Yes, the defense does change in different cultures and locations. Consider the Apostle Paul’s example as recorded in Acts 17:1-12 (NIV): “When Paul and his companions…came to Thessalonica…Paul went into the synagogue, and …he reasoned with them from the Scriptures…Some believed… and joined Paul [...]
In the context of this verse, Jesus had just told the rich, young ruler to sell all he possessed, give it to the poor, and follow him. Jesus was able to read the heart of this man, and saw that although he was trying [...]
1 Corinthians 10:13, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, [...]
This is the same thought the Pharisee, Simon, had in verse 39. Simon thought Jesus should condemn and avoid her. The woman was sinful and had broken the Law. Jesus answered Simon with a parable in verses 41-42. "And he said, Two men were [...]
James 1:27 “religion pure and undefiled with the God and Father is this, to look after orphans and widows in their tribulation.” To “look after” could mean helping in a variety of ways besides adoption. God originally instructed Adam and Eve to “be fruitful [...]
Forgiveness is very important. Jesus said "Do not judge lest you be judged. For in the way you judge, you will be judged; and by your standard of measure, it will be measured to you." (Matthew 7:1) We are always to forgive, as Jesus [...]
(Scriptures are quoted from the New International Version Bible.)We read in the Psalms that "righteousness and justice" are the foundation of God's throne (Psalms 89:14 and 97:2). We know God speaks truth; He is completely impartial; and He does not go back on His [...]
Dancing in itself is not sinful, and can even be good exercise. We read in the Old Testament of David dancing for joy when the Ark of the Covenant was finally returned to Jerusalem. However, so many things in our lives have both good [...]
“...If you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” John 5:24 [...]
The word "Christian" has different meanings and associations to different people. Many "Christians" have consecrated themselves to a certain church, sect or belief, to which they give their allegiance, rather than to God. They may attempt to adhere to moral principles, which is to [...]
If you want to be pleasing to God, man should always live according to the Bible. Some may think this is restrictive, but it is actually quite freeing. Let’s use the workplace as an example. There are some companies where employees are empowered at [...]
Hebrews 12 opens with, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses; let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes [...]
This scripture, in context, is referring to the conduct of Christian women. At first glance one might interpret that for women to be acceptable to God, they should always be extremely plain, very simply dressed, and unadorned with neither jewelry nor elaborate hairdos in [...]
"Giving" can mean many things. God gives many kinds of blessings.In the Old Testament, God instructed the Israelites to give a tenth of their produce and livestock to the Lord (Leviticus 27:30-33). There were also admonitions to be generous (such as Proverbs 11:24, 25) and [...]
"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world--the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he [...]
The bearing of the cross is the way of growth in character and experience for the consecrated child of God. When we have trials that interfere with our human desires and appetites, then we know we are His disciples. We are to consider trials [...]
Galatians 6:7-8 read, "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit [...]
Yes, Christians can set limits. Not knowing the circumstances behind the question and the wrongs committed, we can only briefly deal with the principles. We can’t change others or society; we are only responsible for ourselves. Jesus did turn the other cheek when smitten [...]
James 1:6-8 and 4:8 tell us: "One who wavers (hesitates, doubts) is like the billowing surge out at sea, that is blown hither and thither and tossed by the wind. For truly, let not such a person imagine that he will receive anything (he [...]
"God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs.” (Matthew 5:3 New Living Translation) This does not mean a person must be in poverty. Poor in spirit is referring to our heart’s sadness because [...]
