How You Should and Shouldnt Interpret Violence in the Old Testament Mike Winger 2019-11-14 | I'm hoping to some more content on violence in the Old Testament as well as a much more detailed and thoughtful response to Greg Boyd's "Cruciform Hermeneutic" in the future. Until then, here is a video getting started on those topics and hopefully offering some help on topics like "How could God kill people?", "What about the Amalekites?", "How literal are the 'destroy them all' passages?", "Is it reasonable to just say that those passages don't really reflect God's commands?" Here's a link to Paul Copan's book "Is God a Moral Monster?" amazon.com/dp/B004EPYPY4/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1Here's a link to the YouTube channel for The Remnant Radio youtube.com/channel/UC31RZ-b3D1w452JLuzLVl4QHere are my three videos on whether the Bible has been changed or not and it includes my full explanation of what’s going on with the passage in John about the woman caught in adultery. youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuzJhPtmrgqpVoXhjvqiIjWIf you want to help me continue making free content then you can do so through my website at this link biblethinker.org/index.php/donate
20 Questions with Mike Winger (Episode 109) Mike Winger 2023-10-17 | Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 Intro 1. 1:12 {Different Wills among the Godhead?} In the Trinity, do the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit all have three separate wills? 2. 22:15 {Conflict in Israel – Eschatological Significance?} Is the war going on in Israel right now part of a biblical prophecy? 3. 30:28 {One Governor or 12?} In 1 Kings 4:7-19, there are twelve governors for Israel listed. I’m confused by verse 19b: “There was one governor...” What’s your take on this? 12 or 1? 4. 36:22 {Do Some Sins Indicate a Lack of Salvation?} Verses like Matthew 6: 14 make me feel like there are sins so bad that if you commit them (like unforgiveness), you’re 100% not a Christian. I feel like I have to maintain my own salvation. 5. 41:04 {Would the Spirit Ever Leave Us?} Can you please explain what it meant in 1 Samuel when the Spirit left Saul? 6. 44:16 {The Vatican & Revelation} Does Revelation 7:9 apply to Vatican City despite its size and hosting unbiblical stuff? 7. 48:42 {Is Marital Intimacy Only for Procreation?} Can a biblical case be made for the purpose of sex within marriage being for procreation AND intimacy/pleasure and not just for procreation? Is sex without the possibility of procreation evil? 8. 55:11 {Christians Made Whole “Again”?} How do you feel about songs that state, “You make me whole again”? It’s my understating that before faith in Christ we aren’t whole, saved, or forgiven. Thoughts? 9. 58:38 {Teaching Convictions as Truth} How should we deal with a pastor who is unwilling to receive correction on anything against his own convictions? It wouldn’t be as big of an issue, but he preaches his ideas as truth (i.e., no alcohol). 10. 1:03:57 {Counting our Trials as Joy} How are we to “count it all joy” when we face trials and temptations, as James chapter 1 says? 11. 1:09:58 {Wisdom = “She”?} Can you help me understand why in Proverbs 2 the Bible refers to wisdom as “she”? How do we argue this with those who try to speak about multiple gods, or LGBTQ+ people saying He is neither gender? 12. 1:13:45 {Refuting Modalism} What is the best way to dismantle Modalism in a loving way to someone? 13. 1:17:05 {The Commander of the Lord’s Army} In Joshua 5: 13, who is the commander of the Lord’s army? Is this another Christophany? And why do we read so little about him if he helped Joshua in his ventures? 14. 1:20:53 {Are the Mentally Disabled Saved?} What happens to autistic people or mentally disabled people? Do they go to Heaven? 15. 1:22:54 {Am I Saved if I Have An Addiction?} How do I know If I actually have a saving faith, especially considering that I’m addicted to pornography, and am having a hard time asking for someone to help me stop. Thanks. 16. 1:29:46 {Congregational Votes – Sometimes Sinful?} Is it against the Bible to have your congregation vote on whether or not to have women as elders? 17. 1:31:48 {Indwelling, Infilling & Assurance} Do you have the Holy Spirit if you haven't been baptized with Him? I don't feel/believe like I do. I can't hear His voice. 18. 1:34:51 {The Day of The Lord & His Second Coming} How do the ideas of "The Day of The Lord" in the Old Testament and Jesus' second coming in the New Testament intersect? I've been studying this, but I'd like some of your opinions. 19. 1:36:51 {A Cure for Hypocrisy} What is the cure for hypocrisy? I have stopped going to church because I feel rotten on the inside and feel like a fraud. I don’t seem to love Jesus like others. My heart is cold. No emotion. 20. 1:43:49 {Can the Bible Become an Idol?} Is it possible to love the Bible so much that it can be a form of an idol?Links I mentioned.Everything the Bible says about Alcohol youtu.be/MRpA4njHF64?si=-uo_83WPE2MFIo9SChristophanies in the Old Testament (I cover the Joshua 5 passage at about 31 minutes in) youtu.be/1CDOSbzd6Uk?si=5XCDrzYXNU4U830nA rare Tuesday stream! Check back later for time stamps.I'm Mike Winger and I think we've underestimated how amazing the Bible is. Every other Friday at 1pm Pacific time we do these live Q&As. Check back a bit after the stream for time stamps.To ask a question just wait until after the stream has actually begun, type your question in the chat, and start it with a "Q" to help us identify it as a question. I may have already answered your question. You can check the "clip search" feature on my web site to see if I have. https://BibleThinker.org
Religious grifters and creeps Mike Winger 2023-10-16 | When I was a new Christian I remember turning on the TV and finding out that there was actually a "Christian" channel! I watched it and what I saw was creeps like this trying to scam people out of money by twisting the Bible. This is not the way.My website https://BibleThinker.org
Stop Smoking and Believe in Jesus Mike Winger 2023-10-12 | Did you know that the many of God's own messengers warned people of coming judgment. It's something of a theme in both the Old and New Testaments. While I am sympathetic to the idea that there are obnoxious and unnecessarily offensive "fire and brimstone preachers," I am also aware that to make a rule that nobody can tell others of the consequences of sin or the fact of God's judgment is to put a muzzle on the truth. It's more a question of HOW to go about sharing these things than it is a question of whether or not we are right to share them at all.My website https://BibleThinker.org
Was there a REAL Thor? Mike Winger 2023-10-05 | The important thing here is to avoid falling into the same deception as those who worshipped false gods in the past.My website https://BibleThinker.org
Youth pastor told her that her dad would NOT remember her in heaven. Mike Winger 2023-10-04 | While I don't know of any Scripture that clearly says we will not forget our lives before heaven (and "not be brought to remembrance" doesn't mean "literally can't remember") I do find that a number of verses as well as the logic of heavenly worship seem to imply we will remember.My website https://BibleThinker.org
Love VS Holiness Mike Winger 2023-10-02 | In their proper application, love and holiness will look quite similar. My website https://BibleThinker.org
20 Questions with Mike Winger (Episode 108) Mike Winger 2023-09-29 | Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro1. 0:15 {When Should I NOT Take Communion?} When should a believer NOT take communion? Is finding myself repenting of the same sin over and over and having an ongoing struggle with the same sin a reason not to?2. 18:56 {Can A False Prophet Glorify God?} My parents sit under a pastor who claims to have a prophecy from God almost weekly. He preaches in Jesus’ name and glorifies God, but his prophecies are always totally wrong or incredibly vague. Can a man who glorifies God also prophesy falsely?3. 24:09 {Christ & H.S. In Us = Modalism?} At the end of Colossians, it talks about Christ in us, and in Galatians, it talks about the Spirit of His son in our hearts crying out “Abba, Father.” That sounds like the Holy Spirit, but is it Modalism to call Christ in you the Holy Spirit?4. 27:57 {Animal Sacrifices in Millen. Kingdom?} Why will there be animal sacrifices in the Millennial Kingdom?5. 35:25 {Should Slaves have Run Away from Masters?} In light of Ephesians 6:5-8 and Colossians 3: 22-23, was it wrong for African slaves to run away from their masters?6. 42:48 {Do Our Prayers Need to be Specific?} People have been saying with increasing frequency, "Make your prayers specific.” I’m wondering why I keep hearing this lately. Is this biblical?7. 46:40 {Did Jesus Have a Sin Nature?} Was Jesus the biological son of Mary? If so, how did He not inherit a sin nature?8. 50:49 {Does Heaven Last for Eternity?} Do we live in Heaven for eternity, or will it be a finite time period (Isaiah 65: 20)?9. 54:50 {Share Our Burdens?} Galatians 6:2 says to carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ, but verse 5 says that each person should carry their own load. Should we share our burdens or carry our own?10. 59:13 {Reject the Church = Reject Christianity?} If I reject the Church as an institution, do I automatically reject the Christian faith?11. 1:02:00 {Committed Relationships as Good as Marriage?} How would you answer claims that “committed sexual relationships” have everything good that a marriage has? What’s the essence of marriage that withstands infertility/impotence/distance, etc.? 12. 1:06:09 {Recovering from Works Based Thinking} I left the Hebrew Israelite movement 3 years ago, and since then, I’ve been struggling with my walk. I know we have God’s grace, but I was so used to doing works that I feel lost now. Any suggestions?13. 1:11:05 {Laws, Islam & Executing Apostates} Looking at Deuteronomy 13:6-10, is the apostasy law similar to Muslims? And is it inherently immoral for an apostate to be put to death because of their beliefs, according to the Old Testament? 14. 1:16:48 {Was Jesus’ Body Broken For Us?} What are your thoughts on when people say “This is the body of Christ, broken for you.” To me, this is not accurate, as Jesus was not “broken” for us (no bones broken like the Passover lamb).15. 1:18:54 {Are Non-Believers Always Wrong?{ Some Christians act like non-believers are inherently untrustworthy or dishonest, like they shouldn't be taken seriously. This feels really wrong. Can you please help me find biblical teaching on this?16. 1:23:01 {Our Bodies during the Millennial Reign} What kind of body will each "group" of people have during the Millennial Reign? I know the previously dead will receive knew bodies, and those that die in God during the Tribulation will get new bodies.17. 1:24:17 {The “Prize” in Philippians} What is the prize of the upward call" in Philippians 3: 14?18. 1:27:56 {Raising Children w/Unbelieving Family} Is it wrong that I don’t want to raise my son around my unbelieving family members? They can even be hostile to the faith. I even have a transgender niece, and my wife and I don’t want our son around that.19. 1:30:49 {Praising the Holy Spirit?} A friend said that Scripture never calls us to praise the Holy Spirit despite numerous worship songs and the Doxology saying otherwise. Is he wrong? Should we only worship the Father and the Son?20. 1:33:36 {The Bible Harmonized w/Psychology?} How do we harmonize the Bible and psychology? I have some leaders that try to diagnose people’s sin through the lens of psychology and not Scripture (things like compulsive lying, laziness, etc.).Here's the video on the topic of slavery and the Bible youtube.com/watch?v=l2q3fql-BlY&pp=ygUTbWlrZSB3aW5nZXIgc2xhdmVyeQ%3D%3DThis is the resource I mentioned that helps train kids with biblical worldview. It's really good. foundationworldview.comMy video on how we can explain the temptation of Jesus youtube.com/watch?v=2ckvqgPbNZEI may have already answered your question. You can check the "clip search" feature on my web site to see if I have. https://BibleThinker.org
Do we repent or just believe? Mike Winger 2023-09-29 | When you turn to Jesus, you naturally turn away from something else that isn't Jesus.My website https://BibleThinker.org
About those objections to Hell… Mike Winger 2023-09-28 | Some of the confusion and problems that people have with the idea of Hell can be helped with these 8 facts.My website https://BibleThinker.org
The riddle of Barabbas Mike Winger 2023-09-18 | Jesus hung on a cross that was originally meant for a criminal named Barabbas. When I read about how this wicked man was set free and Jesus was crucified in his place I can't help but feel how much Barabbas deserved what Jesus got. Then I realize that this is precisely what is true about me as well.My website https://BibleThinker.org
20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 107) Mike Winger 2023-09-15 | Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro1. 0:55 {Greater Works than Jesus?} In John 14: 12, Jesus said we would do even greater things than Him. That’s a tough pill to swallow since He died for our sins and created everything. How do I process Jesus’ statement?2. 23:42 {Did God Endorse Polygamy in the OT?} In 2 Samuel 12:8, God says that He gave David his wives (multiple), and if he had asked for more, God would’ve given him more. This sounds to be directly saying that God would be endorsing polygamy. How should we as Christians feel about one man having multiple wives according to the Bible, specifically this passage?3. 30:21 {Is Only OT Scripture “God-Breathed?”} In 2 Timothy 3: 16, was Paul speaking of ONLY OT Scriptures, since that’s all they had at the time? What about the inspiration of the NT?4. 37:13 {Relearning Proper Theology} One of your videos gave my fiancé a change of heart. He is a former Jehovah’s Witness and feels like he has to start over and unlearn then relearn everything. Where do you suggest we start studying?5. 43:57 {Is the Hypostatic Union Illogical?} How can Christ truly be God and man at the same time, infringing upon the laws of logic? If it’s true, I know I can't understand it fully, but I do expect to be able to demonstrate how it isn't illogical.6. 48:54 {Is it Wrong to Teach Kids About Santa?} What do you tell your kids about Santa? Is there a chance that kids who find out Santa isn't real might think the same about Jesus? Would you spoil Santa for children that aren't yours?7. 57:18 {Should We Avoid Semi-Pelagianism?} I'm a Calvinist, and recently I have been noticing Semi-Pelagian theology in Arminian churches. Can you distinguish between the two and explain why we should avoid Semi-Pelagianism?8. 1:06:19 {Can We Give God Too Much Credit?} Is it OK to give credit to God for something He might not have done (like a salary raise, new job, or other material or worldly things)?9. 1:09:52 {New Command or Old Command?} Why does 1 John 2:7 say that he is not writing a new command, but in the next verse (1 John 2:8) he says that he is writing a new command? What's going on here?10. 1:14:10 {Hasn’t Jesus Always Been Lord?} Peter said in Acts 2: 36 that God has "made Jesus both Lord and Christ." He was already Lord and Christ, so what does this mean? Same with Jesus being “given all authority” in Matthew 28: 18.11. 1:24:33 {Were Christ’s Sufferings Lacking Something?} In Colossians 1: 24, what is lacking in Christ’s sufferings, and how is Paul contributing to them?12. 1:30:12 {Is God Constantly Speaking to Us?} My friend doesn't want to have too small of a view of God, so he sees every small event in his life as God speaking to him, even trivial things. Am I being too stingy, or is he "over-spiritualizing"?13. 1:36:08 {Examples of Serving God Daily} I’m wondering what discipling others, sharing the Gospel, and service to God looks like in your life day-to-day? Anything you’ve learned over the years?14. 1:39:38 {How Do We Find Joy in Our Trials?} In James 1, how do we count our trials as joy?15. 1:45:24 {Does the Devil Persecute Believers?} Is God giving the Devil permission to persecute the lives of certain Christians today, like in the book of Job?16. 1:47:02 {Does Praising Jesus Exclude the Father & Spirit?} I've been struggling with phrases or lyrics such as "All glory be to Christ" and "All Heaven sings to Christ alone.” Do these incorrectly exclude the Father and Holy Spirit?17. 1:49:28 {Exploring the Different Words for God’s Law} Every verse in Psalm 119 refers to God's Law, and ten different words are used, including: commandments, precepts, law, testimonies, ways, etc. Why? Does each word have a different meaning?18. 1:51:58 {How to Prepare Large Study Projects} How do you go about a project like the Women in Ministry series? I want to do something similar with Genesis 1-2 but I don't even know where to begin or what tools to use (other than Logos, of course).19. 1:54:38 {Remembering the Unsaved in Heaven?} I would like to know, when we are in Heaven, will we just forget about those we loved on Earth that weren't saved? I can't imagine how there could be no sorrow if we remember them.20. 2:01:18 {What Was Paul’s Goal?} Can you explain to me what goal Paul hopes to achieve in Philippians 3: 11-12? What does he have to do?Every other Friday I do these Q&As, trying to help people learn to think biblically about everything. To ask a question just show up during the beginning of the live stream, wait for it to actually start, and post your question in the live chat. I may have already answered your question. You can check the "clip search" feature on my web site to see if I have. https://BibleThinker.org
A sad and wasted life Mike Winger 2023-09-14 | Make commitments, follow through, work hard. Get off the couch.My website https://BibleThinker.org
A bratty kid and a calm Christian Mike Winger 2023-09-08 | I thought this was a pretty good example of a peaceful demeanor in the face of the kind of foolishness that would trigger most people to react with irritation. A good example and reminder.My website https://BibleThinker.org
How many wives can I have in heaven? Mike Winger 2023-09-05 | My hope for any LDS person watching this video is that you would discover the unadulterated truth of Jesus Christ without the distortions of Joseph Smith. I do anticipate some Mormons claiming that they do not believe that people can become gods, in spite of much evidence to the contrary. Consider looking at the following scholarly paper which not only shows that they do teach such a thing but exposes some PR attempts to hide the fact. etsjets.org/files/JETS-PDFs/49/49-3/JETS_49-3_549-568_Huggins.pdfMy website https://BibleThinker.org
ZERO Evidence for God problem Mike Winger 2023-09-04 | Whether it's the evidence of design in biology, the fine tuning of the physics and materials of the universe, human free will, soul/personhood and consciousness, fulfilled prophecy, the historical case for the resurrection, the applicability of mathematics, the nature of the first cause, or other reasons to believe in God, it's not rational to claim "there is not evidence."My website https://BibleThinker.org
20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 106) Mike Winger 2023-09-01 | Timestamps and links below...0:00 - Intro1. 0:12 {ARRGH! The Pirate Bible!} Have you heard of The Pirate Bible? Apparently, it has been translated from the KJV into "pirate vernacular" using AI. It seems like a joke to me, but what are your thoughts?2. 14:28 {Does Video Auto-Play Lead to Sin?} Is it a sin to use a social media service that often displays ungodly messages and music? Short-form video services such as TikTok display videos directly on your feed rather than suggesting them to you. I will still often see ungodly videos even though I don't want to.3. 19:01 {Is Jesus Presently King?} Is Jesus presently on the throne or at the right hand of the throne? Is He King today? In what sense is He King? Proof text? How does the answer impact premillennial eschatology?4. 23:23 {Uncontacted Tribes & Judgment} I was wondering, what will happen to the uncontacted tribes during the time of Jacob’s trouble, and without the ability to hear the Gospel, what does judgment look like for them?5. 29:31 {Are Violent Video Games Permissible?} What are your thoughts on Christians playing violent video games like Call of Duty or Doom? At what point does it become a question of conscience vs. it just being wrong?6. 38:39 {Have a Pure Mind – Battling Lust} I came to Christ around 9 months ago, but I’ve been really struggling with getting closer God. I’m 15 and I have problems with lust. How can I stop always falling back into sin through lusting?7. 45:19 {Does Catholicism Save?} If at the end of days, the Protestant belief is proven true, would Catholics be saved? Conversely, if Catholicism turns out to be the truth, would Protestants be saved?8. 53:53 {Is Long Life a Blessing?} Proverbs 16: 31 says that long life is the reward of the righteous. But in Philippians 1: 23, Paul says he longs to go and be with Christ, which would be far better. So how is long life a blessing?9. 59:00 {About the 2nd Temple’s Construction} Given that Ezekiel's temple prophecy with its strict measurements was written before the second temple was built, why didn't the second temple get built to those specifications?10. 1:01:38 {Do Christians Still Sin?} How should I understand 1 John 3 when it talks about those who abide in Christ no longer sinning, even as someone who continues to sin?11. 1:10:31 {Leviticus – Burnt Offerings} In Leviticus 1:9, why were only the legs and entrails washed before burning? Cultural?12. 1:15:24 {Are Crop-Tops Appropriate?} Most of the older girls and young women at our church are wearing crop tops to church. I find this obviously inappropriate for church and in general, but I don't want to be legalistic. Thoughts?13. 1:21:10 {Are All Medications Tied to Witchcraft?} Galatians 5: 20 uses “witchcraft.” The word is only used 2 times in the Bible, with the origin word being where we get pharmacy/medicine. Can you clarify? I grew up learning this was literal and still applies.14. 1:26:20 {Honoring God through Singleness} How can I enjoy my singleness? I'm a young adult woman and I want to be in a relationship one day, but I want to be content where I am now. How can I grow closer to God during this time?15. 1:30:14 {Forgiving Others} Jesus said forgive others so that God will forgive us, but Paul says we forgive BECAUSE God has forgiven us. How do you reconcile those statements?16. 1:34:45 {Deliverance & the “Spirit of Jezebel”} How do we lovingly correct someone who believes the deliverance ministry doctrine (people saying they have a “spirit of Jezebel” that needs to be prayed away)?17. 1:36:50 {About the Filioque} Can you flesh out the Filioque and its implications for the Western church?18. 1:38:56 {Attending Catholic Ceremonies?} Can Christians go to Catholic weddings, funerals, and baptisms?19. 1:44:36 {How to Safely Study Demonic Works} I've been reading occult books to understand the worldview of a friend in the occult (books like Kybalion, Hermeticism, mediumship, etc.). Do you have any advice for reading these books without getting contaminated?20. 1:49:35 {Does God Use Verses Out of Context?} Does God still communicate through verses taken out of context? Some say “yes” due to His unique ways, but I'm unsure.My playlist of videos intended to help people on the issue of Mormonism youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi-tJmIiOS7OiXmZg8ikq8Eh0OPwfEi1N&si=DdOOGOsl62stVn0CMy video on what happens to people who die without hearing the gospel - youtube.com/watch?v=IiyxpE5UBz4How Leviticus points to Christ - youtube.com/watch?v=_GOvVSZJxCUAll my videos related to Catholicism - youtube.com/watch?v=91n6erthX6A&list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHvsToYQdfDkiDE6dPkouIv3Everything the Bible teaches about divorce and remarriage. youtube.com/watch?v=N2pC6ZikbYoMy videos on the "Mother God Cult" youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi-tJmIiOS7NtudVdtL8LSK3oWbCnLrBJ
Can you spot why this fails? Mike Winger 2023-08-28 | Consider this description a bit of an expansion on my video as well as an anticipation of coming comments."It's just comedy Mike, lighten up." Yes, it is meant to be funny. But that isn't the same as saying that it doesn't carry any weight and isn't meant to convince anyone of anything. A lot of persuasion is done through comedy and it's rather a weak response to say "it was just a joke" after such persuasion is shown to be fallacious. Further, I have heard many people use this same argument quite seriously. It would be odd to simply pretend it is merely a joke. It is a joke, but it is not merely a joke."The REAL point he's making is that the reason you reject those other gods is the same reasoning that will get you to reject your belief in God, if you follow the logic properly." While I have heard this argument in various forms many times I have never heard a person present it in a convincing way. Every time I can recall someone making this point they overlook the differences in the nature of the God of Christianity and these other gods which Christians reject. Consider Thor as an example. Thor is a created being, his own existence is contingent on other things, he is not morally perfect or the grounding of anything. So classic arguments for God, such as the moral, contingency, ontological, teleological arguments, or arguments from fulfilled prophecy, or the resurrection of Christ, simply cannot be applied to Thor. In other words, the reasons for believing in the God of Christianity are completely unlike the reasons for believing in Thor. Therefore, rejecting Thor presents me with zero reason to reject God. So, on the grounds of logic, Ricky's argument is a bad one. So, we are back to the fact that this is an example of shallow thinking couched in humor and snark, which causes people to be unwise about truly important issues.My website https://BibleThinker.org
Why I say Mormon isnt Christian, though I wish it was. Mike Winger 2023-08-23 | I wish I could say that Mormonism was a genuine branch of Christianity. Sadly, it is not. And to affirm that it is would be cruel to people and disrespectful to God.Here's the playlist of videos I have that go over Latter Day Saint (Mormon) content in a lot of detail, including addressing the false claims of Joseph Smith. youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi-tJmIiOS7OiXmZg8ikq8Eh0OPwfEi1NMy website https://BibleThinker.org
Obamas abuse of Scripture Mike Winger 2023-08-21 | I remember when he first said this. I saw a lot of people nod their heads in agreement; they thought it was a rather brilliant way of dealing with a controversial issue in our culture. I saw at least a few who were struck by how twisted Obama's line of reasoning was. In the name of Christ he was promoting what Christ would reject as against God's will and design. My website https://BibleThinker.org
20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 105) Mike Winger 2023-08-18 | Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro1. 0:43 {Faith = Just a Family Tradition?} My husband believes that faith comes about by family tradition, and that someone's faith is just an expression of what their family has taught them rather than actual faith in God. What does the bible say about this? 2. 20:34 {Wealth & Poverty in Heaven} If we all get different wealth in Heaven based on our deeds on Earth, won’t that create a situation where some people are poor and some are rich? And what happens once we spend it all? 3. 25:28 {Was Paul Married? Widowed?} Acts 26:9-10: "...cast my vote" has implications that Paul was in the Sanhedrin (also residing over Stephen's trial in 8:1), which would have required him to be married (even though that requirement wasn't recorded until later; I'm guessing it was still implemented). Could Paul have been married? Perhaps widowed? 4. 30:04 {Did Saul Know who David Was?} Why at the end of 1 Samuel 16 did the author emphasize David's service to and recognition by Saul, but in 1 Samuel 17, Saul didn't seem to even know who David was (no one seemed to know him for that matter)? 5. 35:40 {Is Doubting OK?} I love Mark 9: 24 - “I believe, help my unbelief.” But how do we understand that along with James 1:6-8 which says to ask in faith with no doubting, as the one who doubts will not receive anything from the Lord? 6. 41:10 {Should We Pray to Mary?} How can I respond with Scripture to a Catholic friend who says, “Mary is the mother of Jesus, so why wouldn’t you seek help from her? Jesus wouldn’t like you disrespecting His mom in any way”? 7. 48:25 {Are Our Souls Truly Immortal?} I was raised in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, and they say that the belief in an immortal/immaterial soul is Pagan in origin and has no basis in the Bible. Is this true? 8. 52:30 {The Fruit of False Prophets} In Matthew 7: 15-20, what are the fruits of the false prophets? The teaching? The followers? The acts? Or something else? 9. 57:36 {Leading with Proper Wisdom} In light of 1 Corinthians 3: 18, how can I lead others spiritually with wisdom without considering myself to be wise? 10. 1:01:35 {Will God Give Up on Repetitive Sinners?} I suffer from same-sex attraction. I fight it, but sometimes I give in. Will God give up on me at some point if I give in? 11. 1:07:35 {Premarital Cohabitation Without Sex?} Is it OK for me and my long-distance girlfriend to stay in an Air BnB for a couple of months if we do not fall into sexual sin, but are not married? 12. 1:10:31 {Must Christians Attend Church?} Do you have to attend church to be a Christian? 13. 1:14:18 {When Other Faiths Pray for Us} When people of other religions pray for us and we see these prayers answered, how do we reconcile that with Christianity? Does that mean all faiths are good? 14. 1:18:32 {Why did Jesus Die if Humans Still Die?} If the payment for sin is death, and both believers and non-believers will die anyways, then why did Jesus have to die for us? Was it for a chance at us entering Heaven? 15. 1:21:53 {Did Augustine Consider the Apocrypha Canon?} How would you respond to those who point out that Augustine considered the Apocrypha as canon? 16. 1:24:40 {Satan’s Fall in Luke 10} Could you shed some light on what Jesus meant in Luke 10: 18? Is Jesus talking about Satan's initial fall here, and what purpose does it serve in the passage? 17. 1:28:58 {OCD-Like Prayers} Any thoughts on struggles with OCD-like prayers? Ex: feeling the need to pray for protection over family members every day in fear that something bad will happen to them if I don’t. 18. 1:33:55 {God Didn’t Reveal Himself?} What do you tell an atheist who says he looked for God and God didn't reveal Himself to him? And in general, what do you make of the argument of nonresistant non-believers? 19. 1:40:16 {How to Hear God’s Voice} What does it mean to hear God's voice? Many teachings say to listen to your thoughts and discern God's voice. Is this even Biblical, or is it a cliche? Reminds me of imagination (visions/prophecy). 20. 1:45:13 {Why did God Change OT Names?} Why does God change the name of Abram to Abraham, Saul to Paul, and Sarai to Sarah? Is there a meaning behind this?To ask a question all you need to do is wait till after the stream starts (which means waiting until I'm actually on screen talking), post a question in the live chat with a Q at the opening of it, and be as clear as you can. Thanks!
If God said this about Polka… Mike Winger 2023-08-03 | God chose David because David was a man after God's own heart. Jesus said that the greatest command was to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Jesus told the church in Ephesus that they had left their first love. Paul said "grace to all who love the Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love."My website https://BibleThinker.org
20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 104) Mike Winger 2023-07-21 | Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro1. 0:38 {Avoiding the Appearance of Evil?} You recently said, "Scripture says: avoid the appearance of evil." I was wondering, if 1 Thessalonians 5: 22 is the verse you were thinking of, isn't that Scripture referring to staying away from partaking in evil, not abstaining from things that look like you're partaking in evil to others? 2. 17:49 {About Jesus’ DNA} What was Jesus' DNA? Was Jesus' DNA 100% from God, or did He have Mary's human DNA? Perhaps it's the same DNA as Adam, since Jesus is the 2nd Adam? 3. 23:25 {Angels Ascending & Descending?} What did Jesus mean in John 1: 51? Was it a specific word for Nathanael, or does it apply to everyone? Would really love some clarity. 4. 30:58 {Brotherly Support vs. Enabling Legalism} How do we balance being careful not to stumble a fellow believer, while also not catering to someone's legalism? 5. 37:24 {Polygamy in Scripture?} Polygamy? Exodus 21: 10–11 says if he takes to himself another woman, he may not reduce her food, her clothing, or her conjugal rights. Clearly, God is speaking of multiple wives. Your thoughts? 6. 44:11 {Negative Words = Neg. Consequences?} In WOF (Word of Faith) circles, 2 Kings 4:8-37 is an example of why you shouldn’t speak or pray negatively about your situation. What is the actual idea of this passage? 7. 53:41 {Envy vs. Jealousy?} Is there a difference between envy and jealousy? Can you describe what the difference is biblically? 8. 56:09 {Did Joseph Fail to “Test the Spirits”?} 1 John 4 says to “test the spirits.” But Mary's husband, Joseph, didn't appear to do this when he had the dream to flee to Egypt. How should we understand or interpret this? 9. 1:00:20 {Must we “Wait for God” before Salvation?} Can you get saved whenever? My church teaches that God must first “knock on your heart” before you can respond and accept salvation. This leads to some people wanting to be saved, but waiting. 10. 1:05:51 {Clarifying a Difficult Passage} A local UMC pastor preached on Matthew 18: 21-35. She said scholars say that Matthew added verses 34-35 and that the master does not represent God. I've never heard this take and it sounds concerning. Any insight? 11. 1:09:12 {Why Didn’t Jesus Baptize?} Why didn’t Jesus water baptize anyone Himself (John 4:2)? 12. 1:13:20 {Do Not Evangelize to Some People?} Are there situations or groups of people for whom we shouldn't share the Gospel? Acts 16:6-7 seems to say so, but I'd love to hear your insight on the topic and your interpretation of this passage. 13. 1:17:21 {Godly Headship Carried Out} What does a husband being the head of the wife actually mean he does? I don't find any actionable steps or clear examples in the Bible. Does he boss her around or just be a good man? 14. 1:22:20 {Do We Each Have a “Calling”?} How do we know how we (individually) are meant to serve the Lord? 15. 1:25:32 {Thoughts on Genesis 1/Creation} I've recently seen Inspiring Philosophy's video on Genesis 1. He says that it's most likely mirroring the near East tradition of assigning purpose rather than actual creation. Thoughts? 16. 1:34:09 {Song of Solomon = Christ & Church?} I am currently studying Song of Solomon, and I was wondering, do you believe that it represents Christ and the Church? I have an issue with that, as the book describes a sexual relationship. 17. 1:37:30 {Can Same-Sex Attractions Change?} I'm a Christian, converted this year. I've felt the Holy Spirit inspire me to live a better life in many ways. But I still struggle with one thing. I'm gay and I struggle to see how my attraction could change. 18. 1:40:35 {DND, Harry Potter, etc.} The Bible is clear about its stance on sorcery and witchcraft. My husband and I play DND and some people were having an issue with this and potentially also with books containing magic. What are your thoughts? 19. 1:45:39 {Godly Dating Practices} What is the best way to date for marriage as a Christian? Is there a good way to sift through people to find someone equally yoked? 20. 1:49:05 {Loving the Lord with Everything} I’ve been wondering about the great commandment Jesus gives in Matthew 22: 36. Seems like a Deuteronomy 6 quote, but why does Jesus change the last quality from “might” to “mind”? Bonus Q! 1:52:02 Were they really taking the Hobbits to Isengard?Here's Christopher Yuan's book "Holy Sexuality" amzn.to/3O6tr1g (affiliate link)To ask a question all you need to do is wait till after the stream starts (which means waiting until I'm actually on screen talking), post a question in the live chat with a Q at the opening of it, and be as clear as you can. Thanks!Today's stream is going to start off with a verse that I only recently realized I had used wrongly for years. It's not clickbait, this is a bit embarrassing but a good lesson for me to share with others.
Confronting the pastor who uses The Passion Translation. Mike Winger 2023-07-20 | If you want to know more about The Passion Translation you can find it in these links.And overview of issues for those who want the big picture. youtube.com/watch?v=2EtXBxAuZ3g&pp=ygUbbWlrZSB3aW5nZXIgcGFzdG9yIHVzZXMgVFBUMy full playlist of interviews with top scholars that I hired to do reviews of The Passion Translation. These guys are all experienced in working on major Bible translations. They reviewed TPT and helped us take a look under the hood. youtube.com/watch?v=SBC2z0URxYE&list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuv-ISp_iIw1WL8zaEm86L8&pp=gAQBI'm Mike Winger and it's my goal to help people learn to think biblically about everything. My website https://BibleThinker.org
Why love is love is LAME Mike Winger 2023-07-18 | This is not a hard concept to grasp. Well, it's not hard to grasp it logically even though it can be hard for "modern" people to grasp it emotionally.My website https://BibleThinker.org
The Atheist Double Standard Mike Winger 2023-07-10 | If you want to see this kind of skepticism exampled watch the whole debate that the first part of the clip came from. This debate is a long example of exactly this sort of unfair atheism which has one way of handling evidence for most things and a hyper-skepticism when handling evidence for God.William Lane Craig vs Keith Parsons youtu.be/8MKH_j44DaQMy website https://BibleThinker.org
20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 103) Mike Winger 2023-07-07 | Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro1. 0:53 {The Sin of Sodom} What Was the Sin of Sodom & Gomorrah? 2. 30:37 {Proper Posture for Prayer} Does God really care about our physical position while we pray or praise and worship? Does He care whether we are standing, sitting, bowing, etc.? 3. 33:31 {Why isn’t Dan Listed?} In Revelation 7, 12 x 1200 are listed from 11 of the 12 tribes. Dan isn't listed. What's up with that? 4. 39:11 {How to View Mythical “gods”} How should we view mythical gods? Were they real? They had to come from somewhere to get the idea, right? 5. 41:44 {Casting Out = Abolishing?} How do you reconcile Galatians 4: 28-31 with Jesus saying He didn’t come to abolish the Law? Casting them out kind of seems like abolishing. 6. 45:11 {How to Explain Perceived Miracles} How can I respond with Scripture to my Catholic friend who says, “I’ve seen Mary & saints do miracles when my dad was in the ICU. That’s why it’s hard to leave the catholic religion: I’ve seen It”? 7. 47:22 {Created More Obedient?} If God knew humans would rebel in the garden, and that humanity is so prone to rebellion, why didn't He create us more suitable to be obedient to Him? Was His plan to always to perfect us in Christ? 8. 53:23 {Is a Lack of Structure & Liturgy Problematic?} What do you think about tradition and church liturgy? Is it not a problem that contemporary churches lack beauty and tradition in their doctrine? 9. 58:32 {Will the Gospel Reach All Nations Soon?} It seems that Jesus, in Matthew 24: 14, indicates that His return will come once the Gospel is preached to all nations. Can we assume this will happen sooner rather than much later? 10. 1:02:29 {Jesus = Michael the Archangel?} Is Michael the Archangel Jesus? I once heard a pastor give praises and prayers to Michael on the pulpit, and when I asked him about it, he referenced a few Scriptures but I’m just not fully convinced. 11. 1:06:41 {About Behemoth & Leviathan} Can you shed some clarity on what exactly is behemoth and leviathan in the Old Testament? 12. 1:08:24 {Jesus Indwelt by the Spirit?} Was Jesus indwelt by the Holy Spirit, or was it His own divine nature that sustained Him while on Earth in His human form? 13. 1:11:45 {Healing: By Faith or By God?} In Luke 8: 43-48, Jesus says, “Your faith has made you well.” He didn’t say God did it, but her faith. How is this different than the Law of Attraction as told by New Agers? 14. 1:17:25 {Hellfire & Brimstone Preaching} What are your thoughts on the "Hellfire and Brimstone" style of preaching? Is there any truth in it? 15. 1:22:19 {Is Debt Inherently Sinful?} I have a question on debt. Do you see debt as sinful, or is it something that can become sinful if abused, like alcohol consumption? Any clear biblical lines on the issue? 16. 1:25:39 {When Believers Disagree} Can you give me any advice on living in unity with other brothers and sisters in Christ? I always try to keep secondary issues secondary, but I’ve heard “Well, your secondary issues are someone else’s primary issues.” 17. 1:29:53 {Using “Preferred Pronouns”?} I am a manager for a large retailer, and I have recently had two employees request that I address them by their non-binary pronouns. Do you have any thoughts on how I should proceed? 18. 1:34:36 {The Doctrine of Inspiration} What evidence and encouragement can you offer a believer who is struggling to trust the doctrine of inspiration? I know that it’s true, but I struggle with doubt. 19. 1:38:03 {Teaching PSA to Our Youth} My ex is Muslim. He taught our kids that God’s forgiveness is enough and there is no need for God to die for our sins. Do you have any ideas on how to discuss Penal Substitution with a 9 yr. old? 20. 1:41:14 {Are David & Solomon in Hell?} I’ve always wondered why David and Solomon get a pass. David had 7 wives and 70 concubines. Solomon had 70 wives and 700 concubines. If "no fornicators will enter," are David and Solomon in Hell?BibleThinker mugs can be found here - zockollpottery.com/shop (note, I don't make a penny off these but $5 per mug will be donated to missions work)Evidence for the Bible series youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuhA0RPKZFHVcjIMN_-F596Jesus in the Old Testament series youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHsHyvMtfgOgSPU6zEnCvxUOPolygamy video youtube.com/live/RF5suDf2yC8?feature=share
Reverend Sal doesnt need Jesus Mike Winger 2023-07-05 | This is the theology of a very extreme "progressive Christian," reverend Sal. His beliefs are not based on Scripture, instead, his interpretations of Scripture are based on his prior beliefs. To him, Jesus is about as necessary for you as the feather was for Dumbo to fly.My website https://BibleThinker.org
“I STILL won’t worship God” Mike Winger 2023-07-03 | If you believed Christianity was true you would still reject God? Something is wrong here.Catch the full study here - youtu.be/jOS49yx8cOoMy website https://BibleThinker.org
A secret message in this miracle Mike Winger 2023-06-30 | The sample is good.. the real thing is even better.Jesus' miracles point to something greater than the healings he performed. He healed the leper to show you that he can cleanse you of your sin. My website https://BibleThinker.org
Do We Need to “Go to Synagogue”? Mike Winger 2023-06-27 | As I am uploading this video I realize there's a confusion that could easily arise. I'll try to clear it up here.The NT does not teach all believers to actually attend literal synagogues. Nor do we have any examples I know of where Gentile converts to Christianity ever attended, or were told to attend synagogues literally. I am speaking here of the common practice of evangelism where we seek out public opportunities and locations to tell people about Jesus and the gospel. This is an area where Christians in general could use a lot more boldness and intentionality. Go for it!My website https://BibleThinker.org
What I learned from Satan Mike Winger 2023-06-25 | It's easy to see when this is happening to someone else. The hard thing, and the more important thing, is to see when it's happening to yourself. When I am the one full of temptation to justify my own compromise, it's amazing how good I am at twisting Scripture and how receptive I am to the lies of Satan about it. When you want God to be OK with something it's just too easy to find a way, no matter how twisted, to say that He is.Be brutally honest with yourself about your own motives when looking at these things.My website https://BibleThinker.org
20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 102) Mike Winger 2023-06-23 | Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro1. 0:01 {God Lied 4 Times??} I’ve recently had someone use Jeremiah 20:7, Matthew 16: 28, the lack of immediate death in Genesis 3, and Cain’s exile in Genesis 4 as “evidence” that God is a liar. How would you respond? 2. 38:46 {Animal Death Before the Fall?} If animal death occurred prior to the fall, wouldn’t that mean God called animal death/suffering “very good?” If we later see a wolf dwelling with a lamb, wouldn’t that indicate that prior to the fall, that was what we had enjoyed?3. 45:12 {Avoid the Appearance of Evil?} You recently said, "Scripture says: avoid the appearance of evil." I was wondering, if 1 Thessalonians 5: 22 is the verse you were thinking of, isn't that verse referring to staying away from partaking in evil, not abstaining from things that look like you're partaking in evil to others?4. 48:19 {Human Souls vs. Animal Souls} Does Ecclesiastes 3: 18-21 teach that there is no difference between the spirits of humans and those of animals? I’ve heard this claim from those who reject an immortal soul.5. 55:07 {Has Jesus Always Had a Physical Body?} What form did Jesus exist in before He was conceived in Mary’s womb? Did He have a physical body before that?6. 57:27 {Evangelism Required for Salvation?} Is our salvation based not only on being saved and accepting Jesus into our life and believing in Him, but also on a need to be spreading the Word of God (the Bible)?7. 1:01:37 {Is Repentance a Change of Mind?} If repentance (metanoia) literally means “change of mind,” then why do we say repentance means changing our mind/attitude about sin? Why isn't it changing our minds from unbelief to belief?8. 1:04:16 {Theocracy & Theonomy} Could Christ's commission to disciple the nations in Matthew 28: 19 mean the Christianization of countries and nation-states, or does it apply only to individual people?9. 1:11:18 {Will We Judge Angels?} 1 Corinthians 6:3 states that we will judge angels. What do you think Paul means by this, and is there any other reference about us judging angels? 10. 1:14:18 {Cursing & Blessing in the OT} When prophets such as Elisha cursed or blessed people, was it God who put it in their minds to do that, or did they have a Spirit-given ability to do such things without having to consult Him?11. 1:18:00 {Does the HS Help Us or Take Over?} Does the Holy Spirit enhance who we are, as in assisting us in Godly behavior? Or does He, at times, take over completely so that we behave, see, and feel things opposite of our ungodly flesh?12. 1:24:20 {The Purpose of Scripture in Eternity} Matthew 5: 18 seems to say some Scripture will pass away at the end times, but Matthew 24: 35 appears to contradict this. What use might we have for Scripture in the next life where there is no temptation to sin?13. 1:27:55 {Are We to Administer Revenge Ourselves?} Someone said it was okay to exact revenge on pedophiles, and they used Matthew 18:6 to justify it. Is that what this Scripture really means or allows for?14. 1:32:14 {Death on the New Earth?} Why is there a reference to death and a lifespan (albeit a long one) in Isaiah 65: 20 when speaking of the New Earth?15. 1:34:37 {Will We Remember our Lives in Heaven?} Do you think we will remember our earthly lives in Heaven, given that there is nothing negative in Heaven and this world is so full of negative things and memories?16. 1:40:24 {The Serious Sin of Blasphemy} Why do so many Christians take the Lord’s name in vain? I know several Christians (even two pastors) who do this often. Should we tell them they’re in sin?17. 1:43:25 {What did Jesus Mean?} What do you think Jesus meant when He said "The first shall be last and the last shall be first" in Matthew 20: 16?18. 1:46:53 {Can our Conscience make Sex a Sin?} My question is about stronger vs. weaker consciences. Is it possible to make sex into a sin, and if so, how should the "strong" treat the "weak"?19. 1:53:30 {The Law of Agency} How do you respond to non-trinitarians who use the "Law of Agency" to dismiss the scriptural evidence for the Trinity in regard to Jesus, etc. claiming He is not God, but simply God's agent?20. 1:57:21 {The Book of James vs. Jacob} I was looking at the Greek in James' epistle (1:1) and his name in the Greek is Iakobos. Why do we call it "the Book of James" if the Greek more closely resembles Jacob (Iakobos)? Links I mentioned:Different Christian views of the End Times youtube.com/live/xmw0uVLunwU?feature=shareJesus as the Angel of the LORD youtu.be/ryCyQ4N08Q0My discussion about Theonomy with Joel Webbon youtu.be/Jbbfx4YAj2AA biblical case for the death penalty youtube.com/live/gf259Qv2qv4?feature=share
Stealing Jesus for LGBT ideology. Mike Winger 2023-06-22 | This is not a video primarily about LGBT stuff. It's about Jesus. It's about not letting interest groups tell a fake story about a fake Jesus and thereby highjack the Lord of all creation to teach some ideology that He would never have supported. Historically, theologically, and logically, it's just not right to say such things. My website https://BibleThinker.org
Why Progressive Xianity Cant Win Mike Winger 2023-06-21 | It's not hard for people who care about authentically following Jesus to see right through this stuff.My website https://BibleThinker.org
Just winging it (8-year anniversary stream) Mike Winger 2023-06-16 | NOTE: THIS IS NOT A Q&A I don't imagine this video will be of wide interest but for those who want to watch, this is in celebration of the 8 year anniversary of when I started making regular content online.I have a number of random issues I'll be discussing, also interacting with the chat. Again, this is not a Q&A. Even though I may glance at the chat here and there and interact in real time (which I don't do during teaching videos) I won't be gathering 20 questions and answering them like I do in the Q&A videos. The next Q&A is Friday, June 23 at 1pm PT.
Surprising things I learned reading the Quran. Mike Winger 2023-06-11 | I've shared specific verses from the Quran so that people can double check for themselves. For more on this topic I recommend you check out the book "Seeking Allah Finding Jesus" by former Muslim, Nabeel Qureshi. Here's some of his content in video form. It's very powerful. youtu.be/IBGK-8fjpHM My website https://BibleThinker.org
20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 101) Mike Winger 2023-06-09 | Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro1. 0:08 {Is the Canon Closed?} Why can no new books of the Bible be written? Why is the canon closed?2. 26:49 {Must we Share our Faith in Every Circumstance?} Looking at 1 Peter 3: 15-17, what would you say to anyone who would ask you about "the hope you have in you"? And are there times or certain people who you wouldn't bother providing that answer to (e.g., someone you know isn't really interested in the answer and just seeks to make fun of you)?3. 33:27 {How did the Thief on the Cross Know?} The thief on the cross believed Jesus would come into His kingdom, despite knowing that Jesus was going to die. How might that be, since even the disciples didn’t grasp this until the resurrection?4. 36:58 {How to Reach a Wiccan} What can or should I say to a Wiccan relative who wants to have seances to reach her dead son? She’s not a believer, so should I just hold my tongue?5. 39:53 {The Man in Mark 14} Who was the man in Mark 14: 51-52? Could it be that this was somehow Jesus Himself escaping? As an unbeliever, how should I approach my readings? Any questions I should keep in mind?6. 45:42 {Understanding Parallel Prophecies} Is there a process you go through to understand parallel prophecies? For example, 2 Samuel 7: 14 seems to be about Jesus, but clearly not completely because he doesn’t commit iniquity.7. 53:11 {Different Personalities in the Trinity?} Do the different Persons of the Trinity have different personalities? Would God the Father, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit act in a different way than the others in a given situation?8. 55:54 {Do Heavenly Rewards Support LDS Doctrine?} Every time you answer a question about rewards in Heaven, I can't help but think of the LDS levels of Heaven. How do I debate with them when they use rewards as the basis for their belief about there being different levels of Heaven?9. 1:03:13 {Can a Christian Struggle to Obey God?} Can a Christian still struggle with submitting completely to God? Or is that a symptom that you're not truly saved?10. 1:05:20 {About the “Two Witnesses” in Rev.} Who are the two witnesses in the book of Revelation, and is it possible for them to be people that are walking the Earth today that are not in the Bible?11. 1:11:01 {Are Casual Conversations Sinful?} Someone argued with me that because of Matthew 12: 36 (every idle word…), all jokes and fun conversations are sinful, and that Jesus never spoke in a casual, non-serious way. Is this true?12. 1:16:54 {Should We Still Forgive when Not Asked?} Do we still need to forgive others if they don’t ask for forgiveness? My grandma believes that as Christians, we don’t forgive unless the other person repents and asks for forgiveness.13. 1:20:17 {Christian Creators: Make This Content!} As a YouTube pastor, do you have any suggestions for content you would like to see Christians make? I'm in seminary and I’m thinking about making videos, but I wonder what I should create (if I did).14. 1:22:56 {Being Open about Sexual Sin} Do you have any advice on how to come out (for lack of a better word) to my Christian parents about being same-sex attracted and addicted to pornography? I know Christianity is true.15. 1:27:23 {Does Titus 3:5 Teach Calvinism?} What is a non-Calvinist way of understanding regeneration in Titus 3:5?16. 1:31:34 {Is God’s Love Actually Conditional?} If the Bible says God loves those who love Him, thereby making a condition we have to fulfill for His love (Proverbs 8: 17, John 14: 21, 23), can we still say that God's love is unconditional (John 3:16, etc.)?17. 1:35:43 {Lessons from a Peculiar Bible Story} What is the lesson for us from 1 Kings 13: 11-24 where the man of God is deceived by the old prophet, eats with him, and is killed by the lion?18. 1:46:28 {About Catholic Claims: Eucharistic Miracle} Have you ever heard of the apparent eucharistic miracle that Catholics point to? How would you respond to it and how they claim that the apparent miracle has been scientifically verified?19. 1:48:57 {Baptized Believer, but Not Indwelled?} Acts 8: 16 says that believers in Samaria were baptized but hadn’t yet received the Spirit. Can one believe and be baptized without receiving the Spirit?20. 1:54:05 {Overcoming Anxiety while Witnessing} I always get anxiety and my heart starts beating fast whenever I try to speak up about social or biblical Issues to my family (mainly my dad who is a Progressive Christian). How can I overcome this?My full series through the Gospel of Mark with lots of theology and apologetics youtube.com/watch?v=uj81y0U7Tmw&list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuGenHwUdeiQ5M-uj5XW4sF&pp=gAQB Examining Matthew's use of "fulfilled," or why Bible prophecy confuses you. youtu.be/_RTMcCS_r-sWhy I think Calvinism is unbiblical. youtube.com/live/oxakEl8BYBE?feature=shareMichael Kruger's useful book, "Canon Revisited" amazon.com/dp/1433505002
The worst reason to be atheist? Mike Winger 2023-06-07 | I realize that lots of indy movies and pop-music tends to be less than great. Yet, there are incredible artists who have and still do make great content, at the highest level, for God.You know what's even more odd than the disregarding of the history of music? The fact that "The Friendly Atheist" (who made the original comments I'm replying to) thought that bad Christian music was actually an argument against God. Right, I know, someone is going to say it was just a joke. But it was one of those humorous things that people kinda mean. Let's be real. It wasn't "just" a joke. This is the kind of "joke" that people tend to stand by until they get confronted with how ridiculous it is. It's real force is to imply that Christianity makes you worse in some way, but countless examples show the opposite is true in so many artist's lives. Here’s his video, which has this pithy “reason not to believe in God) at the 1 minute mark. youtu.be/_V5ee1M4SlgMy website https://BibleThinker.org
Matthew the tax collector was HORRIBLE and it makes me happy. Mike Winger 2023-06-01 | Some people think of “sinners and tax collectors” as categories of people who Jesus treats as if they are oppressed and misunderstood. The reality is that Jesus treats all people as if even the best of us are “sinners and tax collectors” when it comes to our need for repentance and God’s grace. When you see yourself as you are it will become so encouraging that Jesus called this lousy tax collector to follow him. It means that Jesus calls you as well, even though you (and me) aren’t worthy.
20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 100) Mike Winger 2023-05-26 | Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro1. 0:09 {AI – Image of the Beast?} What are your thoughts on Chat GPT (and AI in general)? As Christians, should we be concerned about this type of technology? Is it OK to experiment with, or should we "steer clear"?2. 27:13 {Worshiping at Work: Divided Attention?} Is it bad to listen to worship music when you're working? I prefer it over secular music, but I also feel guilty for not giving it my full attention. Is this treating it as entertainment?3. 31:34 {Speaking Over Our Lives} Is “speaking something over your life” a biblical concept? A Christian said something like, “If you were going to die in one week, how would you live? I'm not speaking that over your life though!”4. 38:36 {God Sent an Evil Spirit?} 1 Samuel 16: 14 and 1 Samuel 19:9 speak of an “evil spirit from the Lord” tormenting Saul. How could a holy/righteous and loving God give him a tormenting spirit?5. 46:07 {Disqualified from our Rewards?} Since sanctification is a work of the Holy Spirit, and we will never be fully sinless in this life, how do we not become disqualified from/lose rewards in Heaven (1 Corinthians 9: 27)?6. 52:56 {The Biblical Way to Get Married} Why do we have to have an ordained pastor to get married? Is there Scripture to back this up? If two people make a commitment to each other and God, is that enough?7. 58:53 {What Does Evil Music Sound Like?} If we took away the lyrics from music, would there still be such a thing as “bad music” or “evil music”? If so, what does evil music sound like?8. 1:01:04 {Do We Still Have a Sin Nature?} Does flesh = sin nature? Adam & Eve sinned, even without a sin nature. After salvation, we still have the flesh (Romans 7: 18), but we’re dead to sin/not slaves to sin (Rom 6:2-7). Does this mean we no longer have a sin nature?9. 1:06:34 {Can We Go Outside of Scripture for Context?} I've heard 1 Corinthians 4:6 used to say not to go "outside" of scripture (e.g., learning history to help interpret biblical context). Your thoughts?10. 1:14:34 {The Origin of Sunday Worship} When is the earliest, in church history, that we see Christians worshiping on Sunday instead of the Sabbath? Did it begin with the Catholic Church, or was it before?11. 1:19:23 {What Makes “Drag” Wrong?} Drag queen culture is championed by the LGBTQ movement, and therefore feels immoral by association, but I find it hard to put a finger on why drag by itself is biblically wrong. Any thoughts?12. 1:24:09 {Eating Meat After the Flood} In Genesis 9:3, why did God allow us to start eating meat after the flood?13. 1:27:28 {Using Cannabis Before Quiet Time?} I take mild cannabis edibles for my ADHD. On them I have wonderful quiet times in prayer and Bible study. Would it be rightly dividing Scripture to say this is how I personally am being “sober-minded”?14. 1:32:42 {John 15 – Will I be “Taken Away”?} What are your thoughts on John 15:2 and the Greek word for "takes away"? I've heard that it would be more accurately translated as "raise up." This word seems to change the meaning of the verse.15. 1:39:07 {Do God & Satan Talk?} Is the devil talking to God in today’s generation like in the book of Job? If angels are warring with demons, can we assume there is communication?16. 1:43:20 {Which Faith is True?} How can I know I have the right faith? I've been watching many apologetics videos since I first found your videos over four years ago, and many Catholics, reformed believers, and evangelicals all have convincing arguments.17. 1:49:02 {About the Shroud of Turin} What are your thoughts on the Shroud of Turin?18. 1:52:13 {Leading Others to Biblical Teachings} My family member LOVES Joel Osteen. What are some thoughtful questions I could ask that would naturally lead them to a more biblical, Christ-centered understanding of the Gospel?19. 1:55:08 {Rulers & Authorities; Manifold Wisdom} Can you explain Ephesians 3: 10 (ESV)? Who are the "rulers and authorities in heavenly places," and how is the "manifold wisdom of God" made known to them through the church?20. 2:00:10 {1 Jn. 2:2 & Limited Atonement} Doesn't 1 John 2:2 blow the Calvinist doctrine of Limited Atonement straight out of the water?Links and videos I mentionedWhy I think limited atonement and universalism are both unbiblical youtube.com/watch?v=DAKyQrAO3psResponding to James White and other Calvinist teaching on limited atonement youtube.com/watch?v=shpZMRhr4uMJoel Osteen misuses the Scripture over and over - youtu.be/hHtQSQYPjzgDifferent end times views explained - youtube.com/watch?v=xmw0uVLunwUGavin Ortlund's content on Catholicism is generally really good - here's one example from his channel "Truth Unites" youtube.com/watch?v=_ytYX4dXpRo
The Bible Translation That Needs a Surgeon Generals Warning Mike Winger 2023-05-24 | You can have free access to all interviews and scholarly papers on this topic right here.Watch the interviews on YouTube here youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuv-ISp_iIw1WL8zaEm86L8Get the papers and/or interviews free on my website (no signup required) here biblethinker.org/the-passion-projectFor the sake of the body of Christ we need to be aware of the problematic "translation" that is strangely and undeservedly popular, due to the reckless endorsement of pastors who should know better. I did NOT search for scholars who would oppose TPT. I did NOT check to see what denomination they were from. Nor did I ask them to slam the work or provide a particularly negative review. I simply hired scholars who were well-qualified and asked them each to review a different book from The Passion Translation of the Bible. They unanimously agree that it isn't what it pretends to be. Their full reviews and papers are available to you at the links above.My website https://BibleThinker.org
A powerful argument against Christianity. Mike Winger 2023-05-23 | This is a delicate issue because the terms of the discussion push an evaluation of the person who is failing to find God. I hope that listeners can hear that I am not trying to offer any personal attacks on individuals, but am trying to offer an analysis of how a claim like "I'm trying to find God and I am not finding Him" can actually involve a situation more complicated than a simple, sincere, two-dimensional search. Without labeling people with specific explanations for their particular situation, I can acknowledge several layers to this issue which undercut this argument's power as evidence that God does not exist.My honest hope and prayer for those who feel they are seeking God and failing to find Him is that they would continue seeking as sincerely as they can and wait on God to open their eyes to Him.Perhaps you find my answer unsatisfactory. In that case you might be interested in a more detailed answer from a philosopher who is better versed in such things. youtu.be/W8KJ1sBWy1gMy website https://BibleThinker.org
I’m NEARLY an atheist. Mike Winger 2023-05-22 | The funny thing about this video is Ricky Gervais is literally just repeating back to Richard Dawkins one of the lines he has used on Christians for many years. Not only do you see Ricky and Richard nodding in agreement, this is a weird claim that I have heard made by many others since the rise of the "new atheists" and their caustic brand of one-upmanship rhetorical atheism. Surely I'll get comments like..."He's a comedian, it's just comedy." - The context of this conversation is not pure comedy. He is repeating a common line from Dawkins (who is not a comedian but is an anti-theist) back to Dawkins. While they obviously think it's funny they also think its a worthwhile point in favor of atheism."You don't understand Ricky's REAL point." Yes. I do. It's pretty plain and simple and no mental gymnastics is needed to see that it's ridiculous to say that Christians are "nearly atheists.""Mike, this is really about the 'outsider test of faith' where we ask Christians to explain why they don't believe in other gods and then, after they give the reasons, we say 'those are the same reasons I don't believe in your God and when you apply the same standards you have for rejecting other religions to your own religion you will become and atheist too.'" First, the claim that Christians are nearly atheists has no true connection to the outsider test of faith. Second, the outside test of faith (and a host of things coming from the "street epistemologist" playbook) doesn't actually undermine Christianity at all. Here's a video on that... youtube.com/watch?v=OQpV5lTlI9wMy website https://BibleThinker.org
Let’s not pretend Mike Winger 2023-05-19 | It's not enough to simply say that religions are different. Not only are they fundamentally different, as opposed to the popular myth that they are generally all teaching the same thing, they are representative of foundationally different worldviews. These worldview differences can help us recognize why Christianity makes the most sense of the world we actually live in and why other religions can't be treated as merely different flavors of the same basic ideas. My website https://BibleThinker.org
If God is real, I despise him. Mike Winger 2023-05-17 | My logic is simple and only intended to help people, not to “win” an argument. It’s inconceivable that a human would be right where God is wrong. God is the source of intellect and morality. God is supremely good, intelligent, and wise. While it is totally understandable for a human to say. “Some of what God has done, or has allowed, makes no sense to me and even appears morally wrong.” it simply never makes sense for them to say, “I therefore conclude that God is actually wrong. He doesn’t know what I know or he is simply immoral and is purposely doing evil. I conclude that my own evaluation of things is superior to the Creator’s.” Such an attitude is folly. If you think God is wrong, it’s very strong evidence that you are wrong. My website https://BibleThinker.org
When to confront sin vs keep your mouth shut. Mike Winger 2023-05-15 | Jesus called out sin in others, except when He didn't. This question takes more wisdom than a simple, hard and fast rule will allow. Here are a few thoughts and a relevant passage of Scripture for you to consider. Hopefully it helps you figure out if you should call out sin or keep your mouth shut.My website https://BibleThinker.org
20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 99) Mike Winger 2023-05-12 | Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:0:00 - Intro1. 0:01 {Infinite Punishment for Finite Crimes?} Why does God give infinite punishment for finite crimes? Even from a biblical point of view, not every crime is prescribed the same punishment. So why, then, can a person never serve the entirety of their punishment in Hell? 2. 28:35 {Why Did God Allow Sin?} If God knew that humans would fall into sin, why did He allow us to live in this fallen world and not take us straight to Heaven? 3. 34:36 {Has Christianity Changed Over Time?} How do you know the Christianity you believe is the same they were practicing in the early Church if history says Constantine and the Greeks changed things? 4. 39:06 {Why Won’t Christians Marry Non-Christians?} A woman stopped dating me because of worldview differences. I believe in a higher power and wouldn’t have pulled her away from her faith. It hurt badly. Why do some Christians do that? She seems indoctrinated (“can’t marry a non-Christian”). 5. 43:49 {Is Christianity Itself a Cult?} How is Christianity like (or not like) a cult in either definition and/or practice? 6. 47:46 {Is Every Good Thing an Answered Prayer?} Why are some people so quick to celebrate when God answers “small” prayers, but they overlook the fact that He didn’t answer “bigger” prayers like healing someone of cancer? 7. 53:12 {Why Aren’t Mormons Christians?} Ex-Mormon here. Surely all Christians believe things about God that are incorrect, but they're still saved. What makes the LDS different? How are my misconceptions acceptable when theirs aren't? 8. 1:02:12 {Are Miracles Unreliable?} If Satan and his workers can perform miracles to mislead people, why should I believe Christians when they tell me to look at miracles, or when Jesus says to look at His miracles? 9. 1:07:05{Why Does God Allow Painful Grieving?} Why did God allow My cat to be attacked by a dog if He could have stopped it? We are heartbroken. 10. 1:10:07 {Did Jesus Know He’d be Resurrected?} Did Jesus know He was only going to die for 3 days and it wouldn’t actually be for eternity? And why did the father require a sacrifice if it wasn’t for eternity? 11. 1:14:18 {Did Jesus Exist & Is Scripture Really Inspired?} What proof is there that Jesus really existed, and if the Gospels were written by man, how do you prove they were inspired by God and not by man? 12. 1:20:55 {Why does God Require Prayer?} Why would God require prayer for what He knows He SHOULD heal? 13. 1:25:07 {Can Non-Believers Come to Church to Observe?} Are there any good rules of thumb for atheists attending a church service for the purposes of learning? Assuming they have no intention of conversion, is this considered rude or invasive? 14. 1:27:23 {Is God Egotistical?} Isn’t it egotistical for God to ask us to worship Him? 15. 1:31:14 {Why does God Expect Perfection} The Bible says, “Be perfect as your father in Heaven is perfect.” Why would God, knowing that we will always be sinful when we are in flesh, expect perfection? 16. 1:34:46 {Is the Bible Just a Storybook?} How can you believe in a storybook (referring to the Bible)? This was actually a question I faced several times when I stayed in Germany for a while. 17. 1:37:21 {Does God Know Every Choice We’ll Make?” Does God already know what choices we will make? Does He just know the outcome of every single option, or are there maybe two or a couple possible options for everyone’s choices? If the first, what's the point? 18. 1:40:48 {Was YHWH a “Storm god”?} I have been hearing atheists & Muslims saying our God YHWH was originally a storm god. Has this been proven archeologically? Any implications on our faith? Any thoughts on that? 19. 1:42:01 {Stumbled by Theological Doctrines?} The different theologies like cessationism & continuationism can be a stumbling block for unbelievers and cause confusion. How can this be explained to them? 20. 1:43:38 {Are Older Texts More Likely to be True?} What about other books like the Vedic texts that are older than the gospels? Should “older” equal more accurate or true? 1:47:35 Bonus Q: Why is he still babbling and not demonstrating his god exists? Vids I mentioned.Playlist on Mormonism youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi-tJmIiOS7OiXmZg8ikq8Eh0OPwfEi1NPenal Substitutionary Atonement. youtube.com/watch?v=la0SkKC091s&list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHttVR0rkvhBfA-IKrg5SGcp&index=6Inspiring Philosophy’s vid on polytheism and the OT. youtu.be/dg-pkeHrh_M and a related one on how Israelite monotheism didn’t evolve from polytheism. youtu.be/za260DIsgzQMichael Heiser video on if Yahweh was a "storm god." youtu.be/3c_i3o2E1H0Mike Licona interview on Jesus mythicism. youtube.com/watch?v=8dQuw1g428cEvidence for the Bible playlist youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuhA0RPKZFHVcjIMN_-F596Full Gospel of Mark series. youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZ3iRMLYFlHuGenHwUdeiQ5M-uj5XW4sF
Do I make God look bad? Mike Winger 2023-05-08 | Proverbs 27:11 (ESV) Be wise, my son, and make my heart glad, that I may answer him who reproaches me.This is from my study on how the book of Proverbs changed my life (it really did). Here it is. youtu.be/38VG0nHAhFYMy website https://BibleThinker.org
