Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 1. 0:01 {Jesus Supporting Violence?} Why does Jesus tell the disciples to buy swords? Is this Jesus supporting violence in self-defense? 2. 22:23 {Overcome by Strong Delusion?} In 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12, when the antichrist is revealed, God will send a strong delusion to those who refused to be saved. Will everyone who has heard the Gospel but not repented be overcome by it? 3. 27:50 {What is “Coarse Joking”?} How do we know what coarse joking is (Ephesians 4: 29, 5: 20)? My teen's Christian friends often joke about being LGBTQ and getting high or drunk. Is this a freedom issue, or is this sinful? How should a teen respond? 4. 34:48 {Led by the Spirit vs. our Own Feelings} My mom changed her name recently. She felt God was giving her a new name. She often feels led by the Spirit where I don't agree. Any advice for those times, and should I introduce her by new name? 5. 42:53 {The Unrighteous Entering the Millennium?} In the Premillennial view, who are the unrighteous (not saved) that enter into the Millennium? During the sheep/goats judgment, it seems like all the goats get sent to their eternity in Hell. 6. 45:46 {God Taking someone to Avoid Apostasy?} Is there any precedent for God taking home a believer before he might fall away? I Kings 14: 13 says some good was found in Jeroboam’s son. 7. 50:31 {Will We Remember “The Bad” in Eternity?} Can you go into detail as to what Isaiah 65: 17 means by “not remembered” and the “nor come to mind” part? I was told it meant literal memory loss and that scares me. I want to remember even the bad. 8. 55:01 {The Most Pressing Issue for Deconstructionists} What do you believe is the most pressing issue for deconstructionists? 9. 1:02:51 {Advice for When We’re Exhausted} Do you have any advice for someone who is spiritually and physically exhausted (like Elijah in 1 Kings 19)? 10. 1:11:40 {Standing Firm for Christ at Work} My work environment is very vulgar and toxic. It's "easier" for me to blend in and not honor Christ with my language and attitude. How can I have more confidence and not give in? BONUS Q! 1:14:55 {Is All Pain Bad?} My 8 year old, Ben wants to know: If there is no pain in Heaven, will there be hot sauce? Sounds funny, but makes you think.
@absolstoryoffiction66158 ай бұрын
By extent of Jesus. It's also interesting for God (pre Jesus) when humanity still waged war then. I don't think God nor Jesus are Pacifists, since their actions are not pacifistic in nature. But I also don't think God likes his name being used to begin a war. To defend ones home or nation, perhaps. But to go on a crusade or to wage a human war in God's name and in Faith? I would think God doesn't want that kind of sin in his honor. But even in self defence. I would still repent for this sin and ask for God for forgiveness. Even though (example) I did defend myself and others from a human threat, without vengeance nor hate. Well, it is still murder. Love your neighbor. Love your enemies. Jesus loves everyone. (I only speak out of love. I rather not speak as the "Destroyer". If I did, then only innocent souls and the redeemed souls shall pass my judgement... But in love, I won't be as harsh toward all of Mankind. Protect God when you're all with him. There's more to Existence than all religions put together. And I must prepare for events beyond this eternity and this iteration.)
@metapolitikgedanken6128 ай бұрын
@@absolstoryoffiction6615 I recall 'Christian Pacifists' from my childhood. They were quite pushy, but I noticed that they were cherry pickers when it comes to texts. I was very disappointed in this. But they also taught me indirectly that one needs to be on the look out for false teachers. That one needs Truth first is the other lesson there.
@htebazileeilsel22938 ай бұрын
@@absolstoryoffiction6615 self defense doesn't always equate to murder though. Plus if youre defending someone weak it is a righteous thing to do, you can stop someone from hurting someone else without killing them. There is a distinction between killing and murder in the Law, so we can clearly see that God understands nuance.
@nathanael13548 ай бұрын
Naive Question concerning the first question: I really appreciate the approach of trying to read the passage as literal as possible! Still To me it is weird to read “everybody should have a sword” they say “we have 2” and he “thats alright”… (they were more than 2 obviously) To me still it seems there is something missing, especially when emphasizing that every word is literal. I am very curious to see your upcoming content about the whole topic even if it will take some time(seems to be a big topic, as well for us in europe)! Thanks a lot Mike! I do appreciate your minestry a lot, it prooves to be a huge blessing for me! Curious to read some thoughts!
@metapolitikgedanken6128 ай бұрын
@@nathanael1354 It doesn't say “everybody should have a sword”. Just that they should be prepared. The message is that things are going to be tougher and one may have to defend oneself. One shouldn't read too much into this neither. But it is a pun against those that tried to turn the Gospels into 'Pacifist' texts.They aren't they simply aren't. They are no 'New Law'. In fact the old law gets affirmed although there is a change in practice. Previously it was technically observable, but the flesh is rebelling against that. Now the flesh can die and the spirit resurrected turning somebody into acting not against the law.
@marye.20188 ай бұрын
God has spoken to me once. It was late at night and I can only describe it as every single cell in my body being filled with a single word, "ADOPT!" There was no conversation. I knew it was God. I immediately answered back in my mind, "I will, but you have to tell Paul, (my husband). That was it. The very next evening, my husband looks over at me and says, "Do you want to adopt?" That night we decided to go through the foster system. We signed up for the classes within a few days. Within one week of our home study completion, we had our son in our home. God's hand is unstoppable. His voice is recognized by His sheep.
@SteveWarlee8 ай бұрын
And what? Are you going to do a reenactment of sacrificial son with a sword???
@marye.20188 ай бұрын
@user-qe1tv1bu2f I am so glad that you read my comment about the time that God spoke to me. To answer your 1st question, "Now what?" My husband and I are raising our son. He was 15 months old when he came to live with us, and he is 12 years old now. He knows he is adopted by us, and he has heard my testimony about God speaking to me many times. I know that you are being sarcastic with your questions and about reenacting the son's sacrifice. I assume that you are referencing the story in Genesis 22, when Abraham hears from God to take his only son to the top of a mountain to sacrifice him as a burnt offering to the Lord. Do you know the rest of the story? Just as Abraham was about to slay his only son, the Angel of the Lord calls out to Abraham to stop. And then a ram appears in the thicket. The Lord provided the sacrifice. The reason that this story is so beautiful is because it foretold of the later sacrifice that God would make when He sent His only son, Jesus, to be the final sacrifice for mankind. We are all separated from God because of the sin we have inside of us. He tells us that if we will turn from our sin and trust in Jesus, he will save us from an eternal separation from God. That's why Abraham's story is so wonderful. Just as God provided a sacrifice for Abraham, God has provided a sacrifice for you. You just have to believe. I am praying for you to set aside your skepticism and listen to what all of creation is telling you. There is a God, and his name is Jesus!
@veronica.armstrong8 ай бұрын
I am encouraged. Thank you.
@whiterosesj8 ай бұрын
AMEN!!
@mamuklutze64748 ай бұрын
You are so correct yes God does speak not audibly it is very hard to explain but it is undeniable and I am not the type that goes around saying that God speaks to me all the time because NO He doesn't but the 3 times I " heard" His voice the event ALL came to pass. The Lord is good!!🙌🏾
@zoe0abundant8 ай бұрын
Thanks for answering Ben's question. He walked into my room just as you were answering. He had a big smile when you mentioned eating salsa with him in heaven 😁 thanks for your ministry
@seaglass.jen868 ай бұрын
Loved the question!
@Dee-nonamnamrson87188 ай бұрын
Mrs. Ben I presume?
@jonathanvancura20808 ай бұрын
@@Dee-nonamnamrson8718They said, "My eight year old Ben"
@Dee-nonamnamrson87188 ай бұрын
@jonathanvancura2080 Oh. Oops. Lol My apologies, the only context I had was "he" and the name Ben.
@gohawks35718 ай бұрын
What a great question though! I want hot sauce in heaven too☺️😋
@Gunblastz8 ай бұрын
In the movie Jesus was disappointed by the kitchen knives that were presented when he clearly asked for swords. Hence why he said "enough of this" 😂
@erin16558 ай бұрын
“You never listen!”
@hithere81408 ай бұрын
😂😂 you call those swords?!
@NLAProductions8 ай бұрын
😂
@patrickhenry2368 ай бұрын
The movie portrayal doesn't match the words or Christ's use of them in scripture. It probably shouldn't have even been used in the discussion of this particular scripture, since Hollywood's "creative license" has never been concerned with biblical accuracy.
@NPNN-xt4ot7 ай бұрын
The movie armorer couldn't couldn't get any proper sword props because the next studio was using all the big swords as they were filming one of the Conan the Barbarian movies 🤣
@RuslanKD8 ай бұрын
Mike with another reasonable take on a polarized issue like self defense. Well said.
@Inevitable-Infarct8 ай бұрын
I just cannot get enough of your sermon, Mike. I find myself half way through a video of yours then another pops up and I'm like hmmm I need that knowledge too! As a new follower our Lord (saved 6 weeks ago from atheism), I sometimes fear I am spending too much time learning online and not enough in His word. That said, learning from wonderful Pasters like yourself really primes my heart and mind for understanding that which is written. Thank you, Brother!
@evansjessicae8 ай бұрын
Welcome to the family! 🥰 I think it's a great thing you're doing, listening to trustworthy teachers. If you want to be in the Word yourself, in addition to the Bible teachers, you can always just start by reading a chapter or two each day until you get through a book. (For a new believer, I would start in the New Testament in one of the first four books, known as the Gospels.) Before long, you'll start recognizing verses that the Bible teachers bring up and make the connections for yourself.
@factcheckthesehands3648 ай бұрын
Hallelujah! 🎉 I’m so glad you found Mike-he’s a solid teacher. I also highly suggest Chuck Missler. He died a few years ago but you can search his name on KZbin and find a ton of videos.
@artax76648 ай бұрын
Welcome home brother/sister. You went from non belief, to the start of a loving long term relationship with the Creator of the universe! And the promise of everlasting life with Him. He calls you “child” now! Hallelujah! God is good. What drew you?
@metapolitikgedanken6128 ай бұрын
@@factcheckthesehands364 The star trek theology ' Chuck Missler'? Pretribbers are a cult like the Pacifists. If you don't believe them, they don't want to talk with you anymore. Also very pushy.
@davidjenkins24298 ай бұрын
❤❤❤
@wearelegion778 ай бұрын
My personal opinion on the swords is that Jesus wanted it obvious to the guards that the Apostles weren't defenseless/helpless, that He was willingly being arrested. Thank you for the great video, Brother Mike.
@Texas9999Ай бұрын
That’s exactly what I believe and felt within…..
@Nighthawkinlight8 ай бұрын
Veiled moralism, and no internalized realization of God's acceptance and forgiveness as a totally free gift is I think the biggest cause of deconstruction. Without the sensation of rest and security that comes through grace, trying to live a "good Christian life" is as much of a discouraging treadmill as every other religion the world over. People have good reason to question if such religion which brings more discouragement the more you try to follow it is true. The trouble is that those who leave Christianity under those conditions think they have already experienced what it has to offer.
@evage998 ай бұрын
One of my husband's acquaintances recently said "I tried the Christian thing, didn't do much for me." I asked what he meant by that, he said he'd wanted a comfortable job and a girlfriend, and didn't receive them. It was sad to hear that he'd been 100% self-centered the entire time (still is, really) and thought that "proof" of God's existence would come in the form of getting everything he wanted immediately. The Joel Osteens of the world aren't helping either.
@grantflippin78088 ай бұрын
It's really cool that you are here
@viperstriker47287 ай бұрын
I disagree slightly. I have listened to a deconstructionist called cosmic skeptic a lot. I thought "this is a guy who actually wants truth but just disagrees on the evidence". Sometimes being really smart we let ego get in the way and it makes it harder to find God. But then I found a clip of him answering honestly what he would do if he hypothetically found evidence that convinced him. Turns out he is so offended by the old testament that he hates God. It's only after that when he looked at the evidence. People don't actually ask if God exists. People ask if they want God to exist. I think the veiled moralism is the deconstructionist attempting to prove to themselves that they are right. It's the result rather then the cause. And the free gift part just removes their excuse to not turn to God. When people don't want to change they start by claiming that change is difficult.
@EveryTongue8 ай бұрын
Mad respect that you just stick to what the book says
@nubis6248 ай бұрын
I heard from God and he told me to go to church in the town I live in. That was 5ish years ago. I found out the other day they were going through a bit of an attendance crisis at the time, the pastor and his wife are some of the best people I’ve ever met.
@stephenbailey99698 ай бұрын
Thank you for your many years of ministry via the internet. Very encouraging.
@benschenkenberger99718 ай бұрын
I believe God DID tell my wife and I to get married when we were very young - 16 and 18 (we've been together for 20 years, married for 17)... but I think that's very rare. And I also completely agree that people tend to interpret their feelings and strong impressions/ beliefs as God speaking to them and it often results in terrible mistakes (and misrepresentation of our king). Your conclusion is spot on: "When in doubt assume it's not God it's probably you. " Thanks for all you do Mike 🙏
@omarstoltzfusjr87388 ай бұрын
Would you mind explaining what happened that you believed God was speaking to you?
@viperstriker47287 ай бұрын
@@omarstoltzfusjr8738 I know this question wasn't meant for me, but it also wasn't answered so I will but in. I grew up in a church had a bunch of times when I wondered if I was hearing from God. It sounded like what people around me said to listen for. Then I had a question for God and I wasn't getting that intuition/feeling answer. Until one day in the middle of a conversation with 2 other people I heard an actual voice just louder then the person talking say "you have your answer". It wasn't audible and the 2 other people clearly didn't hear it as the conversation continued normally. It wasn't the answer I wanted and I realized after the fact that because of how it was worded I can tell other people without revealing anything personal. I am convinced this was God speaking, and it's very clear after hearing it that was the only time so far that God has spoken to me. I don't know if it's different for other people. I think God has lead me to thinks without speaking. But that one time God left no excuse to doubt it was Him.
@bennewby96008 ай бұрын
God has spoken to me once, and only once, and the experience was unmistakable. I was on a hike up into the Grand Teton mountains as part of a Bible college. We were up on the mountain around a campfire singing hymns under the stars and I felt very profound awe at the majesty of God. But as all feelings do it started going away. So I started trying to figure out how to get it back. I was sitting like this and singing like that and- Then like a lightning bolt from heaven came the clearest thing I have ever heard. "I am with you even when you feel nothing." It about knocked my socks off. My church has had quite a few people in it over the years recovering from the spiritual deception at Bethel and this experience has been a tremendous blessing to every person from there I've been able to share it with. Because our relationship with God isn't about feelings. Feelings aren't God. Awe isn't the Holy Spirit in us. And believing that they are is a spiritual trap. He's truly with us, even to the end of the age, even when we feel nothing.
@viperstriker47287 ай бұрын
I had something similar. Right in the middle of a conversation with 2 people I heard "you have your answer". I was shocked and confused for a moment until I realized that what the other person just said answered a question I had been asking God for weeks. It wasn't the answer I wanted, but the more I tried to come up with reasons why this wasn't God, the more reasons I found that showed it was. I had so many times when I wondered if I was hearing from God, but after that one time it was very clear that was the only time.
@janetdavis64738 ай бұрын
When my sister and I were estranged, while wondering what to do, God clearly said four words in my spirit-‘ reach out to…..’ The words were strong and commanding. I did it and we reconciled within a couple weeks. He also said ‘ forgive your brother’ which again resulted in renewed relationship. Because these were not just feelings, I believe they were God directing me .
@joshuacavender15368 ай бұрын
Doesn't God already command in Scripture to forgive everyone everything? Why do we need to hear a voice to reveal what is already revealed to us?
@garlicgirl31498 ай бұрын
Praise God 🎉 Happy for you.
@janetdavis64738 ай бұрын
@@joshuacavender1536 do you always forgive people right away? I doubt it. Some people hang on to grievances for years.
@ricknewton4598 ай бұрын
As a single parent who has raised two kids by myself for 9 years. I know burn out. Along with physical pain that disables me which makes it harder. I read the word and wait on the Lord. That’s my place of peace. It’s still hard but Jesus helps me
@swanhonk8 ай бұрын
Praying for you and your family, Rick.
@whiterosesj8 ай бұрын
Thank you for being faithful to God and what he has for you. I get uncomfy when people, often pastors who have been around for a while, say that people aren’t hearing from God (God is POURING out his Spirit right now and it’s so beautiful to see those led fully by Him) but you were so wise in saying that we need more discernment. That “hearing from God” isn’t just a feeling but it is a LIFE of spending time with Him and in His word, humbling ourselves, quieting our own wills that we can be in tune to what He is saying according to what was already written. Anyway, I know that God speaks a lot, but I’ve also gotten things wrong because I let my emotions be louder than His quiet whisper. Praise the Lord that he helps you and gives you wisdom. You are a blessing. Don’t forget that. You are helping and God’s grace is sufficient for you. Please don’t be discouraged, God is not defeated! His Spirit is ALIVE in you
@NicholasRyan07238 ай бұрын
My "rule" for coarse joking is, If you would regulate yourself and not say it had your pastor or someone you regard as spiritual were there. Than you shouldn't say it at all. The next step would be to self evaluate and think does this bring honor to Christ? And grace to those around me?
@True_Judah8 ай бұрын
100% agree also is Holy Spirit convicts you, then don’t justify it. Repent and don’t repeat it.
@lagan8327 ай бұрын
@thortrouble2311 If I'm wrong, please correct me. The way I understand repentance is that it's a slow and painful walk with God. He's slowly changing you during this process. People don't change overnight, and sometimes, sin can trap us for years and years to come. I've also read that repentance is a change of heart and mind. Say that you sin and feel guilty about it. Over time, you grow to hate that sin. However, if you sin and don't care, you aren't repenting. I'm still not 100% sure
@trainedforthis7 ай бұрын
@@lagan832Repentance can be both. It can transform and renew you although to what depth or capacity is between you and God through Christ as well as with the help of the Holy spirit through conviction or intercession of thought/posture of heart. Repentance can be a continual process where you can find yourself repeatedly asking for forgiveness.
@clockchaser7 ай бұрын
@@True_Judahthe Holy Spirit only convicts believers of righteousness - He convicts the world (unbelievers) of sin.
@viperstriker47287 ай бұрын
@@lagan832 My grandma was alcoholic, when she got saved in a single moment she hated alcohol and hasn't drank since. I personally have been much slower. Maybe it depends on how will we actually are to change our hearts.
@crackshot-tv8 ай бұрын
That was the most clear and I think level headed explanation of the Biblical case for the role of self defense versus pacifism. It is really appreciated.
@reneeconstantino56358 ай бұрын
Great as always. "My sheep know my voice." Spirit will not contradict Scripture. What I have found is when I am uncertain if it is the LORD or myself, it is often the choice that brings me out of my comfort, results in growth, and/or results in the encouragement & growth of others.
@Shellyspurr8 ай бұрын
I met my husband on a dating site and he kept getting kicked off and had ro keep redoing his profile, I thought it was the devil keeping me from meeting someone God chose from me (at the time I was listening to pentecostal pastors). However he ended up being a complete toxic person and I realized it wasn't God who put him in my life, but my own desperation to believe this was a great guy as well as his manipulation pretending to be good. Now I only listen to the Bible and do things in reverence to Christ regardless of what it is. That's my experience thinking God was telling me something that wasn't happening at all.
@tracymccallum53968 ай бұрын
My daughter introduced me to you Mike keep speaking the Truth God bless🙏
@hminchella74238 ай бұрын
Same
@BasedChad18 ай бұрын
Our God is a Warrior King, He expects us to be able to protect ourselves and those close to us.
@bonniescully41508 ай бұрын
Amen. He is coming back riding on a horse and ready for judgement
@learnenglishwithblaine96048 ай бұрын
He told Peter to put away his sword.
@SnowHornet8 ай бұрын
@@learnenglishwithblaine9604 Because Peter was interfering with God’s plan of His impending crucifixion
@midimusicforever8 ай бұрын
@@SnowHornet There's more to it than that though, because "for all who draw the sword will die by the sword" is a very general statement.
@BasedChad18 ай бұрын
@@midimusicforever it's "He who lives by the sword shall die by the sword" Living by the sword implying a combative life style, not the ownership and defensive use.
@ThatGuy-TheEngineer7 ай бұрын
I believe I've heard from God, possibly more than once but once is all that's coming to mind. It was a time when I felt God telling me "no" to a question I asked, but it wasn't the answer I wanted, so I convinced myself I wasn't really hearing from God. It did not take long to see why I should have trusted Him. He told me to have patience, I didn't, and the situation ended poorly. Thank you for your ministry, Mike. And praise God for how He's using it!
@RICHARDTHELIONHEART-ru6sk8 ай бұрын
It is a matter of staying away from violence as much as you can, without resorting to violence, if you can.
@TheRealNathanBusch7 ай бұрын
I’m a new born in the eyes of God, and this channel is perfect for me. I love you Mike, and I hope you continue to cling to Truth, and breakdown all of the possible translations of The Word. I also love your confidence when you honestly give us your take on which interpretation you find to be correct.
@I-Am-He8 ай бұрын
My first interpretation as a new Christian reading that verse regarding the swords for the first time a year ago was; “that’s enough to get the job done.” Keep in mind that they had swords already… why doesn’t Jesus rebuke them earlier for having them? Furthermore, why would Jesus need to keep his sword buying agenda hidden from his disciples? He was already annoying the @#$& outta of the Jews and thus he didn’t need swords to get them riled up.
@viperstriker47287 ай бұрын
Exactly, my thought is the whole thing with the healing of the ear, maybe he wanted that in the Bible so he made of point of at least having a sword with them.
@faithlex13616 ай бұрын
Hey, Mike! Longtime listener, first time commenter. Totally on board with your comments on hearing from God. That said- I took a gap year after high school because I felt strongly that I would meet my spouse in college and I just was not feeling ready for that… after my gap year I took Philosophy in my first semester of college and met my husband. We’ve been married for 22 years, have 3 children, and have sharpened each other by God’s grace through all the ups and downs that life has thrown at us.
@mikedunlock8 ай бұрын
Thanks internet Bible teacher Mike! Doesn't quite roll off the tongue like pastor 🤣🤣🤣 Love ya pastor Mike!
@noobmaster318 ай бұрын
Thank you Pastor Mike for all the good work you do.
@The_Bell_Tower8 ай бұрын
At many points in the Bible there is the repeated point of there being "a time for war and a time for peace." Jesus telling Peter to put his sword "in it's place" makes perfect sense with that. It wasn't the time or place for such a thing.
@toreyhorton17898 ай бұрын
So, in your estimation, when was the time and place to defend themselves with swords? There is never an occurrence written in scripture after this event where any apostle defended themself with a sword although they were oppressed and assaulted. Even, Paul mentioned how he was attacked by robbers. Yet, he never mentions how he repelled them with his sword. When was the time and the place if this was a lesson in self-defense? Oh wait, you compared this encounter with WAR. Nevermind, that's completely disconnected from this account.
@patrickhenry2368 ай бұрын
The difference is that Peter was attacking, not defending, with the intent of preventing Jesus from fulfilling his mission. And this was not the first time Peter tried this.
@patrickhenry2368 ай бұрын
@@toreyhorton1789Torey, if the discussion is over the apostles then have you forgotten that Peter was able to pronounce death on Annanais and Sapphira, and they fell down stone dead? Jesus also told Peter how he would die to serve Him, and for Paul "how much he will suffer for My name." Don't twist scripture to fit your own opinions. The right of self defense, not war, goes back long into the old testament, and Christ Himself recognized that a strong man properly armed is able to defend his household. That is why he made it an analogy for defending against sin(allowing the same demons back into yourself through complacency). Your argument does not line up with scripture, and claiming the absence of an exact example doesn't negate its presence in scripture.
@toreyhorton17898 ай бұрын
@@patrickhenry236 you can't read. None of that has anything to do with self-defense. Respond to me when you understand what words mean.
@toreyhorton17898 ай бұрын
@@patrickhenry236 go back and read Acts 5 PROPERLY. Peter never pronounced death on Ananias (correct spelling) and Sapphira. After reprimanding the two they fell down and died. He did not pronounce death on them. Read what is on the page, not what you want it to convey. Please think intelligently. If Jesus was teaching the apostles self-defense on the night of his arrest from the Book of Acts to Revelation there should be some instances where they applied this lesson. The apostles were assaulted by the Sanhedrin. Paul and Silas were attacked by a mob after casting out a demon who had possessed a girl, Paul was accosted by robbers multiple times. All these were opportunities to DEFEND their own lives and yet they did nothing. Acts 5:40-41 Acts 16:16-34 2 Corinthians 11:26
@KarinYarnell-zl1uv8 ай бұрын
Thank you for your ministry. It has been such a blessing. When you were talking about abuse being worse in secular settings, I just wanted to add that when sexual abuse happens in a religious place or by a religious leader, it also has the added issue of spiritual abuse and confusion. This has the potential to lead to deconstruction. It has been happening in church camps, churches, christian boarding schools, and Christian colleges.
@bennetterfield57208 ай бұрын
11:40 before I continue watching, perhaps when Jesus tells Peter to put his sword in its place, it could be making the statement to the effect, “don’t let the sword interject in the Lords will”. Jesus knew the crucifixion was necessary, and Peter attempted to stop the Lords will
@jaredhammonds82558 ай бұрын
Also Peter's actions were a capital offense. He would have been executed for assaulting a Roman soldier. Jesus heals the soldier removing all evidence of the capital offense and went with soldiers quietly.
@indigofenrir72368 ай бұрын
@@jaredhammonds8255 Malchus was a servant of the high priest, not a Roman soldier. If he attacked a Roman soldier, who likely wore a helmet and had military training and discipline; it wouldn't be the soldier getting cut, and it wouldn't be just an ear getting cut either. He might be called a rock, but he probably ain't as dumb as one.
@LordAmenRa748 ай бұрын
How come Jesus said to not repay an eye for an eye when in the OT yahweh, the god who creates evil, said people should repay an eye for an eye?
@indigofenrir72368 ай бұрын
@@LordAmenRa74 The law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. The Mosaic Law was defunct, useful only in proving man cannot be sinless, that they will always break a law. Jesus came to remedy that. Unlike other humans, Jesus kept the entire law so that instead of keeping the law to be saved, all WE have to do is believe in Him. Whoever broke a law was likely stoned to death, but whoever believes in Jesus by living his life according to His teachings of love, will not see death but shall have everlasting life. He has nailed all our sins to the cross and conquered death on our behalf by rising from the grave. If you truly love God, then you will be a vessel and a vassal for His love. Believers have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer we who live, but Christ lives in us; and the life which we now live in the flesh we live by faith in the Son of God, who loved us and gave Himself for us.
@LordAmenRa748 ай бұрын
@@indigofenrir7236 yes, Jesus came to free us from yahweh/satan's evil law.
@AdM-bx4xg7 ай бұрын
Thankyou brother, very sound thinking, while I was listening to you, it came to me very clear @10:25. I firmly believe Jesus was talking about the near future, where the disciples were in danger of being completely eliminated before they were supposed to. They themselves had to be preserved to fulfil Gods’ prophecies and eventual Pentecost - where everything then changed. Especially knowing they were among transgressors or the rough World around them at the time
@jonlannister3458 ай бұрын
Living in a country where it's illegal to defend yourself I can clearly see the devil in refusing to go get a sword.
@knuckledragger7597 ай бұрын
you must be a fellow Canadian lol
@jonlannister3457 ай бұрын
@@knuckledragger759 Unfortunately worse than that. Most of the world enacted disarmament since the 1980s. My nation was disarmed without incident in 1996, and the propaganda machine makes it so that even old people who literally have photos of themselves with guns, will speak as if disarmament is the natural state and the USA is unusual.
@Pablo9989-lj7pm8 ай бұрын
I have heard the clear leading/voice of the Holy Spirit, many times in my 60+ years. Never an audible voice, but clearly His “voice”. I really don’t know how I hear his voice, but He created me, so I’m pretty sure that He could “hardwire” it into us. I was raised in a very conservative church ( NOT a Calvinistic church ), but married an amazing young woman, who knew the Holy Spirit, and helped me know Him too. I believe John 14:16&17, and 14:26. Jesus’ own words, that the Holy Spirit will indwell us FOREVER, and that the Holy Spirit will teach us things. I think one of the most important thing(s) that we can do to “hear” the voice of God, is to submit ourselves to our God every day, and then taking the time to stay quiet, and listen. Listen. Listen…
@KJV77748 ай бұрын
Jesus KING of kings LORD of lords!! Thank you Mike!!
@FrankOWahl8 ай бұрын
The answer you gave for self defense and the 2 swords is a great intro to something I want to really want fleshed out further. Thanks for the clarification.
@ChristinewithaC8 ай бұрын
I’m reading Alisa Childers and Tim Barnet’s book on Deconstructing Christianity right now. My husband got it for me for Mother’s Day. It’s really good.
@markoredano91418 ай бұрын
Liberal heretics.
@JadDragon8 ай бұрын
@@markoredano9141 how?
@texasskygirl78908 ай бұрын
What her video on Christless Conservatism with John Root.
@stef1508 ай бұрын
Thank you for your great teaching! I agree with you
@RemnantOfGod378 ай бұрын
CHRIST IS KING !! We love you JESUS !!
@rudylovato80448 ай бұрын
Thank you for helping me to better understand the Word of God
@Bad_Llama8 ай бұрын
Thank you for the video, these are such a good ministry; I watch them regularly. With regard to the swords, I think the fact there were only 2 swords for the disciples cements the swords as being literal, not figurative. Also, self-defense is often less important than being able to defend and protect those who cannot do it for themselves like women, children, or the sick. My thinking is we as Christians should be ready to lay our lives down to preserve the life of the helpless. Post-script: Jesus telling Peter to put the sword away may be an example of this. Jesus was anything but helpless since He had legions of angels at His command.
@theresahanken42958 ай бұрын
Amen! Another great video, Mike, thank you. I appreciate everyone who asked such wonderful questions! I learned so much from your content. Thank you for helping me to think more biblically about everything. 📖💖 I did see your interview with charisma, and it was wonderful! 🙌👑📖✝️⚔️❤
@zealot77798 ай бұрын
I heard someone say once that a good example of being meek is carrying a large sword, being trained, and knowing how to use it, and choosing to keep it in the sheath. Those kind of people will inherit the earth.
@joantadisch91958 ай бұрын
I always enjoy your insight Mike in answering these questions.
@Horseyperson128 ай бұрын
I thought God sent me my husband. I prayed a long time. As time went on 50 years I was wrong. The wonderful Godly guy was in my head. As soon as he died it was like the scales were taken from my eyes I realized I never really knew who he was. He was a Naval Officer but I made him up. He was wonderful to everyone else, a saint. Not to me. Not physically abusive but lots of emotional abuse which the scales blinded me. Be careful. Take your time and pray. 😊
@mrupholsteryman8 ай бұрын
How would you determine emotional abuse through the lens of Scripture?
@mrupholsteryman8 ай бұрын
I would say that 50 years with someone that didn't abuse you was a good thing. Sorry for your loss as well as your children who will miss him as well...but I don't believe there is a "one person" that we are to marry...
@mrupholsteryman8 ай бұрын
Just seeking understanding here...
@Window45038 ай бұрын
@@mrupholsterymanEmotional abuse IS abuse. They’re invisible scars, but they’re felt on the soul. Just because she wasn’t beaten doesn’t mean abuse did not happen. Proverbs would be a good place to look as well as how Paul writes about what a good husband looks like as well as what love looks like. Add James’ section on the power of the tongue for good measure. Emotional abuse can range from yelling and insulting to making constant belittling digs that undermine someone’s sense of competence and worth. That can be even more deadly because many victims often blame themselves for being inadequate. It can lead to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. It kills from the inside. You’re online. You have access to thousands of resources. Please look these things up before telling someone that their decades of trauma and emotional suffering doesn’t count as abuse. You’re an adult. You’re capable of getting your own information.
@israelkalar30648 ай бұрын
I have a true story about Benny Hinn that shows how careless he really towards people. My mom is a nurse doing in home Healthcare and she had a patient who's make a wish request was to spend a day with Benny Hinn and of course to recieve prayer for healing. Make a wish supposedly paid Benny a lot of money to spend the whole day with him. This is what they were expecting, but when Benny Hinn arrived wherever he was on a plane he got off, went to him and said a really short prayer for healing and immediately left. So sad, I don't believe the family had any reason to lie about this, her patient and possibly the whole family was truly obsessed with Benny
@kgebhardt11878 ай бұрын
Heartbreaking to read this…there are so many who idolize that man. We need to pray for the false teachers and those who follow them
@factcheckthesehands3648 ай бұрын
This is so sad. I stopped supporting Make-A-Wish when they denied terminally ill kids their wishes because they didn’t take the 💉
@Georgie-br5wb8 ай бұрын
@@factcheckthesehands364 grrrr I didn’t know they did that!!
@kishredbird35998 ай бұрын
If he was honest he would just say, "hey I'm not a preacher, I just play one on tv."
@mable5528 ай бұрын
For question 4, regarding hearing from God. I have strong impressions to do things like everyone, but always use the principles in Proverbs. Wisdom, seeking counsel etc. Personally I only ever think something was from God when looking back and seeing so many things line up and it somehow reflects back on Him. This happens often to my husband and I where I will get a thought to do something good for someone and my husband will get the same impression and it is usually to serve others or to solve a problem we have. We look at each other and say, ummm, I think that might be God directing us. The Bible says every good gift comes from the Father, so we acknowledge Him where we see His goodness working. As for the marriage thing. My husband felt I was the one, it took me longer to agree cause i never wanted to get a divorce, so i was hesitant. But.. we're celebrating 36 years happily married. So, maybe God did tell him. We thank Him all the time for His mercy and goodness.
@kgebhardt11878 ай бұрын
God is so good!
@kathleenvitello62338 ай бұрын
I was a young woman of 17 when I met my first husband. I was too naive and blinded by infatuation to understand his behaviors were truly unkind and would eventually become abusive. I did think that God had chosen him for me. He became a Christian while we were dating, and lead several people to the Lord. We had Bible studies in our home and led our young children to the Lord. However he was a very wounded man, and I now believe it was my own insecurity and feeling afraid that I may be single forever, that led me to accept him as a boyfriend and then a husband. I pray now that God help me and my adult children heal, and for them to come back to the Lord.
@ПолинаМакеенко8 ай бұрын
Answering Mike's question on 'hearing from God' about the person you are to marry: it's funny I fall into this category, but not in common sense. I was so tired of waiting for my now husband to propose, that I've started praying to the Lord that He would give him a better wife and relieve me from all the feelings. I completely refused in my heart to get married to this person. Only after that I was proposed a few weeks later 😂
@fishtail11298 ай бұрын
Such a good answer about deconstruction. I’ve encountered that mindset of having a huge chip on their shoulder about the evangelical church and assuming the moral high ground in their stance. That is so dangerous and as you said, a lack of awareness of their own blind spots. I think it’s a warning to all of us when we have differences to pull back on the flashlight, per your illustration, lest we fall into that as well.
@andrewworsop27758 ай бұрын
Q : Not sure how to send a questions should be submitted, hope here is ok. The questions is: Should I work with CRU still with it resent LGQT+ affirming stance? How far against biblical teaching can a organization go before we disassociated with them?
@scoalakairos8 ай бұрын
I looked up CRU on KZbin and on my feed 7 of the first 8 videos were videos on how CRU is LGQT+ affirming. With respectable KZbinrs like Alisa Childers, I would like to know the truth of this story.
@SV09KAIKairos8 ай бұрын
I have respected CRU a lot and their work. But if this is true this is bigger than Beni Hinn story as he has always been bad. CRU use to lead people to Christ now they are leading people astray
@viperstriker47287 ай бұрын
Never heard of CRU before so I just googled it. What I found was pretty based and not affirming at all. But like I said, never heard of them so may not even be talking about the same thing. Personally, if my actions participate in evil, I am out. If I work for a company, I hold myself morally responsible for their actions that I know about. It's pretty rare for a company to actively take action though, most just say the minimum political stuff to get by. But companies like target or disney were there actions back up their affirming words.... To many this will sound extreme, but I honestly think things are this dire. When looking at a company swap affirming language for support of ww2 germans. People say hindsight is 20 20, so lets use history to help us see past our present emotions.
@andrewworsop27757 ай бұрын
@@viperstriker4728 Thank you for your reply. Maybe I should have said who CRU is, it is one of the biggest mission organizations in the world. It was called Campus Crusade but it changed its name back in 2011, so 13 years ago. You need to do more than just "google" it before coming a conclusion on the claims. If you did more you would have also found that most likely you did know who CRU are. As you are on a Mike Winger video then I can presume you have some idea of who Christian KZbinrs are. They are a mixed bunch and you have to be wise and discerning when listening to them. Checking up on source materials before believing them. However, in the case of CRU becoming LQBT+ affirming (they were not in the past) many of the KZbinrs bringing this to our attention are reputable ones, ones who have worked with Mike Winger in the past for example. Some of them are even showing videos of the source training videos of CRU. Some are interviewing ex-CRU workers. One of the accusation is that this LGBT+ affirming training CRU is giving starts with “Do not tell your pastor what we are teaching you” that is why maybe their has been less outcry. Allie Beth Stuckey came out with more information about the situation a few hours ago. Rather than googling CRU maybe type CRU into KZbin. You will find nearly all the videos are on people talking about CRU being LGBT affirming. As I said different KZbins can be trusted to different degrees. I would recommend Alisa Childers she has shown herself to be reasonable, humble and discerning, she interviews ex-CRU workers on this issue. The reason this matters to me is because my organization works with CRU and I need to decide if I should carry on working with them. At this time I am leaning towards we should as it seems it is only CRU in the US who are teaching their staff to be LGBT+ affirming, I am based in another country.
@viperstriker47287 ай бұрын
@@andrewworsop2775 I see, thanks for the information. I will point out that there website's official stance is pretty solid against LGBT, so I would question if this is the organization doing these things or activist infiltration. If it is an infiltration, then the question become can you fight it better from the outside or inside. Is the organization you work for opposed to LGBT? If CRU values your organization it might help push them away from LGBT affirming. Again, I don't know anything about CRU. So just trying to give general advice.
@DerekRoss-jg9uu7 ай бұрын
For question 1 I always have read it as Jesus setting up the teaching moment in the garden where Peter lopped of the servants ear. 1) Jesus, allowing himself to be taken away with the guards he saves Peter’s life showing how to serve others in a midst of problems 2) Jesus teaches Peter that the church isn’t militant but service. Saying those who live by the sword die by the sword. 3) I would agree self defense in many scenarios as well. Thanks for the thoughts on this.
@DavidIstre8 ай бұрын
One of my problems with your interpretation is that the prophecy being fulfilled doesn't say "they will have to defend themselves like rebels/robbers"; the prophecy itself suggests that they'll "appear" that way, which features in his trial as they attempt to charge him with insurrection (though they failed). This isn't deceit for at least a couple reasons: 1) Carrying swords was not illegal, nor was it naturally indicative of criminal or military action, so possessing swords would not have naturally been taken in that light, which means that Jesus is not doing something that specifically implicates his disciples in these things. 2) Jesus tells them upfront that he's not these things (as you mentioned), which he would not do if he were practicing deceit. So Jesus is very clearly not trying to deceive them. This leaves us asking this question: how do the swords feature in them appearing as rebels or robbers? I understand this as an act of judgment exposing the intent of his accusers, who would take something innocent and use it to accuse Jesus despite his peaceful cooperation with them. And this meets the criteria of the prophecy being fulfilled, that he will be taken as being a "robber" or "rebel". The key here is in perspective: is it Jesus trying to make himself appear as a criminal, or is it his accusers trying to make him appear as a criminal? I think it's the latter, with the swords simply exposing their malicious intent that they were simply looking for any excuse to charge him. Interestingly, Mark 14:55-56 suggests that there were many charges brought against him that they couldn't get to stick, so it's even possible that someone tried to make this very charge against him, but, because it was so flimsy, it was among those that were immediately dismissed. This is one of the harder texts to interpret, and I appreciate the work you've done to look at this question.
@AnHebrewChild8 ай бұрын
Very nicely stated.
@nanmurray29888 ай бұрын
Excellent, great video, praise God, thank you ❤
@ColourfulXO8 ай бұрын
About Q4... I changed my whole name back in 2010. When I was living a rebellious lifestyle far away from, God. I wanted to find my identity. I thought the new name was going to be it. I disliked my boring name at the time. I am the type of person that likes to be unique, different, standing out from the crowd. After I hit rock bottom and hardly left the house some years later... On the 2nd of Feb 2015, finally giving my life over to, Christ. A couple of years later, I couldn't wait to change my name back to my birth name, as I knew I had found my true identity in, Christ. So, for me the name change was the "trying to find my identity" thing. I love my birth name and it is the name, God, gave to me 💚.
@chrispenedwards23307 ай бұрын
@Mike Winger: In reference to Q6, the first scripture that came to mind for me was Matthew 24:22 -24 "Unless those days had been cut short, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect, those days will be cut short." I feel like this, at least in part, addresses the question.
@chrispenedwards23307 ай бұрын
I get that this isn't (at least to my knowledge) referring to taking the person out of this world, however there is clearly a president for God intervening preventatively for the sake of our salvation.
@suzannefailla1088 ай бұрын
Love you Brother ♥️
@Vamike97 ай бұрын
Appreciate your videos, Mike. I've been a Christian for over 25 years, and I am also a firm supporter of our 2A rights. I think you cover the scripture thoroughly. I also don't believe that the law abiding should have any restrictions on their 2A rights. Jesus didn't tell us to just own a short sword. In the same way, I don't think that criminals should be allowed to own more capable firearms than the law abiding. In short, I think you're very intelligent and a great teacher. We might agree on most and disagree on some things, but I'll continue watching your informative videos. Take care and God bless.
@jonathandball8 ай бұрын
If you carry a weapon, you must know how to use it, have a robust understanding of appropriate instances when to use it, and be COMPLETELY committed to use it, (and the possible consequences there of), if the need arises. There's absolutely no point carrying a weapon unless you are fully competent in the skill of handling said weapon and are fully prepared to use it if the need arises. Any other reason is likely to get you or someone else you are trying to protect, seriously injured, or even killed. Whether you choose to carry a 'legal' weapon for protection or not, always pray and have your ultimate trust in the LORD, not in your own understanding and training. God bless.
@2EdgedSword778 ай бұрын
Mike, you're a blessing bro. Can't wait to hang with you in Heaven man.
@mrsTreadnaught8 ай бұрын
Thank you!
@chrisstevens25048 ай бұрын
Mike, "I want to move quick." Also Mike, continues another hour and ten minutes on the meaning of three verses. LOL Love you brother.
@davidtester8638 ай бұрын
Love the new camera/setup! Looking good!
@kevinhullinger87438 ай бұрын
Well done, most pastors and producers want to tell you what you want to hear all around. Do you become pacifist and not defend good or let evil prevail? If all good is defeated only evil remains. No one wants to look like a easy target either
@elizabethmoe11898 ай бұрын
Maybe the Two Swords question is mainly about Jesus reaching out mercifully to Malchus, the high priest’s servant? Perhaps Malchus was being negatively, deceitfully influenced by the religious leaders to view Jesus as an evil, deadly national threat. Jesus came not to condemn the world, and He was actively reaching out to save Malchus. Peter needed that sword so that Malchus would need Jesus. What a shock! No, two shocks for Malchus: 1. having his ear cut off, and 2. Jesus carefully putting his ear back in place and healing it!
@Mattamillion-vk2pf8 ай бұрын
I always found that to be likely the most interesting verse in the Gospels, because the entire world knows the 'Love you enemy' and 'turn the other cheek' verses and quotes them all the time, but I hardly ever hear anyone mentioning this verse here. So thank you for exploring it Amen.
@MichaelReinke-w2f8 ай бұрын
Thanks mike
@jimdallura62638 ай бұрын
In relation to the first question Mike covers,whether or not a Christian should take up arms to defend the innocent or persuade aggressors through pacifism. One of my favorite movies that addresses this question is a 1986 movie called, The Mission with Robert De Niro and Jeremy Irons. At the end of the movie the internal struggle you feel is so real in the sense that the desire to take up arms against violent oppressors is overwhelming especially as a man but also respect and identify with those that choose pacifism as a way to exemplify God‘s love and patience towards us as Christ exemplified. Pretty heavy movie but worth watching. Beautiful Ennio Morricone music scores and academy award winning. A time when it meant something.
@carriestout64228 ай бұрын
I think self defense is Biblical. I do have something to protect myself. However, regarding being personally in the military. I could not serve in good conscience. I do not want to kill other people. Even those my nation would consider an enemy. Jesus loves the people we might be at war with. Who am I to take their life?
@alainm60708 ай бұрын
If it is indeed biblical, one should be able to show in the Bible (chapters and verses) where New Testament believers used it or were taught it. It is not like they did not face dangers from bandits, Jews, and Gentiles (2 Cor 11: 26), quite the opposite. How did they deal with violence against them? Did they distinguish between civil and religious persecution? Did they first ask why someone wanted to kill them and then, depending on the answer used self-defense or peacefully laid down their lives? The New Testament is rather consistent when it comes to how saints are to respond to violence.
@bobbie48628 ай бұрын
@@alainm6070Do me a favor, show me in the Bible where online porn is forbidden. Not the idea, specifically online porn. I'll wait...
@Ommel1957 ай бұрын
@@alainm6070 Why would it be neccessary to show that it was used? It was allowed in the old testament and I see nothing contradicting it in the new testament, or can you show where it is ruled out? When Paul is about to get get ambushed in Acts 23 he seeks out the protection of the roman authories and gets a military escort. He is clearly accepting that people would get killed, should they try to attack. Why would he put others into a situation where they would have to sin on his behalf? Ofc violence should be a last resort. But it does not mean it's off the table. Also they wouldn't need to be taught because it is such a common sense concept to defent your life and others.
@alainm60707 ай бұрын
@@Ommel195 You should then show when violence was on the table in doctrine or in practice (with approval)> A key principle of sound exegesis is to see how the audience understood and applied specific commands as a clue and guide for our own interpretation and practice of said commands. This is why we do not gouge our eyes or cut our hands or feet when we are tempted (Matthew 18) but instead flee various opportunities to sin (1 Cor 6:18; 10:14; 1 Tim 6:11; 2 Tim 2:22) which practically accomplishes what Jesus figuratively asked the disciples to do. A lot of things were allowed in the Old Testament that are discontinued in the New. In the Old Testament (OT), people were allowed to take revenge themselves and had the right to kill those guilty of manslaying (Numbers 35). OT saints also took arms to mete out God’s judgment on offenders, individual sinners or even nations. However, even in the OT, violence and especially killing disqualified one from serving the Lord is some capacity. David was prevented from building the Temple because he had shed blood and fought wars. God only allowed Solomon who was a man of peace to do so (1 Chronicle 22). The paradigm shift concerning the use of violence is clearly stated in the famous Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5:38-42). Jesus asked not to resist the evil person. He told Peter to stop and that all who take the sword will perish by the sword (the only instance of the use of violence) in Matt 26:52. Paul stated that we do not war according to the flesh with human weapons (2 Cor 10:3,4). This is why it is not surprising for saints in the next century to have the same outlook as they faced lions and bandits. He bids us to “love our enemies, bless them who curse us, and pray for those who despitefully use us.” And He says: “If anyone strikes you on the one cheek, turn to him the other also; and if anyone takes away your coat, do not hinder him from taking your cloak also.” Clement of Alexandria (c. 195), If, then, we are commanded to love our enemies (as I have remarked above), whom have we to hate? If injured, we are forbidden to retaliate, lest we become just as bad ourselves. Who can suffer injury at our hands? Tertullian (c. 197) How often you inflict gross cruelties on Christians. You do this, partly because it is your own inclination, and partly in obedience to the laws.… Yet, banded together as we are, ever so ready to sacrifice our lives, what single case of revenge for injury are you able to point to? However, if it were held to be right for us to repay evil by evil, a single night with a torch or two could achieve an ample vengeance. But away with the idea of a divine sect avenging itself by human fires! Tertullian (c. 197) I could go on but the paradigm shift is there both in doctrine and practice. That and the fact that Jesus never mentioned what the swords would be used for, which further undermines the case for self defense that lacks biblical support in the New Testament.
@robertbrewer11527 ай бұрын
Maybe not as a deterrent or self defense but as a crutch or a way for the disciples to have the courage to continue through eminent danger with the correct amount of strength while being so overwhelmingly outnumbered. Not overly armed that they use it but not completely helpless they fold up or respond out of fear.
@usnationalist8 ай бұрын
How do you reconcile lethal self defense (sword) with Mathew 5:39 that tells us not resist an evil person. Is it a severity issue? Don't use force to stop someone from stealing from you, but you can to stop them from killing you?
@lrdeldric8 ай бұрын
I think there’s plenty going on in the world to understand what happens when bad people are allowed to have their way in the world. I think the feeling of having guns changes a lot when you have a family to protect.
@andrewross18668 ай бұрын
😂 I was waiting for the end of the pause to end with the Dundee response. “That’s not a knife”.
@rogermansour60858 ай бұрын
Mike great teachings again. Sarah Zimmerman in case I forget my question for next week is: Is it correct to cast lots. When I'm in a very difficult situation ,only rarely I will cast lots like the disciples did in the book of Acts. Let me know what Mike thinks. Evangelist Roger Mansour
@markhaszoe-life63378 ай бұрын
It's always a great day listening to 10 questions thank you brother Mike. I agree with your assessment about the swords it's how I thought about it to begin with. possibly because I'm a bit older I've had more time to think about it? I think your answer was very good. I don't know if this is applicable, but they possibly would need the swords to protect them from wild animals, preparing food and that kind of thing? I don't know if that's a good point but it's something I thought about.
@victor-hn1bh8 ай бұрын
1)whatever Jesus meant by the text; one thing is clear he never intended for them to use the sword to defend him 2) after pentecost none of the apostles used violence or sword to defend themself against the Jewish authorities or the Roman rulers then present. 3) None of the Apostles or disciples used the sword to defend themselves. The magistrates and governors and the power that be are ordained to use the sword.
@historyandhorseplaying73748 ай бұрын
But they weren't the only ones in the ancient world who had swords.
@josephpchajek26858 ай бұрын
@@historyandhorseplaying7374 what does that have to do with what he said?
@historyandhorseplaying73748 ай бұрын
@@josephpchajek2685 he made it sound like only "magistrates and governors" carried swords
@tnmblonewolf87998 ай бұрын
Preaching Christianity was illegal so if a Roman officials arrested them and punished them for spreading the word they can’t fight back because that would be a capital offense to attack Roman guards.
@JosiahKellyAxiom8 ай бұрын
The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; devout men are swept away, while no one considers that the righteous are guided from the presence of evil. Isaiah 57:1 Sounds like some kind of possible preservation of the godly
@Zona-w9i8 ай бұрын
armies fight wars with swords. Jesus was literally telling them to sell their stuff and buy the same thing an army would attack them with. i think it makes a perfect case for ak-47's unrestricted. did the disciples ask anybody if they were allowed to buy a sword? do you think the romans were cool with jews buying swords? unfettered self defense used to be considered a biblical idea thats why the founding fathers called it a ''God given right''.
@percyaisling58928 ай бұрын
Q6 made me think of Isaiah 57:1-2 how the righteous die to be spared from evil. I wonder if that’s what the person asking was talking about?
@Old_Catholic8 ай бұрын
That God won't shove our sins in our faces, if we are forgiven, I agree. Yet, most Christians have this concept that God will shove our sins in our faces on Judgement Day. It can't be both ways. If God has forgotten our sins, if we are in the New Covenant, then those who are in the New Covenant can't have their sins recalled on Judgement Day.
@rTrax8 ай бұрын
Boy I’m glad I didn’t marry my high school fling who I thought God told me I was gonna marry lol. Been happily married for 13 years with 6 kids now and my wife is incredible! Reminds me of that country sound by Garth Brooks ‘Unanswered Prayers’ 😆
@ethanklein84068 ай бұрын
As a Pacifistic Messianic Jew, I still believe that the right to self-defense is instituted by God. Of course, I view Pacifism as a more of a refusal to engage in conflict unless otherwise necessary. In this example, it could be argued that all Christians, by technicality, could be Pacifists unless forced into engagement.
@daltonbrasier54918 ай бұрын
That would be considered Non aggression. Pacifism is the moral philosophy that violence is immoral even if you are defending your daughter from sexual assault.
@momzilla94918 ай бұрын
That is the way I think all Christians should act. Right to self defence acting from the head, not anger. We are told to turn the other cheek. As Jesus rights a wrong when reattaching the Soldier's ear. We are told that there is no greater love than to lay down your life for a friend. Protect people. Pick up a Sword when needed and keep it in a safe place. Jesus didn't teach cowardice. He taught strength through love. Great lesson today!
@ethanklein84068 ай бұрын
@daltonbrasier5491 I agree to an extent as I seem to interpret in the more clinical sense of "conscientious objection." But I believe that looming at it from that point of view is that to the extent that it's in my control, I would much prefer to avoid conflict if at all possible. I believe that peace with all should be upheld to the extent that it's in my control. If I have the option, I should rather leave than engage in a trivial pursuit. But if forced upon a scenario in which it is the only option, defense is most necessary. Perhaps my view is more so on the incorrect terminology, but it seems correct from my point of view. I should also mention I myself would prefer to object, but I still wish to have those who are more capable with a sword to take it up and defend the faith.
@momzilla94918 ай бұрын
@@ethanklein8406 Cool enough... God grant me the the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. Courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. I think you have an awesome attitude!
@Wolkersdorfer028 ай бұрын
@@ethanklein8406 I would be careful when claiming to be pacifistic if that's not what you mean. It sounds like you are absolutely not pacifist.
@fishtail11298 ай бұрын
I’ve heard so many people claim “God told me” various things, and insist if you even question it you are quenching the Spirit. That is spiritual manipulation. If God has truly spoken to you and someone has questions, you shouldn’t feel like you need to be defensive or to put them down. Red flag IMO! I was in a ministry where it was taught that all you had to do was go pray and God would automatically speak to you, then we were to share what we heard. 98% nonsense yet we were not to question it.
@nogodsnokingsonlymen85388 ай бұрын
Hi everyone, I am a huge fan of mikes ministry and I would like to offer my humble perspective into question 1, the two swords. Weapons in the old world are different to weapons of our age but they are not incomparable. Each weapon is a tool for specific jobs. A sword was not the equivalent to a tank in that age, something like a tank may be more akin to 20 shields all used well by soldiers or maybe a ballista. (Very large crossbow, stationary) A dedicated weapon of war and apex of the the ancient warriors arsenal would be the war bow. This would roughly be the equivalent to a modern ak or ar. Though at rifles are often used. For hunting a war bow would not. However a sword is not too different. It is personal, it is close range so used face to face. Often not as a primary weapon (in this era of history two handed longswords were not really common). The swords in the passage did indeed represent a part of a soldiers kit. Indeed, a short sword was the most expensive and deadly melee weapon one man could use! And not only that, it required skill and practice to use effectively. The common close range self defense weapons of the day were long broad knives or bronze maces. Both had additional uses, both were cheap, and maces in particular were excellent at punching above their weight and fending off armored foes. And both did not require the patience and practice a sword did to get even passibly good with. Infact, in inept hands a sword could easily be swatted away and turned on its wielder. But a skilled swordsman would win every close combat encounter he was presented with. Additionally, swords were not cheap. Again, these were the end all be all of melee combat. They were not to be made of cheap bronze, they were not to be used for frivolous tasks. They were weapons. The modern equivalent would be something fairly bulky but not unwieldy. Something top of the line, but not excessively deadly. Something that showed clearly the welder was no pushover. Something that would unquestionably end combat once started. But not something to march to war with alone. Though not something for a mere civilian. I would then compare these swords to the modern pistol, short shotgun, or PDW. (The personal defence weapon). Something as small as a very sturdy and effective pistol worn on the hip to something more like an Uzi or mp5 slung over the shoulder. In my opinion, the man of the house is the protector. So a 1911 on your hip is a fair call. And until law and order break down again I would advise against open carry of an mp5. But hey why not stick one in the truck if you live somewhere where cops take an hour to respond.
@buckaroobonsaitree74888 ай бұрын
I wonder if the people that think defending yourself with a weapon have families they really love. I am also the man of my house and will protect those under my care if I have to. Even if this means taking a life. The same God who strengthened David's hands for war is on His throne.
@nogodsnokingsonlymen85388 ай бұрын
@@buckaroobonsaitree7488 careful not to cast shade against a Christian so ready for mayrterdom they refuse to arm themselves to expedite that process. I respect that drive. Though I don't think it's biblical. But on the other hand I do think most urbanites, leftists, and atheists are part of a death cult of some sort. Where they place the value of all human life below everything. Including the weather, animals, their preferred government system, ECT.
@donnakarp62328 ай бұрын
My husband is away from our home 11 hours a day, working to provide for us. Who is my protector/defender when he is not by my side?
@nogodsnokingsonlymen85388 ай бұрын
@@donnakarp6232 a gun
@matthewrace27388 ай бұрын
Mike, thank you so much for your thoughts on question 1! I've really been wrestling in my mind on what situations would call for defense or martyrdom from me. I'd love to hear more from you on that subject someday!
@damienblauwald8 ай бұрын
What made sense to me is that this is a two-fold situation. If I recall, this happens often in the Bible. First, as Jesus will no longer be in the world, having a device for self defense will be useful. Second, this look will will also fulfill the prophecy about being numbered with the transgressors. Both of these can be, and to me likely are, true at the same time. Two swords will be enough to fulfill the prophecy which will be acted out shortly and those without swords can purchase one later. I suspect having a sword strapped on would be enough to dissuade potential robbers on the road.
@trevorwedman79028 ай бұрын
Mike countered the look of transgressors very clearly with scriptural references. What mechanism or passages are you using to justify ignoring his teaching?
@alainm60708 ай бұрын
@@trevorwedman7902 The "look of transgressor" is not a great interpretation nor is it necessary. At no point does Jesus indicate how and against whom the swords are to be used. Jesus only tells the disciples that carrying swords will fulfill prophecy and that fulfillment is about how the righteous one who dies for the sins of many would be mistakenly counted as a transgressor (Isaiah 53:11-12). We might speculate as to the mechanism by which swords would make Jesus be numbered as a transgressor, but what is clear is that Jesus had no intention to have the disciples use violence for him (John 18:36), and apart was Peter who was quickly rebuked, no believer is ever shown in the New Testament as using a sword or any other means of violence for self-defense or in any way that would make it a literal fulfillment of Mike's interpretation (he concedes as much).
@bradleyh61228 ай бұрын
Hey Mike. Love your channel. Keep up the strong biblical teaching. For question 6, this passage in Isaiah might in part answer the person's question. It seems to imply that some righteous people are taken early so that more evil cannot be done to them on earth. It doesn't explicitly state that the purpose is to preserve their salvation. But I can see how someone could potentially extrapolate that from the parts that are explicitly stated. Isaiah 57:1 (Why good people die young) "The righteous perishes, And no man takes it to heart; Merciful men are taken away, While no one considers That the righteous is taken away from evil. He shall enter into peace; They shall rest in their beds, Each one walking in his uprightness."
@josephwatts90138 ай бұрын
I’m just gonna go out in a limb here…but could he have been telling them to obtain a sword so that with that sword and through foreknowledge and providence…so that Peter would cut off the ear of one of the guards and by doing so would give Jesus the opportunity to rebuke Peter and then show his mercy by restoring the ear of the guard? I know it sounds crazy but then again…God’s ways are not our ways. If we can take the prophesy concerning Judas that his role over his lifetime and the three years was really to help bring about Calvary…I don’t know…something to think about
@MrSorbias8 ай бұрын
But doesn't Peter later in acts 3:6 when he was with John tell that he doesn't have money? (gold or silver). Does it mean they or at least Peter had the sword at that moment or moneybag, but not money in it? The reason for the confusion lies in the fact that we don't have any use cases for those swords anywhere else in the Bible than in the place where Jesus indicates that it was wrong to use it.
@MrSorbias8 ай бұрын
Other problem I am having with this is that why they needed the swords now this specific moment? Jesus was about to teach them a lot of things for their future missions, 40 days after he rose from death. So somehow I think the sword thing is connected to the things that happened in the Getsemane. He could have teach it later after rising from death anyways. I'm still somehow going into the same direction with you, that if we see someone being attacked, we should try to make it stop somehow. That would be defending the person who is being attacked. That is a way to stop the Immediate danger and then we would figure out how to continue after it.
@clarkemorledge23988 ай бұрын
Mike: It seems like your mic level was down today, in comparison to past live streams.
@soulstorm88067 ай бұрын
Subscribed. Excellent points. The Lord expressly says: “If you would hear My Voice do not harden your hearts as in the day of provocation as in the wilderness etc. (End of Scripture). I myself have heard that Still Small Voice. Not all the time. Rarely. But I have heard Him speak. In the Bible and also out of it. He implies right there that it’s not really wonderful when you aren’t hearing His Voice! Is that not so? “If you would hear My Voice.” He said! You can almost hear Him say simultaneously “If you would have a relationship with Me.” Because if you have never heard His Voice I would certainly wonder how much relationship can even be built without speaking! Sure there are many millions of liars out there that don’t hear GOD’s Voice who say they do but they are wrong. They don’t know GOD. Some do. And some do NOT. It’s our business to differentiate between the two.
@litigioussociety42498 ай бұрын
Your audio was really bass heavy. Something might need to be adjusted.
@Dee-nonamnamrson87188 ай бұрын
What did he catch it with? A spinner? I've caught most of my heavy bass with a popper.
@Epicguyman7778 ай бұрын
Yeah agreed. Can make it hard to listen to. Maybe it’s using his webcam mic
@israelrodriguez69868 ай бұрын
That’s true , I actually had to take my earbuds off to be able to hear better/ as in clearer. Great observation!
@darrylhutchinson36117 ай бұрын
Iisous is conveying to the disciples that once He is taken out of their presence they will forgot that they had no need for those things they needed in their former lives while He was with them. But once He is gone, they’re going back to their former lives of which those things will be useful. It’s a play on FAITH as it is pertains to believing and not seeing vs believing what one can see. So the moral of the passage is to believe what Iisous says about The Father taking care of you in His presence or absence.
@Josh.Proctor8 ай бұрын
As a 2A supporter, who vowed to defend the US Constitution in service to the country, I agree that we need to leave scripture as scripture, and politics as politics. I believe in the right to self-defense, even to the point of having the same weapons that might be used against us, but I also believe Jesus to his disciples was speaking to them, directly, and with a specific context in mind regarding his life and theirs, and the circumstances that would soon befall them. It wasn't a command to the church, believers as a whole, etc. Jesus was speaking to his disciples, period. Now, can it be inferred a bit to mean that Jesus, and God as a whole, might support self-defense, at least to certain degrees? I think that might be safe to say. There's nothing in scripture that indicates God is a pacifist. God-directed war exists in the OT. And even while those wars say nothing about self-defense, it does say something about God not being averse to bloodshed to fulfil His will. But I don't think we can infer anything else on the application to modern issues from Jesus's conversation with the disciples. Like how much is enough, too much, too little, in terms of self-defense? We don't know, and that isn't the point of Jesus's commands to them.
@ryantannar53018 ай бұрын
That's a pretty solid understanding of it. The Bible clearly isn't opposed to self defense and weapon ownership, but it also does not command anything specific on the subject. Personally I see the condemnation against having an opportunity to do good and not doing so is a stronger case for self defense in the Bible than this verse. I have the ability and the will to intervene in order to protect someone and therefore it would be a sin for me to not do so, and if I am going to be someone who steps in to defend others it's logical to carry but not Biblically mandated. I also see pacifism as blatant sin. Some will argue for a modified definition of pacifisim and hold to that, but if you actually hold to what pacifisim actually is it's sinful. A true pacifist would not use violence to save their wife and child for example.
@flowerpower36188 ай бұрын
The wars in the OT were to perverse the blood line for Jesus I believe.
@acem828 ай бұрын
20:25 Another thing about "take" the sword, this can also mean "to take hold of" or "choose". So, this can again be a general rule that one choosing violence will often end with one's own death. This goes along with "My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest..." His Kingdom is not to be forwarded with violence, so violence should never be our first choice. I also like how much more understandable Peter's attack on the servant looks in view of this passage. Jesus had just told him to arm himself a few hours prior. Peter had heard about David's mighty men. Now he's got the Messiah at his back, and he's going to hack his way through this Cohort (about 480 soldiers)! Hence Peter's confusion and retreat once Jesus tells him to knock it off and heals the guy's ear.
@rubenthekid8 ай бұрын
That verse about the swords is pretty damn straight forward to me. "It is enough." Sounds very literal in this context, as in "yeah that should be good." Or "that'll be enough to keep you safe/help you survive." People who debate it just don't want to give the pro 2A crowd power.
@Tennishangman8 ай бұрын
It’s just a little hard to square with the disciples’ actions in Acts and the remainder of Jesus’ teachings (e.g., general disdain for Peter cutting Malchus’s ear). One would expect the early Christians to form self-defense communities, but alas, they seemed to pretty enthusiastically embrace martyrdom in the name of Christ. Wouldn’t you expect to find some other passage about the disciples’ work to preserve self defense if that was Christ’s teaching? It seems to me the verse is straightforward in isolation, but difficult to reconcile with the rest of Scripture under such a reading. I’m not saying the out-of-context reading is wrong, I’m just saying there is more work to be done than slapping a plain-meaning reading on it and calling it a day.
@rubenthekid8 ай бұрын
@@Tennishangman I'm just thinking this could be the case of a verse pertaining solely to the characters in that particular time, sorta like "not everything I say is going to be a parable."
@rubenthekid8 ай бұрын
@@Tennishangman but aside from this one verse in regards to being used to justify using weaponry for self defense, there are plenty cases in the bible in which we are called to defend ourselves from evil, in whatever way that may be, spiritually or physically.
@Tennishangman8 ай бұрын
@@rubenthekid New Testament passages about the followers of Christ responding to oppression with physical self defense? Can you provide another example outside this one?
@rubenthekid8 ай бұрын
@@Tennishangman Luke 11:21, but that one in context is more metaphorical if anything. I guess most of the verses that bring up self defense are mostly metaphorical in context, but from what I'm reading, this verse that Mike was asked about is still pretty straight forward, because even the verse that speaks of when Peter acts in defense of Christ and cuts the soldier's ear off, and Christ rebukes him for it, Christ only rebuked him because Peter was trying to act against God's will, and not because of the act itself, in which Jesus Himself is fine with in any other context.
@jessejive11748 ай бұрын
I think if you take the verse all the way, literally about the sword then you have to assume Jesus only wants you to buy a sword through currency that was obtained by selling clothes and he wants you to go around being naked or an underwear or whatever they wore under a cloak. I don’t think Jesus would be against a Christian acting in self-defense at all. Especially for other people. I think there are times where it’s good for Christians to not defend themselves and lead their lives, but I think it’s case by case
@thomasodonnell86938 ай бұрын
I was a blackbelt in Ju Jitsu for 11 years and trained 18 hours per week this is unarmed combat where nothing is barred with a kill or be killed mentality. When I became a born again Christian I immediately stopped as I could not see Jesus punching anyone's lights out. He would not even snuff out a smouldering wick. I recommend following the advice for a son in proverbs. Stay away from evil. If some one wants to attack you run so fast they can not catch you, saves all the years self defence practise.
@daltonbrasier54918 ай бұрын
Jesus whipped people.
@FireflowerDancer8 ай бұрын
There are some situations where running is not an option. I do agree with your consideration to not participate in training that involves brutality, though.
@SharkAcademy8 ай бұрын
We live in such privileged times. If you’ve ever lived in the country where there aren’t tons of people everywhere and police won’t get there to help you, you don’t walk without protection, and it’s not necessarily from humans. If a wild boar decides it doesn’t like you and you don’t have any way to protect yourself, you’re going to at best have a bad day, at worst it will be your last day as you bleed out