John
Noname

Why do you think Johann Gutenberg chose the Bible as the first book to be printed?

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Because he viewed it as the most important book in the world, and because he was a Christian.

Cordially,
John
Anarky63

Overall, do you believe Electronic Products have been more a blessing than a cancer to society?

Did you notice that since the invention of TV, Sound Systems (either home systems, Walkman, Discman, MP3, PDA, etc.), computer (internet included), video games, mobile phones, etc., people tend to live in their "own world"?. You see four friends seating at a restaurant's table speaking on their phones, or different members of a family dispersed around the house (one watching TV, the other surfing the net, another listening to his/her MP3). What happened to family's communication.

Don't get me wrong, I love all these things. I'm not a puritan, but if you think about what I am saying, there is something there.

Sometimes I dream that something happens out of a sci-fi movie and an electromagnetic pulse ends these madness, so we'd return to those wonderful times when we have long talks with our family like we used to (at least the ones that had the chance to live it). I remember when for some reason the lights went out and I used to chat with my grandmother for hours. I really miss that.

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I think Electronic Products can be a Blessing in the hands of some, and a Curse in the hands of others.

I agree with the points you bring up, about Electronic Products tending to isolate people from others (reduce the time people used to spend building relationships, talking with one another etc).

Cordially,
John
Aahs137

Are really men from Mars and women from Venus? what do you think?

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I dont really think men are from Mars and women are from Venus. :)

Having said that, it is true that Men and Women think differently, and communicate differently, and express themselves differently (on average).

Cordially,
John
Allencook25

Age 13 to 25 are you a born again christian and believe it's ok to have sex before marriage and are active

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I'm a born again Christian, and think it is not wise to have sex before marriage... (increases the odds of breaking up your marriage in the future).

Cordially,
John
Spackler

Why are older women so rude in a grocery store? Not all, but a high percentage of older women are rude and inconsiderate from the moment you step foot in a grocery store to the moment you check out. Your time means absolutely nothing to them...I feel better now!

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Dear Spackler, I'm glad you feel better now. :)

I think any human being has the capability to be rude. Rudeness in my experience is not limited to older women.

Cordially,
John
Qu33nofh3art...

What rituals, traditions and restrictions do chritians have? Do they celebrate any holidays differently than other releigions like muslims?


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Dear Qu33nofh3art,

The two traditions that Jesus established for his followers are (a) Baptism -- to be immersed in water as a symbol of having chosen to follow Jesus, and (b) the Lord's supper -- where a token small amount of bread and grape-juice is consumed by the Christians in memory of Jesus' death on the cross and his Resurrection.

In addition to these, some Christians celebrate Christmas (in honor of the birth of Christ) and Easter (in honor of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ).

Cordially,
John
Turnipgurner

Any theories out there on what it might mean if you're born within the witching hour? Or is just jibberish?!


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Dear Turnipgurner,

I have not seen any compelling evidence to believe that there is a connection between when you were born and anything else in your life.

Cordially,
John
Mexican
What are you after in life?


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Dear Mexican,

To live in daily relationship with the Christian God. To make a reasonable living. To share the love of Christ with others.

Cordially,
John
Weezermcgili

Where in the bible does it say that Mary Magdalene was ever a prostitute? I have seen on the news that Mary Magdalene was not ever a prostitute. The Catholic church at some point began describing her that way for whatever reason. So I've heard. Is it in the bible?

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Dear Weezermcgili,

The Bible does not say specifically that Mary Magdalene was a prostitute.

There was a woman who was caught in adultery (who some think was Mary Magdalene).

Cordially,
John
Jason

Do you think ETs helped build the great pyramids?

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Dear Jason,

I dont think ETs helped build the great pyramids.

Personally, I dont think there are any ETs (based on calculations of the probabilities using Drake's Equation, and based on the absence of electromagnetic signs-of-civilization from all around us in the universe).

Cordially,
John
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