The BIG Picture (Q&A)

As we navigate the complexities of Christian living, we often find ourselves at crossroads, unsure of how to navigate the nuances of faith and practice. In Romans 14, the Apostle Paul addresses a crucial aspect of Christian relationships, urging believers to walk in love and unity amidst differing convictions. As we explore this chapter, we're reminded that our faith is not only a personal matter but also one that requires consideration for others. In this lesson, we'll dive into the heart of Paul's teaching, culminating in the profound statements in verses 22-23, which serve as a guiding principle for navigating disputable matters. The context of Romans 14 is centered around the issue of "weaker brethren" (Romans 14:1), those whose faith is not as mature or robust as others. Paul exhorts believers not to "despise" or "judge" these weaker brethren (Romans 14:3, 10), but rather to receive them with open arms, just as Christ has received us (Roma...

The following statement is a reply written by someone who was commenting on a post in which I described the framework of scripture; the dividing of the redemption plan of God into the dispensations. This comment argues that Gentiles are Europeans and do not constitute all people who are not Jews. In the rest of the post, I provide my understanding of who Gentiles are based on a rightly divided view of scripture. Comment made: Gentiles are not all nations outside of Israel. Gentiles are the sons of Japheth: Genesis 10:1–5. Trace Japheth's sons as they overspread the earth and you will find that they are merely Europeans, or what the world knows as white people. Remember Ham was also a son of Noah, but not Gentiles. Shem is the lineage which the nation of Israel comes through.  In Romans 11, Paul, being the apostle of the Gentiles, was speaking to Rome, who are Gentiles warning them not to try to take the church from Israel. Rome, even unto this day says that they are the mother ...

In contrast to the Jewish church, Paul was given new truth concerning the establishment of grace church. The Body of Christ is an entity that one will not find anywhere in the Old Testament, in prophecy, or in the Gospels. It is unique revelation introduced for the heavenly program. Matt 16:15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.  The Jewish assembly is built upon the rock. It is not built upon Peter as the character, but rather, the Jewish church is built upon the 'confession' of Peter, the faith confession that Jesus is the Son of God. This confession is the primary requirement of ...

What are the differences between the Law and the Mystery programs?   This important question, neglected by many believers is answered by Paul’s epistles. Knowing the mystery program (as opposed to the Law) will help us to live according to the plan and will that God administers in the world today, as well as prevent confusion and malpractice of His Word. (Qualifying scriptures: Rom.11:13; 1 Cor.14:37–38; Rom.16:25–26) The Body of Christ Another new truth revealed to Paul was information about "the Body of Christ" . We know this is from Paul because nobody else ever knew about, spoke of, or wrote about the Body of Christ before Paul came on the scene. Paul was saved in Acts 9, and its only after this and in his writings that you hear of this name. Rom.7:4 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the Law by the Body of Christ; ... 1 Cor.10:16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the co...