Introduction This article concerns how to function as a believer among non-believers who are in control of our government and its agencies, our institutions of higher education, the news media, entertainment; and are slowly creeping into the church. This series is meant to be pragmatic, addressing specific characteristics, behaviors, and insights. I’ve going to break from … Continue reading »
Filed under Brent’s ~ Topics …
The 4 Gospels ~ Why they are Meant to be Different
Introduction (Reprinting – 05/03/2013) What is amazing about the Gospels of Jesus Christ is that they are 4 different aspects or perspectives of Christ First Coming, and that they perfectly reflect the 4 ensigns (A flag with a symbol representing the tribe) of the 4 tribes as they were located around the tabernacle, which was a shadow (type) of … Continue reading »
Confess Your Sins One to Another – Does This Mean What You Think? (Christians can be Sinless?)
Introduction We’ve all read the below Scripture, but do we really understand what it means. And though the immediate context concerns healing and sickness, there is a principle within a wider biblical context concerning the confession of sins to others, which may be misunderstood within the context of open confession in the church. The question becomes … Continue reading »
To Forgive Someone, Must They Repent (Updated)
The question is: 1. To forgive others, must they ask for forgiveness first? 2. Must they admit that they have wronged us? 3. Must they repent (“to change their mind”) of having wronged us? 4. Must they say they will not do it again? To some, this may seem like ridiculous questions concerning how a Christian … Continue reading »
Saint – Bondslave (Updated)
Introduction I once had the following three questions posed to me in a class (This is a subject I am revisiting today, and all Believers need to remember periodically) I was taking. What is a “Saint,” what is a (Greek) “doulos,” (translated into the English word: “servant” literally rendered: “bond slave” ~ Romans 1:1; Titus 1:1) and … Continue reading »
Sheep and Wolves
Jesus’ Illusion Concerning Sheep & Wolves Jesus, in speaking about these false prophets used the illusion (an indirect reference to something or somebody by using symbolism) of them coming to the people as “wolves in sheep’s clothing” (see #1) in order to take advantage of them. We understand that Jesus used the illusion of sheep … Continue reading »
Judging ~ Church Discipline ~ Forgiveness & Turning the Cheek
Introduction Before addressing the necessity of Believers exercising proper Biblical Judgment (the Christ given mandate to use discernment ~ “Mat. 7:15; 10:17; 16:6,11,12; Mark 8:15; 12:38; Luke 12:1,15; 20:46), we need to consider the subject of pacifism as it will come into play within this conversation. Pacifism Pacifism is one of the great tools of the … Continue reading »
God’s Perspective vs. Man’s
Introduction (Major Rewrite) Man is so limited by the sin-nature that even the born-again believer is plagued with a sinful perception, wherein many times reality is beyond his comprehension. We must remember: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than … Continue reading »
The 4 Gospels ~ Why they are Meant to be Different
Introduction (Reprinting) What is amazing about the Gospels of Jesus Christ is that they are 4 different aspects or perspectives of Christ First Coming, and that they perfectly reflect the 4 ensigns (A flag with a symbol representing the tribe) of the 4 tribes as they were located around the tabernacle, which was a shadow (type) of God’s Thorne … Continue reading »
Does James Contradict Paul
Introduction Unfortunately, due to the fact that many of us do not understand koiné Greek we are unaware of many grammatical principles which alter the understanding of some verses when translated into the English vernacular. In Koiné Greek, verbs ending in “oo” indicate that what is already on the inside is then displayed on the … Continue reading »
Self-Esteem & The Total Depravity of Man
Introduction The following excerpt is from John MacArthur’s book, Introduction To Biblical Counseling. If it were lacking anything in presenting the Doctrine of the Total Depravity of man and how it relates to the self-esteem movement, we would have written our own paper, however it does not. It is probably one of the best written … Continue reading »
A Breakdown of the Lord’s Prayer – The Disciple’s Prayer – Part One
Let’s look at Jesus’ teaching concerning prayer. First we must realize that this is a prayer that is stated prior to Jesus going to sit at the right hand side of the Father. It is His instructions while He was still on the earth, yet the template (Jesus doesn’t say that we have to stay … Continue reading »
Leadership & Authority
Introduction One of the things that people were astonished concerning Jesus was that He spoke having authority. The point is that He spoke with authority, yet it was not that His speaking was authoritative, or He spoke in a commanding manner; it is that He seated authority in Himself. Display vs. Essence This has less … Continue reading »
Corinth’s Problems & Church Discipline
What were the main problems in Corinth? 1. Divisions – Contentions based upon ownership of Different Teachers: “now I beseech you, brethren, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, they all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you but that ye be perfect fit together in the … Continue reading »
What is the Gospel – Specifically Defined by the Bible
Introduction The English word gospel comes from the Greek word “Euangelizo” translated “good tidings” in certain passages, and “gospel” in others. The general idea is that gospel literally meant “good news.” Old Testament In the Old Testament, the Septuagint Greek translation, the word “gospel” could mean any kind of good news1, or even God’s … Continue reading »
Saint – Bondslave
Introduction I once had the following three questions posed to me in a class (This is a subject I am revisiting today, and all Believers need to remember periodically) I was taking. What is a “Saint,” what is a (Greek) “doulos,” (translated into the English word: “servant” literally rendered: “bond slave” ~ Romans 1:1; Titus 1:1) and … Continue reading »
Something to Think About Series ~ 1 – Ray Comfort – Hell’s Best Kept Secret
Introduction I am going to do something different and present an article by someone else without comment. I believe this presentation is something we Christians should think about. bb “Hell’s Best Kept Secret” By Ray Comfort (This message was first preached in August 1982.) You can Listen to ”Hell’s Best Kept Secret” at: LINK In the late seventies, … Continue reading »
The Question of the Ages Regarding the God of Christianity
Introduction The following list of words are used by God to describe the state of man. Jeremiah 17:9 says, concerning the human heart (See Endnote #1), that “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it?” The Hebrew word translated “desperately,” means in the literal “incurable.” With the human heart … Continue reading »
The Bride of Christ – Is Not the Church, Solely
Introduction For many years it has been commonly taught that the “Bride of Christ” is synonymous with the “Body of Christ,” which is the church (1 Corinthians 12:27; Ephesians 4:12), and therefore the two references refer to the same thing. We should remember Christ’s Words: “You make void the word of God by your traditions … Continue reading »
The Beatitudes – How to Understand Them
Well I’m back. During the last few months, I have been filling in as pastoral director in charge of chaplaincy at the hospital I work at. During the last month there have been many deaths and traumas, and supervisory responsibilities which have kept me away from my writing. This assignment should be completed in a … Continue reading »
Self-Esteem & The Total Depravity of Man
Introduction The following excerpt is from John MacArthur’s book, Introduction To Biblical Counseling. If it were lacking anything in presenting the Doctrine of the “Total Depravity of Man” and how it relates to the self-esteem movement, we would have written our own paper, however it does not. It is probably one of the best written … Continue reading »
The 4 Gospels ~ Reasons they are Different
Introduction (10/12/2012 ~ Expanded, Revised, Fixed, & Reformatted) Unfortunately, While this article has been one of the most viewed, due to the insertion of the table necessary to present it; it has been the most flawed due to the editor’s inability to present it properly. Recently, I have not only reformatted it in attempting to deal with this … Continue reading »
Sheep and Wolves
Jesus’ Allusion Concerning Sheep & Wolves Jesus, in speaking about these false prophets used the allusion (an indirect reference to something or somebody by using symbolism) of them coming to the people as “wolves in sheep’s clothing” (see #1) in order to take advantage of them. We understand that Jesus used the allusion of sheep … Continue reading »
The Preeminence of Christ ~ Part 6 ~ Jesus ~ The Ultimate Example of Faith
Introduction (Reformmated ~ 09/09/2012) Faith is one of those subjects, which for the believer is subject to great confusion because it seems to be so obvious in its definition. However, faith is much more complex than many of us realize. Faith is a subject that a child can exercise so easily, and can perfect; yet it is also … Continue reading »
The Leaven of the Pharisees?
Introduction Before we address the leaven of the Pharisees, and the spiritual insights that can be achieved, wherein faith is grown; the following introduction, while somewhat long is necessary in order to gain a fruitful insight concerning one of the many ways that God’s Word validates itself, thus literally fulfilling Romans 10:17, which states: “Faith … Continue reading »
Does James Contradict Paul
Introduction Unfortunately, due to the fact that many of us do not understand koiné Greek we are unaware of many grammatical principles which alter the understanding of some verses when translated into the English vernacular. In Koiné Greek, verbs ending in “oo” indicate that what is already on the inside is then displayed on the … Continue reading »
Judging ~ Church Discipline ~ Forgiveness & Turning the Cheek
Introduction (UPDATED – 08/27/2012) Before addressing the necessary of Believer’s exercising proper Biblical judgment - the Christian mandate to use discernment, we need to consider the subject of pacifism as it will come into play within this conversation. Pacifism Pacifism is one of the great tools of the enemy in order to douse the flames of evangelism … Continue reading »
Eternal Security – Its About God
Introduction This author loves old expressions and adages which display wisdom and insights in a brief presentation. However, if you remember the old story about how when it comes to communicating verbal information; that if you gathered a group of people in a circle, and start with one person and whisper something in their ear. And then they whisper in the … Continue reading »
Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit
Introduction Of all the questions that I have been asked over almost 40 years, the most frequent and passionate inquiry has always been about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. The greatest fear has been by those that were panicked that they had accidentally committed this unforgivable sin. In the following you will see that it … Continue reading »
The Heart and the Mind ~ What the Biblical word “Heart’ Means
Introduction (Content updated & republished) In both the Old Testament (OT) and the New Testament (NT) the word “heart” is used to refer to the whole of the innermost part of the human, NOT merely the emotions. Culturally However, in the twenty-first century English the word “heart” is used to express the emotions as an individual compartment … Continue reading »
How to Deal with False-believers
Introduction The other day I received a comment from an individual who attempted to present evidence that the Holy Spirit was validating what they were saying, and what their cult, Mormonism preached (see the comments section concerning the article: “Meek ~ The Great Example” – Link), when I clicked on their website, their profile stated (verbatim): by brandonlott … Continue reading »
Think ~ Act ~ Feel
Human Nature, (As falsely taught by the world as “Natural” – Evolution): Feel-Act. (Updated) The world says: “We act in response to how we feel,” “If it feels good, do it.” The world is obsessed with emotional feelings at the expense of rational discretion. It is the emotions that the media, entertainment, and politics utilize to move … Continue reading »
An Amazing Old Testament Prophecy ~ Genesis Five
How One Approaches God’s Word Many Christians believe in the inerrancy of the Bible, but don’t believe in the sufficiency of it. The majority of Christians today believe in the inerrancy of the Bible,1 as written in the original languages in the original texts. Many believers who hold to a literal interpretation are ostracized for … Continue reading »
God’s Perspective vs. Man’s
Introduction (Major Rewrite) Man is so limited by the sin-nature that even the born-again believer is plagued with a sinful perception, wherein many times reality is beyond his comprehension. We must remember: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than … Continue reading »
The Preeminence of Christ ~ Part 8 ~ Christophanies ~ The OT Appearances of Jesus
A Christophany is pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus in the Old Testament. (Updated – Reedited) Introduction While some competent scholars may disagree with some of the following; the Theophanies (Theophanies: a visible manifestation of a deity) of Jesus Christ in the Old Testament is an accepted doctrine, beyond dispute based solely upon Scripture. One of the examples which proves that God … Continue reading »
The Preeminence of Christ ~ Part 7 ~ “Thou madest him a little lower than the angels…” ~ Guardian Angels Addressed
Introduction While this article addresses Angels in general, and what is referred to as “Guardian Angels” specifically; the primary subject is the preeminence of Jesus Christ, as it should be. Guardian Angels are said to be Angels that protect each and every one of us (with specific references concerning children) as individuals, they are said to be the guardians of … Continue reading »
Kinsman-Redeemer ~ Part 1 ~ A Brief Introduction
Introduction The term “Kinsman Redeemer” (Hebrew: goel, [H1350] translated: “kinsman“ ~ Num. 5:8; 27:11; Ruth 2:1; 3:9, 12, 13; 4:1, 3, 6, 8, 14; John 18:26; Romans 16:11) is the title for a position of responsibility within an Old Testament Hebrew family. This individual was entrusted with the ability to protect, as well as revenge individuals within the … Continue reading »
The Preeminence of Christ ~ Part 5 ~ A Prophecy of When the Messiah Would Arrive ~ A Short Synopsis
Jesus said: If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side,And … Continue reading »
Sin ~ Defined & Examined
Introduction “Sin,” in its most foundational depiction is anything opposed to that which is good (“Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.” ~ 3 John 1:11), and the ultimate depiction of what is good, … Continue reading »
To Forgive Someone, Must They Repent (Updated)
The question is: 1. To forgive others, must they ask for forgiveness first? 2. Must they admit that they have wronged us? 3. Must they repent (“to change their mind”) of having wronged us? 4. Must they say they will not do it again? To some, this may seem like ridiculous questions concerning how a Christian … Continue reading »
Meek ~ Christ the Great Example
Christ Said Concerning Himself: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” (Matthew 11:29) -Christ modeled it Moses Said Concerning Himself: “Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the … Continue reading »
How to Be Saved
Introduction There might be two types of people that would pose this question. The unbeliever with whom the Holy Spirit is convicting unto salvation; and the immature believer who questions if they’re truly saved. Both individuals should seek the answer to this question from God’s Word, through the guidance of a mature believer – hopefully this … Continue reading »
Work Out Your Own Salvation ~ Philippians 2:12-13
Introduction The following commentary excerpt (I have lost the source information) exemplifies an excellent exegesis of Philippians 2:12-13, which states: “Wherefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who … Continue reading »
Christian Rock ‘N Roll Music
Introduction Since the Jesus movement of the 1960s and 70s, the youth culture has vastly influenced Christian music; with the question being asked is the genre of Rock ‘N Roll appropriate for Christian music in general, and worship songs in particular. The sub-genres within rock ‘n roll music can be: hard rock, acid rock, punk … Continue reading »
“Many Shall Run To and Fro”
Introduction We shall take a brief look at just one of the passages in the unbelievable revelation from God, referred to as the book of Daniel. Chapter 12 of the book of Daniel is a vision that he receives concerning the last days. The “Last Days” is a generic term which covers over 2000 years, from … Continue reading »
Who is Your god/God, and Where Does He Live?
Universal Truth Every man has a god. Many might try to argue the point and assert that they don’t believe in the notion of a higher power. They may assert that God is a man-made myth and an indication of weak character, low intelligence, or sick emotions. Many of them believe in evolution, claiming that … Continue reading »
How to be a Christian in an UnChristian World
Subject: The Christian Walk in a Sinful World Topics Covered: Daniel & His 3 Friends, Examples of Bad Christian Leadership, Biblical Definition of the word “Heart“, Christ’s Example of Humility, A Grammatical Breakdown of Phil. 2:5-8, Thinking & Feeling, Essence vs. Attributes “Meek,” the Biblical Understanding of the Word The Christian walk: Introspection, Developing Humility, and Fighting Pride A Story by … Continue reading »
Judging ~ Church Discipline ~ Forgiveness & Turning the Cheek
Introduction 08/07/2012 – I am going to be spending the next few weeks working on a most significant subject which must be treated meticulously. Therefore, in the meantime I’m going to reformat, and update a few prior articles which are also important, but will allow me to spend the time that I need on this … Continue reading »
A Gun, a Dog, Burnt Hands, and the Cross; and How they’re All Connected.
This is dedicated to Nonni, as I promised that I would write a ”real” blog. Reissued What an unusual title for a post, you might be thinking; and you would be absolutely correct. Let us see if I can make sense of this enigma in the form of a title. Prelude I am a second amendment advocate. No, I not only believe … Continue reading »
Is there a Difference between Jesus being Savior & Jesus being Lord?
Yes, there is a vast difference if you try to seperate the two. Primise It has been said that there are three mindsets concerning presenting the Gospel to the unsaved: 1) those that demand too much, 2) those that demand too little; and 3) those that present the gospel correctly. Concerning those that … Continue reading »
