Question #300
In James 5:13-15 it speaks of healing prayer, why do we not use this today? Is it our faith is weak or we doubt? I don't understand.

Leon's Response

Question #299
A friend of mine husband passed away about four years ago. She said that she always worry and is afraid that when she gets to heaven she will not recognize her husband. My friend is almost 80 years old. I told her how the rich man had seen Abraham afar off and Lazarus in his bosom. Do you have any other reassurance that you could give her?

Leon's Response

Question #298
A friend of mine wrote to me the other day and she said:

“I get very turned off by hypocrites in the church. I tried at this church. I like all the people individually. But then there was so much behind the back talking. And one family, a very respected family, she teaches Bible school, they drive the caddy and have the fancy clothes, and her husband sends me tons of off color e-mails. I am so disgusted. I delete most of them unless it is regarding the church. Then they will ask me if I got their e-mail. What can I say?”

What advice would you give her?

Leon's Response

Question #297
Is it okay for the church to have a gymnasium on its property? If it's okay for the church to have a fellowship hall, then why not a gymnasium?

Leon's Response

Question #296
What is your church stand on homosexuality?

Leon's Response

Question #295
1st time question for me. My church has a lot of members who believe in things that have been handed down over the last 100 years or so, but they do not have any (I mean none!) Bible references whatsoever. Like 'clapping is wrong in service' and 'no steeple' and the 'sign church of Christ cannot be physically touching the building' and my favorite 'the annex building has to be separate from the church building'. It is driving me crazy. I know people have these little things they believe in, (so do I), but I'm afraid it is now turning into legalism. I love my little church here in the backwoods of Arkansas and do not want to leave, so I need some advice on how I can preach a message against this without having half the church in an uproar.

Leon's Response

Question #294
Will your church on Dec. 25 have any type of different service than norm?  If so, how come, and if not, explain.

Leon's Response

Question #293
In First Timothy 5-12: "Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith."  What was their first faith?

Leon's Response

Question #292
My name is Solomon, and I am pastor in guntur state ap in india about last 10 years. I got so many answers in the bible. but I having one critical doubt about AFTER DEATH and SOUL. I study this subject but exact answer not come.

In Luke 16:19-31 Lazarus and rich man story , they both are died and Lazarus is in paradise and rich man is in hades. They both see with each other and Lazarus feeling comfort at Abraham's bosom and rich man feel very tormented in hades.

Bible says so many times dead is asleep with out dreams. It is unconscious until second coming of Jesus. Also Ecclesiastes 9:5,6 tells They do not remember Earth relations and anything.

But Lazarus and Rich man both are fully conscious and finding each other. Also rich man asks save his brothers. All things are remember him. Also rich man feels thirsty and ask for water. With out body how is physical feeling? 

Lazarus is taken with angels to paradise but Who are taken rich man to hades? Why here silent about him? Who are taken him?

In Thess 5:23 "Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." 

Here scripture says that spirit, soul, body are distinct each other.

In Ecclesiastes 12:7 says body return to dust and spirit will return to God who gave it. What about SOUL? Why here silent this word. Where it can return or goes? Here also silent the word righteous and unrighteous (sinners). 

Above Lazarus and rich man story they both died at a very time they still exists in paradise and hades. That is their soul or spirit.

(or)

Their SOUL is in paradise and hades and their SPIRIT is return to God at a very time after death.

Leon's Response

Question #291
A central topic of discussion around those I consider friends is the
requirements in order to obtain salvation. By salvation, I mean
eternally saved. 

Could you please point-out scriptures that discuss the requirements of
salvation? Additionally, if you could speak of scripture which answers
the question if salvation can be lost, it would be appreciated.

I have read Hebrews 6:4-6 many times; however, I'm not too for sure I have a good understanding of its meaning.

Leon's Response

Question #290
In the 12th, 13th and 14th chapters of I Corinthians the Bible speaks of the different spiritual gifts. Do you think that those in the church that believe are still (capable of these gifts) today or was that just for a certain time for how long they were to last? I find that those in the church that believe they are still around - those that feel that they have the spirit of prophecies always have a feeling or know what everyone else's gift is. From what I read I get the impression that those gifts were just for that time. In Ephesians 4:11-13 the word "until" appears and that would seem to mean there would be a time of termination. I would think that we are to be prophets because of Matthew 28:19. In Matthew 25:35-46 seems like covers all the gifts to a degree.

Leon's Response

Question #289
What does it mean when God said we should seek his face?

Leon's Response

Question #288
Explain in your own words,2 Peter 3:18, explain in your own words, what does it mean to be more like Christ? When should a servant disobey authority? Why did they tie a rope around the priest ankle before he went in to the holiest of holy in the tabernacle? The father, the son and the holy spirit is called the G---,G---,F----. Is the pastor the head of the church? Did Jesus go to hell or hades to pay for his sin debt? Did Jesus washed his disciples feet, because he wanted to teach them about cleanliness? Will the sheep be on God's left hand and the goats on his right hand? Define agape-the God kind of love which means what?

Leon's Response

Question #287
Brother Leon, may I begin by stating how much I have enjoyed reading the Q & A section! I have a couple of questions for you. First, I have been a Christian for almost 17 years and was raised in a "conservative" church (no fellowship hall, no donating treasury money to orphanages, etc.). I have recently attended a "liberal" church in my area that has a fellowship hall and donates money to orphanages. I love this congregation and would like to place membership there, however, I am struggling with the idea of attending a church with these practices. I have read I Cor. 11:17-34 numerous times trying to interpret the scriptures correctly. Could you please explain how fellowship halls are justified in spite of this passage. Also, could you please provide scriptures concerning the appropriateness of using treasury money to fund a fellowship hall and donate to orphanages. 

Second, I have a question regarding public confessions. I understand that in James 5:16, we are commanded to confess our sins one to another, however, it doesn't mention public confessions. I was taught that if a Christian committed a public sin, he/she was to come before the church and ask for forgiveness. I have yet to find a verse in the Bible that describes the difference between a public sin and private sin. I was told there was a verse in the Bible stating that if one brought reproach upon the church, he/she was commanded to ask the church's forgiveness. However, I have not been able to find that verse even after looking through my concordance for the word "reproach." Could you please provide some scriptures/insight into this? Thanks!

Leon's Response

Question #286
Was Jesus God? How? Explain? What is the purpose of the choir in church? What is the purpose of the members of the church? Who is the head of the church? Why? What did the resurrection of Jesus prove?

Leon's Response

Question #285
What is a good way to explain to someone that the "keys" given to Peter in Matthew 16:19 refers to Peter preaching the first gospel sermon over in Acts and the Lord's church being established at that point?

Leon's Response

Question #284
I was just wondering if the United Church of Christ is in association with the Church of Christ? If not, what is the difference?

Leon's Response

Question #283
Is it wrong to pray for God's help with directing you towards a goal that would help make you and others not struggle so hard or do we just pray for him to care for us? Just want to do the right thing.

Leon's Response

Question #282
Would you please explain 1 Corinthians 11:1-16. I know certain groups use this (to say that) it is wrong for a woman to cut her hair.  And what about men having long hair?

Leon's Response

Question #281
I think I understand Galatians 6:7-10, but would you please explain so I can be sure?

Leon's Response

Question #280
Brother Leon, My concern is with my giving. I would give a lot more but my husband is not a Christian and I'm not sure he would allow it. Will this be held against me at judgment? How should I approach this?

Leon's Response

Question #279
How do you explain to someone that still worships on the Sabbath? Please give me scriptures.

Leon's Response

Question #278
Brother Leon, would you please explain 1 John 2:15-17 . I guess I am confused somewhat, the Lord made so many beautiful things for us to love and enjoy while we live on this earth, are we not to find love and pleasure in them? I just don't know where to draw the line and live accordingly to God's word. Please help me. 

Leon's Response

Question #277
What is the meaning of Proverbs 21:17?

Leon's Response

Question #276
I am unsure how to use (not sure if that's the right word) the Holy Spirit in my life. I understand it's a part of the Godhead and presides with us as Christians but do we pray to the Spirit for help and answers or directly to Christ. I just don't want to waste one thing in service to the Lord or miss the power that God provides to us. Thank you.

Leon's Response

Question #275
Brother Leon, I am a Christian and believe in the great power of prayer. I realize sometimes we are answered and sometimes not. I get confused sometimes by things I read and sermons I hear about what to ask about and for. Is it wrong to ask for specific things and healing? I know God knows before we ask and our motives but how am I to pray and what extend or limit? I just don't want to miss such a great and wonderful opportunity to allow are our lost to see our relationship with our Father and his love towards his children. This may be confusing but is something I an understanding of.

Leon's Response

Question #274
I live with a very greedy husband, he also is not a Christian. My concern is what to do to help him. He doesn't think he is ever wrong and this carries over to his employees whom he treats in a belittling way. He doesn't like to be told of any of his faults and tries to turn things around where it appears it's your problem, not his. I am a Christian and have prayed for him and myself. Life can be very hard living with this kind of person, how can I help him?

Leon's Response

Question #273
Brother Leon, as the present times get more and more evil, how are we to deal with what our children are watching on television? Seems that there is nothing to watch without some form of sin in it. Will we as parents be judged according to what our children and grandchildren watch and what can we do besides just no TV? Our world is so sad and lost. Need help!

Leon's Response

Question #272
Okay, I have a question - I want to know is it right for the Catholics to have a pope as the head of their church? Also I wanted to know was the apostle Peter the first Pope? If not where does this belief originate?

Leon's Response

Question #271
I have been a member of the Church of Christ for about one year now and I have a question that has really gotten to me. The question is about roles in the church. Now I have heard that pastors are the same as bishops and they are not suppose to be the ones ministering to the church doing service. I just wanted to know where do I find that in the Bible?

Leon's Response

Question #270
Brother Leon, could you please explain to me about how Satan works through us and on us. I know the Holy Spirit intercedes for us and helps us feel wrong and remorse for our sins, but does Satan work on our thoughts also and does he know our weakness? Does Satan know that his time is short to do his evil deeds? Are there others working under Satan's command and how do they work? Do you feel that Satan can use another human on earth to lead you away in sin? I need to know how to fight this evil one and explain to others. thank-you

Leon's Response

Question #269
Is it alright to ask God for something and expect to receive it? I realize he knows our needs before we ask but doesn't he want us to ask?

Leon's Response

Question #268
As a Christian, is it wrong to be cremated?

Leon's Response

Question #267
Could you please explain the Calvinistic teachings, I've not heard of these. Thanks for your answers.

Leon's Response

Question #266
I am currently studying a Beth Moore series . I have enjoyed and learned so much , my question is what do you think of her ministry and her dedication to the Lord?

Leon's Response

Question #265
Could you please explain how we are to use the Holy Spirit in our lives today and any reading material recommended? Thank you.

Leon's Response

Question #264
I work with someone who is in a homosexual relationship. I love this person like a sister. She is avoiding me and has been short with me because she thinks I will judge her for her life style. What is the Christ-like way to handle this situation?

Leon's Response

Question #263
Can a congregation have Deacons, but have no Elders? In our case, the Elders have stepped down due to personal reasons, but does that mean the Deacons must also step down even though they are still qualified Deacons? If you can have Deacons with no Elders, then would the Deacons be under the authority of the men of the congregation?

Leon's Response

Question #262
What do you believe the role of women should be in the general assembly (reading scripture, leading prayer, leading singing, communion)? How would this differ from a Bible Study or classroom setting? I have heard the belief that it is unacceptable for a woman to read a scripture in the assembly, but perfectly fine in a Bible class. Does the Bible supply any distinction between the two? Please supply scriptures that your support your views.


Leon's Response

Question #261
Do you believe that when someone dies that they immediately go to heaven or hell? If not, where are they until judgment day?

Leon's Response

Question #260
When searching the scriptures concerning the collection of money, I find that this was for the poor saints at Jerusalem. Are there scriptures to the contrary? What percentage of your church's annual budget goes to the poor saints? The church that I attend will be so close to zero that it is scary! Are we following the teachings of the New Testament? Your thoughts will be appreciated.

Leon's Response

Question #259
I would like to know whether a Christian should serve in the Military as like special forces or spec ops? I agree with it and seem to come across Scripture that kinda speak of Soldiers, those who honor the country. Well, just wanted to know if you know in Scriptures of this. I attend the First Christian Church and do know we support our military and country.

Leon's Response

Question #258
What do the scriptures say about gambling? Also, how do you make a distinction between gambling and the stock market?

Leon's Response

Question #257
What are some passages or principles that you use to dismiss original sin?

Leon's Response

Question #256
Just a thought. I don't know if there is an answer. Maybe if I could get your opinion. We are constantly reminded about not be becoming too materialistic in the Bible. However, when we read of heaven, it seems to capture the materialistic/worldly vibe...streets of gold, mansion...etc. Just something that I have thinking about lately.


Leon's Response

Question #255
In James 5:14, James speaks of the elders praying and anointing the sick with oil. My question is this: Are we to be anointed and prayed for by the elders today?

Leon's Response

Question #254
I have been very uplifted and encouraged by reading the Q & A section. I strongly believe that something as simple as this can be a catalyst to our faith and zeal for God. You should be commended. My question: In reading through all of your responses, I noticed that you stated that through the years that you had somewhat changed your thoughts on certain issues because you matured as a Christian. What might be some of those things that you view differently today?

Leon's Response

Question #253
In terms of being "filled with the Holy Spirit" I said it only refers to saved people in the book of Acts. Before this time the "Spirit had not yet been given" so all your examples from the gospel of Luke do not count. In terms of Paul we don't know when he was "filled with the Holy Spirit" (Before or after his baptism). The text doesn't specifically say. My point still holds, there is not one other case in the book of Acts where someone is "filled with the Holy Spirit" and lost. Cornelius was "filled with the Holy Spirit" before he was baptized therefore Cornelius was already saved before he was baptized.

Tongues. 1 Corinthians 12:28 states that it is for those "in" the body of Christ. Did Cornelius speak in tongues before he was baptized?

Leon's Response

Question #252
Why does John 5:4 not appear in some Bibles?


Leon's Response

Question #251
The conversion of Cornelius demonstrates that water baptism is not necessary for salvation. In Acts 11:16, 17 Peter states that Cornelius received the "same gift" as those in Acts 2. Those in Acts 2:4 were said to be "filled with the Holy Spirit". Thus since Cornelius received the "same gift" he too was "filled with the Holy Spirit" as well. Every time in the book of Acts where someone is said to be "filled with the Holy Spirit" it always refers to a saved person - never an unsaved person. 100% to 0% of the time. So the fact that Cornelius was "filled with the Holy Spirit" before he was baptized proves that he was already saved before he was baptized. How can one be "filled up" with God and yet at the very same time be lost? It's simply not possible.


Leon's Response