Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro 1. 0:08 {Is the Canon Closed?} Why can no new books of the Bible be written? Why is the canon closed? 2. 26:49 {Must we Share our Faith in Every Circumstance?} Looking at 1 Peter 3: 15-17, what would you say to anyone who would ask you about "the hope you have in you"? And are there times or certain people who you wouldn't bother providing that answer to (e.g., someone you know isn't really interested in the answer and just seeks to make fun of you)? 3. 33:27 {How did the Thief on the Cross Know?} The thief on the cross believed Jesus would come into His kingdom, despite knowing that Jesus was going to die. How might that be, since even the disciples didn’t grasp this until the resurrection? 4. 36:58 {How to Reach a Wiccan} What can or should I say to a Wiccan relative who wants to have seances to reach her dead son? She’s not a believer, so should I just hold my tongue? 5. 39:53 {The Man in Mark 14} Who was the man in Mark 14: 51-52? Could it be that this was somehow Jesus Himself escaping? As an unbeliever, how should I approach my readings? Any questions I should keep in mind? 6. 45:42 {Understanding Parallel Prophecies} Is there a process you go through to understand parallel prophecies? For example, 2 Samuel 7: 14 seems to be about Jesus, but clearly not completely because he doesn’t commit iniquity. 7. 53:11 {Different Personalities in the Trinity?} Do the different Persons of the Trinity have different personalities? Would God the Father, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit act in a different way than the others in a given situation? 8. 55:54 {Do Heavenly Rewards Support LDS Doctrine?} Every time you answer a question about rewards in Heaven, I can't help but think of the LDS levels of Heaven. How do I debate with them when they use rewards as the basis for their belief about there being different levels of Heaven? 9. 1:03:13 {Can a Christian Struggle to Obey God?} Can a Christian still struggle with submitting completely to God? Or is that a symptom that you're not truly saved? 10. 1:05:20 {About the “Two Witnesses” in Rev.} Who are the two witnesses in the book of Revelation, and is it possible for them to be people that are walking the Earth today that are not in the Bible? 11. 1:11:01 {Are Casual Conversations Sinful?} Someone argued with me that because of Matthew 12: 36 (every idle word…), all jokes and fun conversations are sinful, and that Jesus never spoke in a casual, non-serious way. Is this true? 12. 1:16:54 {Should We Still Forgive when Not Asked?} Do we still need to forgive others if they don’t ask for forgiveness? My grandma believes that as Christians, we don’t forgive unless the other person repents and asks for forgiveness. 13. 1:20:17 {Christian Creators: Make This Content!} As a TH-cam pastor, do you have any suggestions for content you would like to see Christians make? I'm in seminary and I’m thinking about making videos, but I wonder what I should create (if I did). 14. 1:22:56 {Being Open about Sexual Sin} Do you have any advice on how to come out (for lack of a better word) to my Christian parents about being same-sex attracted and addicted to pornography? I know Christianity is true. 15. 1:27:23 {Does Titus 3:5 Teach Calvinism?} What is a non-Calvinist way of understanding regeneration in Titus 3:5? 16. 1:31:34 {Is God’s Love Actually Conditional?} If the Bible says God loves those who love Him, thereby making a condition we have to fulfill for His love (Proverbs 8: 17, John 14: 21, 23), can we still say that God's love is unconditional (John 3:16, etc.)? 17. 1:35:43 {Lessons from a Peculiar Bible Story} What is the lesson for us from 1 Kings 13: 11-24 where the man of God is deceived by the old prophet, eats with him, and is killed by the lion? 18. 1:46:28 {About Catholic Claims: Eucharistic Miracle} Have you ever heard of the apparent eucharistic miracle that Catholics point to? How would you respond to it and how they claim that the apparent miracle has been scientifically verified? 19. 1:48:57 {Baptized Believer, but Not Indwelled?} Acts 8: 16 says that believers in Samaria were baptized but hadn’t yet received the Spirit. Can one believe and be baptized without receiving the Spirit? 20. 1:54:05 {Overcoming Anxiety while Witnessing} I always get anxiety and my heart starts beating fast whenever I try to speak up about social or biblical Issues to my family (mainly my dad who is a Progressive Christian). How can I overcome this?
"I can't help but think of the LDS levels of Heaven. How do I debate with them when they use rewards as the basis for their belief about there being different levels of Heaven?" It is better not to go there if you have a simple binary belief; good/bad, heaven/hell. As it is, the usual Christian belief that a single simple act, a few magic words; and you go to the exact same Heaven as any saint; but if you do NOT say those magic words, you go to the lake of eternal fire and suffer the eternal wrath of God; like he has nothing else to do.
“Evangelism requires that I value your relationship with God more than my relationship with you.” I love this, because sometimes I am cautious about saying some things to people, because I don’t want to hurt my relationship with them.
@@tomtemple69 On the other hand, if loving people is uncomfortable, look to your relationship with God. The two greatest commandments are parts of a whole. You cannot perform and not the other.
I remember as a young man in the military, a man sitting beside me wanted to make fun of Christians. I made it clear to him that I am Christian, and I am ready to fight for it. I think I scared him, and I earned his respect. He never made fun of my faith, not in front of me again.
My husband last night, "I like that guy with the 20 question thing." I love and appreciate you brother, drinking my latte put of my Bible Thinker mug right now ❤
@captainmarvelmsc7692 I would recommend you listen again. His answer and evidence were biblically and historically based. What else would you have him say?
@@LzCoda you answer is a very common one and also validates the position we have made. You cannot simply said. When was the list of canon made for the old and new testimate? The literacy rate in the first to three centuries is estimated at 3-5%, so the christian masses could not read their own langue let alone multiple. The old testimate canon he referes to is the masoretic text with the first complete text from after 900 AD, and its in post temple Rabbinic Talmundic Judaism no the ancient Hebrew Christ would have spoken. So there is this issue that remains, that Mike Winger cannot actually give (or won't) a date when men of God inspired and protected of God choose the canon of God. Can u answer this? Will U? Quiet frankly you better because non believers and athiests are winning the narrative.
Hey friend. Had to write to you after hearing your question because I had gone through this too. Christian parents, a Christian myself but one with same-sex attraction and porn addiction. I struggled to remedy the issue by myself for many years, keeping this struggle a secret. But I remembered tossing and turning in bed one night and like a loud voice God told me I needed to tell my parents. I dreaded it because of how long the secret existed and I would have to shatter the image my parents had of me. But God wanted me to drag this sin into the light and shatter not my image, but my pride. The porn I could admit to but the other…that required courage only God could give. I waited a solid 6 months before I finally brought it up so it took a long time. Time where I questioned the need to unearth this sin or the fear that my parents would reject me. I now know that such thoughts were that of the Accuser. I told them and I am blessed that as loving parents they embraced me, physically and emotionally, and we took steps to limit the influences in my life that were destructive. Take the time to plan what you will say and pick a moment with no distractions. Give yourself and your family the time and space to unload this and I pray as good Christian parents they rush to you with arms of strength and love. We struggle with our attractions, but it will not trump our identity found alone in Christ. Was it hard, yes. But it was necessary. I am praying for you and praying for victory. God bless and keep you, friend.
@@EidolonDragoon hey, thanks so much for commenting. That’s exactly my situation. Oddly enough, though, around mid February I actually told my dad in an email that I’m attracted to the same sex, along with telling him about a lot of mental problems I was having in the 6 months prior, which I told him to keep secret for now, and that we would talk about it later (we never talked about it later because I’m to terrified to bring it up). I’m still absolutely shocked that I even did that in the first place! Of any experience I’ve ever had, pressing the send button on that email was one of the most nerve racking experiences of my 16 years of life! I feel like admitting to either porn, or same-sex attraction individually could be possible, albeit extremely difficult, but both of them? Well that just seems like the definition of impossible! So I have to ask, how Did you ever have the courage and the strength to tell your parents? I’ve had god practically slapping me in the face with people online telling me I should tell my parents, but just as you, I’ve also been stalling for about 6 months, and the only real reason i actually want to take the step is because Rosaria Butterfield said she would talk with me and my parents via zoom, which I think would be a wonderful thing, though, I know she’s not going to go easy on calling out sin. Anyway, if you read this long rambling comment, thank you.
I appreciate your ministry so much. When I’m having a difficult time watching content that keeps me focused on God I come back to your channel and it’s always a blessing. My husband and I send each your videos, because we can listen at work. I love the conversations we have about different questions and answers. Life is hectic and having a few minutes to discuss biblical things is such a wonderful way to connect. Thank you for all the work you put into your channel. So thankful that God has blessed and grown your channel so much. It’s so desperately needed on a platform that’s filled with sketchy things that are too easy to get sucked into.
First thing I do when I click on these videos is check how long they are. 2 hours?? You're spoiling us!! Thankyou so much Mike and Sarah and Mrs Winger too. So many of us are blessed by this channel.
Scripture is not closed. "Canon of Scripture" is a compendium decided upon by a human, religious authority; and said authority can decide whether not to allow additions to that particular compendium. For instance, there cannot be persuasive attempts to add to Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings". It's a finished work. But nothing prevents someone from writing a story that takes place in that world. Whether it would be persuasive is less certain. Tolkien, the original author, can certainly add to his world and he did. If God speaks to a human, and the human writes it faithfully, it is scripture. If you wonder if it is from God, heed James 1:5 "But if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it."
Hello, thanks for referring to us as LDS. I listened to that part, and Mike wasn't saying it was closed of necessity, but just that there aren't any books that are good candidates to add to it. However, his explanation as to why the Book of Mormon should not be included was... Seriously lacking in my opinion. He mostly mocked how it was translated and then made some odd comparisons to try and say it wasn't scripture because it came about differently from the New Testament. To be fair, I have seen other places where Mike Winger has done an extended debunk of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, but they were still not very thorough, some parts were even laughable. All of this to say, I respect Mike and do like to listen to his stuff, however he's a Bible guy and I don't think he's spent too much time learning about or engaging the criticisms of the arguments he makes against us.
@@lukehanson_ Same here. Mike Winger is probably the most likable of the charismatic Christians and understands the bible as well as anyone who only has that resource CAN understand it.
@@lukehanson_ I am a former Mormon and the Lord led me to His word, the Holy Bible. Through constant study for about 4-years I saw that the Book of Mormon is contrary to the word of God. Also, God gave us test to know if a prophet is true. Deuteronomy 13:1-3, 18:20-22 Joseph Smith did NOT pass God’s test. I pray that this information is helpful to you.
@@Jesusismysavior58 Actually it's not, what led you to the axiomatic presupposition that the Bible was God's word and the Book of Mormon not? Your story suggests you approached your studies with the idea that the Bible was above all other authority, what led to you that assumption? It wasn't your studies that led you to rejecting the Book of Mormon, it was your assumption going into your studies that led to that. You could have skipped the 4 years of study because you had already rejected the Book of Mormon by assuming Sola scriptura at the start.
I just want to say Mike I am so thankful for your ministry. Your channel is what sparked my passion for theology & apologetics & having a deeper understanding of the Bible. It’s also what has helped me with so many questions about hard passages that I would’ve struggled with a lot more if I hadn’t found you. I thank God for giving you this gift of teaching!
Newsflash the more you learn of Jesus and his wisdom and knowledge which is through obedience, the more answers you will get to those kind questions. Love in Christ jesus
Thank you so much Pastor WINGER for this Q&A, I really appreciate it. To GOD be the Glory and GOD bless to all BELIEVERS of JESUS CHRIST our LORD and SAVIOR ❤️🙏💜. GOD specifically give a command in Revelation that we cannot add books to the BIBLE. I had been a member of The Church of JESUS of Latter day Saints for 25 years before I was save by GRACE alone, in CHRIST alone, in FAITH alone. I am grateful that I meet a Devout EVANGELICAL CHRISTIAN Pastor who LOVE JESUS CHRIST. It was difficult to have a "Change of Mind" about Theology and Doctrines because I have been BRAINWASHED by Mormonism. It took the Pastor 3 years to DISCIPLE me and for me to be like the Berians. And the HOLY SPIRIT to regenerate me. I came to understand that we are SAVE from eternal condensation by JESUS CHRIST alone. My HEART , SOUL and MIND was opened to the TRUTH. And I start to see the DISTORTIONS and DECEPTIONS in the BOOK of Mormon and most specially another book of Latter Day Saints "DOCTRINE and COVENANTS" where all the CULTIST FRAUDSTER Theology of Mormonism - its where SECRET SOCIETY traditions where included. Another book "Pearl of Great Price", which the TOP leadership of Latter Day Saints claimed as the Lost Book of ABRAHAM. I feel sad for those members of that Church because most of them are good people who believe that "The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter Day Saints is the only TRUE CHURCH", they are where I was before. But I believe that GOD will draw those who belong to Him as He did me. Honestly most Mormon members read the BIBLE only. I only read at least twice the Doctrine and Covenant, Book of Mormon and Pearl of Grace Price 💜🙏❤️.
Thank you for stating that forgiveness requires repentance! Offering forgiveness is on us, but repentance is on them and we’re to forgive as God does and he forgives those whom repent.
I agree about repent, but remember that means only to turn or to simply change ones mind. He, Jesus, bore it all as if He did it, and thought it all. Praise Him alone!
God has an AWESOME sense of humor. Pink birds? Beetles that shoot explosives out of their butts? The fact that we have laughter at all proves that He likes comedy.
God so loved the world. God offered love to the world. But God loves his one and only Son in a special way. And He loves those who abide in Christ and experience Him in a special way. Christ wins the love tier list
Q20-The more I witness, the less heart pounding I get. Lord help me care more about other's eternities than my own comfort zone. Give me passion for Your Word like never before, so I am ready to reasons for why I believe and why I seek to conform my life to the Image of God's dear Son!
Forgiving others even though they don't ask or repent is really for the sufferer's benefit. It can bring self-healing instead of harboring prolonged bitterness. Unfortunately, many families of serious crimes such as murder often will say" I will never forgive that man for what he did to my loved one", live the rest of their life with anger and bitterness while the perpetrator is serving life without parole.
Thanks so much for answering my question Pastor Mike! (#12) I wanted to say more but the word count cut me off! lol The reason why I asked the question is because she believes that she has the right to hold a grudge for quite literally decades. She believes that she can be angry and feel animosity toward this person until they come to her and repent. She wants them to admit their wrongs and “make up” for what they did in the past but if they don’t then she holds a grudge. I’ve tried explaining to her why she shouldn’t do that but to no avail. Anyway, thank you again for answering my question 😊
When seeking spiritual guidance the most important answers will not come from a so-called religious leader’s opinion or assessment of what they believe certain biblical events represent. The person providing guidance should display humility so as to not give you their opinion but assist you in arriving at the correct understanding by showing you what God’s word says on the topic. God’s word is said to be living and active and more importantly is “able to judge the THOUGHTS and INTENTIONS of the (person’s) heart” therefore it should be of primarily emphasized in every response to a spiritual question. *_HEBREWS 4:12_* So, instead of giving your or Mike’s opinion try offering scripture then reason with your friend on what she believes God would want her to do based on His word. Here’s a great first scripture! *_LEVITICUS 19:18_* - You shall not take vengeance ➡️or bear a grudge⬅️ against the sons of your own people, but *_you shall love your neighbor_* *_as yourself:_* I am the LORD. So, when a person bears a grudge against a fellow believer they are actually violating the SECOND greatest commandment which is to love your neighbor as yourself. You should help her see how important and negatively impacting violation of the is magnitude is. *_MATTHEW 22:39_* Also, Jesus doesn’t support the idea of a person having to be willing to be forgiven or ask for forgiveness or being required to reach out to the person they have offended in order to be forgiven. That’s not true. In some cases, a person can be completely UNAWARE they have offended another person so someone in that situation would never ask for forgiveness since they don’t know they offended the person. How would that relationship be repaired if the other person is never made aware of their offense? Here are real teachings of Christ on this subject not someone’s OPINION. *_MATTHEW 18:15-17_* - If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. 18:16 - But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. 18:17 - If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Jesus commanded his disciples to make peace with each other if a person was offended or was the offender. Jesus says we should be “quick about settling matters” and if our brothers has something against us or if we have something against our brother we should make peace before offering our gift at the altar. *_MATTHEW 5:23-25_* Jesus also indicated that those who are PEACEMAKERS will be happy and will also be called sons/daughters of God. *_MATTHEW 5:9_* If you’re not a peacemaker then you will not be happy neither will you be called a son of God. Those are merely a small sample of scriptural teachings on this subject. God’s word contains many more so that you never need to follow a human’s opinion. Use God’s word since it should have a greater influence on a SINCERE individual.
@@MikeWingerMy LORD My God My Shepherd My King My Provision My Rock My Refuge My Defence My Hope My Light My Love My Holy Sanctuary My Rest My Strength My Salvation Unto Eternal Life His Gift Given of Himself Given to Receive Always in Thanksgiving Always Faithful Always True He Is The LORD Jesus Christ He Is Love He Is Also Holy And Just Believe me keep my Words Believe In Him That Sent me you will not come under the Judgment you have passed from death to life John 5"24 Saves By His Grace Alone Through Faith in Our LORD God And Saviour Jesus Christ
I sort of want him to wear a winger shirt. That would be so funny. He has to have one. What was that kid’s name from the Bravia and butthead show? Can’t remember, oh well
Pastor Mike sincerity and he is honest in his answers, I like to listen to him cause I want to know the truth and he dig deep in the Bible and his wisdom👌
Pastor Mike, thank you for your faith strengthening discussions and the love and work you put into your research. Side note: I do have the Apocrypha and gnostic books in my library to use and research. Simply put, when a scripture does not flow with what we know is canon, we know they are not from God. Since being out of the JW cult (2018), my faith has been rebuilt, my appreciation for what our LORD has done and continues to do for us through Holy Spirit has multiplied more than I can express from Words. Love ya brother,
I don't think we have to worry too much about "adding" to the word because the hour is late, we're living in the last parts of a book that has ALREADY proved itself with 64 of its 66 books with the exceptions of Daniel and Revelation in which I believe we're living now. The book is sufficient and HAS BEEN ALL ALONG! Ya can't improve on perfection anyway! 😁 "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" and God's word stays up n running perfectly at all times! Simply amazing!!
Thank you pastor Mike for #4 , I think this is one of the best answers I've heard. Value their relationship with God more than your relationship with them. - This is a gem. Also, quoting scriptures - great answer.
I rarely hear anybody speak about forgiveness in this way but i was convinced of it several years ago. It's mostly an academic difference because we still ought to offer forgiveness in any situation but forgiveness isn't actually accomplished unless it is accepted. In the same way that we must be baptized to accept the forgiveness Jesus offers us, we must accept the forgiveness that somebody else offers us in order to be forgiven. Obviously, this doesn't mean the forgiver holds a grudge if the forgivee refuses the forgiveness but it does make a difference in the way that I think about it.
WOW, thank you so much Mike. I've been a Christian for over 50 years and have never come across a convincing explanation of exactly why the Canon of scripture is closed! The reference in Revelation for example only speaks of that book itself so isn't a valid argument for the rest - although it's used as such.
We have every streaming service I know of ... and even still have old school U-Verse cable. NOTHING on any of them holds my interest like Pastor Mike 🙌 I have been a Christian for many years and am blessed with the gift of strong faith - but I've learned SO much on this channel. In church, I feel like the messages are always like 1-2 biblical verses then a lot of time spent on the pastor trying to help us equate it to our own life. Not bashing anyone, but I don't really need that, I can make the connections I need. Church seems to be more about hyping up and isn't enough actual Bible study.
One fascinating thing I learned recently concerning the young man in Gethsemane who runs away naked: This young man becoming naked in that garden is a reversal of Adam and Eve beginning to fear nakedness in their garden. This is therefore the Gospel writers way of declaring that the arrest of Jesus is the beginning of the undoing of sin. I suppose in the same kinda way that the Languages at Pentecost are a reversal of the scattering at Babel, hence qualifying the Holy Spirit on the Apostles.
Re: Q11 - Just came across a pretty funny verse in Proverbs: _Whoever blesses his neighbor with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, will be counted as cursing._ - Proverbs 27:14 My family (and my oldest friend) made little jokes for years about how I was a cranky bear in the morning, throughout my teenage years. You'd better believe I just shared that verse with them. 😂
I watched this a day after it was posted .Although I have been a believer about 35? years, I have never been able to witness without anxiety and / or being sure of what all to share. Now I have heard such a simple thing-- to just calm down and you can choose just one topic to talk about even . I have witnessed in the past but always felt like a wreck afterward. I am a calvinist although I was not always, there are some areas I'm not sure about, but overall I'm happy with this, and my church is full of kind loving people especially the pastor who always greets me with a smile and is patient. I have tried to say I need help on how to witness, but never got the words right. The truth is I get anxious. I have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety--which go together really. God has not healed me of these, but I still believe it is my responsibility and great desire to reach people for Christ, especially the people I love most-- thank you for answering the person's question. . It was a blessing I know will serve others as well as me. thank you again.
Mary T Hopefully, you can through your GDD. I’ve had it. Few people understand but everyone seems to know. If you have extended health problems, or family issues, or a dozen other things, that can be linked to your condition.
All great additions for your set and production, Pastor Mike. I noticed the globe right away and the camera showed RED in the gummie jar. Your new camera kept you in focus and the t-shirt is fun and hip. Good job all ‘round. I enjoy hearing your teachings and explanations of scripture very much. Thank you for all of your hard work and diligence in your preparation and presentation in your ministry. 🙏
I do find it interesting how every verse drawn out to demonstrate that the canon is closed also proves that prophecy has ceased (along with the other sign gifts, but that's another matter); otherwise we would be bound to record and heed the prophet's utterances as we do scripture because it's of the same quality: God-spoken. It is a blessing beyond all pleasure that He no longer speaks through intermediaries, but instead, in the last days, chose to speak through His incarnate Word.
15:00 - this section is so great to hear. The most life-changing course I have taken in college was OT Survey. Never saw it coming. I love history and was excited because of that, but I did not expect to experience so much about Jesus in the OT. It’s all Jesus. The entire Bible is at its core an ode to Jesus and it completely changed my relationship and perspective of Scripture, both OT and NT. I had to sit back and process for a bit when the realization hit me. I sat in class trying to catch my breath and my teacher was so amused but enjoyed experiencing that with us. He wasn’t directly saying it, he was watching us “get it”. A few of us got it and we kinda had the same reaction together, looking at each other kinda wide-eyed. The rest of the class eventually got it too, but those first few moments are ones I will never forget as a long as I live. The assurance and peace I felt as a result, the completeness of Scripture, was wonderful. I felt like I leveled up that day. Edit to add that I am absolutely going through your videos on it! Looking foward to it!
I always connect the warning that teachers will be judged more strictly with this warning about careless and idle words. When people insist and teach things that they suppose and are their opinion but don’t reflect Christ, I always think of these verses about our idle conversations where they don’t weight their words carefully. We influence one another. We want to be listened to and valued. But we must also weigh carefully our words and our opinions against Christ.
You know just a silly observation but I've always kind of hesitated to really partake in the prayer at the end of the things which I really do appreciate because it's recorded and it's not really live it already happened. But I'm having to rethink that since the prayer got cut off at the very end and apparently I was paying more attention than I thought. I really really appreciate having honest teachers on TH-cam or anywhere. They're so rare nowadays. I recently met a preacher who had been pretty highly recommended and in my personal opinion this guy was just a grifter it saddens me greatly.. but I digress thank you again mr. Winger for these videos.
So timely that God led me to this teaching. This is my first introduction to your discernment/ analysis. Timely because just this week I read the 114 statements s found in 1945 by Apostle Thomas while he was in India. About the Cannon, your explanation rings true.
1:54:10 "Walk in the Spirit and Ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh" (Gal 5:16) Fruit of The Holy Spirit is courage so be filled with The Holy Ghost and pray before. Praying before is so important thats what street preachers do so that God guides the messages and Its The Blessed Holy Ghost talking through them Amen.
What's written in the scripture now is for us to learn. In Revelation 22:18,19 it says Do not add Do not take. What's in the bible is complete Jesus is the Complete or Whole Word of the way, truth and the life Amen
@@alittle01 I've thought about that and came to the conclusion that if the whole bible is the inspired word of God (2 Timothy 3:16) then none of it should be changed in any way. No man knows better than God. Anyone adding or taking away would be in doubt over the truth of 2 Timothy. However, we are told in John that Jesus is the Word (John 1:14) and that the Holy Spirit will help us remember all that we've been taught (John 14:26).
@@alittle01 Among other things, Revelation contains (1) a vision of Jesus Christ as the righteous judge -- ch.1; who (2) gives a message of mixed commendations and judgments to the seven churches, which has broad applicability to the church across its full history on earth -- ch.2-3; followed by (3) John, a believer still alive on earth, being figuratively called up into heaven -- ch.4:1; where (5) he sees a full array of believers worshipping God in heaven -- 4:2-11; followed by (6) a complete set of judgments executed on all wickedness and unbelief on earth -- ch.5-19; making way for (7) the millenium and the final judgment -- ch.20; concluded by (8) the new heavens and new earth -- ch.21-22. In this, all lingering threads the Bible started and had not yet finished, including Daniel's prophecies, are summarily closed. What could anyone possibly add or subtract anywhere else in the Bible, that wouldn't directly impinge on Revelation?
@@aaronvienot Because the Bible didn't exist. So any book agreed to the book of Revelation would fit the category of "should not be added". Just because your interpretation of one verse is wrong doesn't mean your whole position is wrong, just that you might but want to use that as a proof text in the future.
@@tanyasue6440 2 Timothy 3:16 is explaining characteristics of scripture. It in no way is declaring that only the Bible is the only word of God (an impossibility as it did not exist at that time). It's also by no means saying that scripture is formally sufficient. I think that scripture gets abused a lot to make it seem like it's saying much more than it actually says.
13:20 Now may the God of peace who by the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead the great shepherd of the sheep, our Lord Jesus, 13:21 equip you with every good thing to do his will, working in us what is pleasing before him through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever. Amen.
Mike as always your teachings and explanations are easy to understand and so very informative. I’ve wondered about the closed canon for some time now. You explaining why makes so very much sense. I’m blown away by how amazing and beautiful scripture is and how it blends together. I can only be from God. Thank you and I can’t wait for your teaching on Hebrews either.❤
I would add the book of Enoch. Additionally, thanks for your exegesis RE: the prophet who disobeyed the Lord. Many years ago I asked someone who at the time was my pastor - and he had no idea what the meaning of this passage was. Very helpful!
I just found your channel 3 days ago. I am binge listening to your teachings and can't get enough. Also because of Elton KJV Anomaly I found out why you focus on KJV the only inspired translation directly from God
Love is action. God's love is unconditional. The benefits, grace, and mercy are conditional, as all covenants. Faith is an action. We cannot please God without it. He loved us before we believed. Jesus prayed that the Father would forgive the unbelief of Jesus abusers. That is unconditional love.
My takeaways: 1. Differentiate between typology and prophecy. 2. Let people go in your heart and cleanse yourself of all bitterness but reconciliation is contingent upon repentance. 3. Value my relationship with God and people's salvation more than my relationship with them, especially when people are indulging in grave sin (like witchcraft, Freemasonry, fornication etc.) 4. Be creative when presenting the gospel. Have a heart for people. Base your creative work on your skill (gifting) and watch God says.
Off topic but I’m curious if anyone in the comments can help me. I’m saved and I’ve been a Christian a long time but I struggle with mental health- particularly anxiety. I always feel lonely and like the walls are closing in around me. My chest is always tight and I’m consumed with fear of dying and existentialism. How do I combat this? 😢
1 Peter 5:6"Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, 7casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." God's with you, He knows you and He's already way ahead of you, trust Him. Give Him your cares in prayer and leave them there. Any time you get anxious remind yourself God is with you - works for me. See Hebrews 13:5 also..
The Spirit of Prophecy by Ellen G. White is another example of writings that a group is placing on the same level as scripture in practice, even though they officially would say it is not scripture.
Seventh Day Adventists do not place Ellen G White's writings on the same level as the Bible. Some people assert and insist that they do in order to discredit their stance on the Sabbath, which no matter what scriptures people take out of context to claim that it has been abolished is still binding. No scriptures saying that Jesus came to give us rest abolishes the Sabbath.
Your answers and mine that we get, are the same. The Holy Spirit is very good. You make sense. You are going to understand, I think, when I say " I sure hope your words are from and for God". Your fruit seems good.
The first question was helpful to me, as I know so many young people moving into the Orthodox Church with their 81 books of the Bible. They study the teachings for 1-2 years before joining, which says something to me about how unnecessarily complicated it is.
One of my favorite Bible books I’ve read has been alongside my children called The Jesus Storybook Bible, it is so beautifully poetic as it depicts the entire Bible as one continuous story of love of God, Jesus and his people. I highly recommend it if you haven’t checked it out. It even changed how I perceive verses!
For question 15 (1:27:35) regarding regeneration and works, here is a helpful analogy: If someone enlists in the military, goes to war, fights for your freedom, and you have faith that they will win, were you responsible for the outcome of the battle? Faith is the belief that someone else will accomplish what we can't. When we look to Jesus in humility, the Lord removes our veil, we can see Jesus for who he really is, and we can't help but have faith in him.
I recently was working through a similar question to question 1 regarding the Canon being closed & I came from it from a different angle but I believe it might be relevant to the discussion. *I have heard a lot of people say God is an infinite being why would we limit him to finite book or put him in a box (i.e the bible)* And to that I say, this is a huge assumption that we have even the slightest capability to even handle infinite knowledge, of which we clearly don't, and this is solidified by the fact that one day, we are ALL GOING TO DIE. So we can therefore conclude that the particular phenomenon of our knowledge of an infinite God being contained in a finite knowledge base (the bible), is a testament to the finite nature of human life needing finite knowledge of God & the Infinite wisdom of an Infinite God to know exactly what we need to know through the Gospel and base the final judgment on only that and this Gospel is Christ and Christ alone. This realization has helped me to stop worrying about knowing too much about what is not in the bible but to focus on the clear revelation of what has been revealed already and to fully understand it before I die. I hope this helps others who might be struggling with something similar
I have a really interesting thought- “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet”… look at the symbol of the lampstand in the Old Testament…. The lamp has three things on each branch… a knop, bulb and flower… if you count them up (the number of them) it adds up to 39 on one side (including center stem) and 27 on the other side… a total of 66 ‘parts’ to the lampstand… thy word is a lamp to my feet…. There are 66 books in the Bible, 39 on one side, 27 on the other. Test this for yourself! God puts this symbol for us to look at see. There is some nice symmetry here!!
Mike, Number 19 was for Peter, for his behalf so that he would know that Gentiles can be saved also. That’s what I get from reading it in context. Thanks for all that you do
I believe that is what the text was trying to convey. The spirit fell on them too to confirm that both Israelites and gentiles could be saved, and inherit the promises of the new covenant.
To ask if the canon is open doesn't mean we have a book to add, it could be we want to know if a book ever claims to be scripture if that is something to even be open to or if we can dismiss it based on the word we have already received
Hey Pastor Mike, God bless you, your family and ministry! If you get time (I know you are busy) there is a Christian TH-camr "James Rebuck" he dedicates his calling and ministry to ministering to members of the Mormon Chrurch, he is VERY respectful and Biblically minded! I think it would bless him and many people if you (after watching and decerning) maybe shared some of his content, I love to see unity and fellowship in the world of online ministry, especially in our time! I felt lead to mention it, thanks again for serving the Kingdom man!
Really appreciate your answers Mike. Especially on should we say something if someone is using Wiccan witchcraft. Makes me think of a similar situation with a person I know.
On the 2 witnesses question, I lean to believe that these are either Moses and Elijah or two people coming "in the spirit of them" (in the likes of John the Baptist coming "in the spirit of Elijah"). Moses is the paramount representative of the law, while Elijah is the representative of the prophets. Just as the law and the prophets witnessed against Jerusalem and its false religious in the days of Jesus, it may be that this will happen again in the tribulation days. Mere speculation, but that's where I lean...
Awesome work Mike love your ministry. To answer your first question the 2 books of Enoch should be Canon. That is an example and maybe talking point I would suggest.
1:14:57 idle words.... I believe this refers to gossip, words that can be hurtful or harmful to others. Atleast that is what one of my Bible studies suggested. Of course I remember that the examples in the study Bible I once had said ANY KIND of gossip or rumors. “Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few” (Ecclesiastes 5:2 NIV). 2. “It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it” (Ecclesiastes 5:5 NIV). Words are healing or salt to the wound
hahaha just turned on this video and saw your shirt! I love it! Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I don't watch live, but the insight I receive from watching is invaluable. Keep it coming!
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Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:
0:00 - Intro
1. 0:08 {Is the Canon Closed?} Why can no new books of the Bible be written? Why is the canon closed?
2. 26:49 {Must we Share our Faith in Every Circumstance?} Looking at 1 Peter 3: 15-17, what would you say to anyone who would ask you about "the hope you have in you"? And are there times or certain people who you wouldn't bother providing that answer to (e.g., someone you know isn't really interested in the answer and just seeks to make fun of you)?
3. 33:27 {How did the Thief on the Cross Know?} The thief on the cross believed Jesus would come into His kingdom, despite knowing that Jesus was going to die. How might that be, since even the disciples didn’t grasp this until the resurrection?
4. 36:58 {How to Reach a Wiccan} What can or should I say to a Wiccan relative who wants to have seances to reach her dead son? She’s not a believer, so should I just hold my tongue?
5. 39:53 {The Man in Mark 14} Who was the man in Mark 14: 51-52? Could it be that this was somehow Jesus Himself escaping? As an unbeliever, how should I approach my readings? Any questions I should keep in mind?
6. 45:42 {Understanding Parallel Prophecies} Is there a process you go through to understand parallel prophecies? For example, 2 Samuel 7: 14 seems to be about Jesus, but clearly not completely because he doesn’t commit iniquity.
7. 53:11 {Different Personalities in the Trinity?} Do the different Persons of the Trinity have different personalities? Would God the Father, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit act in a different way than the others in a given situation?
8. 55:54 {Do Heavenly Rewards Support LDS Doctrine?} Every time you answer a question about rewards in Heaven, I can't help but think of the LDS levels of Heaven. How do I debate with them when they use rewards as the basis for their belief about there being different levels of Heaven?
9. 1:03:13 {Can a Christian Struggle to Obey God?} Can a Christian still struggle with submitting completely to God? Or is that a symptom that you're not truly saved?
10. 1:05:20 {About the “Two Witnesses” in Rev.} Who are the two witnesses in the book of Revelation, and is it possible for them to be people that are walking the Earth today that are not in the Bible?
11. 1:11:01 {Are Casual Conversations Sinful?} Someone argued with me that because of Matthew 12: 36 (every idle word…), all jokes and fun conversations are sinful, and that Jesus never spoke in a casual, non-serious way. Is this true?
12. 1:16:54 {Should We Still Forgive when Not Asked?} Do we still need to forgive others if they don’t ask for forgiveness? My grandma believes that as Christians, we don’t forgive unless the other person repents and asks for forgiveness.
13. 1:20:17 {Christian Creators: Make This Content!} As a TH-cam pastor, do you have any suggestions for content you would like to see Christians make? I'm in seminary and I’m thinking about making videos, but I wonder what I should create (if I did).
14. 1:22:56 {Being Open about Sexual Sin} Do you have any advice on how to come out (for lack of a better word) to my Christian parents about being same-sex attracted and addicted to pornography? I know Christianity is true.
15. 1:27:23 {Does Titus 3:5 Teach Calvinism?} What is a non-Calvinist way of understanding regeneration in Titus 3:5?
16. 1:31:34 {Is God’s Love Actually Conditional?} If the Bible says God loves those who love Him, thereby making a condition we have to fulfill for His love (Proverbs 8: 17, John 14: 21, 23), can we still say that God's love is unconditional (John 3:16, etc.)?
17. 1:35:43 {Lessons from a Peculiar Bible Story} What is the lesson for us from 1 Kings 13: 11-24 where the man of God is deceived by the old prophet, eats with him, and is killed by the lion?
18. 1:46:28 {About Catholic Claims: Eucharistic Miracle} Have you ever heard of the apparent eucharistic miracle that Catholics point to? How would you respond to it and how they claim that the apparent miracle has been scientifically verified?
19. 1:48:57 {Baptized Believer, but Not Indwelled?} Acts 8: 16 says that believers in Samaria were baptized but hadn’t yet received the Spirit. Can one believe and be baptized without receiving the Spirit?
20. 1:54:05 {Overcoming Anxiety while Witnessing} I always get anxiety and my heart starts beating fast whenever I try to speak up about social or biblical Issues to my family (mainly my dad who is a Progressive Christian). How can I overcome this?
thank you
Thankyou 😊
"I can't help but think of the LDS levels of Heaven. How do I debate with them when they use rewards as the basis for their belief about there being different levels of Heaven?"
It is better not to go there if you have a simple binary belief; good/bad, heaven/hell. As it is, the usual Christian belief that a single simple act, a few magic words; and you go to the exact same Heaven as any saint; but if you do NOT say those magic words, you go to the lake of eternal fire and suffer the eternal wrath of God; like he has nothing else to do.
"Do you have any advice on how to come out (for lack of a better word) to my Christian parents"
Confession is a pretty good word.
Legend
“Evangelism requires that I value your relationship with God more than my relationship with you.” I love this, because sometimes I am cautious about saying some things to people, because I don’t want to hurt my relationship with them.
If your relationship with God causes issues with people, those are people that you should NOT be friends with them
@@tomtemple69 On the other hand, if loving people is uncomfortable, look to your relationship with God. The two greatest commandments are parts of a whole. You cannot perform and not the other.
@@erzefranz3470 since when did loving people mean you had to be friends with them?
I remember as a young man in the military, a man sitting beside me wanted to make fun of Christians. I made it clear to him that I am Christian, and I am ready to fight for it. I think I scared him, and I earned his respect. He never made fun of my faith, not in front of me again.
Thank you for your service. 😊 God bless you immensely
@godzoo18 yeah, HE said to bring a sword
@@christamarie4044he meant the sword as in, his word.
My husband last night, "I like that guy with the 20 question thing." I love and appreciate you brother, drinking my latte put of my Bible Thinker mug right now ❤
Note that MW does not answer the question of a closed canon, he presents zero evidence.
@@captainmarvel76927 his answer satisfied me.
@captainmarvelmsc7692 I would recommend you listen again. His answer and evidence were biblically and historically based. What else would you have him say?
@@LzCoda you answer is a very common one and also validates the position we have made. You cannot simply said. When was the list of canon made for the old and new testimate? The literacy rate in the first to three centuries is estimated at 3-5%, so the christian masses could not read their own langue let alone multiple. The old testimate canon he referes to is the masoretic text with the first complete text from after 900 AD, and its in post temple Rabbinic Talmundic Judaism no the ancient Hebrew Christ would have spoken. So there is this issue that remains, that Mike Winger cannot actually give (or won't) a date when men of God inspired and protected of God choose the canon of God. Can u answer this? Will U? Quiet frankly you better because non believers and athiests are winning the narrative.
@@LzCoda what should he say..
The truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth particularly on the history which he does not.
Thank you pastor Mike for answering my question! Please pray for me that I can have enough courage to actually put your advice into use.
Really good book by Christopher Yuan. Holy Sexuality and the Gospel
Write to your folks, that's fab advice. Good luck in Christ Jesus. 😊 I agree above, Becket Cook podcast and interviews..... awesome! ❤
Hey friend. Had to write to you after hearing your question because I had gone through this too. Christian parents, a Christian myself but one with same-sex attraction and porn addiction. I struggled to remedy the issue by myself for many years, keeping this struggle a secret. But I remembered tossing and turning in bed one night and like a loud voice God told me I needed to tell my parents. I dreaded it because of how long the secret existed and I would have to shatter the image my parents had of me. But God wanted me to drag this sin into the light and shatter not my image, but my pride. The porn I could admit to but the other…that required courage only God could give. I waited a solid 6 months before I finally brought it up so it took a long time. Time where I questioned the need to unearth this sin or the fear that my parents would reject me. I now know that such thoughts were that of the Accuser. I told them and I am blessed that as loving parents they embraced me, physically and emotionally, and we took steps to limit the influences in my life that were destructive. Take the time to plan what you will say and pick a moment with no distractions. Give yourself and your family the time and space to unload this and I pray as good Christian parents they rush to you with arms of strength and love. We struggle with our attractions, but it will not trump our identity found alone in Christ.
Was it hard, yes. But it was necessary. I am praying for you and praying for victory. God bless and keep you, friend.
@@EidolonDragoon hey, thanks so much for commenting. That’s exactly my situation. Oddly enough, though, around mid February I actually told my dad in an email that I’m attracted to the same sex, along with telling him about a lot of mental problems I was having in the 6 months prior, which I told him to keep secret for now, and that we would talk about it later (we never talked about it later because I’m to terrified to bring it up). I’m still absolutely shocked that I even did that in the first place! Of any experience I’ve ever had, pressing the send button on that email was one of the most nerve racking experiences of my 16 years of life! I feel like admitting to either porn, or same-sex attraction individually could be possible, albeit extremely difficult, but both of them? Well that just seems like the definition of impossible! So I have to ask, how Did you ever have the courage and the strength to tell your parents? I’ve had god practically slapping me in the face with people online telling me I should tell my parents, but just as you, I’ve also been stalling for about 6 months, and the only real reason i actually want to take the step is because Rosaria Butterfield said she would talk with me and my parents via zoom, which I think would be a wonderful thing, though, I know she’s not going to go easy on calling out sin. Anyway, if you read this long rambling comment, thank you.
We haved challenged MW to an online debate on the closed canon, he presented no evidence for his answer.
I appreciate your ministry so much. When I’m having a difficult time watching content that keeps me focused on God I come back to your channel and it’s always a blessing.
My husband and I send each your videos, because we can listen at work. I love the conversations we have about different questions and answers. Life is hectic and having a few minutes to discuss biblical things is such a wonderful way to connect.
Thank you for all the work you put into your channel. So thankful that God has blessed and grown your channel so much. It’s so desperately needed on a platform that’s filled with sketchy things that are too easy to get sucked into.
youre so spiritual SICK can't see his calvinISM sorcery heresy Manichaeism theology is poison.
👍💛
Wow, my question got picked for #1 😊
Mike, God has used you to redeem my trust in his word, I can't thank you enough 🙏
OH boy two whole hours of Mike Winger!
😂😅LOL
It's go-time! This has gotton to be a good thing every week!!
❤❤❤👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🤗
My Kwinger!
Only two hours? 🙂
2 HOURS? No way! Thank you Mike!!’ I so appreciate what you do!
First thing I do when I click on these videos is check how long they are. 2 hours?? You're spoiling us!! Thankyou so much Mike and Sarah and Mrs Winger too. So many of us are blessed by this channel.
Thanks, Mike for your explanation about why the canon of Scriptures is closed.
Hoping it helps the understanding of any LDS watching your content.
Scripture is not closed. "Canon of Scripture" is a compendium decided upon by a human, religious authority; and said authority can decide whether not to allow additions to that particular compendium.
For instance, there cannot be persuasive attempts to add to Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings". It's a finished work. But nothing prevents someone from writing a story that takes place in that world. Whether it would be persuasive is less certain. Tolkien, the original author, can certainly add to his world and he did.
If God speaks to a human, and the human writes it faithfully, it is scripture. If you wonder if it is from God, heed James 1:5 "But if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it."
Hello, thanks for referring to us as LDS. I listened to that part, and Mike wasn't saying it was closed of necessity, but just that there aren't any books that are good candidates to add to it. However, his explanation as to why the Book of Mormon should not be included was... Seriously lacking in my opinion. He mostly mocked how it was translated and then made some odd comparisons to try and say it wasn't scripture because it came about differently from the New Testament. To be fair, I have seen other places where Mike Winger has done an extended debunk of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, but they were still not very thorough, some parts were even laughable. All of this to say, I respect Mike and do like to listen to his stuff, however he's a Bible guy and I don't think he's spent too much time learning about or engaging the criticisms of the arguments he makes against us.
@@lukehanson_ Same here. Mike Winger is probably the most likable of the charismatic Christians and understands the bible as well as anyone who only has that resource CAN understand it.
@@lukehanson_ I am a former Mormon and the Lord led me to His word, the Holy Bible. Through constant study for about 4-years I saw that the Book of Mormon is contrary to the word of God. Also, God gave us test to know if a prophet is true. Deuteronomy 13:1-3, 18:20-22 Joseph Smith did NOT pass God’s test. I pray that this information is helpful to you.
@@Jesusismysavior58 Actually it's not, what led you to the axiomatic presupposition that the Bible was God's word and the Book of Mormon not? Your story suggests you approached your studies with the idea that the Bible was above all other authority, what led to you that assumption? It wasn't your studies that led you to rejecting the Book of Mormon, it was your assumption going into your studies that led to that. You could have skipped the 4 years of study because you had already rejected the Book of Mormon by assuming Sola scriptura at the start.
New Winger videos always put a smile on my face! Happy Friday everyone!
❤🤗
I just want to say Mike I am so thankful for your ministry. Your channel is what sparked my passion for theology & apologetics & having a deeper understanding of the Bible. It’s also what has helped me with so many questions about hard passages that I would’ve struggled with a lot more if I hadn’t found you. I thank God for giving you this gift of teaching!
Newsflash the more you learn of Jesus and his wisdom and knowledge which is through obedience, the more answers you will get to those kind questions. Love in Christ jesus
Thank you so much Pastor WINGER for this Q&A, I really appreciate it. To GOD be the Glory and GOD bless to all BELIEVERS of JESUS CHRIST our LORD and SAVIOR ❤️🙏💜. GOD specifically give a command in Revelation that we cannot add books to the BIBLE. I had been a member of The Church of JESUS of Latter day Saints for 25 years before I was save by GRACE alone, in CHRIST alone, in FAITH alone. I am grateful that I meet a Devout EVANGELICAL CHRISTIAN Pastor who LOVE JESUS CHRIST. It was difficult to have a "Change of Mind" about Theology and Doctrines because I have been BRAINWASHED by Mormonism. It took the Pastor 3 years to DISCIPLE me and for me to be like the Berians. And the HOLY SPIRIT to regenerate me. I came to understand that we are SAVE from eternal condensation by JESUS CHRIST alone. My HEART , SOUL and MIND was opened to the TRUTH. And I start to see the DISTORTIONS and DECEPTIONS in the BOOK of Mormon and most specially another book of Latter Day Saints "DOCTRINE and COVENANTS" where all the CULTIST FRAUDSTER Theology of Mormonism - its where SECRET SOCIETY traditions where included. Another book "Pearl of Great Price", which the TOP leadership of Latter Day Saints claimed as the Lost Book of ABRAHAM. I feel sad for those members of that Church because most of them are good people who believe that "The Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter Day Saints is the only TRUE CHURCH", they are where I was before. But I believe that GOD will draw those who belong to Him as He did me. Honestly most Mormon members read the BIBLE only. I only read at least twice the Doctrine and Covenant, Book of Mormon and Pearl of Grace Price 💜🙏❤️.
Praise Jesus Christ that your eyes were opened to the truth ❤. God bless you 🙏🏻✝️
Thank you for stating that forgiveness requires repentance! Offering forgiveness is on us, but repentance is on them and we’re to forgive as God does and he forgives those whom repent.
I agree about repent, but remember that means only to turn or to simply change ones mind. He, Jesus, bore it all as if He did it, and thought it all. Praise Him alone!
God has an AWESOME sense of humor. Pink birds? Beetles that shoot explosives out of their butts? The fact that we have laughter at all proves that He likes comedy.
God so loved the world. God offered love to the world. But God loves his one and only Son in a special way. And He loves those who abide in Christ and experience Him in a special way. Christ wins the love tier list
I love Biblethinker, Brother Mike Winger, Sister Sarah Zimmerman & ministry.🥰🙏
Q20-The more I witness, the less heart pounding I get. Lord help me care more about other's eternities than my own comfort zone. Give me passion for Your Word like never before, so I am ready to reasons for why I believe and why I seek to conform my life to the Image of God's dear Son!
Forgiving others even though they don't ask or repent is really for the sufferer's benefit. It can bring self-healing instead of harboring prolonged bitterness. Unfortunately, many families of serious crimes such as murder often will say" I will never forgive that man for what he did to my loved one", live the rest of their life with anger and bitterness while the perpetrator is serving life without parole.
Thanks so much for answering my question Pastor Mike! (#12)
I wanted to say more but the word count cut me off! lol
The reason why I asked the question is because she believes that she has the right to hold a grudge for quite literally decades. She believes that she can be angry and feel animosity toward this person until they come to her and repent. She wants them to admit their wrongs and “make up” for what they did in the past but if they don’t then she holds a grudge.
I’ve tried explaining to her why she shouldn’t do that but to no avail.
Anyway, thank you again for answering my question 😊
In that case, she really does need to repent of that attitude and take on the attitude that Jesus modeled for us.
When seeking spiritual guidance the most important answers will not come from a so-called religious leader’s opinion or assessment of what they believe certain biblical events represent.
The person providing guidance should display humility so as to not give you their opinion but assist you in arriving at the correct understanding by showing you what God’s word says on the topic.
God’s word is said to be living and active and more importantly is “able to judge the THOUGHTS and INTENTIONS of the (person’s) heart” therefore it should be of primarily emphasized in every response to a spiritual question.
*_HEBREWS 4:12_*
So, instead of giving your or Mike’s opinion try offering scripture then reason with your friend on what she believes God would want her to do based on His word.
Here’s a great first scripture!
*_LEVITICUS 19:18_* - You shall not take vengeance
➡️or bear a grudge⬅️ against the sons of your own people, but
*_you shall love your neighbor_*
*_as yourself:_* I am the LORD.
So, when a person bears a grudge against a fellow believer they are actually violating the SECOND greatest commandment which is to love your neighbor as yourself. You should help her see how important and negatively impacting violation of the is magnitude is.
*_MATTHEW 22:39_*
Also, Jesus doesn’t support the idea of a person having to be willing to be forgiven or ask for forgiveness or being required to reach out to the person they have offended in order to be forgiven.
That’s not true.
In some cases, a person can be completely UNAWARE they have offended another person so someone in that situation would never ask for forgiveness since they don’t know they offended the person.
How would that relationship be repaired if the other person is never made aware of their offense?
Here are real teachings of Christ on this subject not someone’s OPINION.
*_MATTHEW 18:15-17_* - If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.
18:16 - But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses.
18:17 - If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.
Jesus commanded his disciples to make peace with each other if a person was offended or was the offender.
Jesus says we should be “quick about settling matters” and if our brothers has something against us or if we have something against our brother we should make peace before offering our gift at the altar.
*_MATTHEW 5:23-25_*
Jesus also indicated that those who are PEACEMAKERS will be happy and will also be called sons/daughters of God.
*_MATTHEW 5:9_*
If you’re not a peacemaker then you will not be happy neither will you be called a son of God.
Those are merely a small sample of scriptural teachings on this subject. God’s word contains many more so that you never need to follow a human’s opinion.
Use God’s word since it should have a greater influence on a SINCERE individual.
@@MikeWingerMy LORD My God My Shepherd My King My Provision My Rock My Refuge My Defence My Hope My Light My Love My Holy Sanctuary My Rest My Strength My Salvation Unto Eternal Life His Gift Given of Himself Given to Receive Always in Thanksgiving Always Faithful Always True He Is The LORD Jesus Christ He Is Love He Is Also Holy And Just Believe me keep my Words Believe In Him That Sent me you will not come under the Judgment you have passed from death to life John 5"24 Saves By His Grace Alone Through Faith in Our LORD God And Saviour Jesus Christ
@@MikeWingerGodbless
@@MikeWingerHi. Thanks for the presentation.
What state are you are? Did you ever tested positive of covid?
As always, great video and excellent information. But your t-shirt won the Internet today. 🤣
Galatians ch.1v6-9 .like the original "Anathema" word.
Him trying to say that joking and laughter are not bad things while wearing a “Stay coo” shirt was hilarious in and of itself 😂
Absolutely! The first thing I noticed! Mike, you are so beyond COO!!!!! ❤
I sort of want him to wear a winger shirt. That would be so funny. He has to have one. What was that kid’s name from the Bravia and butthead show? Can’t remember, oh well
Pastor Mike sincerity and he is honest in his answers, I like to listen to him cause I want to know the truth and he dig deep in the Bible and his wisdom👌
Pastor Mike, thank you for your faith strengthening discussions and the love and work you put into your research.
Side note: I do have the Apocrypha and gnostic books in my library to use and research. Simply put, when a scripture does not flow with what we know is canon, we know they are not from God.
Since being out of the JW cult (2018), my faith has been rebuilt, my appreciation for what our LORD has done and continues to do for us through Holy Spirit has multiplied more than I can express from Words.
Love ya brother,
Pastor Mike,
Thank you so much for your love for the Lord and biblical teaching! You are being used by God to be a blessing to many--myself included.
Yippie! Its another Friday evening with Mike W. and 20 questions/answers 😊
I don't think we have to worry too much about "adding" to the word because the hour is late, we're living in the last parts of a book that has ALREADY proved itself with 64 of its 66 books with the exceptions of Daniel and Revelation in which I believe we're living now. The book is sufficient and HAS BEEN ALL ALONG! Ya can't improve on perfection anyway! 😁 "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" and God's word stays up n running perfectly at all times! Simply amazing!!
Thank you pastor Mike for #4 , I think this is one of the best answers I've heard. Value their relationship with God more than your relationship with them. - This is a gem. Also, quoting scriptures - great answer.
Thank you Pastor Mike for your answer to why the Canon of Scripture is closed. I have never heard such a thorough, well- rounded answer! Blessings!
I rarely hear anybody speak about forgiveness in this way but i was convinced of it several years ago. It's mostly an academic difference because we still ought to offer forgiveness in any situation but forgiveness isn't actually accomplished unless it is accepted. In the same way that we must be baptized to accept the forgiveness Jesus offers us, we must accept the forgiveness that somebody else offers us in order to be forgiven. Obviously, this doesn't mean the forgiver holds a grudge if the forgivee refuses the forgiveness but it does make a difference in the way that I think about it.
WOW, thank you so much Mike. I've been a Christian for over 50 years and have never come across a convincing explanation of exactly why the Canon of scripture is closed! The reference in Revelation for example only speaks of that book itself so isn't a valid argument for the rest - although it's used as such.
I love you Mike winger - right hand man for honest queries. Bless your life, you are faithful.
Missed watching live, but it gave me something to look forward to! 2 hours! 🔥🔥🔥
We have every streaming service I know of ... and even still have old school U-Verse cable. NOTHING on any of them holds my interest like Pastor Mike 🙌 I have been a Christian for many years and am blessed with the gift of strong faith - but I've learned SO much on this channel. In church, I feel like the messages are always like 1-2 biblical verses then a lot of time spent on the pastor trying to help us equate it to our own life. Not bashing anyone, but I don't really need that, I can make the connections I need. Church seems to be more about hyping up and isn't enough actual Bible study.
One fascinating thing I learned recently concerning the young man in Gethsemane who runs away naked:
This young man becoming naked in that garden is a reversal of Adam and Eve beginning to fear nakedness in their garden. This is therefore the Gospel writers way of declaring that the arrest of Jesus is the beginning of the undoing of sin.
I suppose in the same kinda way that the Languages at Pentecost are a reversal of the scattering at Babel, hence qualifying the Holy Spirit on the Apostles.
The word is settled, nothing new to add to it unless you are craving judgement. Great video brother 👍
Re: Q11 - Just came across a pretty funny verse in Proverbs:
_Whoever blesses his neighbor with a loud voice, rising early in the morning, will be counted as cursing._ - Proverbs 27:14
My family (and my oldest friend) made little jokes for years about how I was a cranky bear in the morning, throughout my teenage years. You'd better believe I just shared that verse with them. 😂
😂
I just shared this with my mom cause she does this all the time !! 😂😂
I watched this a day after it was posted .Although I have been a believer about 35? years, I have never been able to witness without anxiety and / or being sure of what all to share. Now I have heard such a simple thing-- to just calm down and you can choose just one topic to talk about even . I have witnessed in the past but always felt like a wreck afterward. I am a calvinist although I was not always, there are some areas I'm not sure about, but overall I'm happy with this, and my church is full of kind loving people especially the pastor who always greets me with a smile and is patient. I have tried to say I need help on how to witness, but never got the words right. The truth is I get anxious. I have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety--which go together really. God has not healed me of these, but I still believe it is my responsibility and great desire to reach people for Christ, especially the people I love most-- thank you for answering the person's question. . It was a blessing I know will serve others as well as me. thank you again.
Mary T
Hopefully, you can through your GDD. I’ve had it. Few people understand but everyone seems to know. If you have extended health problems, or family issues, or a dozen other things, that can be linked to your condition.
All great additions for your set and production, Pastor Mike. I noticed the globe right away and the camera showed RED in the gummie jar. Your new camera kept you in focus and the t-shirt is fun and hip. Good job all ‘round. I enjoy hearing your teachings and explanations of scripture very much. Thank you for all of your hard work and diligence in your preparation and presentation in your ministry. 🙏
Mike, you are such a treasure. Keep pleasing our Lord with your faithful work.
Mike looks like he's been working out 💪
I do find it interesting how every verse drawn out to demonstrate that the canon is closed also proves that prophecy has ceased (along with the other sign gifts, but that's another matter); otherwise we would be bound to record and heed the prophet's utterances as we do scripture because it's of the same quality: God-spoken.
It is a blessing beyond all pleasure that He no longer speaks through intermediaries, but instead, in the last days, chose to speak through His incarnate Word.
Ok 2 whole hours of Mike Winger! 🙌🏼 📚 🖊️
I’m hoping that means your fully recovered now, Mike? Well done!
15:00 - this section is so great to hear. The most life-changing course I have taken in college was OT Survey. Never saw it coming. I love history and was excited because of that, but I did not expect to experience so much about Jesus in the OT. It’s all Jesus. The entire Bible is at its core an ode to Jesus and it completely changed my relationship and perspective of Scripture, both OT and NT. I had to sit back and process for a bit when the realization hit me. I sat in class trying to catch my breath and my teacher was so amused but enjoyed experiencing that with us. He wasn’t directly saying it, he was watching us “get it”. A few of us got it and we kinda had the same reaction together, looking at each other kinda wide-eyed. The rest of the class eventually got it too, but those first few moments are ones I will never forget as a long as I live. The assurance and peace I felt as a result, the completeness of Scripture, was wonderful. I felt like I leveled up that day.
Edit to add that I am absolutely going through your videos on it! Looking foward to it!
Thank you Mike
God bless this channel and Mike Winger! So solid and encouraging
Love you pastor Mike
I always connect the warning that teachers will be judged more strictly with this warning about careless and idle words. When people insist and teach things that they suppose and are their opinion but don’t reflect Christ, I always think of these verses about our idle conversations where they don’t weight their words carefully. We influence one another. We want to be listened to and valued. But we must also weigh carefully our words and our opinions against Christ.
Pastor Mike you are the best🙏🙏🙏
Troy, thank you so much for sharing. Upon hearing you speak my heart was convicted,so I immediately I repented and asked Hod for forgiveness.
I have a feeling Mike's wonderful bride buys his t-shirts for us, the audience 😅
You know just a silly observation but I've always kind of hesitated to really partake in the prayer at the end of the things which I really do appreciate because it's recorded and it's not really live it already happened. But I'm having to rethink that since the prayer got cut off at the very end and apparently I was paying more attention than I thought. I really really appreciate having honest teachers on TH-cam or anywhere. They're so rare nowadays. I recently met a preacher who had been pretty highly recommended and in my personal opinion this guy was just a grifter it saddens me greatly.. but I digress thank you again mr. Winger for these videos.
woah this is precisely 2 hours long. really enjoyed watching live
So timely that God led me to this teaching. This is my first introduction to your discernment/ analysis. Timely because just this week I read the 114 statements s found in 1945 by Apostle Thomas while he was in India. About the Cannon, your explanation rings true.
1:54:10 "Walk in the Spirit and Ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh" (Gal 5:16) Fruit of The Holy Spirit is courage so be filled with The Holy Ghost and pray before. Praying before is so important thats what street preachers do so that God guides the messages and Its The Blessed Holy Ghost talking through them Amen.
What's written in the scripture now is for us to learn. In Revelation 22:18,19 it says Do not add Do not take. What's in the bible is complete Jesus is the Complete or Whole Word of the way, truth and the life Amen
That’s talking specifically about the book of Revelation not the Bible. Revelation was written on its own and sent to the 7 churches.
@@alittle01 I've thought about that and came to the conclusion that if the whole bible is the inspired word of God (2 Timothy 3:16) then none of it should be changed in any way. No man knows better than God. Anyone adding or taking away would be in doubt over the truth of 2 Timothy. However, we are told in John that Jesus is the Word (John 1:14) and that the Holy Spirit will help us remember all that we've been taught (John 14:26).
@@alittle01 Among other things, Revelation contains (1) a vision of Jesus Christ as the righteous judge -- ch.1; who (2) gives a message of mixed commendations and judgments to the seven churches, which has broad applicability to the church across its full history on earth -- ch.2-3; followed by (3) John, a believer still alive on earth, being figuratively called up into heaven -- ch.4:1; where (5) he sees a full array of believers worshipping God in heaven -- 4:2-11; followed by (6) a complete set of judgments executed on all wickedness and unbelief on earth -- ch.5-19; making way for (7) the millenium and the final judgment -- ch.20; concluded by (8) the new heavens and new earth -- ch.21-22. In this, all lingering threads the Bible started and had not yet finished, including Daniel's prophecies, are summarily closed. What could anyone possibly add or subtract anywhere else in the Bible, that wouldn't directly impinge on Revelation?
@@aaronvienot Because the Bible didn't exist. So any book agreed to the book of Revelation would fit the category of "should not be added". Just because your interpretation of one verse is wrong doesn't mean your whole position is wrong, just that you might but want to use that as a proof text in the future.
@@tanyasue6440 2 Timothy 3:16 is explaining characteristics of scripture. It in no way is declaring that only the Bible is the only word of God (an impossibility as it did not exist at that time). It's also by no means saying that scripture is formally sufficient. I think that scripture gets abused a lot to make it seem like it's saying much more than it actually says.
❤ ty Pastor Mike I have learned so much from you. I always look forward to listening in
What are your thoughts on the books Sirach, 1st Macabees, Epistle of Clement, Epistle of Barnabis?
13:20 Now may the God of peace who by the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead the great shepherd of the sheep, our Lord Jesus, 13:21 equip you with every good thing to do his will, working in us what is pleasing before him through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever. Amen.
I think Mike’s wife should start designing his shirts and then selling them 😂
Yes!!! I agree
Yes!!! God has blessed you with being an awesome teacher 🇿🇦✝️🙏🏻 thank you....and a great sense of humour!! 😅
Awesome Q and A as always
Mike as always your teachings and explanations are easy to understand and so very informative. I’ve wondered about the closed canon for some time now. You explaining why makes so very much sense. I’m blown away by how amazing and beautiful scripture is and how it blends together. I can only be from God. Thank you and I can’t wait for your teaching on Hebrews either.❤
I would add the book of Enoch. Additionally, thanks for your exegesis RE: the prophet who disobeyed the Lord. Many years ago I asked someone who at the time was my pastor - and he had no idea what the meaning of this passage was. Very helpful!
I just found your channel 3 days ago. I am binge listening to your teachings and can't get enough. Also because of Elton KJV Anomaly I found out why you focus on KJV the only inspired translation directly from God
Love this ministry!
Love is action. God's love is unconditional. The benefits, grace, and mercy are conditional, as all covenants. Faith is an action. We cannot please God without it. He loved us before we believed. Jesus prayed that the Father would forgive the unbelief of Jesus abusers. That is unconditional love.
My takeaways:
1. Differentiate between typology and prophecy.
2. Let people go in your heart and cleanse yourself of all bitterness but reconciliation is contingent upon repentance.
3. Value my relationship with God and people's salvation more than my relationship with them, especially when people are indulging in grave sin (like witchcraft, Freemasonry, fornication etc.)
4. Be creative when presenting the gospel. Have a heart for people. Base your creative work on your skill (gifting) and watch God says.
1:17:30
I have come to understand that forgiveness is not condemning them yourself but allowing God to be Judge & Not Me!
Off topic but I’m curious if anyone in the comments can help me. I’m saved and I’ve been a Christian a long time but I struggle with mental health- particularly anxiety. I always feel lonely and like the walls are closing in around me. My chest is always tight and I’m consumed with fear of dying and existentialism. How do I combat this? 😢
1 Peter 5:6"Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,
7casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you."
God's with you, He knows you and He's already way ahead of you, trust Him. Give Him your cares in prayer and leave them there. Any time you get anxious remind yourself God is with you - works for me. See Hebrews 13:5 also..
go to the doctor
I always learn so much from your broadcasts. What a blessing Mike Winger. God bless.
I love the shirt
The resurrected Living Word expounding on the Written Word. Awesomeness.
The Spirit of Prophecy by Ellen G. White is another example of writings that a group is placing on the same level as scripture in practice, even though they officially would say it is not scripture.
Seventh Day Adventists do not place Ellen G White's writings on the same level as the Bible. Some people assert and insist that they do in order to discredit their stance on the Sabbath, which no matter what scriptures people take out of context to claim that it has been abolished is still binding. No scriptures saying that Jesus came to give us rest abolishes the Sabbath.
"As the World Turns," Mike presses on with another great 20 Questions!
For Question 14, it’s Christopher Yuan, not Yuon.
Thank you!
Also, Becket Cook has a TH-cam channel you’ll find informative and comforting.❤️
@@MikeWingerHi. Thanks for the presentation.
What state you live in? Have you ever tested positive of covid?
Your answers and mine that we get, are the same. The Holy Spirit is very good. You make sense. You are going to understand, I think, when I say " I sure hope your words are from and for God". Your fruit seems good.
I am so distracted by The Earth. I want a Jupiter like that. They make all the planets. 😀
Who makes them? Justin Peters has them as well and I’ve been wanting to get one for myself. ☺️
The first question was helpful to me, as I know so many young people moving into the Orthodox Church with their 81 books of the Bible. They study the teachings for 1-2 years before joining, which says something to me about how unnecessarily complicated it is.
Are these young people that move from your church?
@@Tony32937 No, they live in three different states!
One of my favorite Bible books I’ve read has been alongside my children called The Jesus Storybook Bible, it is so beautifully poetic as it depicts the entire Bible as one continuous story of love of God, Jesus and his people. I highly recommend it if you haven’t checked it out. It even changed how I perceive verses!
For question 15 (1:27:35) regarding regeneration and works, here is a helpful analogy:
If someone enlists in the military, goes to war, fights for your freedom, and you have faith that they will win, were you responsible for the outcome of the battle?
Faith is the belief that someone else will accomplish what we can't. When we look to Jesus in humility, the Lord removes our veil, we can see Jesus for who he really is, and we can't help but have faith in him.
I recently was working through a similar question to question 1 regarding the Canon being closed & I came from it from a different angle but I believe it might be relevant to the discussion.
*I have heard a lot of people say God is an infinite being why would we limit him to finite book or put him in a box (i.e the bible)*
And to that I say, this is a huge assumption that we have even the slightest capability to even handle infinite knowledge, of which we clearly don't, and this is solidified by the fact that one day, we are ALL GOING TO DIE.
So we can therefore conclude that the particular phenomenon of our knowledge of an infinite God being contained in a finite knowledge base (the bible), is a testament to the finite nature of human life needing finite knowledge of God & the Infinite wisdom of an Infinite God to know exactly what we need to know through the Gospel and base the final judgment on only that and this Gospel is Christ and Christ alone.
This realization has helped me to stop worrying about knowing too much about what is not in the bible but to focus on the clear revelation of what has been revealed already and to fully understand it before I die. I hope this helps others who might be struggling with something similar
Got in late....what a line up of questions! This will be GREAT!
I like pastor Mike honesty in answering questions👌 🙏
You meant 'dishonesty', right?
Back to the ol' cut off in the middle of praying at the end. Good one. You got me 👌
I just wanted to say thank you for wearing that shirt today.
I needed that laugh today.
Very coo, very coo.
I have a really interesting thought-
“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet”… look at the symbol of the lampstand in the Old Testament….
The lamp has three things on each branch… a knop, bulb and flower… if you count them up (the number of them) it adds up to 39 on one side (including center stem) and 27 on the other side… a total of 66 ‘parts’ to the lampstand… thy word is a lamp to my feet…. There are 66 books in the Bible, 39 on one side, 27 on the other. Test this for yourself!
God puts this symbol for us to look at see. There is some nice symmetry here!!
Mike, Number 19 was for Peter, for his behalf so that he would know that Gentiles can be saved also. That’s what I get from reading it in context. Thanks for all that you do
I believe that is what the text was trying to convey.
The spirit fell on them too to confirm that both Israelites and gentiles could be saved, and inherit the promises of the new covenant.
THE WAY EASTER EGGS IS A PERFECT DESCRIPTION!!! I LOVE IT!!
To ask if the canon is open doesn't mean we have a book to add, it could be we want to know if a book ever claims to be scripture if that is something to even be open to or if we can dismiss it based on the word we have already received
Proverbs 10:22
Proverbs 31:25
Eccles 3:4
❤❤🙂
WE HAVE THE HOLY SPIRIT WHEN WE BELIEVE IN THE LORD JESUS BEING BORN-AGAIN
Hey Pastor Mike, God bless you, your family and ministry!
If you get time (I know you are busy) there is a Christian TH-camr "James Rebuck" he dedicates his calling and ministry to ministering to members of the Mormon Chrurch, he is VERY respectful and Biblically minded!
I think it would bless him and many people if you (after watching and decerning) maybe shared some of his content, I love to see unity and fellowship in the world of online ministry, especially in our time!
I felt lead to mention it, thanks again for serving the Kingdom man!
Really appreciate your answers Mike. Especially on should we say something if someone is using Wiccan witchcraft. Makes me think of a similar situation with a person I know.
I always felt that the thief on the cross had hope. He saw Jesus, an innocent man, and had hope and faith that Jesus was what he claimed.
On the 2 witnesses question, I lean to believe that these are either Moses and Elijah or two people coming "in the spirit of them" (in the likes of John the Baptist coming "in the spirit of Elijah").
Moses is the paramount representative of the law, while Elijah is the representative of the prophets. Just as the law and the prophets witnessed against Jerusalem and its false religious in the days of Jesus, it may be that this will happen again in the tribulation days.
Mere speculation, but that's where I lean...
Awesome work Mike love your ministry. To answer your first question the 2 books of Enoch should be Canon. That is an example and maybe talking point I would suggest.
"Idle word" means without God in your heart. ❤️🙌
1:14:57 idle words....
I believe this refers to gossip, words that can be hurtful or harmful to others. Atleast that is what one of my Bible studies suggested. Of course I remember that the examples in the study Bible I once had said ANY KIND of gossip or rumors.
“Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few” (Ecclesiastes 5:2 NIV). 2. “It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it” (Ecclesiastes 5:5 NIV).
Words are healing or salt to the wound
hahaha just turned on this video and saw your shirt! I love it! Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I don't watch live, but the insight I receive from watching is invaluable. Keep it coming!
Calvanist here. Really enjoy your content and appreciate the work you do