Is the Bible Too Restrictive?

Edward D. Andrews

1 John 5:3 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

³ For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.

When we look at the world around us today, what we find is a conflicting message. Dictators, who abuse their people in a socialistic setting, run much of the third world. However, if any of these ones escape that environment and make it to the United States, they start voting for politicians that believe in a bigger government with greater authority in a socialistic setting. The European countries are almost all liberal-progressive and quasi-socialist in nature. Moreover, virtually all of them have a cradle to grave handout system by the government and are on the verge of an economic crash. Nevertheless, when election time comes around, the people in these countries tend to elect another Democratic liberal-progressive candidate because they have become so used to the mentality of the handouts. What do all of these people have in common? The liberal-progressive desires of a bigger government that controls every human facet of life are actually at odds with the same individuals, who truly want absolute freedom, with no authority telling them what they can and cannot do.

No one today wants anyone to have the right to tell them how they out to behave. Teenagers are rebelling against their parents. Society is rebelling against the government and law enforcement. Employees are rebelling again big business. No one wants to submit to the will of another. Nevertheless, most in this world are “conformed to this world” by the government that they are under. (Rom. 12:2) Moreover, instead of independence, “they themselves are slaves of corruption,” i.e., they are slaves to their sinful tendencies, namely, their fleshly desires. (2 Pet. 2:19) This world is following “the ruler of the authority of the air, the spirit now working in the sons of disobedience. Among whom also we [Christians] all formerly lived in the desires of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the thoughts, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.” – Ephesians 2:2-3.

Christian View of Authority

Our view of authority, as Christians, is different from those who walk blindly in this world. Christian children follow the authority of their parents and school. Christian adults follow the authority of their spouse, their employers, and the government under which they live. Paul says, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.” (Eph. 6:1-3) He also wrote, “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior.” (Eph. 5:22-23) Paul also tells every Christian, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” (Rom. 13:1) However, the question begs to be asked, “Are Christians to just blindly do whatever they are asked by their government, workplace or spouse?” No, Christians can ignore any authority if it is at odds with the Word of God. In the first-century, the Jewish religious leaders had commanded the Christians to stop witnessing about Jesus. However, this was against Jesus command to proclaim the good news, to teach, and make disciples. (Matt. 24:14; 28:19-20; Ac 1:8) Peter and John took the position that is the balancing principle for all Christians, even today, “We must obey God rather than men.” – Acts 5:27-29.

At present, while this book is being penned, the United States has recently legalized marriage between the same sex, i.e., man marrying man and woman marrying woman. This is in conflict with God’s Word that clearly states homosexual relationships are a gross sin and contrary to nature. (Lev. 18:22; Rom. 1:24-27; 1 Cor. 6:9; Jude 1:7) This United States ruling by the Supreme Court is placing Christians in the position of having to obey God or obey man. For example, some Christians who own bakeries have refused to make wedding cakes for homosexual weddings. They have not refused homosexuals from coming into their store and purchasing baked good, but they feel that to make a cake for a homosexual wedding is participating in that wedding, which would be contrary to Scripture. Paul warned Timothy against ‘sharing in the sins of others.’ – 1 Timothy 5:22.

The world as we speak is quickly moving away from any sort of good moral values. Nevertheless, while we want to be courageous in the face of persecution, this does not give us the right to be stubborn because we have an unreasonable spirit. There is the other case, where a city official was jailed for refusing to give out a marriage license to homosexual couples. She had taken a job that is subject to change with the world because government by nature is of the world. If the government refuses to make exceptions for a Christian official, the only recourse for the Christian is to find another line of employment.

It is not our Christian obligation to repair Satan’s World. If it is possible to win a legal case, overturning a law that infringes on the rights of Christians, this is perfectly fine. Many cases have been won in the United States Supreme Court that has granted Christians more freedom or have removed restrictions that were there. However, if we cannot obey a law, we must not involve ourselves in that line of work. As wise Solomon said, there is “a time to be silent and a time to speak.” (Eccl 3:7, NASB) The principle is that we accept God’s authority over any human. We do so, even in a “Christian” household, if a husband asks his wife to do anything that violates Scripture, she can refuse. The same would be true of parents that may ask Christian children to violate Scripture. Again, ‘we obey God rather than man,’ any man.

The United States of America is Not God’s Kingdom

The United States has served Americans and the rest of the world well and will likely do so right up into the Great Tribulation. However, conservative Christians need to take note of the fact that at present, we are the majority and prayer without an evident demonstration of our faith in that prayer is not going to halt the socialist direction that the United States is heading. In other words, Paul encourages,

1 Timothy 2:1-2 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹ First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, ² for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.

We pray for our government leaders to make decisions that will allow us to “lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” However, prayer is not enough. We must act on our prayers by voting for the lesser of the two evils, which we did not do in McCain versus Obama in 2008 or in Romney Versus Obama in 2012. The United States is greatly weakened after eight years of a quasi-socialist president, not because the Democrats, liberal, and atheists are now the majority, but rather because many conservatives sat at home because their choice in a candidate was not selected to run against Obama. Remember, it is Christ and his Kingdom that we seek, but we can hold a measure of stability longer if we are united against the liberal, progressive, socialist movement of this world.

How Do True Conservative Christians View Voting?

While Trump may or may not be a conservative, genuine, Christian by any means (Matt 7:17-18, 21-23), he is adamant about proposing conservative justices on the US Supreme Court, which can protect Christians freedom for decades to come. Christians will not be forced to share in the sins of the world (i.e., make a cake as a bakery for homosexual weddings), they can act on their conscience. Trump is also very serious about protecting America and the rest of the world from Islamic terrorism and Islam’s agenda of undermining our Christian nation(s). Trump is also serious about dealing with the illegal immigrants that are costing the nation and being used only for Democratic votes.

However, more importantly, President Trump is rebuilding what Present Obama tore down. President Obama has the worldview that the United States was too big and too powerful and had abused its power by victimizing and taking from weaker nations. Therefore, under Obama’s twisted reasoning, if the United States was weakened, the other countries could be strengthened, which would then make the world a fairer place, namely, a social justice mentality. President Obama weakened the united states military crippling them from fulfilling one Bible principle. He also very much weakened the moral fabric of the United States by implementing liberal progressive values in place of biblical Judeo-Christian values. The election of Donald J. Trump halted this implemented liberal progressive worldview from taking us down the path that many European countries had long known. This author will now say that in one year Trump has shown himself willing to fulfill Paul’s words in two places with Scripture. Again, Paul told Timothy that we are to pray for leaders, so “that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” (1 Tim. 2:1-2) However, President Trump, against all the odds has been carrying out another aspect of God’s Word.

Romans 13:1 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

13 Let every soul^[1] be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except by God, and those that exist have been placed^[2] by God.

Does this verse mean that God has miraculously set up and established every governmental authority since the beginning of man? No, not at all. God is indirectly allowed governments to form, meaning that they serve a purpose by their presence. Many governments make some effort to make laws that protect their public. Some governments abuse their power in the extreme, like Adolf Hitler. Obama abused his power in that he willfully contributed to the United States abandoning their biblical Judeo-Christian values and shift toward the liberal progressive worldview. He also willfully weakened the United States ability to protect the world from existing threats. Governmental authorities exist because God has allowed them to exist. In some cases, some leaders use their power to protect religious freedom and promote a biblical worldview. The United States has protected the world for over a century from wicked nations and other threats, spilling much of their people’s blood and treasures. The world has largely been ungrateful. However, this peace that we have had since World War II, has allowed Christian to carry out their evangelism work in relative freedom. – Matthew 24:14; 28:19-20; Acts 1:8.

Trump is finding himself under attack from the liberal, progressive, socialist media, democratic politicians, Hollywood and so many other segments of society. Why? Because Obama was about building a socialist nation that hated itself and loved other countries more. Now, Trump is rolling that back and making America first. This does not mean that we ignore other countries. Rather it means that we put American conservative values first. It bears repeating as to why we support whichever politician that will give us religious freedom and protect us from enemies. Paul answers, “that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” (1 Tim. 2:1-2) In other words, we pray for and vote for the leader that is going to make decisions that will allow us the freedom to carry out our ministry quietly and in peace. If you are spiritually awake and see the battle that is going on, you need to vote Trump into a second term.

We have, but one leader, Jesus Christ, and the United States has been a great tool to protect Christianity for centuries and can do so up unto the great tribulation. We do not know what the future holds in detail, but we do know that a great tribulation is on the horizon and things are going to go from bad to worse. – Matthew 24:21-28; 2 Timothy 3:1-7.

Therefore, let us carry out our ministry because the time is short, and we can use this period of peace wisely. We need to find a way for true Christians to unite under one God, becoming one in doctrine, word, and deed. We need to proclaim the Word of God, teach and make disciples. (Matt 24:14; 28;19; Ac 1:8) Not all so-called Christians are going to survive Christ’s return. (Matt 7:21-23, 1 John 2:15-17) Jesus asked, “when I return will I really find the faith.” (Lu 18:8) Not at this point and time with our 49,000 different Christian denominations all swearing they are the truth and the way even though they are all divided. Even churches within the same denominations are divided because of autonomy. Christ’s second coming will happen in one of two ways.

ONE: Jesus chooses true Christians out of all of these denominations, and the false Christians will hear the words, “‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’” (Matt. 7:23)

TWO: Before the end comes one true form of Christianity will develop and all true Christians will see the light and migrate in the name of uniting under the one God. (Ex. 3:12; 19:17; Deut. 4:35; 4:39; Josh. 22:34; 2 Sam. 7:28; 1 Ki 8:60)

For the Christians that voted for Donald Trump and now believe he is not living up to his word, you need to step back and see the big picture. President Trump is battling Satan’s world powers from the oval office, and he cannot do it alone. He needs to be voted in again so that he can restore some of what Obama tore down. Imagine yourself trying to alter a country that was turned upside down from within and you have most other countries against you, the liberal media 24/7 attacking you, liberal Hollywood campaigning against you, big business donating money to your enemies, your own conservative party attacking you, you have hundreds of holdovers from liberal progressive Obama’s White House throughout the government, no one truly supporting you, how would you implement your campaign promises? He is not a dictator, nor does he have the power to implement many of his promises on his own. He is doing the best job he can under these trying circumstances. We need the extra four years from 2020 to 2024 to undo all the damage Obama has caused. Replace Trump with another lifetime conservative in 2020 will only return the United States to the status quo of politicians doing what they do.^[3]

Godlessness in the Last Days Means the Kingdom is Closer

John 18:36 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

³⁶ Jesus answered, “my kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, then my servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, my kingdom is not of this world.”

2 Timothy 3:1-7 Updated American Standard Version (ASV)

¹  But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. ² For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, ³ unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, ⁴ treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, ⁵ having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power; avoid such men as these. ⁶ For among them are those who enter into households and captivate weak women weighed down with sins, led on by various desires, ⁷ always learning and yet never able to come to an accurate knowledge^[4] of truth.

The balanced biblical view of authority is that we pray and take what actions are possible within whatever authority we as Christians are under while awaiting Christ’s kingdom. If we can vote for a conservative candidate that make not be perfect (because who is), we still vote for him or her as opposed to a liberal progressive vote. If conservative sits at home, it is a vote for the liberal progressive. Even so, if one is sitting at home because their Christian conscience tells them not to involve themselves in politics, this is different and acceptable.

We as Christians use whatever legal system is available to win cases that will allow us to “lead a peaceful and quiet life [while we await Christ’s second coming], godly and dignified in every way.” We as Christians also use whatever branch of government that is that is available to legislate a bill into a law so that we may “lead a peaceful and quiet life [while we await Christ’s second coming], godly and dignified in every way.” However, we are no so focused on changing Satan’s world, which is due to be removed [i.e., wicked people that is], forgetting that Jesus gave us but one great commission. He commanded that we proclaim the good news of the kingdom in all the inhabited earth, teaching biblical truths, to make disciples until his return. The overall principle again is, we obey God as ruler rather than man, meaning that if man asks us to do anything that conflicts with God’s Word, then we obey God. We give Caesar’s things to Caesar and we give God’s things to God. However, if Caesar starts asking for what belongs to God, we are not to make any concessions in any way. – Matthew 22:20-22.

We as Christians have accepted God’s authority as our supreme authority. We apply the words as stated in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in Jehovah with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” We know that if we follow God’s Word to the best of our ability, generally speaking, things will work out for our good.[5]

Deuteronomy 10:12 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹² “And now, O Israel, what does Jehovah your God require from you, but to fear Jehovah your God, to walk in all his ways and love him, and to serve Jehovah your God with all your heart and with all your soul, ¹³ and to keep Jehovah’s commandments and his statutes which I am commanding you today for your good?

Isaiah 48:17-18 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁷ Thus says Jehovah,
your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel:
“I am Jehovah your God,
who teaches you to profit,
who leads you in the way you should go.
¹⁸ Oh that you had paid attention to my commandments!
Then your peace would have been like a river,
and your righteousness like the waves of the sea;

Scripture is quite clear that while we know Christians are not immune from the effects of living in imperfection within Satan’s world, it is always in our best interests to obey the Word of God. The pint that follows is very important. As long as we have a correct understanding of what the Bible says on a matter, we must obey, even if, at present, we do not understand the reasons as to why. This is not gullibility or naiveté; it is trusting in the one and only True God.

Discernment Trained

Returning to the book of Hebrews, we are told that we need to have our “discernment trained to distinguish between good and evil.” (Heb. 5:14) Therefore, we are not to obey God’s laws, rules, and principles simply because they are there without being a human being with thoughts and feelings. In order to be able to ‘discern between right and wrong,’ we have to think, so God does not want us to be some automaton robot that just follows his laws because he says so. We want to understand and appreciate the wisdom of what God says. If acquire the mind of Christ, we will be able to say, “I delight to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart.” – Psalm 40:8.

If we are going to be like the Psalmist, to have the mind of Christ, who said, “I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me” (John 6:38), we will need to ponder on what the Bible authors meant by what they wrote. We might ask ourselves, “How do I apply this verse of ‘do not get drunk with wine’ (Eph. 5:18), with say beer as Paul did not mention beer?” “Why is the law or that principle to be applied in different circumstances?” On the other hand, “in what all circumstances does it apply?” “Why is it best for me to obey God’s Word?” “If I obey God’s Word will everything always work out for me?” If our Christian mind and heart are in harmony with the mind of Christ, we will then make decisions based on a biblical worldview. Right before the above verse on wine, Paul wrote, “Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” (Eph. 5:17) Let us revisit “give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s,” which is not always easy to determine.

We just spoke of the Kentucky County clerk, who was refusing to hand out marriage licenses to same-sex couples. The liberal media was trying to use the Bible as evidence that the Christian clerk had no choice but to obey the Supreme Court ruling. They quoted Matthew 22:21, “give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s.” Well, this verse does not even apply to these circumstances. First, the liberal commentators leave out the second half of the verse. It reads, “and to God what is God’s.” The question was raised before, what if Caesar (governmental authorities) asks for something that belongs to God? We do not give what belongs to God to Caesar. We reiterated this issue to make our point about having a correct understanding of the Bible. The Critical and Exegetical Hand-Book to the Gospel of Matthew, by Heinrich Meyer, explains: “By [Caesar’s things] … we are not to understand merely the civil tax, but everything to which Caesar was entitled in virtue of his legitimate rule.” Yes, everything we are to give Caesar everything he is entitled to, but not what God is entitled to from us, such as obedience.

Satan Attempts to Undermine God’s Authority

From the time of the Garden of Eden, Satan has sought to undermine God’s authority and sovereignty (right to rule). He chose to be independent of God’s authority in his rebellion, which independence, a lack of respect for authority has been the way of humanity after Adam, and Eve joined him. It used to be that marriage was a divine institution. Now, we have couples that just choose to live together. Moreover, the United States one of the last conservative Judeo-Christian countries had their Supreme Court alter the definition of marriage from a man and a woman, to include same-sex couples. In addition, the divorce rate, even among Christians is over fifty percent. While this serves as just one example, we should ask, “Do I respect God’s authority to establish marriage to be between man and woman, for live and to hate a divorcing as much as he?” “Have I allowed the world around me to affect my thinking toward marriage?”

Many young ones in the Christian Church are falling away from the faith because Satan has singled them out as a special group. Satan does this by undermining God’s authority. The apostle Paul warns young ones to “flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” (2 Tim. 2:22) It is Satan’s world, which caters to the youthful passions, and the peer pressure of worldly children, which lead young ones to see God’s Word as oppressive. They need to understand fully and appreciate the wisdom behind God’s Word. We are all told to “flee from sexual immorality” (1 Cor. 6:18), but this counsel is especially poignant to the young ones today. In the 1980s, it was common to find a teenage boy and girl kissing under the bleachers at a basketball or football game. We now live in a world where teenagers culturally believe that oral sex is the same as kissing. What a stark contrast in just in thirty-five years!

There are “3 in 10 teen American girls will get pregnant at least once before age 20. That is nearly 750,000 teen pregnancies every year. Parenthood is the leading reason that teen girls drop out of school. More than 50% of teen mothers never graduate from high school. About 25% of teen moms have a 2nd child within 24 months of their first baby. Less than 2% of teen moms earn a college degree by age 30. The United States has one of the highest teen pregnancy rates in the western industrialized world.”[6] Young ones ask yourselves, ‘Why is the command to flee from sexual immorality wise?’ ‘If you obey the command, how will it benefit you?’ Certainly, young ones, you see pregnant teens walking around your schools, you see that they eventually drop out. This author is aware of numerous cases where there is an eighteen-year-old with three children. While the children are precious, the young girl, a child herself, is ignoring God’s Word and has paid the price. Certainly, it is best to accept God’s authority as the Creator of humanity, who knows what is best for his creation.

Avoid an Independent Spirit

In our world, that values an independent spirit above all else, we must be on guard to not adopt the same attitude, as accepting God’s authority will be called into question. If we begin to think of ourselves more than we ought to, it can become self-assurance, i.e., believing that your views and abilities are of greater value than say our spouse, our school, our parents, our employer, the government, or even our Creator. After Jesus had spoken of figuratively feeding on his flesh and drinking his blood (spiritual sense),[7] many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. Therefore, Jesus said to the twelve apostles, “Do you want to go away as well?” Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” – John 6:52-68.

If we are accepting God’s authority, it means that we will be taught by it, we will be reproved by it from time to time, corrected by it, trained in righteousness by it, so that we may be complete, being equipped for every good work. (2 Tim. 3:16-17) In these last days, we will also follow Paul’s counsel, “let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober.” (1 Thess. 5:6) Who are the others, who are sleeping? It could be a reference to the unbelievers in the world, who are sleeping through this important time because the Word of God is mere foolishness to them. However, it may also apply to Christians who is uninterested. “Falling asleep is a picture of what can happen to us spiritually, ethically, or morally if we are not watchful. We simply drift off. Drowsiness begins, we become comfortable, our hearts become insensitive. Spiritual drowsiness slowly paralyzes the spirit. The person who was once vibrant and wide awake in following Christ can become lethargic and lazy about issues of the spirit.” We, on the other hand, “are to be alert and self-controlled. To be alert is the opposite of being asleep. An alert person is aware, sensitive to life around him, and morally and spiritually awake.” (Larson 2000, p. 70)

1 John 2:15-17 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁵ Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. ¹⁶ For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. ¹⁷ The world is passing away, and its lusts; but the one who does the will of God remains forever.

 Humility is Important

Luke 9:48 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

⁴⁸ and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. For he who is least[8] among you all is the one who is great.”

It was  32 C.E. and Jesus was in the district of Galilee when difficulties arose among the apostles, who were arguing over who was the greatest among them. (Luke 9:46-48). While being patient with them, Jesus helped the apostles to see the need for humility. The Greek word [μικρός (mikros)] “lesser one” is translated “he who is least,” which, in this context, means someone who is modest, humble, lowly, insignificant, or of little esteem and influence. In the midst of the apostles’ argument over who was greatest, Jesus used a young child to help them to understand that they should be humble and modest. That advice is as fitting to true Christians today as it was in the first century. At times, we may find it a challenge in some circumstances to conduct ourselves as lesser ones. Human imperfection moves us toward pride and seeking a prominent position in life. In most of the world today, Christians live in a competitive environment. The thinking of the unbelieving world is egotistical, combative, or manipulative.

Humility will help us to appreciate always that Jesus “is the head of the body, the church.” (Col. 1:18) Humility will also help us to accept the direction and guidance of those taking the lead n our church. Paul wrote, “we ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and rule over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to regard them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.” (1 Thess. 5:12-13) However, the leaders can evidence their humility as well, accepting that it is Christ’s congregation, not theirs, that they may learn from Paul and first-century leaders “not to go beyond what is written” in the Word of God. – 1 Corinthians 4:6.

Yes, it is not “glorious to seek one’s own glory.” (Pro. 25:27) The apostle John had to deal with a serious case of one who suffered from this pitfall. He wrote, “I wrote something to the congregation;^[9] but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, does not receive us.^[10] For this reason, if I come, I will call attention to his deeds which he does, unjustly accusing us with wicked words;^[11] and not satisfied with this, neither does he himself receive the brothers, and he hinders those wanting to do so and throws them out of the congregation.^[12]” (3 John 9-10) While progressing spiritually is exactly what all of us need to be reaching for, selfish ambition is something entirely different. Ambition is having a strong desire to be successful in life, always seeking an angle to get ahead of others. Solomon wrote, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom. (Pro. 11:12) He also wrote, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Pro. 16:18) We never want to take our relationship with God for granted. In every aspect of our lives, we must reject the independent spirit of this world and accept God’s authority.

Review Questions

• What all is involved in accepting God’s authority?
• How is the Christian view of authority different from those living in Satan’s World?
• Why is the conservative Christian vote especially important in these last days?
• What evidence is there that the Kingdom of God is closer?
• How is training our discernment connected to accepting God’s authority?
• How is Satan trying to undermine God’s authority?
• Why is humility Connected to our accepting God’s authority?

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DOZENS OF QUESTIONS WILL BE ANSWERED: Why is prayer necessary? What must we do to be heard by God? How does God answer our prayers? Does God listen to all prayers? Does God hear everyone’s prayers? What may we pray about? Does the Father truly grant everything we ask for? What kind …

HUMAN IMPERFECTION: While We Were Sinners Christ Died For Us

There are many reasons the Christian view of humanity is very important. The Christian view of humanity believes that humans were created in the image of God. We will look at the biblical view of humanity. We are going to look at the nature of man, the freedom of man, the personality of …

FOR AS I THINK IN MY HEART SO I AM: Combining Biblical Counseling with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy [Second Edition] 

In FOR AS I THINK IN MY HEART – SO I A M, Edward D. Andrews offers practical and biblical insights on a host of Christian spiritual growth struggles, from the challenge of forgiveness to eating disorders, anger, alcoholism, depression, anxiety, pornography, masturbation, same-sex …

APPLYING GOD’S WORD MORE FULLY: The Secret of a Successful Christian Life [Second Edition]

There is a genuine happiness, contentment, and joy, which come from reading, studying and applying God’s Word. This is true because the Scriptures offer us guidance and direction that aids us in living a life that coincides with our existence as a creation of Almighty God. For example, we …

PUT OFF THE OLD PERSON: Put On the New Person [Second Edition]

THERE IS ONE MAJOR DIFFERENCE between Christian living books by Andrews and those by others. Generally speaking, his books are filled with Scripture and offer its readers what the Bible authors meant by what they penned. In this publication, it is really God’s Word offering the counsel, …

WALK HUMBLY WITH YOUR GOD: Putting God’s Purpose First in Your Life [Second Edition]

A clean conscience brings us inner peace, calmness, and a profound joy that is seldom found in this world under the imperfection of fallen flesh that is catered to by Satan, the god of the world. Many who were formerly living in sin and have now turned their life over to God, they now know this amazing relief and are able today to hold a good and clean conscience as they carry out the will of the Father. WALK HUMBLY WITH YOUR GOD, has been written to help its readers to find that same joy, to have and maintain a good, clean conscience in their lives. Of course, it is incapable of covering every detail that one would need to consider and apply in their lives …

WIVES BE SUBJECT TO YOUR HUSBANDS How Should Wives Treat Their Husbands?

This book is primarily for WIVES, but wives will greatly benefit from it as well. WIVES will learn to use God’s Word to construct a solid and happy marriage. The Creator of the family gives the very best advice. Many have been so eager to read this new publication: WIVES BE SUBJECT TO …

HUSBANDS LOVE YOUR WIVES: How Should Husbands Treat Their Wives?

This book is primarily for HUSBANDS, but wives will greatly benefit from it as well. HUSBANDS will learn to use God’s Word to construct a solid and happy marriage. The Creator of the family gives the very best advice. Many have been so eager to read this new publication: HUSBANDS LOVE …

Christian Apologetics

DEFENDING OLD TESTAMENT AUTHORSHIP: The Word of God Is Authentic and True

How true is the Old Testament? For over two centuries Biblical scholars have held to the so-called documentary hypothesis, namely, that Genesis-Deuteronomy was not authored by Moses, but rather by several writers, some of whom lived centuries after Moses’ time. How have many scholars …

WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF YOU DIE?: Should You Be Afraid of Death or of People Who Have Died?

People grow old, get sick, and die. Even some children die. Should you be afraid of death or of anybody who has died? Do you know what happens if we die? Will you ever see your dead loved ones again? “If a man dies, shall he live again?” asked the man Job long ago. (Job 14:14) Did God originally intend for humans to die? Why do you grow old and die? What is the Bible’s viewpoint of death? What is the condition of the dead? Are the dead aware of what is happening around them? What hope is there for the dead?

UNDERSTANDING ISLAM AND TERRORISM: A Biblical Point of View

Islam is making a significant mark in our world. It is perhaps the fastest-growing religion in the world. It has become a major obstacle to Christian missions. And Muslim terrorists threaten the West and modern democracies. What is the history of Islam? What do Muslims believe? Do Christians and Muslims worship the same God? Why do we have this clash of civilizations? Is sharia law a threat to modern democratic values? How can we fight terrorists in the 21st century? These are significant questions that deserve thoughtful answers …

IS THE QURAN THE WORD OF GOD?: Is Islam the One True Faith?

…IS THE QURAN THE WORD OF GOD? Is Islam the One True Faith? This book covers the worldview, practices, and history of Islam and the Quran. This book is designed as an apologetic evangelistic tool for Christians, as they come across Muslims in their daily lives, as well as to inform …

REASONS FOR FAITH: The First Apologetic Guide For Christian Women on Matters of The Heart, Soul, and Mind

If you have the desire to become better equipped to reach others for the lost or to strengthen your faith, Judy Salisbury’s guide—written specifically to meet the needs of Christian women today—offers you a safe, practical, and approachable place to start. In her lively, …

BIBLICAL CRITICISM: What are Some Outstanding Weaknesses of Modern Historical Criticism

Historical Criticism of the Bible got started in earnest, known then as Higher Criticism, during the 18th and 19th centuries, it is also known as the Historical-Critical Method of biblical interpretation. Are there any weakness to the Historical-Critical Method of biblical interpretation …

BIBLICAL CRITICISM: Beyond the Basics

Biblical criticism is an umbrella term covering various techniques for applying literary historical-critical methods in analyzing and studying the Bible and its textual content. Biblical criticism is also known as higher criticism, literary criticism, and historical criticism. Biblical …

CHRISTIAN APOLOGETIC EVANGELISM: Reaching Hearts with the Art of Persuasion

APOLOGETICS: Reaching Hearts with the Art of Persuasion by Edward D. Andrews, author of seventy-two books, covers information that proves that the Bible is accurate, trustworthy, fully inerrant, and inspired by God for the benefit of humankind. The reader will be introduced to Christan …

REVIEWING 2013 New World Translation of Jehovah’s Witnesses: Examining the History of the Watchtower Translation and the Latest Revision

REVIEWING 2013 New World Translation of Jehovah’s Witnesses is going to challenge your objectivity. Being objective means that personal feelings or opinions do not influence you in considering and representing facts. Being subjective means that your understanding is based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or ideas. If the reader finds these insights offense, it might be a little mind control at work from years of being told the same misinformation repeatedly, so ponder things objectively …

REASONING FROM THE SCRIPTURES: Sharing CHRIST as You Help Others to Learn about the Mighty works of God

Use of REASONING FROM THE SCRIPTURES should help you to cultivate the ability to reason from the Scriptures and to use them effectively in assisting others to learn about “the mighty works of God.” – Acts 2:11. If Christians are going to be capable, powerful, efficient teachers of God’s Word, we must not only pay attention to what we tell those who are interested but also how we tell them. Yes, we must focus our attention on…

REASONING WITH THE WORLD’S VARIOUS RELIGIONS: Examining and Evangelizing Other Faiths

God’s will is that “all sorts of men should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth.” (1 Tim. 2:4) God has assigned all Christians the task of proclaiming the Word of God, teaching, to make disciples. (Matt. 24:15; 28:19-20: Ac 1;8 That includes men and women who profess a non-Christian religion, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam to mention just a few. If there are Hindus, Buddhist or Muslims are in your community, why not initiate a conversation with them? Christians who take the Great Commission seriously cannot afford to ignore these religions…

CONVERSATIONAL EVANGELISM, [Second Edition]

Evangelism is the work of a Christian evangelist, of which all true Christians are obligated to partake to some extent, which seeks to persuade other people to become Christian, especially by sharing the basics of the Gospel, but also the deeper message of biblical truths. Today the …

THE CHRISTIAN APOLOGIST: Always Being Prepared to Make a Defense [Second Edition]

MOST Christian apologetic books help the reader know WHAT to say; THE CHRISTIAN APOLOGIST is HOW to communicate it effectively. The Christian apologist words should always be seasoned with salt as we share the unadulterated truths of Scripture with gentleness and respect. Our example …

THE EVANGELISM HANDBOOK: How All Christians Can Effectively Share God’s Word in Their Community, [SECOND EDITION]

…THE EVANGELISM HANDBOOK is a practical guide (for real-life application) in aiding all Christians in sharing biblical beliefs, the Good News of the kingdom, how to deal with Bible critics, overturning false beliefs, so as to make disciples, as commanded by Christ. Matthew 24:14; …

YOUR GUIDE FOR DEFENDING THE BIBLE: Self-Education of the Bible Made Easy [Third Edition]

The reader will receive eight small introductory books in this one publication. Andrews’ intention is to offer his reader several chapters on eight of the most critical subject areas of understanding and defending the Word of God. This will enable the reader to lay a solid foundation for …

THE CULTURE WAR: How the West Lost Its Greatness & Was Weakened From Within 

…The Culture War. How the West lost its greatness and was weakened from within outlines how the West lost its values, causing its current decline. It is a forceful attack on the extreme liberal, anti-religious ideology which since the1960’s has permeated the Western culture and …

EARLY CHRISTIANITY IN THE FIRST CENTURY Jesus’ Witnesses to the Ends of the Earth

EARLY CHRISTIANITY IN THE FIRST CENTURY will give its readers a thrilling account of first-century Christianity. When and how did they come to be called Christians? Who are all obligated to be Christian evangelists? In what way did Jesus set the example for our evangelism? What is the …

CRISIS OF FAITH Saving Those Who Doubt 

Inside of some Christians unbeknownst to their family, friends or congregation, they are screaming, “I doubt, I doubt, I have very grave doubts!” OURS is an age of doubt. Skepticism has become fashionable. We are urged to question everything: especially the existence of God and the …

INVESTIGATING JEHOVAH?S WITNESSES: Why 1914 Is Important to Jehovah?s Witnesses

The intention of this book is to investigate the biblical chronology behind Jehovah’s Witnesses most controversial doctrinal position that Jesus began to rule invisibly from heaven in October 1914. This biblical chronology of the Witnesses hinges upon their belief that the destruction of …

Translation and Textual Criticism

THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO BIBLE TRANSLATION: Bible Translation Choices and Translation Principles [Second Edition] 

…THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO BIBLE TRANSLATION (CGBT) is for all individuals interested in how the Bible came down to us, as well as having an insight into the Bible translation process. CGBT is also for those who are interested in which translation(s) would be the most beneficial to use.

CHOOSING YOUR BIBLE: Bible Translation Differences

There are more than 150 different Bible translations in the English language alone. Some are what we call literal translations, which seeks to give the reader the exact English equivalent of what was written in the original language text, thus allowing the reader access to the actual Word …

THE TEXT OF THE NEW TESTAMENT: The Science and Art of Textual Criticism

…THE TEXT OF THE NEW TESTAMENT was copied and recopied by hand for 1,500 years. Regardless of those scribes who had worked very hard to be faithful in their copying, errors crept into the text. How can we be confident that what we have today is the Word of God? Wilkins and Andrews …

MISREPRESENTING JESUS: Debunking Bart D. Ehrman’s “Misquoting Jesus” [Third Edition]

Edward D. Andrews boldly answers the challenges Bart D. Ehrman alleges against the fully inerrant, Spirit-inspired, authoritative Word of God. By glimpsing into the life of Bart D. Ehrman and following along his course of academic studies, Andrews helps the reader to understand the …

Biblical Studies

HOW TO STUDY YOUR BIBLE: Rightly Handling the Word of God

A comprehensive book on HOW TO STUDY YOUR BIBLE by observing, interpreting, and applying, which will focus on the most basic Bible study tools, principles, and processes for moving from an in-depth reading of the Scriptures to application. What, though, if you have long felt that you are …

THE NEW TESTAMENT: Its Background, Setting & Content

…the author’s intended meaning to his original readers and how that meaning can then apply to us. Marshall gives you what you need for deeper and richer Bible study. Dr. Lee M. Fields writes, “‘Deep’ study is no guarantee that mature faith will result, but shallow study guarantees …

THE LIFE OF JESUS CHRIST: What Do You Know About Jesus? [Updated and Expanded] 

The life of Christ is an exhaustless theme. It reveals a character of greater massiveness than the hills, of a more serene beauty than the stars, of sweeter fragrance than the flowers, higher than the heavens in sublimity and deeper than the seas in mystery. As good Jean Paul has …

THE LIFE OF THE APOSTLE PAUL: The Apostle to the Nations [Updated and Expanded] 

Stalker’s Life of St. Paul became one of the most widely read and respected biographies of the Apostle to the Gentiles. As an insightful compendium on the life of Paul, this work is of particular interest to pastors and teachers who desire to add realism and vividness to their account of …

INTERPRETING THE BIBLE: Introduction to Biblical Hermeneutics

Delving into the basics of biblical interpretation, Edward D. Andrews has provided a complete hands-on guide to understanding what the author meant by the words that he used from the conservative grammatical-historical perspective. He teaches how to study the Bible on a deep, scholarly …

HOW TO INTERPRET THE BIBLE: An Introduction to Hermeneutics

…Linguistic and literary factors are analyzed so that the various genres of Scripture are examined for their true meaning. The importance of having sound principles of interpretation cannot be overstated as to ignore them will result in all manner of erroneous assumptions. Beville presents …

THE CHURCH COMMUNITY IN CONTEMPORARY CULTURE: Evangelism and Engagement with Postmodern People

Once upon a time, Postmodernism was a buzz word. It pronounced Modernism dead or at least in the throes of death. It was a wave that swept over Christendom, promising to wash away sterile, dogmatic and outmoded forms of church. But whatever happened to postmodernism? It was regarded …

DEVELOPING HEALTHY CHURCHES: A Case-Study in Revelation

…church. It offers an appointment with the Great Physician that no Christian can afford to ignore. Developing Healthy Churches: A Case-Study in Revelationbegins with a well-researched outline of the origins and development of the church health movement. With that background in mind the …

DYING TO KILL: A Christian Perspective on Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide

…liberties in a multi-cultural society that is becoming increasingly secular. This work provides an ethical framework in which euthanasia and assisted suicide can be evaluated. These issues are on the radar indicating a collision course with Christian values. It is time for Christians to be …

JOURNEY WITH JESUS THROUGH THE MESSAGE OF MARK

…Journey with Jesus through the Message of Mark is an insightful and engaging survey of Mark‘s Gospel, exploring each major section of the text along with key themes. It is a work that can be enjoyed by laypersons as well as pastors and teachers. Pastors will find the abundant use …

ANGELS & DEMONS The Bible Answers

What are angels & demons? Can angels help us? What does the Bible say about angels? What is the truth about angels? Can Angels affect your life? Who were the “sons of God” in Genesis 6:2? Who were the Nephilim in Genesis 6:2? Who is Michael the archangel? Can Satan the Devil control …

Bible Doctrines

WHERE ARE THE DEAD? Basic Bible Doctrines of the Christian Faith

What is the Bible’s viewpoint? Without delving into an endless stream of what man has said, Andrews looks at what the Bible says about death and the like. Why do we grow old and die? What happens at death? Is there life after death, or is this all there is? Do we have an immortal soul? …

IDENTIFYING THE ANTICHRIST: The Man of Lawlessness and the Mark of the Beast Revealed

Herein Andrews will give the reader exactly what the Bible offers on exposing who the Antichrist and the Man of Lawlessness are. If we look at the texts that refer to the antichrist and the man of lawlessness, we will have lines of evidence that will enable us to identify them. Why is it …

UNDERSTANDING THE CREATION ACCOUNT: Basic Bible Doctrines of the Christian Faith

Throughout the Scriptures, God is identified as the Creator. He is the One “who created the heavens (He is the God who formed the earth and made it, He established it.” [Isa 45:18] He is the One “who forms mountains and creates the wind” (Am 4:13) and is the One “who made the heaven and …

The SECOND COMING of CHRIST: Basic Bible Doctrines of the Christian Faith

The information herein is based on the disciples coming to Jesus privately, saying, “Tell us, (1) when will these things be, and (2) what will be the sign of your coming, and (3) of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3) What will end? When will the end come? What comes after the end? Who …

WHAT IS HELL? Basic Bible Doctrines of the Christian Faith

What Really Is Hell? What Kind of Place is Hell? What Really Happens at Death? What Did Jesus Teach About Hell? How Does Learning the Truth About Hell Affect You? Who Goes to Hell? What Is Hell? Is It a Place of Eternal Torment? Does God Punish People in Hellfire? Do the Wicked Suffer in …

MIRACLES – DO THEY STILL HAPPEN TODAY? God Miraculously Saving People’s Lives, Apparitions, Speaking In Tongues, Faith Healing 

Miracles were certainly a part of certain periods in Bible times. What about today? Are miracles still taking place. There are some very important subjects that surround this area of discussion that are often misunderstood. Andrews will answer such questions as does God step in and solve …

HOMOSEXUALITY – The BIBLE and the CHRISTIAN: Basic Bible Doctrines of the Christian Faith

Today there are many questions about homosexuality as it relates to the Bible and Christians. What does the Bible say about homosexuality? Does genetics, environment, or traumatic life experiences justify homosexuality? What is God’s will for people with same-sex attractions? Does the …

Christian Fiction

THE DIARY OF JUDAS ISCARIOT: How to Keep Jesus at Arm’s Length

…desert but none of such significance as a handful of scrolls retrieved from a buried Roman satchel (presumed stolen) at this site. The discovery has since come to be known as ‘The Diary of Judas Iscariot.’ In The Diary of JudasIscariot Owen Batstone relates the observations and feelings …

THE SECRET HIDEAWAY ON BRIDGETON HILL

Rachael Garrison knows all the shrewd ways to successfully close multi-million-dollar real estate deals with her father’s famous New York real estate enterprise. But beyond her savvy to rake in huge deals is her premonition that an impending global takeover of the world’s financial wealth is on the horizon by evil leaders of The Great Ten Nations. From New York City to the Irish Hills of Michigan, and into the streets of Detroit her life takes on enormous purpose as

THE RAPTURE: God’s Unwelcomed Wrath

Kevin Trill struggles with the notion that he may have missed the Rapture. With nothing but the clothes on his back and a solid gold pocket watch, he sets off towards Garbor, a safe haven for those who haven’t yet taken the mark of thebeast. While on his way to Garbor, he meets up …

SEEKERS AND DECEIVERS: Which One are You? It Is Time to Join the Fight!

There grew an element in the valley that did not want to be ruled by the Light of the Word. Over time, they convinced the people to reject it. As they started to reject this Light, the valley grew dim and the fog rolled in. The people craved the darkness rather than the Light because they were evil. They did not want to  …

The Shadow Flames of Uluru: Book ONE in the CHAOS DOWN UNDER 

When an ancestor saddles them with the responsibility to purge Australia of a demon threatening to wipe our humanity with black flames, fraternal siblings Amber and Michael Hauksby lay their lives on the line. As the world crumbles around them into chaos, and ancient marsupials wreak havoc in their hometown, they must journey into …

WRITE PLACE, RIGHT TIME: The Pre-Apocalyptic Misadventure of a Freelance Journalist 

“Write Place, Right Time” follows the pre-apocalyptic misadventures of freelance journalist Don Lamplighter. While on what he expects to be a routine Monday night trip to a village board meeting, Lamplighter’s good nature compels him to help a stranded vehicle. Little does he know that by saving one of the car’s occupants, he sets forth a chain of what to him seem to be unrelated events where he must use his physical and social skills to save himself and others from precarious situations.

[1] Or person

[2] Or established, instituted

[3] Recommended Reading

THE CULTURE WAR: How the West Lost Its Greatness & Was Weakened From Within by Hanne Nabintu Herland

http://www.christianpublishers.org/apps/webstore/products/show/7558051

[4] Epignosis is a strengthened or intensified form of gnosis (epi, meaning “additional”), meaning, “true,” “real,” “full,” “complete” or “accurate,” depending upon the context. Paul and Peter alone use epignosis.

[5] We say “generally speaking” because bad things happen to good people in an imperfect world run by Satan.

[6] 11 Facts About Teen Pregnancy – Do Something,

https://www.dosomething.org/facts/11-facts-about-teen-pregnancy (accessed September 21, 2015).

[7] Jesus was talking about the cross—the spiritual act whereby we accept his death on our behalf in order to gain access to his offer of eternal life. In the spiritual sense, that is the real food and the real drink. (Gangel 2000, p. 129)

[8] Greek lesser.

[9] Gr ekklesia (“assembly;” “congregation, i.e., of Christians”)

[10] Or what we say

[11] Lit chattering about us with wicked words

[12] Gr ekklesia (“assembly”)