20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 34)

[@sarahfaith316]

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Introduction 1. 0:52 {Offering Counsel in Difficult Situations} I’m in a master's program with Liberty University for clinical mental health counseling. During our training, we were asked how we would handle certain difficult situations, such as if a LGBTQ couple would request help strengthening their relationship, or request help advocating for adoption rights, or advocating for trans. people. Can you please give me some biblical principles to follow, to help me counsel these people in a caring way without condoning unbiblical behavior? 2. 11:14 {Advice for a Difficult Marriage} Any advice on how to help a brother in Christ (who's also a preacher) not leave his marriage because he's miserable and he claims "God doesn't want him miserable"? 3. 19:19 {Refuting JW Theology} A Jehovah’s Witness said that all the letters in the NT addressed to saints are for the 144,000 (example: Romans 1:7). How do I show that a saint is a believer, and that the NT should be applied to everyone? 4. 26:00 {Does Modalism Jeopardize Salvation?} Does modalism lead to other fallacies? If someone believes in Christ except they don’t believe that Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are each distinct, could their salvation be in jeopardy? 5. 30:00 {Witnessing to Abuse Victims} A friend was sexually abused by her family including her mother, foster family, the school priests, and her first husband. Understandably, she refuses to believe in any God. How can I witness to her? 6. 33:22 {Are man-made Covenants Biblical?} Are man-made covenants for pastoral ordination biblical (specifically, covenants binding oneself to denominational doctrines and principles)? The Salvation Army requires this for their pastors. 7. 37:19 {Should Believers Expect to Hear/Feel God?} I have never "felt"/"heard" from the Holy Spirit/God. I believe in and follow Jesus, but I feel like I am missing something. Should a Christian be literally hearing/feeling something from God? 8. 45:23 {About the Overcomers in Rev.} What are your thoughts on the overcomers mentioned by Jesus in Revelation 3:5-12? Would you consider these to be believers in general, a specific group of believers, or some other group? 9. 50:47 {Do Angels Sing?} Do angels sing? Or is worshipping via singing something unique to humanity? Thank you so much for your ministry. It really is encouraging for me and my wife. How can we be praying for you and your family? 10. 54:22 {Can we find Proof of Jesus’ Existence?} I heard there are more proofs that Jesus is a real person than there are for people like King Tut, etc. is this true? If so, is there somewhere I can go to find those proofs? 11. 1:01:02 {Is Satan an Actual “being”?} What would you say to the brethren that suggest that Satan is not actually a being? People argue that the OT doesn’t describe him as a singular being but something of the human mind. 12. 1:03:44 {Same Spirit but Different Opinions?} Discerning the Spirit: I’m having a hard time understanding how Christians are all supposed to have the same Holy Spirit but we are so divided on so many issues. 13. 1:06:30 {Bible Contradiction?} Can you explain the what appears to be contradiction in 1 Kings 7: 26 and 2 Chronicles 4:5, due to the different numbers? 14. 1:12:59 {Jesus’ Genealogy/Lineage} How historically plausible is it that the Jesus‘ genealogies in Matthew and Luke authentically trace back to the Exile, Kind David, Abraham, and so on? 15. 1:16:02 {About Same-Sex Attraction} As a Side B/Celibate same-sex attracted Christian, do you believe God can change my attraction to eventually desire to marry a woman? 16. 1:21:21 {Encouragement through Chronic Illness} I’m newly diagnosed with a very debilitating chronic illness. How do I continue to serve the Lord in my role as a wife and mother and serve the body of Christ? I’m very discouraged. 17. 1:26:04 {Who was Lilith?} Do you know anything about Lilith? I heard some rumors that she was Adam’s first wife. I don’t believe this, but I wanted to hear if you have any thoughts on it. 18. 1:27:36 {About Jesus’ Death & Resurrection} Why do you think Jesus appealed to His death and resurrection as His messianic sign in Matthew 12: 39-40? 19. 1:30:41 {Are Concentration Meds o.k.?} What do you think about taking medications like Adderall? 20. 1:35:02 {Are the Spirit and the “Logos” the Same?} Is there any justification for believing that the Spirit and the Logos aren't the same thing, and that the Logos was made flesh when all (instead of just a part) of God's Spirit was put in one man?

[@Cooltink101]

Thank you

[@jessethomas3979]

Pastor Mike forgot to tell us how we could pray for him. Question 9.!!

[@jessethomas3979]

It's ok if he doesn't want to right now...

[@sarahfaith316]

@@jessethomas3979 Aw I'm sure it was an accident - he appreciates our prayers so much! Please pray for our current & upcoming ministry projects, continued protection from the virus, and for us to always follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in how we do ministry. God bless you!!

[@julieann6769]

I'm not gay, myself, but I remember reading the book, "out of a far away country" by Christopher Yuan and his mother, Angela Yuan where Christopher Yuan talked about not living a gay life any more. He realized that he doesn't have to be attracted to women in general bit just ONE woman if he ever wanted to get married. I don't know if he's married now or not but maybe that could help ease the anxiety and pressure? I don't know if that helps or not.

[@michaelsanders8450]

Hello Mike! My name is also Mike. I don't know if you'll see this, but if you do I hope it blesses you. Seeing your attitude towards people with questions has been very humbling and God has used your videos to help me stand on God's word in a bold, yet humble way. Thank you. God Bless.

[@AndrewJohnH]

"God doesn't count your output, He counts your faithfulness." Amen, and thank you for this good word.

[@brgretr3273]

Kllklll

[@fishgibblets979]

That's why you rest from work once a week according to the Sabbath commandment, right?

[@AndrewJohnH]

@@fishgibblets979 Is that supposed to be a "gotcha"? That is exactly why I take a day each week and don't do any work. If you want to represent what I do out of thankfulness and love as also being out of obedience, I'm OK with that.

[@fishgibblets979]

@@AndrewJohnH The parent comment that you made was an excellent explanation of the beauty expressed in the gift of Sabbath. I was curious if you had connected the sentiment to Sabbath practice, and I couldn't be more pleased that you have done so!

[@fishgibblets979]

@Thomas B Alright, I'll engage with this. I assume your reasoning for why the Sabbath isn't required are Jesus's acts of Sabbath breaking paired with his statement that man wasn't made for the Sabbath, the Sabbath was made for man? First, let's address his acts of Sabbath breaking. In Jesus day there was a debate between the followers of Rabbi Shammai and Rabbi Hillel. Like every good Jew and Christian, these two camps agreed that the greatest commandment was to love the lord your God with all of you heart, with all of your soul, and with all of your mind. The debate arose about the second greatest commandment. Which is second greatest is important because it orients your life, and it tells you which law to break if you must break one. For example, most people would argue it would be morally praiseworthy to lie to save someone from the Nazis despite that lying is wrong. Shammai's followers would say that the second greatest commandment was to keep sabbath while Hillel would say that it is to love your neighbor. When Jesus breaks sabbath he is doing it in service of this greater commandment. Building a hierarchy of rules is necessary for Torah observance because some rules are contradictory. For example the laws of Deuteronomy 22:1-4 the laws require that the individual do work immediately; therefore, should these be done on the Sabbath? God says to do them, but he also says to not work on the Sabbath, so how does one square this circle? The answer is to construct a hierarchy of laws. If love is most important, then you do these things on the Sabbath because they serve your neighbor. If Sabbath is most important you either cannot do them, or you must construct another argument. Jesus's acts of Sabbath breaking are not a statement that the Sabbath is wrong, they are Jesus (a Torah observant Jew) choosing to follow the more important law, love your neighbor than the less important law, keep sabbath. Now, as a Christian and a gentile believer, I don't observe Torah because I am not a Jew (unlike Jesus. See Paul's teachings on this matter). However, I like most Christians believe that I should follow the ten commandments, which includes the Sabbath because the ten commandments are good guides towards living out the greatest two commandments even if the ten do sometimes need to be broken in service of love (lying to save a Tutsi neighbor from a Hutu mob for example). Therefore, under this principle you either need to carve out a special exemption for Sabbath, or you must assume that the Sabbath commandment must be one of the 10 important rules to live by. The Jesus sabbath breaking and comment about the sabbath being made for man don't readily constitute a special exemption as it is broken in service of love with the exception of the grain picking incident in Mark 2. However, Torah doesn't necessarily forbid this activity, the Pharisees' interpretation of Torah says that this is Sabbath breaking, but this is a very rigid interpretation, would you call it work to pick something off a plant you happen to be walking past and put it in your mouth? I wouldn't, and Jesus doesn't refute the sabbath commandment when questioned, he refutes their interpretation. Lastly, the principle of Sabbath is a thread that is woven throughout the Bible, and it is a key theme that we often miss because it is so radically subversive in the world that we live. - God of course rests on the 7th day, but rest is a theme in Genesis. It is said of Noah (whose name sounds like rest), that he would give comfort in the labor and painful toil of our hands. We Abraham resting in the heat of the day. God repeatedly comes to Jacob when he is resting, etc. This thread is continued in the rest of Torah. - Moses's first command of Pharaoh isn't, "let my people go!" It's "Give my people some time off to celebrate with our God!" (Exodus 5). Pharaoh responds with the opposite of Sabbath saying that the people are lazy and they need to work harder. After leaving Egypt, Sabbath is a command that is given before the decalogue (Exodus 20) as part of the giving of manna (Exodus 16). - The Sabbath commandment is given in both declarations of the 10 commandments (Exodus 20:8-11, and Deuteronomy 5:12-15). It's notable that God provides special explanation for the reason behind only the Sabbath commandment and the commandment to have no graven images. Furthermore, different explanations are given in both occurences of the decalogue, and the expounding of the commandment grows between the first and second telling of it between Exodus and Deuteronomy, and as the telling of the commandment grows it become more forcefully uttered. Clearly this commandment is an important one. - Arguably the commandment concerning covetting is a further expansion on the idea of Sabbath. The Sabbath command is when we rest from work (how we acquire more), and covetting is when we desire to acquire more. - Various performances of Sabbath practices other than the 7th day are woven throughout Torah underscoring the importance of the idea of Sabbath. The land is to be left to rest and debts are to be forgiven every 7th year, and every 7,7's there is to be a jubilee in which the land is to rest, debts are to be forgiven, and property is to be redistributed from those who have gained to those who have lost during the last 49 years. -- This idea of sabbath becomes key in the idea of the coming of the Messiah and return from exile as in Daniel 9 when God's reign would come after a jubilee of jubilees with the seventy sevens, and in Jeremiah when they will be in exile for seventy years - Sabbath is also big in the wisdom literature, rest is a major theme in Ecclesiastes, in many psalms, and in many proverbs. - In Hebrews 4 the concept of Sabbath and God's saving work become intertwined in the discussion of entering God's rest, which shouldn't be surprising since exodus and end of exile are also woven with Sabbath. This has gone way off the rails, and ironically, I've got work I need to be doing. You get the point. To summarize: Sabbath is a very big deal, so much of the Bible is built around the idea of it. Jesus does not refute the Sabbath, but rather refutes specific interpretations of Sabbath. It is obviously a key idea. It is one of the ten commandments that for some reason is given greater attention and description than the others. It is my opinion that if a person feels that the other 9 of the 10 commandments should be followed, than Sabbath is as important as the others.

[@adriana9814]

Cant tell you how many times Pastor Mike has opened my eyes. I’ve had to repent various times and I still need to work on many things i’ve been ignorant about. Thank you Pastor Mike for leading me to the truth so kindly. It has changed my life.

[@martinkent333]

Brainwashing is a beautiful thing, Bottomfeeder!

[@jaquirox6579]

Amen sister! And report the troll. He’s harassing a lot of Mikes viewers.

[@skeptical6307]

@@martinkent333 you seem to be reacting like you feel threatened, otherwise you wouldn't be commenting the way you are. Possibly because you recognize the truth in what Mike is teaching and feel threatened because you don't want to have to change. I'll pray for you.

[@fobos9289]

@@skeptical6307 you act like you know what is in her heart… this clairvoyance seems like powerful stuff to have and use. Can you use it for something more useful like caring properly for the needs of others or showing grace for them and empathy for their life struggle? Ill be praying for you so you might use your gift for the good of the kingdom, God bless!

[@skeptical6307]

@@fobos9289 the person I replied to was a guy and he's deleted his post so you can't see why I commented what I did. My comment was for someone who commented on the OP's comment. My comment was not to the OP's comment. I'll pray for you that you learn the skills of observation and that you lose the arrogance.

[@kayladenae409]

my mom is the one who asked the first question… She was very excited when you answered LOL

[@lesliematyas1921]

that would be cool

[@dangrinthal4541]

I usually listen to your podcast and not the youtube show, so I just realized how well color coordinated and visually balanced your whole setup is with blue and orange - the logo animation, the scripture passage visuals, the screen section dividers. And then your whole background with the bluelit bookshelf and orange accents of the guitar, orange candy jar, and the balancing orange accent of the question counter on the right side. As a designer this makes me very happy xD It's the little things

[@rubypeterson665]

I didn’t even notice that! Wow, it is quite beautiful! Thank you for commenting :DD

[@sarahfaith316]

Amen!!! "The simple, old-school Gospel of Jesus Christ." And repentance IS beautiful!!!! 🙌🏼 Praise God He allows us to repent and be forgiven.

[@sarahfaith316]

@@dorrelove7441 Stop scamming people. Repent. Shame on you.

[@phillipgraf4856]

@@sarahfaith316 he has posted that same thing on many of the comments.

[@danglingondivineladders3994]

sorry

[@PeterJohnJnb]

Mike you're so spot on, I'm so blessed to have found your teachings online. Your advice for LGBT Celibate Christians is SPOT ON. Look, we've been put here to serve a purpose, and when we come to Christ we begin to discover what that purpose is - for some of us, we've been put here to sacrifice our own flesh and sexuality in pursuit of finding that purpose with Christ. I know, because I'm having this revealed to me more and more and more. I only wish I had come to Christ earlier - but then, I'd not have had the journey that I had. So all things work together for God's glory. When one realises that discovering one's calling in Christ is the mission, the difficulty of "sacrifice" of same-sex marriage or partnerships...it lessens somehow. It's not that I don't fear loneliness or lack of companionship, but I'm beginning to discover a deeper peace, and more meaningful existence being celibate. And I'm not saying it's easy....Lord knows it ain't, it is hard!!! But, I want more of God now, and less of me and that is more important. Without the distraction of sex, in all forms whether physically or otherwise, the temple is more sanctified and more prepared to receive the word and Holy Spirit. Keep fighting the good fight, I've read the comments from people who hate on you for your stance on LGBT issues and we're never always going to agree with everything from everyone and that's 100% OK. I would also caution Christians though, to not respond to their intolerance in kind. Understand that not everyone is on the same road or pathway to divinity - and that's OK too. Christianity is not a popularity contest between God and Satan. Those sorts of power plays are human experiences.

[@rubypeterson665]

Hey Peter-John, I know you don’t know me but your story really touched me. I know many people who are lost in the dark about homosexuality and the Bible. I was wondering if you had any advice in just _talking_ to people like that. I know it might seem strange but it makes my stomach churn thinking about their actions and sometimes that makes my heart hard towards people who need Jesus’s care and compassion through me. Any advice or prayer would be greatly appreciated, brother. God bless. :)

[@cathy7382]

I think that a celebate state is holy, however I know that there are ex-gays who desire heterosexual marriage, and want to change their same sex desires, and want a family. There is such a thing. Couples that are straight who were formally in that lifestyle, do marry, and very happily. I'd have to give more hope for those who have unwanted same sex orientations and do want a spouse and kids. Nothing wrong with that scenario

[@genniebeeXCU]

Thank you so much for your answer regarding people with chronic health conditions. There are many people who don't understand us and try to make us feel guilty for not doing as much as others. But like you said, being faithful through such a hardship IS accomplishing something - glorifying God. Refusing to denounce Him or give up because of your trials defeats the devil (grateful God gave us Job to remind us). You are such a great encouragement, Pastor Mike!

[@Wanjiku-Maina]

Pastor Mike,I learn so much from you.All the way from Nairobi-Kenya.God bless you exceedingly.

[@mwflossy]

Tuko wengi....just when I thought I was the only Kenyan here 😁❤

[@tubbchiggens2767]

God bless you.

[@martinkent333]

Brainwashing is beautiful, Powderpuff!

[@jaquirox6579]

Hello sister! From Montana. ♥️🙏🏽

[@henrytims4745]

@@martinkent333 search your heart for why you hate the gospel so much. A few things can be true. God is real and his gospel is true, and we have found the key to a happy life and life after in our friend Jesus. God could not be real but his gospel could have a real effect on us, leading us to a happier and more grateful life, where we will never be aware of our folly. Or God is not real, his gospel is harmful, and his followers are wasting time. But I have never felt more full of joy than I have since my conversion, so I doubt the third option. I pray God makes himself known to you, brother.

[@duncescotus2342]

Brother Mike, you have totally won me over. What you do, how you do it is so needed, so beneficial. All I can say is, more! Update: your recent take on "abominations" and going to Leviticus for evidence of universal human truth has me wondering if you get Romans or not. So, you need to win me back. I'm easy, though. A little double-minded you might say.

[@ronnychristenjoyer6778]

True. I'm glad God is working in Mikes life the way He is. Mike has been so helpful in making me see things biblically and calm my sceptic mind with his thorough research. Now I'm building a loving relationship with the Father, the most precious thing of all.

[@natec615]

Totally agree. As a cessationist I especially appreciate Mike's brotherly, thoughtful and non-divisive approach to working through these issues. He is easily the most helpful evangelical pastor I know of.

[@Josh-mx4lf]

"

[@Rebecca_counting_it_all_JOY]

Agree!

[@ronnychristenjoyer6778]

@@LookOutForNumberOne We are both on the right path and able to think for ourselves. You choose the self centered direction and I the one of love. I'm confident this direction is way better than yours.

[@iangillies711]

Been binging these 20 questions livestreams and they are so good! There always ends up being something I need to hear. So thankful for your ministry, Pastor Mike.

[@loribrothers2271]

Hi, Pastor Mike. I was listening to your comments on loving your spouse and marriage, and I agree. I went through a similar time in my life, and I had a friend who loved me enough to tell me ,"God is not concerned with your happiness as much as he is concerned about your obedience. And when she said that it changed the way that I felt about my marriage. I say that to anybody who reads this comment. Hopefully, that will help whoever reads this too, God bless you all.

[@AllanRochez]

Thank You Jesus for reminding me and showing me Your love and truth through Pastor Mike Winger hallelujah amen

[@maetaylor2391]

Thank you for the discussion on faithfulness during chronic illness. This issue has been weighing on me a lot, and to know God doesn't judge me for not doing more is very reassuring. Blessings on you and your ministry.

[@martinkent333]

Brainwashing makes the poo tasty!

[@bethl]

One of my favorite Bible verses is “She hath done what she could.”

[@Jds63011]

The first question was so specific to my situation. You answered that question to the best of you ability Mike and it was so amazingly clear. I know what I must do 🙏🏾

[@samuelflores1419]

Great answers! We don't need the World's Approval! We need God's Approval! We are called to Love Everyone! The Truth of God Comes First! All we can do is witness and God will take care of the rest! God Bless you Pastor Mike!

[@martinkent333]

200,000 raped choirboys agree!

[@johngammon963]

The best Bible teacher in the world 👍

[@followerofchrist198]

If I affirm someone’s sin or delusion, that is NOT loving

[@kaemart35]

"Affirm the person, not the sin."

[@martinkent333]

Mumbo jumbo good Tarzan. Brainwashing is a beautiful thing, Powderpuff.

[@martinkent333]

@@kaemart35 Mumbo Jumbo good, Tarzan.

[@martinkent333]

@Pepper Mumbo jumbo good, Tarzan!

[@followerofchrist198]

@UC5Q_dTVqvFSxKOxaSOaC2hg scientific facts

[@carolewheeler7620]

I so enjoy your stand for God. It takes courage to go against the grain. Love your teaching.

[@johnnywalter7053]

Amen

[@johnnywalter7053]

Amen

[@ObesKenobes]

Question #7 was extremely helpful to me today. This is a subject I’ve been dealing with as I have a friend(s) who constantly hears (well, claims to) from God/the Holy Spirit...to the point of moving all over the country. I often feel like something is wrong with me...but then I remember this friend also claimed the rapture was going to happen in February...then March. 😆 And here we are. The track record is so important to consider! Thank you for your input on this topic.

[@repentofsinbelievejesus1981]

Me too! Amen

[@raissamarking-fg9wl]

I was so glad to hear about your confidence in the scriptures, referring to how you've found excellent answers to so many questions about seeming discrepancies in scriptures and how those differences now don't phase you anymore. Thank you.

[@lindawarner7496]

I’m binge-watching your channel. Your approach is the best. Thanks for all the thoughtful hard work.

[@ericamorley3249]

I am having a very hard day and just by watching the first 5 minutes of your teaching Pastor Mike I am comforted feel like their is some hope in the world after all.

[@amandamwardrop]

Thanks Mike. This video autoplayed while I was tuned out doing other things, and I heard just what I needed at the right time. God is so good!

[@SweetiePieTweety]

Mike you are rare. Sometimes people of rarity come from challenging beginnings. The eyes of youth see and some seek truth and purification. If the playpen has all it needs and desires the child does not seek to escape and explore and find that which is missing. Thank you for being so youthful at heart and pure in your seeking truth. Age can evolve into arrogance, may you always be a child exploring the depths of scripture with humility and as a child with a new and favorite toy ❤️

[@wendypratt6837]

Hi Pastor Mike. It would be great if you could interview Beckett Cook - he has a great KZbin channel The Beckett Cook Show if anyone is interested in his testimony and work. He is a former gay man who has come to Christ. His testimony is amazing and he now has very biblical views on homosexuality. He was so completely in the lifestyle and can really speak into the sin aspect and how Jesus has totally changed him! He does a lot of content on the very topic of how "evil is now called good".

[@haroldseah306]

This^^

[@rubypeterson665]

Yes!! I just found Becket and I love his ministry!

[@jaquirox6579]

Can you link him sister? More will see your comment and click the link. :)

[@skeptical6307]

I also occasional watch the Beckett Cook Show. He is so excited about his faith. Very uplifting to listen to him.

[@Jessica_Jones]

Yes! I thought of Becket as well when Mike responded to the "side B" question, since I only knew what that meant from listening to his discussion with Rosaria Butterfield and Christopher Yuan. It's a very in-depth video, but eye-opening on the current practices/leanings of many same-sex attracted Christians who are dangerously entering into some compromising arrangements. The three also brought up celibacy as having a different connotation than singleness that had never occurred to me before. All in all a very enlightening conversation!

[@jerryloufretz1797]

Mike, rehabbing a broken hip. Your programs are uplifting and helpful, been listening for a couple years. Thank you.

[@cathy7382]

Pastor Mike has such wisdom in a godly attitude in a tough situation of LGBT counseling

[@SavedbyGraceAlone84]

This teaching was huge for me Mike. Not just huge but massive and it affirmed what I knew in my heart about one of the subjects. Thank you for what you do in teaching not just the feel goods but in the tough stuff as well.

[@jericasoberano8900]

Thank you for this Pastor! I admire you conviction and faithfulness to Christ above all else. You speak the truth in love and I hope all Christians practice that.

[@BrotherMikeBCSF]

Brother Mike, I am a Pre--Trib Dispensationalist who rejects Calvinism and Romanism. Just a Word of Encouragement to you how much I love your Ministry and demeanor. I have been blessed by your ministry. In Christ, Shalom.

[@Hepta.Asteras]

How about 2 raptures, one pre and one post.

[@angelal7733]

LOVE the number stamp, Mike!!

[@joelleorlando]

I received my Bible Thinker coffee mug yesterday. I love it!!!

[@Omegha94zip]

Hi there! Do you know how I can buy one? I looked all over the website and couldn't find it at all. Thank you and even if you don't answer, God bless you!

[@FirefighterAliveJC]

Mike always spittin’ truth

[@martinkent333]

Regular Christian brainwashing, indoctrination, grooming and conditioning makes you a total winner, Jody! Hourly Holy Water enemas, will get you eternal life, WITHOUT CHRIST'S BLOOD!!! Mixed with Kentucky Moonshine, it will help you to see God. It all depends on if it's the good stuff!!!!!!!

[@FirefighterAliveJC]

@@martinkent333 huh??

[@MsPrecious61]

I think it is ok to have professional boundaries and not take on a couple that is not living in a godly manner. There are plenty of Counselors out there. Kind of like the wedding cake issue

[@thisisaname5589]

Honestly, I'd consider it more important to denounce them. Leviticus 18:22. It is abominable and detestable to live in that way, and they need to be counseled to stop.

[@carlyerekson2035]

I’m so grateful that God has given you the ability to discern and lead. You’re so kind, and gentle in your approach. You have such a gracious spirit. I actually have a friend that is gay and I have been wondering how to handle certain situations w her. Your approach is honest, patient and loving and I’m grateful you just showed me that’s it’s possible to still speak the truth WITH love and with God at the center. Thank you.🙏❤️

[@Version135]

I am of the belief God used (uses) my chronic health issues so i would understand my dependence on on Him. I am thankful that he pulled me to Him and the pain is worth it if it means salvation. One of the most difficult parts is feeling you are letting your family down. Trust Him to take care of you and keep going forward!

[@michellemarj498]

Mike Winger, you are the best! You always speak & teach God’s truth! Thank-you for your amazing ministry ❤️

[@markhaszoe-life6337]

Lots of respect for you Brother Mike. Enjoy your teaching style, your knowledge & your strong stance on teaching truth without trying to be politically correct 👍

[@zugzugthezuggernaut4533]

These streams seem to get longer and longer, and yet, I care less and less that they do. Thank you for doing these!

[@wendypratt6837]

I couldn't care either!! Actually the longer the better! 🤩 I would listen all day if that is how long the teaching takes!

[@martinkent333]

Regular Christian Brainwashing, Grooming, Indoctrination and Conditioning make you a winner, Zuggie!!!!

[@martinkent333]

@@wendypratt6837 Regular Christian brainwashing will put hair on your chest! Make you into a real man, Wendy!!! Binge watching Christian KZbin Videos and Holy Water enemas hourly, will give you eternal life - whilst bypassing the need for Jesus Christ's blood!!!! HALLELUJAH!!!! Mixing Kentucky Moonshine in the enema bags, will help you to see God!!!!! Don't spew on the cat, Powderpuff.

[@geraldthethird8082]

I agree with how you agree with the Bible and explain it so well . Very sound. Thank you for sharing the gospel

[@mikeflynn1629]

Mike I've been watching you for about a year and I love your videos about 3 days ago I had one on comment on and really said bad things about your teaching and about your knowledge. It really hit me in the gut. I'm not very informed about the Bible and all the different great passages that link up. Watching your KZbin is very very blessing to me❤

[@RhiscFactor]

My goodness. The first two topics have monumentally great answers. I’m actually going to show part of the second to my kids to explain why Daddy does what he does. Also going to fwd this to a number of brothers. Sincere thanks Mike!!

[@lionoffireministries]

I came for the cat 🐱... not disappointed 🤣😂🤣

[@melfuz]

😆😻

[@ronnychristenjoyer6778]

The only reason I subscribed.

[@lionoffireministries]

@@ronnychristenjoyer6778 haha 😂

[@martinkent333]

Look kids, a Bottomfeeder! He brainwashes Christians and gets their cash. Isn't he slimy!!!!

[@sunblaze8931]

Deep down, we all come for the cat.

[@Mercurychyld1]

Awww, thank you for showing the pretty kitty. Made me so happy! And as always, thank you, Pastor Mike, for your awesome work. God bless you always. ☺️🌹🙏🏽

[@martinkent333]

Brainwashing is the most important work of a bottomfeeder!

[@kathylaho3344]

Thank you Mike for that Godly answer

[@mmarsh2937]

My Sunday school teacher told us that it is loving to tell people their house is on fire.

[@hotwaterintub1]

God bless you brother Mike.

[@sherrylhenning5630]

WHOAAAAAA!!!!! Question #1 just put you at the top of my prayer list! HUGZ!!!!!!

[@darrengarvie8832]

I'm confused praying for what??

[@TheBlubunni]

@@darrengarvie8832 Praying for the couple who had the 1st question.

[@NB-nh2sf]

God is teaching me to tolerate cats through your channel. Hahaha. Tolerate.

[@ronnychristenjoyer6778]

haha

[@NB-nh2sf]

@@ronnychristenjoyer6778 not like but Tolerate. Lol

[@bellyfulochelly4222]

Ikr

[@ennuiblu]

Meh. Cats are dirty and no fun.

[@bobmanns3623]

😆😅😄

[@lesleyclaster6878]

You have it, Pastor Mike. Hod has entrusted you with it as you have the grip of love on this, His greatest weapon.

[@PUSH2Tim]

Responding to the question about how to minister to the girl who was molested and raped: Mike I was molested as a child and had Devine revelation as an adult when I found myself in a toxic relationship that reflected that atmosphere of when I was little. 21 years ago I began to read the scriptures guided by the Holy Spirit and I asked God about those things from my passed and he led me to two scriptures that made a profound difference and began my healing. Deuteronomy 22:25-27 explained what happened to me on an internal point of view, Hosea 4:6 the situation surrounding me. The people entrusted to care and protect me where living in sin of all sorts. These may be helpful in responding to anyone personally effected by these things as a child 🤷🏻‍♀️❤️

[@corinneperegrini6003]

@@dorrelove7441 REPANT AND TURN TO GOD FOR FORGIVENESS.

[@snsmystic]

Thank you for sharing what the bible says about Rape. The only story I knew of was where David's daughter was raped by her brother and I hated how David was such a bad father. Yes, there are situations in which those who should care for the children did not do their job well, but the world is evil and sometimes bad things happen though it's not of anyone's sin, e.g. Job.

[@collegepennsylvania837]

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances..." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 God is so worthy of all of our thanks. Even though we earned death because of our sins He sent Christ to die for us in our place. Hopefully this inspired and encouraged you today. God bless.

[@martinkent333]

Whenever Christian women are being raped, God and Jesus both go for a pint. Whenever Choirboys are being raped, God writes a check for the parents looking the other way and then moves the rapist priest to a new parish with fresh victims, Einstein!

[@justapseudonym7]

Wow #7 helped me so much 😭 I've struggled with wanting to hear from God for a long time. And there are times I certainly do but not always and I thought it was my fault or I lacked faith in that area

[@beverlydevriesburrows3097]

Thank you for such clarity on good and evil.

[@robertpatterson6823]

Excellent job. Praying for you and your ministry.

[@joycehahn01]

Thank you for reasoning through these questions and using The Word of God to answer ! I found this video to be very interesting !

[@ChunCat]

If I affirm my child’s decision to eat a snickers bar for breakfast and a m&ms for lunch, I’m not loving him. I am actively hurting him by staying quiet and affirming him.

[@pepeekeopoint4925]

that is very well shared, been in ministry from the 80's, never wavered from that stand

[@RaptureRdy777]

Thank you Pastor Mike

[@thomashawkins6597]

Thank God for men like Mike

[@cosmichrist]

One thing that helped me is Romans 2: 5-8, the Bible says there are people who will forever reject God, so while sad, we all have the choice to repent or not.

[@bornagainbeliever1429]

Good word Mike! God bless 🙏🏻

[@AllanRochez]

God has called us all to be loving oh that’s sooooo good

[@Bellgirl76]

41:15 - THANK YOU!!! SO GOOD. This helped me so much!

[@kamshopqueen88]

You answered the question on homosexuality with such grace. It truly could not have been said better.

[@TF-pb4og]

As always great. I appreciate as always the way you give counsel, humbly and in love. I especially love your answer to #5. Thank you pastor Mike for helping us through questions in a Godly fashion. Thank You Jesus for using Your messenger Mike, bless him and his family and each person watching this. Amen

[@mckster56]

Wow hard question today. Biblically loving isnt always easy. God bless us

[@cfreetenor]

Mike: “Direct communication with the Holy Spirit is definitely not something you should expect as a requirement, it’s quite rare, I remember how I decided on my wife because it was so clear and rare to be communicated with like that” Also Mike: “Hearing angelic music definitely wouldn’t surprise me”

[@peggydeluna4564]

Such a cute cat! 😊 thank you for all you do 🙌

[@steveprofiler]

Rom 9.18: Therefore God has mercy on whom he wants to have mercy, and he hardens whom he wants to harden.

[@martinkent333]

Brainwashing is fun. So those 200,000 raped choirboys are no longer as infatuated with the cult? Shame! God and Jesus have so much more to offer - than ruptured anuses and payoffs to parents who look the other way,

[@boonrobiadek]

Great teacher here thanks

[@Jessica_Jones]

Oh my goodness, your Princess Bride reference, Mike 😂 You said the line and I was right there with you, LOL (I would say it killed me, but then I'd be venturing into dad joke territory 😁) These videos are so edifying, brother -- thank you for all of the time you invest to bring forth God's wisdom! ❤🙏🏻

[@thomasstanley-jones6567]

You said "I hope this helps you.", and it does. Thank you

[@davidchristie7764]

Thank you Mike! You gave the answer I hoped you would give to the LGBT counseling question.. We need to stand firm to be Godly instead of being liked.

[@janettegilbert76]

Thanks Mike, your such a blessing

[@jeannetteparry5587]

@Mike Winger Thank for all you do, I have learned so much through your ministry. Re. #3. I had a visit from a JW family not long before before the COVID lockdowns started. We had a good long chat - probably the first time I haven't been defensive when they knock on the door, (God's timing!) The wife and I continued to discuss through emails, and have even become friends . This year I was invited to a JW Zoom meeting where they discussed the 144,000 teaching, and, after a lot of prayer, I decided to accept. It was heart breaking to see how this unbiblical teaching is robbing them of any true hope of salvation. I eventually sent her a summary of what is wrong with it. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will break through this horrible deception and set the captives free. Nothing I can say will make any difference but maybe the Lord can use it (Isaiah 49:24-25). This is how I understand the 144,000 so far: • The 144,000 are all Jews from each of the 12 tribes of Israel. • The “Great crowd”, like the “Other sheep” in John 10, are from all the [other] nations. • Both groups in Revelation 7 are already in heaven in the presence of God, worshipping before the Throne. To say the “Great crowd” will not be in heaven is therefore ridiculous. From the perspective of eternity they already are!! • As in the last point, Ephesians 1:3 and 2:6 show that those who truly belong to Christ are already in heaven spiritually, even in this life. Sealing (in the Revelation 7 context) has the same purpose as Ezekiel chapters 8-9, to protect them from the wrath of God against His unfaithful people, Israel. The context of Revelation 7 is just before the “Four winds” are released. This is probably why the “Great crowd” are not sealed in that way

[@jeannetteparry5587]

Sorry it's a bit off topic to the question

[@jenndavin]

Always a blessing. Please pray for Mike Winger.

[@Derek_Baumgartner]

Thanks for doing this Q&A's!

[@immanuelkant7895]

I like the counter, it is very helpful

[@chrisblackasr7095]

Question 7 was poinient for me. I grew up in a church where, if you spent enough time in prayer and did all the right things God would direct your path and you would know it and walk in it. I rarely ever felt this so I struggled with my salvation. They also believed that if you didn't speak in tongues you were a baby Christian and would never mature. All lies. I wasted so much time thinking I needed a sign written in the sky. We don't. The Bible says "do everything as if unto the Lord". I learned to make decisions and trust God for the outcome (good or bad). God's grace is huge. Don't let "not seeing the path laid out before you" as a reason to not push forward. God will direct your path in the way you should go. He has already seen where your going before you knew it yourself.

[@traceytaylor9181]

#5. The things I find comfort in is knowing that God sees everything. He knows everything you went through and he knows how bad it hurt you. He knows your heart and he knows what’s in the heart of those that abuse you. I find comfort in knowing that I was never alone through any of it and God loves justice. We usually don’t get any sort of justice here on earth and that’s why giving this burden to God can be so healing. Another thing that helps is learning how to truly forgive and know that forgiveness is not you saying “it’s okay that you did this to me” instead you are laying it at god’s feet and essentially sharing the burden so that you may heal.

[@ReformedNerd]

This was very helpful, love the way he approaches the question you can tell the want to help others and not simply winning and argument

[@martinkent333]

Brainwashing is a beautiful thing!

[@rubypeterson665]

@@martinkent333 Everyone has a god. Whether that is Yahweh or evolution or environmentalism. Whatever is at the forefront of your life is your god. Whatever the case may be for you, calling Christians bottom feeders, slimy, and brainwashed isn’t going to turn anyone to want to be like you and follow whatever you’ve made your god. I’m sorry you think so little of us as people but you are entitled to that opinion. I just hope you’re aware you’re not doing anything to bring out the ‘brainwashed’ to the ‘free thinkers.’ Have a good day, sir! :)

[@rubypeterson665]

@Lilith I’m not saying that in a literal sense. I just mean everyone idolizes something. For religious folks it’s a god or multiple, but even those who don’t believe in God have something ruling over them. Some people are so stuck to an idea they’ll do anything to defend it. That’s all I was meaning. Hope that helps clear things up :)

[@rubypeterson665]

@Lilith No, not all scientific theories are gods to people. I was just pointing out to the other guy how he was idolizing his point of view as if it were a god while calling everyone who believed in God all the terms listed above. Whatever you idolize most is comparable to how Christians see God is the only thing I was trying to say. (Also I do believe in science; there’s nothing wrong with science lol)

[@rubypeterson665]

@Lilith He wrote a lot of different comments, I only replied to this one. And I mean he put it above civility and kindness. I don’t quite understand why you’re asking me all these questions lol I believe I’ve made my case quite clear

[@kim09031957]

Mike you are right when it comes to LBGT counselling to improve their relationship. Also its the same if they were going to get married and wanted you to wed them or even go to their wedding . Doing this is condoning their marriage. I could not go to a LBGT wedding.

[@thegirlthatfeelstoomuch]

bisexual and proud baby:)

[@run4cmt]

@@thegirlthatfeelstoomuch You can still change your life with God's help.

[@macthemessenger]

That was great. Thanks Pastor Mike

[@batMelek]

AMEN!! Truth spoken in love is always loving.

[@joshpayne1201]

Mike, thank you for your answer to my question (#3 on Saints). Your thoughts are very helpful and I hope I can use this wisdom to help a JW friend.

[@aaronarhelm9113]

Christians who stand firm in their beliefs regarding homosexuality earn a modicum of my respect.

[@sabrinagilmusic]

Hey Mike, thanks for the video, it blessed me greatly! Just wanted to correct you on something: Adderall is not a medication for treating depression, it is an ADHD medication. You were probably thinking of anti-depressants when talking about Adderall. Stimulants like Adderal and anti-depressants are two very different things. That's all ahah, God bless you! :)

[@joyeeverett6196]

This is true lol. I’m on both

[@beckyhagerty9656]

Agree- I came on to say the same thing! He thought Adderall was an antidepressant

[@katherinelipari6610]

I noticed as well, but I feel that the principle of what he was talking about is true for other uses of Adderall. I had students with ADHD who were on Adderal, and I also had friends who were medical students who used it to focus because they were living such crazy competitive lifestyles. The chemical imbalance vs you are making sinful choices still applies.

[@commenter5901]

@@katherinelipari6610 He was meaning something completely different when he was talking about making sinful choices. He was meaning that, if you make sinful choices, you might have depression because you are trapped in sin and if you repent of your sin, you will find freedom from depression (assuming that the sin is the cause, which is not always the case). That's not the same thing as taking Adderall that is not prescribed to you which, I'm assuming, is illegal. My assumption, and I could be wrong, is that the person asking the question has ADHD and is wondering if Adderall is something that's ok to take from a Biblical point of view, or if Christians should abstain from things that could potentially mess with your head. My son has severe ADHD and he's on Methylphenidate which, from what I've been told by doctors, is way lower in possible side effects and has virtually no long term side effects which Adderall can have, especially if it's used on growing kids. There are many adults who were put on Adderall as kids and are now suffering long term side effects so they are very vocal about not putting kids on ADHD medication, but newer medications have way less side effects than those older ones and only last 6-12 hours. For my son, it's the difference between being able to work almost entirely on his own at school (when on meds), or taking 3 hours, with someone constantly hovering over him and keeping him on task, to write one short sentence (a sentence that he can write on his own in 10 seconds when on meds). The difference is night and day because he does have an "imbalance in the brain" which the medication "fixes" (I know that's not exactly what's going on, but it works for the analogy)

[@katherinelipari6610]

@@commenter5901 I do get your point. I realize I did not include the context of my comment. Medical school students will often be prideful of their standing in the class, and are motivated by sinful desires for status. This makes them believe that they need Adderall to continue achieving the status that they believe they must. They do not have chemical balance issues. They have pride issues. I have had many friends who went through medical school and commented about how widespread the use - both prescribed and illegally obtained- of Adderall was among competitive medical students.

[@Meche0485]

Question 5 ! Hits home thanks for. Getting into that I will review this for later dates. That was so good

[@susanscheffer2598]

We are also responsible for our sinful thoughts. Adjusting behavior is not the only responsibility that we have. We are transformed by the renewing of our minds.

[@jmsimcic]

I was a secular counselor 10 years ago before my son was born. I had some gay clients, and this was no conflict at all, because it was individual counseling, their sexuality was not the focus of our sessions, and I was merely helping them improve their lives like anyone else. I had growing fear, however, that I would be asked to counsel a homosexual couple. I didn’t see any way to do that, because it would be the focus of the counseling to help improve their relationship and move it forward. In such a case, I would have referred the couple out to another counselor, but it very well could have cost me my job. I left counseling before this became as big of an issue as it now is, and I know many counselors who are also Christians are dealing with this right now. If I ever return to the profession, I think it will have to be as a Christian counselor rather than a secular community counselor, because the profession is becoming hostile to a Christian in many ways.

[@thelightofdaey2464]

I want to be a psychologist and this was so helpful. Thank you.

[@MsHollylove]

Right. Just because you want that 500$ bag and you feel like stealing it, doesn't mean you should act on it, even tho you really want it...

[@danglingondivineladders3994]

cute

[@naomi-iroha]

Jean Valjean would disagree

[@roberta4254]

A note on crying, when we cry our body releases a chemical similar to an antidepressant So God has give us the wonderful gift crying to help heal.

[@iwilpraiseu]

I am so glad thta you ate touching on how good one's life can be as a single. This world makes marriage an idol and I hate that. Marriage is not the answer to one's problems because when you marry you take you with it.

[@keridavis2623]

Sometimes, like you said Mike, I think God gives us choices. Neither are bad. Neither are immoral or wrong. You seek the Lord and don’t get a clear answer one way or the other. In those cases, I think God is allowing us to choose. As long as what I said above that neither choice is immoral or unbiblical.

[@robertj5208]

Question 7 Response: BRILLIANT!!!!

[@charissa6648]

This was excellent! I wanted to speak in reference to the Adderall question. Adhd, and Add are not chemical imbalances, rather they are structural conditions in certain areas of brain development, which has been scientifically proven through thousands of MRIS as well as other peer study reviews. That means that someone with Adhd or Add does not have a thought pattern issue although, they can, rather the areas that effect certain human characteristics in the brain are under developed. Adhd does not cause you to sin; meaning it is not simply a behavior issue, but the effects of Adhd can lead to sinful behavior. Again, adhd is not a behavioral condition rather physiological disorder. Regarding Adderall I believe that should be prayerfully discerned. Adderall will not correct your sinful desires from the flesh, although it will help your brain temporarily function as intended. I would suggest not to just depend on medication alone, but discipline as well as growing in the Lord. Because medication only temporarily helps brain function, but discipline in Christ by reading His Word; changes your mind to be more like Christs.

[@cathy7382]

I'm tired of many Christians ignorance of mental illness and seem to always play the sin card as a result of their malady. I myself am bipolar and it wasn't because of a sinful lifestyle. We as people with a mental disability need just as much as compassion that believers have for those with physical challenges.

[@charissa6648]

@@cathy7382 I know what you mean. To be fair alot of those within the church treat physical diseases as a sin issue as well. It's the Job story played out over and over again, but maybe not as intense as what he went through. It's very devistating to the suffering actually, but for some reason it's a common misconception to treat those with diseases or illnesses as if it's their fault. Sometimes, I feel so alone. I don't understand how we as believers can hurt one another like we do...me included.

[@cathy7382]

@@charissa6648 Idk what your particular illness is, but I have both diabetes and mental health issues It's difficult for me to function at an optimal level. You might say I have a double whammy. Just to get through the day can be rough. Please keep me in prayer as I will for you. There is no one I feel I can talk about what I go through at church. I do know however, Jesus completely knows me better than even one I could share this with. Thank God, I was a believer before any of my health issues surfaced. I think God has some awesome rewards for those who suffer well for His sake.