Does God Decide Who Goes to Hell?

How to Explain the Trinity to a New Believer

How to Explain the Trinity to a New BelieverThe Trinity is a central yet complex doctrine in Christianity. It teaches that God is one being who exists eternally in three distinct persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Here’s a simple yet biblical way to explain this mystery to new believers.1. Affirm God’s OnenessStart by emphasizing that Christians believe in one God, not three. Deuteronomy 6:4 declares, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord.” This oneness is foundational and distinguishes Christianity as a monotheistic faith.2. Introduce the Three PersonsExplain that while God is one in essence, He reveals Himself as three distinct persons who share the same divine nature:The Father: Creator and sustainer of all (Genesis 1:1, Matthew 6:9).The Son: Jesus Christ, who redeems humanity through His death and resurrection (John 1:1-14, Colossians 2:9).The Holy Spirit: God’s presence in believers, guiding and empowering them (John 14:26, Acts 1:8).Each person of the Trinity is fully God, equal in power and glory, yet they function in distinct roles.3. Use Scriptural EvidenceHighlight Bible passages where all three persons are present. For example, at Jesus’ baptism, the Father speaks, the Son is baptized, and the Holy Spirit descends like a dove (Matthew 3:16-17). Another example is the Great Commission: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 28:19).4. Use Analogies CautiouslyAnalogies like water (ice, liquid, steam) or the sun (source, light, heat) can help illustrate the concept but are imperfect. Clarify that these are tools to aid understanding, not exact representations.5. Embrace the MysteryFinally, acknowledge that the Trinity is beyond full human comprehension. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.” Encourage new believers to accept this mystery by faith while continuing to grow in understanding.ConclusionExplaining the Trinity requires emphasizing God’s oneness, describing the three persons, providing scriptural evidence, and embracing the mystery of God’s nature. This doctrine is foundational for understanding the Christian faith and God’s work in the world (2 Corinthians 13:14).

What Does the Bible Say About Drugs?

What Does the Bible Say About Drugs?The Bible does not specifically address modern drugs, but it does offer principles on maintaining a clear mind and avoiding things that lead to addiction or harm to the body. Scripture teaches about sobriety, self-control, and honoring God with one’s body, which can be applied to drug use.Self-Control and SobrietyIn 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Paul reminds believers that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, urging them to honor God with their bodies. Using substances that impair judgment or harm the body is seen as incompatible with this call to respect and care for one’s body.Warnings Against DrunkennessThe Bible speaks clearly against drunkenness, which is often linked to substance abuse. In Ephesians 5:18, Paul writes, "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit." Although the Bible does not specifically address recreational drug use, the principle of avoiding excess and staying clear-minded applies to all forms of substance abuse.Why This MattersThe Bible calls believers to avoid anything that enslaves or impairs the body, including drugs. Christians are encouraged to live with self-control, honor God with their bodies, and seek His guidance in all matters of health and well-being.

When Was Genesis Written?

When Was Genesis Written? Introduction to the Book of Genesis The Book of Genesis is the first book of the Bible, serving as a foundation for both the Old Testament and the entire biblical narrative. It covers the creation of the world, the early history of humanity, and the beginnings of the Israelite people. Traditional Views on the Date of Genesis Traditionally, Genesis is believed to have been written by Moses around the 15th to 13th centuries BCE. This view is based on religious tradition that credits Moses as the author of the Pentateuch, which includes Genesis. Modern Scholarly Perspectives Many scholars suggest that Genesis was composed over a long period, with multiple sources combined into one text. The most widely accepted theory is the Documentary Hypothesis, which proposes that Genesis was written between the 10th and 5th centuries BCE. Key Points on Dating Genesis The earliest oral traditions may date back to ancient times before written records. Written compilation likely occurred during the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE). Multiple sources such as the Jahwist, Elohist, Priestly, and Deuteronomist contributed to the final form. Conclusion While the exact date of Genesis’ writing remains uncertain, most evidence points to a composition process spanning centuries, culminating around the 6th century BCE. This reflects a rich history of oral and written traditions that shaped the text we have today.

What Is the Resurrection in John 11:25-26?

What Is the Resurrection in John 11:25-26? Understanding the Context In John 11:25-26, Jesus speaks to Martha after the death of her brother Lazarus. This passage is a key moment where Jesus reveals profound truths about life, death, and resurrection. His words offer hope beyond physical death and highlight the promise of eternal life for believers. The Meaning of Resurrection in John 11:25-26 Jesus declares, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die." Here, resurrection refers not only to the rising of the dead but also to a spiritual awakening and eternal life through faith in Christ. Key Aspects of the Resurrection   Physical Resurrection: A future event where believers will be raised from the dead.   Spiritual Resurrection: Experiencing new life through faith in Jesus here and now.   Eternal Life: Living forever in God's presence, transcending physical death. Why This Resurrection Matters This passage encourages believers to trust in Jesus as the source of life, assuring them that death is not the end. The resurrection is a cornerstone of Christian faith, offering hope, comfort, and a promise of victory over death.