Previous Bible Questions and Answers
Did Jesus Really Exist?
HE WAS neither rich nor powerful. He did not even have a home that he could call his own. Yet his teachings have influenced millions. Did Jesus Christ really exist? What do both modern and ancient authorities say?
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Michael Grant, a historian and an expert on ancient classical civilization, noted: “If we apply to the New Testament, as we should, the same sort of criteria as we should apply to other ancient writings containing historical material, we can no more reject Jesus’ existence than we can reject the existence of a mass of pagan personages whose reality as historical figures is never questioned.”
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Rudolf Bultmann, a professor of New Testament studies, stated: “The doubt as to whether Jesus really existed is unfounded and not worth refutation. No sane person can doubt that Jesus stands as founder behind the historical movement whose first distinct stage is represented by the oldest Palestinian community [of Christians].”
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Will Durant, a historian, writer, and philosopher, wrote: “That a few simple men [the Gospel writers] should in one generation have invented so powerful and appealing a personality, so lofty an ethic and so inspiring a vision of human brotherhood, would be a miracle far more incredible than any recorded in the Gospels.”
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Albert Einstein, a German-born Jewish physicist, asserted: “I am a Jew, but I am enthralled by the luminous figure of the Nazarene.” When asked if he viewed Jesus as a historical person, he responded: “Unquestionably! No one can read the Gospels without feeling the actual presence of Jesus. His personality pulsates in every word. No myth is filled with such life.”
“No one can read the Gospels without feeling the actual presence of Jesus.”—Albert Einstein
WHAT DOES HISTORY REVEAL?
The most detailed record of Jesus’ life and ministry is recorded in the Bible accounts known as the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—named after the men who wrote them. In addition, a number of early non-Christian sources name him.
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TACITUS
(c. 56-120 C.E., or Common Era) Tacitus is considered to be one of the greatest of the ancient Roman historians. His Annals deal with the Roman Empire from 14 C.E. to 68 C.E. (Jesus died in 33 C.E.) Tacitus wrote that when a great fire devastated Rome in 64 C.E., Emperor Nero was considered responsible. But Tacitus wrote that Nero accused the Christians in order to “scotch the rumour.” Then Tacitus said: “Christus, the founder of the name [Christian], had undergone the death penalty in the reign of Tiberius, by sentence of the procurator Pontius Pilatus.”—Annals, XV, 44.
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SUETONIUS
(c. 69–a. 122 C.E.) In his Lives of the Caesars, this Roman historian recorded events during the reigns of the first 11 Roman emperors. The section on Claudius refers to turmoil among the Jews in Rome that was likely caused by disputes over Jesus. (Acts 18:2) Suetonius wrote: “Since the Jews constantly made disturbances at the instigation of Chrestus [Christus], he [Claudius] expelled them from Rome.” (The Deified Claudius, XXV, 4) Although wrongly accusing Jesus of creating disturbances, Suetonius did not doubt his existence.
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PLINY THE YOUNGER
(c. 61-113 C.E.) This Roman author and administrator in Bithynia (modern Turkey) wrote to Roman Emperor Trajan about how to deal with the Christians in that province. Pliny said that he tried to force Christians to recant, executing any who refused to do so. He explained: “Those who . . . repeated after me an invocation to the [pagan] Gods, and offered adoration, with wine and frankincense, to your image . . . and who finally cursed Christ . . . , I thought it proper to discharge.”—Pliny—Letters, Book X, XCVI.
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FLAVIUS JOSEPHUS
(c. 37-100 C.E.) This Jewish priest and historian states that Annas, a Jewish high priest who continued to wield political influence, “convened the judges of the Sanhedrin [the Jewish high court] and brought before them a man named James, the brother of Jesus who was called the Christ.”—Jewish Antiquities, XX, 200.
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THE TALMUD
This collection of Jewish rabbinic writings, dating from the third to the sixth centuries C.E., shows that even Jesus’ enemies affirmed his existence. One passage says that on “the Passover Yeshu [Jesus] the Nazarean was hanged,” which is historically correct. (Babylonian Talmud, Sanhedrin 43a, Munich Codex; see John 19:14-16.) Another states: “May we produce no son or pupil who disgraces himself in public like the Nazarene”—a title often applied to Jesus.—Babylonian Talmud, Berakoth 17b, footnote, Munich Codex; see Luke 18:37.
EVIDENCE FROM THE BIBLE
The Gospels give us a comprehensive account of Jesus’ life and ministry, including specific details about people, places, and times—the hallmarks of authentic history. An example is found at Luke 3:1, 2, which helps us to establish the exact date when a man named John the Baptist, a forerunner of Jesus, commenced his work.
“All Scripture is inspired of God.”—2 Timothy 3:16
Luke wrote: “In the 15th year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod was district ruler of Galilee, Philip his brother was district ruler of the country of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias was district ruler of Abilene, in the days of chief priest Annas and of Caiaphas, God’s declaration came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness.” This detailed, precise list enables us to establish that “God’s declaration came to John” in the year 29 C.E.
The seven public figures Luke names are well-known to historians. That said, for a time certain critics did question the existence of Pontius Pilate and Lysanias. But the critics spoke too soon. Ancient inscriptions bearing the names of those two officials have been discovered, confirming Luke’s accuracy.
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Jesus taught people about the Kingdom of God, a world government
The question of Jesus’ existence matters because his teachings matter. For example, Jesus taught people how to live happy, fulfilling lives.He also promised a time when mankind will live in true peace and security, united under a single world government called “the Kingdom of God.”—Luke 4:43.
The designation “the Kingdom of God” is appropriate because this world government will express God’s sovereignty over the earth. (Revelation 11:15) Jesus made that fact clear when he said in his model prayer: “Our Father in the heavens, . . . let your Kingdom come. Let your will take place . . . on earth.” (Matthew 6:9, 10) What will Kingdom rule mean for mankind? Consider the following:
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Warfare and civil strife will cease.—Psalm 46:8-11.
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Wickedness, including greed and corruption, will be gone forever, along with ungodly people.—Psalm 37:10, 11.
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The Kingdom’s subjects will enjoy meaningful, productive work.—Isaiah 65:21, 22.
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The earth will fully recover from its present sick state and produce bountiful crops.—Psalm 72:16; Isaiah 11:9.
Some people may consider those promises wishful thinking. But is it not wishful thinking to trust in human efforts? Consider: Even in spite of spectacular advances in education, science, and technology, millions today feel deeply insecure and uncertain about tomorrow. And daily we see evidence of economic, political, and religious oppression, as well as greed and corruption. Yes, the reality is that human rule is a failure!—Ecclesiastes 8:9.
At the very least, the question of Jesus’ existence merits our consideration. * As 2 Corinthians 1:19, 20 states: “No matter how many the promises of God are, they have become ‘yes’ by means of [Christ].”
Jesus’ Resurrection - Did It Really Happen?
In the spring of 33 C.E., Jesus the Nazarene was executed. He had been falsely charged with sedition, savagely beaten, and nailed to a stake. He died in excruciating pain. But God raised him back to life, and 40 days later, Jesus ascended to heaven.
This extraordinary account comes to us from the four Gospels of the Christian Greek Scriptures, commonly called the New Testament. Did those things really happen? That is a pertinent and serious question. If they did not, Christian faith is valueless and the hope of eternal life in Paradise is nothing more than a wishful dream. (1 Corinthians 15:14) On the other hand, if those events really did happen, then there is a bright future for mankind, one in which you can share. So, are the Gospel accounts fact or fiction?
WHAT THE FACTS SHOW
Unlike fanciful legends, the Gospel writings reflect painstaking accuracy and attention to detail. For example, they abound with names of real places, many of which can be visited today. They tell about real people, whose existence has been corroborated by secular historians.—Luke 3:1, 2, 23.
Jesus himself is mentioned by secular writers of the first and second centuries. His manner of death, as described in the Gospels, agrees with Roman execution methods of the time. Moreover, events are related in a factual and candid manner—even portraying some of Jesus’ disciples unfavourably. (Matthew 26:56; Luke 22:24-26; John 18:10, 11) All these factors strongly indicate that the Gospel writers were honest and accurate in what they wrote about Jesus
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WHAT ABOUT JESUS’ RESURRECTION?
While it is generally accepted that Jesus lived and died, some would question his resurrection. Even his apostles did not believe the initial report of his having returned to life. (Luke 24:11) All doubt was removed, however, when they and other disciples saw the resurrected Jesus on separate occasions. In fact, in one case, there were more than 500 eyewitnesses present.—1 Corinthians 15:6.
At the risk of being arrested and killed, the disciples courageously proclaimed Jesus’ resurrection to all—even to the very ones who had executed him. (Acts 4:1-3, 10, 19, 20; 5:27-32) Would so many disciples have been so bold if they were not absolutely sure that Jesus had really been resurrected? In fact, the reality of the resurrection of Jesus is the driving force behind the impact that Christianity has had on the world both then and now.
The Gospel accounts of Jesus’ death and resurrection bear all the necessary marks of an authentic historical record. Carefully reading them will convince you that these events really happened. Your conviction can be further strengthened when you understand why they took place. The next article will explain
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Why Is There Not More Secular Support?
Given the profound influence that Jesus had on the world, should we expect more in the way of contemporary non-Biblical corroboration? Not necessarily. For one thing, the Gospels were written almost 2,000 years ago. Few other writings of that time have survived. (1 Peter 1:24, 25) Then, too, it is unlikely that the many who opposed Jesus would write anything that would lend credibility to the reports about him.
Regarding Jesus’ resurrection, Peter, one of his apostles, explained: “God raised this one up on the third day and allowed him to become manifest, not to all the people, but to witnesses appointed beforehand by God, to us, who ate and drank with him after his rising from the dead.” (Acts 10:40, 41) Why not to all the people? Matthew’s Gospel tells us that when the religious enemies heard reports of Jesus’ resurrection, they schemed to suppress them.—Matthew 28:11-15.
Does this mean that Jesus wanted his resurrection to be kept secret? No, for Peter went on to say: “He ordered us to preach to the people and to give a thorough witness that this is the one decreed by God to be judge of the living and the dead.” True Christians have done and are doing just that.—Acts 10:42.
What Is the Holy Spirit?
The Bible’s answer
The holy spirit is God’s power in action, his active force. (Micah 3:8; Luke 1:35) God sends out his spirit by projecting his energy to any place to accomplish his will.—Psalm 104:30; 139:7.
In the Bible, the word “spirit” is translated from the Hebrew word ruʹach and the Greek word pneuʹma. Most often, those words refer to God’s active force, or holy spirit. (Genesis 1:2) However, the Bible also uses those words in other senses:
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The vital, or animating, force in living creatures.—Job 34:14, 15.
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A person’s disposition or attitude.—Numbers 14:24.
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Spirit persons, including God and the angels.—1 Kings 22:21; John 4:24.
These meanings all share the sense of something invisible to humans that produces visible effects. Similarly, the spirit of God, “like the wind, is invisible, immaterial and powerful.”—An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine.
The Bible also refers to God’s holy spirit as his “hands” or “fingers.” (Psalm 8:3; 19:1; Luke 11:20; compare Matthew 12:28.) Just as a craftsman uses his hands and fingers to do his work, God has used his spirit to produce such results as the following:
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The universe.—Psalm 33:6; Isaiah 66:1, 2.
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The Bible.—2 Peter 1:20, 21.
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The miracles performed by his ancient servants and their zealous preaching.—Luke 4:18; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.
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The fine qualities displayed by people who obey him.—Galatians 5:22, 23.
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The holy spirit is not a person
By referring to God’s spirit as his “hands,” “fingers,” or “breath,” the Bible shows that the holy spirit is not a person. (Exodus 15:8, 10) A craftsman’s hands cannot function independent of his mind and body; likewise, God’s holy spirit operates only as he directs it. (Luke 11:13) The Bible also compares God’s spirit to water and associates it with such things as faith and knowledge. These comparisons all point to the impersonal nature of the holy spirit.—Isaiah 44:3; Acts 6:5; 2 Corinthians 6:6.
The Bible gives the names of Jehovah God and of his Son, Jesus Christ; yet, nowhere does it name the holy spirit. (Isaiah 42:8; Luke 1:31) When the Christian martyr Stephen was given a miraculous heavenly vision, he saw only two persons, not three. The Bible says: “He, being full of holy spirit, gazed into heaven and caught sight of God’s glory and of Jesus standing at God’s right hand.” (Acts 7:55) The holy spirit was God’s power in action, enabling Stephen to see the vision.
Misconceptions about the holy spirit
Misconception: The “Holy Ghost,” or holy spirit, is a person and is part of the Trinity, as stated at 1 John 5:7, 8 in the King James version of the Bible.
Fact: The King James version of the Bible includes at 1 John 5:7, 8 the words “in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness in earth.” However, researchers have found that those words were not written by the apostle John and so do not belong in the Bible. Professor Bruce M. Metzger wrote: “That these words are spurious and have no right to stand in the New Testament is certain.”—A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament
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Misconception: The Bible personifies the holy spirit, and this proves that it is a person.
Fact: The Scriptures do at times personify the holy spirit, but this does not prove that the holy spirit is a person. The Bible also personifies wisdom, death, and sin. (Proverbs 1:20; Romans 5:17, 21) For example, wisdom is said to have “works” and “children,” and sin is depicted as seducing, killing, and working out covetousness.—Matthew 11:19; Luke 7:35; Romans 7:8, 11.
Similarly, when the apostle John quoted Jesus, he personified the holy spirit as a “helper” (paraclete) that would give evidence, guide, speak, hear, declare, glorify, and receive. He used masculine personal pronouns such as “he” or “him” when referring to that “helper.” (John 16:7-15) However, he did so because the Greek word for “helper” (pa·raʹkle·tos) is a masculine noun and requires a masculine pronoun according to the rules of Greek grammar. When John referred to the holy spirit using the neuter noun pneuʹma, he used the genderless pronoun “it.”—John 14:16, 17.
Misconception: Baptism in the name of the holy spirit proves that it is a person.
Fact: The Bible sometimes uses “name” to stand for power or authority. (Deuteronomy 18:5, 19-22; Esther 8:10) This is similar to its use in the English expression “in the name of the law,” which does not mean that the law is a person. A person who is baptized “in the name of” the holy spirit recognizes the power and role of the holy spirit in accomplishing God’s will.—Matthew 28:19.
Misconception: Jesus’ apostles and other early disciples believed that the holy spirit was a person.
Fact: The Bible does not say that, nor does history. The Encyclopædia Britannica states: “The definition that the Holy Spirit was a distinct divine Person . . . came at the Council of Constantinople in ad 381.” This was over 250 years after the last of the apostles had died.
Is Jesus the only way to Heaven?
Yes, Jesus is the only way to heaven. Such an exclusive statement may confuse, surprise, or even offend, but it is true nonetheless. The Bible teaches that there is no other way to salvation than through Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself says in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” He is not a way, as in one of many; He is the way, as in the one and only. No one, regardless of reputation, achievement, special knowledge, or personal holiness, can come to God the Father except through Jesus.
Jesus is the only way to heaven for several reasons. Jesus was “chosen by God” to be the Saviour (1 Peter 2:4). Jesus is the only One to have come down from heaven and returned there (John 3:13). He is the only person to have lived a perfect human life (Hebrews 4:15). He is the only sacrifice for sin (1 John 2:2; Hebrews 10:26). He alone fulfilled the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 5:17). He is the only man to have conquered death forever (Hebrews 2:14–15). He is the only Mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5). He is the only man whom God has “exalted . . . to the highest place” (Philippians 2:9).
Jesus spoke of Himself as the only way to heaven in several places besides John 14:6. He presented Himself as the object of faith in Matthew 7:21–27. He said His words are life (John 6:63). He promised that those who believe in Him will have eternal life (John 3:14–15). He is the gate of the sheep (John 10:7); the bread of life (John 6:35); and the resurrection (John 11:25). No one else can rightly claim those titles.
The apostles’ preaching focused on the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus. Peter, speaking to the Sanhedrin, clearly proclaimed Jesus as the only way to heaven: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Paul, speaking to the synagogue in Antioch, singled out Jesus as the Saviour: “I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin” (Acts 13:38–39). John, writing to the church at large, specifies the name of Christ as the basis of our forgiveness: “I am writing to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name” (1 John 2:12). No one but Jesus can forgive sin.
Eternal life in heaven is made possible only through Christ. Jesus prayed, “Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent” (John 17:3). To receive God’s free gift of salvation, we must look to Jesus and Jesus alone. We must trust in Jesus’ death on the cross as our payment for sin and in His resurrection. “This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe” (Romans 3:22).
At one point in Jesus’ ministry, many of the crowd were turning their backs on Him and leaving in hopes of finding another saviour. Jesus asked the Twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?” (John 6:67, ESV). Peter’s reply is exactly right: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God” (John 6:68–69, ESV). May we all share Peter’s faith that eternal life resides only in Jesus Christ.
Does God exist?
Whether God exists is the most important question any person can consider. Opinions on God are everywhere, but answering the question does God exist? demands more than a few seconds of attention and involves a wide range of ideas and evidence. Ultimately, what we see in human experience, science, logic, and history leads to a confident answer: yes, God exists.
Often, this question is posed as “Can you prove God exists?” The problem is that, while truth itself is absolute, there are virtually zero instances of absolute proof outside of pure logic and mathematics. Courtrooms don’t require absolute proof, for that reason; rather, they seek to dispel “reasonable doubt” and consider what’s “most probable.”
It’s equally flawed to demand “proof of God” that no person could ever reject. Neither evidence nor people function that way in the real world. “Encountering” facts and “accepting” them are profoundly different. Airtight, sound arguments are still “unconvincing” to those determined to disbelieve. For that person, it’s not “proof,” even if it would convince almost anyone else. A person’s intent is more influential than any evidence encountered.
That means “faith” is necessary—and not just regarding God’s existence. Perfect knowledge is beyond our ability. Bias and prejudice cloud our views. There will always be a gap between what we can “know” and what we “believe.” This applies equally across the spectrum from skeptics to believers. We cannot possibly know every detail involved every time we sit in a chair, eat food, or climb stairs. Such actions all express a measure of faith. We act, despite what we don’t know, because of what we do know. That’s the essence of biblical faith, including faith in the existence of God. We trust in what is known, leading us to action, despite a less-than-absolute understanding (Hebrews 11:6).
Whether or not one acknowledges God, the decision involves faith. Belief in God does not require blind faith (John 20:29), but neither can it overcome malicious resistance (John 5:39–40). What is fair is to point to human experience, logic, and empirical evidence to inform the answer.
Does God exist? – Human Experience
Discussing the existence of God usually starts with logical arguments. That makes sense, but it’s not how human beings normally operate. No one starts devoid of all perspective, waiting to follow a robotically rational path before forming an opinion. People interpret life based on the world around them. So looking at the existence of God ought to start with experiences. Afterwards, we can use logic to assess those views.
Evidence of God exists in daily human experiences (Romans 1:19–20; Psalm 19:1; Ecclesiastes 3:11). This includes our innate sense of morality. It applies to the apparent design of the universe around us. Human life compels belief that truth, deception, love, hate, goodness, evil, etc., are real and meaningful. The overwhelming majority of people throughout history were inclined to believe in a reality greater than the physical.
Those experiences are not conclusive, of course. Instead, God uses general revelation as an invitation (Revelation 3:20). Common experiences are meant to emphasize that we ought to seek further answers (Matthew 7:7–8). Those who ignore or disdain that invitation don’t have the excuse of being ignorant (Romans 1:18; Psalm 14:1).
Does God exist? – Human Logic
Three of the more powerful logical suggestions of God’s existence are the cosmological, teleological, and moral arguments.
The cosmological argument considers the principle of cause and effect. Each effect is the result of some cause, and each cause is the effect of a prior cause. However, that chain of causes cannot go on infinitely into the past, or else the chain would never actually start. Logic demands something eternally existent and not itself the effect of anything else. Our universe, clearly, is not eternal or uncaused. Logic points to God: the uncreated, eternal measure of all other things, the First Cause of our reality.
The teleological argument examines the structure of the universe. The largest galactic scales, our solar system, our DNA, subatomic particles—everything gives the appearance of having been purposefully arranged. This trait is so strong that even hardened atheists are constantly fumbling to explain away the appearance of design.
Nothing about subatomic particles or forces indicates they must be arranged the way they are. Yet, if they were not exactly as they are, complex matter—and life—would be impossible. Dozens of universal constants coordinate with mind-boggling precision just to make life possible, let alone actual. Science has never observed or explained life arising from non-life, yet it also shows a sudden onset of complex organisms. Archaeologists who see the words I am here on a cave wall would universally assume intelligent action. Meanwhile, human DNA represents a coding structure beyond the ability of the best human engineers. The weight of this evidence, logically, favours the idea of an Intelligent Designer—God—as an explanation.
The moral argument takes note of concepts like good and evil, ethics, and so forth. It’s notable that these are discussions of “what should be,” not merely “what is.” Moral principles are drastically disconnected from the ruthless, selfish reasoning that one would expect of a creature randomly evolved to survive at any cost. The very idea that human beings think in non-physical, moral terms is striking. Beyond that, the fundamental content of human morals across cultures and history is identical.
Further, discussion of moral ideas leads inevitably to a crossroads. Either moral ideas are completely subjective, and therefore meaningless, or they must be grounded in some unchanging standard. Human experience doesn’t support the conclusion that morals mean nothing. The most reasonable explanation for why people think in moral terms and share moral ideals is a real moral law provided by a Moral Lawgiver, i.e., God.
Does God exist? – Human Science
The logical arguments above are inspired by observations. Concepts such as the Big Bang Theory demonstrate, at the very least, the scientific validity of a created, non-eternal universe. Likewise for the structure of DNA. Empirical data lends credibility to the idea of a biblical Creator and contradicts alternative explanations, such as an eternal universe or abiogenesis.
Archaeology also lends support to the Bible. People, events, and places depicted in Scripture have repeatedly been confirmed by secular discoveries. Many of these came after sceptics implied the Bible’s accounts were fictional.
History and literature, for their part, also support the existence of God. The preservation of the Bible is one example. Tracing the existing text so closely to the original events makes it more reliable. Judeo-Christian influence on culture, morality, human rights, and the birth of modern science also strongly indicates an approach aligned with truth.
Does God exist? – God in Us
Each of the prior categories is an entire field of study and the subject of thousands of books. Yet the existence of God is demonstrated most profoundly, for most people, in personal experience. It may be impossible to “prove” to others that you’re happy, for instance, but that doesn’t change the fact that you are. That’s not to say internal perspective outweighs objective truth, but complex truths are often powerfully supported by individual experiences. Changed lives, reformed attitudes, and answers to prayer are all part of our personal perception that God exists.
A personal sense of truth is the most compelling way we know God exists, and it’s God’s intent for all people to experience that sense. God came to earth personally, as a human being (2 Corinthians 4:6), so we could have a personal relationship with Him (John 14:6). Those who sincerely seek God will find Him (Matthew 7:7–8), resulting in the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit (John 14:26–27).
The question does God exist?, therefore, cannot demand an answer using absolute proof, but we can point people to where the weight of evidence leads. Accepting the existence of God is not a blind-faith leap into the dark. It’s a trusting step out of the dark into a well-lit room where many things are made clear.
Is the Bible truly God’s Word?
Our answer to this question will not only determine how we view the Bible and its importance to our lives, but also it will ultimately have an eternal impact on us. If the Bible is truly God’s Word, then we should cherish it, study it, obey it, and fully trust it. If the Bible is the Word of God, then to dismiss it is to dismiss God Himself.
The fact that God gave us the Bible is an evidence and illustration of His love for us. The term “revelation” simply means that God communicated to mankind what He is like and how we can have a right relationship with Him. These are things that we could not have known had God not divinely revealed them to us in the Bible. Although God’s revelation of Himself in the Bible was given progressively over approximately 1500 years, it has always contained everything man needs to know about God in order to have a right relationship with Him. If the Bible is truly the Word of God, then it is the final authority for all matters of faith, religious practice, and morals.
The question we must ask ourselves is how can we know that the Bible is the Word of God and not just a good book? What is unique about the Bible that sets it apart from all other religious books ever written? Is there any evidence that the Bible is truly God’s Word? These types of questions must be seriously examined if we are to determine the validity of the Bible’s claim to be the very Word of God, divinely inspired, and totally sufficient for all matters of faith and practice. There can be no doubt that the Bible does claim to be the very Word of God. This is clearly seen in Paul’s commendation to Timothy: “… from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:15-17).
There are both internal and external evidences that the Bible is truly God’s Word. The internal evidences are those things within the Bible that testify of its divine origin. One of the first internal evidences that the Bible is truly God’s Word is seen in its unity. Even though it is really sixty-six individual books, written on three continents, in three different languages, over a period of approximately 1500 years, by more than 40 authors who came from many walks of life, the Bible remains one unified book from beginning to end without contradiction. This unity is unique from all other books and is evidence of the divine origin of the words which God moved men to record.
Another of the internal evidences that indicates the Bible is truly God’s Word is the prophecies contained within its pages. The Bible contains hundreds of detailed prophecies relating to the future of individual nations including Israel, certain cities, and mankind. Other prophecies concern the coming of One who would be the Messiah, the Saviour of all who would believe in Him. Unlike the prophecies found in other religious books or those by men such as Nostradamus, biblical prophecies are extremely detailed. There are over three hundred prophecies concerning Jesus Christ in the Old Testament. Not only was it foretold where He would be born and His lineage, but also how He would die and that He would rise again. There simply is no logical way to explain the fulfilled prophecies in the Bible other than by divine origin. There is no other religious book with the extent or type of predictive prophecy that the Bible contains.
A third internal evidence of the divine origin of the Bible is its unique authority and power. While this evidence is more subjective than the first two, it is no less a powerful testimony of the divine origin of the Bible. The Bible’s authority is unlike any other book ever written. This authority and power are best seen in the way countless lives have been transformed by the supernatural power of God’s Word. Drug addicts have been cured by it, homosexuals set free by it, derelicts and deadbeats transformed by it, hardened criminals reformed by it, sinners rebuked by it, and hate turned to love by it. The Bible does possess a dynamic and transforming power that is only possible because it is truly God’s Word.
There are also external evidences that indicate the Bible is truly the Word of God. One is the historicity of the Bible. Because the Bible details historical events, its truthfulness and accuracy are subject to verification like any other historical document. Through both archaeological evidences and other writings, the historical accounts of the Bible have been proven time and time again to be accurate and true. In fact, all the archaeological and manuscript evidence supporting the Bible makes it the best-documented book from the ancient world. The fact that the Bible accurately and truthfully records historically verifiable events is a great indication of its truthfulness when dealing with religious subjects and doctrines and helps substantiate its claim to be the very Word of God.
Another external evidence that the Bible is truly God’s Word is the integrity of its human authors. As mentioned earlier, God used men from many walks of life to record His words. In studying the lives of these men, we find them to be honest and sincere. The fact that they were willing to die often excruciating deaths for what they believed testifies that these ordinary yet honest men truly believed God had spoken to them. The men who wrote the New Testament and many hundreds of other believers (1 Corinthians 15:6) knew the truth of their message because they had seen and spent time with Jesus Christ after He had risen from the dead. Seeing the risen Christ had a tremendous impact on them. They went from hiding in fear to being willing to die for the message God had revealed to them. Their lives and deaths testify to the fact that the Bible truly is God’s Word.
A final external evidence that the Bible is truly God’s Word is the indestructibility of the Bible. Because of its importance and its claim to be the very Word of God, the Bible has suffered more vicious attacks and attempts to destroy it than any other book in history. From early Roman Emperors like Diocletian, through communist dictators and on to modern-day atheists and agnostics, the Bible has withstood and outlasted all of its attackers and is still today the most widely published book in the world.
Throughout time, skeptics have regarded the Bible as mythological, but archaeology has confirmed it as historical. Opponents have attacked its teaching as primitive and outdated, but its moral and legal concepts and teachings have had a positive influence on societies and cultures throughout the world. It continues to be attacked by pseudo-science, psychology, and political movements, yet it remains just as true and relevant today as it was when it was first written. It is a book that has transformed countless lives and cultures throughout the last 2000 years. No matter how its opponents try to attack, destroy, or discredit it, the Bible remains; its veracity and impact on lives is unmistakable. The accuracy which has been preserved despite every attempt to corrupt, attack, or destroy it is clear testimony to the fact that the Bible is truly God’s Word and is supernaturally protected by Him. It should not surprise us that, no matter how the Bible is attacked, it always comes out unchanged and unscathed. After all, Jesus said, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away” (Mark 13:31). After looking at the evidence, one can say without a doubt that, yes, the Bible is truly God’s Word.
If there is no God, from Rev. Roy Almquist
A minister recently spoke with a person who is facing a personal crisis through the illness of a loved one. She shared with him the challenges she is experiencing from friends, who, like Job’s friends, are asking her how she can believe in God when someone she loves is so ill. She said she did not know how to respond.
As is often the case in life, the minister did not have much time to prepare an answer for her. He did remind her that God never promised us that life would be perfect or that faith would assure us that we would be under a plastic shield of protection.
But we do believe in a God whom we have come to know through Jesus Christ and this God has promised to hold us in loving arms.
The minister encouraged her to ask her friends: If there is no God, to whom will they turn in a moment of crisis? Will they find greater comfort in entrusting themselves to emptiness or a void? At the time of death will they find consolation in nothing?
Frankly, I would prefer the promise: …”though you pass through the waters, I will be with you, through the flame it will not consume you.” [Isaiah 43] …”neither power from above or power from below will be able to separate us from the love of God.” [Romans 8] … “in my Father’s house there are many rooms. I go to prepare a place for you and I will come again to take you where I am.” [John 14].
What Does the Holy Spirit Do for Us?
To grasp how God’s Spirit works in our lives, we must understand what God's Spirit is. In Scripture, the Holy Spirit is described as the power and essence of God at work in our lives. This divine power enables us to follow Him, being "led by the Spirit of God” (Romans 8:14).
By the Spirit dwelling within us we are the children of God. What does God's Holy Spirit do for us as Christians?
● God's Spirit doesn't drive, drag or push us around; it leads us. It will not prevent us from sinning, nor will it force us to do what's right. It leads us, and we must be willing to follow.
● The Holy Spirit keeps us in contact with God's mind. God's Spirit works with our mind.
● Through the Holy Spirit, we can be influenced by God for the good. This is in contrast to the evil
influence from the world around us and our own corrupt human nature.
● The Holy Spirit provides a deeper understanding of God’s Word and His will for humanity (1 Corinthians 2:9-11). Without the Spirit, a person cannot understand God’s divinely expressed Word and will, “for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned” (verse 14).
● The Holy spirit makes overcoming sin possible. There is nothing too difficult for us with the power of God working in our lives.
● God's Spirit helps us in our weakness. The apostle Paul, speaking for all of us, said, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13).
●The Holy Spirit convicts our conscience and helps us see sin as it really is. Jesus Christ said it would “convict the world of sin” (John 16:8). God’s Spirit within us, working with our conscience, helps us to recognise and avoid sin. It “will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment” (same verse).
●The Holy Spirit produces godly fruit in our lives. Just as an apple tree produces apples, God’s Spirit produces a particular type of fruit in the life of a Christian – love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
●The Holy Spirit comforts and encourages us. Jesus Christ promised to send His followers “another Comforter” (John 14:16-17). True comfort and reassurance come from the Spirit of God dwelling in us. We need not be unduly worried about the future or what may happen to us. God’s Spirit gives us the assurance that whatever happens will ultimately work out for the good “to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).
What are the attributes of God?
The Bible, God’s Word, tells us what God is like and what He is not like. Without the authority of the Bible, any attempt to explain God’s attributes would be no better than an opinion, which by itself is often incorrect, especially in understanding God (Job 42:7). To say that it is important for us to try to understand what God is like is a huge understatement. Failure to do so can cause us to set up, chase after, and worship false gods contrary to His will (Exodus 20:3-5).
Only what God has chosen to reveal of Himself can be known. One of God’s attributes or qualities is “light,” meaning that He is self-revealing in information of Himself (Isaiah 60:19; James 1:17). The fact that God has revealed knowledge of Himself should not be neglected (Hebrews 4:1). Creation, the Bible, and the Word made flesh (Jesus Christ) will help us to know what God is like.
Let’s start by understanding that God is our Creator and that we are a part of His creation (Genesis 1:1; Psalm 24:1) and are created in His image. Man is above the rest of creation and was given dominion over it (Genesis 1:26-28). Creation is marred by the fall but still offers a glimpse of God’s works (Genesis 3:17-18; Romans 1:19-20). By considering creation’s vastness, complexity, beauty, and order, we can have a sense of the awesomeness of God.
Reading through some of the names of God can be helpful in our search of what God is like. They are as follows:
Elohim - strong One, divine (Genesis 1:1)
Adonai - Lord, indicating a Master-to-servant relationship (Exodus 4:10, 13)
El Elyon - Most High, the strongest One (Genesis 14:20)
El Roi - the strong One who sees (Genesis 16:13)
El Shaddai - Almighty God (Genesis 17:1)
El Olam - Everlasting God (Isaiah 40:28)
Yahweh - LORD “I Am,” meaning the eternal self-existent God (Exodus 3:13, 14).
God is eternal, meaning He had no beginning and His existence will never end. He is immortal and infinite (Deuteronomy 33:27; Psalm 90:2; 1 Timothy 1:17). God is immutable, meaning He is unchanging; this in turn means that God is absolutely reliable and trustworthy (Malachi 3:6; Numbers 23:19; Psalm 102:26, 27). God is incomparable; there is no one like Him in works or being. He is unequalled and perfect (2 Samuel 7:22; Psalm 86:8; Isaiah 40:25; Matthew 5:48). God is inscrutable, unfathomable, unsearchable, and past finding out as far as understanding Him completely (Isaiah 40:28; Psalm 145:3; Romans 11:33, 34).
God is just; He is no respecter of persons in the sense of showing favouritism (Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 18:30). God is omnipotent; He is all-powerful and can do anything that pleases Him, but His actions will always be in accord with the rest of His character (Revelation 19:6; Jeremiah 32:17, 27). God is omnipresent, meaning He is present everywhere, but this does not mean that God is everything (Psalm 139:7-13; Jeremiah 23:23). God is omniscient, meaning He knows the past, present, and future, including what we are thinking at any given moment. Since He knows everything, His justice will always be administered fairly (Psalm 139:1-5; Proverbs 5:21).
God is one; not only is there no other, but He is alone in being able to meet the deepest needs and longings of our hearts. God alone is worthy of our worship and devotion (Deuteronomy 6:4). God is righteous, meaning that God cannot and will not pass over wrongdoing. It is because of God’s righteousness and justice that, in order for our sins to be forgiven, Jesus had to experience God’s wrath when our sins were placed upon Him (Exodus 9:27; Matthew 27:45-46; Romans 3:21-26).
God is sovereign, meaning He is supreme. All of His creation put together cannot thwart His purposes (Psalm 93:1; 95:3; Jeremiah 23:20). God is spirit, meaning He is invisible (John 1:18; 4:24). God is a Trinity. He is three in one, the same in substance, equal in power and glory. God is truth, He will remain incorruptible and cannot lie (Psalm 117:2; 1 Samuel 15:29).
God is holy, separated from all moral defilement and hostile toward it. God sees all evil and it angers Him. God is referred to as a consuming fire (Isaiah 6:3; Habakkuk 1:13; Exodus 3:2, 4-5; Hebrews 12:29). God is gracious, and His grace includes His goodness, kindness, mercy, and love. If it were not for God’s grace, His holiness would exclude us from His presence. Thankfully, this is not the case, for He desires to know each of us personally (Exodus 34:6; Psalm 31:19; 1 Peter 1:3; John 3:16, 17:3).
Since God is an infinite Being, no human can fully answer this God-sized question, but through God’s Word, we can understand much about who God is and what He is like. May we all wholeheartedly continue to seek after Him (Jeremiah 29:13).
What is Christianity and what do Christians believe?
The core beliefs of Christianity are summarized in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. Jesus died for our sins, was buried, was resurrected, and thereby offers salvation to all who will receive Him in faith. Unique among all other faiths, Christianity is more about a relationship than religious practices. Instead of adhering to a list of “do’s and don’ts,” the goal of a Christian is to cultivate a close walk with God. That relationship is made possible because of the work of Jesus Christ and the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
Beyond these core beliefs, there are many other items that are, or at least should be, indicative of what Christianity is and what Christians believe. Christians believe that the Bible is the inspired, “God-breathed” Word of God and that its teaching is the final authority in all matters of faith and practice (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21). Christians believe in one God that exists in three persons—the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit.
Christians believe that mankind was created specifically to have a relationship with God, but sin separates all men from God (Romans 3:23; 5:12). Christianity teaches that Jesus Christ walked this earth, fully God, and yet fully man (Philippians 2:6-11), and died on the cross. Christians believe that after His death, Christ was buried, He rose again, and now lives at the right hand of the Father, making intercession for the believers forever (Hebrews 7:25). Christianity proclaims that Jesus’ death on the cross was sufficient to completely pay the sin debt owed by all men and this is what restores the broken relationship between God and man (Hebrews 9:11-14; 10:10; Romans 5:8; 6:23).
Christianity teaches that in order to be saved and be granted entrance into heaven after death, one must place one’s faith entirely in the finished work of Christ on the cross. If we believe that Christ died in our place and paid the price of our own sins, and rose again, then we are saved. There is nothing that anyone can do to earn salvation. We cannot be “good enough” to please God on our own, because we are all sinners (Isaiah 53:6; 64:6-7). There is nothing more to be done, because Christ has done all the work! When He was on the cross, Jesus said, “It is finished” (John 19:30), meaning that the work of redemption was completed.
According to Christianity, salvation is freedom from the old sin nature and freedom to pursue a right relationship with God. Where we were once slaves to sin, we are now slaves to Christ (Romans 6:15-22). As long as believers live on this earth in their sinful bodies, they will engage in a constant struggle with sin. However, Christians can have victory in the struggle with sin by studying and applying God’s Word in their lives and being controlled by the Holy Spirit—that is, submitting to the Spirit’s leading in everyday circumstances.
So, while many religious systems require that a person do or not do certain things, Christianity is about believing that Christ died on the cross as payment for our own sins and rose again. Our sin debt is paid and we can have fellowship with God. We can have victory over our sin nature and walk in fellowship and obedience with God. That is true biblical Christianity.
What does it mean to accept Jesus as your personal Saviour?
Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour? To properly understand this question, you must first understand the terms “Jesus Christ,” “personal,” and “Saviour.”
Who is Jesus Christ? Many people will acknowledge Jesus Christ as a good man, a great teacher, or even a prophet of God. These things are definitely true of Jesus, but they do not fully define who He truly is. The Bible tells us that Jesus is God in the flesh, God in human form (see John 1:1, 14). God came to earth to teach us, heal us, correct us, forgive us—and die for us! Jesus Christ is God, the Creator, the sovereign Lord. Have you accepted this Jesus?
What is a Saviour, and why do we need a Saviour? The Bible tells us that we have all sinned; we have all committed evil acts (Romans 3:10-18). As a result of our sin, we deserve God’s anger and judgment. The only just punishment for sins committed against an infinite and eternal God is an infinite punishment (Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:11-15). That is why we need a Saviour!
Jesus Christ came to earth and died in our place. Jesus’ death was an infinite payment for our sins (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus died to pay the penalty for our sins (Romans 5:8). Jesus paid the price so that we would not have to. Jesus’ resurrection from the dead proved that His death was sufficient to pay the penalty for our sins. That is why Jesus is the one and only Saviour (John 14:6; Acts 4:12)! Are you trusting in Jesus as your Saviour?
Is Jesus your “personal” Saviour? Many people view Christianity as attending church, performing rituals, and/or not committing certain sins. That is not Christianity. True Christianity is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Accepting Jesus as your personal Saviour means placing your own personal faith and trust in Him. No one is saved by the faith of others. No one is forgiven by doing certain deeds. The only way to be saved is to personally accept Jesus as your Saviour, trusting in His death as the payment for your sins and His resurrection as your guarantee of eternal life (John 3:16). Is Jesus personally your Saviour?
If you want to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour, say the following words to God. Remember, saying this prayer or any other prayer will not save you. Only believing in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross for you can save you from sin. This prayer is simply a way to express to God your faith in Him and thank Him for providing for your salvation. “God, I know that I have sinned against You and deserve punishment. But I believe Jesus Christ took the punishment I deserve so that through faith in Him I could be forgiven. I receive Your offer of forgiveness and place my trust in You for salvation. I accept Jesus as my personal Saviour! Thank You for Your wonderful grace and forgiveness—the gift of eternal life! Amen!”
Who or What Is “the Alpha and the Omega”?
The Bible’s answer
“The Alpha and the Omega” refers to Jehovah God, the Almighty. This term occurs three times in the Bible.—Revelation 1:8; 21:6; 22:13.
Why does God call himself “the Alpha and the Omega”?
Alpha and omega are the first and last letters of the alphabet in Greek, the language used to write the part of the Bible commonly called the New Testament, which includes the book of Revelation. The respective positions of these letters in the Greek alphabet are used to illustrate that Jehovah alone is the beginning and the end. (Revelation 21:6) He was Almighty God in the infinite past, and he will continue to be Almighty God forever. He is the only one who is “from everlasting to everlasting.”—Psalm 90:2.
Who is “the first and the last”?
The Bible applies this term both to Jehovah God and to his Son, Jesus, but with different meanings. Consider two examples.
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At Isaiah 44:6, Jehovah says: “I am the first and I am the last. There is no God but me.” Here Jehovah highlights that he is the everlasting true God; besides him, there is no other. (Deuteronomy 4:35, 39) In this case, then, the expression “the first and the last” has the same meaning as “the Alpha and the Omega.”
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Additionally, the term “the First [pro’tos, not alpha] and the Last [e’skha·tos, not omega]” occurs at Revelation 1:17, 18 and 2:8. In these verses, the context shows that the one referred to died and later returned to life. Thus, these verses cannot refer to God because he has never died. (Habakkuk 1:12) However, Jesus died and was resurrected. (Acts 3:13-15) He was the first human to be resurrected to immortal spirit life in heaven, where he now lives “forever and ever.” (Revelation 1:18; Colossians 1:18) Jesus is the one who performs all resurrections thereafter. (John 6:40, 44) Therefore, he was the last one to be resurrected directly by Jehovah. (Acts 10:40) In this sense, Jesus can properly be called “the First and the Last.”
Does Revelation 22:13 prove that Jesus is “the Alpha and the Omega”?
No. The speaker at Revelation 22:13 is not specifically identified, and there are various speakers in this chapter. Commenting on this section of Revelation, Professor William Barclay wrote: “Things are set down without any apparent order; . . . and it is often very difficult to be sure who is the actual speaker.” (The Revelation of John, Volume 2, Revised Edition, page 223) Thus, “the Alpha and the Omega” at Revelation 22:13 can be identified as the same Person given this title elsewhere in Revelation—Jehovah God.
Why do Good People Suffer?
There has been a long standing question, human question that dates back for centuries and one which probably all of us ask from time to time. I hear that quite often. And I heard it this week and it's where people ask: “Why do good people suffer?” While people we may call wicked seem to survive and even survive well. This is an age old question often called the question of good and evil.
I was faced with it again during the week. When a lovely young father died it reminded me of my good friend Sandy Locke back in Scotland, one of the world's best. So this was a loving family man loved by family and friends, playing his part in making his home, his work, his community and even his world a better place. Why did he get cancer, why did he have to suffer, why did he have to die? The world is worse off for his passing. Someone spoke to me at his funeral asking questions along these lines and saying “there are other people in the world that we could all live without, other people whose own mother wouldn't miss them. Other people who are downright wicked. Why are they still alive and he's gone?” The age old question.
There are times when we may think like this. Personally I don't like to encourage talk like this. I don't want to think that anyone intends hating them and wishing them dead over another person but I have to say that I'm only human too. I actually asked that question myself when I had the funeral of this lovely young man. I didn't like the question.
Jesus did good like many others. Jesus bridged the gap between hating and warring parties; between Jews and occupying Romans; between Jews and the much despised Samaritans, he bridged the gap between the healthy and the sick, reaching out to touch them when others wouldn't give them the time of day. He loved all the people that he met, the unlovable. He loved all the people that he met and left everyone feeling better. He just brightened up people's days; brightened up people's lives. And boy did he suffer.
Why would someone like him suffer? People even called him evil. What's wrong with them? How could you call him evil? This week's Bible reading around the world church is from the gospel of Mark chapter 3 verses 20 to 35. What people were saying is that Jesus and all his good work was possessed by an evil spirit; it was their way of thinking in that time but what a thing to claim of someone like Jesus.
Those of faith are somewhat comforted by the faith response to the question of good and evil: “why do good people suffer while the wicked seemingly prosper”. Faith responds by saying and, it maybe not the best answer but this is the answer: It won't always be this way. There is a day coming when everyone will be rewarded for their deeds. Some will not like their reward for their wicked acts. But blessed will they be who have done good. I kind of hold on to that. And hope for that. We all hope there's recompense that someone will be rewarded. I know it's not a great answer. In this life especially we want to see it here and now. We don't want to wait but for those who believe there is life beyond this existence that is some comfort in that response. The balance there is reward for those have been good and died young.
Besides which those who do good in their world wouldn't have it any other way. Not even by turning wicked if their years could be lengthened. They just wouldn't. Some people are happy to spend their life; literally spend their life; their own life doing good no matter the cost. And they would do it again. They wouldn't change paths. And so I'd like to encourage you all to persevere in doing good; the good that you do. And whatever measure it is, whatever small amount that you do.
Those who follow the Jesus way will never render evil for evil. But will always follow his example in love for their enemies no matter the cost. Go on doing your good deeds. Make this world a better place no matter what the cost.
And blessed are the good makers.
Rev Kenneth Brown – from the spoken message 6th June 2021
What Is the Meaning of Life?
The Bible’s answer
The question of the meaning of life may be asked in many ways, such as Why are we here? or Does my life have a purpose? The Bible shows that our purpose in life is to build a friendship with God. Consider some of these fundamental truths that the Bible reveals:
God is our Creator. The Bible says: “It is [God] that has made us, and not we ourselves.”—Psalm 100:3; Revelation 4:11.
God has a purpose for everything he creates, including us.—Isaiah 45:18.
God created us with a “spiritual need,” which includes the desire to find meaning in life. (Matthew 5:3) He wants us to satisfy
that desire.—Psalm 145:16.
We fill our spiritual need by building a friendship with God. Although the idea of being God’s friend might seem far-fetched to
some, the Bible gives us this encouragement: “Draw close to God, and he will draw close to you.” —James 4:8; 2:23.
To become God’s friend, we must live in harmony with his purpose for us. The Bible states this purpose at
Ecclesiastes 12:13: “Have reverence for God, and obey his commands, because this is all that we were created for.”
—Good News Translation.
In the future, we can experience in full God’s original purpose for us when he eliminates suffering and grants everlasting
life to his friends, those who worship him.—Psalm 37:10, 11.
What Is the Will of God for My Life?
The Bible’s answer
God’s will is that you come to know him as a Person, draw close to him, and then love and serve him with your whole heart. (Matthew 22:37, 38; James 4:8) You can learn how to do God’s will from the life and teachings of Jesus. (John 7:16, 17) Jesus didn’t just talk about the will of God—he lived it. In fact, Jesus said that his purpose in life was “to do, not my will, but the will of him that sent me.”—John 6:38.
Do I need a special sign, vision, or calling to know what the will of God is for me?
No, because the Bible contains God’s message to mankind. It has what you need to be “completely equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) God wants you to use the Bible along with your “power of reason” to learn his will for you.—Romans 12:1, 2; Ephesians 5:17.
Can I really do God’s will?
Yes, you can, for the Bible says: “God’s commands are not too hard for us.” (1 John 5:3, Easy-to-Read Version) That’s not to say that obeying God’s commands is always easy. But the benefits you will gain far outweigh the effort you must put forth. Jesus himself said: “How happy are those who hear the word of God and obey it!”—Luke 11:28, Good News Translation.
Love – start to know the 9 Fruits of the Holy Spirit
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22)
These 9 fruits are major fruits and qualities that are coming direct from God Himself – and every Christian should do the best they can to work with the Holy Spirit in getting all 9 of these fruits worked into their personality.
Note the following:
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The word “Spirit” is with a capital “S” – which means these 9 fruits are coming directly from the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.
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What this means is that God’s love, God’s peace, God’s joy, and God’s goodness can start to be transmitted up into our personality. These are His divine attributes and personality qualities that will start to move into the core of our personality.
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Think about the ramifications of this – that God the Father Himself is allowing us to share in a part of His divine nature by allowing His Holy Spirit to transmit and impart these nine divine qualities right up into our soul and personality!
This is why God the Father is specifically telling us in this verse that these 9 fruits are coming directly from His Holy Spirit – so that we can all fully appreciate the magnitude of such an experience.
Love – 1st fruit of the Spirit.
Here are some of the different definitions on what love is from the different Bible Dictionaries and Commentaries:
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Unselfish, benevolent concern for another; brotherly concern; the object of brotherly concern or affection
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The self-denying, self-sacrificing, Christ-like love which is the foundation of all other graces
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Unselfish, loyal and benevolent concern for the well being of another
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The high esteem which God has for His human children and the high regard which they, in turn, should have for Him and other people
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To love, to have affection for someone; to like; to be a friend; the love of brothers for each other.
One of the main messages that comes through loud and clear from studying our Bible is the extreme importance that God the Father is placing on everyone to learn how to love Him, love ourselves, love one another, and to even go as far as to be able to love our enemies and those who will try and hurt us.
It is so important for each and every Christian to work very closely with the Holy Spirit to get this fruit worked up into the core of our personalities.
It is only when the love of the Holy Spirit starts to flow and enter into our personalities can we even begin to love God, love ourselves, and love one another to the degree and to the intensity that God would really like to see from each one of us.
This quality should be listed as the #1 quality you should really attempt to put on into the core of your soul and personality.
The Holy Spirit will be moving on you very early and very quickly to get this quality imparted into your mind, soul, and emotions due to the extreme importance of it in your walk with the Lord.
You can be the greatest man of God and have some of the greatest gifts of God flowing through you – but if you are not walking with all of this in the spirit of love and humility, it will have all been for naught.
Joy – continue to know the 9 Fruits of the Holy Spirit
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22)
These 9 fruits are major fruits and qualities that are coming direct from God Himself – and every Christian should do the best they can to work with the Holy Spirit in getting all 9 of these fruits worked into their personality.
Note the following:
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The word “Spirit” is with a capital “S” – which means these 9 fruits are coming directly from the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.
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What this means is that God’s love, God’s peace, God’s joy, and God’s goodness can start to be transmitted up into our personality. These are His divine attributes and personality qualities that will start to move into the core of our personality.
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Think about the ramifications of this – that God the Father Himself is allowing us to share in a part of His divine nature by allowing His Holy Spirit to transmit and impart these nine divine qualities right up into our soul and personality!
This is why God the Father is specifically telling us in this verse that these 9 fruits are coming directly from His Holy Spirit – so that we can all fully appreciate the magnitude of such an experience.
Joy
In the rough and tough world we live in with all of the crime, disorder, and bad things that can happen to anyone of us at anytime, many Christians have lost a lot of their joy in the Lord as a result of some of the beatings they have taken in this life.
Again, with the imperfections of our own fallen nature, and then you combine that with how people react differently to adversity – some Christians have literally had most, if not all of their joy in the Lord, knocked right out of them.
One of the things that God can fully restore in you is your joy in Him. And not only can the Lord fully restore what joy you used to have in Him, but He can also increase it to a much greater degree and intensity due to the wording in the above verse – with the quality of joy being one of the 9 specific fruits of His Holy Spirit!
Here are some of the different definitions of what real joy is all about:
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Great delight; gladness of heart
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The happy state that results from knowing and serving God
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That deep, abiding, inner rejoicing in the Lord
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To rejoice, to be glad
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Happy, joyful, cheerful, rejoicing, festive
Realize that God can transmit this divine quality right up into your personality – and this will be His joy, not your joy, once it starts to flow up into you.
Without God’s joy operating in your life, things can begin to dry up. Nothing is ever fun anymore. Everything can start to become a chore. Before you know it, you will want to start to withdraw from others and life in general.
Once God starts to release His joy into your system, you won’t be able to help but feel it. And once you are able to start feeling it again, it will become much easier for you to learn how to walk in joy in your own daily walk with the Lord.
The Bible says that the joy of the Lord is your strength.
The joy of the Lord can really give you an incredible surge of strength when you have to take on some really tough situations.
This is why each Christian should work very closely with the Holy Spirit in not only getting Him to put His joy into their lives, but to also keep it running through them on a very regular and consistent basis.
Peace – continue to know the 9 Fruits of the Holy Spirit
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22)
These 9 fruits are major fruits and qualities that are coming direct from God Himself – and every Christian should do the best they can to work with the Holy Spirit in getting all 9 of these fruits worked into their personality.
Note the following:
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The word “Spirit” is with a capital “S” – which means these 9 fruits are coming directly from the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.
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What this means is that God’s love, God’s peace, God’s joy, and God’s goodness can start to be transmitted up into our personality. These are His divine attributes and personality qualities that will start to move into the core of our personality.
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Think about the ramifications of this – that God the Father Himself is allowing us to share in a part of His divine nature by allowing His Holy Spirit to transmit and impart these nine divine qualities right up into our soul and personality!
This is why God the Father is specifically telling us in this verse that these 9 fruits are coming directly from His Holy Spirit – so that we can all fully appreciate the magnitude of such an experience.
Peace
This is another major quality that we all need operating in our lives, especially with all of the uncertainty of this life and never knowing what is going to happen next.
Jobs are no longer as secure as they used to be. You never know when the company you work for may be bought out and your job will be gone in a flash.
Half of all marriages are still ending up in divorce.
With all of this kind of heightened activity that we are all forced to deal with on a daily basis, it becomes very easy to lose your sense of peace, especially your peace in the Lord.
Again, this is one of the 9 fruits of the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Spirit can really help you pick up the slack if you start losing your own sense of peace over some of the storm clouds that could come against you in this life.
Realise that the Holy Spirit has His peace to give to you and that He can give it to you in great abundance.
Once His peace starts to flow up into your mind, soul, and emotions, it really is as the Bible says – a peace that surpasses all human understanding – especially when that peace comes in right in the middle of a severe storm cloud that you may be going through
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Here is how the quality of peace is described in some of the different Bible Dictionaries and Commentaries:
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The presence and experience of right relationships
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The tranquillity of soul
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Sense of well-being and fulfilment that comes from God and is dependent on His presence
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The inner tranquillity and poise of the Christian whose trust is in God through Christ
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Tranquillity, rest, harmony, the absence of agitation or discord
The quality of peace should be one of the main qualities that you should try and get worked up into your soul through the Holy Spirit. Without the peace of God operating in your life, you could become very easily rattled, shaken, tormented, and knocked right off your game in the Lord the first time any kind of adversity should ever come your way.
Long suffering – continue to know the 9 Fruits of the Holy Spirit.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22)
These 9 fruits are major fruits and qualities that are coming direct from God Himself – and every Christian should do the best they can to work with the Holy Spirit in getting all 9 of these fruits worked into their personality.
Note the following:
-
The word “Spirit” is with a capital “S” – which means these 9 fruits are coming directly from the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.
-
What this means is that God’s love, God’s peace, God’s joy, and God’s goodness can start to be transmitted up into our personality. These are His divine attributes and personality qualities that will start to move into the core of our personality.
-
Think about the ramifications of this – that God the Father Himself is allowing us to share in a part of His divine nature by allowing His Holy Spirit to transmit and impart these nine divine qualities right up into our soul and personality!
This is why God the Father is specifically telling us in this verse that these 9 fruits are coming directly from His Holy Spirit – so that we can all fully appreciate the magnitude of such an experience.
Long suffering
One of the main definitions of the word long suffering is that it is referring to patience. And patience is another sorely needed quality in the fast paced world in which we live in today.
Just watch people standing in line at the grocery store or at your local fast food restaurant and watch how short some people’s fuses are today.
Road rage is still a major problem on some of our highways. Look at someone the wrong way and they will want to try and take your head off.
With the fast-paced ways of our society, many people have had their fuses shortened up and it thus takes very little to set them off. As a result, many people have very little patience operating in their personalities today
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For Christians, this poses a major dilemma. One of the ways of our God is that He is a very patient and long suffering God. His ways are not our ways.
And one of the things you will find out very early on about His ways is that He works on a much slower time frame than we do. And unless you learn to adjust to His slower way of working things out, you will find yourself easily losing your patience with Him and how He wants to work things out in your life.
You will really have to work with the Holy Spirit on this particular quality to get it properly worked up into your personality.
The reason for this is that your own impatience will start to act up and try to override the patience and long suffering that the Holy Spirit will try and transmit to you. At times, it may become of battle of wills – your will against His will.
But once the Holy Spirit starts to try and manifest this quality up into your personality, then you have to try and move with it and allow it to get worked into your mind and emotions. If you do, then His patience will start to override your impatience, and before you know it, your fuses will start to lengthen and you will not lose your patience like you used to do.
Here are the different definitions for the word long suffering:
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Forbearance, patience
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Patient endurance and steadfastness under provocation
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Forbearance under ill-will, with no thought of retaliation
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Patience, endurance, steadfastness and forbearance
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Forbearance under suffering and endurance in the face of adversity
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Ability to endure persecution and ill-treatment
With the way all of these definitions are reading, you can really see why we all need the patience and long suffering of the Holy Spirit to start operating in our souls and personalities – especially when we are forced to face any kind of adversity. Sometimes it will be the patience and long suffering of the Holy Spirit that will be the only thing that will give you the ability to last the entire length of a bad trial.
Learn how to ride and flow with the patience of the Holy Spirit in your daily life and walk with the Lord – and you will then be able to enter into a much more restful, peaceful state within your mind and emotions.
Kindness – continue to know the 9 Fruits of the Holy Spirit
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22)
These 9 fruits are major fruits and qualities that are coming direct from God Himself – and every Christian should do the best they can to work with the Holy Spirit in getting all 9 of these fruits worked into their personality.
Note the following:
-
The word “Spirit” is with a capital “S” – which means these 9 fruits are coming directly from the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.
-
What this means is that God’s love, God’s peace, God’s joy, and God’s goodness can start to be transmitted up into our personality. These are His divine attributes and personality qualities that will start to move into the core of our personality.
-
Think about the ramifications of this – that God the Father Himself is allowing us to share in a part of His divine nature by allowing His Holy Spirit to transmit and impart these nine divine qualities right up into our soul and personality!
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This is why God the Father is specifically telling us in this verse that these 9 fruits are coming directly from His Holy Spirit – so that we can all fully appreciate the magnitude of such an experience.
Kindness
As a result of more people being impatient, having short fuses, and with everyone always being in a hurry – many people have lost the ability to treat others with kindness and respect.
A kind word, a kind action to another person can really do wonders for them.
When you really study the life of Jesus in the New Testament, you can really tell how kind He always was with other people in His dealings with them.
Jesus is without question, the ultimate role model for all of us of someone who was fully walking and operating in all 9 fruits of the Holy Spirit.
The quality of kindness will go hand in hand with the quality of love. Once the Holy Spirit starts to transmit His love up into you, the quality of kindness will follow right along with it. It will then become much easier for you to be able to be kind to others once the love of God starts to flow more into your personality.
Here are some of the different definitions of what real kindness is all about:
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Quality or state of being kind
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The steadfast love that maintains relationships through gracious aid in times of need
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Goodness of heart, serviceable, good, gracious, pleasant
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Love for mankind, hospitality, acts of kindness, readiness to help, human friendship, benevolence, taking thought of others
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Goodness in action, sweetness of disposition, gentleness in dealing with others, affability
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The ability to act for the welfare of those taxing your patience
As you can see from some of these different definitions, this is a very beautiful quality to have transmitted up into your soul and personality by the Holy Spirit. Not only will you be able to touch others with this godly quality, but you will also be able to touch yourself – because you will feel so much better about yourself if you can learn how to treat others with much more kindness and respect in your daily dealings and affairs with them.
Goodness – continue to know the 9 Fruits of the Holy Spirit
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22)
These 9 fruits are major fruits and qualities that are coming direct from God Himself – and every Christian should do the best they can to work with the Holy Spirit in getting all 9 of these fruits worked into their personality.
Note the following:
-
The word “Spirit” is with a capital “S” – which means these 9 fruits are coming directly from the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.
-
What this means is that God’s love, God’s peace, God’s joy, and God’s goodness can start to be transmitted up into our personality. These are His divine attributes and personality qualities that will start to move into the core of our personality.
-
Think about the ramifications of this – that God the Father Himself is allowing us to share in a part of His divine nature by allowing His Holy Spirit to transmit and impart these nine divine qualities right up into our soul and personality!
This is why God the Father is specifically telling us in this verse that these 9 fruits are coming directly from His Holy Spirit – so that we can all fully appreciate the magnitude of such an experience.
Goodness
Spirit-filled saints who are walking about with many of these fruits operating through them are like a magnet.
Many people who have been saved through an individual believer say that what drew them in was the love and goodness they saw shining through.
Jesus says that we are to carry His light and let that light shine before men and not attempt to hide it.
There is something extra special about the quality of goodness. Many Christians can effectively witness to others by just living right and being a good example and role model for others to follow.
Many nonbelievers carefully watch and study some Christians because they know there is something really different about them.
One of the key qualities a nonbeliever will pick up on in a solid Christian is this quality of goodness. This quality has an ability to really get down deep into the core of a believer’s personality.
As a result of seeing this God-like goodness deeply ingrained into their personalities, there is an immediate drawing towards them. Children are quick to sense and pick up on this quality in people who really have it. These types of Christians draw children and adults to them like magnets.
You feel totally safe being around them because you know you can totally trust them, and you know they would never deliberately hurt you.
And the goodness of God can be transmitted and worked up into your personality through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Now here are some of the different definitions of what this quality is all about:
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Beneficence, ready to do good, love in action
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Kindness in actual manifestation, virtue equipped for action, a bountiful propensity both to will and to do what is good, intrinsic goodness producing a generosity and a Godlike state or being
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The word beneficence means the fact or quality of being kind or doing good
This particular quality is a very powerful fruit to have operating in your personality because of the drawing power it has in it.
And the beautiful part about this fruit is that this quality is so pure in its goodness – it does not have any manipulative qualities within it.
In other words, a truly good person could not even begin to try and use you or manipulate you for their own personal gain because they are too good and righteous to even begin to think along those lines.
This is why these kinds of people are so trustworthy and why so many people are drawn to them – because you feel so safe by just being around them.
Faithfulness – continue to know the 9 Fruits of the Holy Spirit
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22)
These 9 fruits are major fruits and qualities that are coming direct from God Himself – and every Christian should do the best they can to work with the Holy Spirit in getting all 9 of these fruits worked into their personality.
Note the following:
-
The word “Spirit” is with a capital “S” – which means these 9 fruits are coming directly from the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.
-
What this means is that God’s love, God’s peace, God’s joy, and God’s goodness can start to be transmitted up into our personality. These are His divine attributes and personality qualities that will start to move into the core of our personality.
-
Think about the ramifications of this – that God the Father Himself is allowing us to share in a part of His divine nature by allowing His Holy Spirit to transmit and impart these nine divine qualities right up into our soul and personality!
This is why God the Father is specifically telling us in this verse that these 9 fruits are coming directly from His Holy Spirit – so that we can all fully appreciate the magnitude of such an experience.
Faithfulness
In the times we live in with half of all marriages ending up in divorce, and with many people getting back-stabbed in the workplaces with people they thought they could initially trust – this particular quality is one that is really needed in our day and age
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This quality is not only needed in our own personal relationship with God, but it is also needed in our own personal relationships with our friends and our families.
God the Father really holds this particular quality in high esteem, and this is one quality that He will really expect you to operate very strongly in – not only in your own personal relationship with Him, but also in your other personal relationships with your family and friends.
In other words, He wants you to be faithful and loyal to your spouses, to your children, to your parents, and to your good friends.
If God brings you a wonderful mate, wonderful children, and good and wonderful friends – then He will expect you to stay loyal and faithful to all of them in your own personal relationships with them. A true friend will stay by your side for life – through thick and thin and for better or for worse.
Just as God will stay faithful to you in His own personal relationship with you – He will expect you to stay loyal and faithful in your own personal relationships with the other people in your life.
Now here are what some of the different Bible Dictionaries and Commentaries have to say about this particular quality:
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Fidelity which makes one true to his promise and faithful to his task
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Steadfast, dedicated, dependable and worthy of trust
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Steadfast, unchanging and thoroughly grounded in relation to the other
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Dependability, loyalty and stability
With the self-centred and materialistic world in which we now live in, where many people’s only goals and ambitions are to get as much as they can out of this life while they still can – this is one quality that is in very short supply.
Most people are lucky if they manage to make 2 or 3 good, loyal, and faithful friends in this lifetime.
This is one quality that God the Father is really watching all of us on. He is watching who is going to stay true, loyal, and faithful to Him – and who will stay true, loyal, and faithful to the friends and family that are brought into our lives.
The flesh is strong – especially in the area of wanting to satisfy its lust for the material things of this life. This is why faithfulness is one of the 9 fruits of the Holy Spirit.
We all need the faithfulness of the Holy Spirit worked into us to help us keep loyal to God, family, and friends.
Gentleness – continue to know the 9 Fruits of the Holy Spirit
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22)
These 9 fruits are major fruits and qualities that are coming direct from God Himself – and every Christian should do the best they can to work with the Holy Spirit in getting all 9 of these fruits worked into their personality.
Note the following:
-
The word “Spirit” is with a capital “S” – which means these 9 fruits are coming directly from the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.
-
What this means is that God’s love, God’s peace, God’s joy, and God’s goodness can start to be transmitted up into our personality. These are His divine attributes and personality qualities that will start to move into the core of our personality.
-
Think about the ramifications of this – that God the Father Himself is allowing us to share in a part of His divine nature by allowing His Holy Spirit to transmit and impart these nine divine qualities right up into our soul and personality!
This is why God the Father is specifically telling us in this verse that these 9 fruits are coming directly from His Holy Spirit – so that we can all fully appreciate the magnitude of such an experience.
Gentleness
Many men may draw back a bit from the quality of gentleness. However, Jesus was fully incarnated into a human flesh body – but this incarnation was done as a man – fully Man and fully God.
Since Jesus walked our earth as a man – the Son of Man – study His actions very carefully when you read the gospels and how He handled different types of people.
There were times that He would engage and set people straight, like He did with some of the Scribes and Pharisees. But there were other times that He dealt with people very gently, with kindness and love.
Jesus is the perfect role model for all of us to study and learn from – especially with how He handled people while He was walking down here on our earth. His actions and behaviour towards others should be a major study for all of us and we should seek to pattern our own daily walk after Him.
And one of the divine qualities that Jesus had operating in Him with great abundance was the quality of gentleness.
The quality of gentleness is another major quality needed in our world today. So many people have been beat up and hurt in their dealings with other people – that just a gentle word, a gentle touch from another Christian can really open up the door for that person to be able to receive Jesus and His healing, saving, and deliverance power into their lives.
Once you really start walking in the Holy Spirit with His divine fruits operating and flowing through you – you will really be able to feel and sense when you should handle a certain person or a certain type of situation with more of a touch of gentleness rather than with any kind of stern rebuke or condemnation.
There is a time for tough love – but there are also times that just a gentle and loving touch is all that is really needed to properly handle a certain situation.
The Holy Spirit will guide you in all of this. Just realise that the quality of gentleness is one of the 9 fruits of the Spirit, and this is one of the fruits that He would really like to get worked into your personality, especially in being able to use it when dealing with and helping others.
Now here are some of the different definitions on the quality of gentleness:
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Mildness combined with tenderness
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Gracious, kindly disposition, controlled strength
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A disposition that is even-tempered, tranquil, balanced in spirit, unpretentious and that has passions under control
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A character that is equitable, reasonable, forbearing, moderate, fair and considerate
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Power and strength under control
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Willing to pardon injuries, correct faults. One who rules his spirit well
Not only will other people love and gravitate towards you more if you learn how to walk in this quality – but you will be at much more peace with yourself since you won’t always have to be fighting and striving with others when trying to help them out.
Self Control – continue to know the 9 Fruits of the Holy Spirit
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22)
These 9 fruits are major fruits and qualities that are coming direct from God Himself – and every Christian should do the best they can to work with the Holy Spirit in getting all 9 of these fruits worked into their personality.
Note the following:
-
The word “Spirit” is with a capital “S” – which means these 9 fruits are coming directly from the Holy Spirit, not from ourselves.
-
What this means is that God’s love, God’s peace, God’s joy, and God’s goodness can start to be transmitted up into our personality. These are His divine attributes and personality qualities that will start to move into the core of our personality.
-
Think about the ramifications of this – that God the Father Himself is allowing us to share in a part of His divine nature by allowing His Holy Spirit to transmit and impart these nine divine qualities right up into our soul and personality!
This is why God the Father is specifically telling us in this verse that these 9 fruits are coming directly from His Holy Spirit – so that we can all fully appreciate the magnitude of such an experience.
Self Control
The Bible tells us that our spirits and our flesh will war against each other in this life. Our flesh wants immediate self-gratification at all costs and will stop at nothing to try and get it.
Our spirits know that some of our fleshly desires are not right for us and as a result, there will be a tug of war between the two – and sometimes it will be a major tug of war. And the only thing that will be able to control and curb some of the desires of our flesh is the quality of self-control
Since we all live in a very self-centred and materialistic world today, many people have very poor impulse control. If they see something they immediately want, they will do anything they can to try and get it. They will not be denied until they get what they are going after. These people are obviously very weak in the quality of self-control.
This is why the Bible tells us that if we can learn how to really walk in the Holy Spirit, then we will not fulfill the passions of our flesh.
We all need God’s self-control operating in our lives and in our personalities.
If you do not have God’s self-control operating through you – you will have very little victory over such things as bad tempers, judgmental and critical spirits, an unforgiving spirit, and vices such as smoking and the abuse of alcohol.
But if you are willing to yield to Him and allow Him to start to work all 9 of the fruits of the Spirit into your personality – then you will find yourself starting to grow in ways and in areas that you never thought were possible in this life.
His supernatural power in this area will blow you away once you see how far He can really take you to become the person that God would like you to become in Him in this lifetime.
Here are some of the definitions of what the quality of self-control is all about:
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Temperance, rational restraint of natural impulses
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Sober, temperate, calm and dispassionate approach to life, having mastered personal desires and passions
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Calls for a self-disciplined life following Christ’s example of being in the world but not of the world
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Restraint or discipline exercised over one’s behaviour
The above definitions perfectly describe what God is looking for once He starts to work and transmit this quality up into our personalities. This specific quality is one of the major keys in being able to get any kind of victory over some of the passions and desires of our flesh.
Is there life after death?
The existence of life after death is a universal question. Job speaks for all of us by stating, “Man born of woman is of few days and full of trouble. He springs up like a flower and withers away; like a fleeting shadow, he does not endure....If a man dies, will he live again?” (Job 14:1-2, 14). Like Job, all of us have been challenged by this question. Exactly what happens to us after we die? Do we simply cease to exist? Is life a revolving door of departing and returning to earth in order to eventually achieve personal greatness? Does everyone go to the same place, or do we go to different places? Is there really a heaven and hell?
The Bible tells us that there is not only life after death, but eternal life so glorious that “no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him” (1 Corinthians 2:9). Jesus Christ, God in the flesh, came to the earth to give us this gift of eternal life. “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). Jesus took on the punishment that all of us deserve and sacrificed His life to pay the penalty for our sin. Three days later, He proved Himself victorious over death by rising from the grave. He remained on the Earth for forty days and was witnessed by hundreds before ascending to heaven. Romans 4:25 says, “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.”
The resurrection of the Christ is a well-documented event. The apostle Paul challenged people to question eyewitnesses for its validity, and no one was able to contest its truth. The resurrection is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. Because Christ was raised from the dead, we can have faith that we, too, will be resurrected. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the ultimate proof of life after death. Christ was only the first of a great harvest of those who will be raised to life again. Physical death came through one man, Adam, to whom we are all related. But all who have been adopted into God’s family through faith in Jesus Christ will be given new life (1 Corinthians 15:20-22). Just as God raised up Jesus’ body, so will our bodies be resurrected upon Jesus’ return (1 Corinthians 6:14).
Although we will all be eventually resurrected, not everyone will go to heaven. A choice must be made by each person in this life, and this choice will determine one’s eternal destination. The Bible says that it is appointed for us to die only once, and after that will come judgment (Hebrews 9:27). Those who have been made righteous by faith in Christ will go into eternal life in heaven, but those who reject Christ as Saviour will be sent to eternal punishment in hell (Matthew 25:46). Hell, like heaven, is not simply a state of existence, but a literal place. It is a place where the unrighteous will experience never-ending, eternal wrath from God. Hell is described as a bottomless pit (Luke 8:31; Revelation 9:1) and a lake of fire, burning with sulphur, where the inhabitants will be tormented day and night forever and ever (Revelation 20:10). In hell, there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, indicating intense grief and anger (Matthew 13:42).
God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but desires them to turn from their wicked ways so that they can live (Ezekiel 33:11). But He will not force us into submission; if we choose to reject Him, He accepts our decision to live eternally apart from Him. Life on earth is a test, a preparation for what is to come. For believers, life after death is eternal life in heaven with God. For unbelievers, life after death is eternity in the lake of fire. How can we receive eternal life after death and avoid an eternity in the lake of fire? There is only one way—through faith and trust in Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die...” (John 11:25-26).
The free gift of eternal life is available to all. “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on him” (John 3:36). We will not be given the opportunity to accept God’s gift of salvation after death. Our eternal destination is determined in our earthly lifetimes by our reception or rejection of Jesus Christ. “I tell you, now is the time of God’s favour, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). If we trust the death of Jesus Christ as the full payment for our sin against God, we are guaranteed not only a meaningful life on earth, but also eternal life after death, in the glorious presence of Christ.
Is Jesus God?
"Is Jesus God? Why should I believe that Jesus is God?"
Some who deny that Jesus is God make the claim that Jesus never said that He is God. It is correct that the Bible never records Jesus saying the precise words, “I am God.” This does not mean, however, that Jesus never claimed to be God.
Is Jesus God? — Jesus claimed to be God.
Take for example the words of Jesus in John 10:30, “I and the Father are one.” We need only to look at the Jews’ reaction to His statement to know He was claiming to be God. They tried to stone Him for this very reason: “You, a mere man, claim to be God” (John 10:33, emphasis added). The Jews understood exactly what Jesus was claiming—deity. When Jesus declared, “I and the Father are one,” He was saying that He and the Father are of one nature and essence. John 8:58 is another example. Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth … before Abraham was born, I am!” This is a reference back to Exodus 3:14 when God revealed Himself as the “I AM.” The Jews who heard this statement responded by taking up stones to kill Him for blasphemy, as the Mosaic Law commanded (Leviticus 24:16).
Is Jesus God? — His followers declared Him to be God.
John reiterates the concept of Jesus’ deity: “The Word [Jesus] was God” and “the Word became flesh” (John 1:1, 14). These verses clearly indicate that Jesus is God in the flesh. Acts 20:28 tells us, “Be shepherds of the church of God, which He bought with His own blood.” Who bought the church with His own blood? Jesus Christ. And this same verse declares that God purchased His church with His own blood. Therefore, Jesus is God.
Thomas the disciple declared concerning Jesus, “My Lord and my God” (John 20:28). Jesus does not correct him. Titus 2:13 encourages us to wait for the coming of our God and Saviour, Jesus Christ (see also 2 Peter 1:1). In Hebrews 1:8, the Father declares of Jesus, “But about the Son He says, ‘Your throne, O God, will last forever and ever, and righteousness will be the scepter of your kingdom.’” The Father refers to Jesus as God, indicating that Jesus is indeed God.
In Revelation, an angel instructed the apostle John to only worship God (Revelation 19:10). Several times in Scripture Jesus receives worship (Matthew 2:11; 14:33; 28:9, 17; Luke 24:52; John 9:38). He never rebukes people for worshiping Him. If Jesus were not God, He would have told people to not worship Him, just as the angel in Revelation did. Beyond these, there are many other passages of Scripture that argue for Jesus being God.
Is Jesus God? — The reason Jesus must be God.
The most important reason that Jesus must be God is that, if He is not God, His death would not have been sufficient to pay the penalty for the sins of the world (1 John 2:2). A created being, which Jesus would be if He were not God, could not pay the infinite penalty required for sin against an infinite God. Only God could pay such an infinite penalty. Only God could take on the sins of the world (2 Corinthians 5:21), die, and be resurrected, proving His victory over sin and death.
Is Jesus God? Yes. Jesus declared Himself to be God. His followers believed Him to be God. The provision of salvation only works if Jesus is God. Jesus is God incarnate, the eternal Alpha and Omega (Revelation 1:8; 22:13), and God our Saviour (2 Peter 1:1).
What are the four spiritual laws?
The Four Spiritual Laws are a way of sharing the good news of the salvation that is available through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a simple way of organizing the important information in the Gospel into four points.
The first of the Four Spiritual Laws is, "God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life." John 3:16 tells us, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 10:10 gives us the reason that Jesus came, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." What is blocking us from God’s love? What is preventing us from having an abundant life?
The second of the Four Spiritual Laws is, "Humanity is tainted by sin and is therefore separated from God. As a result, we cannot know God’s wonderful plan for our lives." Romans 3:23 affirms this information, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Romans 6:23 gives us the consequences of sin, "the wages of sin is death." God created us to have fellowship with Him. However, humanity brought sin into the world, and is therefore separated from God. We have ruined the relationship with Him that God intended us to have. What is the solution?
The third of the Four Spiritual Laws is, "Jesus Christ is God’s only provision for our sin. Through Jesus Christ, we can have our sins forgiven and restore a right relationship with God." Romans 5:8 tells us, "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 informs us of what we need to know and believe in order to be saved, "...that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures..." Jesus Himself declares that He is the only way of salvation in John 14:6, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." How can I receive this wonderful gift of salvation?
The fourth of the Four Spiritual Laws is, "We must place our faith in Jesus Christ as Saviour in order to receive the gift of salvation and know God’s wonderful plan for our lives." John 1:12 describes this for us, "Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God." Acts 16:31 says it very clearly, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved!" We can be saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Jesus Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9).
If you want to trust in Jesus Christ as your Saviour, say the following words to God. Saying these words will not save you, but trusting in Christ will! This prayer is simply a way to express to God your faith in Him and thank Him for providing for your salvation. "God, I know that I have sinned against you and deserve punishment. But Jesus Christ took the punishment that I deserve so that through faith in Him I could be forgiven. I place my trust in You for salvation. Thank You for Your wonderful grace and forgiveness - the gift of eternal life! Amen!"
What does it mean to be a born again Christian?
The classic passage from the Bible that answers this question is John 3:1-21. The Lord Jesus Christ is talking to Nicodemus, a prominent Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin (the ruling body of the Jews). Nicodemus had come to Jesus at night with some questions.
As Jesus talked with Nicodemus, He said, “‘I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.’ ‘How can a man be born when he is old?’ Nicodemus asked. ‘Surely he cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb to be born!’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. You should not be surprised at my saying, “You must be born again”’” (John 3:3-7).
The phrase "born again" literally means "born from above." Nicodemus had a real need. He needed a change of his heart—a spiritual transformation. New birth, being born again, is an act of God whereby eternal life is imparted to the person who believes (2 Corinthians 5:17; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:3; 1 John 2:29; 3:9; 4:7; 5:1-4, 18). John 1:12, 13 indicates that being "born again" also carries the idea of "becoming children of God" through trust in the name of Jesus Christ.
The question logically comes, "Why does a person need to be born again?" The apostle Paul in Ephesians 2:1 says, "And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins" (NKJV). To the Romans he wrote, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). Sinners are spiritually “dead”; when they receive spiritual life through faith in Christ, the Bible likens it to a rebirth. Only those who are born again have their sins forgiven and have a relationship with God.
How does that come to be? Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." When one is saved, he/she has been born again, spiritually renewed, and is now a child of God by right of new birth. Trusting in Jesus Christ, the One who paid the penalty of sin when He died on the cross, is the means to be "born again." "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation: the old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17).
If you have never trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour, will you consider the prompting of the Holy Spirit as He speaks to your heart? You need to be born again. Will you pray the prayer of repentance and become a new creation in Christ today? "Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God" (John 1:12-13).
If you want to accept Jesus Christ as your Saviour and be born again, here is a sample prayer. Remember, saying this prayer or any other prayer will not save you. It is only trusting in Christ that can save you from sin. This prayer is simply a way to express to God your faith in Him and thank Him for providing for your salvation. "God, I know that I have sinned against you and am deserving of punishment. But Jesus Christ took the punishment that I deserve so that through faith in Him I could be forgiven. I place my trust in You for salvation. Thank You for Your wonderful grace and forgiveness—the gift of eternal life! Amen!"
What does the Bible teach about the Trinity?
The most difficult thing about the Christian concept of the Trinity is that there is no way to perfectly and completely understand it. The Trinity is a concept that is impossible for any human being to fully understand, let alone explain. God is infinitely greater than we are; therefore, we should not expect to be able to fully understand Him. The Bible teaches that the Father is God, that Jesus is God, and that the Holy Spirit is God. The Bible also teaches that there is only one God. Though we can understand some facts about the relationship of the different Persons of the Trinity to one another, ultimately, it is incomprehensible to the human mind. However, this does not mean the Trinity is not true or that it is not based on the teachings of the Bible.
The Trinity is one God existing in three Persons. Understand that this is not in any way suggesting three Gods. Keep in mind when studying this subject that the word “Trinity” is not found in Scripture. This is a term that is used to attempt to describe the triune God—three coexistent, co-eternal Persons who are God. Of real importance is that the concept represented by the word “Trinity” does exist in Scripture. The following is what God’s Word says about the Trinity:
1) There is one God (Deuteronomy 6:4; 1 Corinthians 8:4; Galatians 3:20; 1 Timothy 2:5).
2) The Trinity consists of three Persons (Genesis 1:1, 26; 3:22; 11:7; Isaiah 6:8, 48:16, 61:1; Matthew 3:16-17, 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14). In Genesis 1:1, the Hebrew plural noun "Elohim" is used. In Genesis 1:26, 3:22, 11:7 and Isaiah 6:8, the plural pronoun for “us” is used. The word "Elohim" and the pronoun “us” are plural forms, definitely referring in the Hebrew language to more than two. While this is not an explicit argument for the Trinity, it does denote the aspect of plurality in God. The Hebrew word for "God," "Elohim," definitely allows for the Trinity.
In Isaiah 48:16 and 61:1, the Son is speaking while making reference to the Father and the Holy Spirit. Compare Isaiah 61:1 to Luke 4:14-19 to see that it is the Son speaking. Matthew 3:16-17 describes the event of Jesus’ baptism. Seen in this passage is God the Holy Spirit descending on God the Son while God the Father proclaims His pleasure in the Son. Matthew 28:19 and 2 Corinthians 13:14 are examples of three distinct Persons in the Trinity.
3) The members of the Trinity are distinguished one from another in various passages. In the Old Testament, “LORD” is distinguished from “Lord” (Genesis 19:24; Hosea 1:4). The LORD has a Son (Psalm 2:7, 12; Proverbs 30:2-4). The Spirit is distinguished from the “LORD” (Numbers 27:18) and from “God” (Psalm 51:10-12). God the Son is distinguished from God the Father (Psalm 45:6-7; Hebrews 1:8-9). In the New Testament, Jesus speaks to the Father about sending a Helper, the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17). This shows that Jesus did not consider Himself to be the Father or the Holy Spirit. Consider also all the other times in the Gospels where Jesus speaks to the Father. Was He speaking to Himself? No. He spoke to another Person in the Trinity—the Father.
4) Each member of the Trinity is God. The Father is God (John 6:27; Romans 1:7; 1 Peter 1:2). The Son is God (John 1:1, 14; Romans 9:5; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 1:8; 1 John 5:20). The Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4; 1 Corinthians 3:16).
5) There is subordination within the Trinity. Scripture shows that the Holy Spirit is subordinate to the Father and the Son, and the Son is subordinate to the Father. This is an internal relationship and does not deny the deity of any Person of the Trinity. This is simply an area which our finite minds cannot understand concerning the infinite God. Concerning the Son see Luke 22:42, John 5:36, John 20:21, and 1 John 4:14. Concerning the Holy Spirit see John 14:16, 14:26, 15:26, 16:7, and especially John 16:13-14.
6) The individual members of the Trinity have different tasks. The Father is the ultimate source or cause of the universe (1 Corinthians 8:6; Revelation 4:11); divine revelation (Revelation 1:1); salvation (John 3:16-17); and Jesus’ human works (John 5:17; 14:10). The Father initiates all of these things.
The Son is the agent through whom the Father does the following works: the creation and maintenance of the universe (1 Corinthians 8:6; John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17); divine revelation (John 1:1, 16:12-15; Matthew 11:27; Revelation 1:1); and salvation (2 Corinthians 5:19; Matthew 1:21; John 4:42). The Father does all these things through the Son, who functions as His agent.
The Holy Spirit is the means by whom the Father does the following works: creation and maintenance of the universe (Genesis 1:2; Job 26:13; Psalm 104:30); divine revelation (John 16:12-15; Ephesians 3:5; 2 Peter 1:21); salvation (John 3:6; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:2); and Jesus’ works (Isaiah 61:1; Acts 10:38). Thus, the Father does all these things by the power of the Holy Spirit.
There have been many attempts to develop illustrations of the Trinity. However, none of the popular illustrations are completely accurate. The egg (or apple) fails in that the shell, white, and yolk are parts of the egg, not the egg in themselves, just as the skin, flesh, and seeds of the apple are parts of it, not the apple itself. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are not parts of God; each of them is God. The water illustration is somewhat better, but it still fails to adequately describe the Trinity. Liquid, vapour, and ice are forms of water. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are not forms of God, each of them is God. So, while these illustrations may give us a picture of the Trinity, the picture is not entirely accurate. An infinite God cannot be fully described by a finite illustration.
The doctrine of the Trinity has been a divisive issue throughout the entire history of the Christian church. While the core aspects of the Trinity are clearly presented in God’s Word, some of the side issues are not as explicitly clear. The Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God—but there is only one God. That is the biblical doctrine of the Trinity. Beyond that, the issues are, to a certain extent, debatable and non-essential. Rather than attempting to fully define the Trinity with our finite human minds, we would be better served by focusing on the fact of God’s greatness and His infinitely higher nature. “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his councillor?” (Romans 11:33-34).
What is the bad news / good news approach to sharing the gospel?
Many things in life have good news and bad news associated with them. The entire truth is generally found in a combination of both. Emphasizing one side to the exclusion of the other is not the whole truth. The same is true of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The bad news, spiritually speaking, is that we are all sinners deserving of hell for our sin against a holy God (Romans 3:23; 6:23). Our sin has kept us from His presence and eternal life (John 3:15–20). No one can earn his or her way into the presence of God because there is “no one righteous” (Romans 3:10). Our best human efforts to please God are “as filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6). Some evangelists and street preachers focus exclusively on this aspect of God’s truth, which could be considered the “bad news approach.”
The good news is that God loves us (John 3:15–18). He wants a relationship with His human creation and has communicated with us in a variety of ways such as nature (Romans 1:20), the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16), and Jesus coming in human form to live among us (John 1:14). God does love us. He does want to bless us. He wants a relationship with us and desires to teach us His ways so that we can become all He created us to be (Romans 8:29). Teachers who focus only on the good news are leaving out a vital part of God’s plan of salvation, which includes repentance (Matthew 3:2; Mark 6:12) and taking up our cross to follow Jesus (Luke 9:23).
Until we know the bad news, we can’t truly appreciate the good news. You would not appreciate a stranger bursting into your home and dragging you outside, unless you first understood that your house was on fire. Until we understand that we are destined for hell because of our sin, we cannot appreciate all that Jesus did for us on the cross (2 Corinthians 5:21). If we don’t realize how hopeless we are, we won’t recognize the great hope Jesus offers (Hebrews 6:19). Unless we recognize that we are sinners, we can’t appreciate a Saviour.
The best approach is to present what the apostle Paul called the “whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). God’s whole counsel includes both the bad news about our natural state and the good news about God’s plan to redeem us. Jesus never eliminated either of these when He brought “peace on earth, goodwill toward men” (Luke 2:14). His peace is available to everyone who is brought to repentance by the “bad news” and joyfully accepts the “good news” that He is Lord of all (Romans 10:8–9).
What is Good Friday / Holy Friday?
Good Friday, also known as "Holy Friday," is the Friday immediately preceding Easter Sunday. It is celebrated traditionally as the day on which Jesus was crucified. If you are interested in a study of the issue, please see our article that discusses the various views on which day Jesus was crucified. Assuming that Jesus was crucified and died on a Friday, should Christians remember Jesus’ death by celebrating Good Friday?
The Bible does not instruct Christians to remember Christ’s death by honouring a certain day. The Bible does give us freedom in these matters, however. Romans 14:5 tells us, “One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.” Rather than remembering Christ’s death on a certain day, once a year, the Bible instructs us to remember Christ’s death by observing the Lord’s Supper. First Corinthians 11:24-26 declares, “...do this in remembrance of me...for whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”
Why is Good Friday referred to as “good”? What the Jewish authorities and Romans did to Jesus was definitely not good (see Matthew chapters 26-27). However, the results of Christ’s death are very good! Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” First Peter 3:18 tells us, “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit.”
Many Christian churches celebrate Good Friday with a subdued service, usually in the evening, in which Christ’s death is remembered with solemn hymns, prayers of thanksgiving, a message centred on Christ’s suffering for our sakes, and observance of the Lord’s Supper. Whether or not Christians choose to “celebrate” Good Friday, the events of that day should be ever on our minds because the death of Christ on the cross—along with His bodily resurrection—is the paramount event of the Christian faith.
Where Will You Spend Eternity?
IS THERE SOMETHING MISSING?
Have you ever wondered why the things of this life never satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts? No matter what we do to find lasting satisfaction and true happiness, we inevitably find that something is missing.
Why is this? Many people unwisely believe that they are the only ones who experience this restlessness and hopelessness. They don’t mention this disappointment to others for fear of being considered negative, or even depressed. Is this emptiness and meaninglessness indicative of an emotional issue, or is it something even deeper? Could it be a God given warning that we have a serious spiritual problem? Is it possible that we feel this way, (as if something vital is missing from our lives) because something vital and eternal is actually missing?
‘Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.’ (John 6:27)
WE ARE CREATED WITH ETERNITY IN OUR HEARTS.
God said in Genesis 1:26-27 ‘... Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.’ That, my friend, is the simple, yet profound explanation for the abiding emptiness in the hearts of men and women without Christ. God created us as eternal beings with the capacity to enjoy temporal pleasures, but not to be satisfied with them apart from Him.
The Bible puts it like this: ‘Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.’ (Proverbs 27:20). King Solomon, the wealthiest and wisest man that ever lived, said, ‘All things are full of labour; man cannot utter it: the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.’ (Ecclesiastes 1:8)
Though many people reject the Bible today, and dismiss its message and eternal wisdom as irrelevant, their very own experience bears witness and testimony to its truth. Man without God cannot, and will not, ever be satisfied.
WHAT WENT WRONG?
You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to work out that there is something seriously wrong with life as we know it and experience it today. The emptiness and frustration that everyone experiences (but few talk about) is a direct result of SIN - yes, SIN! Sin is many things; but fundamentally, sin is man choosing to live without God, or in disobedience to God.
Attitudes like “I don’t know God” or “I don’t need God” and especially “I don’t want God” or “I don’t love God” - these lie at the root of our feelings of alienation and emptiness. Deciding to not know, need, want, or love God explains why our lives are without meaning. Add to this emptiness our willful disobedience and our disregard of God’s Holy Law, and - there you have it - no wonder our lives are seriously chaotic and out of order! This is why the Bible calls us sinners; and it is also the Biblical explanation for why we all die. ‘F or the wages of sin is death’ (Romans 6:23).
The famous philosopher, scientist, physicist & theologian, Blaise Pascal, stated it like this: ‘There is a God-shaped vacuum in the heart of every man that can only be filled with God's own Son, Jesus Christ.‘
ETERNITY IS FOREVER AND EVER AND EVER and .... ..
As we have already mentioned, this emptiness and dissatisfaction with life we all experience is actually a God-Given motivation to seek out the truth concerning our eternal destiny. Regardless of our thoughts concerning this subject, the truth of God’s Word is eternal and unchangeable. We will live on forever in one of two places, Heaven or Hell. The Bible states it like this: ‘For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.’ (Romans 6:23). We are eternal creatures, but we don’t have eternal life abiding in us until we are born again of the Spirit of God. Jesus said in John 3:3, ‘Except a man be born again, He cannot see the Kingdom of God.’ It was for this very purpose that God sent His Son Jesus Christ into the world. ‘For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’ (John 3:16).
There it is again, my friend - Everlasting Life! This is why you were born and why you were brought by God’s goodness into this world, that you might BELIEVE this message ' and be saved. However, to be personally experienced, this gift must be received by repentance and faith. ‘Repent ye, and believe the gospel’ (Mark 1:15). Why not pray to God right now and ask Him to save you from your sin and Hell. ‘For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’ (Romans 10:13).
Is God an Impersonal Force?
The Bible’s answer
God exercises unsurpassed force throughout the universe. Regarding the way he created the countless billions of stars, the Bible says: “Raise your eyes high up and see. Who has created these things? It is the One who is bringing forth the army of them even by number, all of whom he [God] calls even by name. Due to the abundance of dynamic energy, he also being vigorous in power, not one of them is missing.”—Isaiah 40:25, 26.
But God is much more than a powerful force. The Bible says that he has feelings, such as love and hate. (Psalm 11:5; John 3:16)
It also reveals that the way humans act can affect God’s emotions.—Psalm 78:40, 41.
Does God Change His Mind?
The Bible’s answer
Yes, he does, in the sense that he changes his attitude when people change their behaviour. For example, when God sent a judgment message to the people of ancient Israel, he said: “Perhaps they will listen and each one will turn back from his evil way, and I will change my mind concerning the calamity that I intend to bring on them because of their evil deeds.”—Jeremiah 26:3.
Many Bible translations render this verse as saying that God would “repent” over the intended calamity, which could be understood to mean that he had made a mistake. However, the original Hebrew word can mean “change of mind or intention.” One scholar wrote: “A change in man’s conduct brings about a change in God’s judgment.”
Of course, just because God can change his mind does not mean that he must change it. Consider some situations where the Bible says that God has not changed his mind:
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God did not allow Balak to make Him change His mind and curse the nation of Israel.—Numbers 23:18-20.
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Once King Saul of Israel became firmly set in badness, God did not change his mind about rejecting him as king.—1 Samuel 15:28, 29.
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God will fulfill his promise to make his Son a priest forever. God will not change His mind.—Psalm 110:4.
Doesn’t the Bible say that God never changes?
Yes, the Bible records God as saying: “I am Jehovah; I do not change.” (Malachi 3:6) Similarly, the Bible says that God “does not vary or change like the shifting shadows.” (James 1:17) This, however, does not contradict what the Bible says about God changing his mind. God is unchangeable in that his personality and standards of love and justice never alter. (Deuteronomy 32:4; 1 John 4:8) Still, he can give different instructions to people at different times. For instance, God gave opposite instructions to King David for fighting two consecutive battles, yet both methods succeeded.—2 Samuel 5:18-25.
Is God sorry that he created humans?
No, although he does regret that most people ignore or reject him. Describing conditions before the global Flood of Noah’s day, the Bible says: “Jehovah regretted that he had made men on the earth, and his heart was saddened.” (Genesis 6:6) In this verse, the word “regretted” comes from the Hebrew word that can mean “change of mind.” God changed his mind about most of the people who lived before the Flood because they had become wicked. (Genesis 6:5, 11) Even though he was saddened that they chose to follow a bad course, he did not change his attitude toward the entire human race. In fact, he preserved mankind through the Flood by means of Noah and his family.—Genesis 8:21; 2 Peter 2:5, 9.
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Has Anyone Ever Seen God?
The Bible’s answer
No human has literally seen God. (Exodus 33:20; John 1:18; 1 John 4:12) The Bible says that “God is a Spirit,” a form of life that is invisible to the human eye.—John 4:24; 1 Timothy 1:17.
God can be seen directly by angels, though, because they are spirit creatures. (Matthew 18:10) Moreover, some humans who die will be raised to life in heaven with a spirit body and will then be able to see God.—Philippians 3:20, 21; 1 John 3:2.
How to “see” God now
The Bible often uses the idea of seeing figuratively, to represent enlightenment. (Isaiah 6:10; Jeremiah 5:21; John 9:39-41) In this sense, a person can see God now with “the eyes of [his] heart” by having faith so as to know Him and appreciate His qualities. (Ephesians 1:18) The Bible describes steps to build this kind of faith.
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Learn about God’s qualities, such as his love and generosity as well as his wisdom and power, through his creation. (Romans 1:20) After being reminded of God’s creative works, the faithful man Job felt as though God were right before his eyes.—Job 42:5.
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Get to know God by studying the Bible. “If you search for [God], he will let himself be found by you,” the Bible assures us.—1 Chronicles 28:9; Psalm 119:2; John 17:3.
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Learn about God through the life of Jesus. Since Jesus perfectly reflected the personality of his Father, Jehovah God, he could rightly say: “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father also.”—John 14:9.
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Live in a way that pleases God, and see how he acts in your behalf. Jesus said: “Happy are the pure in heart, since they will see God.” As noted earlier, some who please God will be resurrected to heaven and will thus “see God” there.—Matthew 5:8; Psalm 11:7.
Did not Moses, Abraham, and others actually see God?
In accounts where it might seem that the Bible says that humans literally saw God, the context shows that God was represented by an angel or appeared by means of a vision.
Angels.
In ancient times, God sent angels as his representatives to appear to humans and to speak in his name. (Psalm 103:20) For example, God once spoke to Moses from a burning bush, and the Bible says that “Moses hid his face, because he was afraid to look at the true God.” (Exodus 3:4, 6) Moses did not literally see God, though, for the context shows that he actually saw “Jehovah’s angel.”—Exodus 3:2.
Similarly, when the Bible says that God “spoke to Moses face-to-face,” it means that God conversed with Moses intimately. (Exodus 4:10, 11; 33:11) Moses did not actually see God’s face, for the information he received from God “was transmitted through angels.” (Galatians 3:19; Acts 7:53) Still, Moses’ faith in God was so strong that the Bible described him as “seeing the One who is invisible.”—Hebrews 11:27.
In the same way that he spoke to Moses, God communicated with Abraham through angels. Granted, a casual reading of the Bible might give the impression that Abraham literally saw God. (Genesis 18:1, 33) However, the context shows that the “three men” who came to Abraham were actually angels sent by God. Abraham recognized them as God’s representatives and addressed them as if he were speaking directly to Jehovah.—Genesis 18:2, 3, 22, 32; 19:1.
Visions.
God has also appeared to humans through visions, or scenes presented to a person’s mind. For instance, when the Bible says that Moses and other Israelites “saw the God of Israel,” they really “saw a vision of the true God.” (Exodus 24:9-11) Likewise, the Bible sometimes says that prophets “saw Jehovah.” (Isaiah 6:1; Daniel 7:9; Amos 9:1) In each case, the context shows that they were given a vision of God rather than a direct view of him.—Isaiah 1:1; Daniel 7:2; Amos 1:1.
What Does the Bible Say About Free Will? Is God in Control?
The Bible’s answer
God dignifies us with free will, the power to make decisions of our own rather than having God or fate predetermine what we do. Consider what the Bible teaches.
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God created humans in his image. (Genesis 1:26) Unlike animals, which act mainly on instinct, we resemble our Creator in our capacity to display such qualities as love and justice. And like our Creator, we have free will.
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To a great extent, we can determine our future. The Bible encourages us to “choose life . . . by listening to [God’s] voice,” that is, by choosing to obey his commands. (Deuteronomy 30:19, 20) This offer would be meaningless, even cruel, if we lacked free will. Instead of forcing us to do what he says, God warmly appeals to us: “O if only you would actually pay attention to my commandments! Then your peace would become just like a river.”—Isaiah 48:18.
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Our success or failure is not determined by fate. If we want to succeed at an endeavour, we must work hard. “All that your hand finds to do,” says the Bible, “do with your very power.”(Ecclesiastes 9:10) It also says: “The plans of the diligent one surely make for advantage.”—Proverbs 21:5.
Free will is a precious gift from God, for it lets us love him with our “whole heart”—because we want to.—Matthew 22:37.
Doesn’t God control all things?
The Bible does teach that God is Almighty, that his power is not limited by anyone other than himself. (Job 37:23; Isaiah 40:26) However, he does not use his power to control everything. For example, the Bible says that God was “exercising self-control” toward ancient Babylon, an enemy of his people. (Isaiah 42:14) Similarly, for now, he chooses to tolerate those who misuse their free will to harm others. But God will not do so indefinitely.—Psalm 37:10, 11.
How Can You Know God Personally?
The Bible’s answer
You can get to know God personally by learning about him and taking steps to please him. God will then “draw close to you.” (James 4:8) The Bible assures us that “he is not far off from each one of us.”—Acts 17:27.
Steps to knowing God
Read the Bible
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What the Bible says: “All Scripture is inspired of God.”—2 Timothy 3:16.
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Meaning: God is the Author of the Bible. He put his thoughts into the minds of the Bible writers. By means of this unique book, God has revealed his will for us. He has also revealed facets of his personality, including his love, justice, and mercy.—Exodus 34:6; Deuteronomy 32:4.
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What you can do: Read the Bible daily. (Joshua 1:8) Reflect on what you read, asking yourself: ‘What does this teach me about God as a Person?’—Psalm 77:12.
As an example, read Jeremiah 29:11, and then ask yourself: ‘What does God want for me—peace or calamity? Is he a vengeful God, or does he want me to have a good future?’
Observe creation
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What the Bible says: “[God’s] invisible qualities are clearly seen from the world’s creation onward, because they are perceived by the things made.”—Romans 1:20.
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Meaning: God’s physical creations reveal aspects of his personality, just as a work of art can reveal much about the artist or a complex machine can say much about the inventor. To illustrate, the capacity and complexity of the human brain reveal God’s wisdom, and the controlled energy in the sun and other stars demonstrates his power.—Psalm 104:24; Isaiah 40:26.
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What you can do: Take time to observe and learn about our natural world. As you do, ask yourself, ‘What do the amazing designs manifest in nature reveal about God?’ Of course, there are many things that nature cannot tell us about our Creator. That is why he gave us the Bible.
Use God’s name
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What the Bible says: “I will protect him because he knows my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him.”—Psalm 91:14, 15.
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Meaning: God, whose name is Jehovah, gives special attention to those who know his name and use it respectfully. * (Psalm 83:18; Malachi 3:16) By telling us his personal name, God has introduced himself to us. “I am Jehovah. That is my name,” he says.—Isaiah 42:8.
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What you can do: Use Jehovah’s name when referring to him.
Talk to Jehovah in prayer
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What the Bible says: “Jehovah is near to all those calling on him.”—Psalm 145:18.
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Meaning: Jehovah draws close to those who pray to him in faith. Prayer is an aspect of worship that shows our deep respect for God.
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What you can do: Pray to God often. (1 Thessalonians 5:17) Tell him your concerns and how you feel.—Psalm 62:8. *
Build faith in God
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What the Bible says: “Without faith it is impossible to please God well.”—Hebrews 11:6.
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Meaning: To draw close to God, we must have faith in him. In the Bible, having faith means more than simply believing that God exists. It also means having complete trust in him, including his promises and standards. Trust is crucial to a good relationship.
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What you can do: Genuine faith is based on knowledge. (Romans 10:17) So study the Bible and prove to yourself that you can trust God and his advice. Jehovah’s Witnesses would be happy to study the Bible with you. *
Do what pleases God
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What the Bible says: “This is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments.”—1 John 5:3.
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Meaning: Jehovah is close to those who show their love for him by doing their best to obey his commandments.
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What you can do: As you study the Bible, note what God likes and dislikes. Ask yourself, ‘What adjustments can I make in order to please my Creator?’—1 Thessalonians 4:1.
Is God to Blame for Our Suffering?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible emphatically answers no! Suffering was not part of Jehovah God’s purpose for mankind. However, the first human couple rebelled against God’s rulership, choosing to set their own standards of good and bad. They turned away from God and suffered the consequences.
Today we are experiencing the effects of their bad choice. But in no way did God originate human suffering.
The Bible says: “When under trial, let no one say: ‘I am being tried by God.’ For with evil things God cannot be tried nor does he himself try anyone.” (James 1:13) Suffering can afflict anyone—even those who are favoured by God.
Is the Bible a Book of Human Wisdom?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible, also known as the Holy Scriptures, does contain many wise sayings. However, note the claim that the Bible makes for itself: “All Scripture is inspired of God.” (2 Timothy 3:16) There is much evidence to back up that claim. Consider the following:
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No one has ever successfully challenged the historical accuracy of the Bible.
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The Bible writers were honest men who wrote with openness of heart. Their candour gives their writing the clear ring of truth.
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The Bible has one central theme: the vindication of God’s right to rule mankind and the fulfilment of his purpose by means of his heavenly Kingdom.
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Although written thousands of years ago, the Bible is free of mistaken scientific ideas that had gained wide acceptance in ancient times.
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Documented historical evidence proves that Bible prophecies, or predictions, have come true.
Can Anyone Know Who Really Wrote the Bible?
The Bible’s answer
Many people are told that we can’t be sure who wrote the Bible. But the Bible is often clear about who penned its contents. Some parts begin with such phrases as “the words of Nehemiah,” “the vision of Isaiah,” and “the word of Jehovah that occurred to Joel.”—Nehemiah 1:1; Isaiah 1:1; Joel 1:1.
Most Bible writers acknowledged that they wrote in the name of Jehovah, the one true God, and that they were guided by him. Prophets who wrote the Hebrew Scriptures proclaimed more than 300 times: “This is what Jehovah has said.” (Amos 1:3; Micah 2:3; Nahum 1:12) Other writers received God’s message through angels.—Zechariah 1:7, 9.
The Bible was written by some 40 men over the course of 1,600 years. Some men were used to write more than one book of the Bible. In fact, the Bible is a miniature library of 66 books. It consists of the 39 books of the Hebrew Scriptures, called by many the Old Testament, and the 27 books of the Christian Greek Scriptures, often called the New Testament.
Is the Bible a White Man’s Book?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible wasn’t written by Europeans. All of the men that God used to write the Bible were from Asia. The Bible doesn’t promote one race as being superior to another. In fact, it states: “God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.”—Acts 10:34, 35.
Understanding the Bible—What Are the Keys?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible itself provides many of the keys to understanding it. Regardless of your background, God’s message in the Bible “is not too difficult for you, nor is it far away.”—Deuteronomy 30:11.
Keys to understanding the Bible
1. Have the right attitude. Accept the Bible as God’s Word. Be humble, since God opposes the proud. (1 Thessalonians 2:13; James 4:6) However, avoid blind faith—God wants you to use your “power of reason.”—Romans 12:1, 2.
2. Pray for wisdom. “Do not lean upon your own understanding,” the Bible says at Proverbs 3:5. Instead, “keep on asking God” for wisdom in understanding the Bible.—James 1:5.
3. Be consistent. You will benefit much more from Bible study if you do it regularly rather than sporadically.—Joshua 1:8.
4. Study by topic. A topical study, in which you analyse what the Bible says about a particular topic or subject, is an effective way to learn what the Scriptures teach. Start with “the beginning lessons,” as it were, and then “go forward to more mature (advanced) teaching.” (Hebrews 6:1, 2, Easy-to-Read Version) You’ll find that you can compare scripture with scripture and learn that various parts of the Bible explain each other, even the parts that are “hard to understand.”—2 Peter 3:16.
5. Get help from others. The Bible encourages us to accept help from others who understand the Bible. (Acts 8:30, 31) Jehovah’s Witnesses offer a free Bible study program. Like the early Christians, they use Scriptural references to help others discern what the Bible really teaches.—Acts 17:2, 3.
Things you don’t need
1. High intellect or education. Jesus’ 12 apostles understood the Scriptures and taught them to others, even though the apostles were considered by some to be “unlettered and ordinary.”—Acts 4:13.
2. Money. You can learn what the Bible teaches without cost. Jesus told his disciples: “You received free, give free.”—Matthew 10:8.
Transformed into His Nature
Once, I found myself alone in a dark, quiet neighbourhood—standing next to a car that refused to run. I had been driving home after our weekly prayer meeting when the engine in my 1962 VW Bug simply stopped. I felt helpless, frustrated and sorry for myself. I called some of our GFA co-workers to come help me. As I waited for them to arrive, I began thinking about how Jesus would respond to a situation like mine. As I reflected on His attitude toward inconvenience and suffering, the Lord met me there on that dark street corner. He reminded me once again of the importance of Jesus' example—and of His life, not my own, lived through me.
Beyond Obedience
Many Christians make the mistake of thinking that obeying the Bible makes them spiritual. Mahatma Gandhi obeyed the Sermon on the Mount quite literally—yet he never became a follower of Christ. The Pharisees knew their Bible well, yet Jesus told them, "You search and investigate and pore over the Scriptures diligently, because you suppose and trust that you have eternal life through them. And these [very Scriptures] testify about Me!" (John 5:39, Amplified, emphasis added).
Under the Old Covenant, the people of Israel gave themselves to obey the letter of the Law. There were plenty of do's and don'ts to follow. But now, under the New Covenant, we are called to be partakers of His nature (2 Peter 1:4).
Do you see the difference?
If the Bible is for us only a book to obey, we go back to living under the Old Covenant. We become legalistic like the Pharisees as we seek our own righteousness. But God intends for His Word to touch and transform our lives as it reveals Jesus to us.
The Word of God tells us that Jesus' life was "the light of men" (John 1:4). A set of instructions or doctrines will never show us the way or give us power to live. Only Jesus can do that. His very life, His example, is what gives us understanding, discernment and clarity for living in the perfect will of God at all times and in all situations. He is not only our Saviour, but also the One who goes before us—our forerunner (Hebrews 6:20).
God Gave Us Jesus
The Apostle John reminds us that "anyone who says he is a Christian should live as Christ did" (1 John 2:6, Living Bible). When we search for true humility, where can we find it? It is incarnated and embodied in Christ. If we talk about passion for others to know God, even to the extent of losing one's appetite, we witness it absolutely in Jesus. When we try to understand love, we see it personified in the Son of God.
From whom can we learn how to pray in faith or agonize and weep in prayer all night long? The answer is Jesus. What about obedience to the Word of God? We find it demonstrated in Christ. If we look for someone who lived His life as a model for a different world, we encounter it in Jesus, who said, "My kingdom is not of this world" (John 18:36).
God in His mercy didn't leave us to figure out how to live by a book full of instructions. No, He gave us Jesus and asked us to follow in His footsteps.
Each time we read through the Gospels we see Jesus—who He is and what He does. We find no inconsistency in Him, no double standards and no difference between His public and private life. The words He speaks, the ministry He does, the prayers He prays, the decisions He makes and the lifestyle He lives are all a true reflection of who He is in His heart.
Becoming What We See
2 Corinthians 3:18 tells us that as we look into the Word of God, we see the very nature of Jesus—and the Holy Spirit changes us into His likeness day by day, transforming us on the inside to become just like what we are seeing.
Practically, what does this mean? We must seek Jesus daily by reading God's Word and comparing our hearts with His. We must measure our humility, obedience, love and passion for others' redemption by what we see in Him.
True godliness is not just following some rules and regulations; rather, it is allowing the Lord Jesus to live through our earthen vessels (2 Corinthians 4:7). It becomes "no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20). And as we long to live as Jesus lived and learn to die daily to ourselves, we will watch in wonder as He makes us more and more like Him!
Dr. K.P. Yohannan
Founder & Director of GFA World
Are There Contradictions in the Bible?
The Bible’s answer
No, the entire Bible is harmonious. While some passages might seem to show the Bible contradicting itself, they can usually be understood correctly by applying one or more of the following principles:
1. Consider the context. Any author can appear to contradict himself if his words are taken out of context.
2. Consider the writer’s viewpoint. Eyewitnesses might describe an event accurately but not use the exact same wording or include the same details.
3. Take into account historical facts and customs.
4. Distinguish between the figurative and the literal uses of a word.
5. Recognize that an action may be attributed to someone—even if he did not personally carry it out.
6. Use an accurate Bible translation.
7. Avoid trying to reconcile what the Bible says with mistaken religious ideas or dogma.
The following examples show how these principles can explain some seeming inconsistencies in the Bible.
Principle 1: Context
If God rested on the seventh day, how has he continued working? The context of the Genesis creation account shows that the statement that God “began to rest on the seventh day from all his work that he had been doing” refers specifically to his work of physical creation respecting the earth. (Genesis 2:2-4) Jesus did not contradict this, however, when he said that God “has kept working until now,” because he was talking about other works of God. (John 5:17) God’s works include the inspiration of the Bible and his guidance and care of mankind.—Psalm 20:6; 105:5; 2 Peter 1:21.
Principles 2 and 3: Viewpoint and history
Where did Jesus heal the blind man? The book of Luke says that Jesus healed a blind man as Jesus “was getting near to Jericho,” while the parallel account in Matthew mentions two blind men and says that the incident occurred when Jesus was “going out of Jericho.” (Luke 18:35-43; Matthew 20:29-34) These two accounts, written from different viewpoints, actually complement each other. Regarding the number of men, Matthew is more specific as to there being two, while Luke focuses on the one man to whom Jesus directed his remarks. As for the location, archaeologists have found that in Jesus’ time Jericho was a double city, with the old Jewish city situated about one and a half kilometres (1 mi) away from the newer Roman city. Jesus may have been between the two cities when he performed this miracle.
Principle 4: Figurative and literal terms
Will the earth be destroyed? At Ecclesiastes 1:4, the Bible says that “the earth remains forever,” which to some apparently conflicts with its statement that “the elements will be destroyed by heat—with the earth.” (2 Peter 3:10, Beck) In the Bible, however, the word “earth” is used both literally, referring to our planet, and figuratively, referring to the people who live on it. (Genesis 1:1; 11:1) The destruction of the “earth” described at 2 Peter 3:10 refers, not to the burning up of our planet, but to the “destruction of the ungodly people.”—2 Peter 3:7.
Principle 5: Attribution
In Capernaum, who brought the centurion’s request to Jesus? Matthew 8:5, 6 says that the centurion (army officer) himself came to Jesus, while Luke 7:3 says that the centurion sent older men of the Jews to make his request. This apparent Bible contradiction can be understood in that the army officer initiated the request, but he sent the older men as his representatives.
Principle 6: Accurate translation
Do we all sin? The Bible teaches that we all inherit sin from the first man, Adam. (Romans 5:12) Some translations seem to contradict this by saying that a good person “does no sin” or “sinneth not.” (1 John 3:6, The Bible in Basic English; King James Version) In the original language, though, the Greek verb for “sin” at 1 John 3:6 is in the present tense, which in that language normally indicates a continuous action. There is a difference between inherited sin, which we cannot avoid, and the deliberate, continuous practice of disobeying God’s laws. Thus, some translations clear up this seeming contradiction by accurately using phrases such as “does not practice sin” or “does not habitually sin.”—New World Translation; Phillips.
Principle 7: The Bible, not dogma
Is Jesus equal to God or lesser than God? Jesus once said: “I and the Father are one,” which seems to contradict his statement that “the Father is greater than I am.” (John 10:30; 14:28) To understand those verses correctly, we must examine what the Bible really says about Jehovah and Jesus rather than try to harmonize the verses with the Trinity dogma, which is not based on the Bible. The Bible shows that Jehovah is not only Jesus’ Father but also Jesus’ God, the One whom even Jesus worships. (Matthew 4:10; Mark 15:34; John 17:3; 20:17; 2 Corinthians 1:3) Jesus is not equal to God.
The context of Jesus’ statement “I and the Father are one” shows that he was talking about the oneness of purpose that he shared with his Father, Jehovah God. Jesus later said: “The Father is in union with me and I am in union with the Father.” (John 10:38) Jesus shared this unity of purpose with his followers as well, for he prayed to God about them: “I have given them the glory that you have given me, in order that they may be one just as we are one. I in union with them and you in union with me.”—John 17:22, 23.
Who or What Is the Word of God?
The Bible’s answer
The expression “the word of God” usually refers to a divine message or to a collection of those messages. (Luke 11:28) In a few places, “The Word of God” or “the Word” is used as a personal title.—Revelation 19:13; John 1:14.
A divine message. The prophets often stated that the messages they delivered were God’s word. For example, Jeremiah introduced his prophetic messages with the expression “the word of Jehovah came to me.” (Jeremiah 1:4, 11, 13; 2:1) Before telling Saul that God had chosen him as king, the prophet Samuel said: “Stand still now, so that I may let you hear the word of God.”—1 Samuel 9:27.
A personal title. “The Word” also appears in the Bible as a title for Jesus Christ, both as a spirit in heaven and as a human on earth. Consider some reasons for this conclusion:
● The Word lived before all other creation. “In the beginning was the Word . . . This one was in the beginning with God.” (John 1:1, 2) Jesus is “the firstborn of all creation . . . He is before all other things.”—Colossians 1:13-15, 17.
● The Word came to earth as a human. “The Word became flesh and resided among us.” (John 1:14) Christ Jesus “emptied himself and took a slave’s form and became human.”—Philippians 2:5-7.
● The Word is God’s Son. After stating that “the Word became flesh,” as quoted above, the apostle John continued: “We had a view of his glory, a glory such as belongs to an only-begotten son from a father.” (John 1:14) John also wrote: “Jesus is God’s Son.”—1 John 4:15.
● The Word possesses godlike attributes. “The Word was a god,” or “was divine.” (John 1:1; An American Translation) Jesus is “the reflection of God’s glory and the exact representation of his very being.”—Hebrews 1:2, 3.
● The Word rules as a king. The Bible states that on the head of the Word of God are “many royal headbands.” (Revelation 19:12, 13; footnote) The Word is also named “King of kings and Lord of lords.” (Revelation 19:16) Jesus is called “the King of those who rule as kings and Lord of those who rule as lords.”—1 Timothy 6:14, 15.
● The Word serves as God’s spokesman. The title “the Word” apparently identifies its bearer as one whom God uses to convey information and instructions. Jesus said that he performed this role: “The Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment about what to say and what to speak. . . . So whatever I speak, I speak just as the Father has told me.”—John 12:49, 50.
What Does “an Eye for an Eye” Mean?
The Bible’s answer
The rule of “an eye for an eye” was part of God’s Law given by Moses to ancient Israel and was quoted by Jesus in his Sermon on the Mount. (Matthew 5:38, King James Version; Exodus 21:24, 25; Deuteronomy 19:21) It meant that when dealing out justice to wrongdoers, the punishment should fit the crime.
The rule applied to deliberate injurious acts against another person. Regarding a willful offender, the Mosaic Law stated: “Fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, the same sort of injury he inflicted should be inflicted on him.”—Leviticus 24:20.
- What was the purpose of the “eye for an eye” rule?
- Does the “eye for an eye” rule apply to Christians?
- Misconceptions about the “eye for an eye” rule
- Jesus corrects a wrong idea
What was the purpose of the “eye for an eye” rule?
The “eye for an eye” rule did not authorize or sanction vigilante justice. Rather, it helped appointed judges to impose punishments that were appropriate, being neither too harsh nor too lenient
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The rule also served as a deterrent to any who would intentionally harm others or scheme to do so. “Those who remain [those who observed God’s justice being carried out] will hear and be afraid,” explained the Law, “and they will never again do anything bad like this among you.”—Deuteronomy 19:20.
Does the “eye for an eye” rule apply to Christians?
No, this rule is not binding on Christians. It was part of the Mosaic Law, which Jesus’ sacrificial death abolished.—Romans 10:4.
Even so, the rule provides insight into God’s way of thinking. For example, it shows that God values justice. (Psalm 89:14) It also reveals his standard of justice—namely, that wrongdoers should be disciplined “to the proper degree.”—Jeremiah 30:11.
Misconceptions about the “eye for an eye” rule
Misconception: The “eye for an eye” rule was excessively harsh.
Fact: The rule did not authorize a heavy-handed, cruel application of justice. Rather, when properly applied, it meant that qualified judges would impose retribution for an offense only after first considering the circumstances involved and the extent to which the offense was deliberate. (Exodus 21:28-30; Numbers 35:22-25) The “eye for an eye” rule thus acted as a restraint against extremes in punishment.
Misconception: The “eye for an eye” rule authorized an endless cycle of personal vengeance.
Fact: The Mosaic Law itself stated: “You must not take vengeance nor hold a grudge against the sons of your people.” (Leviticus 19:18) Rather than promoting personal vengeance, the Law encouraged people to trust in God and in the legal system that he had authorized to right any wrongs.—Deuteronomy 32:35.
Jesus corrects a wrong idea
Jesus knew that some had misinterpreted the rule of “an eye for an eye.” He corrected them when he said: “You heard that it was said: ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’ However, I say to you: Do not resist the one who is wicked, but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other also to him.”—Matthew 5:38, 39.
Note Jesus’ expression “you heard that it was said.” He was apparently referring to some Jewish religious leaders who taught retaliation. Bible scholar Adam Clarke noted: “It seems that the Jews had made this law [an eye for an eye] . . . a ground for authorizing private resentments, and all the excesses committed by a vindictive spirit.” By encouraging vindictiveness, those religious leaders distorted the intent of God’s Law.—Mark 7:13.
In contrast, Jesus emphasized that love is the dominant spirit of God’s Law. He said: “‘You must love Jehovah your God . . .’ This is the greatest and first commandment. The second, like it, is this: ‘You must love your neighbour as yourself.’ On these two commandments the whole Law hangs.” (Matthew 22:37-40) Jesus taught that love, not vindictiveness, would identify his true followers.—John 13:34, 35.
What Are the Ten Commandments of God?
The Bible’s answer
The Ten Commandments are laws that God gave to the ancient nation of Israel. These laws are also known as the Ten Words, which is a literal translation of the Hebrew expression ʽaseʹreth had·deva·rimʹ. This expression occurs three times in the Pentateuch (Torah), the first five books of the Bible. (Exodus 34:28; Deuteronomy 4:13; 10:4) The equivalent expression in Greek, deʹka (ten) loʹgous (words), gave rise to the term “Decalogue.”
God inscribed the Ten Commandments on two stone tablets and gave them to his prophet Moses on Mount Sinai. (Exodus 24:12-18) The Ten Commandments are listed at Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21.
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List of the Ten Commandments
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Why do lists of the Ten Commandments differ?
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What was the purpose of the Ten Commandments?
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Must Christians keep the Ten Commandments?
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Are the Ten Commandments relevant today?
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Principles from the Ten Commandments reflected in the New Testament
List of the Ten Commandments
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Worship only Jehovah God.—Exodus 20:3.
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Do not practice idolatry.—Exodus 20:4-6.
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Do not take up God’s name in a worthless way.—Exodus 20:7.
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Keep the Sabbath.—Exodus 20:8-11.
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Honour your parents.—Exodus 20:12.
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Do not murder.—Exodus 20:13.
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Do not commit adultery.—Exodus 20:14.
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Do not steal.—Exodus 20:15.
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Do not testify falsely.—Exodus 20:16.
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Do not covet.—Exodus 20:17.
Why do lists of the Ten Commandments differ?
The Bible does not assign a number to each commandment. Consequently, opinions differ on how the commandments should be arranged. The list above is a common arrangement of these laws. However, some list the Ten Commandments differently. The differences in grouping involve the first, second, and last commandments.
What was the purpose of the Ten Commandments?
The Ten Commandments were part of the Mosaic Law. That Law code included over 600 commandments and formed the terms of an agreement, or covenant, between God and the ancient nation of Israel. (Exodus 34:27) God promised the people of Israel that they would prosper if they obeyed the Mosaic Law. (Deuteronomy 28:1-14) However, the main purpose of the Law was to prepare the Israelites for the promised Messiah, or Christ.—Galatians 3:24.
Must Christians keep the Ten Commandments?
No. God gave his Law, including the Ten Commandments, specifically to the ancient nation of Israel. (Deuteronomy 5:2, 3; Psalm 147:19, 20) The Mosaic Law is not binding on Christians, and even Jewish Christians were “released from the Law.” (Romans 7:6) * The Mosaic Law was replaced by “the law of the Christ,” which includes all that Jesus instructed his followers to do.—Galatians 6:2; Matthew 28:19, 20.
Are the Ten Commandments relevant today?
Yes. Because the Ten Commandments reveal God’s thinking, we can benefit from studying them. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) The Ten Commandments are based on reliable principles that will never go out-of-date. (Psalm 111:7, 8) In fact, many of these principles underlie the teachings of what is commonly called the New Testament.—See “ Principles from the Ten Commandments reflected in the New Testament.”
Jesus taught that the entire Mosaic Law, including the Ten Commandments, rested on two fundamental commandments. He said: “‘You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. The second, like it, is this: ‘You must love your neighbour as yourself.’ On these two commandments the whole Law hangs.” (Matthew 22:34-40) So although Christians are not expected to observe the Mosaic Law, they are commanded to love God and their fellow humans.—John 13:34; 1 John 4:20, 21.
Principles from the Ten Commandments reflected in the New Testament
Principle New Testament Reference
Worship only Jehovah God Revelation 22:8, 9
Do not practice idolatry 1 Corinthians 10:14
Honour God’s name Matthew 6:9
Worship God regularly Hebrews 10:24, 25
Honour your parents Ephesians 6:1, 2
Do not murder 1 John 3:15
Do not commit adultery Hebrews 13:4
Do not steal Ephesians 4:28
Do not testify falsely Ephesians 4:25
Do not covet Luke 12:15
What Is Prophecy?
The Bible’s answer
A prophecy is a message inspired by God, a divine revelation. The Bible says that prophets “spoke from God as they were moved by Holy Spirit.” (2 Peter 1:20, 21) So a prophet is one who receives God’s message and transmits it to others.—Acts 3:18.
How did prophets receive information from God?
God used several methods to transmit his thoughts to his prophets:
● Writing. God used this method in at least one case by directly supplying to Moses the Ten Commandments in written form.—Exodus 31:18.
● Oral communication through angels. For example, God used an angel to instruct Moses about the message he was to deliver to Pharaoh of Egypt. (Exodus 3:2-4, 10) When precise wording was crucial, God directed angels to dictate his message, as he did when he told Moses: “Write down these words, because in accordance with these words, I am making a covenant with you and with Israel.”—Exodus 34:27.
● Visions. These were sometimes given while the prophet was awake and fully conscious. (Isaiah 1:1; Habakkuk 1:1) Some were so vivid that the recipient participated in them. (Luke 9:28-36; Revelation 1:10-17) At other times, visions were conveyed while the recipient was in a trance. (Acts 10:10, 11; 22:17-21) God also transmitted his message by dreams while the prophet slept.—Daniel 7:1; Acts 16:9, 10.
● Mental guidance. God guided the thoughts of his prophets to convey his message. This is the sense of the Bible’s statement: “All Scripture is inspired of God.” The phrase “inspired of God” can also be rendered “God-breathed.” (2 Timothy 3:16; The Emphasised Bible) God used his holy spirit, or active force, to “breathe” his ideas into the minds of his servants. The message was God’s, but the prophet selected the wording.—2 Samuel 23:1, 2.
Does prophecy always involve foretelling the future?
No, Bible prophecy is not limited to foretelling the future. However, most messages from God relate to the future, even if only indirectly. For example, God’s prophets repeatedly warned the ancient Israelites about their evil ways. Those warnings described the future blessings if the people would heed the warning, as well as the future calamity if they refused. (Jeremiah 25:4-6) The actual outcome depended on the course that the Israelites chose to follow.—Deuteronomy 30:19, 20.
Examples of Bible prophecies not involving predictions
● On one occasion when the Israelites asked God for help, he sent a prophet to explain that because they had refused to obey God’s commands, He had not helped them.—Judges 6:6-10.
● When Jesus spoke to a Samaritan woman, he revealed things about her past that he could have known only by divine revelation. She recognized him as a prophet even though he had made no predictions about the future.—John 4:17-19.
● At Jesus’ trial, his enemies covered his face, hit him, and then said: “Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?” They were not calling for Jesus to foretell the future but for him to identify by divine power who had hit him.—Luke 22:63, 64.
Do Messianic Prophecies Prove That Jesus Was the Messiah?
The Bible’s answer
Yes. While on earth, Jesus fulfilled numerous prophecies about “Messiah the Leader,” the one who would be the “Saviour of the world.” (Daniel 9:25; 1 John 4:14) And even after his death, Jesus continued to fulfill Messianic prophecies.—Psalm 110:1; Acts 2:34-36.
What is the meaning of “Messiah”?
The Hebrew term Ma·shiʹach (Messiah) and the equivalent Greek word Khri·stos (Christ) both mean “Anointed One.” Therefore, “Jesus Christ” means “Jesus the Anointed One,” or “Jesus the Messiah.”
In Bible times, a person was often anointed by having oil poured on his head when he was appointed to a special position of authority. (Leviticus 8:12; 1 Samuel 16:13) Jesus was appointed by God to be the Messiah—a position of great authority. (Acts 2:36) However, rather than anointing Jesus with oil, God anointed him with holy spirit.—Matthew 3:16.
Could more than one person fulfill the Messianic prophecies?
No. Just as a fingerprint identifies just one person, the fulfillment of Bible prophecies points to just one Messiah, or Christ. However, the Bible warns that “false Christs and false prophets will arise and will perform great signs and wonders so as to mislead, if possible, even the chosen ones.”—Matthew 24:24.
Could the Messiah appear in the future?
No. The Bible foretold that the Messiah would be a descendant of King David of Israel. (Psalm 89:3, 4) However, the Jewish ancestral records going back to David have been lost, apparently having been destroyed when the Romans conquered Jerusalem in 70 C.E. Since that time, it has not been possible for anyone to prove that he is of the royal family of David. In contrast, though those ancestral records did exist in Jesus’ time, not even his enemies successfully challenged his claim of being a descendant of David.—Matthew 22:41-46.
How many Messianic prophecies are there in the Bible?
It is not possible to specify a definitive number of Messianic prophecies. For example, the method of numbering prophecies can vary even for passages that are clearly Messianic. The passage at Isaiah 53:2-7 mentions several prophetic features regarding the Messiah. Some might count this entire passage as one prophecy, while others might view each feature as a separate prophecy.
Some Messianic prophecies fulfilled by Jesus
Prophecy Found at Fulfillment
Offspring of Abraham Genesis 22:17, 18 Matthew 1:1
Descendant of Abraham’s son Isaac Genesis 17:19 Matthew 1:2
Born of the Israelite tribe of Judah Genesis 49:10 Matthew 1:1, 3
From the royal line of King David Isaiah 9:7 Matthew 1:1
Born of a virgin Isaiah 7:14 Matthew 1:18, 22, 23
Born in Bethlehem Micah 5:2 Matthew 2:1, 5, 6
Called by the name Immanuel Isaiah 7:14 Matthew 1:21-23
Humble beginning Isaiah 53:2 Luke 2:7
Young children killed after his birth Jeremiah 31:15 Matthew 2:16-18
Called out of Egypt Hosea 11:1 Matthew 2:13-15
Called a Nazarene Isaiah 11:1 Matthew 2:23
Preceded by a messenger Malachi 3:1 Matthew 11:7-10
Anointed as Messiah in 29 C.E. Daniel 9:25 Matthew 3:13-17
Acknowledged by God as His Son Psalm 2:7 Acts 13:33, 34
Zealous for God’s house Psalm 69:9 John 2:13-17
Proclaimer of good news Isaiah 61:1 Luke 4:16-21
Public ministry in Galilee a great light Isaiah 9:1, 2 Matthew 4:13-16
A miracle worker like Moses Deuteronomy 18:15 Acts 2:22
Like Moses, he spoke God’s thoughts Deuteronomy 18:18, 19 John 12:49
Cured sicknesses of many Isaiah 53:4 Matthew 8:16, 17
Did not draw attention to himself Isaiah 42:2 Matthew 12:17, 19
Showed compassion for the afflicted Isaiah 42:3 Matthew 12:9-20; Mark 6:34
Revealed God’s justice Isaiah 42:1, 4 Matthew 12:17-20
A Wonderful Counsellor Isaiah 9:6, 7 John 6:68
Declared Jehovah’s name Psalm 22:22 John 17:6
Spoke in illustrations Psalm 78:2 Matthew 13:34, 35
A Leader Daniel 9:25 Matthew 23:10
Many did not believe in him Isaiah 53:1 John 12:37, 38
Stone of stumbling Isaiah 8:14, 15 Matthew 21:42-44
Rejected by humans Psalm 118:22, 23 Acts 4:10, 11
Hated without cause Psalm 69:4 John 15:24, 25
Triumphal entry into Jerusalem on a donkey Zechariah 9:9 Matthew 21:4-9
Praised by children Psalm 8:2 Matthew 21:15, 16
Came in Jehovah’s name Psalm 118:26 John 12:12, 13
Betrayed by a trusted associate Psalm 41:9 John 13:18
Betrayed for 30 pieces of silver Zechariah 11:12, 13 Matthew 26:14-16; 27:3-10
Friends abandoned him Zechariah 13:7 Matthew 26:31, 56
False witnesses testified against him Psalm 35:11 Matthew 26:59-61
Silent before accusers Isaiah 53:7 Matthew 27:12-14
Spat upon Isaiah 50:6 Matthew 26:67; 27:27, 30
Struck on the head Micah 5:1 Mark 15:19
Flogged Isaiah 50:6 John 19:1
Did not resist those who struck him Isaiah 50:6 John 18:22, 23
Government leaders conspired against him Psalm 2:2 Luke 23:10-12
Nailed to a stake through his hands and feet Psalm 22:16 Matthew 27:35; John 20:25
People cast lots (gambled) for his clothing Psalm 22:18 John 19:23, 24
Counted in with sinners Isaiah 53:12 Matthew 27:38
Reviled, insulted Psalm 22:7, 8 Matthew 27:39-43
Suffered for sinners Isaiah 53:5, 6 1 Peter 2:23-25
Seemed forsaken by God Psalm 22:1 Mark 15:34
Given vinegar and gall to drink Psalm 69:21 Matthew 27:34
Thirsty just before death Psalm 22:15 John 19:28, 29
Entrusted spirit to God Psalm 31:5 Luke 23:46
Gave up his life Isaiah 53:12 Mark 15:37
Provided the ransom to remove sin Isaiah 53:12 Matthew 20:28
Bones not broken Psalm 34:20 John 19:31-33, 36
Pierced Zechariah 12:10 John 19:33-35, 37
Buried with the rich Isaiah 53:9 Matthew 27:57-60
Raised from the dead Psalm 16:10 Acts 2:29-31
Betrayer replaced Psalm 109:8 Acts 1:15-20
Seated at God’s right hand Psalm 110:1 Acts 2:34-36
What Do Numbers Mean in the Bible? Is Numerology Biblical?
The Bible’s answer
Numbers in the Bible can often be taken literally, but they are sometimes used as symbols. The context usually indicates whether a particular number is used as a symbol. Consider these examples of the symbolic meaning of numbers in the Bible
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● 1 Unity. For instance, Jesus prayed to God that his followers “may all be one, just as you, Father, are in union with me and I am in union with you.”—John 17:21; Matthew 19:6.
● 2 In a legal setting, two witnesses verify the truth of a matter. (Deuteronomy 17:6) Similarly, the repetition of a vision or a statement confirms the matter as sure and true. For example, when Joseph interpreted a dream given to Pharaoh of Egypt, he said: “The fact that the dream was repeated to Pharaoh twice means that the thing is firmly established on the part of the true God.” (Genesis 41:32) In prophecy, “two horns” can represent dual rulership, as the prophet Daniel was told regarding the Medo-Persian Empire.—Daniel 8:20, 21; Revelation 13:11.
● 3 Just as three witnesses would firmly prove a matter to be true, a threefold repetition seems to establish it firmly or emphasize it.—Ezekiel 21:27; Acts 10:9-16; Revelation 4:8; 8:13.
● 4 This can represent completeness in form or function, as in the expression “the four corners of the earth.”—Revelation 7:1; 21:16; Isaiah 11:12.
● 6 Being one less than seven, which often represents completeness, six can stand for something incomplete or imperfect or something associated with God’s enemies.—1 Chronicles 20:6; Daniel 3:1; Revelation 13:18.
● 7 This number is often used to represent the idea of completeness. For instance, the Israelites were commanded by God to march around Jericho on seven successive days and to march around seven times on the seventh day. (Joshua 6:15) The Bible contains many similar examples of such a use of the number seven. (Leviticus 4:6; 25:8; 26:18; Psalm 119:164; Revelation 1:20; 13:1; 17:10) When Jesus told Peter that he should forgive his brother “not, Up to seven times, but, Up to seventy-seven times,” the repetition of “seven” conveyed the thought of “without limit.”—Matthew 18:21, 22.
● 10 This number can stand for the entirety or aggregate of something.—Exodus 34:28; Luke 19:13; Revelation 2:10.
● 12 This number seems to represent a complete, divine arrangement. For example, the vision of heaven given to the apostle John included a city with “twelve foundation stones, and on them the twelve names of the twelve apostles.” (Revelation 21:14; Genesis 49:28) Multiples of 12 can have a similar meaning.—Revelation 4:4; 7:4-8.
● 40 Several judgment or punishment periods were linked with the number 40.—Genesis 7:4; Ezekiel 29:11, 12.
Numerology and gematria
These symbolic meanings of numbers in the Bible are different from numerology, which involves looking for an occult meaning in numbers, their combinations, and numerical totals. For example, Jewish Cabalists have analysed the Hebrew Scriptures using a technique called gematria, which looks for a hidden code in the numerical equivalents of letters. Numerology is a form of divination, which God condemns.—Deuteronomy 18:10-12.
The Book of Revelation—What Does it Mean?
The Bible’s answer
The Greek name of the Bible book of Revelation, A·po·kaʹly·psis (apocalypse), means “Uncovering” or “Disclosure.” This name indicates the meaning of Revelation—it uncovers matters that had been hidden and discloses events that would happen long after it was written. Many of its prophecies are yet to be fulfilled.
Overview of the book of Revelation
● Introduction.—Revelation 1:1-9.
● Messages from Jesus to the seven congregations.—Revelation 1:10–3:22.
● A vision of God on his throne in heaven.—Revelation 4:1-11.
● A series of visions, each one leading into the next:
- Seven seals.—Revelation 5:1–8:6.
- Seven trumpets, the last three of which introduce three woes.—Revelation 8:7–14:20.
- Seven bowls, each containing a plague representing a divine judgment to be poured out on the earth. Revelation 15:1–16:21.
- Visions of the destruction of God’s enemies.—Revelation 17:1–20:10.
- Visions of blessings from God for heaven and earth.—Revelation 20:11–22:5.
● Conclusion.—Revelation 22:6-21.
Keys to understanding the book of Revelation
1. Its meaning is positive, not fearful or terrifying to those who serve God. While many associate the word “apocalypse” with great disaster, the book of Revelation begins and ends by saying that those who read, understand, and apply its message would be happy for doing so.—Revelation 1:3; 22:7.
2. Revelation uses many “signs,” or symbols, that are not to be understood literally.—Revelation 1:1.
3. Many major entities and symbols in the book of Revelation are introduced earlier in the Bible:
- Jehovah—“the true God in the heavens” and Creator of all things.—Deuteronomy 4:39; Psalm 103:19; Revelation 4:11; 15:3.
- Jesus Christ—“the Lamb of God.”—John 1:29; Revelation 5:6; 14:1.
- Satan the Devil—God’s adversary.—Genesis 3:14, 15; John 8:44; Revelation 12:9.
- Babylon the Great—like ancient Babylon (Babel), an enemy of Jehovah God and his people and a source of religious lies.—Genesis 11:2-9; Isaiah 13:1, 11; Revelation 17:4-6; 18:4, 20.
- “The sea”—wicked mankind opposed to God.—Isaiah 57:20; Revelation 13:1; 21:1.
- Features corresponding to the ancient tabernacle used for God’s worship—including the ark of the covenant, the glassy sea (basin for washing), lamps, offerings of incense, and an altar of sacrifice.—Exodus 25:10, 17, 18; 40:24-32; Revelation 4:5, 6; 5:8; 8:3; 11:19.
- Wild beasts—symbolizing human governments.—Daniel 7:1-8, 17-26; Revelation 13:2, 11; 17:3.
- Numbers used symbolically.—Revelation 1:20; 8:13; 13:18; 21:16.
4. The visions apply to “the Lord’s day,” when Jesus begins ruling as King. (Revelation 1:10) We can expect the main fulfillment of Revelation to be in our time.
5. To understand the book of Revelation, we need the same things that help us to understand the rest of the Bible, including wisdom from God and assistance from those who already understand it.—Acts 8:26-39; James 1:5.
Who or What Is “the Alpha and the Omega”?
The Bible’s answer
“The Alpha and the Omega” refers to Jehovah God, the Almighty. This term occurs three times in the Bible.—Revelation 1:8; 21:6; 22:13.
Why does God call himself “the Alpha and the Omega”?
Alpha and omega are the first and last letters of the alphabet in Greek, the language used to write the part of the Bible commonly called the New Testament, which includes the book of Revelation. The respective positions of these letters in the Greek alphabet are used to illustrate that Jehovah alone is the beginning and the end. (Revelation 21:6) He was Almighty God in the infinite past, and he will continue to be Almighty God forever. He is the only one who is “from everlasting to everlasting.”—Psalm 90:2.
Who is “the first and the last”?
The Bible applies this term both to Jehovah God and to his Son, Jesus, but with different meanings. Consider two examples.
● At Isaiah 44:6, Jehovah says: “I am the first and I am the last. There is no God but me.” Here Jehovah highlights that he is the everlasting true God; besides him, there is no other. (Deuteronomy 4:35, 39) In this case, then, the expression “the first and the last” has the same meaning as “the Alpha and the Omega.”
● Additionally, the term “the First [pro’tos, not alpha] and the Last [e’skha·tos, not omega]” occurs at Revelation 1:17, 18 and 2:8. In these verses, the context shows that the one referred to died and later returned to life. Thus, these verses cannot refer to God because he has never died. (Habakkuk 1:12) However, Jesus died and was resurrected. (Acts 3:13-15) He was the first human to be resurrected to immortal spirit life in heaven, where he now lives “forever and ever.” (Revelation 1:18; Colossians 1:18) Jesus is the one who performs all resurrections thereafter. (John 6:40, 44) Therefore, he was the last one to be resurrected directly by Jehovah. (Acts 10:40) In this sense, Jesus can properly be called “the First and the Last.”
Does Revelation 22:13 prove that Jesus is “the Alpha and the Omega”?
No. The speaker at Revelation 22:13 is not specifically identified, and there are various speakers in this chapter. Commenting on this section of Revelation, Professor William Barclay wrote: “Things are set down without any apparent order; . . . and it is often very difficult to be sure who is the actual speaker.” (The Revelation of John, Volume 2, Revised Edition, page 223) Thus, “the Alpha and the Omega” at Revelation 22:13 can be identified as the same Person given this title elsewhere in Revelation—Jehovah God.
What Is New Jerusalem?
The Bible’s answer
“New Jerusalem,” an expression that appears twice in the Bible, is a symbolic city that represents the group of Jesus’ followers who go to heaven to rule with him in God’s Kingdom. (Revelation 3:12; 21:2) The Bible shows that this group can also be called the bride of Christ.
Keys to identifying New Jerusalem
1. New Jerusalem is in heaven. Each time the Bible mentions New Jerusalem, it is said to come down from heaven, where angels guard the city’s gates. (Revelation 3:12; 21:2, 10, 12) Also, the city’s great size proves that it could not be on earth. It is a cube measuring “12,000 stadia,” or “furlongs,” around. (Revelation 21:16; King James Version) Its sides would thus be almost 560 kilometres (350 mi) high, extending into space.
2. New Jerusalem is made up of a group of Jesus’ followers, the bride of Christ. New Jerusalem is called “the bride, the Lamb’s wife.” (Revelation 21:9, 10) In this symbolic description, the Lamb refers to Jesus Christ. (John 1:29; Revelation 5:12) “The Lamb’s wife,” Christ’s bride, represents Christians who will be united with Jesus in heaven. The Bible likens the relationship between Jesus and these Christians to that of a husband and wife. (2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 5:23-25) In addition, the foundation stones of New Jerusalem are inscribed with “the 12 names of the 12 apostles of the Lamb.” (Revelation 21:14) This detail helps to confirm the identity of New Jerusalem, since Christians who are called to life in heaven are “built up on the foundation of the apostles and prophets.”—Ephesians 2:20.
3. New Jerusalem is part of a government. Ancient Jerusalem was the capital of Israel, the place where King David, his son Solomon, and their descendants ruled “on Jehovah’s throne.” (1 Chronicles 29:23) Jerusalem, called “the holy city,” thus represented God’s rulership in the family line of David. (Nehemiah 11:1) New Jerusalem, also called “the holy city,” is made up of those who join Jesus in heaven “to rule as kings over the earth.”—Revelation 5:9, 10; 21:2.
4. New Jerusalem brings blessings to people on earth. New Jerusalem is depicted as “coming down out of heaven from God,” showing that God uses it to affect matters outside of heaven. (Revelation 21:2) This expression links New Jerusalem with God’s Kingdom, which God uses to accomplish his will “as in heaven, also on earth.” (Matthew 6:10) God’s purpose for people on earth includes these blessings:
o Removal of sin. “A river of water of life” flows from New Jerusalem and supports “trees of life” that are “for the healing of the nations.” (Revelation 22:1, 2) This physical and spiritual healing will remove sin and enable people to gain perfect life, as God originally intended.—Romans 8:21.
o Good relations between God and humankind. Sin has alienated humans from God. (Isaiah 59:2) The removal of sin will allow for the complete fulfillment of this prophecy: “The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his people. And God himself will be with them.”—Revelation 21:3.
o The end of suffering and death. By means of his Kingdom, God “will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.”
What Does 666 Mean?
The Bible’s answer
According to the last book in the Bible, 666 is the number, or name, of the wild beast with seven heads and ten horns that comes out of the sea. (Revelation 13:1, 17, 18) This beast is a symbol of the worldwide political system, which rules over “every tribe and people and tongue and nation.” (Revelation 13:7) The name 666 identifies the political system as a gross failure in God’s sight. How?
More than a label. Names given by God have meaning. For example, God gave the man Abram, which means “Father Is High (Exalted),” the name Abraham, which means “Father of a Crowd (Multitude),” when God promised that He would make Abraham “a father of many nations.” (Genesis 17:5, footnotes) Likewise, God named the beast 666 as a symbol of its defining attributes.
The number six implies imperfection. Often, numbers are used as symbols in the Bible. Seven typically represents completeness or perfection. Six, being one short of seven, can denote something incomplete or flawed in God’s eyes, and it can be associated with God’s enemies.—1 Chronicles 20:6; Daniel 3:1.
Three times for emphasis. The Bible sometimes stresses a matter by stating it three times. (Revelation 4:8; 8:13) So the name 666 powerfully emphasizes that God views human political systems as gross failures. They have been unable to bring lasting peace and security—things that only God’s Kingdom will achieve.
The mark of the beast
The Bible says that people receive “the mark of the wild beast” because they follow it “with admiration,” to the point of worshipping it. (Revelation 13:3, 4; 16:2) They do this by giving worshipful honour to their country, its symbols, or its military might. As The Encyclopedia of Religion states: “Nationalism has become a dominant form of religion in the modern world.”
How is the mark of the beast placed on someone’s right hand or forehead? (Revelation 13:16) Regarding his commands to the nation of Israel, God said: “Bind them as a reminder on your hand, and they should be like a headband on your forehead.” (Deuteronomy 11:18) This meant, not that the Israelites were to mark their literal hands and foreheads, but that God’s words would guide all their actions and thoughts. Likewise, rather than being something literal such as a 666 tattoo, the mark of the beast symbolically identifies those who let the political system rule their lives. Those with the mark of the beast place themselves in opposition to God.—Revelation 14:9, 10; 19:19-21.
What Is the Sign of “the Last Days,” or “End Times”?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible describes events and conditions that would mark “the conclusion of the [current] system of things,” or “the end of the world.” (Matthew 24:3; King James Version) The Bible calls this time period “the last days” and the “time of the end,” or “end times.” (2 Timothy 3:1; Daniel 8:19; Easy-to-Read Version) The following are some outstanding features of last-days, or end-times, prophecies:
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War on a large scale.—Matthew 24:7; Revelation 6:4.
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Great earthquakes.—Luke 21:11.
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Pestilences, or epidemics of “terrible diseases.”—Luke 21:11, Contemporary English Version.
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Increase of crime.—Matthew 24:12.
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Ruining of the earth by mankind.—Revelation 11:18.
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Deterioration of people’s attitudes, as shown by many who are “unthankful, disloyal, . . . not open to any agreement, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, without love of goodness, betrayers, headstrong, puffed up with pride.”—2 Timothy 3:1-4.
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Breakdown of the family, with people who have “no natural affection” and children who are “disobedient to parents.”—2 Timothy 3:2, 3.
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Love of God growing cold in most people.—Matthew 24:12.
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Noteworthy displays of religious hypocrisy.—2 Timothy 3:5.
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Increased understanding of Bible prophecies, including those related to the last days.—Daniel 12:4.
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Global preaching of the good news of the Kingdom.—Matthew 24:14.
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Widespread apathy and even ridicule toward the evidence of the approaching end.—Matthew 24:37-39; 2 Peter 3:3, 4.
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The simultaneous fulfillment of all these prophecies, not just a few or even most of them.—Matthew 24:33.
Are we living in “the last days”?
Yes. World conditions as well as Bible chronology indicate that the last days have began. God’s Kingdom will begin ruling in heaven, and one of its first actions will be to expel Satan the Devil and the demons from heaven and restrict their activity to the earth. (Revelation 12:7-12) Satan’s influence on mankind can be seen in many of the bad attitudes and actions that make the last days “critical times hard to deal with.”—2 Timothy 3:1.
When Will the World End?
The Bible’s answer
To know when the end of the world will happen, it is necessary to understand how the Bible uses the term “world.” The Greek word koʹsmos, usually translated “world,” most often refers to the world of humankind, especially the part that is out of harmony with God and his will. (John 15:18, 19; 2 Peter 2:5) At times, koʹsmos refers to the framework of human society.—1 Corinthians 7:31; 1 John 2:15, 16.
What is “the end of the world”?
The phrase “the end of the world,” which appears in many Bible translations, can also be rendered as “the conclusion of the system of things,” or “the close of the age.” (Matthew 24:3; English Standard Version) It refers, not to the destruction of the earth or of all humanity, but to the end of the framework of human society.—1 John 2:17.
The Bible teaches that “evil men will be done away with” so that good people can enjoy life on earth. (Psalm 37:9-11) This destruction will happen at the “great tribulation,” which culminates in the war of Armageddon.—Matthew 24:21, 22; Revelation 16:14, 16.
When will the world end?
Jesus said: “Concerning that day and hour nobody knows, neither the angels of the heavens nor the Son, but only the Father.” (Matthew 24:36, 42) He added that the timing of the end would be unexpected, “at an hour that you do not think to be it.”—Matthew 24:44.
Even though we cannot know the exact day and hour, Jesus did provide a composite “sign,” or group of events, that would identify the time period leading up to the end of the world. (Matthew 24:3, 7-14) The Bible refers to this period as “the time of the end,” “the end times,” and “the last days.”—Daniel 12:4; God’s Word Bible; 2 Timothy 3:1-5.
Will there be anything left after the end of the world?
Yes. The earth will still be here, for the Bible says that “it will not be moved from its place forever and ever.” (Psalm 104:5) And the earth will be filled with people, just as the Bible promises: “The righteous will possess the earth, and they will live forever on it.” (Psalm 37:29) God will bring about the conditions that he originally purposed:
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Paradise.—Isaiah 35:1; Luke 23:43.
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Security and prosperity.—Micah 4:4.
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Meaningful and satisfying work for all.—Isaiah 65:21-23.
● Freedom from disease and aging.—Job 33:25; Isaiah 33:24.
What Will God’s Kingdom Accomplish?
The Bible’s answer
God’s Kingdom will replace all human governments and rule over the entire earth. (Daniel 2:44; Revelation 16:14) Once that happens, God’s Kingdom will . . .
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Remove the wicked, whose selfishness harms us all. “As regards the wicked, they will be cut off from the very earth.”—Proverbs 2:22.
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End all wars. “[God] is making wars to cease to the extremity of the earth.”—Psalm 46:9.
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Bring prosperity and security to the earth. “Everyone will live in peace among their own vineyards and fig trees, and no one will make them afraid.”—Micah 4:4, Good News Translation.
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Make the earth into a paradise. “Thirsty deserts will be glad; barren lands will celebrate and blossom with flowers.”—Isaiah 35:1, Contemporary English Version.
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Provide everyone with meaningful, enjoyable work. “The work of their own hands [God’s] chosen ones will use to the full. They will not toil for nothing.”—Isaiah 65:21-23.
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Eliminate disease. “No resident will say: ‘I am sick.’”—Isaiah 33:24.
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Set us free from the aging process. “Let his flesh become fresher than in youth; let him return to the days of his youthful vigour.”—Job 33:25.
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Bring the dead back to life. “All those in the memorial tombs will hear [Jesus’] voice and come out.”—John 5:28, 29.
Peace on Earth—How Will It Come?
The Bible’s answer
Peace on earth will come, not by human efforts, but by means of God’s Kingdom, a heavenly government ruled by Christ Jesus. Notice how the Bible teaches us about this wonderful hope.
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God will make “wars to cease to the extremity of the earth,” fulfilling his promise to bring “peace on earth to those with whom he is pleased!”—Psalm 46:9; Luke 2:14, Good News Translation.
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God’s Kingdom will rule from heaven over the entire earth. (Daniel 7:14) As a world government, it will eliminate nationalism, which is at the root of many conflicts.
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Jesus, the Ruler of God’s Kingdom, is called the “Prince of Peace,” and he will ensure that “to peace there will be no end.”—Isaiah 9:6, 7.
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People determined to keep fighting will not be allowed to live under the Kingdom, since “anyone loving violence [God’s] soul certainly hates.”—Psalm 11:5; Proverbs 2:22.
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God teaches his subjects how to live in peace. Describing the results of this instruction, the Bible says: “They will have to beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning shears. Nation will not lift up sword against nation, neither will they learn war anymore.”—Isaiah 2:3, 4.
Women in the Bible—What Can We Learn From Them?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible introduces us to many women whose lives can teach us valuable lessons. (Romans 15:4; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17) This article briefly describes just some of the women mentioned in the Bible. Many are fine examples to imitate. Others provide warning examples.—1 Corinthians 10:11; Hebrews 6:1
Abigail
Who was Abigail? She was the wife of a wealthy but harsh man named Nabal. Abigail, however, was discerning and humble, as well as beautiful both physically and spiritually.—1 Samuel 25:3.
What did she do? Abigail acted with wisdom and discernment in order to avoid calamity. She and Nabal lived in the region where David, Israel’s future king, was hiding as a fugitive. While David and his men were there, they protected Nabal’s flocks of sheep from robbers. But when messengers from David asked Nabal for some food, Nabal insolently refused to provide it. David was incensed! So he and his men went out to kill Nabal and all the men of his household.—1 Samuel 25:10-12, 22.
Abigail acted quickly when she heard what her husband had done. She gave her servants a supply of food to take to David and his men, and she followed to beg David for mercy. (1 Samuel 25:14-19, 24-31) When David saw her gift, observed her humility, and heard her wise advice, he recognized that God had used her to prevent a tragedy. (1 Samuel 25:32, 33) Soon thereafter, Nabal died and Abigail became David’s wife.—1 Samuel 25:37-41.
What can we learn from Abigail? Although beautiful and wealthy, Abigail had a balanced view of herself. To keep peace, she was willing to apologize for something that was not her fault. She handled a tense situation calmly and did so with tact, courage, and resourcefulness.
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For a further discussion about Abigail, see the article “She Acted With Discretion.”
Deborah
Who was Deborah? She was a prophetess whom Israel’s God, Jehovah, used to reveal his will on matters affecting his people. God also used her to help settle problems among the Israelites.—Judges 4:4, 5.
What did she do? The prophetess Deborah courageously supported God’s worshippers. At his direction, she summoned Barak to lead an Israelite army against their Canaanite oppressors. (Judges 4:6, 7) When Barak asked Deborah to go with him, she did not give in to fear but willingly complied with his request.—Judges 4:8, 9.
After God gave the Israelites a decisive victory, Deborah composed at least part of the song that she and Barak sang recounting the event. In that song she mentioned the role that Jael, another fearless woman, had played in defeating the Canaanites.—Judges, chapter 5.
What can we learn from Deborah? Deborah was self-sacrificing and courageous. She encouraged others to do the right thing in God’s eyes. When they did so, she generously gave them credit for what they did.
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For a further discussion about Deborah, see the article “I Arose as a Mother in Israel.”
Delilah
Who was Delilah? She was a woman with whom the Israelite judge Samson fell in love.—Judges 16:4, 5.
What did she do? She accepted money from Philistine officials to betray Samson, whom God had been using to deliver the Israelites from the Philistines. The Philistines were unable to overpower him because of his miraculous physical strength. (Judges 13:5) So their officials sought help from Delilah.
The Philistines bribed Delilah to find out how Samson got his great strength. Delilah accepted the money, and after several attempts, she finally succeeded in uncovering Samson’s secret. (Judges 16:15-17) She then told his secret to the Philistines, who captured and imprisoned Samson.—Judges 16:18-21.
What can we learn from Delilah? Delilah is a warning example. Overcome by greed, she acted in a deceitful, disloyal, and selfish way toward a servant of Jehovah God.
Esther
Who was Esther? She was a Jewess who was chosen by Persian King Ahasuerus to become his queen.
What did she do? Queen Esther used her influence to prevent the genocide of her own people. She discovered that an official decree had been issued that designated a specific day on which all Jews living in the Persian Empire were to be killed. This evil scheme was the work of a man named Haman, who was the prime minister. (Esther 3:13-15; 4:1, 5) With the help of her older cousin, Mordecai, and at the risk of her life, Esther revealed the scheme to her husband, King Ahasuerus. (Esther 4:10-16; 7:1-10) Ahasuerus then allowed Esther and Mordecai to issue another decree, authorizing the Jews to defend themselves. The Jews thoroughly defeated their enemies.—Esther 8:5-11; 9:16, 17.
What can we learn from Esther? Queen Esther set an outstanding example of courage, humility, and modesty. (Psalm 31:24; Philippians 2:3) Despite her beauty and position, she sought counsel and help. When speaking with her husband, she was tactful and respectful, but bold. And at a time of great danger for the Jews, she courageously identified herself as one of them.
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For a further discussion about Esther, see the articles “She Stood Up for God’s People” and “She Acted Wisely, Bravely, and Selflessly.”
Eve
Who was Eve? She was the very first woman and is the first woman mentioned in the Bible.
What did she do? Eve disobeyed a clear command from God. Like her husband, Adam, Eve was created as a perfect human with free will and the ability to cultivate godly qualities, such as love and wisdom. (Genesis 1:27) Eve knew that God had told Adam that if they ate from a certain tree, they would die. However, she was deceived into believing that she would not die. In fact, she was led to believe that she would be better off if she disobeyed God. So she ate the fruit and later induced her husband to eat it as well.—Genesis 3:1-6; 1 Timothy 2:14.
What can we learn from Eve? Eve is a warning example of the danger of dwelling on wrong desires. Against God’s clear command, she developed an overpowering longing to take what did not belong to her.—Genesis 3:6; 1 John 2:16.
Hannah
Who was Hannah? She was the wife of Elkanah and the mother of Samuel, who became a prominent prophet in ancient Israel.—1 Samuel 1:1, 2, 4-7.
What did she do? When Hannah was childless, she turned to God for comfort. Hannah’s husband had two wives. His other wife, Peninnah, had children; however, Hannah remained childless for a long time after her marriage. Peninnah cruelly taunted her, but Hannah prayed to God for comfort. She made a vow to God, saying that if God granted her a son, she would give the child to him by arranging for the child to serve at the tabernacle, a transportable tent used by Israel for worship.—1 Samuel 1:11.
God answered Hannah’s prayer, and she gave birth to Samuel. Hannah kept her promise and took Samuel to serve at the tabernacle when he was still a little boy. (1 Samuel 1:27, 28) Year after year, she made a sleeveless coat for him and took it to him. In time, God blessed Hannah with five more children—three sons and two daughters.—1 Samuel 2:18-21.
What can we learn from Hannah? Hannah’s heartfelt prayers helped her to endure trials. Her prayer of gratitude recorded at 1 Samuel 2:1-10 reflects her deep faith in God.
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For a further discussion about Hannah, see the article “She Opened Her Heart to God in Prayer.”
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For a discussion of why God tolerated polygamy among his ancient people, see the article “Does God Approve of Polygamy?”
Jael
Who was Jael? She was the wife of Heber, a non-Israelite. Jael took a fearless stand for God’s people.
What did she do? Jael acted decisively when Sisera, the chief of the Canaanite army, showed up in her camp. Sisera had lost his battle against Israel and was now looking for refuge and shelter. Jael invited him into her tent to hide and rest. While he was sleeping, she executed him.—Judges 4:17-21.
Jael’s action fulfilled a prophecy spoken by Deborah: “It will be into the hand of a woman that Jehovah will give Sisera.” (Judges 4:9) For her role, Jael was praised as the “most blessed of women.”—Judges 5:24.
What can we learn from Jael? Jael acted with initiative and courage. Her experience shows how God can maneuver events to fulfill prophecy.
Jezebel
Who was Jezebel? She was the wife of Israelite King Ahab. She was a non-Israelite and did not worship Jehovah. Instead, she worshipped the Canaanite god Baal.
What did she do? Queen Jezebel was domineering, ruthless, and violent. She promoted Baal worship and the sexual immorality associated with it. At the same time, she tried to eliminate the worship of the true God, Jehovah.—1 Kings 18:4, 13; 19:1-3.
Jezebel resorted to lies and murder to satisfy her selfish whims. (1 Kings 21:8-16) As God had foretold, she died violently and did not receive a burial.—1 Kings 21:23; 2 Kings 9:10, 32-37.
What can we learn from Jezebel? Jezebel is a warning example. She was so morally corrupt and unscrupulous that her name has become a symbol for a shameless, immoral, and unrestrained woman.
Leah
Who was Leah? She was the first wife of the patriarch Jacob. Her younger sister, Rachel, was his other wife.—Genesis 29:20-29.
What did she do? Leah became the mother of six of Jacob’s sons. (Ruth 4:11) Jacob had intended to marry Rachel, not Leah. However, the girls’ father, Laban, arranged for Leah to take Rachel’s place. When Jacob realized that he had been tricked into marrying Leah, he confronted Laban. Laban asserted that it was not the custom for the younger daughter to marry before the older one. A week later, Jacob married Rachel.—Genesis 29:26-28.
Jacob loved Rachel more than Leah. (Genesis 29:30) As a result, Leah jealously competed with her sister for Jacob’s affections. God took note of Leah’s feelings and blessed her with seven children—six sons and one daughter.—Genesis 29:31.
What can we learn from Leah? Leah relied on God in prayer and did not let her distressing family situation blind her to God’s support. (Genesis 29:32-35; 30:20) The account of her life realistically portrays the failings of polygamy, an arrangement that God tolerated for a time. His approved standard of marriage is for a husband or wife to have just one spouse.—Matthew 19:4-6.
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For a further discussion about Leah, see the article “Distressed Sisters Who ‘Built the House of Israel.’”
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For a discussion of why God tolerated polygamy among his people for a time, see the article “Does God Approve of Polygamy?”
Martha
Who was Martha? She was the sister of Lazarus and Mary, and all three lived near Jerusalem in the village of Bethany.
What did she do? Martha enjoyed a close friendship with Jesus, who “loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.” (John 11:5) Martha was a hospitable woman. During one of Jesus’ visits, Mary chose to listen to Jesus while Martha attended to household duties. Martha complained to him that Mary was not helping her. Jesus gently corrected Martha’s viewpoint.—Luke 10:38-42.
When Lazarus became sick, Martha and her sister sent for Jesus, confident that he could heal their brother. (John 11:3, 21) But Lazarus died. Martha’s conversation with Jesus reflected her confidence in the Bible’s promise of a resurrection and in Jesus’ ability to bring her brother back to life.—John 11:20-27.
What can we learn from Martha? Martha worked hard in extending hospitality. She willingly accepted counsel. She spoke openly about her feelings and her faith.
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For a further discussion about Martha, see the article “I Have Believed.”
Mary (mother of Jesus)
Who was Mary? She was a young Jewish woman, and she was a virgin at the time she gave birth to Jesus, having conceived God’s son miraculously.
What did she do? Mary humbly did God’s will. She was engaged to Joseph when an angel appeared to her and announced that she would become pregnant and give birth to the long-awaited Messiah. (Luke 1:26-33) She willingly accepted her role. After Jesus was born, Mary and Joseph had four sons together and at least two daughters. So Mary did not remain a virgin. (Matthew 13:55, 56) Although she enjoyed a unique privilege, she never sought or received adulation, either during Jesus’ ministry or as a member of the early Christian congregation.
What can we learn from Mary? Mary was a faithful woman who willingly accepted a serious responsibility. She had an excellent knowledge of the Scriptures. By one estimate, she made some 20 references to the Scriptures when she uttered the words recorded at Luke 1:46-55.
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For a further discussion about Mary, see the article “What Mary’s Example Can Teach Us.”
Mary (sister of Martha and Lazarus)
Who was Mary? Along with her brother, Lazarus, and her sister, Martha, she enjoyed a close friendship with Jesus.
What did she do? Mary repeatedly showed keen appreciation for Jesus as the Son of God. She expressed faith that Jesus could have prevented the death of her brother, Lazarus, and she was present when Jesus resurrected him. Her sister, Martha, criticized Mary when Mary chose to listen to Jesus rather than help with household duties. But Jesus commended Mary for having spiritual priorities.—Luke 10:38-42.
On another occasion, Mary extended exceptional hospitality to Jesus by putting “costly perfumed oil” on Jesus’ head and feet. (Matthew 26:6, 7) Others present accused Mary of being wasteful. But Jesus defended her, saying: “Wherever this good news [of God’s Kingdom] is preached in all the world, what this woman did will also be told in memory of her.”—Matthew 24:14; 26:8-13.
What can we learn from Mary? Mary cultivated deep faith. She put the worship of God ahead of mundane matters. And she humbly honored Jesus, even at considerable financial cost.
Mary Magdalene
Who was Mary Magdalene? She was a loyal disciple of Jesus.
What did she do? Mary Magdalene was one of several women who traveled with Jesus and his disciples. She generously used her own funds to help care for their needs. (Luke 8:1-3) She followed Jesus till the end of his ministry, and she remained close by when he was executed. She had the privilege of being among the first to see Jesus after he was resurrected.—John 20:11-18.
What can we learn from Mary? Mary Magdalene generously supported Jesus’ ministry and remained a devoted disciple.
Miriam
Who was Miriam? She was the sister of Moses and Aaron. She is the first woman in the Bible called a prophetess.
What did she do? As a prophetess, she had a role in relating God’s messages. She enjoyed a prominent position in Israel and shared with the men in a victory song after God destroyed the Egyptian army in the Red Sea.—Exodus 15:1, 20, 21.
Sometime later, Miriam and Aaron spoke critically of Moses. They were evidently motivated by pride and jealousy. God “was listening,” and he strongly counseled both Miriam and Aaron. (Numbers 12:1-9) God then struck Miriam with leprosy, apparently because she had instigated the critical talk. When Moses pleaded with God on her behalf, God healed her. After a seven-day quarantine, she was allowed to rejoin the camp of Israel.—Numbers 12:10-15.
The Bible indicates that Miriam accepted the correction. Centuries later, God referred to her unique privilege when he reminded the Israelites: “I sent before you Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.”—Micah 6:4.
What can we learn from Miriam? Miriam’s story reveals that God pays attention to what his worshippers say to or about one another. We also learn that to please God, we must avoid undue pride and jealousy—traits that may cause us to smear the good reputation of others.
Rachel
Who was Rachel? She was a daughter of Laban and the favored wife of the patriarch Jacob.
What did she do? Rachel married Jacob and bore him two sons, who came to be among the founding heads of the 12 tribes of ancient Israel. Rachel met her future husband while she was tending her father’s sheep. (Genesis 29:9, 10) She was “very attractive” compared with her older sister, Leah.—Genesis 29:17.
Jacob fell in love with Rachel, and he agreed to work for seven years so that he could marry her. (Genesis 29:18) However, Laban tricked Jacob into marrying Leah first, after which Laban permitted Jacob to marry Rachel.—Genesis 29:25-27.
Jacob loved Rachel and her two sons more than he loved Leah and his children by her. (Genesis 37:3; 44:20, 27-29) As a result, there was rivalry between the two women.—Genesis 29:30; 30:1, 15.
What can we learn from Rachel? Rachel endured a difficult family situation without losing hope that God would hear her prayers. (Genesis 30:22-24) Her story reveals the strain that polygamy puts on families. Rachel’s experience demonstrates the wisdom of God’s original standard for marriage—that a man have only one wife.—Matthew 19:4-6.
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For a further discussion about Rachel, see the article “Distressed Sisters Who ‘Built the House of Israel.’”
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For a discussion of why God tolerated polygamy among his people for a time, see the article “Does God Approve of Polygamy?”
Rahab
Who was Rahab? She was a prostitute who lived in the Canaanite city of Jericho, and she became a worshipper of Jehovah God.
What did she do? Rahab hid two Israelites who were spying out the land. She did this because she had heard reports of how Israel’s God, Jehovah, delivered his people from Egypt and later from an attack by a tribe called the Amorites.
Rahab helped the spies and pleaded with them to spare her and her family when the Israelites came to destroy Jericho. They agreed, but on certain conditions: She would keep their mission secret, she and her family would remain inside her house when the Israelites attacked, and she would hang a scarlet cord from her window to identify her home. Rahab obeyed every instruction, and she and her family survived when the Israelites captured Jericho.
Rahab later married an Israelite and became an ancestress of both King David and Jesus Christ.—Joshua 2:1-24; 6:25; Matthew 1:5, 6, 16.
What can we learn from Rahab? The Bible refers to Rahab as an outstanding example of faith. (Hebrews 11:30, 31; James 2:25) Her story illustrates that God is both forgiving and impartial, blessing those who trust in him, regardless of their background.
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For a further discussion about Rahab, see the article “She Was ‘Declared Righteous by Works.’”
Rebekah
Who was Rebekah? She was the wife of Isaac and the mother of their twin sons, Jacob and Esau.
What did she do? Rebekah did God’s will, even when doing so was difficult. While she was getting water from a well, a man asked her for a sip of water. Rebekah quickly gave him a drink and offered to draw water for the man’s camels. (Genesis 24:15-20) That man was Abraham’s servant, and he had traveled a great distance to find a wife for Isaac, Abraham’s son. (Genesis 24:2-4) He also prayed for God’s blessing. When he saw Rebekah’s industriousness and hospitality, he discerned that God had answered his prayer, indicating that she was His choice for Isaac.—Genesis 24:10-14, 21, 27.
When Rebekah learned of the servant’s quest, she agreed to return with him and become Isaac’s wife. (Genesis 24:57-59) Rebekah eventually had twin boys. God had revealed to her that the older boy, Esau, would serve the younger, Jacob. (Genesis 25:23) When Isaac arranged to give Esau the firstborn’s blessing, Rebekah took steps to make certain that the blessing came to Jacob, in harmony with what she knew to be God’s will.—Genesis 27:1-17.
What can we learn from Rebekah? Rebekah was modest, industrious, and hospitable—qualities that led to her success as a wife, mother, and worshipper of the true God.
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For a further discussion about Rebekah, see the article “I Am Willing to Go.”
Ruth
Who was Ruth? She was a Moabitess who left her gods and her homeland to become a worshipper of Jehovah in the land of Israel.
What did she do? Ruth showed extraordinary love to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Naomi, along with her husband and their two sons, had gone to Moab to escape a famine in Israel. The sons eventually married Moabite women—Ruth and Orpah. In time, though, Naomi’s husband and two sons died, leaving three widows.
Naomi decided to return to Israel, where the drought was now over. Ruth and Orpah chose to go with her. But Naomi asked them to return to their relatives. Orpah did so. (Ruth 1:1-6, 15) Ruth, however, loyally stuck with her mother-in-law. She loved Naomi and wanted to worship Naomi’s God, Jehovah.—Ruth 1:16, 17; 2:11.
Ruth’s reputation as a devoted daughter-in-law and a hard worker soon earned her a good name in Naomi’s hometown, Bethlehem. A wealthy landowner named Boaz was deeply impressed by Ruth and generously provided food for her and Naomi. (Ruth 2:5-7, 20) Ruth later married Boaz and became an ancestress of both King David and Jesus Christ.—Matthew 1:5, 6, 16.
What can we learn from Ruth? Out of love for Naomi and Jehovah, Ruth willingly uprooted her life. She was hardworking, devoted, and loyal, even in the face of adversity.
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For a further discussion about Ruth, see the articles “Where You Go I Shall Go” and “An Excellent Woman.”
Sarah
Who was Sarah? She was Abraham’s wife and the mother of Isaac.
What did she do? Sarah left a comfortable life in the prosperous city of Ur because she had faith in God’s promises to her husband, Abraham. God told Abraham to leave Ur and go to the land of Canaan. God promised to bless him and make him into a great nation. (Genesis 12:1-5) Sarah may have been in her 60’s at the time. From then on, Sarah and her husband lived a nomadic life in tents.
Although nomadic life exposed Sarah to danger, she supported Abraham as he followed God’s direction. (Genesis 12:10, 15) For many years, Sarah was childless, which grieved her considerably. Yet, God had promised to bless Abraham’s offspring. (Genesis 12:7; 13:15; 15:18; 16:1, 2, 15) In time, God affirmed that Sarah would have Abraham’s child. She did give birth when she was well past the age of childbearing. She was 90 years old, and her husband was 100 years old. (Genesis 17:17; 21:2-5) They named the child Isaac.
What can we learn from Sarah? Sarah’s example teaches us that we can always trust God to fulfill his promises, even seemingly impossible ones! (Hebrews 11:11) And her example as a wife highlights the importance of respect in a marriage.—1 Peter 3:5, 6.
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For a further discussion about Sarah, see the articles “What a Beautiful Woman You Are” and “God Called Her ‘Princess.’”
Shulammite girl
Who was the Shulammite girl? She was a beautiful country girl and the principal character in the Bible book called the Song of Solomon. The Bible does not reveal her name.
What did she do? The Shulammite maiden remained loyal to the shepherd boy she loved. (Song of Solomon 2:16) Her exceptional beauty, however, caught the attention of wealthy King Solomon, who tried to win her affections. (Song of Solomon 7:6) Although others urged her to choose Solomon, the Shulammite girl refused. She loved the lowly shepherd boy and was loyal to him.—Song of Solomon 3:5; 7:10; 8:6.
What can we learn from the Shulammite girl? She maintained a modest view of herself despite her beauty and the attention she received. She did not allow her affections to be swayed by peer pressure or the promise of material wealth and prestige. She kept her emotions under control and remained morally chaste.
Wife of Lot
Who was Lot’s wife? The Bible does not mention her name. But it does tell us that she had two daughters and that she and her family made a home in the city of Sodom.—Genesis 19:1, 15.
What did she do? She disobeyed a command of God. God had determined to destroy Sodom and the neighboring cities because of their gross sexual immorality. Out of love for righteous Lot and his family, who lived in Sodom, God sent two angels to escort them to safety.—Genesis 18:20; 19:1, 12, 13.
The angels told Lot’s family to flee the area and not to look back; otherwise, they would die. (Genesis 19:17) Lot’s wife “began to look back, and she became a pillar of salt.”—Genesis 19:26.
What can we learn from the wife of Lot? Her story highlights the danger of loving material things to the point of disobeying God. Jesus cited her as a warning example. “Remember the wife of Lot,” he said.—Luke 17:32.
Timeline of Women in the Bible
2. Flood (2370 B.C.E.)
3. Sarah
4. Wife of Lot
5. Rebekah
6. Leah
7. Rachel
8. Exodus (1513 B.C.E.)
9. Miriam
10. Rahab
11. Ruth
12. Deborah
13. Jael
14. Delilah
15. Hannah
16. Israel’s first king (1117 B.C.E.)
17. Abigail
18. Shulammite girl
19. Jezebel
20. Esther
22. Jesus’ baptism (29 C.E.)
23. Martha
24. Mary (sister of Martha and Lazarus)
25. Mary Magdalene
Jesus’ death (33 C.E.)
Is Mary the Mother of God?
The Bible’s answer
No, the Bible does not teach that Mary is the mother of God, nor does it suggest that Christians should either worship or venerate Mary. Consider:
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Mary never claimed that she was the mother of God. The Bible explains that she gave birth to “the Son of God,” not God himself.—Mark 1:1; Luke 1:32.
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Jesus Christ never said that Mary was God’s mother or that she was worthy of special devotion. In fact, he corrected a woman who gave special attention to Mary’s happy role as his mother, saying: “No, rather, happy are those hearing the word of God and keeping it!”—Luke 11:27, 28.
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The terms “Mother of God” and “Theotokos” (God-bearer) are not found in the Bible.
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The expression “Queen of Heaven” in the Bible refers, not to Mary, but to a false goddess worshipped by apostate Israelites. (Jeremiah 44:15-19) The “Queen of Heaven” may have been Ishtar (Astarte), a Babylonian goddess.
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Early Christians did not worship Mary, nor did they give her any special honor. One historian states that early Christians “would have rejected cults and probably feared that undue attention to Mary might evoke a suspicion of goddess worship.”—In Quest of the Jewish Mary.
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The Bible says that God has always existed. (Psalm 90:1, 2; Isaiah 40:28) Since he had no beginning, he cannot have a mother. Furthermore, Mary could not have held God in her womb; the Bible makes clear that even the heavens cannot contain him.—1 Kings 8:27.
Mary—Mother of Jesus not “Mother of God”
Mary was Jewish by birth, and she was a direct descendant of King David. (Luke 3:23-31) She was highly favored by God for her faith and devotion. (Luke 1:28) God chose her to become the mother of Jesus. (Luke 1:31, 35) Along with her husband, Joseph, Mary had other children.—Mark 6:3.
Although the Bible shows that Mary became a disciple of Jesus, not much additional information is given about her.—Acts 1:14.
Why do some consider Mary the mother of God?
The earliest evidence of devotion to Mary dates from the late fourth century C.E. At that time, the Catholic Church became the State religion of the Roman Empire. As a result, many who had a pagan background became nominal Christians. The church had also adopted the unscriptural teaching of the Trinity.
The doctrine of the Trinity led many in the church to conclude that if Jesus were God, then Mary must be the mother of God. In 431 C.E., a church council in Ephesus officially proclaimed Mary the “Mother of God.” Mariolatry—the excessive veneration of Mary—flourished after this Council of Ephesus. And as those from a pagan background joined the church, images and icons of the Virgin Mary gradually took the place of their fertility goddesses, such as Artemis (Diana, to the Romans) and Isis.
In 432 C.E., Pope Sixtus III ordered a church to be built in Rome in honour of the “Mother of God.” It was built near the site of an earlier temple erected in honour of Lucina, the Roman goddess of childbirth. One author described this church as “an enduring symbol of the assimilation of the Great Mother of the pagan cults to the cult of Mary after the Christianization of Rome.”—Mary—The Complete Resource.
The Virgin Mary—What Does the Bible Say About Her?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible says that Mary, the mother of Jesus, had the unique privilege of giving birth to him while she was still a virgin. The Bible foretold this miracle in the book of Isaiah and reported its fulfillment in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.
In a prophecy about the appearance of the Messiah, Isaiah foretold: “Look! The young woman will become pregnant and will give birth to a son.” (Isaiah 7:14) Under divine inspiration, the Gospel writer Matthew applied Isaiah’s prophecy to Mary’s conception of Jesus. After reporting that Mary miraculously became pregnant, Matthew added: “All of this actually came about to fulfill what was spoken by Jehovah through his prophet, saying: ‘Look! The virgin will become pregnant and will give birth to a son, and they will name him Immanuel,’ which means, when translated, ‘With Us Is God.’”—Matthew 1:22, 23.
The Gospel writer Luke also reported Mary’s miraculous pregnancy. He wrote that God sent the angel Gabriel “to a virgin promised in marriage to a man named Joseph of David’s house, and the name of the virgin was Mary.” (Luke 1:26, 27) Mary confirmed that she was a virgin. After hearing that she was to become the mother of Jesus, the Messiah, Mary asked: “How is this to be, since I am not having sexual relations with a man?”—Luke 1:34.
How could a virgin birth happen?
Mary’s pregnancy came about by means of holy spirit, which is God’s power in action. (Matthew 1:18) Mary was told: “Holy Spirit will come upon you, and power of the Most High will overshadow you. And for that reason the one who is born will be called holy, God’s Son.” (Luke 1:35) God miraculously transferred his Son’s life to the womb of Mary, causing her to conceive a child.
What was the purpose of the virgin birth?
God used the virgin birth to provide Jesus with a perfect human body so that Jesus could save mankind from sin and death. (John 3:16; Hebrews 10:5) God transferred Jesus’ life to the womb of Mary. Thereafter, God’s holy spirit evidently shielded the developing embryo from acquiring any imperfection.—Luke 1:35.
Jesus was thus born a perfect human, an equal to what Adam had been before he sinned. The Bible says of Jesus: “He committed no sin.” (1 Peter 2:22) As a perfect man, Jesus could pay the ransom to redeem humans from sin and death.—1 Corinthians 15:21, 22; 1 Timothy 2:5, 6.
Did Mary remain a virgin?
The Bible does not teach that Mary was ever-virgin, or a perpetual virgin. Rather, it shows that Mary had other children.—Matthew 12:46; Mark 6:3; Luke 2:7; John 7:5.
The Bible teaches that Jesus had a number of siblings
Was Jesus’ virgin birth the “Immaculate Conception”?
No. According to the New Catholic Encyclopedia, the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception “designates the belief that the Virgin Mary was free from ORIGINAL SIN from the very beginning of her life, i.e., from her conception. The rest of mankind inherits a human nature infected with sin . . . But Mary was, by a unique GRACE, preserved from ever contracting original sin.”
By contrast, nowhere does the Bible teach that Mary was free from original sin. (Psalm 51:5; Romans 5:12) In fact, Mary gave evidence that she was sinful when she presented the sin-atoning sacrifice that the Mosaic Law required of mothers. (Leviticus 12:2-8; Luke 2:21-24) The New Catholic Encyclopedia states: “The Immaculate Conception is not taught explicitly in Scripture . . . [It] is a judgment that the Church has made.”
How should we view Mary?
Mary set a fine example of faith, obedience, humility, and deep spirituality. She is among the faithful ones whom we do well to imitate.—Hebrews 6:12.
Yet, despite her unique role as the mother of Jesus, the Bible does not teach that we should worship Mary or pray to her. Jesus did not single out his mother for special honour, nor did he tell his followers to do so. In fact, outside of the Gospel accounts and a single reference in the book of Acts, Mary is not mentioned in the remaining 22 books of the so-called New Testament.—Acts 1:14.
The Scriptures provide no evidence that Mary received special attention—let alone veneration—by first-century Christians. Rather, the Bible teaches Christians to worship only God.—Matthew 4:10.
Who Were the “Three Wise Men”? Did They Follow the “Star” of Bethlehem?
The Bible’s answer
Contrary to popular Christmas tradition, the Bible does not use the terms “three wise men” or “three kings” to describe the travellers who went to see Jesus after his birth. (Matthew 2:1) Instead, the Gospel writer Matthew used the Greek word ma’goi to describe those who visited Jesus. The word likely refers to experts in astrology and other occult practices. A number of Bible translations call them “astrologers” or “magi.”
How many “wise men” were there?
The Bible does not say, and traditions about their number vary. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, “Eastern tradition sets the number of Magi at 12, but Western tradition sets their number at three, probably based on the three gifts of ‘gold, frankincense, and myrrh’ (Matthew 2:11) presented to the infant.”
Were the “wise men” kings?
Although in Christmas tradition the visitors are often depicted that way, nowhere does the Bible call them kings. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, that designation was added centuries later as part of the traditions that “embellished the narrative.”
What were the names of the “wise men”?
The Bible does not reveal the names of the astrologers. According to The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, “attempts to name them (e.g., Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthasar) rest upon legends.”
When did the “wise men” visit Jesus?
The astrologers may have visited Jesus a number of months after his birth. This is evident because King Herod, who wanted to have Jesus killed, ordered the slaughter of boys who were two years old and younger. He based that age range on information he had received from the astrologers.—Matthew 2:16.
The astrologers did not visit Jesus on the night of his birth. The Bible says: “When they went into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother.” (Matthew 2:11) This indicates that the family were by then living in a house and that Jesus was no longer an infant in a manger.—Luke 2:16.
Did God have the “wise men” follow the “star” of Bethlehem?
Some people believe that God sent the so-called star of Bethlehem to guide the astrologers to Jesus. Consider why that cannot be the case.
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What appeared to be a star led the astrologers first to Jerusalem. The Bible says: “Astrologers from the East came to Jerusalem, saying: ‘Where is the one born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when we were in the East, and we have come to do obeisance to him.’”—Matthew 2:1, 2.
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King Herod, not the “star,” was the first to direct the astrologers to Bethlehem. When he heard of a rival “king of the Jews,” Herod investigated where the promised Christ was to be born. (Matthew 2:3-6) On learning that it was to be in Bethlehem, he told the astrologers to go there, look for the child, and report back to him.
Only then did the astrologers go to Bethlehem. The Bible says: “After they had heard the king, they went their way, and look! the star they had seen when they were in the East went ahead of them until it came to a stop above where the young child was.”—Matthew 2:9.
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The appearance of the “star” set in motion events that threatened the life of Jesus and resulted in the murder of innocent children. When the astrologers left Bethlehem, God warned them not to return to Herod.—Matthew 2:12.
How did Herod react? The Bible says: “Herod, seeing that he had been outwitted by the astrologers, flew into a great rage, and he sent out and had all the boys in Bethlehem and in all its districts killed, from two years of age and under, according to the time that he had carefully ascertained from the astrologers.” (Matthew 2:16) God would not have caused such a wicked thing to be done.—Job 34:10.
The Story of Noah and the Great Flood—Is It Just a Myth?
The Bible’s answer
The Flood was a real event. God caused it in order to destroy the wicked people, but he had Noah build an ark to preserve the good people and the animals. (Genesis 6:11-20) We can believe that the Flood really happened because it is recorded in Scripture, which “is inspired of God.”—2 Timothy 3:16.
Fact or fable?
The Bible indicates that Noah was a real person and that the Flood was a real event, not a fable or a myth.
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Bible writers believed that Noah was a real person. For example, the Bible writers Ezra and Luke were skilled historians who included Noah in genealogies of the nation of Israel. (1 Chronicles 1:4; Luke 3:36) The Gospel writers Matthew and Luke recorded Jesus’ remarks about Noah and the Flood.—Matthew 24:37-39; Luke 17:26, 27.
Also, the prophet Ezekiel and the apostle Paul cited Noah as an example of faith and righteousness. (Ezekiel 14:14, 20; Hebrews 11:7) Would it make sense for these writers to point to a mythical person as an example to follow? Clearly, Noah and other men and women of faith are examples to imitate because they were real people.—Hebrews 12:1; James 5:17.
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The Bible gives specific details about the Flood. The Bible account of the Flood does not begin with anything like “Once upon a time,” as if it were a fairy tale. Rather, the Bible states the year, the month, and the day that events connected with the Flood happened. (Genesis 7:11; 8:4, 13, 14) It also gives the dimensions of the ark that Noah built. (Genesis 6:15) These details show that the Bible presents the Flood as a fact, not as a fable.
Why did the Flood happen?
According to the Bible, before the Flood “man’s wickedness was great.” (Genesis 6:5) It adds that “the earth had become ruined in the sight of the true God” because it was filled with violence and sexual immorality.—Genesis 6:11; Jude 6, 7.
The Bible says that much of this trouble was caused by wicked angels who left heaven to have relations with women. These angels had offspring called Nephilim, who wreaked havoc on humankind. (Genesis 6:1, 2, 4) God decided to clear the earth of wickedness and allow good people to have a fresh start.—Genesis 6:6, 7, 17.
Did people know that the Flood was coming?
Yes. God told Noah what would happen and instructed him to build an ark to preserve his family and the animals. (Genesis 6:13, 14; 7:1-4) Noah warned people of the coming destruction, but they ignored his warnings. (2 Peter 2:5) The Bible says: “They took no note until the Flood came and swept them all away.”—Matthew 24:37-39.
What did Noah’s ark look like?
The ark was a large rectangular chest, or box, about 133 meters (437 ft) long, 22 meters (73 ft) wide, and 13 meters (44 ft) high. The ark was made out of resinous wood, and it was covered with tar inside and out. It had three stories, or decks, and a number of compartments. There was a door in the side of the ark and evidently a window along the top. It seems likely that the ark had a roof that peaked in the middle with a slight pitch to allow water to run off.—Genesis 6:14-16.
How long did it take Noah to build the ark?
The Bible does not say how long it took Noah to build the ark, but it seems that he spent several decades building it. Noah was more than 500 years old when his first son was born, and he was 600 years old when the Flood occurred. *—Genesis 5:32; 7:6.
God told Noah to build the ark after his three sons were grown and married, which could have taken some 50 or 60 years. (Genesis 6:14, 18) Based on this possibility, it seems reasonable to conclude that the ark could have taken 40 or 50 years to complete.
Great flood stories, myths, and legends
Flood stories that differ from the historical account in the Bible are common worldwide, but many share elements common to the Bible account. As Noah’s descendants spread throughout the earth, it seems that they retold the story of the Flood. In time, however, the story evidently became distorted into various forms. Consider some examples.
Greek legend: The man and woman who survive a flood are ordered to repopulate the earth by throwing stones behind their backs. The stones then become men and women.
Hindu legend: A man is warned by a fish that a flood will destroy mankind. The fish instructs the man to build a boat. The man survives the flood because the fish guides the boat to safety.
Babylonian legend: The man and woman who survive a flood are granted immortality and become gods
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Central American legend: A man, his wife, and their children survive a flood while all other men are turned into fish.
What Is the Ark of the Covenant?
The Bible’s answer
The ark of the covenant was a sacred chest made by the ancient Israelites according to the command and design of God. It housed and protected “the Testimony,” the Ten Commandments written on two stone tablets.—Exodus 25:8-10, 16; 31:18.
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Construction. The Ark measured 2.5 cubits long, 1.5 cubits wide, and 1.5 cubits high (111 x 67 x 67 cm; 44 x 26 x 26 in.). It was built of acacia wood and was overlaid inside and out with gold, with an artistic border. Its cover, made of solid gold, featured two golden cherubs, one at each end. They faced each other with their faces toward the cover and their wings extending upward, overshadowing the cover. The Ark had four rings of cast gold above its feet. Acacia-wood poles overlaid with gold were put through the rings and were used for carrying the Ark.—Exodus 25:10-21; 37:6-9.
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Location. The Ark was initially kept in the Most Holy compartment of the tabernacle, a transportable tent of worship that was made at the same time as the Ark. The Most Holy was screened off from the view of the priests and the people. (Exodus 40:3, 21) Only the high priest could enter this compartment, one day each year on Atonement Day, and see the Ark. (Leviticus 16:2; Hebrews 9:7) Later, the Ark was moved to the Most Holy in Solomon’s temple.—1 Kings 6:14, 19.
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Purpose. The Ark was an archive for sacred items that would remind the Israelites of the covenant, or agreement, that God had made with them at Mount Sinai. It also played a key role in the Atonement Day ceremony.—Leviticus 16:3, 13-17.
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Contents. The stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments were the first items placed in the Ark. (Exodus 40:20) A golden jar of manna and “Aaron’s rod that budded” were later added. (Hebrews 9:4; Exodus 16:33, 34; Numbers 17:10) Evidently, the jar and rod were removed at some point, because they were not in the Ark when it was moved into the temple.—1 Kings 8:9.
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Transport. The Ark was to be carried by the Levites on their shoulders by means of the acacia-wood poles. (Numbers 7:9; 1 Chronicles 15:15) The poles remained attached to the Ark at all times, so the Levites never had to touch the Ark. (Exodus 25:12-16) “The screening curtain” that separated the Holy and the Most Holy was used to cover the Ark while it was being carried.—Numbers 4:5, 6. *
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Symbolism. The Ark was associated with God’s presence. For example, the cloud that appeared over the Ark in the Most Holy and at Israelite encampments was a sign of Jehovah’s presence and blessing. (Leviticus 16:2; Numbers 10:33-36) Also, the Bible says that Jehovah “[sat] enthroned above the cherubs,” referring to the two cherubs on the Ark’s cover. (1 Samuel 4:4; Psalm 80:1) Thus, these cherubs were “the representation of the chariot” of Jehovah. (1 Chronicles 28:18) Because of what the Ark symbolized, King David could write that Jehovah was “dwelling in Zion” after the Ark was moved there.—Psalm 9:11.
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Designations. The Bible uses a variety of terms for that sacred chest, including “the ark of the Testimony,” “the ark of the covenant,” “the Ark of Jehovah,” and “the Ark of your [Jehovah’s] strength.”—Numbers 7:89; Joshua 3:6, 13; 2 Chronicles 6:41.
The cover of the Ark was called “the propitiatory cover,” or “the mercy seat.” (1 Chronicles 28:11; King James Version) This term refers to the special function of the cover on the Day of Atonement, when the high priest of Israel would spatter the blood of sacrificed animals toward and before the cover. These actions of the high priest made propitiation for, or covered, sins “in behalf of himself and his house and in behalf of the entire congregation of Israel.”—Leviticus 16:14-17.
Does the ark of the covenant exist today?
There is no evidence that it does. The Bible shows that the Ark is no longer needed because the covenant associated with it has been replaced with “a new covenant,” one based on Jesus’ sacrifice. (Jeremiah 31:31-33; Hebrews 8:13; 12:24) The Bible thus foretold a time when the ark of the covenant would be no more, yet God’s people would not miss it.—Jeremiah 3:16.
In a vision given to the apostle John after the new covenant was established, the ark of the covenant appeared in heaven. (Revelation 11:15, 19) This symbolic Ark represents God’s presence and his blessing on the new covenant.
Did the Ark serve as a sort of magic charm?
No. Possessing the ark of the covenant did not guarantee success. For example, the Israelites had the Ark in their camp when battling the city of Ai, yet they suffered defeat because of one Israelite’s unfaithfulness. (Joshua 7:1-6) Later, they were defeated by the Philistines despite taking the ark of the covenant to the battlefield. That conquest was due to the wickedness of the Israelite priests Hophni and Phinehas. (1 Samuel 2:12; 4:1-11) The Philistines captured the Ark in that battle, but God struck them with plagues until they returned it to Israel.—1 Samuel 5:11–6:5.
History of the ark of the covenant
Year (B.C.E.) Event
1513 Made by Bezalel and his assistants using materials contributed by the Israelites.—Exodus 25:1, 2; 37:1.
1512 Inaugurated by Moses along with the tabernacle and priesthood.—Exodus 40:1-3, 9, 20, 21.
1512—After 1070 Moved to various locations.—Joshua 18:1; Judges 20:26, 27; 1 Samuel 1:24; 3:3; 6:11-14; 7:1, 2.
After 1070 Brought to Jerusalem by King David.—2 Samuel 6:12.
1026 Moved into Solomon’s temple in Jerusalem.—1 Kings 8:1, 6.
642 Returned to the temple by King Josiah.—2 Chronicles 35:3.
Before 607 Apparently removed from the temple. It is not mentioned in the inventories of articles taken to Babylon when the temple was destroyed in 607 B.C.E. or of those articles later returned to Jerusalem.—2 Kings 25:13-17; Ezra 1:7-11.
63 Declared to be missing by Roman General Pompey when he conquered Jerusalem and inspected the Most Holy of the temple.
Is the Shroud of Turin the Burial Cloth of Jesus?
The Bible’s answer
The Shroud of Turin is not mentioned in the Bible. It is a linen sheet thought by many to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ. As a result of this belief, the shroud is considered by some to be one of Christendom’s most sacred relics. A cathedral in Turin, Italy, now houses the shroud in a high-tech protective casing.
Do Bible accounts support the idea that the Shroud of Turin is genuine? No.
Consider three aspects of the shroud that differ from what the Bible says.
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The shroud is a single cloth measuring 442 by 113 centimeters (14 ft 6 in. by 3 ft 8 in.) plus an 8-centimeter (3 in.) strip sewed lengthwise.
What the Bible says: Jesus’ dead body was wrapped, not in one piece of linen, but in multiple strips of cloth. His head was wrapped in a separate cloth. After Jesus was resurrected, one of his apostles came to the empty tomb and “saw the linen cloths lying there.” The Bible adds: “The cloth that had been on his head was not lying with the other cloth bands but was rolled up in a place by itself.”—John 20:6, 7.
2. The shroud contains markings presumed to be bloodstains from an unwashed corpse.
What the Bible says: When Jesus died, his disciples prepared his body “according to the burial custom of the Jews.” (John 19:39-42) This custom included washing the corpse and applying oils and spices to it before burial. (Matthew 26:12; Acts 9:37) Therefore, Jesus’ disciples would have washed his body before wrapping it in cloths.
3. The shroud bears the image of a man “laid lengthwise along one half of the shroud while the other half had been doubled over the head to cover the whole front of the body,” according to the Encyclopædia Britannica.
What the Bible says: Jesus’ disciples discussed his death, his empty tomb, and the eyewitness testimony of women who saw “a supernatural sight of angels, who said he is alive.” (Luke 24:15-24) If the shroud had been in Jesus’ tomb, his disciples would no doubt have discussed it and the images on it. However, the Bible says nothing about such a discussion.
Should the shroud be venerated?
No. Even if it were authentic, venerating it would still be wrong. Consider Bible principles that explain why.
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It is unnecessary. Jesus explained: “God is a Spirit, and those worshipping him must worship with spirit and truth.” (John 4:24) True worship does not involve the use of religious relics or icons.
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It is forbidden. The Ten Commandments forbid idolatry. (Deuteronomy 5:6-10) Likewise, the Bible commands Christians: “Guard yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:21) Some might argue that for them the shroud is not an idol but an icon, or symbol, of their religious faith. However, an icon becomes an idol to the person who venerates it. Therefore, a person who wants to please God will not show devotion or reverence to any object, including the shroud.
Scientific analysis of the shroud
Since the late 19th century, researchers have tried to use scientific methods to test the authenticity of the shroud. Some of these tests have proven inconclusive. However, in 1988, the Vatican submitted small samples taken from the shroud to three laboratories in different countries. After the laboratories subjected the samples to radiocarbon dating, each one concluded that the shroud was from the 13th or 14th century.
Why Is Jesus Called the Son of God?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible often calls Jesus “the Son of God.” (John 1:49) The expression “Son of God” acknowledges that God is the Creator, or Source, of all life, including that of Jesus. (Psalm 36:9; Revelation 4:11) The Bible does not teach that God literally fathered a child in the same way that humans produce children.
The Bible also calls the angels “sons of the true God.” (Job 1:6) And the Bible says that the first human, Adam, was a “son of God.” (Luke 3:38) However, because Jesus was God’s first creation and the only one created directly by him, the Bible describes Jesus as the foremost Son of God.
Did Jesus live in heaven before he was born on earth?
Yes. Jesus was a spirit creature in heaven before he was born as a human on earth. Jesus himself said: “I have come down from heaven.”—John 6:38; 8:23.
God created Jesus before he created anything else. Regarding Jesus, the Bible says:
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“He is . . . the firstborn of all creation.”—Colossians 1:15.
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"He is . . . the beginning of the creation by God.”—Revelation 3:14.
Jesus fulfilled the prophecy about the one “whose origin is from ancient times, from the days of long ago.”—Micah 5:2; Matthew 2:4-6.
He held an exalted heavenly position. Jesus referred to this position when he prayed: “Father, glorify me . . . with the glory that I had alongside you before the world was.”—John 17:5.
He helped his Father create all other things. Jesus worked alongside God “as a master worker.” (Proverbs 8:30) Regarding Jesus, the Bible says: “By means of him all other things were created in the heavens and on the earth.”—Colossians 1:16.
God worked through Jesus to bring every other creation into existence. This creation included all other spirit creatures, as well as the physical universe. (Revelation 5:11) In some respects, this cooperation between God and Jesus was like that of an architect working with a builder. The architect creates the design; the builder brings the design to reality.
He served as the Word. When speaking of Jesus’ prehuman life, the Bible calls Jesus “the Word.” (John 1:1) Evidently, this means that God used his Son to convey information and instructions to other spirit creatures.
Jesus also seems to have acted as God’s Spokesman to humans on earth. God likely spoke through Jesus as the Word when giving instructions to Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden. (Genesis 2:16, 17) Jesus may have been the angel who guided the ancient Israelites through the wilderness and whose voice the Israelites were strictly to obey.—Exodus 23:20-23.
Who or What Is the Word of God?
The Bible’s answer
The expression “the word of God” usually refers to a divine message or to a collection of those messages. (Luke 11:28) In a few places, “The Word of God” or “the Word” is used as a personal title.—Revelation 19:13; John 1:14.
A divine message. The prophets often stated that the messages they delivered were God’s word. For example, Jeremiah introduced his prophetic messages with the expression “the word of Jehovah came to me.” (Jeremiah 1:4, 11, 13; 2:1) Before telling Saul that God had chosen him as king, the prophet Samuel said: “Stand still now, so that I may let you hear the word of God.”—1 Samuel 9:27.
A personal title. “The Word” also appears in the Bible as a title for Jesus Christ, both as a spirit in heaven and as a human on earth. Consider some reasons for this conclusion:
The Word lived before all other creation. “In the beginning was the Word . . . This one was in the beginning with God.” (John 1:1, 2) Jesus is “the firstborn of all creation . . . He is before all other things.”—Colossians 1:13-15, 17.
· The Word came to earth as a human. “The Word became flesh and resided among us.” (John 1:14) Christ Jesus “emptied himself and took a slave’s form and became human.”—Philippians 2:5-7.
· The Word is God’s Son. After stating that “the Word became flesh,” as quoted above, the apostle John continued: “We had a view of his glory, a glory such as belongs to an only-begotten son from a father.” (John 1:14) John also wrote: “Jesus is God’s Son.”—1 John 4:15.
· The Word possesses godlike attributes. “The Word was a god,” or “was divine.” (John 1:1; An American Translation) Jesus is “the reflection of God’s glory and the exact representation of his very being.”—Hebrews 1:2, 3.
· The Word rules as a king. The Bible states that on the head of the Word of God are “many royal headbands.” (Revelation 19:12, 13; footnote) The Word is also named “King of kings and Lord of lords.” (Revelation 19:16) Jesus is called “the King of those who rule as kings and Lord of those who rule as lords.”—1 Timothy 6:14, 15.
The Word serves as God’s spokesman. The title “the Word” apparently identifies its bearer as one whom God uses to convey information and instructions. Jesus said that he performed this role: “The Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment about what to say and what to speak. . . . So whatever I speak, I speak just as the Father has told me.”—John 12:49, 50.
Was Jesus Just a Good Man?
The Bible’s answer
Jesus was more than just a good man. At the very least, he has proved to be the most influential man in human history. Note what these famous historians and writers have said about him:
“Jesus of Nazareth . . . is easily the dominant figure in history.”—H. G. Wells, English historian.
“[Jesus’] life is the most influential ever lived on this planet and its effect continues to mount.”—Kenneth Scott Latourette, American historian and author.
The Bible identifies why Jesus has had a greater impact than any other good man who ever lived. When Jesus asked his closest followers who they thought he was, one of them correctly answered: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”—Matthew 16:16.
When Was Jesus Born?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible does not give a specific date for the birth of Jesus Christ, as these reference works show:
· “The true birth date of Christ is unknown.”—New Catholic Encyclopedia.
· “The exact date of Christ’s birth is not known.”—Encyclopedia of Early Christianity.
While the Bible does not directly answer the question, ‘When was Jesus born?’ it does describe two events surrounding his birth that lead many to conclude that he was not born on December 25.
Not in winter
1. The registration. Shortly before Jesus was born, Caesar Augustus issued a decree ordering “all the inhabited earth to be registered.” Everyone had to register in “his own city,” which might have required a journey of a week or more. (Luke 2:1-3) That order—probably made to support taxation and military conscription—would have been unpopular at any time of year, but it is unlikely that Augustus would have provoked his subjects further by forcing many of them to make long trips during the cold winter.
2. The sheep. Shepherds were “living out of doors and keeping watches in the night over their flocks.” (Luke 2:8) The book Daily Life in the Time of Jesus notes that flocks lived in the open air from “the week before the Passover [late March]” through mid-November. It then adds: “They passed the winter under cover; and from this alone it may be seen that the traditional date for Christmas, in the winter, is unlikely to be right, since the Gospel says that the shepherds were in the fields.”
In early autumn
We can estimate when Jesus was born by counting backward from his death on Passover, Nisan 14 in the spring of the year 33 C.E. (John 19:14-16) Jesus was about 30 years old when he began his three-and-a-half-year ministry, so he was born in the early autumn of 2 B.C.E.—Luke 3:23.
Why is Christmas on December 25?
Since there is no evidence that the birth of Jesus Christ occurred on December 25, why is Christmas celebrated on this date? The Encyclopædia Britannica says that church leaders probably chose it “to coincide with the pagan Roman festival marking the ‘birthday of the unconquered sun,’” at the time of the winter solstice. According to The Encyclopedia Americana, many scholars believe that this was done “in order to make Christianity more meaningful to pagan converts.”
The Virgin Mary—What Does the Bible Say About Her?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible says that Mary, the mother of Jesus, had the unique privilege of giving birth to him while she was still a virgin. The Bible foretold this miracle in the book of Isaiah and reported its fulfillment in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.
In a prophecy about the appearance of the Messiah, Isaiah foretold: “Look! The young woman will become pregnant and will give birth to a son.” (Isaiah 7:14) Under divine inspiration, the Gospel writer Matthew applied Isaiah’s prophecy to Mary’s conception of Jesus. After reporting that Mary miraculously became pregnant, Matthew added: “All of this actually came about to fulfill what was spoken by Jehovah through his prophet, saying: ‘Look! The virgin will become pregnant and will give birth to a son, and they will name him Immanuel,’ which means, when translated, ‘With Us Is God.’”—Matthew 1:22, 23.
The Gospel writer Luke also reported Mary’s miraculous pregnancy. He wrote that God sent the angel Gabriel “to a virgin promised in marriage to a man named Joseph of David’s house, and the name of the virgin was Mary.” (Luke 1:26, 27) Mary confirmed that she was a virgin. After hearing that she was to become the mother of Jesus, the Messiah, Mary asked: “How is this to be, since I am not having sexual relations with a man?”—Luke 1:34.
How could a virgin birth happen?
Mary’s pregnancy came about by means of holy spirit, which is God’s power in action. (Matthew 1:18) Mary was told: “Holy Spirit will come upon you, and power of the Most High will overshadow you. And for that reason the one who is born will be called holy, God’s Son.” (Luke 1:35) God miraculously transferred his Son’s life to the womb of Mary, causing her to conceive a child.
What was the purpose of the virgin birth?
God used the virgin birth to provide Jesus with a perfect human body so that Jesus could save mankind from sin and death. (John 3:16; Hebrews 10:5) God transferred Jesus’ life to the womb of Mary. Thereafter, God’s holy spirit evidently shielded the developing embryo from acquiring any imperfection.—Luke 1:35.
Jesus was thus born a perfect human, an equal to what Adam had been before he sinned. The Bible says of Jesus: “He committed no sin.” (1 Peter 2:22) As a perfect man, Jesus could pay the ransom to redeem humans from sin and death.—1 Corinthians 15:21, 22; 1 Timothy 2:5, 6.
Did Mary remain a virgin?
The Bible does not teach that Mary was ever-virgin, or a perpetual virgin. Rather, it shows that Mary had other children.—Matthew 12:46; Mark 6:3; Luke 2:7; John 7:5.
Was Jesus’ virgin birth the “Immaculate Conception”?
No. According to the New Catholic Encyclopedia, the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception “designates the belief that the Virgin Mary was free from ORIGINAL SIN from the very beginning of her life, i.e., from her conception. The rest of mankind inherits a human nature infected with sin . . . But Mary was, by a unique GRACE, preserved from ever contracting original sin.”
By contrast, nowhere does the Bible teach that Mary was free from original sin. (Psalm 51:5; Romans 5:12) In fact, Mary gave evidence that she was sinful when she presented the sin-atoning sacrifice that the Mosaic Law required of mothers. (Leviticus 12:2-8; Luke 2:21-24) The New Catholic Encyclopedia states: “The Immaculate Conception is not taught explicitly in Scripture . . . [It] is a judgment that the Church has made.”
How should we view Mary?
Mary set a fine example of faith, obedience, humility, and deep spirituality. She is among the faithful ones whom we do well to imitate.—Hebrews 6:12.
Yet, despite her unique role as the mother of Jesus, the Bible does not teach that we should worship Mary or pray to her. Jesus did not single out his mother for special honour, nor did he tell his followers to do so. In fact, outside of the Gospel accounts and a single reference in the book of Acts, Mary is not mentioned in the remaining 22 books of the so-called New Testament.—Acts 1:14.
The Scriptures provide no evidence that Mary received special attention—let alone veneration—by first-century Christians. Rather, the Bible teaches Christians to worship only God.—Matthew 4:10.
Who Were the “Three Wise Men”? Did They Follow the “Star” of Bethlehem?
The Bible’s answer
Contrary to popular Christmas tradition, the Bible does not use the terms “three wise men” or “three kings” to describe the travellers who went to see Jesus after his birth. (Matthew 2:1) Instead, the Gospel writer Matthew used the Greek word ma’goi to describe those who visited Jesus. The word likely refers to experts in astrology and other occult practices. A number of Bible translations call them “astrologers” or “magi.”
How many “wise men” were there?
The Bible does not say, and traditions about their number vary. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, “Eastern tradition sets the number of Magi at 12, but Western tradition sets their number at three, probably based on the three gifts of ‘gold, frankincense, and myrrh’ (Matthew 2:11) presented to the infant.”
Were the “wise men” kings?
Although in Christmas tradition the visitors are often depicted that way, nowhere does the Bible call them kings. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, that designation was added centuries later as part of the traditions that “embellished the narrative.”
What were the names of the “wise men”?
The Bible does not reveal the names of the astrologers. According to The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, “attempts to name them (e.g., Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthasar) rest upon legends.”
When did the “wise men” visit Jesus?
The astrologers may have visited Jesus a number of months after his birth. This is evident because King Herod, who wanted to have Jesus killed, ordered the slaughter of boys who were two years old and younger. He based that age range on information he had received from the astrologers.—Matthew 2:16.
The astrologers did not visit Jesus on the night of his birth. The Bible says: “When they went into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother.” (Matthew 2:11) This indicates that the family were by then living in a house and that Jesus was no longer an infant in a manger.—Luke 2:16.
Did God have the “wise men” follow the “star” of Bethlehem?
Some people believe that God sent the so-called star of Bethlehem to guide the astrologers to Jesus. Consider why that cannot be the case.
● What appeared to be a star led the astrologers first to Jerusalem. The Bible says: “Astrologers from the East came to Jerusalem, saying: ‘Where is the one born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when we were in the East, and we have come to do obeisance to him.’”—Matthew 2:1, 2.
● King Herod, not the “star,” was the first to direct the astrologers to Bethlehem. When he heard of a rival “king of the Jews,” Herod investigated where the promised Christ was to be born. (Matthew 2:3-6) On learning that it was to be in Bethlehem, he told the astrologers to go there, look for the child, and report back to him.
Only then did the astrologers go to Bethlehem. The Bible says: “After they had heard the king, they went their way, and look! the star they had seen when they were in the East went ahead of them until it came to a stop above where the young child was.”—Matthew 2:9.
● The appearance of the “star” set in motion events that threatened the life of Jesus and resulted in the murder of innocent children. When the astrologers left Bethlehem, God warned them not to return to Herod.—Matthew 2:12.
How did Herod react? The Bible says: “Herod, seeing that he had been outwitted by the astrologers, flew into a great rage, and he sent out and had all the boys in Bethlehem and in all its districts killed, from two years of age and under, according to the time that he had carefully ascertained from the astrologers.” (Matthew 2:16) God would not have caused such a wicked thing to be done.—Job 34:10.
Do Scholars Believe That Jesus Existed?
Scholars have a solid basis for believing that Jesus existed. Regarding the references made by first- and second-century historians to Jesus and the early Christians, the Encyclopædia Britannica, 2002 Edition, says: “These independent accounts prove that in ancient times even the opponents of Christianity never doubted the historicity of Jesus, which was disputed for the first time and on inadequate grounds at the end of the 18th, during the 19th, and at the beginning of the 20th centuries.”
In 2006, the book Jesus and Archaeology said: “No reputable scholar today questions that a Jew named Jesus son of Joseph lived; most readily admit that we now know a considerable amount about his actions and his basic teachings.”
The Bible portrays Jesus as a real person. It provides the names of his ancestors and immediate family. (Matthew 1:1; 13:55) It also gives the names of prominent rulers who were contemporaries of Jesus. (Luke 3:1, 2) Those details allow researchers to verify the accuracy of the Bible accounts.
Does the Bible Contain an Accurate Record of Jesus’ Life?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible writer Luke said regarding his account of Jesus’ life: “I have traced all things from the start with accuracy.”—Luke 1:3.
Some claim that accounts of Jesus’ life as recorded in the Gospels—the writings of his contemporaries Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—were altered sometime in the fourth century.
However, a valuable fragment of John’s Gospel was found in Egypt at the turn of the 20th century. It is now known as the Papyrus Rylands 457 (P52) and is preserved at the John Rylands Library, Manchester, England. It contains what is John 18:31-33, 37, 38 in modern Bibles
This is the oldest known manuscript fragment of the Christian Greek Scriptures. Many scholars believe that it was written about 125 C.E., a mere quarter of a century or so after the original was written. The text of the fragment agrees nearly exactly with that in later manuscripts.
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Was Jesus Married? Did Jesus Have Siblings?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible makes clear that Jesus was not married, even though it does not specifically comment on his marital status. Consider the following.
1. The Bible frequently refers to Jesus’ family as well as to women who accompanied him during his ministry and who stood by when he was executed, yet it never mentions his having a wife. (Matthew 12:46, 47; Mark 3:31, 32; 15:40; Luke 8:2, 3, 19, 20; John 19:25) The most plausible reason why the Bible is silent on this matter is that he was never married.
2. Concerning those who remain unmarried so that they can do more in God’s service, Jesus told his disciples: “Let the one who can make room for it [singleness] make room for it.” (Matthew 19:10-12) He set the pattern for those who choose not to marry in order to devote themselves more fully to God.—John 13:15; 1 Corinthians 7:32-38.
3. Just before he died, Jesus arranged for the care of his mother. (John 19:25-27) If Jesus had been married or had fathered children, he would have made sure that such close family members were provided for as well.
4. The Bible uses Jesus as an example for husbands, but it does not refer to the way he treated a human wife. Instead, it says: “Husbands, continue loving your wives, just as the Christ also loved the congregation and gave himself up for it.” (Ephesians 5:25) If Jesus had actually been married while on earth, would not his perfect example as a literal husband have been used in that verse?
Did Jesus have siblings?
Yes, Jesus had at least six siblings. These included his brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas as well as at least two sisters. (Matthew 13:54-56; Mark 6:3) Those siblings were natural children of Jesus’ mother, Mary, and her husband, Joseph. (Matthew 1:25) The Bible calls Jesus “the firstborn” of Mary, which implies that she had other children.—Luke 2:7.
Misconceptions about Jesus’ brothers
In order to support the idea that Mary remained a virgin all her life, some have applied different meanings to the term “brothers.” For example, some feel that Jesus’ brothers were actually sons of Joseph by an earlier marriage. However, the Bible shows that Jesus inherited the legal right to the kingship promised to David. (2 Samuel 7:12, 13; Luke 1:32) If Joseph had been father to sons older than Jesus, the eldest of these would have been Joseph’s legal heir.
Could the expression refer to Jesus’ disciples, or spiritual brothers? This idea conflicts with the Scriptures, since the Bible says that at one point “his brothers were, in fact, not exercising faith in him.” (John 7:5) The Bible distinguishes Jesus’ brothers from his disciples.—John 2:12.
According to another theory, Jesus’ brothers were actually his cousins. Yet, the Greek Scriptures use distinct words for “brother,” “relative,” and “cousin.” (Luke 21:16; Colossians 4:10) Many Bible scholars acknowledge that Jesus’ brothers and sisters were his actual siblings. For example, The Expositor’s Bible Commentary states: “The most natural way to understand ‘brothers’ . . . is that the term refers to sons of Mary and Joseph and thus to brothers of Jesus on his mother’s side.”
When Were the Accounts About Jesus Written?
The Bible’s answer
Regarding his record of the events in Jesus’ life, the apostle John wrote: “He that has seen it has borne witness, and his witness is true, and that man knows he tells true things, in order that you also may believe.”—John 19:35.
One reason to trust the Gospel accounts recorded by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John is that they were written while many eyewitnesses to the events they describe were still alive. According to some sources, the Gospel of Matthew was written as early as the eighth year after Christ’s death, that is, about 41 C.E. Many scholars favour a somewhat later date, but there is general agreement that all the books of the Christian Greek Scriptures were written during the first century C.E.
People who saw Jesus while he was alive on earth, witnessed his death, and observed his resurrection could verify the Gospel accounts. They could also easily expose any inaccuracies if there had been such. Professor F. F. Bruce observes: “One of the strong points in the original apostolic preaching is the confident appeal to the knowledge of the hearers; they not only said, ‘We are witnesses of these things,’ but also, ‘As you yourselves also know’ (Acts 2:22).”
Why Did Jesus Die?
The Bible’s answer
Jesus died so that humans could have their sins forgiven and receive endless life. (Romans 6:23; Ephesians 1:7) Jesus’ death also proved that a human can remain loyal to God even when faced with the severest of tests.—Hebrews 4:15.
Consider how the death of one man could accomplish so much.
1. Jesus died for “the forgiveness of our sins.”—Colossians 1:14.
The first human, Adam, was created perfect, without sin. However, he chose to disobey God. Adam’s disobedience, or sin, profoundly affected all his descendants. “Through the disobedience of the one man,” the Bible explains, “many were made sinners.”—Romans 5:19.
Jesus was also perfect, but he never sinned. Therefore, he could be “an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 2:2) Just as Adam’s disobedience contaminated the human family with sin, so Jesus’ death removed the stain of sin from all who exercise faith in him.
In a sense, Adam sold the human race into sin. Jesus, by willingly dying in our behalf, repurchased humankind as his own. As a result, “if anyone does commit a sin, we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ, a righteous one.”—1 John 2:1.
2. Jesus died “so that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.”—John 3:16.
Although Adam was created to live forever, his sin brought upon him the penalty of death. Through Adam, “sin entered into the world and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because they had all sinned.”—Romans 5:12.
In contrast, Jesus’ death not only removed the blemish of sin but also cancelled the death sentence for all who exercise faith in him. The Bible sums up matters this way: “Just as sin ruled as king with death, so also undeserved kindness might rule as king through righteousness leading to everlasting life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”—Romans 5:21.
Of course, humans today still have a limited life span. However, God promises that he will grant righteous humans everlasting life and resurrect the dead so that they too can benefit from Jesus’ sacrificial death.—Psalm 37:29; 1 Corinthians 15:22.
3. Jesus “became obedient to the point of death,” thus proving that a human could be faithful to God under any test or trial.—Philippians 2:8.
Despite having a perfect mind and body, Adam disobeyed God because he selfishly desired something that did not belong to him. (Genesis 2:16, 17; 3:6) Later, God’s chief enemy, Satan, suggested that no human would unselfishly obey God, especially if his life were on the line. (Job 2:4) Yet, the perfect man Jesus obeyed God and remained loyal to him, even undergoing a disgraceful and painful death. (Hebrews 7:26) This completely settled the matter: A human can remain faithful to God under whatever test or trial may be brought upon him.
Questions about Jesus’ death
● Why did Jesus have to suffer and die to redeem humans? Why didn’t God just cancel the death sentence?
God’s law states that “the wages sin pays is death.” (Romans 6:23) Rather than hide this law from Adam, God told him that the penalty for disobedience would be death. (Genesis 3:3) When Adam sinned, God, “who cannot lie,” kept his word. (Titus 1:2) Adam passed on to his descendants not only sin but also the wages of sin—death.
Although sinful humans deserve the penalty of death, God extended to them “the riches of his undeserved kindness.” (Ephesians 1:7) His provision to redeem mankind—sending Jesus as a perfect sacrifice—was both profoundly just and supremely merciful.
● When did Jesus die?
Jesus died at “the ninth hour” from sunrise, or at about three o’clock in the afternoon of the Jewish Passover. (Mark 15:33-37, footnote) That date corresponds to Friday, April 1, 33 C.E., according to modern calendars.
● Where did Jesus die?
Jesus was executed at “the so-called Skull Place, which is called Golʹgo·tha in Hebrew.” (John 19:17, 18) This site was “outside the city gate” of Jerusalem in Jesus’ day. (Hebrews 13:12) It may have been on a hill, since the Bible says that some observed Jesus’ execution “from a distance.” (Mark 15:40) However, the present location of Golgotha cannot be determined with certainty.
● How did Jesus die?
Although many believe that Jesus was crucified—executed on a cross—the Bible reports: “His own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree.” (1 Peter 2:24, King James Version) Bible writers used two Greek words to refer to the instrument of Jesus’ execution—stau·rosʹ and xyʹlon. Many scholars have concluded that these words refer to a beam or an upright stake made of one piece of wood.
● How should Jesus’ death be remembered?
On the night of the annual Jewish Passover, Jesus instituted a simple procedure with his followers and commanded them: “Keep doing this in remembrance of me.” (1 Corinthians 11:24) Hours later, Jesus was put to death.
Bible writers compared Jesus to the lamb sacrificed at the Passover. (1 Corinthians 5:7) Just as the Passover celebration reminded the Israelites that they had been freed from slavery, so the Memorial of Jesus Christ’s death reminds Christians that they have been freed from sin and death. The Passover, held on Nisan 14 according to the lunar calendar, was a yearly celebration; the early Christians likewise observed the Memorial once each year.
After Jesus’ Resurrection, Was His Body Flesh or Spirit?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible says that Jesus “was put to death in the flesh but made alive [resurrected] in the spirit.”—1 Peter 3:18; Acts 13:34; 1 Corinthians 15:45; 2 Corinthians 5:16.
Jesus’ own words showed that he would not be resurrected with his flesh-and-blood body. He said that he would give his “flesh in behalf of the life of the world,” as a ransom for mankind. (John 6:51; Matthew 20:28) If he had taken back his flesh when he was resurrected, he would have cancelled that ransom sacrifice. This could not have happened, though, for the Bible says that he sacrificed his flesh and blood “once for all time.”—Hebrews 9:11, 12.
If Jesus was raised up with a spirit body, how could his disciples see him?
● Spirit creatures can take on human form. For example, angels who did this in the past even ate and drank with humans. (Genesis 18:1-8; 19:1-3) However, they still were spirit creatures and could leave the physical realm.—Judges 13:15-21.
● After his resurrection, Jesus also assumed human form temporarily, just as angels had previously done. As a spirit creature, though, he was able to appear and disappear suddenly. (Luke 24:31; John 20:19, 26) The fleshly bodies that he materialized were not identical from one appearance to the next. Thus, even Jesus’ close friends recognized him only by what he said or did.—Luke 24:30, 31, 35; John 20:14-16; 21:6, 7.
● When Jesus appeared to the apostle Thomas, he took on a body with wound marks. He did this to bolster Thomas’ faith, since Thomas doubted that Jesus had been raised up.—John 20:24-29.
Jesus Saves—How?
The Bible’s answer
Jesus saved faithful humans when he gave his life as a ransom sacrifice. (Matthew 20:28) Thus, the Bible calls Jesus the “Saviour of the world.” (1 John 4:14) It also states: “There is no salvation in anyone else, for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must get saved.”—Acts 4:12.
Jesus ‘tasted death for everyone’ who exercises faith in him. (Hebrews 2:9; John 3:16) Thereafter, “God raised him up from the dead,” and Jesus returned to heaven as a spirit creature. (Acts 3:15) There, Jesus is able “to save completely those who are approaching God through him, because he is always alive to plead for them.”—Hebrews 7:25.
Why do we need Jesus to plead for us?
We are all sinners. (Romans 3:23) Sin puts a barrier between us and God, and it leads to death. (Romans 6:23) But Jesus serves as “an advocate” for those who exercise faith in his ransom sacrifice. (1 John 2:1) He pleads in their behalf, asking God to hear their prayers and grant forgiveness of their sins on the basis of Jesus’ sacrificial death. (Matthew 1:21; Romans 8:34) God acts on such pleas made by Jesus because they are in harmony with His will. God sent Jesus to the earth “for the world to be saved through him.”—John 3:17.
Is belief in Jesus all that we need to be saved?
No. Although we must believe in Jesus to gain salvation, more is required. (Acts 16:30, 31) The Bible says: “Just as the body without spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.” (James 2:26) To be saved, we must:
● Learn about Jesus and his Father, Jehovah.—John 17:3.
● Build faith in them.—John 12:44; 14:1.
● Demonstrate our faith by obeying their commands. (Luke 6:46; 1 John 2:17) Jesus taught that not everyone who called him “Lord” would be saved but only those “doing the will of [his] Father who is in the heavens.”—Matthew 7:21.
● Continue to demonstrate our faith despite hardships. Jesus made that clear when he said: “The one who has endured to the end will be saved.”—Matthew 24:13.
How Is Jesus’ Sacrifice “a Ransom for Many”?
The Bible’s answer
Jesus’ sacrifice is the means by which God delivers, or saves, humankind from sin and death. The Bible refers to the shed blood of Jesus as a ransom price. (Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:18, 19) Thus, Jesus said that he came “to give his life a ransom for many.”—Matthew 20:28, King James Version.
Why was “a ransom for many” needed?
The first man, Adam, was created perfect, or without sin. He had the prospect of living forever but lost it by choosing to disobey God. (Genesis 3:17-19) When he had children, he passed on to them the defect of sin. (Romans 5:12) For this reason, the Bible indicates that Adam “sold” himself and his children into slavery to sin and death. (Romans 7:14) Being imperfect, none of them could buy back what Adam lost.—Psalm 49:7, 8.
God felt compassion for Adam’s descendants in their hopeless situation. (John 3:16) However, God’s standard of justice required that he not simply overlook or excuse their sins without a valid basis. (Psalm 89:14; Romans 3:23-26) God loves mankind, so he provided the necessary legal means for their sins to be not only forgiven but also eliminated. (Romans 5:6-8) The ransom is that legal basis.
How does the ransom work?
In the Bible, the term “ransom” involves the following three elements:
1. It is a payment.—Numbers 3:46, 47.
2. It brings about a release, or redemption.—Exodus 21:30.
3. It corresponds to the value of what is paid for, or covers it.
Consider how these elements apply to the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
1. Payment. The Bible says that Christians were “bought with a price.” (1 Corinthians 6:20; 7:23) That price is the blood of Jesus, with which he “bought people for God out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation.”—Revelation 5:8, 9.
2. Release. Jesus’ sacrifice provides a “release by ransom” from sin.—1 Corinthians 1:30; Colossians 1:14; Hebrews 9:15.
3. Correspondence. Jesus’ sacrifice corresponds exactly to what Adam lost—one perfect human life. (1 Corinthians 15:21, 22, 45, 46) The Bible says: “Just as through the disobedience of the one man [Adam] many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one person [Jesus Christ] many will be made righteous.” (Romans 5:19) This explains how the death of one man can pay the ransom for many sinners. In fact, Jesus’ sacrifice is “a corresponding ransom for all” those who take the steps necessary to benefit from it.—1 Timothy 2:5, 6.
Why Pray in Jesus’ Name?
The Bible’s answer
We must pray to God in Jesus’ name because this is the only way God has approved for us to approach Him. Jesus said: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6) Jesus also told his faithful apostles: “Most truly I say to you, If you ask the Father for anything he will give it to you in my name.”—John 16:23.
More reasons to pray in Jesus’ name:
● We honour Jesus and his Father, Jehovah God.—Philippians 2:9-11.
● We show that we appreciate Jesus’ death as God’s provision for our salvation.—Matthew 20:28; Acts 4:12.
● We recognize Jesus’ unique role as Intercessor between God and men.—Hebrews 7:25.
● We respect Jesus’ service as the High Priest who can help us gain a good standing with God.—Hebrews 4:14-16.
What Is the Coming of Christ?
The Bible’s answer
The Scriptures make dozens of references to the future time when Christ comes to judge the people of the earth. For example, Matthew 25:31-33 says:
“When the Son of man [Jesus Christ] comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit down on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another, just as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. And he will put the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on his left.”
This time of judgment will be part of a “great tribulation” unlike anything in human history. That tribulation will culminate in the war of Armageddon. (Matthew 24:21; Revelation 16:16) Christ’s enemies, described in his illustration as goats, “will undergo the judicial punishment of everlasting destruction.” (2 Thessalonians 1:9; Revelation 19:11, 15) In contrast, his faithful servants, the sheep, will have the prospect of “everlasting life.”—Matthew 25:46.
When will Christ come?
Jesus said: “Concerning that day and hour nobody knows.” (Matthew 24:36, 42; 25:13) However, he did describe a visible, composite “sign” that would identify the period leading up to his coming.—Matthew 24:3, 7-14; Luke 21:10, 11.
Does Christ come in a body of spirit or of flesh?
Jesus was resurrected with a spirit body, so he comes as a spirit creature, not in the flesh. (1 Corinthians 15:45; 1 Peter 3:18) For this reason, Jesus could tell his apostles on the day before his death: “In a little while the world will see me no more.”—John 14:19.
Common misconceptions about Christ’s coming
Misconception: When the Bible says that people will see Jesus “coming on the clouds,” it means that Jesus will come visibly.—Matthew 24:30.
Fact: The Bible often associates clouds with something hidden from view. (Leviticus 16:2; Numbers 11:25; Deuteronomy 33:26) For example, God told Moses: “I am coming to you in a dark cloud.” (Exodus 19:9) Moses did not literally see God. Likewise, Christ ‘comes on the clouds’ in that people perceive his coming even though they cannot literally see him.
Misconception: The expression “every eye will see him,” used at Revelation 1:7 when speaking of Christ’s coming, is to be understood literally.
Fact: The Greek words in the Bible for “eye” and “seeing” are sometimes used in the sense of discerning or perceiving rather than referring to literal sight. * (Matthew 13:15; Luke 19:42; Romans 15:21; Ephesians 1:18) The Bible says that the resurrected Jesus is “the one . . . who dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man . . . can see.” (1 Timothy 6:16) Thus, “every eye will see him” in that all people will perceive that Jesus is the one who brings God’s judgment.—Matthew 24:30.
Misconception: The words of 2 John 7 show that Jesus will come in the flesh.
Fact: That Bible verse states: “Many deceivers have gone out into the world, those not acknowledging Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh.”
In the apostle John’s day, some denied that Jesus had come to earth in the flesh as a man. They were called Gnostics. Second John 7 was written to refute their false claim.
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What Is the Kingdom of God?
The Bible’s answer
God’s Kingdom is a real government established by Jehovah God. “The kingdom of God” is also called “the kingdom of heaven” in the Bible, since it rules from heaven. (Mark 1:14, 15; Matthew 4:17, King James Version) It shares many attributes of human governments, yet it is superior to them in every way.
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Rulers. God has appointed Jesus Christ as King of the Kingdom and has given him more authority than any human ruler could ever have. (Matthew 28:18) Jesus uses this power only for good, since he has already proved to be a reliable and compassionate Leader. (Matthew 4:23; Mark 1:40, 41; 6:31-34; Luke 7:11-17) Under God’s direction, Jesus has selected persons from all nations who will “rule as kings over the earth” with him in heaven.—Revelation 5:9, 10.
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Duration. Unlike human governments, which come and go, God’s Kingdom “will never be brought to ruin.”—Daniel 2:44.
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Subjects. Anyone who does what God requires can be a subject of God’s Kingdom, without regard for ancestry or birthplace.—Acts 10:34, 35.
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Laws. The laws (or commandments) of God’s Kingdom do more than just prohibit wrong behaviour. They raise the moral character of its subjects. For example, the Bible says: “‘You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. The second, like it, is this, ‘You must love your neighbour as yourself.’” (Matthew 22:37-39) Love of God and neighbour moves subjects of the Kingdom to act in the best interests of others.
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Education. While God’s Kingdom sets high standards for its subjects, it also teaches people how to meet those standards.—Isaiah 48:17, 18.
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Mission. The Kingdom of God doesn’t enrich its rulers at the expense of its subjects. Instead, it will accomplish God’s will, including the promise that those who love him will live forever on a paradise earth.—Isaiah 35:1, 5, 6; Matthew 6:10; Revelation 21:1-4.
Is the Kingdom of God in Your Heart?
The Bible’s answer
No, God’s Kingdom is not merely a condition in the hearts of Christians. The Bible identifies its true location by calling it “the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 4:17, King James Version) Consider how the Bible shows it to be a real government that is ruling from heaven.
● God’s Kingdom has rulers, subjects, laws, and a mandate to establish the will of God in heaven and on the earth. . —Matthew 6:10; Revelation 5:10.
● God’s government, or Kingdom, will rule over all “the peoples, nations, and language groups” of the Earth. (Daniel 7:13,14) The authority for its rulership comes, not from its subjects, but directly from God.—Psalm 2:4-6; Isaiah 9:7.
● Jesus told his faithful apostles that they would join him in the Kingdom of heaven to “sit on thrones.”—Luke 22:28, 30.
● The Kingdom has enemies, which it will destroy.—Psalm 2:1, 2, 8, 9; 110:1, 2; 1 Corinthians 15:25, 26.
The Bible does not teach that the Kingdom of heaven is in your heart in the sense that it rules through a person’s heart. However, it does show that the “word of the Kingdom” or the “good news of the Kingdom” can and should affect our hearts.—Matthew 13:19; 24:14.
What does “the kingdom of God is within you” mean?
Some people have become confused about the location of the Kingdom by the rendering of Luke 17:21 in some Bible translations. For example, the King James Version says that “the kingdom of God is within you.” To understand this verse correctly, we must consider the context.
God’s Kingdom was not in the heart of Jesus’ obstinate and murderous opposers.
Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees, a group of religious leaders who opposed him and shared in arranging for his execution. (Matthew 12:14; Luke 17:20) Does it make sense to think that the Kingdom was a condition in their obstinate hearts? Jesus told them: “Inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.”—Matthew 23:27, 28.
Other translations accurately clarify Jesus’ statement at Luke 17:21: “God’s kingdom is here with you.” (Italics ours; Contemporary English Version) “The Kingdom of God is among you.” (New World Translation, footnote) The Kingdom of heaven was “with” or “among” the Pharisees, in that Jesus, the one designated by God to rule as King, was standing before them.—Luke 1:32, 33.
What Will God’s Kingdom Accomplish?
The Bible’s answer
God’s Kingdom will replace all human governments and rule over the entire earth. (Daniel 2:44; Revelation 16:14) Once that happens, God’s Kingdom will . . .
● Remove the wicked, whose selfishness harms us all. “As regards the wicked, they will be cut off from the very earth.”—Proverbs 2:22.
● End all wars. “[God] is making wars to cease to the extremity of the earth.”—Psalm 46:9.
● Bring prosperity and security to the earth. “Everyone will live in peace among their own vineyards and fig trees, and no one will make them afraid.”—Micah 4:4, Good News Translation.
● Make the earth into a paradise. “Thirsty deserts will be glad; barren lands will celebrate and blossom with flowers.”—Isaiah 35:1, Contemporary English Version.
● Provide everyone with meaningful, enjoyable work. “The work of their own hands [God’s] chosen ones will use to the full. They will not toil for nothing.”—Isaiah 65:21-23.
● Eliminate disease. “No resident will say: ‘I am sick.’”—Isaiah 33:24.
● Set us free from the aging process. “Let his flesh become fresher than in youth; let him return to the days of his youthful vigour.”—Job 33:25.
● Bring the dead back to life. “All those in the memorial tombs will hear [Jesus’] voice and come out.”—John 5:28, 29.
Peace on Earth—How Will It Come?
The Bible’s answer
Peace on earth will come, not by human efforts, but by means of God’s Kingdom, a heavenly government ruled by Christ Jesus. Notice how the Bible teaches us about this wonderful hope.
1. God will make “wars to cease to the extremity of the earth,” fulfilling his promise to bring “peace on earth to those with whom he is pleased!”—Psalm 46:9; Luke 2:14, Good News Translation.
2. God’s Kingdom will rule from heaven over the entire earth. (Daniel 7:14) As a world government, it will eliminate nationalism, which is at the root of many conflicts.
3. Jesus, the Ruler of God’s Kingdom, is called the “Prince of Peace,” and he will ensure that “to peace there will be no end.”—Isaiah 9:6, 7.
4. People determined to keep fighting will not be allowed to live under the Kingdom, since “anyone loving violence [God’s] soul certainly hates.”—Psalm 11:5; Proverbs 2:22.
5. God teaches his subjects how to live in peace. Describing the results of this instruction, the Bible says: “They will have to beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning shears. Nation will not lift up sword against nation, neither will they learn war anymore.”—Isaiah 2:3, 4.
What Is Heaven?
The Bible’s answer
The word “heaven” is used in three basic senses in the Bible: (1) the physical heavens; (2) the spirit realm; and (3) a symbol of a high or exalted position. In each case, the context helps determine the correct understanding.
1. The physical heavens. In this sense, “the heavens” refers to earth’s atmosphere, where the winds blow, the birds fly, the clouds produce rain and snow, and the lightning flashes. (Psalm 78:26; Proverbs 30:19; Isaiah 55:10; Luke 17:24) It can also mean outer space, the location of “the sun and the moon and the stars.”—Deuteronomy 4:19; Genesis 1:1.
2. The spirit realm. The term “heaven” also refers to the spiritual heavens, or spirit realm, a level of existence higher than and outside of the physical universe. (1 Kings 8:27; John 6:38) These spiritual heavens are occupied by Jehovah God, who is “a Spirit,” as well as by the angelic spirit beings whom he created. (John 4:24; Matthew 24:36) At times, “the heavens” are personified to represent the faithful angels, “the congregation of the holy ones.”—Psalm 89:5-7.
The Bible also uses “heavens” to refer specifically to the portion of the spirit realm where Jehovah actually resides, his “dwelling place.” (1 Kings 8:43, 49; Hebrews 9:24; Revelation 13:6) For example, the Bible foretold that Satan and the demons would be thrown out of heaven, no longer being allowed to enter Jehovah’s presence. However, they would remain in the spirit realm.—Revelation 12:7-9, 12.
3. A symbol of a high or exalted position. The Scriptures use “heaven” to represent an elevated position, usually in connection with ruling authority. Such a position could be occupied by:
o Jehovah God himself as the almighty Sovereign.—2 Chronicles 32:20; Luke 15:21.
o God’s Kingdom, the government that will replace human rule. The Bible refers to that Kingdom as the “new heavens.”—Isaiah 65:17; 66:22; 2 Peter 3:13.
o Christians who, while on earth, have the hope of going to heaven.—Ephesians 2:6.
o Human governments that have exalted themselves over their subjects.—Isaiah 14:12-14; Daniel 4:20-22; 2 Peter 3:7.
o Wicked spirits who now rule over the world.—Ephesians 6:12; 1 John 5:19.
What is heaven like?
The spirit realm is a hive of activity. It is occupied by hundreds of millions of spirit creatures “who carry out [Jehovah’s] word.”—Psalm 103:20, 21; Daniel 7:10.
The Bible describes heaven as being brilliantly lighted. (1 Timothy 6:15, 16) The prophet Ezekiel received a heavenly vision marked by “brilliant light,” while the vision of heaven that Daniel saw included “a stream of fire.” (Ezekiel 1:26-28; Daniel 7:9, 10) Heaven is holy, or clean, and beautiful.—Psalm 96:6; Isaiah 63:15; Revelation 4:2, 3.
The overall impression that the Bible gives of heaven is awe-inspiring. (Ezekiel 43:2, 3) Nevertheless, it is not possible for humans to comprehend heaven fully, since the spirit realm is beyond our senses.
Does God Live in a Specific Location?
The Bible’s answer
Yes. God lives in a specific place—the heavens. Consider these Bible passages:
In a prayer, King Solomon said: “May you yourself listen from the heavens, your established place of dwelling.”—1 Kings 8:43.
Jesus Christ taught his disciples to address their prayers to their “Father in the heavens.”—Matthew 6:9.
After Jesus was resurrected, he entered “into heaven itself, now to appear before the person of God.”—Hebrews 9:24.
Those verses clearly indicate that Jehovah God is a real person and that he dwells, not everywhere, but only in heaven.
Who or What Are Angels?
The Bible’s answer
Angels are beings who have greater power and ability than humans. (2 Peter 2:11) They exist in heaven, or the spirit realm, which is a level of existence higher than the physical universe. (1 Kings 8:27; John 6:38) Thus, they are also referred to as spirits.—1 Kings 22:21; Psalm 18:10.
Where do angels come from?
God created the angels through Jesus, whom the Bible calls “the firstborn of all creation.” Describing how God used Jesus in creation, the Bible says: “By means of [Jesus] all other things were created in the heavens and on the earth, the things visible and the things invisible,” including the angels. (Colossians 1:13-17) Angels do not marry and reproduce. (Mark 12:25) Instead, each of these “sons of the true God” was individually created.—Job 1:6.
Angels were created in the distant past, before the earth existed. When God created the earth, the angels “began shouting in applause.”—Job 38:4-7.
How many angels are there?
The Bible does not give an exact figure, but it does show that their number is vast. For example, a vision given to the apostle John included a glimpse of hundreds of millions of angels.—Revelation 5:11, footnote.
Do angels have individual names and personalities?
Yes. The Bible gives the names of two angels: Michael and Gabriel. (Daniel 12:1; Luke 1:26) * Other angels acknowledged that they had names, but they did not reveal them.—Genesis 32:29; Judges 13:17, 18.
Angels have distinct personalities. They can communicate with one another. (1 Corinthians 13:1) They have thinking ability and are able to compose expressions of praise to God. (Luke 2:13, 14) And they have the freedom to choose between right and wrong, as seen when some of them sinned by joining Satan the Devil in his rebellion against God.—Matthew 25:41; 2 Peter 2:4.
Are there different ranks among angels?
Yes. The angel greatest in both power and authority is Michael, the archangel. (Jude 9; Revelation 12:7) Seraphs are high-ranking angels who are stationed near Jehovah’s throne. (Isaiah 6:2, 6) Cherubs form another high-ranking order of angels having special duties. For example, cherubs guarded the entrance to the garden of Eden after Adam and Eve were expelled.—Genesis 3:23, 24.
Do angels help people?
Yes, God uses his faithful angels to help people today.
● Angels are used by God as he directs his servants in the preaching of the good news of the Kingdom of God. (Revelation 14:6, 7) This direction benefits both those preaching and those hearing the good news.—Acts 8:26, 27.
● Angels help to keep the Christian congregation free of contamination by wicked people.—Matthew 13:49.
● Angels guide and protect those who are faithful to God.—Psalm 34:7; 91:10, 11; Hebrews 1:7, 14.
● Soon, the angels will bring relief to mankind by fighting alongside Jesus Christ to eliminate wickedness.—2 Thessalonians 1:6-8.
Do we each have a guardian angel?
Although angels look out for the spiritual welfare of God’s servants, this does not necessarily mean that God assigns an angel to each Christian as a personal guardian. * (Matthew 18:10) Angels do not protect God’s servants from every trial or temptation. The Bible shows that God will often “make the way out” of a trial by giving a person the wisdom and strength to endure.—1 Corinthians 10:12, 13; James 1:2-5.
Misconceptions about angels
Misconception: All angels are good.
Fact: The Bible refers to “the wicked spirit forces” and “the angels who sinned.” (Ephesians 6:12; 2 Peter 2:4) These wicked angels are demons, who joined Satan in rebelling against God.
Misconception: Angels are immortal.
Fact: Wicked angels, including Satan the Devil, will be destroyed.—Jude 6.
Misconception: People become angels when they die.
Fact: Angels are a separate creation of God, not resurrected humans. (Colossians 1:16) People who are raised to life in heaven receive the gift of immortal life from God. (1 Corinthians 15:53, 54) They will have a status higher than the angels.—1 Corinthians 6:3.
Misconception: Angels exist to serve humans.
Fact: Angels obey God’s commands, not ours. (Psalm 103:20, 21) Even Jesus acknowledged that he would call on God for help, not directly on the angels.—Matthew 26:53.
Misconception: We can pray to angels for help.
Fact: Prayer to God is part of our worship, which belongs to Jehovah God. (Revelation 19:10) We should pray only to God, through Jesus.—John 14:6.
Who Is the Archangel Michael?
The Bible’s answer
Michael, referred to by some religions as “Saint Michael,” is evidently a name given to Jesus before and after his life on earth. Michael disputed with Satan after the death of Moses and helped an angel deliver God’s message to the prophet Daniel. (Daniel 10:13, 21; Jude 9) Michael lives up to the meaning of his name—“Who Is Like God?”—by defending God’s rulership and fighting God’s enemies.—Daniel 12:1; Revelation 12:7.
Consider why it is reasonable to conclude that Jesus is the archangel Michael.
● Michael is “the archangel.” (Jude 9) The title “archangel,” meaning “chief of the angels,” appears in only two Bible verses. In both cases, the word is singular, suggesting that only one angel bears that title. One of those verses states that the resurrected Lord Jesus “will descend from heaven with a commanding call, with an archangel’s voice.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16) Jesus has “an archangel’s voice” because he is the archangel, Michael.
● Michael commands an angelic army. “Michael and his angels battled with the dragon,” Satan. (Revelation 12:7) Michael has great authority in the spirit realm, for he is called “one of the foremost princes” and “the great prince.” (Daniel 10:13, 21; 12:1) These titles designate Michael as “the commander-in-chief of the angelic forces,” as New Testament scholar David E. Aune puts it.
The Bible mentions only one other name of someone having authority over an army of angels. It describes “the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with his powerful angels in a flaming fire, as he brings vengeance.” (2 Thessalonians 1:7, 8; Matthew 16:27) Jesus “went to heaven, and angels and authorities and powers were made subject to him.” (1 Peter 3:21, 22) It would not make sense for God to set up Jesus and Michael as rival commanders of the holy angels. Rather, it is more reasonable to conclude that both names, Jesus and Michael, refer to the same person.
● Michael “will stand up” during an unprecedented “time of distress.” (Daniel 12:1) In the book of Daniel, the expression “stand up” is often used to refer to a king who rises up to take special action. (Daniel 11:2-4, 21) Jesus Christ, identified as “The Word of God,” will take special action as the “King of kings” to strike down all of God’s enemies and protect God’s people. (Revelation 19:11-16) He will do so during a time of “great tribulation such as has not occurred since the world’s beginning.”—Matthew 24:21, 42.
What Is the Meaning of Life?
The Bible’s answer
The question of the meaning of life may be asked in many ways, such as Why are we here? or Does my life have a purpose? The Bible shows that our purpose in life is to build a friendship with God. Consider some of these fundamental truths that the Bible reveals.
● God is our Creator. The Bible says: “It is [God] that has made us, and not we ourselves.”—Psalm 100:3; Revelation 4:11.
● God has a purpose for everything he creates, including us.—Isaiah 45:18.
● God created us with a “spiritual need,” which includes the desire to find meaning in life. (Matthew 5:3) He wants us to satisfy that desire.—Psalm 145:16.
● We fill our spiritual need by building a friendship with God. Although the idea of being God’s friend might seem far-fetched to some, the Bible gives us this encouragement: “Draw close to God, and he will draw close to you.”—James 4:8; 2:23.
● To become God’s friend, we must live in harmony with his purpose for us. The Bible states this purpose at Ecclesiastes 12:13: “Have reverence for God, and obey his commands, because this is all that we were created for.”—Good News Translation.
● In the future, we can experience in full God’s original purpose for us when he eliminates suffering and grants everlasting life to his friends, those who worship him.—Psalm 37:10, 11.
What Is the Will of God for My Life?
The Bible’s answer
God’s will is that you come to know him as a Person, draw close to him, and then love and serve him with your whole heart. (Matthew 22:37, 38; James 4:8) You can learn how to do God’s will from the life and teachings of Jesus. (John 7:16, 17) Jesus didn’t just talk about the will of God—he lived it. In fact, Jesus said that his purpose in life was “to do, not my will, but the will of him that sent me.”—John 6:38.
Do I need a special sign, vision, or calling to know what the will of God is for me?
No, because the Bible contains God’s message to mankind. It has what you need to be “completely equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) God wants you to use the Bible along with your “power of reason” to learn his will for you.—Romans 12:1, 2; Ephesians 5:17.
Can I really do God’s will?
Yes, you can, for the Bible says: “God’s commands are not too hard for us.” (1 John 5:3, Easy-to-Read Version) That’s not to say that obeying God’s commands is always easy. But the benefits you will gain far outweigh the effort you must put forth. Jesus himself said: “How happy are those who hear the word of God and obey it!”—Luke 11:28, Good News Translation
How Can You Live Forever?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible promises: “The person who does what God wants lives forever.” (1 John 2:17, Holy Bible—Easy-to-Read Version) What does God want you to do?
● Learn about God and his Son, Jesus. In prayer to God, Jesus said: “This means everlasting life, their coming to know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.” (John 17:3) What is involved in “coming to know” God and Jesus? We can get to know them by studying the Bible and applying its message in our life. The Bible reveals the thinking of our Creator, Jehovah God, who is the Giver of life. (Acts 17:24, 25) The Bible also tells us about his Son, Jesus, who taught “sayings of everlasting life.”—John 6:67-69.
● Exercise faith in the ransom sacrifice of Jesus. Jesus came to earth “to minister and to give his life as a ransom.” (Matthew 20:28) Jesus’ ransom sacrifice opened the way for humans to live forever in Paradise on earth. (Psalm 37:29) Jesus said: “God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) Note that more is required than simply believing in Jesus. We must ‘exercise faith in him,’ choosing to live in harmony with his teachings and with the will of his Father.—Matthew 7:21; James 2:17.
● Build a strong friendship with God. God wants us to draw close to him and become his friend. (James 2:23; 4:8) God is eternal. He will never die, and he wants his friends to live forever as well. Through his Word, God expresses what he wants for all who seek him: “May you enjoy life forever.”—Psalm 22:26.
Misconceptions About Living Forever
Misconception: Human efforts will result in everlasting life.
Fact: Although some medical advances promise to increase the human life span, such efforts will not lead to everlasting life. Only God can give us everlasting life, because only he is “the source of life.” (Psalm 36:9) He promises to “swallow up death forever” and grant everlasting life to all faithful humans.—Isaiah 25:8; 1 John 2:25.
Misconception: Only people of certain races will live forever.
Fact: God does not show favouritism. On the contrary, “in every nation the man who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.” (Acts 10:34, 35) People of all ethnic and cultural backgrounds who obey God can live forever.
Misconception: Everlasting life will be boring
Fact: The offer of everlasting life comes from God, who loves us and wants us to be happy. (James 1:17; 1 John 4:8) He knows that in order for us to be happy, we need purposeful work. (Ecclesiastes 3:12) God promises that those who live forever on earth will have satisfying, meaningful work that will benefit them and their loved ones.—Isaiah 65:22, 23.
Moreover, those who live forever will continue to learn new things about their Creator and his vast creative works. He made humans with a desire to live forever and to learn about him, though they “will never find out the work that the true God has made from start to finish.” (Ecclesiastes 3:10, 11) Thus, those who live forever will always have interesting things to learn and do.
What Is the Soul?
The Bible’s answer
The word “soul” in the Bible is a translation of the Hebrew word neʹphesh and the Greek word psy·kheʹ. The Hebrew word literally means “a creature that breathes,” and the Greek word means “a living being.” The soul, then, is the entire creature, not something inside that survives the death of the body. Consider how the Bible shows that the human soul is the whole person:
● When Jehovah God created the first man, Adam, the Bible says that “man became a living soul.” (Genesis 2:7, King James Version) Adam was not given a soul—he became a living soul, or person.
● The Bible says that the soul can work, crave food, eat, obey laws, and touch a dead body. (Leviticus 5:2; 7:20; 23:30; Deuteronomy 12:20; Romans 13:1) Those activities involve the entire person.
Is the soul immortal?
No, the soul can die. Dozens of Bible verses refer to the soul as being mortal. Here are some examples:
● “The soul that sinneth, it shall die.”—Ezekiel 18:4, 20, King James Version.
● In ancient Israel, the punishment for the most serious offenses was that the “soul shall be cut off.” (Exodus 12:15, 19; Leviticus 7:20, 21, 27; 19:8, King James Version) The person would “be put to death.”—Exodus 31:14, King James Version.
● After a person dies, the literal term “dead soul” is used for the corpse in some Bible verses. (Leviticus 21:11, footnote; Numbers 6:6, footnote) Although many Bible translations use the terms “dead body” or “dead person” in those verses, the original Hebrew uses the word neʹphesh, or “soul.”
“Soul” can mean “life”
The Bible also uses “soul” as a synonym for “life.” For example, Job 33:22 uses the Hebrew word for “soul” (neʹphesh) as a parallel for “life.” Similarly, the Bible shows that a person’s soul, or life, can be risked or lost.—Exodus 4:19; Judges 9:17; Philippians 2:30.
This use of the word for “soul” helps us to understand verses in which the soul is said to be “going out” or “departing.” (Genesis 35:18; King James Version) This figure of speech indicates that the person’s life is ending. Some translations render this expression at Genesis 35:18 as “she breathed her last.”—Good News Translation; New Jerusalem Bible.
Where belief in an immortal soul comes from
Christian denominations that believe in an immortal soul get this teaching, not from the Bible, but from ancient Greek philosophy. The Encyclopædia Britannica says: “Biblical references to the soul are related to the concept of breath and establish no distinction between the ethereal soul and the corporeal body. Christian concepts of a body-soul dichotomy originated with the ancient Greeks.”
God does not condone merging his teachings with human philosophies, such as belief in an immortal soul. Instead, the Bible warns: “Look out that no one takes you captive by means of the philosophy and empty deception according to human tradition.”—Colossians 2:8.
Whose Names Are Written in “the Book of Life”?
The Bible’s answer
“The book of life,” also called “the scroll of life” or “book of remembrance,” contains the names of people in line to receive the gift of everlasting life. (Revelation 3:5; 20:12; Malachi 3:16) God determines those names based on a person’s faithful obedience to him.—John 3:16; 1 John 5:3.
God has kept each of his loyal servants in his memory, as if writing their names down in a book, since “the founding of the world” of mankind. (Revelation 17:8) The faithful man Abel was apparently the first one whose name was recorded in the book of life. (Hebrews 11:4) It is not just a cold list of names, though, for the book of life shows us that Jehovah is a loving God who “knows those who belong to him.”—2 Timothy 2:19; 1 John 4:8.
Can names be erased from “the book of life”?
Yes. God said regarding disobedient people in ancient Israel: “Whoever has sinned against me, I shall wipe him out of my book.” (Exodus 32:33) But if we prove faithful, we will remain in “the scroll of life.”—Revelation 20:12.
Why Do People Die?
The Bible’s answer
It’s natural to wonder why people die, especially when we lose someone close to us. The Bible says: “The sting producing death is sin.”—1 Corinthians 15:56.
Why do all people sin and die?
The first humans, Adam and Eve, lost their lives because they sinned against God. (Genesis 3:17-19) Death was the only possible outcome of their rebellion against God, for with him is “the source of life.”—Psalm 36:9; Genesis 2:17.
Adam passed on the defect of sin to all his descendants. The Bible says: “Through one man sin entered into the world and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men because they had all sinned.” (Romans 5:12) All people die because they all sin.—Romans 3:23
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How death will be eliminated
God promises a time when “he will actually swallow up death forever.” (Isaiah 25:8) To remove death, he must eliminate its root cause, which is sin. God will do this through Jesus Christ, who “takes away the sin of the world.”—John 1:29; 1 John 1:7.
What Happens When You Die?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible says: “The living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all.” (Ecclesiastes 9:5; Psalm 146:4) Therefore, when we die, we cease to exist. The dead can’t think, act, or feel anything.
“To dust you will return”
God explained what happens when we die when he spoke to the first man, Adam. Because Adam was disobedient, God said to him: “Dust you are and to dust you will return.” (Genesis 3:19) Before God created Adam “out of dust from the ground,” Adam did not exist. (Genesis 2:7) Likewise, when Adam died, he returned to dust and ceased to exist.
The same thing happens to those who die now. Speaking of both humans and animals, the Bible says: “They have all come to be from the dust, and they are all returning to the dust.”—Ecclesiastes 3:19, 20.
Death is not necessarily the end of everything
The Bible often compares death to sleep. (Psalm 13:3; John 11:11-14; Acts 7:60) A person who is fast asleep is unaware of what is happening around him. Likewise, the dead are not conscious of anything. Yet, the Bible teaches that God can awaken the dead as if from sleep and give them life again. (Job 14:13-15) For those whom God resurrects, death is not the end of everything.
What Does the Bible Say About Cremation?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible contains no specific direction on the practice of cremation. There is no Bible command regarding either burial or cremation of the dead.
The Bible does report instances of faithful servants of God burying their dead. For example, Abraham went to great lengths to secure a burial place for his wife, Sarah.—Genesis 23:2-20; 49:29-32.
The Bible also mentions faithful individuals burning the remains of the dead. For example, when King Saul of Israel and three of his sons were killed in battle, their corpses initially remained in enemy territory and were treated dishonorably. Hearing of the situation, faithful Israelite warriors retrieved the bodies of Saul and his sons, burned them, and buried the remains. (1 Samuel 31:8-13) The Bible indicates that this was an acceptable way to treat the remains of those men.—2 Samuel 2:4-6.
Common misconceptions about cremation
Misconception: Cremation dishonours the body.
Fact: The Bible says that those who die return to the dust, which is what naturally happens to a corpse when it decomposes. (Genesis 3:19) Cremation speeds up the process by reducing the body to ashes, or dust.
Misconception: In Bible times, only people in God’s disfavor were burned after death.
Fact: The dead bodies of some unfaithful people, such as Achan and his family, were burned. (Joshua 7:25) However, this was an exception rather than the rule. (Deuteronomy 21:22, 23) As noted earlier, the bodies of even some faithful people, such as King Saul’s son Jonathan, were burned after death.
Misconception: Cremation prevents God from resurrecting a person.
Fact: Regarding resurrection of the dead, it does not matter to God whether a person’s body was buried, cremated, lost at sea, or eaten by wild animals. (Revelation 20:13) The Almighty can easily re-create a new body for the person.—1 Corinthians 15:35, 38.
Cremation or Burial?—How to Decide
When deciding how to dispose of a dead body, consider the following factors.
● The wishes of the deceased. The Bible records instances in which family members respected the instructions a person gave regarding treatment of his body after his death.—Genesis 50:4, 5; Exodus 13:19.
● Local customs. These often have a bearing on how dead bodies are treated. (John 19:40) For instance, in Bible times, people customarily buried the dead. (Genesis 49:31; 1 Samuel 28:3) Likewise today, a person may choose to deal with the remains of the deceased according to local customs as long as such customs do not conflict with Bible principles.
● Legal requirements. The Bible encourages obedience to secular authorities. (Romans 13:1) In some areas, the authorities enact laws about the treatment of dead bodies. For instance, in the case of cremation, some authorities place restrictions on where the ashes may be disposed of.
● The feelings of others. The Scriptures encourage us to look out for the interests of others. (Philippians 2:4) When deciding how to deal with a dead person’s remains, we might consider these questions: How do other family members feel about cremation or burial of the deceased? How does the local community view such customs?
Fear of Death—How Can You Overcome It?
The Bible’s answer
We rightly fear death as an enemy and take reasonable steps to protect our life. (1 Corinthians 15:26) However, an irrational fear of death based on falsehood or superstition makes people “subject to slavery all through their lives.” (Hebrews 2:15) Knowing the truth will free you from a morbid fear of death—a fear that can rob you of the ability to enjoy life.—John 8:32.
The truth about death
● The dead are not conscious. (Psalm 146:4) You need not fear pain or torment after you die, for the Bible compares death to sleep.—Psalm 13:3; John 11:11-14.
● The dead cannot harm us. Even formerly violent enemies are “impotent in death.” (Proverbs 21:16) The Bible says that “their hate and their jealousy have already perished.”—Ecclesiastes 9:6.
● Death is not necessarily the permanent end of our existence. By means of a resurrection, God will bring back to life people who have died.—John 5:28, 29; Acts 24:15.
● God promises a time when “death will be no more.” (Revelation 21:4) Concerning that day, the Bible says: “The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside forever upon it,” completely free from any fear of dying.—Psalm 37:29.
Near-Death Experiences—What Do They Not Mean?
The Bible’s answer
Many people who have come close to dying say that they recall being separated from their body or seeing a bright light or a place of great beauty. ‘Some consider the experience to be a privileged glimpse of another realm of existence,’ states the book Recollections of Death. Although the Bible doesn’t mention such near-death experiences, it does contain a fundamental truth that shows that they are not visions of the next life.
The dead are unconscious.
The Bible says that the dead “are conscious of nothing at all.” (Ecclesiastes 9:5) At death we pass, not into another plane of existence or thinking, but into nonexistence. The teaching that we have an immortal soul that survives after our body dies does not come from the Bible. (Ezekiel 18:4) Thus, any memories from a near-death experience cannot be glimpses of heaven, hell, or the afterlife
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What did Lazarus say about an afterlife?
The Bible’s account of Lazarus describes an actual death experience: He was resurrected by Jesus after being dead for four days. (John 11:38-44) If Lazarus had been enjoying some form of afterlife, it would have been cruel of Jesus to bring him back to life on earth. However, the Bible records no comments from Lazarus about the afterlife. Surely Lazarus would have spoken about his afterlife experience if he had had one. Significantly, Jesus described Lazarus’ death as being like sleep, indicating that while Lazarus was dead, he was conscious of nothing at all.—John 11:11-14.
Is Our Time to Die Predetermined?
The Bible’s answer
No, we do not have a predetermined time to die. Rather than supporting belief in fate, the Bible says that death is often due to “unexpected events.”—Ecclesiastes 9:11.
Doesn’t the Bible say that there is “a time to die”?
Yes, Ecclesiastes 3:2 says that there is “a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted.” (King James Version) However, the context of this verse shows that the Bible is discussing the continuing cycles that are common to life. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8) God has not set our personal time to die any more than he forces a farmer to plant at a particular moment. Instead, the point is that we should avoid being so preoccupied with mundane matters that we neglect our Creator.—Ecclesiastes 3:11; 12:1, 13.
Life can be extended
Despite life’s uncertainties, we can often live longer if we make wise decisions. The Bible says: “The teaching of the wise one is a source of life to turn one away from the snares of death.” (Proverbs 13:14) Likewise, Moses told the Israelites that they could “live a long time” if they obeyed God’s commands. (Deuteronomy 6:2) In contrast, we can carelessly shorten our life by bad or foolish actions.—Ecclesiastes 7:17.
No matter how wise or careful we are, though, we cannot escape death. (Romans 5:12) Yet, this situation will change, for the Bible promises a time when “death will be no more.”—Revelation 21:4.
What Does the Bible Say About Euthanasia?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible does not specifically discuss euthanasia. However, what it does say about life and death offers a balanced perspective. Causing death is unacceptable, but there is no requirement to go to desperate lengths to prolong life during the dying process.
The Bible identifies God as our Creator, “the source of life.” (Psalm 36:9; Acts 17:28) In God’s eyes, life is very precious. For this reason, God condemns both taking the life of another and taking one’s own life. (Exodus 20:13; 1 John 3:15) Additionally, the Bible indicates that we should take reasonable precautions to protect our own life and the lives of others. (Deuteronomy 22:8) Clearly, God wants us to value the gift of life.
What if a person is terminally ill?
The Bible does not condone taking someone’s life even when the person is facing an imminent and unavoidable death. The example of King Saul of Israel supports this. When he was mortally wounded in battle, he asked his attendant to help end his life. (1 Samuel 31:3, 4) Saul’s attendant refused. However, another man later falsely claimed to have fulfilled Saul’s wish. This man was condemned as blood guilty by David—a person who reflected God’s thinking on the matter.—2 Samuel 1:6-16.
Must life be prolonged at all costs?
When death is clearly imminent, the Bible does not require extending the dying process. Rather, the Bible offers a balanced view. Death is our great enemy, the consequence of our sinful condition. (Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 15:26) While not to be longed for, death need not be feared, because God promises to resurrect those who die. (John 6:39, 40) A person who shows respect for life would seek the best medical care available. Yet, doing so does not require choosing medical procedures that simply prolong a dying process that is nearly complete.
Is suicide an unforgivable sin?
No, the Bible does not list suicide as an unforgivable sin. Even though taking one’s own life is a serious sin, God fully understands factors such as mental illness, extreme stress, or even genetic traits that may lead to suicidal urges. (Psalm 103:13, 14) Through the Bible, he provides comfort to those in distress. In addition, the Bible says that there will be “a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Acts 24:15) This shows that there is hope of a resurrection for people who have made serious mistakes, such as having committed suicide.
What about pet euthanasia?
Pet euthanasia differs greatly from human euthanasia. While God gives humans the hope of living forever, this is not the case for animals. (Romans 6:23; 2 Peter 2:12) Although the Bible condemns treating animals cruelly, it does give men authority over animals’ lives. (Genesis 9:3) Since God expects us to care for animals mercifully, it is a pet owner’s responsibility to decide on the most humane way to treat an animal, which may include choosing death for one that is suffering.—Proverbs 12:10
What Is Heaven?
The Bible’s answer
The word “heaven” is used in three basic senses in the Bible: (1) the physical heavens; (2) the spirit realm; and (3) a symbol of a high or exalted position. In each case, the context helps determine the correct understanding.
1. The physical heavens. In this sense, “the heavens” refers to earth’s atmosphere, where the winds blow, the birds fly, the clouds produce rain and snow, and the lightning flashes. (Psalm 78:26; Proverbs 30:19; Isaiah 55:10; Luke 17:24) It can also mean outer space, the location of “the sun and the moon and the stars.”—Deuteronomy 4:19; Genesis 1:1.
2. The spirit realm. The term “heaven” also refers to the spiritual heavens, or spirit realm, a level of existence higher than and outside of the physical universe. (1 Kings 8:27; John 6:38) These spiritual heavens are occupied by Jehovah God, who is “a Spirit,” as well as by the angelic spirit beings whom he created. (John 4:24; Matthew 24:36) At times, “the heavens” are personified to represent the faithful angels, “the congregation of the holy ones.”—Psalm 89:5-7.
The Bible also uses “heavens” to refer specifically to the portion of the spirit realm where Jehovah actually resides, his “dwelling place.” (1 Kings 8:43, 49; Hebrews 9:24; Revelation 13:6) For example, the Bible foretold that Satan and the demons would be thrown out of heaven, no longer being allowed to enter Jehovah’s presence. However, they would remain in the spirit realm.—Revelation 12:7-9, 12
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3. A symbol of a high or exalted position. The Scriptures use “heaven” to represent an elevated position, usually in connection with ruling authority. Such a position could be occupied by:
● Jehovah God himself as the almighty Sovereign.—2 Chronicles 32:20; Luke 15:21.
● God’s Kingdom, the government that will replace human rule. The Bible refers to that Kingdom as the “new heavens.”--Isaiah 65:17; 66:22; 2 Peter 3:13.
● Christians who, while on earth, have the hope of going to heaven.—Ephesians 2:6.
● Human governments that have exalted themselves over their subjects.—Isaiah 14:12-14; Daniel 4:20-22; 2 Peter 3:7.
● Wicked spirits who now rule over the world.—Ephesians 6:12; 1 John 5:19.
What is heaven like?
The spirit realm is a hive of activity. It is occupied by hundreds of millions of spirit creatures “who carry out [Jehovah’s] word.”—Psalm 103:20, 21; Daniel 7:10.
The Bible describes heaven as being brilliantly lighted. (1 Timothy 6:15, 16) The prophet Ezekiel received a heavenly vision marked by “brilliant light,” while the vision of heaven that Daniel saw included “a stream of fire.” (Ezekiel 1:26-28; Daniel 7:9, 10) Heaven is holy, or clean, and beautiful.—Psalm 96:6; Isaiah 63:15; Revelation 4:2, 3.
The overall impression that the Bible gives of heaven is awe-inspiring. (Ezekiel 43:2, 3) Nevertheless, it is not possible for humans to comprehend heaven fully, since the spirit realm is beyond our senses.
What Is the Resurrection?
The Bible’s answer
In the Bible, the word translated as “resurrection” comes from the Greek a·naʹsta·sis, which means “raising up” or “standing up again.” A person who is resurrected is raised up from death and restored to life as the person he was before.—1 Corinthians 15:12, 13.
Although the word “resurrection” is not in the Hebrew Scriptures, often called the Old Testament, the teaching appears there. Through the prophet Hosea, for example, God promised: “From the power of the Grave I will redeem them; from death I will recover them.”—Hosea 13:14; Job 14:13-15; Isaiah 26:19; Daniel 12:2, 13.
Where will people be resurrected? Some people are resurrected to life in heaven to rule as kings with Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:1; Revelation 5:9, 10) The Bible calls this “the first resurrection” and “the earlier resurrection,” both expressions implying that there is another resurrection to follow. (Revelation 20:6; Philippians 3:11) This later resurrection will be to life on earth, which the vast majority of those brought back to life will enjoy.—Psalm 37:29.
How are people resurrected? God grants Jesus the power to raise the dead. (John 11:25) Jesus will restore “all those in the memorial tombs” to life, each one with his unique identity, personality, and memories. (John 5:28, 29) Those resurrected to heaven receive a spirit body, while those resurrected to life on earth receive a healthy physical body, completely sound.—Isaiah 33:24; 35:5, 6; 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, 50.
Who will be resurrected? The Bible says that “there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Acts 24:15) The righteous include faithful people, such as Noah, Sarah, and Abraham. (Genesis 6:9; Hebrews 11:11; James 2:21) The unrighteous include those who failed to meet God’s standards but did not have the opportunity to learn and follow them.
However, those who become so wicked that they are beyond reform will not be resurrected. When such ones die, they suffer permanent destruction with no hope of a return to life.—Matthew 23:33; Hebrews 10:26, 27.
When will the resurrection take place? The Bible foretold that the resurrection to heaven would take place during Christ’s presence, which began in 1914. (1 Corinthians 15:21-23) The resurrection to life on earth will occur during the Thousand Year Reign of Jesus Christ, when the earth will be transformed into a paradise.—Luke 23:43; Revelation 20:6, 12, 13.
Why is belief in the resurrection reasonable? The Bible provides detailed accounts of nine resurrections, each confirmed by eyewitnesses. (1 Kings 17:17-24; 2 Kings 4:32-37; 13:20, 21; Luke 7:11-17; 8:40-56; John 11:38-44; Acts 9:36-42; Acts 20:7-12; 1 Corinthians 15:3-6) Jesus’ resurrection of Lazarus is especially noteworthy, since Lazarus had been dead for four days and Jesus performed the miracle before a crowd of people. (John 11:39, 42) Even those who opposed Jesus could not deny the facts of the matter, so instead they plotted to kill both Jesus and Lazarus.—John 11:47, 53; 12:9-11.
The Bible shows that God has both the ability and the desire to bring back the dead. He keeps in his limitless memory a detailed record of each person he will resurrect by means of his almighty power. (Job 37:23; Matthew 10:30; Luke 20:37, 38) God is able to restore the dead to life, and he wants to! Describing the coming resurrection, the Bible says of God: “You will long for the work of your hands.”—Job 14:15.
Misconceptions about the resurrection
Myth: The resurrection is a reuniting of the soul with the body.
Fact: The Bible teaches that the soul is the entire person, not some part that survives death. (Genesis 2:7, footnote; Ezekiel 18:4) A person who is resurrected is not reunited with his soul; he is recreated as a living soul.
Myth: Some people are resurrected and then immediately destroyed.
Fact: The Bible says that “those who practiced vile things” will receive “a resurrection of judgment.” (John 5:29) However, this judgment is based on what they do after they are resurrected, not before. Jesus said: “The dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who have paid attention will live.” (John 5:25) Those who ‘pay attention’ to, or obey, the things they learn after they are resurrected will have their names recorded in “the scroll of life.”—Revelation 20:12, 13.
Myth: When resurrected, a person receives exactly the same body that he had before he died.
Fact: After death, a person’s body would likely have broken down and disintegrated.—Ecclesiastes 3:19, 20.
Does the Bible Teach Reincarnation?
The Bible’s answer
No, it does not. Neither the word “reincarnation” nor the idea appears in the Bible. Belief in reincarnation is based on the teaching of the immortality of the soul. However, the Bible teaches that the soul is the entire person and is thus mortal. (Genesis 2:7, footnote; Ezekiel 18:4) At death, a person ceases to exist.—Genesis 3:19; Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6.
What is the difference between reincarnation and resurrection?
The Bible’s teaching of the resurrection is not based on the immortality of the soul. In the resurrection, people who have died will be brought back into existence by God’s power. (Matthew 22:23, 29; Acts 24:15) The resurrection offers the positive hope of coming back to a new earth with the prospect of never dying again.—2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:3, 4.
Misconceptions about reincarnation and the Bible
Misconception: The Bible says that the prophet Elijah was reincarnated as John the Baptist.
Fact: God foretold: “I am sending to you Elijah the prophet,” and Jesus showed that John the Baptist fulfilled this prophecy. (Malachi 4:5, 6; Matthew 11:13, 14) However, this did not mean that Elijah had been reincarnated as John the Baptist. John himself said that he was not Elijah. (John 1:21) Instead, John performed a work like Elijah’s, proclaiming God’s message calling for repentance. (1 Kings 18:36, 37; Matthew 3:1) John also proved to be “strong and mighty like the prophet Elijah.”—Luke 1:13-17, Good News Translation.
Misconception: The Bible refers to reincarnation as being “born again.”
Fact: The Bible shows that being born again is a spiritual rebirth that takes place while a person is still alive. (John 1:12, 13) This rebirth is, not an inevitable consequence of past actions, but a blessing from God, giving those who receive it a unique hope for the future.—John 3:3; 1 Peter 1:3, 4.
Is God to Blame for Our Suffering?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible emphatically answers no! Suffering was not part of Jehovah God’s purpose for mankind. However, the first human couple rebelled against God’s rulership, choosing to set their own standards of good and bad. They turned away from God and suffered the consequences.
Today we are experiencing the effects of their bad choice. But in no way did God originate human suffering.
The Bible says: “When under trial, let no one say: ‘I am being tried by God.’ For with evil things God cannot be tried nor does he himself try anyone.” (James 1:13) Suffering can afflict anyone—even those who are favoured by God.
Is the Devil the Cause of All Suffering?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible reveals that Satan the Devil is a real person who, like a powerful criminal kingpin, sees to it that his will is accomplished through “lying signs” and “deception.” In fact, he “keeps transforming himself into an angel of light,” says the Bible.
(2 Thessalonians 2:9, 10; 2 Corinthians 11:14) The Devil’s existence can be perceived by the damage he causes.
However, the Devil is not responsible for all suffering. Why not? God created humans with the capacity to choose between doing good and doing bad. (Joshua 24:15) When we make poor choices, we reap bad consequences.—Galatians 6:7, 8.
What Does the Bible Say About Natural Disasters?
The Bible’s answer
God does not cause the natural disasters occurring today, but he is concerned about people who are affected by them. Natural disasters are one of the causes of suffering that God’s Kingdom will eliminate. In the meantime, God provides comfort for those who are affected by natural disasters.—2 Corinthians 1:3.
Why can we be sure that natural disasters are not punishment from God?
Natural disasters differ from God’s use of natural forces, as recorded in the Bible.
● Natural disasters kill and maim indiscriminately. In contrast, God’s acts of judgment recorded in the Bible were selective. For example, when God destroyed the ancient cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, he spared the good man Lot and his two daughters. (Genesis 19:29, 30) God read the hearts of the individuals of that time and destroyed only those he deemed wicked.—Genesis 18:23-32; 1 Samuel 16:7.
● Natural disasters usually strike with little or no warning. On the other hand, God gave warnings to the wicked before using natural forces against them. The people who heeded the warnings had an opportunity to escape disaster.—Genesis 7:1-5; Matthew 24:38, 39.
● To some extent, humans have contributed to natural disasters. How? By damaging the natural environment and by building in areas prone to earthquakes, floods, and extreme weather. (Revelation 11:18) God is not to blame for such human choices.—Proverbs 19:3.
Are natural disasters a sign of the times?
Yes, Bible prophecies suggest that there would be disasters during “the conclusion of the system of things,” or “the last days.” (Matthew 24:3; 2 Timothy 3:1) For example, concerning our time, Jesus said: “There will be food shortages and earthquakes in one place after another.” (Matthew 24:7) Soon, God will rid the earth of all causes of pain and suffering, including natural disasters.—Revelation 21:3, 4.
How does God help victims of natural disasters?
● God comforts victims with his Word, the Bible. The Bible assures us that God cares for us and that he feels for us when we suffer. (Isaiah 63:9; 1 Peter 5:6, 7) It also reveals his promise of a time when natural disasters will not happen anymore.—See “ Bible verses to comfort victims of natural disasters.”
● God helps victims by means of his worshippers. God uses his worshippers on earth to imitate the example set by Jesus. It was prophesied that Jesus would comfort “the broken-hearted” and “all who mourn.” (Isaiah 61:1, 2) Worshippers of God strive to do the same.—John 13:15.
God also uses his worshippers to provide practical relief to victims of natural disasters.—Acts 11:28-30; Galatians 6:10.
Can the Bible help with natural-disaster preparedness?
Yes. Although the Bible is not a manual for disaster preparedness, it contains principles that can help. For example:
● Plan ahead for potential disasters. “The shrewd one sees the danger and conceals himself,” says the Bible. (Proverbs 22:3) We are wise to prepare an emergency plan in advance. Such planning may include assembling an emergency kit that is ready to go in case of an emergency and rehearsing with one’s family where to meet if a disaster occurs.
● Value life over possessions. The Bible acknowledges: “We have brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out.” (1 Timothy 6:7, 8) We need to be willing to leave our home and possessions in order to escape disaster. We do well to remember that our life is more important than any material things.—Matthew 6:25.
Bible verses to comfort victims of natural disasters
Genesis 18:25: “It is unthinkable that [God] would act in this manner by putting the righteous man to death with the wicked one . . . Will the Judge of all the earth not do what is right?”
Meaning: God always does what is right; he is not to blame when good people die because of natural disasters.
Psalm 46:1, 2: “God is our refuge and strength, a help that is readily found in times of distress. That is why we will not fear, though the earth undergoes change.”
Meaning: No matter what may happen around us, God is a reliable Source of strength.
Isaiah 63:9: “During all their distress it was distressing to him.”
Meaning: God has empathy—he feels for us when we suffer.
John 5:28, 29: “The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear [Jesus’] voice and come out.”
Meaning: We can have the hope of seeing our dead loved ones again because God will empower Jesus to bring them back to life.
1 Peter 5:6, 7: “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God . . . while you throw all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.”
Meaning: God has deep concern for us and wants us to pray to him about our anxieties.
Revelation 21:4: “[God] will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”
Meaning: God will eliminate all causes of suffering, including natural disasters.
What Does the Bible Say About Pandemics?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible foretold that pestilences (widespread diseases, including pandemics) would occur during the last days. (Luke 21:11) Such pandemics are not divine retribution or punishment from God. In fact, by means of his Kingdom, God will soon put an end to all health problems, including pandemics.
Did the Bible foretell pandemics?
The Bible does not foretell specific pandemics or diseases, such as COVID-19, AIDS, or the Spanish flu. But it does foretell “pestilences” and “deadly plague.” (Luke 21:11; Revelation 6:8) These events are part of the sign of “the last days,” also referred to as “the conclusion of the system of things.”—2 Timothy 3:1; Matthew 24:3.
Has God ever punished people with sickness?
The Bible reports a few occasions when God used sickness to punish people. For example, he caused some individuals to have leprosy. (Numbers 12:1-16; 2 Kings 5:20-27; 2 Chronicles 26:16-21) However, these isolated incidents were not indiscriminate pandemics that spread to innocent people. Rather, such events were specific judgments on individuals who had clearly rebelled against God.
Are today’s pandemics punishment from God?
No. Some people claim that God is using pandemics and other sicknesses to punish people today. However, the Bible does not support that claim. Why not?
For one thing, some of God’s worshippers—both past and present—have been plagued with sickness. The faithful man Timothy, for example, suffered “frequent cases of sickness.” (1 Timothy 5:23) But the Bible does not say that this was a sign of God’s disfavour. Likewise today, some faithful servants of God become sick or contract diseases. Oftentimes, these individuals were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.—Ecclesiastes 9:11.
Moreover, the Bible teaches that God’s time to punish the wicked has not yet arrived. Rather, we are living “in a day of salvation”—that is, a time when God is extending a warm invitation to all humans to draw close to him and be saved. (2 Corinthians 6:2) One way he extends that invitation is by means of a global preaching work with a positive message—the “good news of the Kingdom.”—Matthew 24:14.
Will pandemics ever end?
Yes. The Bible foretells a time in the near future when no one will be sick. Under the rule of his Kingdom, God will cure all health problems. (Isaiah 33:24; 35:5, 6) He will do away with suffering, pain, and death. (Revelation 21:4) And he will bring back to life those who have died so that they can enjoy good health here on earth under perfect conditions.—Psalm 37:29; Acts 24:15.
Bible verses about sickness
Matthew 4:23: “[Jesus] went throughout the whole of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the good news of the Kingdom and curing every sort of disease and every sort of infirmity among the people.”
Meaning: Jesus’ miracles demonstrated on a small scale what God’s Kingdom will soon do for all humankind.
Luke 21:11: “There will be . . . pestilences.”
Meaning: Widespread health problems are part of the sign of the last days.
Revelation 6:8: “Look! a pale horse, and the one seated on it had the name Death. And the Grave was closely following him. And authority was given them . . . to kill with . . . deadly plague.”
Meaning: The prophecy about the four horsemen of the Apocalypse indicates that pandemics would happen in our time.
Why Did the Holocaust Happen? Why Didn’t God Stop It?
Many who ask these questions have suffered extreme personal loss and seek not just answers but solace. Others see the Holocaust as the height of human evil, and they struggle to believe in God.
Common misconceptions about God and the Holocaust
Myth: It’s wrong to ask why God allowed the Holocaust.
Fact: People of great faith have questioned why God allows evil. For instance, the prophet Habakkuk asked God: “Why do you allow violence, lawlessness, crime, and cruelty to spread everywhere?” (Habakkuk 1:3, Contemporary English Version) Rather than rebuke Habakkuk, God had the questions he asked recorded in the Bible for all to read.
Myth: God doesn’t care about human suffering.
Fact: God hates wickedness and the suffering it causes. (Proverbs 6:16-19) Back in the days of Noah, God “felt hurt at his heart” because of the violence spreading in the earth. (Genesis 6:5, 6) No doubt, God also felt tremendous pain over the Holocaust.—Malachi 3:6.
Myth: The Holocaust was God’s punishment of the Jews.
Fact: God did allow Jerusalem to be destroyed by the Romans in the first century. (Matthew 23:37–24:2) Since then, however, God does not single out any ethnic group for special favour or for punishment. In God’s view, “there is no difference between Jews and Gentiles.”—Romans 10:12, Good News Translation.
Myth: If a loving and all-powerful God existed, he would have prevented the Holocaust.
Fact: Although God never causes suffering, he sometimes allows it temporarily.—James 1:13; 5:11.
Why did God allow the Holocaust?
God allowed the Holocaust for the same reason that he has permitted all human suffering: to settle moral issues that were raised long ago. The Bible clearly indicates that at present the Devil, not God, rules the world. (Luke 4:1, 2, 6; John 12:31) Two basic facts from the Bible can help explain why God allowed the Holocaust.
1. God created humans with free will. God told the first humans, Adam and Eve, what he expected of them, but he did not force them to obey. They chose to decide for themselves what was good and bad, and their bad choice—and similar choices by people throughout history—has brought horrible consequences to mankind. (Genesis 2:17; 3:6; Romans 5:12) It is as the book Statement of Principles of Conservative Judaism says: “Much of the world’s suffering directly results from our misuse of the free will granted to us.” Rather than revoke our free will, God has given humans time to try to manage their affairs independent of him.
2. God can and will undo all the damage of the Holocaust. God promises to bring back to life millions who have died, including Holocaust victims. He will also eliminate the pain that Holocaust survivors feel because of horrific memories. (Isaiah 65:17; Acts 24:15) God’s love for mankind guarantees that he will fulfill these promises.—John 3:16.
Many Holocaust victims and survivors were able to maintain their faith and find meaning in life by understanding why God has allowed evil and how he purposes to undo its effects.
World Peace—Why So Elusive?
The Bible’s answer
Human efforts to bring world peace have failed and will continue to fail for several reasons:
● “It does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step.” (Jeremiah 10:23) Humans weren’t created with the ability or the right to rule themselves, so they won’t be able to achieve enduring peace.
● “Don’t put your trust in human leaders; no human being can save you. When they die, they return to the dust; on that day all their plans come to an end.” (Psalm 146:3, 4, Good News Translation) Government leaders, even those with the best motives, can’t devise lasting solutions for the root causes of war.
● “In the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here. For men will be . . . fierce, without love of goodness, betrayers, headstrong, puffed up with pride.” (2 Timothy 3:1–4) We live in “the last days” of the present wicked world, a time when prevailing attitudes make peace difficult.
● “Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing he has a short period of time.” (Revelation 12:12) The Devil, God’s enemy, has been confined to the vicinity of the earth and motivates people to adopt his vicious spirit. As long as he is “the ruler of this world,” we can never live in peace.—John 12:31.
● “[God’s Kingdom] will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms [that oppose God], and it itself will stand to times indefinite.” (Daniel 2:44) God’s Kingdom, not any human government, will satisfy our desire for permanent world peace.—Psalm 145:16.
Can the Bible Help Me if I’m Depressed?
The Bible’s answer
Yes, because the best help comes from “God, Who comforts and encourages and refreshes and cheers the depressed.”—2 Corinthians 7:6, The Amplified Bible.
What God gives to help the depressed
● Strength. God “refreshes and cheers” you, not by removing all your problems, but by answering your prayers when you pray for the strength to cope. (Philippians 4:13) You can be sure that he’s ready to listen to you, for the Bible says: “Jehovah is near to those that are broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.” (Psalm 34:18) In fact, God can hear your call for help even if you can’t put your feelings into words.—Romans 8:26, 27.
● Good examples. One Bible writer prayed to God: “From the depths of my despair I call to you.” This psalmist dealt with his depression by remembering that God doesn’t burden us with guilt. Instead, he said to God: “If you kept a record of our sins, who could escape being condemned? But you forgive us, so that we should stand in awe of you.”—Psalm 130:1, 3, 4, Good News Translation.
● Hope. Besides providing comfort now, God has promised to remove all the problems that lead to depression. When he fulfills that promise, “the former things [including depression] will not be called to mind, neither will they come up into the heart.”—Isaiah 65:17.
Note: While acknowledging the help that God provides, we should also seek medical treatment for ailments such as clinical depression. (Mark 2:17) We do not, however, endorse any specific medical treatment; we feel that each person should make his own decision on such matters.
I Want to Die—Can the Bible Help Me When I Have Suicidal Thoughts?
The Bible’s answer
Yes! The Bible comes from “God, who comforts those who are downhearted.” (2 Corinthians 7:6) Although the Bible is not a mental-health textbook, it has helped many overcome suicidal thoughts. Its practical advice can help you too.
What practical advice does the Bible give?
· ● Express your feelings.
What the Bible says: “A true friend shows love at all times, and is a brother who is born for times of distress.”—Proverbs 17:17.
Meaning: We need the support of others when we have distressing thoughts.
If you keep your feelings to yourself, you carry a burden that can become unbearable. But if you share your feelings, you may lessen their intensity and even gain a fresh perspective.
Try this: Talk to someone today, perhaps a family member or a trusted friend. You might also express yourself by writing down your feelings.
· ● Get professional help.
What the Bible says: “Healthy people do not need a physician, but those who are ill do.”—Matthew 9:12.
Meaning: We should seek medical help when we are ill.
Suicidal thoughts may be a symptom of mental or emotional illness. Like physical sickness, this is nothing to be ashamed of. Mental and emotional illnesses can be treated.
Try this: Seek help from a qualified physician as soon as possible.
· ● Remember that God cares.
What the Bible says: “Five sparrows sell for two coins of small value, do they not? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. . . . Have no fear; you are worth more than many sparrows.”—Luke 12:6, 7.
Meaning: You are precious to God.
You may feel all alone, but God sees what you are going through. He cares about you—even if you have lost your will to live. “A heart broken and crushed, O God, you will not reject,” says Psalm 51:17. God wants you to live because he loves you.
Try this: Examine evidence from the Bible that God loves you. For example, see chapter 24 of the Bible study aid Draw Close to Jehovah.
· ● Pray to God.
What the Bible says: “Throw all your anxiety on [God], because he cares for you.”—1 Peter 5:7.
Meaning: God invites you to tell him openly and honestly about whatever weighs on your mind.
God can give you both inner peace and the strength to keep going. (Philippians 4:6, 7, 13) In this way, he sustains those who call out to him with a sincere heart.—Psalm 55:22.
Try this: Pray to God today and tell him about your feelings. (Psalm 83:18) Ask him to help you keep going.
· ● Meditate on the Bible’s hope for the future.
What the Bible says: “We have this hope as an anchor for our lives, both sure and firm.”—Hebrews 6:19, footnote.
Meaning: Your emotions may go up and down like a ship in a storm, but the hope held out by the Bible can stabilize you.
That hope is not wishful thinking but is based on God’s promise to remove the causes of our pain.—Revelation 21:4.
Try this: Learn more about the Bible’s hope by reading lesson 5 of the brochure Good News From God!
· ● Do something you enjoy.
What the Bible says: “A joyful heart is good medicine.”—Proverbs 17:22.
Meaning: When we do things that bring us joy, we may improve our mental or emotional well-being.
Try this: Do something that you normally enjoy. For example, listen to uplifting music, read something encouraging, or pursue a hobby. You will also increase your happiness if you do something to help others, even in small ways.—Acts 20:35.
· ● Take care of your physical health.
What the Bible says: “Physical training is beneficial.”—1 Timothy 4:8.
Meaning: We benefit when we exercise, get adequate sleep, and eat healthful food.
Try this: Go for a brisk walk, even for just 15 minutes.
· ● Remember that feelings and other things in life change.
What the Bible says: “You do not know what your life will be like tomorrow.”—James 4:14.
Meaning: A distressing problem—even one that seems beyond your control—may well be temporary.
No matter how bleak your situation seems today, it can change tomorrow. So look for ways to cope. (2 Corinthians 4:8) Your distressing situation will likely change in time, but you cannot undo suicide.
Try this: Read Bible accounts about people who felt so discouraged that they wanted to die, and see how their life eventually changed for the better—often in ways that they could not have foreseen. Consider some examples.
Does the Bible tell us about people who wanted to die?
Yes. The Bible tells us about some who said, in effect, “I want to die.” God did not rebuke them, but offered them help. He can do the same for you.
Elijah
· ● Who was he? Elijah was a brave prophet. But he was not immune to discouragement. “Elijah was a man with feelings like ours,” says James 5:17.
· ● Why did he want to die? At one point, Elijah felt alone, afraid, and worthless. So he begged: “Jehovah, take my life away.”—1 Kings 19:4.
· ● What helped him? Elijah poured out his feelings to God. How did God encourage him? God showed him concern and gave him a demonstration of His power. He also assured Elijah that he was still needed and gave Elijah a caring and capable assistant.
· ▸ Read about Elijah: 1 Kings 19:2-18.
Job
· ● Who was he? Job was a wealthy family man who faithfully worshipped the true God.
· ● Why did he want to die? Job’s life took a major turn for the worse. He lost all his possessions. All of his children died in a disaster. He got an agonizing disease. And finally, he was cruelly and falsely accused of causing his own problems. Job said: “I loathe my life; I do not want to go on living.”—Job 7:16.
· ● What helped him? Job prayed to God and talked to others. (Job 10:1-3) He was encouraged by a compassionate friend, Elihu, who helped him put his situation in perspective. Above all, Job welcomed God’s counsel and help.
· ▸ Read about Job: Job 1:1-3, 13-22; 2:7; 3:1-13; 36:1-7; 38:1-3; 42:1, 2, 10-13.
Moses
· ● Who was he? Moses was a leader of ancient Israel and a faithful prophet.
· ● Why did he want to die? Moses had a huge workload, was constantly criticized, and felt worn out. So he cried out to God: “Please kill me right now.”—Numbers 11:11, 15.
· ● What helped him? Moses told God how he felt. God helped Moses lighten his workload to alleviate the stress.
· ▸ Read about Moses: Numbers 11:4-6, 10-17.
Which Bible verses can help you resist suicidal thoughts?
Verses that show God cares about you:
· “Jehovah is close to the broken hearted; he saves those who are crushed in spirit.”—Psalm 34:18.
· “When anxieties overwhelmed me, you comforted and soothed me.”—Psalm 94:19.
(See also Psalm 27:10; 103:12-14; 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4.)
Verses that show God understands your pain:
· “You have seen my affliction; you are aware of my deep distress.”—Psalm 31:7.
· “During all their distress it was distressing to him. . . . In his love and compassion . . . , he lifted them up.”—Isaiah 63:9.
Verses that show God wants you to draw close to him and pour out your heart in prayer:
· “Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer . . . let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your mental powers.”—Philippians 4:6, 7.
· “Draw close to God, and he will draw close to you.”—James 4:8.
(See also Psalm 34:4, 15; 55:22.)
Verses that show God can give you strength:
· “For all things I have the strength through the one who gives me power.”—Philippians 4:13.
· “Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be anxious, for I am your God. I will fortify you, yes, I will help you.”—Isaiah 41:10.
(See also Psalm 138:3; Isaiah 40:29-31.)
What if a friend says, “I want to die”?
● Take any mention of suicidal thoughts seriously. Encourage your friend to talk; draw him or her out. (Proverbs 20:5) When people talk about their thoughts of suicide, they may be less likely to carry out the act.
● Listen empathetically. “Be quick to listen, slow to speak.” (James 1:19) Understand that anguish or depression can drive a person to say things that are “wild talk.” (Job 6:2, 3) So if a friend says something thoughtless or unkind, don’t overreact and take offense.
● Speak consolingly. The Bible advises us: “Speak consolingly to those who are depressed.” (1 Thessalonians 5:14) Do not minimize your friend’s feelings. Acknowledge his feelings and the reasons for them. Tell your friend how much he means to you.
● Urge your friend to get help. “Wisdom belongs to those who seek advice,” says Proverbs 13:10. If your friend had a serious physical illness, you would encourage him to see a doctor. Suicidal thoughts can be a symptom of mental or emotional illness, so urge him to seek professional help. Even offer to go with him.
● Show love. The Bible says: “A true friend shows love at all times, and is a brother who is born for times of distress.” (Proverbs 17:17) You cannot erase your friend’s problems or suicidal thoughts. But by confirming your love for him and your support, you may help him through another day—and his next day may look brighter.
What if I have attempted suicide in the past?
Understandably, you may have feelings of guilt or shame. You may also feel that no one understands what led you to attempt suicide or the emotional anguish you may now be living with.
The Bible acknowledges that we cannot fully understand what others feel. “The heart knows its own bitterness,” says the Bible. (Proverbs 14:10; 1 Kings 8:38) So while loved ones can offer a measure of comfort, they are somewhat limited. Be assured, however, that you are not alone.
God knows the human heart. (2 Chronicles 6:30) Jehovah knows what may have led you to feel that suicide was the only way out. He also understands your present feelings, which, as mentioned, may include guilt or shame.—Psalm 139:1.
While God highly values life, he is willing to forgive those who have had suicidal thoughts. (Psalm 86:5) He knows that many who attempt suicide do not want to die—they just want to end their pain. So Jehovah can help, even if “our hearts may condemn us . . . , because God is greater than our hearts and knows all things.” (1 John 3:19, 20) Yes, for you he wants to be “the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort.”—2 Corinthians 1:3.
Living With Chronic Illness—Can the Bible Help?
The Bible’s answer
Yes. God cares about his servants who are sick. Regarding a faithful servant, the Bible says: “Jehovah himself will sustain him upon a divan of illness.” (Psalm 41:3) If you are living with chronic illness, the following three steps can help you to cope:
1. Pray for strength to endure. You can receive “the peace of God that excels all thought,” which can reduce your anxiety and sustain you.—Philippians 4:6, 7.
2. Be positive. The Bible says: “Being cheerful keeps you healthy. It is slow death to be gloomy all the time.” (Proverbs 17:22, Good News Translation) Cultivate your sense of humour, since this not only can lighten dark times but also can benefit your health.
3. Build your hope in the future. A sound hope can help you have joy despite chronic ailments. (Romans 12:12) The Bible foretells a time when “no resident will say: ‘I am sick.’” (Isaiah 33:24) God will then cure chronic illnesses that are beyond the power of modern science to solve. For example, the Bible describes the reversal of the aging process this way: “Let his flesh become fresher than in youth; let him return to the days of his youthful vigour.”—Job 33:25.
Note: While acknowledging the help that God provides also seek medical treatment for chronic illness. (Mark 2:17) We do not, however, endorse any specific medical approach; we feel that each person should make his own health decisions.
What Does the Bible Say About Euthanasia?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible does not specifically discuss euthanasia. However, what it does say about life and death offers a balanced perspective. Causing death is unacceptable, but there is no requirement to go to desperate lengths to prolong life during the dying process.
The Bible identifies God as our Creator, “the source of life.” (Psalm 36:9; Acts 17:28) In God’s eyes, life is very precious. For this reason, God condemns both taking the life of another and taking one’s own life. (Exodus 20:13; 1 John 3:15) Additionally, the Bible indicates that we should take reasonable precautions to protect our own life and the lives of others. (Deuteronomy 22:8) Clearly, God wants us to value the gift of life.
What if a person is terminally ill?
The Bible does not condone taking someone’s life even when the person is facing an imminent and unavoidable death. The example of King Saul of Israel supports this. When he was mortally wounded in battle, he asked his attendant to help end his life. (1 Samuel 31:3, 4) Saul’s attendant refused. However, another man later falsely claimed to have fulfilled Saul’s wish. This man was condemned as bloodguilty by David—a person who reflected God’s thinking on the matter.—2 Samuel 1:6-16.
Must life be prolonged at all costs?
When death is clearly imminent, the Bible does not require extending the dying process. Rather, the Bible offers a balanced view. Death is our great enemy, the consequence of our sinful condition. (Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 15:26) While not to be longed for, death need not be feared, because God promises to resurrect those who die. (John 6:39, 40) A person who shows respect for life would seek the best medical care available. Yet, doing so does not require choosing medical procedures that simply prolong a dying process that is nearly complete.
Is suicide an unforgivable sin?
No, the Bible does not list suicide as an unforgivable sin. Even though taking one’s own life is a serious sin, God fully understands factors such as mental illness, extreme stress, or even genetic traits that may lead to suicidal urges. (Psalm 103:13, 14) Through the Bible, he provides comfort to those in distress. In addition, the Bible says that there will be “a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Acts 24:15) This shows that there is hope of a resurrection for people who have made serious mistakes, such as having committed suicide
.
What about pet euthanasia?
Pet euthanasia differs greatly from human euthanasia. While God gives humans the hope of living forever, this is not the case for animals. (Romans 6:23; 2 Peter 2:12) Although the Bible condemns treating animals cruelly, it does give men authority over animals’ lives. (Genesis 9:3) Since God expects us to care for animals mercifully, it is a pet owner’s responsibility to decide on the most humane way to treat an animal, which may include choosing death for one that is suffering.—Proverbs 12:10.
Peace on Earth—How Will It Come?
The Bible’s answer
Peace on earth will come, not by human efforts, but by means of God’s Kingdom, a heavenly government ruled by Christ Jesus. Notice how the Bible teaches us about this wonderful hope.
1. God will make “wars to cease to the extremity of the earth,” fulfilling his promise to bring “peace on earth to those with whom he is pleased!”—Psalm 46:9; Luke 2:14, Good News Translation.
2. God’s Kingdom will rule from heaven over the entire earth. (Daniel 7:14) As a world government, it will eliminate nationalism, which is at the root of many conflicts.
3. Jesus, the Ruler of God’s Kingdom, is called the “Prince of Peace,” and he will ensure that “to peace there will be no end.”—Isaiah 9:6, 7.
4. People determined to keep fighting will not be allowed to live under the Kingdom, since “anyone loving violence [God’s] soul certainly hates.”—Psalm 11:5; Proverbs 2:22.
5. God teaches his subjects how to live in peace. Describing the results of this instruction, the Bible says: “They will have to beat their swords into plough-shares and their spears into pruning shears. Nation will not lift up sword against nation, neither will they learn war anymore.”—Isaiah 2:3, 4.
What Will God’s Kingdom Accomplish?
The Bible’s answer
God’s Kingdom will replace all human governments and rule over the entire earth. (Daniel 2:44; Revelation 16:14) Once that happens, God’s Kingdom will:
● Remove the wicked, whose selfishness harms us all. “As regards the wicked, they will be cut off from the very earth.”—Proverbs 2:22.
● End all wars. “[God] is making wars to cease to the extremity of the earth.”—Psalm 46:9.
● Bring prosperity and security to the earth. “Everyone will live in peace among their own vineyards and fig trees, and no one will make them afraid.”—Micah 4:4, Good News Translation.
● Make the earth into a paradise. “Thirsty deserts will be glad; barren lands will celebrate and blossom with flowers.”—Isaiah 35:1, Contemporary English Version.
● Provide everyone with meaningful, enjoyable work. “The work of their own hands [God’s] chosen ones will use to the full. They will not toil for nothing.”—Isaiah 65:21-23.
● Eliminate disease. “No resident will say: ‘I am sick.’”—Isaiah 33:24.
● Set us free from the aging process. “Let his flesh become fresher than in youth; let him return to the days of his youthful vigour.”—Job 33:25.
● Bring the dead back to life. “All those in the memorial tombs will hear [Jesus’] voice and come out.”—John 5:28, 29.
Are All Religions the Same? Do They All Lead to God?
The Bible’s answer
No, all religions are not the same. The Bible contains many examples of religions that displease God. These fall into two basic categories.
Category 1: Worshipping false gods.
The Bible describes the worship of false gods with such terms as “delusion,” “futility,” and “useless.” (Jeremiah 10:3-5; 16:19, 20) Jehovah God commanded the ancient nation of Israel: “You must not have any other gods besides me.” (Exodus 20:3, 23; 23:24) When the Israelites worshipped other gods, “Jehovah became enraged.”—Numbers 25:3; Leviticus 20:2; Judges 2:13, 14.
God still has the same attitude toward the worship of such “so-called gods.” (1 Corinthians 8:5, 6; Galatians 4:8) He commands those who want to worship him to stop associating with those who practice false religion, saying: “Get out from among them, and separate yourselves.” (2 Corinthians 6:14-17) If all religions are the same and lead people to God, then why would God give such a command?
Category 2: Worshipping the true God in a way he does not approve.
At times, the Israelites worshipped God using beliefs and practices borrowed from the worship of false gods, but Jehovah rejected this attempt to mix true religion with false. (Exodus 32:8; Deuteronomy 12:2-4) Jesus condemned the religious leaders of his day because of the way they worshipped God; they made an outward show of being religious, yet they hypocritically “disregarded the weightier matters of the Law, namely, justice and mercy and faithfulness.”—Matthew 23:23.
Likewise today, only religion that is based on truth leads people to God. This truth is found in the Bible. (John 4:24; 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17).
God detests religious hypocrisy. (Titus 1:16) To help people draw closer to God, a religion must affect their everyday lives and not just consist of rituals or formalities. For example, the Bible says: “If any man thinks he is religious but does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he is deceiving his own heart, and his worship is futile. The religion that is clean and undefiled from the standpoint of our God and Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their tribulation, and to keep oneself without spot from the world.” (James 1:26, 27) The King James Version uses the expression “pure religion” for this clean, unhypocritical worship.
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Is It Necessary to Belong to an Organized Religion?
The Bible’s answer
Yes, because God wants people to gather for worship. The Bible says: “Let us consider one another so as to motivate to love and fine works, not forsaking our meeting together.”—Hebrews 10:24, 25.
Jesus indicated that his followers would form an organized group when he said to them: “By this all will know that you are my disciples—if you have love among yourselves.” (John 13:35) As a primary way of showing this love, disciples of Christ would associate with fellow believers. They would be organized into congregations that meet regularly for worship. (1 Corinthians 16:19) Collectively, they would form a worldwide brotherhood.—1 Peter 2:17.
More is needed than just belonging to a religion
While the Bible shows that people should gather to worship God, it does not teach that a person can please God by just being a member of a religion. To be approved by God, a person’s religion must affect his everyday life. For example, the Bible says: “The religion that is clean and undefiled from the standpoint of our God and Father is this: to look after orphans and widows in their tribulation, and to keep oneself without spot from the world.”—James 1:27.
Why Are There So Many Christian Denominations?
The Bible’s answer
People have used the teachings of Jesus Christ to form a variety of “Christian” denominations. However, the Bible indicates that there is only one true form of Christianity. Consider just three reasons for reaching this conclusion.
1. Jesus said that he taught “the truth,” and early Christians referred to their religion as “the truth.” (John 8:32; 2 Peter 2:2; 2 John 4; 3 John 3) These expressions show that those who promote doctrines that conflict with Jesus’ teachings are not practicing a true form of Christianity.
2. The Bible teaches that Christians “should all speak in agreement.” (1 Corinthians 1:10) However, many Christian denominations disagree on teachings as basic as what it means to be a Christian. Such denominations cannot all be right.—1 Peter 2:21.
3. Jesus prophesied that many would claim to be Christian yet fail to obey his commands and that he would reject such ones. (Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:46) Some people would be misled by religious leaders who corrupt true worship to further their own interests. (Matthew 7:15) However, other people would actually prefer imitation Christianity because it would tell them what they want to hear rather than the truth from the Bible.—2 Timothy 4:3, 4.
In his illustration of the wheat and the weeds, Jesus foretold a great rebellion (apostasy) against true Christianity. (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43) For a long period of time, true Christians and false Christians would be indistinguishable. Just as Jesus foretold, the apostasy flourished after the apostles died. (Acts 20:29, 30) While apostate teachings may vary, the various forms of imitation Christianity have all “deviated from the truth.”—2 Timothy 2:18.
Jesus also predicted that the distinction between true and false Christianity would eventually become clear — Matthew 13:30, 39.
How Can I Find the True Religion?
The Bible’s answer
Illustrating how to tell the difference between those who practice true religion and those who do not, the Bible says: “By their fruits you will recognize them. Never do people gather grapes from thorns or figs from thistles, do they?” (Matthew 7:16) Just as you can distinguish a grapevine from a thornbush by what it produces, you can distinguish true religion from false by its fruits, or by these identifying features.
1. True religion teaches the truth that is based on the Bible, not on human philosophies. (John 4:24; 17:17) This includes religious truths about the soul and the hope of everlasting life on a paradise earth. (Psalm 37:29; Isaiah 35:5, 6; Ezekiel 18:4) It also does not hold back from exposing religious falsehood.—Matthew 15:9; 23:27, 28.
2. True religion helps people to know God, including teaching them his name, Jehovah. (Psalm 83:18; Isaiah 42:8; John 17:3, 6) It does not teach that he is incomprehensible or aloof; rather, it teaches that he wants us to have a relationship with him.—James 4:8.
3. True religion highlights Jesus Christ as the one through whom God grants salvation. (Acts 4:10, 12) Its followers obey Jesus’ commands and strive to follow his example.—John 13:15; 15:14.
4. True religion focuses on God’s Kingdom as mankind’s only hope. Its followers actively tell others about that Kingdom.—Matthew 10:7; 24:14.
5. True religion promotes unselfish love. (John 13:35) It teaches respect for all ethnic groups and welcomes people from all races, cultures, languages, and backgrounds. (Acts 10:34, 35) moved by love.
6. True religion does not give high-sounding religious titles to its ministers.—Matthew 23:8-12; 1 Peter 5:2, 3.
7. True religion is completely neutral in political affairs. (John 17:16; 18:36) However, its followers respect and obey the government where they live, in harmony with the Bible’s command: “Pay back Caesar’s things to Caesar [representing the civil authority], but God’s things to God.”—Mark 12:17; Romans 13:1, 2.
8. True religion is a way of life, not just a ritual or a formality. Its followers adhere to the Bible’s high moral standards in all aspects of life. (Ephesians 5:3-5; 1 John 3:18) Rather than being grim, though, they find joy in worshipping “the happy God.”—1 Timothy 1:11.
9. Those who practice true religion will be in the minority. (Matthew 7:13, 14) Those who follow the true religion are often looked down on, ridiculed, and persecuted for doing God’s will.—Matthew 5:10-12.
True religion is not just ‘the right religion for me’
There is a danger in choosing a religion based solely on how it makes us feel. The Bible foretold a time when people would “surround themselves with [religious] teachers to have their ears tickled.” (2 Timothy 4:3) In contrast, the Bible encourages us to follow “the religion that is clean and undefiled from the standpoint of our God and Father,” even if that religion is unpopular.—James 1:27, footnote; John 15:18, 19.
Who Is the Antichrist?
The Bible’s answer
The antichrist is not merely one individual person or entity, for the Bible says that there are “many antichrists.” (1 John 2:18) Rather, the term “antichrist,” which comes from a Greek word meaning “against (or instead of) Christ,” refers to anyone who does the following:
● Denies that Jesus is the Christ (Messiah) or denies that he is the Son of God.—1 John 2:22.
● Opposes the Christ, God’s Anointed One.—Psalm 2:1, 2; Luke 11:23.
● Pretends to be the Christ.—Matthew 24:24.
● Persecutes the followers of Christ, since Jesus views what is done to them as being done to him.—Acts 9:5.
● Falsely claims to be a Christian while practicing lawlessness or deception.—Matthew 7:22, 23; 2 Corinthians 11:13.
Besides speaking of individuals who take such actions as being antichrists, the Bible also refers to them collectively as “the antichrist.” (2 John 7) The antichrist first appeared in the time of the apostles and has been active ever since. Bible prophecy foretold just such a development.—1 John 4:3.
How to identify antichrists
● They promote false ideas related to Jesus. (Matthew 24:9, 11) For example, those who teach that Jesus is Almighty God but actually oppose the teachings of Jesus, who said: “The Father is greater than I am.”—John 14:28.
● Antichrists reject what Jesus said about how God’s Kingdom operates. For instance, some religious leaders say that Christ works through human governments. Yet, this teaching contradicts Jesus, who said: “My Kingdom is no part of this world.”—John 18:36.
● They say that Jesus is their Lord, but they do not obey his commands, including the one to preach the good news of the Kingdom.—Matthew 28:19, 20; Luke 6:46; Acts 10:42.
What Does It Mean to Be Holy?
The Bible’s answer
To be holy refers to a state of being set apart from defilement. The Hebrew word translated “holy” comes from a term meaning “separate.” Thus, what is holy is separated from common use, or held sacred, especially by virtue of its being clean and pure.
God is holy to the supreme degree. The Bible says: “There is no one holy like Jehovah.” (1 Samuel 2:2) God therefore rightly sets the standard of what is holy.
The word “holy” can be applied to anything that is directly connected to God, especially things that are set aside for exclusive use in worship. For example, the Bible speaks of:
● Holy places: God told Moses near the burning bush: “The place where you are standing is holy ground.”—Exodus 3:2-5.
● Holy events: The ancient Israelites worshipped Jehovah at regular religious festivals called “holy conventions.”—Leviticus 23:37.
● Holy objects: Items used in God’s worship at the ancient temple in Jerusalem were called “holy utensils.” (1 Kings 8:4) Such sacred items were to be treated with great respect, although they were never to be worshipped themselves.
Can an imperfect person be holy?
Yes. God commands Christians: “You must be holy, because I am holy.” (1 Peter 1:16) Of course, imperfect humans could never attain to God’s perfect standard of holiness. Nevertheless, humans who obey God’s righteous laws can be considered “holy and acceptable to God.” (Romans 12:1) A person who strives to be holy reflects this in his words and actions. For example, he or she follows the Bible’s advice to “be holy and abstain from sexual immorality” and to “become holy yourselves in all your conduct.”—1 Thessalonians 4:3; 1 Peter 1:15.
Could a holy standing with God be lost?
Yes. If someone abandoned God’s standards of conduct, God would no longer view that person as holy. For instance, the Bible book of Hebrews is addressed to “holy brothers,” yet it warns that they could develop “a wicked heart lacking faith by drawing away from the living God.”—Hebrews 3:1, 12.
Misconceptions about being holy
Misconception: Holiness can be attained by self-denial.
Fact: The Bible reveals that “harsh treatment of the body,” or extreme self-denial, is “of no value” to God. (Colossians 2:23) Instead, God wants us to enjoy good things. “Everyone should eat and drink and find enjoyment for all his hard work. It is the gift of God.”—Ecclesiastes 3:13.
Misconception: Celibacy makes one more holy.
Fact: While a Christian may choose to remain unmarried, celibacy does not in itself provide a holy standing with God. It is true that those who remain single can give undistracted attention to worship. (1 Corinthians 7:32-34) However, the Bible shows that those who are married can also be holy. In fact, at least one of Jesus’ apostles—Peter—was married.—Matthew 8:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5.
Where does the term “Holy Bible” come from?
For centuries, the complete collection of inspired writings has been termed the “Holy Bible” or “Sacred Scriptures” for these reasons:
● Its origin. “Men spoke from God as they were moved by holy spirit.”—2 Peter 1:21.
● Its message. “The commandment of Jehovah is clean, making the eyes shine. The fear of Jehovah is pure, lasting forever.”—Psalm 19:8, 9.
The Bible can thus be considered holy. It is set apart from other writings by its pure contents and sacred use in worship.
Prayer—What It Can Do for You
Before you embark on any endeavour, you might naturally wonder, ‘What’s in it for me?’ Is it selfish, though, to ask this about prayer? Not necessarily. We naturally want to know whether it does any good. Even the good man Job once asked: “If I call out to him, will he answer me?”—Job 9:16.
Consider evidence that prayer is far more than a religious routine or a type of mental therapy. The true God really does listen to prayer. If we pray in the right way and for the proper things, he will pay attention. In fact, he urges us to draw close to him. (James 4:8) So, what can we expect if we make prayer a part of our life? Let us look at just some of the benefits.
Peace of mind.
When problems and challenges arise in your life, do you feel overwhelmed with anxiety? The Bible encourages us to “pray constantly” at times like these and to let our “petitions be made known to God.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17; Philippians 4:6) The Bible assures us that if we turn to God in prayer, “the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard [our] hearts and [our] mental powers.” (Philippians 4:7) We can gain a measure of tranquillity by pouring out our concerns to our heavenly Father. In fact, he encourages us to do so. “Throw your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you,” says Psalm 55:22.
Countless people the world over have experienced this peace. Hee Ran, from South Korea, says: “Even though I have serious problems, once I pray about them, I feel relieved of the burden and I feel I have the power to endure.” Cecilia, in the Philippines, relates: “Being a mother, I worry a lot about my daughters and my mother, who is now unable to recognize me. But because of prayer, I am able to go about my daily life with fewer worries. I know that Jehovah will help me to take care of them.”
Comfort and strength when facing trials.
Are you facing extreme stress, perhaps even life-threatening or tragic circumstances? Praying to “the God of all comfort” can bring immense relief. The Bible says that he “comforts us in all our trials.” (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4) For instance, on one occasion when Jesus was greatly distressed, “he bent his knees and began to pray.” The result? “An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.” (Luke 22:41, 43) Another faithful man, Nehemiah, suffered threats from evil people who tried to stop him from doing God’s work. He prayed: “Now, I pray, strengthen my hands.” The subsequent events show that God really did help him to rise above his fears and to succeed in his work. (Nehemiah 6:9-16) Reginald, in Ghana, describes his experience with prayer: “When I pray, especially in times of overwhelming difficulties, I get a feeling of having told my problem to someone who has the means to help me and who assures me that there is no cause for alarm.” Yes, God can comfort us when we pray to him.
Wisdom from God.
Some decisions we make can permanently affect us and our loved ones. How can we make wise choices? The Bible says: “If any one of you is lacking in wisdom [especially in dealing with trials], let him keep asking God, for he gives generously to all and without reproaching, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5) If we pray for wisdom, God can use his holy spirit to guide us to make wise decisions. In fact, we can specifically ask for holy spirit because Jesus assures us that “the Father in heaven [will] give holy spirit to those asking him!”—Luke 11:13.
Even Jesus felt the need to ask his Father for help when making important decisions. The Bible tells us that when he wanted to select the 12 men who would serve as his apostles, “he spent the whole night in prayer to God.”—Luke 6:12.
Like Jesus, many today have been reassured when they have seen how God has responded to their requests for help in making wise decisions. Regina, in the Philippines, tells of the various problems she has faced, such as supporting herself and her family after the death of her husband, losing a job, and experiencing difficulty in raising children. What has helped her to make wise decisions? She says, “I depend on God’s help through prayer.” Kwabena, in Ghana, tells why he asked for God’s help, “I lost my well-paying job in construction.” About considering his options, he says, “I consistently prayed to God for guidance in making the right decision.” He adds, “I feel strongly that God helped me to choose a career that enables me to care for my spiritual and physical needs.” You too can experience God’s guidance by praying about matters that could affect your relationship with him.
We have mentioned just a few things that prayer can do for you. (For more examples, see the box “ Benefits of Prayer.”) But for you to get these benefits, you need first to get to know God and his will. If that is what you want, we encourage you to ask for help to study the Bible. This can be your first step in drawing closer to the “Hearer of prayer.”—Psalm 65:2.
Benefits of Prayer
Peace of mind “Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.”—Philippians 4:6, 7.
Comfort from God “Praised be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our trials.”—2 Corinthians 1:3, 4.
Guidance to make wise decisions “If any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let him keep asking God, for he gives generously to all and without reproaching, and it will be given him.”—James 1:5.
Help to avoid temptation “Carry on prayer so that you do not enter into temptation.”—Luke 22:40.
Forgiveness of sins “If my people on whom my name has been called humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn away from their evil ways, then I will hear from the heavens and forgive their sin.”—2 Chronicles 7:14.
A way to help others “A righteous man’s supplication has a powerful effect.”—James 5:16.
Encouragement when prayers are answered “God said to him [Solomon]: ‘I have heard your prayer and your request for favour that you made before me.’”—1 Kings 9:3.
Will God Help Me if I Pray?
The Bible’s answer
Yes, God helps those who sincerely ask for things that are in harmony with his will. Even if you haven’t prayed before, the Bible’s examples of those who prayed, “God, help me,” can encourage you. For example:
● “O Jehovah my God, help me; save me according to Your mercy.”—Psalm 109:26, A Literal Translation of the Bible.
● “I am needy and poor: O God, help me.”—Psalm 69:6, Douay Version.
Of course, the writer of those words had strong faith in God. Yet, God listens to all who come to him with the right attitude, such as those who are “broken at heart” or “crushed in spirit.”—Psalm 34:18.
You need not fear that God is so distant that he is not concerned with your problems. The Bible says: “God is high, and yet the humble one he sees; but the lofty one he knows only from a distance.” (Psalm 138:6) In fact, Jesus once told his disciples: “The very hairs of your head are all numbered.” (Matthew 10:30) God observes details about you that even you are not aware of. How much more, then, will he listen if you pray for his help with your anxieties!—1 Peter 5:7.
Why Pray? Will God Answer Me?
The Bible’s answer
Yes, he will. Both the Bible and real-life experience show that God answers prayers. The Bible says: “The desire of those fearing [God] he will perform, and their cry for help he will hear, and he will save them.” (Psalm 145:19) But whether God will answer you when you pray is largely up to you.
What matters to God
● Praying to God, not to Jesus, Mary, saints, angels, or images. Only Jehovah God is the “Hearer of prayer.”—Psalm 65:2.
● Praying in harmony with God’s will, or requirements, which are found in the Bible.—1 John 5:14.
● Praying in Jesus’ name, recognizing his authority. “No one comes to the Father except through me,” said Jesus.—John 14:6.
● Praying in faith, asking for more faith if needed.—Matthew 21:22; Luke 17:5.
● Being humble and sincere. The Bible says: “Jehovah is high, and yet the humble one he sees.”—Psalm 138:6.
● Being persistent. Jesus said: “Keep on asking, and it will be given you.”—Luke 11:9.
What doesn’t matter to God
● Your race or nationality. “God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.”—Acts 10:34, 35.
● Your bodily position or posture. You can pray to God while sitting, bowing, kneeling, or standing.—1 Chronicles 17:16; Nehemiah 8:6; Daniel 6:10; Mark 11:25.
● Whether you pray aloud or silently. God answers even silent prayers that others aren’t aware of.—Nehemiah 2:1-6.
Whether your concerns are weighty or trivial. God encourages you to “throw all your anxiety upon him, because he cares for you.”
What Can I Pray For?
The Bible’s answer
You can pray for anything that is in harmony with God’s requirements as stated in the Bible. “No matter what it is that we ask according to [God’s] will, he hears us.” (1 John 5:14) Can you mention your personal concerns? Yes. The Bible says: “Before [God] pour out your heart.”—Psalm 62:8.
Examples of what to pray for
● Faith in God.—Luke 17:5.
● Holy spirit, or God’s active force, to help you do what is right.—Luke 11:13.
● Strength to deal with troubles and to resist temptation.—Philippians 4:13.
● Inner peace or calmness.—Philippians 4:6, 7.
● Wisdom to make good decisions.—James 1:5.
● Help with daily needs.—Matthew 6:11.
● Forgiveness of sins.—Matthew 6:12.
Why Pray in Jesus’ Name?
The Bible’s answer
We must pray to God in Jesus’ name because this is the only way God has approved for us to approach Him. Jesus said: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6) Jesus also told his faithful apostles: “Most truly I say to you, If you ask the Father for anything he will give it to you in my name.”—John 16:23.
More reasons to pray in Jesus’ name
● We honour Jesus and his Father, Jehovah God.—Philippians 2:9-11.
● We show that we appreciate Jesus’ death as God’s provision for our salvation.—Matthew 20:28; Acts 4:12.
● We recognize Jesus’ unique role as Intercessor between God and men.—Hebrews 7:25.
● We respect Jesus’ service as the High Priest who can help us gain a good standing with God.—Hebrews 4:14-16.
Should I Pray to Saints?
The Bible’s answer
No. The Bible shows that we should pray only to God, in Jesus’ name. Jesus told his disciples: “This is how you are to pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.” (Matthew 6:9, New American Bible) Never did he instruct his disciples to pray to saints, angels, or anyone other than God.
Jesus also told his followers: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6, NAB) Only Jesus is authorized by God to intercede on our behalf.—Hebrews 7:25.
What if I pray to God and also pray to saints?
As part of the Ten Commandments, God said: “I, the LORD, your God, am a jealous God.” (Exodus 20:5, NAB) In what way is God “jealous”? The footnote in the New American Bible says that he is “demanding exclusive allegiance.” God demands that acts of allegiance or worship—including prayer—be directed exclusively to him.—Isaiah 48:11.
We offend God if we pray to anyone else, even to saints or holy angels. When the apostle John tried to worship an angel, the angel stopped him by saying: “Don’t! I am a fellow servant of yours and of your brothers who bear witness to Jesus. Worship God.”—Revelation 19:10, NAB.
What Are Two Reasons Why God Rejects Some Prayers?
The Bible’s answer
There are some prayers that God does not answer. Consider two factors that would cause God to ignore a person’s prayer.
1. The prayer goes against God’s will
God does not answer requests that go against his will, or his requirements, which are in the Bible. (1 John 5:14) For example, the Bible requires that we avoid being greedy. Gambling promotes greed. (1 Corinthians 6:9, 10) So, God will not answer your prayer if you pray to win the lottery. God is not a genie that you can summon to do your bidding. Actually, you can be thankful for this. Otherwise, you might have to fear what others could ask God to do.—James 4:3.
2. The person praying acts rebelliously
God does not listen to those who are determined to offend him by their actions. For example, God told those who claimed to serve him but acted rebelliously: “Even though you make many prayers, I am not listening; with bloodshed your very hands have become filled.” (Isaiah 1:15) But if they had changed their ways and “set matters straight” with God, he would have listened when they prayed to him.—Isaiah 1:18.
“Believe in Jesus”—Is Belief in Jesus Enough for Salvation?
The Bible’s answer
Christians believe that Jesus died for the sins of humankind. (1 Peter 3:18) However, salvation requires more than believing in Jesus as Saviour. The demons know that Jesus is “the Son of God,” but they face destruction, not salvation.—Luke 4:41; Jude 6.
What must I do to be saved?
● You must believe that Jesus sacrificed his life for our sins. (Acts 16:30, 31; 1 John 2:2) This includes believing that Jesus was a real person and that all of what the Bible account says about him is accurate.
● Learn what the Bible really teaches. (2 Timothy 3:15) The Bible says that the apostle Paul and Silas told a jailer: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will get saved.” Then, after that, they began to teach “the word of God” to the jailer. (Acts 16:31, 32) This indicates that the jailer could not truly believe in Jesus unless he had a basic understanding of God’s Word. He needed accurate knowledge based on the Scriptures.—1 Timothy 2:3, 4.
● Repent. (Acts 3:19) You must also repent, or feel deep sorrow, over previous wrong attitudes and conduct. Your repentance will be obvious to others as you stop practices that offend God and do “works that befit repentance.”—Acts 26:20.
● Get baptized. (Matthew 28:19) Jesus said that those who become his disciples would be baptized. The jailer mentioned earlier was baptized. (Acts 16:33) Similarly, after the apostle Peter taught a large crowd the truth about Jesus, “those who gladly accepted his word were baptized.”—Acts 2:40, 41.
● Obey Jesus’ instructions. (Hebrews 5:9) Those who “observe all the things” that Jesus commanded show by their life course that they are his followers. (Matthew 28:20) They become “doers of the word and not hearers only.”—James 1:22.
● Endure to the end. (Mark 13:13) Jesus’ disciples “need endurance” in order to be saved. (Hebrews 10:36) For example, the apostle Paul maintained strict obedience to Jesus’ teachings and loyalty to God, and he endured in this course from the day he became a Christian until he died.—1 Corinthians 9:27.
What about the “Sinner’s Prayer”?
In some religions people say certain prayers such as the “Sinner’s Prayer” and the “Salvation Prayer.” Typically, those praying acknowledge their sinfulness and express belief that Jesus died for their sins. They also ask Jesus to come into their heart or life. But the Bible neither mentions nor recommends a formulaic “Sinner’s Prayer.”
Some people think that after expressing a “Sinner’s Prayer,” a person is assured of eternal salvation. But no prayer in itself guarantees salvation. As imperfect humans, we continue to make mistakes. (1 John 1:8) That is why Jesus taught his followers to pray regularly for forgiveness of sins. (Luke 11:2, 4) Furthermore, some Christians who were in line for eternal salvation lost that prospect because they fell away or turned away from God.—Hebrews 6:4-6; 2 Peter 2:20, 21.
Where did the “Sinner’s Prayer” originate?
Historians disagree regarding the origin of the “Sinner’s Prayer.” Some suggest that the tradition started to develop during the Protestant Reformation. Others believe that people began to say the “Sinner’s Prayer” during religious movements of the 18th and 19th centuries. In any case, the practice is not supported by Scripture—it actually conflicts with Bible teachings.
Bible verses about belief in Jesus and salvation
● Matthew 24:13: “The one who has endured to the end will be saved.”
Meaning: To gain salvation, people must maintain their faithfulness throughout their life.
● Acts 16:30, 31: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will get saved.”
Meaning: Belief in Jesus is necessary to attain salvation.
● 1 Timothy 2:3, 4: “This is fine and acceptable in the sight of our Saviour, God, whose will is that all sorts of people should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth.”
Meaning: Belief in Jesus must be based on accurate knowledge of Bible truth.
● Hebrews 5:9: “[Jesus] became responsible for everlasting salvation to all those obeying him.”
Meaning: To gain salvation, people must both know and obey Jesus’ commands.
What Is Salvation?
The Bible’s answer
The terms “save” and “salvation” are sometimes used by Bible writers to convey the idea of a person’s being delivered from danger or destruction. (Exodus 14:13, 14; Acts 27:20) Often, though, these terms refer to deliverance from sin. (Matthew 1:21) Since death is caused by sin, people who are saved from sin have the hope of living forever.—John 3:16, 17.
What is the way to salvation?
To gain salvation, you must exercise faith in Jesus and demonstrate that faith by obeying his commands.—Acts 4:10, 12; Romans 10:9, 10; Hebrews 5:9.
The Bible shows that you must have works, or acts of obedience, to prove that your faith is alive. (James 2:24, 26) However, this does not mean that you can earn salvation. It is “God’s gift” based on his “undeserved kindness,” or “grace.”—Ephesians 2:8, 9; King James Version.
Can you lose out on salvation?
Yes. Just as a person saved from drowning could fall or jump back into the water, a person who has been saved from sin but fails to keep exercising faith could lose out on salvation. For this reason, the Bible urges Christians who have received salvation “to put up a hard fight for the faith.” (Jude 3) It also warns those who have been saved: “Keep working out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”—Philippians 2:12.
Who is the Saviour—God or Jesus?
The Bible identifies God as the primary source of salvation, often referring to him as “Saviour.” (1 Samuel 10:19; Isaiah 43:11; Titus 2:10; Jude 25) In addition, God used various men to deliver the ancient nation of Israel, and the Bible calls them “saviours.” (Nehemiah 9:27; Judges 3:9, 15; 2 Kings 13:5) * Likewise, since God provides salvation from sin through the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the Bible refers to Jesus as “Saviour.”—Acts 5:31; Titus 1:4.
Will everyone be saved?
No, some people will not be saved. (2 Thessalonians 1:9) When Jesus was asked, “Are those being saved few?” he replied: “Exert yourselves vigorously to get in through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will seek to get in but will not be able.”—Luke 13:23, 24.
Misconceptions about universal salvation
Misconception: First Corinthians 15:22 teaches universal salvation by saying that “in the Christ all will be made alive.”
Fact: The context of this verse discusses the resurrection. (1 Corinthians 15:12, 13, 20, 21, 35) So the phrase “in the Christ all will be made alive” simply means that all who are resurrected receive this blessing through Jesus Christ.—John 11:25.
Misconception: Titus 2:11 teaches universal salvation by saying that God is “bringing salvation to all people.”—International Standard Version.
Fact: The Greek word translated “all” in this verse can also mean “every kind or variety.” Thus, the correct understanding of Titus 2:11 is that God is making salvation available to all sorts of people, including people “out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues.”—Revelation 7:9, 10.
Misconception: Second Peter 3:9 teaches universal salvation by saying that God “does not desire anyone to be destroyed.”
Fact: God wants people to be saved, but he does not force them to accept his provision for salvation. His “day of judgment” will include the “destruction of the ungodly people.”—2 Peter 3:7.
Jesus Saves—How?
The Bible’s answer
Jesus saved faithful humans when he gave his life as a ransom sacrifice. (Matthew 20:28) Thus, the Bible calls Jesus the “Saviour of the world.” (1 John 4:14) It also states: “There is no salvation in anyone else, for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must get saved.”—Acts 4:12.
Jesus ‘tasted death for everyone’ who exercises faith in him. (Hebrews 2:9; John 3:16) Thereafter, “God raised him up from the dead,” and Jesus returned to heaven as a spirit creature. (Acts 3:15) There, Jesus is able “to save completely those who are approaching God through him, because he is always alive to plead for them.”—Hebrews 7:25.
Why do we need Jesus to plead for us?
We are all sinners. (Romans 3:23) Sin puts a barrier between us and God, and it leads to death. (Romans 6:23) But Jesus serves as “an advocate” for those who exercise faith in his ransom sacrifice. (1 John 2:1, footnote) He pleads in their behalf, asking God to hear their prayers and grant forgiveness of their sins on the basis of Jesus’ sacrificial death. (Matthew 1:21; Romans 8:34) God acts on such pleas made by Jesus because they are in harmony with His will. God sent Jesus to the earth “for the world to be saved through him.”—John 3:17.
Is belief in Jesus all that we need to be saved?
No. Although we must believe in Jesus to gain salvation, more is required. (Acts 16:30, 31) The Bible says: “Just as the body without spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.” (James 2:26) To be saved, we must:
● Learn about Jesus and his Father, God.—John 17:3.
● Build faith in them.—John 12:44; 14:1.
● Demonstrate our faith by obeying their commands. (Luke 6:46; 1 John 2:17) Jesus taught that not everyone who called him “Lord” would be saved but only those “doing the will of [his] Father who is in the heavens.”—Matthew 7:21.
● Continue to demonstrate our faith despite hardships. Jesus made that clear when he said: “The one who has endured to the end will be saved.”—Matthew 24:13.
Why Did Jesus Die?
The Bible’s answer
Jesus died so that humans could have their sins forgiven and receive endless life. (Romans 6:23; Ephesians 1:7) Jesus’ death also proved that a human can remain loyal to God even when faced with the severest of tests.—Hebrews 4:15.
Consider how the death of one man could accomplish so much.
1. Jesus died for “the forgiveness of our sins.”—Colossians 1:14.
The first human, Adam, was created perfect, without sin. However, he chose to disobey God. Adam’s disobedience, or sin, profoundly affected all his descendants. “Through the disobedience of the one man,” the Bible explains, “many were made sinners.”—Romans 5:19
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Jesus was also perfect, but he never sinned. Therefore, he could be “an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 2:2;) Just as Adam’s disobedience contaminated the human family with sin, so Jesus’ death removed the stain of sin from all who exercise faith in him.
In a sense, Adam sold the human race into sin. Jesus, by willingly dying in our behalf, repurchased humankind as his own. As a result, “if anyone does commit a sin, we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ, a righteous one.”—1 John 2:1.
2. Jesus died “so that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.”—John 3:16.
Although Adam was created to live forever, his sin brought upon him the penalty of death. Through Adam, “sin entered into the world and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because they had all sinned.”—Romans 5:12.
In contrast, Jesus’ death not only removed the blemish of sin but also cancelled the death sentence for all who exercise faith in him. The Bible sums up matters this way: “Just as sin ruled as king with death, so also undeserved kindness might rule as king through righteousness leading to everlasting life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”—Romans 5:21.
Of course, humans today still have a limited life span. However, God promises that he will grant righteous humans everlasting life and resurrect the dead so that they too can benefit from Jesus’ sacrificial death.—Psalm 37:29; 1 Corinthians 15:22.
3. Jesus “became obedient to the point of death,” thus proving that a human could be faithful to God under any test or trial.—Philippians 2:8.
Despite having a perfect mind and body, Adam disobeyed God because he selfishly desired something that did not belong to him. (Genesis 2:16, 17; 3:6) Later, God’s chief enemy, Satan, suggested that no human would unselfishly obey God, especially if his life were on the line. (Job 2:4) Yet, the perfect man Jesus obeyed God and remained loyal to him, even undergoing a disgraceful and painful death. (Hebrews 7:26) This completely settled the matter: A human can remain faithful to God under whatever test or trial may be brought upon him.
Questions about Jesus’ death
● Why did Jesus have to suffer and die to redeem humans? Why didn’t God just cancel the death sentence?
God’s law states that “the wages sin pays is death.” (Romans 6:23) Rather than hide this law from Adam, God told him that the penalty for disobedience would be death. (Genesis 3:3) When Adam sinned, God, “who cannot lie,” kept his word. (Titus 1:2) Adam passed on to his descendants not only sin but also the wages of sin—death.
Although sinful humans deserve the penalty of death, God extended to them “the riches of his undeserved kindness.” (Ephesians 1:7) His provision to redeem mankind—sending Jesus as a perfect sacrifice—was both profoundly just and supremely merciful.
● When did Jesus die?
Jesus died at “the ninth hour” from sunrise, or at about three o’clock in the afternoon of the Jewish Passover. (Mark 15:33-37) That date corresponds to Friday, April 1, 33 C.E., according to modern calendars.
● Where did Jesus die?
Jesus was executed at “the so-called Skull Place, which is called Golʹgo·tha in Hebrew.” (John 19:17, 18) This site was “outside the city gate” of Jerusalem in Jesus’ day. (Hebrews 13:12) It may have been on a hill, since the Bible says that some observed Jesus’ execution “from a distance.” (Mark 15:40) However, the present location of Golgotha cannot be determined with certainty.
● How did Jesus die?
Although many believe that Jesus was crucified—executed on a cross—the Bible reports: “His own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree.” (1 Peter 2:24, King James Version) Bible writers used two Greek words to refer to the instrument of Jesus’ execution—stau·rosʹ and xyʹlon. Many scholars have concluded that these words refer to a beam or an upright stake made of one piece of wood.
● How should Jesus’ death be remembered?
On the night of the annual Jewish Passover, Jesus instituted a simple procedure with his followers and commanded them: “Keep doing this in remembrance of me.” (1 Corinthians 11:24) Hours later, Jesus was put to death.
Bible writers compared Jesus to the lamb sacrificed at the Passover. (1 Corinthians 5:7) Just as the Passover celebration reminded the Israelites that they had been freed from slavery, so the Memorial of Jesus Christ’s death reminds Christians that they have been freed from sin and death. The Passover was a yearly celebration; the early Christians likewise observed the Memorial once each year.
How Is Jesus’ Sacrifice “a Ransom for Many”?
The Bible’s answer
Jesus’ sacrifice is the means by which God delivers, or saves, humankind from sin and death. The Bible refers to the shed blood of Jesus as a ransom price. (Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:18, 19) Thus, Jesus said that he came “to give his life a ransom for many.”—Matthew 20:28, King James Version.
Why was “a ransom for many” needed?
The first man, Adam, was created perfect, or without sin. He had the prospect of living forever but lost it by choosing to disobey God. (Genesis 3:17-19) When he had children, he passed on to them the defect of sin. (Romans 5:12) For this reason, the Bible indicates that Adam “sold” himself and his children into slavery to sin and death. (Romans 7:14) Being imperfect, none of them could buy back what Adam lost.—Psalm 49:7, 8.
God felt compassion for Adam’s descendants in their hopeless situation. (John 3:16) However, God’s standard of justice required that he not simply overlook or excuse their sins without a valid basis. (Psalm 89:14; Romans 3:23-26) God loves mankind, so he provided the necessary legal means for their sins to be not only forgiven but also eliminated. (Romans 5:6-8) The ransom is that legal basis.
How does the ransom work?
In the Bible, the term “ransom” involves the following three elements:
1. It is a payment.—Numbers 3:46, 47.
2. It brings about a release, or redemption.—Exodus 21:30.
3. It corresponds to the value of what is paid for, or covers it.
Consider how these elements apply to the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
1. Payment. The Bible says that Christians were “bought with a price.” (1 Corinthians 6:20; 7:23) That price is the blood of Jesus, with which he “bought people for God out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation.”—Revelation 5:8, 9.
2. Release. Jesus’ sacrifice provides a “release by ransom” from sin.—1 Corinthians 1:30; Colossians 1:14; Hebrews 9:15.
3. Correspondence. Jesus’ sacrifice corresponds exactly to what Adam lost—one perfect human life. (1 Corinthians 15:21, 22, 45, 46) The Bible says: “Just as through the disobedience of the one man [Adam] many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one person [Jesus Christ] many will be made righteous.” (Romans 5:19) This explains how the death of one man can pay the ransom for many sinners. In fact, Jesus’ sacrifice is “a corresponding ransom for all” those who take the steps necessary to benefit from it.—1 Timothy 2:5, 6.
Does the Bible Teach ‘Once Saved, Always Saved’?
The Bible’s answer
No, it does not teach the doctrine of ‘once saved, always saved.’ A person who has gained salvation by faith in Jesus Christ can lose that faith and the salvation that comes with it. The Bible says that maintaining faith requires great effort, a “hard fight.” (Jude 3, 5) Early Christians who had already accepted Christ were told: “Keep working out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”—Philippians 2:12.
Bible verses that disprove the teaching of ‘once saved, always saved’
● The Bible warns against serious sins that will keep a person from entering God’s Kingdom. (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Galatians 5:19-21) If salvation could not be lost, such warnings would be meaningless. Instead, the Bible shows that someone who has been saved can fall away by returning to a practice of serious sin. For example, Hebrews 10:26 states: “If we practice sin willfully after having received the accurate knowledge of the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice for sins left.”—Hebrews 6:4-6; 2 Peter 2:20-22.
● Jesus emphasized the importance of maintaining faith by giving an illustration in which he likened himself to a vine and his followers to branches on that vine. Some of them would at one time demonstrate faith in him by their fruits, or actions, yet would later fail to do so and be “thrown out like a [fruitless] branch,” losing their salvation. (John 15:1-6) The apostle Paul used a similar illustration, saying that Christians who do not maintain their faith “will be lopped off.”—Romans 11:17-22.
● Christians are commanded to “keep on the watch.” (Matthew 24:42; 25:13) Those who fall asleep spiritually, whether by practicing “works belonging to darkness” or by not fully performing the works that Jesus commanded, lose their salvation.—Romans 13:11-13; Revelation 3:1-3.
● Many scriptures show that those who have been saved must still endure faithfully to the end. (Matthew 24:13; Hebrews 10:36; 12:2, 3; Revelation 2:10) First-century Christians expressed joy when they learned that fellow believers were enduring in their faith. (1 Thessalonians 1:2, 3; 3 John 3, 4) Does it seem reasonable that the Bible would stress faithful endurance if those who did not endure would be saved anyway?
● Only when his death was imminent did the apostle Paul feel that his salvation was assured. (2 Timothy 4:6-8) Earlier in his life, he recognized that he could still miss out on salvation if he gave in to fleshly desires. He wrote: “I pummel my body and lead it as a slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself should not become disapproved somehow.”—1 Corinthians 9:27; Philippians 3:12-14.
What Does It Mean to Be Born Again?
The Bible’s answer
The term “born again” refers to a new beginning in the relationship between God and the person who is born again. (John 3:3, 7) God adopts those born again as his children. (Romans 8:15, 16; Galatians 4:5; 1 John 3:1) Similar to those who are legally adopted, they experience a change of status, becoming part of God’s family.—2 Corinthians 6:18.
Why is a person born again?
Jesus said: “Unless anyone is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” (John 3:3) So being born again prepares a person to rule with Christ in God’s Kingdom. This Kingdom rules from heaven, so the Bible describes the “new birth” as providing an inheritance that is “reserved in the heavens.” (1 Peter 1:3, 4) Those who are born again are given the conviction that they will “rule together as kings” with Christ.—2 Timothy 2:12; 2 Corinthians 1:21, 22.
How is a person born again?
When Jesus discussed the subject, he said that those born again would be “born from water and spirit.” (John 3:5) This expression refers to baptism in water followed by baptism with holy spirit.—Acts 1:5; 2:1-4.
Jesus was the first person to be born again. He was baptized in the Jordan River, after which God anointed (or, baptized) him with holy spirit. Jesus was thus born again by holy spirit as a son of God with the hope of returning to life in heaven. (Mark 1:9-11) God fulfilled this hope by resurrecting Jesus as a spirit creature.—Acts 13:33.
Others who are born again are also baptized in water before they receive the holy spirit. a (Acts 2:38, 41) They then have the sure hope of life in heaven, which God will fulfill in the resurrection.—1 Corinthians 15:42-49.
Misconceptions about being born again
Misconception: A person must be born again to gain salvation or to be a Christian.
Fact: Christ’s sacrifice provides salvation not only for those who are born again as the ones who will rule with Christ in heaven but also for the earthly subjects of God’s Kingdom. (1 John 2:1, 2; Revelation 5:9, 10) That second group of Christians have the opportunity to live forever in Paradise on earth.—Psalm 37:29; Matthew 6:9, 10; Revelation 21:1-5.
Misconception: A person can choose to be born again.
Fact: The opportunity to have a relationship with God and gain salvation is open to all. (1 Timothy 2:3, 4; James 4:8) However, God chooses those who will be born again, or anointed with holy spirit. According to the Bible, being born again “depends, not on a person’s desire or on his effort, but on God.” (Romans 9:16) The expression “born again” can also be rendered “born from above,” confirming that the selection of those who are born again comes “from above,” or from God.—John 3:3.
What Was the Original Sin?
The Bible’s answer
Adam and Eve were the first humans to sin. When they disobeyed God by eating from “the tree of the knowledge of good and bad,” they committed what many call the original sin. (Genesis 2:16, 17; 3:6; Romans 5:19) That tree was off-limits to Adam and Eve because it represented God’s authority, or right, to decide what is right and wrong for humans. By eating from the tree, Adam and Eve took matters into their own hands, choosing to decide for themselves what is right and wrong. In doing so, they rejected God’s moral authority.
How did the “original sin” effect Adam and Eve?
Because they sinned, Adam and Eve grew old and finally died. They ruined their friendship with God and lost the prospect of living forever in perfect health.—Genesis 3:19.How does the “original sin” affect us?
Adam and Eve passed on their sinful condition to all their descendants. This is similar to the way human parents pass on genetic defects. (Romans 5:12) Thus, all humans have been born “in sin,” meaning that we are born imperfect and inclined toward error.—Psalm 51:5; Ephesians 2:3.
Because of inherited sin, or imperfection, we get sick, grow old, and die. (Romans 6:23) We also suffer the consequences of our own errors and those of others.—Ecclesiastes 8:9; James 3:2.
Can we be set free from the results of the “original sin”?
Yes. The Bible says that Jesus died “as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 4:10) Jesus’ sacrifice can free us from the effects of inherited sin and allow us to have what Adam and Eve lost—the prospect of everlasting life in perfect health.—John 3:16.
Misconceptions about “original sin”
Misconception: Original sin permanently alienates us from God.
Fact: God does not blame us for what Adam and Eve did. He understands that we are imperfect, and he does not expect more of us than he knows is reasonable. (Psalm 103:14) Even though we suffer from inherited sin, we have the opportunity and privilege of having a close friendship with God.—Proverbs 3:32.
Misconception: Baptism frees a person from original sin, so babies need to be baptized.
Fact: Although baptism is a vital step toward gaining salvation, only faith in Jesus’ sacrifice can cleanse a person from sin. (1 Peter 3:21; 1 John 1:7) Because Biblical faith is based on knowledge, it is not possible for infants to have faith. The Bible, therefore, does not endorse infant baptism. This fact was evident among the early Christians. They baptized, not babies, but believers—“men and women” who had faith in God’s Word.—Acts 2:41; 8:12.
Misconception: God cursed women because Eve was the first to eat the forbidden fruit.
Fact: Instead of cursing women, God cursed “the original serpent, the one called Devil and Satan,” who incited Eve to sin. (Revelation 12:9; Genesis 3:14) What is more, God placed the primary responsibility for the original sin on Adam, not on his wife.—Romans 5:12.
Why did God say that Adam would dominate his wife? (Genesis 3:16) When making this statement, God was not condoning such behaviour. He was simply foretelling a sad consequence of sin. God expects a man to love and honour his wife and to show deep respect for women in general.—Ephesians 5:25; 1 Peter 3:7.
Misconception: The original sin was sexual intercourse.
Fact: The original sin could not have been sexual intercourse for the following reasons:
● God commanded Adam not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and bad while Adam was still alone, without a wife.—Genesis 2:17, 18.
● God instructed Adam and Eve to “be fruitful and become many”—that is, to have children. (Genesis 1:28) It would have been cruel for God to punish the first couple for doing what he had commanded them to do.
● Adam and Eve sinned separately—Eve first and her husband later.—Genesis 3:6.
● The Bible approves of sexual relations between a husband and wife.—Proverbs 5:18, 19; 1 Corinthians 7:3.
What Is Sin?
The Bible’s answer
Sin is any action, feeling, or thought that goes against God’s standards. It includes breaking God’s laws by doing what is wrong, or unrighteous, in God’s sight. (1 John 3:4; 5:17) The Bible also describes sins of omission—that is, failing to do what is right.—James 4:17.
In the Bible’s original languages, the words for sin mean “to miss a mark,” or a target. For example, a group of soldiers in ancient Israel were so adept at slinging stones that they “would not miss.” That expression, if translated literally, could read “would not sin.” (Judges 20:16) Thus, to sin is to miss the mark of God’s perfect standards.
As the Creator, God has the right to set standards for mankind. (Revelation 4:11) We are accountable to him for our actions.—Romans 14:12.
Is it possible to avoid sinning completely?
No. The Bible says that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23; 1 Kings 8:46; Ecclesiastes 7:20; 1 John 1:8) Why is that so?
The first humans, Adam and Eve, were sinless in the beginning. That is because they were created perfect, in God’s image. (Genesis 1:27) However, they lost their perfection by disobeying God. (Genesis 3:5, 6, 17-19) When they had children, they passed on sin and imperfection as inherited defects. (Romans 5:12) As King David of Israel said, “I was born guilty of error.”—Psalm 51:5
Are some sins worse than others?
Yes. For example, the Bible says that the men of ancient Sodom were “wicked, gross sinners” whose sin was “very heavy.” (Genesis 13:13; 18:20) Consider three factors that determine the gravity, or weight, of sin.
1. Severity. The Bible warns us to avoid such serious sins as sexual immorality, idolatry, stealing, drunkenness, extortion, murder, and spiritism. (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Revelation 21:8) The Bible contrasts these with thoughtless, unintentional sins, for example, words or actions that hurt others. (Proverbs 12:18; Ephesians 4:31, 32) Nevertheless, the Bible encourages us not to minimize any sins, since they can lead to more serious violations of God’s laws.—Matthew 5:27, 28.
2. Motive. Some sins are committed in ignorance of what God requires. (Acts 17:30; 1 Timothy 1:13) While not excusing such sins, the Bible distinguishes them from sins that involve willfully breaking God’s laws. (Numbers 15:30, 31) Willful sins come from a “wicked heart.”—Jeremiah 16:12.
3. Frequency. The Bible also makes a distinction between a single sin and a practice of sin over an extended period. (1 John 3:4-8) Those who “practice sin willfully,” even after learning how to do what is right, receive God’s adverse judgment.—Hebrews 10:26, 27.
Those guilty of serious sin can feel overwhelmed by the weight of their mistakes. For instance, King David wrote: “My errors loom over my head; like a heavy burden, they are too much for me to bear.” (Psalm 38:4) Yet the Bible offers this hope: “Let the wicked man leave his way and the evil man his thoughts; let him return to God, who will have mercy on him, to our God, for he will forgive in a large way.”—Isaiah 55:7.
What Is Forgiveness?
The Bible’s answer
Forgiveness is the act of pardoning an offender. In the Bible, the Greek word translated “forgiveness” literally means “to let go,” as when a person does not demand payment for a debt. Jesus used this comparison when he taught his followers to pray: “Forgive us our sins, for we ourselves also forgive everyone who is in debt to us.” (Luke 11:4) Likewise, in his parable of the unmerciful slave, Jesus equated forgiveness with cancelling a debt.—Matthew 18:23-35.
We forgive others when we let go of resentment and give up any claim to be compensated for the hurt or loss we have suffered. The Bible teaches that unselfish love is the basis for true forgiveness, since love “does not keep account of the injury.”—1 Corinthians 13:4, 5.
What forgiveness does not mean
• Condoning the offense. The Bible actually condemns those who claim that bad actions are harmless or acceptable.—Isaiah 5:20.
• Pretending that the offense never happened. God forgave King David of serious sins, but he did not shield David from the consequences of his actions. God even had David’s sins recorded so that they are remembered today.—2 Samuel 12:9-13.
• Allowing others to take advantage of you. Suppose, for example, that you loan money to someone, but he wastes it and then cannot repay you as he had promised. He is very sorry and apologizes to you. You could choose to forgive him by not harbouring resentment, not rehashing the matter with him continually, and perhaps even cancelling the debt altogether. However, you might also choose not to loan him any more money.—Psalm 37:21; Proverbs 14:15; 22:3; Galatians 6:7.
• Pardoning with no valid basis. God does not forgive people who are guilty of willful, malicious sin and who refuse to acknowledge their mistakes, change their ways, and apologize to those whom they have hurt. (Proverbs 28:13; Acts 26:20; Hebrews 10:26) Such unrepentant ones become God’s enemies, and he does not require us to forgive those whom he has not forgiven.—Psalm 139:21, 22.
What if you are the victim of cruel mistreatment by someone who refuses to apologize or even admit to what he has done? The Bible advises: “Let go of anger and abandon rage.” (Psalm 37:8) While not excusing the error, you can refuse to be consumed with anger. Trust that God will bring the person to account. (Hebrews 10:30, 31) You can also take comfort in knowing that God will bring a time when we will no longer feel the deep pain or hurt that may burden us now.—Isaiah 65:17; Revelation 21:4.
· “Forgiving” every perceived slight. Sometimes, rather than pardoning a so-called offender, we may need to admit that we had no valid cause for being offended in the first place. The Bible says: “Do not be quick to take offense, for the taking of offense is the mark of a fool.”—Ecclesiastes 7:9.
How to forgive someone
1. Remember what forgiveness involves. You are not condoning the wrong or acting as if it never happened—you are simply letting it go.
2. Recognize the benefits of forgiving. Letting go of anger and resentment can help you to keep calm, improve your health, and increase your happiness. (Proverbs 14:30; Matthew 5:9) Even more important, forgiving others is a key to receiving God’s forgiveness for your own sins.—Matthew 6:14, 15.
3. Be empathetic. All of us are imperfect. (James 3:2) Just as we appreciate being forgiven, we should likewise forgive the mistakes of others.—Matthew 7:12.
4. Be reasonable. When we have a minor cause for complaint, we can apply the Bible’s counsel: “Continue putting up with one another.”—Colossians 3:13.
5. Act quickly. Work to forgive as soon as you can rather than letting your anger fester.—Ephesians 4:26, 27.
Will God Forgive Me?
The Bible’s answer
Yes, God will forgive your sins if you take the proper steps. The Bible says that God is “ready to forgive” and that he “will forgive in a large way.” (Nehemiah 9:17; Psalm 86:5; Isaiah 55:7) When he forgives us, he does so completely. Our sins are “blotted out,” or erased. (Acts 3:19) God also forgives permanently, for he says: “I will no longer remember their sin.” (Jeremiah 31:34) Once he forgives, he does not rehash our sins in order to accuse us or to punish us again and again.
However, God’s forgiveness is not based on weakness or sentimentality. He never bends his righteous standards. For this reason, he refuses to forgive some sins.—Joshua 24:19, 20.
Steps to gain God’s forgiveness
1. Acknowledge your sin as a violation of God’s standards. While others may have been hurt by what you did, you must first recognize that your sin is an offense against God.—Psalm 51:1, 4; Acts 24:16.
2. Confess to God in prayer.—Psalm 32:5; 1 John 1:9.
3. Feel a deep sorrow for your sin. This “sadness in a godly way” leads to repentance, or a change of heart. (2 Corinthians 7:10) It includes regret over the wrong steps that led to the sin.—Matthew 5:27, 28.
4. Change your course of action, that is, “turn around.” (Acts 3:19) This could mean that you avoid repeating a single wrong action or practice, or it could mean that you may have to change your whole way of thinking and acting.—Ephesians 4:23, 24.
5. Take steps to right the wrong or to repair the damage done. (Matthew 5:23, 24; 2 Corinthians 7:11) Apologize to those who suffered because of what you did or failed to do, and make restitution to the extent possible.—Luke 19:7-10.
6. Ask God in prayer for forgiveness on the basis of the ransom of Jesus. (Ephesians 1:7) For your prayer to be answered, you must forgive those who have sinned against you.—Matthew 6:14, 15.
7. If your sin is serious, speak to someone who is qualified to provide the spiritual help you need and who can pray in your behalf.—James 5:14-16.
Misconceptions about gaining God’s forgiveness
“I have sinned too much to be forgiven.”
As long as we follow the steps that God sets out in the Bible, we will be forgiven, since his capacity to forgive is greater than our sins. He can forgive serious sins as well as those that have been repeated many times.—Isaiah 1:18.
For example, King David of Israel was forgiven of adultery and murder. (2 Samuel 12:7-13) The apostle Paul, who felt that he had been the world’s worst sinner, was also forgiven. (1 Timothy 1:15, 16) Even the first-century Jews whom God held responsible for killing Jesus, the Messiah, were forgiven if they changed their ways.—Acts 3:15, 19.
“If I confess to a priest or a minister, my sins are absolved.”
No human is now authorized to forgive a fellow human for sins against God. Although confessing to another person can help a sinner to recover, only God can forgive sins.—Ephesians 4:32; 1 John 1:7, 9.
If that is so, then what did Jesus mean when he told the apostles: “If you forgive the sins of anyone, they are forgiven; if you retain those of anyone, they are retained”? (John 20:23) He was describing a unique authority that he would give to the apostles when they received the holy spirit.—John 20:22.
As promised, the apostles received this gift when the holy spirit was poured out in 33 C.E. (Acts 2:1-4) The apostle Peter used this authority when judging the disciples Ananias and Sapphira. Peter miraculously knew about their deceptive scheme, and his judgment indicated that their sin would not be forgiven.—Acts 5:1-11.
That miraculous gift of the holy spirit, like other gifts such as healing and speaking in tongues, ceased after the death of the apostles. (1 Corinthians 13:8-10) Thus, no human today can absolve another person of sin.
I Feel Guilty—Can the Bible Help Me Find Relief?
The Bible’s Answer
Yes. The Bible can help us to deal wisely with feelings of guilt. (Psalm 32:1-5) If we have done something wrong but are truly sorry, God will forgive us and help us recover. (Psalm 86:5) The Bible shows that feelings of guilt can at times be beneficial—they can move us to correct a wrong course and to try harder to avoid it in the future. (Psalm 51:17; Proverbs 14:9) That said, the Bible advises us against having excessive guilt, perhaps judging ourselves as hopeless or unworthy in God’s eyes. Such harshness could cause us to “give up in despair.”—2 Corinthians 2:7, Contemporary English Version.
What can cause feelings of guilt?
We might feel guilty for a number of reasons. We may sense that we have hurt someone we love or have fallen short of a standard we believe we should live by. At times, we might feel guilty without really being guilty. For example, if we set unreasonably high standards for ourselves, we will likely have needless feelings of guilt every time we fail to meet those standards. That is why the Bible encourages us to have reasonable expectations of ourselves.—Ecclesiastes 7:16.
How can I deal with guilt?
Instead of being paralysed by guilt, do what you can to correct things. How?
● Admit your mistakes. In prayer, ask God to forgive you. (Psalm 38:18; Luke 11:4) You can be sure that God will hear you if you are repentant and truly sorry and if you try hard not to repeat the wrong. (2 Chronicles 33:13; Psalm 34:18) He sees the inner person, which no human can see. When God observes us trying to abandon a wrong course, “he is faithful and righteous so as to forgive us our sins.”—1 John 1:9; Proverbs 28:13.
Of course, if you have wronged someone, you may need to acknowledge that and sincerely apologise to the person. That might not be easy! It may take courage and humility. But a heartfelt apology does two important things: It lifts a huge burden off your shoulders, and it restores peace.—Matthew 3:8; 5:23, 24.
● Reflect on scriptures about God’s mercy. Consider 1 John 3:19, 20, for example. There the Bible acknowledges that “our hearts may condemn us”—that is, we may be too hard on ourselves, perhaps feeling unworthy of God’s love. However, that passage also states that “God is greater than our hearts.” How so? He sees the whole person and fully understands our feelings and weaknesses. He also knows that we are born imperfect, prone to do wrong. (Psalm 51:5) He therefore does not reject those who are truly sorry for their errors.—Psalm 32:5.
● Do not live in the past. The Bible contains many accounts of men and women who did bad things but later changed their ways. One example is Saul of Tarsus, who became known as the apostle Paul. As a Pharisee, he violently persecuted Jesus’ followers. (Acts 8:3; 9:1, 2, 11) But when he learned that he was actually opposing God and the Messiah, or Christ, he repented, changed his ways, and became a model Christian. Of course, Paul deeply regretted his past behaviour, but he did not live in the past. Aware of God’s great mercy toward him, Paul became a zealous preacher and never lost sight of the hope of everlasting life.—Philippians 3:13, 14.
Bible verses about guilt and forgiveness
Psalm 51:17: “A heart broken and crushed, O God, you will not reject.”
Meaning: God will not reject you for your mistakes if you are truly sorry that you hurt him. He shows mercy.
Proverbs 28:13: “The one covering over his transgressions will not succeed, but whoever confesses and abandons them will be shown mercy.”
Meaning: If we acknowledge our sins to God and change our ways, he will forgive us.
Jeremiah 31:34: “I will forgive their error, and I will no longer remember their sin.”
Meaning: Once God forgives us, he will not bring our mistakes up again. His mercy is genuine.
Are There “Seven Deadly Sins”?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible does not specifically describe a set of “seven deadly sins.” However, it does teach that practicing serious sins will prevent a person from gaining salvation. For example, the Bible refers to such serious sins as sexual immorality, idolatry, spiritism, fits of anger, and drunkenness as “the works of the flesh.” It then states: “Those who practice such things will not inherit God’s Kingdom.”—Galatians 5:19-21.
Doesn’t the Bible list ‘seven things that are an abomination unto the Lord’?
Yes, it does. According to the King James Version, Proverbs 6:16 says: “These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him.” However, the list of sins that follows in Proverbs 6:17-19 is not meant to be all-inclusive. Instead, it describes basic categories that represent all types of wrongful acts, including those in thought, word, and deed.
What is meant by the expression “deadly sin”?
Some translations use this rendering at 1 John 5:16. For example, The New American Bible reads: “There is such a thing as deadly sin.” The expression rendered “deadly sin” can also be translated as “sin that incurs death.” What is the difference between “sin that incurs death” and “sin that does not incur death”?—1 John 5:16.
The Bible makes clear that all sin leads to death. However, we can be saved from sin and death through the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:12; 6:23) Thus, a “sin that incurs death” is one that is not covered by Christ’s ransom. A person who commits this type of sin is so set on following a sinful course that he will never change his attitude or conduct. The Bible also refers to such a sin as one that “will not be forgiven.”—Matthew 12:31; Luke 12:10.
Where did the list of seven deadly sins come from?
The “seven deadly sins” were originally based on a list of eight principal vices. The list was developed in the fourth century C.E. by the mystic Evagrius Ponticus, whose work inspired the writings of monk and ascetic John Cassian. In the sixth century, Pope Gregory I changed Cassian’s list of eight vices into the list of seven deadly, or cardinal, sins of Roman Catholic theology: pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, anger, and sloth. Gregory viewed these as capital, or principal, sins in that many other sins came from them.
What Is the Unforgivable Sin?
The Bible’s answer
The unforgivable sin refers to actions accompanied by an attitude that keeps a sinner from ever receiving God’s forgiveness. How could such a disposition develop?
God forgives those who repent of their sins, follow his standards in their life, and exercise faith in Jesus Christ. (Acts 3:19, 20) However, a person can become so set in following a sinful course that he will never change his attitude or conduct. The Bible describes such a person as having “a wicked heart” that has “become hardened by the deceptive power of sin.” (Hebrews 3:12, 13) Like clay that has been fired in a kiln and that can never be reshaped, the person’s heart has become permanently opposed to God. (Isaiah 45:9) There could never be a basis for such a person to be forgiven, so he is guilty of the unforgivable, or unpardonable, sin.—Hebrews 10:26, 27.
Some Jewish religious leaders in Jesus’ day committed the unforgivable sin. They knew that God’s Holy Spirit was the force behind Jesus’ miracles, yet they maliciously said that he got his power from Satan the Devil.—Mark 3:22, 28-30.
Examples of sins that can be forgiven
● Blasphemy due to ignorance. The apostle Paul had once been a blasphemer, but he later said: “I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and with a lack of faith.”—1 Timothy 1:13.
● Adultery. The Bible mentions some who at one time committed adultery but who changed their conduct and were forgiven by God.—1 Corinthians 6:9-11.
“Have I committed the unforgivable sin?”
If you sincerely hate your past course of sin and truly want to change, then you have not committed the unforgivable sin. God can forgive even repeated relapses into the same sin as long as your heart has not permanently hardened against him.—Isaiah 1:18.
Some people feel that they may have committed an unforgivable sin because they are troubled by nagging feelings of guilt. However, the Bible teaches that we cannot always trust our feelings. (Jeremiah 17:9) God has not authorized us to judge anyone—even ourselves. (Romans 14:4, 12) He can forgive us even when our own heart still condemns us.—1 John 3:19, 20.
Did Judas Iscariot commit an unforgivable sin?
Yes, he did. His greed moved him to steal money that had been donated for a sacred use. He even pretended to be concerned about the poor when his real interest was to acquire more money to steal. (John 12:4-8) Once Judas’ heart had become permanently set in doing wrong, he betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. Jesus knew that Judas could never truly repent for what he had done, and he called him “the son of destruction.” (John 17:12) This meant that when Judas died, he would suffer permanent destruction, with no hope for a resurrection.—Mark 14:21.
Judas did not show true repentance for his sin. He confessed, not to God, but to the religious leaders he had conspired with.—Matthew 27:3-5; 2 Corinthians 7:10.
What Does “an Eye for an Eye” Mean?
The Bible’s answer
The rule of “an eye for an eye” was part of God’s Law given by Moses to ancient Israel and was quoted by Jesus in his Sermon on the Mount. (Matthew 5:38, King James Version; Exodus 21:24, 25; Deuteronomy 19:21) It meant that when dealing out justice to wrongdoers, the punishment should fit the crime.
The rule applied to deliberate injurious acts against another person. Regarding a willful offender, the Mosaic Law stated: “Fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, the same sort of injury he inflicted should be inflicted on him.”—Leviticus 24:20.
What was the purpose of the “eye for an eye” rule?
The “eye for an eye” rule did not authorize or sanction vigilante justice. Rather, it helped appointed judges to impose punishments that were appropriate, being neither too harsh nor too lenient.
The rule also served as a deterrent to any who would intentionally harm others or scheme to do so. “Those who remain [those who observed God’s justice being carried out] will hear and be afraid,” explained the Law, “and they will never again do anything bad like this among you.”—Deuteronomy 19:20.
Does the “eye for an eye” rule apply to Christians?
No, this rule is not binding on Christians. It was part of the Mosaic Law, which Jesus’ sacrificial death abolished.—Romans 10:4.
Even so, the rule provides insight into God’s way of thinking. For example, it shows that God values justice. (Psalm 89:14) It also reveals his standard of justice—namely, that wrongdoers should be disciplined “to the proper degree.”—Jeremiah 30:11.
Misconceptions about the “eye for an eye” rule
Misconception: The “eye for an eye” rule was excessively harsh.
Fact: The rule did not authorize a heavy-handed, cruel application of justice. Rather, when properly applied, it meant that qualified judges would impose retribution for an offense only after first considering the circumstances involved and the extent to which the offense was deliberate. (Exodus 21:28-30; Numbers 35:22-25) The “eye for an eye” rule thus acted as a restraint against extremes in punishment.
Misconception: The “eye for an eye” rule authorized an endless cycle of personal vengeance.
Fact: The Mosaic Law itself stated: “You must not take vengeance nor hold a grudge against the sons of your people.” (Leviticus 19:18) Rather than promoting personal vengeance, the Law encouraged people to trust in God and in the legal system that he had authorized to right any wrongs.—Deuteronomy 32:35.
Jesus corrects a wrong idea
Jesus knew that some had misinterpreted the rule of “an eye for an eye.” He corrected them when he said: “You heard that it was said: ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’ However, I say to you: Do not resist the one who is wicked, but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other also to him.”—Matthew 5:38, 39.
Note Jesus’ expression “you heard that it was said.” He was apparently referring to some Jewish religious leaders who taught retaliation. Bible scholar Adam Clarke noted: “It seems that the Jews had made this law [an eye for an eye] . . . a ground for authorizing private resentments, and all the excesses committed by a vindictive spirit.” By encouraging vindictiveness, those religious leaders distorted the intent of God’s Law.—Mark 7:13.
In contrast, Jesus emphasized that love is the dominant spirit of God’s Law. He said: “‘You must love God . . .’ This is the greatest and first commandment. The second, like it, is this: ‘You must love your neighbour as yourself.’ On these two commandments the whole Law hangs.” (Matthew 22:37-40) Jesus taught that love, not vindictiveness, would identify his true followers.—John 13:34, 35.
What Does the Bible Say About Alcohol? Is Drinking It a Sin?
The Bible’s answer
It is not a sin to drink alcohol in moderation. The Bible describes wine as a gift from God that can make life more enjoyable. (Psalm 104:14, 15; Ecclesiastes 3:13; 9:7) The Bible also acknowledges the medicinal value of wine.—1 Timothy 5:23.
Jesus drank wine during his time on earth. (Matthew 26:29; Luke 7:34) In one of his well-known miracles, Jesus turned water into wine as a generous gift at a marriage feast.—John 2:1-10.
Dangers of over drinking
While the Bible mentions the positive aspects of wine, it condemns over drinking and drunkenness. Thus, a Christian who chooses to drink alcohol would do so only in moderation. (1 Timothy 3:8; Titus 2:2, 3) The Bible gives several reasons to avoid over drinking.
● It impairs thinking ability and judgment. (Proverbs 23:29-35) An intoxicated person cannot fulfill the Bible’s command to “present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, a sacred service with your power of reason.”—Romans 12:1.
● Over drinking removes inhibitions and “the motivation to do what is right.”—Hosea 4:11; Ephesians 5:18.
● It can lead to poverty and serious health problems.—Proverbs 23:21, 31, 32.
● Heavy drinking and drunkenness displease God.—Proverbs 23:20; Galatians 5:19-21.
How much is too much?
A person has had too much alcohol when his drinking puts him or others at risk of harm. According to the Bible, drunkenness is identified, not by a person’s passing out, but by such behaviour as being disoriented, walking unsteadily, becoming contentious, or having slurred speech. (Job 12:25; Psalm 107:27; Proverbs 23:29, 30, 33) Even those who avoid getting drunk can still become “weighed down with . . . heavy drinking” and experience its serious consequences.—Luke 21:34, 35.
Complete abstinence
The Bible also identifies times when Christians should avoid drinking alcohol altogether:
● If others would be stumbled by it.—Romans 14:21.
● If drinking alcohol violates the law of the land.—Romans 13:1.
● If a person cannot control his drinking. Those who suffer from alcoholism and other forms of alcohol abuse must be willing to take drastic action.—Matthew 5:29, 30.
Is Smoking a Sin?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible does not mention smoking or other means of using tobacco. However, it contains principles showing that God does not approve of unhealthy and unclean habits and thus views smoking as a sin.
● Respect for life. “God . . . gives to all people life and breath.” (Acts 17:24, 25) Since life is a gift from God, we should not do anything that would shorten our life, such as smoking. Smoking is one of the main causes of preventable death worldwide.
● Love of neighbour. “You must love your neighbour as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39) Smoking around others does not show love. Those who are routinely subjected to second hand smoke are at higher risk of some of the same diseases that smokers often suffer from.
● The need to be holy. “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God.” (Romans 12:1) “Let us cleanse ourselves of every defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (2 Corinthians 7:1) Smoking is unnatural and incompatible with being holy—that is, clean and pure—because tobacco users intentionally consume toxins that seriously damage their body.
Does the Bible say anything about the recreational use of marijuana or other drugs?
The Bible does not mention marijuana (also known as weed or pot) or similar drugs by name. But it contains principles that rule out the recreational use of such addictive substances. In addition to the foregoing principles, the following also apply:
● The need to control our mental faculties. “You must love your God . . . with your whole mind.” (Matthew 22:37, 38) “Keep your senses completely.” (1 Peter 1:13) A person cannot fully control his mind when abusing drugs, and many people even become addicted to them. Their minds focus on obtaining and using drugs rather than on up-building thoughts.—Philippians 4:8.
● Obedience to secular laws. “Be obedient to governments and authorities.” (Titus 3:1) In many lands, the law strictly controls the use of some drugs. If we want to please God, we should obey secular authorities.—Romans 13:1.
Tobacco and Your Health
The World Health Organization estimates that every year, about six million people die of diseases related to the use of tobacco, including over 600,000 non-smokers affected by second hand smoke. Consider how tobacco affects the health of those who use it and the health of others around them.
Cancer. Tobacco smoke contains over 50 carcinogenic chemicals. The Encyclopædia Britannica states that tobacco smoke is “believed to account for 90 percent of all cases of lung cancer.” Tobacco smoke can cause cancer in other organs, including the mouth, trachea, esophagus, throat, larynx, liver, pancreas, and bladder.
Respiratory diseases. Tobacco smoke increases the chances of respiratory ailments such as pneumonia and influenza. Children who regularly inhale second hand smoke are more prone to suffer from asthma, chronic cough, and reduced lung growth and function.
Heart disease. Smokers are at greater risk of suffering a stroke or developing heart disease. Carbon monoxide present in tobacco smoke easily passes from the lungs to the bloodstream, where it displaces oxygen. With less oxygen available in the blood, the heart has to work harder to deliver oxygen to the body.
Effects on pregnancy. Women who smoke while pregnant increase the risk of their babies being born prematurely, with low birth weight, or with certain birth defects such as a cleft lip. Such babies could also develop respiratory problems or suffer sudden infant death syndrome.
Is Gambling a Sin?
The Bible’s answer
Although the Bible does not discuss gambling in detail, we can discern from Bible principles that God views gambling as a sin.—Ephesians 5:17.
● Gambling is driven by greed, which God hates. (1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; Ephesians 5:3, 5) Gamblers hope to gain money through the losses of others, but the Bible condemns coveting other people’s possessions.—Exodus 20:17; Romans 7:7; 13:9, 10.
● Gambling, even for small amounts, can arouse a destructive love of money.—1 Timothy 6:9, 10.
● Gamblers often rely on superstitions or luck. However, God views such beliefs as a form of idolatry, which is incompatible with his worship.—Isaiah 65:11.
● Rather than promote a desire to get something for nothing, the Bible encourages hard work. (Ecclesiastes 2:24; Ephesians 4:28) Those who follow the Bible’s advice can “eat food they themselves earn.”—2 Thessalonians 3:10, 12.
● Gambling can arouse an unhealthy competitive spirit, which is disapproved in the Bible.—Galatians 5:26.
Must Christians Keep the Sabbath?
The Bible’s answer
Christians are not required to observe a weekly Sabbath. Christians are under “the law of the Christ,” which does not include keeping the Sabbath. (Galatians 6:2; Colossians 2:16, 17) Why can we be certain of that? First, consider the origin of the Sabbath.
What is the Sabbath?
The word “Sabbath” comes from a Hebrew word meaning “to rest; to cease.” It first appears in the Bible in commands given to the nation of ancient Israel. (Exodus 16:23) For example, the fourth of the Ten Commandments says: “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it sacred. You are to labour and do all your work for six days, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to your God. You must not do any work.” (Exodus 20:8-10) The Sabbath day ran from sunset Friday to sunset Saturday. During that time, the Israelites could not leave their locality, light a fire, gather wood, or carry a load. (Exodus 16:29; 35:3; Numbers 15:32-36; Jeremiah 17:21) Violating the Sabbath was a capital offense.—Exodus 31:15.
Some other days in the Jewish calendar, as well as the 7th and 50th years, were also called Sabbaths. In Sabbath years, the land was to lie uncultivated and Israelites could not be pressed to repay debts.—Leviticus 16:29-31; 23:6, 7, 32; 25:4, 11-14; Deuteronomy 15:1-3.
Why doesn’t the Sabbath law apply to Christians?
The Sabbath law applied only to the people subject to the rest of the Law given through Moses. (Deuteronomy 5:2, 3; Ezekiel 20:10-12) God never required other people to observe a Sabbath rest. In addition, even the Jews were “released from the Law” of Moses, including the Ten Commandments, by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. (Romans 7:6, 7; 10:4; Galatians 3:24, 25; Ephesians 2:15) Rather than adhere to the Law of Moses, Christians follow the superior law of love.—Romans 13:9, 10; Hebrews 8:13.
Misconceptions about the Sabbath
Misconception: God instituted the Sabbath when he rested on the seventh day.
Fact: The Bible says: “God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.” (Genesis 2:3, King James Version) This verse contains, not a law to man, but a statement of what God did on the seventh creative day. The Bible does not mention anyone observing a Sabbath rest before the days of Moses.
Misconception: The Israelites were under the Sabbath law before they received the Law of Moses.
Fact: Moses told the Israelites: “God made a covenant with us in Horeb,” the area around Mount Sinai. This covenant included the Sabbath law. (Deuteronomy 5:2, 12) The Israelites’ experience with the Sabbath shows that it was new for them. If the Israelites had been under some Sabbath law earlier, while they were in Egypt, how would the Sabbath have reminded them of their deliverance from Egypt as God said it would? (Deuteronomy 5:15) Why did they have to be told not to pick up manna on the seventh day? (Exodus 16:25-30) And why did they not know how to handle the case of the first recorded Sabbath breaker?—Numbers 15:32-36.
Misconception: The Sabbath is a perpetual covenant and is therefore still required.
Fact: Some Bible translations do refer to the Sabbath as a “perpetual covenant.” (Exodus 31:16, King James Version) However, the Hebrew word translated “perpetual” can also mean “lasting into the indefinite future,” not necessarily forever. For example, the Bible uses the same word to describe the Israelite priesthood, which God ended about 2,000 years ago.—Exodus 40:15; Hebrews 7:11, 12.
Misconception: Christians must keep the Sabbath, since Jesus kept it.
Fact: Jesus observed the Sabbath because he was a Jew, obliged from birth to obey the Law of Moses. (Galatians 4:4) After Jesus died, this Law covenant—including the Sabbath—was taken away.—Colossians 2:13, 14.
Misconception: The apostle Paul observed the Sabbath as a Christian.
Fact: Paul entered synagogues on the Sabbath, but not to join the Jews in their observance. (Acts 13:14; 17:1-3; 18:4) Instead, following the custom of the time, he preached the good news in synagogues, as visiting speakers could be invited to address those gathered for worship. (Acts 13:15, 32) Paul preached “every day,” not just on the Sabbath.—Acts 17:17.
Misconception: The Christian Sabbath is on Sunday.
Fact: The Bible contains no command for Christians to devote Sunday, the first day of the week, to rest and worship. For early Christians, Sunday was a workday like any other. The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia states: “It was not until the 4th cent[ury] that Sunday began to take on Sabbath characteristics, when [the pagan Roman emperor] Constantine decreed that certain types of work should not be done on Sunday.”
What, though, of passages that seem to indicate that Sunday was a special day? The Bible says that the apostle Paul shared a meal with fellow believers “on the first day of the week,” Sunday, but this was only logical, since Paul was leaving the next day. (Acts 20:7) Similarly, some congregations were told to set aside funds on “the first day of every week,” Sunday, for relief work, but this was just a practical suggestion for personal budgeting. The contributions were kept at home, not turned in at a place of meeting.—1 Corinthians 16:1, 2.
Misconception: It is wrong to set aside one day every week for rest and worship.
Fact: The Bible leaves such a decision to each Christian.—Romans 14:5.
What Does the Bible Teach About Speaking in Tongues?
The Bible’s answer
“Speaking in tongues” refers to a miraculous ability some early Christians had that enabled them to speak a language without first having learned it. (Acts 10:46, New International Version) The speaker was easily understood by anyone who knew that language. (Acts 2:4-8) Speaking in tongues was one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit that God gave to some first-century Christians.—Hebrews 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:4, 30.
Where and when did speaking in tongues start?
This miracle first occurred in Jerusalem on the morning of the Jewish Festival of Pentecost in 33 C.E. About 120 of Jesus’ disciples were meeting together when “they all became filled with holy spirit and started to speak in different languages.” (Acts 1:15; 2:1-4) A large crowd of people “from every nation under heaven” gathered, and “each one heard them speaking in his own language.”—Acts 2:5, 6.
What was the purpose of speaking in tongues?
1. To show that God was backing Christians. In the past, God provided miraculous signs to prove that he was backing faithful people such as Moses. (Exodus 4:1-9, 29-31; Numbers 17:10) Speaking in tongues served a similar purpose, showing that God was backing the newly formed Christian congregation. The apostle Paul wrote: “Tongues are not a sign for the believers but for the unbelievers.”—1 Corinthians 14:22.
2. To enable Christians to give a thorough witness. Those who heard Jesus’ followers on the day of Pentecost said: “We hear them speaking in our languages about the magnificent things of God.” (Acts 2:11) Thus, another key purpose of this miracle was to enable Christians “to give a thorough witness” and to “make disciples of people of all the nations,” as they had been commanded by Jesus. (Acts 10:42; Matthew 28:19) About 3,000 who observed the miracle and listened to the witness that was given became disciples that very day.—Acts 2:41.
Was speaking in tongues to continue permanently?
No. The gifts of the Holy Spirit, including that of speaking in tongues, were a temporary provision. The Bible foretold: “If there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away with; if there are tongues, they will cease.”—1 Corinthians 13:8.
When did speaking in tongues cease?
The gifts of the Holy Spirit were generally passed on to other Christians in the presence of the apostles, usually by the apostles placing their hands on fellow believers. (Acts 8:18; 10:44-46) It appears that those who received the gifts of the spirit from the apostles did not transfer them to others. (Acts 8:5-7, 14-17) To illustrate, a government official may issue a driver’s license to someone, but that person is not given the legal authority to issue a license to anyone else. Apparently, speaking in tongues ended with the death of the apostles and those who had personally received the gift from them.
What about speaking in tongues today?
The miraculous gift of speaking in tongues evidently ended about the end of the first century C.E. No one today can rightly claim to speak in tongues by God’s power.
How can true Christians be identified?
Jesus said that self-sacrificing love would identify his disciples. (John 13:34, 35) Likewise, the apostle Paul taught that love would be a permanent identifier of genuine Christians. (1 Corinthians 13:1, 8) He indicated that God’s spirit would produce in Christians the qualities referred to collectively as “the fruitage of the spirit,” the first quality of which is love.—Galatians 5:22, 23.
What Does the Bible Say About Fasting?
The Bible’s answer
In Bible times, fasting was acceptable to God when it was done with the right motive. But when it was done for the wrong reasons, it brought God’s disfavour. However, the Bible neither commands nor forbids fasting for people today.
Under what circumstances did some in the Bible fast?
● When seeking help and guidance from God. The people journeying to Jerusalem fasted to show their sincerity in asking for God’s help. (Ezra 8:21-23) Paul and Barnabas at times chose to fast when appointing congregation elders.—Acts 14:23.
● When focusing on God’s purpose. After his baptism, Jesus fasted for 40 days to prepare himself to do God’s will during his coming ministry.—Luke 4:1, 2.
● When demonstrating repentance over past sins. Through the prophet Joel, God told unfaithful Israelites: “Return to me with all your hearts, with fasting and weeping and wailing.”—Joel 2:12-15.
● When observing the Day of Atonement. The Law that God gave to the nation of Israel included a command to fast on the annual Day of Atonement. (Leviticus 16:29-31) Fasting was appropriate on this occasion because it reminded the Israelites that they were imperfect and needed God’s forgiveness.
What are some improper motives for fasting?
● To impress others. Jesus taught that religious fasting should be a personal and private matter between an individual and God.—Matthew 6:16-18.
● To prove oneself righteous. Fasting does not make a person morally or spiritually superior.—Luke 18:9-14.
● To try to compensate for a deliberate practice of sin. (Isaiah 58:3, 4) God accepted only fasts that were accompanied by obedience and by heartfelt repentance for any sins committed.
● To carry out a religious formality. (Isaiah 58:5-7) In this respect, God is like a parent who is displeased when his children express love for him merely out of obligation, not from the heart.
Is fasting required for Christians?
No. God required the Israelites to fast on Atonement Day, but he eliminated that observance after Jesus permanently atoned for the sins of repentant people. (Hebrews 9:24-26; 1 Peter 3:18) Christians are not under the Mosaic Law, of which Atonement Day was a part. (Romans 10:4; Colossians 2:13, 14) Therefore, each Christian may decide for himself whether to fast.Romans 14:1-4.
Christians recognize that fasting is not the focus of their worship. The Bible never associates fasting with happiness. In contrast, true Christian worship is marked by joy, reflecting the personality of God, “the happy God.”—1 Timothy 1:11; Ecclesiastes 3:12, 13; Galatians 5:22.
Misconceptions about the Bible’s view of fasting
Misconception: The apostle Paul recommended fasting to Christian married couples.—1 Corinthians 7:5, King James Version.
Fact: The oldest Bible manuscripts do not mention fasting at 1 Corinthians 7:5. Evidently, Bible copyists added a reference to fasting, not only to this verse but also to Matthew 17:21; Mark 9:29; and Acts 10:30. Most modern Bible translations omit these spurious references to fasting.
Misconception: Christians should fast in commemoration of the 40 days that Jesus fasted in the wilderness after his baptism.
Fact: Jesus never commanded such a fast, nor are there any Scriptural indications that early Christians observed it.
Misconception: Christians should fast when commemorating Jesus’ death.
Fact: Jesus did not command his disciples to fast when commemorating his death. (Luke 22:14-18) While Jesus said that his disciples would fast when he died, he was not issuing a command but merely stating what was going to happen. (Matthew 9:15) The Bible instructed Christians who were hungry to eat at home before observing the Memorial of Jesus’ death.—1 Corinthians 11:33, 34.
What Does the Bible Say About Giving?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible encourages giving that is done voluntarily and with the right motive. It shows that such giving benefits not only the recipient but also the giver. (Proverbs 11:25; Luke 6:38) Jesus said: “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.”—Acts 20:35.
When is giving beneficial?
Giving is beneficial when it is done voluntarily. “Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart,” says the Bible, “not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”—2 Corinthians 9:7, footnote.
Heartfelt giving is part of “the form of religion” that God approves. (James 1:27) A person who generously helps those in need works hand in hand with God, who views such generosity as a loan made to him. (Proverbs 19:17) The Bible teaches that God himself will repay the giver.—Luke 14:12-14.
When is giving improper?
If it is done with ulterior motives. Examples include:
● To impress people.—Matthew 6:2.
● To receive something in return.—Luke 14:12-14.
● To try to buy salvation.—Psalm 49:6, 7.
If it supports activities or attitudes that God condemns. For example, it would be wrong to give someone money to gamble or to misuse drugs or alcohol. (1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; 2 Corinthians 7:1) Likewise, it is not proper to give to someone who is able to support himself financially but refuses to do so.—2 Thessalonians 3:10.
If it interferes with a person’s God-given responsibilities. The Bible teaches that family heads must provide for the needs of their household. (1 Timothy 5:8) It would not be right for a family head to give so much to others that he jeopardizes his own household. Similarly, Jesus condemned those who refused to provide for their elderly parents by claiming that all their assets were “a gift dedicated to God.”—Mark 7:9-13.
Bible verses about giving
Proverbs 11:25: “The generous person will prosper, and whoever refreshes others will himself be refreshed.”
Meaning: Giving benefits not only the recipient but also the giver.
Proverbs 19:17: “The one showing favour to the lowly is lending to Jehovah, and He will repay him for what he does.”
Meaning: God considers himself to be indebted to those who help the needy, and he promises to repay such generosity.
Matthew 6:2: “When you make gifts of mercy, do not blow a trumpet ahead of you, as the hypocrites do . . . so that they may be glorified by men.”
Meaning: We should not give just to attract attention to ourselves.
Acts 20:35: “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.”
Meaning: Heartfelt generosity brings happiness.
2 Corinthians 9:7: “Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
Meaning: Giving that is done voluntarily pleases God.
What Are the Ten Commandments of God?
The Bible’s answer
The Ten Commandments are laws that God gave to the ancient nation of Israel. These laws are also known as the Ten Words, which is a literal translation of the Hebrew expression ʽaseʹreth had·deva·rimʹ. This expression occurs three times in the Pentateuch (Torah), the first five books of the Bible. (Exodus 34:28; Deuteronomy 4:13; 10:4) The equivalent expression in Greek, deʹka (ten) loʹgous (words), gave rise to the term “Decalogue.”
God inscribed the Ten Commandments on two stone tablets and gave them to his prophet Moses on Mount Sinai. (Exodus 24:12-18) The Ten Commandments are listed at Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21.
List of the Ten Commandments
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Worship only Jehovah God.—Exodus 20:3.
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Do not practice idolatry.—Exodus 20:4-6.
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Do not take up God’s name in a worthless way.—Exodus 20:7.
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Keep the Sabbath.—Exodus 20:8-11.
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Honour your parents.—Exodus 20:12.
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Do not murder.—Exodus 20:13.
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Do not commit adultery.—Exodus 20:14.
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Do not steal.—Exodus 20:15.
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Do not testify falsely.—Exodus 20:16.
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Do not covet.—Exodus 20:17.
Why do lists of the Ten Commandments differ?
The Bible does not assign a number to each commandment. Consequently, opinions differ on how the commandments should be arranged. The list above is a common arrangement of these laws. However, some list the Ten Commandments differently. The differences in grouping involve the first, second, and last commandments.
What was the purpose of the Ten Commandments?
The Ten Commandments were part of the Mosaic Law. That Law code included over 600 commandments and formed the terms of an agreement, or covenant, between God and the ancient nation of Israel. (Exodus 34:27) God promised the people of Israel that they would prosper if they obeyed the Mosaic Law. (Deuteronomy 28:1-14) However, the main purpose of the Law was to prepare the Israelites for the promised Messiah, or Christ.—Galatians 3:24.
Must Christians keep the Ten Commandments?
God gave his Law, including the Ten Commandments, specifically to the ancient nation of Israel. (Deuteronomy 5:2, 3; Psalm 147:19, 20) The Mosaic Law is not binding on Christians, and even Jewish Christians were “released from the Law.” (Romans 7:6) The Mosaic Law was replaced by “the law of the Christ,” which includes all that Jesus instructed his followers to do.—Galatians 6:2; Matthew 28:19, 20.
Are the Ten Commandments relevant today?
Yes. Because the Ten Commandments reveal God’s thinking, we can benefit from studying them. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) The Ten Commandments are based on reliable principles that will never go out-of-date. (Psalm 111:7, 8) In fact, many of these principles underlie the teachings of what is commonly called the New Testament.—
Jesus taught that the entire Mosaic Law, including the Ten Commandments, rested on two fundamental commandments. He said: “‘You must love your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. The second, like it, is this: ‘You must love your neighbour as yourself.’ On these two commandments the whole Law hangs.” (Matthew 22:34-40) So although Christians are not expected to observe the Mosaic Law, they are commanded to love God and their fellow humans.—John 13:34; 1 John 4:20, 21.
Principles from the Ten Commandments reflected in the New Testament
Principle New Testament Reference
Worship only Jehovah God Revelation 22:8, 9
Do not practice idolatry 1 Corinthians 10:14
Honour God’s name Matthew 6:9
Worship God regularly Hebrews 10:24, 25
Honour your parents Ephesians 6:1, 2
Do not murder 1 John 3:15
Do not commit adultery Hebrews 13:4
Do not steal Ephesians 4:28
Do not testify falsely Ephesians 4:25
Do not covet Luke 12:15
What Does the Bible Say About Christmas?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible does not give the date of Jesus’ birth, nor does it say that we should celebrate his birthday. As McClintock and Strong’s Cyclopedia states: “The observance of Christmas is not of divine appointment, nor is it of NT [New Testament] origin.”
Instead, an examination of the history of Christmas exposes its roots in pagan religious rites. The Bible shows that we offend God if we try to worship him in a way that he does not approve of.—Exodus 32:5-7.
History of Christmas customs
1. Celebrating Jesus’ birthday: “The early Christians did not celebrate [Jesus’] birth because they considered the celebration of anyone’s birth to be a pagan custom.”—The World Book Encyclopedia.
2. December 25: There is no proof that Jesus was born on that date. Church leaders likely chose this date to coincide with pagan festivals held on or around the winter solstice.
3. Gift-giving, feasting, partying: The Encyclopedia Americana says: “Saturnalia, a Roman feast celebrated in mid-December, provided the model for many of the merry-making customs of Christmas. From this celebration, for example, were derived the elaborate feasting, the giving of gifts, and the burning of candles.” The Encyclopædia Britannica notes that “all work and business were suspended” during Saturnalia.
4. Christmas lights: According to The Encyclopedia of Religion, Europeans decorated their homes “with lights and evergreens of all kinds” to celebrate the winter solstice and to combat evil spirits.
5. Mistletoe, holly: “The Druids ascribed magical properties to the mistletoe in particular. The evergreen holly was worshiped as a promise of the sun’s return.”—The Encyclopedia Americana.
6. Christmas tree: “Tree worship, common among the pagan Europeans, survived after their conversion to Christianity.” One of the ways in which tree worship survived is in the custom of “placing a Yule tree at an entrance or inside the house in the midwinter holidays.”—Encyclopædia Britannica.
When Was Jesus Born?
The Bible’s answer
The Bible does not give a specific date for the birth of Jesus Christ, as these reference works show:
● “The true birth date of Christ is unknown.”—New Catholic Encyclopedia.
● “The exact date of Christ’s birth is not known.”—Encyclopedia of Early Christianity.
While the Bible does not directly answer the question, ‘When was Jesus born?’ it does describe two events surrounding his birth that lead many to conclude that he was not born on December 25.
Not in winter
1. The registration. Shortly before Jesus was born, Caesar Augustus issued a decree ordering “all the inhabited earth to be registered.” Everyone had to register in “his own city,” which might have required a journey of a week or more. (Luke 2:1-3) That order—probably made to support taxation and military conscription—would have been unpopular at any time of year, but it is unlikely that Augustus would have provoked his subjects further by forcing many of them to make long trips during the cold winter.
2. The sheep. Shepherds were “living out of doors and keeping watches in the night over their flocks.” (Luke 2:8) The book Daily Life in the Time of Jesus notes that flocks lived in the open air from “the week before the Passover [late March]” through mid-November. It then adds: “They passed the winter under cover; and from this alone it may be seen that the traditional date for Christmas, in the winter, is unlikely to be right, since the Gospel says that the shepherds were in the fields.”
In early autumn
We can estimate when Jesus was born by counting backward from his death on Passover, Nisan 14 in the spring of the year 33 C.E. (John 19:14-16) Jesus was about 30 years old when he began his three-and-a-half-year ministry, so he was born in the early fall of 2 B.C.E.—Luke 3:23.
Why is Christmas on December 25?
Since there is no evidence that the birth of Jesus Christ occurred on December 25, why is Christmas celebrated on this date? The Encyclopædia Britannica says that church leaders probably chose it “to coincide with the pagan Roman festival marking the ‘birthday of the unconquered sun,’” at the time of the winter solstice. According to The Encyclopedia Americana, many scholars believe that this was done “in order to make Christianity more meaningful to pagan converts.”
What Does the Bible Say About Easter?
The Bible’s answer
The celebration of Easter is not based on the Bible. If you look into its history, though, you will see the true meaning of Easter—it is a tradition based on ancient fertility rites. Consider the following.
1. Name: The Encyclopædia Britannica says: “The English name Easter is of uncertain origin; the Anglo-Saxon priest Venerable Bede in the 8th century derived it from the Anglo-Saxon spring goddess Eostre.” Others link it to Astarte, the Phoenician fertility goddess who had the Babylonian counterpart Ishtar.
2. Hares, rabbits: These are symbols of fertility “handed down from the ancient ceremonial and symbolism of European and Middle Eastern pagan spring festivals.”—Encyclopædia Britannica.
3. Eggs: According to Funk & Wagnalls Standard Dictionary of Folklore, Mythology and Legend, the hunt for Easter eggs, supposedly brought by the Easter rabbit, “is not mere child’s play, but the vestige of a fertility rite.” Some cultures believed that the decorated Easter egg “could magically bring happiness, prosperity, health, and protection.”—Traditional Festivals.
4. New Easter outfit: “It was considered discourteous and therefore bad luck to greet the Scandinavian goddess of Spring, or Eastre, in anything but fresh garb.”—The Giant Book of Superstitions.
5. Sunrise services: These have been linked to rites of ancient sun worshippers “performed at the vernal equinox welcoming the sun and its great power to bring new life to all growing things.”—Celebrations—The Complete Book of American Holidays.
The American Book of Days well describes the origin of Easter: “There is no doubt that the Church in its early days adopted the old pagan customs and gave a Christian meaning to them.”