>> It's Fireaway Friday on Exploring the Word. This is your chance to ask us your Bible question at 888-589-8840. That's 888-589-8840. You can also email your [email protected] or visit facebook.com exploring the word.
Bert Harper Exploring the word.
Jeff Chamblee It's Fire Away Friday on American Family Radio.
Bert Harper Those who wait on the Lord shall renew. They shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint. Well, this is Bert Harper, and today it is Fire Away Friday. And as we've said all week, we're missing Alex, but I doubt if he's missing us very much. He's in Israel and, he's. I know he's been in Jerusalem, and I'm sure they've been over to Bethlehem and they usually go further north down to Jericho. I can just visualize where all, Alex has been, so he couldn't connect on Fire Away Friday. But we have two guys that are sitting in, Jon Bowler and Dillon Burroughs. You've heard both of them. And, Brent and I were talking. What can we do on Fire Away Friday to make it a little bit special? We've asked them to join us. So you got the three of us in place of just two. Jon, welcome.
John Boler Good to be here. Thank you. Thank you for the. Bert.
Bert Harper Dillon, glad you're with us, brother.
Dillon Oh, great to join you again, as always. Appreciate it.
Bert Harper Well, we appreciate that. That number, if you would call it, we want to take on the questions that you have for us. We'll do our very best to give a biblical concise answer. The number, if you've got that Bible question that we would love to hear, is 8885-8988-4088-8589-8840. And we would love that question.
Hosts Chat About Seasons Before Taking Listener Calls
Well, Dillon, I've been here with Jon all week. How's things been going with you, brother?
Dillon Oh, of course, enjoying the Tennessee fall, but actually some parts of the state have even gotten a little bit of snow if you live up in the Smoky Mountain region. Been sharing a lot of pictures from there. So it's interesting time of year and just fun to see the seasons change. So we've been enjoying that part of, the year right now.
Bert Harper Okay, so you enjoy seasons, Jon? Do you enjoy the change of the season?
John Boler I do, except for sometimes when the sickness comes with it.
Bert Harper Yeah, that change can be difficult. my wife Jan and I figure we're living in the right place. I could go further north and be happy with cooler weather. She's happy with warmer weather. So we're, we're, we're. God placed us right there. That's called what God taking care of both of us. He does. Right. Well, we've, we've got some questions coming in, but the lines are open. And just because Alex, not here, we got two guys here that, that we would love for you to ask their ques. The question you have. I want to give that number one more time. Make that call, Alex. 888-589-8840. And so I'm going to go to the calls. And guys, just listen carefully because we are glad that Pam from Alabama is with us. Pam, thank you for calling today.
Caroline Oh, thank you so much. I love all of y' all so much and I thank God for you.
Bert Harper Well, I want to tell you, Pam, real quickly, it's a joy for us, this, this program, just ministers to us as we do it.
John Boler Yeah.
Bert Harper Ah, the calls bless us. And so we're glad. So thank you for calling.
God Transcends Human Gender And Is Called Father
Go right ahead.
Caroline Thank you. My question, I was telling the gentleman when I called, I teach a class of three teenage, girls, and they're good Christian girls. But one of them asked me last Sunday, she said, I've heard the term that God is non binary. And she said, I know that's not really right, but how do I keep that from being confused with that he's neither male or female and that he is the holy, has the Holy Spirit, Jesus and God the Father. So can you help me out? I've got to talk to her on this Sunday.
Bert Harper Well, thank you, Pat. Thank you for teaching. Don't you guys love that? I
John Boler mean, yes.
Bert Harper Teenagers, you know, we think we got to put the best teachers in the adult classes. I disagree with that. They ought to be the children, the youth, man. Let him pour in. Dillon, you got the question. Would you mind going first on this one? Scriptural evidence for showing that God is not non binary.
Dillon Yes. Well, it's very clear that God is not male nor female. He is beyond any gender as we know it, as human. So we would call that the transcendence of God. Jon 4:24 talks about him being this infinite creator. So we don't have this discussion about which gender he is. He's way beyond that. So, sure, some people will try to make that argument that he's non binary and try to make him more inclusive in some, you know, leftist type of theology or political ideology. But that is certainly not the case when we see scripture. This is not what we see at all. In fact, in the scriptures we see God referred to as male consistently with male pronouns from Old Testament through NewSong Testament. So if you wanted to make the case that he was going to be a gender, it would be the, of a male gender, not a non binary gender. But as we see in scripture, he is beyond male and female. He's created male and female in his image, but he is beyond any gender of one kind or another that we would try to define in human terms.
John Boler Thank you Dale. And I certainly agree with that. I would also say that when God became flesh, he became a man. And that's Jesus. And we believe that Jesus in the NewSong Testament is God in the flesh. So I would, I would certainly agree with that. I like what Dillon said about when you look at the Hebrew and Greek language, the masculine pronouns, he, if you had to put a gender it would be male, but God is, he is transcendent.
Bert Harper I would, I said I wasn't going to answer it. I can't help it. Okay, now there are some similes that's used. He's like a nursing mother. But that does not give that gender that. And when he made, created, man made a male and female, not because he's, he's, you know, neither are or whatever, both. And it's because of, of male and female tendencies that we have. God's given us the, the hormones that we have, the women, the hormones that they have that have the functions and thoughts like they do. And so God, he, you know, I would be like a mother hen taking those little chicks under, under me. But again he is, he is who he is. So again thank you Pam. And that number, RIPLE 858-98-8840. If you've got a question, we'd love to hear it.
New Living Translation Suits Devotion But Compare Literal Versions
Pam from Alabama. Thank you. So we're going to go from Pam from Alabama to Pam in Kansas. I love it when it happens. Pam in Kansas.
Caroline Hey.
Bert Harper Yes.
Caroline How are you guys
Bert Harper doing? Great, go ahead.
Caroline Awesome. Hey, I'm in a chronological Bible study that's using the new living translation and I'm just trying to find out if it's a good, ah, trustworthy translation. I tend to go for like the niv, not the niv, sorry, the NASB or the esb, the more word for words.
Bert Harper Okay. Jon.
Caroline Struggling. Just. Yep.
John Boler Pam, thank you so much for calling. Let me first say, let me first encourage you and say thank you for reading God's Word, I too use a chronological Bible. Maybe the same one, the Chronological Bible, NewSong Living Translation, as a, just daily Bible reading. you mentioned two or three different Bible translations. The new, living versus like, an NIV or a NewSong American Standard. So there's two words that you have to think about. Number one is a translation, and the other word is a paraphrase. And the NewSong Living is a paraphrase. So they took an English Modern translation and they paraphrased. So it's not a word for word. it would not be something that you would dig into to get the original meaning. It's good for devotion thought. But if you were looking for a word by word, m. Myself as a pastor looking for a word by word translation, I would go with a translation, not necessarily a paraphrase, but for devotional thought. it is good to read because it does put it in more of a modern language. But that's what separates NLT from NewSong American Standard. King James, NewSong King James, Christian Standard Bible, esv, English Standard. Those are all, more word by word Bible translations.
Bert Harper Dillon. Go ahead, brother.
Dillon Sure. And it also comes from Tyndale Publishers, which is a reputable Christian publisher. I have had the opportunity to meet a few of the people who are part of the NewSong Living Translation as, it was done in the 1990s, I believe is when it was first published. So a good translation, but as was mentioned, it's more of a thought for thought translation instead of a, an exact word for word literal translation. So just be aware of that when you're reading and compare it with other translations that are more literal and you can compare and see, how to best understand some of the verses you're going through. I also like the idea that you're doing a chronological study of the Bible. It often helps clear up misunderstandings that we have reading it straight from Genesis through Revelation. it's not the way that the Bible's traditionally laid out in terms of how it's published, but it does give some good insights into understanding it better throughout its history.
Bert Harper You know, if you need this, you know, walk through the Bible Ministries and just. Bruce Wilkinson started this years ago, the author of Jabez, you know, the prayer Jabez. And I'd gone to college, I'd gone to seminary, and we had a one day on a Saturday, walked through the Bible seminar, walked through the Old Testament and it, it fit things together so well. it was probably the most profitable One day education I ever received. And if you can do that, they've got a website and you can go to there and it's great stuff. And you can get that chronological idea in studies and it really does make a difference. That's right.
Revelation's Synagogue Of Satan Must Remain In Context
Brent said he had a, a question came in on Facebook, I guess. And so. Brent, give the question, brother.
Alex McFarland the King James Bible refers to Jews who are of the synagogue of Satan. Does this mean there are two sects of Jews are these Jews as well as Israel who have recently incurred the wrath and hatred of our fellow Americans? It is
Bert Harper confusing. Okay. We had that same thought the other day about it and synagogue of Satan. Is it found? Where all is it found? I know it's in Revelation.
John Boler It's in Revelation. That's what I'm recalling, right now. Dillon, you pop in, I know it's your turn. I don't mind stepping in, but go ahead.
Dillon No, it is mentioned twice in the letters to the seven churches in Revelation and specifically talks about those who say they are Jews but are not and calls those people a synagogue of Satan. So when you look at that, I mean they generally, it's understood to talk about a conflict during the first century, people who were Jewish ethnically who may have faced persecution, but it's not something that we would take and apply toward the treatment of Jews today. This is something specific to the book of Revelation. We shouldn't take it out of context to apply it to some modern situation about how Jews are treated or not treated in this time.
John Boler That's right. That's right. One of the hard things that Jesus told, the religious folks of the day is you are of your father the devil. And this is the religious folks. And to be able to. So if you say you are of your father the devil. I firmly agree with what Dillon said as far as Revelation and keeping in the context there. But the application if their father is the devil, is their church the synagogue of Satan. Application wise, not context. it makes you something to think about.
Bert Harper The other thing it says in one of the letters is Satan has his seat. Satan is operating in every realm. you become a believer. It doesn't mean Satan leaves you alone. You organize a Bible believing, mission centered church congregation. It doesn't mean Satan is going to back off. No, he's going to have his demons, his people that he's placed in those seats to try to get them off track. Dillon, do you agree with that kind of Satan operates that way? M.
Dillon That's One application. Sure. And in our time, we also have the issue of anti Semitism, which is basically discrimination against Jewish people, which as Christians, we should certainly oppose, but is something that, we should be speaking out against whenever we have the opportunity to do so. I would also say that when we're talking about the Jewish people, we also have a call to evangelize the Jewish people. As Christians, we believe Jesus is the Messiah, and so we also would share the gospel with the Jew first and then the gentile.
Bert Harper Amen. You're listening to Fire Away Friday. Jon and Dillon are with me here. And we are. We'll come back right after this break.
Program Returns With Humor And Opens Another Call Segment
Hello, I'm Bert Harper. Did you know that this content is listener supported? Without people like you, this podcast would not exist. That's why we need you. A generous monthly gift of any amount will sustain American Family Radio and specifically this podcast. Please consider becoming a monthly financial partner today by visiting afr.net give that's afr.net give
Jeff Chamblee welcome back to Exploring the Word on American Family Radio.
Dr. Jessica Peck I know the answer to every question, the one solution to every fear. I know my help and where it comes from. Jesus, he is the answer.
Bert Harper Brit Austin has a sense of humor. I know the answer to every question on Fire Away Friday.
Alex McFarland Repeat that again one more time for my wife.
Bert Harper Okay. But anyway, we, we've discussed this before with Dillon and Jon being on and, it's Jon's first time on Fire Away. Dillon's been on with Alex and, what do you do? You just say, man, I don't know. We don't know. So that. Thank you, Brent, for playing that. I appreciate that. Okay, that number, and we've got lines open is 888-589-8840. If you've got a Bible question, we would love to hear it today. Okay, first in this segment, let's go to Leslie in Kentucky. Leslie, thank you for calling. Exploring the word. Go right ahead.
Caroline Thank you. I, listen to your station all the time. I don't even have television anymore. Listen to your show. Amen.
Bert Harper Thank you.
Caroline All night, too.
Bert Harper Hey, you probably know more about what's going on then than I do. Okay. I found out that people that listen to afr, they, they know what's going on everywhere.
Caroline Well, that's it. I couldn't believe the last election, but
Bert Harper okay. Hey, this is, this is, more of a lighter day on that area. So we're going to try that. Yeah, yeah. What's your question, Leslie?
Leviticus Insects Are Described In Ancient General Terms
Caroline Okay, it's from Leviticus, 11:20 through 23. it says all flying insects that walk on all four are detestable to you. There are, however, winged creatures that walk on four that you may eat. Well, we had discussion at church and that we're saying there are most insects have six legs, not four. And then it said earlier something about, foul having four legs too. And in the King James version, my, mine is.
Bert Harper Yeah, well, man, let's just praise the Lord for, ah, Bible study and discussion. Listen, iron sharpens iron. And asking these questions. Is it your turn to go first? I
John Boler don't mind. go ahead, Jon.
Bert Harper Y' all keep it straight. Who goes first and second.
John Boler Hey, thank you for studying the book of Leviticus. like you at church, man, you can, you can really get in the weeds when you start reading the book of Leviticus and all of the commands and laws that God gave, the children of Israel. Leviticus is a book of holiness. If you want to understand a NewSong Testament version of Leviticus, it's the book of Hebrews. but anyway, this passage here in the book of Leviticus is one of those many, many commands that God gave. on a lighter note, I like this command because it means there are certain insects you don't need to eat. I still practice that today. but I will say this in the NewSong Testament where the Lord told Peter to rise, kill and eat, and declared all things clean. but this is just one of those passages in the Old Testament of the many, many, different animals and the way you treat them and what you can eat and what you can't eat, all old Covenant and praise God for the new covenant today.
Bert Harper Go ahead, Dillon.
Dillon Yeah, and that's a good response. But, yeah, when you're Talking about Leviticus 11, sometimes people wonder why it's talking about insects that walk on four legs when most insects have more than four legs. But it's generally that idea that they walk on their legs just like, other animals that were considered unclean. So, if you don't take it too literally and it's just the idea the insects that walk on their legs versus the flying insects that, they're talking about, like grasshopper and locust, that makes more sense in the general context when we try to push it more literally about, okay, what about the ones with six legs? then we start getting into concerns about whether the Bible got it right or not when they're talking about insects, but it's really just a general phrase about insects that walk on their Legs versus flying insects. And, I don't think we have to worry about it too much because not often do I run into people who are excited to eat locusts or grasshoppers. Although I have had a locust before, you know, on a Bear Grylls type of dare. So it is possible, possible to do so, though I don't recommend it.
Bert Harper And, and the categories of those have. Were developed afterwards. In other words, in that day, there could have been some type of creature that was similar to an insect for, you know, and I don't. I think, Dillon, you guys are right, but that, that category hadn't been developed in the thought that we think in Western thought now. And sometimes that's the reason here it is and these two guys know it. You, you interpret scripture grammatically, historically, you really do. And, when you, if you'll do it that way, you'll stay close to truth. We can't all understand it all, regardless of what that song said. We know every question. But, Okay, Leslie, hope that helps. Thank you so much.
Genesis Sons Of God And Nephilim Remain A Difficult Debate
Let's go to Arkansas. And it's Jim. Jim, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Hey, appreciate all you guys do. my question has to do with, Genesis chapter 6, verses 2 through 4 talks about the sons of God seeing the daughters of man. And then it talks later in there about how giants were part of that when they, when they took him as wives. And I guess I had two questions. Who were these sons of God? That's referenced there. And then my assumption was that, you know, the giants would have been wiped out in Noah, in the flood of Noah's ark. But then you hear about Goliath later on. And with Goliath related to these same giants.
Bert Harper Okay, we, we get this question quite often. Whose turn is it to go first?
John Boler I think it's Dillon. I don't know.
Dillon Real quick, go ahead. Ah, those ongoing controversies that I've been looking at ever since I've been in high school when I first started reading Genesis. And to be honest, there is no consistent answer that every Christian interpreter takes on this. But I'll give you the quick overview and then my take on it. one of the big views is that it's some kind of fallen angel, human hybrid. It's kind of a superhuman view which is commonly held. And that's not only because of the passage using, the phrase sons of God. It's also because in the NewSong Testament and Jude 1 and also in second Peter 2, you see references to angels in a way that relates to this passage. So it's most likely some kind of, of, supernatural blend of angels and humans. But there are also those who consider them the offspring of demon possessed men, which is another way to take the interpretation. Which means it was, something that was wrong, something that was bad, but it's not some superhuman or supernatural hybrid of people like we sometimes understand it. And then there's the other view that these are like people of renown or like the great people or the giants of old. And that's more of a humanistic type of view that some people take. So those are the three main views. I still take the traditional view that it's some kind of fallen angel, human hybrid, although it's hard for us to understand in our modern times, but it is the view that best fits what we see in the NewSong Testament as well. And that's for me, the primary way that I understand it because of how it was understood later on in the NewSong Testament writings.
John Boler Yeah, good job, Dillon, explaining all of that. Here's kind of where, this, is one of the most difficult, to interpret. I believe in scripture and pastor friends of mine, we talk about it quite often and just try to see, the word sons of God in the Hebrew is translated in Job as angels. So when I look at that, I want to be true to the text, but then I look at it and say that angels can't procreate. So that kind of puts me right in the middle between what Dillon mentioned, the first view and the second view. and this is where I just kind of throw my hands up and say, we just don't know. we just do not know. We do take the NewSong Testament passages, as well in Jude and Peter, but it is very, very difficult to translate, and to be able to understand exactly what the text says. Because you may have a view that you love, but then you've got one of the most renowned Bible scholars and they're going to come out with a whole different view. but thank you so much. Thank you so much for the phone call. It is a great discussion.
Bert Harper Okay, now that's the question. And when we were talking about, we know every answer we were laughing about before we went back on, what are we going to do with this? Because we don't know for sure.
John Boler this is my first Fire Away Friday driving over here, I said, I know Genesis 6 is going to be bad. I just knew it was.
Dillon That's funny.
The Trinity Identifies Jesus And The Holy Spirit As God
Bert Harper Okay, let's go to Illinois and talk to Edward. Edward thank you for calling. Go right ahead, brother. Hello? Yes, you're on. Go right ahead.
Caroline All right, my question is, is Lord Jesus God or the Holy Spirit?
Bert Harper Okay.
John Boler All right, so let's, Let me. Let me do it two ways. Old Testament, NewSong Testament. so in the Bible, when you. If you look in your. In your Bible and you see in the Old Testament, Lord, it's mentioned, some 600 times. If it's all caps, capital L, capital O, capital, capital D. that is the personal name for God. That is Jehovah. God, that is God Almighty. Sometimes you see that word translated, capital L, lowercase O, R, D. that is Adonai, which is another Hebrew term for God. So when you see that in the Old Testament it is God. When you translate that in the NewSong Testament and you see that Jesus Christ is Lord, he is Lord, which means he is King, he is God, he is God in flesh. So when you look at the Lord, you can't necessarily separate God the Father, God the Son, the God, the Holy Spirit, the Triune God. So I wouldn't necessarily say it is Jesus, it is the Holy Spirit, it is God. But in the Old Testament. Excuse me, in the NewSong Testament, Jesus is declared Lord. He is Lord of Lords, and he is King of Kings. Go ahead, Dillon.
Dillon Well, this gets us to the view of the Trinity, which is a concept that's not specifically said in the word Trinity in the Bible, but we understand it from what the scriptures teach about God being, God the Father, God being God the Son, God being God the Spirit. We see that in Matthew 28:19, where they're told to baptize in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, not the names of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Right. So we're talking about one God, three persons. the most difficult one to understand is when we come to the Holy Spirit. Where in the Bible does the Holy Spirit get called God God? Well, there are a few places that stand out. One is in Acts 5 when you have the story of Ananias and Sapphira, when Peter says you've not lied or that you have lied to the Holy Spirit, and then later says you have not just lied to human beings, but to God, equating the Holy Spirit with God. And then you have another place, in Second Corinthians 3, 17 and 18, where Paul says, now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. Again, equating the two. So we definitely see the Spirit referred to as God. Jesus is certainly referred to as God. God the Father, three in one, the Triune Godhead. It's a good summary of it, even though we don't completely understand it in our human reasoning.
Bert Harper And let me just say, if we could understand, wouldn't be the mystery that God is now. He's. He's knowable and he's made Himself known, but there's still that mystery about him, you know? And, that draws me to Him. Guys. Does you, Jon? You
John Boler don't know. Just talking. I, hear that passage out of Philippians that. That every knee shall bow and every hand shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, that he is Lord. whether you believe it or not, you will declare that he is
Bert Harper Lord. Dillon. Thank you, guys. Y' all are doing great. I just want to say, first time working together, it is a great, great thing because next week I'm out and Alex is still in Israel, and you're going to hear these two young guns. Hey, like that, young guns. They going to come in and. And take care of it. I'm so excited about it as well.
New King James Footnotes Reflect Choices Among Manuscripts
Well, let's go to Texas and talk to Frank. Frank, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Thank you. I appreciate that. I've been listening for a long time. First time,
Bert Harper caller. Well, thank you for calling, man.
John Boler Thank you, Frank.
Caroline Well, I just had a, question because y' all were talking about translations while ago, and I was reading an article here a while back that when they translated the New King James that in the Hebrew, the people that did the Hebrew portion said what this Hebrew word shouldn't be in there, and they kicked it out. Is that true?
Bert Harper Okay, let me, Let me make a broad statement. Then y' all take it away. Okay. there's more fragments of the Old and NewSong Testament, that prove over and over again that the validity of the word of God. And on some of the manuscripts, there'll be a word that is used differently than another word or a word that may be there in one and not the other. And, so what you do with the NewSong King James, they, they tried to do that, but it's always in a note, you know, that it'll say you either find it or don't find it in a manuscript.
John Boler That's right. That's right. Dillon, I think this is your, your, Your time. I don't want to step in on. On your. Your place.
Bert Harper Yeah, y' all keep. Y' all guys.
Dillon That's great. Well, first, the NewSong King James Version is a great translation. It's the one we typically use on exploring the words. I don't want to knock it in any way, but when you look at how it's translated compared to the King James Version, one, you have to have, an understanding that it's more modern English in the King James Version. But when it comes to certain verses, there are places in the Hebrew Bible, if you've ever looked at it, where the Hebrew text itself has footnotes, where it has more than one reading that's passed along throughout. There's some, concern or question in some of these places which one of those two it is. Well, in the new King James version, based on the various manuscripts that have been found, they chose one versus the King James Version, which chose the other. So in almost every case, you have the footnote of the opposing one that's, written. And so it's not like one is better than the other. It's just a question of which one is chosen for that translation. Based on the evidence available at the time, I think that's the shortest and best way to handle it. So I wouldn't be concerned about any description discrepancies there.
Bert Harper Frank, that is so true. We get that question quite often. And, so, you know, it's, it's good that we want the best translation. And, I can just tell you, I love, I, I love the new living translation. I do. but for Bible study, that you want to know something about new, American standard, new King James man, dig in, and it's always good.
John Boler Frank, thank you so much for calling on about the new King James. I've been preaching from the new king James since 27, 2007. I find it to be very, very reliable, very accurate when it comes to Greek and Hebrew as well.
Bert Harper And when you're as old as I am and you memorized everything in the King James, the new King James just changes the vowels and the runneth. And that, really helps out. Well, you're listening to Exploring the Word. And we'll be back right after the break.
Station Break Promotes Preborn And Offers Listener Support
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Dr. Jessica Peck Oh, it chases me down fights till I'm found leaves the 99 I couldn't earn and I don't deserve it still you give yourself away.
Hosts Share Christian Encouragement And Welcome Online Questions
Bert Harper Welcome back to Exploring the Word. The love of God is amazing. Leaving 99 to go get that one.
John Boler That's right.
Bert Harper man, when you're the one, you're thankful.
John Boler Amen.
Bert Harper Amen. M and we are the one. If you've been born again, he loves you. And if you've never accepted Christ as your personal savior and Lord, we invite you to. We want you to know him. we're headed in the wrong directions. Paul caught being the natural man going our way. There's a way that seems right to a man, but the ends thereof are the ways of death. So we turn to God, go his way. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. And if you'll trust him with all your heart and all your life as you turn to him, I want to tell you, it will change your life forever. You're talking to three guys here whose lives have been changed by Jesus and he is Lord. Well, we get, [email protected] the first one that Brent asked was that we also get them on Facebook.
Alex McFarland That's right. And we're. I'm always on Facebook when I can get to it during the live stream anytime. So you're always welcome to ask questions, prayer requests, anytime. Praises. Just, stick them on there and I will do my best to get them on the air.
Revelation Three Ten Is Interpreted As Future Tribulation Protection
This one comes from Kristie Anyabwile on Facebook. She says, God bless you guys. I'm so thankful for your ministry. I Have a question. Can you explain Revelation 3:10?
Bert Harper Okay, here's what we're going to do. We got enough calls. we'll start with the first one, and then if you have something to add to it, we'll do it so we can get to all these calls. Jon, this one is yours.
John Boler Revelation 3:10 says, because you have kept my command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole earth to test those who dwell in the earth. Kristie Anyabwile, thank you so much for this question here in Revelation 3, verse 10. eschatology is a study of the end times. It's a wonderful study. I tell anybody who asks or reads anything in Revelation. I said, I want to remind you what, the very, very beginning of Revelation says. It's a revelation of Jesus Christ. So this ought to be a book that is a favorite for believers. it's not a book to run from. But here in 3:10, from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole earth. There's a couple of different schools of thought concerning, end times. and a lot of it deals with the calling away of the church. When does that, is it going to happen? I believe this is in Revelation 3, verse 10 is where the Lord Jesus will call the church away. I, believe it's the next event on God's calendar, based off of, first Thessalonians, chapter four, the calling away, of the church from the hour of trial, which I believe Revelation is in. Revelation is the seven year old tribulation time that we see in chapter six all the way through chapter 18 of the book of Revelation. That hour of trial which shall come upon the entire earth, is a time of persecution. It's also a time of trial. It's a time of judgment that comes from the Lord. It starts out, peaceful with the rise of the Antichrist. this is a question that I could take 20 minutes for, but I know we've got to get to other questions, but Christie, specifically, I just believe this is where Jesus says the church will be called away from the hour, saved from the wrath to come. Dillon, you want to add anything there?
Dillon Well, I would only add that the verse talks about the hour trial coming on the whole world. So it's not just about this one church in the first century that was going through a trial. This is about something that's going to be on the whole world, which leads me to believe that it's a future event from the perspective of when it was written. And it's talking about this time after the rapture, during the tribulation period, where we will be protected from his believers.
Bert Harper Okay, great.
Prayer Books Can Help But Personal Prayer Comes From Heart
Guys, let's go to Texas and talk to Cullen. Cullen, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline yes, sir. You guys are pretty knowledgeable people, and I'm trying to get your opinion of the Concordia Publishing House. A book, a
Caroline prayer book. 1957.
Caroline above the
Caroline 75
Caroline or 76. Really. And, word again maybe 30, 35 years ago. And I'm real careful what I read. Yeah.
Caroline So I want to be. I've had. I handed it all to my family, but this, this one was cop in 1957. And I know you guys don't know everything, but
Bert Harper thank you.
Caroline M. manufacturers, that I compete with that they poor. Put up poor products. There's some that put out good products.
Bert Harper That is right. Cullen. I thank you for calling. And that is so true. you. The. One of the smartest things you said is be careful what you read. Now in college and seminary, I had to read some stuff I didn't really want to read. Yeah, but my professor says you got to read it so you can know it, so that you know why it's wrong with it. And it was helpful, I think. This is Dillon first. Dillon, would you. Are you familiar with that 1957 prayer book?
Dillon not in detail. He was breaking up a little bit on me, so I didn't get a lot of the questions. So I may not be in the best position to answer some of what he was asking. I'll let one of you jump in on that one, if you would.
John Boler Colin Alred, are you still with us? Yes. Okay. Is it a book about prayer or is it a book
Caroline of, many prayers?
John Boler Okay,
Caroline what's got one for birthdays, weddings. Ah, self pity, frustration. I'm just reading the front.
John Boler Sure, sure.
Caroline Patient M. Consecrated life.
John Boler Yeah. Let me. Let me just encourage you. There's nothing wrong with. With reading a, prayer like that. But let me just encourage you to. As we wrap this up, that prayer, is from your heart and. And as you. As you bow and as you pray that you speak with the lo. Puts in your heart, it's not wrong to read prayers. it's certainly not wrong to read prayers from the Bible, but, from another source. I'm not familiar with the source from 1957. but when, it comes to birthdays or anniversaries or something like that, I, would let the Lord speak to your heart and Just see where he goes from there.
Bert Harper I would too. Cullen, what you have, you, find those prayers that send the Bible and you pray that, like I do the prayer for the church at Colossae and I preach that. When I do anything like that, I preach from that one because that's my prayer for that church as well. Brent has found out it's a Lutheran concordial book from 19. Okay, Lutheran. It tells you a little bit about the, I would say ritual.
John Boler Sure.
Bert Harper Part of that. So Cullen, praying from your heart. Listen. God listens. And he'd rather hear your heart, than someone else's words. And so we're praying. Thank you, Cullen, for that.
New Heaven And Earth Remove Sin Death And Suffering
Let's go to Georgia and talk to Danny. Danny, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Yes, sir. For years and years I know that it's taught in, you know, in the churches that, you know, when we die, we go to heaven. In the book of Revelations, after Jesus thousand year reign, God will destroy the earth and rebuild it. If he's going to do that, why would we be going to heaven to live?
Bert Harper Okay. Yeah. And go ahead. As
Caroline I say, I had asked somebody else who studied the Bible this same question and they told me the reason God would destroy the earth and rebuild it is because he can't. I've never known God to do anything for no reason.
Bert Harper Okay, the new heaven and a new earth. Ah, they are coming. has something to do with sin. Running and shrimping and setting up things for the rest. I think it was Dr. Robert Jeffries. I heard not too long ago, guys, that he said that the paradise, Abraham's bosom that we're going to. It is a. It is with Jesus where he is, but it's temporary because he's coming back and we're going to have a new heaven, new earth. you know, Dillon, would you respond to Danny?
Dillon Sure. And it is confusing sometimes because we think about where we go if we die now and then we think about this new heaven and new earth that's described in Revelation 21 and 22. But the thing that I keep comfort in is when it talks about all things will be made new. The curse is broken, Sin is no more. The beginning of Revelation 21 that talks about there is no longer any sea. says there were verse four. There will be no more death, mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. That is the purpose right there. That everything that is broken in our world now will be removed and everything will be made new and perfect in the presence of God and all of his people for all time.
John Boler Yeah, good. Good answer there, Dillon. I love questions about heaven. And, Bob Pittman, who is just a great preacher still, preaching today, he said the best thing about heaven is trying to describe heaven is trying to describe the color red. To someone who doesn't see colors, whether they are colorblind or legally blind, heaven is such a mystery. But I do believe Revelation 21:22. This new heaven and new earth. No, more sin, no more sorrow, no more curse, no more crying. It's a brand new place.
Bert Harper Amen. And you want to make sure that is where you are going in eternity. you know, eternal, life is not just a quantity. It's a quality of life that starts here. Knowing Jesus now and those of you who are listening, if you're driving a truck, driving a car, if you're at home or at the office and you're listening and you've never been born again, trust, Jesus Christ as savior. I want to tell you it's a great adventure that he puts us on. Thank you, Danny.
Angels Are Created Beings With Distinct Roles And Orders
Let's go to Iowa and talk to Bob. Bob, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Hey,
Caroline guys, appreciate it. I. My question. I listening the other day to a show, and the guy was talking about angels being all born at the same time or created at the same time.
Caroline And then
Caroline I think I've always thought that Lucifer was the first created angel. And maybe God
Caroline did some
Caroline special things
Caroline for him.
Caroline I just wondered what the order of creation for angels is. And you got what you guys think.
John Boler thank you, Bob, for the call. So, angels are created beings. you certainly got that right. I do believe that, in the days of creation, that you put angels there and that they, cannot procreate, just like we talked about a few minutes ago. And, Lucifer, if you go back to, Isaiah, chapter 14, you also go back to Ezekiel 28 that talks about the fall, a fall of Lucifer and a third of the angels that fell with him, those what we call demons today, fallen angels. but yes, angels are created beings in the created order of God. and Lucifer, was a musician. The, Bible calls him a bright, star. but he's a creator. That's one thing you have to always keep in mind about Satan, Lucifer, whatever name you want to call him. Him, he is a created being. He will bow to the Lord.
Bert Harper Go ahead, Dillon.
Dillon Yeah. Two verses to add to that Genesis 2. One talks about the heavens and the earth. Were finished. And all the host of them. that's traditionally believed to include the angels in that phrase. All the host of them. And then an answer that's often referred to as job 38. It talks about, the questioning, where were you when I laid the earth's foundation and all the angels shouted for joy? So the question implies the angels were around at the earth's foundation and were all created at the same time at the beginning. So that seems to be the best understanding. Although scripture, of course, does not give us every detail we would like about how angels came into being.
Bert Harper And each is different. it wasn't like, okay, bam, they're all alike, principalities and powers. talking about those things, we wrestle not against those. So each demon was different. Cherubim and. Cherub. Cherubim, yeah. And all of those. And then when you describe Lucifer, he was probably one of, quote, the archangels Gabriel, you know, and Micah. And, so they're. They're different. So each one of them. And. And here's what really is important to me. When I found this out, angels, I didn't know. I found out that's a, you know, transliteration of the Greek word angelos, which means messenger. They're messengers of God that comes and brings what God says. We see that definitely with Joseph and Mary, you know, and so they have their position and they have their place.
John Boler And even the seven churches in Revelation to the. To the angel of the church. Now, pastors are not angels. Certainly not. Well, we got
Bert Harper two examples right here.
John Boler They are messengers to the messengers. but if you go back and read some of those earlier translations to the angels, Amen, the churches.
Bert Harper Thank you, Bob. Hope that helps.
Choose A Readable Bible Translation And Keep Reading Scripture
Well, we're going to the last caller of the day, and it's Howard in Louisiana. Howard, go right ahead, brother.
Caroline Hey, man, look, I love y' all show. I love all y'. All. Y' all are amazing, what y' all do. And I know it's all God.
Bert Harper Thank you,
Caroline King. You're welcome. I'm reading the King James er version, and all it is is KJV er. It says easy read. It takes the vowels and fees out. And I've heard so many people complain. If they would just pick that up and read it, I think it would be a blessing to them.
Bert Harper Well, let me. Let me just speak to that. That's what threw me off. I tell y' all what. I have a hard time. People want to know. People, don't want to know my ability in English and language. They don't Want to know? I guess that's why I love history and geography so much in the Bible. But anyway, the thous and the run, that always gave me trouble. And when I saw the new King James, that sounds just close and west worded right. I said, man, this is the one I need.
John Boler Yes, I certainly agree with that. King James, Old English, which is a modern translation. The original King James, I go back to English literature days at Blue Mountain and Beowulf trying to understand and read that. But, a new King James, easy read for me would be the new, I mean, the King James, er, version, to me is just the new King James. It's wonderful.
Bert Harper Dillon, help us out here before we close out today.
Dillon No, that's a great alternative. But, regardless of the translation you read, the key thing is to read it and to live it. And we want to encourage you to continue that well beyond our broadcast today to make God's Word a part of your daily life, not only with us, but in your own heart and in your own life. And we just appreciate the time to be with you today and be part of your spiritual journey. Journey.
Bert Harper Those of you that listen to AFR all the time know that my son and I do a weekend, exploring missions. And when, my son Nathan was being, ordained, they asked him that question, what's the best version? And he said, the one you're reading right now. And, so I thought that was awesome. That's right. So find one. If you're going to do some deep Bible study, as Jon and Dillon said, you get into kind of as much as you can, word for word, as best you can. And then if you need help, get that, m. devotional. And help, get those. It's more paraphrased, thought for thought. Guys, we'll be praying for you next week. I'm excited. Jon, take us out. Hey, I need to do that next week.
John Boler Those of you guys that are listening, stay in the word of God. You will not go wrong there. Keep reading and, we'll see you guys on Monday.
Caroline The views and opinions expressed in this broadcast may not necessarily reflect those of the American Family Association or American Family Radio.
>> It's Fireaway Friday on Exploring the Word. This is your chance to ask us your Bible question at 888-589-8840. That's 888-589-8840. You can also email your [email protected] or visit facebook.com exploring the word.
Bert Harper Exploring the word.
Jeff Chamblee It's Fire Away Friday on American Family Radio.
Bert Harper Those who wait on the Lord shall renew. They shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint. Well, this is Bert Harper, and today it is Fire Away Friday. And as we've said all week, we're missing Alex, but I doubt if he's missing us very much. He's in Israel and, he's. I know he's been in Jerusalem, and I'm sure they've been over to Bethlehem and they usually go further north down to Jericho. I can just visualize where all, Alex has been, so he couldn't connect on Fire Away Friday. But we have two guys that are sitting in, Jon Bowler and Dillon Burroughs. You've heard both of them. And, Brent and I were talking. What can we do on Fire Away Friday to make it a little bit special? We've asked them to join us. So you got the three of us in place of just two. Jon, welcome.
John Boler Good to be here. Thank you. Thank you for the. Bert.
Bert Harper Dillon, glad you're with us, brother.
Dillon Oh, great to join you again, as always. Appreciate it.
Bert Harper Well, we appreciate that. That number, if you would call it, we want to take on the questions that you have for us. We'll do our very best to give a biblical concise answer. The number, if you've got that Bible question that we would love to hear, is 8885-8988-4088-8589-8840. And we would love that question.
Hosts Chat About Seasons Before Taking Listener Calls
Well, Dillon, I've been here with Jon all week. How's things been going with you, brother?
Dillon Oh, of course, enjoying the Tennessee fall, but actually some parts of the state have even gotten a little bit of snow if you live up in the Smoky Mountain region. Been sharing a lot of pictures from there. So it's interesting time of year and just fun to see the seasons change. So we've been enjoying that part of, the year right now.
Bert Harper Okay, so you enjoy seasons, Jon? Do you enjoy the change of the season?
John Boler I do, except for sometimes when the sickness comes with it.
Bert Harper Yeah, that change can be difficult. my wife Jan and I figure we're living in the right place. I could go further north and be happy with cooler weather. She's happy with warmer weather. So we're, we're, we're. God placed us right there. That's called what God taking care of both of us. He does. Right. Well, we've, we've got some questions coming in, but the lines are open. And just because Alex, not here, we got two guys here that, that we would love for you to ask their ques. The question you have. I want to give that number one more time. Make that call, Alex. 888-589-8840. And so I'm going to go to the calls. And guys, just listen carefully because we are glad that Pam from Alabama is with us. Pam, thank you for calling today.
Caroline Oh, thank you so much. I love all of y' all so much and I thank God for you.
Bert Harper Well, I want to tell you, Pam, real quickly, it's a joy for us, this, this program, just ministers to us as we do it.
John Boler Yeah.
Bert Harper Ah, the calls bless us. And so we're glad. So thank you for calling.
God Transcends Human Gender And Is Called Father
Go right ahead.
Caroline Thank you. My question, I was telling the gentleman when I called, I teach a class of three teenage, girls, and they're good Christian girls. But one of them asked me last Sunday, she said, I've heard the term that God is non binary. And she said, I know that's not really right, but how do I keep that from being confused with that he's neither male or female and that he is the holy, has the Holy Spirit, Jesus and God the Father. So can you help me out? I've got to talk to her on this Sunday.
Bert Harper Well, thank you, Pat. Thank you for teaching. Don't you guys love that? I
John Boler mean, yes.
Bert Harper Teenagers, you know, we think we got to put the best teachers in the adult classes. I disagree with that. They ought to be the children, the youth, man. Let him pour in. Dillon, you got the question. Would you mind going first on this one? Scriptural evidence for showing that God is not non binary.
Dillon Yes. Well, it's very clear that God is not male nor female. He is beyond any gender as we know it, as human. So we would call that the transcendence of God. Jon 4:24 talks about him being this infinite creator. So we don't have this discussion about which gender he is. He's way beyond that. So, sure, some people will try to make that argument that he's non binary and try to make him more inclusive in some, you know, leftist type of theology or political ideology. But that is certainly not the case when we see scripture. This is not what we see at all. In fact, in the scriptures we see God referred to as male consistently with male pronouns from Old Testament through NewSong Testament. So if you wanted to make the case that he was going to be a gender, it would be the, of a male gender, not a non binary gender. But as we see in scripture, he is beyond male and female. He's created male and female in his image, but he is beyond any gender of one kind or another that we would try to define in human terms.
John Boler Thank you Dale. And I certainly agree with that. I would also say that when God became flesh, he became a man. And that's Jesus. And we believe that Jesus in the NewSong Testament is God in the flesh. So I would, I would certainly agree with that. I like what Dillon said about when you look at the Hebrew and Greek language, the masculine pronouns, he, if you had to put a gender it would be male, but God is, he is transcendent.
Bert Harper I would, I said I wasn't going to answer it. I can't help it. Okay, now there are some similes that's used. He's like a nursing mother. But that does not give that gender that. And when he made, created, man made a male and female, not because he's, he's, you know, neither are or whatever, both. And it's because of, of male and female tendencies that we have. God's given us the, the hormones that we have, the women, the hormones that they have that have the functions and thoughts like they do. And so God, he, you know, I would be like a mother hen taking those little chicks under, under me. But again he is, he is who he is. So again thank you Pam. And that number, RIPLE 858-98-8840. If you've got a question, we'd love to hear it.
New Living Translation Suits Devotion But Compare Literal Versions
Pam from Alabama. Thank you. So we're going to go from Pam from Alabama to Pam in Kansas. I love it when it happens. Pam in Kansas.
Caroline Hey.
Bert Harper Yes.
Caroline How are you guys
Bert Harper doing? Great, go ahead.
Caroline Awesome. Hey, I'm in a chronological Bible study that's using the new living translation and I'm just trying to find out if it's a good, ah, trustworthy translation. I tend to go for like the niv, not the niv, sorry, the NASB or the esb, the more word for words.
Bert Harper Okay. Jon.
Caroline Struggling. Just. Yep.
John Boler Pam, thank you so much for calling. Let me first say, let me first encourage you and say thank you for reading God's Word, I too use a chronological Bible. Maybe the same one, the Chronological Bible, NewSong Living Translation, as a, just daily Bible reading. you mentioned two or three different Bible translations. The new, living versus like, an NIV or a NewSong American Standard. So there's two words that you have to think about. Number one is a translation, and the other word is a paraphrase. And the NewSong Living is a paraphrase. So they took an English Modern translation and they paraphrased. So it's not a word for word. it would not be something that you would dig into to get the original meaning. It's good for devotion thought. But if you were looking for a word by word, m. Myself as a pastor looking for a word by word translation, I would go with a translation, not necessarily a paraphrase, but for devotional thought. it is good to read because it does put it in more of a modern language. But that's what separates NLT from NewSong American Standard. King James, NewSong King James, Christian Standard Bible, esv, English Standard. Those are all, more word by word Bible translations.
Bert Harper Dillon. Go ahead, brother.
Dillon Sure. And it also comes from Tyndale Publishers, which is a reputable Christian publisher. I have had the opportunity to meet a few of the people who are part of the NewSong Living Translation as, it was done in the 1990s, I believe is when it was first published. So a good translation, but as was mentioned, it's more of a thought for thought translation instead of a, an exact word for word literal translation. So just be aware of that when you're reading and compare it with other translations that are more literal and you can compare and see, how to best understand some of the verses you're going through. I also like the idea that you're doing a chronological study of the Bible. It often helps clear up misunderstandings that we have reading it straight from Genesis through Revelation. it's not the way that the Bible's traditionally laid out in terms of how it's published, but it does give some good insights into understanding it better throughout its history.
Bert Harper You know, if you need this, you know, walk through the Bible Ministries and just. Bruce Wilkinson started this years ago, the author of Jabez, you know, the prayer Jabez. And I'd gone to college, I'd gone to seminary, and we had a one day on a Saturday, walked through the Bible seminar, walked through the Old Testament and it, it fit things together so well. it was probably the most profitable One day education I ever received. And if you can do that, they've got a website and you can go to there and it's great stuff. And you can get that chronological idea in studies and it really does make a difference. That's right.
Revelation's Synagogue Of Satan Must Remain In Context
Brent said he had a, a question came in on Facebook, I guess. And so. Brent, give the question, brother.
Alex McFarland the King James Bible refers to Jews who are of the synagogue of Satan. Does this mean there are two sects of Jews are these Jews as well as Israel who have recently incurred the wrath and hatred of our fellow Americans? It is
Bert Harper confusing. Okay. We had that same thought the other day about it and synagogue of Satan. Is it found? Where all is it found? I know it's in Revelation.
John Boler It's in Revelation. That's what I'm recalling, right now. Dillon, you pop in, I know it's your turn. I don't mind stepping in, but go ahead.
Dillon No, it is mentioned twice in the letters to the seven churches in Revelation and specifically talks about those who say they are Jews but are not and calls those people a synagogue of Satan. So when you look at that, I mean they generally, it's understood to talk about a conflict during the first century, people who were Jewish ethnically who may have faced persecution, but it's not something that we would take and apply toward the treatment of Jews today. This is something specific to the book of Revelation. We shouldn't take it out of context to apply it to some modern situation about how Jews are treated or not treated in this time.
John Boler That's right. That's right. One of the hard things that Jesus told, the religious folks of the day is you are of your father the devil. And this is the religious folks. And to be able to. So if you say you are of your father the devil. I firmly agree with what Dillon said as far as Revelation and keeping in the context there. But the application if their father is the devil, is their church the synagogue of Satan. Application wise, not context. it makes you something to think about.
Bert Harper The other thing it says in one of the letters is Satan has his seat. Satan is operating in every realm. you become a believer. It doesn't mean Satan leaves you alone. You organize a Bible believing, mission centered church congregation. It doesn't mean Satan is going to back off. No, he's going to have his demons, his people that he's placed in those seats to try to get them off track. Dillon, do you agree with that kind of Satan operates that way? M.
Dillon That's One application. Sure. And in our time, we also have the issue of anti Semitism, which is basically discrimination against Jewish people, which as Christians, we should certainly oppose, but is something that, we should be speaking out against whenever we have the opportunity to do so. I would also say that when we're talking about the Jewish people, we also have a call to evangelize the Jewish people. As Christians, we believe Jesus is the Messiah, and so we also would share the gospel with the Jew first and then the gentile.
Bert Harper Amen. You're listening to Fire Away Friday. Jon and Dillon are with me here. And we are. We'll come back right after this break.
Program Returns With Humor And Opens Another Call Segment
Hello, I'm Bert Harper. Did you know that this content is listener supported? Without people like you, this podcast would not exist. That's why we need you. A generous monthly gift of any amount will sustain American Family Radio and specifically this podcast. Please consider becoming a monthly financial partner today by visiting afr.net give that's afr.net give
Jeff Chamblee welcome back to Exploring the Word on American Family Radio.
Dr. Jessica Peck I know the answer to every question, the one solution to every fear. I know my help and where it comes from. Jesus, he is the answer.
Bert Harper Brit Austin has a sense of humor. I know the answer to every question on Fire Away Friday.
Alex McFarland Repeat that again one more time for my wife.
Bert Harper Okay. But anyway, we, we've discussed this before with Dillon and Jon being on and, it's Jon's first time on Fire Away. Dillon's been on with Alex and, what do you do? You just say, man, I don't know. We don't know. So that. Thank you, Brent, for playing that. I appreciate that. Okay, that number, and we've got lines open is 888-589-8840. If you've got a Bible question, we would love to hear it today. Okay, first in this segment, let's go to Leslie in Kentucky. Leslie, thank you for calling. Exploring the word. Go right ahead.
Caroline Thank you. I, listen to your station all the time. I don't even have television anymore. Listen to your show. Amen.
Bert Harper Thank you.
Caroline All night, too.
Bert Harper Hey, you probably know more about what's going on then than I do. Okay. I found out that people that listen to afr, they, they know what's going on everywhere.
Caroline Well, that's it. I couldn't believe the last election, but
Bert Harper okay. Hey, this is, this is, more of a lighter day on that area. So we're going to try that. Yeah, yeah. What's your question, Leslie?
Leviticus Insects Are Described In Ancient General Terms
Caroline Okay, it's from Leviticus, 11:20 through 23. it says all flying insects that walk on all four are detestable to you. There are, however, winged creatures that walk on four that you may eat. Well, we had discussion at church and that we're saying there are most insects have six legs, not four. And then it said earlier something about, foul having four legs too. And in the King James version, my, mine is.
Bert Harper Yeah, well, man, let's just praise the Lord for, ah, Bible study and discussion. Listen, iron sharpens iron. And asking these questions. Is it your turn to go first? I
John Boler don't mind. go ahead, Jon.
Bert Harper Y' all keep it straight. Who goes first and second.
John Boler Hey, thank you for studying the book of Leviticus. like you at church, man, you can, you can really get in the weeds when you start reading the book of Leviticus and all of the commands and laws that God gave, the children of Israel. Leviticus is a book of holiness. If you want to understand a NewSong Testament version of Leviticus, it's the book of Hebrews. but anyway, this passage here in the book of Leviticus is one of those many, many commands that God gave. on a lighter note, I like this command because it means there are certain insects you don't need to eat. I still practice that today. but I will say this in the NewSong Testament where the Lord told Peter to rise, kill and eat, and declared all things clean. but this is just one of those passages in the Old Testament of the many, many, different animals and the way you treat them and what you can eat and what you can't eat, all old Covenant and praise God for the new covenant today.
Bert Harper Go ahead, Dillon.
Dillon Yeah, and that's a good response. But, yeah, when you're Talking about Leviticus 11, sometimes people wonder why it's talking about insects that walk on four legs when most insects have more than four legs. But it's generally that idea that they walk on their legs just like, other animals that were considered unclean. So, if you don't take it too literally and it's just the idea the insects that walk on their legs versus the flying insects that, they're talking about, like grasshopper and locust, that makes more sense in the general context when we try to push it more literally about, okay, what about the ones with six legs? then we start getting into concerns about whether the Bible got it right or not when they're talking about insects, but it's really just a general phrase about insects that walk on their Legs versus flying insects. And, I don't think we have to worry about it too much because not often do I run into people who are excited to eat locusts or grasshoppers. Although I have had a locust before, you know, on a Bear Grylls type of dare. So it is possible, possible to do so, though I don't recommend it.
Bert Harper And, and the categories of those have. Were developed afterwards. In other words, in that day, there could have been some type of creature that was similar to an insect for, you know, and I don't. I think, Dillon, you guys are right, but that, that category hadn't been developed in the thought that we think in Western thought now. And sometimes that's the reason here it is and these two guys know it. You, you interpret scripture grammatically, historically, you really do. And, when you, if you'll do it that way, you'll stay close to truth. We can't all understand it all, regardless of what that song said. We know every question. But, Okay, Leslie, hope that helps. Thank you so much.
Genesis Sons Of God And Nephilim Remain A Difficult Debate
Let's go to Arkansas. And it's Jim. Jim, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Hey, appreciate all you guys do. my question has to do with, Genesis chapter 6, verses 2 through 4 talks about the sons of God seeing the daughters of man. And then it talks later in there about how giants were part of that when they, when they took him as wives. And I guess I had two questions. Who were these sons of God? That's referenced there. And then my assumption was that, you know, the giants would have been wiped out in Noah, in the flood of Noah's ark. But then you hear about Goliath later on. And with Goliath related to these same giants.
Bert Harper Okay, we, we get this question quite often. Whose turn is it to go first?
John Boler I think it's Dillon. I don't know.
Dillon Real quick, go ahead. Ah, those ongoing controversies that I've been looking at ever since I've been in high school when I first started reading Genesis. And to be honest, there is no consistent answer that every Christian interpreter takes on this. But I'll give you the quick overview and then my take on it. one of the big views is that it's some kind of fallen angel, human hybrid. It's kind of a superhuman view which is commonly held. And that's not only because of the passage using, the phrase sons of God. It's also because in the NewSong Testament and Jude 1 and also in second Peter 2, you see references to angels in a way that relates to this passage. So it's most likely some kind of, of, supernatural blend of angels and humans. But there are also those who consider them the offspring of demon possessed men, which is another way to take the interpretation. Which means it was, something that was wrong, something that was bad, but it's not some superhuman or supernatural hybrid of people like we sometimes understand it. And then there's the other view that these are like people of renown or like the great people or the giants of old. And that's more of a humanistic type of view that some people take. So those are the three main views. I still take the traditional view that it's some kind of fallen angel, human hybrid, although it's hard for us to understand in our modern times, but it is the view that best fits what we see in the NewSong Testament as well. And that's for me, the primary way that I understand it because of how it was understood later on in the NewSong Testament writings.
John Boler Yeah, good job, Dillon, explaining all of that. Here's kind of where, this, is one of the most difficult, to interpret. I believe in scripture and pastor friends of mine, we talk about it quite often and just try to see, the word sons of God in the Hebrew is translated in Job as angels. So when I look at that, I want to be true to the text, but then I look at it and say that angels can't procreate. So that kind of puts me right in the middle between what Dillon mentioned, the first view and the second view. and this is where I just kind of throw my hands up and say, we just don't know. we just do not know. We do take the NewSong Testament passages, as well in Jude and Peter, but it is very, very difficult to translate, and to be able to understand exactly what the text says. Because you may have a view that you love, but then you've got one of the most renowned Bible scholars and they're going to come out with a whole different view. but thank you so much. Thank you so much for the phone call. It is a great discussion.
Bert Harper Okay, now that's the question. And when we were talking about, we know every answer we were laughing about before we went back on, what are we going to do with this? Because we don't know for sure.
John Boler this is my first Fire Away Friday driving over here, I said, I know Genesis 6 is going to be bad. I just knew it was.
Dillon That's funny.
The Trinity Identifies Jesus And The Holy Spirit As God
Bert Harper Okay, let's go to Illinois and talk to Edward. Edward thank you for calling. Go right ahead, brother. Hello? Yes, you're on. Go right ahead.
Caroline All right, my question is, is Lord Jesus God or the Holy Spirit?
Bert Harper Okay.
John Boler All right, so let's, Let me. Let me do it two ways. Old Testament, NewSong Testament. so in the Bible, when you. If you look in your. In your Bible and you see in the Old Testament, Lord, it's mentioned, some 600 times. If it's all caps, capital L, capital O, capital, capital D. that is the personal name for God. That is Jehovah. God, that is God Almighty. Sometimes you see that word translated, capital L, lowercase O, R, D. that is Adonai, which is another Hebrew term for God. So when you see that in the Old Testament it is God. When you translate that in the NewSong Testament and you see that Jesus Christ is Lord, he is Lord, which means he is King, he is God, he is God in flesh. So when you look at the Lord, you can't necessarily separate God the Father, God the Son, the God, the Holy Spirit, the Triune God. So I wouldn't necessarily say it is Jesus, it is the Holy Spirit, it is God. But in the Old Testament. Excuse me, in the NewSong Testament, Jesus is declared Lord. He is Lord of Lords, and he is King of Kings. Go ahead, Dillon.
Dillon Well, this gets us to the view of the Trinity, which is a concept that's not specifically said in the word Trinity in the Bible, but we understand it from what the scriptures teach about God being, God the Father, God being God the Son, God being God the Spirit. We see that in Matthew 28:19, where they're told to baptize in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, not the names of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Right. So we're talking about one God, three persons. the most difficult one to understand is when we come to the Holy Spirit. Where in the Bible does the Holy Spirit get called God God? Well, there are a few places that stand out. One is in Acts 5 when you have the story of Ananias and Sapphira, when Peter says you've not lied or that you have lied to the Holy Spirit, and then later says you have not just lied to human beings, but to God, equating the Holy Spirit with God. And then you have another place, in Second Corinthians 3, 17 and 18, where Paul says, now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. Again, equating the two. So we definitely see the Spirit referred to as God. Jesus is certainly referred to as God. God the Father, three in one, the Triune Godhead. It's a good summary of it, even though we don't completely understand it in our human reasoning.
Bert Harper And let me just say, if we could understand, wouldn't be the mystery that God is now. He's. He's knowable and he's made Himself known, but there's still that mystery about him, you know? And, that draws me to Him. Guys. Does you, Jon? You
John Boler don't know. Just talking. I, hear that passage out of Philippians that. That every knee shall bow and every hand shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, that he is Lord. whether you believe it or not, you will declare that he is
Bert Harper Lord. Dillon. Thank you, guys. Y' all are doing great. I just want to say, first time working together, it is a great, great thing because next week I'm out and Alex is still in Israel, and you're going to hear these two young guns. Hey, like that, young guns. They going to come in and. And take care of it. I'm so excited about it as well.
New King James Footnotes Reflect Choices Among Manuscripts
Well, let's go to Texas and talk to Frank. Frank, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Thank you. I appreciate that. I've been listening for a long time. First time,
Bert Harper caller. Well, thank you for calling, man.
John Boler Thank you, Frank.
Caroline Well, I just had a, question because y' all were talking about translations while ago, and I was reading an article here a while back that when they translated the New King James that in the Hebrew, the people that did the Hebrew portion said what this Hebrew word shouldn't be in there, and they kicked it out. Is that true?
Bert Harper Okay, let me, Let me make a broad statement. Then y' all take it away. Okay. there's more fragments of the Old and NewSong Testament, that prove over and over again that the validity of the word of God. And on some of the manuscripts, there'll be a word that is used differently than another word or a word that may be there in one and not the other. And, so what you do with the NewSong King James, they, they tried to do that, but it's always in a note, you know, that it'll say you either find it or don't find it in a manuscript.
John Boler That's right. That's right. Dillon, I think this is your, your, Your time. I don't want to step in on. On your. Your place.
Bert Harper Yeah, y' all keep. Y' all guys.
Dillon That's great. Well, first, the NewSong King James Version is a great translation. It's the one we typically use on exploring the words. I don't want to knock it in any way, but when you look at how it's translated compared to the King James Version, one, you have to have, an understanding that it's more modern English in the King James Version. But when it comes to certain verses, there are places in the Hebrew Bible, if you've ever looked at it, where the Hebrew text itself has footnotes, where it has more than one reading that's passed along throughout. There's some, concern or question in some of these places which one of those two it is. Well, in the new King James version, based on the various manuscripts that have been found, they chose one versus the King James Version, which chose the other. So in almost every case, you have the footnote of the opposing one that's, written. And so it's not like one is better than the other. It's just a question of which one is chosen for that translation. Based on the evidence available at the time, I think that's the shortest and best way to handle it. So I wouldn't be concerned about any description discrepancies there.
Bert Harper Frank, that is so true. We get that question quite often. And, so, you know, it's, it's good that we want the best translation. And, I can just tell you, I love, I, I love the new living translation. I do. but for Bible study, that you want to know something about new, American standard, new King James man, dig in, and it's always good.
John Boler Frank, thank you so much for calling on about the new King James. I've been preaching from the new king James since 27, 2007. I find it to be very, very reliable, very accurate when it comes to Greek and Hebrew as well.
Bert Harper And when you're as old as I am and you memorized everything in the King James, the new King James just changes the vowels and the runneth. And that, really helps out. Well, you're listening to Exploring the Word. And we'll be back right after the break.
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Dr. Jessica Peck Oh, it chases me down fights till I'm found leaves the 99 I couldn't earn and I don't deserve it still you give yourself away.
Hosts Share Christian Encouragement And Welcome Online Questions
Bert Harper Welcome back to Exploring the Word. The love of God is amazing. Leaving 99 to go get that one.
John Boler That's right.
Bert Harper man, when you're the one, you're thankful.
John Boler Amen.
Bert Harper Amen. M and we are the one. If you've been born again, he loves you. And if you've never accepted Christ as your personal savior and Lord, we invite you to. We want you to know him. we're headed in the wrong directions. Paul caught being the natural man going our way. There's a way that seems right to a man, but the ends thereof are the ways of death. So we turn to God, go his way. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. And if you'll trust him with all your heart and all your life as you turn to him, I want to tell you, it will change your life forever. You're talking to three guys here whose lives have been changed by Jesus and he is Lord. Well, we get, [email protected] the first one that Brent asked was that we also get them on Facebook.
Alex McFarland That's right. And we're. I'm always on Facebook when I can get to it during the live stream anytime. So you're always welcome to ask questions, prayer requests, anytime. Praises. Just, stick them on there and I will do my best to get them on the air.
Revelation Three Ten Is Interpreted As Future Tribulation Protection
This one comes from Kristie Anyabwile on Facebook. She says, God bless you guys. I'm so thankful for your ministry. I Have a question. Can you explain Revelation 3:10?
Bert Harper Okay, here's what we're going to do. We got enough calls. we'll start with the first one, and then if you have something to add to it, we'll do it so we can get to all these calls. Jon, this one is yours.
John Boler Revelation 3:10 says, because you have kept my command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole earth to test those who dwell in the earth. Kristie Anyabwile, thank you so much for this question here in Revelation 3, verse 10. eschatology is a study of the end times. It's a wonderful study. I tell anybody who asks or reads anything in Revelation. I said, I want to remind you what, the very, very beginning of Revelation says. It's a revelation of Jesus Christ. So this ought to be a book that is a favorite for believers. it's not a book to run from. But here in 3:10, from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole earth. There's a couple of different schools of thought concerning, end times. and a lot of it deals with the calling away of the church. When does that, is it going to happen? I believe this is in Revelation 3, verse 10 is where the Lord Jesus will call the church away. I, believe it's the next event on God's calendar, based off of, first Thessalonians, chapter four, the calling away, of the church from the hour of trial, which I believe Revelation is in. Revelation is the seven year old tribulation time that we see in chapter six all the way through chapter 18 of the book of Revelation. That hour of trial which shall come upon the entire earth, is a time of persecution. It's also a time of trial. It's a time of judgment that comes from the Lord. It starts out, peaceful with the rise of the Antichrist. this is a question that I could take 20 minutes for, but I know we've got to get to other questions, but Christie, specifically, I just believe this is where Jesus says the church will be called away from the hour, saved from the wrath to come. Dillon, you want to add anything there?
Dillon Well, I would only add that the verse talks about the hour trial coming on the whole world. So it's not just about this one church in the first century that was going through a trial. This is about something that's going to be on the whole world, which leads me to believe that it's a future event from the perspective of when it was written. And it's talking about this time after the rapture, during the tribulation period, where we will be protected from his believers.
Bert Harper Okay, great.
Prayer Books Can Help But Personal Prayer Comes From Heart
Guys, let's go to Texas and talk to Cullen. Cullen, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline yes, sir. You guys are pretty knowledgeable people, and I'm trying to get your opinion of the Concordia Publishing House. A book, a
Caroline prayer book. 1957.
Caroline above the
Caroline 75
Caroline or 76. Really. And, word again maybe 30, 35 years ago. And I'm real careful what I read. Yeah.
Caroline So I want to be. I've had. I handed it all to my family, but this, this one was cop in 1957. And I know you guys don't know everything, but
Bert Harper thank you.
Caroline M. manufacturers, that I compete with that they poor. Put up poor products. There's some that put out good products.
Bert Harper That is right. Cullen. I thank you for calling. And that is so true. you. The. One of the smartest things you said is be careful what you read. Now in college and seminary, I had to read some stuff I didn't really want to read. Yeah, but my professor says you got to read it so you can know it, so that you know why it's wrong with it. And it was helpful, I think. This is Dillon first. Dillon, would you. Are you familiar with that 1957 prayer book?
Dillon not in detail. He was breaking up a little bit on me, so I didn't get a lot of the questions. So I may not be in the best position to answer some of what he was asking. I'll let one of you jump in on that one, if you would.
John Boler Colin Alred, are you still with us? Yes. Okay. Is it a book about prayer or is it a book
Caroline of, many prayers?
John Boler Okay,
Caroline what's got one for birthdays, weddings. Ah, self pity, frustration. I'm just reading the front.
John Boler Sure, sure.
Caroline Patient M. Consecrated life.
John Boler Yeah. Let me. Let me just encourage you. There's nothing wrong with. With reading a, prayer like that. But let me just encourage you to. As we wrap this up, that prayer, is from your heart and. And as you. As you bow and as you pray that you speak with the lo. Puts in your heart, it's not wrong to read prayers. it's certainly not wrong to read prayers from the Bible, but, from another source. I'm not familiar with the source from 1957. but when, it comes to birthdays or anniversaries or something like that, I, would let the Lord speak to your heart and Just see where he goes from there.
Bert Harper I would too. Cullen, what you have, you, find those prayers that send the Bible and you pray that, like I do the prayer for the church at Colossae and I preach that. When I do anything like that, I preach from that one because that's my prayer for that church as well. Brent has found out it's a Lutheran concordial book from 19. Okay, Lutheran. It tells you a little bit about the, I would say ritual.
John Boler Sure.
Bert Harper Part of that. So Cullen, praying from your heart. Listen. God listens. And he'd rather hear your heart, than someone else's words. And so we're praying. Thank you, Cullen, for that.
New Heaven And Earth Remove Sin Death And Suffering
Let's go to Georgia and talk to Danny. Danny, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Yes, sir. For years and years I know that it's taught in, you know, in the churches that, you know, when we die, we go to heaven. In the book of Revelations, after Jesus thousand year reign, God will destroy the earth and rebuild it. If he's going to do that, why would we be going to heaven to live?
Bert Harper Okay. Yeah. And go ahead. As
Caroline I say, I had asked somebody else who studied the Bible this same question and they told me the reason God would destroy the earth and rebuild it is because he can't. I've never known God to do anything for no reason.
Bert Harper Okay, the new heaven and a new earth. Ah, they are coming. has something to do with sin. Running and shrimping and setting up things for the rest. I think it was Dr. Robert Jeffries. I heard not too long ago, guys, that he said that the paradise, Abraham's bosom that we're going to. It is a. It is with Jesus where he is, but it's temporary because he's coming back and we're going to have a new heaven, new earth. you know, Dillon, would you respond to Danny?
Dillon Sure. And it is confusing sometimes because we think about where we go if we die now and then we think about this new heaven and new earth that's described in Revelation 21 and 22. But the thing that I keep comfort in is when it talks about all things will be made new. The curse is broken, Sin is no more. The beginning of Revelation 21 that talks about there is no longer any sea. says there were verse four. There will be no more death, mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. That is the purpose right there. That everything that is broken in our world now will be removed and everything will be made new and perfect in the presence of God and all of his people for all time.
John Boler Yeah, good. Good answer there, Dillon. I love questions about heaven. And, Bob Pittman, who is just a great preacher still, preaching today, he said the best thing about heaven is trying to describe heaven is trying to describe the color red. To someone who doesn't see colors, whether they are colorblind or legally blind, heaven is such a mystery. But I do believe Revelation 21:22. This new heaven and new earth. No, more sin, no more sorrow, no more curse, no more crying. It's a brand new place.
Bert Harper Amen. And you want to make sure that is where you are going in eternity. you know, eternal, life is not just a quantity. It's a quality of life that starts here. Knowing Jesus now and those of you who are listening, if you're driving a truck, driving a car, if you're at home or at the office and you're listening and you've never been born again, trust, Jesus Christ as savior. I want to tell you it's a great adventure that he puts us on. Thank you, Danny.
Angels Are Created Beings With Distinct Roles And Orders
Let's go to Iowa and talk to Bob. Bob, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Hey,
Caroline guys, appreciate it. I. My question. I listening the other day to a show, and the guy was talking about angels being all born at the same time or created at the same time.
Caroline And then
Caroline I think I've always thought that Lucifer was the first created angel. And maybe God
Caroline did some
Caroline special things
Caroline for him.
Caroline I just wondered what the order of creation for angels is. And you got what you guys think.
John Boler thank you, Bob, for the call. So, angels are created beings. you certainly got that right. I do believe that, in the days of creation, that you put angels there and that they, cannot procreate, just like we talked about a few minutes ago. And, Lucifer, if you go back to, Isaiah, chapter 14, you also go back to Ezekiel 28 that talks about the fall, a fall of Lucifer and a third of the angels that fell with him, those what we call demons today, fallen angels. but yes, angels are created beings in the created order of God. and Lucifer, was a musician. The, Bible calls him a bright, star. but he's a creator. That's one thing you have to always keep in mind about Satan, Lucifer, whatever name you want to call him. Him, he is a created being. He will bow to the Lord.
Bert Harper Go ahead, Dillon.
Dillon Yeah. Two verses to add to that Genesis 2. One talks about the heavens and the earth. Were finished. And all the host of them. that's traditionally believed to include the angels in that phrase. All the host of them. And then an answer that's often referred to as job 38. It talks about, the questioning, where were you when I laid the earth's foundation and all the angels shouted for joy? So the question implies the angels were around at the earth's foundation and were all created at the same time at the beginning. So that seems to be the best understanding. Although scripture, of course, does not give us every detail we would like about how angels came into being.
Bert Harper And each is different. it wasn't like, okay, bam, they're all alike, principalities and powers. talking about those things, we wrestle not against those. So each demon was different. Cherubim and. Cherub. Cherubim, yeah. And all of those. And then when you describe Lucifer, he was probably one of, quote, the archangels Gabriel, you know, and Micah. And, so they're. They're different. So each one of them. And. And here's what really is important to me. When I found this out, angels, I didn't know. I found out that's a, you know, transliteration of the Greek word angelos, which means messenger. They're messengers of God that comes and brings what God says. We see that definitely with Joseph and Mary, you know, and so they have their position and they have their place.
John Boler And even the seven churches in Revelation to the. To the angel of the church. Now, pastors are not angels. Certainly not. Well, we got
Bert Harper two examples right here.
John Boler They are messengers to the messengers. but if you go back and read some of those earlier translations to the angels, Amen, the churches.
Bert Harper Thank you, Bob. Hope that helps.
Choose A Readable Bible Translation And Keep Reading Scripture
Well, we're going to the last caller of the day, and it's Howard in Louisiana. Howard, go right ahead, brother.
Caroline Hey, man, look, I love y' all show. I love all y'. All. Y' all are amazing, what y' all do. And I know it's all God.
Bert Harper Thank you,
Caroline King. You're welcome. I'm reading the King James er version, and all it is is KJV er. It says easy read. It takes the vowels and fees out. And I've heard so many people complain. If they would just pick that up and read it, I think it would be a blessing to them.
Bert Harper Well, let me. Let me just speak to that. That's what threw me off. I tell y' all what. I have a hard time. People want to know. People, don't want to know my ability in English and language. They don't Want to know? I guess that's why I love history and geography so much in the Bible. But anyway, the thous and the run, that always gave me trouble. And when I saw the new King James, that sounds just close and west worded right. I said, man, this is the one I need.
John Boler Yes, I certainly agree with that. King James, Old English, which is a modern translation. The original King James, I go back to English literature days at Blue Mountain and Beowulf trying to understand and read that. But, a new King James, easy read for me would be the new, I mean, the King James, er, version, to me is just the new King James. It's wonderful.
Bert Harper Dillon, help us out here before we close out today.
Dillon No, that's a great alternative. But, regardless of the translation you read, the key thing is to read it and to live it. And we want to encourage you to continue that well beyond our broadcast today to make God's Word a part of your daily life, not only with us, but in your own heart and in your own life. And we just appreciate the time to be with you today and be part of your spiritual journey. Journey.
Bert Harper Those of you that listen to AFR all the time know that my son and I do a weekend, exploring missions. And when, my son Nathan was being, ordained, they asked him that question, what's the best version? And he said, the one you're reading right now. And, so I thought that was awesome. That's right. So find one. If you're going to do some deep Bible study, as Jon and Dillon said, you get into kind of as much as you can, word for word, as best you can. And then if you need help, get that, m. devotional. And help, get those. It's more paraphrased, thought for thought. Guys, we'll be praying for you next week. I'm excited. Jon, take us out. Hey, I need to do that next week.
John Boler Those of you guys that are listening, stay in the word of God. You will not go wrong there. Keep reading and, we'll see you guys on Monday.
Caroline The views and opinions expressed in this broadcast may not necessarily reflect those of the American Family Association or American Family Radio.
On this Fire Away Friday edition of Exploring the Word, Bert Harper is joined by John Boler and Dillon Burroughs to answer listeners’ questions about Scripture, theology, and Christian living. Their discussion covers whether God can be described as nonbinary, how to think about Bible translations such as the New Living Translation and New King James Version, and what the Bible means by the “synagogue of Satan.”
The hosts also take on questions about Leviticus and its dietary laws, the “sons of God” and Nephilim in Genesis 6, the Trinity, Revelation’s promise to keep believers from a coming hour of trial, and the new heaven and new earth. Along the way, they discuss prayer, angels, and why the most important Bible translation is the one you’re reading and putting into practice. Tune in for thoughtful, accessible answers, and an encouraging reminder to keep studying God’s Word.
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