Who is the father of Mary the mother of Jesus, and where can I find it in the Bible?
Summary: Heli was Mary’s father.Explanation: The lineage of Matthew 1 traces Jesus’ ancestry through Joseph. Matthew 1:16, “And Jacob begot Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus who is called Christ.” Notice that Jacob is clearly identified as Joseph’s father.Whereas Jesus’ lineage through Mary is recorded in Luke chapter 3. “Jesus was [...]
Did Jesus still claim Judas as one of his disciples after Judas betrayed him?
When Judas came to betray Jesus, our Lord called him a friend, not a disciple or apostle. Matthew 26:50, "But Jesus said to him, 'Friend, why have you come?' Then they came and laid hands on Jesus and took him." This word “friend” isn’t the familiar Greek word philos, meaning beloved or loving friend. The word here [...]
Act 2 :42 – 45 says believers sold their possessions and had all things in common. Is this a model for local churches?
Short answer: Communistic living is not a model for churches. The early church practiced generous sharing not communal living. Explanation: Acts 2:42-46 (NIV) reads, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer…All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and [...]
When a government is against Christians, how should we react according to Bible?
First, we must obey God’s will in all matters. Acts 5:28,29, 33 (NIV),“‘We (the Sanhedrin and the high priest) gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,’ he said. ‘Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man’s blood.’ Peter and the other apostles [...]
Some Christian associations request government protection for safety reasons. As biblical Christians, can we take or pursue government protection?
Short answer: Yes, Christians may use legal means to secure safety. Explanation: The Apostle Paul asked for and received Roman government protection when the Jews were enraged by him. Acts 23:10-24 (NIRV), “The arguing got out of hand. The commanding officer was afraid that Paul would be torn to pieces by those who were arguing. [...]
Is Jesus God or a messenger of God?
Jesus is the “only begotten son of God,” John 3:18. He is “the firstborn of all creation,” Colossians 1:15 (NASB). In the beginning in heaven, God named His son the Word. God is the Almighty Father and He is the designer and director of all creation. His Son, the Word, had the joy and privilege [...]