20 Questions with Pastor Mike (Episode 104)

[@sarahfaith316]

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro 1. 0:38 {Avoiding the Appearance of Evil?} You recently said, "Scripture says: avoid the appearance of evil." I was wondering, if 1 Thessalonians 5: 22 is the verse you were thinking of, isn't that Scripture referring to staying away from partaking in evil, not abstaining from things that look like you're partaking in evil to others? 2. 17:49 {About Jesus’ DNA} What was Jesus' DNA? Was Jesus' DNA 100% from God, or did He have Mary's human DNA? Perhaps it's the same DNA as Adam, since Jesus is the 2nd Adam? 3. 23:25 {Angels Ascending & Descending?} What did Jesus mean in John 1: 51? Was it a specific word for Nathanael, or does it apply to everyone? Would really love some clarity. 4. 30:58 {Brotherly Support vs. Enabling Legalism} How do we balance being careful not to stumble a fellow believer, while also not catering to someone's legalism? 5. 37:24 {Polygamy in Scripture?} Polygamy? Exodus 21: 10-11 says if he takes to himself another woman, he may not reduce her food, her clothing, or her conjugal rights. Clearly, God is speaking of multiple wives. Your thoughts? 6. 44:11 {Negative Words = Neg. Consequences?} In WOF (Word of Faith) circles, 2 Kings 4:8-37 is an example of why you shouldn’t speak or pray negatively about your situation. What is the actual idea of this passage? 7. 53:41 {Envy vs. Jealousy?} Is there a difference between envy and jealousy? Can you describe what the difference is biblically? 8. 56:09 {Did Joseph Fail to “Test the Spirits”?} 1 John 4 says to “test the spirits.” But Mary's husband, Joseph, didn't appear to do this when he had the dream to flee to Egypt. How should we understand or interpret this? 9. 1:00:20 {Must we “Wait for God” before Salvation?} Can you get saved whenever? My church teaches that God must first “knock on your heart” before you can respond and accept salvation. This leads to some people wanting to be saved, but waiting. 10. 1:05:51 {Clarifying a Difficult Passage} A local UMC pastor preached on Matthew 18: 21-35. She said scholars say that Matthew added verses 34-35 and that the master does not represent God. I've never heard this take and it sounds concerning. Any insight? 11. 1:09:12 {Why Didn’t Jesus Baptize?} Why didn’t Jesus water baptize anyone Himself (John 4:2)? 12. 1:13:20 {Do Not Evangelize to Some People?} Are there situations or groups of people for whom we shouldn't share the Gospel? Acts 16:6-7 seems to say so, but I'd love to hear your insight on the topic and your interpretation of this passage. 13. 1:17:21 {Godly Headship Carried Out} What does a husband being the head of the wife actually mean he does? I don't find any actionable steps or clear examples in the Bible. Does he boss her around or just be a good man? 14. 1:22:20 {Do We Each Have a “Calling”?} How do we know how we (individually) are meant to serve the Lord? 15. 1:25:32 {Thoughts on Genesis 1/Creation} I've recently seen Inspiring Philosophy's video on Genesis 1. He says that it's most likely mirroring the near East tradition of assigning purpose rather than actual creation. Thoughts? 16. 1:34:09 {Song of Solomon = Christ & Church?} I am currently studying Song of Solomon, and I was wondering, do you believe that it represents Christ and the Church? I have an issue with that, as the book describes a sexual relationship. 17. 1:37:30 {Can Same-Sex Attractions Change?} I'm a Christian, converted this year. I've felt the Holy Spirit inspire me to live a better life in many ways. But I still struggle with one thing. I'm gay and I struggle to see how my attraction could change. 18. 1:40:35 {DND, Harry Potter, etc.} The Bible is clear about its stance on sorcery and witchcraft. My husband and I play DND and some people were having an issue with this and potentially also with books containing magic. What are your thoughts? 19. 1:45:39 {Godly Dating Practices} What is the best way to date for marriage as a Christian? Is there a good way to sift through people to find someone equally yoked? 20. 1:49:05 {Loving the Lord with Everything} I’ve been wondering about the great commandment Jesus gives in Matthew 22: 36. Seems like a Deuteronomy 6 quote, but why does Jesus change the last quality from “might” to “mind”? Bonus Q! 1:52:02 Were they really taking the Hobbits to Isengard?

[@NewCreationInChrist896]

9) God is waiting on us-John 3:16. Depending on the person, as soon as you hear The Gospel of Jesus Christ and realize you’re a sinner in need of a Savior-that hope & trust in your heart for Jesus is your salvation. You become spiritually baptized-John 3:3. Ephesians 1:13-14 🕊️ “In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.”

[@nancyswass119]

You can't trust Orks!

[@danielstewart2519]

R.C. Sproul asked in his book Willing to Believe, "why do you believe, but someone else doesn't?" The idea being that if you freely chose God then there must have been something better or more righteous about you, not God, than the other person. How would you respond?

[@LillyMarz777]

Women should not be pastors.

[@sandrakozlowski6921]

Loved this episode! The peripheral things require wisdom!

[@Truthwar.]

I am Kenyan and this stream happens at 11.00pm and having been at work I hardly join you guys live. I view it on Saturday though. It's such a blessing. Thanks Mike and team.

[@KM-zn3lx]

Hi Truthwar!

[@Truthwar.]

@@KM-zn3lx Hello 👋

[@rwilson7197]

Love your YT name, Truthwar! Keep spreading the truth & the love. From an American Sister in Christ our Lord.

[@Truthwar.]

@@rwilson7197 Thanks

[@primus1704]

stream it later

[@kayholcomb9439]

Last week I needed to make a 12-hour drive by myself. I listened to 20 questions probably 9 out of the 12 hours. Time went so fast, I learned, and I was blessed. Thank you for this ministry.

[@hbenny5752]

I do this too!! It is never a bad time to think biblically. Also, my husband had to work and so I was alone one night and fell asleep to the 20 questions playlist.. Mike isn’t boring enough to fall asleep to, but his voice is so soothing lol.

[@UndergroundTr33House]

Truck driver here, and I do the very same ! I have every episode downloaded on my phone and just let them play ! 😊

[@Drizo41]

@@UndergroundTr33House used to drive for ups. God bless you brother out there. Stay strapped with the sword and gun 🫡🙏

[@jaclynjames7332]

I do this as well. Whenever I drive from California to Utah, and then back again.

[@mamuklutze6474]

​@@UndergroundTr33Housewow that is so awesome 👍🏾

[@JerryRoark777]

I have to commend you for being brave and honest enough to not only admit a mistake but also to give detailed information about how and why. I haven't watched a lot of your videos, but I've seen a lot of other Christian KZbinrs who would never do something like that. That takes real strength and shows a real passion for truth... something I wish more Christians would show publicly.

[@chickintruth]

Amen! Humility is a beautiful gift from God.

[@TheNz5]

Thanks for being an example for us as a fellow believer. We should all exam ourselves with the word of God and keep learning and renewing of our minds. God bless ur contents and ministries to reach more souls. Shalom.

[@truthdawn7773]

Trinity is a paganism belief, it's just saying the father which is the knowledgeable,is not the living holy spirit,which is not the capable,or speaking the son jesus. So you believe in three useless gods without each other, so ur son god jesus is ignorant, and dead. Your father god is dead and capable of nothing. Your spirit god is incapable and ignorant. Also between each two gods there must be one additional god ,then between those three gods there is two also.. and so on to an endless number of gods

[@littlecatedward7737]

What you just said sounds like you are making up your own version based off the word trinity without looking into what it actually is lol

[@JerryRoark777]

@littlecatedward7737 That sounds like a Jehovah's Witness, maybe. Of course, I have no way of knowing for sure, but I have heard similar things regarding the Trinity from them. I had a civil conversation with the mother of a girl I dated, and one of the things we discussed was the Trinity and the nature of God. She was a Jehovah's Witness, and she said some of those talking points, only in a much less condescending and insulting manner. As it turned out, she had never actually heard any version of the Trinity besides what her leaders had told her that people believe. This is what happens when people don't seek out information on their own and just assume. Sad, really.

[@PDL4747]

"This is the nature of sin: it is never fulfilled." What a great statement!!

[@andychurray9671]

💯💯💯

[@truthdawn7773]

Trinity is a paganism belief, it's just saying the father which is the knowledgeable,is not the living holy spirit,which is not the capable,or speaking the son jesus. So you believe in three useless gods without each other, so ur son god jesus is ignorant, and dead. Your father god is dead and capable of nothing. Your spirit god is incapable and ignorant. Also between each two gods there must be one additional god ,then between those three gods there is two also.. and so on to an endless number of gods.

[@robertdouglas8895]

It never existed. John 7:24 Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment. This world of appearance is not what is real. God does not created temporary, separate things. John 17:20-24 NIV “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one- I in them and you in me-so that they may be brought to complete unity.

[@Justinn.777]

@@truthdawn7773 You worship a fake god, Allah is from the Arab Pagans. I hope you can wake up and realize Jesus is the only way

[@JennyLatimer]

I’m so eager for Him to come. To praise and serve Him for eternity along with our family of Christ

[@terissakeller]

I love your heart and humble tone. Your intelligence is impressive yet not a hint of arrogance. It makes you so enjoyable to listen to. I thank God for the knowledge and insight I receive weekly from your ministry. I also send up prayers for your health and every blessing and help from the Lord!

[@lisalisa13]

Well said.

[@thelmajohnson967]

I agree.

[@fantasia55]

Winger is not humble. Like all Protestants, he thinks he understands Christianity better than any Christian throughout the first fifteen centuries since the Resurrection.

[@fantasia55]

Humble? Mike Winger thinks he knows more about Christianity than anyone before 1517.

[@truthdawn7773]

Trinity is a paganism belief, it's just saying the father which is the knowledgeable,is not the living holy spirit,which is not the capable,or speaking the son jesus. So you believe in three useless gods without each other, so ur son god jesus is ignorant, and dead. Your father god is dead and capable of nothing. Your spirit god is incapable and ignorant. Also between each two gods there must be one additional god ,then between those three gods there is two also.. and so on to an endless number of gods Trying to prove the trinity with the sunrays or fire flames is just disproving god (and saying out loud that god is a creature), because you made him changeable, have parts ,so it is three different things separated but the same meaning (what it is) You made god as a factory of gods🤦 Also the sun rays is an act from the sun ,the flames are an act from the fire ,so you make the acts of god (which has a beginning) ,gods 🤦,,, so we are all gods ,and from god, we are not the father ,not the spirit not the son ,but we are all god , because we are an acts from him . _Jesus has a twelve successors after him that were from god as him._ There was a Christian cult that didn't believed in trinity ,or jesus death ,or some bible twisting. .

[@domeretaylor4437]

Mike, I love that you're not so clickbaity that you place the content in the thumbnail 40 minutes into the video. You address it right away knowing that's likely the reason the person clicked your video. So now, I will listen to the entire video out of sheer gratitude. It's the little things.😅

[@Dcountrybizness]

Jesus was 100% man 100% GOD. Through GOD all things are possible

[@Maria_O]

That's what I like about Mike Winger! He admits when he's wrong and he states when he doesn't know something. Always learning. Oh that we should all behave thusly!

[@mindwarrior-conquerwithchr8094]

Thank you Mike for always being humble . That’s what makes you a powerful leader and teacher . Grateful for your love for Christ and his sheep ❤️.

[@astrosquirrel5038]

These streams are always such a blessing and a highlight of my week. Thank you so much for faithfully preaching the Gospel week after week.

[@mattr2264]

As the years have worn on, Mike, you have consistently and increasingly not only become my personal "go-to" for interesting, godly and healthy insights into sometimes very difficult passages (and corrections of misconceptions), but my recommendation for believers to reference who are seeking the same experience/answers. Don't grow weary in your well-doing, brother! You are a true encouragement.

[@grayman5271]

All the stars for Mike Winger!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thank you Mike!

[@storyaboutmosquitoes9441]

Comment to promote reach. Thank you so much Mike, I got saved in march this year. Your videos have been an incredible blessing

[@texasskygirl7890]

I grew up with KJV. The "appearance" was how I always understood that verse. When I was a teenager, I saw my pastor at a restaurant and he was having a glass of wine. I was disappointed. That may have been on me. But he had to know as a conservative Baptist preacher how it "could" look bad. "To not hurt people with your liberties" is a good way to put it.

[@melfuz]

I agree with you on this 100%.

[@yvonnepope5636]

Thank you for your valuable Godly content. Your teaching is solid, scriptural, clear and understandable. You have a gift to teach and are using it for the Glory of God.

[@MadScientistSoap]

I really appreciate how you take the whole counsel of God's word to answer your questions. You remember so many passages throughout the biblical text that can be applied to the questions. The bible interprets the bible.

[@Ephesians-yn8ux]

Agreed and this should be our approach as well with a biblical world view. Take the full scope of scripture into consideration.

[@brendamclean3884]

I love how you break down scriptures and you are honest to say when you don’t know the answer. My husband and I listen to you on our long drives.

[@guarionex4672]

Mike what a great example of a believer you are. Very wise and discerning thinker and teacher you are! Great job going through so many difficult questions and speaking with such great love and care for those that seek His wisdom! You’re doing awesome! Keep it up! Much love brother!

[@jesselucas118]

Mike, stuff like this is exactly why I love your content so much and consider you one of the best teachers to listen to. Humility to admit when you may have been wrong, and in no way shy away from it. Your ministry has been such a blessing to me personally and I cannot thank you enough for simply being obedient and allowing God to use you to help others! Thank you brother!

[@Yesica1993]

I'm guessing that the word, "appearance" used to have more the meaning of "form" or "type" than it came to mean "looking as though, but not actually being." Maybe I'm just old (50+) but that meaning is still in the back of my mind. That's how I always took that verse. Anyway, I get what you're saying here. I appreciate your openness and humility. It's one of the things I most respect about you and your ministry.

[@WillCrawford0]

Yeah, "every shape that evil appears in" might be one way to look at it.

[@jazzman1626]

It seems to be in agreement with what Paul was talking about in 1st Corinthians 10: 23?

[@ace8217]

Forgive my intrusion, I'm only 41 but I feel like I've lived a lifetime of trials, so I feel my opinion is just. I think that in the word "appearance" it's meant to not bare false fruit. (John 15:11) I don't think your example of alcohol works well here. Just my opinion, but I think "appearance" is the correct word, and I feel it's more strict than "form" (less "wiggle room") You said genuine, and I feel that's appropriate, because I feel evil is nothing more than deception.

[@TempleofChristMinistries]

But you could use the word appearance as something coming into being, he appeared out of nowhere, so everytime evil appears it reveals itself it shows itself it manifests itself, avoid it, this would have to do with your own hearts also because within you evil exist if it is to appear reveal itself show itself, and of course evil appearing outside of you, which is in line with every form of evil, when evil shows its face.

[@annbrucepineda8093]

I totally agree with Yesica. Your humility, your willingness to correct yourself if you think you made a mistake, your openness are such a blessing but don't let it go to your head, young man!

[@DogDocLou]

For Mike and the audience: In regards to question 2: I only quickly scanned through the comments so don’t know how many times this has been answered - I’m a fraternal twin and also have a background in Zoology and reproduction (through my advanced degree) Identical twins are ALWAYS same sex because are formed when a fertilized egg (one sperm, one egg) splits and continues dividing as two separate humans. Fraternal twins can exist BOTH as either the same sex, or a male AND female. This is because fraternal twins occur when TWO separate eggs (X) are fertilized by TWO Different sperm (which could be either X or Y). Hope this helps clear that up!

[@horridhenry9920]

@DogDocLou Thanks for the information. I only studied biology to ordinary level, not advanced, and certainly not to degree level. I found Q2 interesting, but confusing. Perhaps you can clarify my confusion. As I understand it each person’s DNA consists of about 3 billion base pairs stored in 23 pairs of chromosomes- 46 in total. One chromosome in each pair comes from each parent. The halves join at conception when a sperm and egg , each with only 23 chromosomes, combine. Applying this to the question whether Jesus’s DNA is 100% from God or did he have Mary’s DNA, or Adams, leads to my confusion. Jesus was male so he has XY chromosomes . He could only have received the Y from his father as women carry XX chromosomes. If he had only received DNA from his mother he would have been her clone, and the same would have applied if he had only received DNA from his father. As I understand it the 23 chromosomes in a sperm or egg are not identical to the chromosomes of every other cell in the body. They go from a cell with 46 chromosomes to a sex cell with only 23 and the chromosomes within each pair swap some sections and recombine. This leads to another problem I have with the question. Recombination occurs uniquely in each sex cell making two sister chromosomes different not only from their parents , but from each other. Because recombination happens before conception the question is how could this apply to Jesus. Maybe I’m looking at it from a biological perspective and it makes no sense to me, whereas it is purely a theological issue whereupon it makes perfect sense.

[@Zac777-y3c]

@@horridhenry9920 think the answer to this question may come down to the supernatural. He had human DNA form Mary but is it hard to believe God gave Him His own DNA just for Him. If God can supernaturally heal a blind person’s eyes, in other words form their eyes out of nothing, then He could do the same for Jesus’s DNA. My theory is that part of Jesus’s DNA was Mary’s and the rest was uniquely His own supernaturally given by God.

[@horridhenry9920]

@@Zac777-y3c I appreciate your reply. Do you think it’s appropriate to talk about DNA where God is concerned? Given that DNA is an abbreviation for deoxyribonucleic acid, a self replicating material present in nearly all living organisms. Do we think there is such a thing as divine genetic material ? I think divine DNA is a metaphor and not a substance. A thought experiment: If divine DNA was a substance, in “theory “, we would be able to take DNA from the Shroud of Turin, assuming it’s real, and clone God. I know, it makes no sense religiously ; but it makes sense biologically based on our current understanding of DNA.

[@dryfus423]

@@horridhenry9920 I think when considering this question, it is important to remember that the conception of Jesus was entirely different than how conception usually works. It was entirely a miracle from God. While it is possible that Mary's DNA was involved, this is not actually even necessary. Jesus has the full human set of chromosomes, but God was and is capable of making those chromosomes take whatever form He desires.

[@horridhenry9920]

@@dryfus423 If Mary’s DNA was not involved then she was a surrogate mother. To be fully human and fully God is the biological equivalent of a squared circle, a logical impossibility. If the chromosomes can take whatever form can they take no form, and would they still be human?

[@irinaferguson8618]

Shalom, Mike! I like your warm communication with brothers and sister in Christ! Thanks for your teaching and your time! Keep going preach, it's so important for us believers, and for people who are still lost. Many blessings with love!

[@JeffWelch-t3g]

Mike, your approach to the truth of the bible is inspirational and soothing to the soul. My wife and I will continue to pray that God uses you to reach those that are low on truthful bible doctrine.

[@blouseshirt4604]

Thank you for all you share. Enjoy how you dive into each question! ❤️

[@oneNAMEaboveall]

For others struggling with the same issue addressed in question 17, Becket Cook is another fabulous resource here on KZbin. Rosaria Butterfield is someone else to look into. Both are godly, intelligent, loving people who God brought out of same sex lifestyles, and are deliberately and specifically reaching out to minister to that area of need. Mike, thank you for all you do. Your efforts are so very much appreciated. Your videos on the different religions/cults have been particularly helpful. Learning about belief systems for things such as Mormonism and Catholicism, etc, in the hope that I am able to speak more knowledgeably to people I may encounter is near and dear to my heart.

[@Chari-]

The door and knocking is if one is desiring a personal relationship with Him. Truly wanting to be lead by Him and wanting to be very close that we go to Him for everything. 🕊

[@neylugraterolr]

Another great 20 quiestions with Pastor Mike. Really cool.

[@corneliusbuckley8897]

Thanks for everything you do mike, I disagree here and there but your deep dive studies are incredibly helpful. Thank God for your wisdom and insight

[@mayrose6296]

Love your humbleness brother Mike

[@Tintin17Nick-wq4hf]

Thanks Mike just for the help in understanding the scriptures because alot of us get it wrong,God bless you all🙏🇬🇧💗

[@Followcanaryyellow]

I do not care what anyone says he is the greatest teacher that we have in our time right now his heart, Pastor, and humility and everything.. he’s gonna get people to the church again because of his level of integrity. God bless you God bless your family and God.

[@mariabaca4070]

Mike, I am so thankful that my youngest son introduced me to you via KZbin. I listen to you all of the time. Of course, I appreciate all of your hours spent in the word and the knowledge that you pass on, but I also appreciate your humble spirit. I pray God blesses you and your wife as you continue to do his will.

[@vernonmartin1986]

Thank You Pastor Mike. After decades of being immersed in Christianity, you have opened my capacity to think Biblically when I didn't know I needed help in this area. I appreciate your humble and objective approach and not trying to use scripture to prove your personal opinion but rather searching for the truth and intent of the Word with a willingness to accept if you find you were wrong. Your explanations using hypothetical applications are so powerful, they lend clarity and open our understanding. God Bless You.

[@libertylarochelle8517]

Thank you Pastor Mike and Co. Greetings from South Australia 🇦🇺.

[@brianmabasa5251]

Keep it up! I like how you always glorify God with everything! Glory to God the highest!

[@julianaallen8477]

Thank you Mike. You briefly mentioned having a friend that when you are with, you tend to go into sin. 2 years ago I reunited with an old friend from before i was born again. Of course I shared my faith with her (multiple times) she wasn't having it though. We were really close friends before and maybe thats why she felt okay being 100% herself when we reunited. She has a problem with stealing and other things that were unacceptable. Before I came to Christ i also had a problem with stealing. It was very difficult but I realized this friendship couldn't continue. I bought her a Bible, highlighted some clear passages that i felt she needed to read and wrote a letter letting her know why i couldn't be friends anymore. Its strange bc i felt horrible it came to this, but my heart never felt convicted. I shared the gospel in the time we had reunited and in my letter and had to trust that God will take it from there. Sometimes i feel like maybe i wasnt serious enough in the year we had been friends again, but i was in my letter. Anyway your quick comment brought me a lot of comfort. Thanks.

[@andrealmoseley6575]

I've gone through similar. No regrets other than I wish she'd walked with the Lord so that we could have been friends in later years.

[@julianaallen8477]

@@andrealmoseley6575 🙂

[@isabeltrosin2099]

Thank you Mike for the clarity that you bring in your answers. May the Lord continue to use you to bring truth to all who view your content. May the Holy Spirit guidance help you to use the knowledge God’s put in you so many will know the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessings to you and your precious wife as well as rest of your family inc. cats.

[@RUT812]

May God richly bless you, Mike Winger ❤

[@abrahamleno9257]

Thanks Pastor Mike for all the teachings and your humility...we all understand that there are things we don't know and you are not afraid admit that in any of your sessions, may God continue to give you grace and wisdom. I have been blessed!

[@najeeamurray323]

This is now one of my favorite channels for Biblical conversations. I love how we all get to learn and grow together by looking at actual Scripture. Thank you Pastor Mike! May God continue to bless you, your family and your ministry!

[@ManoyAquilino]

I love the way you teach. No agenda. Simply, trying to teach the word of God to a lay person like myself.

[@caseymarion7273]

Love you Pastor Mike and all Bible Thinker team for this content! God bless and keep y’all!

[@Ιησους_κυριος]

Humility from teachers is something that’s a negative trait in society. We’re told by the world that it’s weakness and it undermines your influence. Thank you for reminding us that meekness is strength, and thank you for putting on display the fruit of humility. May God convict us all where we’re wrong, especially those who are tasked with teaching and leading, and give us grace to act right in our wrongness. Thanks Mike 👍

[@Jo325skz]

Thank you, Mike, for working so hard and sharing so much with us.

[@Debrannayaka]

Thanks be to God I’m here now in Christ Jesus amen

[@seconddrive4430]

Love your ministry! I listen to it almost daily. Such a blessing. Thank you for what you do!

[@ninas717]

Our sincere thanks Mike for your desire and effort to bring clarity and dispel misunderstandings concerning the application of scripture to our lives.

[@christianayers622]

I played the Witcher 3 a few years ago, its a marvel in the gaming world, so incredible the work they put into it. When i started playing it my mom (who was unaware of me playing this game) started to have dreams of a witch with black hair casting spells with blood in our house. (the way she described it was horrific) Well what do you know, a character in the Witcher is named Yennifer, a witch with black hair, who doesn't shy from any type of evil in the game. Needless to say i know now that the witcher walks the line of demonic to closely for me to play it. This is my own conviction.

[@simplified_faith]

I think this is very wise. I would even go as far to say it’s not an individual conviction issue, as the Bible is quite clear on messing with witchcraft. Maybe the argument is, you aren’t doing magic yourself when playing the game, but surely you are being entertained by it, and I would think it a wise choice not to be entertained by things God calls detestable. I think your choice to stop playing is a great example of being obedient to the Lord. 👍

[@eduardofernandes1806]

My favorite game used to be Dark Souls and my favorite anime/manga used to be Berserk...

[@annbrucepineda8093]

One of my sixth grade students , who had recently returned to El Salvador after the Civil War (proxy war) in 1992, lectured the SSL class about messing around with spooky toys. Two girls were especially open, having had a scary experience with a Ouija. The young man is now an entrepreneur with an M.B.A., I think, but I treasure the stand he took in 6th grade.

[@KM-zn3lx]

I watched a few episodes and had to turn the series off! So full of dark magic! Scary! I think a game is worse because the player participates in it!!!?

[@christianayers622]

@simplified_faith7545 The way you worded this was a blessing to me. Thank you for your insight and encouragement! I think you're right, plain and simple, even if the body isn't participating in the witchcraft, the mind is. Just as jesus said, to look upon a woman with lust, is to commit adultery in your heart.

[@mes147]

Thank God for Pastors and Teachers of Gods word like Mike Winger and others I'm sure, who humble themselves before God Most High and those who tune in. Thank You Mike Winger!

[@candacethorbourne3424]

Thanks for your videos Mike, they’re very interesting and thoughtful! God bless you!!!!! 🙏

[@BibleHacking]

Well done on question # 1, thanks for being humble and transparent.

[@ivahihopeful]

Your videos have popped up in my recommendations for months, and for months I’ve avoided them. I have been often disappointed in teachers and preachers, false doctrine and all kinds of mess. I’m so thankful I accidentally allowed your video to play! From the beginning, you corrected yourself and were instantly set apart in doing such. I’ve gained a great deal from this one video alone. Thank you! I look forward to hearing more of your sound teaching and logical conjecture.

[@hosannayeshua4446]

Please do watch other of his videos and takes on things, i think he is one of the people, who not only have ears to hear and eyes to see, but a heart that understands what the Spirit says. Not only this, he seems rather down to earth and humble. I am sure you will learn much from him like i have.

[@janetross5773]

Thank you for helping us all to continue to read and understand Gods Word better! And for teaching us in a humble manner!😊

[@kristinestokes7223]

Thank you Mike for teaching without yelling. I’ve learned much and I also really like Finding Jesus in the Old Testament series. I’ve introduced my Mom to your KZbin channel and she likes to listen to you also. 👍🏻 Very good stuff…truth you share that our hearts long for.

[@nccrchurchunusual]

I dont get to watch live, but def enjoy the Q&A. May the Lord allow MANY to watch & listen. Thank you.

[@ChangedByHim107]

As usual, such a blessing, Mike! Thank you for continually helping me to examine my own thoughts and really zero in on what the scripture says. I’m really hoping your gift for asking questions in such a loving and thoughtful way really rubs off on me!

[@kathleenjones7510]

I have been watching you for three years now and love your Bible-based content. Thank you for the exhaustive work you do for this channel. I have learned a lot through these three years. You are a blessing and I pray others will receive your message.

[@annbrucepineda8093]

Thank you so much, Mike. This is one of my favorite videos so far. Our assistant pastor, who is now teaching us from.Genesis and taught us before from Joshua, also consults your videos. Since my parents loved Jesus and taught Sunday School, I have a hard time submitting to my husband as I know I should because he does not go to the Bible for authority and is not a follower of Jesus. I have never been unfaithful to him and would not exchange him for anybody but I don't recommend any woman marry an atheist. I thought he was a Christian when we met but he is a humanist, kind to all and generous to a fault, but not a Christian. Even though you and our assistant pastor could be my grandsons, I so value your insight, as I do that of older pastors like Alistair Begg and Sinclair Ferguson. Please pray for salvation and sanctification of all of us in my family, especially for our five grandsons and their parents. May God bless you and your loved ones, continuing to use you for His honor and glory.

[@ethanhahn6043]

Praying

[@timothythompson7388]

Since many Atheists believe or can be convinced more in what can be proven have you ever shown him the prophecies in Daniel that predict to the very day the Crucifixion of Christ and the establishment of the nation of Israel. If you are not familiar with them I can send more info on where to find the teaching. Daniel is also proven to be written hundreds of years prior to the crucifixion and +2000 yrs prior to establishment of Israel. There are many other fulfilled prophecies but those two are the most compelling and irrefutable.

[@truthdawn7773]

Trinity is a paganism belief, it's just saying the father which is the knowledgeable,is not the living holy spirit,which is not the capable,or speaking the son jesus. So you believe in three useless gods without each other, so ur son god jesus is ignorant, and dead. Your father god is dead and capable of nothing. Your spirit god is incapable and ignorant. Also between each two gods there must be one additional god ,then between those three gods there is two also.. and so on to an endless number of gods Trying to prove the trinity with the sunrays or fire flames is just disproving god (and saying out loud that god is a creature), because you made him changeable, have parts ,and have three different things but the same meaning (what it is) Also the sun rays is an act from the sun ,the flames are an act from the fire ,so you make the acts of god (which has a beginning) ,gods 🤦,,, so we are all gods ,and from god, we are not the father ,not the spirit not the son ,but we are all god , because we are an acts from him .

[@grislygrimhorrorchannel]

Mike youre so humble. You are THE guru on these topics.

[@mikecatherine3224]

There's a good message from R C Sproul called "tyranny of the weaker brother" that's similar to what you've been talking about.

[@amyroberts7990]

Thank you for your transparency and honesty. This is the reason I trust you to teach me and you're one of the teachers that I will ALWAYS recommend to anyone who desires to really know their Bible. I appreciate you so much!

[@agm97ga]

The papyrus translation is so cool! Excited to hear about it and the next part of the series. Thank you for all that you do. My walk with Christ has been strengthened by your ministry. I can also "read between the lines" more and think things through more Biblically. Today in my Bible study I had a big "Aha" moment that I would not have had before hearing you work through things with discernment and thinking things through.

[@lutfurchowdhury6286]

Thanks, pastor Mike winger. I appreciate your answers full of wisdom.

[@commentorgeneral]

Thank you love this, more people need to hear!

[@HappyNanny10]

I love reading the comments and so glad that you are so well liked and watched by so many!!! We all need this teaching, especially in these crazy times when so many have fallen away from God and His Word!

[@ChristopherAndersonImTheC]

I love how you pray at the end of these! I always stop what I'm doing and pray with you! It's incredibly edifying!

[@mariannbarrettbu9002]

I’ve grown in maturity listening to much of your content in recent years. I’m so grateful and pray for you and your wife. His Word never stops amazing!!

[@bjoyhock]

I love your channel and your willingness to study, understand and be open to learning new understanding, by the Holy Spirit, about scriptures, and then sharing. That helps other believers to clarify truth and grow from the things that have been revealed in true and humility. Thank you for your hard work and your humbleness!

[@bsusie1]

Years ago as I prayed about the verse to avoid the appearance of evil, it came to me that I was to avoid what appeared evil to me. It wasn’t so much as what I may do that appeared evil to others. I realized Jesus would often do things that He was accused of doing evil, such as those He associated with, ministered to, or things appearing to be going against the Law. I saw that I should avoid anything that may get me off the right path, or negatively affect my walk with Him. People often judge by appearance and can totally miss the truth. I can’t always be concerned how my behavior/actions appear to others, but rather avoid anything that may cause me to stumble.

[@10sam24]

I learn so much on your channel, thanks Pastor Mike👍🏾

[@John_1016]

Thank you very much Pastor. I’m really learning a lot from you. (ex-JW)

[@bradleydube49]

Looking forward to your verse by verse study through Hebrews! Thank you so much for your ministry and taking your time to answer questions. Love you brother!

[@RUT812]

Yes!

[@jeffwhitney5936]

Thank you Pastor Mike for your joyful ministry in providing context to the Word and your humble encouragement. I have gained deeper insight and abiding comfort from your ministry. 🙏

[@marthathompson2012]

Great insight on Q1! I,also always heard this error taught. I so appreciate your dogged pursuit of the truth and and sticking with the Scripture and what it actually says

[@JC-od8cd]

I recommend Bible Thinker to everyone who is looking for understanding of scripture. I love Mike's sincerity, knowledge and commitment to the church.

[@keepclimbing15]

Number 17 questioner can also look for Becket Cook's book A Change of Affection and Rosaria Butterfield's book Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert.

[@alisonparker9403]

Love love love listening to Mikes teaching!

[@jeffspruance9388]

The first question helped refine my ability to answer that question better so thank you. Deep down there always felt something wrong with “the appearance” of evil and the logical conclusions therein, so thank you very much! Love the shirt by the way!

[@truthdawn7773]

Trinity is a paganism belief, it's just saying the father which is the knowledgeable,is not the living holy spirit,which is not the capable,or speaking the son jesus. So you believe in three useless gods without each other, so ur son god jesus is ignorant, and dead. Your father god is dead and capable of nothing. Your spirit god is incapable and ignorant. Also between each two gods there must be one additional god ,then between those three gods there is two also.. and so on to an endless number of gods Trying to prove the trinity with the sunrays or fire flames is just disproving god (and saying out loud that god is a creature), because you made him changeable, have parts ,and have three different things but the same meaning (what it is) Also the sun rays is an act from the sun ,the flames are an act from the fire ,so you make the acts of god (which has a beginning) ,gods 🤦,,, so we are all gods ,and from god, we are not the father ,not the spirit not the son ,but we are all god , because we are an acts from him .

[@joegill638]

I really like this program. I'm impressed with the level of thought and care that goes in to Gods word.

[@ericcasey7593]

The English word appearance can also mean manifestation. Modern English speakers have trouble with the KJV not because of the translation itself, but because many of us don't fully understand our own language.

[@isaac7292]

If you are to love the Lord your God with all your mind as commanded in Matthew 22:37-38 (which is the greatest commandment) then learning a couple words and their meaning isn’t that hard.

[@eandm_creations]

I was told as a young person that the KJV is written at a 3rd/4th grade reading level...that was at least 30 years ago. Comprehension has changed a TON.

[@pkmcnett5649]

We do not understand the FORMER meanings of our own language.

[@bufficliff8978]

Writers back then wouldn't understand the terms "bet," or "mid," or "okay." Language changes over time. Modern translations say the same things as KJV but say "you," instead of "thou," and "spirit," instead of "ghost." That's not a mark against culture--it's understanding reality and prioritizing people being able to read and understand most accurately with minimal confusion: translating into the language people currently speak is prudent--not an embarrassment.

[@pkmcnett5649]

​@eandm_creations the King James Bible is 12th grade reading level. Newspapers, what is left of paper versions, are supposedly fifth grade level.

[@furry21]

Pastor Mike, I'm always amazed at how you manage to have such quick, yet deeply insightful answers to questions spanning so many different topics in the Bible and have all these quotes with the right verses ready in your head. Thank you so much for your helpful ministry!😊

[@serakmurid]

Love your shirt! Keep up the excellent teaching! I learn a lot from these live streams.

[@doctorbobdc]

Wow Mike, I really love your stuff. We are so very thankful to God for your wonderful ministry.

[@BillWiltfong]

1:40:30 As a Christian player of D&D and other like games, there is as much potential for evil in a role-playing game as there is in any sort of fiction. But, the magic in D&D (which is far from required for playing this game, or other RPGs), is just another mechanic used to give a character a trick he or she can do. What's the difference between shooting an arrow with a bow and shooting a magic missile? Almost nothing. One of D&D's creators, Gary Gygax said something like this (I can't find the exact quote): "If you can show me someone learning magic by playing D&D, then I'll take it out." If you want to play an RPG as a Christian, look up other Christians doing the same. Gygax was, himself. There's no need to flirt with evil while playing a game, and it's easy to avoid.

[@patsabol8699]

I appreciate your balanced perspective on these topics.

[@Agg1E91]

Regarding Q1, it suppose it's important to know the original language (which I don't) and how it was translated into English. To me, solely looking at the English translations, I can see "appearance" not as "likeness of" but more like "arrival". Like if someone asked if you went to the office Christmas party and you said, "Oh, I put in an appearance". You "appeared" or "arrived" at the party. So, likewise, when evil "appears", we should avoid it. In all its forms.

[@mosart7025]

Ooooh that is a really interesting use of that word (appearance). Sometimes we get so used to thinking of one meaning that when a different one is mentioned it is almost a paradigm shift. Thanks for sharing that.

[@HappyNanny10]

I have watched your content for quite a while, I have learned a lot from you but mostly, I’ve learned that you don’t just read a passage and decide its meaning!! But you study, meditate and search for its true meaning…… -and of course, with much prayer!! Thank you for being so careful in your teaching!

[@soldierofchrist7343]

I looked up some studies and old dictionaries and the youngest dictionary i looked at was made in the 1730's, and from what from I understand the word appearance back in 1611 mostly just meant form, kind or presence. While The modern definition completely excludes form, and kind and it also pretty much completely completely excludes presence and the word appearance nowadays only refers to the look or a description in comparison to a, person, object, or substance. So to be fair it's probably not the translators fault and this change just happens to be from the toll of constantly evolving language.

[@MariaIMedina2121]

I have lost it ever since I came across this channel. I have been binging it since. I am leaning so much and I appreciate how you give every possible answer for every question. I appreciate even more the humility with how you answer these questions. You only speak on what you know and decline to get into areas where you haven't informed yourself fully. I am so grateful for that. God bless you brother and thank you so very much.

[@terrybain828]

I have always thought that avoiding the appearance of evil referred to such things as a pastor visiting a woman to comfort or council her alone without anyone else present in a private setting. This means that even though they may be innocent of any evil, people may think that something sexually immoral was going on. This type of behaviour causes tongues to wag unnecessarily and lead to false accusations. It could also set the two people up for moral failure because no one is invincible. I don't think this applies to things that are not evil, but some think they are like alcohol etc.

[@pkmcnett5649]

That is what was thought, but not what it means.

[@terrybain828]

@@pkmcnett5649 I'm not sure you are correct. Pastor Mike did not address this type of issue. He addressed the weaker brother thinking something was evil that wasn't. My thoughts pertain to the "appearance of evil" in a different context than Pastor Mike was addressing. I still think that setting yourself up for failure and doing things that invite false accusations is a form of evil, because it makes Christ look bad and brings into question your own integrity. I think it is wrong and prideful to set the stage for failure and think you are so righteous that you won't possibly fail. Even if you don't fail, you are not being wise and you are setting a bad example to others who may not succeed in overcoming possible temptation.

[@nonyabidness5708]

​​@@terrybain828In context of the surrounding verses, that isn't what this verse means and his argument was very sound. Creating a blanket principle from it is dangerous for a variety of reasons. I am not exaggerating when I tell you my mother quoted this scripture to me to tell me I shouldn't take my NEPHEW with me on an overnight trip to help dogsit for me while I was at a wedding (my dog is lame). Her argument was that in our culture it isn't unheard of for an older woman to be with someone younger (he's 16) so people might get the wrong idea. That sort of misuse of scripture is sadly rampant in churches and is damaging. Is it absolutely wise not to be alone with a married member of the opposite sex? Yes, it it. Does that wisdom come from this verse? Not even a little.

[@jenniferhrabal5734]

Important teaching on freedom and responsibility of the stronger believer to weaker brother.

[@usa2tube]

Agree... "I stand at the door and knock" is NOT addressed to unbelievers. It is one of the most incorrectly used verses for salvation messages.

[@sherrylhenning5630]

I have limited internet so I only listened to the first little bit. First of all, its good to hear a teacher admit a mistake from the "pulpit" and be classy about it! Secondly, I was originally taught the same thing. Thanks for a brief explanation of why the glitch in KJV occurred. I noticed the difference when I got my first RSV when I was in high school. I figured it out using context BUT, as Mike pointed out, there's the whole 'causing your brother to stumble' issue in Romans. Mike explained it very well! HUGZ & PRAYERS!

[@mandyluvshounds]

Mike you have the best shirts.

[@anthonymacleod831]

Thanks for all your hard work and dedication Pastor Mike, if i hadnt found you, id be alot worse off, i feel God led me to your teachings at the right time, great man of God.

[@NerdJew]

Mike making a statement to the flat earthers with that globe😂😂 Thanks for your ministry sir!

[@adriel6421]

He sure is, sort of strange thing to do as a pastor. As if he is looking for quarrel among believers who listen. Yes, I'm one of those who don't believe we live on a spinning waterball.

[@NerdJew]

@@adriel6421 well I pray peace on your life. I grew up with a mindset that only a select few really “know the truth” and from my experience living like everyone is deceived about everything makes it more difficult (though not impossible) to share the gospel in truth and love. Take care.

[@Theguy1244]

@@adriel6421I’m genuinely curious, why do you not believe in a spherical Earth?

[@adriel6421]

@@NerdJew Thank you sir. And I pray the same for you. Also thanks for not mocking. I hold to a belief that satan is deceiving most of the world with many things, and I think science is mostly a way for satan to sow doubt about the Word of God, that he "create" his own "creation" using lies like evolution, big bang, the shape of the earth... When I got saved 5 years ago, I stopped believing/trusting science, because evolution, big-bang and those things don't match the Word of God. Someone is wrong, and it is not the Word of God. I sort of got a "it is better to trust the words of God than the words of man" moment, and tossed the words of man out. And later I also found proof NASA was faking stuff using harnesses and greenscreen ad such , so it made it more easy for me. I don't go around mocking people for believing science, but it has giving me alot more confidence to speak the Word of God boldly and confidenty give people the message of the cross. When you know Jesus is real because He saved you, you sort of know alot of science is wrong, most Christians agree, but they don't go as far as me, but I do find it strage when Chritians mock because I don't trust science. But that is on them. God bless!

[@adriel6421]

@@Theguy1244 Well it started when I godt saved 5 years ago. I stopped trusting science, because...Jesus is real. So science teach big bang, evolution and stuff that don't match the Word of God. This I'm sure you agree on, right? Well I go a step further. I don't trust most of science anymore. I think the enemy, satan, uses science to sow doubt about the Word of God, that he has made his own "creation" using lies. I also found proof NASA was faking stuff using basic hollywood tricks, like harnesses and such and it just proved to me even more that I can't trust people of science. So it was easy for me to let go of my old understandings of the world, and also the spherical earth. As God also say He created 1 sun, 1 moon (not trillions), so there goes all the universe as told by science, he created a firmament and He is above it where Jesus did go up, I could go on an on, but I spare you. If you are more curious, I have saved a playlist of some proof of the NASA fakery. But I'm sure it is not of any intrest to you, but maybe you would understand better why I have my belief, instead of me writing a novel on here. The list is long of reasons. God bless!

[@thewheelm4n]

Q18: I absolutely agree on the point that, when it comes to "entertainment", it's definitely nuanced as to what would qualify as unbiblical and therefore to be avoided (re: avoid every KIND of evil) in the sorcery/witcraft realm. I believe, for instance, that books like Narnia and LOTR would fall into the same category as the modern "magicians" (most of them, anyway) you mentioned, in that it's harmless. HOWEVER, and this is a big contention in my home as my wife's family and by proxy, her, are ENORMOUS Harry Potter fans (she has a ton of clothing, coffee mugs, the books, stuff all over the house) and I contend that series, the films especially, are ABSOLUTELY wicked and fall into the category to most certainly be avoided by professing Christians. I can prove this with one sole fact: there is, at least in the films and I'd assume the books as well, an entire CLASS at Hogwarts on how to do DIVINATION, which is specifically mentioned by YHWH as being an abomination. So you literally have children's books/movies glorifying the teaching of not just withcraft, which is bad enough, but a specifically mentioned abominable type of witchcraft, to CHILDREN. I don't think I need to say anymore than that (but there is a giant golden Molech owl idol in the main dining hall, so there's that too).

[@erin1655]

For the record (and your wife can attest) the divination class in the books is seen as a joke and they regard that whole “branch” of magic as fake in the story. There is prophecy in the books (like in real life), but if you read what the author writes about divination, it’s clearly regarded as stupid and not true in the books. The nuance in these books is how the author approaches magic in general. Things that are bad (trying to bring people back from the dead, trying to cheat death, murder, tricking people into loving you, etc) are all seen as bad and have horrific consequences. That kind of magic exists in the world of Harry Potter, but it isn’t condoned.

[@erin1655]

Okay and besides that fact, when you’re talking about Molech, he demanded child sacrifice. This kind of thing is nowhere in Harry Potter except that the evil character tries to kill Harry as a baby. And he is, in fact, the bad guy. Rowling describes killing people as splitting your soul and the bad guy does it so often that he’s no longer recognizable as human (because it takes away your humanity). And the only cure for what he’s done? Repentance. Literally remorse. But she says the process is so painful it would probably kill anyone who tries. So is this series teaching murder and child sacrifice? Not even slightly. In fact there’s even an overarching Christ figure in the story who literally has to choose to die in order to save his friends, is “resurrected,” and comes back to finally kill the evil character. There’s so much truth and symbolism in these books and if you haven’t read them, you really don’t know what you’re arguing against.

[@thewheelm4n]

I missed the part where you're not trying to continue to justify books written to children about witches and warlocks running a school that teaches witchcraft to children from the perspective that it's somehow "good witchcraft" and therefore they're fighting evil. WITCHCRAFT AND SORCERY ARE LITERALLY COMMANDED AGAINST AS WICKED IN THE BIBLE. There cannot, by definition, be anything known as "good" witchcraft or sorcery. This is just more enuring by the demonic pop culture we live in to call good evil and evil good. Unbelievable.

[@guarionex4672]

34:13 🔥❤️ that’s some deep wisdom and awesome conviction! Well said brother. 👏