Food for Hungry Christians
"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled" Matt. 5:6



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Name Date Comments
Michael Makwela Snr Jan/10/12 Hi Bob, thanks for the enlightening us through this website. Can you also please help me with the subject of Fasting. When are we asked or commanded to fast as a church? Thank you
Jan/10/12 Hello Michael, happy New Year, and I am glad that you are enjoying the "Food". I have not found where God ever commanded anyone to "fast", or that God "proclaimed a fast" for the Nation of Israel. The idea of "giving up things" and "doing things" to obtain God's favor is a "natural" reaction of man, not a "spiritual" reaction. In Isa 58:1-11, God tells the Nation of Israel that He does not answer their prayers on the basis of the "afflicting of their souls", or "fasting", or "lying on sackcloth and ashes", but on the basis of their righteousness. Jesus taught Israel that IF they "fasted", to do it in secret. The disciples of Jesus did not "fast" at all, Matt 9:14. The reaction of Israel in great mourning, was to tear their clothes, and wear sackcloth instead, and to place ashes on their head, with fasting, and weeping, and wailing. But, in the New Testament Epistles to the Church, we are commanded, in this Age of Grace, to continually rejoice and give thanks in all things. Rom. 8:28 "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Phil. 4:4 "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice." Heb. 13:15 "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name." My study of the issue of "fasting" has led me to believe that true "fasting", in this Age of Grace, is when we are so caught up in studying God's Word, or in true service to the Lord, that we forget to eat. Blessings, Bob
Michael Makwela snr Jan/11/12 Thanx Bob. I always felt that something is wrong somewhere about the way the subject of fasting is being taught in most of our assemblies but I was afraid to ask them about the scriptural references lest they got offended because many people believe in that Doctrine of fasting. Thanks, I'm well satisfied with the answer you've provided.
Jan/12/12 You are more than welcome Michael. If you are "challenged" on this subject, and need more info, please feel free to email me and I will give you the "long answer", and all the Scriptures to back it up. For example, the first reference to "proclaiming a fast" for the Nation of Israel, is 1 Kings 21:9, where it is proclaimed by wicked Jezebel, wife of wicked king Ahab, Bob
Dawn Tripp Jan/13/12 Examples of triunity in nature I read somewhere a few years ago would be tha egg, shell, yolk and white; water, liquid, stean and ice. Do you agree? Are there other examples?
Jan/13/12 Hi Dawn, the egg has 3 "components", which make a whole egg, and water has 3 "properties". but both the egg and water are "physical" and "tangible". God is infinite and invisible Spirit, who can "manifest", or make Himself visible and tangible in space and time - while still being infinite Spirit. I don't know of another illustration, besides what I have listed, but thank you for asking and blessings to you and yours, Bob
Michael makwela Jan/17/12 Thanks Bob. I think i will send you an email so you may enlighten me more about the subject of fasting. I'm much delighted. Thank you.
Steve Jan/21/12 Concerning baptism: I received Christ when I was nine and was baptized at that time. I'm now 59 and though as a young man I was out of church for a number of years I have participated and served in a local church since the age of 30. I know that salvation is by Grace through faith and that baptism is not necessary for salvation but with a 50 year span, my adult mind cannot come to grasp with nor well remember my thinking when I was nine. My question is this: What if I didn't understand what I was doing at nine years old? I certainly did not understand things as I do today. I think I was saved at the time but quite frankly, well I was nine. Over the years I have met a number of people saved at a young age that wonder about and express a similar question. They think that they have been scripturaly baptized but what if they misunderstood the concept of grace by faith at such a young age. Should children be re-baptised as adults if they are in this situation, I think this would apply to many, many adult Christians today. I wonder why I've never heard the topic addressed from the pulpit.
Julie Jan/21/12 What exactly does the bible mean by "work out your salvation with fear and trembling".?
Jan/22/12 Steve, I was also baptized when I was 9. I believe the Scripture teaches that water baptism is a beautiful picture of what God has already done for us, and I do not see where it "adds" to our "salvation". I see nothing "wrong" with being "re-baptized", If you feel you should, but I see the real answer is to get into the Word and "grow in Grace and into the full knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ". It is wonderful to hear that you are coming back to the Lord and His eternal Truth, Bob
Jan/22/12 Hi Julie, and good question. "Salvation" is the Greek word "sodzo", which includes all the benefits that come to us daily from our loving Heavenly Father. See my FAQ 3, on the Home Page, for a complete explanation of "sodzo". As we progress in the Christian life, we must "live by faith", and that involves "testing", and "discipline" from the Lord, and doing our best to live by His Word. As we grow from spiritual children to adults in Christ, we often "fear" that we have not made good choices, and "tremble" at the thought of the consequences. But, we must live by "faith". That is why it is so important to get into God's Word and grow. The more "faith" we have in our soul, the less "fear and trembling" we experience, because we know more about the Lord and His will! Blessings, Bob
Julie Jan/23/12 Thanks so much for that clarification, Bob.
Patsy Feb/06/12 Bob, When exactly was Christ's blood presented in the Holy of Holies in Heaven?
Feb/06/12 Excellent question Patsy. The Old Testament temple and sacrifices were a "shadow", and Jesus and His work on the Cross are the "reality", Col 2:17. Jesus called His body THE true "temple", "tou naou", John 2:19- 21. The "true temple veil" that was "torn", was the flesh of Jesus on the Cross, Heb 10:19-20. I believe the complete work of Jesus as "sin bearer", AND as our "High Priest", was finished during the 3 hours of darkness on the Cross, while Jesus "kept on crying out" "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?", Matt 27:45-46. Then Jesus said "It is finished". John 19:30. This is verified in Rev 21:22, where in the eternal state, John "saw no temple there, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb ARE the temple of it". Jesus stated that He could be physically on earth, and spiritually in heaven, at the same time, John 3:13. Place all this together, and I must believe that all of the things necessary for our salvation, as stated in the Book of Hebrews, and elsewhere in the Scriptures, were performed during those 3 hours of darkness on the Cross, and, it was all "finished", when Jesus said "it is finished". Email me if you need more info, blessings, Bob
Patsy Feb/07/12 Bob, You are definitely my "go to guy" for answers that I can trust! As always, thanks so much for your help.
Feb/07/12 You are welcome Patsy, glad I could help, Bob
Paul Ulrich Feb/08/12 My visit was blessing. Your answers and writings are good and truthful.There are so many foolish answers out there, I wish your website was somehow esteemed above them. Keep up the Good work! I appreciate the time you took in creating this site
Joe Feb/20/12 I really appreciate the work you are doing for the Lord. I am about to finish my first read of the entire bible. I had a question for you. Most of my life I thought we had free will. However, the more scripture I read the less I think that. Even less freedom for a believer. What's your take on that?
Feb/20/12 Hi Joe, glad you are enjoying the "food". The question of "free will" would take pages to explore fully. Let me just say that the child of God has been bought from the "slave market of sin" and "set free". So, the question for us is, what are we going to do with that freedom. We now have a "dual nature", see Romans chap 6 and 7, and from moment to moment we are either motivated by our sin nature, or by the Holy Spirit in our New Nature. The "goal" of the Christian life is give up ALL our "free will", that is what "gets us in trouble", and allow God to motivate our every thought and action. Blessings, Bob
Christopher Anderson Mar/01/12 My question is according to the bible no man has ever see God but now you are saying that Jesus himself is the only visible image of Almighty God. Are you want to tell me that man have seen God? Question 2, The father, son and the Hole Spirit who are you worshiping between the three of them. Question 3, Can God died?, can God eat?, can God fast for forty days and forty night? Why? Can man ham God? By killing him. If Jesus is God why did he pray to his Father for help.
Mar/01/12 Hi Christopher, the full answer to your questions is on the FAQ Number 1 page - "Who is Jesus?". In short, the Bible teaches that Jesus was both undiminished Deity AND true Humanity - in one unique Person. No man has seen God, because God is invisible "Infinite Spirit". Jesus is the "visible Image of God", and His sinless "Humanity" died on the Cross for us. I sincerely pray that this makes sense to you Christopher, Bob
Michael Makwela Snr Mar/09/12 Hello Bob, you know I now rely and enjoy on your teaching. Can you please enlighten me on the Subject of " First Fruit"? Thanx.
Mar/09/12 Hi Michael, firstfruits, in the Old Testament, is an agricultural term for the first "fruit" of a crop to mature early in the season, and is an indication of the quality of the later, or final crop. In the New Testament, "firstfruits" is used as a metaphor for an early "sample" of what is to come. For example, Jesus is the "firstfruits" of the resurrection, 1 Cor. 15:20,23, so, His characteristics after He was resurrected indicate what we will be like when we are resurrected. He had a "flesh and bone" body and his friends recognized him in Luke 24:39, He appeared and disappeared at will in Luke 24:31, He walked through walls or used the door knob in John 20:26, He ate fish and honeycomb in Luke 24:39-43, He interacted with humans who were unaware that He was in a resurrection body in Luke 24:13-32, and He traveled in space without a space suit in Acts 1:9-11 etc. When we, the later crop, are resurrected, we will be like Him, 1 John 3:2! Good question! Bob
Michael Makwela Snr Mar/11/12 Oh...ok. Now I do understand. Thank you so much Bob.
peterg8893 Mar/13/12 oh yes,
jamesy679p Mar/13/12 wowzers,
kevinx55656 Mar/13/12 wowzers,
Mar/14/12 See the "long answer", concerning our resurrection bodies, at the top of the Home Page - "What's New?" Bob
susan2 Mar/14/12 oh yes
Michael Makwela Snr Mar/18/12 I really would like to thank you about the recent post about "resurrection bodies " it really helped me a lot in my christian life and the studies. I have another question though, here I just want you to help me. I was reading Romans Chapters 9,10 and 11 where Paul talks about Israel. And, as I was studying, i found passages like Romans 10:19 and Romans 11:11 where the Paul is saying that God wanted to provoke the Israelites to Jealousy through us the Gentiles. Can you please help me understand the mystery behind Paul's Language in these Chapters and what is God's Plan about the Israelites. If my question is complicated, please just try to highlight me about this Chapters. Thanx in Advance, Michael
Mar/19/12 Hi Michael, Paul uses the Greek word "parazeloo" 3 times in Rom Chap 11 to state that the acceptance by the Gentiles of Jesus as the long awaited Messiah, should cause the Jew to be more "zealous", to look into whether Jesus is actually the Messiah. In Rom 11:11, Paul uses "parazeloo" twice, where he says "salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke ("parazeloo") them (Paul's Jewish brethren) to jealousy". ("parazeloo") And, in Rom 11:14, Paul says "If by any means I may provoke to emulation ("parazeloo") them which are my flesh, and might save some of them." "Parazeloo" in all 3 cases means to "cause them to be more zealous" in considering Jesus as the Messiah, Bob
dave56 Mar/19/12 love it,
Michael Makwela Snr Mar/20/12 Oh. . . Ok. Now I do understand. Most specially after i was reading your teaching on this webside on questi0ns and Answers about " Israel/Israeli". Thank you so much Bob :)
jalen Mar/21/12 i know that everything has a beginning. and that god created everything, but how was god created
Mar/21/12 Hi Jalen, the Scriptures state that God had no beginning. We must accept by faith that this "physical" world is just a tiny part of something eternal and infinite. In Ex 3:14, where God says "I AM that I AM", it means that He is "The Self Existent One". In Isa 43:10, God says "before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me". 1 Tim 1:17 states that He is "eternal", and "immortal". I pray that you will come to see that there are great truths outside of what we see and hear as physical human beings, such as "believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved", Bob
Julie pace Mar/26/12 On the falling away, this is what I was looking for. I believe Paul is referring to the rapture. They were afraid they had missed it and the tribulation had already started. This passage confirms that the "gathering" is before the "day of the Lord". Thank you for your work on the phrase falling away.
Mar/26/12Wonderful Julie! The English translations of 2 Thess 2:3 "cover up" "ho apostasia", "THE DEPARTURE", which is the SUBJECT of verse 1! There is more to God's Word than we learned in Sunday School, isn't there! Bob
Laureen Mar/30/12 Your comments to the one who said they are bitter are loving and kind. Everyone is in the process of being transformed so at any given moment, people can see the part of us that isn't transformed and it can be pretty disappointing. Jesus said, "Believe in God." He also said he trusteth no man because he knows their hearts. One of the biggest messages he has given me is that he created us all as it pleases him; even so, there was no way to save us from our evil selves without 'drinking the cup' of the wrath of God we earned, in our place. Praise God he is still doing a work in us. Thank God we are his children and he disciplines us and he is merciful in doing so. We couldn't be in better hands.
Mar/30/12 Amen Laureen, from moment to moment, stage to stage, we are all "a work in progress", and "in good hands"! Bob
Michael Makwela Snr. Apr/06/12 Hi Bob, good afternoon and Happy Easter to you and your Family! Can you please help me understand the real meaning of Good Friday celebration and why is it called Easter. Thanks in advance.
Apr/06/12 Hi Michael, "good friday" and "easter" are traditions of men. "Easter" is English for "Ishtar", the Babylonian goddess called the pagan "queen of heaven" in Jer 7:18,& 44:17, 18, 19, & 25. The King James translators mistranslated the Greek word "pascha", meaning "Passover", in Acts 12:4, as "Easter". That is how the Christian Church began to use the pagan word "easter". Ishtar was the goddess of "fertility", and that is the reason for all the "eggs" and "rabbits" etc. Jesus was crucified on Wednesday, the "Passover day" that spoke of His death as the "Lamb of God", Exodus chapter 12. Thursday was a special "Sabbath", the first day of the "Feast of Unleavened Bread". Jesus arose from the dead on Saturday, the Jewish seventh day "Sabbath", Matthew 28:1. Jesus said in Matt 12:40 "For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth". How anyone could believe Jesus was crucified on Friday is beyond me. I like to call it "Resurrection Sunday"! Praise God for His Truth! Jesus is alive and all those who trust and rely on Him will live with Him forever! A full explanation of this subject is posted in the "Subject Index", under "Easter". Bob
S. Sparks Apr/12/12 I really liked your answer about who to pray to and whether or not God gets mad if we pray to Jesus. It was very well thought out and beautiful, and the June Bug story a vivid illustration of what He did for us. Thanks. :)
Apr/12/12 You are so welcome! I am happy that you were blessed! Bob
Jarice Federico Apr/14/12 Thank you for the defination of the word "Saved". I have seen a condensed version in a magazine and then our Pastor commented on it last Sunday. I wanted a complete defination. Thank you again
Apr/14/12 You are welcome, Jarice. I'm glad you enjoyed the "food"! Bob
Ladylene Apr/15/12 The phrase in Romans 8: 11 that says 'he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies..' The will give life is future or present tense?
Apr/15/12 Hi Ladylene, in Rom 8:11, "dwell in you" is "present" tense, and "quicken your mortal bodies" is "future tense". The Spirit of God permanently dwells in all those who are "in Christ", and His Spirit "shall quicken" speaks of receiving our resurrection body at the Rapture. Blessings, Bob
Michael Makwela Snr. Apr/15/12 Hi Bob, Happy Sunday to you and Your Famaly! I would really want to thank you for making me understand the mystery behind easter and Good Friday. With your recent post, i'm very clear on the Subject. Thank you so much Sir.
Apr/15/12 Thank you too Michael, for the opportunity to write about Resurrection Week! Blessings to you and your family, Bob
hope Apr/23/12 what do u say to someone who hears & sees demons? Jesus said we will do what he has done & even bigger things...God bless U
Apr/23/12 Hi Hope, I would tell them to ignore them and keep their eyes on Jesus. The context of John 14:12 is Jesus urging His disciples to "believe", to "trust in and rely on", Him. "Greater than", in this verse is the Greek phrase "miezona touton", indicating "greater in quantity". The "reason" given here for the "greater quantity", is "because I go unto my Father". The disciples will do "many more" good works, in the rest of their lifetime, than they saw Jesus do. An example would be that fifty days later, on the day of Pentecost, Peter proclaimed the gospel and 3,000 people "believed" - "trusted in and relied on" - Jesus. Agape, Bob
Andre BorrettMay/06/12Wonderful reading and explanations are easy to understand and very relevant for today. Bless you guys, Andre Borrett, South Africa
Andre BorrettMay/06/12Hi and greetings in the name of Jesus our Lord. Is there any way to be able to repost your articles to Facebook, some blogs have a icon at the bottom for easy posting. Thank you, Andre Borrett, I am on facebook
May/06/12 Hi Andre, I'm glad you are enjoying the "food". I've posted a "Facebook.com/biblefoodbob" page, and I am in the process of placing the Facebook "Recommend" code on each page. Hope this helps Facebook users when they read something they "Like". Thanks, Andre, Bob
Debbie Tutela May/06/12 today in church my pastor called what Jesus did on the cross the atonement. Thank you for clearing up a question that I had concerning that, and that the word is reconciled in the new testatment and not atonement. Very good site!
May/07/12 Hi Debbie, I'm glad you appreciate the study on "Reconciliation-Atonement", in Rom 5:11. "Atonement" has become the accepted word, and so, we don't make a "big deal" about it, but knowing the truth is both strengthening and reassuring. Thanks for writing, Bob
peterg8893 May/09/12 oh yes,
Michael Makwela Snr. May/11/12 Good Morning and Happy Friday Bob! I was reading a Book written by one of "known Author's" about the impact of the Holy Spirit on our bodies. . .of which I might have been unable to comprehend the message quite well, Can you also share with us, is there any different between the "Spirit Within" and the "Spirit Upon"? Thanks in advance :)
May/11/12 Hi Michael, I have heard this terminology before and I am very wary of it. We can see all the ministries of the Holy Spirit to the child of God in the New Testament, and the Spirit of God permanently lives IN us and empowers us FROM WITHIN to do God's will. When someone describes a power "coming upon them" from outside, I believe that is not Biblical, and at the VERY BEST they are being deceived. See Home Page FAQ 3, "What does being saved mean", for the ministries of the Holy Spirit to the believer. Bob
Rodriquez Calhoun May/18/12 This site really helped me to gain insite and understanding and I just wanted to thank you.
May/18/12 Rodriquez, you are more than welcome, and I thank you for the encouragement! Bob
David May/25/12 Our church was pretrib. Checked the passages and the Greek words, behold posttrib. There is not the slightest doubt in my mind. Keep up the good work.
May/25/12 David, If you read my 21 reasons for a "pre-trib Rapture" and came up with "post trib", please e-mail me, so we can discuss this, Bob
Michael Makwela Snr. May/27/12 Good Morning Bob. Being so much blessed with your teachings, I could see your stuff as something that should be treasured accordingly. I would like to ask if you've got some Christian Material Books that you've Authored and how I can get them if I'm in South Africa. Thanks.
May/28/12 Hi Michael, I'm sorry, but I have not published any books. All my studies are posted here on BibleFood.com. If you suggest a subject for me to post a study about, I'll do my best :-) Bob
Frank Bachman Jun/04/12 Hello Bob and thanks for the enormous amount of time and effort you must have put into your pages. I have a question and maybe you can shed some light on it....Ive done alot of reading in Revelation and one verse always comes back to me. Rev 10:4 ,What was sealed up that John was told in regards to what was uttered by the seven thunders. Ive found nothing anywhere in regards to what this verse means....thanks and Blessings, Frank
Jun/05/12Hi Frank, that is a BIG question :-) The short answer is that I see the Great Tribulation and Second Advent of Christ stated from three separate viewpoints, just like the three "synoptic Gospels". The first "view" beginning in Rev. 6:3-12, ending with the sixth seal; the second "view"beginning in Rev. 8:7, and ending with the seventh trumpet in 11:19; and the third view, in Rev. 16:2, and ending with the seventh vial, in Rev 16:21. My understanding is that the "mystery", and the reason John was told to hold off on writing what the "Seven Thunders" stated, is that the 7 "Vials of Wrath" viewpoint are still to come, in Rev. 16:2 - 16:21. In Rev 10:4, when John is told "write them not", the verb switches to the "subjunctive mood" which could be translated "you might not want to write that yet". So, instead of celebrating the end of the Tribulation, and the Second Advent, and the beginning of the Millennial Reign of Christ, at the Seventh Trumpet, it was delayed until the 7th Vial, in Rev 16:17 and following. I have drawn up a chart that might help, and posted it at www.biblefood.com/7thunders.html. Thanks for the question Frank, and I hope this helps! Bob
john Jun/08/12 Do I pray out loud or in my head? If I pray to god or Jesus about my dead dog will he hear it??? Will he care??? How do I start and end a prayer??
Jun/08/12 Hi John, Prayer is simply "talking to God", in our mind, or out loud. I believe God wants us to talk to Him about EVERYTHING, large and small. I believe the Bible teaches us to address all prayer to our Loving Heavenly Father, and in the name of Jesus. If you love Jesus, God loves and cares for you with an infinite love. Blessings, Bob
mary Jun/10/12 Why do we always try to put a question mark where God puts a period.
Jun/10/12 Hi Mary, you'll have to tell me more about what you are asking. The original Hebrew and Greek had no "punctuation" marks, no question marks and no periods. Fallible men placed the "punctuation" marks in the English Bibles. Now, if you mean "questioning" God's Word, our goal should be to clearly understand God's Word, and believe it and live by it. Could you give me an example? Blessings, Bob
Michael Makwela Snr Jun/18/12 Good Morning Bob. I have a question of which I believe you will help me on it.There are so many Deliverance Ministry in the World today. They specialise in casting demons out, and when this is done, they believe the person is free. This is also done to Christians, the born again. My Question is, Does a Christian Need Deliverance ? Or is Deliverance Ministry Scriptural? And what is the scriptural way to minister deliverance? Thanks in advance.
Jun/18/12 Hi Michael, the believer is the "temple of God", and I believe it is impossible for the child of God to be "demon possessed". Jesus taught that it is futile to cast a demon out of an unbeliever, in Matthew 12:43-45. We are in "spiritual warfare", and as such may possibly be "influenced" by demons, but not "indwelt", or "possessed". The unbeliever needs to believe in Jesus for salvation, and the child of God needs prayer and good Bible teaching. Please see Q & A's #30 for a full explanation. Good to hear from you Michael, Bob
susan2 Jun/20/12 love it,
Michael Makwela Snr Jun/23/12 Good morning Bob. And greetings to you and your Family. I just would love to thank you for helping us understand the word of God through this Site. Sometimes I ask myself if I could have been introduced to this site long ago. How my Christian life would be. Even though, i'm still grateful for what I'm learning thus far. Surely understanding the scripture is of vital importance. And that have I realised when I was introduced to you. At the moment, I also believe that myself and those who are opportuned to visit this site, we are really enjoying the food. My Life has changed because i've been fed with good food from this site. Much blessing to you and your Family. Michael.
Jun/23/12 Michael, I am so thankful to our Loving Heavenly Father that through this marvelous form of communication we can grow together "in Christ". Thank you for the encouragement, and I look forward to meeting all of you someday, here, there or in the air! Students together In Christ, Bob
paul56 Jun/24/12 love it,
Shawnee Jul/02/12 Thank you! This question was on my mind, too!!
pavan Jul/04/12 my questions are: 1. people who pray to JESUS are called as? 2.people who pray to MARRY are called as? 3.people who pray but believing humans form as not god are called as? please do answer my questions
Jul/05/12 Hi Pavan, Born Again Christians (true children of God) can be mixed up and believe all kinds of things. That is what the Bible is for, and that is what people that devote their life to helping us understand the Bible are for. The question is "what does the Bible say" on all these issues. Please email me for specific answers to all your questions. Yours "in Christ", Bob
pavan Jul/05/12 Thank you Bob for replying .can u let me know your mail id.
Jul/05/12 Please click on the "email Bob" button at the top left, thanks, Bob
Paul Jul/05/12 the moon isnt estimated at 7000 years old, i belive its been radiometrically dated to be close to 800 million - (source: nasa)
Jul/05/12 Thanks Paul, but I am a Bible Believer, and I will stick to what the Bible teaches, while the scientists argue about their "billions of years". The "creation" and "dating" theories have repeatedly been disproved and forced to change. The Bible has never been proven wrong, and Jesus said His Word cannot be broken. It is fun to discuss though. ICR.org is a group of scientists who believe the Bible, and they are worth reading, if you would like the Biblical scientific viewpoint, Blessings, Bob
Pilotmedic Jul/05/12 HI BOB. I AM CONFUSED...YOU SAY JESUS CHRIST IS OUR LORD AND SAVIOR, BUT JESUS IS NOT PART OF GOD? I DONT WANT TO DISOBEY THE 1ST & 2ND COMMANDMENT? PLEASE HELP!
Jul/05/12 Hi Pilotmedic, 1 Tim. 3:16 states that Jesus is God Himself come in the flesh. He IS God. Please email me so we can discuss this very important and profound question, blessings, Bob
Pilotmedic Jul/06/12 Hi Bob, My previous post got changed somehow and worded different? I will contact you through your email to discuss the real question I had. I am not trying to disagree with you, I just got confused on your explanations..I am a true follower of God through Jesus Christ my savior and fighting a spiritual battle everyday. I am blessed to even be here writing to you. Thanks for responding. Again, my question earlier got changed and only God knows why.
Michael Makwela Snr Jul/07/12 Good Morning Bob :) I believe that a Born again Christian will spend his/her eternity with Christ. My question is, what does the Bible teaches about where will be this eternity spent? Here on the earth, or in heaven or in the new heaven and new earth or in the new Jerusalem? and what will happen in the end of times? Thanx in advance. Michael
Jul/07/12 Hi Michael, In short, we will spend 7 years with Christ in heaven, then 1000 years back on this earth, with Him, ruling the nations of this earth, then forever with Him, with the New earth as home base. Please email me, if you need further explanation. I will post for all to read, if I do not have these answers already posted :-) Bob
Michael Makwela Snr Jul/09/12 Ok thanks Bob. I will actually send you an email. I really do need this information.Thanks in advance. Michael
Jean1745 Jul/30/12 Thank you bob
Michael Makwela Snr Aug/02/12 Good morning Bob. Thanx again for helping us through this wonderful website. I have been asked about the Issue of speaking and praying in Tongues - so I told them that I will ask you first then I will get back to them. Whats the importance of speaking in Tongues and what are the advantages or disavantages of speaking in Tongues? Or should every believer speak in Tongues? Whats does the Bible say about Tongues in General? Thanx in advance. Michael.
Aug/02/12 Hi Michael, I believe the true purpose for the Biblical gift of "tongues", or "languages", was fulfilled in the First Century AD. This Biblical gift began on the day of Pentecost, in Acts chapter 2, where one man (Peter) spoke and people from 14 different nations heard Peter in their own native language. The "Miracle" on the day of Pentecost was in people's "ears", not "tongues". This gift was for a SIGN 1 Cor 14:21 & 22. A SIGN for JEWS, not gentiles, 1 Cor 1:21 & 22. A SIGN for UNBELIEVERS, not believers, 1 Cor 14:21 & 22. A SIGN of the imminent destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD, and resultant dispersal of the Children of Israel to the whole world, and of the blindness that God brought on Israel for the duration of the Church Age. In 1 Cor 14:21 Paul reminds Corinth of the true purpose of tongues", and quotes Isa 28:9-13, a prophesy of the destruction of Israel in 70AD. "Tongues" were a "sign" to Israel, that God was setting Israel aside as his "nation" and the "mystery" Church Age was interrupting the Age of the Jews. I believe 1 Cor chap 13 teaches that this "gift" faded away when the Bible was completed, and that, in the Book of First Corinthians, Paul is "easing" the Corinthian Church AWAY from the temporary "sign" gifts. Let me know if you need more info, blessings, Bob
Patsy Aug/02/12 Hi Bob, What can you tell me about miracle healing in this age of Grace?Jesus left us with Faith, Hope and Charity (Love) and said that they were sufficient. Thanks for your answer. I am struggling with how to deal with a sibling. I trust you to lead me in the Biblical answer. Your sister in Christ, Patsy
Aug/02/12Hi Patsy, since the last Apostle died and the Bible was completed, I do not believe anyone has had the "GIFT of healing". God loves His children and He is sovereign, and as such, I believe He can, and does miraculously heal, according to His will. We pray for our self and others when they are sick, "thy will be done", because God still heals, miraculously and medically. God may or may not heal us. The most important thing is for us to maintain our fellowship through instant confession of sin in accordance with 1 John 1:9. If we are sick, and we know we are in fellowship, and God does not heal us, then we know it is God's will for us to remain sick. The healthiest and happiest we, as Christians, can be, is "in fellowship" with God, taking in a rich diet of God's Word, growing in the sphere of Grace, and prayerfully seeking to walk according to God's Word and will. We will pray for you and your sibling in your struggle, your brother in Christ, Bob
ambassador-77 Aug/10/12 I like
Mary Jones Aug/14/12 I love you more than you love me!!!
Aug/15/12 Thank you sweet wife :-) Bob (Our perpetual "argument")
Evelyn Aug/20/12 Hi Bob, I'm having a difficult time understanding 1 Corth 6:9. I read the chapter and I know that it's directed to Christians. I believe in eternal security but this verse seems to say that you will not make it to heaven if you commit any of these sins. Thank you, Evelyn
Aug/20/12 Hi Evelyn, the adjectives "fornicators, idolaters, adulterers" etc, are in the "Nominative case" in the Greek, indicating people "CHARACTERIZED" as "fornicators, idolaters, adulterers," etc. A person who constantly does the things listed in 1 Cor 6:9&10 would be "characterized" by those things. The born again child of God is a "new creation" sealed into union with Christ, with all sins forgiven - 2 Cor 5:17 "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new". 1 Cor 6:11 goes on to say - "And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified (declared righteous) in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God". A child of God who does the bad things listed in 1 Cor 5:10&11 is a "new creation in Christ", who comes under discipline for committing such sins. If a child of God commits such sins and does not confess them (1 John 1:9) or attempt to grow "in Christ" away from such sins, they will come under increasingly severe discipline, and God will "take them home early" if they refuse to "turn around". The child of God cannot be "un-born again". The child of God cannot be "unsealed" from union with Christ. But, God will not allow any of His children to continue in unrepentant, unconfessed sin. See "Sin Unto Death" in the Subject Index. Blessings, Bob
Kathy Aug/21/12 Thank you so much for this great Bible resource providing continunity of scriptures, hebrew and greek translations providing clarity for Bible passages. Provided a quick answer where I was "not prepared" as the Bible tells me to be. So..I had to fortunately quickly access this site. Thank you!!
Aug/21/12 You are more than welcome Kathy! May the Lord bless your studies! Bob
Michael Makwela Snr. Aug/24/12 Hi Bob, i would love to thank you. Your teaching on the Millenial reign of Christ is so excellent. Michael
Carlos Aug/27/12 I have Q .why do we pray for jussis when we can ask god without help from any one , and I'm sorry but I need prove that god has a son, and why there are 4 bible and all the four not look like the same. I know my English not good but I try to learn
Aug/27/12 Hi Carlos, the Bible teaches that because of Adam and Eve's sin, the whole human race is born hopeless, helpless, and dominated by sin. God cannot have anything to do with sin or sinful creatures, but He devised a plan, and that is our need for Jesus and His payment for sin on the Cross. John 3:16-18 state that all who believe in Jesus have everlasting life, but those who refuse to believe in Him are condemned. God is "Holy" and man cannot approach Him except through Jesus. I recommend the King James and New King James Bibles. I'm sorry, but I am not familiar with Spanish Bibles. Please email me if you have further questions. Once you believe in Jesus, God will begin to give you satisfying answers to your questions, I pray the Lord will give you understanding, Bob
lalala1 Sep/02/12 Hi. This topic of Proverb 8 and Jesus seems to be a big debate. I personally agree with your view...verse22-30, and 35-36 speaks to me, telling me about Jesus whenever I read. To me, it was just poetically described Him (or His nature?) Jesus became wisdom of God for us (1 Corinthians 1:30) But if I share this, one pastor agrees but the other warns me it is an out of context and dangerous (they say, Solomon talks about general wisdom and its importance). I felt this is a taboo subject to bring. However, it suggests He was already in the beginning, and verse 17 matches John 14:21, verse 30 matches John 1:1-3. Verse 35 tells me that without Jesus, we cannot find life because He is the life. They say, wisdom is God's attribute so you cannot equate to Jesus. It is hard to explain but if he is Word, His word also gives wisdom. His Word is truth that gives me understanding of things, which is God's Wisdom and this was manifested through Jesus Christ. If we separate Wisdom as one of His characters, other descriptions like He is light seems to be also just one of His aspects. 'For my mouth will speak truth'. Jesus is also truth. Is the Wisdom in Him speaks truth or Jesus Himself speaks truth? I am confused. This is controversial due to the verse 1-2. It is translated as 'she'. Jesus is not woman. However, some languages have gender pronouns. For example, a nation has female pronoun in English, right? But it doesn't mean anything. How about In Hebrews? Do they have the same sort of language system? It is hard to explain this, but it was described as 'brought forth'. So this is also the problem for them because it suggests that Jesus then was created by God? But if Wisdom was brought forth, God didn't have wisdom before??? God lives outside of time. If it means that how God bring the Wisdom of God (Jesus) bring forth through as a human being (and His son) through Mary in the beginning of the beginning, whilst he already existed as Alpha, (extremely hard to explain like trinity), does it make sense??? Anyway, to me, Jesus is light, truth, Word, and God's wisdom and proverb 8 tells me that but if I see in that way, I am in trouble. I don't understand why. To me, word wisdom in Hebrews sounds merely has the function of female pronoun. Can anybody explain better? Is my view dangerous?
peterg8893 Sep/03/12 love it,
Sep/04/12 Hi lalala1, I think your dissertation is very good! I see Prov chap 8 as "literally" the "wisdom of God". And, I see "Wisdom" here as an "oriental figure of speech", which "personifies" God's wisdom, speaking as though the wisdom of God is a person, which would be the Lord Jesus Christ. I see not just one, but both understandings in this passage. I do not know any more about Prov chap 8 than I wrote in answer to Question number 22 on the "Your Q's and A's" Page. On the issue of "brought forth", Yahweh left His place in heaven and entered the stream of humanity through the virgin birth - Jesus was "brought forth" in His "humanity", but His Deity preexisted in eternity past as Yahweh", capitol "LORD" in the KJV Old Testament. I do not believe your understanding is "dangerous", I believe it is profound. And since the Bible backs it up, don't let anyone tell you that your understanding is "dangerous" :-) Please re-read question number 22 on the Q's and A's Page and let me know if you have further questions, Bob
michael makwela snr Sep/06/12Good morning Bob, Can you please help me understand. In the Book of 1 Corinthians 15 it states that " the first Man Adam..." so I want to understand, was Adam the first man in the sense that he's the first to be created on planet earth? Because when we read further in Genesis we see how Cain went to marry his wife. Meaning that there could be a possibility of other people living on planet earth during that time. Please Bob, help me understand these things. Thank you. Michael.
peterg8893 Sep/06/12 wowzers
michael makwela snr Sep/07/12 Good morning Bob, I believe that God told us in His word what He wanted us to know. Though, I'm just curious if there are still certain things that I fail to understand when I study the scriptures. Please help me understand, the bible says Adam was the first Man, was he the first man in the sense that he was the first to be created on planet earth ? Please help me understand how we all came according to your knowledge of the scriptures. Thanks in advance. Michael.
Sep/07/12Hi Michael, Jesus said the Scriptures cannot be broken, and they have not been proved wrong. I must believe the Bible. 1 Cor 15:45 and the Genesis account state that Adam was the first man. In Gen 3:20 Adam called his wife's name Eve, because she was the mother of all living. By Gen 4:17, the population must have been large enough for men to live in cities. In Gen 5:4 and 5, Adam and Eve had sons and daughters for 930 years. God's sanction against brothers and sisters and cousins marrying is first found in Lev chap 18, some 2,500 years after Adam. Remember, in Gen chap 6, every human was destroyed in the Great Flood, except the 8 righteous members of Noah's family and the human race was started over with just those 8 people. Lot's daughters thought they were the last people on the planet after Sodom was destroyed and had children by their father. It was God's plan for brothers and sisters and cousins to marry, until the earth was well populated. I take the Genesis account to be LITERAL, and after 36 years of intense Bible study I believe it more firmly than ever, blessings, Bob
Carlos Sep/07/12 Im still a little confused you said Jesus is god but when he prayed he prayed to god which is himself. That's where I'm confused.
..Sep/07/12Hi Carlos, I'm sorry about the "confusion", but the key here is that when Jesus was on earth, He was both Deity AND HUMANITY in one unique person. Theologians call this study the "Hypostatic Union". Jesus ofter spoke from His "humanity" as in "I thirst". Deity cannot "thirst". Jesus also spoke from His Deity, as in "If you have seen me you have seen the Father". When Jesus prayed, He was speaking from His humanity. I hope this makes sense to you. As you read the words of Jesus in the Gospels, ask yourself whether Jesus is speaking from His humanity or His Deity, and I pray that this issue will begin to make sense. Jesus is no longer "humanity". He has been glorified and has returned to His home in heaven, and is now the visible manifestation of infinite and invisible Almighty God. Please email me if you have further questions, may God bless your studies,Bob
Wildan Sep/08/12 Hi !My name is Ellie,I go to Spratton C of E Primary School, I live in Creaton With my brother and my mum and dad. I have a dog caelld Lolly and a cat caelld puss, I am 9 years old and my birthday is on the 13th of November. My hobbies are football, arts and craft and bike riding.I go to lots of clubs in school, I go to mathletics, gardening, art and textiles . I go to some out of school as well like cubs, pilots and football.My favouite food is spaghetti bolognaise, but when I go on holiday to Norfolk I love fish and chips because it is near the sea so the fish is realy nice!My best friends are Issie, Ruby, Ayesha, Dilon and Ella From Ellie!
Sep/08/12 Well Ellie, I hope Issie, Ruby, Ayesha, Dilon and Ella, read Biblefood.com, snd see your greetings! Do you love Jesus? Bob
Patricia Sep/12/12 Does it matter at all whether we say Jesus or Yahoshua? (Zec. 6:11-12)
Sep/12/12 Hi Patricia, in Zech 6:11&12, the English word "Joshua" is the Hebrew word "Jehoshua" ("yeh-ho-shoo?ah"), meaning "Jehovah is salvation". The New Testament Greek word for "Jehoshua" is "Iesous", or "e-ay-sooce". The English word for "Iesous", is "Jesus". As long as we know who we are talking about, that He is "God Himself come in the flesh", as in 1 Tim 3:16, I don't think it matters which of these names we use for Jesus, as they can all three mean exactly the same thing. I understand that some Christian Churches emphasize the use of "Jehoshua", but, I would think Hebrew speaking people would say "Jehoshua", and Greek speaking people would say "Iesous", and English speaking people would say "Jesus". To do otherwise, seems to me to be playing "spiritual king of the mountain". Bob
TiarnanSep/13/12Hi Bob, Congratulations on a great site, I was brought here by the question of who should I pray to - Jesus or God...I've always prayed to God - because - well I just thought it was what I should do - but I've never really prayed in Jesus' name so will start in earnest. Thanks and God Bless!
Sep/13/12 Thanks for the encouragement Tiarnan, and I am glad you were blessed by the "food"! Bob
Michael Makwela Senior Sep/18/12 Hi Bob, all I would like to say is thank you for your answers. Biblefood is now my default bookmark.I always visit this site anytime I feel like eating the "food" and for sure I'm well fed. Thanks
Sep/18/12 Bless you Michael, it is folks like you that keep me going! Bob
Mallik Sep/25/12 This website helps us to know about the god well, i have many doubts in bible but no clarifications for me, i hope you help in this way but how to reach you?
Sep/25/12 Hi Mallik, email me at bobjones at biblefood dot com, or click on the "Email Bob" button on the top left of the Home Page. Your email questions are welcome, and I will be happy to show you what I believe, and the Scriptures to back it up, to answer your questions. May the Lord richly bless your growth in Christ, Bob.
Kari Sep/26/12 I am extremely confused by the statement you make in your webpage your domain slash prayer.html. You mention that Jesus is God? That makes no sense and then you said Jesus prayed to God. So by your statement you are saying that Jesus prayed to himself? I am do not understand those statements. Can you please refer me to Bible verses where these statements could be explained? Thanks, Kari
Sep/26/12 Hi Kari, I'm sorry about the "confusion", but the key here is that when Jesus was on earth, He was both Deity AND HUMANITY in one unique person. Theologians call this study the "Hypostatic Union". Jesus often spoke from His "humanity" as in "I thirst". Deity cannot "thirst". Jesus also spoke from His Deity, as in "If you have seen me you have seen the Father". When Jesus prayed to His Father in Heaven, He was speaking from His humanity. I hope this makes sense to you. As you read the words of Jesus in the Gospels, ask yourself whether Jesus is speaking from His humanity or His Deity, and I pray that this issue will begin to make sense. Jesus is no longer "humanity". He has been glorified and has returned to His home in heaven, and is now the visible manifestation of infinite and invisible Almighty God. Please see Bible FAQ 1 on the Home Page, for info on who Jesus is, and email me if you have further questions, blessings, Bob
richard m Oct/10/12 I like!
Michael Makwela Senior Oct/12/12 Hi Bob, good morning and Happy Friday to you and your Family. Can you please help Me to understand, Is there any different between Rapture and the Second coming of Christ? Thanks in Advance :)
Oct/12/12 Hi Michael, there are 7 years between the Rapture of the Church Age Believers, and the Second Coming of Christ. The Church Age Believers leave the earth, with Christ, in 1 Thess 4:13-18, and return 7 years later WITH Christ, already judged, rewarded and married to Christ, in Rev 19:14. For a full explanation see "Rapture of the Church" in the "Subject Index" (Click on the "Subject Index" Tab). Please feel free to ask more questions on this subject, as they arise! Blessings to you and yours, Bob
David Oct/14/12 This has been very helpful to me as I have had the same questions.
Oct/14/12 Wonderful David, thank you for the comment, Bob
Mitch Oct/15/12 Hey Bob, When you said,"The Father and Holy Spirit are everywhere and invisible, and will continue to be." I was curious to where you got that and also how it correlates with God making man in his own image? Thanks.
Oct/15/12 Hi Mitch, The Greek in John 4:24 says God IS Spirit - not "a" Spirit - He is not "one of many Spirits", but He IS Spirit. God is INFINITE, and FILLS ALL in ALL: Jeremiah 23:24, II Chronicles 2:5&6. God is INVISIBLE: Col 1:13-17, Hebrews 11:27. Jesus is the visible Image of Invisible God: Col 1:15, and Col 2:9 states that In Jesus "dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily" (in bodily form). Heb 1:3 states that Jesus is the "brightness of his (God's) glory and the express image of his person". Man being created in the "image of God", means "similarity", or "likeness", and from my study I take this to mean "Body Soul and Spirit" relating to "Father, Son, and Holy Spirit". Hope this answers your questions, and if not, please feel free to email me, blessings, Bob
Oct/15/12 Hey Mitch, I added the Scriptures you asked about, to FAQ 1, "Who is Jesus Christ", on the Home Page. Thanks for the suggestion! Bob
Mitch Oct/16/12 Thanks a lot, and glad to hear my question gave further purpose! Instead of taking it too literally and thinking bodily image. Man being created in the image of God can be interpreted through spirit and soul, like you said. Saying example humans instead of animals in God's image, since they can not live the same spiritual lives as we can type of thing.
Oct/16/12 Good point about the "animals", Mitch. We must remember that Adam and Eve were "created" with the spiritual ability to fellowship with God. But, when they sinned, they instantly "died spiritually" and lost that ability to fellowship with God. All humans after that are born "spiritually dead", and our being "born again" restores the ability to understand spiritual things and fellowship with God. As Jesus said to the unbelieving Pharisees, in John 8:47, "He that is of God heareth God?s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God". And 1 Cor 2:14 states "..the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned". Adam and Eve lost their "image of", or "similarity to" God, when they sinned. See "New Birth" in the Subject Index. Thanks again for this question Mitch! Bob
Mitch Oct/21/12 Thanks so much for answering. That does help clarify. This site has and will help me out a lot!
E.E. Oct/21/12 Hi Bob - I appreciate the help. I would like to comment on your response to Mitch, above. I agree that Adam and Eve lost their fellowship with God when they sinned, but I did not understand this to mean that they lost his "image." Do you believe that man effectively lost his spirit at the fall and became just body and soul? Or did his spirit become 'dead' as in 'corrupted, evil' as the devil is a spirit still, but an evil one. If man lost the image of God, why would unbelievers be resurrected and judged? Animals will not be. I've read that God will punish unbelievers eternally rather than just destroy them, because He can't or won't annihilate something made in His image. Don't Gen. 9:6 and James 3:9 indicate that men are still made in God's image? I care deeply about people and I try to understand why that is, if they are naturally evil. And I don't love the evil, but I've thought that it must be the image of God in them that I love. Thanks again.
Oct/22/12 Hi E. E., The Scriptures state that the "natural man" is born spiritually dead and into the kingdom of Satan, and Rom 3:11 states that "there is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. I cannot see how fallen man is in the "image of God" in ANY imaginable sense. Whatever Gen. 1:21 means by the "likeness", or "similarity" to God - Adam and Eve, and fallen man certainly "lost" it. I like to use "AM", and "FM" radio as an example of the fall of Adam. To me, it is like Adam and Eve were created with "AM", AND "FM", "AM" being the natural spirit in man by which he knows he exists, and he communicates with other humans in the "human realm". "FM" then relates to what the NT calls the "Spiritual man", who has an "activated human spirit" by which a man can fellowship with God and understand "spiritual things". God created Adam and Eve with "AM AND FM", but when they sinned, God turned the "FM" OFF. "Regeneration", or what Jesus called the "New Birth", turns the "FM" back on in a person, and they are returned to the "likeness", or to the "similarity" of God. This may be an "oversimplification", but "God", "Elohim" - "Plural", created man in His image, and they "lost it" and became "spiritually dead" and unable to fellowship with God, and the "New Birth" "restores" to man what Adam and Eve "lost". Titus 3:5 speaks of our "washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost", where "regeneration" is the Greek word "paliggenesia" meaning, "to restore a thing to its pristine state". I see this as man being restored to the "likeness" of, or "similarity to" "Elohim" that Adam and Eve possessed before their fall. Please email me if you have serious reservations about my statements here, and I will post a thorough discussion on this subject for all to see! Blessings, Bob
michael Makwela Snr Nov/13/12 Good Morning Bob, In your own understanding, who is the Holy Spirit? Thanx in Advance :)
Nov/13/12 Hi Michael, God IS Spirit, infinite, invisible, and omnipresent. When we examine every passage in the Scripture concerning the "Holy Spirit", I conclude this is God Himself, when He chooses to ACT - when He intervenes in the affairs of men and angels. In a "nut shell", The "Holy Spirit" is God Himself "in action". See FAQ "7 "God is a Trinity?" for a full explanation, and let me know if you still have questions, Bob
Michael Makwela Snr Nov/16/12 Good morning Bob. Thanx for your answer. I carefully read about the Trinity as advised. I just like it when you say " The Holy Spirit is God Himself in Action" wooow that's powerful. Thank you Sir :)
Nov/18/12 That's the way I felt, Michael, when I did an in depth study of the Triune Nature of our God! God is GOOD, and greatly to be praised! Bob
Patsy Nov/25/12 Bob, I have a question on your "Buy A Sword" Food For Thought "Gun Control" that you posted at the end of "God Ordains Nations". What good will it do to own a gun when we are to just surrender it when our government makes it illegal to have one, since God makes it clear we are to be in subjection to those He has appointed over our Nation? I believe our guns will be taken away sometime in the next 4 years. Do you really believe God appointed our president or just allowed it because so many have become so ungodly?
Nov/25/12 Hi Patsy, I believe God "sets up kings", and God "puts down kings", and "the heart of the king is in the hand of the Lord, and He turns it wherever He will". God is sovereign. God's revealed plan for this world is to allow Satan to form a world government and world economic system and install his "man" as "world leader", and attempt to demand the worship of every human being. This is the path God has ordained for the world to follow. As I wrote, God has also "ordained Nationalism", and it is our duty as Christians to use every lawful means to resist any move to reduce our State's and our Nation's sovereignty. Throughout the Scripture God has required men to do the Godly things that THEY can do, and God has done FOR them those things which they cannot do for themselves. As long as it is lawful for us to own weapons to protect ourself and our families, I believe we should do that. When a law is passed banning guns, I believe it is our duty to give up those guns and throw ourself completely on the mercy of God. I agree with you - that day is coming very soon. "Even so, come Lord Jesus". Our job until then is to be the best witness we can be, for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Incidently, the Greek word for "witness", is "marteria", where we get our English word "martyr". Thanks for the question Patsy, Bob
Patsy Nov/25/12 Thank you so much Bob for your answer. God has given you the wonderful ability to set folks hearts at ease. Sometimes I just feel so helpless. I'm sure that helplessness would disappear if I just got busy for the Lord. Have a very blessed day!
Carlos Nov/28/12 How are you? Love the ministy and resource. Can you help clarify the greek verb tenses in Matthew 28:19 & Mark 16:16 with baptism. I have a friend in Church of Christ stressing importance of baptism for salvation. And I would apprecite your help. Thanks.
Nov/28/12 Hi Carlos, Matthew's tense is "Present Active", to "continue baptizing", and Mark's tense is "Aorist Passive", baptism at a "point in time". What you want to know is on my "Baptism" Page. Click on the "Subject Index". I hope you find your answer, and, if not, please eamil me. Blessings Carlos, Bob
Gary Dec/08/12 Dear pastor: I read your comments on the Greek language, and note too that many other websites have quoted you. I would urge you to study Greek, since I have found a number of fundamental errors of linguistics and history, as I have noted on my own blog. I do not say this to criticize, simply to offer a helpful suggestion. I should add, although I do not consider myself some leading expert, I do have a PhD in New Testament exegesis, have written extensively on the Greek of the New Testament, and have taught Greek and Greek exegesis for 25 years.
Dec/08/12 Hello Dr. Gary, good to meet you! Could you give us a link to your blog, and post your criticisms of my use of the Biblical Greek, so we can all see them? "Iron sharpeneth iron". I would love to discuss these things with you. You may also email me, using the "Email Bob" link in the menu. Thank you for taking the time to post a comment, Bob
Dec/22/12 I'm waiting for your reply Dr. Gary. I really do appreciate constructive criticism. We're all "students together in Christ", Bob
Michael Makwela Snr Dec/24/12 Good morning Bob, and Happy Festive Season to you and your Family :) its that time of the year again. I remember you said Christians are free to celebrate Christ's birth, death and resurrection anytime they want and that's very correct, but according to you, what is Christmas all about? Thanks in advance.
Dec/24/12"Merry Christmas" Michael! Isn't it wonderful that The Lord has "set us free"! When we know the truth and "do all we do, as unto the Lord", we are "free indeed"! According to Alexander Hislop's well documented book "The Two Babylons", the Dec. 25th festival began in Ancient Babylon, to worship the "son" of the pagan goddess they called "the queen of heaven". The Prophet Jeremiah was in Babylon when he wrote: Jeremiah 7:18 "The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead their dough, to make cakes to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto other gods, that they may provoke me to anger". Each succeeding Empire passed these traditions to the next, until Rome adopted Dec 25th as the day to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The "exchange of gifts", burning of candles, "Christmas tree", Yule log etc were all part of the pagan rituals. We even find the "Christmas tree" in Jer. 10:2-4 "Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not." The Church of Rome adopted the Dec. 25 festival, and named it "Christ Mass". You can "Google" the origin of Christmas to fill in the details. We do not know the actual date of the birth of Jesus, but it could not have been in the dead of winter, because the Jewish people were ordered to travel to the city of their birth, and the shepherds were in the "field" with their sheep, when Jesus was born. Personally, I believe Jesus was born on April 1st. In Ex. 12:2 God gave Israel a new calendar, which began on our April 1st. Then God gave directions to build a temporary "Tabernacle", every detail of which spoke of the Lord Jesus Christ. God then directed that the "Tabernacle" should be raised up on April 1st every year that the Jewish people were traveling to the promised land. John 1:14 states that Jesus "tabernacled" with us - "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt (Greek "tabernacled") among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth". God "tabernacled" with us at the birth of Jesus. If you were Satan, what would you change the birth date of Jesus into? Right! "April Fool's Day"! Like Jesus said, "know the Truth and the Truth will set you FREE!" Jesus said in John 4:23 "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him". "Christmas time" is a wonderful opportunity to fellowship together and reflect on what God has done for us and on the glorious future we will have with Him, and with each other - forever! Bob
Charlie Dec/24/12 Great article! Do you have any links to Greek scholars talking about this issue? Also in koine Greek was there another word for faith?
Dec/24/12 Hi Charlie, Seasons Greetings to you also! "Faith" in the New Testament is the Greek word "pistis", a noun, meaning a "strong trust or reliance". In the KJV, "Pistis" is translated "faith" 239 times, "assurance" once, "belief" once, and "fidelity" once. Once in Heb 10:23, the KJV translates "elpis", the Greek word for "hope", as "faith". "Elpis" basically means "a strong reliance on an unseen and unprovable fact". Please see the Home Page, and FAQ number 5, "What is Biblical Faith" for a more complete answer. Blessings to you and your loved ones Charlie, Bob
Dec/25/12 The link to read Alexander Hislop's "The Two Babylons" on-line, is biblebelievers dot com forward slash babylon, Bob
Elmer W Dec/28/12 Bob, what do you think about the Santa Claus thing at Christmas time?
Dec/28/12 Hi Elmer, I believe we have the "freedom in Christ" to live our lives "as unto the Lord", in the doing, or not doing, of all the "optional" things in our society. Worshipping Christ "in Spirit and in Truth" and being a good witness for Him are primary. I do not think we should make an "uproar" or an issue about all the secular "traditions", but we should pray about them and do what we believe is right. We played the "Santa Claus" game with our children when they were very young, but did not lie to them when they began to ask questions. When we think about it, Santa Claus is a "pseudo Jesus", "he knows what you are thinking", he is described as "omnipresent", and "he knows whether you have been bad or good" and "rewards" you according to your "works". The danger here is that when our children grow up and find there is no "Santa Claus", they may reject Jesus, because they have already been ?burned" once. If we tell them "untruths" to give them some "hope" and the "thrill of anticipation", and that they should "be good" so Santa will be good to them, they may think the "Good News" of Jesus is the same package, with the "names changed. Concerning the "celebration of Christmas", I would think that it is good to talk and sing about Jesus and see reminders of His birth - any time of the year - no matter when He was born. Col. 3:23 "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men", Bob


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