The Rapture

© 06-08 Born-Again-Christian.info

Pre or Post Tribulation?

Q: Will the Rapture be before the Great Tribulation, or afterwards? Martin

A: I take a pre-Tribulation view of the Scriptures, though I respect believers who hold a post-Tribulation view.

However, I would not waste a second splitting-hairs, stacking up Scriptures to counter the opposing view. When you find yourself becoming like that Martin, you know you've been side-tracked from the only reason you are still on Earth: Get out, and go and proclaim Christ to lost souls!

Let The LORD take care of the minor details. You, go and Do what He told you to. Mk. 16:15, Mtt. 28:19-20

On giant's shoulders

Q: What do you think of So-and-so's theology? I appreciate him, but there's too much dead Calvinism in his teachings. Martin

A: Make up your own mind after asking Jesus. That's what I do. Each of us is trying our best; some have more light. The Lord encourages us all: So should we.

I thank God for what John Calvin did, the bloke was mighty, and the Geneva Bible is a treasure. I don't subscribe to Calvinist theology because it's obvious (now) that some of it is flat wrong. But keep the perspective that God plucked us out of the Dark Ages, and satanic Catholicism, through those Reformation believers. Even midgets see further on the shoulders of giants.

Distracted by hobbies

Q: In your article God Manifested in the Flesh, you say that the KJV translates this better than the NIV. How, therefore, are NIV readers to discover this vital Gospel fact?

A: The NIV translation of 1 Tim 3:16 clearly states that he appeared in a body, but I prefer the KJV here. However, there are other places where the NIV is stronger on the Deity and Humanity of Christ than the KJV.

Please don't get on a hobby-horse over Bible versions. Your neighbours are perishing around you without knowing that Jesus is Almighty God in the Flesh. Or that Eternal Life and righteousness are offered freely to all. Go and wake them up.

Tongues Baptism

Q: I have had Water Baptism and do not speak in tongues; do I have to ask my Pastor to receive the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, or should I pray to receive the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. Doi

A: The Baptism in the Holy Spirit has nothing to do with water baptism. They are separate experiences. You can have it right now simply by receiving in faith, you may also ask your fellowship leaders to help you receive. Both examples occur in the NT.

Remember the children

Q: Are children's programmes in place of having them in the worship services a good idea?

A: Definitely, don't forget kids are unsaved sinners, and they get bored in adult worship services. Allow them to see what goes on, that's an important example, but let them come to Christ in their own time, and free of peer-pressure.

Fun activities, Bible stories, and gentle evangelism in their own age groups is best.

The Prosperity Gospel

Q: What do you think about the prosperity theology; Is it right or wrong in front of God? Vinod

A: Where the prosperity doctrine agrees with Scripture, it is perfectly alright, God certainly wants His children to prosper in all things. I heartly recommend this book.

However, proponents can become unbalanced, and covetous, by concentrating on material prosperity alone, and neglect practical love, unselfishness, and evangelism. God is outrageously generous isn't He?

How to know God

Where was Jesus before He created the Universe?

A: He was with God in the beginning. Jn. 1:1. Jesus is Almighty God (YHWH) in the Flesh. Look up the references here: Jesus is LORD. When you know Him, you know God personally.

Gospel for Philippines

Q: Do you have any Tagalog tracts?

A: Yes, go to the Philippines and give those beautiful people these Tagalog Tracts.

In bondage to 'Soul ties'?

Q: What are 'Soul Ties'? Sidonia

A: An invention of some Christians carried away by mysticism and psychology. The term is not a Bible expression.

Avoid it, and instead teach Bible Repentance and Faith, Forgiveness, Redemption, and Salvation through simple heart faith in The Blood of The LORD Jesus Christ. Then you'll get Bible results.

Baptism of Fire

Q: How many people were Baptized with Fire on that first Pentecost? Frank

A: About 120 believers in the house, according to Ac. 1:15, and Ac. 2:3-4. This resulted in an opportunity for Peter to proclaim Christ, and about 3000 were saved, and then baptised in water. Doubtless a large number of those also received the Baptism in the Holy Spirit that day, but we are not told how many.