Solomon sets out on the difficult task of helping his son (in essence all you people), to see that marriage is a beautiful arrangement, while a life of immorality will only bring pain and difficulty, if not death. The reality is quite simple, if we heed his counsel, we will live. On the other hand, if we ignore his counsel, we will die. While one may get by with a life of immorality and not contract a sexually transmitted disease that contributes to an early death, they will not receive everlasting life, so they are just the walking dead because that is their eventuality.

Receive My Words and Live

Proverbs 7:1-2 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

7 My son, keep my words
and treasure up my commandments with you;
² keep my commandments and live;
keep my teachings^[1] as the pupil of your eye;[2]

My son, keep my words: Once again, Solomon opens his writings with a plea to his son, to heed his words and live. Three times in verses 1-2, Solomon uses the imperative verb keep (šā·mǎr), which is an exhortation or a command for the son to conform his actions to the wise words of his father.

And treasure up my commandments with you: Here commandment (miṣ·wā(h)) is an authoritative direction or instruction, given as a prescription from the father with the authority or power to the son under his authority or control within the family. – 1 Samuel 13:13; 1 Ki 2:43.

Keep my commandments and live: Only by heeding the father’s exhortation to keep his instruction can the son hope to have life and live (Heb. ḥā·yā(h)).

Keep my teachings as the pupil of your eye: The Hebrew word (ʾî·šôn) pupil when used with (ʿǎ·yin) eye, it literally means little man. (Deut. 32:10) The reference is clearly to the tiny reflected image of yourself that you can see in that black center of another’s eye. Similarly, (bǎṯ) daughter is used at Lamentations 2:18 and literally means “daughter of the eye,” a term of endearment. Both expressions are referring to the pupil. The two are combined for emphasis at Psalm 17:8 (ʾî·šôn bǎṯ–ʿǎ·yin), which literally means “little man, daughter of the eye.” The expression pupil of your eye is referring to something precious. In other words, the son needs to keep the laws or teachings of the father as something precious in his eyes.

The importance of this message is to be guarded, to be treasured, and to be kept. The warning here is not just an exhortation it is a command. It is the father, who has been assigned by God to teach God’s Word to the children of the family, with the assistance of the wife. Jehovah commanded the Israelite men “And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.” (Deut. 6:6-7) This is carried over into the New Testament, where Paul stated, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Eph. 6:4) Yes, the father is charged with regularly, daily instructing his children in the Word of God, to get it down into the heart. The mother is to assist in this task as well, as Solomon spoke of “your mother’s teaching,” namely, the “law of your mother.” – Proverbs 1:8; 6:20

The eye is a very precious organ of sight that is very sensitive to touch. If you have ever experienced even a small speck of dust in your eye, it can be extremely painful, irritating, and cause damage if left in. The cornea is the transparent membrane that covers the pupil and iris of the eye, which needs to be protected and cared for because if for some reason it is damaged or gets diseased, this will result in distorted vision, even blindness. The pupil of the eye is “deeply entrenched in the skull, ramparted with the forehead and cheekbones, defended by the eyebrows, eyelids, and eyelashes, and placed so as to be best protected by the hands.”[3] Hence, Solomon with a metaphorical expression uses “the pupil of your eye” in speaking of that, which is to be protected with the greatest concern. The same holds true of the counsel, the commands given here in Proverbs chapter 7.

Taking In the Life-Sustaining Knowledge

Proverbs 7:3 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

³ Bind them on your fingers;
write them on the tablet of your heart.

Bind them on your fingers: If we recall from Proverbs 3:3, the learner was instructed to “bind them [the teachings] around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.” The fingers (Heb. ʾěṣ·bǎʿ) of our hands are ever before our eyes, doing the vital work that sustains us. Similarly, the Word of God should have been before our eyes as we grew as a child, or came to God as an adult, taking in the life-sustaining knowledge, acquiring wisdom, which serves as a constant reminder in the way that we should walk. Wisdom if worn by the servant of God as an accessory like a ring on our finger, it will make us more attractive to the Creator and to others who see us. It is a witness in and of itself.

Write them on the tablet of your heart: These teachings were/are to be inscribed ‘on the tablet of our heart,’ to become the very nature of who we are so that we can apply them in our lives with ease. The teachings of God’s Word, we are to make them a part of who we are as a person. The biblical lessons learned from Scriptural training or the gaining of Bible knowledge either through personal Bible study or in the Christian congregation are to be a continual reminder and guide us in everything that we do. We are to write them upon the tablet of our heart, making them the very part of our nature.

In the ancient world, writing was often done on tablets. While in Mesopotamia writing tablets were normally made of clay, in the Old Testament the term probably refers to wooden boards covered with wax, though the Ten Commandments were written on two stone tablets (Ex. 24:12). The metaphor of the heart as a tablet (not a tablet worn on a cord over the heart, as some would have it) on which one writes the law, of course, points to an internalization of God’s commands in one’s life, so that not only one’s actions but also one’s motives are pure (see also Prov. 7:3; Jer. 31:33). The only other place where writing on the heart is specifically mentioned is Jeremiah 17:1, where Judah is said to have written sin on their hearts.[4]

Love Wisdom Instead of an Immoral Woman

Proverbs 7:4 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

⁴ Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,”
and call understanding^[5] one who is known,^[6]

Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,”: In the Hebrew Old Testament sister was often used as a term of endearment in reference to a wife or lover. On this John H Walton writes, “The reference to Woman Wisdom as ‘sister’ must be understood in the context of ancient Near Eastern and biblical love poetry (‘my sister, my bride,’ Song 4:9), where the ‘sister’ is actually the beloved. In other words, the father encourages his son to make Woman Wisdom his lover, his wife.”^[7]

And call understanding one who is known: The Hebrew (Heb. bî·nā(h)) term for understanding can also be rendered insight. Understanding (Heb. t^eḇû·nā(h)) is the ability to see how the parts or aspects of something are connected to one another. One who possesses understanding can see the big picture (the entire matter) and not just the isolated facts. – Prov. 2:5; 9:10; 18:15.

Insight (Heb. bî·nā(h)) is the ability to see into a situation. One who possesses insight acts with wisdom, caution, and discretion. Insight is closely related to understanding, but there is a fine distinction between the two terms. Says the Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament: “While bin [understanding] indicates ‘distinguishing between,’ [sa·khal′] relates to an intelligent knowledge of the reason. There is the process of thinking through a complex arrangement of thoughts resulting in a wise dealing and use of good practical common sense. Another end result is the emphasis upon being successful.” – Psa. 14:12; Edited by R. L. Harris, 1980, Vol. 2, p. 877

Godly wisdom is having good sense, the ability to make sensible decisions and judgments based on Bible knowledge and your biblically trained conscience. “In Old Testament culture, sister was a term of endearment for a wife or lover (Song 4:9-10, 12; 5:1-2).”[8] Thus, the son is presented with the option of loving two different women: the wife personified as wisdom or the adulteress. Insight for a person of God specifically, is the ability to see clearly and biblically into the nature of an issue, situation, or matter.

A Naive Young Man Must Choose His Path

Proverbs 7:5 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

⁵ to keep you from a strange woman,^[9]
from the adulteress with her smooth words.

To keep you from a strange woman: The wise words of the father, his commandment if understood and applied should keep the son from a strange woman or wayward woman. Here the strange woman (Heb. zā·rā(h)) (2:16; 5:3) is referring to those who set aside what was in harmony with the Mosaic Law and thus distanced and estrange themselves from God. Therefore, the immoral sensual woman (prostitute) was not necessarily a foreigner. “The strange woman,” the prostitute, is described as one “who forsakes the companion of her youth” (2:17), which is referring to the husband of her young womanhood. She has ignored and disregarded the prohibition on adultery that was a part of the covenant of her God, the Mosaic Law covenant. – Exodus 20:14; Jeremiah 2:25; 3:13.

From the adulteress with her smooth words: The father is now moving into his cautionary account of a naive young son seduced by the wiles of an adulteress woman and his own sinful nature. Her smooth (Heb. ḥā·lǎq) words, as you will recall from 5:3, are smoother than oil, they are flattering and seductive, as well as deceitful.

Why is it extremely important that the son develop the teachings of the father (God’s Word) and an intimate relationship with wisdom? This will enable the son to dismiss and bypass the seduction of the adulteress. If he chooses to ignore the counsel of his father, her words to him are going to be so smooth and flattering that he will be unable to see the trail leading to her house of death. However, if he chooses to heed his father’s counsel, it will especially help him to sidestep the pitfalls of sexual immorality.

A Young Man Lacking Good Sense

Proverbs 7:6-7 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

⁶ For at the window of my house
I looked out through my lattice,
⁷ and I saw among the simple,
I have perceived among the youths,
a young man in want of heart,^[10]

The time of day was just after sunset, the sun had just dropped below the horizon. Solomon was standing in a room of his home, looking out to a street below. The streets are filled with the darkness of the night. He takes notice of a young man heading down the street below.

For at the window of my house: Here the window (Heb. ḥǎl·lôn) of his house is not to be confused with the glass window of today but rather it was simply an opening in a wall on a roofed platform along the outside of a house, level with the ground floor, which may have been covered with vines growing over a trellis, meaning that Solomon could look out at the people below but he himself could not be seen by them.

I looked out through my lattice: A lattice (Heb. ʾěš·nāḇ) window is a structure with an air hole in a wall consisting of strips of wood or metal crossed and fastened together covering the hole, in some decorative pattern, which still allowed some to see through it.

And I saw among the simple: Here the Hebrew word (pě·ṯî) rendered simple is a translation of the same word from 1:4, which is referring to someone who is easily deceived or persuaded because they lack common sense, showing a lack of wisdom and understanding, yet not beyond the capacity to make changes.

I have perceived among the youths: Here youths (banim) is simply referring to young men.

A young man in want of heart: This young man facing an adulterous situation is in want of heart (lacked heart), as he is inexperienced, lacking good sense and wisdom, lacking good judgment or discernment, so as to avoid the danger that lies ahead.

As the onset of nightfall arrives, the darkness of the night spills into the streets. Solomon catches sight of a young man who is especially in need of protection because he is vulnerable. He is having little knowledge or experience into the situation that he has placed himself. There is little doubt, he knows very well the type of neighborhood he has entered and what goes on there. However, he likely sees the immediate gratification in this one moment of time, not the full ramifications of what seems like nothing more than a good time.

The Young Man Lacks Wisdom and Insight

Proverbs 7:8-9 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

⁸ passing along the street near her corner,
and he takes the road to her house,
⁹ in the twilight, in the evening of the day,
at the midst^[11] of night and darkness.

Passing along the street near her corner: We are given suggestive information that the young man has passed this way before or he at least has knowledge of who lies ahead. Solomon gives us this sense partly from his walking in that he says he is passing along the street near the corner, which is suggestive of directions that infers a certain place. When you reference a corner and a street, it suggests directions. The next line will add to this and verse 15 will show us that they knew one another.

And he takes the road to her house: Here the Hebrew verb taking (tsaad) has the sense “to stride,” which means “to step (walk); to march.” This too adds to our suggesting that the young man knew where he was going. Her house is referring back to the strange woman or wayward, adulterous, seductive woman of verse 5.

In the twilight, in the evening of the day: The Hebrew word (nesheph) rendered twilight has two meanings: dusk, the time at the end of the day but just before dark and dawn, the time at the end of the night, just before daylight. The context here is obvious right before the darkness of night, dusk.

At the midst of night and darkness: The RSV and the ESV try to deal with what they perceive to be a conflict between the first and second line of verse 9 by rendering the second line of verse 9 as “at the time of night and darkness.” Here Solomon is building our interest in the adulteress account in that he tells us that as the man walking in the twilight, the night of darkness is upon him. The literal meaning of the Hebrew word rendered time (ishon) literally means “the pupil (of the eye).” It is the black middle or center of the eye, which suggests a middle time, that is, the middle of the night. However, there is no real conflict from one line to the next here, as Solomon is simply building the story and, in the poetic, moving from one thought of twilight to another thought of middle of the night, this is quite normal in Hebrew parallelism.

The young man is in danger, because he lacks wisdom and insight, possibly not fully realizing the end consequences of what part of town he has entered, or maybe he does. Because of Solomon’s wisdom, he was able to see the outcome, knowing the young man did not have a chance. Solomon watches intently as the young man nears the strange woman’s corner, entering the road to her house. He is deliberately ambiguous as to whether the young man is purposely heading to her house, or simply passing through. It is like he is leaving bread crumbs to the listener or reader of the account, so as to not step on the part of the story that lies ahead.

Temptation In Plain Sight Yet Hidden from the Foolishly Blind

Proverbs 7:10-12 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁰ And look, a woman comes to meet him,
dressed as a prostitute,^[12] and guarded in heart.^[13]
11 She is loud and rebellious;
her feet do not stay at home;
¹² now in the street, now in the square,
and at every corner she lies in wait.

And look, a woman comes to meet him: The Hebrew here for woman is just that an adult female. Of course, this is the same wayward woman that has been a part of the account all along. She and the young man have come to meet in the darkness of night, which now assures of our earlier suspicions that they know each other, and this young man had passed this way before or he at least has knowledge of the wayward woman who was to meet him.

Dressed as a prostitute, and guarded in heart: Well, the language is becoming more plain (clearer) and more obvious. Guarded in heart or secret of heart means that she is skilled at being deceitful, very cunning or crafty. The Hebrew term (natsar) means that she is evil and causes much damage by her deceptive, secretive, underhanded ways.

She is loud and rebellious: Her becoming loud (Heb. hemmah) and animated in speech and manner is likely a deflection from her wayward ways. Her being rebellious or wayward means that she is stubbornly refusing to change her ways. She was a wayward woman with a spirit of independence, who had no respect in her rebelliousness for God and her husband.

Her feet do not stay at home: This is a poetic way of saying that she does not stay at home. She was constantly roaming the streets looking for new lovers.

Now in the street, now in the square: This now … now is telling us that same as the previous line, she is never home. One moment she is in the street, the next moment she is in the public square (the central part of a city where people meet, and local activities took place), looking for her next lover.

And at every corner she lies in wait: The expression lies in wait is a military saying, which refers to setting an ambush so as to capture one’s prey, bringing them much harm.

The young man is now introduced to the strange woman and her character. We get the sense immediately that her manner is alluring, as she is dressed like a prostitute. While her close gives everything away, the text says she is guarded in heart (cunning of heart), meaning that she has a hidden agenda, secretive, crafty and deceitful. She moves about loudly and stubbornly, looking for the next lover, in the street, in the public square, lying-in-wait at every street corner for her prey, seeking someone just like this young man. This wayward woman’s loud seductive behavior in the public square evidences her immodesty.

Steps That Lead to Immorality

Proverbs 7:13 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹³ She seizes him and kisses him,
and with bold face she says to him,^[14]

She seizes him and kisses him: The Hebrew for seizes is simply that she took hold of him, while the Hebrew for kissing (nashaq) him is not as one does in greeting another in all other occurrences, but rather here and Song of Solomon 1:2 and 8:1, it has a sexual significance.

And with bold face she says to him: This literally says that She makes bold her face and says, while others say it is literally she makes her face strong and says. In essence, what is meant by her putting on a bold or strong face is that she has no shame, nor does she have any regret for her adulterous, temptress behavior.

We must understand that there are stages to every temptation. First, it enters the mind, meaning we can dismiss it and rationalize the repercussions of such thinking; this is not the difficult stage. Second, there is the entertaining and cultivating the thought(s), which has the ability to affect us emotionally, mentally and physically. When this goes on too long, it can become very difficult to turn back. Third, there is the initial commitment, like the young man choosing the street to go down where he knows the prostitute will be. He can turn back still, but the train of emotions is moving, and it is far more difficult to bring the sensations to a halt. Fourth, there is the entering the lion’s den, where he is actively involved, as the prey of his own sinful nature. At this point, she is touching him, kissing him with her smooth lips, the scent of her perfume, so every sensation has taken hold of him. The possibility of turning back is near impossible. Regardless of the inappropriate desire, there are stages that make it even more difficult to turn back.

Seeing Empty Deceptive Words for What They Are

Proverbs 7:14 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁴ “I had to offer peace offerings,
and today I have paid my vows;

I had to offer peace offerings: Here statement of offering the peace offering is her way of hinting that she did not lack spirituality. The peace offerings set forth in Leviticus 7:11–17; 19:5-6; 22:21; Numbers 15:8-10 consisted of meat, flour, oil, and wine. Therefore, she was deceptively inferring that there was much to eat and drink at her house and that the young man in want of heart (6:7) was certain to have a good time. She knew that he is inexperienced, lacking good sense and wisdom, lacking good judgment or discernment, so he would not see the danger in her seductive ways or her words.

And today I have paid my vows: The vow offering, which is voluntary, is associated with the making of a vow (promises) to God or to perform some act, to make some offering, enter into some action of helping or doing work, or to refrain from certain things not unlawful in themselves until such time as he had been able to attain a certain goal, with the help of God. According to Leviticus 7:16, “if the sacrifice of his offering is a vow offering or a freewill offering, it shall be eaten on the day that he offers his sacrifice, and on the next day what remains of it shall be eaten.” This is characteristic of just how a wrongly motivated person can be guided into immorality.

The wayward woman’s words are carefully chosen, and suggestive to the Israelite mind. This might seem very strange coming from the voice of a prostitute, (1) maybe suggesting that she is a devout woman, who is ceremonially clean. (2) It is suggestive of her cleanness after her menstruation cycle. (3) Rather she could be simply urging him to join her in a meal of the meat and wine left over from her peace offering, as the one offering the sacrifices get to take part of the offering home. (Lev. 19:5, 6; 22:21; Num. 15:8-10) Regardless, she has touched this young man’s senses, taking him to a whole other level of danger, with her smooth voice, and her suggestive comments. Old Testament Bible scholar, John Walton says,

It is best to understand the offerings in the light of Leviticus 3 and 7:11–21. The fellowship offering emphasizes communion between the worshiper and God as well as with fellow worshipers. The meat must be eaten on the same day as the sacrifice. Thus, the woman is trying to entice the man not only with her body but with a delicious meal. But her acts just accentuate the sinfulness of her acts, adding the misuse of holy things (the sacrifice) to adultery.[15]

Often, as we spoke of in verse 13, there are stages that we can identify that lead to immorality. Each stage that we take makes it increasingly difficult for us to turn back.

Flattering Words

Proverbs 7:15 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁵ So I have come out to meet you,
to seek your face, and I have found you.

So I have come out to meet you: You will recall from 7:5, the father stated: “to keep you from a strange woman, from the adulteress with her smooth words.” Now we see the beginning of her smooth words in that she begins her flattery of inferring that it is him alone that she seeks, no other.

To seek your face, and I have found you: Here again, the literal seek your face, is a wayward woman with flattering words, as it means “to seek you eagerly,” as she eagerly seeks him alone, to know him. The sense of found you is more than a mere encountering him but rather a searching out for him alone. These words suggest even more that they have met before and her excited words for him may very well be believable to him.

When lust has the better of this young man, his thinking ability is not registering her unbelievable, misleading words. Unquestionably, she did not come out of her house, to meet this young man specifically, as if he was special to her, to seek his face, it is a sham. Only a foolish person, moved by intense emotions, would believe such words.

Seducing the Senses

Proverbs 7:16-17 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁶ I have spread my couch with coverings,
colored linens from Egyptian linen;
¹⁷ I have sprinkled[16] my bed with myrrh,
aloes, and cinnamon.

I have spread my couch with coverings: The Hebrew verb (rabad) is found only here on the Hebrew Old Testament, which means to spread over or cover. This seductress is clearly a woman of great wealth, as the items from verses 16 and 17 are all exported goods. The Hebrew word rendered couch (eres) can refer to a wooden pallet on the floor in the home the common people. However, here the term couch shows evidence of her wealth when it is considered with the rest of the items, which is used for both resting and sleeping and is found only in the homes of wealthy people.

Colored linens from Egyptian linen: There is an extra cost in adding color in the manufacturing of these linens, for it is an additional step in the process. Here the temptress is flaunting her wealth and uses the bright colors in an attempt at seducing this man into her bedchamber.

I have sprinkled my bed with myrrh: Here the Hebrew verb (nuph) rendered sprinkled means that she perfumed her bed. Myrrh is a fragrant gum resin obtained from various thorny shrubs or small trees and is one of the ingredients for the holy anointing oil. (Ex. 30:23-25) It was highly valued for its fragrance. it was used to scent garments, beds, and other items. (See Ps 45:8; Prov. 7:17; Song of Solomon 3:6-7) It was often used with other spices like those below to cause sexual excitement.

    aloes, and cinnamon: These spices, including the myrrh, were also used for lovemaking and believed to possess a stimulant that causes sexual desires. (See Song of Solomon 4:6) The seductress is describing these spices in order to entice the young man into having sexual relations with her. The adulteress uses these pleasant foreign sweet-smelling fragrances to transform her bedchamber into a striking colorful eye-catching, perfumed, desirable trap.

She offers the young man more visuals, giving him images to motivate him to enter her home. Her revealing clothing has moved this young man along with the sensual sound of her pleasing words, in addition to the touch of her embrace, as well as the taste of her smooth lips, on top of the scent of her perfume. This is a train wreck just waiting to happen. It is now all too clear to the young man that he is going into her home for a sexual experience. In the imperfect human condition, our senses can be used against us by Satan’s world that caters to the flesh. Wrong desires are gratifying to us in this condition. Just as the scent of a meal can contribute to a physical (salivating and hunger pains), mental (thinking on) and emotional reaction (desiring) from us; so too a young man can lose his self-control in a sexual frenzy and go after a prostitute.

Reviewing once more, this young man did not reach this sexual frenzy stage all at once; it came in the stages that we spoke of earlier. Now, let us talk about the initial steps involved (1) entertaining the thinking that moved him to (2) walking on her street at night, (3) permitting her to kiss him, and (4) paying attention to her immoral offers. As he entered each of these steps, it became far more difficult to turn back. He should have dismissed the thinking at step one (James 1:14-15), before he ever found himself on her street. Even then, once he was walking down her street, he needed to stop, and turn back. – Galatians 5:22-23.

The Seductive Invitation

Proverbs 7:18 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁸ Come, let us drink our fill of love until morning;
let us delight ourselves with love.

Come, let us drink our fill of love until morning: Here drink our fill means to take our fill or to fully experience our lovemaking as much as possible. The Hebrew noun rendered love (dod) is in the plural form here and in the second line are used in the Old Testament only in a sexual sense and refer to sexual intercourse between two people. The context here is an immoral sexual contact. Until morning has the sense of all night long.

Let us delight ourselves with love: The Hebrew rendered delight (alas) means to enjoy, to take pleasure in each other with lovemaking all night.

The strange woman ends her offer with a night filled with lovemaking. How many young ones have fallen to these types of exploits today? When someone is trying to entice you into sexual misconduct, it is not loving within the lovemaking, but rather it is selfish lust. Would a man or a woman who truly loves someone pressure them into violating their Christian values?

My Husband Is Gone!

Proverbs 7:19-20 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

¹⁹ Because the man[17] is not in his house;
he has gone on the road far off;[18]
²⁰ he took a bag of silver[19] in his hand;
at full moon he will come home.”

Because the man is not in his house: This can be rendered “my husband is not at home.” All along the wayward woman has been trying to seduce this young man with her body language and her choice of the right words. So, her choice of saying the man in place of “my man” is just her way of distancing herself from the concept of her having a husband in her continued efforts to encourage the young man. When translations avoid the literal translation because it sounds wooden or peculiar; they, also deprive the reader of protentional meaning.

He has gone on the road far off: The literal rendering on the road far off means a long journey. This is her clearly trying to relieve the young man of any fear of their being caught by an enraged husband.

He took a bag of silver in his hand: This would likely have not been minted coins, namely, manufactured coins of specified values using a kind of stamping, but rather he likely took bulk silver, which would have to have been weighed, signaling that the man took lots of money for purchasing purposes, inferring that he will be away for a long time.

At full moon he will come home: Yet, another inference, full moon (kese or keseh), suggesting that the man (her husband) was going to be away for a long time. She is basically saying they, “he will not be back until the first of the month.” Remember, verse 9 of chapter 7 said, “at the midst of night and darkness,” which can refer to the new moon, some two weeks before the full moon. The full moon is the brightest phase of the moon in the lunar month while the new moon is the darkest.

Maybe she sees a fear in the young man’s heart, the only thing causing him pause, so she moves to remove his concerns of being caught, telling him that her husband is off “on a long journey,” and will not be back for many days, per the reference to taking a big bag of money with him. Therefore, he needs not fear any consequences for this night of endless pleasure will bring.

Seductive Words

Proverbs 7:21 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

²¹ She persuades him with much seductive words;
with her smooth lips she compels him.

She persuades him with much seductive words: The Hebrew word for persuade (natah) means to bend or turn aside, namely, to cause someone to wander from a proper belief or behavior, conduct, course of action. The wayward woman is persuading this young man to turn aside from his values by her seductive words to engage in an adulterous immoral behavior. Here the Hebrew word (leqach) for seductive words is referring to persuasive words. Words that have the power to change one’s mind through persuasion, which in turn can change one’s feeling and behavior as well. Leqach, the art of persuasion, can be used for good or bad. In Proverbs 1:5 it is used for learning and in 4:2, it is used for good teaching, and here in 7:21 it is being used for an alluring, tempting, seducing, enticing, encouraging the adulterous immoral behavior.

With her smooth lips she compels him:

Her smooth (Heb. ḥā·lǎq) words of 7:5, as you will also recall from 5:3, are smoother than oil, they are flattering and seductive, as well as deceitful, are now being referred to as smooth lips (cheleq), which is a figure of speech used to stand for what she is saying. This is excessive insincere flattery. This is a manner of speaking that contains content that is designed to persuade, which in this context, it is sexually suggestive or rather seductive words. The Hebrew word (nadach) means that she is using forceful pressure to entice, so as to turn the young man way from what is right.

How gifted she is at enticing, charming, mesmerizing this young man. He has been caught in her seductive words, her smooth words have finally gotten her the results she so desired. The idea of being loved no doubt sounded very good to him. Yet, in reality, the prostitute has misled him by the abundance of her persuasive seductive words. No, she had no actual love for this young man; but rather he was purely a customer. She exploited him to her own selfish desires.

Suddenly Ensnared

Proverbs 7:22-23 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

²² Suddenly he goes after her,
as an ox goes to the slaughter,
like a fool to be punished in the fetters
²³ till an arrow pierces its liver;
as a bird rushes into a snare;
he does not know that it will cost him his soul.

Suddenly he goes after her: Here suddenly (Heb. pithom) might suggest that the young man was hesitant until the wayward woman’s seductive words in verse 20-21.

As an ox goes to the slaughter: An ox is an adult, castrated male cattle. Slaughter is when animals are killed for food. Here the simile here is that the animal is oblivious (unaware or ignorant) to the idea that he is about to be killed and eaten. This is true of the young man as well, who is oblivious to the idea of the pain and suffering of the consequences that are coming.

Like a fool to be punished in the fetters: This young man has been caught by the seductive, deceptive words of this wayward woman and he will be paying the consequences, as there is no escaping them.

Till an arrow pierces its liver: Syphilis is a serious sexually transmitted disease caused by the spirally twisted bacterium Treponema pallidum that affects many body organs (liver) and parts, including the genitals, brain, skin, and nervous tissue. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted bacterial disease that causes inflammation of the liver. The young man has been and is so naïve to the dangers of the trap that has been set before him.

As a bird rushes into a snare: Here the Hebrew word rendered rush (mahir) means that this impetuous, hurried, rash young man with no wisdom or sense is about to suddenly enter into the trap that has been laid before him. He is unaware or ignorant to the trap that lies before him and in but a single moment of time, it is to late to escape or go back, and his life is forever altered, if not destroyed.

He does not know that it will cost him his soul: This means that “it will cost him his life.” This statement is open-ended as there is no specific way mentioned as to how the young man is going to lose his life. The only possible sense of how is found back in Proverbs 2:16-19.

The young man’s breaking point has been reached, as he dismisses and insightful counsel of his father, suddenly he goes after her “like an ox to a slaughter.” Just as the similes[20] used by Solomon, this young man does not realize that his passionate frenzy is going to cost him his life. Hence, he hurries into a perilous situation of death like a bird into a trap! “The figure of an arrow piercing the liver (an implied comparison) may refer to the pangs of a guilty conscience that the guilty must reap along with the spiritual and physical ruin that follows.”[21]

The Father’s Final Warning Against a Strange Woman

Proverbs 7:24-25 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

²⁴ And now, O sons, listen to me,
and be attentive to the words of my mouth.
²⁵ Let not your heart turn aside to her ways;
do not stray into her paths.

And now, O sons, listen to me: Here and is being used to close out the counsel, which is why it is rendered and now. The father, using a term of endearment, O sons, before giving his final commands, pleading for his sons to listen (Heb. šā·mǎʿ), that is pay attention and obey, never departing from his words.

And be attentive to the words of my mouth: The Hebrew verb (qā·šǎḇ) be attentive means listening and paying close attention, giving heed (i.e., obeying), accepting the instruction as being true and responding to it favorably. The figurative expression words of my mouth mean pay attention to what I say, pay attention to what I have taught you, pay attention to my instructions, my commandments.

Let not your heart turn aside to her ways: The Hebrew (satah) for turn away means that the young man is to turn away from the way or the path of this strange (i.e., wayward) woman that was referred to in 7:5, with this figurative expression, also meaning a change in behavior.

Do not stray into her paths: The Hebrew verb rendered stray (taah) means that this young man is not to wander from the moral beliefs and values that the father has instilled in him into a course of action that would lead him down her immoral path. Both of these commands are given to help the son to remove himself from this temptation before it has begun to lead him astray, so as to protect his figurative heart, namely his inner person, the seat of motivation. The young man has ignored his morally trained conscience at every stage, from entering the street where he knows that wayward woman will be to meet up with her where her scent can impact him, her words can move him, and her touch can conquer him.

Looking at the Christian today, he has to be able to get control over his thinking. The same young man today can end up on the wrong street, because of entertaining immoral thoughts that enter the mind. As soon as the thought enters his mind, if the Christian conscience is trained, he should dismiss it outright, and then internally rationalize just why that thinking is wrong. If he does not commit himself to this, he will fail by progressing even further toward the actions of viewing porn, masturbation, fornication, or adultery.

No true Christian should follow the literal steps of this man, but what about his thoughts. Could a person mentally begin ‘going down the street to her house by dwelling on immoral thoughts? Right then, he needs to put on the brakes! Failing to do so may result in mentally progressing to further steps such as masturbation or eventual sexual immorality.

The Apostle Paul told the Galatians, “Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” (Gal. 5:24) This crucifixion refers Christ in his death and resurrection, and that ‘we longer live, but Christ lives in us. The life we now live in the body, we live by faith in the Son of God, who loved us and gave Himself for us.’ (Gal. 2:20) This does not mean that we no longer have the thinking and desires that lead to sin. It means that our old personalities are no more, and we are now new people, having the ability to gain control over our thinking. – Romans 6:10-12.

Additionally, as an imperfect people, we need to be vigilant about dismissing any inappropriate thinking that enters our minds, before we begin to entertain and cultivate them. If one is watching a movie or television program, and they begin to have improper thoughts that can lead to sexual desires, they need to change the channel if at home, or get up and walk out of the theater. The Christian mind has to be very cautious as to what the mind takes in, especially in the age of computers, internet, iPads, and smartphones. In addition, all Christians need to be Christlike in their conversations with others, especially non-Christians, and the opposite sex. – Matthew 5:28-30; Colossians 3:5.

For those who struggle in this area, more proactive measures are needed. Once an improper thought has been dismissed, he needs to speak to himself, rationalizing why it is wrong, and what this type of thinking can do to spiritually wreck a Christian life. If he is in bed and an improper thought has entered his mind, he needs to get up and do just that, pray thereafter, and have a Bible handy to read from, before going back to bed. The prayer needs to be ardent, this cannot be lip service.

You Cannot Escape the Cruel, Vicious, Brutal, Ruthless Violence that Leads to Your Fatality

Proverbs 7:26-27 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)

²⁶ For many are the fatally wounded[22] she has made fall,[23]
and all her slain are a mighty throng.
²⁷ Her house is the way to Sheol,
descending to the chambers of death.

For many are the fatally wounded she has made fall: Here is the Hebrew noun (chalal) is literally rendered fatally wounded but elsewhere it is rendered victim (ESV) or slain (LEB). The sense of this line is that this immoral wayward woman has mortally wounded and brought death to many men.

And all her slain are a mighty army: Solomon is trying to stress the danger by using military language to describe the fatal results of interacting with this wayward woman. Fatally wounded can refer to casualties and the slain (Heb. harag) here are a mighty throng (atsumim) and can be seen as a mighty army. The verb for slain can mean with cruel, vicious, brutal, ruthless violence.

Her house is the way to Sheol: Here her house is not simply the building or home that she lives in but rather, it has the sense of what it is that is going on in her house as the focus. (see 2:18 and 5:5. Compare also 9:18) Here Sheol: (Heb. sheol) occurs sixty-six times in the UASV. The Greek Septuagint renders Sheol as Hades. It has the underlying meaning of a place of the dead, where they are conscious of nothing, awaiting a resurrection, for both the righteous and the unrighteous. (Gen. 37:35; Psa. 16:10; Ac 2:31; John 5:28-29; Acts 24:15) It corresponds to “Hades” in the NT. It does not involve torment and punishment.

Descending to the chambers of death: The Hebrew verb (yarad) rendered descending is to move downward or lower with an ominous sense. Chambers of death is an expression that is similar to, equivalent to Sheol, and is similar to Proverbs 2:18 and 5:5. The Hebrew (cheder) Chambers is a rendering for a word meaning rooms that are located in the inner part of a house or building. Here Sheol is seen as a house that has many rooms.

The beauty and seductive power of this strange woman are quite deceptive because she has slain many that have entered her house. To naively believe that you can somehow escape the cruel, vicious, brutal, ruthless violence that leads to your fatality, while a throng of others has not is simply foolish. Some temptations are so consuming that the best recourse, is to stay as far removed as one can. The terminology of verse 26 is military in nature. Thus, young one needs to see the world of humankind that is alienated from God, his own weaknesses and leanings, in addition to Satan, as a war zone. Therefore, he needs to be ever vigilant to his environment.

BIBLE DIFFICULTIES Proverbs Chapter 7

There are no Bible difficulties in Proverbs chapter 7.

REVIEW QUESTIONS

• (7:1-2) Comment on the three very important verbs that we find in the first two verses. How are we to understand Solomon’s use of “the pupil of your eye with the commands of Solomon (i.e., God)?
• (7:3) What does Solomon really mean by saying that we should bind biblical teachings on our finger, or write them on the tablets of our heart?
• (7:4) How was the term “sister” used in the Old Testament world at times? What are wisdom and insight?
• (7:5) Why is it extremely important that the son develop the teachings of God’s Word and an intimate relationship with wisdom?
• (7:6-7) What did Solomon notice in the streets below?
• (7:8-9) What does Solomon possess that this young one lacks?
• (7:10-12) Her clothes give everything away; the text says she is what, meaning what?
• (7:13) What must we understand about the stages of every temptation?
• (7:14) How would the Israelite mind of that time understand her words?
• (7:15) How are her words misleading, and why is the young man foolishly not seeing the truth?
• (7:16-17) How can our imperfect human senses be used for good and for bad? What are the steps that this young one has gone through to get to this point? Why is it more difficult to turn back when one is the further along in the steps to sin?
• (7:18) How does the strange woman end her offer?
• (7:19-20) What might be the only thing holding the young man back, and how does she calm his fears?
• (7:21) How are we to understand the figure of speech “smooth lips”?
• (7:22-23) What is a simile? How are they fitting for the young man’s situation?
• (7:24-25) What does Solomon’s counsel to his sons mean? Why should all Christians be able to control their thinking? Once we belong to Christ, does this mean that we will never have an improper thought, or that we cannot entertain that thought? Why is it very important that we control what goes into our minds? For those that struggle in this area, what more proactive measures are needed?
• (7:26-27) How are we to understand the language of verses 26-27?

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“Miracles, by definition, violate the principles of science.”—RICHARD DAWKINS.

“Belief in miracles is entirely rational. Far from being an embarrassment to religious faith, they are signs of God’s love for, and continuing involvement in, creation.”—ROBERT A. LARMER, PROFESSOR OF PHILOSOPHY.

SHOULD YOU believe in miracles? As we can see from the above quotations, opinions vary considerably. But how could you convincingly answer that question?

Some of YOU may immediately answer, “Yes, I believe.” Others might say, “No, I don’t believe.” Then, there are some who may say, “I don’t know, and I really don’t care! Miracles don’t happen in my life!” Really, why should YOU be interested in miracles? The Bible promises its readers that in the future some miracles far beyond all ever recorded or experienced is going to occur and will affect every living person on earth. Therefore, would it not be worth some of your time and energy to find out whether those promises are reliable? What does God’s Word really teach about miracles of Bible times, after that, our day, and the future?

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Herein Andrews will answer the “why.” He will address whether God is responsible for the suffering we see. He will also delve into whether God’s foreknowledge is compatible with our having free will. He will consider how we can objectively view Bible evidence, as he answers why an almighty, loving and just God would allow bad things to happen to good people. Will there ever be an end to the suffering? He will explain why life is so unfair and does God step in and solve our every problem because we are faithful? He will also discuss how the work of the Holy Spirit and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit should be understood in the light of wickedness. Lastly, Andrews will also offer biblical counsel on how we can cope when any tragedy strikes, …

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THE POWER OF GOD: The Word That Will Change Your Life Today

Yes, God will be pleased to give you strength. He even gives “extraordinary power” to those who are serving him. (2 Cor. 4:7) Do you not feel drawn to this powerful Almighty God, who uses his power in such kind and principled ways? God is certainly a “shield for all those who take refuge in him.” (Psalm 18:30) You understand that he does not use his power to protect you from all tragedy now. He does, however, always use his protective power to ensure the outworking of his will and purpose. In the long run, his doing so is in your best interests. Andrews shares a profound truth …

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FEARLESS: Be Courageous and Strong Through Your Faith In These Last Days

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JOHN 3:16: For God So Loved the World

John 3:16 is one of the most widely quoted verses from the Christian Bible. It has also been called the “Gospel in a nutshell,” because it is considered a summary of the central theme of traditional Christianity. Martin Luther called John 3:16 “The heart of the Bible, the Gospel in miniature.” The Father had sent his Son to earth to be born as a human baby. Doing this meant that for over three decades, his Son was susceptible to the same pains and suffering as the rest of humankind, ending in the most gruesome torture and execution imaginable. The Father watched the divine human child Jesus grow into a perfect man. He watched as John the Baptist baptized the Son, where the Father said from heaven, “This is my Son, the beloved, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matt. 3:17) The Father watched on as the Son faithfully carried out his will, fulfilling all of the prophecies, which certainly pleased the Father.–John 5:36; 17:4. …

THE BOOK OF JAMES (CPH New Testament Commentary 17)

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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 have a moral law that was written on our heart. (Rom. 2:14-15) However, at the same time, we have a warring against the law of our mind and taking us captive in the law of sin, which is in our members. (Rom. 7:21-25) When we live by the moral law, it brings us joy, when we live by the law of sin; it brings about distress, anxiety, regrets to both mind and heart, creating a conflict between our two natures. In our study of the Bible, we can interact with a living God who wants a personal relationship with us. And in APPLYING GOD’S WORD MORE FULLY, we will learn how to engage His words like never before. Andrews helps his readers …

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, which is “profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.” (2 Tim. 3:16-17) From the moment that Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden of Eden, humans have been brought forth in sin, having become more and more mentally bent toward evil, having developed a heart (i.e., inner person) that is treacherous, and unknowable to them, with sin’s law dwelling within them. Sadly, many of us within the church have not been fully informed …

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

A clean conscience brings us inner peace, calmness, and 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 husbands 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 YOUR HUSBANDS. It offers wives the best insights into a happy marriage, by way of using God’s Word as the foundational guide, along with Andrews’ insights. WIVES learn that marriage is a gift from God. WIVEStake in information that will help them survive the first year of marriage. WIVES will be able to make Christian marriage a success. WIVES will maintain an honorable marriage. WIVES will see how to submit correctly to Christ’s headship. WIVES will learn how to strengthen their marriage through good communication. …

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 YOUR WIVES. It offers husbands the best insights into a happy marriage, by way of using God’s Word as the foundational guide, along with Andrews’ insights. HUSBANDS learn that marriage is a gift from God. HUSBANDS take in information that will help them survive the first year of marriage. HUSBANDS will be able to make Christian marriage a success. HUSBANDS will maintain an honorable marriage. …

TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIAL TRENDS: A Biblical Point of View

Technological and societal change is all around us. What does the future hold? Trying to predict the future is difficult, but we can get a clue from the social and technological trends in our society. The chapters in this book provide a framework as Christians explore the uncharted territory in our world of technology and social change. Some of the questions that Anderson will answer are: What are the technological challenges of the 21st century? How should we think about the new philosophies like transhumanism? Should we be concerned about big data? What about our privacy in a world where government and corporations have some much information about us? How should we think about a world experiencing exponential growth in data and knowledge? What social trends are affecting baby boomers, baby busters, and millennials?

CHRISTIANS AND GOVERNMENT: A Biblical Point of View

Government affects our daily lives, and Christians need to think about how to apply biblical principles to politics and government. This book provides an overview of the biblical principles relating to what the apostle Paul calls “governing authorities” (i.e., government) with specific chapters dealing with the founding principles of the American government. This includes an examination of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Federalist Papers. The thirteen chapters in this book not only look at the broad founding principles but also provide an in-depth look at other important political and governmental issues. One section explains the history and application of church and state issues. Another section describes aspects of political debate and discourse. A final section provides a brief overview of the Christian heritage of this nation that was important in the founding of this country and the framing of our founding documents.

CHRISTIANS AND ECONOMICS A Biblical Point of View

Economics affects our daily lives, and Christians need to think about how to apply biblical principles to money, investment, borrowing, and spending. They also need to understand the free enterprise system and know how to defend capitalism. Chapters in this book not only look at broad economic principles, but a section of the book is devoted to the challenges we face in the 21st century from globalization and tough economic times. A section of the book also provides an in-depth look at other important social and economic issues (gambling, welfare) that we face every day …

A DANGEROUS JOURNEY: Those Who Become Jesus’ Disciples

Do you desire to follow Jesus Christ and transform the culture around you? Are you sure you know what it means to be a disciple and follow a dangerous revolutionary who often comforts the afflicted and afflicts the comfortable? Jesus Christ is not the mild status quo rabbi you may have been taught in your local church. He is dangerous and anyone who follows him is on a dangerous journey. The demands he places upon you and the challenges you will encounter are necessary on the journey. The journey with Jesus Christ is not for the fainthearted. If you are really serious about joining Jesus Christ in the transformation of the culture around you, here is a raw outlook on what to expect on this DANGEROUS JOURNEY.

Prayer Life

POWER THROUGH PRAYER A Healthy Prayer Life

Each of the twenty-five chapters in the POWER THROUGH PRAYER provides helpful methods and suggestions for growing and improving your prayer life with God through the power of prayer.  So, what can we expect if we make prayer a part of our life? Prayer can give you a peace of mind. Prayer can comfort and strength when facing trials. Prayer can help us make better life choices. The Bible says: “If any of you lacks wisdom [especially in dealing with trials], let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5) Prayer can help to avoid temptation. Prayer is the path yo forgiveness of sins. Your prayers can help others. You will receive encouragement when your prayers are answered.

THE POWERFUL WEAPON OF PRAYER: A Healthy Prayer Life

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 of prayers would the Father reject? How long should our prayers be? How often should we pray? Why should we say “Amen” at the end of a prayer? Must we assume a special position or posture when praying? There are far more than this asked and answered.

HOW TO PRAY: The Importance of Prayer [Updated and Expanded]

What forms of prayer do you personally need to offer more often? Who benefits when you pray for others? Why is it important to pray regularly? Why should true Christians pray continually? To whom should we pray, and how? What are the proper subjects for prayer? When should you pray? Does God listen to all prayers? Whose prayers is God willing to hear? What could make a person’s prayers unacceptable to God? When Jesus says, “whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive if you have faith,” an absolute guarantee that we will receive it? HOW TO PRAY by Torrey and Andrews is a spiritual gem that will answer all of these questions and far more. HOW TO PRAY is a practical guidebook covers the how, when, and most importantly, the way of praying. An excellent devotional resource for any Christian library.

Christian Apologetics and Evangelism

FIRST TIMOTHY 2:12: What Does the Bible Really Say About Women Pastors/Preachers?

The role of women within the church has been a heated, ongoing debate. There are two views. We have the equal ministry opportunity for both men and women (egalitarian view) and the ministry roles distinguished by gender (complementarian view). This biblically grounded introduction will acquaint the reader with the biblical view: what does the Bible say about the woman’s role in the church? Both views mention the teachings of the apostle Paul in 1 Timothy 2:12 in order to support their viewpoint. Andrews will furnish the reader with a clear and thorough presentation of the biblical evidence for the woman’s role in the church so we can better understand the biblical viewpoint.

THE YOUNG CHRISTIAN’S SURVIVAL GUIDE: Common Questions Young Christians Are Asked about God, the Bible, and the Christian Faith Answered

Some of the questions asked and answered in THE YOUNG CHRISTIAN’S SURVIVAL GUIDE are “You claim the Bible is inspired because it says it is, right (2 Tim. 3:16)? Isn’t that circular reasoning?” “You claim the Bible was inspired, but there was no inspired list of which books that is true of. So how can we know which ones to trust?” “With so many different copies of manuscripts that have 400,000+ variants (errors), how can we even know what the Bible says?” “Why can’t the people who wrote the four Gospels get their story straight?” These questions and many more will be asked and answered with reasonable, rational, Scriptural answers.

HOW RELIABLE ARE THE GOSPELS?

Was the Gospel of Mark Written First? Were the Gospel Writers Plagiarists? What is the Q Document? What about Document Q?  Critical Bible scholars have assumed that Matthew and Luke used the book of Mark to compile their Gospels and that they consulted a supplementary source, a document the scholars call Q from the German Quelle, or source.  From the close of the first century A.D. to the 18th century, the reliability of the Gospels was never really brought into question. However, once we enter the so-called period of enlightenment, especially from the 19th century onward, some critical Bible scholars viewed the Gospels not as the inspired, inerrant Word of God but rather as the word of man, and a jumbled word at that. In addition, they determined that the Gospels were not written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, saying the Gospels were written after the apostles, denying that the writers of the Gospels had any firsthand knowledge of Jesus; therefore, for these Bible critics such men were unable to offer a record of reliable history. Moreover, these critical Bible scholars came to the conclusion that the similarities in structure and content in the synoptic (similar view) Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), suggests that the evangelists copied extensively from one other. Further, the critical Bible scholars have rejected that the miracles of Jesus and his resurrection ever occurred as recorded in the Gospels. Lastly, some have even gone so far as to reject the historicity of Jesus himself.

REASONABLE FAITH: Saving Those Who Doubt

Inside of some Christians unbeknownst to their family, friends or the church, 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 truthfulness of his Word, the Bible. A SUBSTANTIAL PORTION of REASONABLE FAITH is on healing for the elements of emotional doubt. However, much attention is given to more evidenced-based chapters in our pursuit of overcoming any fears or doubts that we may have or that may creep up on us in the future.

JESUS CHRIST: The Great Teacher

How can you improve your effectiveness as teachers? Essentially, it is by imitating JESUS CHRIST The Great Teacher You may wonder, ‘But how can we imitate Jesus?’ ‘He was the perfect, divine, Son of God.’ Admittedly, you cannot be a perfect teacher. Nevertheless, regardless of your abilities, you can do your best to imitate the way Jesus taught. JESUS CHRIST The Great Teacher will discuss how you can employ all of his teaching methods. What a privilege it is to be a teacher of God’s Word and to share spiritual values that can have long-lasting benefits!

THE APOSTLE PAUL: The Teacher, Preacher Apologist

How can you improve your effectiveness as teachers? Essentially, it is by imitating THE APOSTLE PAUL: The Preacher, Teacher, Apologist. You may wonder, ‘But how can we imitate Paul?’ ‘He was an inspired author, who served as an apostle, given miraculous powers.’ Admittedly, Paul likely accomplished more than any other imperfect human. Nevertheless, regardless of your abilities, you can do your best to imitate the way Paul taught. THE APOSTLE PAUL: The Preacher, Teacher, Apologist will discuss how you can employ all of his teaching methods. When it comes to teaching, genuine Christians have a special responsibility. We are commanded to “make disciples of all nations . . . , teaching them.” (Matt. 24:14; 28:19-20; Ac 1:8)

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 questioned the writership of Isaiah, and are they correct? When did skepticism regarding the writership of Isaiah begin, and how did it spread? What dissecting of the book of Isaiah has taken place? When did criticism of the book of Daniel begin, and what fueled similar criticism in more recent centuries? What charges are sometimes made regarding the history in Daniel? Why is the question of the authenticity of the books of Moses, the Book of Isaiah and the Book of Daniel an important one? What evidence is there to show that the books of Moses, the Book of Isaiah and the Book of Daniel is authentic and true? Do these critics have grounds for challenging these Bible author’s authenticity and historical truthfulness? Why is it important to discuss whether Old Testament Aurhoriship is authentic and true or not?

MOSAIC AUTHORSHIP CONTROVERSY: Who Really Wrote the First Five Books of the Bible?

Who wrote the first five books of the Bible? Was it Moses or was it others centuries later? If Moses wrote the first five books of the Bible, then how was his own death and burial written in Deuteronomy Chapter 34? Many mainstream Bible scholars argue that Moses could not have written the Pentateuch since he likely existed many centuries earlier than the development of the Hebrew language. When was the origin of the Hebrew language? Popular scholarship says that if Moses had written the Pentateuch, he would have written in the Egyptian language, not the Hebrew. Moreover, most of the Israelites and other people of the sixteenth century B.C.E. were illiteral, so who could have written the Torah, and for whom would it be written because the people of that period did not read?

Finally, analysis of the first five books demonstrates multiple authors, not just one, which explains the many discrepancies. Multiple authors also explain the many cases of telling of the same story twice, making the same events appear to happen more than once. The modern mainstream scholarship would argue that within the Pentateuch we see such things as preferences for certain words, differences in vocabulary, reoccurring expressions in Deuteronomy that are not found in Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers, all evidence for their case for multiple authors.

What does the evidence say? What does archaeology, linguistic analysis, historical studies, textual analysis, and insights from Egyptologists tell us? Again, who wrote the first five books of the Bible? Was it Moses or was it others centuries later? Andrews offers his readers an objective view of the evidence.

DEFENDING AGABUS AS A NEW TESTAMENT PROPHET: A Content-Based Study of His Predictions In Acts by Sung Cho

Agabus is a mysterious prophetic figure that appears only twice in the book of Acts. Though his role is minor, he is a significant figure in a great debate between cessationists and continualists. On one side are those who believe that the gift of prophecy is on par with the inspired Scriptures, infallible, and has ceased. On the other side are those who define it as fallible and non-revelatory speech that continues today in the life of the church. Proponents of both camps attempt to claim Agabus as an illustration of their convictions. This study defends the position that Agabus’ prophecies are true in every detail. Beginning with a survey of major figures in the debate, the author conducts an exegetical analysis of passages where Agabus appears in defense of the infallible view.

UNDERSTANDING ISLAM AND TERRORISM: A Biblical Point of View

Islam is making a significant mark on 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. This book provides practical, biblical answers so Christians can understand Islam, witness to their Muslim friends, and support efforts by the government to protect all of us from terrorism.

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 them, as a protection again the misleading media. The non-Muslims need to hear these truths about Islam and the Quran so they can have an accurate understanding of the Muslim mindset that leads to their actions. Islam is the second largest religion in the world. Radical Islam has taken the world by storm, and the “fake media” has genuinely misled their audience for the sake of political correctness. This book is not a dogmatic attack on Islam and the Quran but rather an uncovering of the lies and describing of the truths. The reader will be introduced to the most helpful way of viewing the evidence objectively. We will answer the question of whether the Quran is a literary miracle, as well as is there evidence that the Quran is inspired by God, along with is the Quran harmonious and consistent, and is the Quran from God or man? We will also examine Islamic teachings, discuss the need to search for the truth, as well as identify the book of truth. We will look at how Islam views the Bible. Finally, we will take up the subjects of Shariah Law, the rise of radical Islam, Islamic eschatology, and how to effectively witness to Muslims.

THE GUIDE TO ISLAM: What Every Christian Needs to Know About Islam and the Rise of Radical Islam by Daniel Janosik

The average Christian knows somewhat how dangerous radical Islam is because of the regular media coverage of beheadings of Christians, Jews, and even young little children, not to mention Muslims with which they disagree. However, the average Christian does not know their true beliefs, just how many there are, to the extent they will go to carry out these beliefs. Daily we find Islamic commentators on the TV and radio, offering up misleading information, quoting certain portions of the Quran while leaving other parts out. When considering Islamic beliefs, other Islamic writings must be considered, like the Hadith or Sunnah, and the Shariah, or canon law. While Islam, in general, does not support radical Islam, the vast majority do support radical beliefs. For example, beheadings, stoning for adultery or homosexuality, suicide bombings, turning the world into an Islamic state, and far too many other heinous things. THE GUIDE TO ISLAM provides Christians with an overview of Islamic terminology. The reader will learn about Muhammad’s calling, the history of the Quran, how Islam expanded, the death of Muhammad and the splinter groups that followed. In addition, the three sources of their teaching, six pillars of belief, five pillars of Islam, the twelfth Imam, and much more will be discussed. All of this from the mind of radical Islam. While there are several books on Islam and radical Islam, this will be the first that will prepare its readers to communicate effectively with Muslims in an effort toward sharing biblical truths. …

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, … 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, straightforward style, Salisbury covers such issues as: Does God exist? Can I trust the Bible? Does Christianity oppress women? Can we know truth? Why would God allow evil and suffering? Was Jesus God and did He really rise from the dead? How does or should my faith guide my life?

A TIME TO SPEAK: PRACTICAL TRAINING for the CHRISTIAN PRESENTER Authored by Judy Salisbury, Foreword by Josh McDowell

A Time to Speak: Practical Training for the Christian Presenteris a complete guide for effective communication and presentation skills. Discuss any subject with credibility and confidence, from Christian apologetics to the sensitive moral issues of our day, when sharing a testimony, addressing a school board, a community meeting, or conference. This exceptional training is the perfect resource for Christians with any level of public speaking ability. With its easy, systematic format, A Time to Speak is also an excellent resource for home-schooled and college students. The reader, in addition to specific skills and techniques, will also learn how to construct their presentation content, diffuse hostility, guidance for a successful Q&A, effective ways to turn apathy into action, and tips on gaining their speaking invitation.

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 (Historical Criticism), and why is historical criticism so popular among Bible scholars today? Its popularity is because biblical criticism is subjective, that is, based on or influenced by personal feelings or opinions and is dependent on the Bible scholar’s perception. In other words, biblical criticism allows the Bible scholar, teacher, or pastor the freedom to interpret the Scriptures, so that God’s Word it tells them things that they want to hear. Why is this book so critical for all Christians? Farnell and Andrews will inform the reader about Biblical criticism (historical criticism) and its weaknesses, helping you to defend God’s Word far better.

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 criticism has done nothing more than weaken and demoralize people’s assurance in the Bible as being the inspired and fully inerrant Word of God and is destructive in its very nature. Historical criticism is made up of many forms of biblical criticism that are harmful to the authoritative Word of God: historical criticism, source criticism, form criticism, redaction criticism, social-science criticism, canonical criticism, rhetorical criticism, structural criticism, narrative criticism, reader-response criticism, and feminist criticism. Not just liberal scholarship, but many moderate, even some “conservative” scholars have …

FEMINIST CRITICISM: What is Biblical Feminism?

FEMINIST CRITICISM will offer the reader explicitly what the Bible says. Feminist criticism is a form of literary criticism that is based on feminist theories. The worldview of feminism uses feminist principles to interpret the word of God. Biblical feminists argue that they are merely focused on creating equal opportunities to serve. They say that they want the freedom to follow Jesus Christ as he has called them. They assert that they merely want to use the gifts that he has given them in God’s service. Biblical feminists maintain that Scripture clearly states the worth and value of men and women equally when it comes to serving God. Biblical feminists also say that they want to partner with the men when it comes to taking the lead in the church and parenting in the home. They seek mutual submission and subjection in the church leadership and the home headship, not what they perceive to be a male hierarchy. FEMINIST CRITICISM will gently and respectfully address these issues with Scripture.

CHRISTIAN APOLOGETIC EVANGELISM: Reaching Hearts with the Art of Persuasion

APOLOGETICS: Reaching Hearts with the Art of Persuasion by Edward D. Andrews, author of over seventy 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 apologetics and evangelism. They will learn what Christian apologetics is. They will be given a biblical answer to the most demanding Bible question: Problem of Evil. The reader will learn how to reach hearts with are the art of persuasion. They will use persuasion to help others accept Christ. They will learn to teach with insight and persuasiveness. They will learn to use persuasion to reach the heart of those who listen to them.

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. We can also have preconceived ideas that have been a part of our thinking for so long; we do not question them. Preconceived is an idea or opinion that is formed before having the evidence for its truth. If we are to be effective, we must season our words, so that they are received well. Then there is the term preconception, which means a preconceived idea or prejudice. Seasoned words, honesty, and accuracy are distinctive features of effective apologetic evangelism.

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 the message of God’s Word that we share but also the method in which we do so. Our message, the Gospel (i.e., the good news of the Kingdom), this does not change, but we do adjust our methods. Why? We are seeking to reach as many receptive people as possible. “You will be my witnesses … to the End of the Earth.” – ACTS 1:8.

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

Why should we be interested in the religion of others? The world has become a melting pot of people, cultures, and values, as well as many different religions. Religion has the most significant impact on the lives of mankind today. There are only a few of the major religions that make up billions of people throughout the earth. According to some estimates, there are roughly 4,200 religions in the world. 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 Gospel is almost an unknown, so what does the Christian evangelist do? Preevangelism is laying a foundation for those who have no knowledge of the Gospel, giving them background information, so that they can grasp what they are hearing. The Christian evangelist is preparing their mind and heart so that they will be receptive to the biblical truths. In many ways, this is known as apologetics. Christian apologetics [Greek: apologia, “verbal defense, speech in defense”] is a field of Christian theology which endeavors to offer a reasonable and sensible basis for the Christian faith, defending the faith against objections. It is reasoning from the Scriptures, explaining and proving, as one instructs in sound doctrine, many times having to overturn false reasoning before he can plant the seeds of truth. …

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’s words should always be seasoned with salt as he or she shares the unadulterated truths of Scripture with gentleness and respect. Our example in helping the unbeliever to understand the Bible has been provided by Jesus Christ and his apostles. Whether dealing with Bible critics or answering questions from those genuinely interested, Jesus referred to the Scriptures and at times used appropriate illustrations, helping those with a receptive heart to accept the Word of God. The apostle Paul “reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving” what was biblically true. (Ac 17:2-3) The material in THE CHRISTIAN APOLOGIST can enable us to do the same. Apologist Normal L. Geisler informs us that “evangelism is planting seeds of the Gospel” and “pre-evangelism is tilling the soil of people’s minds and hearts to help them be more willing to listen to the truth (1 Cor. 3: 6).”

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; 28:19-20; Ac 1:8) Why do Christians desire to talk about their beliefs? Jesus said, “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed in the whole inhabited earth for a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.” (Matt 24:14) This is the assignment, which all Christians are obligated to assist in carrying out. Jesus also said, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matt. 22:39) Jesus commanded that we “go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them” and “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” (Matt. 28:19-20) If one failed to be obedient to the great commission of Matthew 28:19-20, he or she could hardly claim that they have genuine faith. All true Christians have a determination to imitate God, which moves us to persist in reflecting his glory through our sharing Bible beliefs with others.

DIVINE APPOINTMENTS: Spontaneous Conversations on Matters of the Heart, Soul, and Mind

“Absorbing, instructional, insightful. Judy Salisbury’s book Divine Appointments embodies examples of truly speaking the truth in love. The stories she weaves together provide perfect examples of how to relate to others through conversational evangelism… Divine Appointments is an apt companion to any apologetics book, showing how to put principles into practice. It’s an apologetics manual wrapped in a warm blanket. Snuggle up with it.”— Julie Loos, Director, Ratio Christi Boosters

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 which he can build throughout his Christian life. These eight sections with multiple chapters in each cover biblical interpretation, Bible translation philosophies, textual criticism, Bible difficulties, the Holy Spirit, Christian Apologetics, Christian Evangelism, and Christian Living.

“‘Deep’ study is no guarantee that mature faith will result, but shallow study guarantees that immaturity continues.”(p. xiii)—Dr. Lee M. Fields.

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 the 1960’s has permeated the Western culture and weakened its very core. The West is now characterized by strict elitist media censorship, hedonism, a culture of drug abuse, abortion, ethnic clashes and racial divide, a destructive feminism and the dramatic breakdown of the family. An ultra-rich elite pushes our nations into a new, authoritarian globalist structure, with no respect for Western historical values. Yet, even in the darkest hour, there is hope. This manifesto outlines the remedy for the current malaise and describes the greatness of our traditional and religious values that once made our civilization prosper. It shows how we can restore these values to bring back justice, mercy, faith, honesty, fidelity, kindness and respect for one another. Virtues that will motivate individuals to love one another, the core of what will make us great again.

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 Kingdom of God? What was their worship like and why were they called the Truth and the Way? How did 120 disciples at Pentecost grow to over one million within 70-80-years? What was meant by their witness to the ends of the earth? How did Christianity in its infancy function to accomplish all it did? How was it structured? How were the early Christians, not of the world? How were they affected by persecution? How were they not to love the world, in what sense? What divisions were there in the second and third centuries? Who were the Gnostics? These questions will be answered, as well as a short overview of the division that grew out of the second and third centuries, pre-reformation, the reformation, and a summary of Catholicism and Protestantism. After a lengthy introduction to First-Century Christianity, there is a chapter on the Holy Spirit in the First Century and Today, followed by sixteen chapters that cover the most prominent Christians from the second to fourth centuries, as well as a chapter on Constantine the Great.

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 Jerusalem by the Babylonians, which they say occurred in 607 B.C.E. The Witnesses conclude that Chapter 4 of the book of Daniel prophesied a 2,520 year period that began in 607 B.C.E. and ended in 1914 C.E. They state, “Clearly, the ‘seven times’ and ‘the appointed times of the nations’ refer to the same time period.” (Lu 21:24) It is their position that When the Babylonians conquered Jerusalem, the Davidic line of kings was interrupted, God’s throne was “trampled on by the nations” until 1914, at which time Jesus began to rule invisibly from heaven. …

THE CHURCH CURE: Overcoming Church Problems

In order to overcome and church problems, we must first talk about the different problems of the church. Many of the church problems today stem from the isms: liberalism, humanism, modernism, Christian progressivism, theological liberalism, feminism, higher criticism, and biblical criticism. Moreover, many are simply not a biblically grounded church regardless of how much they claim to be so. The marks of a true Christian church would be like the different lines that make up a church’s fingerprint, a print that cannot belong to any other church. The true Christian church contains their own unique grouping of marks, forming a positive “fingerprint” that cannot belong to any other church. William Lange Craig wrote, “Remember that our faith is not based on emotions, but on the truth, and therefore you must hold on to it.” What truth? Jesus said to the Father in prayer, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” (John 17:17) Are you doing the will of the Father? Is your church doing the will of the Father? – Matthew 7:21-23; 1 John 2:15-17.

FLEECING THE FLOCK: Setting the People of God Free From the Lies of Tithing

Evangelist Norman Robertson claims that “Tithing is God’s way of financing His kingdom on the earth.” He asserts that “It is His system of economics which enables the Gospel to be preached.” Not bashful about telling his followers of their duty to give, he flatly states: ‘Tithing isn’t something you do because you can afford it. It is an act of obedience. Not tithing is a clear violation of God’s commandments. It is embezzlement.’ Most likely you accept that giving should be part of Christian worship. However, do you find continuous demanding appeals for money disturbing, perhaps even offensive? FLEECING THE FLOCK by Anthony Wade is an exhaustive examination of all of the popular tithing arguments made from the pulpit today. …

DECEPTION IN THE CHURCH: Does It Matter How You Worship?

DECEPTION IN THE CHURCH by Fred DeRuvo asks Does It Matter How You Worship? There are 41,000 different denominations that call themselves “Christian” and all would claim that they are the truth. Can just any Christian denomination please God? Can all be true or genuine Christianity if they all have different views on the same Bible doctrines? DeRuvo will answer. He will focus on the largest part of Christianity that has many different denominations, the charismatic, ecstatic Signs and Wonders Movements. These ecstatic worshipers claim … DeRuvo will answer all these questions and more according to the truth of God’s Word.—John 8:31-32; 17:17.

LEARN TO DISCERN: Recognizing False Teaching In the Christian church Today

Plunkett exposes the errors corrupting the Christian church through the Word of Faith, New Apostolic Reformation, and extreme charismatic movements. LEARN TO DISCERN, by author Daniel Plunkett highlights how an encounter with a rising star in the Word of Faith / “Signs and Wonders” movement was used by God to open his eyes to the deceptions, false teachings, and spiritual abuses running rampant in the charismatic movement today. These doctrines are thoroughly explored as taught by some of today’s most prominent speakers and evangelists and contrasted with the clear teachings of Scripture. LEARN TO DISCERN is an invaluable resource …

Translation and Textual Criticism

THE KING JAMES BIBLE: Do You Know the King James Version?

The King James Bible was originally published in 1611. Some have estimated that the number of copies of the King James Version that have been produced in print worldwide is over one billion! There is little doubt that the King James Version is a literary masterpiece, which this author has and will appreciate and value for its unparalleled beauty of expression. This book is in no way trying to take away from what the King James Version has accomplished. The King James Version is a book to be commended for all that it has accomplished. For four centuries, when English-speaking people spoke of “the Bible,” they meant the King James Version. The question that begs to be asked of those who favor the King James Bible is, Do You Know the King James Version? What do most users of the King James Bible not know about their translation? Whether you are one who favors the King James Version or one who prefers a modern translation, Andrews will answer the questions that have long been asked for centuries about the King James Bible and far more.

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. The translation of God’s Word from the original languages of Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek is a task unlike any other and should never be taken lightly because it carries with it the heaviest responsibility: the translator renders God’s thoughts into a modern language. It is CGBT’s desire to take challenging and complex subjects and make them easy to understand. CGBT will communicate as clearly and powerfully as possible to all of its readers while also accurately communicating information about the Bible. …

DO WE STILL NEED A LITERAL BIBLE?: Discover the Truth about Literal Translations

We have come a long, long way from the time that the KJV was The Bible in English and the many translations available today. Finding the right Bible for the right person can be daunting, with almost too many choices available. However, it is still possible to divide the options into two broad categories: literal translations and dynamic equivalents. What is the difference, and why should you care? Bible publishers used to say that literal translations are good for study purposes, and dynamic equivalents are better for reading. So literal translations were advertised with terms like “accurate,” “reliable,” and, of course, “literal.” For dynamic equivalent translations, terms like “contemporary,” “easy to read,” and “written in today’s English” were used. Naturally, publishers do not advertise the negatives, so they did not point out that the literal translations might be a little harder to read, or that the dynamic equivalents might not be entirely faithful to the original languages of the Bible. However, more recently, some scholars have been taking this analysis in a new direction, assessing literal translations as less desirable than dynamic equivalents even for accuracy and reliability.

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 of God. Then, there are dynamic equivalents, where the translator determines what the author meant by the original language text, and this is what they give the reader. There is also a paraphrase translation, which is an extremely interpretive translation. Exactly what are these differences? Are some translations better than others? What standards and principles can we use to determine what makes a good translation? Andrews introduces the readers to the central issues in this debate and presents several reasons why literal translations are superior to dynamic equivalent and paraphrase translations. We do not need to be a Bible scholar to understand these issues, as well as the importance of having the most accurate and faithful translation that is reflective of the original text. …

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

THE TEXT OF THE NEW TESTAMENT (TTNT) is an introduction, intermediate and advanced level coverage of the text of the New Testament. Andrews introduces the new and relatively new reader to this subject in the first few chapters of the TTNT. Andrews deepens his handling of the material, while still making it easy to understand in the next few chapters of the TTNT, all the while being very informative in both sections. All of this prepares the reader for Wilkins’ advanced chapters. 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 offer the reader an account of the copying by hand and transmission of the Greek New Testament. They present a comprehensive survey of the manuscript history from the penning of the 27 New Testament books to the current critical texts. What did the ancient books look like and how were documents written? How were the New Testament books published? Who would use secretaries? Why was it so hard to be a secretary in the first century? How was such work done? What do we know about the early Christian copyists? What were the scribal habits and tendencies? Is it possible to establish the original text of the NewTestament? …

INTRODUCTION TO THE TEXT OF THE NEW TESTAMENT: From The Authors and Scribe to the Modern Critical Text

INTRODUCTION TO THE TEXT OF THE NEW TESTAMENT is a shortened 321 pages of Andrews and Wilkins 602 page TEXT OF THE NEW TESTAMENT without losing the value of content. The foremost thing the reader is going to learn is that the Greek New Testament that our modern translations are based on is a mirror-like reflection of the original and can be fully trusted. The reader will learn how the New Testament authors made and published their books, the secretaries in antiquity and their materials like Teritus who helped Paul pen the epistle to the Romans, and the book writing process of the New Testament authors and early copyists. The reader will also discover the reading culture of early Christianity and their view of the integrity of the Greek New Testament. The reader will also learn how textual scholars known as paleography determine the age of the manuscripts.

The reader will learn all about the different sources that go into our restoring the Greek New Testament to its original form. Then, Andrews will cover the ancient version, the era of the printed text, and the arrival of the critical text. After that, the reader will be given a lengthy chapter on examples of how the textual scholar determines the correct reading by his looking at the internal and external evidence. Finally, and most importantly, the reader will find out the truth about the supposed 400,000 textual errors within the Greek New Testament manuscripts. The last chapter will be faith-building and enable you to defend the Word of God as inerrant.

THE READING CULTURE OF EARLY CHRISTIANITY: The Production, Publication, Circulation, and Use of Books in the Early Christian Church

THE READING CULTURE OF EARLY CHRISTIANITY provides the reader with the production process of the New Testament books, the publication process, how they were circulated, and to what extent they were used in the early Christian church. It examines the making of the New Testament books, the New Testament secretaries and the material they used, how the early Christians viewed the New Testament books, and the literacy level of the Christians in the first three centuries. It also explores how the gospels went from an oral message to a written record, the accusation that the apostles were uneducated, the inspiration and inerrancy in the writing process of the New Testament books, the trustworthiness of the early Christian copyists, and the claim that the early scribes were predominantly amateurs. Andrews also looks into the early Christian’s use of the codex [book form], how did the spread of early Christianity affect the text of the New Testament, and how was the text impacted by the Roman Empire’s persecution of the early Christians?

400,000+ SCRIBAL ERRORS IN THE GREEK NEW TESTAMENT MANUSCRIPTS: What Assurance Do We Have that We Can Trust the Bible?

The Bible has been under attack since Moses penned the first five books. However, the New Testament has faced criticism like no other time over the 50-70-years. Both friend and foe have challenged the reliability of our New Testament. Self-proclaimed Agnostic textual scholar Dr. Bart D. Ehrman has claimed that there are 400,000+ scribal errors in our Greek New Testament manuscripts. A leading textual scholar, Greek grammarian, and Christian apologist Dr. Daniel B. Wallace has stipulated that this is true. This is of particular interest among all Christians, who have been charged with defending the Word of God. – 1 Peter 3:15.

In this volume, textual scholar Edward D. Andrews offers the churchgoer and textual student a defense against this specific attack on the New Testament. Andrews offers the reader a careful analysis of the relevant evidence, giving his readers logical, reasonable, rational assurances that the New Testament can be trusted more than ever before. He will explain the differences between the older Bible translations and the newer ones. Andrews will explain why we do not need the original manuscripts to have the original Word of God. He will reveal how reliable our manuscripts are, how they survived the elements and the persecution of early Christianity, as well as withstanding careless and even deceitful scribes. Finally, Andrews will deal with the 400,000+ scribal errors in the Greek New Testament manuscripts extensively. The author takes a complicated subject and offers his readers an easy to understand argument for why they can have confidence in the Bible despite various challenges to the trustworthiness of Scripture, offering an insightful, informed, defense of God’s Word.

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 biases, assumptions, and shortcomings supporting Ehrman’s arguments. Using sound reason, scholarly exegesis, and the Historical-Grammatical method of interpretation, as well as New Testament textual criticism, Andrews helps both churchgoer/Bible students, as well as scholars, overcome the teachings of biblical errancy that Ehrman propagates.—Easy to read and understand. …

Biblical Studies

CALVINISM VS. ARMINIANISM: The Bible Answers

CALVINISM VS. ARMINIANISM goes back to the early seventeenth century with a Christian theological debate between the followers of John Calvin and Jacobus Arminius, and continues today among some Protestants, particularly evangelicals. The debate is centered around soteriology, that is, the study of salvation, and includes disputes about total depravity, predestination, and atonement. While the debate has developed its Calvinist–Arminian form in the 17th century, the issues that are fundamental to the debate have been discussed in Christianity in some fashion since the days of Augustine of Hippo’s disputes with the Pelagians in the fifth century. CALVINISM VS. ARMINIANISM is taking a different approach in that the issues will be discussed as The Bible Answers being that it is the centerpiece.

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 not studiously inclined? Realize that the primary difference between a serious Bible student and a less serious Bible student is usually diligence and effort, not being a gifted student. Being a gifted Bible student alone is not enough. Efficient methods of Bible study are worth learning, for those seeking to become serious Bible students. The joy missing from many Bible students is because they do not know how to study their Bible, which means they do not do it well. Perhaps you dislike Bible study because you have not developed your study skills sufficiently to make your Bible study enjoyable. Maybe you have neglected your Bible study simply because you would rather be doing something else you enjoy.

HOW TO STUDY: Study the Bible for the Greatest Profit [Updated and Expanded]

How can we find more enjoyment in studying the Bible? How can we make our study periods more productive? What circumstances contribute to effective personal study? How can we derive real benefit and pleasure from our Bible reading? From what activities can time be bought out for reading and studying the Bible? Why should we watch our spiritual feeding habits? What benefits come from reading and studying the Scriptures? There is a great and constantly growing interest in the study of the English Bible in these days. However, very much of the so-called study of the English Bible is unintelligent and not fitted to produce the most satisfactory results. The authors of this book already have a book entitled “HOW TO STUDY: Study the Bible for the Greatest Profit,” but that book is intended for those who are willing to buy out the time to put into thorough Bible study.

DEEP BIBLE STUDY: The Importance and Value of Proper Bible Study [Updated and Expanded]

Why is personal and family Bible study so important in our life now? How can we apply the Word of God in our lives? How can we use the Bible to help others? How can we effectively use the Scriptures when teaching others? How can we make decisions God’s way? How can Bible principles help us to decide wisely? Why should we have faith in God and his word? The Psalmist tells us, God’s Word “is a lamp to my foot, and a light for my path.” (Psalm 119:105) Since the Bible is a gift from God, the time and effort that we put into our personal Bible Study is a reflection of how much we appreciate that gift. What do our personal Bible study habits reveal about the depth of our appreciation of God’s Word? Certainly, the Bible is a deep and complex book, and reading and studying are not easy at times. However, with time and effort, we can develop a spiritual appetite for personal Bible study. (1 Peter 2:2)

THE NEW TESTAMENT: Its Background, Setting & Content

Correctly interpreting the Bible is paramount to understanding the Word of God. As Christians, we do not want to read our 21st-century worldview INTO the Scriptures, but rather to takeOUT OF the Scriptures what the author meant by the words that he used. The guaranteed way of arriving a correct understanding of God’s Words is to have an accurate knowledge of the historical setting, cultural background, and of the people, governments, and religious leaders, as well as the place and time of the New Testament writings. Only with the background, setting, and context can you grasp the author’s intended meaning to his original readers and …

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 eloquently said, “It concerns Him who, being the holiest among the mighty, and the mightiest among the holy, lifted with His pierced hands empires off their hinges, turned the stream of centuries out of its channels, and still governs the ages.” …

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 one of the greatest Christians who ever lived. Stalker’s work includes a section at the back entitled “Hints for Teachers and Questions for Pupils.” This supplement contains notes and “further reading” suggestions for those teaching on the life of St. Paul, along with a number of questions over each chapter for students to discuss. In addition, seventeen extra chapters have been added that will help the reader better understand who the Apostle Paul was and what first-century Christianity was like. For example, a chapter on the conversion of Saul/Paul, Gamaliel Taught Saul of Tarsus, the Rights, and Privileges of Citizenship, the “Unknown God,” Areopagus, the Observance of Law as to Vows, and much more.

THE TRIAL AND DEATH OF JESUS CHRIST: Jesus’ Final Ministry at Jerusalem [Updated and Expanded]

With solid scholarship and exceptional clarity, beginning in Gethsemane, Stalker and Andrews examine Jesus’ trial and crucifixion. Their work is relevant, beneficial and enjoyable because they cover this historical period of Jesus’ life in an easy to understand format. Stalker’s expressive and persuasive style provides a great resource to any Bible study of the events leading to the death of Jesus Christ. THE TRIAL AND DEATH OF JESUS CHRIST is an academicish book written with a novelish style.

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 level, yet making it understandable to all. He has sought to provide the very best tool for interpreting the Word of God. This includes clarification of technical terms, answers to every facet of biblical interpretation, and defense of the inerrancy and divine inspiration of Scripture. Andrews realizes that the importance of digging deeper in our understanding of the Bible, for defending our faith from modern-day misguided scholarship. Andrews gives the reader easy and memorable principles and methods to follow for producing an accurate explanation that comes out of, not what many read into the biblical text. The principal procedure within is to define, explain, offer many examples, and give illustrations, to help the reader fully grasp the grammatical-historical approach. …

HOW TO INTERPRET THE BIBLE: An Introduction to Hermeneutics

Anybody who wants to study the Bible, either at a personal level or a more scholarly level needs to understand that there are certain principles that guide and govern the process. The technical word used to refer to the principles of biblical interpretation is hermeneutics, which is of immense importance in Biblical Studies and Theology. How to Interpret the Bible takes into consideration the cultural context, historical background and geographical location in which the text was originally set. This enables us to obtain clarity about the original author’s intended meaning. 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 …

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

Once upon a time, Postmodernism was a buzzword. 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 as the start of a major historical transition to something new and promising and hailed as a major paradigm shift. Is it a philosophy that has passed its “sell-by” date? No! The radical fringe has become the dominant view and has been integrated into all aspects of life, including the Christian church. With the emergence of multicultural societies comes interaction with different belief systems and religions. Values like tolerance and a dislike of dogmatism have become key operating concepts, which reflect a change in worldview. …

DEVELOPING HEALTHY CHURCHES: A Case-Study in Revelation

In an age obsessed with physical and psychological health the author emphasizes the importance of spiritual well-being as an essential element of holistic health for the individual Christian and for Christian communities. This work constitutes a template for a spiritual audit of the local church. It offers an appointment with the Great Physician that no Christian can afford to ignore. Developing Healthy Churches: A Case-Study in Revelation begins with a well-researched outline of the origins and development of the church health movement. With that background in mind the author, aware that throughout the history of the church there have been a number of diverse views about how Revelation ought to be interpreted, presents the reader with four distinct interpretive models. These are the idealist, preterist, historicist, and futurist. Beville explains these interpretive approaches simply and critiques them fairly.e …

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

This is a comprehensive study of euthanasia and assisted suicide. It traces the historical debate, examines the legal status of such activity in different countries and explores the political, medical and moral matters surrounding these emotive and controversial subjects in various cultural contexts. The key advocates and pioneers of this agenda-driven movement (such as the late Jack Kevorkian, popularly known as “Dr. Death” and Philip Nitschke, founder of Exit International) are profiled. Not only are the elderly and disabled becoming increasingly vulnerable but children, psychiatric patients, the depressed and those who are simply tired of life are now on a slippery slope into a dystopian nightmare. The spotlight is brought to bear on the Netherlands, in particular, where palliative care and the hospice movement are greatly underdeveloped as a result of legalization. These dubious “services” are now offered as part of “normal” medical care in Holland where it is deemed more cost-effective to be given a lethal injection. The vital role of physicians as healers in society must be preserved and the important but neglected spiritual dimension of death must be explored. Thus a biblical view of human life is presented. …

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 of illustrations to be helpful in preparing their own messages and as such, it will find a welcome place in the preacher’s library. Simply, powerfully, with great precision, and exegetical accuracy, Kieran Beville masterfully brings us on a life-transforming journey. Readers will be both inspired and challenged as they hear the words of Jesus speaking afresh from the page of Scripture and experience the ministry of Jesus in a spiritually captivating way. The author has a pastor’s heart, a theologian’s mind, and a writer’s gift. His style is gripping, as he beautifully explains and illustrates Mark’s Gospel. Kieran Beville has done a great service to the church, and especially to true believers, who desire to grow in grace, increase in their knowledge of truth, and experience the intimacy, joy, and underserved and unspeakable privilege of walking, as disciples, with Jesus. This book is ideal as a study companion for Mark’s Gospel. One can read a section from the gospel and then read the corresponding section to receive a fresh viewpoint and a practical application.  …

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 humans? How can we win our struggle against dark spiritual forces? How can you resist the demons? Do evil spirits exercise power over humankind? Is Satan really the god of this world and just what does that mean? What did Jesus mean when he said, “the whole world lies in the power of the evil one [i.e., Satan]”? Andrews using the Bible will answer all of these questions and far more. …

AN ENCOURAGING THOUGHT The Christian Worldview

Donald T. Williams learned a lot about the Christian worldview from Francis Schaeffer and C. S. Lewis, but it was actually Tolkien who first showed him that such a thing exists and is an essential component of maturing faith. Not only do explicitly Christian themes underlie the plot structure of The Lord of the Rings, but in essays such as “On Fairie Stories” Tolkien shows us that he not only believed the Gospel on Sunday but treated it as true the rest of the week and used his commitment to that truth as the key to further insights in his work as a student of literature. “You can do that?” Williams thought as a young man not yet exposed to any Christian who was a serious thinker. “I want to do that!” His hope is that his readers will catch that same vision from this book. An Encouraging Thought elucidates the ways in which Tolkien’s The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings are informed by and communicate a biblical worldview. This book will help readers appreciate the ways in which a biblical worldview informs Tolkien’s work, to the end that their own faith may be confirmed in strength, focused in understanding, deepened in joy, and honed in its ability to communicate the Gospel.

Bible Doctrines

EZEKIEL, DANIEL, & REVELATION: GOG OF THE LAND OF MAGOG, KINGS OF THE NORTH AND SOUTH, & THE EIGHT KINGS OF REVELATION

The Bible describes the events that will occur before and after the destruction of Gog of Magog. Who is Gog of Magog mentioned in the book of Ezekiel? Why should we be interested in the prophecy recorded in Daniel chapter 11? Find out in a verse-by-verse explanation of Daniel Chapter 11, as you discover who the kings of the North and the South are from before Jesus’ day throughout the last days. You will benefit from paying attention to Daniel’s prophecy about the battle between the two kings? Taken together, the Bible books of Daniel and Revelation not only identify eight kings but also show the sequence in which they would appear. We can explain those prophecies.

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?

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 important that we know who the antichrist and the man of lawlessness are? The antichrist and the man of lawlessness have had a greater impact on humanity and Christianity over the past centuries than many know. Moreover, the influence on the true worshipers of Christianity today has been even more significant and will only go from bad to worse as we come closer to the second coming of Christ. …

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 earth and the sea, and all that is in them.” (Ac 4:24; 14:15; 17:24) “God . . . created all things.” (Eph. 3:9) Jesus Christ tells us that it is the Father who “created them [humans] from the beginning made them male and female.” (Matt. 19:4; Mark 10:6) Hence, the Father is fittingly and uniquely called “the Creator.” (Isa 40:28) It is because of God’s will that we exist, for He has ‘created all things, and because of his will they existed and were created.’―Revelations 4:11 …

EXPLAINING the DOCTRINE of LAST THINGS Basic Bible Doctrines of the Christian Faith

Eschatology is the teaching of what is commonly called the “Last Things.” That is the subject of Andrews’ book, which will cover, Explaining Prophecy, Explaining Clean and Pure Worship, The New Testament Writers Use of the Old Testament, Explaining the Antichrist, Explaining the Man of Lawlessness, Explaining the Mark of the Beast, Explaining Signs of the End of the Age, Explaining the Rapture, Explaining the Great Tribulation, Explaining Armageddon, Explaining the Resurrection Hope, Explaining the Millennium, Explaining the Final Judgment, Explaining the Unevangelized, Explaining Hell

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 will survive the end? These questions and far more will be answered as Andrews delves into The SECOND COMING of CHRIST. In chapters 1 and 2, we must address why Jesus is saying there would be an end to the Jewish age. In chapter 3, we will take a deep look at the signs that establish the great tribulation is closing in, and when is it time to flee. In chapter 4, we will go over the signs of the end of the Jewish age. In chapter 5, we will walk through the events leading up to the end of the Jewish age from 66 – 70 C.E., and how it applies to our Great Tribulation in these last days. In chapter 6, we will cover the second coming of Jesus where the reader will get the answers as to whether verses 3-28 of Matthew Chapter 24 apply to Christ’s second coming. We will close out with chapter 7, and how we should understand the signs, and how we do not want to be led astray, just as Jesus warned even some of the chosen ones would be misled. We will also address what comes after the end.

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 Hell? What Is the Lake of Fire? Is It the Same as Hell or Gehenna? Where Do We Go When We Die? What Does the Bible Say About Hell? Andrews Shares the Truth on WHAT IS HELL From God’s Word.

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 is often misunderstood. Andrews will answer such questions as does God step in and solve every problem if we are faithful? Does the Bible provide absolutes or guarantees in this age of imperfect humanity? Are miracles still happening today? Is faith healing Scriptural? Is speaking in tongues evidence of true Christianity? Is snake handling biblical? How are we to understand the indwelling of the Holy Spirit? The work of the Holy Spirit. Andrews offers his readers very straightforward, biblically accurate explanations for these difficult questions. If any have discussed such questions, without a doubt, they will be very interested in the Bible’s answers in this easy to read publication.

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 Bible discriminate against people with same-sex attractions? Is it possible to abstain from homosexual acts? Should not Christians respect all people, regardless of their sexual orientation? Did not Jesus preach tolerance? If so, should not Christians take a permissive view of homosexuality? Does God approve of same-sex marriage? Does God disapprove of homosexuality? If so, how could God tell someone who is attracted to people of the same sex to shun homosexuality, is that not cruel? If one has same-sex attraction, is it possible to avoid homosexuality? How can I as a Christian explain the Bible’s view of homosexuality? IT IS CRUCIAL that Christians always be prepared to reason from the Scriptures, explaining and proving what the Bible does and does not say about homosexuality, yet doing it with gentleness and respect. Andrews will answer these questions and far more.

Daily Devotionals

40 DAYS DEVOTIONAL FOR YOUTHS Coming-of-Age In Christ

If you’ve struggled in the world of difficulties that surround you, you’re not alone. Maybe you have looked for help, and you have been given conflicting answers. 40 DAYS DEVOTIONAL FOR YOUTHS: Coming-of-Age In Christ, can help you. Its advice is based on answers that actually work, which are found in the Bible. God’s Word has helped billions over thousands of years to face life’s challenges successfully. Find out how it can help you! 40 DAYS DEVOTIONAL FOR YOUTHS includes seven sections, with several chapters in each. It includes the following sections: Sexual Desires and Love, your friends, your family, school, recreation, your health. You need advice you can trust! 40 DAYS DEVOTIONAL FOR YOUTHS will give you that. This author has worked with thousands of youths from around the world. The Bible-based sound advice helped them. Now you can discover how it can help you.

DEVOTIONAL FOR YOUTHS: Growing Up In Christ

Young ones and teens, you are exposed to complex problems that your parents may not understand. Young Christians, you are bombarded with multiple options for solving everyday problems through social media. Where do you turn to find answers? Where can you look to find guidance from Scripture? In order to provide a Christian perspective to problem-solving, the author of this devotional book decided to take a different approach. Terry Overton was determined to find out what problems middle school children and teens were worried about the most. While visiting her grandchildren one weekend, she asked her granddaughter to send topics to her so that she could write a devotional about the topic. In a matter of weeks, not only did her granddaughter send her topics, but the other grandchildren and their friends sent topics of concern. Once the author wrote a devotional for a topic, it was sent to the teen requesting the devotional. Soon, these requests were happening in real time. Students sent text requests about problems happening in school and asked what the student should do? How should this be handled?

DEVOTIONAL FOR THOSE COPING WITH TRAGEDY: A Journey Back to God

This devotional book follows the author’s own faith journey back to God. Significant life events can shake our world and distort our faith. Following life’s tragedies, a common reaction is to become angry with God or to reject Him altogether. Examples of tragedies or traumas include life-changing events such as physical or sexual assault, destruction of one’s home, the tragic death of a loved one, diagnoses of terminal diseases, divorce, miscarriages, or being a victim of a crime. Tragedies or traumas can cause feelings of anxiety, depression, shame, and guilt.

DEVOTIONAL FOR CAREGIVERS: Finding Strength Through Faith

Throughout the book, common themes emerge to support caregivers. The reader will find interesting Bible Scriptures, offering a Christian perspective, for handling issues that may arise. These inspiring passages will assist the caregiver in finding peace and faith as they travel their journey as a caregiver. Although caregivers may not know how long they will play this role, they take on the responsibility without any question. Taking care of others is often mentioned in the Bible and, as noted in this devotional, this self-sacrificing, highly valued, and often challenging service will ultimately be rewarded.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL Daily Musings From the Old Testament

Humans must breathe in the air of our atmosphere to survive. Many cities because of pollution face a dangerous level of contamination in their air. However, an even more deadly air affects both Christians and nonChristians. Ordinary methods or devices cannot detect this poisonous air. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, spoke of the “air,” when he said that Satan was “the ruler of the authority of the air.” (Eph. 2:2) In that, very same verse Paul said the “air” is “the spirit now working in the sons of disobedience.” If we breathe in this “air,” we will begin to adopt their attitude, thoughts, speech, and conduct.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL: Daily Musing From the New Testament

Humans must breathe in the air of our atmosphere to survive. Many cities because of pollution face a dangerous level of contamination in their air. However, an even more deadly air affects both Christians and nonChristians. Ordinary methods or devices cannot detect this poisonous air. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, spoke of the “air,” when he said that Satan was “the ruler of the authority of the air.” (Eph. 2:2) In that, very same verse Paul said the “air” is “the spirit now working in the sons of disobedience.” If we breathe in this “air,” we will begin to adopt their attitude, thoughts, speech, and conduct.

BREAD OF HEAVEN: Daily Meditations on Scripture

BREAD OF HEAVEN helps the reader to have a greater understanding of the timeless truths of Scripture and a deeper appreciation of the grandeur of God. It offers meditations on selected Scriptures which will draw the reader’s attention upwards to the Savior. Kieran Beville’s daily devotional combines down-to-earth, unstuffy humanity in today’s world with a biblical and God-centered approach, and draws on rich theology in a thoroughly accessible way. He addresses not just the intellect and the will but gets to the heart, our motivational center, through the mind. If your Christian life could benefit from a short, well-written daily blast of Christ’s comfort and challenge, get this book and use it!  These short Bible-based meditations are fresh and contemporary. Beville gives to the twenty-first-century reader what earlier authors have given to theirs. Here is practical wisdom that is a helpful guide to stimulate worship and set you thinking as you begin each day with God.

THE CONVERSATION: An Intimate Journal of the Emmaus Encounter

The Conversation: An Intimate Journal of the Emmaus Encounter is a unique and riveting reconstruction from the unnamed disciple’s account found in Luke 24 regarding his journey with Cleopas on the road to Emmaus after witnessing Jesus’s crucifixion and burial, along with hearing claims of His empty tomb. Suddenly, a Stranger begins walking with them. With their eyes “prevented” from recognizing Him as the risen Lord Jesus Christ—Yeshua the Messiah, their new, wise Traveling Companion correlates the Old Covenant Scriptures, by way of Moses and the prophets, with what they witnessed.
This “journal” is your opportunity to eavesdrop and learn what that conversation might have been like, as pertinent prophecies unfold revealing evidence that the Messiah’s suffering, death, burial, and resurrection were, in fact, specifically foretold.

MORE THAN DEVOTION: Remembering His Word, Apply It to Our Lives

Unique and life-changing, More Than Devotion, through a melding of accounts from both the Old Covenant and New, proves that our trustworthy God truly is the same yesterday, today, and forever. All fifty convicting devotions draw from a rich scriptural context, concluding with a practical, achievable call to action, plus journaling space for personal reflection. New believers and veteran followers of our Lord can grow in the innermost areas of their lives and enjoy a more intimate walk with the Savior.

Christian Fiction

THE ROAD TO REDEMPTION: A Young Girl’s Journey and Her Quest for Meaning

Stella Mae Clark thought she had a wonderful life. She idolized her father, a military man who raised her to love Christ with all of her heart. She had a mother who loved her father and their example of true love gave her the sparkle in her eyes. That is until the unimaginable happens and her life is completely shattered. One decision at the age of sixteen would again turn her world completely upside down. Stella Mae makes the decision to leave her life and her family behind to seek refuge from her painful past. She desperately seeks solace, answers, and for something to fill the aching void within her heart. Just as she thinks she has settled into a new life with Christ, tragedy once again strikes and shatters any hope she had for a normal life. She abandons Christ and turns to a life of sin before it ultimately consumes her and breaks her down. Will it take nearly losing her life to find her way back to God or will her shame and regret keep holding her back? Join Stella Mae on her journey to find meaning and purpose in the midst of all her tragedy as she seeks to find the One her heart has been missing. The story of her past is one of loss, shame, heartbreak, and fear. With the help of those who see her for more than her past, she is able to become the person she always wanted to be and a new creature.

OREN NATAS: Satan Incarnate As the Antichrist

AN APOCALYPTIC NOVEL: As you are no doubt are aware, Jerry B. Jenkins and Tim LaHaye in 1995 wrote a novel entitled “Left Behind.” Jerry and Tim had some prior success with a major publisher and were able to get their novel published. The Left Behind novel was published by Tyndale House beginning in 1995 within a multiple volumes Left Behind series resulting in sales exceeding 60 million books. In 1992 Don Alexander wrote the storyline embedded in Left Behind. He copyrighted the novel in 1992 under the title “Oren Natas” [who is the Anti-Christ in his storyline]. The entire novel is contained in a single volume. It is a novel written depicting a colorful and witty cast of characters who live through all the “end time” Bible prophecies.

THE SENTIENT a Novel

A routine classified telepathic interrogation of a potential terrorist, followed by an assignment that doesn’t go as planned thrusts Tabatha – the world’s only telepathic human – into the public eye. The exposure leads an evil neuro-scientist requesting a meeting with her in hopes of luring her to his cause as well as unveiling a deadly creative work that has spanned three decades of research and development.

ONLINE REVIEW: “Very fun read. Fast paced and honest. Tons of evolution occurs during the process thru the story. Wonderful girl trying to become an adult Christian in a world that also pits her superpowers against terrorists with the help of her own special forces team. Buy this book and just enjoy!”

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

In June 1985, an excavation project was undertaken by The British Antiquities Volunteers (BAV) at a plot of rocky land where the Kidron and Hinnom Valleys meet near the eastern side of Old Jerusalem. That year many hundreds of (mostly redundant) ‘small finds’ were recovered in the Judean 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 Judas Iscariot Owen Batstone relates the observations and feelings of Judas, a disgruntled disciple, as he accompanies Jesus of Nazareth during His ministry, and uses this fable and allegory to explore some of the ways a person might resist becoming a Christian.

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 the beast. While on his way to Garbor, he meets up with an unlikely trio who befriends him. Together, they set out towards Garbor. Unfortunately, however, they are soon faced with their first major catastrophe, which sparks debate among them as to whether or not they really are in the Great Tribulation. On their journey, the group meets up with many people, some of them good and some of them evil. …

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 embrace the Light because it exposed their wickedness. They rejected the Light of the Word and ruled themselves. Those few who had embraced the Light and hated the darkness were killed. Since that time anyone who embraced the Light of the Word, pursued or talked about it were arrested. Those arrested were sentenced to death by stoning. The last prophet gave a prophecy before he was martyred. “The whisperer will come and empower three witnesses that will make manifest the works of darkness and destroy it, and deliver my people from the grip of darkness to the freedom found in the light.” All the Children of the Light were killed off or went into hiding living among the Children of Darkness in secret, not mentioning the Light for fear of death. Generations grew up being ignorant of the Light of the Word and never knowing the difference. No one ever mentioned the Light or dared to even talk about the Light. …

[1] Or law; instructions

[2] Lit little man; Or apple of your eye; I.e., something precious

[3] The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge: Five Hundred Thousand Scripture References and Parallel Passages., Prov. 7:2 (Oak Harbor: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 1995).

[4] John H Walton, Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary (Old Testament) Volume 5: The Minor Prophets, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, 474-75 (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2009).

[5] Or insight

[6] I.e. intimate friend; that is to know, which is often used as a euphemism for secual intercourse

^[7] John H Walton, Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary (Old Testament): The Minor Prophets, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, vol. 5 (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2009), 479.

[8] Anders, Max (2005-07-01). Holman Old Testament Commentary – Proverbs (p. 60). B&H Publishing. Kindle Edition. We should love and value wisdom as though she were our sister.

[9] Or wayward woman

[10] I.e. lacking good sense

[11] Lit pupil (of the eye)

[12] Or whore

[13] Or secret of heart; I.e. a cunning heart

[14] Lit She makes bold her face and says

[15] John H Walton, Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary (Old Testament) Volume 5: The Minor Prophets, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, 479 (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2009).

[16] I.e. perfumed

[17] Or my husband is not at home

[18] I.e. a long journey

[19] Or money

[20] A simile is a figurative language drawing a comparison: a figure of speech that draws a comparison between two different things, especially a phrase containing the word “like” or “as,” e.g. “as white as a sheet.” Marilyn turned as white as a sheet when the police officer told her that her son had been in a car wreck. Did something scare you? You are white as a sheet!

[21] Biblical Studies Press, The NET Bible First Edition Notes, Pr 7:23 (Biblical Studies Press, 2006).

[22] Or the victims

[23] Or laid low or cast down