Jeff Chamblee It's Fireaway Friday. Fire Away 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 exploringtheword. Exploring the word.
Bert Harper It's Fire Away Friday on American Family Radio. The Bible is filled. Real important questions. What will you do with Jesus the Christ? Am, I my brother's keeper? God asks, hey, Adam, where are you? Well, on Fireway Friday, we get questions. Now, again, may not be as short and as emphatic as those, but we are ready for those questions. This is Fire Away Friday, and if you have a Bible question, we would love to hear it today. And, and that number is 8885-8988-4088-8589-8840. The lines are open, so you can make that call right now. we look forward to this, Alex, but let's do something real quick. Alex, as well. And it will require another phone number, so don't get them mixed up. But share a thon is coming, which means listener stories. and we're collecting them right now. Alex.
Alex McFarland Well, we really are. The number now, this is not for call in with Bible questions. This is to share a listener story, if you would call it. Bert, what is that number? Give it, if you will.
Bert Harper It is 8778-7688-9387-7876, 88931 or 2 minutes and tell what God has done in your life as using AFR as a instrument of God to change lives, to help people, to difference. Alex.
Alex McFarland Amen. You know, I'm on the road. I have the privilege of traveling quite a bit, and people come up and they'll just explain how the Lord has blessed their life through American Family Radio or maybe through exploring the Word. And very often I'll say, wait just a minute, let me record this. Because we give God the glory, but those listener testimonies, they will help, us just praise and lift up God for what he's doing. We want God to use these programs, and we believe he is. So call in and tell us what, exploring the Word means to you and all the other great programs that number 877-876-8893. But now here's a completely different number. If you have a bible questions, it's triple 858-98840. Bert, I have to tell you, I love Friday I really do. do you have a honeydew list for tomorrow?
Bert Harper I already got it. I already started it.
Alex McFarland All right. Saturday's a day for. Yeah, so. And will you be in a pulpit somewhere?
Bert Harper I will be at Ozark Baptist Church, where I've been interim pastor about 20 months now. Man, we're enjoying that. And just, it. If you're in northeast Mississippi, you can find where this is off the Natchez Trace real close. And, it starts at 11 o'. Clock. I'd love to see you there. How about you, Alex?
Alex McFarland Well, I have the great honor of being at Mount Pleasant Church outside of Greensboro, little community called Kimesville or Liberty. And, Mount Pleasant Church. I want to say a big shout out. I've got a dear friend, Dr. Brett Nolker. He and his wife were originally from Arkansas, and he was in the music department at UNC Greensboro for a lot of years. An amazing man of God. He preached for me last Sunday. Dr. Brett Noelker. But I'll be there this Sunday at, Mount Pleasant Church, 11:00am in Kimesville, North Carolina. And I want to say a big shout out. He's listening right now, I bet. Matt Williams. Matt is a man of God and he's growing in the Lord. And he just several weeks ago started leading a Bible study. He's been doing the Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. And I know he's probably listening. Matt, I'm so proud of you leading a men's Bible study at Mount Pleasant. And we just look forward to God continuing to use you and Bert. the spirit of the Lord is calling out people and raising up people. Preach the gospel isn't.
Bert Harper Amen. And we need more of them. More churches are looking for pastors than you could ever believe. And so, those of you listen. Ah, I know a real, real good friend of mine. He's gone on to build the Lord. he started, he said God got ahold of his life at 40 something years old, went back to college, made a difference, and, pastored churches. So don't think you're too old or too late. if God's speaking to your heart, say, God, I'm ready. Equip me. And he, will. Alex, the phone lines man, they started. and we've got calls on the line. So that number, and we still have some available. 888-589-8840. And let's go to NewSong Mexico and talk to Mario. Mario, thank you for calling, brother. Go right ahead.
Speaker C Okay. I was reading Matthews 24, verse 9, where it says, then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted and shall kill you, and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. Is that the saint? If so, where does the rapture come in?
Bert Harper Okay, Alex, this is. Let me read the context before. This is so important. Jesus answered and said to them, now, this is important questions, Jesus. They were showing him the buildings of the temple in verse 24, verse 1. And do you not see all these things? Jesus asked the question. Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone will be left here upon another that shall not be thrown down. and they came to the Mount of Olives, and he talked to them privately, and they asked, tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age? Alex, it's setting it up. And, far as this temple, it would be tor. Is it 56, ad that it was, torn down? Was. Or is it later than that? 70 A.D. 70 A.D. that's it. I knew I didn't get it wrong. And. Go ahead, brother.
Alex McFarland Well, so the. The Olivet discourse. And that's what Matthew 24 is. It's also in, Mark 13, in Luke 21. Fascinating. And I believe this is, as Warren Wiersbe would say, the now and the not yet or really the near future. For example, in March, of 70 A.D. rome pretty much blitzkriegged Jerusalem and tore down the temple. And most of the Jewish people were dispersed throughout the world for quite a number of years. And a lot of these things. Did you know, nation rise against nation. The verse 8, these are the beginning of sorrows. believe it or not, for 2,000 years, we've been in the last days. And, you know, it's. It says that many were. Would be delivered up and killed. But the fact that the majority of this discourse relates to the very, very end times. I mean, you look at verse 15 and following, I think we're. We're in a way in verse 14 of Matthew 24, this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world, for witness to all nations. Then the end shall come. In a way, Bert, where we are in the church age is like Matthew 24:14, but 15. And following the great tribulation, which is yet to be, the Son of Man returning in glory, verses 27 through 31. And then in a way, 32, 35 is really the end of the tribulation and ultimately the millennial reign of Christ. And then finally, chapter 24, you know, watch and be faithful. Because Christ returned. We don't know the day or the hour. Son of man returns in an hour. That you do not think. I think the majority of Matthew 24 has to be yet future birth.
Bert Harper I agree. And you this. Look what's happening right now in Nigeria. I mean, it is horrible what's happening to believers in Nigeria. It is hideous is what's happening to believers in Iran.
Speaker C Right.
Alex McFarland I was going to say.
Bert Harper Yeah, I was going to say. I, mean, there's. This has been taking place, Mario, for quite a while, but it's regional because it's going to be, where it's going to be, worldwide. And so I hate, And like you said, Warren Wiersbe, the here now and the coming later. but these are glimpses of it. It's called great tribulation. But the church has in areas always been in some tribulation and difficulty, Alex. And so I hope. We hope that helps. Mario, we appreciate you calling from NewSong Mexico. Let's go to Mississippi and talk to Charles. Charles, thank you for calling. Go right ahead, brother.
Speaker C Hello, guys. Good afternoon. Thank you all very much for, I was wondering about, You know, we have three meals a day. I was wondering about the. You know, when the Jews going through the wilderness. For 40 years, God supplied manna in the morning. And I'm just wondering, you know, does it say anything in the Bible about how they work that out as far as they use that amenity that they got in the morning and kind of divided up so they could. They could have lunch and supper, you know, from the manna?
Bert Harper Yeah. Okay, Charles, we're having trouble. I think we got enough of it. those of you, if you could leave it off of, and just talk into your phone. Don't put, You know, just makes, it easier. What is that? I'm trying to say, Brent there. Make, sure you don't have your radio on. Yeah. Not talking through headphones. Yeah. And, straight into the speaker of the phone. It would help if you're on the speaker phone. That speaker phone detrimental. It starts it here. But I think we got enough of it, didn't we, Alex?
Alex McFarland Yeah, we did. You know, as I read about the time in the wilderness and God fed them by manna. the main thing that we know is they weren't supposed to, try to store it up and hoard it and how they maybe, The, times of day that they ate. I don't know, different People, according to their, you know, hunger level, I guess. But the main thing is that they weren't supposed to hoard it and store it, were they?
Bert Harper And it wasn't going to last another day. The only time it lasted two days was, was the day before the Sabbath. Yeah. And, if you, if you got more than you needed, it wasn't going to be there the next day anyway. Alex. yeah, it would deteriorate again. That's a miracle from God, Charles. Hope that helps. Well, let's go to Alabama and talk to Jeff. Jeff, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Speaker C Yes, good afternoon. Love you guys. Show well.
Bert Harper Thank you.
Speaker C Jeff, I got a question that, right there in the creation story, in Genesis 1, the question was, why is it, what's your opinion on this one? Day two, God did not say that it was good. He said it was good on all the other days. In fact, day six, it was very good. But not in day two, the separation of the waters. Do you have any comment on that as to why?
Bert Harper I will take the second one. After he made woman, he said it was very good, for sure. Alex. Day two.
Alex McFarland Yeah, I'm looking at Genesis 1, 6, 7. and it does say that God called the firmament heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day. The one thing I would say, okay, the word firmament is really expanse or space. Whereas on the second day it wasn't that something new was called into existence, but it was basically a positioning of existing matter. And whereas at the end of verse, you know, you know, one through five, you know, and God saw that it was good, you know, every time God pronounces a good over everything, and like in verse 31, everything he had made was very good. On day two, it's just more of a, a, ah, reordering and a positioning of existing matter, not the calling into existence of new matter. So every time he calls something into existence, he pronounces that it was good. on day two, he just. It was the positioning of existing material.
Bert Harper And there he said it was so,
Alex McFarland you know, it was so.
Bert Harper It was so, so just a little difference there. And it would work out to be good, but good call there, Jeff. We'll be back with more of Fire Away Friday right after this break. Don't go away. 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.netgive that's afr.net give
Alex McFarland dear friends, don't be surprised at the
Bert Harper fiery trials you are going through as if something strange were happening to you.
Alex McFarland Instead, be very glad, for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the
Bert Harper wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world. 1st Peter 4:12
Alex McFarland soon and very soon we are going to see the King soon and very soon we are going to see the King. Soon and very soon we are going to.
Speaker C Hallelujah.
Bert Harper Hallelujah.
Speaker C We're going to see the King.
Alex McFarland Amen. Soon M. And very soon we're going to see the King that is King Jesus. Welcome back to Exploring the Word. Alex McFarland, Bert Harper, Brent Austin. So glad that you're listening. The number, if you've got a Bible question, it's 888-589-884 40. Love to have you call in and Bert and I will do our best to give you a good answer. And, I bet we have some calls on the computer even now, Bert, don't we?
Bert Harper We are, we are lined up and we're going to go to Virginia and talk to Walter. Walter, thank you for calling.
Speaker C Thank you. it is a pleasure finally getting you guys. I, love you guys. I love your show. God bless you both. I was reading today this morning Psalm 92. where it says in the new. I mean, the King James Version speaks about, it's speaking about the Sabbath. And then it has to, the word unicorn. and then the NIV version says, you have exalted my horn like that of a wild ox. I got a little confused. I thought maybe the unicorn was kind of like a mythology. mythology, character. So I want to see if you guys, some clarification.
Bert Harper okay, brother, that that is verse 10. again, the new King James has changed it or has it translated wild ox. There's no evidence of, unicorn as we know it. Alex, go ahead, man.
Alex McFarland Yeah, I'm going to look this word up in the original language and see what it is. Psalm, 92, verse 10. and it kirim K I R E M M is the Hebrew word. And the Lexcon says, you know, it's a wild ox. Now, or says wild ox or wild bull. And I have to confess why. okay, unicornis is, is a Latin word comparable to rhinoceros. So let me read this, for Lo thine enemies, O Lord, thy enemies shall perish. All the workers of iniquity shall be scattered. But my horn or my strength? Very often in the old King James, if it says like the horn of my salvation, it means strength. God shall exalt. Like the horn of a unicorn, I shall be anointed with fresh oil. That's a Latin word. That is basically the counterpart of a rhinoceros. Now we know rhinoceros exist. And by the way, do you know, Bert, we were in Africa a few years ago and they were telling us, they were briefing us, we were deep in the wild. This was about 12 years ago. Rhinoceros are very dangerous animals.
Bert Harper Yeah, they are.
Alex McFarland In fact, a lot of people annually die from altercations with the rhinoceros. So, yeah, I would say it's not the unicorn you think of like in the cartoon, but it's, this very, ah, fearsome. At least a wild ox or bull. And maybe it actually was a fearsome animal that we know as the rhinoceros.
Bert Harper Yeah, and names change, but the way we use unicorn, I don't know. in 1611, what they, you know, that would be interesting to find that out, Al. I'm going to do a search on that too, in history about, the word unicorn and when it came about. So that may be an issue with that as well. Walter. Thank you for that. Let's go to Texas and talk to Stephanie. Stephanie, you're here on the radio with Exploring the, word. Go right ahead.
Thank you. Thank you. God bless both of you. I have a question. I'd like to know if Ismael is the Judas of, the Old Testament. Could you please, expound, you know, expand that out and contract, and kind of, you know, explain. The Judas was necessary even though he was evil, in the NewSong Testament, but he was necessary for God to, carry out his plan. So is Ishmael. In light of all the stuff that's happening in Iran and Iraq, in the cradle, over there in the Middle east, is it necessary? In other words, is it kind of like how it was with Judas?
Bert Harper Well, let's say this, Stephanie, interesting question. I'm telling you. Did you think of that or had you done some studying on that? Stephanie, I just want to ask.
I been thinking about. I've been pondering it because I've been trying to figure out how to pray about, Islamic, takeover in America.
Bert Harper I got you. Good, good. Anyway, let me say, yes, Judas carry it. God used what he did, but he. It wasn't, it was his choice to do it, Alex. God wasn't over there coercing him to do it. Right.
Alex McFarland Exactly. Exactly. And by the way, thank you for listening to the program, and God bless you for your, diligent study, of the Scriptures. do you know, Adrian Rogers, called Joab the Judas of the Old Testament. You know, King, David had a commander in chief that really, Joab acted very devoted, but then betrayed King David. so the Judas of the Old Testament, I don't know if we could call Ishmael the Judas of the Old Testament. I mean, the Judas of the Old Testament.
Speaker C Bert.
Bert Harper let me say betrayal. It doesn't. Would you. It's not the same, you know, it's not exactly competition, is there?
Alex McFarland Yeah, I think one of the greatest NewSong Testament analysis of Ishmael in the Old Testament would be Galatians 4, 2231, where Paul and, my goodness, probably the greatest human Old Testament scholar that ever lived, the Apostle Paul. but Abraham had two sons, one by the bond maid and the other by Sarah, the free woman. Okay? The child of the bond woman was born after the flesh, and that was Ishmael Hagar. But the child of the free woman, the woman of the covenant, was Sarah, who birthed Isaac. And of course, it was through the lineage of Isaac that Christ was born. And, you know, I don't think you can understand the present moment of world history without understanding what all the way back in the book of Genesis, it tells us. There's Isaac versus Ishmael, and of course, the children of Isaac or the Jewish people today. but I applaud the caller for having this question, because, Bert, you know, really, people ask me, is the Bible still relevant? Every bit of struggle in the world today day. I mean, how could you not believe the Bible? The Genesis 16 says that the children of Ishmael. And I'm not trying to. Look, God loves everybody. Everybody can come to Jesus if they will, but it says the sons of Ishmael will be wild, will set their face against every man, and they. They will dwell in opposition to their brethren. Well, the Muslims, they've been wild. in fact, I just interviewed yesterday a woman that escaped execution in Iran, and she talked about the brutality of the Muslims. And she just almost tearfully praised America for being willing to go to war and try to overturn the. The. The human rights violators known as the Islamic regime in. In Iran. Goes all the way back to the Ayatollah of 1979. But, Bert, I don't know that we could say that Ishmael was like Judas, but he was not the covenant child. The Messiah would not come from the line of Ishmael. And God loves all the Arabs. That anybody can be saved that will turn to Jesus. But salvation is of the Jews. the children of Isaac, led up to the lineage of Jesus. And it is Jesus who died and rose again for our salvation. It wasn't Barabbas that was crucified. It's not the line of Ishmael. And Lord knows it is not the Quran and Islam. It is the Holy Bible and the son of God, Jesus Christ, through whom we find salvation.
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland Through him alone.
Bert Harper Stephanie, thank you. Thank you for also Old Testament, NewSong Testament, finding this. I agree with Al. Not a connection there, but finding those connections and the promises, it's such a blessing to do that. When you put those into context and see how God brings things about that. Always since the garden. Saved by grace through faith, you know that salvation is real. They look forward to that day. We look back on it. But it's only through Christ, Alex, like you said, not anyone else. Let's go to Ohio. And William is in Ohio. So, William, what's your question for us today? Go right ahead, brother.
Speaker C Thank you. Appreciate y'. All. Other question. You may have had this question answered, asked before, but. Or something similar, but was wondering about, special needs. my wife works with special needs adults and, also mentally ill adults. And all the. All the challenges brought by sin. how does God deal with them regarding salvation, heaven, and, should we evangelize those who cannot understand the gospel?
Bert Harper William, let me just say this. It's interesting that this question had come in right after I said this grace. Alex, I've, family members, not immediate, but cousins, mine, and different ones with, those issues. church members whose children were in those. And I just want to tell you, God. God has a place for them in he. In heaven. There's no doubt in my mind. What about you?
Alex McFarland I completely agree. we. We had a neighbor when I was young, and they had a very, very handicapped, special needs child. And Bert, it was, their last name was Cooper. C O O P E R. Two of the most godly people you'd ever know. They love the Lord, but they had a child that was severely handicapped, that actually lived for 25, 26 years. I know that. I know that. I know that. I know that young man went to heaven because, to turn to Christ to Repent from sin, turn to Christ. One has to have the mental capability to know what they're doing to understand accountability. And so I just don't believe that, God would judge nor condemn a person who. Well, I'm gonna put it this way. God would not mandate you do something that it's impossible for you to do.
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland You know, and Matthew 18:6, where Christ said, for someone to harm a child, it would be better to have a millstone around their neck and be thrown into the depths of the sea. And so a person that is mentally, incapacitated from birth and could never have comprehended their need of salvation, you know, they're going to go straight to heaven.
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland Now, why were they born and, to what good purpose? God always has a good purpose, even if you and I don't immediately know what that purpose is.
Bert Harper I want to say a testimony. My cousin Bobby, Down syndrome. I listen. He witnessed to more people. he would tell them Jesus is Lord, and, what a. And I just tell you, what a blessing he was. And, you know, I don't know everything about him, but I know it blessed, he blessed us.
Alex McFarland And, you know, Bert, I got to say this, too. Lena Cooper, she was a great, great friend of my grandmother. They were in circle together, if some of you remember. What circle is she? Everybody in our little neighborhood talked about what a godly woman she was. And even after her husband passed, she looked after that child. And let me tell you, a witness of the gospel and true Christianity came out of that household, from the sacrificial love of that family for their handicapped child.
Bert Harper Amen. Thank you for that. Good question, William. We appreciate it. Let's go to Alabama. Trey. Go right ahead.
Speaker C Hey, I appreciate Yalls ministry. Thank you for all that y' all do. I've been. God has directed me to read about the life of David. And I have been, you know, started to study that. And I started in 1st Samuel and was just progressing my way through it. Well, I came to, chapter 16, verse. I, think it's 4 and 14 and 15 about Saul. And I know Saul was rejected by God because of what he did. And, But when I got to reading this part where it said God withdrew his spirit from Saul and sent a evil spirit to torment him, I was just confused about that. I've been wanting to call you guys and talk about that or see what your opinion was.
Bert Harper Okay. Trey, we got about a minute. Alex, take that away. We may have to answer it on another side, but go ahead.
Alex McFarland Yeah, that, that's in 1st Samuel 16, verse 14. Okay. Saul had, vehemently disobeyed God multiple times. he gave unlawful sacrifices, he intruded into the priesthood. He didn't destroy the Amalekites as God had told him to do. And his heart was hardened toward God. And so the Holy Spirit stopped calling. Bert M. I think there's a warning in that for all of us too, is there not?
Bert Harper There really is. If you turn your heart toward God, you get further away. And it's going to happen. We're going to be right back after this break. Friend. We're living in a defining moment today. A woman facing an unexpected pregnancy can order the abortion pill online, often before anyone has the chance to tell her she is loved, she's not alone, or that there is hope. That's why you are needed right now. You were made for this moment. At PreBorn Network clinics, mothers are welcomed with compassion, practical support, and a free ultrasound. And when she sees her baby and hears that tiny heartbeat for the very first time, fear often gives way to hope. In fact, more than 80% of abortion vulnerable women choose life after seeing their baby on an ultrasound at a PreBorn Network clinic. That one moment can save a baby's life and open a mother's heart to the hope of Jesus Christ. This is our moment to stand. For those who cannot speak for themselves, just $28 provides one life saving ultrasound. $140 helps rescue five babies. Please don't wait. Dial 250. That's dial pound 250 and say the key word baby. That's pound 250 baby or gifts securely. Preborn.com Bert Harper that's preborn.com Bert Harper Together we can save lives one heartbeat at a time.
Speaker C Come Jesus,
we've been waiting so long for the day you return to heal every hurt, every word.
Bert Harper Amen. Love that song. Come, Jesus, Come, And Brent set us up on Jesus Christ Return today. We look forward to it. Make sure you're ready that you've received Jesus Christ as savior and lord of your life. If you haven't, trust him and do it today. Well, let's go to Arkansas. Linne, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
hi. I called the other day and I forgot to ask this. I asked a question on that day, but, can you tell me the name of the company that is really good on tracks where you can get all kinds of different ones that apply to different people?
Bert Harper Is that Chick which one? Is that Alex? Would you think it'd be that. Are they still in print?
Alex McFarland Do you know the Chick tracts? To be honest, I don't know. T R A C T S tracts. Like a little gospel booklet. I used to buy a lot from a place called American Tract Society. And, they're really good. Of course, the Billy Graham ministry makes a lot of good ones too. but I just rejoice that a caller wants to be giving out gospel booklets. Okay, but, look for American Tract Society.
Bert Harper Well, Brent has done got some information. Go ahead, Brent.
Brent I looked online.
Bert Harper I've got a friend that he gives. He's been giving these out for years, the Chick tracts. And yes, they are still active. They're on, I pulled them up on Google here, and they are active. Okay, I'll give you a testimony I heard on Dr. Dobson. these people were going out west, and every restroom they'd go into, male and female, they would put a track on the. On the. Somewhere in the restroom. So somebody would pick it up. And later on there's, a testimony on, that focus on the family under Dr. Dobson when he is with them about, how that's how an individual got saved. So be creative in using those tracks, Linne. We hope that helps. Okay, let's go to Arkansas. Janet, thank you for calling.
Good afternoon.
Bert Harper Yes, go right ahead.
I've been reading Daniel and Hosea, and I can't find the exact verse that it is. But it's either when Daniel is speaking to Gabriel or the man, and they say something about the book of Truth. And I was wondering, is that. Is he speaking of the Bible or something else?
Bert Harper Okay, Alex, do you remember where that might be found?
Alex McFarland Let, me see if It's Daniel, chapter 10. sometimes it's translated, the scripture of truth, but it's, definitely God's word. You know, let me look at Daniel. Alexa, the cat is on my desk wanting to get into the show. But Daniel 10:21, but I will show thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth. Daniel 10:21, sometimes translated the Book of Truth. There's none that holdeth with me in these things, but Micah, your prince. So this is part of this river. I mean, this, vision of a river that Daniel had. But I believe that the book of truth or the scripture of truth, it's God's word.
Bert Harper Amen. by the way, go through that. If you want to do a neat Bible study, go through there in Daniel 10 and look how it says how God touched in verse. 10 A hand touched me. And then you turn over and you find it again. In verse 18, the Lord touched me. You can find that in several places. Verse 16, he touched my lips. And see what all God does for Daniel in those areas. It'll be a blessing to all of you who do that Bible study. Let's go to Virginia and talk to David. David, thank you for calling.
Thank you.
Bert Harper Be sure and turn your radio. David. Yeah, we're on.
Speaker C Yeah, I'm not near a radio.
Bert Harper Okay.
Speaker C All right, so, I actually have two questions. Would you prefer I just stick to one?
Bert Harper We'll go with your first one and we'll do that one first and then we'll see if we have time.
Speaker C All right, so the first one is, is, every time we see a picture of the ark, it's this beautiful looking boat and it has a big curved part in the very front. But I thought that I learned from AFR somewhere is on one of the shows that are on, that it really wasn't, it was more rectangular and it was just you know, filled with SAP and not filled, but you know the, the pitch.
Bert Harper Right.
Speaker C It really wasn't ah, an arc. I mean it was an arc, but it wasn't. The front of. It didn't arc, it didn't have a curve. And then, my second question was, the sons of Noah. is, I was listening to something recently on the, on the shows and they were saying that the, the sons of Noah were where we get the Gentiles, or like there's like.
Bert Harper I don't understand the different ethnicities is what you're talking about. David. All ethnicities come from those three boys. All of them. We don't know exactly how the DNA worked or how their environment, worked, but all three, were doing that. Hey, we're going to answer that question about the ark, Alex. David, if you can't do anything else, if you can't go up to the ark encounter up in Northern Kentucky. But if you can get online and see the ark, I think you see what it would look like. Alex, go ahead.
Alex McFarland Yeah, you know, the ark was kind of like a barge and a lot of people have written how the proportions were great for stability. In rough ocean water. The ark would have been about 450ft long, 75ft wide, 45ft tall, and the dimensions, many people have said, and you know, as far as we know, this was the first boat ever built because prior to the flood of Noah, you know, the earth was watered with moisture that came up, you know, kind of like a greenhouse. So that ark would have been not anything like a modern cruise ship, but more like a barge. But, you know, Shem Ham and Japheth, the sons of Noah. The, the Jewish people came from the line of Shem Ham, who was the father of someone named Canaan. His sons populated, Egypt, Africa and the Middle East. The Hamites, but the Japhethites and Bert. The first person I ever heard teach on this at length would have been the late, the late, great Jon MacArthur. Japheth, his sons, were Gomer, Javan, and they populated Europe and Eurasia. as a Caucasian, if you're a Caucasian, you're a descendant of Japheth, the European people.
Bert Harper A Gentile.
Alex McFarland Yeah, gentile, that's right. but Shem Ham and Japheth, through that DNA, all the peoples and the ethnicities of the Earth came.
Bert Harper Amen. We hope that helps, brother, and thank, you so much. Let's go to Arkansas, man. We got a lot of callers from Arkansas today. Way to come through. And it's Blake. Thank you for calling.
Speaker C Hey, how you doing?
Bert Harper Doing well, man. Go right ahead.
Speaker C Alright, so my question was about the story of Samson. I'm trying to figure on how I can explain it to another. It does seem like at the end of Samson's story that God is, advocating or condoning Samson's suicide.
Bert Harper Okay, was it suicide, Alex? The way we understand suicide, I would
Alex McFarland say it was not. I mean, ah, and by the way, Samson, I love this biblical figure, one of the judges, and he's in Judges 13 through 16, you know, he committed sin, fell into bondage. And there he said, lord, let me, let me serve you, one more time, restore my strength. Now there's all of these, these pagans that are having this terrible, you know, orgy, if you will. And God gave Samson the strength and the directive to push down the columns. And so it's this worship of Dagon and Samson pushed apart the pillars of this Philistine temple.
Speaker C Push.
Alex McFarland And thousands died, including himself. And so it wasn't suicide. He was obeying God. Now it did put him in harm's way. Just like, you know, let's say a law enforcement officer gets killed in the line of duty. they, they answered the call to be a law enforcement officer. They die in the course of duty. But it wasn't suicide. So Samson obeyed the Lord in fighting Philistines. It did result in Samson's death. But it was a victorious, obedience to God. It was not sin, murder of self, nor suicide.
Bert Harper Blake, we hope that helps, because a lot of people do, that now Judas, he committed suicide, you know, went out and hung himself. And, but this, it's in a category. And I would agree with Alex. Military, you know, there's some people that they call it suicide missions, and they're in the military, and, they have the possibility of getting through, but the likelihood is not, and I would put it in those categories. Hope that helps. Brother, we appreciate you. Let's go to Louisiana and talk to Danny. Danny, thank you for calling.
Speaker C Yes, bless you.
Bert Harper Go right ahead.
Speaker C Yeah, yeah, listen, I'm calling for my wife. Her name's Rainey, and she has bad back problems, in fact, to the point where she has to use a walker all the time. And we've even been to the, back doctors, and they said her back is so bad they can't operate on it. And I know if they can operate it on it, the God can.
Bert Harper Amen.
Speaker C I would just like a prayer for her.
Bert Harper We're going to do that. What's her name? And spell it. Make sure I spell it right when I write it down.
Speaker C R, R, R, E. N, E. Okay, I got you.
Bert Harper Well, we're going to pray for her. And, Danny, we'll pray for you. A godly husband that loves his wife and wants to help and care. Alex, God can do it. He, There's nothing too hard for God, but God may have a ministry. I think of, Joni Eareckson. Tada. God gave her a greater ministry because God did not heal her from a back injury. So say God, I trust you no matter what. But we're going to pray for this. And Alex, if you'd lead us.
Alex McFarland Let's pray. Father. I pray for Reni. Lord, I know by miracle or by medicine or for ministry, Lord, your will is going to be done in this person's life. And, Lord, we believe in miracles. I've seen you miraculously heal, and that. That may be, your will for Reni's life. We just don't know. Maybe you'll through, doctors and medical science or a combination of both. But, Lord, either way. Lord, we pray for your presence, the peace of God. And like the Bible says, our times are in your hands and you do all things well. So, Lord, for this husband and family and this, dear lady with physical infirmity, Lord, your will be done. And we thank you in advance for what you're going to do. And we lift Reni up to you now. In Jesus name. Amen.
Bert Harper Amen. Danny. Thank you, brother. And I mean it when I say a testimony of a loving husband man. Husbands and wives, let's love one another, serve one another in the Lord. So, brother, it was a blessing talking with you. Let's go to Texas and talk to Joshua. Joshua, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Speaker C Hey, guys. so my question is about the ten virgins. The parable, the ten virgins. and I had a couple questions, actually. you know, all 10 virgins were anxiously. I believe it was 10. All 10 versions were anxiously awaiting. the groom. And all of them at one point in time had oil. And it's just some had extra oil. I'm wondering, what did the virgins represent? Both the righteous and the foolish. And what does the oil represent?
Bert Harper Okay. The whole idea is being prepared. I know that you. You got to look ahead, be prepared for what is coming your way. Second coming. In that case, Alex, go ahead. See if we can help Joshua.
Alex McFarland Yeah, this. This is in. In Matthew. let me say this about, Matthew 25, by the way. I wonder, and I'm not going to be dogmatic about this, but clearly there were, you know, five wise and five foolish. Oh, they all had some oil at the beginning. And maybe, just maybe that's the knowledge of God, the knowledge of accountability. Now, the five wise virgins had extra oil, and, it was not transferable. If you've ever seen something, they'll say, well, this warranty is not transferable. The oil was personal and it was individual. Bert, I could be wrong on this, but I think about this. Every human has some of the. And almost universally, oil represents the Holy Spirit, the work of the spirit, the presence of the spirit, the power of the spirit. Everybody has some knowledge of God. Now, Some, like Isaiah 55, whosoever will may come to the waters of life. No money. No, money come and freely receive. Not everybody comes to Jesus. When you get saved, not only are your sins washed away, but you get the indwelling holy Spirit. Maybe that's like the extra oil. And so, Bert, I think maybe the five foolish, they ignored what they had. They didn't, get saved. They were not ready for the call of the bridegroom. The five wise virgins were, What do you say on handling that story, that parable, Bert?
Bert Harper Well, I would say the same thing. It is. You have to. A little bit of speculation there, Alex, you know, but we know oil is that but the knowledge of God, you know, knowing about God, it starts there. Okay, I hear about God. That's what we do. We tell people about God. And people can say, okay, I believe God, but that's not salvation. Salvation is a relationship that comes through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit drawing them. So I think what, you're saying has to be close to what it is. There may be a little bit of variance there, but it is those wise, they were ready and when the groom came. So the whole idea, let's be ready. Make sure you've trusted Jesus as savior and Lord. Alex, I'd recommend people attend church. Worship the Lord Jesus Christ with a group of people and lift his name up on high. Would you recommend that?
Alex McFarland I was just going to say be in church on Sunday. be in the house of God Sunday and get people under the sound of the gospel. We are praying. Appreciate you listening to Exploring the Word. We sincerely do. Call in with those Lister listener testimonies, if you would. If you would, please tell somebody about exploring the Word in afr. But most of all, tell everybody about Jesus. The views and opinions expressed in this
broadcast may not necessarily reflect those of
Alex McFarland the American Family association or American Family Radio.
Jeff Chamblee It's Fireaway Friday. Fire Away 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 exploringtheword. Exploring the word.
Bert Harper It's Fire Away Friday on American Family Radio. The Bible is filled. Real important questions. What will you do with Jesus the Christ? Am, I my brother's keeper? God asks, hey, Adam, where are you? Well, on Fireway Friday, we get questions. Now, again, may not be as short and as emphatic as those, but we are ready for those questions. This is Fire Away Friday, and if you have a Bible question, we would love to hear it today. And, and that number is 8885-8988-4088-8589-8840. The lines are open, so you can make that call right now. we look forward to this, Alex, but let's do something real quick. Alex, as well. And it will require another phone number, so don't get them mixed up. But share a thon is coming, which means listener stories. and we're collecting them right now. Alex.
Alex McFarland Well, we really are. The number now, this is not for call in with Bible questions. This is to share a listener story, if you would call it. Bert, what is that number? Give it, if you will.
Bert Harper It is 8778-7688-9387-7876, 88931 or 2 minutes and tell what God has done in your life as using AFR as a instrument of God to change lives, to help people, to difference. Alex.
Alex McFarland Amen. You know, I'm on the road. I have the privilege of traveling quite a bit, and people come up and they'll just explain how the Lord has blessed their life through American Family Radio or maybe through exploring the Word. And very often I'll say, wait just a minute, let me record this. Because we give God the glory, but those listener testimonies, they will help, us just praise and lift up God for what he's doing. We want God to use these programs, and we believe he is. So call in and tell us what, exploring the Word means to you and all the other great programs that number 877-876-8893. But now here's a completely different number. If you have a bible questions, it's triple 858-98840. Bert, I have to tell you, I love Friday I really do. do you have a honeydew list for tomorrow?
Bert Harper I already got it. I already started it.
Alex McFarland All right. Saturday's a day for. Yeah, so. And will you be in a pulpit somewhere?
Bert Harper I will be at Ozark Baptist Church, where I've been interim pastor about 20 months now. Man, we're enjoying that. And just, it. If you're in northeast Mississippi, you can find where this is off the Natchez Trace real close. And, it starts at 11 o'. Clock. I'd love to see you there. How about you, Alex?
Alex McFarland Well, I have the great honor of being at Mount Pleasant Church outside of Greensboro, little community called Kimesville or Liberty. And, Mount Pleasant Church. I want to say a big shout out. I've got a dear friend, Dr. Brett Nolker. He and his wife were originally from Arkansas, and he was in the music department at UNC Greensboro for a lot of years. An amazing man of God. He preached for me last Sunday. Dr. Brett Noelker. But I'll be there this Sunday at, Mount Pleasant Church, 11:00am in Kimesville, North Carolina. And I want to say a big shout out. He's listening right now, I bet. Matt Williams. Matt is a man of God and he's growing in the Lord. And he just several weeks ago started leading a Bible study. He's been doing the Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. And I know he's probably listening. Matt, I'm so proud of you leading a men's Bible study at Mount Pleasant. And we just look forward to God continuing to use you and Bert. the spirit of the Lord is calling out people and raising up people. Preach the gospel isn't.
Bert Harper Amen. And we need more of them. More churches are looking for pastors than you could ever believe. And so, those of you listen. Ah, I know a real, real good friend of mine. He's gone on to build the Lord. he started, he said God got ahold of his life at 40 something years old, went back to college, made a difference, and, pastored churches. So don't think you're too old or too late. if God's speaking to your heart, say, God, I'm ready. Equip me. And he, will. Alex, the phone lines man, they started. and we've got calls on the line. So that number, and we still have some available. 888-589-8840. And let's go to NewSong Mexico and talk to Mario. Mario, thank you for calling, brother. Go right ahead.
Speaker C Okay. I was reading Matthews 24, verse 9, where it says, then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted and shall kill you, and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. Is that the saint? If so, where does the rapture come in?
Bert Harper Okay, Alex, this is. Let me read the context before. This is so important. Jesus answered and said to them, now, this is important questions, Jesus. They were showing him the buildings of the temple in verse 24, verse 1. And do you not see all these things? Jesus asked the question. Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone will be left here upon another that shall not be thrown down. and they came to the Mount of Olives, and he talked to them privately, and they asked, tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age? Alex, it's setting it up. And, far as this temple, it would be tor. Is it 56, ad that it was, torn down? Was. Or is it later than that? 70 A.D. 70 A.D. that's it. I knew I didn't get it wrong. And. Go ahead, brother.
Alex McFarland Well, so the. The Olivet discourse. And that's what Matthew 24 is. It's also in, Mark 13, in Luke 21. Fascinating. And I believe this is, as Warren Wiersbe would say, the now and the not yet or really the near future. For example, in March, of 70 A.D. rome pretty much blitzkriegged Jerusalem and tore down the temple. And most of the Jewish people were dispersed throughout the world for quite a number of years. And a lot of these things. Did you know, nation rise against nation. The verse 8, these are the beginning of sorrows. believe it or not, for 2,000 years, we've been in the last days. And, you know, it's. It says that many were. Would be delivered up and killed. But the fact that the majority of this discourse relates to the very, very end times. I mean, you look at verse 15 and following, I think we're. We're in a way in verse 14 of Matthew 24, this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world, for witness to all nations. Then the end shall come. In a way, Bert, where we are in the church age is like Matthew 24:14, but 15. And following the great tribulation, which is yet to be, the Son of Man returning in glory, verses 27 through 31. And then in a way, 32, 35 is really the end of the tribulation and ultimately the millennial reign of Christ. And then finally, chapter 24, you know, watch and be faithful. Because Christ returned. We don't know the day or the hour. Son of man returns in an hour. That you do not think. I think the majority of Matthew 24 has to be yet future birth.
Bert Harper I agree. And you this. Look what's happening right now in Nigeria. I mean, it is horrible what's happening to believers in Nigeria. It is hideous is what's happening to believers in Iran.
Speaker C Right.
Alex McFarland I was going to say.
Bert Harper Yeah, I was going to say. I, mean, there's. This has been taking place, Mario, for quite a while, but it's regional because it's going to be, where it's going to be, worldwide. And so I hate, And like you said, Warren Wiersbe, the here now and the coming later. but these are glimpses of it. It's called great tribulation. But the church has in areas always been in some tribulation and difficulty, Alex. And so I hope. We hope that helps. Mario, we appreciate you calling from NewSong Mexico. Let's go to Mississippi and talk to Charles. Charles, thank you for calling. Go right ahead, brother.
Speaker C Hello, guys. Good afternoon. Thank you all very much for, I was wondering about, You know, we have three meals a day. I was wondering about the. You know, when the Jews going through the wilderness. For 40 years, God supplied manna in the morning. And I'm just wondering, you know, does it say anything in the Bible about how they work that out as far as they use that amenity that they got in the morning and kind of divided up so they could. They could have lunch and supper, you know, from the manna?
Bert Harper Yeah. Okay, Charles, we're having trouble. I think we got enough of it. those of you, if you could leave it off of, and just talk into your phone. Don't put, You know, just makes, it easier. What is that? I'm trying to say, Brent there. Make, sure you don't have your radio on. Yeah. Not talking through headphones. Yeah. And, straight into the speaker of the phone. It would help if you're on the speaker phone. That speaker phone detrimental. It starts it here. But I think we got enough of it, didn't we, Alex?
Alex McFarland Yeah, we did. You know, as I read about the time in the wilderness and God fed them by manna. the main thing that we know is they weren't supposed to, try to store it up and hoard it and how they maybe, The, times of day that they ate. I don't know, different People, according to their, you know, hunger level, I guess. But the main thing is that they weren't supposed to hoard it and store it, were they?
Bert Harper And it wasn't going to last another day. The only time it lasted two days was, was the day before the Sabbath. Yeah. And, if you, if you got more than you needed, it wasn't going to be there the next day anyway. Alex. yeah, it would deteriorate again. That's a miracle from God, Charles. Hope that helps. Well, let's go to Alabama and talk to Jeff. Jeff, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Speaker C Yes, good afternoon. Love you guys. Show well.
Bert Harper Thank you.
Speaker C Jeff, I got a question that, right there in the creation story, in Genesis 1, the question was, why is it, what's your opinion on this one? Day two, God did not say that it was good. He said it was good on all the other days. In fact, day six, it was very good. But not in day two, the separation of the waters. Do you have any comment on that as to why?
Bert Harper I will take the second one. After he made woman, he said it was very good, for sure. Alex. Day two.
Alex McFarland Yeah, I'm looking at Genesis 1, 6, 7. and it does say that God called the firmament heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day. The one thing I would say, okay, the word firmament is really expanse or space. Whereas on the second day it wasn't that something new was called into existence, but it was basically a positioning of existing matter. And whereas at the end of verse, you know, you know, one through five, you know, and God saw that it was good, you know, every time God pronounces a good over everything, and like in verse 31, everything he had made was very good. On day two, it's just more of a, a, ah, reordering and a positioning of existing matter, not the calling into existence of new matter. So every time he calls something into existence, he pronounces that it was good. on day two, he just. It was the positioning of existing material.
Bert Harper And there he said it was so,
Alex McFarland you know, it was so.
Bert Harper It was so, so just a little difference there. And it would work out to be good, but good call there, Jeff. We'll be back with more of Fire Away Friday right after this break. Don't go away. 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.netgive that's afr.net give
Alex McFarland dear friends, don't be surprised at the
Bert Harper fiery trials you are going through as if something strange were happening to you.
Alex McFarland Instead, be very glad, for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the
Bert Harper wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world. 1st Peter 4:12
Alex McFarland soon and very soon we are going to see the King soon and very soon we are going to see the King. Soon and very soon we are going to.
Speaker C Hallelujah.
Bert Harper Hallelujah.
Speaker C We're going to see the King.
Alex McFarland Amen. Soon M. And very soon we're going to see the King that is King Jesus. Welcome back to Exploring the Word. Alex McFarland, Bert Harper, Brent Austin. So glad that you're listening. The number, if you've got a Bible question, it's 888-589-884 40. Love to have you call in and Bert and I will do our best to give you a good answer. And, I bet we have some calls on the computer even now, Bert, don't we?
Bert Harper We are, we are lined up and we're going to go to Virginia and talk to Walter. Walter, thank you for calling.
Speaker C Thank you. it is a pleasure finally getting you guys. I, love you guys. I love your show. God bless you both. I was reading today this morning Psalm 92. where it says in the new. I mean, the King James Version speaks about, it's speaking about the Sabbath. And then it has to, the word unicorn. and then the NIV version says, you have exalted my horn like that of a wild ox. I got a little confused. I thought maybe the unicorn was kind of like a mythology. mythology, character. So I want to see if you guys, some clarification.
Bert Harper okay, brother, that that is verse 10. again, the new King James has changed it or has it translated wild ox. There's no evidence of, unicorn as we know it. Alex, go ahead, man.
Alex McFarland Yeah, I'm going to look this word up in the original language and see what it is. Psalm, 92, verse 10. and it kirim K I R E M M is the Hebrew word. And the Lexcon says, you know, it's a wild ox. Now, or says wild ox or wild bull. And I have to confess why. okay, unicornis is, is a Latin word comparable to rhinoceros. So let me read this, for Lo thine enemies, O Lord, thy enemies shall perish. All the workers of iniquity shall be scattered. But my horn or my strength? Very often in the old King James, if it says like the horn of my salvation, it means strength. God shall exalt. Like the horn of a unicorn, I shall be anointed with fresh oil. That's a Latin word. That is basically the counterpart of a rhinoceros. Now we know rhinoceros exist. And by the way, do you know, Bert, we were in Africa a few years ago and they were telling us, they were briefing us, we were deep in the wild. This was about 12 years ago. Rhinoceros are very dangerous animals.
Bert Harper Yeah, they are.
Alex McFarland In fact, a lot of people annually die from altercations with the rhinoceros. So, yeah, I would say it's not the unicorn you think of like in the cartoon, but it's, this very, ah, fearsome. At least a wild ox or bull. And maybe it actually was a fearsome animal that we know as the rhinoceros.
Bert Harper Yeah, and names change, but the way we use unicorn, I don't know. in 1611, what they, you know, that would be interesting to find that out, Al. I'm going to do a search on that too, in history about, the word unicorn and when it came about. So that may be an issue with that as well. Walter. Thank you for that. Let's go to Texas and talk to Stephanie. Stephanie, you're here on the radio with Exploring the, word. Go right ahead.
Thank you. Thank you. God bless both of you. I have a question. I'd like to know if Ismael is the Judas of, the Old Testament. Could you please, expound, you know, expand that out and contract, and kind of, you know, explain. The Judas was necessary even though he was evil, in the NewSong Testament, but he was necessary for God to, carry out his plan. So is Ishmael. In light of all the stuff that's happening in Iran and Iraq, in the cradle, over there in the Middle east, is it necessary? In other words, is it kind of like how it was with Judas?
Bert Harper Well, let's say this, Stephanie, interesting question. I'm telling you. Did you think of that or had you done some studying on that? Stephanie, I just want to ask.
I been thinking about. I've been pondering it because I've been trying to figure out how to pray about, Islamic, takeover in America.
Bert Harper I got you. Good, good. Anyway, let me say, yes, Judas carry it. God used what he did, but he. It wasn't, it was his choice to do it, Alex. God wasn't over there coercing him to do it. Right.
Alex McFarland Exactly. Exactly. And by the way, thank you for listening to the program, and God bless you for your, diligent study, of the Scriptures. do you know, Adrian Rogers, called Joab the Judas of the Old Testament. You know, King, David had a commander in chief that really, Joab acted very devoted, but then betrayed King David. so the Judas of the Old Testament, I don't know if we could call Ishmael the Judas of the Old Testament. I mean, the Judas of the Old Testament.
Speaker C Bert.
Bert Harper let me say betrayal. It doesn't. Would you. It's not the same, you know, it's not exactly competition, is there?
Alex McFarland Yeah, I think one of the greatest NewSong Testament analysis of Ishmael in the Old Testament would be Galatians 4, 2231, where Paul and, my goodness, probably the greatest human Old Testament scholar that ever lived, the Apostle Paul. but Abraham had two sons, one by the bond maid and the other by Sarah, the free woman. Okay? The child of the bond woman was born after the flesh, and that was Ishmael Hagar. But the child of the free woman, the woman of the covenant, was Sarah, who birthed Isaac. And of course, it was through the lineage of Isaac that Christ was born. And, you know, I don't think you can understand the present moment of world history without understanding what all the way back in the book of Genesis, it tells us. There's Isaac versus Ishmael, and of course, the children of Isaac or the Jewish people today. but I applaud the caller for having this question, because, Bert, you know, really, people ask me, is the Bible still relevant? Every bit of struggle in the world today day. I mean, how could you not believe the Bible? The Genesis 16 says that the children of Ishmael. And I'm not trying to. Look, God loves everybody. Everybody can come to Jesus if they will, but it says the sons of Ishmael will be wild, will set their face against every man, and they. They will dwell in opposition to their brethren. Well, the Muslims, they've been wild. in fact, I just interviewed yesterday a woman that escaped execution in Iran, and she talked about the brutality of the Muslims. And she just almost tearfully praised America for being willing to go to war and try to overturn the. The. The human rights violators known as the Islamic regime in. In Iran. Goes all the way back to the Ayatollah of 1979. But, Bert, I don't know that we could say that Ishmael was like Judas, but he was not the covenant child. The Messiah would not come from the line of Ishmael. And God loves all the Arabs. That anybody can be saved that will turn to Jesus. But salvation is of the Jews. the children of Isaac, led up to the lineage of Jesus. And it is Jesus who died and rose again for our salvation. It wasn't Barabbas that was crucified. It's not the line of Ishmael. And Lord knows it is not the Quran and Islam. It is the Holy Bible and the son of God, Jesus Christ, through whom we find salvation.
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland Through him alone.
Bert Harper Stephanie, thank you. Thank you for also Old Testament, NewSong Testament, finding this. I agree with Al. Not a connection there, but finding those connections and the promises, it's such a blessing to do that. When you put those into context and see how God brings things about that. Always since the garden. Saved by grace through faith, you know that salvation is real. They look forward to that day. We look back on it. But it's only through Christ, Alex, like you said, not anyone else. Let's go to Ohio. And William is in Ohio. So, William, what's your question for us today? Go right ahead, brother.
Speaker C Thank you. Appreciate y'. All. Other question. You may have had this question answered, asked before, but. Or something similar, but was wondering about, special needs. my wife works with special needs adults and, also mentally ill adults. And all the. All the challenges brought by sin. how does God deal with them regarding salvation, heaven, and, should we evangelize those who cannot understand the gospel?
Bert Harper William, let me just say this. It's interesting that this question had come in right after I said this grace. Alex, I've, family members, not immediate, but cousins, mine, and different ones with, those issues. church members whose children were in those. And I just want to tell you, God. God has a place for them in he. In heaven. There's no doubt in my mind. What about you?
Alex McFarland I completely agree. we. We had a neighbor when I was young, and they had a very, very handicapped, special needs child. And Bert, it was, their last name was Cooper. C O O P E R. Two of the most godly people you'd ever know. They love the Lord, but they had a child that was severely handicapped, that actually lived for 25, 26 years. I know that. I know that. I know that. I know that young man went to heaven because, to turn to Christ to Repent from sin, turn to Christ. One has to have the mental capability to know what they're doing to understand accountability. And so I just don't believe that, God would judge nor condemn a person who. Well, I'm gonna put it this way. God would not mandate you do something that it's impossible for you to do.
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland You know, and Matthew 18:6, where Christ said, for someone to harm a child, it would be better to have a millstone around their neck and be thrown into the depths of the sea. And so a person that is mentally, incapacitated from birth and could never have comprehended their need of salvation, you know, they're going to go straight to heaven.
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland Now, why were they born and, to what good purpose? God always has a good purpose, even if you and I don't immediately know what that purpose is.
Bert Harper I want to say a testimony. My cousin Bobby, Down syndrome. I listen. He witnessed to more people. he would tell them Jesus is Lord, and, what a. And I just tell you, what a blessing he was. And, you know, I don't know everything about him, but I know it blessed, he blessed us.
Alex McFarland And, you know, Bert, I got to say this, too. Lena Cooper, she was a great, great friend of my grandmother. They were in circle together, if some of you remember. What circle is she? Everybody in our little neighborhood talked about what a godly woman she was. And even after her husband passed, she looked after that child. And let me tell you, a witness of the gospel and true Christianity came out of that household, from the sacrificial love of that family for their handicapped child.
Bert Harper Amen. Thank you for that. Good question, William. We appreciate it. Let's go to Alabama. Trey. Go right ahead.
Speaker C Hey, I appreciate Yalls ministry. Thank you for all that y' all do. I've been. God has directed me to read about the life of David. And I have been, you know, started to study that. And I started in 1st Samuel and was just progressing my way through it. Well, I came to, chapter 16, verse. I, think it's 4 and 14 and 15 about Saul. And I know Saul was rejected by God because of what he did. And, But when I got to reading this part where it said God withdrew his spirit from Saul and sent a evil spirit to torment him, I was just confused about that. I've been wanting to call you guys and talk about that or see what your opinion was.
Bert Harper Okay. Trey, we got about a minute. Alex, take that away. We may have to answer it on another side, but go ahead.
Alex McFarland Yeah, that, that's in 1st Samuel 16, verse 14. Okay. Saul had, vehemently disobeyed God multiple times. he gave unlawful sacrifices, he intruded into the priesthood. He didn't destroy the Amalekites as God had told him to do. And his heart was hardened toward God. And so the Holy Spirit stopped calling. Bert M. I think there's a warning in that for all of us too, is there not?
Bert Harper There really is. If you turn your heart toward God, you get further away. And it's going to happen. We're going to be right back after this break. Friend. We're living in a defining moment today. A woman facing an unexpected pregnancy can order the abortion pill online, often before anyone has the chance to tell her she is loved, she's not alone, or that there is hope. That's why you are needed right now. You were made for this moment. At PreBorn Network clinics, mothers are welcomed with compassion, practical support, and a free ultrasound. And when she sees her baby and hears that tiny heartbeat for the very first time, fear often gives way to hope. In fact, more than 80% of abortion vulnerable women choose life after seeing their baby on an ultrasound at a PreBorn Network clinic. That one moment can save a baby's life and open a mother's heart to the hope of Jesus Christ. This is our moment to stand. For those who cannot speak for themselves, just $28 provides one life saving ultrasound. $140 helps rescue five babies. Please don't wait. Dial 250. That's dial pound 250 and say the key word baby. That's pound 250 baby or gifts securely. Preborn.com Bert Harper that's preborn.com Bert Harper Together we can save lives one heartbeat at a time.
Speaker C Come Jesus,
we've been waiting so long for the day you return to heal every hurt, every word.
Bert Harper Amen. Love that song. Come, Jesus, Come, And Brent set us up on Jesus Christ Return today. We look forward to it. Make sure you're ready that you've received Jesus Christ as savior and lord of your life. If you haven't, trust him and do it today. Well, let's go to Arkansas. Linne, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
hi. I called the other day and I forgot to ask this. I asked a question on that day, but, can you tell me the name of the company that is really good on tracks where you can get all kinds of different ones that apply to different people?
Bert Harper Is that Chick which one? Is that Alex? Would you think it'd be that. Are they still in print?
Alex McFarland Do you know the Chick tracts? To be honest, I don't know. T R A C T S tracts. Like a little gospel booklet. I used to buy a lot from a place called American Tract Society. And, they're really good. Of course, the Billy Graham ministry makes a lot of good ones too. but I just rejoice that a caller wants to be giving out gospel booklets. Okay, but, look for American Tract Society.
Bert Harper Well, Brent has done got some information. Go ahead, Brent.
Brent I looked online.
Bert Harper I've got a friend that he gives. He's been giving these out for years, the Chick tracts. And yes, they are still active. They're on, I pulled them up on Google here, and they are active. Okay, I'll give you a testimony I heard on Dr. Dobson. these people were going out west, and every restroom they'd go into, male and female, they would put a track on the. On the. Somewhere in the restroom. So somebody would pick it up. And later on there's, a testimony on, that focus on the family under Dr. Dobson when he is with them about, how that's how an individual got saved. So be creative in using those tracks, Linne. We hope that helps. Okay, let's go to Arkansas. Janet, thank you for calling.
Good afternoon.
Bert Harper Yes, go right ahead.
I've been reading Daniel and Hosea, and I can't find the exact verse that it is. But it's either when Daniel is speaking to Gabriel or the man, and they say something about the book of Truth. And I was wondering, is that. Is he speaking of the Bible or something else?
Bert Harper Okay, Alex, do you remember where that might be found?
Alex McFarland Let, me see if It's Daniel, chapter 10. sometimes it's translated, the scripture of truth, but it's, definitely God's word. You know, let me look at Daniel. Alexa, the cat is on my desk wanting to get into the show. But Daniel 10:21, but I will show thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth. Daniel 10:21, sometimes translated the Book of Truth. There's none that holdeth with me in these things, but Micah, your prince. So this is part of this river. I mean, this, vision of a river that Daniel had. But I believe that the book of truth or the scripture of truth, it's God's word.
Bert Harper Amen. by the way, go through that. If you want to do a neat Bible study, go through there in Daniel 10 and look how it says how God touched in verse. 10 A hand touched me. And then you turn over and you find it again. In verse 18, the Lord touched me. You can find that in several places. Verse 16, he touched my lips. And see what all God does for Daniel in those areas. It'll be a blessing to all of you who do that Bible study. Let's go to Virginia and talk to David. David, thank you for calling.
Thank you.
Bert Harper Be sure and turn your radio. David. Yeah, we're on.
Speaker C Yeah, I'm not near a radio.
Bert Harper Okay.
Speaker C All right, so, I actually have two questions. Would you prefer I just stick to one?
Bert Harper We'll go with your first one and we'll do that one first and then we'll see if we have time.
Speaker C All right, so the first one is, is, every time we see a picture of the ark, it's this beautiful looking boat and it has a big curved part in the very front. But I thought that I learned from AFR somewhere is on one of the shows that are on, that it really wasn't, it was more rectangular and it was just you know, filled with SAP and not filled, but you know the, the pitch.
Bert Harper Right.
Speaker C It really wasn't ah, an arc. I mean it was an arc, but it wasn't. The front of. It didn't arc, it didn't have a curve. And then, my second question was, the sons of Noah. is, I was listening to something recently on the, on the shows and they were saying that the, the sons of Noah were where we get the Gentiles, or like there's like.
Bert Harper I don't understand the different ethnicities is what you're talking about. David. All ethnicities come from those three boys. All of them. We don't know exactly how the DNA worked or how their environment, worked, but all three, were doing that. Hey, we're going to answer that question about the ark, Alex. David, if you can't do anything else, if you can't go up to the ark encounter up in Northern Kentucky. But if you can get online and see the ark, I think you see what it would look like. Alex, go ahead.
Alex McFarland Yeah, you know, the ark was kind of like a barge and a lot of people have written how the proportions were great for stability. In rough ocean water. The ark would have been about 450ft long, 75ft wide, 45ft tall, and the dimensions, many people have said, and you know, as far as we know, this was the first boat ever built because prior to the flood of Noah, you know, the earth was watered with moisture that came up, you know, kind of like a greenhouse. So that ark would have been not anything like a modern cruise ship, but more like a barge. But, you know, Shem Ham and Japheth, the sons of Noah. The, the Jewish people came from the line of Shem Ham, who was the father of someone named Canaan. His sons populated, Egypt, Africa and the Middle East. The Hamites, but the Japhethites and Bert. The first person I ever heard teach on this at length would have been the late, the late, great Jon MacArthur. Japheth, his sons, were Gomer, Javan, and they populated Europe and Eurasia. as a Caucasian, if you're a Caucasian, you're a descendant of Japheth, the European people.
Bert Harper A Gentile.
Alex McFarland Yeah, gentile, that's right. but Shem Ham and Japheth, through that DNA, all the peoples and the ethnicities of the Earth came.
Bert Harper Amen. We hope that helps, brother, and thank, you so much. Let's go to Arkansas, man. We got a lot of callers from Arkansas today. Way to come through. And it's Blake. Thank you for calling.
Speaker C Hey, how you doing?
Bert Harper Doing well, man. Go right ahead.
Speaker C Alright, so my question was about the story of Samson. I'm trying to figure on how I can explain it to another. It does seem like at the end of Samson's story that God is, advocating or condoning Samson's suicide.
Bert Harper Okay, was it suicide, Alex? The way we understand suicide, I would
Alex McFarland say it was not. I mean, ah, and by the way, Samson, I love this biblical figure, one of the judges, and he's in Judges 13 through 16, you know, he committed sin, fell into bondage. And there he said, lord, let me, let me serve you, one more time, restore my strength. Now there's all of these, these pagans that are having this terrible, you know, orgy, if you will. And God gave Samson the strength and the directive to push down the columns. And so it's this worship of Dagon and Samson pushed apart the pillars of this Philistine temple.
Speaker C Push.
Alex McFarland And thousands died, including himself. And so it wasn't suicide. He was obeying God. Now it did put him in harm's way. Just like, you know, let's say a law enforcement officer gets killed in the line of duty. they, they answered the call to be a law enforcement officer. They die in the course of duty. But it wasn't suicide. So Samson obeyed the Lord in fighting Philistines. It did result in Samson's death. But it was a victorious, obedience to God. It was not sin, murder of self, nor suicide.
Bert Harper Blake, we hope that helps, because a lot of people do, that now Judas, he committed suicide, you know, went out and hung himself. And, but this, it's in a category. And I would agree with Alex. Military, you know, there's some people that they call it suicide missions, and they're in the military, and, they have the possibility of getting through, but the likelihood is not, and I would put it in those categories. Hope that helps. Brother, we appreciate you. Let's go to Louisiana and talk to Danny. Danny, thank you for calling.
Speaker C Yes, bless you.
Bert Harper Go right ahead.
Speaker C Yeah, yeah, listen, I'm calling for my wife. Her name's Rainey, and she has bad back problems, in fact, to the point where she has to use a walker all the time. And we've even been to the, back doctors, and they said her back is so bad they can't operate on it. And I know if they can operate it on it, the God can.
Bert Harper Amen.
Speaker C I would just like a prayer for her.
Bert Harper We're going to do that. What's her name? And spell it. Make sure I spell it right when I write it down.
Speaker C R, R, R, E. N, E. Okay, I got you.
Bert Harper Well, we're going to pray for her. And, Danny, we'll pray for you. A godly husband that loves his wife and wants to help and care. Alex, God can do it. He, There's nothing too hard for God, but God may have a ministry. I think of, Joni Eareckson. Tada. God gave her a greater ministry because God did not heal her from a back injury. So say God, I trust you no matter what. But we're going to pray for this. And Alex, if you'd lead us.
Alex McFarland Let's pray. Father. I pray for Reni. Lord, I know by miracle or by medicine or for ministry, Lord, your will is going to be done in this person's life. And, Lord, we believe in miracles. I've seen you miraculously heal, and that. That may be, your will for Reni's life. We just don't know. Maybe you'll through, doctors and medical science or a combination of both. But, Lord, either way. Lord, we pray for your presence, the peace of God. And like the Bible says, our times are in your hands and you do all things well. So, Lord, for this husband and family and this, dear lady with physical infirmity, Lord, your will be done. And we thank you in advance for what you're going to do. And we lift Reni up to you now. In Jesus name. Amen.
Bert Harper Amen. Danny. Thank you, brother. And I mean it when I say a testimony of a loving husband man. Husbands and wives, let's love one another, serve one another in the Lord. So, brother, it was a blessing talking with you. Let's go to Texas and talk to Joshua. Joshua, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Speaker C Hey, guys. so my question is about the ten virgins. The parable, the ten virgins. and I had a couple questions, actually. you know, all 10 virgins were anxiously. I believe it was 10. All 10 versions were anxiously awaiting. the groom. And all of them at one point in time had oil. And it's just some had extra oil. I'm wondering, what did the virgins represent? Both the righteous and the foolish. And what does the oil represent?
Bert Harper Okay. The whole idea is being prepared. I know that you. You got to look ahead, be prepared for what is coming your way. Second coming. In that case, Alex, go ahead. See if we can help Joshua.
Alex McFarland Yeah, this. This is in. In Matthew. let me say this about, Matthew 25, by the way. I wonder, and I'm not going to be dogmatic about this, but clearly there were, you know, five wise and five foolish. Oh, they all had some oil at the beginning. And maybe, just maybe that's the knowledge of God, the knowledge of accountability. Now, the five wise virgins had extra oil, and, it was not transferable. If you've ever seen something, they'll say, well, this warranty is not transferable. The oil was personal and it was individual. Bert, I could be wrong on this, but I think about this. Every human has some of the. And almost universally, oil represents the Holy Spirit, the work of the spirit, the presence of the spirit, the power of the spirit. Everybody has some knowledge of God. Now, Some, like Isaiah 55, whosoever will may come to the waters of life. No money. No, money come and freely receive. Not everybody comes to Jesus. When you get saved, not only are your sins washed away, but you get the indwelling holy Spirit. Maybe that's like the extra oil. And so, Bert, I think maybe the five foolish, they ignored what they had. They didn't, get saved. They were not ready for the call of the bridegroom. The five wise virgins were, What do you say on handling that story, that parable, Bert?
Bert Harper Well, I would say the same thing. It is. You have to. A little bit of speculation there, Alex, you know, but we know oil is that but the knowledge of God, you know, knowing about God, it starts there. Okay, I hear about God. That's what we do. We tell people about God. And people can say, okay, I believe God, but that's not salvation. Salvation is a relationship that comes through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit drawing them. So I think what, you're saying has to be close to what it is. There may be a little bit of variance there, but it is those wise, they were ready and when the groom came. So the whole idea, let's be ready. Make sure you've trusted Jesus as savior and Lord. Alex, I'd recommend people attend church. Worship the Lord Jesus Christ with a group of people and lift his name up on high. Would you recommend that?
Alex McFarland I was just going to say be in church on Sunday. be in the house of God Sunday and get people under the sound of the gospel. We are praying. Appreciate you listening to Exploring the Word. We sincerely do. Call in with those Lister listener testimonies, if you would. If you would, please tell somebody about exploring the Word in afr. But most of all, tell everybody about Jesus. The views and opinions expressed in this
broadcast may not necessarily reflect those of
Alex McFarland the American Family association or American Family Radio.
In this exciting episode of Fire Away Friday, we open the lines for your Bible questions! Join hosts Alex McFarland and Bert Harper as they tackle inquiries ranging from the significance of the manna provided to the Israelites in the wilderness to the prophetic words of Matthew 24. Whether you're curious about the nature of salvation for special needs individuals or the meaning behind the parable of the ten virgins, this episode is packed with insights and scriptural wisdom. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of the Word!
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