Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro 1. 0:22 {Can We Resist Sin Without the Spirit?} How were the disciples able to follow Jesus and resist sin without the Spirit indwelling them? Is it possible to be a Christian without the Spirit? 2. 8:52 {Help with the Hiddenness of God} The hiddenness (and silence) of God is causing me doubts. Is there any advice or help you can offer (such as that God is silent now because revelation has been completed with the New Testament)? 3. 16:35 {A Young Pastor being Disrespected} I am a young pastor of a church with people mostly in their 60s and 70s. My staff often micromanages me, corrects me in public, and treats me like a grandchild instead of their pastor. Any advice? 4. 22:00 {Is Christian Nationalism Biblical?} Is Christian nationalism in the sense of theocracy a scriptural concept? 5. 25:49 {God’s Judgment vs. Justice} How are God's judgment (him being a judge who carries out consequences) and His justice (establishing order) different if He uses His judgment to apply justice? Or can you explain His judgment vs. His justice? 6. 28:29 {Are Batchelor Parties Always Sinful?} I am attending a bachelor party and I have a Christian co-worker who said "Christians shouldn't go to bachelor parties." How would you response to this? All at the party profess to be Christians. 7. 32:49 {Are Rapture Dreams Truly from God?} What are your thoughts on Christians that have “rapture dreams” claiming that the rapture will be soon? Do you think these are from God, or just a result of all of the end times talk that has ramped up lately? 8. 37:00 {Was Aaron Punished In Place of Moses?} In the book of Numbers, why did God punish Aaron for unbelief when Moses is the one who struck the rock? 9. 41:19 {Overcoming Addictions} I struggle with an addiction to nicotine and caffeine. There are no rehab centers for these. What do I do? I know its sinful, but I need help to overcome. I can’t be a slave to two masters. 10. 45:45 {How Were Jesus’ Words Translated?} Did the synoptic writers translate Jesus’ words from Aramaic to Greek? Does that partially explain why they don’t match each other exactly, because they translated to best explain His teaching? 11. 50:46 {Will the Father Not Forgive Us?} Matthew 6: 14-15 says we should forgive others of their trespasses or our Father will not forgive us of ours. But the Bible also says that all of our sins have been atoned for on the cross. Can you explain? 12. 55:06 {Is Typology Only About Jesus?} Is typology only ever about Jesus? If so, how do we explain the type/antitype in 1 Peter 3: 21? If not, how do we tell true vs. false types when "no new theology" can come from typology? 13. 1:01:27 {Christ’s Law vs. the Moral Law} What is Christ’s law, and how is it different from the 10 commandments which many argue is the moral law we are to keep to this day? 14. 1:05:36 {Do Our Spiritual Gifts Ever Change?} As believers, are we given a static set of spiritual gifts, or are our gifts more dynamic in nature so that God adds to and/or subtracts from them according to our season of life or our maturity in Him? 15. 1:09:48 {Should We Date Unbelievers for Evangelism?} My cousin is dating someone who is not a Christian in the hopes that they will get saved. Is this okay to do? 16. 1:13:58 {If My Own Child Comes Out…} What is your take on what we should say when unbelievers ask, “What would you do if your child came out to be gay?” Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. 17. 1:16:55 {Avoiding Distraction in Prayer} What is the best way to focus on God? Do you know of any techniques for this? While I'm praying, I try to focus on God, but I always seem to get distracted. 18. 1:18:45 {Can We Wear Cross Jewelry?} What are your thoughts about wearing cross jewelry? 19. 1:21:05 {Am I Doing Enough in Marriage?} My wife works very hard, long hours. She frequently comes home exhausted and stressed. My job is fairly stress-free, and I work from home. I feel like I’m not doing enough for her. What should I do? 20. 1:23:16 {How to Glorify God at All Times} If Scripture tells me to glorify God in all I do, how can I glorify God when doing things like taking a math class, playing checkers, eating a meal, listening to Beethoven, etc., if these things are "morally neutral"?
@@davidfayfield6594 This is what God says in a couple places about it: “You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13 ESV “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.” Proverbs 8:17 ESV “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near;” Isaiah 55:6 ESV
Never to late for God to find you. At age 53 beaten and broken life ,I cried out to God and found out i was a sinner by knowing Jesus died for my sins. Amazing ! Thank you Mike for all your Biblical Answers. It really helps with my walk with Jesus.
As a reformed smoker, I tried for years to quit in my own strength both before getting saved and post getting saved and I had a measure of success but kept going back until I got saved and a few years in my Pastor who had also been an ex smoker said to not just me but the entire congregation what do you turn to when you are stressed cigarettes and alcohol or whatever or do you turn to the Holy Spirit as your comfort and strength...it has now been 20 years since I have had a cigarette... I hope that helps 🥰 Blessings Gerowyn
I was a smoker, too. And it was so delicious for me, that I thought I would die as a smoker. And I didn't know any scripture that would stop me from smoking. Now, years after quitting, I realize, that god gave me more of a godly worldview that brought me to quit. Because when I realized the consequenzes of my behaviour (looked up statistics on how likely it is to get ill and even die), I realized: This is not what I want to do with my life and to my loved ones. And then a jurney over some years started by replacing one habbit after the other: smoking -> vaping (with nicotine) -> snus -> nicotine pouches (tabacco-free snus) -> strong menthol candies -> free :) It took years, but now I am free since some years. Love it.
@@Ephesians5-14 that one is probably the hardest to dobin our own strength ...and I can't say I have mastered it but you could by acknowledging your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and think about if you want to defile the Hily Spirits temple... than maybe start with a 3 day complete fast or 21 day Daniel fast where you only eat food from plants and see what happens... take 1 day at a time 🥰 Blessings Gerowyn
The Lord and His Holy Spirit have taken away many of my sins, but I still struggle with tobacco addiction (I also play the lottery in a somewhat addicted manner). Yes, you are right, Janderra, when you posed the question: "What do you turn to when you are stressed?" It's not just "what" though; it's also "who" (Jesus, of course); and we've got to turn to Him all the way. It's fair to say that many of us don't quite overcome all of our sins because we don't quite turn ALL THE WAY to Him! P.S.: And His Holy Spirit, too.
@@Ephesians5-14 I, know how, you, are feeling all too well. I, still struggle with comfort eating... Unfortunately, letting my social anxiety get the better of me, I, have turned to food way too many times, instead of turning to, God. What helps me get on track to eat healthy is... Having respect for, God. We don't own our temple, we are borrowing it. Jesus, bought our bodies with a price. If, we, are trashing our bodies in an unhealthy way; we are basically disrespecting, God. We have to lean on, God, not food. Having self-control, discipline, obedience... Its ok to treat ourselves with mouth watering, "junk" food here and there. But, we should not idolize our stomach. Try and replace eating (if you are someone who comfort/boredom eats) with being in the Word, spending quite time with, God.
For anyone struggling with hearing God "speak" to them, I know of 1 simple question to pray, that guarantees a response: "God, is there ANYTHING in my life that does NOT please you?" 🙏 I promise you, that if you ask this of God, He WILL answer you. You may not like the answer, but He will tell you. 😊🙏❤️🙏
A great prayer. Just put total trust in Jesus and throw out all He does not like. Friends and family will call you fanatic. But the goal is to glorify Jesus whatever the cost. Shalom.
It should be alarming to all of you that the best way to get a response from god is to ask him to point out your shortcomings. Can you imagine witnessing this dynamic in any other relationship and then calling it a loving relationship? Let me paint a picture... A man sits in a decrepit recliner, eyes carefully trained on the nearby television. His daughter arrives home from school and enters the room where her father sits. (D)aughter: hello daddy! I missed you today. I had such a great day at school and I'd love to tell you all about it! (F)ather: :: silence:: D: I got promoted to editor of the school newspaper! F: ::holds up 3 green flags, 2 purple flags and one giant orange flag, then waves one green flag in front of the orange flag. It's a sign. Look inside yourself and you'll know what it means:: D: and I got 100% on my chemistry, calculus, and history exams! F: ::silence:: D: dad... Please. I'm trying to talk to you. Could you pay attention to me for just a minute? Maybe pause your show so we can communicate and connect for a minute? F: ::silence:: D: ...... Please? I really want to connect with you.. but it feels like I'm the only one who ever talks... F: ::silence:: D: are you mad at me? Did I do something wrong? Are you displeased with me?" F: you bet I'm displeased. I've told you time and time again to credit me when you accomplish something. And you repeatedly tell me things like "*I* made editor... *I* aced my tests.. it's incredibly offensive to me that you would feel as though you were capable of accomplishing anything on your own, and your unwillingness to give me the credit is an indication of your intense pride. Prepare yourself for infinite punishment! But don't forget.. I love you unconditionally. Imagine seeing a relationship like this with almost entirely one sided communication... Only broken by a question of whether the silent party is displeased with the other party... Then imagine saying that this is a loving relationship.... This is abusive relationship 101 stuff...
As an Optometrist I concur with your excitement at 1:25:48. The more you study it, the more God’s design boggles the mind. Your enthusiasm is a blessing, Mike. ♥️🎶
On question 3...I think being a lady in my 60s I often feel discounted and ignored and invisible. I decided to make this an opportunity to decrease myself and focus on others!
How humble! But i aslo wiah you were being treated better. I remember doing something like this to my Grandfather a while before he died. He was older and couldn't hear well. I was talking to my Aunt in front of him, but i kinda didn't really want him to hear. He asked what I said because he was hard of hearing, and i basically said, oh, its nothing that you would care about. I still think of me doing this to this day (about a decade later) and i feel so bad about it. Im sorry if you are treated like this, and im sorry for treating others this way! Forgive me Lord!
That might be the longest video (head coverings) but Mike, we are all so excited about it that we can't wait! Never stop obeying Christ in the break down of your teaching! You were the first person in more than 15 years who was able to answer questions and help me dig deeper. I can't tell you how long I was starving for meat and only offered milk. Thank you for your incredible humility. Never let that go! Oh and my husband just recently started listening to you too! I'm so excited to see him start seeking God and digging in and I'm thrilled that he has found your channel and can dig deep and learn on his own
Today, we have Mike so I don't have to read my bible, just listen to mike who has a much more spiritual bible than mine. When he speaks, he speaks so my feelings are right and I know the lord now loves me.
@@dianetigert1310 DO YOU read your bible?Bible?? if you did you would see that God uses teachers to help people rightly divide the Word of God. Why are you so bitter?
The bible explains what sincere searching looks like, with the parable of the lost coin, for example. Or in today's words, our keys, or our wedding ring. It's an active doing thing, that is more than just thinking and meditation. And you have to do it with all diligence.
On bachelor parties ('stag do's in the UK). I had one before my wedding ( lazer warriors, barbecue restaurant). For me it was particularly important to bring my male friends ( mostly Christian) with my male family members ( mostly non Christian). As I had some hostility and scepticism from my family about my faith, it was important to make this connection before my wedding.
As pastor Voddie Baucham put it, we are surrounded by a sin-centred envelop. The world teaches us, Satan deceives us, and the flesh entices us. We cannot escape unless the Lord reaches in and pulls us out.
Pastor Mike!! This is Claire - I used to come up to you fretting about losing salvation often. The Lord has shown me this morning so beautifully that we cannot lose salvation in his precious word by his Spirit. It made me see how truly loved we are and have been in awe with God all day from it. He led me to read the entire Bible almost 2 months ago (I did not do it but he so I cannot boast or take credit, I have a testimony about this.) And I had asked constantly in prayer about Saul after 2 Samuel. 2 Samuel 7:14-15 ENTIRE Psalm 89 Was just absolutely blown away how scripture is linked together. "31So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32
We can lose our salvation. The Bible warns us against this many times. The Bible wouldn’t warn us if it were impossible! As that verse you posted says “if we abide in him”. We must continue to abide in him to remain his! But keep you eyes on him and rest in his finished work at all times 🙏 if we keep our eyes on him we will not fall away!
I completely agree about sight. Now turn your sight to look at your hands. Touch your finger’s together ever so delicately and marvel at the sensation and the ability to feel. To just feel! Our hands can gently caress a babies face or use the same hands to do harm. Strength and gentleness are astounding. God bless you and thank you for your ministry.
I was in my preteens and teens during the 1970s. There were a lot of end-time prophesies during that time. It's very easy to get caught up in the predictions and think that means we're getting ready for the second coming. If we really want to be ready for the second coming, we need to focus on loving God and loving our neighbor. That's more important than figuring out exactly when Jesus will return.
Thank you Pastor Mike. I found your answers really helpful. I pray Jesus keeps you, your family, your congregation and your subscribers safe wherever they are in this unpredictable world. I pray for steadfastness in The Lord for all above and for discernment whilst reading scripture and living on earth. In Jesus’s name I pray, Amen. Amen. 🙏🏼✝️🙌🏻
The first question reminds me of Titus 1:15, that says “Everything is pure to those whose hearts are pure. But nothing is pure to those who are corrupt and unbelieving, because their minds and consciences are corrupted.”
Mike, I just met you at the APU CUI soccer game and cannot say thank you enough for what you are doing for the kingdom. Thankful to have a resource like you pushing for gospel truth in everything you do. Keep up the good work! -Ash PS Go cougs!
Praying the Lord's prayer is what I do as well, I pray that many times during the course of the day when I feel anxiety kicking in. That prayer helps me tremendously.
My late father taught us at an early age the power of our Lord's prayer, and gave us many testimonies on instances when he needed God and just prayed that prayer and God in His Sovereign grace showed up strongly. It is a powerful prayer if we mean it and don't just recite it. I agree with you when I am stressed or am anxious and I can't even think straight to pray. I pray our Lord's prayer 🙏🏽
I’m laughing because your comment about being amazed by eyesight reminds me of my thought of being amazed by poop. While walking my dog I had the realization that she can only let out what she put it. We can’t make things out of nothing, only God can and I was amazed by that for weeks. I know how silly that sounds but it really just speaks to the amazingness of God!
It’s called conservation of energy and matter. What you put in comes out but it’s been altered. The bonds of the molecules have been broken open by chemicals to access the energy to power our bodies and what remains is excreted. For things to live something must die and every second somewhere on the planet painful deaths occur.
Thank you Mike for letting God speak through you. You nailed my condition perfectly when talking about overcoming addiction. I really needed that word.
Me personally when I’ve had dreams about the rapture I feel like it’s the Lord telling me that I need to pray more and seek him more because there might be something in my personal life I’m missing as far as my relationship with my living God, we don’t know the time and the date when Jesus coming back but we do know we need to be ready
“I’m already helping you make right choices, now you need to Make them.” for question 9 was So Good. I’ve never heard it put that way and it was very helpful to me. 41:16
I tried to be an atheist and "succeeded" for 8 years, but God didn't let me stay there. I think God uses "divine hiddenness" to confront my pride and arrogance.
Cross jewellery I find is a good way to start a conversation and keep yourself to a high standard Good work, keep it up. Love the way you sometimes word things, that rant about eyesight was true and cool. Every now and then I get these very pleasant memories/thoughts and just thank God for that pleasant moment, even if I forget it after God Bless you
Psalm 18:: 1-3 NIV. I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.2 Samuel 23:3 Verse Concepts “The God of Israel said, The Rock of Israel spoke to me, ‘He who rules over men righteously, Who rules in the fear of God, There are more than 50 scriptures in the bible about the word rock that is connected to Jesus. Thanks, Mike for your ministry.
We cannot effectively fight sin without the Holy Spirit. I tried, ain't working. Relying on one's own strength is a very dangerous place to stand on. It is self reliance, not relying on God. It is living in the flesh , not living in the Spirit of God. What happened when i told God I can do it? I only fell deeper into the pit of despair and deeper into sin. It made me crazy until I gave up and surrendered my all, even my rights, to God. I am not going back that road again. I can no longer live without the LORD alive and present and at work in me. I am sooooo grateful for His wonderful grace,; that grace of giving us His Spirit!
@@Jonas-gl9ke some people say that the evidence is by speaking tongues or performing different gifts that the LORD gives through His Spirit. No gifts will convince me if that person performing is not changed and transformed by God. The presence of the Holy Spirit in a person would be so evident that there is truth in the way a person speaks, the life is transformed and the life shows a sincere, real work of God, the person exhibits peace and joy. You will also see the love of God working and moving in that person. When he/she practices the gifts of the Spirit of God, there is a difference, God is glorified, the Church is edified and encouraged. If a person who gets glory for himself/herself and the Church is not edified, then that is not the Spirit of God at work in him/her. I have seen enough people who claim to be Christians and are very good with what they do, but have brought havoc in the Family of God and there is no transformation of life. There is no signs of a life being transformed into the likeness of Jesus. I have seen real ones, too, because God surrounded me with such people throughout my life in the midst of those who lived by the flesh.. And, I'm blessed to have experienced God myself. But, i had to be humbled first before He brought me to this point. I needed to realize I need Him every moment, every day. I cannot live and exist without Him. He was the Creator hovering over the waters. He was the same Spirit that rose Jesus from the grave. He is the same One, not just God's Seal of ownership in us, but whom Jesus promised who will fill His disciples and empower them. I am a believer and follower of Jesus and I hold on to that promise Jesus gave before He went home to be with the Father.
@@lutchiewiens5788 That is not a sound epistemology. You are essentially saying that you believe the Holy Spirit is real because those imbued with the Holy Spirit act in a way that shows they are imbued with the Holy Spirit. This is fallacious because it begs the question. If I have 2 people in your church that act in the exact same manner, how do you tell the difference between the person filled with the Holy Spirit and the person not filled with the Holy Spirit? You need a methodology that can falsify your claim that the Holy Spirit actually exists?
@@Jonas-gl9ke Jonas, if you have the Holy Spirit living in your life, you will know who has the Spirit of God. You do not need methodology to know. He is the one who discerns the hearts and minds of everyone. He gives you peace and certainty that no one and no other religion can give. If you do not believe that the Holy Spirit is God and real, then the Bible is clear about that that you are not a child of God. No one becomes a Christian without the Spirit of God in him or her. You need to be born again in Jesus Christ through His Spirit. Without the Spirit of God, you do not have the life of God in you. You have all head knowledge, but no life. You have religion, but no relationship with the LIVING GOD!
@@lutchiewiens5788 How can I tell the difference between someone who knows who has the spirit of God in them and someone who only thinks they know who has the spirit of God in them? You keep making claims without providing evidence. If I define indoctrination as, “the process of teaching a person or group to accept a set of beliefs uncritically”, how would you say your beliefs differ from this definition?
Mike looking really good! Definitely dropped some significant body fat percentage. The working out and the diet seem to work! I hope your sleep keeps improving too!
“Fully ready to ignore them”😂 great answer. I didn’t know anything about the rapture until I became a believer 10 months ago. In the beginning it was exciting to hear but now, I too am, fully ready to ignore them.
Yup. I think most people get really hyped for the second coming when they first believe. And that much is really good. Being hyped for the second coming is sort of what this is all about. The problem comes where we start thinking we know when it will be. In my opinion, it’s fine to ponder the times that you think might be likely. But it’s best to leave it at just that. Ponderings. Once you start teaching these things, it gets really iffy.
When we do good act towards my neighbor, and I do not have faith in Christ, God, and the Holy Spirit, then that good act is done in elevation of myself. But if I DO have faith in God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit, then the good act I do toward my neighbor is done to elevate God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit
There is a difference between taking pride in doing good things, and taking joy and satisfaction in having done a good thing. There is also no virtue in denying the gifts and talents God has given you. We are can acknowledge that we are good at somethings and have don't something well. Without thinking ourselves better or more valuable than others. There is a difference and much of the church has not taught it.
I just want to say I was able to listen to this entire podcast this morning as I cleaned my house. It was so clarifying with scripture I know and looked up. Thank you for being authentic! Look forward to hearing more.
Nice haircut Mike! Cannot wait for the close to the women in ministry series. It's been so incredibly fruitful for me and spurs me on to study what it truly means to be a Biblical woman/wife. Thank you so much for your ministry!
Pastor Mike, thank you for your take on free will. I never realised this aspect of it. That God already helping us by his Holy Spirit, and we have the descision making part. Full responsibility.
Oh I really like your way of answering question 1! Thank you so much for that ! An atheist family member who does so much good for so many said "some Christians ..have the audacity to think she won't end up in heaven" anddddd I let that just go by to save what little relationship we have, but I did say...she'd be very surprised and disappointed with people who do end up there ...she hesitated for only a moment but I don't push it, it backfires I find.
Glorifying God in all we do: Education & self improvement enables us to do more and control ourselves better and reach out to others. Eating healthy and in moderation and not extravagantly is caring for the bodies given us and stewardship over our finances, and we can appreciate the creation of good tasty food without greed / gluttony. The Arts again allow appreciation of creativity, but also have therapeutic benefits for us, inspire or challenge us, give us compelling ways to communicate the gospel, and we avoid negative/damaging forms. In these things we can also consider the social aspect: we can share the good with others and make bridges into other people's lives. There is much in this world which is good and able to be enjoyed and celebrated without condemnation. But still, we need to acknowledge that all of these things consume our time, our life, which is God's, bought with a price. We are to make the most of our time, as good stewards and ambassadors, for the days are evil and the lost need to be saved! This world is not eternal and even these good things can become addictive and wasteful and take us away from our duties and our adoration and service to God.
If someone says God is silent, why don’t we answer that he reveals himself in his creation, he writes his law on our hearts, and he DOES speak to us in his word. I think part of the problem is many Christian’s believe he still gives extra biblical revelation, so if we don’t hear him audibly outside of scripture, we can’t answer the question ‘why doesn’t God speak anymore.’ The answer is ‘God speaks to us through his word, and the scriptures contain everything necessary for life and knowledge of God.’
Read Acts and notice how many non apostles hear from the Lord and do miraculous things including prophecy. (Not saying there is new theology revealed outside of the Bible!) the argument from those who say the gifts have ceased with the apostles ignore those people in Acts. It was eye opening for me.
@@bygraceonly182 no it’s not ignored. But that is in Acts. Do you really believe that people have the power to send a handkerchief to someone and they will be healed? Or that someone could touch your clothes and be healed? The things that were happening in Acts were meant to lay the foundation for the church. The foundation for the church was laid in the New Testament, and the foundation was the apostles and prophets (Ephesians 2:20-21). It then goes on to say the church grows from there. We do not continue the work of the foundation today. The sad thing is, people who are looking for ‘prophecy’ today don’t tend to put as much emphasis on the Bible, as displayed in the answer to this question. God of course isn’t silent. He speaks to us daily through his word.
@@savedbygrace7982 Faith is hard. But the bible says it stops in the future, not the past. "...until we all attain..." And He gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ. -excerpt Ephesians 4 And as soon as the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied. But they did not continue doing it. Now two men remained in the camp, one named Eldad, and the other named Medad, and the Spirit rested on them. They were among those registered, but they had not gone out to the tent, and so they prophesied in the camp. And a young man ran and told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.” And Joshua the son of Nun, the assistant of Moses from his youth, said, “My lord Moses, stop them.” But Moses said to him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the Lord's people were prophets, that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!” -excerpt Numbers 11
To anyone struggling with nicotine addiction, I'd like to share my experience... I was a steady smoker for many years of my life. I smoked my first cigarette at 7 years old. By the age of 13 I was a regular pack-a-day smoker. I had "quit" a couple of times over the years, but it never lasted. In my late 20s I felt like I should stop, but I convinced myself that I just enjoyed it too much and didn't really want to stop, so I switched to vaping as a "healthier" alternative. This was when vaping was brand new and it was pretty much only those small devices that looked like cigarettes but had the little LED tip and the "filter" cartridges. I figured, since I don't really want to quit, I'll try this and if it's good enough to satisfy the habit then I'll stick with that. Well, that worked, and soon enough I couldn't stand smoking, the smell of it was gross. I was vaping, it was "cleaner", and I even felt much better. After a while I didn't get sick anymore, the way that every smoker tends to get seasonally sick. In fact, I can probably count on one hand the number of times that I legitimately got sick over a 10 year period when I was vaping instead of smoking. This created another problem though. With vaping the habit tends to go from the pack-a-day amount of smoking, to just constantly carrying your vaping device with you everywhere and puffing on it every few seconds. After more than a decade of vaping I tried to quit a few times, for various reasons, and I realized that now I had severely underestimated how powerful the addiction had become. One time I "quit" by letting myself run out of vape juice, only to find myself immediately driving 20 miles in a nasty snow storm at night to get to a vape shop that was still open, because I couldn't even make it through the night. I literally risked my life just to satisfy that craving. A few years later I tried quitting again, this time I really wanted to. So I let my supply run out, and the next day I was at another vape shop, and then immediately placed another order to resupply for another 6 months. Then about a year after that, I came to know Jesus Christ. It took me a while where I was just trying to learn and understand more, and there are many things that I didn't do right initially in my walk with the Lord, and I'm still learning of course. One thing I knew that I had to do though was to break free from that addiction. I didn't know how I was going to do it. I knew how powerful it was and how badly I'd failed every time I tried. So one night, after I had let my supply dwindle down a lot but not completely, I prayed really hard over it. I begged the Lord to help me and to give me the strength to overcome that sin. Then I set my vape device down with juice still left in it, didn't take another puff, and went to bed. I woke up the next morning and tried to push through on my own. I made a cup of coffee, did some work, etc. Then by the afternoon I convinced myself that I could give in a little and take one or two puffs from what was still in the device. After all, "I'd been doing pretty good right?". I picked up the device, put it in my mouth, pressed the button and inhaled and....nothing happened. I thought, wait the battery wasn't dead last night. I tried it again, looking at the screen, and nothing happened. Then I tried turning it on (press button 3 times), thinking maybe I'd shut it off...nothing. Ok, so I plugged it into the charger thinking well maybe the battery was dead...nothing. No response from the device at all. I probably sat there playing with it, trying to get it to turn on for about 10 minutes. Initially just trying to get my cheat puffs in, but then just trying to wrap my head around what had actually happened. I was legitimately dumbfounded. Then it began to sink in, and I realized what had happened. As hard as it still was to overcome that addiction, it had never felt easier than after I realized what the Lord had done for me. Sure you could be skeptical and say that maybe it was just time for the device, which had been in perfect working condition, to die out. Batteries die, they stop taking charges, sure. If you ask me I'd say that believing that it happened by coincidence at that exact time is an even bigger miracle, requiring blind faith, than believing that God had answered my prayer. Quitting was still hard. I still had to struggle through it, but it was nowhere near as hard as it was all of the previous times that I tried all on my own. I spent the next several days pretty much just reminding myself of Philippians 4:13 constantly. The Lord was with me, but perhaps more importantly, I knew that He was there. It wasn't just a simple matter of supernaturally shorting out the battery in the device, or whatever it was that He did to it. So much more than that, the Lord had made a provision for my faith, and as the Lord has said, "...your faith has made you well". He still required me to struggle through it, He just showed me that I would never struggle alone through anything again, and that gave me the strength that I needed to overcome it. It still brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it, not because vaping was ever such a huge deal, people struggle with WAY harder and worse things than that all the time. Rather, because it was my very first personal experience with the Lord, where I became personally aware of His direct involvement in my life. I've stumbled since then in a few other areas, and made necessary corrections, but I haven't vaped or smoked anything since. I don't at all think that He did it just to help me stop vaping. I think that He did it to show me that it is by faith in Him alone that I will possess the strength to overcome any desires of the flesh that to us often seem so insurmountable. Since then I have overcome a number of other issues, and even some that at that time I hadn't even yet recognized as issues. To anyone who read this far, I'm sorry for rambling on for so long, I didn't intend to when I started. I hope that this helps you in some way though. Remember that faith is not just "belief in", it's "full trust and reliance on" as well. Place your full faith in the Lord, not in yourself, and you will have everything you need to overcome anything of this world. All glory to the Lord, Jesus Christ.
Short answer...yes. Non Christians also have the law written on their hearts so there is an inherent and innate knowledge of right and wrong. You can argue whether or not that means they have Holy Spirit operating in their hearts, but the Holy Spirits presence is indicative of salvation.
I have worn cross jewellery for many years in the hope that either someone will ask me about Jesus, God and faith, or that when people see me doing good and helpful things that they might consider giving God the glory. OH and also to try to keep myself accountable for my actions and for people's perceptions of Christians. (Somewhat like wearing a tassle in Numbers 15.)
For anyone thinking of being unequally yolked, take it from me ..... I thought I could change my husband and we have been married for 32 years and it still hasn't happened. I have prayed consistently for his salvation and I do have the belief that he will get saved one day ..... in the meantime, living with two different thoughts and beliefs in a home, is very very hard. Please don't do it.
Question 13: You’re right, there’s SO many ways to break this down. But I think you did a great job. Jesus says he didn’t come to abolish the law, but fulfill it. So of course the 10 commandments are valid and good. We just aren’t held to the standard of the law in the SAME way. Jesus fulfilled the law, we follow Jesus. His sacrifice took the place of the animal sacrifice atonement of the Old Testament law for all time. The same God of the Old Testament is the God we serve today. We now have the privilege of a completed sacrifice, and can enter into God’s presence on Jesus’ atonement for our sins, when previously we were responsible for our own atonement under the law.
For question #9 (Shelley)...I smoked for over 30 yrs. I was hopeless within myself and totally addicted to coffee and nicotine. My deepest desire was to be free. It's a long story but almost 2 yrs ago, Christ delivered me from this addiction. Delivered from something I knew I would never give up of my own volition. Please pray, fast, and have others do the same for you. Alao, Champix is a very helpful aide. Blessings sister...just know that Christ can heal you from this.
Jesus delivered me from my nicotine addiction supernaturally when I had been smoking 3 packs of unfiltered cigarettes a day after I was baptized in the Spirit and joined a Church where I found good Bible teaching and fellowship (no one around me was smoking). Even took away the desire. I couldn't have done it in my own strength. This was over 40 years ago and I have no cravings. Praise to the Lord. Let Him lead you.
I consider the “silence” of God as evidence of His loving kindness. The angels, like Satan, who were in full view of His glory and Holy presence rebelled and are not offered mercy. The more God reveals of Himself, the higher the standard of holiness that is expected in our behavior. As we fight against sin now, we still break His commands at times. Imagine what that would look like if you sinned in front of a Holy God seated on His throne. Certainly judgment would be swift. Would we rather be judged as the angels without mercy? Is it not better to thank God for the process of sanctification in His “hiddenness?” It is in our benefit as He cares for us and sanctifies us that He “hides” Himself. Imagine praying and receiving an audible answer: would we not at times be like Jonah that disobeys? And look what happened to him! The other option is to blame Him for not revealing His glory while we are still sinners, inviting judgment. So, blessed are those that have not seen Him and believe, because we will receive mercy and salvation. Just my thoughts on this.
This is the most beautiful and comforting while also frightening(in a good way) answer. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. Amazing amazing response! Wow! I hope the person who asked this question reads your response as well; this would bless them! God bless you!
This is sorta something that's crossed my mind but I never really expressed it in words. You look around at certain people and get a notion that their knowledge of God isn't too great because of how they act and they simply aren't ready for a deeper relationship with God. Are we all going through that on some level? I was also asked recently if Satan can repent and the conservation went in the direction that he has deceived himself into thinking he can rescue himself in the end but I also like what you said about it.
@@Matthew_85k Hey, Matthew. I think in your first question, the answer is probably yes. It depends on if they are actually saved or not. But assuming we are talking about born-again Christians, then this deals with sanctification. And that can be a painful process because we are dying to ourselves and denying ourselves in favor of coming closer to God. So, you may at times resist getting closer because it's easier to not grow, but God will get you through it, don't worry. :) Life as a Christian is a battle of beating your flesh into submission, and the victories (through Christ) feel better than the battles. I like the way John MacArthur puts it: as we get closer to God, we will sin less and less as time goes on, but the sins we commit hurt more. So, you may not always feel "on top of the world," because getting closer to a perfectly Holy God reveals just how unholy we are. That teaches us to be that much more grateful for His mercy and grace. And yea, Satan can't repent. It seems like he is just throwing a massive fit and trying to take everyone down with him, but I really don't know enough to comment on if he really thinks he can accomplish anything besides his own destruction. I know his goal is to make war on God and God's people. I'm just so glad I'm not him. God knows every single move he will make ahead of time, and God uses Satan to bring about the fulfillment of His Will. I definitely don't get why he even tries, except pettiness, hate, and my fit-throwing theory. ;) I would look up sermons from MacArthur, Steve Lawson, Alistair Begg, and maybe even oldies like Charles Spurgeon because they definitely know more than me. It's good to know how your enemy operates to recognize his attacks, but that ultimately means focusing on Christ and His goodness and His victory and His Word to withstand them. I can tell you're a deep thinker! You got me thinking. :) Sorry for the long reply. May God bless you with the answers you seek.
@@maidenx2736 It's always heartwarming to read a well thought out and long reply. I appreciate it a lot. Sanctification. I totally forgot about that term and I must have heard it dozens of times! I tend to agree with all that and it's amazing how God does it because I personally have been placed in scenarios that have pushed me forward in my walk with Christ, and they came at just the right time to help me move forward and reject carnal things. We can see the quotes in Isaiah 14:13-14 that are attributed to "lucifier". Whether that was before or after the serpent was punished in the garden of Eden, I don't know. With all that out of the way I totally agree that our focus should be on Christ, (reminds me of Philipians 4:8-9) and not the devil or demons, which maybe is why we don't exactly have a massive amount of info in the Bible about either of those things. Not only that, but I think the truth is the devil and demons really just aren't much of a big deal when you get down to it! I love how the book of Job shows us how God will only allow the devil to do certain things. I know Spurgeon and McArthur. I have a friend who loves McArthur (and sometimes sounds just like him) I'll definitely look up Lawson and Alistair Begg. Thank you Ms X!
It is so cool to hear about the rock Moses was supposed to speak to, my boyfriend and I used to talk about this mystery as to why Moses wasn’t allowed in to the promise land . Later the holy spirit showed me this very thing about it being about Jesus and now to have it conferred is just so cool!
Then Moses and Aaron gathered the assembly together before the rock, and he said to them, “Hear now, you rebels: shall we bring water for you out of this rock?” And Moses lifted up his hand and struck the rock with his staff twice, and water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their livestock. And the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not believe in me, to uphold me as holy in the eyes of the people of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land that I have given them.” -excerpt Numbers 20 My understanding is this. Moses took credit for this miracle. As he said: "...shall WE bring water for you..." This was Moses sin in this matter. More below. They angered him at the waters of Meribah, and it went ill with Moses on their account, for they made his spirit bitter, and he spoke rashly with his lips. They also provoked Him to wrath at the waters of Meribah, that it went badly for Moses on their account. Because they were rebellious against His Spirit, He spoke rashly with his lips. -excerpt Psalm 106 (two versions)
Pastor Winger, I'd also say if you love the non-Christian person you are dating it shows a great deal of love for you to put away your self-interest and leave them to spare them from a toxic future household and allow to not hold on to any feelings that will turn against them.
For question #2 about the hiddenness of God, I don't understand why some people think God is so hidden. If you listen to a handful of testimonies from Christians they often talk about how God showed up in a supernatural way or even how they knew he was drawing them to him behind the scenes. Is God really that hidden or is it just some people perceiving it that way? I love Mike's answer about how perhaps the person thinks they are sincerely searching for God but the reality might be a different story. And if the person is using God's hiddenness as an argument against God, it's revealing a hardness towards God (my words and interpretation based off of what Mike said). This makes a lot of sense to me.
Willpower. Period. Say what you mean, mean what you say. Then you need to have a “reason” to quit. Otherwise you’ll make excuses to stumble. I myself quit smoking 20-some years ago, and the reasons were my daughter and my health. I didn’t have the Holy Spirit active in my life at the time. I was just determined, and I did it. Smoking is a nasty addiction and a way for the enemy to keep you chained.
Have you ever wondered why God allows us to be so confused about scripture? People can say God tells them this scripture means one thing, another can say well God said something different to me about the same passage. As a Christian for many years, that's a question I still am flustered by.
Because God has no fellowship with unbelievers...John 5:44 Jesus told us who the unbelievers are and they are every where, specially here in this place.
1:06:00 There is the passage that says “seek the greater gifts” implying that we can receive more than we have presently or at the point of salvation/baptism of the Holy Spirit.
Faith in God means you know he is there without having to see him or hear him. Knowing that we don't have all the answers and being able to accept that we don't need to have all the answers. We just needed one answer and that is Jesus. I used to be a why, why, why type of person towards God. Now after coming to fully recognize, as much as I am humanly able to recognize, what Jesus truly did for us I no longer ask why of God. I accept that he only wants good things and when it is not good that it isn't God. But knowing in my heart that even when it isn't good to trust him completely. Accepting that we are the clay and that HE is the potter. He doesn't conform to our human emotions or feelings. He is so much higher and greater that we can even comprehend. And I think that is where true peace is found.
19:32> "Alot more experience & wisdom" Experience? YES! WISDOM...mmm...ofen times not. That was some of the BEST advice Ive ever heard & I needed to hear it bc of something Im struggling with. And I hope my first paragraph doesnt come across as picking nits. It just jumps out at me when I hear ppl equate NON-SYNONYMOUS words with "wisdom" such as elderly or I.Q.,
@janderra Homestead Thank you beloved I have just gave up vaping again. I was a smoker since about 6-7 yrs old then moved to vape about 7 years ago. YHWH has put it on my heart for a while to lay this unclean thing on the alter. I have been very slow to do so and reserved about it. My wife recently gave hers up. Out of nowhere. Gave it up fully lead of the RUACH. She has been doing amazing. She had multiple dreams about me having to do the same and last dream she had was for her to tell me that… I AM OUT OF TIME ⌛️ She told me something that I have told family members as a witness to the faith. She told me. “ if you were to die today? Because of your willful sin and how your living in disobedience… would you make it in?? Are you sure you would make it into heaven?? That really put the Fear of Adonai in my soul. Because she said the same thing I have said and it’s not like her to say anything like that. It’s not in her character. So wow. There is a move of the RUACH for you!!! I’m trying to be strong. But the more I lean on YAHUSHA the easier it is. I want to PLEASE HIM. NOT GRIEVE HIM. Blessed is the Lamb of YAHUAH!!!
What comes to mind for me (or, one of them, at least) here is Matthew 12:43-45. You can, at least temporarily, cast out an unclean spirit or two, but without full submission to Jesus and the full indwelling of The Holy Spirit, that unclean spirit will most likely return (with some of his friends). I think that's accurate.
Just like you can't fight fire with fire, you can't fight flesh with flesh. To fight fire, you need water, to have self control and dominion over sin, you need the Holy Spirit. You need something greater then flesh to overcome sin, which is the nature of the flesh. You need the Spirit of God.
Question 3: That was my Huband. He humbly listened to his congregation while leading them. They watxhed him grow into a good pastor for 7 years until the congregation broke up (husband was called elsewhere and Associate left without ample notice).
1:14:26 Both my nephew and sister (my niece) are transgender. I vow to love them forever. I do NOT and I repeat NOT have to love what they do. Coming from a Mennonite family, this really rocks our world.
Many people these day state they forgive but do not need to resume friendship with that individual . Would this truly be forgiving ? Also many people “ forgive “ but they never forget . Is this forgiveness ?
Each individual has to seek God on this, but if you were assulted in some way you are not required to remain in a relationship with that person. Your forgiveness of someone or something does not change them or what happened in any way. A rapist, murderer or thief may continue their behavior until the day they die. God does not require that His people purposefully put themselves or their children into dangerous situations. That's why we have prisons. You should always separate yourself from dangerous people.
10:00 Timestamp made me think of JOHN 14:15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments. JOHN 14:21 Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.” My thoughts; people are asking the wrong question. God says we are to seek him with all our hearts early if we want to find him. Many make the excuse that God doesn't show himself to them so they don't believe, but they also don't do what God tells them to do in order for him to reveal himself to them. 1. Seek God with all your heart. 2. Make an honest attempt to follow his teachings/commandments. I had a few experiences that prove God exists. Some that are hard to believe - if someone else told me the same experience I would find it hard to believe so I won't go into too much detail, but they included feeling someone rub my back after finding out my ex was having an affair while I was 7 months pregnant and crying face down on my bed - like a loving back rub that put me to sleep. Another time, almost being hit by a car while crossing the street with my daughter to catch a bus - the car barely missed us. The bus driver asked me, "where are the 2 people that were with you"? God/Jesus will reveal himself if you genuinely seek him.
As for question 11, i think we can say that its not referring to salavtion. That was dealt with on the cross. One commentator put it this way, "This is not to suggest that God will withdraw justification from those who have already received the free pardon he extends to all believers. Forgiveness in that sense-a permanent and complete acquittal from the guilt and ultimate penalty of sin-belongs to all who are in Christ (cf. John 5:24; Rom. 8:1; Eph. 1:7). Yet, Scripture also teaches that God chastens his children who disobey (Heb. 12:5-7). Believers are to confess their sins in order to obtain a day-to-day cleansing (1 John 1:9). This sort of forgiveness is a simple washing from the worldly defilements of sin, not a repeat of the wholesale cleansing from sin’s corruption that comes with justification. It is like a washing of the feet rather than a bath (cf. John 13:10). Forgiveness in this latter sense is what God threatens to withhold from Christians who refuse to forgive others."
pastor mike, if you are able to. could you please pray for me. I truly give everything I have to help others, yet my life is always falling apart. I am so tired. If your able to please say a quick prayer for me?
As someone who had a (planned) baby out of wedlock and then found faith after the baby was born,( clearly I know its best to be married before having kids, especially because if not married you continue to sin with your partner) I am having difficulties with this, I want to move away from this sin but its hard because its still an important thing in a relationship. ( we are planning our wedding, but its difficult with money. I refuse to get married in a court house. ) I want to stop fornicating, I want to wait until we are married before we do it again. It's scary and difficult.
Great episode, Mike. Lively and to the point. In re God's moral law, all humankind is subject to his moral law (Rom. 3:10-18). His moral law has never changed. God gave the written code so humankind would realize its sinfulness and seek God, and not slip into total anarchy and depravity before Jesus came to set us free. While it is true that as Christians we are under the law of the Spirit, its moral essence is no different from that of the Ten Commandments. What changed about God's moral law was the depth of its meaning, which Christ unveiled to his followers. Iow, *you don't get a revelation of the full meaning of the Ten Commandments unless and until you come to Christ* . Without Christ, you don't really know what it means to love the Lord your God (Whom you don't even recognize as Lord), or love your neighbor, or even love yourself -- bc what do you know about love anyway! -- and that is the foundation of God's moral law. Jesus tells his followers to be perfect (reflect God's moral law) as our heavenly Father is perfect (Matt 9:17-48) bc when we are born again we become aware of and experience in our hearts the awesome holiness of God, and since we are no longer slaves of sin, we can conform to God's moral law through Christ. As for the Sabbath, Jesus fulfilled the law perfectly, even the Sabbath. First, He corrected the religious leaders' misconception about what keeping the Sabbath meant, noting that the Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath. Second, He made it clear that He is Lord of the Sabbath (Mk. 2). Thus, our Sabbath as Christians is to rest in Christ, and the fullness of that rest will come when we are united eternally with Him (Heb. 4: 9-10). So why are the Ten Commandments still relevant? Because "through the law comes the knowledge of sin," and without the knowledge of sin there is no need of a Savior: "Is the law sin? Certainly not! On the contrary, I would not have known sin except through the law. For I would not have known covetousness unless the law had said, “You shall not covet” (Rom. 7:7). But what about those who are never exposed to the Ten Commandments, even indirectly? Paul explains that God writes his moral law on their hearts (Rom 2:15). Iow, they have a conscience, they know they should seek God since He gives all human beings a sense of eternity (Ecc. 3:11), and they can see God's fingerprint in his creation. Also, even to this day God is merciful and reveals Himself in dreams, visions and supernatural appearances, like He did with Cornellius and the eunuch. Therefore "they are without excuse" (Rom. 1:20). In sum, the Ten Commandments are God's unchanging moral law given in writing to sinful humanity both individually and as nations. When the Ten Commandments are ignored, sin abounds and liberty is lost. We Christians are made righteous and able to conform to the full spiritual meaning of the Ten Commandments because we believed in and now abide in Christ by his Spirit Who sanctifies us. However, we still live in a fallen world, so we must continue both to uphold the Ten Commandments in every society (Mk. 5:19) and "preach the gospel to every creature." :))
Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:
0:00 - Intro
1. 0:22 {Can We Resist Sin Without the Spirit?} How were the disciples able to follow Jesus and resist sin without the Spirit indwelling them? Is it possible to be a Christian without the Spirit?
2. 8:52 {Help with the Hiddenness of God} The hiddenness (and silence) of God is causing me doubts. Is there any advice or help you can offer (such as that God is silent now because revelation has been completed with the New Testament)?
3. 16:35 {A Young Pastor being Disrespected} I am a young pastor of a church with people mostly in their 60s and 70s. My staff often micromanages me, corrects me in public, and treats me like a grandchild instead of their pastor. Any advice?
4. 22:00 {Is Christian Nationalism Biblical?} Is Christian nationalism in the sense of theocracy a scriptural concept?
5. 25:49 {God’s Judgment vs. Justice} How are God's judgment (him being a judge who carries out consequences) and His justice (establishing order) different if He uses His judgment to apply justice? Or can you explain His judgment vs. His justice?
6. 28:29 {Are Batchelor Parties Always Sinful?} I am attending a bachelor party and I have a Christian co-worker who said "Christians shouldn't go to bachelor parties." How would you response to this? All at the party profess to be Christians.
7. 32:49 {Are Rapture Dreams Truly from God?} What are your thoughts on Christians that have “rapture dreams” claiming that the rapture will be soon? Do you think these are from God, or just a result of all of the end times talk that has ramped up lately?
8. 37:00 {Was Aaron Punished In Place of Moses?} In the book of Numbers, why did God punish Aaron for unbelief when Moses is the one who struck the rock?
9. 41:19 {Overcoming Addictions} I struggle with an addiction to nicotine and caffeine. There are no rehab centers for these. What do I do? I know its sinful, but I need help to overcome. I can’t be a slave to two masters.
10. 45:45 {How Were Jesus’ Words Translated?} Did the synoptic writers translate Jesus’ words from Aramaic to Greek? Does that partially explain why they don’t match each other exactly, because they translated to best explain His teaching?
11. 50:46 {Will the Father Not Forgive Us?} Matthew 6: 14-15 says we should forgive others of their trespasses or our Father will not forgive us of ours. But the Bible also says that all of our sins have been atoned for on the cross. Can you explain?
12. 55:06 {Is Typology Only About Jesus?} Is typology only ever about Jesus? If so, how do we explain the type/antitype in 1 Peter 3: 21? If not, how do we tell true vs. false types when "no new theology" can come from typology?
13. 1:01:27 {Christ’s Law vs. the Moral Law} What is Christ’s law, and how is it different from the 10 commandments which many argue is the moral law we are to keep to this day?
14. 1:05:36 {Do Our Spiritual Gifts Ever Change?} As believers, are we given a static set of spiritual gifts, or are our gifts more dynamic in nature so that God adds to and/or subtracts from them according to our season of life or our maturity in Him?
15. 1:09:48 {Should We Date Unbelievers for Evangelism?} My cousin is dating someone who is not a Christian in the hopes that they will get saved. Is this okay to do?
16. 1:13:58 {If My Own Child Comes Out…} What is your take on what we should say when unbelievers ask, “What would you do if your child came out to be gay?” Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
17. 1:16:55 {Avoiding Distraction in Prayer} What is the best way to focus on God? Do you know of any techniques for this? While I'm praying, I try to focus on God, but I always seem to get distracted.
18. 1:18:45 {Can We Wear Cross Jewelry?} What are your thoughts about wearing cross jewelry?
19. 1:21:05 {Am I Doing Enough in Marriage?} My wife works very hard, long hours. She frequently comes home exhausted and stressed. My job is fairly stress-free, and I work from home. I feel like I’m not doing enough for her. What should I do?
20. 1:23:16 {How to Glorify God at All Times} If Scripture tells me to glorify God in all I do, how can I glorify God when doing things like taking a math class, playing checkers, eating a meal, listening to Beethoven, etc., if these things are "morally neutral"?
thank you for doing this
So if we grant me that I am truly sincere in seeking the lord, will I always find him?
Thank you
@@davidfayfield6594 This is what God says in a couple places about it:
“You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”
Jeremiah 29:13 ESV
“I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.”
Proverbs 8:17 ESV
“Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near;”
Isaiah 55:6 ESV
3)Amen, excellent advice, glory to King Jesus.
Never to late for God to find you. At age 53 beaten and broken life ,I cried out to God and found out i was a sinner by knowing Jesus died for my sins. Amazing ! Thank you Mike for all your Biblical Answers. It really helps with my walk with Jesus.
Prayers for you on your journey home. ❤ Thanking God that you made it to the path.
As a reformed smoker, I tried for years to quit in my own strength both before getting saved and post getting saved and I had a measure of success but kept going back until I got saved and a few years in my Pastor who had also been an ex smoker said to not just me but the entire congregation what do you turn to when you are stressed cigarettes and alcohol or whatever or do you turn to the Holy Spirit as your comfort and strength...it has now been 20 years since I have had a cigarette... I hope that helps 🥰 Blessings Gerowyn
I was a smoker, too. And it was so delicious for me, that I thought I would die as a smoker. And I didn't know any scripture that would stop me from smoking. Now, years after quitting, I realize, that god gave me more of a godly worldview that brought me to quit. Because when I realized the consequenzes of my behaviour (looked up statistics on how likely it is to get ill and even die), I realized: This is not what I want to do with my life and to my loved ones. And then a jurney over some years started by replacing one habbit after the other:
smoking -> vaping (with nicotine) -> snus -> nicotine pouches (tabacco-free snus) -> strong menthol candies -> free :)
It took years, but now I am free since some years. Love it.
Please give me some counsel! I cannot seem to commit to healthy eating in my own strength. I've been begging the Lord to help me for years now.
@@Ephesians5-14 that one is probably the hardest to dobin our own strength ...and I can't say I have mastered it but you could by acknowledging your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and think about if you want to defile the Hily Spirits temple... than maybe start with a 3 day complete fast or 21 day Daniel fast where you only eat food from plants and see what happens... take 1 day at a time 🥰 Blessings Gerowyn
The Lord and His Holy Spirit have taken away many of my sins, but I still struggle with tobacco addiction (I also play the lottery in a somewhat addicted manner). Yes, you are right, Janderra, when you posed the question: "What do you turn to when you are stressed?" It's not just "what" though; it's also "who" (Jesus, of course); and we've got to turn to Him all the way. It's fair to say that many of us don't quite overcome all of our sins because we don't quite turn ALL THE WAY to Him! P.S.: And His Holy Spirit, too.
@@Ephesians5-14 I, know how, you, are feeling all too well. I, still struggle with comfort eating... Unfortunately, letting my social anxiety get the better of me, I, have turned to food way too many times, instead of turning to, God.
What helps me get on track to eat healthy is... Having respect for, God. We don't own our temple, we are borrowing it. Jesus, bought our bodies with a price. If, we, are trashing our bodies in an unhealthy way; we are basically disrespecting, God. We have to lean on, God, not food. Having self-control, discipline, obedience... Its ok to treat ourselves with mouth watering, "junk" food here and there. But, we should not idolize our stomach. Try and replace eating (if you are someone who comfort/boredom eats) with being in the Word, spending quite time with, God.
For anyone struggling with hearing God "speak" to them, I know of 1 simple question to pray, that guarantees a response: "God, is there ANYTHING in my life that does NOT please you?" 🙏
I promise you, that if you ask this of God, He WILL answer you. You may not like the answer, but He will tell you. 😊🙏❤️🙏
Amen.
A great prayer. Just put total trust in Jesus and throw out all He does not like. Friends and family will call you fanatic. But the goal is to glorify Jesus whatever the cost. Shalom.
Oh yeah!
John 9:31
It should be alarming to all of you that the best way to get a response from god is to ask him to point out your shortcomings.
Can you imagine witnessing this dynamic in any other relationship and then calling it a loving relationship? Let me paint a picture...
A man sits in a decrepit recliner, eyes carefully trained on the nearby television. His daughter arrives home from school and enters the room where her father sits.
(D)aughter: hello daddy! I missed you today. I had such a great day at school and I'd love to tell you all about it!
(F)ather: :: silence::
D: I got promoted to editor of the school newspaper!
F: ::holds up 3 green flags, 2 purple flags and one giant orange flag, then waves one green flag in front of the orange flag. It's a sign. Look inside yourself and you'll know what it means::
D: and I got 100% on my chemistry, calculus, and history exams!
F: ::silence::
D: dad... Please. I'm trying to talk to you. Could you pay attention to me for just a minute? Maybe pause your show so we can communicate and connect for a minute?
F: ::silence::
D: ...... Please? I really want to connect with you.. but it feels like I'm the only one who ever talks...
F: ::silence::
D: are you mad at me? Did I do something wrong? Are you displeased with me?"
F: you bet I'm displeased. I've told you time and time again to credit me when you accomplish something. And you repeatedly tell me things like "*I* made editor... *I* aced my tests.. it's incredibly offensive to me that you would feel as though you were capable of accomplishing anything on your own, and your unwillingness to give me the credit is an indication of your intense pride. Prepare yourself for infinite punishment! But don't forget.. I love you unconditionally.
Imagine seeing a relationship like this with almost entirely one sided communication... Only broken by a question of whether the silent party is displeased with the other party... Then imagine saying that this is a loving relationship....
This is abusive relationship 101 stuff...
As an Optometrist I concur with your excitement at 1:25:48. The more you study it, the more God’s design boggles the mind. Your enthusiasm is a blessing, Mike. ♥️🎶
Good on you. I applaud your optometrism. Looking around the world today it's hard not to be pessimistic. 😏
@@williamdowling7718 I see what you did there.
On question 3...I think being a lady in my 60s I often feel discounted and ignored and invisible. I decided to make this an opportunity to decrease myself and focus on others!
How humble!
But i aslo wiah you were being treated better. I remember doing something like this to my Grandfather a while before he died. He was older and couldn't hear well. I was talking to my Aunt in front of him, but i kinda didn't really want him to hear. He asked what I said because he was hard of hearing, and i basically said, oh, its nothing that you would care about. I still think of me doing this to this day (about a decade later) and i feel so bad about it. Im sorry if you are treated like this, and im sorry for treating others this way! Forgive me Lord!
That might be the longest video (head coverings) but Mike, we are all so excited about it that we can't wait! Never stop obeying Christ in the break down of your teaching! You were the first person in more than 15 years who was able to answer questions and help me dig deeper. I can't tell you how long I was starving for meat and only offered milk. Thank you for your incredible humility. Never let that go! Oh and my husband just recently started listening to you too! I'm so excited to see him start seeking God and digging in and I'm thrilled that he has found your channel and can dig deep and learn on his own
Today, we have Mike so I don't have to read my bible, just listen to mike who has a much more spiritual bible than mine. When he speaks, he speaks so my feelings are right and I know the lord now loves me.
@@dianetigert1310 lol. Luckily listening to Mike Winger entails reading the Bible, since he's mentioned it quite a few times.
@@dianetigert1310 i hope you’re joking
@@StrategicGamesEtc
is that what he does???????????? hour after hour talking>???????
@@dianetigert1310 DO YOU read your bible?Bible?? if you did you would see that God uses teachers to help people rightly divide the Word of God. Why are you so bitter?
The bible explains what sincere searching looks like, with the parable of the lost coin, for example. Or in today's words, our keys, or our wedding ring. It's an active doing thing, that is more than just thinking and meditation. And you have to do it with all diligence.
The examples of Cornelius and the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts are two good examples.
Matthew 25 is the same, look at verses 34-40 compared to verses 41-46.
On bachelor parties ('stag do's in the UK). I had one before my wedding ( lazer warriors, barbecue restaurant). For me it was particularly important to bring my male friends ( mostly Christian) with my male family members ( mostly non Christian). As I had some hostility and scepticism from my family about my faith, it was important to make this connection before my wedding.
I've just stumbled onto this channel. I appreciate the truth. Thank you.
As pastor Voddie Baucham put it, we are surrounded by a sin-centred envelop. The world teaches us, Satan deceives us, and the flesh entices us. We cannot escape unless the Lord reaches in and pulls us out.
Very Good answer in the first question we need the spirit!
Pastor Mike!!
This is Claire - I used to come up to you fretting about losing salvation often. The Lord has shown me this morning so beautifully that we cannot lose salvation in his precious word by his Spirit. It made me see how truly loved we are and have been in awe with God all day from it.
He led me to read the entire Bible almost 2 months ago (I did not do it but he so I cannot boast or take credit, I have a testimony about this.) And I had asked constantly in prayer about Saul after 2 Samuel.
2 Samuel 7:14-15
ENTIRE Psalm 89
Was just absolutely blown away how scripture is linked together.
"31So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32
We can lose our salvation. The Bible warns us against this many times. The Bible wouldn’t warn us if it were impossible!
As that verse you posted says “if we abide in him”. We must continue to abide in him to remain his!
But keep you eyes on him and rest in his finished work at all times 🙏 if we keep our eyes on him we will not fall away!
Hebrews 6:4-6??????
@@lovegod8582 Stop preaching heresey.
@@lovegod8582 That means the Savior cannot save properly.
I completely agree about sight. Now turn your sight to look at your hands. Touch your finger’s together ever so delicately and marvel at the sensation and the ability to feel. To just feel! Our hands can gently caress a babies face or use the same hands to do harm. Strength and gentleness are astounding. God bless you and thank you for your ministry.
@Jesus Is Lord I used to be a massage therapist (the honorable kind) and touch is an amazing gift.
I was in my preteens and teens during the 1970s. There were a lot of end-time prophesies during that time. It's very easy to get caught up in the predictions and think that means we're getting ready for the second coming. If we really want to be ready for the second coming, we need to focus on loving God and loving our neighbor. That's more important than figuring out exactly when Jesus will return.
Thank you for talking about Christ with us.
Thank you Pastor Mike. I found your answers really helpful. I pray Jesus keeps you, your family, your congregation and your subscribers safe wherever they are in this unpredictable world. I pray for steadfastness in The Lord for all above and for discernment whilst reading scripture and living on earth. In Jesus’s name I pray, Amen. Amen. 🙏🏼✝️🙌🏻
The first question reminds me of Titus 1:15, that says “Everything is pure to those whose hearts are pure. But nothing is pure to those who are corrupt and unbelieving, because their minds and consciences are corrupted.”
Mike, I just met you at the APU CUI soccer game and cannot say thank you enough for what you are doing for the kingdom. Thankful to have a resource like you pushing for gospel truth in everything you do. Keep up the good work! -Ash PS Go cougs!
Praying the Lord's prayer is what I do as well, I pray that many times during the course of the day when I feel anxiety kicking in. That prayer helps me tremendously.
My late father taught us at an early age the power of our Lord's prayer, and gave us many testimonies on instances when he needed God and just prayed that prayer and God in His Sovereign grace showed up strongly. It is a powerful prayer if we mean it and don't just recite it.
I agree with you when I am stressed or am anxious and I can't even think straight to pray. I pray our Lord's prayer 🙏🏽
masturbating is another good way to relieve tension, i find it quite calming and relaxing.
I’m laughing because your comment about being amazed by eyesight reminds me of my thought of being amazed by poop. While walking my dog I had the realization that she can only let out what she put it. We can’t make things out of nothing, only God can and I was amazed by that for weeks. I know how silly that sounds but it really just speaks to the amazingness of God!
It’s called conservation of energy and matter. What you put in comes out but it’s been altered. The bonds of the molecules have been broken open by chemicals to access the energy to power our bodies and what remains is excreted.
For things to live something must die and every second somewhere on the planet painful deaths occur.
Thank you Mike for letting God speak through you. You nailed my condition perfectly when talking about overcoming addiction. I really needed that word.
Me personally when I’ve had dreams about the rapture I feel like it’s the Lord telling me that I need to pray more and seek him more because there might be something in my personal life I’m missing as far as my relationship with my living God, we don’t know the time and the date when Jesus coming back but we do know we need to be ready
Amen 🙏🏽
“I’m already helping you make right choices, now you need to Make them.” for question 9 was So Good. I’ve never heard it put that way and it was very helpful to me. 41:16
I tried to be an atheist and "succeeded" for 8 years, but God didn't let me stay there.
I think God uses "divine hiddenness" to confront my pride and arrogance.
Thank You Brother , God Bless You and your Ministry
Cross jewellery I find is a good way to start a conversation and keep yourself to a high standard
Good work, keep it up. Love the way you sometimes word things, that rant about eyesight was true and cool. Every now and then I get these very pleasant memories/thoughts and just thank God for that pleasant moment, even if I forget it after
God Bless you
Maybe, just maybe, don’t let the busyness to hurt, Mike, and rest if needed.🙏🏼May God give you wisdom.
I agree with you Brother Mike about we have lost unique cultural values and practices
Such a blessing from the Lord to hear sound biblical teaching , may the Lord keep blessing us with understanding of His will for us
100% agree with you regarding your answer to the bachelor party.
YOU are forgiven THROUGH Jesus~
Psalm 18:: 1-3 NIV. I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.2 Samuel 23:3
Verse Concepts
“The God of Israel said,
The Rock of Israel spoke to me,
‘He who rules over men righteously,
Who rules in the fear of God,
There are more than 50 scriptures in the bible about the word rock that is connected to Jesus. Thanks, Mike for your ministry.
We cannot effectively fight sin without the Holy Spirit. I tried, ain't working. Relying on one's own strength is a very dangerous place to stand on. It is self reliance, not relying on God. It is living in the flesh , not living in the Spirit of God. What happened when i told God I can do it? I only fell deeper into the pit of despair and deeper into sin. It made me crazy until I gave up and surrendered my all, even my rights, to God. I am not going back that road again. I can no longer live without the LORD alive and present and at work in me. I am sooooo grateful for His wonderful grace,; that grace of giving us His Spirit!
How would you demonstrate that the Holy Spirit is real?
@@Jonas-gl9ke some people say that the evidence is by speaking tongues or performing different gifts that the LORD gives through His Spirit. No gifts will convince me if that person performing is not changed and transformed by God. The presence of the Holy Spirit in a person would be so evident that there is truth in the way a person speaks, the life is transformed and the life shows a sincere, real work of God, the person exhibits peace and joy. You will also see the love of God working and moving in that person. When he/she practices the gifts of the Spirit of God, there is a difference, God is glorified, the Church is edified and encouraged. If a person who gets glory for himself/herself and the Church is not edified, then that is not the Spirit of God at work in him/her. I have seen enough people who claim to be Christians and are very good with what they do, but have brought havoc in the Family of God and there is no transformation of life. There is no signs of a life being transformed into the likeness of Jesus. I have seen real ones, too, because God surrounded me with such people throughout my life in the midst of those who lived by the flesh.. And, I'm blessed to have experienced God myself. But, i had to be humbled first before He brought me to this point. I needed to realize I need Him every moment, every day. I cannot live and exist without Him. He was the Creator hovering over the waters. He was the same Spirit that rose Jesus from the grave. He is the same One, not just God's Seal of ownership in us, but whom Jesus promised who will fill His disciples and empower them. I am a believer and follower of Jesus and I hold on to that promise Jesus gave before He went home to be with the Father.
@@lutchiewiens5788 That is not a sound epistemology. You are essentially saying that you believe the Holy Spirit is real because those imbued with the Holy Spirit act in a way that shows they are imbued with the Holy Spirit. This is fallacious because it begs the question.
If I have 2 people in your church that act in the exact same manner, how do you tell the difference between the person filled with the Holy Spirit and the person not filled with the Holy Spirit?
You need a methodology that can falsify your claim that the Holy Spirit actually exists?
@@Jonas-gl9ke Jonas, if you have the Holy Spirit living in your life, you will know who has the Spirit of God. You do not need methodology to know. He is the one who discerns the hearts and minds of everyone. He gives you peace and certainty that no one and no other religion can give.
If you do not believe that the Holy Spirit is God and real, then the Bible is clear about that that you are not a child of God. No one becomes a Christian without the Spirit of God in him or her. You need to be born again in Jesus Christ through His Spirit. Without the Spirit of God, you do not have the life of God in you. You have all head knowledge, but no life. You have religion, but no relationship with the LIVING GOD!
@@lutchiewiens5788 How can I tell the difference between someone who knows who has the spirit of God in them and someone who only thinks they know who has the spirit of God in them? You keep making claims without providing evidence.
If I define indoctrination as, “the process of teaching a person or group to accept a set of beliefs uncritically”, how would you say your beliefs differ from this definition?
Mike looking really good! Definitely dropped some significant body fat percentage. The working out and the diet seem to work! I hope your sleep keeps improving too!
“Fully ready to ignore them”😂 great answer. I didn’t know anything about the rapture until I became a believer 10 months ago. In the beginning it was exciting to hear but now, I too am, fully ready to ignore them.
Yup. I think most people get really hyped for the second coming when they first believe. And that much is really good. Being hyped for the second coming is sort of what this is all about.
The problem comes where we start thinking we know when it will be. In my opinion, it’s fine to ponder the times that you think might be likely. But it’s best to leave it at just that. Ponderings. Once you start teaching these things, it gets really iffy.
@@not_milk agreed.
go read Ezekiel 14:12-20 and learn why everything is happening like it is.
When we do good act towards my neighbor, and I do not have faith in Christ, God, and the Holy Spirit, then that good act is done in elevation of myself. But if I DO have faith in God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit, then the good act I do toward my neighbor is done to elevate God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit
There is a difference between taking pride in doing good things, and taking joy and satisfaction in having done a good thing. There is also no virtue in denying the gifts and talents God has given you. We are can acknowledge that we are good at somethings and have don't something well. Without thinking ourselves better or more valuable than others. There is a difference and much of the church has not taught it.
43:30 This is exactly what I needed to hear, especially when it comes to self-control related to food
Love you Pastor Mike! Keep spreading the good news!
I just want to say I was able to listen to this entire podcast this morning as I cleaned my house. It was so clarifying with scripture I know and looked up. Thank you for being authentic!
Look forward to hearing more.
Nice haircut Mike! Cannot wait for the close to the women in ministry series. It's been so incredibly fruitful for me and spurs me on to study what it truly means to be a Biblical woman/wife. Thank you so much for your ministry!
Whatever your internet provider says, you come through clearly. 🙌🙌
Pastor Mike, thank you for your take on free will. I never realised this aspect of it. That God already helping us by his Holy Spirit, and we have the descision making part. Full responsibility.
Great Q n A again Mike! Thank you!
Oh I really like your way of answering question 1! Thank you so much for that ! An atheist family member who does so much good for so many said "some Christians ..have the audacity to think she won't end up in heaven" anddddd I let that just go by to save what little relationship we have, but I did say...she'd be very surprised and disappointed with people who do end up there ...she hesitated for only a moment but I don't push it, it backfires I find.
My Jehovah’s Witness callers came round yesterday to remind me that heaven is a place on earth. I asked if they could come back after the football.
@@horridhenry9920 dude... THIS was funny!!😂
Thank you Pastor Mike. This was great. I always learn new things from your Q&As. Blessings to you and your wife.
Glorifying God in all we do: Education & self improvement enables us to do more and control ourselves better and reach out to others. Eating healthy and in moderation and not extravagantly is caring for the bodies given us and stewardship over our finances, and we can appreciate the creation of good tasty food without greed / gluttony. The Arts again allow appreciation of creativity, but also have therapeutic benefits for us, inspire or challenge us, give us compelling ways to communicate the gospel, and we avoid negative/damaging forms. In these things we can also consider the social aspect: we can share the good with others and make bridges into other people's lives. There is much in this world which is good and able to be enjoyed and celebrated without condemnation. But still, we need to acknowledge that all of these things consume our time, our life, which is God's, bought with a price. We are to make the most of our time, as good stewards and ambassadors, for the days are evil and the lost need to be saved! This world is not eternal and even these good things can become addictive and wasteful and take us away from our duties and our adoration and service to God.
If someone says God is silent, why don’t we answer that he reveals himself in his creation, he writes his law on our hearts, and he DOES speak to us in his word. I think part of the problem is many Christian’s believe he still gives extra biblical revelation, so if we don’t hear him audibly outside of scripture, we can’t answer the question ‘why doesn’t God speak anymore.’ The answer is ‘God speaks to us through his word, and the scriptures contain everything necessary for life and knowledge of God.’
God spoke to people in the Old and New Covenant times.
This hasn't come to an end.
Read Acts and notice how many non apostles hear from the Lord and do miraculous things including prophecy. (Not saying there is new theology revealed outside of the Bible!) the argument from those who say the gifts have ceased with the apostles ignore those people in Acts. It was eye opening for me.
@@bygraceonly182 no it’s not ignored. But that is in Acts. Do you really believe that people have the power to send a handkerchief to someone and they will be healed? Or that someone could touch your clothes and be healed? The things that were happening in Acts were meant to lay the foundation for the church. The foundation for the church was laid in the New Testament, and the foundation was the apostles and prophets (Ephesians 2:20-21). It then goes on to say the church grows from there. We do not continue the work of the foundation today. The sad thing is, people who are looking for ‘prophecy’ today don’t tend to put as much emphasis on the Bible, as displayed in the answer to this question. God of course isn’t silent. He speaks to us daily through his word.
@@savedbygrace7982
Faith is hard. But the bible says it stops
in the future, not the past.
"...until we all attain..."
And He gave some as apostles, some as prophets, some as evangelists, some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ.
-excerpt Ephesians 4
And as soon as the Spirit rested on them, they prophesied. But they did not continue doing it.
Now two men remained in the camp, one named Eldad, and the other named Medad, and the Spirit rested on them. They were among those registered, but they had not gone out to the tent, and so they prophesied in the camp. And a young man ran and told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.” And Joshua the son of Nun, the assistant of Moses from his youth, said, “My lord Moses, stop them.” But Moses said to him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the Lord's people were prophets, that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!”
-excerpt Numbers 11
To anyone struggling with nicotine addiction, I'd like to share my experience...
I was a steady smoker for many years of my life. I smoked my first cigarette at 7 years old. By the age of 13 I was a regular pack-a-day smoker. I had "quit" a couple of times over the years, but it never lasted. In my late 20s I felt like I should stop, but I convinced myself that I just enjoyed it too much and didn't really want to stop, so I switched to vaping as a "healthier" alternative. This was when vaping was brand new and it was pretty much only those small devices that looked like cigarettes but had the little LED tip and the "filter" cartridges. I figured, since I don't really want to quit, I'll try this and if it's good enough to satisfy the habit then I'll stick with that.
Well, that worked, and soon enough I couldn't stand smoking, the smell of it was gross. I was vaping, it was "cleaner", and I even felt much better. After a while I didn't get sick anymore, the way that every smoker tends to get seasonally sick. In fact, I can probably count on one hand the number of times that I legitimately got sick over a 10 year period when I was vaping instead of smoking. This created another problem though. With vaping the habit tends to go from the pack-a-day amount of smoking, to just constantly carrying your vaping device with you everywhere and puffing on it every few seconds. After more than a decade of vaping I tried to quit a few times, for various reasons, and I realized that now I had severely underestimated how powerful the addiction had become. One time I "quit" by letting myself run out of vape juice, only to find myself immediately driving 20 miles in a nasty snow storm at night to get to a vape shop that was still open, because I couldn't even make it through the night. I literally risked my life just to satisfy that craving. A few years later I tried quitting again, this time I really wanted to. So I let my supply run out, and the next day I was at another vape shop, and then immediately placed another order to resupply for another 6 months.
Then about a year after that, I came to know Jesus Christ. It took me a while where I was just trying to learn and understand more, and there are many things that I didn't do right initially in my walk with the Lord, and I'm still learning of course. One thing I knew that I had to do though was to break free from that addiction. I didn't know how I was going to do it. I knew how powerful it was and how badly I'd failed every time I tried. So one night, after I had let my supply dwindle down a lot but not completely, I prayed really hard over it. I begged the Lord to help me and to give me the strength to overcome that sin. Then I set my vape device down with juice still left in it, didn't take another puff, and went to bed. I woke up the next morning and tried to push through on my own. I made a cup of coffee, did some work, etc. Then by the afternoon I convinced myself that I could give in a little and take one or two puffs from what was still in the device. After all, "I'd been doing pretty good right?". I picked up the device, put it in my mouth, pressed the button and inhaled and....nothing happened. I thought, wait the battery wasn't dead last night. I tried it again, looking at the screen, and nothing happened. Then I tried turning it on (press button 3 times), thinking maybe I'd shut it off...nothing. Ok, so I plugged it into the charger thinking well maybe the battery was dead...nothing. No response from the device at all. I probably sat there playing with it, trying to get it to turn on for about 10 minutes. Initially just trying to get my cheat puffs in, but then just trying to wrap my head around what had actually happened. I was legitimately dumbfounded. Then it began to sink in, and I realized what had happened.
As hard as it still was to overcome that addiction, it had never felt easier than after I realized what the Lord had done for me. Sure you could be skeptical and say that maybe it was just time for the device, which had been in perfect working condition, to die out. Batteries die, they stop taking charges, sure. If you ask me I'd say that believing that it happened by coincidence at that exact time is an even bigger miracle, requiring blind faith, than believing that God had answered my prayer. Quitting was still hard. I still had to struggle through it, but it was nowhere near as hard as it was all of the previous times that I tried all on my own. I spent the next several days pretty much just reminding myself of Philippians 4:13 constantly. The Lord was with me, but perhaps more importantly, I knew that He was there. It wasn't just a simple matter of supernaturally shorting out the battery in the device, or whatever it was that He did to it. So much more than that, the Lord had made a provision for my faith, and as the Lord has said, "...your faith has made you well".
He still required me to struggle through it, He just showed me that I would never struggle alone through anything again, and that gave me the strength that I needed to overcome it. It still brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it, not because vaping was ever such a huge deal, people struggle with WAY harder and worse things than that all the time. Rather, because it was my very first personal experience with the Lord, where I became personally aware of His direct involvement in my life. I've stumbled since then in a few other areas, and made necessary corrections, but I haven't vaped or smoked anything since. I don't at all think that He did it just to help me stop vaping. I think that He did it to show me that it is by faith in Him alone that I will possess the strength to overcome any desires of the flesh that to us often seem so insurmountable. Since then I have overcome a number of other issues, and even some that at that time I hadn't even yet recognized as issues. To anyone who read this far, I'm sorry for rambling on for so long, I didn't intend to when I started. I hope that this helps you in some way though. Remember that faith is not just "belief in", it's "full trust and reliance on" as well. Place your full faith in the Lord, not in yourself, and you will have everything you need to overcome anything of this world. All glory to the Lord, Jesus Christ.
Short answer...yes. Non Christians also have the law written on their hearts so there is an inherent and innate knowledge of right and wrong. You can argue whether or not that means they have Holy Spirit operating in their hearts, but the Holy Spirits presence is indicative of salvation.
Yes and in the Old Testament only a few people had the Holy Spirit and it was only temporary, not permanent like it is for us.
Man if Mike Winger released a Bible commentary I would buy it right now
I love you. Grateful.
I loved that last question and your answer❤❤❤❤❤ your minisyry is so valuable!
This was excellent. Thank you.
HI MIKE! Whoohoo always excited for your new 20 question videos. 😀
I have worn cross jewellery for many years in the hope that either someone will ask me about Jesus, God and faith, or that when people see me doing good and helpful things that they might consider giving God the glory. OH and also to try to keep myself accountable for my actions and for people's perceptions of Christians. (Somewhat like wearing a tassle in Numbers 15.)
The law of Christ is all of Gods law followed in the Holy Spirit. Torah observance is a blessing.
Thanks for this!
For anyone thinking of being unequally yolked, take it from me ..... I thought I could change my husband and we have been married for 32 years and it still hasn't happened. I have prayed consistently for his salvation and I do have the belief that he will get saved one day ..... in the meantime, living with two different thoughts and beliefs in a home, is very very hard. Please don't do it.
yolked at??
Pastor Mike is looking fit!
Thank you for another great 20 questions episode! Love the shirt, lol. Pitfall was the only computer game/video game I ever played, growing up!
Question 13: You’re right, there’s SO many ways to break this down. But I think you did a great job.
Jesus says he didn’t come to abolish the law, but fulfill it. So of course the 10 commandments are valid and good. We just aren’t held to the standard of the law in the SAME way. Jesus fulfilled the law, we follow Jesus. His sacrifice took the place of the animal sacrifice atonement of the Old Testament law for all time. The same God of the Old Testament is the God we serve today. We now have the privilege of a completed sacrifice, and can enter into God’s presence on Jesus’ atonement for our sins, when previously we were responsible for our own atonement under the law.
For question #9 (Shelley)...I smoked for over 30 yrs. I was hopeless within myself and totally addicted to coffee and nicotine. My deepest desire was to be free. It's a long story but almost 2 yrs ago, Christ delivered me from this addiction. Delivered from something I knew I would never give up of my own volition. Please pray, fast, and have others do the same for you. Alao, Champix is a very helpful aide. Blessings sister...just know that Christ can heal you from this.
Jesus delivered me from my nicotine addiction supernaturally when I had been smoking 3 packs of unfiltered cigarettes a day after I was baptized in the Spirit and joined a Church where I found good Bible teaching and fellowship (no one around me was smoking). Even took away the desire. I couldn't have done it in my own strength. This was over 40 years ago and I have no cravings. Praise to the Lord. Let Him lead you.
I consider the “silence” of God as evidence of His loving kindness. The angels, like Satan, who were in full view of His glory and Holy presence rebelled and are not offered mercy. The more God reveals of Himself, the higher the standard of holiness that is expected in our behavior. As we fight against sin now, we still break His commands at times. Imagine what that would look like if you sinned in front of a Holy God seated on His throne. Certainly judgment would be swift. Would we rather be judged as the angels without mercy? Is it not better to thank God for the process of sanctification in His “hiddenness?” It is in our benefit as He cares for us and sanctifies us that He “hides” Himself. Imagine praying and receiving an audible answer: would we not at times be like Jonah that disobeys? And look what happened to him! The other option is to blame Him for not revealing His glory while we are still sinners, inviting judgment. So, blessed are those that have not seen Him and believe, because we will receive mercy and salvation. Just my thoughts on this.
This is the most beautiful and comforting while also frightening(in a good way) answer. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. Amazing amazing response! Wow! I hope the person who asked this question reads your response as well; this would bless them!
God bless you!
@@TyaraWilliams May God bless you, Tyara! And I understand what you mean by frightening! 😅❤
This is sorta something that's crossed my mind but I never really expressed it in words. You look around at certain people and get a notion that their knowledge of God isn't too great because of how they act and they simply aren't ready for a deeper relationship with God. Are we all going through that on some level?
I was also asked recently if Satan can repent and the conservation went in the direction that he has deceived himself into thinking he can rescue himself in the end but I also like what you said about it.
@@Matthew_85k Hey, Matthew. I think in your first question, the answer is probably yes. It depends on if they are actually saved or not. But assuming we are talking about born-again Christians, then this deals with sanctification. And that can be a painful process because we are dying to ourselves and denying ourselves in favor of coming closer to God. So, you may at times resist getting closer because it's easier to not grow, but God will get you through it, don't worry. :) Life as a Christian is a battle of beating your flesh into submission, and the victories (through Christ) feel better than the battles. I like the way John MacArthur puts it: as we get closer to God, we will sin less and less as time goes on, but the sins we commit hurt more. So, you may not always feel "on top of the world," because getting closer to a perfectly Holy God reveals just how unholy we are. That teaches us to be that much more grateful for His mercy and grace.
And yea, Satan can't repent. It seems like he is just throwing a massive fit and trying to take everyone down with him, but I really don't know enough to comment on if he really thinks he can accomplish anything besides his own destruction. I know his goal is to make war on God and God's people. I'm just so glad I'm not him. God knows every single move he will make ahead of time, and God uses Satan to bring about the fulfillment of His Will. I definitely don't get why he even tries, except pettiness, hate, and my fit-throwing theory. ;) I would look up sermons from MacArthur, Steve Lawson, Alistair Begg, and maybe even oldies like Charles Spurgeon because they definitely know more than me. It's good to know how your enemy operates to recognize his attacks, but that ultimately means focusing on Christ and His goodness and His victory and His Word to withstand them.
I can tell you're a deep thinker! You got me thinking. :) Sorry for the long reply. May God bless you with the answers you seek.
@@maidenx2736 It's always heartwarming to read a well thought out and long reply. I appreciate it a lot.
Sanctification. I totally forgot about that term and I must have heard it dozens of times! I tend to agree with all that and it's amazing how God does it because I personally have been placed in scenarios that have pushed me forward in my walk with Christ, and they came at just the right time to help me move forward and reject carnal things.
We can see the quotes in Isaiah 14:13-14 that are attributed to "lucifier". Whether that was before or after the serpent was punished in the garden of Eden, I don't know. With all that out of the way I totally agree that our focus should be on Christ, (reminds me of Philipians 4:8-9) and not the devil or demons, which maybe is why we don't exactly have a massive amount of info in the Bible about either of those things. Not only that, but I think the truth is the devil and demons really just aren't much of a big deal when you get down to it! I love how the book of Job shows us how God will only allow the devil to do certain things.
I know Spurgeon and McArthur. I have a friend who loves McArthur (and sometimes sounds just like him) I'll definitely look up Lawson and Alistair Begg. Thank you Ms X!
It is so cool to hear about the rock Moses was supposed to speak to, my boyfriend and I used to talk about this mystery as to why Moses wasn’t allowed in to the promise land .
Later the holy spirit showed me this very thing about it being about Jesus and now to have it conferred is just so cool!
Then Moses and Aaron gathered the assembly together before the rock, and he said to them, “Hear now, you rebels: shall we bring water for you out of this rock?” And Moses lifted up his hand and struck the rock with his staff twice, and water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their livestock. And the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not believe in me, to uphold me as holy in the eyes of the people of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land that I have given them.”
-excerpt Numbers 20
My understanding is this. Moses took credit for this miracle.
As he said:
"...shall WE bring water for you..."
This was Moses sin in this matter. More below.
They angered him at the waters of Meribah,
and it went ill with Moses on their account,
for they made his spirit bitter,
and he spoke rashly with his lips.
They also provoked Him to wrath at the waters of Meribah,
that it went badly for Moses on their account.
Because they were rebellious against His Spirit,
He spoke rashly with his lips.
-excerpt Psalm 106 (two versions)
Q1: On the topic of whether evil people can do good:
Matthew 7:11a
If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children ...
Pastor Winger, I'd also say if you love the non-Christian person you are dating it shows a great deal of love for you to put away your self-interest and leave them to spare them from a toxic future household and allow to not hold on to any feelings that will turn against them.
For question #2 about the hiddenness of God, I don't understand why some people think God is so hidden. If you listen to a handful of testimonies from Christians they often talk about how God showed up in a supernatural way or even how they knew he was drawing them to him behind the scenes. Is God really that hidden or is it just some people perceiving it that way? I love Mike's answer about how perhaps the person thinks they are sincerely searching for God but the reality might be a different story. And if the person is using God's hiddenness as an argument against God, it's revealing a hardness towards God (my words and interpretation based off of what Mike said). This makes a lot of sense to me.
Willpower. Period. Say what you mean, mean what you say. Then you need to have a “reason” to quit. Otherwise you’ll make excuses to stumble. I myself quit smoking 20-some years ago, and the reasons were my daughter and my health. I didn’t have the Holy Spirit active in my life at the time. I was just determined, and I did it. Smoking is a nasty addiction and a way for the enemy to keep you chained.
Absolutely not! Without the Holy Spirit we can not stop being an addict!
The "love" we "fall into" when we are young is not "insincere", it's immature... There is a difference...
Have you ever wondered why God allows us to be so confused about scripture? People can say God tells them this scripture means one thing, another can say well God said something different to me about the same passage. As a Christian for many years, that's a question I still am flustered by.
God isn't hidden, he is just misunderstood.
What’s the misunderstanding?
@@horridhenry9920 several. One is that God is silent - he isn't, he just doesn't infinitely repeat himself. We have scripture and it is sufficient.
Because God has no fellowship with unbelievers...John 5:44 Jesus told us who the unbelievers are and they are every where, specially here in this place.
1:06:00
There is the passage that says “seek the greater gifts” implying that we can receive more than we have presently or at the point of salvation/baptism of the Holy Spirit.
Good deeds done without accepting the Lord, means nothing. He wants you first, everything else HE will change. The holy spirit lives inside you.
John 3:3. The wind blows where it will...
Faith in God means you know he is there without having to see him or hear him. Knowing that we don't have all the answers and being able to accept that we don't need to have all the answers. We just needed one answer and that is Jesus. I used to be a why, why, why type of person towards God. Now after coming to fully recognize, as much as I am humanly able to recognize, what Jesus truly did for us I no longer ask why of God. I accept that he only wants good things and when it is not good that it isn't God. But knowing in my heart that even when it isn't good to trust him completely. Accepting that we are the clay and that HE is the potter. He doesn't conform to our human emotions or feelings. He is so much higher and greater that we can even comprehend. And I think that is where true peace is found.
19:32> "Alot more experience & wisdom" Experience? YES!
WISDOM...mmm...ofen times not.
That was some of the BEST advice Ive ever heard & I needed to hear it bc of something Im struggling with.
And I hope my first paragraph doesnt come across as picking nits. It just jumps out at me when I hear ppl equate NON-SYNONYMOUS words with "wisdom" such as elderly or I.Q.,
resolved: t-shirt mike is best mike
@janderra Homestead
Thank you beloved I have just gave up vaping again. I was a smoker since about 6-7 yrs old then moved to vape about 7 years ago. YHWH has put it on my heart for a while to lay this unclean thing on the alter. I have been very slow to do so and reserved about it. My wife recently gave hers up. Out of nowhere. Gave it up fully lead of the RUACH. She has been doing amazing. She had multiple dreams about me having to do the same and last dream she had was for her to tell me that… I AM OUT OF TIME ⌛️
She told me something that I have told family members as a witness to the faith. She told me. “ if you were to die today? Because of your willful sin and how your living in disobedience… would you make it in?? Are you sure you would make it into heaven?? That really put the Fear of Adonai in my soul. Because she said the same thing I have said and it’s not like her to say anything like that. It’s not in her character. So wow. There is a move of the RUACH for you!!! I’m trying to be strong. But the more I lean on YAHUSHA the easier it is. I want to PLEASE HIM. NOT GRIEVE HIM. Blessed is the Lamb of YAHUAH!!!
What comes to mind for me (or, one of them, at least) here is Matthew 12:43-45. You can, at least temporarily, cast out an unclean spirit or two, but without full submission to Jesus and the full indwelling of The Holy Spirit, that unclean spirit will most likely return (with some of his friends). I think that's accurate.
Mike looking like he’s making some gains in the gym 💪🏻
Just like you can't fight fire with fire, you can't fight flesh with flesh. To fight fire, you need water, to have self control and dominion over sin, you need the Holy Spirit. You need something greater then flesh to overcome sin, which is the nature of the flesh. You need the Spirit of God.
Question 3: That was my Huband. He humbly listened to his congregation while leading them. They watxhed him grow into a good pastor for 7 years until the congregation broke up (husband was called elsewhere and Associate left without ample notice).
1:14:26 Both my nephew and sister (my niece) are transgender. I vow to love them forever. I do NOT and I repeat NOT have to love what they do. Coming from a Mennonite family, this really rocks our world.
Many people these day state they forgive but do not need to resume friendship with that individual . Would this truly be forgiving ? Also many people “ forgive “ but they never forget . Is this forgiveness ?
Each individual has to seek God on this, but if you were assulted in some way you are not required to remain in a relationship with that person. Your forgiveness of someone or something does not change them or what happened in any way. A rapist, murderer or thief may continue their behavior until the day they die. God does not require that His people purposefully put themselves or their children into dangerous situations. That's why we have prisons. You should always separate yourself from dangerous people.
10:00 Timestamp made me think of
JOHN 14:15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments.
JOHN 14:21 Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”
My thoughts; people are asking the wrong question. God says we are to seek him with all our hearts early if we want to find him. Many make the excuse that God doesn't show himself to them so they don't believe, but they also don't do what God tells them to do in order for him to reveal himself to them.
1. Seek God with all your heart.
2. Make an honest attempt to follow his teachings/commandments.
I had a few experiences that prove God exists. Some that are hard to believe - if someone else told me the same experience I would find it hard to believe so I won't go into too much detail, but they included feeling someone rub my back after finding out my ex was having an affair while I was 7 months pregnant and crying face down on my bed - like a loving back rub that put me to sleep. Another time, almost being hit by a car while crossing the street with my daughter to catch a bus - the car barely missed us. The bus driver asked me, "where are the 2 people that were with you"? God/Jesus will reveal himself if you genuinely seek him.
As for question 11, i think we can say that its not referring to salavtion. That was dealt with on the cross. One commentator put it this way, "This is not to suggest that God will withdraw justification from those who have already received the free pardon he extends to all believers. Forgiveness in that sense-a permanent and complete acquittal from the guilt and ultimate penalty of sin-belongs to all who are in Christ (cf. John 5:24; Rom. 8:1; Eph. 1:7). Yet, Scripture also teaches that God chastens his children who disobey (Heb. 12:5-7). Believers are to confess their sins in order to obtain a day-to-day cleansing (1 John 1:9). This sort of forgiveness is a simple washing from the worldly defilements of sin, not a repeat of the wholesale cleansing from sin’s corruption that comes with justification. It is like a washing of the feet rather than a bath (cf. John 13:10). Forgiveness in this latter sense is what God threatens to withhold from Christians who refuse to forgive others."
Darn, been asking the same question for months, which I insert right as video starts at 3. Sigh. Maybe one day...
Always appreciate these.
On behalf of the entire Mike Winger fan club: we demand fresh thumbnails! NO MORE SALMON SHIRT!
It has gotten a bit old. I’ll see what I can do.
😂
Too funny😂😂😂
Im glad Large Marge sent that person
WE ARE FORGIVEN
"I am fully ready .. to ignore them" - LOL
‘Easter eggs’ 😂 You’re such a gamer Pr Mike
Wow... that shirt brings me back a few years...
Thank you pastor mike do you ever get burned out ??!
pastor mike, if you are able to. could you please pray for me. I truly give everything I have to help others, yet my life is always falling apart. I am so tired. If your able to please say a quick prayer for me?
Hi Andrew, I'm so sorry to hear that. I will pray for you right now. May the Lord bless you, strengthen you, and comfort you. ~BibleThinker Staff
As someone who had a (planned) baby out of wedlock and then found faith after the baby was born,( clearly I know its best to be married before having kids, especially because if not married you continue to sin with your partner) I am having difficulties with this, I want to move away from this sin but its hard because its still an important thing in a relationship. ( we are planning our wedding, but its difficult with money. I refuse to get married in a court house. ) I want to stop fornicating, I want to wait until we are married before we do it again. It's scary and difficult.
Great episode, Mike. Lively and to the point.
In re God's moral law, all humankind is subject to his moral law (Rom. 3:10-18). His moral law has never changed. God gave the written code so humankind would realize its sinfulness and seek God, and not slip into total anarchy and depravity before Jesus came to set us free.
While it is true that as Christians we are under the law of the Spirit, its moral essence is no different from that of the Ten Commandments. What changed about God's moral law was the depth of its meaning, which Christ unveiled to his followers. Iow, *you don't get a revelation of the full meaning of the Ten Commandments unless and until you come to Christ* . Without Christ, you don't really know what it means to love the Lord your God (Whom you don't even recognize as Lord), or love your neighbor, or even love yourself -- bc what do you know about love anyway! -- and that is the foundation of God's moral law. Jesus tells his followers to be perfect (reflect God's moral law) as our heavenly Father is perfect (Matt 9:17-48) bc when we are born again we become aware of and experience in our hearts the awesome holiness of God, and since we are no longer slaves of sin, we can conform to God's moral law through Christ.
As for the Sabbath, Jesus fulfilled the law perfectly, even the Sabbath. First, He corrected the religious leaders' misconception about what keeping the Sabbath meant, noting that the Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath. Second, He made it clear that He is Lord of the Sabbath (Mk. 2). Thus, our Sabbath as Christians is to rest in Christ, and the fullness of that rest will come when we are united eternally with Him (Heb. 4: 9-10).
So why are the Ten Commandments still relevant? Because "through the law comes the knowledge of sin," and without the knowledge of sin there is no need of a Savior:
"Is the law sin? Certainly not! On the contrary, I would not have known sin except through the law. For I would not have known covetousness unless the law had said, “You shall not covet” (Rom. 7:7).
But what about those who are never exposed to the Ten Commandments, even indirectly? Paul explains that God writes his moral law on their hearts (Rom 2:15). Iow, they have a conscience, they know they should seek God since He gives all human beings a sense of eternity (Ecc. 3:11), and they can see God's fingerprint in his creation. Also, even to this day God is merciful and reveals Himself in dreams, visions and supernatural appearances, like He did with Cornellius and the eunuch. Therefore "they are without excuse" (Rom. 1:20).
In sum, the Ten Commandments are God's unchanging moral law given in writing to sinful humanity both individually and as nations. When the Ten Commandments are ignored, sin abounds and liberty is lost.
We Christians are made righteous and able to conform to the full spiritual meaning of the Ten Commandments because we believed in and now abide in Christ by his Spirit Who sanctifies us. However, we still live in a fallen world, so we must continue both to uphold the Ten Commandments in every society (Mk. 5:19) and "preach the gospel to every creature." :))