CHRISTIAN LIVING: Your Heavenly Father will help you to Live in Peace with Everyone and Live a Holy Life

Hebrews 12:14 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁴ Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord.

If we think of the steps, leading up to a house wherein the wood is old, dry rotted and cracked after years of many seasons. It definitely needs to be restored or replaced to guarantee safety and to preserve the steps.

This is true of our relationships with others over many years, which can become dry rotted and cracked in these difficult times. The apostle Paul tells us in his letter to the congregation that they were dealing with ones who had different viewpoints. He wrote, “us no longer pass judgment on one another, but rather decide this: not to place a cause for stumbling or a temptation before a brother.” (Rom. 14:13) Thus, he counsels, “So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.” (Rom. 14:19) So, then, why is it essential to “pursue the things which make for peace”? How are we do we effectively and fearlessly pursue peace?

Pursue Peace

If untreated, those decaying, dry rotted board can become weakened and dangerous. Imagine walking on them one day, when suddenly, we fall through and catching our side or stomach on a nail or sharp board, ripping through as we fall to the ground. If we leave personal difference to go on without being repair, it could very well cost us or another eternal life. The apostle John writes, “If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.’” (1 John 4:20) If a difference goes on long enough, it could cause fellow Christians to end up hating one another.

Jesus made it clear that if we have an unresolved issue with our Christian brothers and sisters, our worship is unacceptable. He said, “If you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.” (Matt. 5:23-24) Even above the fact that it is right for us to pursue peace, to restore our relationships, it should be our love for God, which is our biggest motivator.

In the previous chapter, we learned of Euodia and Syntyche, who was there at the foundation of the Philippian congregation. They offer us the other major reason for pursuing peace. As we may recall there was an unspecified reason problem between these two Christian sisters. However, their problem became the congregation’s problem, because it was removing the peace within the congregation. (Phil. 4:2-3) When an unresolved difference between two members of the congregation becomes public, people begin to take sides. Thus, we work to pursue peace with fellow believers for the sake of the congregation and its unity.

Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matt. 5:9) When we restore peace where there was previously none, it brings us untold joy. “Peace is, first and foundationally, internal and spiritual. It is not primarily physical, military, or political. Peace for the nations flows from peace in the hearts of individuals. Peacemakers are not power brokers but people lovers. The promised kingdom is characterized by peace, as described in Isaiah 9:6–7; 66:12–13; Micah 4:3.” (Weber 2000, p. 61) Moreover, peaceful relations make us healthier, as “a tranquil heart is life to the body.” (Pro. 14:30) Alternatively, doctors have said that feeling of anger and resentment can lead to physical illnesses.

Remaining Calm

If we are restoring our relationship from some minor crack, like a weathered porch, we can simply sand it down and water stain it and then paint. For minor issues with our brothers and sister, we can simply cover over the grievance. On this, the apostle Peter wrote, “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8.

What if the problem is more serious, one that just cannot be dismissed? Let us look at a hyperbolic example from the history of the Israelite nation. Remember that there were twelve tribes of Israel and after conquering, the land of Canaan God was assigning each tribe their area of the Promised Land. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and East Manasseh reached the western side of the Jordan River valley and built a huge altar there beside the river. When the rest of the Israelites heard what these tribes had done, they believe the altar had been set up for idolatrous worship. They could not just cover over this problem. The Israelite men met at Shiloh to get ready to attack the two and a half tribes. – Joshua 22:9-12.

After all the Israelites had been through over the last forty years while wondering in the wilderness, this may just be it for some, who felt is best to do a sneak attack. However, cooler heads prevailed, and some leaders decided it best to talk with their brothers first. They sent a priest, Phinehas the son of Eleazar, to speak with the two and a half tribes. Each of the tribes at Shiloh sent the leader of one of its families along with Phinehas. They asked, ‘why you are unfaithful to our God. You have turned your backs on our God by building that altar. Why are you rebelling against him?’ (Josh. 22:16) As it turned out, those who built the altar were not being unfaithful.

However, should they now be just as upset as the ones who had initially thought they were unfaithful? I mean, instead of asking what they were doing, these ones straight out accused them of wrongdoing: namely, idolatrous worship, turning their backs on God, rebelling, not carrying about the whole nation and that their actions could lead to many deaths. No, rather the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and East Manasseh that were being accused replied mildly to some serious accusations that were undoubtedly leveled in anger. They started that God was great and that they had asked him to be their witnesses at their reasons for building an altar. They explained that they did not build the altar to rebel and turn their backs on God. They did not even build it so we could offer animal or grain sacrifices on it. They built that altar because they were worried that someday their descendants might forget all that they had been through, and they wanted the altar to serve as a memorial, as a reminder.

Thus, the lesson here is not to presume the others actions or words had evil intentions, or that their heart condition or motivations were bad. It is best to investigate but not interrogatively, but rather in brotherly love. The other lesson is, when someone comes to us, we should not take it as an accusation even if the tone comes off as angry. We should respond in a mild voice and with loving concern for our Creator and our brothers (Josh. 22:13-34) On this, Wise King Solomon writes, “Do not be eager in your heart to be angry, For anger resides in the bosom of fools.” (Eccl. 7:9, NASB) If we are going to follow the Bible’s counsel, we must deal with personal differences through mild and honest discussion. Do we honestly believe that we have God on our side if we are boiling with anger, as we privately continue to keep in mind an emotion or thought that the other person had wronged us, so we refuse to approach?

Again, what if we are the one that our Christian brother or sister comes to us, accusing us of some wrongdoing, especially if we are not guilty? The Bible states, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Pro. 15:1, NASB) We need to follow the example of the Israelite tribes, who mildly and in clear, concise words, explained what they were doing, which turned away wrath. If we are, the one approaching another we need to ponder what we might say and how may we say it, to pursue peace.

Taming the Tongue

God is well aware of our human weakness as the designer of our human body and mind, so he knows we need to express our pent-up feelings. If a personal difference goes without being dealt with, the most common reaction is to share those feelings with a friend. Here is where the problem could lie, as we feel comfortable with our friend, in whom we can unload our hard feelings, so we may tend to be critical of the one with whom we have a difference.  Proverbs 11:11 tells us, “By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, But by the mouth of the wicked it is torn down.” In the same way, critical speech can just as easily tear down our city like congregation.

Nevertheless, our pursuit of peace does not mean that we must bottle our feelings up inside. The apostle Paul wrote, “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment so that it will give grace to those who hear … Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” (Eph. 4:29-32, NASB) Would it not be easy on our part to apologize to a brother or sister, who was offended by something we said or did, if we know he or she has spoken positively about us to others in the past? Thus, the lesson is, if we have a pattern of speaking well of our brothers and sisters, it will make restoring peace so much easier if the occasion arises. – Luke 6:31.

Serving God Shoulder to Shoulder

Considering our human weaknesses and imperfection, the normal course would be to back away from one who has offended us, removing ourselves from a difficult situation. However, as a people that are one in Christ, we need to be determined to ‘serve God shoulder to shoulder.’ – Zephaniah 3:9.

Our zeal for pure worship should outweigh what another has said or done and should never weaken our unity of purpose. Jesus had roundly condemned the Jewish leaders and the Jewish system of things (Judaism) of his day just before his execution because they rejected the Son of God for their own selfish glory. However, just a few days before his execution, which would begin the end of the Israelite nation being the only true way to God, ‘he saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins into the offering box, she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.’ Did Jesus rush over and try and stop her because he knew in a few short years, the only way to God would be Christianity? No, rather he commended her, ‘I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of those that contributed out of their abundance.’ (Luke 21:1-4) She was giving her all to support God, and at that moment, he was working through the Jews. The unrighteous acts of the Jewish leaders did not remove her obligation to support the worship of God.

Even if we feel strongly that a fellow brother or sister in the faith has acted wrongly toward another or us, it is how we react that will make the difference. Will we allow another to impact out worship of the only true God? No, we will want to make right and differences that we may have, to pursue peace. The apostle Paul counsels, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.” (Rom. 12:18) May we heed Paul’s inspired word for the sake of the path that leads to life.

Restoring Our Brother

Matthew 18:15 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁵ “If your brother should sin, go reprove him between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.[1]

While some take Jesus’ words to refer to something inconsequential, his words actually apply to a more serious sin. Jesus said, “If your brother[2] should sin,” is referring to one action.[3] The Greek term for sin is hamartano, which could refer to and mistaking or falling short. However, if we look at the context, it is obvious that Jesus is referring to a more serious sin. The sin was so serious that Jesus said if he remained unrepentant, he was to be viewed as “a Gentile and a tax collector.” What does that suggest?

Jesus was speaking to a Jewish audience, and so we must consider their mindset when analyzing how Jews would view Gentiles and tax collectors. No Jewish person would socialize with any Gentile (John 4:9; 18:28; Acts 10:28), nor would they have a tax collector as an associate let alone a friend, both being despised. Zondervan Bible Background notes, “The fourth step of discipline is to treat the sinning brother like a pagan (lit., “Gentile,” ethnikos) or a tax collector, the common titles for those who are consciously rebellious against God and his people … Jesus … focuses on spiritual exclusion from the fellowship of the church, which is symbolic of spiritual death.” (Arnold 2002, p. 115) Clearly, the sin must be serious that if the person does not repent, he can be expelled from the Christian congregation into a spiritual death, as opposed to some personal offense, which could just be forgiven. – Matthew 18:21-22.

While all sin results in death, the Bile does qualify sin as some being more serious than others are, referring to them as gross sin. Certainly, common sense tells us that murder is more serious than stealing. Under the Mosaic Law, some sins were not the sort that was just forgiven by the one offended. Blasphemy, apostasy, idolatry, and sexual sins such as fornication, adultery, and homosexuality were to be handed over to the priests. This is also true of the Christian congregation but would be handed off to the elders or pastors. (Lev. 5:1; 20:10-13; Num. 5:30; 35:12; Deut. 17:9; 19:16-19; Pro. 29:24) Thus, the sin Jesus refers to is not a sin that can just be dismissed but it also is not so serious that the offended has to take it straight to the congregation leaders, but rather he can deal with it himself. For example, a fellow Christian may have slandered the brother; it may be financial matters involving a degree of deceit, fraud, or trickery of some sort. While these examples are serious enough to get an unrepentant person expelled, they are at the level where they can be dealt with personally. Thus, we need to take the initial step.

Notice that the first step is to “go reprove him between you and him alone.” The brother will feel less embarrassed as he need not share his words or deeds with anyone, but the one has offended. Some points to keep in mind are that we need to understand fully the wrong ourselves, so we can help him see how he has strayed. It is best if we not procrastinate, stewing at how we were wronged because this will affect our tone and demeanor once we do talk with him. Moreover, we should not be sharing what has happened to us with others because this is gossip. It certainly does not make sense that we would counsel our brother on his sin against us while at the same time, sinning against him.

Our goal is to sin our brother back, not make ourselves look better or try to make him look bad or ruin his reputation. If he has committed the sin that we are coming to him with, he must worry about his relationship with God. We will have far more success if we consider what want to say beforehand and consider out tone once we do approach him. We do not want to come off as harsh or accusatory. We must always keep in mind that we are an imperfect human as well, and it may be that someday another may be coming to us. (Rom. 3:23-24) When he realizes that you have not shared his sin with another, he will be more receptive, realizing you are coming to him out of love. Moreover, it may be discovered that both played a role in the situation, or that there was simply some misunderstanding. – Proverbs 25:9-10; 26:20; James 3:5-6.

If we can help him to see where he has sinned, he may repent, turn around, and not repeat the behavior again.[4] However, pride is difficult for the best of us to overcome. (Pro. 16:18; 17:19) Therefore, if he fails to admit to things initially, we may allow a few days or a week and, then, try again. Jesus said, “Go reprove him between you and him alone.” “Go is in the Greek present tense (imperative mood), implying a gentle, patient series of confrontations.” (Weber 2000, p. 292) Yes, we can try more than once to help our brother see where he has wronged us. What, though, if he just refuses to see the sin that he has committed and will not respond to us?

Take Others

Matthew 18:16 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁶ But if he does not listen, take along with you one or two more, in order that at the mouth of two or three witnesses every word might stand.

If he fails to listen to us, Jesus says, “Take along with you one or two more.” Remember that we are still trying to save our brother. Again, just because we are now taking more, this does not give us the right to talk to others about the wrongdoing. What we have to realize at this point is, biblically, the wrongdoing has not been officially established yet. We would not want to run around telling others of a wrongdoing, to find that we were actually mistaken in our understanding of the situation. (Pro. 16:28; 18:8) The question now is, why is Jesus asking us to take others along and who are we to take?

Our objective is to help our brother to see his sin, so we can gain a brother and restore his relationship with God. If our brother actually committed this wrongdoing in front of others, these would be the ideal “one or two more.” These ones would have insight into what had been done or not done. If there were no witnesses to the matter, and if it is a business matter where one was wronged, it might be best to find the “one or two” that has experience in that area, to establish if a wrong has even been committed. Moreover, these ones need to be selected because they will also serve as congregation witnesses on what was said during the discussion. (Num. 35:30; Deut. 17:6) These are not simply friends taken along to gang up on the supposed offender.

It is not necessary that these ones be elders or pastors in the church. Nevertheless, they need to be mature ones, who know the Word of God well and should fit the spiritual qualifications of a servant. Thus, an elder or pastor may be the best choice depending on the circumstances. (Isa, 32:1- 2) On this Stuart Weber writes, “The purpose of the additional witnesses is primarily: (1) to bring added loving persuasion to the straying brother so he will realize the seriousness of his sin; (2) to prepare for the possibility of the straying brother’s continued resistance (in this event, there would be third-party testimony concerning what happened in the confrontation); and (3) to provide one or two “referees” or moderators in the continued confrontation between the original confronter and the straying brother. It is possible the witnesses might conclude that the accuser was wrong. Again, the hope is that the two or three witnesses will be able to cooperate in the Father’s zealous pursuit of the straying brother in order to bring him back from the danger of destruction (18:12–14).” (Weber 2000, p. 293) What though if the accused still refuses to see the wrongdoing.

Speak to the Congregation

Matthew 18:17 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁷ If he should refuse to hear to them, speak to the congregation. If he does not listen even to the congregation, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.

If step two does not work, the elder or pastor of the congregation is definitely involved in the third step. Jesus said, “If he should refuse to hear to them [the one or two], speak to the congregation.” Thus, if the elder or pastor was initially involved during the “one or two,” there is no need to rehash the matter so to speak. The meeting with the offender would be in a more official capacity this time. There is nothing here to suggest that they are to meet in front of the whole congregation to expose the wrongdoing. Even under the Mosaic Law, the whole nation did not hear a man’s sins. Instead, the elders would deal with in on behalf of the nation as a whole. The same should be true within the Christian congregation, two or three elders or pastors can deal with the sin on behalf of the entire congregation.

They have the same goal as the initial steps, to save their brother from becoming rebellious. They are to help him humbly repent of any wrongdoing if possible. They want to reestablish biblically that there is a sin or an ongoing sin, even if the offending brother refuses to recognize it. The congregation leaders must now worry about saving the spirit of the congregation. (1 Cor. 2:12; 5:5-7) They must “must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.” (Titus 1:9, ESV) It is hoped that the wrongdoer will not be rebellious like the nation of Israel. God said of them, “I called, you did not answer; when I spoke, you did not listen, but you did what was evil in my eyes and chose what I did not delight in.” – Isaiah 65:12.

If the help is continuously rejected, Jesus says, “Let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.” Jesus is here not recommending that Christians now treat the offender inhumane as the Jews treated the Gentiles and tax collectors, looking down on them in disdain. However, he is saying the unrepentant sinner is to be expelled from the congregation, and no one is to associate with or even speak to him. (1 Cor. 5:11-13) This is not punitive but rather is corrective. The goal remains the same, i.e., winning the brother back. If the person comes to his senses and is repentant, he can return to the congregation by attending the meetings again. However, no congregation member is to associate or speak with him until he has been reinstated back into the congregation leaders. This may take a few months or even longer. His regular meeting attendance and meetings with the elder or pastor will evidence his repentant heart.

Review Questions

• Why is it important that we pursue peace and what illustration can make this point?
• How does remaining calm help us to restore peace? What historical example evidences this?
• How can we tame our tongue?
• How does our serving God shoulder to shoulder make the bigger picture clear?
• Principally, what sort of sin is Jesus dealing with in Matthew 18:15-17 apply?
• How should we approach the first step?
• What should we consider if we must go to the second step?

Who are to be involved if it must be taken to the third step? What is our goal through all three steps and what attitude will help us meet that goal

[1] “‘Church discipline’ is commonly thought to refer only to those ‘official’ cases in which the sin is extremely serious and the entire church becomes formally involved in the effort to correct the sinning brother or sister. In reality, church discipline is more biblically understood as covering every effort by any individual or group of individuals in the church to turn a straying believer back to righteous living. (Weber 2000, p. 291)

[2] This process applies to females as well as brothers.

[3] The Greek verb hamartese (Root: hamartano) is in “the aorist verb tense is used by the writer to present the action of a verb as a “snapshot” event. The verb’s action is portrayed simply and in summary fashion without respect to any process. In the indicative mood, the aorist usually denotes past time, while an aorist participle usually refers to antecedent time with respect to the main verb. Outside the indicative and the participle, the aorist does not indicate time.” (Lukaszewski, Dubis and Blakley 2013)

[4] “Done correctly in the environment of a trusting relationship, one-on-one confrontation will often result in a positive response. Let us start by believing in the power of God to turn a heart and the longing of every believer for the fulfillment and security of holy living.” (Weber 2000, p. 293)

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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.