Question #1:
Hello Bob,
Just checking in with you - I try not to bother with redundant questions
and clicked on the Search button at the bottom of the page but it does
not work.
https://ichthys.com/#Search%20Ichthys
This would be a great feature.
Blessings,
Response #1:
That is what I used to have, but here is what I have written at the point where the link you note lands:
For security reasons, please search Ichthys directly through Google for the time being. To search only Ichthys (and not the entire web), prefix your search by pasting this code into the Google search box before entering your search term (n.b.: a blank space must follow the final colon and precede your search term for this to work):
Then I have the following code: site:ichthys.com:
It really does work, so please try it. It would be much more convenient to just
type something into a search box at Ichthys, but as the explanation makes clear,
Google penalizes this now and considers the entire site "NOT SECURE". At some
point they may change policy. When they do, I will be sure to put the box back
in.
Yours in our dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,
Bob L.
Question #2:
Thanks so much, Bob! Your exegesis and perspective are extremely
helpful!
I was thinking a few months ago of asking if you've ever considered
making your writings available on Amazon. What prompted me is that I'm
often too busy to read much until late in the evening. My Amazon Kindle
is very convenient for that, and I thought how nice it would be to have
the option to download your writings from Amazon. I did find a
work-around, though - one can send any .pdf file to a Kindle device
through email. The only catch is that the formatting (especially
footnotes) is off a little, but I am able to read your essays on my
Kindle now.
Many blessings to you,
Response #2:
Great to hear back from you, my friend!
And thanks for this very valuable work-around! I'm always getting
requests for print copies or other types of e-copies, Kindle in
particular. There are reasons why I don't want to put these materials on
Amazon (or anywhere else), but I'm thrilled to hear that you found a way
to get this done. I'll let other readers know this is possible when I
get around to posting something on Ichthys per se.
Hope all is going well!
Yours in Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #3:
Dear Bob my friend,
Many thanks again for your advice, wisdom and scriptural and spiritual
guidance, it is much appreciated.
Yesterday I received an "Apologetics" book in the post entitled
"Magnificent Obsession". The basis of the book are letters between a
pastor and concerned Christians, curious atheists and deliberating
agnostics (my words not his!). I was saying to my friend that your
writing and analysis is really first rate and exemplary. You really
ought to be published so that more people far and wide can appreciate
your efforts. I am sorry if others have nagged you with this before (I'm
sure they have) and I know there is a tremendous amount of work and
effort to be put in to get published but the main part of the work has
been done! You have done all the writing!
I'm sure that there are many, many Christian publishers out there who
would be tripping over themselves to publish your work, especially your
knockout series on the bible! Just think that your emails alone could
fill up many books! Think of the soul winning potential!
Anyway I don't want to make you shy or blush and I'm not trying to fill
you with hot air either, but I know I have a gift of seeing others'
potential and talents. I leave it at that, it might be worthwhile
directing some publishers or agents towards your site as a speculative
step and then if nothing came of it, then at least some more Christians
or even some none Christian agents and publishers will have read some of
your work and seeds will have been planted.
I feel very honoured to be your friend and your writing and tutelage
have helped me greatly with both my understanding and love of the good
book.
Many blessings to you!
In our Perfect Saviour, Jesus Christ,
Response #3:
Thanks for the encouragement, my friend!
However, there are very good reasons why I have never pursued this
course (see the link:
FAQ #1). I know something about the publishing industry and process
(I do have two secular books published). First, I'm loath to have money
change hands in the process of believers who are interested getting this
information. After all, it's not as if it's "my" truth – it belongs to
the Lord. If there were no other way to do this (as was true in the 15th
century), then perhaps I would take another look at it. But we do have
the internet now, after all, so it's possible to make these writings
accessible without resorting to traditional publishers. Don't get me
wrong: I LOVE books. But I love the Lord more. If I make a mistake (like
the incorrect citation a reader noticed just today), or if I want to
make a change or an addition, I only need to upload it without asking
anyone's permission. And I'm not beholden to a publisher's whims,
orphaning my books, for example (that happens quite often). So while I
really do appreciate your good words, readers who want something to
"hold in the hand" will continue to have to do their own printing (or
send the file to a service that does that like Kinko's in this country).
It's a bit of nuisance, I suppose – but also a bit of a test. It does
help separate those who are really interested from those who are not.
The Lord knows what He's doing!
Your friend in Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #4:
Dear Dr. Luginbill,
It is a pleasure for me that you have remembered me. I saw your e-mail
at 5am this morning. Ichthys is always on my browser, ever since the HS
led me to it more than a year ago; so I know about the MP3 files. One
odd thing though - I cannot download them on my laptop, the "the save
audio as" drop-down is greyed out. But I can download them through my
tablet. I can't listen from the website itself because I have to buy
small internet bundles and so ration my internet time (hard economic
times). Your website is so full of good stuff; I have saved all the
major works SR, CT, Peter series, etc. When I am able to, I will also
save the audios as well. Its really true what the bible teaches, that
the HS has to guide you as a Christian, because - to think that the
website has been up since 1997!! And I was not aware of it! But I know
how blessed I am to have found it; I am truly thankful to my Lord.
Yes, I have been in touch with our friend. I pray and hope the Lord heals him
soon. He provides me with real fellowship (and of course you and Pastor Curtis
as well, through your websites). Our friend has helped me otherwise as well when
things have been really tough here ( I am still looking for work). He sends me
all his texts once he completes them; great stuff. Thank you for bringing us
together.
I have made some good progress since we corresponded last year; I started
reading the bible (NIV). I am at 2Corinthians now; once I finish I will start
again - this time reading both Testaments; good advice from you guys. I must say
I have grown a lot from reading your work, and
Omo's Bible Academy. Thank you
again, God bless you, sir.
I do appreciate your prayers; I need them, I do hope and pray the Lord delivers
me from this trial, it has been going on for long. But I know my Lord will
remember me soon. Thank you so very much for your prayers.
Well I would love to go on, but I also know you are busy.
In Jesus Christ who is our salvation and deliverance,
Response #4:
It's good to hear from you too, my friend. Thanks so much for the
detailed update – I appreciate you taking the time.
As to your question about downloading, it apparently depends on 1) your
laptop (i.e., is it Mac or PC?), and 2) the web browser you are using.
If you are using a PC, you "right click" the link; if you are using a
Mac, you "control click" the link. Either way there should then be an
option to save the file to your laptop directly. I will say also that
this didn't work with my Firefox web browser, but it did work when I
tried it with Internet Explorer. So you might try an alternative
browser. Here is a link I found that explains the process along the
lines of what I just shared with you:
"Ask Dave". If none of this works, write me back and I'll
try to find someone who knows more about these sorts of issues than I
do.
I'm thrilled to hear of your spiritual progress, my friend, though I am
sad to hear that things are still quite a struggle for you economically.
I will continue to keep you in prayer.
Thanks also for your good and encouraging words about this ministry.
They are greatly appreciated.
Feel free to write me any time.
In Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #5:
Dear Ichthys,
Greetings from Uganda. Today, as I was doing my study and research I
landed on your site and I must confess, it is a reflection of the great
work in the Kingdom. I'm indeed very grateful.
Thanks
Response #5:
Good to make your acquaintance and thank you so much for your kind words
(Ps.115:1).
Feel free to "drop by" the site and write me any time.
In Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob Luginbill
Question #6:
Thanks for letting me know about this new posting. Also, if you could summarize in a few sentences (that highlight its major points) the incredibly long piece of writing that you sent me, it might help to motivate me to read it.
Response #6:
As to summarizing, it's not my strong suit. I can tell you that
6A is all about how to live the Christian
life – how to walk the Christian walk. It's a practical guide to the
most important techniques and perspectives which every mature Christian
needs to master in order to draw closer to the Lord and please Him
thereby. I can say that those who have read it so far report that it has
been encouraging and helpful to them.
Yours in our dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,
Bob L.
Question #7:
This has been rolling around my brain so I couldn't wait until the other
email is ready to go. I am curious about what translation you use, but I
also have the idea that you have written your own translation of the
bible...I see that you use the KJV and the ESV at certain times, but the
majority of your writing seems to make reference from your own
translation. Please fill me in.
Also, is all the written material on your website always being added to,
or is it material that you wrote at some previous time (not sure I got
this question right; hope you understand my respectful meaning)?
There are a lot of questions I want to ask you, some personal and some
biblical, so that I can respectfully get to know who I am communicating
with. Not sure if you are ok with that or not, or even if you want to
continue with me in my aspirations to seek and present the truth of
God’s word. I guess what I am trying to say is that I do not want to
become overly demanding of your time. don’t want to wear out my welcome
so to speak (proverbs 25:17).
1. Is ichthys a “one man show” for you?
2. Who is the target audience of your study and writing? It seems like
the style and content of your writing is primarily for scholars,
historians, etc.
3. Do you have published books in addition to the two on Thucydides?
Thank you so much and bye for now.
Response #7:
You're most welcome. Happy to answer your questions, my friend.
a) When there is no attribution to a quote (no KJV, e.g.), the
translation is mine. I haven't come anywhere close to translating even
the NT, let alone the OT, nor is that my purpose. I translate verses
when it seems necessary for me to do so to bring out some point or
emphasis which is not present in the standard versions, and I expand,
explain, and footnote, so to speak, to a degree that would render such a
translation on my part pretty unreadable (even if effective for teaching
purposes). There's an index
for the passages I have rendered (at the link). See also the link:
How to use the Bible
translations at Ichthys.
b) For the antecedents of
the ministry see the link. Last month I posted a 250 pp.
single-spaced new offering on the Christian
Walk (at the link), but some of these materials go back to the early
80's. I add to the material at Ichthys pretty much weekly with a long
selection of email questions and answers (at
the link).
1) Yes – to the extent that it is me and not the Spirit (credit me with
all the blemishes). Although recently I have been getting more and more
help in proofreading and also in the production of audio files (the
latter of which is entirely Chris' B's work) . . . and I wouldn't be
able to do any of this without the prayer support I receive (Ps.115:1).
2) The ministry developed as a Bible study given for a pretty diverse
group. Some folks do complain that these studies are too detailed or
dense, but that probably has more to do with the way I write than
anything else. I think, however, if you have a look at the email page
above (here's a link to years of
prior postings),
you'll see that I try to communicate and help anyone who contacts this
ministry, from the totally uneducated to those with many academic
degrees, from those who can barely speak English as a second language to
those who are articulate to a tee.
3) No, these are the only two traditional books I have ever published
(as part of my secular job at the uni); I have also published a number
of journal articles (see the link:
"Current C.V."). There are good reasons for not putting the Bible
materials out that way (see the link:
FAQ #1).
Yours in our dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,
Bob L.
Question #8:
As an aside to what you have been discussing with me, this message pertains to 2 quotes from your previous message.
"I expand, explain, and footnote, so to speak, to a degree that would render such a translation on my part pretty unreadable (even if effective for teaching purposes)."
"Some folks do complain that these studies are too detailed or dense, but that probably has more to do with the way I write than anything else."
As authors, we try to convey our "messages" in a manner that can be easily understood by our readers. I say this not to be offensive, critical, or condescending because I have great respect for you. You may not even be interested, but I took the liberty to do some editing on the first paragraph of your newest installment on the Christian walk. This was a quick effort and could still use some refining. It is just a suggestion...again, I submit this with all due respect.
Response #8:
Thanks for the kind thought! I've already changed around the intro
several times and am happy with it. I can see your style is quite
different from mine as well. I'm all for communication, but I have to
keep content and tone where I am happy with them even if it makes some
people have to read it twice.
However, I am ALWAYS grateful for the discovery of typos and/or
incorrect citations. In works of this size, such things inevitably creep
in.
Thanks again, my friend.
In Jesus our dear Savior,
Bob L.
Question #9:
Hi Robert,
My wife (and family) have requested a simplified version of my
Hopefulmartyr.com website. As much of this site draws on your writings,
I feel that I need to consult you on this.
Ichthys.com has a great tone of authority because of your writing style
and high academic standard. However, this style leads to long sentences
and a vocabulary beyond the scope of us who have English as our second
language.
Thus the reason for a simplified version of Hopefulmartyr.com. However,
before commencing this task, I'd first like to ask your permission to
'translate' your work into a common language version. If I were to use
the Bible translations as an analogy, it would be a converted into a
'The Message' -type style from the current 'NKJV' style.
I envisage to employ someone qualified to do this, and envisage to start
with post '4.3 Pseudo-good' and '4.4 Distraction'. I then intend to then
forward these two to you for your perusal and approval.
The domain I have registered for this version of the blog is 'preparetostand.com'.
I would be grateful to hear from you on this,
Regards,
Response #9:
Good to hear from you, my friend. I certainly appreciate the work you
have done at Hopefulmartyr.com. Thank you! However, I'm not sure how
"translating" would / could work. Simplifying things often changes the
meaning; all translations are interpretations, after all, and a
translation/interpretation is therefore necessarily limited by the
actual understanding of the text to be translated on the part of the one
doing the work. So I can't see how it would be possible to find anyone
capable of doing this who is not already an Ichthys reader – and a very
dedicated one at that; merely having skills in English and in writing
would not make up for spiritual deficiencies here.
I do recognize the issue you are talking about. On the other hand, the
Bible itself is not so simple to understand, and that is no accident.
I'm not deliberately putting barriers in people's ways when I write the
way I do; but it is true that even those who are challenged in reading
for whatever reason can get something out of these materials . . . if
they persevere. If "easier" meant "just as true" and "just as good", I
guess I would be all for it. But while that sounds fine in theory,
practical experience makes me very wary about the actual potential of
achieving this ideal.
Do feel free to write me back about this, and thanks again for all you
do!
Your fellow worker in the vineyard of our Lord.
Bob L.
Question #10:
Hi Bob,
Thanks for your explanatory response. I must admit, when I had a go at
'simplifying' a post myself, that I ran into similar difficulties as you
describe. I put it down to my lack of experience/talent in this area.
The solution then seemed to simply get someone experienced in this.
However, what you say is true. It would need to be an exceptional
someone who could both grasp the letter and the spirit. I have now asked
the Lord to send someone like that, if that is where He wants to go.
As I agree with your sentiments, I'll leave the 'simplification' idea at
that, and suffice with minor editing of Hopefulmartyr.com (e.g., replace
words such as 'adduce' with 'mention/provide as evidence/proof').
Thanks for your encouragement and advice!
My final post was a citation on the Great Apostasy, that certainly was
very readable. Hopefully I have not created the impression that all of
your work is hard going!
Regards,
Response #10:
No Worries!
Thanks for your thoughtful reply.
In Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #11:
Happy 2018 to you too Bob. Come visit us if you ever find yourself in
Brisbane!
(good relief from icy USA)
Regards,
Response #11:
I'm not much of a traveler, but I'd love to visit down under some day –
there are a number of avid Ichthys readers in your neck of the woods!
Thanks for the invite!
Your friend in Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #12:
Dear Professor Luginbill,
I've enjoyed reading your work on the Satanic Rebellion as well as the
Ichthys website. God richly bless you.
I would like to know which Bible version you use in your works. I'll be
glad to know.
I realize whenever you quote from regular versions like the King James,
you indicate. But not with the one you frequently quote from.
Thank you.
Yours in Christ,
Response #12:
Dear Friend,
Thanks for your encouraging words.
As to your question, whenever there is no reference to the version, the
translation is original to me (see the link:
"FAQ #12: Where do
the Bible translations at Ichthys come from?"; see also the link:
"How to use the
Bible translations at Ichthys"). There is also a complete listing of
these original translations at the link:
"Index to Original Bible
Translations at Ichthys".
Yours in our dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,
Bob L.
Question #13:
Many thanks Professor.
I'm thrilled. Thank Jesus for such insights. I pray I can make as much
time to contribute valuable inspiration to society.
I'm currently a full time minister and team leader for the virtual
Counselling office - www.thecounsellinghub.org
Yours in Christ
Response #13:
You're most welcome, my friend!
Feel free to write any time.
In Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #14:
Hi Robert,
Is there anyway we can communicate over the phone. I feel like it would
be easier for me.
Thank you
Response #14:
For a variety of reason, I only communicate over email.
Do feel free to write me though!
In Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #15:
Good day Sir, I just want to know what religious affiliation are you connected. Cause I'm really seeking the truth on who is the right person to interpret the Bible. I'm not in anyway connected with any religious organization. But I'm searching the true commandments of the Lord Jesus Christ on whether to join any religious sect. I'm confused. I'm from the Philippines. Thanks and God Bless.
Response #15:
Good to make your acquaintance. Here is what I have posted at the site (at the link: "About Ichthys") in regard to your question:
This ministry originated with a face-to-face Bible study at the University of California Irvine during the late 1980's. When friends graduated or otherwise moved on, I felt the need to make these materials available in written form. This process was greatly facilitated by the internet, and Ichthys first ventured on-line in October 1997.
General: Ichthys is an independently owned and operated, non-profit, personal ministry. All materials posted to this site are the sole property and responsibility of myself, its webmaster, Dr. Robert D. Luginbill. Although the Bible study materials found here are in the Protestant, Evangelical tradition, this site has no denominational affiliation – the Bible studies at Ichthys are intended to speak for themselves. It is my profound hope that these lessons will contribute to the spiritual growth and progress in the Christian life of those who make use of them.
And here are some additional links which will provide more background:
About the Author: Current curriculum vitae
Luginbill Biography FAQs
Regarding Ichthys
Antecedents of Ichthys
The Role of Ichthys and Traditional Christianity
Do feel free to write me back about any of the above.
In Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob Luginbill
Question #16:
Greetings once again Dr Bob
1 What's your comment about the site Creation concept ??
2 Have you come across it by any chance? Can you relate with any of the
information posted on that site?
If by chance you can take a look at the site
https://creationconcept.wordpress.com
God bless
Response #16:
It would take me months to read the stuff on this site; it is by various
and sundry individuals so they no doubt do not even all agree with each
other.
I'm happy to answer specific questions about specific teaching /
principles found here about which you may have questions. Ichthys is not
a "traffic cop" for online Bible ministries. I'm only trying to make
solid, orthodox teaching available to others and only ever weigh in on
other ministries when asked to in order to try and keep "my sheep" from
going astray.
Yours in our dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,
Bob L.
Question #17:
Hi Bob,
Hope the jury duty is a thing of the past?!
Just wondering if the Bible
Academy link on your website is something you consider to be
authentic doctrinal teaching?
There are so many bible studies out there and I want to point my family
member in the right direction by suggesting a study that will put her on
the right path and keep her there (I’m sure it must be something you
trust as its on your website but just want to be sure).
I'm also amazed, as I read through some of the emails you receive, how
troubled people are in this world of ours but also encouraged that they
know where to turn in these times.
I also don’t know where you find the time to answer so promptly and so
efficiently.
May God continue to bless you and your ministry.
Regards,
Response #17:
Always good to hear from you, my friend.
Jury duty is over. It fouled up two weeks, but I did have some time off
here and there so as to be able to get a jump ahead on all of the summer
yard work.
Bible Academy is the
ministry of my dear old friend, pastor-teacher Curtis Omo. Curt and I
went to seminary together back in a previous century and have kept in
touch over lo these many years. I like to think I had a small part in
Bible Academy's current form. I had watched some Khan Academy videos and
it struck me that this would be a great format for Bible teaching over
the internet. In any case, Curt developed his own unique approach, and
this is all "his baby". What I can do is vouch for him personally – a
finer Christian man you'll not find – and can also vouch for the content
of his teaching. I think you'd have to look pretty hard to find any
substantive differences between his teaching and mine (which I hope is a
"high recommendation" – that is how it is meant, in any case).
I'm keeping you and your family in my daily prayers.
Your friend in Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #18:
Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
I pastor in South Bend Indiana. We are launching a bible college through
our ministry. I would like permission to use materials from your
website. If this is in any way possible, or not, please reply. Thanks
and many blessings
Response #18:
Sounds fine to me, just as long as you abide by the restrictions on the site; here is what's posted on that:
Copy Policy: These materials are copyrighted, but visitors are free to download and utilize them with the following restrictions:
1) These materials may not be offered to others for a fee or otherwise sold under any circumstances. This is a grace ministry.
2) These materials may not be fundamentally changed or edited. I don't mind honest excerption, but alteration of meaning is not allowed.
3) These materials may not be represented as the work of others. You don't have to cite me; you may use these lessons anonymously, but please don't pass them off as your own materials.
In sum, this site is meant for the glory of God through the edification and growth of His children. Any use of its materials for personal profit, aggrandizement or other personal agendas is not authorized.
In Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob Luginbill
Question #19:
Hi Dr. Luginbill,
Thanks for letting me know about the MP3 audio files. That will be a
great help. Your materials are such a blessing and I've learned so much
from them. I am next teaching a course at Harvest Bible University in
Christian Anthropology. I would once again like your permission to use
your "Biblical Study of the Nature of Man" as my outline for the
students. The materials are notes I put together for the students to go
along with my lecture and for their reading and are not sold, of course.
Please let me know it that will be ok? My 40 or so students will be
blessed.
Best regards,
Response #19:
You're very welcome.
Sure, that would be fine!
Best wishes on a successful class.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #20:
Dear Sir
I prepared an article and posted on Facebook for how to use ichthys.com.
I thought a guide may be in order and since I have read the Satanic
Rebellion and Coming Tribulation series and am presently working through
Peter's Epistles (I'll soon be done with that one too), I thought I
could provide something like that for first time users.
Can you find it on Facebook? I'll try to copy and paste it here or
probably post a link in another email if you can't.
If you think it's genuinely helpful, you could use it on the website.
Yours in our priceless Lord Jesus Christ
This is the article:
How To Use Ichthys.com
Read the series, Peter's Epistles, first. General overview on the Walk of Faith and the Christian Calling. Foundational to the rest.
Read Bible Basics next. I haven't read this one yet but it is a snapshot of important theological subjects that Christianity is concerned with. I suspect that they give you a wider and more deepened appreciation of the things that Peter's Epistles begins to say.
Read the Satanic Rebellion next. This prepares you for the ultimate voyage through the hope of the Christian Faith. Suffice it to say that you need some strong appreciation of the truths of the Bible to read this.
Read The Coming Tribulation last. Chances are it's all you'll be wanting to talk about after reading it. There is a reason that eschatology grips human imagination with a fever. We all know that this world is not perfect and we yearn for something better. For Christians, we know that this world is cursed and under divine condemnation and there is something inestimably blessed yet to come. This series educates you in-depth about the Christian hope and calling.
Read sundry articles and email conversations. They touch on different subjects without any specific pattern or method. I discovered ichthys.com through one such article. I was researching competition from the Christian perspective when I found a link to one article on the website. You'll sample different applications and meanings of general principles you have already learned.
For the above, use the Special Topics tab, the Emails button, the Exodus 14 button, the Special Top 10 button, the Subject Index and the FAQ's buttons on the home page to find articles. You'll also find a link to Curtis Omo's Bible Academy.
Peter's Epistles maxes out at 23 pages for two lessons. With the exception of one or two, all the other lessons are less than 15 pages with some ranging between 2 and 7 pages. The other series are significantly larger sometimes running over a hundred pages long in some installments.
Thus, if you will do ichthys.com, you will need to make time specifically for it.
Remember to keep your Bibles close to check and confirm what you read.
Buy the truth and sell it not.
Yours in our priceless Lord Jesus Christ
Response #20:
Nice synopsis of the Ichthys offerings! Thanks very much for doing this and also for posting it. I also appreciate you sending it to me in an email. While I do have a Facebook account, I only very rarely "check in" and not a very adept user of that medium. I have linked this now to the FAQ page Q #8: Recommended sequence of study.
Question #21:
I noticed that some people whom you contacted get dismissed as "too hardened" or "left to their own devices." Well... I don't want that to happen to me, even if due to error or a trial on my part I become lost.
"Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’"
Everyone whose heart is not right with God...except for Antichrist...could be a lost coin.
Response #21:
Neither of these quotes sound like anything I would ever say.
I try never to cut anyone of from fellowship; occasionally I am forced
to cease exchanging emails with individuals who become abusive or stop
even pretending to engage with what I am saying in return.
I pray for you and your family daily, my friend.
In Jesus our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #22:
Dear Bob,
I am really enjoying your newest release, Peripateology the Christian
walk!! It came at a perfect time for me.
I have noticed a few word placement errors but they are not that
significant and I wouldn’t know how to report them anyway. However, in
#3 GROOMING segment there is a wrong Bible reference on baptism. You
have Acts 1:6 but you meant to use verse 5. You know the Bible WAY
better than I do, I just found this by “accident” because most churches
today are still practicing water baptism and I was checking your
rebuttal scriptures.
I love, appreciate, and depend on, you and Ichthys for my spiritual
growth more than you will ever know this side of heaven. Jesus is the
love of my life; the Bible it’s foundation; and you my “church”. Thank
You!!!
Response #22:
Thanks for catching this, my friend! There will be typos. Especially
when it comes to numbers. I am SO bad with numbers. They seem to flip
around on me in a dyslexic way. So thanks for catching this! As I always
say, I'm grateful to have these things pointed out to me so they can be
fixed. Fixed now! So about the "word placement" errors you noticed, I
would be happy to hear about these as well.
Always good to hear from you, and thanks as ever for your wonderfully
encouraging words.
Your friend in Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #23:
Hi Bob and family,
I’ve taken another excerpt from the END OF DAYS article, concentrating
on sin and the results of it. This is something so many today, if not
all, and I have to include ourselves (believers) in that, knowing that
there is not one without sin in varying degrees. I didn’t want to focus
on any specific sin but encompass all sins that affect everyone. I also
didn’t want to sound condescending in any way but to simply to address
sin as an issue and not to be as a blame – I hope I have done that.
I am hoping too, that I’m not overstepping the bounds of manners in
asking again if you would consider posting this article in your special
topics page. If you would like to post it, before you do that, would you
be so kind as to cast your eye over it – be as critical as you like, and
if there is anything you don’t agree with or you would like me to add, I
will gladly do that as I don’t want to be saying the wrong thing.
Always enjoying your Saturday’s postings, good food for all and I pray
that more will find ichthys in the coming days.
I don’t know where you find the time to do what you do – I’m flat out
with the little I do.
As always dear Bob, with brotherly love,
Response #23:
Another excellent effort on your part! I have no suggestions to make and
have already linked the page under
"Special
Topics" (see "Wages of Sin").
Thanks for all your good words (and prayers), my friend (praying for you
and your family too). And let me assure you: "not I but the grace of God
which was with me" (1Cor.15:10).
Keep up the great work for Jesus Christ, my friend – I'm praying for
continued response for your postings.
In Jesus our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #24:
Dear Professor,
You are most welcome! I am delighted to hear that it has helped
alleviate some of the symptoms. Once you get used to the exercises it
should not take any longer than 10-15 mins and they would be great to
serve as an intermediary prior to your run (vs. going straight from
sitting to running).
Re walking - as long as it doesn’t aggravate it, walking should be fine
in moderation. In fact, prolonged sitting might actually be as bad. So
anything in the sweet spot between the two should be OK.
Professor, I have been meaning to congratulate you on the 20 year
anniversary of Ichthys. This is wonderful, what a landmark. I am sure
you must recognise all the more the Lord’s hand in this ministry and how
it has grown over the years. The Lord has blessed us in marvelous ways
through the exegesis of truth that your ministry so eloquently provides
through the power of the Spirit. Speaking of websites - the 20th
anniversary of Ichthys has coincided with the launch of my own
(professional) website. I design this myself with the intention being to
have an online presence through which I can gain more consultancy work
and move away from my full-time work environment -
www.vassalloconditioning.com. Please do feel free to have a look.
Our good friend was kind enough to also write me a testimonial on there.
The Lord has already provided on this front with regular work with two
clients that I am committing to on my day off from my full-time job.
This, in addition to completing my MSc. studies will hopefully allow me
to transition away from the hostile environment that I find myself in.
The more I spend time there, the more I realise I do not belong there.
Nowhere is perfect - it is the devil’s world after all. But this
definitely seems to withhold a concentration of his minions. The
prospect of an alternative career more conducive to preparation for
ministry through consulting one-to-one and some lecturing at
universities is where my heart seems to be at. Above all, I am willing
to be led by the Lord on this, Professor. For doors to open, sometimes
we need to be empty handed. The prospect of not being so much of a slave
to my work organisation, but rather a slave to Christ, by dedicating a
consistent period of concentrated study to the Word, and growing at a
rate that leads me to discover the ministry Christ has prepared for me,
is something that I know is ‘me’. The professional ‘me’ that you will
see portrayed on the website is how most people know me. I have spent
six years in this industry now, and have ‘climbed’ relatively quickly.
The Lord has blessed me abundantly with positions I am hardly worthy of.
It is through His grace that I have also received favour from people in
established positions. But in these 6 years, we have approached ever
closer to the tribulation. I have discerned the futility of any
professional endeavour - apart from God, nothing truly satisfies.
There is probably the biggest decision of my life (both physical and
spiritual) to be made come the summer. My focus for the time being is to
do my job as unto the Lord and prepare my heart through a deepening
understanding of the Word and application of it through the Spirit. I
trust the Lord will guide me and provide me with the discernment I need.
It will certainly be a test of faith.
I apologise for this lengthy email. I have wanted to share this with you
for a while and would most definitely appreciate any prayer on this
front.
I shall continue to pray for your healing and for your strength and
perseverance in the continuation of this ministry.
In Jesus Christ, our Lord whom we serve,
Response #24:
Thanks for the additional advice – I will definitely follow it as best I
can. Again, I am most grateful for your help. You have encouraged me
greatly and saved me a lot of time and trouble; I have been to physical
therapy before and it is not so easy as doing appropriate stretching and
conditioning at home.
The hardest thing about the program you gave me is getting down onto and
up off of the floor! I'm not sure if you have ever heard of the American
humorist, Dave Barry, but he is quite entertaining and demonstrates that
clean humor can still be very amusing. I saw an lengthy interview with
him wherein he was asked whether or not life was at all different for
him once he turned 70; he replied to the effect that nothing had changed
at all – except that he used to be able to get up off of the floor but
now he no longer could. I'm not 70 yet, but I don't bounce back up like
I used to in days of yore!
I've added a couple of links to
your wonderful website
on my Ichthys at: 1)
"Other resources" and 2)
"Special
topics", and I plan to recommend it whenever the opportunity comes
up. I have to say that I am most impressed by the professionalism of
your site. If you did the coding yourself, you are quite the
accomplished webmaster!
I will most definitely continue to keep you and your family and your
personal and professional situation as well your spiritual growth in my
prayers, my friend. I know that the Lord honors your desire and your
efforts to put Him first even as you honor Him by earning the living as
we all have to do by working. The balance is never easy, but that is a
big part of the test of our faith and our of resolve. You most
definitely "have it", and I know that you will get through, the Lord
helping you.
Any update on your friend, by the way?
Your grateful (and healing) friend in Jesus Christ our dear Lord and
Savior,
Bob L.
Question #25:
Hello Professor,
Hopefully installing the search box won't be too difficult and this
temporary solution should suffice in the mean time.
I came back on Monday and I have resumed my normal rhythm. Holidays at
home are spiritually challenging and intense at the same time. On the
one hand, keeping my normal routine is hard and that often results in
some spiritual disorder and greater vulnerability. On the other hand, it
is also a time of witnessing and conversations about the truth. Over the
years there has been a tendency for the number of such conversations to
increase and this time the Lord has provided me with more of them than
ever before.
I saw both those close to my heart and a few others in need of truth and
that is something I normally don't experience in my solitary life. My
father, my mother, and one who is like a brother to me, and another good
friend and one of few who has showed openness of heart. And there's been
several others too, as I mentioned to you in previous messages. I
haven't been home for a year and seeing all these people and speaking
with them reminded me of my responsibility as a shepherd and this task
which the Lord has given me and for feeding those I love. Time home
reminded me of this love also. I came back very motivated.
I feel more and more that I should begin the undertaking of translating
your resources. I don't believe it's a task I should do myself, but, as
mentioned previously, I would be able to supervise that. Even if I have
a good day with writing I may at best prepare a few pages of text, but
that will never be enough for believers at home to get all they need.
I will appreciate your prayer on this. I know it would be a hard task,
but how much would it help to have some of your studies translated, for
example Peter's Series and Bible Basics for a start. Curt's lessons
could also be translated once the content of each one is written down in
a clear and structured manner. Then such a plan could just be rendered
into a helpful resource. And then I haven't seen absolutely anything of
good quality when it comes to study Bibles and commentaries, there is
almost only dead catholic teaching available. Just to have the NIV SB
translated would make such a huge difference - and it is not an
insurmountable challenge. I have now been using Unger for a few months
and I can see why you recommended it. In fact, I regret getting it so
late. It is perhaps one of the best and most accessible commentaries I
have seen - to the point, clear, concise, written with a high view of
inspiration.
Professor - Peter's Epistles, Bible Basics, Satanic Rebellion and
perhaps a few Specials for a start, some of Curt's Lessons, NIV SB and
Unger - what a dream set. Then I would also know that alongside my own
work there is a growing body of resources available for believers and
those with open hearts. I could start making enquiries to professional
interpreters even now, I have just thought that ideally it should
perhaps be someone's ministry. I would be happy to finance that in any
case, also if it was to be someone's service for the Lord - that's not
the issue and I would happily commit to such an undertaking also
financially as much as I am able. It is just that I would like it to be
done diligently, with the care that is needed. I see this also being a
part of my own ministry.
Professor, I wish you a productive year in your wonderful ministry. I
know you are working on new studies and I eagerly await all of them. I
also hope that none of the logistical problems will be a hindrance any
more. I also hope and will continue to pray that the Lord helps you with
all your health problems and that things go well professionally.
It also eluded me to congratulate you on the twentieth anniversary of
your ministry. This is something I can only dream about - twenty years
of such fruitful production. It seems I may only get a few.
Response #25:
I'm happy to hear that you are back safe and sound, and that it was a
wonderful trip for you.
As I have often remarked, it really doesn't make the slightest bit of
difference what we may think about ourselves, our efforts, or our
production – unless being over-critical hurts them by damaging our
morale, or being over-confident hurts them by encouraging lassitude.
Christ is the Judge. If we are doing well, well, that is what we should
be doing (Lk.17:10); if we are not doing well, well, it's time to be up
and doing (1Chron.22:16). But, honestly, spending an inordinate amount
of time or emotional effort in the process of self-evaluation is always
counterproductive . . . and contrary to scripture:
(4) My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me. (5) Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God.
1st Corinthians 4:4-5 NIV
On the topic of translations and your own ministry, I am certainly
keeping this in prayer. I think I've told you many times that I never
envisioned anything like Ichthys when I set off for seminary many years
ago (with everything I owned of any value packed into a little Datsun
B210 heading across country to California) – there wasn't even an
internet at that time. The Lord has the perfect ministry for you, and He
will lead you into it. Your job is to do just what you are doing,
namely, to keep preparing and to keep engaging in the ministry
opportunities He brings your way.
As to translating the materials at Ichthys into other languages, as you
also know, I have some mixed feelings about that. In a perfect world,
sure, why not? But this is not a perfect world, and translation is not a
perfect exercise. On the one hand, I would be concerned about accuracy –
of meaning and intent rather than issues of a qualitative nature. On the
other hand, even translating one of the major studies into any other
language would be an immense undertaking – like translating a book.
Translating a work of fiction is difficult because like the exemplar so
also the translation is a work of art. Translating one of the Ichthys
studies would be very hard, I should think, because 1) my prose is
pretty dense; 2) the subject matter is so important that getting
something wrong is likely to give the reader a false impression.
Reason number two above is what leads me to be very resistant to the
idea of paying someone to do the work. I'm not sure that a person who
doesn't believe the truth of what they are reading and, more to the
point, is not approaching it as a labor of love for the Lord as I hope I
have done, would be able to do a creditable job of translating – even if
competent and truly trying and not just putting in the time. So I would
be very reluctant to "OK" any paid translation.
Finally, there is also the issue of true need for the audience in
question. I greatly appreciate your ardor on behalf of this ministry and
these materials, but it is the case that not every Christian is willing
to receive them – not even every Christian who has a good heart for the
Lord and is wanting and willing to grow. Different times, different
cultures, different generations, different life-experiences – all these
factors lead to different likes and dislikes and abilities to assimilate
information depending on presentation. Put another way, there is a
reason why there are multifarious ministries and a great number of
teachers in the Body of Christ – because the Lord is giving the right
spiritual food to match the willingness and receptiveness and
particularness of those receiving it.
I have only a glimmer of an idea of what it must be like to have grown
up in eastern Europe in a Roman Catholic environment; but I am sure that
when one adds in a language barrier too, there are a lot of hurdles that
would have to be overcome for Ichthys to "make sense", even in
translation. I'm not saying it's impossible – you have clearly
benefitted from them – or that I'm not fond of these materials
personally; I am saying that there is a right teacher and a right
ministry for each and every Christian. What you personally have to offer
to those for whom you feel burdened is immense, and it is proper to
understand that those "offerings" would be your own presentation of the
truth. I'm thrilled that these materials at Ichthys will have been
helped along, but your materials coming from yourself are likely to be
more effective and powerful in the end (in my opinion).
Looking forward to witnessing the continuing development of your
ministry, my friend!
And thanks for all your good wishes!
In Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #26:
Hello Professor,
Your points about over-focusing on self-evaluation are all taken.
As for translations, I agree that it would be a very big undertaking. I
am also aware of the difficulties you mention - both your writing being,
as you said, dense and correctly translating all the subject being so
important here. I still think this task could be achieved, even if it
would be difficult and time consuming. Although it would be very hard
for me to commit to doing all the translating myself, I would be able to
ensure that the subject matter is rendered correctly. So someone would
be needed to do a good job from linguistic perspective. It is true that
it is unlikely that anyone should produce a text as excellent in
translation as the original is in English. But if the content was all
correct and the language clear and precise, then I thought it would
still be worth pursuing.
It is hard for me to say to what degree this is Spirit's guidance and to
what degree these are my own mistaken considerations, but I know it
would be wonderful to be able to keep writing my own studies whilst
supervising such an undertaking. This would mean that there would be a
steady influx of sound biblical teaching regardless of how quickly I
would produce.
Your point about the audience is also a valid one. It is impossible for
me to say how those I know would respond to translated ichthys studies,
but, to be perfectly honest with you, Professor - and this is no empty
flattery - regardless of that I would want them to get what's best. And
that does mean ichthys studies. And then although I'm no Bible scholar
and have only been studying for about 6 years, I know there is so little
good teaching around. There is very little to choose from. Apart from
ichthys it is only Curt's ministry that has become an important part of
my own Christian walk, as through listening it allows me to use the time
when I'm not reading or writing. Apart from that, NIV SB is useful,
Unger has been helpful and a very good addition, I occasionally still
consult Keil and Delitzsch, and for the New Testament - Mayer and
sporadically a couple of other original language based commentaries. But
no other teaching ministries.
Professor - I think you should know that I understand your concern and
whatever was to happen and whoever would do the translations, I would
take responsibility for it. I will keep praying about it and hope that
something does materialise. I still hope that apart from my own writing
it will be possible to get this second strand of production going. The
same goes for the NIV SB and Unger, since as far as I know there are no
useful Bible study tools available either. It's hard for me to even
think how I would do my own study if not for the fact that I speak
English.
A very welcome piece of news from another front. A letter from our
friend who is now redoubling his efforts for ministry preparation. He
writes: "This experience has caused quite a bit of emotion and my
discernment is practically occurring moments after. But above all, I
don't think there could have been a more powerful message for me to push
to ministry. Time to take my spiritual preparation to the next level.
Time is truly short. And for some, it may be shorter than others.
My experience was similar, as seeing my loved ones stirred me in my
heart also and helped me realise that I need to fulfil my task of
tending Lord's sheep. Sometimes these experiences can in a moment
restore the right perspective and help us see things with greater
clarity. I have hopes and continue to pray for our friend.
In the grace of our Lord,
Response #26:
As I say, my friend, I'm keeping you in prayer on this. The Lord – I
have no doubt at all – will make clear to you in good time the precise
direction your ministry should take. He understands both the perceived
need on your part and the actual need and actual willingness to respond
(whether greater or lesser than perceived) as well. He will put you into
the right place for the right use of your gifts and willingness to
employ them.
It's wonderful news about our friend – he just emailed me a similar
report. As I shared with Him, the Lord certainly got my attention when
the time came. Too bad it took two major "shakings" for me
to get with it rather than only one. But I read this in scripture and
take heart:
“What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ “ ‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go. “Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you."
Matthew 21:28-31 NIV
Yours in Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #27:
Hello Dr Luginbill, I pray all is well with you and the ministry
1) A bit of a general question here, but what is a good amount of time
for a beginner to read the Bible daily?
2) Is a chapter a day a good start ?
3) Which order would you recommend ie (chronological, Genesis to
Revelation, OT and NT combined, historical, Bible in a year...)
Thanks as always
Response #27:
Hello Friend,
Good to hear from you – and thanks much for your prayers!
As to your questions, there is no set time or set amount or set order.
As I say at the link where these issues are discussed ("Read
your Bible!"), the important thing is to "do it", that is, read your
Bible regularly and consistently. I would say in general terms that a
Christian should not bite off more than can be comfortably done in the
early going. It should be seen as the enjoyable activity it ought to be,
not a drudgery that is sometimes impossible because a person has set the
bar too high. I would also say that it is generally a good idea to do
some from both Testaments daily. The entire Bible is important, but the
truth in the NT is much more concentrated so that it would be a tragedy
to wait, say, a year or more before getting to it (and then reading the
NT for a couple of months before going back to the OT and again lacking
NT input for a long time).
As I say, there is much more about this in the link – and do feel free
to write back.
Yours in Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #28:
I am looking for the best version of the bible to read without out losing God's meaning and word. I am looking for the most accurate version that is also not to hard to read in the English language. Multiple versions are okay as well. As I understand that there is no perfect translation found in one place.
Response #28:
Good to make your acquaintance. You are correct: no translation is
perfect. Even the best are in error sometimes (which is why you will
find many of the passages cited at Ichthys
translated directly from the original; see the link). So for those
without personal access to Greek and Hebrew, I always recommend making
use of multiple versions, and checking other versions when your
"favorite" says something that seem to be off kilter. Also of course,
regular attention to a teaching ministry (such as Ichthys) where the
Bible is carefully and lovingly treated is really important for
continued spiritual growth – in fact it's essential inasmuch as there is
a pretty low ceiling for growth for anyone without the gift of teacher
and without the requisite preparation trying to do it all oneself (or
relying on a church where not much serious teaching is going on which
amounts to the same thing).
For my specific comments on various versions please see the link:
"Read your Bible!"; you might also check the
subject index for postings which include
comments and analysis of many different versions (see the link).
Yours in our dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,
Bob Luginbill
Question #29:
Hi Bob,
I have a friend who is an unbeliever that I have been having discussions
with. He wants me to read a certain book that he likes, and I agreed so
long as I got to choose something for him to read in return. Then, we'll
talk about both things.
I thought I'd have him read scripture directly rather than some
Christian writings, even things from Ichthys. Hopefully God can
powerfully use scripture to talk to him and open his heart.
I was thinking of having him go through the gospels of Matthew and John
at the very least, and perhaps some other things. What other parts of
scripture do you think I should have him read? I thought perhaps it
would be best to stick with the clear gospel message and avoid overly
complex theological books (like Romans). Maybe I'll just have him read
both of those gospels a couple times through. What do you think?
In Christ,
Response #29:
You know your friend better than I, and you also know yourself and how
you would plan to interact with him after the fact. But since you ask my
advice on this, I would tell him to read the Gospel of John one time
carefully. Here's why:
1) Making it less of a chore is gracious and it is at least possible
that the reading will be less adversarial and more pleasurable as a
result.
2) John presents the truths of life eternal and how to receive it (as
well as the alternative) more clearly to the uninitiated reader than
probably any other book in the Bible. Also for that very reason, when
you get around to discussing it, you can ask you friend what he thinks
about any one of dozens of verses that put the matter starkly and thus
cut through any possible dissembling or obfuscation.
It's good of you to do this! I'll say a prayer for your friend's
salvation.
Your friend in Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #30:
How do you do word phrase comparison in your studies? For instance if I want to look up verses that have : spirit and please or obedience and spirit or faith and spirit, etc. how would you do with a concordance? Would you look up instances of both words and do a cross reference? When I am doing these studies even when I am working ad hoc with yours, looking up phrases or combinations is challenging because I don't know how to do it apart from looking at concordances and individual words.
Response #30:
There is no set procedure. Every situation is different. So for example
the word "spirit": I have done a 160 single-spaced study on the Holy
Spirit alone (BB 5), and it certainly could
have been much longer. It could take months or even years to carefully
track down, translate and analyze all passages in Greek and Hebrew which
have the word spirit (since along with Holy Spirit the terms also mean
"wind" and "angel" and "human spirit" – among other things), and that is
just dealing with the main vocabulary without considering synonyms,
phrases in passages which might illuminate the biblical concepts, and
without investigating (in the case of Greek mainly) extra-biblical
evidence for word meanings.
So taking this approach to extremes is counterproductive. On the other
hand, just assuming "I know" what "it" means without research is
likewise a poor approach. An example of the former mistake is the
massive Kittel's "Theological Dictionary of the New Testament" which
does just such in-depth word studies of all "major" NT concepts/words. I
bought this during my second B.A. many years ago and it was a colossal
waste of money (at a time when I was very broke); I seldom ever use it
and I almost never have gotten anything good out of it.
An example on the other extreme are the VERY many pastors, "theologians"
and opinionated Christians who find a definition in Strong's concordance
they like (for whatever reason) and misapply it to all manner of other
passages. In between, I would advise staying objective-focused. What are
you trying to discover? It is very true that in trying to find the
answer to one thing we often find the answer to other things too, and
also that seemingly easy investigations can turn into large ones. But if
we keep the main idea in focus, we will not spend inordinate time in
chasing down every rabbit.
If we are teaching "verse by verse", that will to some extent take care
of itself; the occupational hazard in "verse by verse" teaching is that
we will not do justice to the concepts/ideas/doctrines that are packed
into the words and phrases the author uses (especially in the NT
epistles). If we are doing topical studies, then we will need to
exercise discipline and not try to chase down everything.
So if I use my Greek and Hebrew concordances to look for words related
to "sanctification", for example, I first have to collect up all the
Greek and Hebrew terms which relate to this idea (i.e., not just the
noun but verbs, adjectives, compounds, derivatives etc.), and in many
cases there will be related ways of expressing the idea but in different
phraseology and with different words which might not at first occur to
us as being related – and ofttimes the passages in which these
alternative occur are absolute critical to the topic. English
concordances can help with the above, as can cross-references in study
and topical Bibles.
Most importantly, the more a person reads the Bible, the more such
critical and important passages will automatically occur to him as he
weighs the topic and runs down references. It is important therefore for
every would-be Bible teacher to get familiar enough with scripture so as
"to know" the outlines of every major truth and the passages connected
with it, and also get to know "enough to be right" about the truth.
Trying to collect every single piece of potential evidence is in the end
unworkable and a questionable endeavor at that, especially when we get
to the point where what remains is not critical or is duplicative.
We don't have 100 years to prepare every lesson. This is always the
dilemma. We want to do a very good job – we also want to do it in a
timely enough fashion to be able to feed the sheep when they show up to
be fed. Just as in combat, it won't be a perfect process and there will
be mistakes made. But someone who has the right heart, is diligent in
trying to do an excellent job, and perseveres in getting better at
knowing the Bible and everything that contributes to learning about it
as well as the work of ministry day by day will be pleasing the Lord and
will be earning a good reward. I realize that this is a general sort of
answer. I am happy to answer any specific questions about it you may
have.
(13) Until I come, devote yourself to [public] reading [of the scriptures], to encouragement [through the Word], to the teaching [of the Word]. (14) Do not neglect the [spiritual] gift [of pastor-teacher] which belongs to you and which was given to you [by the Spirit], [and which was proclaimed] through prophecy [and recognized] by the laying on of the hands of the elders. (15) Be diligent in these things (i.e., studying and teaching the Word). Make them your primary concern so that your spiritual progress may be evident to all. (16) Apply them (i.e., the truths you learn) to yourself and to your teaching. Stick [faithfully] to them. For in so doing you will bring yourself and those who heed you safely home.
1st Timothy 4:13-16
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the Word of truth.
2nd Timothy 2:15 NIV
But as for you – model yourself on my teaching, my methodology, my plan of action, my faith, my endurance, my love, my perseverance . . .
2nd Timothy 3:10
Proclaim the Word! Keep at it, whether circumstances are favorable or not! Reprove, rebuke, [and] encourage with all patience [in your] teaching!
2nd Timothy 4:2
(7) In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness (8) and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
Titus 2:7-8 NIV
(10) As each one has received a [particular spiritual] gift, [so let us be] ministering it to each other as good stewards of the multi-faceted grace of God. (11) If anyone communicates, let him do so as if he were speaking words directly from God.
1st Peter 4:10-11a
Question #31:
Thanks Dr. for the feedback. I will put it back until further notice.
What about this book: Word Studies in the Greek New Testament by Kenneth
S. Wuest.
I know the Greek new testament lexical book but I was looking for a book
that has the Greek bible with the English translations. In case I want
to dive into the Greek meaning of a word, I can have a reference to go
by. The concordance helps but doesn't provide in-depth definitions, etc.
Thanks for your feedback.
Response #31:
As to Wuest, I made the mistake of buying this rather expensive series.
It was of no use to me whatsoever. This a good example of how for those
who don't know Greek it is possible to make the product look very
exciting with the promise of unlocking all manner of wonderful things;
that is never the case. The wonder is in the Word and the Word is
available in English, illuminated by the actual Greek (or Hebrew). As to
a "Greek Bible with the English translation", here is one possibility (n.b.,
I do not have nor have I ever used this book take that into
consideration before buying): ISBN-13: 978-3438051622. Please note also
that there are very many variations of the Nestle-Aland series so it
would be best to go straight from the ISBN – if they don't match, it's
not the same book.
If you are thinking about an
"interlinear" translation, that is, a Greek text with the English
translation directly below the line, that is something that is out there
but I never recommend them (see the link), because 1) they make it
impossible to actually learn Greek for those who are trying to do so,
and 2) they give a very false sense of security of understanding to
those who are merely dabbling. They do exist, however (in fact, they are
more popular than ever these days since nowadays no one wants to do the
actual, difficult work of learning Greek and Hebrew).
Wishing and praying for 2018 to be the year of deliverance for you, my
friend.
In Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #32:
Dear Bob,
Sorry to burden you with another question. Meant to ask you this before.
I have "Eerdman's Dictionary of the Bible," an encyclopedia, really,
which I think is a very mixed volume; some Bible based descriptions and
some very secular/academic responses to contemporary beliefs. Relative
to our last exchange on baptism, the entry seems to correspond to our
understanding.
Question is: are you familiar with this book and, if so, can you share
your opinions?
Thanks
Yours in Jesus Christ,
Response #32:
I'm not familiar with this particular book/tool. I can tell you that
there are many such things. When it comes to an encyclopedia of this
sort (such as Interpreter's or ISBE), the person who wrote the
article is usually the operative fact. If the volume doesn't
distinguish, that is problematic. In any case, all such works are of
limited utility. They tend to be better at historical matters and much
worse at doctrinal matters, regardless of who put them together. I use
them occasionally but only with a cellar of salt.
In Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #33:
Good afternoon Dr Luginbill,
Thinking of you, truly, and praying with you in heavenly places often.
As I use your material almost daily in study as well as devotion...I
always keep you in mind.
Wanted to get a recommendation from you on a full bible commentary that
you have found to be most consistent with the exposition you provide in
your writings on Scripture. I have honestly found most to be negligible,
even those “time-honored”. I use JFB probably most frequently, but have
also found them to be inconsistent at points, and frankly not as
original & spirit-filled - or manifesting a real and vital Relationship
amidst the scholarship - even as the character of your commentary I
believe does. So, other than your own, what might you suggest as a whole
bible commentary that serves well as a daily or almost daily companion
reference to my bible reading.
Thank you...
In His Love,
Response #33:
Good to hear from you, my friend, and thanks for your encouraging
comments.
Your request is "hard lift", I'm afraid. The absence of sound
commentaries which are both biblically accurate and actually helpful is
well-known to anyone who has advanced beyond a very basic stage in
spiritual growth.
Most commentaries are either secular in nature (meaning that they
proceed from a skeptical scholarly point of view) or else designed to
read like Sunday sermons (meaning that they are devoid of any true solid
food) – and almost all of them are flawed by way of being incorrect more
often than not in the interpretations they do offer (and there are a
variety of reasons for that).
The best things I've ever seen are in both cases marginalia commentaries
on physical Bibles: 1) the Scofield Reference Bible (original and "new"
both have their strengths and weaknesses) and the NIV Study Bible by K.
Barker (associated with a number of other versions now as well; the one
I use is to the 1984 [note the date] NIV version). These both have their
significant problems, but when it comes to cross-references and
historical matters, they both proceed from a high view of inspiration
(that is, they take the Bible for what it is – the Word of God; cf.
1Thes.2:13), and they both avoid the "devotional" trap (so as to usually
actually say something useful).
As I say, I would use a grain of salt with anything found in either, but
the latter in particular has been of great help to me over the years. As
to anything else, my study is filled with all manner of commentaries,
and to be honest not only do I rarely ever consult them but I rarely if
ever have gotten much useful out of any of them. And I also have to say
that the limited utility they provide seems to be in inverse proportion
to the recentness of their publication dates – meaning that some older
stuff is of some small use, but newer stuff is worse and worse. For a
link on this issue generally which will lead to other postings which may
prove helpful, see
"Commentaries on Romans".
Sorry not to be able to be of more help!
Yours in Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #34:
Good evening Dr Luginbill,
Thank you for your time & response.
It is of great help indeed. Your words bear witness with my spirit and
my mind over the years, and are thus an indirect encouragement, as your
less than enthusiastic endorsement of any resource in particular serves
to strengthen my resolve to stir up that gift that is within me.
Talk again soon I trust.
Response #34:
You're more than welcome, my friend.
Please feel free to write any time.
In Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.
Question #35:
Hello Bob,
This is a quick yes or no answer, I was watching a video on line and I
asked them what version of the bible they were using and they replied
this to me, I am wondering are you in agreement about the interpretation
he /she is giving?
"It's the "esv". I know some people are sketchy about newer translations
but they really do learn new things about the languages and better
manuscripts of the Scripture. When it comes to John 1:18 they have
recently found out the word there is "mono genias theos" which is
literally translated "the one unique God". If you believe in the Trinity
this is actually an awesome proof of it. God the Father is unique from
God the Son but yet they are the same essence and the same God"
Thanks Bob
Response #35:
ESV is not a bad translation, but in all honesty it's not much different
in meaning from the RSV it replaced (it does read somewhat better). I
like the ESV and sometimes quote it, but I've never bumped into a
passage where "new things" were reflected by it. The example cited I
suppose could be considered one – for those who were previously
mistranslating monogenes: that word does mean "unique", but we
knew that from a comparison of the Greek word with the Hebrew word being
translates in the NT; the Hebrew word yachidh, likewise means
something more like "special", "one and only", "unique", and so it's
always been an obvious mistake based on ignorance to translate
monogenes "only born" – at least without an explanation. Here's a
link:
"Only Begotten".
Yours in Jesus Christ our dear Lord and Savior,
Bob L.