Articles by BibleThinker

Oh my. Kenneth Copeland will “cure your baldness” and ruin your faith. This is a serious response to the sad, dangerous and demonstrably false teachings of Kenneth Copeland. Perhaps the most valuable thing I have to offer here is why people actually follow this guy. Here’s my hope to change as many of his followers as possible!

I’ve seen people asking for the full video of the blood thing (and FYI, he didn’t really cut himself, he was pretending) https://youtu.be/GNnSh-X1s5I

My video on why I think the death penalty is biblical. Please hear me out and if you disagree share why in the comments. https://youtu.be/gf259Qv2qv4

0:00 Introduction
1. 0:04 Is there a conflict between being pro-life and pro-death penalty at the same time?
2. 3:54 Can you address what John means when he says that certain sins lead to death and some do not (1 John 5: 16-17)? Is there evidence in this passage that suggests you can lose your salvation?
3. 7:37 When, in the research process, do you (1) know you have read enough secondary literature to comment on the topic and (2) become confident enough to share your conclusion with thousands of people?
4. 12:40 Are there any verses in the Bible where it clearly states or implies that rights (life, liberty, and property) are inalienable and inherently possessed, as opposed to being dependent on self-ownership?
5. 19:03 God answered Hagar directly. Both her and many others before and after Christ. Do you think God sometimes uses the still small voice today, or only directly through the Scriptures? (Hebrews 1:2)
6. 24:53 Do you think that macro evolution is consistent with Scripture, since evolution works by death? As sin entered the world through Adam and through sin entered death (Rom 5: 12, Rom 8: 21-22).
7. 29:06 In 1 Corinthians 14: 22, Paul says tongues are a sign for non-believers and prophecy is a sign for believers. The next verses seem to flip it though. I can’t make sense of it but I wondered your take on it.
8. 32:50 My parents think religion is stupid and I don’t want to evangelize to them because they’ll judge me and say that I’m stupid. Is that ok, or should I try anyway? If so, how?
9. 35:47 How would you understand the numbers in Revelation 7: 4? What does it mean by “144,000 were sealed”? Does it mean only 144,000 are faithful Christians?
10. 41:11 In 2 Peter 2:6, is the example of Sodom & Gomorrah literal? Does it mean that on the final day of judgment the ungodly will literally be condemned to extinction like they were?
11. 43:58 Is the Athanasian Creed biblical (specifically the first part which seems to imply that one cannot be saved without believing the doctrine of the Trinity)?
12. 45:53 Is it biblical to say that all temptation comes from Satan and the demonic? Or can temptation also come from your sinful self?
13. 50:23 Is there biblical support for having monarchies today? What attitude should we have toward monarchy, specifically?
14. 52:48 What is your view on the Creation account given in Genesis? Some people hold to a young earth, but with modern science, that seems unlikely. Questions then arise such as: did Adam and Eve exist?
15. 59:22 Were Old Testament believers born-again? Could they be called (during their lives) “children of God” as Christians can be called nowadays?
16. 1:02:06 Are nerdy hobbies (comics, movies, games, etc.) reconcilable with Christianity? Or should we discard them and use our time in other ways?
17. 1:04:21 My pastor teaches that we are “little Gods” from the word of faith movement. I have disagreed with him in private conversation about this and he is firm in his belief. How important is this issue to salvation?
18. 1:05:43 How does Israel in the Bible correlate to the present day political state of Israel? Are the promises for Israel meant for Israel today?
19. 1:07:39 Is there a difference between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Heaven? If yes, can you explain it for me?
20. 1:09:04 What do you think of “dual covenant theology” (the belief that Jews can be saved without believing in Jesus due to their special covenant with God)?

Every Friday at 1pm PT
Here’s how you get your questions answered in the Q&A
1) Please reread your question before you ask to ensure that it will make sense to me. Clarity is paramount.
2) Wait till we go live before asking. We don’t take questions until then.
3) Put a “Q” at the beginning of your question.
4) Please only ask once, our mods are checking the chat continually.
5)

It’s a bigger issue now than ever before in my lifetime. We live in an upside down and rebellious culture and this is seen nowhere more clearly than our attitudes toward sex, marriage, dating, gender and purity. Dr. Sean McDowell has just written a book that is meant to give people a biblical vision for loving God and loving others in these areas. And if that seems like a cliche to you then it’s because you too have become victim to upside down thinking on these issues. As a youth pastor I discovered that the most common reason people have for serious moral failure in their lives is a lack of godliness in relationships, particularly romantic ones. I’m happy to host Sean as we talk about this issue. Maybe you should get this book, for yourself or for someone else who can be saved a lot of pain and rebellion by getting their heads and hearts right on loving God in sexual purity.

Sean’s book, available December 1st or for preorder now. “Chasing Love” https://amzn.to/3f81xQM (affiliate link)

Sean’s video on Transgender Identities (really good content here)
Https://bit.ly/36EGrWo

I’m amazed at the similarities that exist between modern progressive Christians and the Sadducees in the gospels. I’m even more amazed at how Jesus’ roasting of the bad theology of the Sadducees applies to modern liberal theologians and progressives in general. Disclaimer: I am talking about religious progressives or liberal theology, not politics. It’s true that those who have liberal theology tend to have liberal politics but they aren’t the same thing.
In this continuing series through the Gospel of Mark we will see how Jesus brilliantly refutes the Sadducees (and progressives and even Mormons) and we’ll learn how we can better identify and not fall victim to the tactics that liberal teachers often use to get us to abandon biblical truth. Man, I love this series and love how applicable it is in our lives today!

This is part 48 of a verse by verse study through the Gospel of Mark.
See the WHOLE Gospel of Mark playlist here https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuGenHwUdeiQ5M-uj5XW4sF

HERE is me dealing with a popular progressive/liberal Christian teacher named Brian Zahnd. This may be my BEST example of how to notice and combat the common tactics of progressives who sadly twist the heart of Christianity and do so in the name of Christ. https://youtu.be/QUNdh1u6774

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:
0:00 Introduction
1. 0:44 Is it right or wrong to refute other pastors who publicly teach false teachings?
2. 7:24 I was wondering if you could talk about and help me understand Mark 16: 17-18 (specifically verse 18). I haven’t seen those two signs played out…perhaps it could be metaphorical?
3. 13:58 How should we interpret 2 Corinthians 12:2? Are there “levels” in Heaven? And does it have anything at all to do with the phrase “seventh heaven”?
4. 17:55 Are Christians who believe that Genesis 1-11 is allegorical (unintentionally or not) denying the divinity and validity of Christ, considering what Jesus said in John 5: 44-47?
5. 23:33 What are the biblical principles, if any, about keeping our bodies physically healthy, and to what extent? (Think smoking, piercings, or eating/exercise habits)
6. 28:29 How do you respond to Matthew 16: 28?
7. 32:09 Do Isaiah 14 and Ezekiel 28 speak about Satan?
8. 33:46 Can you explain what Lordship Salvation is, please?
9. 35:54 How would you react if someone said that all truth is subjective and that there is no concept of truth, except what “works for you”?
10. 37:50 When you first accept Jesus into your life, is that when you become “born again” and baptized with the Holy Spirit? Or are they two different things?
11. 40:24 My bible teacher said my family is saved because I believe in Jesus, citing Acts 16: 31. I think she misused scripture. If so, how do I address the issue? Does forgiving mean trusting her again?
12. 45:33 Is it a salvation issue if someone rejects the idea of Jesus being one and the same with God?
13. 46:56 Are unbelievers forgiven to some degree? I’m looking at Luke 23: 34
14. 50:40 My daughter was baptized in 2018, and came out as bisexual in 2019. Any thoughts on how to talk to her about this? I’ve tried!
15. 53:08 What do you think about the Noahide Laws? I’ve been told that if they’re enacted, Christians would be found guilty of “idolatry” and executed. Should we be worried?
16. 54:26 I’ve seen your Mormonism series and have met with Mormons quite often, and I am wondering, what might be a good approach to addressing their belief in “sons and daughters of God” and pre-mortal existence?
17. 55:30 What are the “seven spirits of God”?
18. 56:38 My in-laws are WOF leaders and church owners, and it’s a constant “name it and claim it” around them. Should we have a doctrine “sit down,” or just ignore? Its tough.
19. 59:02 Should Christians drink alcoholic wine at the commemoration of the Lord’s Supper? And must we use unleavened bread?
20. 1:00:57 If I live in habitual sin from addiction, and I really want to overcome it but I keep backsliding, am I still saved, or am I using it as a license to sin? If I don’t stop before I die, what happens?

My NEW YouTube channel “YouTube Tactics with Mike Winger” https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPjFC53u7nIMUoNFZeAxhjg

Every Friday at 1pm PT
Here’s how you get your questions answered in the Q&A
1) Please reread your question before you ask to ensure that it will make sense to me. Clarity is paramount.
2) Wait till we go live before asking. We don’t take questions until then.
3) Put a “Q” at the beginning of your question.
4) Please only ask once, our mods are checking the chat continually.
5) I’m truly sorry if I’m unable to get to your question. I know its a bummer, but I am doing my best.
6) If you arrive late we may have already gathered 20 questions. Please check the live chat to see if we are full on Qs. Thanks!

My video on “Was Jesus a Failed Prophet” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eExtYuAgB8

Satan: according to the Bible. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6xRA2jwYGM

My video analyzing the YouTube miracles of Todd White (and a few others) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=je20XTohCNo

My video on Bethel and Bill Johnson’s teachings. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3tEv26OMTU

My videos on The Passion Translation of Brian Simmons. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvlIDpjVyCs&

If I put the Bible first, before politics, I will end up supporting the death penalty. But I think the Bible also answers some of the fears of those who do oppose the death penalty. This will basically be a survey of several key Bible verses that deal with the death penalty. From it’s initial inception in Genesis 9 to it’s use in the Old Testament Law and the important teaching in Romans 13 on the role of government in enacting lethal punishment. Along the way I’m going to answer a few challenges that I’ve heard regarding the death penalty.
1) What about those who are innocent but get the death penalty?
2) But didn’t Jesus reject the death penalty when He said to “turn the other cheek” or when he wouldn’t kill the adulterous woman?
3) But God’s justice is restorative and not retributive. And the death penalty ends any chance to restore the person who committed the crime.
4) I just don’t trust the government to get it right, therefore capital punishment should be off the table.
5) But we aren’t under the Law of Moses any more.

I realize there are major ramifications for political issues related to this question but I want us to approach it first as a question of what the Bible teaches. This is my own commitment in trying to think biblically about everything and it’s what I hope you will do as well.

My website https://BibleThinker.org

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:
0:00 Introduction
1. 0:42 How should I approach a friend who does not believe in objective truth?
2. 7:34 Do you think that Melchizedek was was a theophany? How does the writer of Hebrews know so much about him if there’s only a few verses in the Hebrew Scriptures about him?
3. 14:44 The Bible says that Satan is the “god of this world” (2 Cor. 4:4), but I know that God is sovereign over all things. How do I reconcile these two truths in a biblical way?
4. 17:55 What are your thoughts on “Oneness Pentecostalism”?
5. 19:13 Is marriage a choice? I’ve heard that marriage is God’s will for most people, but I like Paul’s argument in 1 Cor. 7: 25-40. If someone desires singleness, could it go against God’s will?
6. 22:20 In John 3 where Jesus says “you must be born again,” it isn’t like you chose to be born, you just were. Any thoughts on that?
7. 23:59 What are your thoughts on attending a wedding between a believer and an unbeliever?
8. 25:40 My church encourages kids to participate in communion. My 4 year old does not participate because we feel she’s not ready. Not because of sin, but not fully understanding what she’s doing. Any thoughts?
9. 27:01 In regard to our spirit, soul, body, mind, and heart, what does each biblically consist of, and what is their purpose?
10. 29:00 What are your thoughts on this prevalent kind of “repentance-free Christianity” where psychological goals (self-improvement/fulfillment) have replaced pursuing holiness?
11. 32:57 Does Revelation 3: 16 mean that lukewarm Christians will not be in Heaven? (“…because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spit you out of my mouth.”) What does lukewarm mean?
12. 38:36 What happened to Jesus on the cross? What does it mean that He took God’s wrath? Was it just pain and death like we deserved, or something more? Was it the equivalent of spending eternity in Hell?
13. 43:51 I got saved a couple of months ago! Any tips on studying the Bible? Where could I look to get background information on different books of the Bible before I begin studying them?
14. 45:39 Could you please explain why there are two demon possessed men in Matthew 8, but only one in Mark 5?
15. 49:01 How do you respond to teaching that says the verses that say homosexuality is wrong are actually about pedophilia, and not about same sex relationships? Do you have a video on this?
16. 51:20 What do you do if you can’t live at peace with a family member at home?
17. 52:45 I like David Wood, but do you think his approach is biblical? It is effective, but isn’t it too harsh?
18. 54:37 At Pentecost, they were mocked for appearing to be drunk. Does this suggest that we should expect laughing, shaking, or falling when closely sensing the Holy Spirit?
19. 59:12 My friend told me that their relationship with God and religion in general is something they keep private. Is this biblical? How should I respond?

Every Friday at 1pm PT
Here’s how you get your questions answered in the Q&A
1) Please reread your question before you ask to ensure that it will make sense to me. Clarity is paramount.
2) Wait till we go live before asking. We don’t take questions until then.
3) Put a “Q” at the beginning of your question.
4) Please only ask once, our mods are checking the chat continually.
5) I’m truly sorry if I’m unable to get to your question. I know its a bummer, but I am doing my best.
6) If you arrive late we may have already gathered 20 questions. Please check the live chat to see if we are full on Qs. Thanks!

My website https://BibleThinker.org

Here’s all I want to know. What is Critical Race Theory and is it biblical? We’ll answer both questions today with special guest Neil Shenvi.
I agree that racism is a serious problem in our lives today. A very serious problem. But real problems can sometimes lead us to bad solutions. The solutions provided by Critical Race Theory (and concepts of “whiteness”, “systems of oppression”, “internalized oppression”, the redefining of “racism” etc.) are actually solutions that involve more racism. It is injustice in response to injustice. It’s unbalanced scales in response to unbalanced scales. It’s prejudice in response to prejudice. A biblical Christian should recognize that because racism, partiality and injustice are serious issues, we can not embrace Critical Race Theory. This isn’t about taking political sides or pleasing crowds, it’s about being biblical and pleasing God.

Neil Shenvi’s web site – https://shenviapologetics.com/
Neil Shenvi on Twitter – https://twitter.com/NeilShenvi

My website https://BibleThinker.org

I’m not going to pull punches today. This isn’t really a “translation” of the Bible. It is one man’s attempt to replace the gospel with his own false teaching. His false teaching is truly heart warming and encouraging. Francois Du Toit is a brilliant man, skilled communicator and as far as I can tell he is absolutely sincere and well-meaning in replacing the gospel with his feel good message that the real problem with people is that they believe the gospel when it says that all have sinned, are deserving of judgment and need to be born again in Christ. I’m not exaggerating when I say that the Mirror Bible is the worst translation I’ve ever looked into. In today’s video we will survey through a number of Bible passages he has mistranslated and explain how he is trying to fight against the clear teaching of the text and how he tries to use Greek to trick people (and himself) into believing his anti-gospel. Yeah, it’s really that bad.

Wesley Huff’s article on Bible translations https://bit.ly/3kzDFHy

My NEW YouTube channel teaching you how to be a successful Christian YouTuber. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVKQO2NpUZo

My website https://BibleThinker.org

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:
0:00 Introduction
1. 0:15 How do the Jehovah’s Witnesses mistranslate and misuse John 1:1 in their “New World Translation”?
2. 10:22 What does Matthew 24: 34 mean? What is the “all these things” Jesus speaks of? Would the original audience/early church have thought He was referring to the second and final coming?
3. 20:54 What does Matthew 26: 46 mean?
4. 22:08 Can you explain the parable of the 10 virgins in Matthew 25:1? It cannot possibly mean that half the Church fails to enter in…or does it?
5. 26:18 I’ve heard people support abortion using Numbers 5, specifically v. 27. What is your take on that?
6. 30:43 The OT often calls the Old Covenant an eternal or everlasting covenant. If it is eternal and everlasting, how can there be a New Covenant?
7. 32:22 If I don’t read the Bible and pray every day, I feel a huge amount of guilt – like I’ve sinned and am not even worthy to be a Christian. Is this kind of guilty conscience or conviction healthy, or not?
8. 34:57 In Mark 7: 27-28, do you think that this passage is a good way to highlight that the eucharist is specifically spiritual and not physical flesh, or do you think it’s not correlated enough?
9. 36:26 What is the “rod” in Proverbs 13: 24? Is it a method of corporal punishment, or does it refer to a rod of truth with which we hold our children/households accountable to?
10. 39:52 As a struggling Calvinist, could you explain the apparent favoritism of God throughout the Bible and why He “chooses” some over others? (ex. Jacob/Esau, Abraham, Prophets, and Moses.)
11. 43:01 In Genesis 9, Noah seems to curse Canaan for the actions of his father, Ham. Do you think Noah cursed Canaan, or is Moses emphasizing Canaan on purpose?
12. 44:26 How do you respond to the claim that Jesus came to dismantle systems of oppression? though He did dismantle “systems” like legalism, it also seems to diminish the Gospel when it becomes the focus.
13. 45:55 My wife and I are wondering if the parable of the sower (Luke 8:4-15) clarifies Hebrews 6:4-6…We both believe salvation is eternal. Thoughts?
14. 49:32 I don’t feel the witness of the Holy Spirit or a love for God. I trust Christ to save me, but I’m not seeing fruit. Does the inward work of God take longer for some people?
15. 52:19 ​Is “the anointing” a real thing, or is it just another word for the Holy Spirit? And can we get an anointing today? Any verses to support your argument?
16. 53:54 How do we reconcile forgiveness for our sins by His work on the cross with being examined on Judgment Day? If we sin and receive forgiveness, will that be brought up again when we stand before God?
17. 57:03 Would you ever recommend The Message Bible? Any possible problems you see with it?
18. 58:53 Do you think some people focus too much on extravagant mission trips or campaigns instead of evangelizing by acting good in the world?
19. 1:02:13 In 1 Corinthians 6: 12 & 1 Corinthians 10: 22, Paul says all things are lawful. I know he isn’t talking about sinful things, but is he talking about the law? I need some clarification. Thanks!
20. 1:06:38 I’ve heard some churches teach the “holy kiss” (1 Corinthians 16: 20) as a commandment. I’m curious about your thoughts on the matter.

Every Friday at 1pm PT
Here’s how you get your questions answered in the Q&A
1) Please reread your question before you ask to ensure that it will make sense to me. Clarity is paramount.
2) Wait till we go live before asking. We don’t take questions until then.
3) Put a “Q” at the beginning of your question.
4) Please only ask once, our mods are checking the chat continually.
5) I’m truly sorry if I’m unable to get to your question. I know its a bummer, but I am doing my best.
6) If you arrive late we may have already gathered 20 questions. Please check the live chat to see if we are full on Qs. Thanks!

My website https://BibleThinker.org