Hello; I’m wondering if a person is born with mental deformities and can’t understand the concept of the Lord, will they still reach heaven?

Sincerely,
Heart For Others

Dear Heart For Others,

Those with mental handicaps would fall under the same rules as children.  In order to obey the gospel, we must have the maturity to:

1. Take responsibility for our sins (Acts 3:19).
2. Hear and understand the Word of God (Rom 10:17).
3. Be responsible for our own spiritual growth (1 Pet 2:1-2).

Children and those with certain mental handicaps do not have that ability, and God only holds us accountable for what we are able to do (2 Cor 8:11-12).  Just like children, they will go to heaven.

     God is the Creator, and if He wanted to create people on Earth, He could have made people know who He was really easily without all the pain and suffering.  Why didn’t He just appear and let people see Him and talk to them or make it easy?  Why does there have to be so many punishing rules?  I just don’t get it.

Sincerely,
Can’t See It

Dear Can’t See It,

The answer to your question is that God did appear to mankind.  God appeared to mankind through the signs and miracles given to the Israelites and the patriarchs, and lastly, He appeared to mankind through Jesus (Heb 1:1-3).
The fact is that when Jesus walked this Earth, most people didn’t believe in Him.  He was perfect and without sin (Heb 4:15), He spoke like no man had ever spoken (Jhn 7:46), and He performed miracles like raising people from the dead and giving sight to the blind… and yet, the Jews still killed Him.  The problem isn’t that God hasn’t made it easy enough; the problem is that most of us don’t like the implications of having a Creator who is in charge.
You see, those punishing rules aren’t punishments; they are instructions for living from our Designer.  God created man in His image (Gen 1:26-27), and He gave us the Bible as an instruction manual for how to properly function.  Not following the manufacturer’s instructions for a table saw can break the saw and cause injury to yourself and others.  In like manner, when God made us, He gave us an instruction manual, so we wouldn’t harm ourselves, others, and cause Him sadness.  The Bible is God’s power for salvation for us (Rom 1:16).  The rules are for our salvation; the punishment comes as a natural consequence of living without those rules.

       The fact that many people are going to hell each day keeps me awake at night, and I cannot stop thinking about it.  Can I have some answers?

Sincerely,
Empathetic

Dear Empathetic,

No one has thought more about those perishing in hell than God has.  God thought about it so much He sent His own Son to try and save us from hell (Jhn 3:16).  God doesn’t desire anyone to perish (2 Pet. 3:9).

Take comfort in the fact that God won’t make any mistakes on the Day of Judgment, and no one will accidentally end up in heaven or hell.  He is compassionate, loving, and ready to show mercy (Ps. 86:5).  If someone goes to hell, it is because the most faithful and loving Being in existence judged properly.

Jesus teaches us humility and not to be prideful.  How can our co-workers respect us if we practice this?  How can I not be labeled a “pushover” or the “whipping boy” if I practice this?  I am asking from a supervisor’s point of view.

Sincerely,
Having The Oversight

Dear Having The Oversight,

Humility is not the same as being a pushover, and pride is not equal to strength.  Humility means that you aren’t arrogant or that you have any unrealistic view of your own importance.  Jesus was humble, and yet He also drove out the moneychangers from the temple (Jhn 2:15) and railed against the evil of the Pharisees (Matt 23:13-15).  The humble man improves himself and serves others with respect and dignity… just like Jesus did.  Jesus led with humility, and therefore, when He put His foot down, people knew it was important.

     How do you save someone from themselves?

Sincerely,
Lifeguard

Dear Lifeguard,

You can’t.  All you can ever do is provide people with answers, but it is up to them if they want to do anything about it.  As the old adage goes, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.”  Jesus even warns that we shouldn’t waste time trying to change people who don’t want to change.  He compared helping that type of person to throwing valuable pearls into a pig pen… the pig won’t value the pearls; he’ll just destroy them (Matt 7:6).
If Jesus, the perfect master teacher, couldn’t save everyone, we need to accept that we can’t either.  Anyone can change, but they have to want it for themselves.

     I’m hoping you might be able to help me in something that has been bothering me a lot, and one of my New Year’s resolutions is to take care of this major concern: I feel that until I am prepared to show someone what God says they need to do to be saved, I’m not doing one of the most important things He asks of me.  I’ve seen outlines for teaching someone the plan of salvation, but nothing I can put in my purse.  Are there, say, ten verses that include most everything I might need in order show someone God’s plan of salvation – something I might be able to memorize and possibly make into a small handout in case the opportunity arises?  Seems like the subject of God comes up when least expected, and I want to be prepared to share my faith.  I would greatly appreciate your assistance.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Ready To Be Ready

Dear Ready To Be Ready,

What a great New Year’s resolution!  Everyone should try and be ready to explain why they believe what they do and be prepared to share God’s plan of salvation with others (1 Pet 3:15).  Many people have the exact same problem that you have – trying to have something simple enough to have on hand and take with them.

A while back, we taught a class on how to teach people about Christ entitled “7 Questions For Your Soul”, and as part of that class, we made up a set of notes that could be printed off on sticker paper and put into the inside cover of your Bible; the whole thing fits on two pages of a standard-sized Bible and could easily be made small enough to fit into your purse.  If you’d like, below is a .pdf copy of those notes.  Feel free to use, distribute, and adjust as you see fit to help you be the most effective evangelist you can be!

Click Here To Look At Our Conversion Notes

     God bless you, brethren.  If I confront someone about their sin, am I passing judgment on them?  I mean, I myself am not perfect, so how can I who am not perfect confront someone about mistakes they’re making?  And how does Jesus’ saying about removing the speck from your brother’s eye tie into this?

Sincerely,
Avoiding Judgment

Dear Avoiding Judgment,

In Jhn 12:48, Jesus said that the Word of God is what judges mankind, and in Matt 7:1-2, we are told to be very careful about what we use as our standard of judgment.  If we are constantly judging people based upon our own personal opinions or arrogance, that is wrong.  However, the Bible commands us to judge with righteous judgment (Jhn 7:24).  When Jesus said to make sure to take the plank out of your own eye before trying to take the speck out of your brother’s eye (Matt 7:3-5), He was addressing the arrogant attitude that sees only other people’s faults, but not your own.  We are told to be honest about our own sins, and only then can we humbly seek to help others confront theirs.  If we had to be perfect before we could condemn others’ sins, we would never be able to say anything!  However, we aren’t told to be perfect; we are told to be humble and use the Bible as our standard for righteous judgment.

     Why do people that are not saved put others down?

Sincerely,
On The Up And Up

Dear On The Up And Up,

People do things for a lot of different reasons, some legitimate, some not.  Especially when people are living their lives outside of Christ, they are enslaved to sin, and they make all sorts of unhealthy decisions (Rom 6:17-18).  It isn’t our job to judge or condemn those outside of Christ – God says that they will be judged by the Word (Jhn 12:48).  It is our job to look past whatever harm or personal injury we may have suffered and strive to bring the truth of Christ to them.  Don’t worry about what those who are lost do to you; worry for them and be a light (Matt 10:28).

     In the Old Testament, God tells groups of people to go and completely wipe out another group.  How can this be just?  I believe I remember there was an instance where He did it to prove to the Israelites that He would be with them if they followed His directions.  How can this be explained as an acceptable thing?

P.S love the website! It does so much good! Thanks!

Sincerely,
Looking To Justify

Dear Looking To Justify,

God has to make complex decisions that allow individuals the freedom to choose while still keeping the rest of mankind safe.  Every time that God has destroyed a nation, He has done it for the safety of other nations and because that nation had become so corrupt that it was unsalvageable (Gen 15:16, Gen 6:5).  God knows that infants will be safe in His arms when that nation is destroyed, and it is important to remember that there is a difference between God taking someone’s life and a human making that decision.  God is our Creator, and He is intimately aware of where we will go when we die – after all, He is the Judge (Heb 12:23).

When wicked nations are allowed to continue, they inhibit the possibility of future generations obeying God, and they are destructive influences on the rest of mankind.  Thankfully, we have a God who knows where to draw the line – not too soon, and not too late.

      I was in supervision.  My job was high-pressured, and I was forced to step down.  Now, I feel alone, embarrassed, and I truly feel others were undermining me and disrespecting me.  How do I get my confidence back and feel better about working there?  God had to break me in order to get my attention.

Sincerely,
Feeling Demoted

Dear Feeling Demoted,

A righteous man may fall seven times, but he gets back up again (Pr 24:16).  We are defined more by how we accept failures than anything else.  The greatest athletes are those that can regroup and rally after a bad game or difficult quarter.  Humility is one of the most important traits in life (Jas 4:10).  The humble improve.  Think of this setback as a chance to focus on what really matters, and count your blessings.  We count them blessed who endured hardship when we read about them in the Bible (Jas 5:11).  Learn from your mistakes, forgive those who have harmed you, and be a shining light for Christ.  As a Christian, your worth is so much more than your job.  Christians have their hope of heaven as an anchor for their souls (Heb 6:19).

     If you were convicted of being a sex offender over eighteen years ago, and now time has changed your life, and you have accepted Christ, should you still be condemned by the public?  Does God always hold it against you for the sin that now has been forgiven by some?

Sincerely,
Leaving The Past Behind

Dear Leaving The Past Behind,

Sin has both spiritual and physical consequences.  The spiritual consequence of sin is eternal death unless we are forgiven in Christ (Rom 6:23).  The physical consequences of sin still remain after forgiveness.  God says that we reap what we sow (Gal 6:7).  When we behave immorally toward a woman, lose our temper, mistreat others, are bad examples for our children, etc. – there are consequences to those choices.  God does offer forgiveness if we place our faith in Him (read “What Must I Do To Be Saved” for more details), but that forgiveness doesn’t remove the consequences of sin in this life.  David sinned when he committed adultery with Bathsheba (2 Sam 11:2-4); God forgave David of the sin when David repented (2 Sam 12:13), but David’s child still died as a consequence of that sin (2 Sam 12:14).  A sex offender can be forgiven if they turn to the Lord, but the consequences of that sin will still follow them in this life.

     Hello again, and may God continue to bless you all.  My question is concerning a trend in the Lord’s church and its consequences.  I am having trouble concerning fellowshipping with the denominational world.  I don’t believe it is a good idea for the Lord’s church’s members to be thrown up together with speakers that are not Christians… i.e. at Christian youth rallies, inviting them in during Bible study, or holding breakfast with them to show our support for each other.  We are to be in the world, NOT of the world.  I think it shows an acceptance of their false doctrine, and waters us down… not to mention confusing our own on where we stand and why.

I don’t hate the sinner, just the sin, but we need to draw the line and say, “That’s it.”  Thanks a lot.

Sincerely,
Influenced

Dear Influenced,

There is nothing wrong with studying with people from the denominational world in hopes of converting them to the one true church of Jesus Christ (Eph 4:4-6), but it is dead wrong to support false teachers.

2 Jhn 1:10 says that we shouldn’t even give a greeting to those that are false teachers.  We cannot in any way confuse people by supporting the denominational world.  The denominations have left the basic teachings of Christ, and these religious leaders are destroying people’s souls.  They nullify God’s laws in order to keep their traditions (Mk 7:9).  Jude warned that false teachers are like hidden rocks that sink ships and shepherds that fail to protect the flock (Jude 1:12).  God’s church should have no communion with the doctrines of demons (1 Tim 4:1).

      I have thought of suicide.  People are just so mean to me, and I don’t know what to do.  I am scared.  I am hurt.  I try to ignore all the mean comments, but I can’t.  What should I do?

Sincerely,
Down

Dear Down,

Suicide isn’t the answer; the answer is to surround yourself with better people.  We remember the days of feeling alone, neglected, and unwanted – but all that changed when we turned to the Bible.  Christians are never alone because we have the Lord as our strength and other Christians to encourage us.  God designed local congregations to build us up (Heb 10:24-25) because He knows that there are many bad influences in the world that try to corrupt us (1 Cor 15:33).  You need a faithful congregation, and we would love to help you find one full of sincere, honest people that love the Lord and love each other.  Please e-mail us at askyourpreacher@mvchurchofchrist.org, so we can help you find the godly people you need in life.

     How long does God expect for you to help someone who is doing very little to help himself?  This person also puts a huge guilt trip on me… saying that he will commit suicide, be homeless, and get on drugs if I make him take care of himself.  What does God expect of me?  I want to do right by my Savior.

Sincerely,
Feeling Conned

Dear Feeling Conned,

The Bible says that there is a balance between helping people and enabling laziness and other sinful behavior.  For example, God says that if someone won’t work, the cure is that they shouldn’t eat either (2 Thess 3:10).  God commands us to not let people “mooch” off of us because that is just helping them to continue to sin.
Don’t get us wrong; God also says that it is very important that we help carry one another’s burdens in Gal 6:2.  However, just three verses down in Gal 6:5, it says that everyone must also be ready to carry their own burdens.  The point is this – we should ALWAYS help those who want to succeed, but when someone is unwilling to even try and carry their own weight… you can’t drag them to success.

    I’ve always known He created us for His glory, and giving us free will allows us an opportunity to do that by choosing His will for our lives.  I just don’t know how to relate to my friend in a way that she understands and accepts.  Got any suggestions?

Sincerely,
Fumbling Friend

Dear Fumbling Friend,

You might try talking about the definition of ‘perfect’ with your friend.  ‘Perfect’ means ‘complete’ or ‘having all the desirable and required elements’.  Perfect doesn’t mean that something can’t be broken or fail.  A car engine can be in perfect condition, and yet, if you don’t put oil in it – it will break.  A house can be perfectly constructed and still be destroyed by an earthquake.  When God made Adam and Eve, He made them without defect (Gen 1:31).  They were made exactly as He intended them – in His image (Gen 1:26).  Adam and Eve were designed with eternal souls and the ability to choose their own destiny.  They were perfectly designed with the free will to choose to love God or to choose to rebel against Him.  In fact, if mankind were designed so that it would be impossible for them to sin – they wouldn’t have free will.  God has given us the great gift of choice, and it is up to us what we do with it (Deut 30:19).  God could have made us without the freedom to choose, but then we wouldn’t be “in His image”… we would be automatons.  If every parent had the choice between having a child that may break their heart or purchasing a robot that would obey their every command… well, the choice is obvious.  A robot is no replacement for a child.

     My ex-girlfriend broke up with me some time ago.  In a way, I feel it was good because she was very worldly and not too into the things of God.  However, I still love her.  It’s almost like I can’t stop loving her.  For this reason, I have broken off all communication with her in hopes of losing the strong feelings I have for her.  Am I wrong for doing so?  Is it okay for believers to ignore people or shun them out of our lives?

Sincerely,
Cold Shoulder

Dear Cold Shoulder,

There is a time when it is appropriate to cut ties with someone.  1 Cor 15:33 says, “Bad company corrupts good morals.”  We are also told that believers shouldn’t yoke their lives to unbelievers (2 Cor 6:14).  It takes wisdom when to decide your life is getting too intertwined with someone who is worldly.  God tells us that we should be in the world but not of the world (1 Cor 5:10).  From what you have said, your case seems like a perfect example of the right time to distance yourself from someone.

     God bless you, brethren.  Now that I’ve come to the light of Christ, I’m super conscious of all the darkness that is in the world… so much that it disgusts me.  The world is in bondage to sin, and they love it.  I oftentimes try to make people aware of it, and when I do, I just come off like a “hater” or a pessimist.  And they’re right.  I feel like I’m a hater and a pessimist; I don’t approve of hardly anything anymore.  I even get upset when I see how blind the world is to all the immorality and sin they’re involved in… everything from the music they listen to to the way women dress nowadays really upsets me.  Am I right to feel this way?  As believers, what should our attitude be like towards a fallen world that lives in darkness and loves it?

Sincerely,
Dark Countenance

Dear Dark Countenance,

Bitterness and anger are such easy things to slip into, and many a christian has been destroyed by their frustration with sin and the world’s ways.  It is a dark world, and it can be discouraging and overwhelming at times.  The solution is to view the world the way Jesus did – with compassion.  When Jesus looked upon the city of Jerusalem, He wept over their faults and pitied their fate (Lk 19:41, Matt 23:37).  Jesus viewed the world as being full of people that needed a Savior (Jhn 4:35) and rejoiced over every lamb He could rescue (Lk 15:4-7).  Christians live in hope of eternity with God (2 Tim 4:8), and that hope is our anchor (Heb 6:19).  Allow your love of the Lord and your love for your fellow man to strengthen you through this life (Mk 12:29-31).  Your future is bright – have compassion on others, and maybe you might be able to brighten their futures as well.

     Does the exact Hebrew translation say in the Ten Commandments, “Thou shalt not kill”?  Or does it say something along the lines of “Thou shall not murder”?  Obviously, Moses was a great military leader (along with Joshua, David, Gideon, etc.).  I’m a soldier, and I get asked this question.  I don’t know how to answer it.

Sincerely,
On The Defense

Dear On The Defense,

The Hebrew word used for ‘kill’ in the Ten Commandments literally means ‘murder’.  There is a difference between killing someone in self-defense and pre-meditated, intentional murder of another human being.  The Bible has plenty of examples of faithful people going to war (David killed Goliath in battle – 1 Sam 17:49-50).  The Bible is also full of examples of capital punishment for certain crimes (Num 15:35).  Num 35:15-16 makes a distinction between accidentally killing someone and premeditated murder.  A police officer may have to kill someone while serving the community, but that isn’t murder.  The same is true with a soldier.

     After Jesus’ time on Earth, there were people spread throughout the entire Earth.  What happened to the Indians of America and South America?  None of them had any idea whom Jesus was until the Spanish Catholic missionaries forced them to listen.  There was a thousand plus year difference between Jesus’ death and that Spanish conquering.  If the only way into heaven is through Jesus Christ, how is it that someone who has never heard of Him is going to spend an eternity in damnation?  I know this is quite a lot, but as a Christian, I need to search for these answers to further myself as a better minister.

Sincerely,
Spanish Inquisitor

Dear Spanish Inquisitor,

Let’s address your concerns about those who didn’t hear about Christ until many years after His death and resurrection.  God has always given every human the chance to live a life of faith in Him.  During the transitional period from Judaism to Christianity, and during the time it took for God’s Word to spread across the globe, God dealt with ignorant nations the same way He always has.

We have a single statement in the book of Romans that hints at what kind of law the nations were under before hearing of Christ.  Rom 1:14-15 says that the Gentiles (Gentile means ‘non-Jew’) had a law of conscience written by God on their hearts.  This doesn’t tell us much, but it does point out that God had a system for judging the Gentiles… it was just different than the system He used for judging the Jews or today uses for judging Christians.  Rom 1:20 says that God’s invisible attributes are clearly seen in the world around us and that everyone is accountable for recognizing God’s sovereignty regardless of what other knowledge they have.  These verses just give a glimpse at the pre-Christian Gentile world, but it is enough to paint a picture that God had a plan; we just don’t know exactly how it worked.  We do, however, know that God judges righteously, and no one will ever accidently end up in hell (2 Tim 4:8).

     Where can I find Scripture about being even-tempered?  I find myself too passionate or emotional over politics and the effects of social media on our children.  I tend to want to get on my soapbox and preach.  Not good!!!  I need Scripture specifically concerning being even-tempered, please.

Sincerely,
Uneven Temper

Dear Uneven Temper,

The Bible says a lot about being even-tempered.  We are told to “be still and know that God is” (Ps 46:10).  We are also told that one of the keys to remaining even-tempered is to remember that we aren’t in control of everything, and we shouldn’t think so highly of ourselves as to put the weight of the world on our own shoulders (Rom 12:3).  Temperate behavior is so important that it is a qualification for elders (1 Tim 3:2), and it makes sense because if we want to make a difference, no matter how strongly we feel about something, keeping an even keel is going to make us more productive leaders than losing our cool.  God says that we should always be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger (Jas 1:19).  Remember that no matter how bad things may seem, God is in control of the world, and we need to be sober-minded and set our hope on God’s grace (I Pet 1:13).  Remember, no matter how concerned you are about politics and the future generation, God tells us to be anxious for nothing but instead to pray about our concerns and leave them in God’s hands (Php 4:6).

     I have struggled with this my entire life, including my entire Christian life.  NO one will even try and provide an answer – only quote Scripture that doesn’t provide an answer.

I have been taught God is all-knowing, all-powerful, can do anything, etc.  That being said and believed… why do such evil things happen to little kids (molestation, rape, murder)?  It might make sense if they were adults… but little kids?

How can you be all-knowing, all-powerful, watch what is happening to little children, and not help?

Everyone says, “FREE WILL; God doesn’t mess with free will.”  Then why pray?  IF He will not intervene to prevent an evil done to a child, why would He intervene and help you with patience or sickness or anything else?

I just don’t get it.  I’m a parent.  I could not watch an evil done to my child and do nothing.  PERIOD.

Please explain… if you can.

Sincerely,
Angry Mother

Dear Angry Mother,

All suffering is caused by mankind and sin.  When God made the world, He made it to be good – it was sin that destroyed that perfect vision.  All wickedness and evil brings pain to God and grieves Him, and He will only endure it for so long.  In Noah’s day, God saw all the violence that was in the world, and it made Him deeply sad (Gen 6:5-6).  God gives mankind the freedom to make our own choices, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t pain Him to see the evil upon this earth.  God tells us that the only reason He endures it is because He is longsuffering and desires to give as many people as possible the chance to repent and turn to Him (2 Pet 3:9).  God’s longsuffering is what is hard for us to comprehend because if we were in His shoes, we wouldn’t be as patient with wickedness as God is.  But then again, we also wouldn’t send our own son to die for wicked people – so it is a trade off.

God’s patience is greater than ours, which feels like a blessing when we think of our own need for forgiveness… but it feels like a curse when we look at others’ behavior going unchecked.  It is a dark and ugly world, and God’s love is the shining light in that darkness (Jhn 3:19) – His love is deeper than ours, and His patience is profounder than ours.  Just remember this: all the blameless (including children) will be comforted in His arms in heaven (Rev 21:3-4).  This darkness will not last forever, and it will seem like a mere wisp of time when we get to eternity (Jas 4:14).

     I understand the reasons and the potential good that can come from suffering, but why does God allow some to suffer more than others? Though none are completely innocent, there are many in the world who seem to suffer unfairly and undeservedly.

Sincerely,
Why Them?

Dear Why Them,

Some people suffer greatly, and others face relatively few problems.  There are several reasons that someone might have a greater portion of trials.

1. We reap what we sow (Gal 6:7-8).  The choices we make have consequences in this life – and in the next.  What you do affects you and those around you that you come in contact with.  When you behave godly, certain things happen; when you behave sinfully, other things happen.  That is a universal principle of life.  If a woman drinks while she is pregnant or a child is neglected and malnourished because of ungodly parents – they will suffer the consequences of the choices their parents make.  Some children face health issues that were totally avoidable if the parents had simply lived moral lives.  Satan is sowing disaster wherever he can and we are all affected by our own choices and the choices of others around us.
2. Sometimes bad things simply happen because they happen.  Job suffered greatly, and his children died, but it wasn’t his (or their) fault.  Job hadn’t done anything wrong, nor had his kids.  It all happened because Satan wanted to do evil (Job 1:6).  As long as we live in this world of sin, there will be troubles.  Sometimes, there isn’t anyone at fault… just time and chance wreaking havoc in a sinful world (Eccl 9:11).
3. Sometimes people suffer so that God can be glorified.  Jesus’ disciples asked Him why a certain man had been born blind, and Jesus answered, “So that God’s works might be revealed in him.” (Jhn 9:1-3)  This man’s ailment provided an opportunity for God to show His glory.  There are times that we suffer, so God can teach us and teach others through our pain (Eccl 7:2-3).

This world isn’t fair – if it were, it would be heaven.  Instead, we live in a fallen world where man has been exiled from paradise.  This world is not our home; christians await a better world (Heb 11:16).

     Why did God harden Pharaoh’s heart when Aaron went to tell him to let His people go?  Doesn’t that go against free will??

Sincerely,
Chisel In Hand

Dear Chisel In Hand,

It is true that Ex 7:3 says that God hardened Pharaoh’s heart, but Ex 8:15 says that Pharaoh hardened his own heart.  Both are true.  God hardened Pharaoh’s heart by sending Moses to take Pharaoh’s slaves away, and Pharaoh chose to allow the plagues to anger and harden his heart instead of soften it.  God sent the events that affected Pharaoh’s heart, and Pharaoh chose how he would react to them.

It is the same as the statement, “I made him angry” versus “He got angry with me.”  It is true that our words and actions can cause a reaction from others, but at the same time, when someone gets angry, that is still their choice.  Pharaoh was the kind of person that when confronted with the signs and wonders from God, he hardened his heart and became angry.  God sent the signs and wonders; Pharaoh chose to react like he did.

     What would you tell a high school-age school student about Ouija boards and why it is wrong to use one?  The student is not a christian.  I am one of his teachers.

Sincerely,
Teaching The Truth

Dear Teaching The Truth,

The Bible says that we should always be ready to give an answer for the hope that is within us (1 Pet 3:15).  If this student asks you what you think of Ouija boards, all you have to do is say that you don’t use them because your faith is in the Bible, not superstition.  The Bible has evidence that proves it is trustworthy; the Ouija board doesn’t.  Our goal is always to direct people to the Bible.  It isn’t about proving the Ouija board is wrong (although it is!); it is about showing people that the Bible is right.  If someone learns to embrace God’s Word, they will naturally begin to repel that which is wrong.  After all, there is only room for one master (Matt 6:24).

So do you go to hell if you cuss but you don’t use the words to harm anyone?

Sincerely,
Loving Language

Dear Loving Language,

A common misconception is that something isn’t really a sin until it hurts someone, but that isn’t true.  The word ‘sin’ means ‘to miss the mark’.  When we do something that is against God’s will, whether we believe it hurts others or not, it is still wrong, and all sin will send you to hell unless you are forgiven of it (Rom 6:23).

When it comes to swear words, we are told to put away all profane and crude language from our lips (Eph 5:4).  Regardless of what our intentions are, filthy language is always sinful.

    I have trouble explaining my relationship with God.  And if someone asks me to tell them what Jesus means to me, I want to know how to explain it.

Sincerely,
Speechless

Dear Speechless,

It is a wonderful thing that you want to be able to explain what you believe and why you believe it.  Peter said that every christian should be ready to give an answer for the hope that is within them (1 Pet 3:15).  We are going to point you to some previous posts that should be of use to you in getting a grasp on why Christianity is the hope of all humanity.

1. Here is an article that gives evidence for God’s existence – “Does God Exist?”
2. Here is an article with evidences that the Bible is God’s Word – “Who Wrote The Bible?”
3. Here is an article which deals with what it takes to become a christian – “Five Steps To Salvation”
4. Here is an article that explains Jesus’ church and all the religious confusion in the world – “Down With Denominationalism”

Those should be enough to give you some verses and answers for many of the basic questions a christian needs to respond to.  Once again, you deserve a pat on the back for wanting to be ready to give an answer for your beliefs.

     A lady told me her preacher had a stroke.

1. Was this illness from God?
2. If the preacher was a true christian, why did God not answer the preacher’s prayers for 100% recovery?
3. Did God have apostles that were handicapped?
4. This lady was questioning the preacher’s christianity.  How can I answer her using the Bible?

Sincerely,
Far From A Physician

Dear Far From A Physician,

We can’t tell you whether or not this preacher is a faithful man, but we can tell you that his stroke doesn’t mean he isn’t a christian.  The best passage to show this lady is 2 Cor 12:7-9.  The apostle Paul had a “thorn in the flesh”, some sort of illness that vexed him deeply.  Paul, being the faithful apostle that he was, prayed to God three times that the sickness would be removed.  God said, “No.”  Paul accepted the illness as part of his life and went on to preach very successfully in spite of it.

Good people suffer, too, and God blesses the faithful even through trials (Rom 8:28).

     I’ve been a christian my entire life, but I’m having some trouble finding some answers to questions I have.  One of my biggest questions is: if God created everything and knows everything, why would He create sin, knowing that’s a choice that mankind will choose?  And why can’t He just make sin go away?  I know that not everyone can go to heaven because it’s a perfect place, and sin cannot be there, but why wouldn’t God just completely get rid of sin, so all these people He’s created and loves can be with Him in heaven?

Sincerely,
Hope For All

Dear Hope For All,

God didn’t create sin; the devil did.  The Bible says that Satan is the father of lies (Jhn 8:44).  Sin only exists when we turn our back on God.  Sin is a lot like darkness.  Darkness isn’t really a thing – it is the absence of light.  God is the father of lights and every good thing (Jas 1:17).  When we stop following the Lord, we no longer walk in the light.  Sin is the absence of godly living.

God can do whatever He wants, but God has chosen to give us the freedom to choose sin or choose life (Deut 30:19).  God doesn’t desire any of the wicked to perish (Ezek 18:23).  His desire is for all mankind to choose Him, but God also honors our freewill by giving each of us an entire lifetime to choose for ourselves whether we want to spend eternity with Him or away from Him.  If God simply removed sin, He would also be removing our freewill.  God respects the freedom He gave us.

    Recently, in the news, a boy brought a gun to school and shot his classmate.  The teacher asked him why he did it, and he said his classmate acted “too girly”.  Do you think that the christian church is perplexing young minds and making them do silly things like this?  Also, how should we teach a child about diversity and homosexuals?

Sincerely,
Coexist

Dear Coexist,

The church needs to teach what the Bible says, and the Bible says that homosexuality is wrong (Rom 1:26-27).  Is it right to shoot people because you disagree with them? Absolutely not.  Vengeance, judgment, life, and death belong to God – not us (Rom 12:19, 1 Pet 4:4-5).  The Bible doesn’t teach people to hate.  There are people who try and wield the Bible as a book of hatred, but when you read the Book yourself, it teaches forgiveness for sins, the love of God, and hope for the repentant sinner – this includes repentant homosexuals.

We should teach our children what the Bible says about men and women.  God designed marriage and sexual relations to be between one man and one woman (Gen 2:24, 1 Cor 7:1-2).  Homosexuality is a sin, but it is a sin that can be forgiven like any other.

     God bless you, brethren.  Mark 3:5 says that Jesus “looked at them with anger, being grieved at the hardness of their hearts”.  I would like for you to help me understand when it is okay for us to be angry at someone for something.  When is anger not a sin?

Sincerely,
Tempering My Anger

Dear Tempering My Anger,

Anger isn’t a sin, but it often leads us into sinful behavior.  The Bible says, “Be angry and do not sin” (Eph 4:26).  Anger is a natural emotion, but we often allow that emotion to control us, and we end up saying or doing things that are sinful.  The example you gave from Mk 3:5 is a good example of the proper use of anger.  Jesus was angry because the Pharisees had such hard hearts that they would have denied an injured man healing just to spite Jesus (Mk 3:1-2).  Jesus was enraged by their attitudes.  So what did Jesus do with that anger?  He healed the man and taught people God’s truth (Mk 3:3-5).  Jesus was angry, but He didn’t say or do anything He would later regret.  We should rule over our spirits when we are angry (Pr 16:32) and be slow to speak when our hearts are hot (Jas 1:19).

I am reading the Bible in one year.  I am 50% through and very proud of myself for finally making this commitment.  However, with reading the Bible, I have come across several confusing and contradicting things… too many to mention.  In Romans, it talks about how God chooses to show mercy to some and chooses to harden the hearts of others, so they refuse to listen.  Doesn’t this contradict our free will?

Sincerely,
Feeling Robotic

Dear Feeling Robotic,

The chapter you are referring to is Romans 9, and the controversial verse is Rom 9:18.  The point of this chapter is that God decides whom He wishes to show His mercy to – it is His decision, and those who are saved are saved because of His purpose and generosity.  The apostle Paul, the writer of Romans, gives three examples of how God’s purposes and plans are what matter:

1. God chose Jacob instead of Esau to be the one that Christ’s lineage would come through (Rom 9:10-13)
2. God used Pharaoh, even though he was a wicked man, to glorify His name (Rom 9:17)
3. God, as the master potter, decides what clay (in this case, people) to use and what purpose to use them for (Rom 9:20-21)

This chapter is often confusing to folks because it seems as if the point is that people don’t have freewill, and God manipulates us arbitrarily – however, that isn’t the case.  All of these examples teach that God decides who receives His mercy and who won’t.  Now, here is the B-I-G question:

Who does God say will be blessed?

The answer – “Blessed are they that hear the Word of God, and keep it.” (Lk 11:28)

God will bless all those who choose to live by faith in His Son and follow His Word – we can’t be saved by any other method.  God has decided who He will save.  He will save christians (Jhn 14:6).

     I noticed in one of your posts, you were asked if God hates sinners.  No offense, but you seemed a little broad with your answer by just saying He loves people.  If you are basically saying God doesn’t hate people, then what does Proverbs 6:19 mean when it says God hates one who sows discord or bears false witness?

Sincerely,
Clarification Please

Dear Clarification Please,

Perhaps we were a bit broad-stroked with that answer.  Let’s see if we can clarify.  Jhn 3:16 clearly says that God loves the whole world.  In fact, God teaches that we should love our enemies, just like He does (Matt 5:43-45).  However, that doesn’t mean that God isn’t angry when people sin.  As you said, Pr 6:16-19 says that there are some things God hates, and they are all things that involve wicked living.  God walks that perfect line between always showing a love for humans, regardless of what they’ve done, and having a kindled anger against all those that rebel and destroy with sin.  God loves all man, but He also hates all sin.  His love is a patient love that hopes they will return to Him (2 Pet 3:9).

     Is it wrong to pray for someone who is dead?  I was told the Bible says it is wrong, and I don’t remember reading that.  Thank you.

Sincerely,
Morbid Curiosity

Dear Morbid Curiosity,

1 Jn 5:16 is probably the verse you are thinking of, but that doesn’t really deal with dead people; it pertains to people who are purposefully turning their backs on the Lord.  We are told not to request that God forgive people who aren’t seeking to live faithfully.

Having said that, your question deals with people that are already dead, and that is an entirely different issue.  Heb 9:27 says that people die and then face the judgment.  There is no room for someone’s fate to be changed once they die.  If your goal through prayer is to make it so someone who already died can go to heaven instead of hell, that won’t work.

     When you interpret Scripture, either by preaching to your congregation, answering questions on this site, or just studying Scripture in your spare time, are your biblical interpretations infallible? Yes or no?

Sincerely,
Do You Think You’re Perfect?

Dear Do You Think You’re Perfect,

We aren’t infallible here at AYP; we are just men.  That is exactly why we always give Bible verses for everything that we teach.  That way, you as the reader, can compare what we say to the Bible… and we hope you do!  The Bible is the perfect guide to life, and it is the power of God given to us for our salvation (Rom 1:16).  Always believe the Bible and test everything anyone tells you against its words (1 Jn 4:1).  That includes us.

     Does God hear or answer an unsaved person’s prayer?   I am saved but have been wanting some Scripture to answer my question.

Sincerely,
Is He Listening?

Dear Is He Listening,

God recognizes the prayers of the faithful only. There is no doubt that God hears the prayers of christians (Jas 5:16). God hears the prayers of the righteous, but He is far from the wicked (Pr 15:29). God is constantly listening to hear the prayers of christians, but He sets His face against those who do evil. God says that even a christian who isn’t treating others well (specifically their spouse) will have their prayers hindered (1 Pet 3:7).

God does not answer the prayers of those who are ungodly. When Israel turned away from God, He stopped answering their prayers (Micah 3:4). When Judah became wicked and followed false teachings, He stopped hearing their prayers and accepting their worship (Isa 1:13-15). The same would hold true for those who fall away today. God will stop listening to and answering their prayers. It isn’t that He doesn’t hear them – He simply ignores their requests. Those outside of Christ are promised that if they seek God, they will find Him (Lk 11:9). All of mankind has the ability to ask for truth and find it, but only christians can ask God as a child asks a father (Mat 7:11). The ability to seek God’s help through prayer is a blessing given only to those who serve God (Jhn 9:31).

     The Bible says we all must give an account before God.  But it also says the blood of Jesus covers our sins, and God remembers them no more.  If we are in Christ and do our best to be faithful and obedient, what is the account christians will give before God?  What if the account we give is displeasing to God?

Sincerely,
Don’t Judge Me

Dear Don’t Judge Me,

The verse that says we all must give account for ourselves before God is Rom 14:12, and it is in the context of explaining that brethren shouldn’t judge one another but leave the judgment up to God (Rom 14:10).  The point of that verse isn’t that we all need to be able to eloquently speak to God on the Judgment Day; it is that we each are responsible for our own behavior and choices in life.  You can’t get to heaven riding anyone else’s coattails.

If you are in Christ, then on the Judgment Day, your meeting with God will be a pleasant one – He has forgiven your sins and will tell you to enter into His joy (Matt 25:21).

Leviticus 19:28 said, “Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.”  Why don’t I hear too many churches preaching against putting tattoos on your body?

Sincerely,
Unmarked

Dear Unmarked,

The Old Testament strictly forbade tattoos (Lev 19:28). God was so adamant about it because cutting your flesh and tattooing were common practices of pagan cultures (1 Kgs 18:26-28). Tattooing was a religious practice closely tied to Baal and other idols.

In the New Testament, we are given no specific command against tattoos. It is valuable, however, to see that for a very long time tattoos have had a negative connotation. As a christian, there are many things that we can do but should think carefully about beforehand. Just because I can do something, doesn’t mean it is a good idea (1 Cor 10:23). Tattoos are permanent, and the decision to get one shouldn’t be taken lightly.

In American culture, tattoos can give a negative impression – especially if the tattoo is large or in a highly visible area. Some things to consider:

1. Tattoos are a deterrent for some employers. Are you willing to get passed over in a job application?
2. People will automatically form judgments about you based upon their first impression of a tattoo. Are you comfortable with being thought of as ‘the weird tatted-up guy’?
3. You must also consider what effects it will have long-term. Will you still want Tweety Bird on your shoulder when you are in the nursing home?
4. Are you ready to explain to your three-year-old why you have song lyrics on your bicep? Are you okay with your children wanting tattoos themselves?
5. Many tattoos change their shape, size, and even location with weight loss and gain. Are you ready for that “cute” bellybutton butterfly to become a condor when you get pregnant?
6. Many tattoos are of things that exude evil. Snakes, skulls, demonic signs, bad words, etc. are to be avoided at all costs.

We must always consider our influence and how it will affect others. God tells us to be wise and seek wisdom in our decisions (Pr 8:33). Whatever decision an individual makes, I recommend seeking outside counsel before getting something as permanent as a tattoo (Pr 11:14). It is not wrong for a christian to get a tattoo, but it certainly isn’t a decision to make lightly.

Does prayer really work???  I pray for situations to change in my life, and they don’t.  I do the best I can to try to get ahead, but it seems like more frustrating things end up in my path.  Furthermore, it seems as a slap in the face to my faith.  I watch those around me who barely believe in God live fulfilling lives.  What does God want me to do?

Sincerely,
Up In Arms

Dear Up In Arms,

Prayers do work, but God still has veto power.  We are told to pray that “if the Lord wills, we will do this or that” (Jas 4:15).  Jesus taught His disciples to pray for the Lord’s will to be done (Matt 6:10).  Part of prayer is that we need to learn to trust that God knows what He is doing.  We are entreating the Creator of the Universe with our problems, and just like any loving father, our Heavenly Father sometimes says, “No” to our requests.  As every parent knows, children sometimes ask for things that aren’t in their best interest, or they ask things unaware of the bigger picture.  God wants to give us good gifts (Matt 7:11)… sometimes that means that He answers our prayers by giving us something different than what we expected.

Now, let’s talk about those prosperous unbelievers that you are seeing.  Your frustration is valid, and David had the same frustration.  In Psalm 73, David talked about his animosity toward the success of the ungodly… he said it made him so mad that he almost fell away from God (Ps 73:2).  However, David finally concluded that the ungodly were not blessed because their entire existence was slippery and dependent upon their physical prosperity (Ps 73:18).  Only God’s people have an eternal hope that gives us comfort regardless of how life goes here (Ps 73:27-28).

Is it a sin to play Blackjack if I am skilled enough to hold an edge over the house?

Sincerely,
High Roller

Dear High Roller,

The Bible never specifically mentions gambling as a sin, but it doesn’t have to be specifically mentioned to be wrong.  There are a great many things surrounding gambling that are sinful.  Consider that:

1. Gambling focuses around money and greed.  God warns us clearly about being fixated with money (1 Tim 6:10, Heb 13:5).  God wants us to be satisfied with our income (Eccl 5:10).  Contentment is a major component of spiritual maturity (1 Tim 6:6).
2. Gambling is used as a means to gain money without working for it.  God finds pleasure in people working for their livelihood (2 Thess 3:10-12, Pr 10:4).
3. Gambling wastes money because, ultimately, the house does always win.  God expects us to be good stewards (1 Cor 4:2) and save for the future (Pr 6:6-8).
4. Gambling and the places where gambling occurs are often associated with other sinful things.  There is a reason Las Vegas is called “Sin City”.  That industry is not one that a christian should be supporting (2 Cor 6:16-17).

Gambling is addictive.  We can only have one master (Lk 16:13).

Jesus said that He created hell for Lucifer and his angels.  Can you please help me understand why humans are also subjected to the same fate as these demons if humans don’t make it to heaven?  I mean, why didn’t God make a lesser-tormented place than hell since hell was meant to be for the demons in the first place and was not made for humans?

Sincerely,
Horrified By Hell

Dear Horrified By Hell,

In Matt 25:41, Jesus says that the eternal fire was prepared for the devil (‘Lucifer’ is not a name used for the devil – read “Sans Satan” for more details) and his angels, but it doesn’t say they were the only ones the fire was prepared for.  We simply don’t have enough information to know that hell was prepared for the devil first and humans were added to that equation later.  All we know is that rebellious angels await the Great Day of Judgment as much as humans do (Jude 1:6).

Should you shoot somebody in self-defense?

Sincerely,
Trigger Unhappy

Dear Trigger Unhappy,

When the Bible commands us to not kill, the word used for ‘kill’ is the word that we would use for ‘murder’.  Some of the most faithful men in the Bible were soldiers and had to kill people in the defense of their country.  David was a man after God’s own heart (1 Sam 13:14), and yet David killed many people as a soldier.  Jesus marveled at the faith of a centurion soldier (Matt 8:8-10).  The first Gentile convert was Cornelius, a well-known Roman soldier (Acts 10:22).  When a group of soldiers asked John the Baptist what they needed to do to live a faithful life, he told them to be honest and faithful… but he never told them to stop serving in the military (Lk 3:14).  These are all examples of the difference between murder and self-defense (or war-time killing).

In the Old Testament, God made specific rules that allowed an individual to kill if they were defending their home or family (Ex 22:2).  In Lk 22:35-39, Jesus tells His disciples that persecution will begin after He leaves and that they ought to “buy a sword” – this is certainly an endorsement of self-defense.  All of these point to the fact that God distinguishes between defensive force and vigilante murder.

There has been a murder in our small town this past week, which doesn’t happen often at all.  It was very gruesome the way it happened.  I know it was a part of God’s plan, but why?  Did this lady deserve what happened to her?  And if she did, does that mean the bad things that happen to children are deserved also?  It’s really hard for me to understand why such a horrible thing happened to this lady, and it was planned.

Sincerely,
Sickened Neighbor

Dear Sickened Neighbor,

Murder is a sin (1 Jn 3:15), and it isn’t a part of God’s plan.  God can cause a horrible situation to work out for good (Rom 8:28), but that doesn’t mean that He desired for that woman to be murdered. People suffer for various reasons:

1. Sometimes we suffer for our own sins (Gal 6:7-8).
2. Sometimes we suffer because of others’ choices (like David’s sufferings at the hands of Saul – 1 Sam 20:1).
3. Sometimes we suffer in order to glorify God through our suffering and recovery (like the blind man – Jhn 9:2-3).

All bad things are a result of sin.  When God made the world, He placed mankind in the Garden of Eden and gave us a joyously blissful existence in that paradise.  Who caused the pain?  We did.  It is sin that has brought all of the death, disease, decay, pain, suffering, troubles, and heartaches into our world.  We all, in varying degrees, are reaping the benefits of a world with sin in it.

In our congregation, on Monday or Tuesday, we call members who were missing on Sunday.  Some of these members have not attended worship for months.  One of these members asked that we not call her anymore, and when we went ahead and called her anyway, it did not turn out well.  How do we handle this?  Do we stop calling, just send an occasional card, or do we take no action now and pray she will return when her heart is right?  The statement: “You can’t help someone until they are ready to help themselves” appears applicable.

Sincerely,
Tongue-Tied

Dear Tongue-Tied,

Jesus made a very concise statement about how to treat the person that is clearly not interested in spiritual things.  He said, “Don’t throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you” (Matt 7:6).  This is exactly what you experienced when that woman was called again after showing her total disinterest in the gospel – she turned and attacked the messenger.  As much as it can pain us, we must accept that not everyone wants to hear the good news, and sometimes, it is best to simply leave them to their spiritual bankruptcy.  There is nothing wrong with moving on in such situations; the church has done its job.  Like the prodigal son, until life outside of Christ gives them enough of a beating, there is nothing you can say that will help (Lk 15:11-19).

Since all sickness is a consequence of sin, why are some innocent children dealt a greater portion of this consequence than others?  Why might one child be born healthy and another not?  Is this random chance, or are some favored divinely?

Sincerely,
Sickened

Dear Sickened,

Sickness is a consequence of Adam and Eve’s sin in the Garden of Eden.  One of the curses of their sin was that we all must face our own mortality – life is finite.  Sickness, disease, and pain are a part of the human existence.  Sadly, this is true even for children.  Though, as you mentioned, sickness isn’t doled out equally.  Some people suffer greatly, and others face relatively few health problems.  There are several reasons that someone might have a greater portion of sickness.

1. We reap what we sow (Gal 6:7-8).  The choices we make have consequences in this life – and in the next.  What you do affects you and those around you that you come in contact with.  When you behave godly, certain things happen; when you behave sinfully, other things happen.  That is a universal principle of life.  If a woman drinks while she is pregnant or a child is neglected and malnourished because of ungodly parents – they will suffer the consequences of the choices their parents make.  Some children face health issues that were totally avoidable if the parents had simply lived moral lives.
2. Sometimes bad things simply happen because they happen.  Job suffered greatly, and his children died, but it wasn’t his (or their) fault.  Job hadn’t done anything wrong, nor had his kids.  It all happened because Satan wanted to do evil (Job 1:6).  As long as we live in this world of sin, there will be troubles.  Sometimes, there isn’t anyone at fault… just time and chance wreaking havoc in a sinful world (Eccl 9:11).
3. Sometimes people suffer so that God can be glorified.  Jesus’ disciples asked Him why a certain man had been born blind, and Jesus answered, “So that God’s works might be revealed in him.” (Jhn 9:1-3)  This man’s ailment provided an opportunity for God to show His glory.  There are times that we suffer, so God can teach us and teach others through our pain (Eccl 7:2-3).

I’d like a few answers to questions that are rarely (if ever) brought up in Sunday services.  What happens to people with brain diseases?  Is this another way for the brain to protect itself from trauma it can’t handle?  Are people born with Down Syndrome guaranteed a place in heaven?

Sincerely,
Of Sound Mind

Dear Of Sound Mind,

Those with mental handicaps would fall under the same rules as children.  In order to obey the gospel, we must have the maturity to:

1. Take responsibility for our sins (Acts 3:19).
2. Hear and understand the Word of God (Rom 10:17).
3. Be responsible for our own spiritual growth (1 Pet 2:1-2).

Children and those with mental disabilities do not have that ability, and God only holds us accountable for what we are able to do (2 Cor 8:11-12).

All disease and illness is a consequence of sin.  When Adam and Eve sinned, their bodies began to die (Gen 2:17).  When mankind was kicked out of the Garden of Eden (Gen 3:24), diseases of all sorts began to creep in.  Mental diseases are just one consequence of that fateful decision that Adam and Eve made.

Do you think it’s wrong for a christian to celebrate the death of Osama bin Laden?  I was ecstatic and thankful to God when I heard the news, but then someone showed me Prov 24:17.

Sincerely,
Grateful

Dear Grateful,

There is a balance in the heart of a christian between rejoicing that evil has been vanquished and mourning over the death of a human being.  There are plenty of examples of God’s people rejoicing in national victories.  There is an entire song that was written when the Israelites celebrated the destruction and drowning of the Egyptian army in the Red Sea (Ex 15:1-21).  There is always joy when the wicked are defeated (Pr 11:10).  It is appropriate to be happy when evil is destroyed because it means righteousness is prevailing (Pr 28:28).

However, this also must be tempered with the fact that a human that was made in the image of God (Gen 1:27) perished.  God says that it pains Him when the wicked perish (Ezek 18:23); we should also have that pain.  There is a bittersweet emotion within the hearts of God’s people when an evil person dies.  We rejoice that righteousness has prevailed, but we sorrow that a soul stained with sin has gone to face its Maker.

Why did people confess their sins to a priest in the Old Testament?  Isn’t the Old Testament a foreshadowing of the New Testament?  If we are meant to confess our sins directly to God, why does James say to confess to one another?  And why does Jesus give the authority to forgive and retain sins to His apostles (John 20:23) if christians were meant to go directly to God?

Sincerely,
No Middle Men

Dear No Middle Men,

In the Old Testament, priests offered sacrifices for the people’s sins, but the people didn’t necessarily confess those sins to the priest – they just brought the animal to the priests to be sacrificed (Heb 10:11).  The Old Testament priest functioned as a mediator between man and God.  You are right that the Old Testament is a shadow of the New Testament in Christ.  In the New Testament, Jesus is our high priest and mediator (Heb 8:1-3, 1 Tim 2:5).  We are able to confess our sins and have peace with God through Christ (Rom 5:1) because Jesus became our sacrifice (Heb 10:11-12).

Now, let’s address the issue of confessing our sins to one another.  Jas 5:15-16 talks about christians confessing their sins to one another, so we can pray for each other.  James isn’t saying that humans have the right to forgive sins; in the context, he is discussing the value of leaning on each other and seeking help when we struggle with sin.

Lastly, let’s deal with Jhn 20:23.  Jhn 20:23 does say that the apostles could forgive or retain people’s sins… but you have to read the verse above it, too!  Jhn 20:22 points out that the apostles were being divinely directed by the Holy Spirit.  Jesus told them that they were doing God’s work and were being led by God’s Spirit.  The apostles were unable to do anything by their own power, but when the Holy Spirit guided them, they could tell people things directly from the mouth of God (2 Pet 1:21).

Why did God make pain?

Sincerely,
Hurt

Dear Hurt,

If the pain you are talking about is the human body’s ability to feel pain, our pain reflexes are a healthy thing.  Those who can’t feel pain have a disease called congenital analgia, and it is a devastating disease.  As the parents of one child with this disease said, “Pain teaches; pain protects; pain can save you from a lot of bad things in life.”  Our nervous system is a tremendous gift from God, and it is part of what makes us “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Ps 139:14).

On the other hand, if you are talking about the emotional trials, suffering, and pain that people go through on this planet – God didn’t do that.  God didn’t create the world imperfectly.  When God finished the world, it was perfect (Gen 1:31).  All imperfection that we find in this world is a consequence of our sins (Gen 3:17-19).

Why are innocent victims allowed to be violated in this world?  Are they sacrificial lambs or what?  I see no purpose in, for example, young children being allowed to be violated.

Sincerely,
Disgusted

Dear Disgusted,

All suffering is caused by mankind and sin.  When God made the world, He made it to be good – it was sin that destroyed that perfect vision.  All wickedness and evil brings pain to God and grieves Him and He will only endure it for so long.  In Noah’s day, God saw all the violence that was in the world and it made Him deeply sad (Gen 6:5-6).  God gives mankind the freedom to make our own choices, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t pain Him to see the evil upon this earth.  God tells us that the only reason He endures it is because He is longsuffering and desiring to give as many people as possible the chance to repent and turn to Him (2 Pet 3:9).  It is a dark and ugly world, and God’s love is the shining light in that darkness (Jhn 3:19).  All the blameless and forgiven will be comforted in His arms in heaven (Rev 21:3-4).

Lately, I have been feeling like I have not been the best christian that I ought to be.  I try to be excited that I’m going to heaven and how blessed I am to know God and living how Christ would have me to, but sometimes I get so upset thinking about all those (including family) that won’t be there with me.  I try to always be positive, hoping that others may come to repentance, but for some, I know there is no chance they will follow Christ.  Why do I keep lingering on these thoughts?

Sincerely,
Disheartened

Dear Disheartened,

You are facing a normal and healthy part of the christian growth process.  It is a sign of compassion when that you look at those who are lost in this world, and it wrenches your heart.  It is okay to be hurt by the vastness of those who have chosen the wide path to destruction (Matt 7:13).  Jesus wept over His kinsman in Jerusalem that turned their back on the truth and rejected the gift of salvation (Lk 19:41-42).  When Paul thought about his lost fellow countryman, it grieved him deeply… so much so that he wished he could trade places with their souls, so they might be saved (Rom 9:1-3).  Paul’s heart’s desire was that his beloved kinsman would be saved (Rom 10:1-2), but he also knew that it was their choice, not his.  You are having the same emotions that Paul and Jesus dealt with – take it as a sign of spiritual maturity and growth.

The important thing to remember is that the greatest help you can be to the lost is to be that shining light and preserving salt that Christ exhorted us to become (Matt 5:13-15).  You can’t save everyone from their own choices, but, as Paul said, we try and live so that we can save some (Rom 11:13-14).