Does every person need to hear the gospel? Can a person be saved without it? What about people in remote parts of the world that have never heard of Jesus by name? Are they all condemned? Can God reach those who have never heard the gospel? If so, is preaching the gospel really necessary? What advantages does the hearing the gospel have? Can a person reject the gospel and still be saved? Does the whole world really need to hear it? This week we explore the relationship between the gospel and salvation. Can salvation come through other means? Must a person be a Christian or can they be on other paths? How does the Bible respond to pluralism or universalism?
This video is from the Class D, 2007-2010, Inspirited Network broadcasts on stickam with Joseph Williams and John Spellman covering topics related to Salvation and Christian Living. Videos are in standard definition since the broadcasts were done before the studio was built.
Does God care when we're at our lowest point? Can we ever do so much wrong or mess up so bad that God can't forgive us? When God forgives do our actions still have consequences? Is it a sign of weakness to admit when you're wrong? Pastor Mirra follows the story of Manasseh which has much to say to hearts too proud to repent, even when they are brought to really low places in life.
Are sacrifices, offerings, song, praise, fasting and prayer all that God is concerned with? Can we neglect our stewardship toward one another or forget about compassion as long as we do acts of religious practice? Can worship and compassion ever be divorced? What are the weightier matters of the law? How did the prophets understand God in the context of oppression and how to treat the disenfranchised?
The Bible teaches about a day lost in history. A day God designed for us to remember. This week's lesson uncovers the mystery of this forgotten and lost day.
A good friend of mine, whom I had discussed the Sabbath with some time ago sent me an article entitle “Lesson 13: Sabbath Reforms (August 25, 2013)” from International Bible Studies. In the article, the author states discusses the reforms of Nehemiah and in his address of the Sabbath came to the conclusion that the principle of the Sabbath still exists but the literal day is no longer binding and he seems to suggest that to consider it binding for all Christians would be “legalistic”. After thoroughly reading and annotating this lesson I am inclined to agree with the author on many points that were made during the lesson, while disagreeing with the final position taken on the binding nature of the Sabbath.
Like Jesus, the temptations we face are summarized in three categories: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye and the pride of life. Which is your stronger category? Where do you fall down the most? It’s time to assess your situation and ask God for strength and the commitment to seek the way of escape. Living with sin is not a dream; neither is it a ‘dry run’. It is reality! Let us look for the escape route and take it.
We too need The Holy Spirit in our lives. He is our Deposit on Eternity! Without God's Spirit in our lives, we are none of His. The Holy Spirit keeps us burning brighter every day, He keeps us going, He strengthens us and guide us in the way we should God. He is truly a life companion. I find that I am more decisive when I follow the instructions of The Holy Spirit (Isa. 30:21). It's such a comforting feeling to know and follow the voice of God. This is only possible with the Holy Spirit's help.