Welcoming and supporting new believers in Christ is one of the most important things we can do as Christians. As the body of Christ, we are called to build each other up in faith and walk alongside one another in discipleship (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Here are some key ways you can help new believers grow in their faith according to what the Bible teaches: Pray for Them One of the most powerful things you can do for a new believer is to regularly pray for them. Pray that God would give them wisdom and understanding in studying His Word (Psalm…
Author: Mike Solis
Are children punished for the sins of their parents? The question of whether children are punished for the sins of their parents is an important one that the Bible addresses. There are a few key principles from Scripture that provide insight into this issue: 1. God judges individuals for their own sin, not the sins of others The Bible is clear that God holds each person accountable for their own actions and does not directly punish children for the sins of the parents. Ezekiel 18:20 states, “The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not suffer for the iniquity…
The issue of sinful religious leaders is a difficult one that has challenged believers throughout history. Zephaniah 3:4 states “Her prophets are reckless, treacherous men; her priests profane the sanctuary and do violence to the law.” This verse highlights the reality that even those appointed as spiritual leaders can be corrupt and abuse their power. As ordinary people seeking to follow God faithfully, what should our response be when faced with such leaders? Pray for Conviction and Repentance The first response should always be to pray. While we cannot force hearts to change, we can cry out to God who…
Witnessing to Mormons – What is the Key? The key to witnessing to Mormons is focusing on the gospel of Jesus Christ as presented in the Bible. Here are some important biblical truths to emphasize: 1. There is only one God (Isaiah 44:6, 8). Mormons believe in many gods. 2. God has always been God (Psalm 90:2). He was not once a man who became a god. 3. Jesus is fully God and fully man (John 1:1, 14). Mormons believe Jesus is a created being, the spirit brother of Lucifer. 4. Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in…
Rome is mentioned several times in the Bible, both in the Old and New Testaments. As the capital of the Roman Empire during New Testament times, Rome played a key role in early Christianity. Here is an overview of the significance of Rome according to the Bible: Rome in the Old Testament Although Rome is never directly mentioned by name in the Old Testament, there are a few prophecies that may refer to Rome or the Roman Empire: – Daniel 2 refers to a series of world empires, starting with Babylon but culminating in an unnamed kingdom of iron that…
This is a common question for many Christians. On one hand, we believe that Jesus’ death on the cross paid the penalty for our sins and reconciled us to God. Yet, on the other hand, we still experience pain, suffering, and consequences in this fallen world. Though Jesus’ sacrifice was completely sufficient for salvation, sin still has an impact in our earthly lives. The Bible teaches that while believers are forgiven and redeemed in Christ, we still live in a fallen creation groaning under the weight of sin (Romans 8:22). Though we are new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17),…
Christianity is broadly divided into three major branches – Catholicism, Orthodoxy, and Protestantism. Within these branches there are numerous denominations and traditions that have their own distinct beliefs, practices, and interpretations of the Bible. Catholicism The Roman Catholic Church is the largest denomination within Christianity, with approximately 1.3 billion adherents worldwide. Some key beliefs in Catholicism include: The authority of the Pope and church tradition in addition to the Bible Salvation through faith and good works The real presence of Christ in the Eucharist (communion) Veneration of Mary and the saints Purgatory as a place of purification after death before…
Ungodliness refers to behavior or beliefs that are contrary to God and His nature. The Bible has much to say about ungodliness and its consequences. At its core, ungodliness is living as if God does not exist or does not matter. It is disregarding God’s laws and commands and living according to one’s own desires and purposes instead of God’s. Characteristics of Ungodliness The Bible describes several characteristics and manifestations of ungodliness: Lack of reverence for God – Ungodly people do not honor or respect God. They do not see Him as sovereign, holy, or worthy of worship (Romans 1:21).…
Sin is a concept that is central to Christian theology and practice. At its most basic, sin refers to any act, thought, or behavior that goes against God’s will. The Bible presents sin as an intrinsic part of human nature due to original sin, but also emphasizes the possibility of redemption and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Here is an overview of how the Bible defines and describes sin. Sin as Disobedience to God One of the most common ways the Bible defines sin is as an act of disobedience against God’s commands and law. 1 John 3:4 states,…
The “harmony of the Gospels” refers to the coherence and consistency between the four biblical accounts of Jesus’ life and ministry found in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Though each Gospel writer presents unique emphases and details, the fundamental narrative of Jesus’ identity, teachings, miracles, death and resurrection aligns across all four texts. Studying the Gospels in parallel allows readers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of Jesus’ life and message. The key aspects of Jesus’ story recounted across the Gospels include: His virgin birth and divine nature (Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-38; John 1:1-14) His baptism by…