Fire Away Friday: Your Chance to Ask Bible Questions and Welcome to Exploring the Word
Alex McFarland it's Fire Away Friday on Exploring the Word.
Bert Harper This is your chance to ask us
Alex McFarland your Bible question at 888-589-8840. That's 888-589-8840.
Bert Harper You can also email your [email protected] or
Alex McFarland visit facebook.com exploringtheword exploring the word.
Bert Harper It's Fire Away Friday on American Family Radio.
Alex McFarland Welcome to the program. Ale Marilyn, Bert Harper, so honored that you're listening. We've been going through the Gospel of Matthew, and we'll pick that up on Monday.
Listener Questions Drive Growth and Benefit Everyone, Helping Us Learn and Think Out of the Box
But Fridays are a very special day of the week. Well, every day, we believe, is special on Exploring the Word, but today is the day where we want to hear from you, and we'd like to, hear your Bible questions. The number, I'm gonna give that number several times, but it's, 358-98840. Triple 858-98840. Call you'll. If you call right now, you' because it's very early in the show. But, Bert, the questions from the listeners, not only do we try to give an answer, frankly, we cherish these questions because I believe I speak for the both of us. They've helped, helped us grow as we get into the word of God. And, you know, we wrote these books on 100 Bible questions and then families, then prophecy. And folks, these were your questions. it made Bert and I hit the books, and I think your questions, we, we've all been benefited from.
Bert Harper Amen. you know, I've, I've learned a lot in these past 15 years that you and I have been doing this program together. And, it's been such a blessing to hear from people and see and how they think. They think out of the box sometimes, which helps.
Exploring the Question of Barabbas' Name and Its Meaning in Scripture and History
And matter of fact, we had wordfr.net and, Byron and I wanted to go through this. This is pretty good. He says, thank you guys for what you do. I love listening to exploring the Word especially. And that's the reason Fire Away Fridays. A lot of folks love that. And here's his question. Was Barabbas actually named Jesus Barabbas, which means son? Barabbas means son of the Father, which means, guilty, which means a guilty son of man was set free while Jesus, the son of God, an innocent lamb, was crucified. Well, Alex, you know, I'd heard a little bit about that. And in the book of Matthew, chapter 27, there are some manuscripts that give him the name Jesus Barabbas. Now, there's a Lot of questions whether that's true or not, that it may have been transposed and out of sort. But it was an interesting question. But Jesus and Barabbas and the Passion of Christ, that movie, and it showed Barabbas and how, I don't know, evil he looked, you know, and Jesus. And they said, release Barabbas. that always just, says something to me. But Alex, in many ways, we're all Barabbas, aren't we? He took our place.
Alex McFarland Well, that's true. And okay, the name Jesus, and we've talked about this. Like this is in Isaiah 12:2, it says, the Lord is my salvation, and it's the word Yeshua or Jesus, the Lord is my Jesus. Isaiah 12:2. Now, it could be a name, or it could also sort of almost be like, a, motto, meaning God is my salvation. God is my redeemer. And so if, just like there was, Simon bar Jonah, meaning, you know, Simon son of Jonah.
Exploring the Concept of 'Jesus Barabbas' and How Names Can Reflect Beliefs and Identity
and some of the manuscripts do, put in Jesus, maybe at one point in his life, he attached that to his name. Because here's the thing. The, the sect of zealots that Judas and, Barabbas were a part of, they. They may have believed in the coming of a Messiah, but they wanted to go to war with Rome. So it's not beyond the realm of possibility that Judas or even Barabbas attached Yeshua to their name, as in, you know, God is my salvation. And Bert, let me just say this. I've met Christians from non western nations like India, or Asia, that will, they'll. They'll attach some sort of Christian nomenclature to their name. You know what I mean?
Bert Harper Right?
Alex McFarland Like, yes, Thomas, follower of Jesus, you know, whatever. So, if it was in some of the manuscripts, you know, it. It may have been at a time that that was, part of the name they attached themselves to.
Bert Harper Yeah, well, I thought that was an interesting question. We appreciate that, very much so.
Terry's Question: Understanding John the Baptist's Statement 'I Knew Him Not'
Yeah. And Facebook, word. We get these questions. Well, let's go to Mississippi on the phone lines and talk to Terri. Terri, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Hi, brothers. It's so good to talk to you today.
Bert Harper Well, it's good to hear your voice, man. It's good to have a voice that's cheerful and ready. You're making our day.
I'm ready, yes.
Bert Harper Go right ahead.
In Jon 1, where Jesus is being baptized in verses 31 and 33, Jon the Baptist says, I knew him. Not now. Tell me, please, why did he not know him.
Bert Harper Okay, 31 and 33, 32. I did not know him, but that he should be revealed to Israel. Therefore I came baptizing with water. Alex, it says, and Jon bore witness, saying, I saw the Spirit descended from heaven like a dove, and he remained on him. is there any context to that concerning Jon and the revelation that he's getting?
Alex McFarland well, I think it doesn't mean that he didn't know him, because obviously he was familiar with him. I'm looking up the word there. And the word that we in English would say, K, N, O, W know could mean, like, I'm looking at the lexicon right now to be completely sure. And I think it might mean in two senses for Jon to completely comprehend the full identity of Jesus, God incarnate, who would die on the cross and rise again. I mean, I know that he knew Jesus was the Lamb of God that would take away the sin of the world.
Bert Harper He said that in a verse just previously. Before that. Go ahead.
Alex McFarland But I don't know that he completely comprehended how Jesus would atone for the sins of the world. You know, we, know Jesus. We know Jesus personally, if you're a believer, but we don't have comprehensive, total, total knowledge about everything. there's more to learn. Always more to. Always more to grasp and know, isn't it?
The Progressive Nature of Knowing God and John's Role in Revealing Jesus to Israel
Bert Harper Verse 31 says, Notice the second part of that after I did not know him, but that he should be revealed to Israel. I think there's some context, is what you're saying in the full revelation of it, that himself being made known to all of Israel. And, therefore I came baptizing with water, preparing him in repentance. So it absolutely does not mean I never knew him or anything like that. But, you know, Alex, let me ask you this real quickly, and we'll go to the next question, but do you know him more today day, than you did the day that you were saved?
Alex McFarland Much more.
Bert Harper Isn't that true? I think that, you know, knowing him more fully holy, and I think that is Jon. Jon was not like Jesus, veiled, in flesh. He was flesh. But it was, I think, revealing more and more about him. thank you, Cheri, for that great question. Let's go to Arkansas. David from Arkansas. Go right ahead.
The Meaning and Significance of Saying 'Amen' After Prayers: A Reverent Conclusion
David from Arkansas, are you there? Well, I'm going to read his prayer. If he comes on, guys, we'll let him come on. But. Oh, okay. He said, why do we say amen after our prayers, Alex?
Alex McFarland well, it kind of Means like, Some would say so be it. But it really means like, may God will, you know. and also, let me say it's. I, think it's, it's a reverent post script that we are being very intentional in the way we communicate with God. you wouldn't walk away from somebody mid sentence if you're having a conversation, or at least we shouldn't. I think when we communicate with God as well, you see it in the psalms, you see it in the word of God. But Amen is like, God, I bring this before you. May your will be done, and may this be according to your will.
Bert Harper Okay, David, I'm sorry we couldn't get through, but you're on now. Did you hear our answer? Could you do that? Or were you busy trying to get back on?
Trying to get on. Thank you.
Bert Harper Okay, brother. We appreciate you. Listen. Our prayers. I want to say this after Alex, says that when I was a kid, I have to admit, I thought, well, that's like a magician, you know, when he wants to have something happen, he'd say abracadabra. Okay, you know, that's not it. if it has the idea of, so be it. And, you know, this is what I pray. I, I think it brings it to a, A conclusion. in my opinion, in, in. In, I'd say holiness and righteousness. Amen. So be it, Lord, of who you are. So, David, we appreciate you so much, man. Keep listening.
Investigating the 'Hallelujah Scriptures' and the Hebraic Roots of Christian Faith
And thank you for calling back and, us hearing from you, brother. Well, we have some questions that Brent has for us. One we're going to do that. Marvin and Craig, don't go away. You're next. But we want to get this one. This one comes from Charlene on Facebook. She asks, have you heard of the Hallelujah scriptures? Hallelujah scriptures. Alex, you're the one that keeps up with a lot of that. There's a lot of scriptures. I say hallelujah too. But have you heard this?
Alex McFarland I haven't really, I'm sorry to say. now there's like you say, there's plenty. We would say hallelujah, Praise God, yea and amen.
Bert Harper scroll a little different. It's like, ah, H A L L E E L U Y A H, we. Oh, okay.
Alex McFarland Alleluia. As in, you know, we, we rejoice in you, Almighty God. yeah, because now in the English, our word for hallelujah ends with J A H and, and it's word, you know, glory to Almighty God is basically what, what it's saying. I realize, let me just say this. A lot of people today that they want to, they talk about the Hebraic elements of Christianity. And usually the conversation goes like this. They'll say, well, American, Christianity and Christianity in general has been too Hellenistic, Greek and you know, the Jewish elements. I mean I've had Christians who, it almost really kind of shook their faith. They would say, oh my goodness, I've not really believed true Christianity. and so they would say hallelujah, unless you spell it with yah, as in Yahweh, hallelujah. It's not really authentic. I would say to people, don't be misled by that. we have the Greek and Hebrew manuscripts. They've been translated into a myriad of languages. And when you say praise the Lord or Hallelujah with H A L, L E L, U, J a H, that's an Anglicized or English translation of, you know, Revelation 9:1. Hallelujah. Salvation and glory and power belong to our God. That's really, it's. I know it's a mouthful, but it means praise ye the Lord Almighty. And I would say the. To try to divide this word up and put a Y a H rather than the traditional English rendering. It's not heretical, nothing wrong with it, but it's part of this. Everything you've heard is wrong. Let's go back and rediscover the suppressed Hebraic roots. It's kind of a trend that I think is unnecessary.
Bert Harper I agree with you by the way.
Reflecting on Gratitude, the Christian Life, and an Invitation to Come to Christ Today
we've heard it on the news all day. It's 25th anniversary of 911 that day 25 years ago that we remember so well. Keep praying for those families, those first responder families and all that was lost. And ask God, God help us to call on you in our day. We'll be back with more right after this break. Right now, more mothers need that moment of Hope. Just $28 sponsors one ultrasound and $140 helps rescue five babies. Your generous tax deductible gift also helps provide mothers who choose life with love and support and care for up to two years. Please don't wait. Help surround mothers and babies with compassion, truth and hope today. To donate, dial 250 and say the key word baby. That's hashtag 250baby or visit preborn.com Bert Harper that's preborn.com Bert Harper.
Alex McFarland Thank you Jesus
Bert Harper for finding me like
Alex McFarland a good shepherd, your mercy, mercy leads
Bert Harper back to your arms, where I meant to be. So I thank you, Jesus, for finding me. Amen. I hope you're thankful. I want to just tell you, Alex and I, we bring this up quite a bit. There's nothing in the Christian life that will take the place of gratitude. And I've never met the person filled with the spirit, walking in the spirit that did not have a thankful spirit. If I have any suggestions for you on this Friday, develop that gratitude, that thankful spirit that God has, if you've been saved, I want to tell you you've been blessed. That's the whole idea. And those of you who are listening, that's never come to that relationship with Christ. Alex. And I want to tell you, come to Christ. Do it now. Ask him to. To forgive you of your sin. You died on the cross. Lord Jesus, I ask to forgive me. Come into my life. I. I desire for your forgiveness. And I'm, I want you to be Lord of my life as I follow you. You overcome came sin and death. And so you can do that in my life as well as I have faith and trust in you. I pray you'd do that today. Well, Alex, let's go to back to the phone lines, and let's go to Texas. And it's Marvin. Marvin, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
William's Concern About Catholic Teachings on Justification and the Nature of Salvation by Faith
Marvin from Texas. Okay, we're trying Marvin one more time. Are you there? He. I don't know what happened to Marvin, but we're going to have to go to William in Ohio. William, thank you for calling back. I know we didn't get to you yesterday, but we're getting to you today, brother. Thank you for calling.
Well, I appreciate y' all so much. the question I had was, not. Not Catholic, Catholic bashing, but just a sincere concern. I have a heart for Catholics. I know a lot, and I know a lot of them are wonderful people. But I'm concerned about, if there's. If they add anything to being justified by faith alone, then according to the scripture, they're adding to scripture and they are, not trusting completely in Christ. So I was wondering, Alex. I'm not gonna gotcha on Alex, but a couple days ago he mentioned a question related to that. That there has been a change in some official teachings that say that the Catholic Church teaches justification by faith, but they stop there. They say they're justified by faith, but plus some other things that is clear in their teaching. So I don't. If I want to witness to, Catholics and they're already saved, then I'm just wasting my time and aggravating them. So I, I sincerely desire to understand what they believe. And you know, how that, what's the implications of that?
Bert Harper Thank you, William. that's. We appreciate you, brother. Anybody here that desires to share faith with others, no matter who it is, we say, praise the Lord. Go ahead, Alex.
Alex McFarland Yeah, and by the way, the word justification means being made right with God. And of course, you know, very famously, Romans, 5:1 says, therefore being justified by faith. And it means a lot of things. Not only cleared of all guilt, but also made right with the, plaintiff, God. So justification is very important. And one of the great realities of Christianity for 2000 years, and certainly since the Reformation, is we're justified by faith, not works. Ephesians 2, 8, 10 would concur. Romans, 4, especially Habakkuk 2, Romans 5, 1, Romans 8. therefore there is no condemnation to those that are in Christ Jesus. Now, what a denomination or a church officially on record believes and what individuals understand and believe are vastly two different things. For example, one of the most conservative, denominations in America are the Southern Baptist. And on record officially, they have completely biblical theology. But yet I've met Southern Baptists that were very woke or didn't understand salvation. And let me just say that, you know, Berta, I've met a lot of people that I think actually are saved, although they can't maybe articulate in biblically precise language, but they know they're a sinner and they've put their faith in Jesus. And I mentioned the other day on a show, I was doing some research, and in 1988 and 1991, on two occasions, the Roman Catholic, it's called the Holy See Sea, they said justification is by faith. Martin Luther would say amen. And yet, there's so much you got to get past in the Catholic world to get to it. I mean, I guess here's my point. I think we. We need to be very clear that salvation is by the finished work of Jesus on Calvary's cross. And we receive that forgiveness by faith plus nothing, minus nothing. And, Bert, the books can. I mean, the. On paper, they can have right teaching, but yet, down at the street level, people may or may not have understood it. And that's why one last thing. That's what Billy Graham, I think, was so diligent to try to explain things in the simplest of terms. And I think we should, too. It's trust. It's belief. And it's whosoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Bert Harper I've got Catholic friends, one in particular, well, it's a Catholic. He was saved as a Catholic. And he said now after looking back on it, a lot of those rituals that they did, he understood better. Oh wow, this, this, you know. And I had another man that I understood, he got saved and he was going to a church, Bible believing church. He said, but sometimes I miss some of the, not that I didn't make me anywhere, it didn't save me but, but you miss some of those rituals that now have meaning. So I've met in the Catholic church several that have, they are born again and they're in the Catholic Church and they're really strong witnesses there Alex, that I know of. and I praise God for them. M so William, thank you. Keep on sharing brother. And I say this, and Alex has said Southern Baptist, as Alex said, I know a lot of Southern Baptists that have not been saved either. And being a pastor I've, they remembers and then they got saved. So trust the Lord Jesus Christ in him alone. Let's go to Oklahoma. And it's Craig. Craig, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Examining Jesus' Promise of Protection from Snakes and Poison in the Context of Mission
Yes, I recently have retired. In the last year I've been trying to study a little bit more in the Bible and what have you. And it seems like that in I can't remember if it was in Jon or Mark where Jesus sent the disciples out and told them that they wouldn't have to worry about snake bites or being poisoned or any of that kind of stuff. And I read along and I got over in, in Acts and in the 28th chapter of Acts, I think it's three and four, Paul gets bit by a snake and he just takes the snake off, throws it in the pit or in the fire. He's done with it, doesn't do anything and the people around him are just freaking out and amen and you know, and he survives. I've got two questions. Is that a sign that Paul was a prophet, which I know he is, but is that a sign? Is that, is that a sign that God said, yes, this man is my prophet? And on the other hand, where he's talking about poison, Muhammad died after being poisoned by, I think it was the wife of somebody that he had killed. He was dumb enough to have her cook supper for him or something along them lines. But anyway, he wound up dying exactly as what he predicted he would if the Quran was Wrong. So.
Bert Harper Okay, great.
Curious about that, Craig.
Bert Harper Thank you, brother. Hey, I'm glad you retired and you're not wasting your time. You are studying God's word. Keep it up, brother. Alex. Mark, chapter 16. Now, I believe this needs to be read in the context in which it's given. And I've dealt with this a lot. If you notice, it's in red letters and people say, oh, that was added to. And I understand, but I'm taking it as it is. Notice what it is in verse, 15. Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. Okay. That is the commission omission for God. Ah, now here's. And the rest of it talks about the signs, and it does take up serpents if drink deadly poison. I know, be on mission. Alex, the context is we're on mission for God and there should be no fear to keep us away from doing what God's called us to do. You catch? You know what I'm saying here in Mark? man, we're on mission for God. God's called. And Those men, those 12 men, Craig, listen, they went all over the known world. They went north, south, east and west, sharing about Jesus Christ. And yes, I believe, like Paul, I figured a lot of miracles happened, sustaining them. But everybody except Jon, and we're not sure exactly everything about Jon, would, be a martyr. They would die sharing their faith. But don't be fearful. Carry out God's plan for your life at all costs. Go ahead, Alex.
Alex McFarland You know, the Mark 16:18 is very famous. And by the way, the caller referenced Acts 28, where, a viper, which is a snake, quote, fastened itself to Paul's hand and Paul shook it off in the fire. You know, it's very interesting. and by the way, the book of Acts is very much a transitional season. the snake bites Paul, and some said, oh, clearly this man's a sinner. Look, a snake bit him and he shakes it off into this bonfire and he's not harmed at all. And they say, he must be a God. The snake bite didn't kill him. And Paul says, no, no, I'm going to tell you about God. but yeah, I mean, a snake really bit him. But I want to go back to the Mark 16:18 that says in the English, they will take up serpents. And the verb there, take up is very important. And if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them. They will lay hands on the sick and they will recover. Now, take up serpents. I looked up the wording for that, and it could be to remove or cause to be cast away. And it may actually, some think it is a Jewish idiom to mean the, removal and atonement for sin. Now, I believe in a very literal interpretation of the Bible, but there are literary figures if, okay, in a way, when, in other words, Mark 16:18, they will essentially, by preaching the gospel, reverse what happened in Genesis 3. And in a way, I could see if the phrase take up serpents is an idiom for reversing the work of the serpent and bringing in the message of salvation. I realize in our English language that might seem a little, kind of like, clunky, but it could. But you think about this. We do lay hands on the sick and pray for them for, God to heal. if you read Fox's Book of Martyrs, and even in what's called the, the Anabaptist Reformation, Christians have been forced to drink poison and. But I want to say, and I'll throw it to you, Bert, I don't think the Mark 16:18 should be normative that we should go looking for these things. if you're.
Bert Harper It's not an act of worship. It. It's as you go on mission for God. You know, that's the context. Alex.
Alex McFarland Yeah, I do think there is, supernatural, protection in. And I would refer people. And boy, this. This book is a keeper by Billy Graham. Angels, God's secret agents. And you'll hear, you'll see I'm talking in the modern era. Miraculous, supernatural protection God has given his people. but here's the thing. So I take the Bible for what it says. God does look after those. God anoints and uses those. laying hands on the sick. That is to be. you know what the church does? I will tell you this. As a North Carolina farm boy, when I see a serpent, what I take up is a shovel or the gun. if I could paraphrase, I would never change. Mark 16:18, B. when I come upon a serpent, I take up a weapon, and within a few minutes, that serpent is dead.
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland But that's just me, Bert.
Bert Harper Okay, well, we're coming up on a break, so we'll. We'll get to, William, Steve, Henry and Wayne. Don't you guys go away. Stay with us. We want your questions, but while we got this minute, we wouldn't have time to get you on and start the answer worth anything.
Announcing the Fishbowl Retreat for Pastors and Wives: Fellowship, Teaching, and Living for God
I want to tell folks, we do. And it's about to close out. There's not very many More spaces available for our fishbowl retreat for pastors and wives. And if you want your pastor and wife to go, there's still time, very little time, about a week left to register and a, just a few, few spaces available if you want to be there. So we would invite you go to repairingthefoundations.net repairing the foundations, that's plural.net and you can register online. We would love to have you there. We already got a lot coming. We're going to have a great time at Pickwick Landon State park there on the Tennessee River. But so if you can do that and you want your pastor and wife, or if there's a pastor and wife that desire to come, be sure and register. We got room for just we're a limited number if if you want to be a part of that. Alex, last year you were with us. It's a great time of fellowship, of teaching and learning, but it's mostly about living. Let's live for God. Even when people are watching and people are lo looking and observing, let Christ be seen in our lives. That's what the fishbowl's all about. To encourage believers, pastors and their wives to stay true to God's word. We'll be back with more right after this break.
Preborn Network: Helping Mothers Choose Life Through Compassion, Support, and Ultrasounds
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A Song of Gratitude and the Importance of Being in Church on Sunday to Worship God
what a song.
All my life you have been so,
Bert Harper so good
Alex McFarland with every Breath that I am able. I'm gonna sing of the goodness of God.
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland He is so faithful. Hey, we're going to resume phone calls. Let me just remind you, be in church on Sunday. Find a church where you can go and worship the Lord, sing God's praises, hear the Bible preached. And, hey, I just. That that's the highlight of the weekend is to do as the church has done for two millennia. Two thousand years, to gather on the first day of the week and praise the risen Savior. Do be in church on Sunday. Sunday.
Bert Harper Amen. I'll be preaching over in Hackleberg, Alabama. That's in northwest part of Alabama at, Fairview Congregational Christian Church. It's a dedication service.
Upcoming Preaching Engagements and a Schedule of Services in Northeast Mississippi
I'm being there with my friend Nathan Davidson, the pastor. Just a dear friend, and we're looking forward to it. And then that night, I come back to northeast Mississippi, and I'll be at Fairfield Presbyterian Church here in northeast Mississippi. Alexander, you were there a few years ago.
Alex McFarland That is a fantastic church.
Bert Harper It is great pastor. So we're looking forward to that. And I'll be there Monday, Sunday night through Wednesday night, 6:30. So if you're in the area and want to come by, we would love to see you there. I'd love to meet you. So remember those times. Well, Alex, let's get back to the phone lines. And it's William in Kansas. William, thank you for calling. Go right ahead, brother.
William's Question on Revelation's Crystal Lakes and the Meaning of Water and the Sea
Yeah, thank you. in, the book of Revelations, Chapter 17 talks about two crystal lakes. And I was wondering, what the meaning of the second crystal lake being on fire is.
Bert Harper Alex, you got that?
Alex McFarland I'm, pulling it up right now.
Bert Harper Okay. Yeah. Hey, just think what we do. We got 66 books and a verse. there's a lot of information here. Go ahead, man. Takes us a little time sometimes.
Alex McFarland Yes. And so there in. Did he say Revelation 17?
Bert Harper Yeah. Is that right? William?
Yes, sir.
Bert Harper Which verse?
Alex McFarland See here, there's the woman mystery, Babylon. And there's the beast with seven heads. There's the victory of the lamb. Okay. The waters which you saw. all right, the. The only thing that I see in here really about water is in verse 15. the. The of Babylon is next to a big body of water. But is there a verse I'm missing there, sir?
maybe it's chapter 16. okay, I know it talks about two crystal lakes, and then the second one is on fire. And I was just wondering if. Because it's on fire, is that where all the sinners Went, well, let
Alex McFarland me say, about water in the book of Revelation. And this is largely in our, book on 100 questions on prophecy and the end times. For one thing, it's interesting, during, like, Revelation 16, one of the. The first of the bowls of Wrath, there's wrath, poured out on the rivers and fountains of water, and they became blood. Now, this is near the end of the Tribulation. The only real water referenced in terms of heaven is a river of water, of life, that flows from the throne of God. And Jon, and keep in mind he's having a vision and he's describing things that are, really beyond the vocabulary of almost any generation. But he says that in front of the throne of God, it looks. Looks like fire. It almost simultaneously looks like the clearest, purest of waters, but then it's. It looks like, you know, granular crystal, and it looks like fire. And Bert, the river of water, of life. And I have to tell you, when I was a little kid, it really troubled me that it said, in heaven there is no sea. But I want to tell you why that and because I love the ocean. I love to swim. the oceans, as we now have them, are really, a, thing left over from the global flood of Noah, which was a judgment on sin. I do think for those of us that are water lovers, the river of water of life is going to be all the wonderful aquatic activity and water. But the sea is, in scripture, the oceans. The sea always has a little bit of a dark connotation. There's a beast that rises out of the sea and see the oceans as they now are. And the way the continents broke apart is part of the judgment on sin. And there's going to be no sin or even residue of sin in heaven, is there, Bert?
Bert Harper There will not be that river. And Los, a river of life flowing from the throne of God. And the sea has the idea of it being mixed and unsure, but God's that river is sure. And again, William, sorry we couldn't get it all down for you, but we appreciate you listening, and thank you, brother.
Wayne's Question on Cornelius' Salvation: Baptism, the Holy Spirit, and the New Birth
Let's go to Wayne in Louisiana. Wayne, go right ahead.
Yes, sir. I have a question. And now, it's a question, really from, Acts chapter nine, Acts, chapter 10, where, you know, send me the Jabba, whose surname is Peter, he shall tell you what your orders to do. But the writer cuts it off, but he picks it back up in Acts, chapter 10, and he says, what you ought us to do to be saved. And we see that, Peter baptizes Cornelius in his household, and they received the Holy Ghost, for they hit him, speak with tongues, and magnify the Lord. So they know that's how they receive the Holy Ghost. And, Jesus said, you know, a man must be born of the water and the spirit, you know, the new birth. So did that happen to Cornelius in his household when he received the Holy Ghost and he was baptized in the name of the Lord?
Bert Harper Okay, Wayne, let's look at the Book of Acts. And, there's three times this occurred. And each time this. This. The Holy Spirit coming and accompanied, ah, by great miracles and, speaking languages, was when the Scriptures was introduced into new territory. Pentecost, Israel. The Holy Spirit failed. And now God's word in 9 and 10, Cornelius there with Samaritans. God's Spirit fell. And then move to Acts 19 in that European or, Asian theater about to go into the European. The power of God, Alex. Each time those fell, it was always in that context when the Holy Spirit fell on those, or failed and came in power. Speaking in tongues. Go ahead.
Alex McFarland Yeah, well, you know, the Lord sent Peter. Cornelius, believed in God, the God of the Jews. But like in Acts 10, really 39 through 43, Peter is preaching the gospel clearly to Cornelius and his household. And Peter says to him, all the prophets bear w. Now, listen that everyone who believes in him, Jesus, receives forgiveness of sins through his name. And so, you know, it was almost Acts 10 is kind of like a little mini pentecost, because Acts 10, you know, talks about the believers were amazed, and, they were baptized. can anyone withhold water from baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we. And so I'm going to say this. It might not be as linear as we like hearing, responding, believing, baptism, indwelling of the Holy Spirit. But you've got all the elements of a conversion story there, Bert, even though it might not be as linear and chronological as it is in your pastor's Sunday morning sermon.
Bert Harper It is. And again, Acts 19, since we referred that. Listen to this. Paul said Jon, indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. And again, new territory. again, the power of God being demonstrated and helping so they could understand and know. I. I know I may go to seed on this like I did in Mark, chapter 16 about the serpents and the deadly poison. It was in missional context. Look at the tongue speaking. Always in a missional context, where. Where they're to hear the gospel and go out and share the good news. So let's be on mission for God. Wayne, thank you for that great, great question. Henry in Alabama. Henry, thank you for calling.
Henry's Question: Salvation Opportunities During the Tribulation and the Importance of Today
Go right ahead.
All right, I've got a request for you and Alex. before I ask my question, I would like for y' all to go up against the professors on Learning University with a Bible Challenge.
Alex McFarland Okay.
Bert Harper Wow. Hey, they get. They have me on Trivia Friday every blue moon. They'll get me there. And, we would take them up on the Bible Challenge, but we would also take them up on the Andrew Griffith Show. We would do both of those, wouldn't we, Alex?
Alex McFarland You know, I've never been on, Today's Issues on Friday, I don't think, but I surely would love to.
Bert Harper I'll put the word in for you, man.
Alex McFarland See what Bert Harper and Brent Austin, when it comes to Andy Griffith, they are the experts.
Bert Harper Well, we got a guy that. He beats us, Richard, who you talk to on the phone. those that you call in. Richard knows it, man. He. He's the connoisseur of it. So, anyway, Henry, go ahead with your question, brother, but thank you, man.
Yeah, people who have rejected Christ and are not raptured, but, go into the tribulation, will they have the opportunity to be saved?
Bert Harper Okay, Alex, I was raised hearing before I started reading and studying, they would not have that opportunity, after studying the word of God, I don't think I can make that statement as declarative as they. As I was taught. What about you?
Alex McFarland Yeah, and here's the thing. Second Thessalonians 2, verse 11, talking about, you know, God will send a strong delusion so that they should be deceived. Now, whosoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Or, you know, whosoever believes in him would not perish. I don't see that that necessarily, ends at the rapture, because there are going to be many, Jewish people converted during the tribulation period. I will say this. I know when you can get saved, and that's right now. You know what I mean? I do think it's highly unlikely, because think about this. the. The Antichrist is going to put the.
The.
Alex McFarland The globe on lockdown, you can't buy or sell without the mark of the beast. And many people are going to just cave and capitulate, go along to get along and really become the subjects. Not only. I mean, you think about it. Midway through the tribulation, the Antichrist defiles the temple, says, worship me or die. And many people are going to be executed, because they wouldn't worship the beast. And many people will probably say, oh, well, I better save my skin and go along with it. So could people get saved after the Rapture? I think so. But for those that have heard the gospel repeatedly, and if you reject the gospel here in the best of circumstances, why do you think you might accept it in the hardest of circumstances?
Bert Harper Let me add to that. the fewer people get saved as they get older. You know, that is true. And today's the day of salvation. Children, teenagers, young adults, you were saved. Was it 21 years old, Alex?
Alex McFarland Yes, sir.
Bert Harper Had you put that off and said, no, I'm not going to do that, I'm not going to do that? not really.
Alex McFarland I mean, for me, growing up in the Bible Belt, I heard bits and pieces, and I always had a reverence for God, and I had a very pretty. I have to say, I think I had a very tender moral compass. But I was 21 when suddenly my eyes opened and I was like, okay, Christ died for me and I need to put my faith in Jesus and be born again.
Bert Harper This kind of goes along. Doug from Arkansas had called in and said about the age of accountability. The age of accountability is not a certain age. It is a certain time in a person's life when they can have accountability for having some understanding, having their minds opened and being ready to receive it. Now, Alex, had you been. I'm asking you, and you give honest answer. Had you, died before 21? Had you reached an age of accountability, of understanding? Or was your understanding not clear enough? I know that's hypothetical, but go ahead and take a stab at it.
Alex McFarland I knew I was a sinner. I mean, I really did. And, you know, I went to Sunday School at 13. I, quote, joined the church because the church I happened to grow up in, told me to fill out this card and come forward and join the church. But if somebody had asked prior to 21, if somebody had asked me, you know, if you stood before God and God said, why should I let you into heaven? What would you say? I wouldn't have known. I would have priced it something like, well, I've tried to. I'VE tried to do my best and be a good person. But, you know, what was so clear to me at Macedonia Baptist Church in that summer of 1985 was, and praise the name of Jesus, Pastor F.G. alford. You'll see him in heaven. He explained sin was the Romans road, Bert, you know, Romans 3:23. All have sinned, and I knew I was a sinner. Romans 6:23. The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life. Romans 5:8. God demonstrated his love. While we were yet sinners, Christ died. And so I had to respond. So, you know, and I'm sure some kids understand it at 10 years old, somehow another. The bits and pieces and the components of the gospel. My eyes didn't open till I was 21, but, boy, when it. When I understood it, I was like, okay, I need to. I need to call out to Jesus and put my trust in him.
Amen.
Bert Harper Ah. And that's what we're saying to you today. Those of you who are listening, if you've never trusted Christ, Alex knew a good bit about it, been in Sunday school, been in church, but never came into that relationship. Come to Christ today. Don't put it off. Don't delay. And talking about the tribulation, with all my heart. The longer you put it off and you have knowledge of it, the harder your heart becomes with the tribulation. Shall. I wouldn't take a chance on it, would you, Alex?
Alex McFarland I wouldn't take a chance. Behold, now is the time.
Final Call to Trust Christ Today and Reach Out for Spiritual Help
Today is the day of salvation. Call out to Jesus. If you need spiritual help, reach out to us. You can email us on Facebook or wordfr.uh net in the meantime, thank you for listening to Exploring the Word. May God bless you in every way. Be in church on Sunday. Tell somebody about afr, please. But most of all, tell everybody about Jesus. The views and opinions expressed in this
Bert Harper broadcast may not necessarily reflect those of
Alex McFarland the American Family association or American Family Radio.
Fire Away Friday: Your Chance to Ask Bible Questions and Welcome to Exploring the Word
Alex McFarland it's Fire Away Friday on Exploring the Word.
Bert Harper This is your chance to ask us
Alex McFarland your Bible question at 888-589-8840. That's 888-589-8840.
Bert Harper You can also email your [email protected] or
Alex McFarland visit facebook.com exploringtheword exploring the word.
Bert Harper It's Fire Away Friday on American Family Radio.
Alex McFarland Welcome to the program. Ale Marilyn, Bert Harper, so honored that you're listening. We've been going through the Gospel of Matthew, and we'll pick that up on Monday.
Listener Questions Drive Growth and Benefit Everyone, Helping Us Learn and Think Out of the Box
But Fridays are a very special day of the week. Well, every day, we believe, is special on Exploring the Word, but today is the day where we want to hear from you, and we'd like to, hear your Bible questions. The number, I'm gonna give that number several times, but it's, 358-98840. Triple 858-98840. Call you'll. If you call right now, you' because it's very early in the show. But, Bert, the questions from the listeners, not only do we try to give an answer, frankly, we cherish these questions because I believe I speak for the both of us. They've helped, helped us grow as we get into the word of God. And, you know, we wrote these books on 100 Bible questions and then families, then prophecy. And folks, these were your questions. it made Bert and I hit the books, and I think your questions, we, we've all been benefited from.
Bert Harper Amen. you know, I've, I've learned a lot in these past 15 years that you and I have been doing this program together. And, it's been such a blessing to hear from people and see and how they think. They think out of the box sometimes, which helps.
Exploring the Question of Barabbas' Name and Its Meaning in Scripture and History
And matter of fact, we had wordfr.net and, Byron and I wanted to go through this. This is pretty good. He says, thank you guys for what you do. I love listening to exploring the Word especially. And that's the reason Fire Away Fridays. A lot of folks love that. And here's his question. Was Barabbas actually named Jesus Barabbas, which means son? Barabbas means son of the Father, which means, guilty, which means a guilty son of man was set free while Jesus, the son of God, an innocent lamb, was crucified. Well, Alex, you know, I'd heard a little bit about that. And in the book of Matthew, chapter 27, there are some manuscripts that give him the name Jesus Barabbas. Now, there's a Lot of questions whether that's true or not, that it may have been transposed and out of sort. But it was an interesting question. But Jesus and Barabbas and the Passion of Christ, that movie, and it showed Barabbas and how, I don't know, evil he looked, you know, and Jesus. And they said, release Barabbas. that always just, says something to me. But Alex, in many ways, we're all Barabbas, aren't we? He took our place.
Alex McFarland Well, that's true. And okay, the name Jesus, and we've talked about this. Like this is in Isaiah 12:2, it says, the Lord is my salvation, and it's the word Yeshua or Jesus, the Lord is my Jesus. Isaiah 12:2. Now, it could be a name, or it could also sort of almost be like, a, motto, meaning God is my salvation. God is my redeemer. And so if, just like there was, Simon bar Jonah, meaning, you know, Simon son of Jonah.
Exploring the Concept of 'Jesus Barabbas' and How Names Can Reflect Beliefs and Identity
and some of the manuscripts do, put in Jesus, maybe at one point in his life, he attached that to his name. Because here's the thing. The, the sect of zealots that Judas and, Barabbas were a part of, they. They may have believed in the coming of a Messiah, but they wanted to go to war with Rome. So it's not beyond the realm of possibility that Judas or even Barabbas attached Yeshua to their name, as in, you know, God is my salvation. And Bert, let me just say this. I've met Christians from non western nations like India, or Asia, that will, they'll. They'll attach some sort of Christian nomenclature to their name. You know what I mean?
Bert Harper Right?
Alex McFarland Like, yes, Thomas, follower of Jesus, you know, whatever. So, if it was in some of the manuscripts, you know, it. It may have been at a time that that was, part of the name they attached themselves to.
Bert Harper Yeah, well, I thought that was an interesting question. We appreciate that, very much so.
Terry's Question: Understanding John the Baptist's Statement 'I Knew Him Not'
Yeah. And Facebook, word. We get these questions. Well, let's go to Mississippi on the phone lines and talk to Terri. Terri, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Hi, brothers. It's so good to talk to you today.
Bert Harper Well, it's good to hear your voice, man. It's good to have a voice that's cheerful and ready. You're making our day.
I'm ready, yes.
Bert Harper Go right ahead.
In Jon 1, where Jesus is being baptized in verses 31 and 33, Jon the Baptist says, I knew him. Not now. Tell me, please, why did he not know him.
Bert Harper Okay, 31 and 33, 32. I did not know him, but that he should be revealed to Israel. Therefore I came baptizing with water. Alex, it says, and Jon bore witness, saying, I saw the Spirit descended from heaven like a dove, and he remained on him. is there any context to that concerning Jon and the revelation that he's getting?
Alex McFarland well, I think it doesn't mean that he didn't know him, because obviously he was familiar with him. I'm looking up the word there. And the word that we in English would say, K, N, O, W know could mean, like, I'm looking at the lexicon right now to be completely sure. And I think it might mean in two senses for Jon to completely comprehend the full identity of Jesus, God incarnate, who would die on the cross and rise again. I mean, I know that he knew Jesus was the Lamb of God that would take away the sin of the world.
Bert Harper He said that in a verse just previously. Before that. Go ahead.
Alex McFarland But I don't know that he completely comprehended how Jesus would atone for the sins of the world. You know, we, know Jesus. We know Jesus personally, if you're a believer, but we don't have comprehensive, total, total knowledge about everything. there's more to learn. Always more to. Always more to grasp and know, isn't it?
The Progressive Nature of Knowing God and John's Role in Revealing Jesus to Israel
Bert Harper Verse 31 says, Notice the second part of that after I did not know him, but that he should be revealed to Israel. I think there's some context, is what you're saying in the full revelation of it, that himself being made known to all of Israel. And, therefore I came baptizing with water, preparing him in repentance. So it absolutely does not mean I never knew him or anything like that. But, you know, Alex, let me ask you this real quickly, and we'll go to the next question, but do you know him more today day, than you did the day that you were saved?
Alex McFarland Much more.
Bert Harper Isn't that true? I think that, you know, knowing him more fully holy, and I think that is Jon. Jon was not like Jesus, veiled, in flesh. He was flesh. But it was, I think, revealing more and more about him. thank you, Cheri, for that great question. Let's go to Arkansas. David from Arkansas. Go right ahead.
The Meaning and Significance of Saying 'Amen' After Prayers: A Reverent Conclusion
David from Arkansas, are you there? Well, I'm going to read his prayer. If he comes on, guys, we'll let him come on. But. Oh, okay. He said, why do we say amen after our prayers, Alex?
Alex McFarland well, it kind of Means like, Some would say so be it. But it really means like, may God will, you know. and also, let me say it's. I, think it's, it's a reverent post script that we are being very intentional in the way we communicate with God. you wouldn't walk away from somebody mid sentence if you're having a conversation, or at least we shouldn't. I think when we communicate with God as well, you see it in the psalms, you see it in the word of God. But Amen is like, God, I bring this before you. May your will be done, and may this be according to your will.
Bert Harper Okay, David, I'm sorry we couldn't get through, but you're on now. Did you hear our answer? Could you do that? Or were you busy trying to get back on?
Trying to get on. Thank you.
Bert Harper Okay, brother. We appreciate you. Listen. Our prayers. I want to say this after Alex, says that when I was a kid, I have to admit, I thought, well, that's like a magician, you know, when he wants to have something happen, he'd say abracadabra. Okay, you know, that's not it. if it has the idea of, so be it. And, you know, this is what I pray. I, I think it brings it to a, A conclusion. in my opinion, in, in. In, I'd say holiness and righteousness. Amen. So be it, Lord, of who you are. So, David, we appreciate you so much, man. Keep listening.
Investigating the 'Hallelujah Scriptures' and the Hebraic Roots of Christian Faith
And thank you for calling back and, us hearing from you, brother. Well, we have some questions that Brent has for us. One we're going to do that. Marvin and Craig, don't go away. You're next. But we want to get this one. This one comes from Charlene on Facebook. She asks, have you heard of the Hallelujah scriptures? Hallelujah scriptures. Alex, you're the one that keeps up with a lot of that. There's a lot of scriptures. I say hallelujah too. But have you heard this?
Alex McFarland I haven't really, I'm sorry to say. now there's like you say, there's plenty. We would say hallelujah, Praise God, yea and amen.
Bert Harper scroll a little different. It's like, ah, H A L L E E L U Y A H, we. Oh, okay.
Alex McFarland Alleluia. As in, you know, we, we rejoice in you, Almighty God. yeah, because now in the English, our word for hallelujah ends with J A H and, and it's word, you know, glory to Almighty God is basically what, what it's saying. I realize, let me just say this. A lot of people today that they want to, they talk about the Hebraic elements of Christianity. And usually the conversation goes like this. They'll say, well, American, Christianity and Christianity in general has been too Hellenistic, Greek and you know, the Jewish elements. I mean I've had Christians who, it almost really kind of shook their faith. They would say, oh my goodness, I've not really believed true Christianity. and so they would say hallelujah, unless you spell it with yah, as in Yahweh, hallelujah. It's not really authentic. I would say to people, don't be misled by that. we have the Greek and Hebrew manuscripts. They've been translated into a myriad of languages. And when you say praise the Lord or Hallelujah with H A L, L E L, U, J a H, that's an Anglicized or English translation of, you know, Revelation 9:1. Hallelujah. Salvation and glory and power belong to our God. That's really, it's. I know it's a mouthful, but it means praise ye the Lord Almighty. And I would say the. To try to divide this word up and put a Y a H rather than the traditional English rendering. It's not heretical, nothing wrong with it, but it's part of this. Everything you've heard is wrong. Let's go back and rediscover the suppressed Hebraic roots. It's kind of a trend that I think is unnecessary.
Bert Harper I agree with you by the way.
Reflecting on Gratitude, the Christian Life, and an Invitation to Come to Christ Today
we've heard it on the news all day. It's 25th anniversary of 911 that day 25 years ago that we remember so well. Keep praying for those families, those first responder families and all that was lost. And ask God, God help us to call on you in our day. We'll be back with more right after this break. Right now, more mothers need that moment of Hope. Just $28 sponsors one ultrasound and $140 helps rescue five babies. Your generous tax deductible gift also helps provide mothers who choose life with love and support and care for up to two years. Please don't wait. Help surround mothers and babies with compassion, truth and hope today. To donate, dial 250 and say the key word baby. That's hashtag 250baby or visit preborn.com Bert Harper that's preborn.com Bert Harper.
Alex McFarland Thank you Jesus
Bert Harper for finding me like
Alex McFarland a good shepherd, your mercy, mercy leads
Bert Harper back to your arms, where I meant to be. So I thank you, Jesus, for finding me. Amen. I hope you're thankful. I want to just tell you, Alex and I, we bring this up quite a bit. There's nothing in the Christian life that will take the place of gratitude. And I've never met the person filled with the spirit, walking in the spirit that did not have a thankful spirit. If I have any suggestions for you on this Friday, develop that gratitude, that thankful spirit that God has, if you've been saved, I want to tell you you've been blessed. That's the whole idea. And those of you who are listening, that's never come to that relationship with Christ. Alex. And I want to tell you, come to Christ. Do it now. Ask him to. To forgive you of your sin. You died on the cross. Lord Jesus, I ask to forgive me. Come into my life. I. I desire for your forgiveness. And I'm, I want you to be Lord of my life as I follow you. You overcome came sin and death. And so you can do that in my life as well as I have faith and trust in you. I pray you'd do that today. Well, Alex, let's go to back to the phone lines, and let's go to Texas. And it's Marvin. Marvin, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
William's Concern About Catholic Teachings on Justification and the Nature of Salvation by Faith
Marvin from Texas. Okay, we're trying Marvin one more time. Are you there? He. I don't know what happened to Marvin, but we're going to have to go to William in Ohio. William, thank you for calling back. I know we didn't get to you yesterday, but we're getting to you today, brother. Thank you for calling.
Well, I appreciate y' all so much. the question I had was, not. Not Catholic, Catholic bashing, but just a sincere concern. I have a heart for Catholics. I know a lot, and I know a lot of them are wonderful people. But I'm concerned about, if there's. If they add anything to being justified by faith alone, then according to the scripture, they're adding to scripture and they are, not trusting completely in Christ. So I was wondering, Alex. I'm not gonna gotcha on Alex, but a couple days ago he mentioned a question related to that. That there has been a change in some official teachings that say that the Catholic Church teaches justification by faith, but they stop there. They say they're justified by faith, but plus some other things that is clear in their teaching. So I don't. If I want to witness to, Catholics and they're already saved, then I'm just wasting my time and aggravating them. So I, I sincerely desire to understand what they believe. And you know, how that, what's the implications of that?
Bert Harper Thank you, William. that's. We appreciate you, brother. Anybody here that desires to share faith with others, no matter who it is, we say, praise the Lord. Go ahead, Alex.
Alex McFarland Yeah, and by the way, the word justification means being made right with God. And of course, you know, very famously, Romans, 5:1 says, therefore being justified by faith. And it means a lot of things. Not only cleared of all guilt, but also made right with the, plaintiff, God. So justification is very important. And one of the great realities of Christianity for 2000 years, and certainly since the Reformation, is we're justified by faith, not works. Ephesians 2, 8, 10 would concur. Romans, 4, especially Habakkuk 2, Romans 5, 1, Romans 8. therefore there is no condemnation to those that are in Christ Jesus. Now, what a denomination or a church officially on record believes and what individuals understand and believe are vastly two different things. For example, one of the most conservative, denominations in America are the Southern Baptist. And on record officially, they have completely biblical theology. But yet I've met Southern Baptists that were very woke or didn't understand salvation. And let me just say that, you know, Berta, I've met a lot of people that I think actually are saved, although they can't maybe articulate in biblically precise language, but they know they're a sinner and they've put their faith in Jesus. And I mentioned the other day on a show, I was doing some research, and in 1988 and 1991, on two occasions, the Roman Catholic, it's called the Holy See Sea, they said justification is by faith. Martin Luther would say amen. And yet, there's so much you got to get past in the Catholic world to get to it. I mean, I guess here's my point. I think we. We need to be very clear that salvation is by the finished work of Jesus on Calvary's cross. And we receive that forgiveness by faith plus nothing, minus nothing. And, Bert, the books can. I mean, the. On paper, they can have right teaching, but yet, down at the street level, people may or may not have understood it. And that's why one last thing. That's what Billy Graham, I think, was so diligent to try to explain things in the simplest of terms. And I think we should, too. It's trust. It's belief. And it's whosoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Bert Harper I've got Catholic friends, one in particular, well, it's a Catholic. He was saved as a Catholic. And he said now after looking back on it, a lot of those rituals that they did, he understood better. Oh wow, this, this, you know. And I had another man that I understood, he got saved and he was going to a church, Bible believing church. He said, but sometimes I miss some of the, not that I didn't make me anywhere, it didn't save me but, but you miss some of those rituals that now have meaning. So I've met in the Catholic church several that have, they are born again and they're in the Catholic Church and they're really strong witnesses there Alex, that I know of. and I praise God for them. M so William, thank you. Keep on sharing brother. And I say this, and Alex has said Southern Baptist, as Alex said, I know a lot of Southern Baptists that have not been saved either. And being a pastor I've, they remembers and then they got saved. So trust the Lord Jesus Christ in him alone. Let's go to Oklahoma. And it's Craig. Craig, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Examining Jesus' Promise of Protection from Snakes and Poison in the Context of Mission
Yes, I recently have retired. In the last year I've been trying to study a little bit more in the Bible and what have you. And it seems like that in I can't remember if it was in Jon or Mark where Jesus sent the disciples out and told them that they wouldn't have to worry about snake bites or being poisoned or any of that kind of stuff. And I read along and I got over in, in Acts and in the 28th chapter of Acts, I think it's three and four, Paul gets bit by a snake and he just takes the snake off, throws it in the pit or in the fire. He's done with it, doesn't do anything and the people around him are just freaking out and amen and you know, and he survives. I've got two questions. Is that a sign that Paul was a prophet, which I know he is, but is that a sign? Is that, is that a sign that God said, yes, this man is my prophet? And on the other hand, where he's talking about poison, Muhammad died after being poisoned by, I think it was the wife of somebody that he had killed. He was dumb enough to have her cook supper for him or something along them lines. But anyway, he wound up dying exactly as what he predicted he would if the Quran was Wrong. So.
Bert Harper Okay, great.
Curious about that, Craig.
Bert Harper Thank you, brother. Hey, I'm glad you retired and you're not wasting your time. You are studying God's word. Keep it up, brother. Alex. Mark, chapter 16. Now, I believe this needs to be read in the context in which it's given. And I've dealt with this a lot. If you notice, it's in red letters and people say, oh, that was added to. And I understand, but I'm taking it as it is. Notice what it is in verse, 15. Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. Okay. That is the commission omission for God. Ah, now here's. And the rest of it talks about the signs, and it does take up serpents if drink deadly poison. I know, be on mission. Alex, the context is we're on mission for God and there should be no fear to keep us away from doing what God's called us to do. You catch? You know what I'm saying here in Mark? man, we're on mission for God. God's called. And Those men, those 12 men, Craig, listen, they went all over the known world. They went north, south, east and west, sharing about Jesus Christ. And yes, I believe, like Paul, I figured a lot of miracles happened, sustaining them. But everybody except Jon, and we're not sure exactly everything about Jon, would, be a martyr. They would die sharing their faith. But don't be fearful. Carry out God's plan for your life at all costs. Go ahead, Alex.
Alex McFarland You know, the Mark 16:18 is very famous. And by the way, the caller referenced Acts 28, where, a viper, which is a snake, quote, fastened itself to Paul's hand and Paul shook it off in the fire. You know, it's very interesting. and by the way, the book of Acts is very much a transitional season. the snake bites Paul, and some said, oh, clearly this man's a sinner. Look, a snake bit him and he shakes it off into this bonfire and he's not harmed at all. And they say, he must be a God. The snake bite didn't kill him. And Paul says, no, no, I'm going to tell you about God. but yeah, I mean, a snake really bit him. But I want to go back to the Mark 16:18 that says in the English, they will take up serpents. And the verb there, take up is very important. And if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them. They will lay hands on the sick and they will recover. Now, take up serpents. I looked up the wording for that, and it could be to remove or cause to be cast away. And it may actually, some think it is a Jewish idiom to mean the, removal and atonement for sin. Now, I believe in a very literal interpretation of the Bible, but there are literary figures if, okay, in a way, when, in other words, Mark 16:18, they will essentially, by preaching the gospel, reverse what happened in Genesis 3. And in a way, I could see if the phrase take up serpents is an idiom for reversing the work of the serpent and bringing in the message of salvation. I realize in our English language that might seem a little, kind of like, clunky, but it could. But you think about this. We do lay hands on the sick and pray for them for, God to heal. if you read Fox's Book of Martyrs, and even in what's called the, the Anabaptist Reformation, Christians have been forced to drink poison and. But I want to say, and I'll throw it to you, Bert, I don't think the Mark 16:18 should be normative that we should go looking for these things. if you're.
Bert Harper It's not an act of worship. It. It's as you go on mission for God. You know, that's the context. Alex.
Alex McFarland Yeah, I do think there is, supernatural, protection in. And I would refer people. And boy, this. This book is a keeper by Billy Graham. Angels, God's secret agents. And you'll hear, you'll see I'm talking in the modern era. Miraculous, supernatural protection God has given his people. but here's the thing. So I take the Bible for what it says. God does look after those. God anoints and uses those. laying hands on the sick. That is to be. you know what the church does? I will tell you this. As a North Carolina farm boy, when I see a serpent, what I take up is a shovel or the gun. if I could paraphrase, I would never change. Mark 16:18, B. when I come upon a serpent, I take up a weapon, and within a few minutes, that serpent is dead.
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland But that's just me, Bert.
Bert Harper Okay, well, we're coming up on a break, so we'll. We'll get to, William, Steve, Henry and Wayne. Don't you guys go away. Stay with us. We want your questions, but while we got this minute, we wouldn't have time to get you on and start the answer worth anything.
Announcing the Fishbowl Retreat for Pastors and Wives: Fellowship, Teaching, and Living for God
I want to tell folks, we do. And it's about to close out. There's not very many More spaces available for our fishbowl retreat for pastors and wives. And if you want your pastor and wife to go, there's still time, very little time, about a week left to register and a, just a few, few spaces available if you want to be there. So we would invite you go to repairingthefoundations.net repairing the foundations, that's plural.net and you can register online. We would love to have you there. We already got a lot coming. We're going to have a great time at Pickwick Landon State park there on the Tennessee River. But so if you can do that and you want your pastor and wife, or if there's a pastor and wife that desire to come, be sure and register. We got room for just we're a limited number if if you want to be a part of that. Alex, last year you were with us. It's a great time of fellowship, of teaching and learning, but it's mostly about living. Let's live for God. Even when people are watching and people are lo looking and observing, let Christ be seen in our lives. That's what the fishbowl's all about. To encourage believers, pastors and their wives to stay true to God's word. We'll be back with more right after this break.
Preborn Network: Helping Mothers Choose Life Through Compassion, Support, and Ultrasounds
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A Song of Gratitude and the Importance of Being in Church on Sunday to Worship God
what a song.
All my life you have been so,
Bert Harper so good
Alex McFarland with every Breath that I am able. I'm gonna sing of the goodness of God.
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland He is so faithful. Hey, we're going to resume phone calls. Let me just remind you, be in church on Sunday. Find a church where you can go and worship the Lord, sing God's praises, hear the Bible preached. And, hey, I just. That that's the highlight of the weekend is to do as the church has done for two millennia. Two thousand years, to gather on the first day of the week and praise the risen Savior. Do be in church on Sunday. Sunday.
Bert Harper Amen. I'll be preaching over in Hackleberg, Alabama. That's in northwest part of Alabama at, Fairview Congregational Christian Church. It's a dedication service.
Upcoming Preaching Engagements and a Schedule of Services in Northeast Mississippi
I'm being there with my friend Nathan Davidson, the pastor. Just a dear friend, and we're looking forward to it. And then that night, I come back to northeast Mississippi, and I'll be at Fairfield Presbyterian Church here in northeast Mississippi. Alexander, you were there a few years ago.
Alex McFarland That is a fantastic church.
Bert Harper It is great pastor. So we're looking forward to that. And I'll be there Monday, Sunday night through Wednesday night, 6:30. So if you're in the area and want to come by, we would love to see you there. I'd love to meet you. So remember those times. Well, Alex, let's get back to the phone lines. And it's William in Kansas. William, thank you for calling. Go right ahead, brother.
William's Question on Revelation's Crystal Lakes and the Meaning of Water and the Sea
Yeah, thank you. in, the book of Revelations, Chapter 17 talks about two crystal lakes. And I was wondering, what the meaning of the second crystal lake being on fire is.
Bert Harper Alex, you got that?
Alex McFarland I'm, pulling it up right now.
Bert Harper Okay. Yeah. Hey, just think what we do. We got 66 books and a verse. there's a lot of information here. Go ahead, man. Takes us a little time sometimes.
Alex McFarland Yes. And so there in. Did he say Revelation 17?
Bert Harper Yeah. Is that right? William?
Yes, sir.
Bert Harper Which verse?
Alex McFarland See here, there's the woman mystery, Babylon. And there's the beast with seven heads. There's the victory of the lamb. Okay. The waters which you saw. all right, the. The only thing that I see in here really about water is in verse 15. the. The of Babylon is next to a big body of water. But is there a verse I'm missing there, sir?
maybe it's chapter 16. okay, I know it talks about two crystal lakes, and then the second one is on fire. And I was just wondering if. Because it's on fire, is that where all the sinners Went, well, let
Alex McFarland me say, about water in the book of Revelation. And this is largely in our, book on 100 questions on prophecy and the end times. For one thing, it's interesting, during, like, Revelation 16, one of the. The first of the bowls of Wrath, there's wrath, poured out on the rivers and fountains of water, and they became blood. Now, this is near the end of the Tribulation. The only real water referenced in terms of heaven is a river of water, of life, that flows from the throne of God. And Jon, and keep in mind he's having a vision and he's describing things that are, really beyond the vocabulary of almost any generation. But he says that in front of the throne of God, it looks. Looks like fire. It almost simultaneously looks like the clearest, purest of waters, but then it's. It looks like, you know, granular crystal, and it looks like fire. And Bert, the river of water, of life. And I have to tell you, when I was a little kid, it really troubled me that it said, in heaven there is no sea. But I want to tell you why that and because I love the ocean. I love to swim. the oceans, as we now have them, are really, a, thing left over from the global flood of Noah, which was a judgment on sin. I do think for those of us that are water lovers, the river of water of life is going to be all the wonderful aquatic activity and water. But the sea is, in scripture, the oceans. The sea always has a little bit of a dark connotation. There's a beast that rises out of the sea and see the oceans as they now are. And the way the continents broke apart is part of the judgment on sin. And there's going to be no sin or even residue of sin in heaven, is there, Bert?
Bert Harper There will not be that river. And Los, a river of life flowing from the throne of God. And the sea has the idea of it being mixed and unsure, but God's that river is sure. And again, William, sorry we couldn't get it all down for you, but we appreciate you listening, and thank you, brother.
Wayne's Question on Cornelius' Salvation: Baptism, the Holy Spirit, and the New Birth
Let's go to Wayne in Louisiana. Wayne, go right ahead.
Yes, sir. I have a question. And now, it's a question, really from, Acts chapter nine, Acts, chapter 10, where, you know, send me the Jabba, whose surname is Peter, he shall tell you what your orders to do. But the writer cuts it off, but he picks it back up in Acts, chapter 10, and he says, what you ought us to do to be saved. And we see that, Peter baptizes Cornelius in his household, and they received the Holy Ghost, for they hit him, speak with tongues, and magnify the Lord. So they know that's how they receive the Holy Ghost. And, Jesus said, you know, a man must be born of the water and the spirit, you know, the new birth. So did that happen to Cornelius in his household when he received the Holy Ghost and he was baptized in the name of the Lord?
Bert Harper Okay, Wayne, let's look at the Book of Acts. And, there's three times this occurred. And each time this. This. The Holy Spirit coming and accompanied, ah, by great miracles and, speaking languages, was when the Scriptures was introduced into new territory. Pentecost, Israel. The Holy Spirit failed. And now God's word in 9 and 10, Cornelius there with Samaritans. God's Spirit fell. And then move to Acts 19 in that European or, Asian theater about to go into the European. The power of God, Alex. Each time those fell, it was always in that context when the Holy Spirit fell on those, or failed and came in power. Speaking in tongues. Go ahead.
Alex McFarland Yeah, well, you know, the Lord sent Peter. Cornelius, believed in God, the God of the Jews. But like in Acts 10, really 39 through 43, Peter is preaching the gospel clearly to Cornelius and his household. And Peter says to him, all the prophets bear w. Now, listen that everyone who believes in him, Jesus, receives forgiveness of sins through his name. And so, you know, it was almost Acts 10 is kind of like a little mini pentecost, because Acts 10, you know, talks about the believers were amazed, and, they were baptized. can anyone withhold water from baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we. And so I'm going to say this. It might not be as linear as we like hearing, responding, believing, baptism, indwelling of the Holy Spirit. But you've got all the elements of a conversion story there, Bert, even though it might not be as linear and chronological as it is in your pastor's Sunday morning sermon.
Bert Harper It is. And again, Acts 19, since we referred that. Listen to this. Paul said Jon, indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. And again, new territory. again, the power of God being demonstrated and helping so they could understand and know. I. I know I may go to seed on this like I did in Mark, chapter 16 about the serpents and the deadly poison. It was in missional context. Look at the tongue speaking. Always in a missional context, where. Where they're to hear the gospel and go out and share the good news. So let's be on mission for God. Wayne, thank you for that great, great question. Henry in Alabama. Henry, thank you for calling.
Henry's Question: Salvation Opportunities During the Tribulation and the Importance of Today
Go right ahead.
All right, I've got a request for you and Alex. before I ask my question, I would like for y' all to go up against the professors on Learning University with a Bible Challenge.
Alex McFarland Okay.
Bert Harper Wow. Hey, they get. They have me on Trivia Friday every blue moon. They'll get me there. And, we would take them up on the Bible Challenge, but we would also take them up on the Andrew Griffith Show. We would do both of those, wouldn't we, Alex?
Alex McFarland You know, I've never been on, Today's Issues on Friday, I don't think, but I surely would love to.
Bert Harper I'll put the word in for you, man.
Alex McFarland See what Bert Harper and Brent Austin, when it comes to Andy Griffith, they are the experts.
Bert Harper Well, we got a guy that. He beats us, Richard, who you talk to on the phone. those that you call in. Richard knows it, man. He. He's the connoisseur of it. So, anyway, Henry, go ahead with your question, brother, but thank you, man.
Yeah, people who have rejected Christ and are not raptured, but, go into the tribulation, will they have the opportunity to be saved?
Bert Harper Okay, Alex, I was raised hearing before I started reading and studying, they would not have that opportunity, after studying the word of God, I don't think I can make that statement as declarative as they. As I was taught. What about you?
Alex McFarland Yeah, and here's the thing. Second Thessalonians 2, verse 11, talking about, you know, God will send a strong delusion so that they should be deceived. Now, whosoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Or, you know, whosoever believes in him would not perish. I don't see that that necessarily, ends at the rapture, because there are going to be many, Jewish people converted during the tribulation period. I will say this. I know when you can get saved, and that's right now. You know what I mean? I do think it's highly unlikely, because think about this. the. The Antichrist is going to put the.
The.
Alex McFarland The globe on lockdown, you can't buy or sell without the mark of the beast. And many people are going to just cave and capitulate, go along to get along and really become the subjects. Not only. I mean, you think about it. Midway through the tribulation, the Antichrist defiles the temple, says, worship me or die. And many people are going to be executed, because they wouldn't worship the beast. And many people will probably say, oh, well, I better save my skin and go along with it. So could people get saved after the Rapture? I think so. But for those that have heard the gospel repeatedly, and if you reject the gospel here in the best of circumstances, why do you think you might accept it in the hardest of circumstances?
Bert Harper Let me add to that. the fewer people get saved as they get older. You know, that is true. And today's the day of salvation. Children, teenagers, young adults, you were saved. Was it 21 years old, Alex?
Alex McFarland Yes, sir.
Bert Harper Had you put that off and said, no, I'm not going to do that, I'm not going to do that? not really.
Alex McFarland I mean, for me, growing up in the Bible Belt, I heard bits and pieces, and I always had a reverence for God, and I had a very pretty. I have to say, I think I had a very tender moral compass. But I was 21 when suddenly my eyes opened and I was like, okay, Christ died for me and I need to put my faith in Jesus and be born again.
Bert Harper This kind of goes along. Doug from Arkansas had called in and said about the age of accountability. The age of accountability is not a certain age. It is a certain time in a person's life when they can have accountability for having some understanding, having their minds opened and being ready to receive it. Now, Alex, had you been. I'm asking you, and you give honest answer. Had you, died before 21? Had you reached an age of accountability, of understanding? Or was your understanding not clear enough? I know that's hypothetical, but go ahead and take a stab at it.
Alex McFarland I knew I was a sinner. I mean, I really did. And, you know, I went to Sunday School at 13. I, quote, joined the church because the church I happened to grow up in, told me to fill out this card and come forward and join the church. But if somebody had asked prior to 21, if somebody had asked me, you know, if you stood before God and God said, why should I let you into heaven? What would you say? I wouldn't have known. I would have priced it something like, well, I've tried to. I'VE tried to do my best and be a good person. But, you know, what was so clear to me at Macedonia Baptist Church in that summer of 1985 was, and praise the name of Jesus, Pastor F.G. alford. You'll see him in heaven. He explained sin was the Romans road, Bert, you know, Romans 3:23. All have sinned, and I knew I was a sinner. Romans 6:23. The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life. Romans 5:8. God demonstrated his love. While we were yet sinners, Christ died. And so I had to respond. So, you know, and I'm sure some kids understand it at 10 years old, somehow another. The bits and pieces and the components of the gospel. My eyes didn't open till I was 21, but, boy, when it. When I understood it, I was like, okay, I need to. I need to call out to Jesus and put my trust in him.
Amen.
Bert Harper Ah. And that's what we're saying to you today. Those of you who are listening, if you've never trusted Christ, Alex knew a good bit about it, been in Sunday school, been in church, but never came into that relationship. Come to Christ today. Don't put it off. Don't delay. And talking about the tribulation, with all my heart. The longer you put it off and you have knowledge of it, the harder your heart becomes with the tribulation. Shall. I wouldn't take a chance on it, would you, Alex?
Alex McFarland I wouldn't take a chance. Behold, now is the time.
Final Call to Trust Christ Today and Reach Out for Spiritual Help
Today is the day of salvation. Call out to Jesus. If you need spiritual help, reach out to us. You can email us on Facebook or wordfr.uh net in the meantime, thank you for listening to Exploring the Word. May God bless you in every way. Be in church on Sunday. Tell somebody about afr, please. But most of all, tell everybody about Jesus. The views and opinions expressed in this
Bert Harper broadcast may not necessarily reflect those of
Alex McFarland the American Family association or American Family Radio.
In this episode of Fire Away Friday, join hosts Bert Harper and Alex McFarland as they tackle your pressing Bible questions. From the identity of Barabbas to the significance of the name Jesus, they dive deep into scripture, providing insights and interpretations that enlighten and inspire. Tune in for a lively discussion that not only answers questions but encourages listeners to engage with their faith.
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