Q: How can you really prove what the Bible teaches?

Published: December 8th, 2006

The original writings of the Bible are, in fact, God's infallible Word. However, in the face of such myriads of beliefs—all claiming the Bible as their source, most people dismiss the real authority of the Book that God has inspired.

Both Catholics and Protestants use the Bible as the basis for what they believe and teach. Various translations and versions of the Bible are available, and these differing accounts do reflect the bias of those organizations and individuals who have authored them.

Q: Is it true that the design of the European flag has been adopted from a picture of the "Virgin Mary"?

Published: December 29th, 2006

This is apparently correct. The historical background of the design of the European flag, and its biblical significance, is quite interesting. The Catholic News Agency, Zenit, wrote the following on December 7, 1999:

"December 8 is a very special day for Europe: in 1955, on that day, the European Ministers' delegates officially adopted the European flag designed by Arsene Heitz... The decision was taken following the 1950 European Council's... convocation of a competition to design the flag of the newborn European Community...: 12 stars on a blue background.

Q: Can you prove from Scripture that according to God's reckoning, days start and end with sunset?

Published: June 15th, 2007

Even though our Western societies reckon days from midnight to midnight, and some even define a day as the period from morning to night, this is a purely human invention. The Bible is very clear that days are to be counted from sunset to sunset. For instance, the Sabbath, the last day of the week, is to be counted from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset.

Set forth are excerpts from our booklet, "God's Commanded Holy Days":

Q: Were the Holy Days given at the time of Moses actually observed before—including even in the times before the flood?

Published: March 14th, 2008

The most complete summary of the Holy Days given by God and to be observed by His people is found in Leviticus 23. Carefully note how the first two verses introduce these special days:

“And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying. ‘Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them: “THE FEASTS OF THE LORD, which you shall proclaim to be holy convocations, these are MY FEASTS”’” (Leviticus 23:1-2).

Q: Would you please explain Matthew 19:12. Does Jesus teach the concept of compulsory celibacy; that is, that ministers or priests must not marry?

Published: April 11th, 2008

When the disciples heard that marriage was for life, and that it can only be dissolved under very limited circumstances, they responded, "If such is the case of the man with his wife, it is better not to marry" (Matthew 19:10). Jesus answered that "all cannot accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given" (verse 11). He continued, in verse 12:

"For there are eunuchs who were born thus from their mother's womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He who is able to accept it, let him accept it."

Q: Did Jesus violate His own words, when He first said to His disciples before His crucifixion that He would drink no more wine, and when He later drank wine before His death?

Published: July 11th, 2008

Actually, this question has puzzled quite a few people. It is important to read all the relevant passages in context.

We read in Matthew 26:27-29 that Jesus gave wine to the disciples, symbolizing His shed blood for the forgiveness of sins. The entire passage reads (Authorized Version throughout, unless otherwise mentioned):

"And He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament [covenant], which is shed for many for the remission of sins. But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom."

Q: Are there really any Old Testament Scriptures in the book of Zechariah which foretell or relate to the First Coming of Jesus Christ?

Published: December 19th, 2008

There are indeed numerous Scriptures in the Old Testament, including in the book of Zechariah, which give precise details on the appearance of the Messiah about 2,000 years ago. As those passages can be found throughout the pages of the Old Testament, this fact alone proves the divine inspiration of the Holy Scriptures.

For instance, we find literally dozens of biblical references to Christ's First Coming in the book of Isaiah. We are just quoting a few selected examples:

Q: Was Rahab really a harlot?

Published: January 9th, 2009

The famous woman Rahab who helped the spies at the time of Joshua, is clearly identified in the Bible as a harlot or a prostitute. This is the obvious conclusion, when we just accept the relevant Scriptures on their face value.

Q: Who preserved the New Testament?

Published: January 16th, 2009

As a first step in answering this question, we need to consider what the New Testament is. Why is there even such a collection of books and letters that report on events from the first century A.D.? Are these merely the random writings of an influential religious movement that have found their way into the literature of the present time?

Or, as the New Testament claims for itself, is this part of the inspired Word of God? Understanding who preserved the New Testament adds even more proof about the unquestionable authority of this part of the Bible that we now possess!

What is the New Testament? Consider the following summary statement given in the “Illustrated Dictionary of the Bible,” Herbert Lockyer, Sr., Editor, 1986:

Q: Did the Roman Catholic Church Canonize the New Testament?

Published: January 30th, 2009

When we read certain historical books, we may find something like the following narrative, as adopted from sources published on the Internet:

The process of canonization was complex and lengthy. In the first three centuries of the Christian Church, there was no New Testament canon that was universally recognized. Nevertheless, by the 2nd century there was a common collection of letters and gospels that a majority of church leaders considered authoritative. These contained the four gospels and many of the letters of Paul. Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and Tertullian (all 2nd century), held these to be on par with the Hebrew Scriptures as being divinely inspired. Other books were held in high esteem, but were gradually relegated to the status of New Testament apocrypha.

Q: Would you please explain the meaning of the coronation of the High Priest Joshua, as reported in Zechariah 6:9-15.

Published: February 6th, 2009

We mentioned in a prior Update, when discussing the vision of the High Priest Joshua in Zechariah 3:1-10, that Joshua is a type of Jesus Christ. This fact becomes even more obvious in the passage, which describes the coronation of Joshua.

Zechariah 6:9-15 reads:

Q: Why don't many editions of the Bible contain the Apocrypha?

Published: February 20th, 2009

The Apocrypha are a collection of books, which were written in Greek by various individuals from about 400 to 200 B.C. The Catholic Church considers some of these books as inspired Scripture.

At the Council of Trent (1546 A.D.), the Catholic Church declared that some apocryphal books, together with unwritten Catholic tradition, are of God. It was stated that those who disagreed with this decision were to be considered "anathema."

The Roman Catholic Church (as well as the Greek Orthodox Church) consider the following Apocrypha (which are also referred to as Deuterocanonical books) as inspired:

Tobit or Tobias
Judith
Wisdom of Solomon
Jesus Sirach (Ecclesiasticus)
Baruch (including the letter of Jeremiah, Baruch 6)

Q: Do you think that the Book of Enoch is inspired? Didn't Jude quote from it and gave it therefore canonical status?

Published: February 26th, 2009

The book of Enoch belongs to the so-called Pseudepigrapha books and was apparently written during the first century B.C.--even though some claim that it was written before then.

Q: Is the "Epistle of Barnabas" inspired? Shouldn't it be part of the Holy Scriptures?

Published: March 6th, 2009

The "Epistle of Barnabas" is not inspired. It was clearly not written by the Apostle Barnabas. Mosheim states in his "Ecclesiastical History" that the author "must have been a very different person from the true Barnabas, who was St. Paul's companion."

The epistle contains numerous Scriptural errors and should therefore not be considered as inspired. It was never referred to by Jesus or any of the New Testament writers as Scripture, and it was not included in the New Testament by the apostles. As we explained in a prior Q&A, the apostles Paul, Peter and John canonized the New Testament Scriptures, but the Epistle of Barnabas was not one of those books.

Q: Are Christians subject to the command to not wear mixed fabrics as specified in Leviticus 19:19 and Deuteronomy 22:11?

Published: March 27th, 2009

As a first step in answering this puzzling question, we must understand that all of God’s commandments were given for the good of mankind! King David extolled God and continually praised Him for His Way: “…For all Your commandments are righteousness” (Psalm 119:172).

Very specifically, God chose the descendants of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, for a unique relationship with Him. Note what He offered to Israel:

“‘Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine. And you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation…’” (Exodus 19:5-6).

Q: In John 18:19 the "high priest" Annas questioned Jesus and yet in verse 24 Jesus was sent by Annas to Caiaphas the "high priest." Is this not a contradiction?

Published: April 3rd, 2009

No. In John 10:35 it states that “the Scripture cannot be broken,” and so we must look for another explanation.

In John 18:13 Jesus was described as being brought to Annas, who was the father-in-law of the high priest at that time--Caiaphas. According to Josephus, Annas had been deposed of the high priesthood in 15 CE by Valerius Gratus, and Caiaphas was the high priest from 18 to 36 CE. However, other sources, as quoted below, state that Annas was dismissed as high priest in AD 23.

Q: Why do some Christians eat fish on "Good Friday"?

Published: April 10th, 2009

It is a Catholic custom to abstain from eating meat on "Good Friday" and to eat fish instead. Where did this custom originate?

First, let us examine the precise nature of this custom.

We are quoting from an Internet Website:

Q: Does the Bible have anything to say about the way men and women should dress?

Published: April 24th, 2009

In fact, the Bible presents some very specific guidelines for the kinds of clothing and style that should be worn. In this Q&A, we are addressing the topic in a more general way. Subsequent Q&A's will address this topic, and related topics, in more detail.

While some may consider the Bible as being archaic, with little relevance for our day, quite the opposite is true! At the very outset, God gave man responsibility to care for the earthly realm (Compare Genesis 1:26-28). In particular, Adam was told to “tend and keep” the specially prepared Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:15).

Q: What are the biblical principles regarding hair length and dress for men and women?

Published: May 1st, 2009

In last week's Q&A, we addressed some general principles regarding the kinds of clothing and style that should be worn. We emphasized the importance of right balance and modesty.

Paul also instructed the Church of God regarding the length of hair that both men and women should wear:

“Judge among yourselves. Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? Does not even nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a dishonor to him? But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given to her for a covering. But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God” (1 Corinthians 11:13-16).

Q: Would you please explain Mark 13:27?

Published: May 8th, 2009

Some have used this passage to teach a secret rapture just before or at the beginning of the Great Tribulation. However, that is not what Christ was referring to in this Scripture.

Mark 13:24-27 discusses the VISIBLE return of Jesus Christ (verse 26), AFTER the Great Tribulation and the heavenly signs (verse 24). Verse 27 reads: "And then He will send His angels, and gather together His elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of the earth to the farthest part of heaven."

In the past, we discussed at length the false teaching of a secret rapture. For more information, please re-read our Q&A on 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.

In that Q&A, we also wrote regarding Mark 13:27:

Q: Does the Bible have anything to say about the existence of "sea monsters," such as the "Loch Ness creature"?

Published: May 15th, 2009

Surprising as it may seem, the Bible has indeed much to say about the existence of certain elusive creatures. It is entirely possible that some of these creatures, such as the "Loch Ness monster" in Scotland or similar "lake monsters" in other parts of the world, might exist today.

First of all, let us examine some interesting Scriptures which clearly describe animals, which are generally believed today to be myths or legends, or which are thought to have become extinct. Some have attempted to apply living known animals, or Satan, or world powers, to the biblical descriptions, but those attempts must be considered as totally inadequate.

Q: What is your position on the death penalty?

Published: May 22nd, 2009

We find in the ninth chapter of the book of Genesis that, following the great flood by which God wiped out all existing mankind, save Noah and his family, God made a covenant with Noah. In that covenant, God emphasized the sanctity of human life.

Genesis 9:5-6 reads: “Surely for your lifeblood I will demand a reckoning… from the hand of man. From the hand of every man’s brother I will require the life of man. Whoever sheds man’s blood By man his blood shall be shed; For in the image of God He made man.”

Q: Does the Holy Spirit proceed from the Father, from the Son, or from both?

Published: May 29th, 2009

This question has been the cause of controversy for many centuries and generations. While one major Christian denomination teaches that the Holy Spirit only proceeds from the Father, but is given us through the Son, another major Christian denomination holds that the Holy Spirit proceeds from both the Father and the Son.

To answer this question from the Bible, we must first of all realize that the Holy Spirit is not a Person or a Personage, but the POWER and the MIND of God. It is through the POWER of the Holy Spirit that God creates and acts, and mightily sustains what He has created. For more information on this vital subject, please read our free booklet, "Is God a Trinity?"

Q: Is there any validity to the claim that we can only be saved if we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior?

Published: June 5th, 2009

Although the biblical answer to this question is highly controversial, the Bible teaches very clearly that there is no other way to eternal salvation than through Jesus Christ. Non-christian religions reject this claim outright, and even many Christian organizations and denominations feel uncomfortable about this and think that they must apologize for the Scriptures and offer "alternatives," such as, "as long as we follow our conscience," or, "as long as we believe in someone or something," we are or will be saved.

Since we are not interested in humanly devised fables and interpretations, let us focus strictly on the clear teaching of the Bible.

Q: I have noticed several times in your literature that you say "Spiritual Israel" is the Church of God. How do you come to this conclusion, and are you saying that we must become an Israelite or a Jew to be accepted by God? If so, how do I become one if I am a “Gentile”?

Published: June 12th, 2009

The Bible does state that we can become part of the Israel of God in the following manner: “And as many as walk according to this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God” (Galatians 6:16).

If we choose to follow the Way of God, completely and fully, by following the lead of God's Holy Spirit dwelling within us, then we are the Israel of God or, in other words, Godly Israel or Spiritual Israel.

Q: Does Nebuchadnezzar's dream in Daniel 4 have prophetic meaning for us today?

Published: July 3rd, 2009

Over the years, many ideas have been advanced to the effect that Nebuchadnezzar's dream, as described in Daniel 4, has some kind of hidden prophetic meaning for us today. In the last Q&A, we discussed Nebuchadnezzar's dream in much detail. We pointed out that the dream referred to that ancient king and predicted his seven years of insanity to punish his pride. We showed that the dream was fulfilled, exactly as God had pronounced it, and that King Nebuchadnezzar subsequently repented of his pride at the time when his sanity was restored to him.

Q: Why will Satan attempt a second coup to try to overthrow God?

Published: July 10th, 2009

The Bible does not say specifically why Satan will attempt a second coup, but it does give us several hints and indications which we might want to consider.

Prior to the physical creation, God brought into being the spirit world of angels. After God had created the physical universe and the earth, an archangel named Lucifer was placed over one third of the angels here on earth to beautify it. This was long before man was created with the ultimate potential to become a full-fledged member of the God Family. Nothing is said in the Bible that Lucifer or any of the angels had that same potential which would later be given to man.

Q: What does it mean to bless our enemies and those who curse us?

Published: July 17th, 2009

Actually, the command to bless others even though they may not seem worthy of our blessing is to be found throughout the Bible.

We read in Matthew 5:44: "But I say to you, love your enemies, BLESS THOSE WHO CURSE YOU, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." (Compare, Luke 6:27-28).

Romans 12:14-20 adds:

"BLESS THOSE who persecute you; BLESS AND DO NOT CURSE... Repay no one evil for evil... If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves... If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."

Q: Does the Bible say anything about man's character development?

Published: July 24th, 2009

Actually, the Bible has quite a bit to say about this topic.

(1) To give a good definition of righteous character, as we want to apply this term in this Q&A, we would like to quote from several of Herbert Armstrong's writings, the late Pastor General of the Worldwide Church of God.

In "What Science Cannot Discover About the Human Mind," copyright 1978, he wrote about righteous character as "the ability in a single entity to come to comprehend and distinguish the true values from the false, the right way from the wrong, to choose the right and reject the wrong, and, with power of will, to do the right and resist the evil."

In "Mystery of the Ages," copyright 1985, he elaborated, as follows:

Q: You make continual reference to accomplishing “the work of God” in your publications and sermons; however, doesn’t the scripture in John 6:29 show that simply believing in Jesus Christ fulfills doing the work of God?

Published: August 7th, 2009

Understanding our part and responsibility regarding the work of God is a pivotal issue for those who claim to follow the Christian faith! The fact is that there is great confusion about exactly what the work of God means.

To truly comprehend what Jesus taught about the work of God, we must consider not only the verse in John, but, additionally, we need to compare other references in God’s Word. First, here is the text in question:

“Jesus answered and said to them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent’” (John 6:29).

Q: Please explain John 7:39. Why was it necessary that Christ be glorified in order for man to receive the Holy Spirit?

Published: September 18th, 2009

In John 7:38, Christ spoke of the gift of the Holy Spirit, and the apostle John added in verse 39: "But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom [better: which] those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified."

Q: Was Jesus married?

Published: November 13th, 2009

There is more to this question than first meets the eye!

To begin, there is no statement in the Bible which says or implies that Jesus was married to anyone. In fact, if He had exchanged vows with someone, the absence of any supporting Scripture would be strange, especially considering it was not out of the ordinary for the ordained men of God to have a wife. Paul points out in 1 Corinthians 9:5 that other apostles as well as the brothers of the Lord had wives that traveled with them. Matthew 8:14 also mentions Peter's wife in passing. In addition to this, the Bible also takes the time to mention Christ's brothers and sisters, some by name; His mother and step-father, who raised Him; His cousin, aunt and uncle; but never mentions a wife.

Q: 1 Timothy 6:10 says, in the Authorized Version that the "love of money is the root of all evil." Other translations say that it is "a" root. Which rendering is correct, and what does this passage mean?

Published: November 20th, 2009

It is true that many translations say that the "love of money is a root of all evil" (compare the New King James Bible; the New International Version; the Living Bible; the New Revised Standard Version; and the Amplified Bible). Other translations, besides the Authorized Version, maintain that it should say that "the love of money is THE root of all evil" (compare the Revised Standard Version; the Revised English Bible; the New American Bible; the New Jerusalem Bible; Moffat; Scofield; and Lamsa).

The Interlinear Literal Translation states that the original says, "For a root of all evils is the love of money," but it continues to render the phrase as: "For the love of money is the root of all evil."

Q: What, exactly, are the mansions in John 14:1-3, which Christ is preparing for His disciples?

Published: November 27th, 2009

Christ said the following in John 14:1-3:

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”

First of all, please notice that after Jesus has prepared these "mansions," He will come again to the earth and receive His disciples to Himself so "that where I am, there you may be also." When Christ spoke these words, He was here on earth. That is where His disciples "may be also"--here on earth, not in heaven.

Q: How did John the Baptist fulfill going “in the spirit and power of Elijah,” as prophesied by Gabriel and recorded in Luke 1:17?

Published: December 4th, 2009

The answer to this question has far reaching implications! First, consider that the people in the time of Jesus Christ looked for the prophetic Elijah—the one promised in the Book of Malachi.

By way of background, here is the reference in question, in fuller context—quoting Luke 1, verses 15-17:

Q: Who were the magi or wise men in Matthew 2? How many were there?

Published: December 25th, 2009

Surprisingly to many, the "magi" were neither "astrologers," nor did they visit Joseph, Mary and the Christ Child in the inn, nor is it biblically revealed how many there were. However, there are traditions which would support the idea that they were twelve, not three, as commonly assumed.

Q: When Christ returns to set up the Kingdom of God, will He return visibly and bodily?

Published: January 1st, 2010

This seems to be a relatively simple matter to determine from the Bible, but there are myriads of different ideas that exist about this question. Let us look at some basic Scriptures.

In Matthew 24:26-30, Jesus Himself said:

Q: Could you explain the concept of "laying on of hands"?

Published: January 8th, 2010

The ceremony of "laying on of hands" is mentioned as one of the basic doctrines of God's Church (Hebrews 6:2). However, when reading quite a few commentaries, the very existence of that doctrine is commonly denied--nor is there any understanding as to what this doctrine contains.

Q: I was reading in Matthew tonight and came across Matthew 11:12: "‘And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.’" Can you shed any light on what this means?

Published: January 22nd, 2010

As a beginning point in answering your question, first consider these comments from the NASB Study Bible regarding “suffers violence,” as translated in Matthew 11:12: "The Greek here is taken in a passive sense. In this context its passive meaning is, ‘suffers violent attacks.’ The verse emphasizes the ongoing persecution of the people of the kingdom.”

The statement by Jesus in Matthew 11:12 reflects the violence of persecution against representatives of the Kingdom of God. Specifically, those in the forefront of proclaiming the future establishment of God’s Kingdom on the earth are targets of mortal violence.

Q: What was the exact hour of Christ's crucifixion (compare Mark 15:33-37)?

Published: February 12th, 2010

At first glance, it might appear that the accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John gave inconsistent times pertaining to Christ's crucifixion. However, this is not the case. Apparent inconsistencies are explained when we realize that Matthew, Mark and Luke used the Jewish reckoning of time, while John gave the Roman reckoning.

(1) According to the JEWISH reckoning, a day of 24 hours duration begins at sunset and ends at sunset, and the (approximate) twelve hours of the daylight portion BEGIN WITH SUNRISE, while the (approximate) twelve hours of the night portion BEGIN WITH SUNSET.

Q: Would you please explain what Paul meant in 1 Corinthians 5:5, saying that a sinner in the Church should be delivered to Satan for the destruction of the flesh?

Published: February 19th, 2010

Although the correct answer can be easily ascertained from the Scriptures, many commentaries are actually confused regarding the meaning of this passage. Paul said, in context, in 1 Corinthians 5:1-5:

Q: In reading some comments by the Apostle Paul in the book of Romans, it appears that Paul might not have understood that most Israelites who are not called to salvation in this day and age will be called in the Second Resurrection and will then be given their opportunity to inherit eternal life. Is this impression of Paul's lack of understanding correct?

Published: February 26th, 2010

It is not. Paul clearly understood and taught that there is a Second Resurrection for all those who were never called to salvation in this life. This will include the multitude of the past and present houses of Israel and Judah, as well as the multitude of non-Israelite nations--the "Gentiles." Paul knew that today, only very few --the "firstfruits" (compare Romans 8:23)--will be called to salvation and the pre-millennial First Resurrection to eternal life. Paul knew that the Second Resurrection will not be to eternal life, but to a physical temporary existence, but with the potential to qualify for eternal life.

Q: Why does the Church of God keep the annual Passover one day earlier than the Jews?

Published: March 19th, 2010

It is indeed correct that the Church of God keeps the Passover one day earlier than the Jews do today. The reason is that based on the Bible, the Jews keep the Passover one day too late.

This year, the Church of God keeps the annual Passover on Sunday evening, March 28, after sunset. However, the Jews keep the Passover, beginning on Monday evening, March 29, after sunset. As we said, they keep it one day too late. They keep the Passover when the Bible commands to keep the "Night to Be Much Observed"--two totally different and separate occasions.

Please notice our comments in our free booklet, "The Meaning of God's Spring Holy Days":

Q: What does the Bible teach about the "spirit in man"? Is that human spirit the same as an immortal soul?

Published: April 16th, 2010

The Bible does indeed teach that every human being has a spirit, but that spirit is neither immortal nor a soul.

I. The Spirit in Man

We discuss the biblical concept of the "spirit in man" extensively in our free booklet, "The Theory of Evolution--a Fairy Tale for Adults".

In this Q&A, we are quoting the following excerpts:

Q: What will happen to the spirit in man of those who die the second death?

Published: April 23rd, 2010

In our last Q&A (in Update #438, dated April 15, 2010), we explained that God gives every person, apparently at the time of conception, a "spirit," which the Bible calls the "spirit in man." This spirit is not a soul--the person is the soul--nor is it a conscious being. When the person or the soul dies, the spirit in man returns to God who gave it (Ecclesiastes 12:7). It is being stored in heaven until the time of that person's resurrection.

Q: If Isaiah 53 prophesies about the first coming of Jesus Christ, why do the Jews reject this understanding?

Published: May 7th, 2010

It is true that most Jews today do not consider the passage in Isaiah 53 as a prophecy pertaining to the first coming of the Messiah. We will discuss their rationale later in this Q&A. First, let us briefly point out that Jesus Christ was and is the Messiah; and that He fulfilled precisely the prophecy in Isaiah 53.

For instance, Isaiah 53:1 ("Who has believed our report?") is quoted in John 12:37-38 in reference to Jesus.

Isaiah 53:3 ("He is despised and rejected by men") finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ (compare John 1:10-11; Luke 19:14; Mark 6:3).

Isaiah 53:4 ("Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows") is quoted in Matthew 8:17 in reference to Jesus.

Q: Is it true, that chronologically speaking, Genesis 1:1 is not the beginning of recorded history in the Bible?

Published: May 14th, 2010

In fact, there are a few major events in the Bible that transpired before the opening verse of the Bible.

Perhaps surprisingly, the earliest record can be found in the New Testament. In John 1:1 we find an event that transcends our understanding of time and reveals an existence eons before the physical creation of the universe.

John 1:1-2 reads: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God."

Q: Can you explain the timeline that eventuated between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2?

Published: May 21st, 2010

Let's have a look at these two verses first: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.”

A better translation for Genesis 1:2 is: “The earth became without form, and void...” We find the same exact Hebrew word, "ha^ya^h," translated appropriately in Genesis 2:7 as "became." The translators had certain leeway based on the context of the sentence in terms of whether they would translate it "was" or "became." In the case of Genesis 1:2, it really should be the latter.

Q: What is known about the biblical "Urim and Thummim"?

Published: May 28th, 2010

The first time that the Bible mentions "Urim and Thummim" is in Exodus 28:30, in connection with the garments for the high priest; especially, the "ephod" and the "breastplate of judgment." The breastplate was to be placed on the ephod (Exodus 28:28), and verse 30 reads: "And you shall put in the breastplate of judgment the Urim and the Thummim, and they shall be over Aaron's heart when he goes in before the LORD." A similar statement can be found in Leviticus 8:8.

Q: Would you please explain the concept of the "Jubilee Year"?

Published: June 4th, 2010

In Old Testament times, God established a system whereby the poor would not be in perpetual poverty. God did this in His great mercy, knowing what human nature is like, and that there are those who accumulate and those who squander. He did not want a few extremely wealthy individuals ruling over the masses who were just getting by, or who became and were poor. In reflecting on the situation of this world, Christ said in Matthew 26:11: "For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always." He knew that as long as Satan rules this world; as long as human carnality exists; and as long as societies work in the way they do; the poor would always be among us.

Q: Can you shed some light on the significance of a "red heifer" to be born prior to the coming of the Messiah?

Published: June 11th, 2010

Let us first of all understand that there is nothing in the Bible demanding a red heifer to be born prior to the return of Jesus Christ. It is true, however, that some Jews and Christians have attached an end-time application to the ancient Old Testament ritual of the killing of a red heifer for purposes of purification. As will be explained herein, this ritual is no longer in force. But some Jews and Christians believe that the ritual must be applied today, as a prerequisite for the commencement of sacrifices and the building of a third temple, and they expect a red heifer soon to be born. (In fact, when conducting a Yahoo search on the Internet, one receives about 280,000 results for "red heifer.").

Q: Does Revelation 3:12 mean that there will be nothing to do in the Kingdom of God when it says “and he shall go out no more”?

Published: June 18th, 2010

Let us read what this verse says: "He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name."

Does this mean that we will be looking into the face of God for eternity or strumming on harps with no constructive work to do?

Q: Why did Sarah lie?

Published: June 25th, 2010

Sarah, the wife of Abraham, is described in Scripture as a faithful and righteous woman (Isaiah 51:1-2; Hebrews 11:11; 1 Peter 3:5-6). Still, we read that she broke the ninth commandment and lied on several occasions. There are mainly two different sets of circumstances, inducing Sarah to lie.

Sarah's first lie is recorded in Genesis 18. God appeared with two angels to Abraham and Sarah and promised them that they would have a son within a year. Genesis 18:11-15 states:

Q: Was the harlot Rahab, mentioned in the book of Joshua, the same person who is mentioned in Matthew 1:5, as being an ancestor of Jesus Christ?

Published: July 2nd, 2010

The answer is yes. She was that very same person. And this is significant, as we will see.

To begin with, we should mention that Christ's genealogy, as set forth in Matthew 1:1-17, is different, to an extent, from the genealogy as set forth in Luke 3:23-38. The reason is that the genealogy in Matthew "is traced through Joseph, Jesus' legal (though not natural) father, and it establishes His claim and right to the throne of David (1:6). The genealogy in Luke 3:23-38 is evidently that of Mary..." (compare Ryrie Study Bible).

There can be no doubt that the woman Rahab, who is described in the book of Joshua as protecting and rescuing the Israelite spies in the city of Jericho, was a harlot (see our Q&A on this topic).

Q: Does God suffer because of man?

Published: July 9th, 2010

Even though this might be difficult for us to understand, God does indeed suffer and experience mental pain when He sees that we suffer. Every loving father or brother would feel mental anguish when he observes that his children or brethren suffer innocently or because they go the wrong way and inflict pain upon themselves as a consequence. Even more so, God the Father and Jesus Christ the Son--the firstborn among many brethren--suffer when they see that we experience pain and anguish and despair.

Q: Did the Father really forsake Christ?

Published: July 16th, 2010

When Jesus was dying a terrible death on the cross, He cried out, just before He died, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46). Did He really mean it? Did the Father forsake Him at that moment? If so, why? And if not, why would Jesus have uttered those words?

Some, not understanding the significance and deep meaning of Christ's words, say that He just shouted out these words to fulfill a prophecy from Psalm 22:1. They contend that Jesus repeated the words written down by David in the Old Testament, just to show that He was the Messiah.

Q: If Satan cannot heal, how do you explain "miraculous healings," which apparently do not originate with God?

Published: August 20th, 2010

In our last Q&A, we explained that God did not give Satan or his demons the power to heal human beings. In this Q&A, we want to explain "miraculous healings," "caused" by Satan, which, upon further scrutiny, prove to be not true healings at all.

In our free booklet, "Angels, Demons and the Spirit World," we wrote the following in Part 2, "The World of Demons," on pages 42-44, 51:

Q: How can we have complete or full joy in our lives?

Published: August 27th, 2010

In John 17:13, we read: "But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they [His disciples] may have MY JOY fulfilled in them."

Q: What would have happened if Adam and Eve had eaten from the tree of life? What kind of a world would we have today? Would they still have sinned from time to time? If so, what would have been the consequence?

Published: September 3rd, 2010

First, let us explain what the two trees in the Garden of Eden symbolized.

We are quoting the following excerpts from chapter 2 of our free booklet, "Human Suffering--Why...And How Much Longer?" :

"When God created the first human being, Adam, and his wife, Eve, He placed them in a garden—the Garden of Eden, also called Paradise. God also created two special trees in this garden—the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. He told man that he was allowed to eat from all the trees in the garden with the exception of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This means that man could eat, and should have eaten, from the tree of life.

Q: Why don’t you preach the truth door to door?

Published: September 10th, 2010

We realise that some groups approach the preaching of the gospel by going from door to door. But this is not in accordance with Scripture, and it can do more harm than good.

First of all, we have to realise that this is not the only day of salvation. In 2 Corinthians 6:2, it states the following: "For He says: 'In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you..'." We have long understood that this verse is a mistranslation of Isaiah 49:8 where it states that this is "a day of salvation" (Authorized Version). If today was the only day of salvation, then Satan, who has the world in the palm of his hand, would be winning the battle outright. Of course, that is not the case.

Q: You say that the Great Tribulation will last approximately 3 1/2 years, followed by the Heavenly Signs and the Day of the Lord. You also say that the Day of the Lord will last approximately one year and that at the end of the Day of the Lord, Jesus Christ will return. Others say that the Great Tribulation will last for seven years. Does this mean that once the Great Tribulation begins, there will be at least 4 1/2 years [or even 8 years] until Christ returns (3 1/2 years [or seven years] duration of the Great Tribulation plus 1 year duration of the Day of the Lord)?

Published: October 15th, 2010

No, it does not mean that at all.

First, let us establish how long the Great Tribulation is supposed to last. In a previous Q&A on this issue, we wrote the following:

Q: Would you please explain Hebrews 13:9? Doesn't Paul teach here that we are free to eat whatever "meat" we want?

Published: October 22nd, 2010

Let us read Hebrews 13:9 in context, including verses 10-16:

Q: Why do you teach that Jesus Christ is God? Others say that He is an angel, or that He is an immortal or glorified man, but not God.

Published: October 29th, 2010

The Bible teaches very clearly that Jesus Christ is God. As we will see in future Q&A's, the Bible also explains that Jesus Christ was God before His birth as a human being; who and what the Father is; and what is the potential of man. In this Q&A, we will address the biblical proof that Jesus Christ is God today.

In our free booklet, "Jesus Christ--A Great Mystery," we are stating the following:

Q: Who was Jesus Christ when He was here on earth about 2,000 years ago?

Published: November 12th, 2010

We have discussed in previous Q&As http://www.eternalgod.org/qa/9508 http://www.eternalgod.org/qa/9483 that Jesus Christ was God before He came to this earth, and that He is God today. From this it follows that He was and had to be God--the "Immanuel" or "God with us"--when He came to this earth during His First Coming. As we saw in the last Q&A, He confirmed this fact to the Jews at His time, when He called Himself the "I am"--the Everlasting One--the God of the Old Testament.

Q: You say that Jesus Christ was God since all eternity, and that He is God today. What about the Father? Isn't He God? How can there be two "Gods"?

Published: November 19th, 2010

As we explained in previous Q&As, (Who Was Jesus When On Earth?, What Was Jesus Before His Birth as a Man?, and Is Jesus God?) Jesus Christ--the Word or Logos or Son of God--was "WITH" God since all eternity, and He also "WAS" God. The difficulty in understanding this fact may be easily resolved when we recognize that the word "God" is a NAME that can refer to both the Father and the Son. It is, in fact, a FAMILY name. Ephesians 3:14–15 confirms this truth, telling us that it is "the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole FAMILY in heaven and earth is NAMED."

Q: You teach that both the Father and the Son are God. What about the Holy Spirit? Isn't the Holy Spirit also God -- the Third Person within the Trinity?

Published: November 26th, 2010

The short answer is, no -- the Holy Spirit is neither God nor a Person. Rather, the Holy Spirit is God's POWER emanating from God the Father AND from God the Son.

Q: What does Christ mean when He refers to the many who are “called” and to the few who are “chosen” as recorded in Matthew 22:14?

Published: December 3rd, 2010

Verse 14 summarizes the Parable of the Wedding Feast spoken by Jesus Christ in which He teaches about the Kingdom of God and about the accountability that people have when God offers them salvation—that is, eternal life (compare Matthew 24:1-14).

Contrary to what many teach and who say that parables were used by Christ to make His teaching more clear, just the opposite is true. The Bible addresses this:

“All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: ‘I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world’” (Matthew 13:34-35).

Q: How long were the Israelites in Egypt before beginning their journey to the promised land of Canaan? I have heard several numbers such as 210, 215, 400 and 430 years. What can be proven from the Bible?

Published: December 10th, 2010

To best answer this, we want to look first at a more general time frame, by reviewing both Old and New Testament Scriptures. In Galatians 3:16-17, we read, “Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made. He does not say, ‘And to SEEDS,’ as of many, but as of one, ‘AND TO YOUR SEED,’ who is Christ. And this I say, that the law, which was four hundred and thirty years later, cannot annul the covenant that was confirmed before by God in Christ, that it should make the promise of no effect.”

Q: Why was man created?

Published: December 17th, 2010

In previous Q&As, we discussed the nature of God—that God is a ruling and governing Family—the “Kingdom of God”—consisting of two Spirit beings, the Father and the Son. We also learned that the Holy Spirit is not God or a Person, but the power of God, emanating from both the Father and the Son. Please see for further information:

“Was Jesus an Angel?”

“Did Jesus Exist Prior to His Human Birth?”

“Who Was Jesus?”

“Two Gods?”

“Is the Holy Spirit God?”

Q: Why do you teach that God consists of two Persons when the Bible says in Deuteronomy 6:4 that there is only one God?

Published: December 31st, 2010

First, we need to understand from the context what is meant with “one.” Christ said that the Father and He are ONE (John 10:30). Christ was not saying that the Father and He were one being. Rather, He addressed the concept of complete unity between the Father and Him. There was and always will be total harmony between the two members of the God Family. In fact, Christ won a legal argument with the Pharisees by proving that the Father and He, although “one,” were TWO beings (John 8:17–18).

Q: What is the disposition of the tares, mentioned in Matthew 13:24-30, 37-43?

Published: January 7th, 2011

In order to offer an accurate analysis of the fate of the “tares,” we need to look at the entire parable in Matthew 13, in its context. Beginning with verse 24, Jesus states:

Q: You say that God consists of two Beings, the Father and the Son. How do you explain passages in Isaiah, where the LORD says, “I am God, and there is no other?” (Isaiah 45:5)

Published: January 21st, 2011

In Isaiah 45, “the LORD” (“Yahweh” in Hebrew) speaks to Cyrus and tells him that he will be an instrument in God’s hands to fulfill His Will. He specifically prophesies that and how Cyrus will conquer Babylon (compare verse 1) and that he will allow Jerusalem to be rebuilt and Judah to be released from captivity (compare verse 13). He also emphasizes that Cyrus did not know God, when He called him for his special mission (verses 3-5).

Q: You teach that it is the potential of man to become God. Doesn’t this contradict passages such as Isaiah 43:10, where the LORD says, “Before Me there was no God formed, Nor shall there be after Me?”

Published: January 28th, 2011

We have seen in previous Q&As that it is indeed the potential of man to become God—a full-fledged God being in the Family of God. This teaching was already revealed in Old Testament times, even though most did not comprehend what was actually said. As you will recall, in the very beginning of man’s creation, God (“Elohim” in Hebrew), said: “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our Likeness” (Genesis 1:26). To be created in the image and likeness of God means, ultimately, to become God (1 Corinthians 15:49; Psalm 17:15). Also, the book of Psalms speaks of men as (potential) gods. Psalm 82:6 reads: “I said, ‘You are gods, And all of you are children of the Most High.’” Jesus used this passage to prove that He was the Son of God (John 10:31-39). We also read that men will come

Q: I understand that the Jewish people, at the Feast of Purim, are allowed and even encouraged to use this day to celebrate and get drunk. Surely this behaviour cannot be right even for just one day a year?

Published: February 4th, 2011

First, let us explain that the Feast of Purim is not one of God’s commanded Holy Days. It is celebrated by the Jews, and observing the Purim Feast by them is, per se, not against Scripture. As a Jew, Jesus would have kept the Feast of Purim, although there is no specific reference in the New Testament that He did. But as it is pointed out in the Question, many times the way in which it is celebrated is clearly against God’s commandments.

The date for Purim in 2010 was February 28th and this year will be on March 20th.

Wikipedia makes the following comments about this festival:

Q: Every splinter group or offshoot of the Worldwide Church of God claims to be God’s true church. What do you say of yourselves?

Published: February 11th, 2011

The importance of this question, and its answer, can be found in the Word of God—in writings that very specifically address what has, what is and what will happen to the people of God in this, our generation!

The Worldwide Church of God was the culmination of the calling and life’s work of Herbert W. Armstrong in re-establishing the Truth of God as it was revealed and practiced in the early New Testament Church. Following his death in 1986, an insidious change infiltrated the Worldwide Church of God through the introduction of another “gospel”—one taught by most of the prevailing churches which claim to be Christian but which neither know God nor obey the gospel of Jesus Christ (compare 2 Thessalonians 1:8; Matthew 7:21-23 and Galatians 1:6-9).

Q: Was Jesus a homeless vagabond or a hippie, wandering around, without a place to live in?

Published: February 18th, 2011

Sadly, many have a totally wrong concept as to how Jesus Christ lived when He was here on earth. They might have read Scriptures saying that even though He was rich, He became poor (2 Corinthians 8:9), not realizing that Paul is using a comparison between the richness of the immortal God who owns everything, and, in contrast, the poverty of man whose insignificant riches might be here today and gone tomorrow (compare Proverbs 23:4-5).

But Jesus Christ was by no means a vagabond or a hippy. Even though some claim, for instance, that He wore long hair, the Bible is very clear that He did not (compare 1 Corinthians 11:14). [For more information, please read our Q&A, Did Jesus Wear Long Hair?].

Q: Who is “that” prophet, mentioned by Moses in the book of Deuteronomy?

Published: February 25th, 2011

The Old and the New Testament speak about the appearance of “THE” or “THAT” prophet. The concept of such a prophet is first introduced in Deuteronomy 18:15, when Moses announces to the people:

“The LORD your God will raise for you a Prophet like me from your midst, from your brethren. Him you shall hear.”

In his speech before the Sanhedrin, Stephen makes reference to this passage, in Acts 7:37.

Q: Would you please explain 1 Timothy 4:1-5? Doesn’t this passage do away with the distinction between clean and unclean animals?

Published: March 4th, 2011

Many try to use this passage to “prove” that we are allowed today to eat whatever man in his twisted mind has decided to devour—including the meat from pigs, dogs, monkeys, rats, cats, squirrels, as well as frogs, snails, ants, scorpions, snakes, lobster, shrimp, shellfish and oysters, just to name a few. However, this is most certainly not what the passage conveys.

1 Timothy 4:1-5 reads, in context:

Q: Would you please explain 1 John 3:9?

Published: March 11th, 2011

The passage in 1 John 3:9 reads, according to the New King James Bible:

“Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God.”

Q: What must I do to convert to Christianity?

Published: March 18th, 2011

Many feel it is only necessary to “say” that we accept and believe in Christ. Nothing could be further from the truth. Outside of the fact that this is nebulous and undefined, it is not what the Bible reveals as being required to become a Christian.

True conversion is a spiritual change from sinfulness to righteousness. This does not and cannot happen in an instant. It is a Godly change in our character and actions, from the carnal person we were, to one that God wants us to become. This transformation does not happen by fiat, as many suppose.

Q: Could you provide a list regarding leavened and unleavened products?

Published: April 1st, 2011

As many of our readers know, the Church of the Eternal God and its affiliates, the Global Church of God in the UK and the Church of God, a Christian Fellowship in Canada, as well as the Kirche des Ewigen Gottes in Germany, observe the annual Festival of the Days of Unleavened Bread. God commands us that during the seven days of that Festival, all leavened products have to be removed from our houses, and that only unleavened products are to be consumed during that time.

Q: Did animal sacrifices provide for forgiveness of sin?

Published: April 8th, 2011

We read in the New Testament that animal sacrifices did not forgive sin, nor did they clean or purify the ancient Israelites from an evil conscience. That was never the purpose of the animal sacrifices. Forgiveness of sin and the opportunity to inherit eternal life was only made possible through the supreme Sacrifice of Jesus Christ (John 3:14-17).

Hebrews 10:1-4 makes it very clear that animal sacrifices were just reminders of sins, but that they could not take away or forgive sin. They were foreshadowing the death of Christ. We read:

Q: Would you please explain 1 John 5:6-8?

Published: April 15th, 2011

1 John 5:4-8 reads, in context:

“(Verse 4) For whatever is born [better here: begotten] of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. (Verse 5) Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? (Verse 6) This is He who came by water and blood—Jesus Christ; not only by water, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit who [better: which] bears witness, because the Spirit is truth. (Verse 7) For there are three that bear witness (in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one. (Verse 8) And there are three that bear witness on earth): the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree as one.”

Q: Does the Bible say anything about the future of Egypt?

Published: May 13th, 2011

The Bible contains quite a few Scriptures dealing with Egypt’s past, present and future conditions. However, there is also much speculation being circulated, which is not necessarily in agreement with Scripture, or which cannot be proven by Scripture. For instance, some say that in the end time, Egypt will be the king of the South, as mentioned in Daniel 11. Of course, Daniel 11 does not specifically identify the king of the South, and it says nowhere that it is Egypt.

In his booklet, “The Middle East in Prophecy,” copyright 1948, 1972, Herbert Armstrong wrote this:

“Ethiopia, the King of the South!

Q: Does the Bible say anything about the future of Syria?

Published: May 20th, 2011

Violence is erupting in Syria, and the question is what the future will hold for that country. Does the Bible tell us anything about Syria’s past, and does it give us any indications as to what is in store for it? The Holy Scriptures certainly do.

Syria is sometimes referred to in the Bible as “Aram,” and the Syrians are called “Arameans.” Historically, there have been times of war and of peace between Syria and the houses of Israel and Judah. After Jacob had deceived his father Isaac and his brother Esau, he fled to and lived in Syria, where he was terribly deceived by his uncle Laban. Hosea 12:12 tells us: “Jacob fled to the country of Syria; Israel served for a spouse And for a wife he tended sheep.”

Q: What is the prophesied future of Libya?

Published: May 27th, 2011

Libya has been in the news for quite some time, and nobody seems to know what the future holds for that biblical country. God’s Holy Scriptures do give us a glimpse, however, as to what we can expect to occur in or pertaining to Libya.

It is commonly accepted that Libya is designated as “Put” or “Phut” in the Hebrew Scriptures. Put was the son of Ham, a son of Noah (Genesis 10:6; 1 Chronicles 1:8). The word “Put” or “Phut” means “bow” or “warrior.” According to Josephus, Put settled in the land of Libya. Depending on what translation one might use, the word “Phut” is sometimes mentioned in addition to Libya. As the Ryrie Study Bible explains, the word “Put” can also refer—depending on the context—to just a part of the country of Libya.

Q: What does the Bible say about Iran’s future?

Published: June 3rd, 2011

The Bible contains numerous passages, dealing with the future of Iran, which was formerly known as Persia. Most commentaries and encyclopedias are in agreement that the modern-day Iranians are descendants of the ancient Elamites. For instance, Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible equates Elam with Persia. Genesis 10:22 and 1 Chronicles 1:17 state that Elam was a son of Shem—and therefore a brother of ancient Asshur or Assur. The city of Sushan or Susa was one of the capitols of the Elamite or Persian empire, and Esther, Daniel and Jeremiah resided there at times. Susa is today known as Shush—a city in modern-day Iran.

Q: Did King Saul commit the unpardonable sin ?

Published: June 10th, 2011

In two recent Q&As, we discussed the question whether Judas might have committed the unpardonable sin, dealing with the issue whether Judas is lost http://www.eternalgod.org/qapdf/10163, and whether he rejected his chance for salvation when he betrayed Christ http://www.eternalgod.org/qapdf/10136.

We concluded that Judas did not commit the unpardonable sin, mainly because he never received God’s Holy Spirit prior to his death. Please read or re-read our Q&As, which also explain the nature of the unpardonable sin.

Q: What does the Bible say about Ethiopia?

Published: June 17th, 2011

Even though Ethiopia is not mentioned as often in the current news as countries such as Egypt, Libya, Syria or Iran, the Bible has much to say about the past and future of Ethiopia. As we pointed out in a recent Q&A on Egypt, Ethiopia was at one time the influential “king of the South,” as mentioned in the book of Daniel, and the Bible shows that Ethiopia will still play an important role in future world affairs. This is not that surprising when considering even the present role and status of Ethiopia, which should not be underestimated. As the Wikipedia encyclopedia tells us:

Q: Does the Bible say anything about Esau and his descendants? Is Esau the ancestor of modern Turkey?

Published: June 24th, 2011

The Bible has indeed much to say about the descendants of Esau in our times. In this Q&A, we will discuss the history and the modern identity of Esau. In a subsequent Q&A, we will be addressing the future of Esau, as prophesied in the Scriptures.

Esau was the twin brother of Jacob. Due to the fact that he sold Jacob his birthright for some red stew, he became also known as “Edom,” which means “red” (Genesis 25:30). Later the name Idumea (Isaiah 34:5, Authorized Version; the New King James Bible says, “Edom”) was applied to some of the descendants of Esau or Edom. Herod the Great was an Idumean. (It was Herod who killed the male babies in Bethlehem and surrounding areas, from two years old and under, compare Matthew 2:16.)

Q: What does the Bible say about the future of Turkey?

Published: July 1st, 2011

As was explained in our previous Q&A, the Turkish people can be identified today as belonging to the descendants of biblical Esau or Edom. Additional biblical references to modern Turkey are Teman (descendant of Esau), Idumea, Bozrah (ancient capital of Esau) and Seir (compare Joshua 24:4).

Q: Why will modern Turkey be punished so severely, and what will be Israel’s and Judah’s role in respect to Esau?

Published: July 8th, 2011

In the previous Q&A, we saw that the modern Babylonian system under Assyria’s lead will conquer Edom (modern Turkey) and enslave it, after Edom had at first escaped the “king of the North,” while participating in the defeat of the modern houses of Israel (mainly the USA and GB) and Judah (the modern Jews).

We also saw in the last Q&A that God expressly stated that He will bring about Edom’s defeat to punish them for their conduct.

Psalm 137:7 tells us one reason for God’s anger with Edom: “Remember, O LORD, against the sons of Edom The day of Jerusalem, Who said, ‘Raze it [Lit., make it bare], raze it, To its very foundation!’”

Q: Politicians often have to compromise to achieve their goals. Wouldn’t it be acceptable for Christians to compromise at times, if it is a means of setting a good example or preaching the gospel?

Published: July 15th, 2011

The short answer is that it most certainly is not acceptable for a true Christian to compromise his or her Christian beliefs for any reason whatsoever.

What is compromise? A compromise is an agreement (or proposed agreement) to accept a situation in which the parties get variations from what they originally sought, to achieve a compatible outcome. It can also be defined as an amicable agreement between parties in controversy, to settle their differences by mutual concession.

Q: Muslims believe that a “Mahdi” will come to bring peace to this earth. Does the Bible indicate the coming of a “Mahdi” as well?

Published: July 22nd, 2011

There are different schools of thought in the “Christian” world that seem to teach that a powerful and influential Muslim person will claim in the end time to be the Mahdi, trying to unify much of the Muslim and Arab world under his leadership. Some claim that the king of the South, mentioned in Daniel 11, will be that person; others claim that the “beast” in the book of Revelation, whom they very often mislabel as the “Antichrist,” will be that Mahdi.

Q: Who is Saudi Arabia in the Bible?

Published: July 29th, 2011

Many archeological and historical researchers and Bible commentaries have understood for a long time that the Arabs are descendants of Ishmael, son of Abraham and Sarah’s Egyptian maid, Hagar. We read the following prophecy about Ishmael in Genesis 16:7-12:

Q: What does the Bible say about Saudi Arabia?

Published: August 5th, 2011

In our previous Q&A in Update No. 502, we showed that Saudi Arabia is the great nation that had been prophesied to Ishmael, the son of Abraham. Ishmael was born when Abraham was eighty-six years old. He was circumcised at the age of 13—a custom still followed today by the Arabs. Ishmael and his half-brother Isaac buried Abraham together. Ishmael died aged 137.

Q: I have heard three or four different explanations of Luke 16:9 but none of them completely marry up with all the other Scriptures in the Bible. What would be the correct interpretation of it?

Published: August 12th, 2011

In the parable of the “unjust steward,” as recorded in Luke 16:1-13, we find the overseer for a rich man's business in trouble for mismanaging the day to day affairs. When called on the carpet, the steward then mounts a campaign to quickly settle some of the debts he has been remiss in and is subsequently commended for being so shrewd (compare verses 1-8).

Q: Do you have any guidelines for opening and closing prayers?

Published: August 19th, 2011

The Church of the Eternal God in the USA, the Global Church of God in the UK, and the Church of God, a Christian Fellowship in Canada, conduct their weekly and annual Sabbath services by opening with prayer (usually after singing three congregational hymns), and by closing with prayer (after singing a final congregational hymn). These prayers are given by baptized men who have been selected by the song-leader—sometimes after consultation with or direction from the presiding minister. On occasion, and subject to the discretion of the presiding minister, baptized visitors and guests from other Church of God organizations, who might not regularly attend our fellowship, might be asked to give the opening or closing prayer.

Q: Do you have any guidelines for preparing and giving a sermonette?

Published: August 26th, 2011

As we pointed out in a previous Q&A, discussing opening and closing prayers, the Church of the Eternal God in the USA and its corporate affiliates, the Global Church of God in the UK, and the Church of God, a Christian Fellowship in Canada, trace their roots to the Worldwide Church of God under the late Herbert W. Armstrong (who died in 1986). During his lifetime, Mr. Armstrong established the way in which Church of God services should be conducted, and we have substantially adopted these procedures. As a consequence, our weekly and annual Sabbath services include opening and closing prayers, a song service, announcements, occasional special music presentations (especially during the Feast of Tabernacles), and a sermonette and a

Q: Could you explain Isaiah 26:14, 19? Isn’t there a contradiction?

Published: September 9th, 2011

It might appear so at first sight, but upon closer scrutiny, we will see that there is no contradiction.

Isaiah 26:13-14 states: “O LORD our God, masters besides You Have had dominion over us; But by You only we make mention of Your name. They are dead, they will not live; They are deceased, they will not rise. Therefore You have punished and destroyed them, And made all their memory to perish.”

On the other hand, we read in Isaiah 26:19:

“Your dead shall live; Together with my dead body they shall arise. Awake and sing, you who dwell in dust; For your dew is like the dew of herbs, And the earth shall cast out the dead.”

Q: You recently wrote in one of your Q&As that Arabs were present in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost in 31 AD, when the Holy Spirit was given. This seems to be incorrect as Gentiles were only admitted much later to the Church of God, beginning with the Roman centurion Cornelius.

Published: September 16th, 2011

You seem to be referring to our Q&A on Saudi Arabia, where we wrote the following:

“Turning to the New Testament, we find that Arabs were present in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost when God poured out His Holy Spirit on the New Testament Church (Acts 2:11), and that Paul, after his conversion, went to Arabia (Galatians 1:17) and stayed there for a while, perhaps, as Young’s Analytical Concordance to the Bible suggests, to associate with those Arabs who had been converted on the Day of Pentecost.”

Q: Is it true that Christ will return on the annual Holy Day of the Feast of Trumpets?

Published: September 23rd, 2011

Christ told us that no one knows the DAY of His return. He even said that He Himself does not know the DAY, nor the angels, but the Father alone. The reason is that it is within the Father’s sole authority to decide when the day of Christ’s return has come.

Note what we said in one of our Q&As, addressing certain numbers in the book of Daniel, and answering the question as to whether the 1,260 days, 1,290 days and 1,335 days mentioned there show us exactly when Christ will return:

Q: Do you have guidelines for proper appearance and conduct in your worship services?

Published: September 30th, 2011

In previous Q&As, we published guidelines for opening and closing prayers, and for preparing and giving sermonettes. We pointed out that our weekly and annual Sabbath services begin with a song service (usually by singing three congregational hymns), followed by an opening prayer, a sermonette or short spiritual message of about 10 to 15 minutes, the singing of another congregational hymn, announcements, followed (occasionally) by a special music presentation (especially during the Feast of Tabernacles), the sermon or main spiritual message of about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, and we conclude with a final congregational hymn and the closing prayer.

Q: Why do you use the current Hebrew Calendar for establishing the dates of God’s annual Holy Days?

Published: October 28th, 2011

God’s Church decided more than 70 years ago that we must follow the current Hebrew Calendar in order to be able to observe the annual Holy Days at their proper times. (For more information on God’s annual Festivals, please read our free booklet, “God’s Commanded Holy Days”). However, over the years, some concluded on their own, without godly authority, that they should deviate from that decision. As a consequence, estimates suggest that there are no less than 500 versions of “calendars” in existence, all claiming that their version is the one and only correct one, and the result is utter confusion, while God states very clearly that HE is NOT the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33).
 

Q: Can you explain some of the peculiarities of the Hebrew Calendar?

Published: November 4th, 2011

In our last Q&A, we explained why the Church of God has made the decision to accept and follow the current Hebrew calendar. The short answer is that God has entrusted the Jews—and no one else—with the preservation of the calendar and the determination and identification of the correct dates of the annual Holy Days.

We also explained that in AD 358-359 A.D., the Jews’ chief leader, Hillel II, carried out his God-given authority to present the Hebrew calendar throughout the future, and it is that calendar which we are to apply for the determination of the annual Holy Days.

Q: Did God create Adam and Eve with an evil human nature?

Published: November 11th, 2011

In coming to an understanding of the events that transpired at the creation of man, we need to more fully comprehend how God created the first man and woman. Some believe that they were created in a “broken” state of being so that God could “fix” it later by grace. Others have concocted the idea that they were predestined to fail and that they had no other option in the matter. Then there are those who say that God created Adam and Eve in a holy state from which they “fell.” Still, some professing Christians think that nothing can be concluded from the Scripture regarding this matter.

Q: Would you please explain the order of events, as depicted in the 24th chapter of the gospel according to Matthew?

Published: November 18th, 2011

In order to properly understand what Christ is telling His disciples, as recorded in the account of Matthew, we need to also review other passages in the parallel accounts of Mark and Luke, as well as passages in the book of Revelation.

Q: Can you describe the events which will occur after the Great Tribulation has begun?

Published: December 2nd, 2011

In the last Q&A on the order of prophetic events, we discussed Christ’s sayings in Matthew 24, showing that prior to His return there would be religious deception, wars, famine, disease epidemics, a Great Tribulation (including a martyrdom of the saints), heavenly signs, and a time described as God’s wrath, which will be poured out over this entire world. We noticed that the first four seals in the book of Revelation describe the four horsemen of the Apocalypse, corresponding to false religion, war, famine and pestilence; and the fifth, sixth and seven seals describe religious persecution, cosmic disturbances, and the time of God’s wrath.

Q: Does your church have a prophet of God who interprets the passages in the Scriptures the way God intended them to be interpreted?

Published: December 9th, 2011

The New Testament of the Bible does speak about the office of prophet as being a part of the spiritual order designated by God for leadership in the Church:
 
“And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues” (1 Corinthians 12:28).
 
We also find that Jesus Christ, Who is the Head of the Church (compare Ephesians 1:22; 4:15; Colossians 1:18), selects people to serve in capacities including that of prophets:
 

Q: What is the time line of the events depicted during the “Day of the Lord”?

Published: December 23rd, 2011

In the last two Q&As http://www.eternalgod.org/qa/10927 and http://www.eternalgod.org/qa/10990 on the order of prophetic events, we discussed Christ’s sayings in Matthew 24, showing that prior to His return, there would be religious deception, wars, famine, disease epidemics and pandemics, a Great Tribulation (including a martyrdom of the saints and an European attack on the USA, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and the state of Israel), heavenly signs, and a time described as God’s wrath, which will be poured out over this entire world.

Q: What is depicted by the seventh plague of the seventh trumpet?

Published: December 30th, 2011

In our previous Q&A, we began discussing the Day of the Lord. We showed that the Day of the Lord describes and encompasses the seventh seal of the scroll which the Lamb opens—and the seventh seal consists of seven trumpets, and the seventh trumpet consists of the seven last plagues or bowls of God’s wrath. We addressed the first six plagues of the seventh trumpet, pointing out that during the sixth plague, the kings of the east and other powers of this earth will assemble at a place called Armageddon or “hill of Megiddo,” which is about 55 miles north of Jerusalem. From there, they will move towards Jerusalem, where they will try to fight the returning Jesus Christ. That “battle” will take place in

Q: Is the true Church of God a Sect?

Published: January 13th, 2012

A “sect” may be defined as “a body of persons agreed upon religious doctrines usually different from those of an established or orthodox church from which they have separated; non-conformist or other church as described by opponents.”
 
The terms “cult” and “sect” are often used interchangeably; a sect is usually connected with religion and a cult may be – but many things outside the religious arena can also be classified as cultish. Certain television programmes may have a cult following – never a sect following.
 

Q: What does the Bible say about Christ’s battle with hostile armies at the time of His return?

Published: February 3rd, 2012

In previous Q&A’s, discussing the seventh plague of the seventh trumpet, mentioned in the Book of Revelation http://www.eternalgod.org/qa/11097 , and 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, http://www.eternalgod.org/qa/11159 we described the resurrection and the change of the saints. As immortal beings and born-again members of the Family and Kingdom of God, they will meet the returning Christ in the air and descend with Him on the Mount of Olives, where Christ’s decisive battle against the evil forces of this world will take place.

Q: What will Christ do after the defeat of the human armies in the decisive battle in the Kidron Valley, just outside Jerusalem?

Published: February 10th, 2012

We explained in the last Q&A regarding Christ’s battle with hostile armies at the time of His return, that Jesus Christ will come back “on clouds”; that His holy angels will accompany Him; that He will be met “on clouds” in the air by His saints—true, converted Christians who will be resurrected and changed to immortality at the time of His return; and that all will descend together on the same day to the Mount of Olives to make an end of deceived hostile human armies and their leaders (Revelation 19:11-21; Zechariah 14:1-15). After that, Christ will deal with the real author of destruction and deception—Satan the devil along with his demons.

We read in Revelation 20:1-3:

Q: Why did Paul have Timothy Circumcised?

Published: February 17th, 2012

In Acts 16:1, we meet up with Paul during his travels north and west of Jerusalem in modern day Turkey. While here, Paul meets an up-and-coming disciple we know as Timothy.  Timothy had a good reputation among the brethren in the area – in the cities of Lystra and Iconium in particular. Paul was impressed with him as well and invited Timothy to join him on his travels through the region. However, before they commence their travels together, Paul has Timothy circumcised (Acts 16:3). While this might not seem like a significant detail, it is important to examine in context because the implications are significant.

Q: What will Jesus do after Satan has been banished?

Published: February 24th, 2012

In a previous Q&A on Daniel 9, we explained that Jesus, the Messiah, would be cut off after His public ministry, but not for Himself (verse 26); and that He will confirm a covenant for a week; but that in the middle of the week, He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering (verse 27). We explained that Jesus Christ was killed quite literally in the middle of the week—on a Wednesday—in 31 A.D. In addition, we showed that He began His public ministry of one prophetic week [of seven prophetic days or seven literal years, applying the principle of “one day for one year” (Numbers 14:34; Ezekiel 4:3-6)], but that He was killed or cut off after 3 ½ years of His public ministry. He began preaching publically in the year of 27 A.D., and He

Q: Does Ezekiel 38 describe events before, during or after the Millennium?

Published: March 2nd, 2012

The events described in Ezekiel 38 and 39 will occur after Christ’s return, at the very beginning of His rule over mankind—not 1,000 years later. In a previous Q&A, we discussed the fact that Jesus Christ will have to complete 3 ½ years of His public ministry to the lost sheep of the house of Israel, before His rule over all nations in the Millennium can really begin to flourish. We saw that Christ will free the modern descendants of the houses of Israel and Judah from captivity and bring them into the Promised Land. They will build the waste cities and inhabit them, live in peace and safety, and God will forgive all their iniquities and enter with them into the conditions of the new covenant.

Q: Why will there be animal sacrifices in the future? Did not Christ abolish them when He died?

Published: March 16th, 2012

The Bible shows that at the beginning of the Millennium, after Gog’s armies were destroyed (compare Ezekiel 38 and 39), God will reinstitute animal sacrifices at a newly built temple in Jerusalem. It is possible that the Jews will build a third temple PRIOR to Christ’s return, which will survive the partial end-time destruction of the city of Jerusalem and which will be identical with the millennial temple, described in the book of Ezekiel (compare our Q&A http://www.eternalgod.org/qa/5352 , answering the question whether the Jews will build a temple in Jerusalem prior to Christ’s return. Compare also another Q&A on the same topic, http://www.eternalgod.org/qa/782 ).