Home            Site Links

  Subscribe to Ichthys:  

Bible Academy


***NEW:  Hebrews: Chapter 11 (4/19/25)


***NEW:  Re-mastered MP3s of Hebrews: 1-6; SR 1-5; CT 1-7


Your Emails

Believers in the World XVIII

[posted 5/17/25]

Previous Postings

Word RTF

special prayer requests

**Please check out the wonderful, new re-mastering of MP3 files now in process through the good offices of Chris B. and the generosity of Angel H.:  MP3 Audio Files Re-masteredThe Satanic Rebellion series now full and complete (sample: SR 2: The Genesis Gap)!

 

*Note: Apologies for the site outage this week (5/10-16).  The outage was not total and affected only some users in the U.S. and overseas.  It appears to have been ISP specific, with some users in the same geographical area being unable to access Ichthys while others had no problem doing so.  After being alerted by multiple users, I was able to convince my hosting company to look into the matter and now the issue seems to have been resolved.  Many thanks to those readers of Ichthys who contacted me to let me know of this problem which otherwise would no doubt still be continuing.  In Jesus, Bob L.

Question #1: 

Hi Bob,

The Lord reminds me of 2nd Corinthians 1:3-7 quite often and He reminded me of it again just before you gave it to me. I've been through a lot in my life but I've never asked the Lord, "Why me?". I've often wondered if there was any purpose for it and maybe those verses answer that question. I know He loves me more than I can ever imagine and whatever I've been through I've known that it was His Will and that I would be okay. That He would take care of me and give me the strength to get through. And He has - every time.

This week I've had pain in my back but also the pain of discouragement and upset for other reasons the Lord knows about too. It hasn't caused me to wander from the strait and narrow. The Lord is helping me and the direction He is leading me in is bringing me closer to Him and there's nothing better than that.

I haven't taken any sick days off work for my back. They were already two members of staff down. I worked yesterday and today and I'm feeling less pain. Standing and walking around at work has worked out to be less painful for me than sitting at home resting. Today was an extra day at work that I promised I would do for them. When I looked out of the window this morning everything was covered in snow but I managed to get to work okay. I worked with my boss today and all but two of his patients cancelled their appointments for this afternoon. Normally the receptionists can easily fill the appointments with other patients but today they couldn't find anyone who wanted to come in. That never normally happens - even when it's snowing - and it never happens to my boss either. The other two who were working today had no cancellations at all. So my boss went home to do some paperwork and I was able to go home two and a half hours earlier as well. The Lord was looking after me - He is so good! It's not an easy job and He very often helps me out. It can be something very small but it makes a huge difference to my day at work. It's so noticeable and I always say thank you Lord!

He has comforted and encouraged me this week, He has heard your prayers and my back is slowly getting better and the direction He is leading me in is drawing me closer to Him. So physically and spiritually I'm feeling a whole lot better than at the beginning of the week.

I'm back to work tomorrow and looking forward to the weekend. Thanks for all your patience, encouragement and prayers for me this week. It's helped me so much. The testing has been tough and it isn't finished yet but the Lord is with me. He will never leave me or forsake me.

Keeping you in my prayers too.

In Jesus
p.s. I'm happy for you to post this.

Response #1:  

I hope you realize what an encouragement you are to me, my friend. Little does my heart better than to see a fellow believer under great pressure refusing to break – and refusing to give up their essential peace in the Lord in spite of everything . . . because of their prior and present devotion to the truth of the Word of God. That is what it is all about down here.

Thanks for your willingness to have this message posted – I know it will encourage others as it certainly has me.

For now, let's concentrate on getting past Friday.

Keeping up the prayer and thanks so much for yours as well.

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #2: 

Hi Bob,

It's lovely to know that you have been encouraged too. I love God's Word.

How sweet are your words to my taste,
sweeter than honey to my mouth!
Psalm 119:103

We made it past Friday! I drove to work this morning in heavy snow and the Lord got me there safely. I drove back home with the sun shining and all the snow had melted away. He gave me a beautiful end to the week in many ways!

Happy to have reached the weekend and praying you have a good and restful one too.

In our dear Lord Jesus

Response #2:  

Thanks for the prayer – it really helped. I was on the verge yesterday of coming down with something, or so it felt after a difficult day. And then . . . an awful noise from outside repeated at random intervals (the sewer people are intending to dig up the street and have left a huge iron plate on the pavement almost just right outside my house – it rattles like someone knocking on my bedroom door every time a car going past hits is). But God is good! I was able to get a good enough night's sleep and able to bump through Friday, catching up on all of the necessaries in the process. It'll be a bit of a late night tonight too, but no alarm clock tomorrow morning so all is well.

How is your back?

Great news that you've made it through as well, my friend. One day we'll finally "make it through" to the resurrection. Marana Tha!

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #3: 

Hi Bob,

I hope you're feeling well today. Friday always seems to be a tough, busy day for you so I'm thanking the Lord that you got a good night's sleep and made it through. Like you said to me before, sleep is medicine.

Seems like there's lots of action going on outside your house just recently. I'm hoping the sewer work won't cause you too much disturbance. I'll keep this in my prayers too.

My back is feeling good today. Still not quite 100% but we're definitely getting there. Thanks so much for your prayers. I forgot to tell you that every year for work we have to pay a registration fee and indemnity insurance. Our boss told us last week that he is going to pay all of this for us. That's the first time ever. And we're getting a raise too. God is good!

I remembered this verse today.

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Takes a bit more focus in the tough times but better to have our eyes fixed on the Lord than on our troubles. And we have so much to thank Him for every day.

My face lit up when I read your last sentence - "One day we'll finally "make it through" to the resurrection. Marana Tha!"

Amen to that, Bob! I thank our Lord with all of my heart for this!

In Jesus

Response #3: 

MSD was out early this morning – earlier than usual since this was time-change day here in KY. Had to go out in the mist on short sleep and move the car but it was worth it. They spent the morning digging up the street but are finished for now and the steel plate is now on our side with barricades around it – so no chance of anyone driving over it. Looking forward to a quiet night tonight! So thanks for your prayers!

Great news on the job and back fronts, my friend!

Getting through tough times with flags proudly flying is always wonderful . . . on the other side. So we endeavor to stay as tough as the times themselves . . . through Jesus Christ and His truth.

I have the strength to endure all [extremes] in the One who empowers me to do so.
Philippians 4:13

Spring break here this coming week so no going down to the uni. Lots on the list: income tax, mid-term grading, lunch with my old colleague, and of course the first push to get the gardens set up for the season (if the weather cooperates). Possibly even a bit of rest!

Wishing you a wonderful week as well.

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #4: 

Hello Bob,

I was going to write something else to you tonight but all I really want to say now is how sorry I am to hear about the shooting in Louisville today. I read all about it and that those who were injured are in the university hospital. I'm praying for all of those involved and their families.

I had a good study in CT today. Living in this evil world just makes me more determined to continue to prepare spiritually for the even harder times to come. I know I say this a lot but I understand how important it is. It's too easy to get comfortable when things are going smoothly - very smoothly compared to what's coming.

I praise God for the hope we have in Him. I'm glad we haven't got long. I know we have work to do for the Lord here but I can't wait to be with Him.

I'm at work for the rest of the week now - covering for staff on holiday.

Take care, Bob and hope the rest of your week goes well. Keeping you and your family in my prayers.

In Jesus

Response #4: 

Thanks for the prayers. This took place downtown a fair ways away from my home and work. I don't think I know anyone involved. I guess the officer badly hurt had only been out of the academy a couple of weeks. We have a big staffing problem with the police here and the feds aren't making that any better by breathing down their necks with their big investigation. I hope this tragedy has positive rather than negative effects in terms of the aftermath: people should appreciate what our police do instead of seeing them as the enemy. This is less of a problem here than in many northern cities but Louisville is a pretty left-leaning town (different from the rest of the state in that regard).

They canceled classes today because of this and another shooting, but only got around to doing that after I was done teaching all four of mine. Just as well. I'd hate to miss an opportunity to put my students to sleep so close to the end of the semester.

Sounds like a busy week for you! Mine is not too bad but I'm getting pretty tired. May can't come soon enough this year (but I'll be complaining about summer research soon enough no doubt).

I appreciate your spiritual resolve, my friend – and it's always good to hear it (very encouraging).

Keeping you and your family in my prayers as well.

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #5: 


Hi Dr L,

How are you?

[omitted]

PS: If you want blunt honestly from me...while it is true I was a little lonely, part of the reason I went also was for that deeper friendship that you have explained to me is very rare (where you help each other out if something goes wrong). But I think me having that attitude, even if only partially, messes it up. I think you are right that it has to happen naturally. And I think it would be through work or maybe if I did social events more casually if/when I did them (I mean something I really did like and would do on my own without others).

Response #5:  

If the Spirit is guiding you not be part of this group, well, it's always better to listen to the Spirit than to ignore Him – in matters great and small.

The Lord is able to provide you with everything you need. Just because you don't have the fellowship you would like to have at the moment, doesn't mean that the Lord isn't aware and isn't going to do something for you. Our job is to wait patiently, trusting Him – and growing in the meantime so that when we are blessed with something good we will have the utmost capacity to enjoy it thoroughly.

I do pray for you daily, my friend.

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #6: 

And there is the part that is normally used against believers marrying unbelievers, but when you read it, it seems to be referring to friendships (even more than just marriage, because marriage is more than friends, and it is talking about the friend level specifically; at least it looks like that to me). And that is a lot of danger to put yourself in for the possibility of Christian friends. A bad environment to look for that in. So then it would be church, but we are back to where we started. Yes I refer to myself as 'we' sometimes when thinking lol.

Please take care of yourself

Response #6: 

Abraham was called "the friend of God" (Jas.2:23), and our Lord Jesus calls us His brothers/brethren (Heb.2:12). There's no better relationship and nothing better than the fellowship of the Holy Spirit (2Cor.13:14; Phil.2:1; cf. Philem.1:6; 1Jn.1:3-7).

David wrote some of his most joyous Psalms out in the wilderness alone – but God was with Him.

I am praying for you on this score, my friend. We all have basic human needs and desires which are legitimate and do not conflict with a godly life. Abraham, very legitimately, wanted an heir. And God gave him the perfect one . . . but he did have to wait a bit as I recall.

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #7: 

Hi Bob,

In Response #19, there may have been a cut and paste error.

As a side note, it seems some of your readers are still fretting over their salvation. I think Psalm 37 would be a comfort. Much in my life confirms the Bible; I prayed for a little patch of prairie to call my own, and I received it even though I was to stubborn to see it at first, the Lord held it for me for two years. I have not suffered want and have been fed and I've been protected twice, once from stepping on a rattle snake and once for grabbing a flower pot and a very pregnant black widow. And more... For me that's enough confirmation of God's Word.

I'm convinced that those doubts come directly from Satan. Doubt and temptation come occasionally to me, too, but thinking about the blessings I've been given quickly puts that thinking back out to pasture.

In thinking about the blessings I've been given and connecting it with the Lord's feeding of 5,000 from a few fish (Much to consider there!) I got curious. It turns out the most common commercial fish in the Sea of Galilee is a variety of tilapia (of which there are probably hundreds.) They're also found in the Nile and apparently favored by the Egyptians.

Today, nearly all tilapia are farmed and in sometimes questionable conditions. Many times imported from China. Still, it's a pleasant fish to eat. Carp are also common in the Sea of Galilee (think McDonald's fish sandwiches.) Carp is a little more oily than tilapia and closer to salmon, but out of clean water, is a delight. Quite similar to cod. Apparently, in the Sea of Galilee are myriad sardines -- also a large group of species. It seems the sardines were traditionally pickled and may have been the basis for Roman garum. (An interesting seasoning, if you haven't tried it. As near as I can tell, Red Boat Fish Sauce is the same as what the Romans called garum.)

I'm finding I'm gravitating toward more fish in my diet. I still love beef and lamb but generally feel better mixing in fish with my diet. I can get frozen wild caught seafood at the local grocery. Fresh is much better, but for me, it's an 80+ mile round trip to get it, and I just don't have the gumption anymore. Generally, too, seafood is frozen on the boat so may in fact, be fresher. Curiously, the frozen fish is now less expensive than beef.

I love shrimp, scallops, clams and mussels which wouldn't have been permitted In Christ's time. As idle speculation, were those restrictions lifted in preparation for these end times?

In my humble opinion, the many references to fish, fishermen and specifically the references to feeding of multitudes in the Bible is there for a reason. I don't know if it has anything to do with salvation but I do think it's worth considering.

I apologize for regaling you with more food issues. This has turned out to be a reflective Sunday. (Temps in the 80s.)

In our Lord Jesus,

Response #7:  

Thanks for noticing that (corrected).

We could all afford to trust the Lord more – and more often. It's far from unusual for believers who are growing and mature to get into the good habit of trusting the Lord on big things . . . then let little things aggravate or worry them. We have a right to put our petitions before Him for ALL things – and the responsibility to trust Him and His promises regardless.

I love lobster, clams and oysters (though these last I am very cautious about nowadays), and I can eat some fish. About the only fish I would choose to eat over, say, a juicy steak, would be whitefish (from northern Michigan great lakes waters) or really well done "fish and chips" (not the fast-food chain stuff). I get that it's supposed to be good for you. So are arugula and cod-liver oil (are we seeing a pattern here yet?).

[False teachers] order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.
1st Timothy 4:3b-5 NIV

That goes for fish as well, even Tilapia (I suppose). And, yes, there is something to this biblically:

And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. Then He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” They immediately left their nets and followed Him.
Matthew 4:18-19 NKJV

That is one of the few hymns I remember from Sunday school which I still like.  When I was a young tad, in kindergarten and first grade they had us do the "what do you want to be when you grow up?" thing.  I remember for one of them it was "missionary" and another "an army man driving a tank".  It didn't work out exactly that way (for the latter I was in the USMC and commanded them but didn't drive them; for the former, this ministry is not an overseas mission per se, though there are plenty of overseas readers), but it is interesting how the Lord works things out.

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #8: 

Hi Bob,

I'm beginning to feel guilty; constantly nitpicking.

Yes, Bob, I'm beginning to see a pattern. It appears you have somewhat parochial tastes, though I agree with you about the oysters. I used to love them -- raw on the half shell. Grocery tilapia are generally farmed in China, so I don't eat that, either. Wild-caught, yes. China, no. Waleye fillets are particularly good seared skin-side down to make it nice and crisp and finished with butter. But I rhapsodize. There's no possibility of walleye here in Texas.

I think there are enough good things to eat that we can all choose what we like. My habits are also somewhat parochial; I seem to be cooking the same things over and over.

Yes, we need to trust more. While I have my tongue reasonably under control. Thoughts are much more difficult. Doubts and anger seem to pop up out of nowhere. Prayer seems to be the best anodyne.

Stay well, my friend. Eat well. I hope your time at U of L isn't crazy as other schools appear to have become. I know my brother used to complain about Cornell. Not the students. The faculty and administration.

In our Lord,

Response #8: 

Walleyes were "the great white whale" for my dad. He was a pastor who went fishing every vacation and day off. My mother and brother and I tagged along on occasion. He was always looking for those fish, but though he caught all manner of other things, I don't remember him ever catching a walleye (no doubt had a lot to do with the lakes he fished more than anything else).

The Christian life is all about trust. Once we get to the point of trusting Him no matter what, we have really gotten somewhere – but who of us is completely "there" yet? Many more opportunities for this during the Tribulation.

Things aren't too bad at U of L, not compared to other places in the news, at any rate. Colleagues in my dept. and college are mostly pretty nice and reasonable (as long as you don't talk politics and that is something I don't want to do anyway). Had an article accepted for publication today, so thank you for those prayers!

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #9: 

Hi Bob,

Walleyes are the ultimate pan fish. Nothing else comes close. Congratulations on your article. Editors are strange birds. You've conquered a beast. I hope you were paid for it, too.

You and yours are always in my prayers. Stay well.

In our Lord,

Response #9:  

If they're anything like their northern pike brothers, they'd be too bony for my taste. But everything in time soon to come will be wonderful.

"It shall be that fishermen will stand by it [i.e., the river flowing forth from the millennial temple] from En Gedi to En Eglaim; they will be places for spreading their nets. Their fish will be of the same kinds as the fish of the Great Sea, exceedingly many."
Ezekiel 47:10

"I hope you were paid for it, too." LOL! It doesn't work that way. One does get a token amount for books (akin to the "grand pay" a person receives for jury duty), but zero for journal articles. Publishing is part of the job . . . so I guess we do get paid, sort of (at U of L it's more of the "sort of" variety). But lest I leave you with the wrong impression, I am very grateful to the Lord for my job – and to have had this article accepted. Thanks for those prayers!

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #10: 

Doc, if we're struggling with shame and guilt over past actions, how can we fix this? I know God wants godly sorrow for sin, not worldly shame.

Response #10:  

You have to make a conscious effort to let go of the past and move forward instead:

Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you.
Philippians 3:13-15 NKJV

So repent of all wayward activity, confess all sin, and commit to moving forward TODAY in spiritual growth (n.b., there is an important section on all this towards the end of the latest Hebrews posting, chapter three, at the link).

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #11: 

I would like to be part of the Ichthys-on line forum. Just to let you know I am still here.

Thank you for all you do.

Merry Christmas

Your friend

Response #11:  

Good to hear from you!

Christmas was great – hope yours was as well.

I've sent the forum moderator, a join-request. He is visiting his family for Christmas and I'm not sure when he'll be back. But if you don't hear anything by, say, the middle of January, please do let me know.

Hope your Christmas was a good one too!

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #12: 

Hi Dr Luginbill,

So, what does it mean for someone to be a friend? I think people might use two categories: what one might call fair weather friends (or ones who do a bare response to someone for a short period when something bad happens), and friends who are there for you when times are bad. On the first, I don't see them as a friend. I would say they are more like acquaintances-though after you have known them a long time you are more than acquainted and it becomes more of a rejection (for lack of a better word, no one is required to be friends, and some people just don't click). You and them just sort of happen to be interacting for a while until circumstances shift. But once it has become a 'rejection' (again lack of a better word) because they get to know you and choose not to, they are definitely not friends. When you are kids they say to make friends, and they seem to mean just someone who shares an activity you like (which would be the first group) and may or not be an actual friend like the second group. I suppose this is partly because everything is a bit different for kids.

Into the latter group- I was realizing that someone can genuinely care and not be there every time something is bad (maybe they had some other emergency or something). So it is more complex that I originally thought, and you have to consider their general way of relating to you to judge (lack of a better word for this one too).

But then you said to me a long time ago that most people don't want to be intimate (friendship-wise). So what I said before I still posit, but add that there are very, very few in the latter, and you have to let it happen naturally or not, and it probably takes a long time to see (I am guessing multiple years at least). And it seems to me that it is done when you are getting something out of the relationship (this is hard to pin down). I mean in a give and take way (not quite tit for tat but something like it). And later it either grows into friendship or not when you see how you both like or dislike things about each other. (My younger self is like 'we are allowed to dislike people? lol).

Am I framing this right? If so, I am asking myself how this applies to the Christian family. I don't want to write a book, so can I start by asking if you think I am understanding this sort of thing right?

Respectfully,

Response #12:  

Friendship is not something that the Bible guarantees. People are problematic in this world, after all (cf. "I love humanity. It's people I can't stand"; often attributed to Mark Twain but apparently from Charles Schulz). In my observation and experience, unless someone is genuinely dedicated to growing in the truth, becoming friends with them is a dicey business, either to make friends or to have a friendship which will not disappoint. The ONE person who will NOT let us down is the Lord, so doing all we can to grow closer to Him is the best "friendship investment" any believer can make.

Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect? And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God.
James 2:21-23 NKJV

I do pray for you for some good Christian contacts. I would be happy to ask the forum moderator to send you an invite if you'd be interested in that.

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #13: 

I was trying to get foundational knowledge needed to understand the Bible

[omitted]

I guess I can just treat this like another disability, just of an odd kind. I can still understand the Bible about the Lord and how to relate to Him, and once in a while how to treat others will come into play. I think I am just accepting I am going just have a loner kind of life maybe.

Response #13: 

I'm sorry if I upset you. I was trying to encourage you.

The Bible doesn't always approach things as we would like it to. We all have a great many life-application questions which aren't answered directly but which can be informed and guided and directed by the Spirit if we are really growing spiritually. From where I sit, your spiritual common sense based on growth seems very solid. Listen to the Spirit and He will guide you into the best paths with all actual situations you face. That doesn't mean providing you with a detailed guide of the sort that some "churches" will give you in "workshops" going well beyond what is written (1Cor.4:6). And scripture doesn't do that for a good reason: we are supposed to navigate this world on principles of truth, not the letter of Law (or worse, made up human lists of rules).

Plenty of believers have had to deal with loneliness and other frustrations. Abraham had to wait over twenty years for his promised heir. And speaking of great believers, David was unloved as a child and alone most of the time. He was friends with Jonathan later, but Jonathan chose to stay with his father rather than accompany David into the wilderness. David was not, however, lonely: from his youth onwards and in all his distress his aloneness led him to cultivate his relationship with the Lord. Scripture never calls David a "friend of God" as it does Abraham (previous email), but it does say that he was "a man after God's own heart" (1Sam.13:14; Acts 13:22), and you cannot read his psalms without understanding what a deep, joyous and wonderful relationship David had with the Lord.

People come and go and cannot be expected to demonstrate the consistency and faithfulness we all crave. But the Lord never ever lets us down.

Here is a link which talks about David's solitude and unfair treatment – and how that actually helped to make him the great believer he was: David (in BB 6A; see also in HE 11; link).

Keeping you in my prayers, my friend.

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #14: 

Doc, you say we have to be grounded in reality at all times, to the point that even fantasizing about anything or really using our imagination for much at all is sinful...sorry to sound like I'm doubting, but you're making the Christian life sound like it's very depressing. How does ANYONE live like that and not end up being either depressed or a stone cold killjoy? I would be depressed so bad it would make my current depression look like a momentary bum over something like not getting a meal I wanted. I don't get you sometimes Doc...

By the by, so many people claim what they teach is what the Bible teaches, even giving logical proof, how can I even be sure you're truly teaching what it does? These people truly believe they teach what it does and have absolute faith in the version of God they believe the Bible teaches...you seem no different from that. When people question it they often say the same thing you do, that if you truly want the Truth and nothing else you'll either find their ministry or one that teaches what they do, or come to their conclusions. They even often claim people that don't agree with what they teach are people who "just want to believe what they want", or even that they're willfully leading people away from the truth to fill the seats of their congregation so to speak, whether it be an online ministry or physical church...this is usually about the same kind of people I just described. This is why I feel like I can't truly trust anyone. Even God supposedly revealing Himself if you truly want the truth is almost always just leading you to one of these people who have wildly varying doctrine. I sometimes feel like God is just trolling us so to speak, that He leaves us to stick to some teaching in blind faith and hope it's the right way to Heaven. I know He's not like that, but it truly feels that way at times. I don't know what to do Doc...even people who supposedly found God through natural revelation seem to come to all sorts of conclusions.

Response #14: 

Re: "you say we have to be grounded in reality at all times". While it's not a bad policy, I don't believe I've ever said it that way. Reference?

Fantasizing is not the same thing as using one's imagination; the former is always a waste of time while the latter can involve innovative approaches to problems et al. But no one ever got anywhere in this life by wasting their time daydreaming and imagining things that aren't true. That can be a real trap and an addictive one as well.

Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.
Proverbs 12:11 NIV

Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies will have their fill of poverty.
Proverbs 28:19 NIV

On your second paragraph, as to the claims and unreasonable requirement of other ministries, I am certain you never heard this sort of thing from me. In any case, no one is twisting your arm and forcing you to read Ichthys or to email me. I would hope that by now you would be able to see that you have benefitted from this ministry. From my perspective, it is clear that you have made some spiritual progress. Is that the case with any other ministry you have spent time with? The proof is always "in the pudding" as they say. I will add that there are limits to what any legitimate Bible teaching ministry can do for you . . . because YOU have to believe the truth when it is taught and have the discipline to apply it to your life. We all limit our own growth in lots of ways; the more we limit ourselves through unwillingness to believe and apply the truth, the less we grow.

Secondly, there are ways to tell a good ministry from a bad one. I have never ever claimed that Ichthys was the only legitimate Bible ministry out there. Indeed, there are others I also recommend (like Bible Academy and Bibledocs; links). But I have worked hard at making it as clear as I can that this is one good place to learn the truth. I always try to explain where I "got what I got" and also how. I have posted my C.V. so that my credentials – on which I worked very hard for a very long time – can be evaluated by anyone making use of this ministry. And I also stand ready to answer legitimate questions from readers about any and all biblical subjects, as well as to defend the teachings of this ministry (to a reasonable extent: I don't engage in endless fencing with people who clearly are never going to believe the truth).

"Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them."
Matthew 7:15-20 NIV

This is the test our Lord has given us, namely, the "fruit test" (see the link). If the ministry you are considering gives you a spiritual stomach ache – or worse – then there is probably a problem with it. This does not mean, however, that a good ministry will always provide you with the exact fruit you really like a lot; but it does mean that it will provide you with fruit that is good for you, fruit that will help you grow. Any ministry worth its salt will tell you things that are true. But sometimes you are not going to like the truth you hear, because we all have areas of our lives where adjusting to the truth is not so easy. Still, it's easy enough to tell the difference between figs (which you may not like) and thistles (which would give anyone nausea or worse). If a Christian is objective, listening to the Spirit, and genuinely being interested in learning the truth, he/she will have the patience to push through minor things that may be his/her personal hang-ups or even some minor peccadilloes of the ministry in question (no pastor-teacher is perfect). Are you growing? If so, that should tell you something. If you're not, then maybe you need to find someplace else where you can grow.

It is very true that there are plenty of "ministries", churches and denominations out there which have learned to "say the right things" to entice people in. Please read Proverbs chapter nine and compare what the Woman "Wisdom" says in the first part of the chapter with what the Woman "Folly" says in the second part. They both begin their appeals in the same way. From where they are positioned and from what they first say, they cannot be told apart. But very quickly, Wisdom starts saying things that are a little hard to accept but which we know in our hearts are right, while Folly says things that we would like to accept – although we know in our hearts they are wrong. The Spirit is easily able to distinguish right from wrong – and so are you. You can't let the rhetorical position "they all sound alike" be used on you by the devil to peel you off from the good and steer you over to the bad – not if you are wise.

Other indications that you are in the wrong place: 1) celebrity: any outright seeking of fame is likely more concerned with that than the truth; 2) money: if the ministry is all about getting you to give to it, then perhaps that is its true priority; 3) control: a group which wants to run your life by having you pass all of your decisions by some "discipler" or have you confess your sins to some "priest-confessor" is out to take away your free will and will ruin your life in the end (all cults do this sort of thing).

So from my point of view, it's very easy to figure out what is good and what is bad. That is only the start, however. I have noticed throughout many years of doing this ministry that some who partake are never really interested in committing to a very deep degree. To the extent that a person lands at Ichthys once in a while, but also bounces around and hops from church to church and from website to website, not much good will come of such effort and activity – because in the end nothing will be believed since no authority has been accepted. It's not good believing what is not true. But when the Spirit tells you something is true and you refuse to believe it or go elsewhere for a second (or third) opinion, no growth is likely to take place. Growth doesn't take place just because you heard the truth; you have to believe and then apply the truth.

For anyone who wants to grow, I never tell people what to do. But I can tell you that the more of this ministry you read, the more attention you give to it, the more you commit yourself to believing and applying what you've heard and read and learned and believed, the better off you'll be, in terms of spiritual growth, progress in your walk with the Lord, and, one hopes, ministering to others as the Spirit has gifted you to do in some way or another. That is the only way to glorify Jesus Christ. That is the only way to earn a good eternal reward. I feel like I'm doing my part. But you have to make your own decisions and follow through yourself in order to get the benefit.

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #15: 

I am working through the Angels study, and I notice you say two things: that all fantasy is bad (well you say it probably should be avoided), and I am listing separately things like vampires and werewolves in this sentence. I suppose I really struggle with the first idea, because I don't see why it should be like that. On the second, imaginary beings are sometimes representatives of something in real life, or exaggerations of real life things to make a point or illustrate something. I just, do you still think that now, that they should just be avoided, and fantasy books, for example, are not valid forms of recreation for Christians (or not good ones, which leads to not valid)?

And it isn't like it is just 'fun' like dancing is just fun for the moment (though dancing has long term benefits and is not just a momentary beneficial thing). But art and fantasy can help one visualize how things may be possible, expand the mind. Yes I know the liberal arts crew says things like this in their PR, but I do think it is true. For example, I do think my lots of reading helps me when I read the Bible. Yes I could just believe when I didn't understand (and I try to do that, because many times it was explained to me later), but if we have a medium that expands the mind to help us to see, that is one benefit.

Also, lots of reading gives you good communicative ability. And if fantasy is the sugar that helps the medicine down with the medicine, well then.

Do you think it is bad and should be avoided? I mean everything has 'potential' for danger, and yes some more than others. But it really doesn't seem to me like a fantasy book like Lord of the Rings is much more dangerous than alcohol.

Anyway. I just, there are a lot of activities like wearing jewelry, and dancing, and lots of others that are not directly tied to worship that the Lord endorses (basically, I mean why give jewelry and talk about His doing it as a good thing, same with providing opportunities for dancing-in some it is because the people are happy and free and not directly worshipping, or drinking wine (not overdoing it)). I just don't see what you are saying.

Response #15:  

I do endorse reading! And as a Classics professor, well, it's not like I have no contact with literature – literature pretty much sums up my job. I think if you'll read over that section carefully you'll see that I'm speaking about practices which may push us away from our focus on Jesus Christ and the truth.

In any case, when it comes down to the specifics, these are matters of application. I don't make rules for other people and I certainly wouldn't want to be making rules about this sort of thing. Also, no one is accountable to me – we are accountable to the Lord, responding to the Spirit and our consciences (not to other believers).

As you say, there are dangers everywhere. Believers negotiate those dangers through growing in the truth and learning to listen to the Spirit. So the real answer is, if the Spirit is coaxing you not to do something, you would be far better off not doing it; if you are not getting any negative feedback from Him about certain courses of action it could be because there is nothing wrong with them. Or it could be because you are not ready to hear it yet.

We get better at adjusting our applications as we grow in the truth. Or at least we should! None of us is perfect in this regard, but that is no reason to ignore the Spirit or fail to try to get better at our walk with Jesus Christ day by day. After all, we are here for Him – and that is the only reason we are here.

"If you love Me, do what I tell you."
John 14:15

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Philippians 1:21

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #16: 

[omitted]

Response #16: 

Human beings are just flesh and blood, and there's nothing good in any of us . . . except through the Holy Spirit.

It doesn't make sense to me that you would be "worried sick" about what I might say and yet think or say that you have "no fear of God". The God I know is so awesome; if we caught even a glimpse of Him we would be paralyzed. No doubt that is why He "hides Himself" (Is.45:15), namely, to allow our choices to be truly free. But if you would just consider the truth in the Spirit even a little, you would recognize the truth of this statement:

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Proverbs 9:10 NIV

See the link: The Fear of God (in HE 4)

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #17: 

Do you know what is weird? I spend so much time and effort on this related to understanding and obeying the Bible...the prayers, Bible reading, study Greek (did 1.5 hrs today), and more. And yet I still often feel disconnected from Him somehow. As if I haven't been spending so much time.

Response #17:  

Please let me know if you receive this – I got another rejection; here are some of the details:

Our system has detected that this message is likely unsolicited mail. To reduce the amount of spam sent to Gmail, this message has been blocked. Please visit https://support.google.com/mail/?p=UnsolicitedMessageError for more information.

If you would do me a favor and add Ichthys or my email to your "trusted" list, that would really help out.

As to your question, this is not an uncommon feeling, but it is always the case when we are "feeling dry" (as it is commonly put), that is a fault on our end, not on God's end.

It is our responsibility to keep our relationship with Him fresh and joyous. That is not necessarily an automatic thing, even if we are doing due diligence in reading the Bible, accessing good Bible teaching and praying. We decide what we think – and what we think about – as we walk through each day. Whether or not we're walking closely with the Lord has a lot to do with whether or not we are thinking about Him and how aggressively we are keeping Him and His truth – all the things we love more than life – in the forefront of our hearts and minds. There is a lot about his in BB 6A: Peripateology.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
Colossians 3:15 NIV

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Philippians 4:4 NIV

Remember, the key to not feeling spiritually "dry" is the water of the Word of God (Is.55:1; Jn.3:5; 3:8; 4:10; 4:13-14; 6:35; 7:37-39; 1Cor.10:4; Eph.5:26; Heb.10:22; 1Jn.5:8; Rev.7:17; 21:6; 22:1; 22:17; cf. Ex 17:5-6; Num. 20:8; Ps.42:1-2; 63:1; 84:5-7; Is.41:17; 44:3; Jer.2:13), reading it, hearing it taught, remembering it, living by it.

O God, You are my God;
Early will I seek You;
My soul thirsts for You;
My flesh longs for You
In a dry and thirsty land
Where there is no water.

So I have looked for You in the sanctuary,
To see Your power and Your glory.
Because Your lovingkindness is better than life,
My lips shall praise You.
Thus I will bless You while I live;
I will lift up my hands in Your name.
My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness,
And my mouth shall praise You with joyful lips.
When I remember You on my bed,
I meditate on You in the night watches.
Because You have been my help,
Therefore in the shadow of Your wings I will rejoice.
Psalm 63:1-7 NKJV

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #18: 

You don't have to read my last email if you don't want, it's just me explaining how I got out of that political nightmare. Anyway you say most if not all fiction is mimesis, and you seem to talk about that as if it's some kind of satanic abomination. Yet you say enjoying appropriate fiction isn't necessarily sinful? And then you essentially say it's not something we should do if we're truly seeking the Lord? From what I can gather you're saying any form of fun or entertainment is kind of just there for us until we're ready to fully commit every bit of our lives to spiritual growth? I don't understand...

Response #18: 

Saturday is posting day, so apologies for the delay.

As to "you say most if not all fiction is mimesis" – yes; that is not particularly controversial, even in a secular appraisal; it's a valid description. We enjoy art because it approximates reality but is not identical with it.

But as to "and you seem to talk about that as if it's some kind of satanic abomination", I don't know where you got that idea. I doubt that "Rebecca of Sunny Brook Farm" or "Black Beauty" have plunged many young people into satanic cult activity, e.g. Also, I am a Classics professor and literature is art. There are a lot of benefits to learning, reading and studying Greek and Latin classics. That doesn't mean we have to believe in pagan gods or myths, e.g.

This world is presently under the devil's sway and his world system is designed to promote his lies (see SR 4 at the link in particular). We believers love the truth – or at least we should. And there is nothing fictional about the truth. Is there anything true about fiction? Like all good lies, the closer fiction imitates the truth, the better it generally is/seems/reads.

I think it would be impossible for anyone to grow up and live in the modern world without any exposure to fiction. Attempting that would probably be a mistake. The Greeks had a saying, "Learn to swim" (because the Greeks were islanders and coastal people and if you didn't know how to swim eventually you'd drown for one reason or another), "and remember to dis-believe" (meaning that people are liars and if you don't learn that early on you'll get into great trouble one way or another).

As long as we know/accept/understand that fiction is not the truth, as long as we don't make decisions based solely upon what we hear/see/read in anything fictional, as long as we don't let ourselves be sucked into fantasy and fantasizing based on fictional representations, in short, as long as we don't allow ourselves to be influenced by things that are made-up and therefore by definition not actually true, a reasonable amount will probably not hurt us (what is "reasonable" depends, as in all things, on us individually, and on our level of spiritual maturity). But as in all things, it's possible to go overboard with too much as well as to commit one of the "as long as" mistakes above. The Greeks were instrumental in developing western fiction (starting with Homer), but as mentioned, when it came to actually living life, they generally had a good grasp of what was real and what was not – and were wary of trusting things that could not be verified.

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #19: 

Thanks. What does it mean to not let it make us be pulled into fantasy and fantasizing? It's not really a horrific thing to make up a story based on a show or game you like, is it? I know we shouldn't think on such things most of the day, after all our focus should be on God and serving Him, right? But maybe it is such a bad thing after all. Maybe thinking on such things to the point we make up our own stories based on it and it's world is actually detrimental spiritually, in a subtle yet potentially devastating way. What do you think?

Response #19:  

I don't think any of us is perfect on this score. As I always have maintained, capturing and retaining the "high ground of the heart", "bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ" (2Cor.10:5), is in many ways both the hardest and the ultimate spiritual battle believers face.

(1) Therefore since you have been resurrected [positionally] with Christ, keep seeking after the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. (2) Keep thinking on the things above, and not the things on the earth.
Colossians 3:1-2

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.
Philippians 4:8 NIV

The above is the biblical standard, but that standard is hard to meet 24/7. We are surely happier when we do get closer to it rather than if we let ourselves drift far from it.

As to "making up things" in terms of producing art, I don't think that's the same thing exactly as fantasizing / day-dreaming (which latter things are not helpful). We all "drift" in our thinking and so are often not at our best when unexpected tests come our way. In terms of making up things for a purpose (i.e., writing a book to sell, writing a song, painting a picture, etc., etc.), every believer has to come to his/her own decisions about how they want to use their time (or earn a living). Some thinking / works of art are definitely better, some definitely worse than others (i.e., Handel's Messiah vs. porno-rap music). This is a matter of individual application and spiritual common sense, not of biblical rules (beyond the general principles given above).

In Jesus,

Bob L.

Question #20: 

Hi Bob,

I lost the email I used to email you, and tried to use a new one that doesn’t seem to be working. A couple of things I wanted you know.

- I started to feel that icky feeling about the condemnation from the past, but this time, I faced it head on using the scriptures we have been discussing over the last 5 or so years.

- I sadly just could not get it into my head to take the Lord at His word. It appears belief was at the root of the problem. Though at the time I had to justify why my sin was extra special. Perhaps some part of me had pride in the big bad sin I committed. Something has shifted in my heart Bob!

I know you have been telling me that spiritual growth is the only way out of this hole, but I kept fearing the reading of the scriptures. I retraced the steps that scared me so bad last time in the word and it’s as if I can hear Him again. Nothing supernatural as most would define it, but rather the scriptures sound like good news again. You describe it well in your Q and A as a negative feedback loop left unchecked leads to all manners mental health issues that seem to compound.

I started running back through the Bible Basics with Ichthys when I’m in a public place that I can’t listen to audio and I have Curtis playing videos as I work with my hands for audio [links]. This is a very recent breakthrough. Had you seen the emails I wrote you previously, the tone, though upbeat, was not as positive as this.

Additionally, I ran into some other Ichthys readers on YouTube that invited me to thier forum, I am blessed to find more people with which to discuss these topics. I believe you know the moderator, I randomly ran into him on YouTube and asked him if he knew this ministry. Now I realize that his and a few more sites are recommended on Ichthys.

After some soul searching and some good advice, I’ve decided to leave the weird occult stuff behind. Obviously I don’t want anything to do with it any more but you could barely tell it from how often I speak about the topic. I think it’s time to move on to the things that God has planned and spiritual growth.

Things are looking much better now and I’ve been able to hand the heavy burden over to The Lord. Adding a community of believers to the list things to be happy about. I’ll keep digging into the Bible. Thanks for your help.

In Him,

Response #20:  

I'm very happy to hear of your spiritual victories, my friend! Sometimes it does take a minute for us to get victory over particular problems, especially if we've spent a good deal of prior time digging holes for ourselves. But nothing is impossible for the Lord, and the Spirit is capable of solving all problems through our acceptance and application of the truth.

Great also to hear that you were led to the forum! That is really fantastic, and, given the plethora of "Bible teaching/Bible study" sites and channels out there, seems to me to be definitely "from the Lord".

I'm keeping you in prayer – may your peace and confidence in the Lord to continue to build, my friend!

You will keep him in perfect peace,
Whose mind is stayed on You,
Because he trusts in You.
Isaiah 26:3 NKJV

"Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
John 14:27 NKJV

In Jesus,

Bob L.


P.S.:  If you haven't noticed or already done so, please check out the list of wonderful ministry offerings on the Special Topics page, including Jordan Bomberger's new Bible teaching website: Bible Driven, Mike Ceja's new YouTube channel, "Everything is Fine", John Jackson's Hub pages (anyone with questions about the "church-visible" will find this helpful), the Expanded Index to Old Testament translations at Ichthys, Foundational Principles, by Odii Ariwodo, "The Peter series", Video presentations by Steven Tammen based on the SR series, and Steven's group studies of BB 6A (see also Steven's new website: BibleDocs).


*Special Prayer Request

  • For Dagmar, for healing of an infection in her right eye [5/6/25].

  • For Olanna (2 and 1/2 years), for complete healing from pneumonia, possibly malaria.  She is in hospital and just received an NG tube for feeding [update 1/25/25: at last report Olanna was doing much better; thanks for your prayers!].

  • For our friend: for her family's salvation and for her husband to find a new job [update 3/5/25: he found one with no gap in employment! Praise God . . .  and please continue to pray for salvation].
  • For Brian, for help navigating a "bad boss" situation, and for finding a new, better job.
  • Please pray for Emma's family's health and for their salvation. Her mother has severe stomach problems that are affecting her eating and weight. Update: Praise here! Her mother has no signs of cancer after full scan but may have colitis/diverticulitis. Please pray for healing and salvation. [3/19/25] Update [5/4/25]: Continual prayer needed for Judith as now seeking private healthcare as stomach problems returning and diagnosis not yet found.
    Emma's father's diabetes has worsened and now has eye problems. Her sister now has severe peri-menopausal symptoms (thyroid problems were misdiagnosed). Please pray for their deliverance and their ultimate deliverance which is saving faith.
  • Please pray for Teresa and her two sons to be delivered from an violent ex-husband. Please also pray this leads to their salvation. [12/8/24]
  • For our friend John who will be undergoing surgery for aortic aneurysms soon. [12/1/24]
  • For Henry's wife, Diane, who recently had a stroke: "Her right arm/hand especially needs healing.  It is nearly completely disabled today, although there are signs of slow improvement" [9/22/24].
  • For Chris and Lisa, for health and healing and for deliverance [9/22/24]; also for Chris, for health concerns (memory and fatigue), and for blessing on his job.

  • *Please pray for Kaeli, who is experiencing serious numbness and heaviness in her arms and legs; please pray for a correct diagnosis and swift healing [7/27/24] Update 8/8/24: situation getting worse; doctors unable to diagnosis the problem(s); update: 10/22/24: Kaeli is doing much better! (but please continue to pray).
  • Please pray for the Bowman family: the husband Nakia is battling heart issues, his wife, Raquel, battling breast cancer, and her father a tumor in the brain [7/21/24].
  • Please pray for J.D., recently diagnosed with colon cancer and looking at chemo, radiation and surgery. Update [3/31/25]: "[J.D.] is, since the surgery, cancer free according to the doctors. He is scheduled to have his next operation in a few weeks to reverse the ileostomy so prayers for his recovery are appreciated; prayers for the traveling [four hours to the hospital] would be greatly appreciated"; please also pray for Lisa's health.] Update 4/11/25: "Jds surgery was this morning. It went well and they have successfully hooked him back up. The temporary bag is gone!"]

  • For our friend Yuhanna, just diagnosed with idiopathic optic neuritis and potentially chronic lymphocytic leukemia.  Our friend's eyesight is recovering.  Please pray for full recovery and for healing of his blood disease.  *[Update: two rounds of chemo have apparently stopped the deterioration; please pray that further therapy will remove the cancer that infiltrated his eye; 7/12/24; Please also pray for his son Jaden to find full time employment, for his daughter Kaiya to find an accounting internship, and for his son Jakai for success and advancement in his current position]

  • Please pray for our friend's newborn grandson who was born with two clubfeet.  If surgery is necessary (the family will find out soon), he will require a four to five year medical plan for correction. [Update:  he will need surgery on both feet the end of the month; continued prayer appreciated: 5/19/24]

  • For Gary, for recovery from bone marrow cancer and nerve damage from chemo and numerous blood and platelet transfusions [1/14/24].

  • For Belinda, for help and healing with memory issues [12/31/23].

  • For guidance and courage for Aleah, whose violent father is trying to gain custody of her siblings.

  • For Steve, who has grade 4 lung and pancreatic cancer; the disease has responded to chemo but please keep our brother in your prayers.

  • For Tricia, for comfort in bereavement and for help in overcoming her sense of loss and emptiness.

  • For Anna, for healing and victory in this health test [update 11/3/24: health is much better; thanks for the prayers!].

  • For Sawyer, a young teenager who professes to want to be saved but says "God hasn’t dealt with him yet". Please pray for him to get the victory and assurance.

  • For our friend Leigh's father, a veteran with serious lung problems, for a correct diagnosis and successful treatment.

  • [12/10/23] For Bob and Debbie, for healing / coping with ongoing health issues.  For more spiritual growth and insight to get through our several tests and trials, and if/when called, be able to help others to grow more in the faith of the truth.  For the salvation of unsaved family members and friends.  For recovery / healing for family members and friends who are suffering from mental and physical illnesses, and for victory in overcoming spiritual battles.  For deliverance of family members who are entrapped in legalism and cultic false teaching ministries. [praise here for Debbie's successful surgery and treatment].

  • For our friend's son who is struggling with severe OCD and crippling anxiety.

  • For Walter and for his son Joshua who is struggling with "gender dysphoria" and is considering transitioning; *please also pray for Walter himself: he just lost his job [update 5/24: success in landing a new job; please pray for all to go well].

  • For Michael, for his health and for his livelihood in providing for his family, and for his efforts in leading his family to the truth of the Word. [our friend is currently unemployed and his business is out of operation, so please pray for him for restoration of livelihood; *update 10/1/22 from Michael: "I have lost my livelihood. Please pray for me!"; update 2/2/24: situation improving: thanks for the prayers!]

  • *For Joe, for recovery from a stroke on the right side of the brain.  Joe is presently being tube-fed and also has a urinary tract infection *[Praise here! "[Joe is out of hospital and] is working on getting stronger, walking and writing; he drove their vehicle two times a short distance on the private road that they live on; the doctor told him that only 12% of people have a stroke on the right side, and most of the people don't survive.  God heard all our prayers."].

  • [12/25/24] Please pray for Angel who has basal cell carcinoma requiring many weeks of radiation therapy for her eyes.

  • Please pray for Curtis Omo's wife Amy. She went to the emergency a few weeks ago and now has learned she needs at least two operations. [update: Amy had her first operation; recovery was very difficult at first but change of meds helped; please keep them in prayer].

  • *For Femi whose legal issues are about to come to a head, for his deliverance and for his healing from diabetes and heart problems *[update 8/31/22: our friend is in distress due to insufficient funds to pay necessary legal bills; please pray for his encouragement and rescue from this terrible situation].

  • For Walter's wife Kim, for a good report on her recent biopsy [praise! benign report!].

  • Mark and Renι Perkins' efforts in evangelism in Tahiti ( Evanelia).

  • For Mike and his family, for encouragement and help under pressure, and that he not lose his Medecaid.

  • For Carol, for deliverance from debilitating physical and mental disability, for spiritual growth and progress.

  • For Angel's father, for quick recovery from a debilitating hip injury, and for his mental and emotional encouragement.

  • Please pray for Emma, for her spiritual growth and ministry and gaining employment for material provision to support it. [3/19/25] Update: Emma will need to apply for work after long-term unemployment, please pray she will be able to get part time office work asap. [5/4/25] Praise here! Emma's ultrasound came back normal but still waiting on biopsy and blood tests. Close friend Barry will need both a CT Coronary Angiogram and an Echo Cardiogram for his heart problems and is still struggling to breathe. Please pray for diagnosis, healing and salvation.

  • For Matthias, for the deliverance of his children abducted overseas by his estranged wife.

  • For my friend Carmen who suffered a broken left arm (both bones, compound fracture of the ulna) and a broken back (two vertebrae fractured) [Carmen is out of her cast and brace and making progress; thank you for the prayers!]; for her boy Josh's recovery from alcoholism and for encouragement for him to turn to the Lord for help [update 5/24: Josh has passed away; please pray for the family's comfort; and please pray for their son Jake's salvation].
  • For Leigh's sister, for protection in and swift deliverance from a very dangerous domestic situation. Please also pray for her friend Michelle's healing from cancer [update: Michelle, had a successful transplant in October and she's doing very well].

  • For Tony, for healing from aggressive glaucoma.

  • [1/7/24] For Dawn's comfort on the recent loss of her daughter Daphne from chronic Lyme disease.  Please also pray for her granddaughter Fiona's salvation.

  • For Jamie, for encouragement and support under pressure, and guidance in future ministry plans.

  • For Sylvia, for her strength and energy is supporting her grandchildren and great grandchild whose parents are unbelievers, and for her help in leading them all to the Lord.

  • For Carrie, recently diagnosed with cancer. She has three daughters. The family has already been through a lot, having lost their husband/father to cancer a few years ago. They are believers.

  • For Andrea's continuing progress in spiritual growth, for her daughter Juanita's salvation.

  • For Anna's brother who is in failing health, that he might be led to the Lord [update: Mark passed on 3/8/25: "I can do nothing but believe that God had the victory and that I will see him again"; thank you all for your prayers].

  • For Ashley, for recovery of her health from a difficult to diagnose and serious condition [worsening with shortness of breath and tremors]; and for the salvation of her mother and her brother.

  • For Gill's sister, "for her continued recovery, as well as to demonstrate to the family the power of prayer and faith in Christ".

  • For our brother Abishai, for the restoration of his livelihood and reconciliation with family.  Please also pray for our brother's efforts to prepare for ministry.

  • For our friend Gaurav, for encouragement, health, and material deliverance. [n.b., Gaurav was the first one on this list years ago; he writes that he is still "hanging in" and staying faithful to the Lord, but he and his family are in greater material need than ever; please remember them in your prayers]; *please also pray for his health and his mother's health (she recently became blind in one eye from an infection and diabetes complications, neither of which have resolved as yet).
  • For Abby for success and blessing in her new efforts in ministry, and for her cousin Danny's health. Please also pray for her health, strength and perseverance in stressful and challenging circumstances; please also pray for her mother's health.
  • For the empowerment of our friend Curt's ministry.

  • For our friend John's family's deliverance from cult influence [praise for some good news here: one saved, but some members are still entrapped; prayers for deliverance and salvation appreciated; 9/20/24]. Please also pray for John's health and that of his wife as well.

  • For our friend Steve for strength, protection, providence and deliverance - more needful now than ever.
  • For the healing from MS, blessing, encouragement and vindication of our brother, Nihal.  Please also protect him and his family and church family from the recent troubles in Sri Lanka [update: MS weakening nervous system but our brother stays strong in his faith; 9/5/24).
  • For our friend Mike's encouragement and God's blessing on his livelihood to provide for his family.
  • For Helen's healing from cancer and for her comfort in the loss of her family members.
  • For Clyde's encouragement and deliverance in severe testing.
  • For Judah, for healing from brain trauma and other consequence of serious auto accidents.

  • For the salvation of Tom and his family.

  • For deliverance for John's friend from the JW heresy.
  • For our friend Anna and her family's comfort in the loss of her daughter, and for the comfort, encouragement and salvation of her two grandchildren.
  • For our friend Sheila's healing from the effects of a chronic condition.
  • For Leigh, for protection and deliverance from a dangerous neighbor, and for help in restoring her home and home situation [update 3/23: delivered!  Thanks all for your prayers!].

  • [1/13/24] For Becca's mother, for healing from cancer, serious liver disease (requiring transplant which is not possible without recovery from the former), lung problems, and chronic pain (Update: she is on the list for transplant; please pray for a successful one ASAP); update: 5/12/24: transplant successful! Mom is recuperating.

  • For the salvation of John's two unbelieving sons.
  • For Charles' two granddaughters for their salvation and spiritual growth.
  • *For Cary, for deliverance in persecution on the job for sticking up for the Lord and for the truth (special harassment for a Christian teacher in a state school where Mormons are in charge).
  • For Amber's continued spiritual growth and encouragement, and for her healing.  Please also pray for the salvation of her grandmother.
  • For Kamil, a new believer, who has been unjustly accused because of his family's political activities.
  • For the spiritual growth and encouragement of Max and his family.
  • For Lucille, for complete recovery from "long Covid", along with lung and heart problems related thereto.

  • More E-mails:       Complete archive of previous emails:  Ichthys' Emails

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations XIV

    Eschatology Issues CXLII

    Old Testament Interpretation XXII

    Eschatology Issues CXLI

    Believers in the World XVII

    Sin, Guilt, and Salvation IX

    Culture and Christianity XXVII

    Eschatology Issues CXL

    The Battlefield Within IV

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ XXI

    Eschatology Issues CXXXIX

    Christology Questions XV

    Fighting the Fight XXIII

    Eschatology Issues CXXXVIII

    Believers in the World XVI

    Eschatology Issues CXXXVII

    Fighting the Fight XXII

    Eschatology Issues CXXXVI

    Believers in the World XV

    Christology Questions XIV

    Dispensations, Covenants, Israel and the Church III

    Sin, Guilt, and Salvation VIII

    Eschatology Issues CXXXV

    Eschatology Issues CXXXIV

    Payer Questions VII

    Confronting False Groups and False Teaching VII

    Confronting False Groups and False Teaching VI

    Eschatology Issues CXXXIII

    Salvation, the Gospel, and Unbelief X

    Eschatology Issues CXXXII

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry XXI

    Sin, Guilt, and Salvation VII

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ XX

    Eschatology Issues CXXXI

    Fighting the Fight XXI

    Believers in the World XIV

    Eschatology Issues CXXX

    Eschatology Issues CXXIX

    Eschatology Issues CXXVIII

    New Testament Interpretation XI

    Finding a Church – or Something Better? III

    Eschatology Issues CXXVII

    Biblical Anthropology XI

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry XX

    Eschatology Issues CXXVI

    New Testament Interpretation X

    Eschatology Issues CXXV

    Sin, Guilt, and Salvation VI

    Eschatology Issues CXXIV

    Church History IV

    Eschatology Issues CXXIII

    The Local Church and Personal Ministry VI

    Cults and Christianity XVI

    Believers in the World XIII

    Eschatology Issues CXXII

    Eschatology Issues CXXI

    The Holy Spirit: Pneumatology Questions VII

    Gospel Questions XVIII

    Baptism: Water and Spirit XII

    Culture and Christianity XXVI

    Eschatology Issues CXX

    Eschatology Issues CXIX

    Salvation, the Gospel, and Unbelief IX

    Eschatology Issues CXVIII

    Marriage and the Bible XIII

    Christology Questions XIII

    Eschatology Issues CXVII

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ XIX

    Eschatology Issues CXVI

    Old Testament Interpretation XXI

    Eschatology Issues CXV

    The Battlefield Within III

    The Battlefield Within: Fighting the inner spiritual Struggle II

    Eschatology Issues CXIV

    Salvation, the Gospel, and Unbelief VIII

    Eschatology Issues CXIII

    Eschatology Issues CXII

    Biblical Interpretation XVI

    Fighting the Fight XX

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry XIX

    Believers in the World XII

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ XVIII

    Marriage and the Bible XII

    Eschatology Issues CXI

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry XVIII

    Fighting the Fight XIX

    Culture and Christianity XXV

    Fighting the Fight XVIII

    Eschatology Issues CX

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations XIII

    Legalism, Past and Present VI

    Sin, Guilt and Salvation V

    Eschatology Issues CIX

    Eschatology Issues CVIII

    Sin, Faith and Suffering IV

    Fighting the Fight XVII

    Marriage and the Bible XI

    Legalism, Past and Present V

    Eschatology Issues CVII

    Sin, Guilt, and Salvation IV

    Culture and Christianity XXIV

    Faith, Forgiveness, Salvation VII

    Cults and Christianity XV

    Cults and Christianity XIV

    Eschatology Issues CVI

    Mutual encouragement in Christ XVI

    Prayer Questions VI

    Eschatology Issues CV

    Marriage and the Bible X

    Fighting the Fight XVI

    Eschatology Issues CIV

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ XV

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry XVII

    Sin, Guilt, and Salvation III

    Eschatology Issues CIII

    Genesis Gap: Questions and Answers VII

    Church: The Biblical Ideal versus the Contemporary Reality IV

    Old Testament Interpretation XX

    Eschatology Issues CII

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ XIV

    Baptism: Water and Spirit XI

    Biblical Anthropology X

    Eschatology Issues CI

    The Local Church and Personal Ministry V

    Spiritual Warfare VIII

    Eschatology Issues C (100)

    Sin, Faith and Suffering III

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry XVI

    Eschatology Issues XCIX

    Eschatology Issues XCVIII

    Eschatology Issues XCVII

    Eschatology Issues XCVI

    Old Testament Interpretation XIX

    Eschatology Issues XCV

    Eschatology Issues XCIV

    Old Testament Interpretation XVIII

    Mutual encouragement in Christ XIII

    Eschatology Issues XCIII

    Eschatology Issues XCII

    Christology Questions XII

    Faith, Forgiveness, Salvation VI

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry XV

    Eschatology Issues XCI

    Christology Questions XI

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations XII

    Eschatology Issues XC

    Biblical Interpretation XV

    Eschatology Issues LXXXIX

    Eschatology Issues LXXXVIII

    Eschatology Issues LXXXVII

    Eschatology Issues LXXXVI

    Fighting the Fight XV

    Eschatology Issues LXXXV

    Fighting the Fight XIV

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry XIV

    Eschatology Issues LXXXIV

    Biblical Anthropology IX

    Eschatology Issues LXXXIII

    Prayer Questions V

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry XIII

    Cults and Christianity XIII

    Eschatology Issues LXXXII

    Culture and Christianity XXIII

    Bible Versions, Bible Translation, and Bible Reading VII

    Eschatology Issues LXXXI

    Church: The Biblical Ideal versus the Contemporary Reality III

    Angelic Issues X

    Biblical Interpretation XIV

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ XII

    Bible Versions, Bible Translation, and Bible Reading VI

    Eschatology Issues LXXX

    Bible Versions, Bible Translation, and Bible Reading V

    Eschatology Issues LXXIX

    Eschatology Issues LXXVIII

    Eschatology Issues LXXVII

    Eschatology Issues LXXVI

    Eschatology Issues LXXV

    Eschatology Issues LXXIV

    Eschatology Issues LXXIII

    Fighting the Fight XIII

    Marriage and the Bible IX

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry XII

    Eschatology Issues LXXII

    Eschatology Issues LXXI

    Eschatology Issues LXX

    Eschatology Issues LXIX

    Church History III

    Gospel Questions XVII

    Eschatology Issues LXVIII

    Eschatology Issues LXVII

    Baptism: Water and Spirit X

    Eschatology Issues LXVI

    Eschatology Issues LXV

    Old Testament Interpretation XVII

    Eschatology Issues LXIV

    Eschatology Issues LXIII

    Gospel Questions XVI

    Eschatology Issues LXII

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ XI

    Eschatology Issues LXI

    Biblical Interpretation XIII

    Eschatology Issues LX

    Eschatology Issues LIX

    Eschatology Issues LVIII

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ X

    Eschatology Issues LVII

    Eschatology Issues LVI

    Eschatology Issues LV

    Confronting False Groups and False Teaching V

    Eschatology Issues LIV

    Eschatology Issues LIII

    Sin, Faith and Suffering II

    Eschatology Issues LII

    Eschatology Issues LI

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry XI

    Eschatology Issues XXXXX

    Christian Perspectives on Disease and Death

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ IX

    Eschatology Issues XLIX

    Culture and Christianity XXII

    Eschatology Issues XLVIII

    Eschatology Issues XLVII

    Eschatology Issues XLVI

    Eschatology Issues XLV

    Culture and Christianity XXI

    Eschatology Issues XLIV

    Theology Questions IV

    Eschatology Issues XLIII

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ VIII

    Eschatology Issues XLII

    Isaiah Questions

    Eschatology Issues XLI

    Eschatology Issues XL

    Eschatology Issues XXXIX

    Eschatology Issues XXXVIII

    Eschatology Issues XXXVII

    Eschatology Issues XXXVI

    Confronting False Groups and False Teaching IV

    Eschatology Issues XXXV

    Eschatology Issues XXXIV

    Eschatology Issues XXXIII

    Eschatology Issues XXXII

    Eschatology Issues XXXI

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry X

    Eschatology Issues XXX

    Eschatology Issues XXIX

    Old Testament Interpretation XVI

    Salvation, the Gospel, and Unbelief VII

    New Testament Interpretation IX

    Fighting the Fight XII

    Eschatology Issues XXVIII

    Spiritual Warfare VII

    Believers in the World XI

    Revelation Questions II

    Believers in the World X

    Faith, Forgiveness, Salvation V

    Biblical Interpretation XII

    Old Testament Interpretation XV

    Gospel Questions XV

    Fighting the Fight XI

    Apologetics and Legalism II

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry IX

    Gospel Questions XIV

    The 'Rapture' and other Eschatological Issues

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry VIII

    Marriage and the Bible VIII

    Believers in the World IX

    Biblical Interpretation XI

    Salvation, the Gospel, and Unbelief VI

    Cults and Christianity XII

    Eschatology Issues XXVII

    Theological Questions III

    New Testament Interpretation VIII

    Eschatology Issues XXVI

    Old Testament Interpretation XIV

    Politics versus Spiritual Growth IV

    Old Testament Interpretation XIII

    Salvation, the Gospel, and Unbelief V

    Biblical Interpretation X

    Fighting the Fight X

    Politics versus Spiritual Growth III

    Baptism: Water and Spirit IX

    Biblical Anthropology VIII

    Faith, Forgiveness, Salvation IV

    Genesis Questions IV

    Fighting the Fight IX

    Eschatology Issues XXV

    Angelic Issues IX

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry VII

    Legalism, Past, Present and Future IV

    New Testament Interpretation VII

    Eschatology Issues XXIV: the 'Rapture' et al.

    Believers in the World VIII: Coping with Family

    Salvation, the Gospel, and Unbelief IV

    Believers in the World VII

    Culture and Christianity XX

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations XI

    Cults and Christianity XI

    Spiritual Gifts and False Teaching

    Angelic Issues VIII

    Christology Questions X

    Believers in the World VI

    Genesis Gap: Questions and Answers VI

    Atheism and Evangelism

    New Testament Interpretation VI

    Old Testament Interpretation XII

    Fighting the Fight VIII

    Spiritual Warfare VI

    Sin, Faith and Suffering

    Prayer, Vows and Confession

    Eschatology Issues XXIII

    Apologetics, Ministry and False Teaching

    Culture and Christianity XIX

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry VI

    Church: The Biblical Ideal versus the Contemporary Reality II

    Salvation, the Gospel, and Unbelief III

    Fighting the Fight VII

    The Holy Spirit: Pneumatology Questions VI

    Interpretation, Application, Exegesis and Ministry

    Biblical Anthropology VII

    Baptism: Water and Spirit VIII

    Text and Canon

    New Testament Interpretation V

    Grace versus Law II

    Apathy, Atheism, Cults and False Teaching

    All about Ichthys III

    The Battlefield Within II: Combating anger, fear, blaming God, blaming others

    Salvation Questions III

    Faith, Forgiveness, Salvation III

    Eschatology Issues XXII

    Cults and Christianity X

    Cults and Christianity IX

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry V

    Fighting the Fight VI

    Marriage and the Bible VII

    Culture and Christianity XVIII: Substance Use and Abuse, Tithing, Politics and Environmentalism, Friendship, Self-Defense, and Work

    Paul the Apostle: Aspects of his Life and Ministry II

    Old Testament Interpretation XI

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ VII

    The Transitional Era of the Book of Acts and its Unique Spiritual Gifts

    Old Testament Interpretation X

    Marriage and the Bible VI

    The pre-Trib 'Rapture': so called 'imminence' and other false proofs refuted

    Encouragement, Spiritual Testing and Spiritual Growth III

    Eschatology Issues XXI

    Eschatology Issues XX

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations X

    Legalism, Past and Present III: Sabbath observance, tithing, dietary regulations and other issues

    Believers in the World V: Ministering, Mutually Encouraging, and Coping with Family, Politics, and Health

    Salvation, the Gospel, and Unbelief II

    Old Testament Interpretation IX

    Christology Questions IX: Christ and His Church

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ VI: Perseverance

    Science and the Bible III

    Faith, Forgiveness, Salvation II

    Eschatology Issues XIX

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry IV

    Bible Interpretation IX

    Marriage and the Bible V

    Gospel Questions XIII

    Biblical Anthropology VI

    Cults and Christianity VIII

    Fighting the Fight V: Dispatches from the Laodicean 'Front' II

    Old Testament Interpretation VIII

    Eschatology Issues XVIII

    Spiritual Growth III

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry III

    Sin, Guilt, and Salvation II

    New Testament Interpretation IV

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations IX

    Peace, Reconciliation and Salvation

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ V: Soldiers of the Cross

    Baptism: Water and Spirit VII

    Faith, Forgiveness, Salvation

    Cults and Christianity VII

    Old Testament Interpretation VII

    Sin, Guilt, and Salvation

    Eschatology Issues XVII

    Dangers of the Pre-Trib Rapture False Teaching

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations VIII

    The Infinity, Magnitude, Glory, Providence and Plan of God

    Eschatology Issues XVI

    Gospel Questions XII

    The Bible and the Canon: The Inspired Word of God IV

    Nephilim, Antichrist, the False Prophet and the Mark of the Beast

    Angelic Issues VII

    Prayer Questions II

    The Trinity and Messianic Legalism II

    Annihilationism, Universalism, Hell and Judgment II

    Atheism and Apologetics II

    Politics versus Spiritual Growth II

    Culture and Christianity XVII: Humor, Self-Defense, Pacifism and War

    Culture and Christianity XVI: Alcohol, Money and Dietary Issues

    Dreams, Visions, Miracles, Exorcism, Tongues, and False Prophets

    Calvinism, Catholicism and Ichthys

    Apologetics, Legalism, Cults and Philosophy

    The Law, Legalism, and Rome

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ IV

    Genesis Gap: Questions and Answers V

    Faith and Free Will in Trial and Testing

    Free Will and God's WILL in Salvation

    Jobs, Money, Finances and Giving: What does the Bible say?

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry II

    Eschatology Issues XV

    Dealing with Sin and Guilt

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ III

    Preparing for Tribulation II

    It is Better on the Other Side

    Family Matters

    Christology Questions VIII: The Deity, Humanity and Life of Christ

    The Lives of the Apostles and the Writing of the New Testament II

    Biblical People and Places: Eve, Cain, Noah, Abraham, Hagar, Esau, Joseph and more

    Biblical Anthropology V: Body, Spirit and 'Soul', Present and Future

    Satan, Antichrist, the False Prophet and the Mark of the Beast

    The Holy Spirit: Pneumatology Questions V

    Prophets, Prophecy, and False Prophets

    Christology Questions VII: The Life and Spiritual Death of Christ and Holy Communion

    The Bible and the Canon: The Inspired Word of God III

    Culture and Christianity XV: The Bible vs. some Sensitive Social and Political Issues

    Christology Questions VI: Christophany, Deity and the Spiritual Death of Christ

    Encouragement, Spiritual Testing and Spiritual Growth II

    Spiritual Warfare V

    Cults and Christianity VI

    Fighting the Fight IV: Dispatches from the Laodicean 'Front'

    Eschatology Issues XIV

    The Gift of Tongues: Part 3

    The Resurrection Body and our Eternal Future II

    Gospel Questions XI

    Blindness, Disease and Healing

    Ministry and Preparation for Ministry

    Should I go to seminary or not?

    Atheism and Apologetics

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations VII

    Church History II

    Salvation Questions II

    Culture and Christianity XIV

    Encouragement, Spiritual Testing and Spiritual Growth

    Judaism and Legalism in the church-visible

    Bible Interpretation VIII

    Apostasy, Sin and Salvation

    Confronting False Groups and False Teaching III

    Eschatology Issues XIII: Time of the Tribulation and the Resurrection, Antichrist and the Mark of the Beast

    Salvation Questions

    Theological Questions II

    The Holy Spirit: Pneumatology Questions IV

    Old Testament Interpretation VI

    More Questions on the Book of Hebrews: Melchizedek, Esau, and the 'Impossibility' of Being Restored

    Believers in the World IV: Making Godly Choices vs. Following Man-Made Rules

    Guilt, Sin and Victory through Spiritual Growth

    Confronting False Groups and False Teaching II

    Cults and Christianity V

    Politics versus Spiritual Growth

    Christian Struggle, Perseverance and Deliverance

    The Bible and the Natural World

    Sin, Fear and Forgiveness

    An Extended Conversation on the 'Unpardonable' Sin

    Eternal Realities: Real Heaven, Real Hell

    Eschatology Issues XII: Babylon, Armageddon, Israel, 2026

    Ministers, Ministry, and Preparation for Ministry

    Evangelism in Principle and Practice II

    Gospel Questions X: Glory, John the baptist, the hidden talent, the Kingdom of God

    Old Testament Interpretation V: The Flight to Egypt, the Virgin Birth, Jonathan's Choice, Tyre in Prophecy

    Matthew Questions, verse by verse

    Marriage and the Bible IV

    Politics and Political Action on the Eve of the Tribulation

    Bible Versions, Bible Translation, and Bible Reading IV

    Spiritual Growth II

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ II

    Baptism: Water and Spirit VI

    Science and the Bible II

    Genesis Gap: Questions and Answers IV

    Culture and Christianity XIII: College, Dating, Marriage and Friendship

    Eschatology Issues XI: Trumpets, the Millennium, the Time of the Tribulation and the Resurrection.

    Sin according to the Bible: Hamartiology II

    Bible Interpretation VII

    Salvation and Sin

    Bible Interpretation VI

    Eschatology Issues X: Strong delusion, blood moons, 2026, imminence, apostasy & the mark of the beast

    Angelic Issues VI: Cherubs, Guardians, Elders and 'gods'

    Sin according to the Bible: Hamartiology I

    Bible Chronology, Aramaic and Interpretation

    Christians and Mental Illness

    Culture and Christianity XII

    Prayer Questions

    The Trinity and Messianic Legalism

    Anger, Anthropopathism, Eternity and Divine Motives

    Unbelievers, Free Will, and the Plan of God II

    Christology Questions V: the Baptism, Temptation and Spiritual Death of Christ

    The Bible and the Canon: The Inspired Word of God II

    Believers in the World III: Prosperity Gospel, Tithing, Cults and Legalism

    Gospel Questions IX

    Faith, Hope and Love: Virtue in Spiritual Warfare

    Trinity Questions II

    Some Sensitive Topics IV

    Finding a Church - or Something Better? II

    New Testament Interpretation III

    Faith vs. History, Archaeology, Philosophy

    Believers in the World II: Confronting False Groups and False Teaching

    The 144,000 and the Two Witnesses of the Tribulation

    Biblical Anthropology IV: Soul and Spirit, Image and Likeness, Book of Life, Life at Birth, Accountability and Infant Salvation.

    Spiritual Growth

    Predestination, Free Will and False Teaching

    Christophany and the Trinity

    Love, Marriage, and Divorce: Marriage and the Bible III

    Interpreting Dreams and Analyzing Prophetic Claims

    Culture and Christianity XI: Lying, Suicide, Tattoos, Investing, Drugs, Music, Family, Dating, Politics

    Bible Versions, Bible Translation, and Bible Reading III

    Eschatology Issues IX: Amillennialism, Trumpets, and the Seven Days

    Spiritual Warfare IV: Demons, Demonic Influences and Satanic Methodology

    Satan's Fall from Grace

    Atheism and Gnosticism: Denying the Truth about God

    Sin, Salvation and Forgiveness: Claiming the Mental and Spiritual High-Ground

    Struggling with Salvation . . . and Relatives

    Legalism, Past and Present II

    Ministry and the Ichthys Ministry II

     All about Ichthys II: Mutual Encouragement in the Lord

    The Book of Job and Christian Suffering

    Genesis Gap: Questions and Answers III: Creationism, Neanderthals, Fossil Record

    Christology Questions IV: Jesus' Birth, Baptism, Early Life, and Kenosis

    Third Party Testimony III: Near Death Experiences, Revelations and Tongues

    Third Party Testimony II: Charismatic Claims of Visions, Dreams and Prophecy

    Third Party Testimony I: We Believe God and His Word - Not People

    God Heals - in His way (not our way)

    Sanctification, Separation and Restraint

    Finding a Church - or Something Better?

    Culture and Christianity X:  Military Service, College, Politics, and Race Relations

    Contemporary Churches and Women Preachers

    Culture and Christianity IX: Politics, Tithing, Music, Crucifixes, Alcohol, and Gambling

    Marriage and the Bible II

    Biblical Anthropology III: Soul versus Spirit, "Soul Sleep", and the Interim Body

    New Testament Interpretation II: Who is equal? Grace in vain. Unequally yoked.

    Aspects of the Crucifixion II: Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday?

    Aspects of the Crucifixion I: Carrying the cross, trials and rooster crow.

    Salvation Lost and Found

    The Canon: Content, Chronology, and Criticism

    Spiritual Warfare III: Peter's 'Angel', Saul's Death, and Strange Events

    Old Testament Interpretation IV: Gehazi's Leprosy, Tyre's Destruction, and Immanuel

    Nephilim, Fallen Angels, and Genesis 6

    Gospel Questions VIII

    Sin, Atonement and Forgiveness II

    Sin, Atonement and Forgiveness I

    Annihilationism, Universalism, Hell and Judgment

    When is the Rapture?

    Noah, the Flood, and the Nature of Animals

    The Tribulation: Timing of, Preparation for, and Conditions in

    Eschatology Issues VIII: Revelation, Tribulation and Judgment

    Antichrist: the Mark, the Number, and the Identification of the Beast

    Satan's Revolt and the Tribulation to Come

    Old Testament Interpretation III: The Name 'Jacob', the Mark of Cain, Jeshrun.

    Old Testament Interpretation II: Urim and Thummim, the Bronze Serpent, the Ark.

    Being Saved: Security, Apostasy, and the Sin unto Death

    Fighting the Fight III: False Teaching, Local Churches, and the Truth

    Fighting the Fight II: Struggling with Sin, Doubt, and Severe Testing

    Fighting the Fight I: Accountability, Faith, Sin, Forgiveness, and Reward

    Dispensations, Covenants, Israel and the Church II

    Dispensations, Covenants, Israel and the Church I

    Witnessing: Cults and Christianity II

    Witnessing: Cults and Christianity I

    Ministry and the Ichthys Ministry

    Biblical Interpretation V

    Baptism: Water and Spirit V

    Spiritual Growth, Church-Searching and "Discipling"

    Unbelievers, Free Will, and the Plan of God

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations VI

    Baptism: Water and Spirit IV

    Paganism, Idolatry, Mythology and the Occult

    The Lives of the Apostles and the Writing of the New Testament

    The Essence of God and Deity of Christ

    Parables and their Interpretation

    The Meaning and Purpose of True Christian Assembly

    Marriage and the Bible

    Spiritual 'ups' and 'downs'

    1st John: Text and Interpretation

    Eschatology Issues VII

    Perseverance in the latter days of Laodicea

    Babylon USA?

    Baptism: Water and Spirit III

    Prayer: the Persistence, Purpose and Power of.

    Paul the Apostle: Aspects of his Life and Ministry

    Gospel Questions VII: The Wedding at Cana et al.

    Israel, 'Lost Tribes' and the Star of David

    Israel and Antichrist in Eschatology

    Explaining and Defending the Trinity and the Person of Christ II

    The Holy Spirit: Pneumatology Questions III

    Culture and Christianity VIII

    The Geography of Heaven, Hades and 'Hell'.

    Eschatology Issues VI

    Bible Interpretation IV

    Legalism, Past and Present

    The Resurrection Body and our Eternal Future.

    Christ the First-Born, High Priest in the Order of Melchizedek.

    Bible Versions, Bible Translation, and Bible Reading II

    Bible Versions, Bible Translation, and Bible Reading

    Hermeneutics, Typology, Christophany, Theophany and Anthropopathism.

    No, Hebrews does not teach that you lost your salvation.

    Gospel Questions VI: the Long Ending of Mark et al.

    Judas and the Betrayal of Christ

    Doubting Salvation and Questions of Sin

    The 144,000: God's Seal vs. the Mark of the Beast

    Atheism: Putting Truth to Death

    War in Heaven II

    The Holy Spirit: Pneumatology Questions II

    War in Heaven

    The Holy Spirit: Pneumatology Questions I

    The Law, Love, Faith-Rest and Messianism

    Paul and the Law

    Genesis Questions III

    Sin and Salvation, Confession and Forgiveness

    Have I Lost My Salvation? (III)

    The Battlefield Within: Fighting the inner spiritual Struggle.

    Putting Christ in Christmas: Loving Jesus, the Star and the Magi, Wonderful Counselor.

    Old Testament Interpretation: Moses and Zipporah, David's disastrous Census, the Destruction of the Midianites, et al.

    Healing, Miracles, and Dreams: Sorting the Wheat from the Chaff by biblical Means

    153 Fish: Explaining some Difficult New Testament Passages

    Kenosis: Our Lord's Self-Limitation during the 1st Advent

    Biblical Anthropology II: 'Soul sleep', & dichotomy vs. trichotomy

    Biblical Anthropology I: The Nature of Human Beings and Human Life according to the Bible.

    Genesis Gap: Questions and Answers II.

    Culture and Christianity VII: Jury Duty, Witnessing, Biometry, Military Service et al.

    Culture and Christianity VI: Halloween, Holidays, Aliens, and Christian Applications.

    Angelic Issues V: Michael, the Angel of the Lord, Christophany, demons, cherubs, and Satan's revolt.

    Angelic Issues IV:  Satan's Revolt in the Plan of God.

    New Testament Interpretation: Melchizedek, 'Forsake not Assembly', 'Women Remain Silent', Water-Baptism, Tongues, Prophecy, Intervention of Departed Believers.

    Lost my salvation II?

    All about Ichthys: Mutual Encouragement in the Lord. 

    Genesis Questions.

    Fallen Angels, Demons, Nephilim, and the Devil's Methodology.

    End Times Interpretation II.

    Salvation, the Gospel, and Unbelief.

    The Bible and the Canon: The Inspired Word of God.

    End Times Interpretation.

    Grace versus Law.

    Communion and the Spiritual Death of Christ.

    Sinlessness and 1st John.

    Israelology, Anti-Semitism, the Remnant, Gentiles, Lost Tribes, Jewish Myths.

    "Soul Sleep" versus our true Heavenly State.

    Christology Questions III: The Angel of the Lord, the Lamb Slain, monogenes.

    Angelic Issues III: Demons, Satan, Elders, Female Angels and Guardians.

    Against Universalism III: Unbelievers in the Plan of God.

    Waters Above, the Firmament, and the Genesis Gap.

    Marriage "Matters".

    In Need of Guidance and Encouragement.

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations V.

    Servants, Slaves, Disciples, and Ministers.

    Baptism: Water and Spirit II.

    Bible Interpretation III: David's Anointing, Stephen versus Genesis, Triplets, This People, and more.

    Evangelism in Principle and Practice.

    Scripture versus Personal Experience.

    Calvinism, Covenants and Catholicism.

    Culture and Christianity V: Temporal Authority vs. Biblical Application.

    False Doctrine of Absolute Eternal Security III.

    The Dangers of Messianic Legalism IV: Unclean and Impure?

    Things to Come III: The Wrath of God and the Fate of the Beast's Army.

    God Works All Things Together for Good.

    The 7 Trumpets, the 7 Kings, Nephilim, Antichrist and Revived Rome.

    The Coming Tribulation and the Kingdom of God.

    Sin, Confession and Forgiveness.

    Mutual Encouragement in Christ.

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations IV.

    Culture and Christianity IV: Doing one's job as 'unto the Lord', the peril's of 'heroic medicine', Christian perspectives on legalizing marijuana, when lying is not a sin, and when life begins.

    Eschatology Issues V: "It is not for you to know the times or the seasons".

    Ichthys and Contemporary Christianity.

    Gospel Questions V: Help my Unbelief, Respecting our Enemies, etc.

    The Two Witnesses of the Tribulation: Moses and Elijah.

    The Apostles, the Jerusalem Council, and Legalism then and now.

    Aspects of the Christian Walk: Gambling, Lying, Christmas, Judging, Worrying, et al.

    No Rapture

    Believers in the World: Using our Free Will to Respond to the Lord

    Christology Questions II: The Serpent Lifted and the Cross, Jesus' Infallibility, Destroy this Temple, the Sign Spoken Against, His Glorification, the Spirit's Anointing, and the Necessity for His Humanity.

    Paul's Jerusalem Error, Worshiping Truly, the Priesthood of the Believer, and Peter's Vision of the Impure Food

    Christian Trials and Testing

    Gospel Questions IV: The Prophet, the rich man in Hades, Peter's wife, the 'eleven' and the 'twelve' apostles, 'the world could not contain' (Jn.21:25), and progressive revelation.

    Eschatology Issues IV: Israeli politics, 'This Generation', Signs of the Times, the Beast presently alive?, 'Flee Babylon', Preparing for the Tribulation, and 'was, is not, will be'.

    John's Water-Baptism versus the Baptism of the Holy Spirit

    Eschatology Issues III: Over-focusing on Revelation, the Seven Churches, Enoch versus Elijah, and the Symbolism of the Menorah

    The Purpose of Chronicles, Cyrus the Persian, the Chronology of the Exodus Plagues, Qumran and Isaiah, Nebuchadnezzar's Madness, and Jeremiah 31:22, "A Woman will Embrace a Man".

    Aaron and the Golden Calf, Mount Zion, Moses and Zipporah, the high priest's attire, and the ark of the covenant.

    Aspects of the Genesis Curse on Animals, the Tree of Knowing Good and Evil, Jacob Wrestling with the Angel of the Lord, and Kainam.

    The City of David, the Star of David, Solomon's Wisdom, and the Song of Solomon.

    The Israelites at Kadesh and 'not entering the Land of Promise'.

    Genesis Gap: Questions and Answers.

    Sin and Spiritual Transformation.

    Cults and Christianity IV

    Cults and Christianity III

    Cults and Christianity II

    Cults and Christianity.

    One Baptism: the True Meaning of Peter's Words at Acts 2:38.

    Apostasy and the Sin unto Death, the Conscience and Sanctification.

    The Plan of God and Individual Salvation (excerpt from BB 4B)

    In Your Anger, do not Sin:  Ephesians 4:26 and the Sin Nature

    Bible Interpretation II: Easter, Abiathar, the Hyssop-Blood Cross, Baal, the Scarlet Thread, Names of God, Adiaphoria, and Mezentius.

    Spiritual Warfare II

    Culture and Christianity III

    Have I Lost my Salvation?

    On the Firing Line: Encouragement in Christian Trials

    Eschatology and the Old Testament

    Prayer and our Walk with Jesus.

    Issues of Canonicity II: Aramaic, Enoch, KJV, and the Pastorals

    Bible Vocabulary and Bible Word Studies

    Satan, his Demons, and the Gnostics

    Antichrist: Alive and Well and Living on Planet Earth?

    The Nature of Angels

    Our Eternal Future: Life after Death for Believers in Jesus Christ

    Giants and Nephilim, Sumerian Myths, and Sea Monsters

    Dreams and Visions II

    The Golden Rule

    The Divinity of Jesus Christ

    Free-Will Faith and the Will of God

    Some Sensitive Topics III

    The Spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy: explaining James 4:5.

    Faith: What is it?

    The Seven-Fold Spirit of God.

    Free-Will Faith in the Plan of God.

    Putting the Word of God First.

    Free-Will Faith.

    The False Doctrine of "Soul Sleep" II.

    The False Doctrine of Absolute Eternal Security II.

    The Plan of God

    The Dangers of Messianic Legalism III

    The Dangers of Messianic Legalism II

    The Dangers of Messianic Legalism.

    The Gift of Tongues: Part 2

    The Gift of Tongues: Part 1

    Mega-Churches, Emergent Christianity, Spirituality and Materialism.

    Epignosis, Christian Epistemology, and Spiritual Growth.

    Jephthah's Daughter, Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage.

    Christian Unity and Divisiveness.

    Death, Martyrdom and Resurrection.

    Blessing, Cursing, and Prayer.

    Freedom and Responsibility.

    Fighting the Good Fight of Faith.

    Only-Begotten, Mother-of-God, On-this-Rock: English-only Interpretation is Dangerous.

    The Greek Text of the New Testament and some Issues of Textual Criticism.

    What does the name 'Christian' mean?

    Some Jewish Issues.

    Christians Beware: Internet Frauds and the Need for Spiritual Discernment (part 2).

    Christians Beware: Internet Frauds and the Need for Spiritual Discernment.

    Sin and Forgiveness.

    Spring Special: The Millennial Regathering and Purging of Israel.

    Life Begins at Birth.

    Culture and Christianity II

    Culture and Christianity I

    The Saved and the Unsaved

    Last Things and Last Judgments

    The Local Church and Personal Ministry IV

    The Local Church and Personal Ministry III

    The Local Church and Personal Ministry II

    The Local Church and Personal Ministry I

    More on Antichrist and his Kingdom

    Antichrist and Babylon

    Prophecy Questions.

    Theological Questions

    Heavenly Things.

    Dysfunctional Churches.

    Some Sensitive Topics II.

    Christmas Special: The Judgment and Reward of the Church.

    What is God's Will?

    Apologetics

    Thanksgiving Leftovers.

    Combating Legalism VI

    Combating Legalism V

    Combating Legalism IV

    Combating Legalism III

    Combating Legalism II

    Combating Legalism I

    Aspects of the False Doctrine of Institutional Security

    Chronological Order of the Books of the Bible II

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations III

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations II

    Biblical Languages, Texts and Translations I

    Gospel Questions III: Least in the kingdom, Millstones, Pennies, Pebbles, Babes, Rhaka, Tallits, and the Crown of Thorns.

    Gospel Questions II: Jesus' Turning Water to Wine, Sweating Blood, Walking on Water, Washing the Disciples' Feet, and the Promise of Freedom."

    Things to Come II: Genesis Rapture, Daniel's Weeks, Seven Kings, Signs of the Apocalypse, Tribulational Suffering, Seven Seals, the Bride of Christ, and Mystery Babylon.

    Things to Come: The Half Hour, the 144,000, the Book of Life, Rewards, the Beast's Kingdom, the Great Apostasy, and the so-called 'Partial Rapture'.

    Satan and the Existence of Evil.

    The Holy Spirit: Blasphemy against, Restraining Ministry, and Gender.

    Spiritual Gifts and Spiritual Growth

    Christian Love, the Golden Rule, Christian Military Service and Self-Defense.

    Issues of Canonicity: Apocrypha, Enoch, and Inspiration.

    Church: The Biblical Ideal versus the Contemporary Reality.

    Numbers, Letters, and the Mark of the Beast.

    Gospel Questions I: Jesus' Life, the Gospels and Cherubs, and who Wrote Matthew.

    More Questions about Genesis.

    Naaman, Nero, Nineveh, and Senacharib.

    The False Doctrine of Absolute Eternal Security.

    Choosing Hell: Questions about Salvation and the Love of God.

    The Chronology of the End.

    The Route of the Israelites in Crossing the Red Sea.

    Some Issues of Transmission, Translation, and Transliteration: The Camel and the Needle, etc.

    Aspects of the Life of Christ: Jesus' siblings, the man born blind, et al.

    Jesus is God and man.

    Jesus is God.

    Redemption, the Blood of Christ, Christ our Passover, and The Passion of the Christ.

    Eschatology Issues II: Angelic bodies, heaven and hell, Satan and the Nephilim, etc.

    The Book of Job and Biblical Interpretation.

    Some Questions about Eternity.

    Who Controls our Thoughts and Emotions?

    The Day of the Lord.

    Sleep as a Euphemism for Death.

    Literal Hell.

    Christ's Preaching to the Spirits in Hell (1Pet.3:18-20), & Michael's Rebuke of Satan (2Pet.2:10-11 ).

    Recovering from Sin.

    The Timing of the Resurrection.

    Dispensations, the Church, the Rapture, and the Destruction of the Universe.

    Christianity versus Contemporary Kitsch.

    Purpose Driven Life, Oprah's New Age Religion, et al.

    Lot, Esau, and Cain: Learning through Negative Examples.

    Against Universalism II: Only Believers are Saved.

    Against Universalism I: Free Will and the Image of God.

    Courage in the Fight.

    Demon Influences.

    Sabbath Questions.

    The Seven Edens and the Eden of Adam and Eve.

    Opposition to the Genesis Gap from the Creation Research Institute et al.

    Mary 'Full of Grace'?

    Changing the Name of God?

    The Beast:  Some Questions about Antichrist.

    The Book of Revelation:  Some Questions.

    Red Hot or Lukewarm? Bible Teaching versus Sermonizing.

    The Last Judgment and the Great White Throne.

    Baptism:  Water and Spirit.

    Spiritual  Marathons.

    Christology:  Some Questions on the Life of Christ.

    Regarding Ichthys.

    Train up a Child in the Way he should Go.

    War, History, and Politics.

    Unbelief and its Consequences.

    Dreams and Visions.

    Explaining and Defending the Trinity and the Person of Christ.

    Free Will and Faith under Pressure.

    Angelic Issues II.

    Science and the Bible.

    Bible Interpretation I:  Academics, Versions et al.

    Faith in the Word of God: the Basis of all True Worship.

    Aspects of the Resurrection II.

    Faith and Encouragement in the midst of Fiery Trials.

    Some Sensitive Topics.

    Jethro, Amenhotep, Iraq, the Catacombs, and the KJV.

    Eschatology Issues: The Fig Tree, Ezekiel 38, Joel 3, and the Trumpets.

    Christ the Rock, the Rooster's Crow, and the Cross.

    Applying Faith II: Production, Forgiveness, Circumcision, Truth over People.

    Applying Faith: Eating, Drinking, and Vacation.

    The Tree of Life, Communion, and the Virgin Birth.

    Grammar Questions.

    Can Prayer Be Offered From Heaven? & Some Genesis Questions.

    Walking the Path of Faith through the Light of the Word of God.

    Salvation on the battlefield, truth revealed to infants, and damnation.

    Preparing for Tribulation.

    Divine Sovereignty and Divine Judgment.

    God's Free Gift of Salvation.

    Should Christians wear Jewelry?

    The Lord's Prayer.

    The Events Surrounding the Birth of Christ.

    Cremation or Burial?

    Zechariah, Demon Possession, Marriage, Spiritual Experiences, and Bible Prophecy.

    No Grounds for Divorce?

    The Shape of the Universe, Hominids, and the Genesis Gap.

    Taking Personal Responsibility: Interest, Bankruptcy, Gambling, and Employment.

    The Seven Churches, the Judgment Seat of Christ,  and other issues in Eschatology.

    The Canonicity of the book of Hebrews.

    Great White Throne, the Last Judgment, and the Outer Darkness.

    Political Action versus Biblical Christianity.

    Study Tools and Methodologies.

    Covenants.

    The Gospel and the Kingdom of God.

    Pursuing a Deeper Relationship with Jesus and Christian Epistemology.

    The Origin and the Danger of the Pre-Tribulational Rapture Theory.

    The Divinity of the Spirit and the Percentage of those who are Saved.

    Should Christians ever consider getting a lawyer?

    Pastoral Authority, Popes, Pat Robertson, and Pelagianism.

    Some Questions on Church Polity.

    Apostles and Evangelism

    Luther, Arminius, Calvin, Kant, Ironside, Tutu and Thieme.

    Angelic Issues.

    Transmutation, Resuscitation, and Resurrection.

    Is the Soul a tertium quid?

    More on the Documentary Hypothesis and More on the Rapture.

    Enoch's Walk with God and Some Questions in the Gospels.

    The Influence of the Renaissance and Rationalism on the Church and Cutting off Arms in Malachi 2:3.

    Sabbath Observance.

    1st John 5:20 & Romans 6:23.

    Eschatology Questions.

    Baptism and Following Jesus.

    Where is Armageddon?

    Assurance of Salvation.

    The Cross, Sin, and the Devil in God's Plan.

    More on: Spiritual Gifts; Hats & Hair; the Age of Accountability.

    Daniel 9:25 and Daniel 11:30.

    Who will populate earth during the Millennium?  and  Asking for Wisdom: James 1:5.

    Was Judas Saved?, The Gospel of Judas, and Issues of Canonicity.

    Is 'My Son' Israel or Jesus in Hosea 11:1?  &  How do you Prove Sin to Someone?

    Did Matthew Write his Gospel in Hebrew?

    Christian Crowns, Pagan Names, and the Time of the Cock-Crow.

    Child-like Faith, Mark vs. Matthew, the Mahdi, and 'Who was with God in the Beginning?

    True Orthodoxy and False Creeds.

    Foot-washing, Bitter Herbs, Baptism, and Borrowed Faith.

    All Things Charismatic.

    Friday versus Thursday Crucifixion.

    Jesus' Cursing of the Fig Tree, Apostasy, and 'Feng Shui'.

    The Genesis Serpent, Using "it" to refer to the baby Jesus, and more on Tattoos.

    Combating Gnosticism.

    Resisting the Devil.

    Why did Jesus choose John over James to take care of His mother Mary?

    Antichrist's 'desire of women' in Daniel 11:37 et al.

    Do recent catastrophes have a divine origin?

    Does God really want us to be sick and poor?  Revisiting the prosperity gospel.

    Why did our Lord Jesus arise from the tribe of Judah?

    What will our relationship be in heaven with children who died young?

    The baptism of the Holy Spirit as distinct from speaking in tongues.

    The Grammar behind the Genesis Gap.

    The Great White Throne Judgment.

    Moses and Zipporah.

    The Victory of Faith.

    Does God's choice of us eliminate our free will?

    Why does God allow bad things to happen?

    The Bible as "divine", roof prayer, and tattoos.

    Character in Hebrews 1:3, et al.

    Exorcism, et al.

    "Are the children of unbelievers lost if they die before receiving Christ?"

    How not to get "left behind".

    "Is baptism necessary for salvation?"

    "The nature of life after death."

    "The personality of the Holy Spirit."

    "The dragon of Revelation 12 and the talking idol of Revelation 13."

    "Bound by Satan in Luke 13:16, language and the Tower of Babel, Daniel's 70th week, and the number 12."

    "Infirmities and Diseases in Matthew 8:17"

    "The Leftover Baskets of Bread and Fish in John 6."

    "Waiting for the Ascension" and "Amos 4:11".

    Why was Canaan cursed?

    Should Christians have a competitive attitude?

    John "leapt for joy" in the womb - or did he?

    Satanic Influence in Video Games and Television.

    Moving Mountains:  Matthew 21:21

    Not a hair shall be lost? Luke 21:16 versus Luke 21:18.

    The reign of antichrist:  7 years or 3 and 1/2 years?

    The Trinity in Scripture.

    The Ark of the Covenant.

    "Doubts about the Nephilim in Genesis 6" and "Ezekiel 9:4 and the Mark of the Beast"

    "Word Counts in the Bible", "Him whom they Pierced (Rev.1:7)", and "Necromancy".

    "Waiting for a Savior" and "The Direction East in the Bible"

    Transubstantiation.

    Is there a purgatory according to the Bible?

    Your desire shall be for your husband: Genesis 3:16.

    Have I committed the unforgivable sin?

    Is the local church meant to be a patriarchy?

    Why doesn't the Bible mention all of the prophets of the children of Israel?

    The True "Victorious Life".

    Tohu in Genesis 1:2 and the Cause of the Darkness.

    Why Doesn't God Prevent All Children from Dying?

    Why were Christians being regarded as "evil-doers" in 1st Peter 2:12?

    The Scofield Reference Bible.

    Phylacteries and the Mark of the Beast, and "What about Joseph?"

    Feeling desperate and alone.

    Is Tithing net or gross?

    Assembly of the local church, and Jesus' use of "I AM" from Exodus 3:14 in John 8:58

    The "burden of the Lord" in Jeremiah 23:32-40, and judgment for idle words in Matthew 12:36-37.

    The importance of spiritual resiliency.

    Does God use disease to discipline us?

    Recovering from Cult Exposure.

    Variability in Christian Testing and Personal Tribulation.

    Is there any value to the Apocrypha?

    The Communion Ceremony outside of the local church.

    The Christian Walk, the End, and Tattoos.

    Should Christians honor Sunday as the new Sabbath?

    Chronological order of the books of the Bible.

    Doubt, light, missed opportunities et al.

    Addicted to Sin.

    Corporate prayer in Matthew 18:19:  "when two agree on earth".

    What does the Bible say about humor?

    The value of cumulative prayer.

    Our Heavenly, Pre-Resurrection, Interim State.

    How could a loving God order the destruction of the Canaanites?

    Should Christians observe the Torah?

    Church Polity and three other passages.

    Walking with Jesus.

    Tongues: does 'no man' understand?

    The few saved, the door in heaven, visions of heavenly realities, and Christmas.

    Spiritual Warfare.

    Christian suffering and spiritual maturity.

    Aliens, antichrist, and eschatology.

    Does exceptionally sinful behavior indicate that a Christian has lost salvation?

    Should Christians celebrate Jewish festivals?

    The Deaths of the 12 Disciples / Apostles of Christ.

    Categories of Sin in Psalm 19.

    Some brief answers on a variety of topics.

    Pastoral Support, Pastoral Preparation, and the Purpose of Assembly.

    Eternal Rewards.

    Encouragement, Isaiah 6:11-13, and the Hope of Repentance.

    Questioning the Genesis Gap.

    Dinosaurs, the Nephilim, Noah, et al.

    How much should we pay our pastor?

    More about Women Preachers.

    Is it wrong for me to celebrate Easter?

    The Remnant in Isaiah 6:13.

    The Big Distinction.

    The Day of the Lord in 2nd Peter 3:10.

    The Day of the Lord.

    Church History.

    The Sealing of the Holy Spirit.

    Visions of Angels: Colossians 2:18.

    Waiting on God's timing:  patience in testing.

    "Your Throne, O God":  Psalm 45:6.

    Moses striking the Rock.

    Procreation and Creation.

    What is meant by the phrase "the Lord's footstool"?

    1st Peter 3:3-5

    A conversation about divorce and remarriage.

    Faith in the midst of the fiery trial.

    Hebrews 10:26 again, and two other notes on Arthur Pink and the Greek word diakonos.

    What is the correct translation of Isaiah 59:19?

    Is the star of Acts 7:43 the star of David?

    Some questions about Nimrod and Christmas trees, Tongues, and Healing

    Is Jesus the only One ever to restore sight?

    What happens to people who were born and died prior to the birth of Christ?

    Which is better, the King James Version or the New King James Version?

    What is the minimum necessary to be saved?

    How can we know whose interpretation of the Bible is right (Part 2)?

    How can we know whose interpretation of the Bible is right (Part 1)?

    Psalm 22:1, "My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?"

    The "Mind of Christ" in 1st Corinthians 2:16

    Simeon and Simon, and the two crows of the rooster

    Ichthys, saints, and the Last Adam

    Does Hebrews 10:26 teach loss of salvation?

    Eternal security: where does one draw the line?

    Who are Gog and Magog in Ezekiel 38-39?

    How did John the baptist come to doubt Jesus?

    Is Jesus literally seated on the throne at God's right hand?

    Are the Celts the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel?

    Whatever happened to the "Genesis Gap"?

    "The baptism which now saves you":  1st Peter 3:21.

    Hebrew Language Study Tools.

    What type of healing is being discussed in Isaiah 53:5?

    The Origin of the Four Seasons

    2nd Peter 3:5: Doubting the Tribulation

    Tent-making and Galatians 6:6

    A Question about Ichthys books

    Biblical Metaphors and Symbolism

    Faith and the Pre-Tribulational "Rapture".

    Faith Healing.

    Bible translation and John 8:58.

    Melchizedek and the high priesthood of Christ:  two questions et alia.

    In need of encouragement.

    The centurion and the Syro-Phoenician woman.

    Who is the Meshiach?

    A Sadducean Question

    What is "heaven" like according to Christian teachings?

    Acts 20:28: Whose Blood?

    1st Corinthians 11:  Hats or Hair?

    Confession of Sin, Fellowship, and the Filling of the Holy Spirit.

    A Miscellany of Questions and Answers (Nineveh, the beast, tongues, demons, Sadam, etc.)

    Some Greek Questions in the Gospels (John 1:3; 2:19; 8:58; Luke 23:43)

    Is Man trichotomous, and does that mean that salvation is three-tiered?

    Questioning the Trinity

    The blood of Christ

    Christ knocking at the door in Revelation 3:20

    The futility of memory without God and eternal life.

    The meaning of Jesus' words, "I am" in John 8:58

    What does the Bible say about Heaven and Hell?

    Peace in 1st Corinthians 14:33

    Salvation and Church Affiliation.

    Several questions on the book of Hebrews.

    Does the Bible prohibit women from preaching or teaching in the Church?

    Should Christian leaders refrain from drinking in public?

    How to use the Bible translations at Ichthys.

    The Worship of Jesus:  a proof of His divinity?

    An Extended Conversation about the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.

    Is water baptism required for Christians today?

    Are health and wealth a part of the gospel?

    Will those in Hades be able to see Christ's return?

    Feelings of Guilt about Remarriage.

    Who are the Ten Lost Tribes of Israel?

    What does "the Word was with God" mean in John 1:1-2?

    Three questions on three verses in Isaiah (Is.21:4; 28:10, & 66:24).

    How important is education for a pastor?

    Does Hebrews 10:26-35 ("deliberate sinning" etc.) mean that a believer can lose his or her salvation?

    Availability and use of Ichthys materials: several questions.

    Is there any difference between demons and fallen angels?

    Confronting atheism.

    Two questions about Judas Iscariot.

    Three Questions about Tattoos and Salvation.

    The Hebrew word for 'one' (`echadh) and the uniqueness of God.

    Did the witch of Endor really conjure up the spirit of Samuel?

    A Question about the "Waters Above".

    Why did God the Father wait so long to send Jesus into the world?

    How does being "slain in the Spirit" relate to being baptized in the Spirit?

    How do you prove the existence of God?

    Where does the Bible teach that Jesus is God?

    Is it ever Justifiable to Tell a Lie (part 2)?

    Seeing double in Matthew.

    Mary, Joseph, and Nazareth.

    Is the Westminster Catechism a Good Reference Tool?

    What does it mean "the spirit returns to God" in Ecclesiastes 12:7?

    Is there any Connection between biblical Gemstones and Moral Characteristics?

    Are Miraculous Gifts Operational Today?

    Jesus Christ in the Old Testament (Christophany: Gen.3:8).

    Can those in organizations which teach "salvation by works" be saved?

    Is "helpmeet" a wrong translation in Genesis 2:20?

    Our will and God's WILL.

    Cast thy Bread upon the Waters:  What do the seven and eight portions in Ecclesiastes 11:2 mean?

    Was Cain Satan's literal "seed"?

    The Demon Possessed Girl in Acts 16:16.

    The "Sin unto Death" in 1st John 5:16.

    Is death just a natural part of human life?

    Communion and the Blood of Christ.

    What does it mean in 1st Corinthians 7:14, "the unbelieving husband is sanctified"?

    The Re-institution of the Feast of Tabernacles in the Millennium.

    Secular Documentation for the Exodus.

    The false doctrine of "soul sleep".

    The Author of Hebrews and Jesus' Perfect Completion of His Mission.

    The Trinity in Isaiah 63:10-15.

    How old was Jesus at the time of His crucifixion and resurrection?

    Five Smooth Stones: 1st Samuel 17:40

    How can we know the Bible is true?

    The name "Jesus".

    Habakkuk's Prosperity Prayer: Habakkuk 3:17-19.

    Jeremiah 31:22: "A Woman shall Compass a Man".

    The New International Version of the Bible and some issues in Bible translation.

    Is "the Prophet" of Deuteronomy 18:18 Muhammad?

    The One True God and the Trinity in the Old Testament.

    Are those in Hebrews 6:4 who "crucify the Son of God afresh" lost?

    Are New Bible Translations Part of a Conspiracy?

    What exactly is the "red heifer prophecy", and how does it relate to the events of the end times?

    Where did the waters of Genesis 1 go?

    Interpreting Revelation

    Sin, Baptism, and the Book of Revelation

    Tithing and the Book of Life

    The Dangers of the Prosperity Gospel.

    English and the Tower of Babel.

    The "Seven Thunders" of Revelation 10:3-4

    The fate of the unrighteous dead in Isaiah 66:24

    Who are the "sons of the kingdom" in Matthew 18:11-12?

    Why does Judah get greater honor than Jerusalem in Zechariah 12:7?

    Are there Female Angels?

    Longevity in the Millennium.

    How is the date of Easter computed?

    What is the meaning of the 1290 days versus the 1335 days in Daniel 12?

    What Church era are we now in?

    The mark of the beast.

    Christophany in the Exodus.

    Can you explain "help my unbelief!" in Mark 9:24?

    What does it mean to "overcome" in Revelation chapters 2 and 3?

    Are women required to wear veils or hats in church?

    Is the world about to come to an end?

    Does the Bible ever describe the earth as being round?

    Pre-, mid-, or post-Tribulation rapture?

    Pearls before swine.

    Recognizing the Messiah.

    The gift of healing.

    The origin and fate of the "giants" in Genesis chapter six.

    Christian suffering - Christian encouragement.

    Is speaking in tongues biblical?

    Is speaking in tongues a sin?

    Can you recommend a good commentary on the book of Romans?

    Aspects of the resurrection.

    The recipients of Peter's epistles.

    Pre- or Post-Tribulation "rapture"?

    The lives of the prophets.

    The old prophet who lied.

    Animal sacrifice in the millennium.

    Is it ever justifiable to lie?

    Who wrote the King James version?

    The meaning of the divine name יהוה.

    The so-called "documentary hypothesis".

    The relationship between the books of Kings and Chronicles.

    David's disastrous census of Israel.

    Aspects of the Unseen Angelic Warfare and 666, the Mark of the Beast.

    The 200 million strong demon army of Revelation 9:13.

    Deliverance through Childbearing in 1st Timothy 2:15?

    Some questions about the Tribulation.

    More on divorce and remarriage.

    Divorce and remarriage.

    The antecedents of ICHTHYS.

    What does it mean to "remember the Sabbath and keep it holy"?

    The manner of the apostle Peter's death.

    Wasn't Matthias the thirteenth apostle?

    Forward progress necessary for salvation and spiritual growth.

    The "seven days" of human history.

    1st John 1:9 and confessing sin.

    ICHTHYS and the role of traditional Christianity.

    Can you recommend a good survey for the Old and New Testaments?

    Where can I find more information on the "Genesis gap"?

    Is Church membership an issue in salvation?

    Can you recommend a church?

    Are these materials available for purchase as books?

    A bit of autobiography.

    What is your opinion of the Abingdon one-volume Bible Commentary?

    What is the significance of the number "20" in the Bible?

    The 144,000 of Revelation chapters 7 and 14.

    What is your view on predestination?

    Who is "true Israel"?

    The chronology of the date 2026.

    Does baptism play a role in being born again?

    Why does the devil have access to God while man cannot stand in His presence?

    The structure of the book of Revelation.

    What is your view of the rapture?

    What is meant by the "10 days" of Revelation 2:10?

    Dragons in the Bible?

    Are there apostles in the Church today?

    What is the meaning of the word "chosen" in the Bible.

    The Passover.

    What are the most common Bible names?

    What is the biblical significance of the number forty?

    What does the Bible have to say about witchcraft?

    How can I protect myself from false teaching?

    Didn't the devil know he couldn't defeat God?

    Are the Masons wrong according to the Bible?

    Six Questions.

    Can the faith of "backsliders" be restored?

    Are there biblical origins to mythology?

    What does the phrase "sides of the pit" mean in Isaiah 14:15?

    Can prayer be offered in the name of the Son?

    Election and John 6:37?

    Is it valid to celebrate Christmas?

    Can you give me some information on divine names in the Bible?

    What is the significance of name changes in the Bible?

    Is faith a "gift of God"?

    Is there a "gospel of Thomas"?

    Is the nature of Man dichotomous or trichotomous?

    Will the temple be rebuilt in Jerusalem?

    Does the Bible teach a literal Millennium?

    What does the word "good" mean in Genesis?

    Who are "the dead" who "rise first" in 1st Thessalonians 4?

    Are the Greek tenses in John 7:34 correctly translated?

    Is the devil "mad" to oppose God?

    Does the Bible require supporting the pastor financially?

    How can Jesus be a man and God at the same time?

    How did people atone for intentional sin in Old Testament times?

    What is the symbolism of the Lamb of God in Revelation?

    Can you recommend some word study tools for Bible study?

    Can people who commit suicide be saved?

    Are tattoos biblical?

    Is it "ichthys" or "ichthus"?

    What is the difference between wisdom and discernment?

    Marriage of Believers and Unbelievers.

    Is hearing believing in John 6:35?

    How certain a date is 2026?

    Is Paul describing himself in Romans chapter seven?

    Is tithing required for salvation?

    What is the evidence for the "rapture"?

    Is there any validity to the "prosperity gospel"?

    Who are the "Nephilim" in Genesis chapter six?

    Church attendance.

    Is there a literal "devil"?

    What does the Bible have to say about reincarnation?

    What is the unpardonable sin?

    Believing the Bible for Spiritual Growth.

    Why was the New Testament written in Greek?

    What about those who have never heard of Christ?

    What about elders and deacons?

    Eternal Security and "sinless perfection".

    Eternal Security and "salvation by works".

    Does the Bible teach ex nihilo creation?

    When did Jesus first know He was God's Son?

    Are there prophets today?

    Despairing of life.

    How important is baptism?

    How could Christ have been three days and nights in the grave?

    Do Muslims worship the One true God?

    What can I do about spiritual fainting?

     


    Ichthys Home