http://ichthys.com/ 
Believers in the World XXIV

Question #1:  
It's been really rough of late Bob, flak from all sides,

Just been bombarded with messages from __ saying we should accept ___ practices, that my Christian faith is fundamentalist and I am in a cult. That the Bible has been tampered with and that there is a secret coded message there that someone is only just started to decipher!!

I have tried Bob to refute these claims as fast as they are being thrown at me but whenever I refute one lie, __ just lobs another at me. Clearly __ thinks I am the one who is deeply deceived and that __ is the enlightened one who needs to open my eyes to the deep things of Satan.

It is truly heartbreaking thing to fend off but I guess this is good training for my ministry. 
I suspect __ is now just looking for excuses to throw in the towel where faith is concerned. I know you have written before that these things often happen when someone has a sin that they want to indulge in and dismantling the Word of God is their way of hardening their heart to this particular sin. I know you will redact the more sensitive aspect of these types of emails. [omitted]

Bob, things are already pretty grim around me and at times, mind bendingly awful that I sometimes wonder how our stomachs or sanity could take much more. Something that I never took into account: if in the Tribulation everyone will be giving into their flesh to an insane degree of debauchery, we are going to have to be extremely resolute not to cave in to any one of our particular fleshly weaknesses. It is good time then to be honest with ourselves where our particular fleshly weaknesses lie and make sure that we are extra fortified in these areas (and thoroughly inoculated) so as to not give any room for the enemy's undermining of our spiritual defence against sin.

[omitted]

It has given me more grist for the ministry mill but I am in the process of trying to get the stuffing back in that has been knocked out of me. My ideas of 'ministering' to unbelievers as an aside to my real ministry has been an absolute disaster and taken me away from what the Lord truly wants me to do. I really hope I learn from this latest kicking I have had.

I know the enemy tries to get us to snap through wearing us down (war of attrition) so I know now that when I am under very heavy flak to draw back from any outside interference that I don't need to be involved with and try to keep my head low and concentrating on what is at hand and nothing more.

It truly is in the Lord's hands and I must trust Him with it all.

I so want to go home! 

In Jesus,
Response #1:   
Re: "I so want to go home!" I hear that! I think we all do, believers that is – or should. 
"Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."
Isaiah 41:10 NKJV
Please remember that the Lord loves you and that He will never let you down. If He is letting you go through some difficult times, there is always a purpose for it. And the test WILL come to an end. When it does, of course you'll be glad . . . but you'll be happier if you can look back and know that in spite of being under pressure you never wavered in faith. We don't have to like testing. But we are supposed to pass the tests. I have every confidence in you that you will endure all this with colors flying. 
You have not suffered any testing beyond normal human [experience]. And God is faithful. He will not allow you to be tested beyond your capacity, but, along with the test, He will grant you the way out, so that you can bear up under it.
1st Corinthians 10:13
In terms of __, there is no arguing with those who support things the Bible condemns, especially if they have lost respect for the authority of scripture. At that point, only the Lord can get their attention. So I really do think that there is little point in you vexing yourself over that one unless and until the Lord intervenes. But we can still pray that He will.

Please know that I am praying for you, for your deliverance in all these things.

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #2:  
Doc, a lot of Christian influencers and just modern Christians in general seem to hold Stoicism as some high ideal to achieve, at least parts of it. In my honest opinion, Stoicism isn't very valuable from a Biblical standpoint. The philosophy comes from people who had nothing to do with God or the actual Faith, Christian or Jewish. Do you feel the same way?

The philosophy is secular at best and Pagan at worst, the creators being mainly practitioners of the Greek religion at the time.
Response #2:   
I certainly agree with you as all philosophy is a search for truth without the one true God – and what point is there in that? 
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.
Colossians 2:8 NIV
In terms of Stoicism, any detailed discussion would require a definition of terms of the philosophy inasmuch as 1) it's not like there were absolute doctrines for it in antiquity (it originated in Greece but was adopted – and adapted – by Roman aristocrats who were notoriously eclectic in what they adopted and what they did with it); 2) in my encounters with people who do claim some camaraderie with it today, they also seem often to have reduced it to a few points they agree with. 

The Bible has absolutely everything we need for living our best possible life, namely, the actual truth whereby we can grow and progress and serve our Lord and His Church just how He wants. That is the way to true joy in this life (even in testing) and great reward in the next.
Your word is a lamp to my feet
And a light to my path.
Psalm 119:105
In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #3:  
Hi Bob,

I hope you managed to get a nice "regular day" today. 

I didn't really get a "me" day today. Not as much as I wanted anyway. I don't think I've ever known a time like this in my life when so many people seem to want or need me. 

[omitted]

So it is a testing time for me. I can't be and do everything for everyone. And I admit that I put some of that pressure on myself. 

Life is always going to be busy but my priority must always be the Lord no matter how much is coming at me in a million different directions. 

Time is so short now and I won't allow anything to knock me off course. I rely on the Spirit completely because all of this is impossible for me. But nothing is impossible with God.

Thanks for your prayers!

In Jesus
Response #3:  
Painter was off today and tomorrow we've got rain forecast, so while the day did start out as planned with me getting a number of admin chores off my desk, I decided after my nice long walk/jog to spend the better part of three hours working in the yards (as tomorrow will be impossible). So I'll try to get the U of L stuff taken care of tomorrow. Pretty sore and achy! Lots of bending over, hauling, digging, chopping, weeding, stuffing things in bags, etc., etc., but at least it's close to being into maintenance mode. Now that the infrastructure is pretty much in place, NEXT year will be easier (as I say every year).

Sorry you're getting bombarded by needy family members. I wouldn't say it's not ministry. We are here to do whatever it is the Lord puts on our plates to do. Naturally, with all such things we do have to have discernment and use discretion. Whatever "it" is, "it" could easily monopolize all of our time, energy and attention. I could easily spend all I've got keeping up the homestead. We have to prioritize as you are doing. That's not wrong. That's spiritual survival. These tests force us to rely on the Lord instead of on ourselves, because if it were all on our shoulders nothing would get done that's necessary and important. We do the best we can and leave the rest to the Lord. And it does matter what we choose. It's a mistake NOT to mow the lawn (occasionally) since that is a responsibility and a witness of sorts; it's a mistake to devote all time and energy to landscaping to the detriment of job and family and, most importantly, serving the Lord as we should. We have to do it all. It is impossible to do it all. We make the best choices we can, keeping Him first, and He works it all out together for good. When times are particularly pressure-filled as they are now for you, that is what really tests our spiritual mettle. So good for you keeping the Lord first and doing your best to handle everything else He's given you to handle!

Hang in there! Keeping you and your situation in my prayers.
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:30-31 NIV
In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #4:  
Hi Bob,

I'm happy to hear you got so much done yesterday. It's all good fun! We're hoping that work in the garden next year should be easier too. We shall see!

Thanks for your encouragement and prayers, Bob. I've read through your email a few times today and will be slowly reading through it again.

[omitted]

The Lord will help me through everything. Another verse that came to mind for doing all the things He has given me to do while relying on Him is Zechariah 4:6 .... not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts.

That way He is glorified and my faith is strengthened as I see Him working it all out for good.

Work went fine today. Very busy as always and I'm very tired too! 

Keeping you in my prayers too!

In Jesus
Response #4:  
My pleasure, my friend.

And thanks! I did get caught up on all my university work today – but it never rained after all. Mulch and pavers being delivered tomorrow and a second take on the electrician so another busy admin day. 

It's an encouragement for me to see how you handle all the pressures with good humor and solid faith. You are an example for us all, my friend! Keep fighting this good fight.

Thanks for the prayers – keeping you and all "issues" in mine daily.

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #5:  
Hi Bob,

I hope the mulch and the pavers and the electrician all arrived safely today!

I just wanted to say thanks for having the patience to listen to all of my "adventures" emails. It suddenly dawned on me that I was giving you all the details when I could have just written a sentence or two. You're absolutely right - the next step is going to be more expensive. Not to worry - it has to be done. Had another busy evening. It's just a case of waiting now to hear [omitted]. I feel calm and peaceful and I'm taking it all in my stride - all thanks to the Lord - He makes ALL the difference.

Work tomorrow but it's Friday too. I'm hanging in there!

Thanks for the prayers, Bob! Got you in mine too.

In Jesus
Response #5:   
Lots of progress made today. Everything went well too, so thanks for the prayers! Here's hoping and praying for your situation to work out as well. I can see this is giving you an opportunity to demonstrate how mature Christians handle things. We're certainly NOT perfect, but we tend to do a lot better with pressure and unexpected trouble than the average unbeliever. Well done you!

Friday is a blessing! Hope you have some R&R scheduled for the weekend (painting/treating the deck here).

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #6:  
Hi Bob,

I hope you've had a lovely day.

I've just found out that __ passed away this morning. It was for the best because __ was in a bad way and had no quality of life. I'm confident __ was a believer and I know __ has a strong, unwavering faith in God that will help __ through.

Thanks for all your prayers and encouragement this week. 

It's been quite a week! Think I'll try to get some rest over the weekend. Hope you can too.

Keeping you and yours in my prayers, Bob.

In Jesus
Response #6:  
I'm terribly sorry to hear about __. But you are right. I don't think any of us really want to have to continue once there's no quality of life left. If I could no longer work on this ministry for whatever reason, I'd prefer that the Lord take me home. And as believers in Jesus Christ, we know how much better things are on the other side. The ONLY reason to be here is to glorify the Lord. 

I will say a prayer for __.

Yes, do try to get some rest this weekend. I should be through with all the troublesome things here by the end of the month, then, hopefully, a month and a half of quiet research.

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #7:  
Hi Bob,

Thanks for the emails this week - they were great. Very interesting and helpful. It's amazing how some of us are going through exactly the same kind of trials, troubles, testing etc.

There has been more drama. I need another huge detox after last week. Right now I feel like throwing my mobile phone away. They're useful things but they've made it so much easier for people to get hold of you and drag you into and down with their problems. It wouldn't be so bad if they were actually trying to help themselves. This wasn't so easy for people to do when all everyone had was a landline. I need to figure out a way of having more control over this. Maybe it's really simple - just be choosy about what text messages I read.

I'm thankful for the week of bombardment. I've learnt some lessons and I've had to use discernment and discretion and it turned out to be right. People were completely wasting my time. My time is precious and I'm not going to allow that to happen again. It's a new day and I'm shutting out all of the noise and distraction and putting my focus on what is most important in my life.

Keeping you in my prayers!

In Jesus
Response #7:   
Thanks for the help. Pretty needful this week!

I'm glad to hear that you've handled this testing so well! This is a tricky one for any of us. When it comes to the near and dear, there's often never enough time – but no one, in the end, is more "near and dear" to us than that Lord. Or at least that is the way we should be looking at it. Life is very intrusive, and sometimes it's pretty difficult to shut out the noise and churn and keep ourselves focused on the Lord and what He wants from us. But there's nothing better in this life than fellowship with Him and His Word in the Spirit. I appreciate you and congratulate you for choosing "the better part" (Lk.10:41).

LOL about landlines! That really was a different world. Especially before voicemail. We're now in "constant comm". People who are obsessed with social media really do get sucked into the world. Even if what they are doing is not sinful, it's hard to see how they could possibly be having anything like what used to pass for a peaceful life. The trials and temptations are more numerous, more subtle and move invasive now than ever before. But then this is probably not the worst thing for us who really do love the Lord, because it's all forcing us to make these sort of priority choices now before the going really gets rough.

Keeping you in my prayers, my friend, and thanks so much for yours as well.

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #8:  
Hi Bob,

I remember the days of landlines with no voicemail too - peaceful times! And do you remember those old rotary dial phones with the curly cord? They seem hilarious now! You couldn't travel very far with them. The phone cord had its limits - it would only stretch so far. And you could get them in different colours. You put your finger in the hole and crank the rotating disc round. The zero took the longest to make its way back to the starting point. Fun bit of mechanics there! I think they're making a bit of a comeback. They call them vintage or retro now. 

You're so right about the trials and temptations being more numerous, more subtle and more invasive than ever before. I realised all of this in just that one week. Constant communication can mean constant trouble if you're not careful. [omitted] I take it to the Lord and I pray for them. It's so much easier and He can deal with it all so much better than I can. He protects me and I'm free to continue to do what is pleasing to Him. What He really wants me to be doing. I really appreciate the verse you gave me (Lk.10:41). It's absolutely spot on. It's what the Lord wants from us that counts - not what other people want.

On the other hand, these things can be used for good too. [omitted] I took the opportunity to send a text message on there about how __'s strong, unwavering faith in God would help __ through and that I was praying for __. So another little nugget dropped in there. One day it might finally get through to them. I'll keep praying.

I'm going to remember what you wrote and keep making those priority choices before the going really gets rough. It's so important.

Thanks so much!

In Jesus
p.s., [omitted] __ said this life is very short. I said it is and that one day very soon we'll all be together again with the Lord. 
Response #8:  
Oh yes! I still remember the phone number at "the manse" in Chicago. I was a teenager before they got a second phone in addition to the heavy black contraption in the vestibule. I remember reading something in elementary school about "phone etiquette" which assured us that whenever we called someone we needed to let the phone ring at least ten times before we hung up, because the person might be out in the back yard or some such thing. When my parents were still in Indiana, before we moved to Chicago, they had a "party line" where you had to signal to the operator any time you wanted to call out. Now people can "reach out and be too much for us" in an instant via all manner of media, phone, text, email, social media platforms. People have never been so connected . . . and they seem to be lonelier and more isolated from true friendship and healthy relationships than ever before. Signs of the times.

It's good to be a part of the Bride of Jesus Christ! The Christian relationships we have here and now we will also have forever on the other side – and then they will be perfect in every way with a unity and community we can't even imagine on this side. No need to text!

Good job "showing the flag" for the Lord – and also keeping your priorities straight, my friend.

Keeping you and yours in prayer.

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #9:  
Thanks so much Bob,

A lot of the underlying turbulence is coming from [omitted]. I have kept trying to do the decent and godly thing as so many are confused and even distressed about the chaos about it. [omitted] It is called being 'set up to fail'. I used to have this abusive dynamic with an old work boss of mine who would give me projects to work on and when I tried to take notes the boss would prevent me from doing so and said __ would 'email the details over after'. – never did and then blanked me when I asked for the details so I would get in trouble for not getting the project done by senior management (indeed they tried to demote me over it). In another job, whilst I was training and taking notes, the person who was training me reached over and ripped my notes up and then put them in the bin right in front of my face! I made a formal complaint but because I was new, they believed the other woman and I lost my job!

So I have been here before and each time it never ended well and I was scapegoated with the blame for someone else's mind games. [omitted]

I have kept going though as God sees me and knows the truth even if no-one else does. Maybe this is what this particular test is all about. Will I do the right thing even when it is only God who sees it? Because I am not recognised for what I am doing and because of the mind games and unpleasantness, I have had to do the right thing even though it has hurt and everyone probably thinks the opposite of me. That is what we are supposed to do though isn't it? What is done in secret, our Father will reward openly.

In Jesus,
p.s., It is such a sad thing to say out loud but I will be really happy once this is over. On the day then I will be smiling knowing that I will be with the Lord soon enough at the marriage feast of the Bride and that will be the reason for my true happiness.
Response #9:   
I am very sorry to hear all this, my friend. As to past jobs, I know and have heard about plenty of things like this, but even so your experiences seem pretty unique. People are people. That is to say, they have sin natures. And if they are not restrained by a good upbringing or a strong corporate culture, then abusing those under them is a "natural" thing to do (all TOO natural). 

It is hard to get this from friends and family, however, especially when it's a case of you trying to help as you've been asked to help. This puts you in a very difficult situation, it's clear. Don't know what to advise you. I think your conclusion is correct, namely, to do what the Lord wants you to do no matter what. Just what that is is something you have to be the one to decide. I do promise to pray for you about this.

Re: "I will be with the Lord soon enough at the marriage feast of the Bride and that will be the reason for my true happiness." Amen!
If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.
Colossians 3:1-4 NKJV
In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #10:  
Bob,

Was just re-reading Genesis 5. So going back to Genesis 2:17b the Bible says in some translations...

'for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die'

Then when I read the impressive ages of Adam and his immediate progeny, the oldest is Methuselah (which has become a saying 'as old as Methuselah) living to the grand old age of 969. Then it occured to me that no-one reached the notable age of 1000. And then I read this..

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.
2 Peter 3:8

So it is exactly true that Adam and Eve died within the same day of eating the fruit as they didn't reach a thousand which is a day to the Lord! Really great when we notice these things in the Word. So much happier now I am getting back into the stride of things again and got my study of the Word back.

Thanks so much for those prayers! I could weep with joy when I feel close to the Lord again as I do now and everything seems bearable again no matter what. His love is amazing!

In Jesus,
p.s., Was trying to salvage relations with __ today and I think the main problem is that __ is still a baby believer. The reason I know this is __ seems to alternatively resent my maturity but also acknowledges my wisdom on things so there is this constant push/pull dynamic. One minute __ is intrigued by what I am trying to feed __ but next minute __ is pushing it away. It feels EXACTLY like feeding a baby. One mouthful of the Word goes in and the next gets spat out. Obviously no one could ever grow with that attitude towards food and a baby would die if they did that continuously with physical food. The lukewarm/Laodicean church are all babies aren't they. Happy enough with pablum and cannot handle solid food. I am so glad that I chose to put myself under your ministry's authority years ago. It made perfect sense what you said about 'smorgasbording' and weighing every brick up in my hands. Using these analogies really hit home for me and I started to realise how good the food was at Ichthys that I made it the only place that I ate at! So very glad I made that decision.
Response #10:   
You've made my day with your spiritual victory, my friend!

Very proud of you for hanging in there and combating negative emotions and difficult circumstances with the truth. That is a real validation of James 1:2-4.

On your work, I don't know what else you can do. Everything you say rings true, about immaturity and an essential unwillingness to commit to growth. That is a hallmark of Laodicea, after all.

What this combination of emails does demonstrate, however, is just how valuable learning and believing and living the truth can be. It results in joy beyond anything this world can offer . . . in anticipation of the one to come. On the other hand, being immature and letting oneself be bounced around by this world and its lies, will never even approach happiness. One would think that the starkness of the contrast would get people's attention, particularly in the case of believers who ought to realize that peace and joy are supposed to be theirs in Jesus Christ.

So keep on giving your good witness of the Word and of your life, my friend. I know it can be frustrating at times, but do keep on letting "patience have its perfect work".

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #11:  
Hello Dr. Luginbill,

The hawk is still at work seeing what he sees, Lol.

In your teaching on the subject of Eschatology, the hawk found this:

Comment: This passage and its broader context (cf. Dan.8:23-35) deal primarily with the Tribulation's first half when seduction will be the primary means of leading believers away from Jesus Christ. 

You most likely have already been notified about it, and if not, here it is.

I am still studying your Eschatology teaching, and reading the scriptures you quote. It must have taken you a long time to produce this teaching??

Anyway, should it be Dan. 8:23-25? as this chapter has only 27 verses.

Every person who calls themselves a believer should study this subject.

The hawk is still looking and seeing.

Blessings to you as you continue the work that God has blessed you with.

Your "hawk" friend,
Response #11:   
Thanks again for your "hawk-eye", my friend!

Yes, it should have been 25 not 35 (I do this sort of thing with numbers all the time).

Corrected and posted.

Yes, this took a long time. One way or another, I've been working on these issues since I left the Marine Corps.

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #12:  
Hi Dr L,

How are you doing? 

I think there may be a sentence fragment, which some us rhetorically and on purpose; but you usually don't write like that, so here it is just in case:

"He received in His humanity which made that superiority undeniably clear to all who witnessed it . . . and will to all, since eventually all will witness it (Phil.2:9-11; cf. Is.45:23; Rom.14:11)."

Please don't overwork yourself and please take care.

PS: Okay I want to tell you a little about the personality development exercises. [omitted] Do these seem good to you? [omitted]
Response #12:   
Thanks for the typo help! Resolved by removing the incorrect period. 

On the other matter, this sounds a lot like what they used to call "assertiveness training". If there's nothing anti-biblical in it (some of these systems are questionable in that regard), and if it's really helping you, then I have no problem with it. Good judgment is at the heart of all the decisions we make about what to say and not say, what to do and not do . . . or should be. That comes from studying the truth of the Word of God and learning to live by it.
[Wisdom speaking] "All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse. To the discerning all of them are right; they are faultless to those who have knowledge."
Proverbs 8:8-9 NIV

Teach me good discernment and knowledge,
For I believe in Your commandments.
Psalm 119:66 NASB

So [in all things] you should [always] be calculating what it is that pleases the Lord.
Ephesians 5:10

(9) And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in full-knowledge (epignosis: truth believed) and in all discernment, (10) so that you may be able to evaluate the things that are good and appropriate [for you to do] to be sincere and without offense in regard to the day of Christ (i.e., to gain a maximum reward at Christ's judgment seat), (11) full of the righteous production Jesus Christ [commends] to the glory and praise of God.
Philippians 1:9-11

Solid [spiritual] food is for the [spiritually] mature, those who by [diligent] practice have trained their [moral] perceptive faculties to [properly] distinguish between good and evil.
Hebrews 5:14
N.b., your personality seems fine to me!

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #13:  
[omitted]
Response #13:  
Suffering is indeed a part of the plan, but we're not required to put ourselves – or keep ourselves – in situations where the suffering is unfair and unnecessary, not if there is no law against us putting distance between ourselves and the trouble (and the troublesome people). 

If we were slaves, that would be one thing. But as free people we do have the right to exercise good and prudent judgment when it comes to relationships. Family, as mentioned many times, constitutes a particularly difficult test, often, but I don't find it written anywhere that we are responsible to do whatever they want whenever they want regardless, especially if we are not talking about marriage.
God has called us to live in peace.
1st Corinthians 7:15b
In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #14:  
Hi Bob,

Sorry to hear about your Latin PTL quitting. What a pain for you! Praying you find a replacement asap.

We interviewed for a new manager and offered the job to someone. She accepted it, then kept my boss hanging on for weeks about her start date and then pulled out a couple of days ago. So they're advertising again. We're short staffed now which is difficult when staff have booked to go away on holiday. The joys of work! So I'll be working some extra days to help them out.

Boiling hot weather here. Mustn't complain though. It'll be freezing cold again before you know it!

Keeping the prayers going for you, Bob.

In Jesus
Response #14:  
Yes, I was just getting momentum with the research and with little time remaining and now this. Not sure we'll be able to find anyone. I may have to teach it. I think I have a "work around" on that, so it might just be survivable.

Sorry to hear you have a similar situation! Hope you get rested up sufficiently before you have to pull those extra days.

We've had storm after storm here. Knocked the palm on my front porch over four days in a row now (and it's tied to a pillar too)! Got wet one way or another four days in a row as well. I don't do well with that so I'm taking it slow. August finally got here. Won't be long until I'm "into it" with the new school year, although with this job search effort I already feel "into it". Probably a blessing to avoid a cold start!

Anyway, the rain has been good for the plants. Zinnias spectacular this year. We've had not too many butterflies but several hummingbirds. One of them hovered right in front of the window taking a look at me the other day! Too bad I didn't have my phone/camera ready to hand.
How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.
Psalm 104:24 NIV
Thanks for the prayers! Coming your way too, my friend.

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #15:  
Hi Dr. Luginbill,

What are the rules/determining factors regarding priority of manuscripts or dependent books? I believe the "rules" go something like this?

1. A shorter reading is preferred over a more detailed reading due to the possibility of an accidental gloss, or a marginal commentary being accidently placed in the text by a careless scribe.

2. A more difficult reading is preferred to a simpler or easier reading (also called a rougher reading is preferred over a smoother reading). The rationale is that an awkward phrase would be replaced with a smoother, more natural phrase.

What do you think?

I have another, unrelated question, if you don't mind. 

My wife and I just returned from a "Footsteps of Paul" tour in Turkey and Greece. I don't know if you'd be interested in answering a question regarding Corinth but I thought I'd give it a shot. 

As you know, in Corinth (Acts 18:11-16) there are the (well preserved) remains of the "bema seat"; this is a raised platform upon which Gallio stood. In front of this is the "whipping post" where prisoners are tied and then, if guilty, are given lashes. 

Our tour guide said Paul stood at the whipping post listening for the judgment of Gallio. I didn't think to ask at the time, then when I thought of the question we were already back in the States. 

Was Paul tied to that whipping post awaiting Gallio's judgment or was he merely standing next to it? I believe the tour guide implied he was tied to it awaiting Gallio's pronouncement but can't be sure. 

Thank you for your time, I know you are very busy.
Response #15:   
Good to make your acquaintance.

On your first question, textual criticism is more of an art than a science (though it often goes by the name of the latter). The short answer, which I do not mean facetiously, is that "the correct reading is to be preferred". How we arrive at that is, as mentioned, the result of a process that does use the sort of "rules of thumb" of the sort you mention here. Lectio difficilior does say that the more difficult or troublesome reading is to be preferred, but for anyone who has spent any serious length of time examining manuscripts and considering alternative readings, we understand that a caveat has to be added: "unless it's clearly wrong". There are many reasons for very difficult readings which don't include them being correct. My own application of this particular rule is that we don't want to throw out an outlier just because it is an outlier – which has happened more than once in traditional translations of the New Testament. The same thing goes for shorter readings. In my opinion, the very best NT ms. is Sinaiticus, but there are more than a few places where it seems clear that the leaving out of things was accidental. And of course there are also plenty of places where the "putting in of things" is deliberate – and wrong (interpolations, and in the longer endings of the gospel of Mark). 

In actual practical application, a teacher who is worth his salt will consider all the evidence for the text and weigh the possibilities where there are alternative readings. Key to this also is actually understanding what is being said. A person who is genuinely a believer and filled with the Spirit possessing a deep knowledge of what the Bible actually teaches and means throughout (along with knowing Greek and Hebrew well and having some experience in textual criticism), will have a much better chance of "getting it right" than someone who does not – just as a person who understands geometry inside out will have a better chance of correctly rendering the text of Euclid than someone who does not.

A good book to peruse on this subject in terms of the NT text is Metzger's A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament . . . but get the 1st edition (1971) if you can; in the second edition, they changed many of their correct decisions to incorrect ones . . . which demonstrates the art vs. science bit and also how that scholars who are not really accepting the truth as believers can often be led astray.

On your second question, that was not standard procedure for someone not yet condemned, and nothing in the text of Acts suggests it. I would assume that this "color commentary" for the sake of performance rather than historical fact.

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #16:  
Thanks so much for those answers, Dr. Luginbill. That was very helpful and kind of you to respond.

Do you have any thoughts about the principles of Lectio difficilior regarding books or the letters of Paul rather than just phrases? As in, the issue of Colossian priority over Ephesians. My specific question is, which book is the antecedent?

If Ephesians was written first then Ephesians is given priority and Colossians would be an abridgement. 

If Colossians is the precursor, then Ephesians would have literary dependence on Colossians and is a redaction of Colossians. 

I realize the accepted premise is, Colossians is antecedent to Ephesians. I have read both letters numerous times completely through (as in 30 to 40 times) and it still seems to me that Ephesians is the earlier letter. 

So, I guess my question is this, "is there a rule or principle that scholars follow to determine priority of one letter to another with regard to thoroughness (redaction) or abridgements?" 

I don't mean to discount the obvious, as in Acts clearly is subsequent to Luke (and all the gospels) or as in 2 Peter when he clearly states this is the 2nd letter to the same audience. 

I do appreciate your time and thoughtfulness.
Response #16:  
There are a lot of similarities between Colossians and Ephesians, clearly. They were written about the same time (during Paul's first Roman imprisonment; i.e., between 54/55 and 57 A.D.; see the link). That being the case, I'm not sure what difference to the texts it would make as to which one was written first since they are two independent compositions written by the same person at about the same time.

If we were talking about the dialogues of Plato, wherein we are dealing with a philosopher whose philosophy evolved over time, that would be one thing. But of course here we have the inspiration of the Holy Spirit ensuring that everything in both epistles is God's own truth.

Happy to revisit if I've misunderstood.

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #17:  
Thanks for the explanation. 

The reason for so many questions is that I recall reading somewhere that Ephesians has advanced theological teaching compared to more remedial with Colossians. 

1) I think just the opposite 
2) if they were written and delivered at the same time, at what point did Paul receive this advanced insight for Ephesians that he didn’t have when he wrote Colossians

You have been very kind with your time. I am impressed by internet site and you taking time to answer my emails. 

I don’t mean to be intrusive but what is your educational background? 
Response #17:   
My pleasure.

I've been reading these epistles in Greek for over forty years and I don't find either one "not advanced". They are different because the audience was different. In fact, I don't find anything in the Bible inconsistent with anything else in scripture – rightly translated, interpreted and understood, that is.

As to educational background, my C.V. is online on the site at the link. In a nutshell, I have a Ph.D. and M.A. in Classics and an M.A.B.S. from Talbot Theological in addition to my two B.A.s in history and classics.

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #18:  
Hi Dr. Luginbill, 

So, you have articulated what I have felt for several years ("they are different because the audience was different"). I may have several further questions for you in the future. I probably will. I hope you don't mind.

I grew up Mormon and became a Christian during my junior year at Auburn University. When we got married my wife and I decided we were going to do at least three things during our marriage. We were going to, at least, pray before we ate. We were going to, at least, tithe and we were going to, at least, read the bible. And...we have.

Due to the teachings of the LDS, I didn't trust the bible because it might not have been correctly translated (see their 8th Article of Faith). I started collecting different English translations of the bible. I now have close to 90 in print. Now that they are all on-line, I have a library full of them but mainly use the computers for study. For reading, I prefer to hold a book and turn my own pages.

Since we got married in 1980, my wife and I have read the bible 22 times in different translations including:

1. NASB95 (4 times)
2. NIV84 (3 times), 
3. KJV (3 times)
4. NASB77 (twice)
5. ESV (twice), 
6. HRV (twice), 
7. NKJV (once), 
8. NASB 2020 (once), 
9. CEV (once), 
10. HCSB (once), 
11. The Message (once), 
12. NLT (once)

I came to the conclusion, long ago, that the bibles in all translations are trustworthy for most part except the Jehovah's Witness and Joseph Smith's translation. I have no plans to read either of them. I have also read the Book of Mormon (cover to cover) and can therefore verify what Mark Twain said about it. It really is "chloroform in print." 

I deeply appreciate your indulgence with my questions. My degrees are in science and what I know about literature is limited to my own personal study.
Response #18:  
Re: "I came to the conclusion, long ago, that the bibles in all translations are trustworthy for most part except the Jehovah's Witness and Joseph Smith's translation."  That is exactly how I see it too (based upon reading the Greek and Hebrew many times over many years).
For my take on some of these translations, see the link.

Do feel free to write me any time.

There is a great deal at Ichthys about all of these subjects you mention (you might check the subject listing at the link).

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #19:  
Greetings, Dr. Linguibil,

Hope this email finds you well. Today when I tried to access your website ichthys.com I was unable to connect. I pray that everything was well with you. And if there's anything we can pray and do for you please let us know. Thank you.

God bless,
Response #19:   
I've tried on multiple platforms to reduplicate the problem but have been able to fully access Ichthys from everywhere I've tried.

Can I ask you to refresh your browser (or try a different one), and let me know if this problem is persisting?

Thanks for your help, my friend!

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #20:  
Good evening Dr. Linguibill,

Thank you for your reply. I was able to access your website today. One reason I was looking up your website was to find resources to for the study of Genesis, which my son’s class just are going over the creation account now. So there are not many good studies on the gap between Gen 1:1 and 1:2 except your studies. Thank you again for your ministry.

God bless!
Response #20:   
You're very welcome. And thank you!

Here's one link on that: Genesis Questions

And of course the Satanic Rebellion series deals in depth with Genesis chapters 1-3, particularly part 2: The Genesis Gap (at the link).

In Jesus,

Bob L.
Question #21:  
Hi Mr. Luginbill,

How are you? I hope you are well!

I think I am going to stay in __ right now and I am happy to report that my health is much improved! Thank you for all the prayers on that. I can now have almost any food I want although I'm still eating healthy. :)

I'm still trying to carry on. I'm trying to get into God's Word more and it helps, I'm just not at peace about my life direction. Right now I'm exchanging room and keep for working around the farm so that's good. I need to make a decision about which direction to start going so one day I can get a job and I don't know if that's college, working for myself, or what. I'm so restless about it cause I know that God wants me to work and I want to! I just don't know which way to go and I can't seem to come to any decision. What should I do? How do I have peace and confidence in the Spirit that I'm walking the right path? I know I'm going in circles and I don't want to anymore - I do want to go on whatever path God wants me on.

Thank you.

Respectfully,
Response #21:   
Thanks for sharing the great news! 

In terms of "what's next", these are big decisions. Keep praying and I'll be praying for you too. Remember that the "main path" is your personal spiritual growth, progress and production. Jobs and careers and all other hopes and dreams will work out if we keep first things first. When we are clear that what we are doing really is focused on wanting to please the Lord, then we do get that confidence you're seeking. So keep growing, keep praying, and be patient. The Lord has a perfect time for this too.
Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he will give thee the desires of thy heart. Commit thy way to the LORD; trust also in him; and he will bring it to pass.
Psalm 37:4-5 WEB
In Jesus,

Bob L.
http://ichthys.com/