Question #1:
Hi Bob,
Just to let you know, I still read your email postings on Sunday morning
and still read scripture every day. I've just been going through a
revelatory time. To quote Shelly, I've "pinnacled dim in the intense
inane."
In reading scripture, people's reactions around the judgment and
crucifixion of Christ and the persecution of Paul tells me that people
haven't changed a bit and we can expect the same. The Lord said so! I've
changed from the notion that people are basically good to the
realization that people are still, after all these centuries, basically
evil. Scripture applies very, very much to today's milieu.
Many times in your weekly posts, I'm tempted to reply, but I realize
it's just "me too" which is a waste of your time and no help to others.
I truly appreciate your ministry and keep you in my prayers daily.
Time is getting very short and I'm sensing that daily. Truth told, I
pray that I'm deemed worthy to be called home and I'm looking forward to
it.
In last weeks post, I believe, the discussion came up of cults -- of
which we have so many today. From the medical cartel, government, DEI,
ESG and LBGQTXYZ which seems to be religions that are stronger than most
alleged christianity.
To avoid more "me too" nonsense, which you don't need, I just wanted to
let you know I haven't gone away. I'm still the old, grumpy curmudgeon
as always and still paying attention on Sunday morning.
Minor update: weather seems to have broken down here and temps are
cooler. Rain is in the forecast (for whatever that may be worth) for the
next week. God is good.
Yours in Jesus,
Response #1:
Thanks for reminding me why I never warmed up to Shelly.
Glad to hear that the weather is more temperate down there now. We've finally
broken out of the 80's here as an "all day sucker" at any rate. Fall is
definitely in the air. Next Monday, I'm giving my first of three exams to my
little dearies, so that is a milestone that lets me know, yes, the semester will
come to an end eventually.
As far as people are concerned, this is the one point of TULIP the Calvinists
did get right, the first one, the T: "Total depravity". Or, as my old mentor
Col. Thieme used to say, "People are no damned good" (cf. Jn.2:24-25).
Spending so much of my life in a university setting, it has long amazed me that
unbelievers who preach and proclaim and memorialize high ethics in every nook
and cranny of academia are so quick to do whatever they want whenever the
pressure is on. You cannot count on their "good words" and noble
representations. It takes courage to do what is right when it will cost you
something. My amazement has come at finding out how quick even such
virtue-signaling individuals are to do the wrong thing merely out of annoyance
and having to be bothered to break a sweat to do the right thing – and they are
very good at rationalizing and justifying these breakdowns too.
So, no, it should not surprise us when, after the pressure is really turned up
during the Tribulation with all that will happen therein, that, e.g., children
will have no problem betraying their parents and vice versa (Mk.13:12; cf.
Mic.7:6; Matt.10:21; Lk.12:51-53). As Thucydides remarked twenty-four centuries
ago, "In peace and prosperity, states and individuals have better sentiments,
because they do not find themselves suddenly confronted with imperious
necessities; but war takes away the easy supply of daily wants, and so proves a
rough master, that brings most men’s characters to a level with their fortunes."
Also, on your list of aggravating cults, you left out my favorite: the whole
"green religion" thing. We're even "killing whales to save them" now, and
"plunging millions into poverty to improve their lives". This whole phenomenon
which has taken over everything and is ruining everything is a clear indication
that we don't have much farther to go down the road to perdition before the
whole world will be only too eager to take the mark of the beast . . . and to
kill us for refusing to do so.
On that happy note, wishing you a good week ahead with a little rain, my friend!
And keeping you in my prayers every day.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
p.s., "me too" is fine with me! It's always good to hear from you.
Question #2:
Hello Bob!
I hope the results of your exams are gratifying. I liked the "Little
Dearies" label. You are slowly revealing that you're as cynical as me.
It will be a relief for us down here to be in the 90s!
I would like Col. Thieme. Actually, as I read on, I'm discovering that
I'm not the only one who thinks this way or that others in the past have
not thought this way. It amazes me that so very few seem to recognize
this. I would have liked Thucydides , too, It proves my belief that
intelligent men over the millennia think mostly alike given the
circumstances.
The "green" cult has always annoyed me. When I was a teen I would go
fishing or hunting and bring out pockets full of wadded monofiliment
and/or shotgun hulls, yet these whining yuppies seem to do little more
than preach and expect us to sacrifice for their cockeyed notions.
Another sign of things to come?
I see trends today as precursors of things to come. I hope I'm wrong,
but...
For what it's worth, except for "Prometheus Unbound" I never warmed up
to Shelly either.
Thanks for your good wishes and prayers. They are greatly appreciated.
You remain in my prayers daily.
In our Lord,
Response #2:
Re: "seem to do little more than preach" . . . au contraire mon frčre!
As you can see and watch on just about any busy street in any US city,
while they preach green, they are the biggest litterbugs in the world.
And this tendency, that is, NOT to actually practice what they preach
can be seen across the board. I wouldn't even mind the hypocrisy . . .
except that they do more than preach: they make us have to settle for
dishwashers that cost twice as much and don't actually work, e.g.
I've never been much on "reception" literature (unless it is in Latin
from Greek). So I'll stick with Aeschylus' version. We are actually
going to be reading his Agamemnon in the spring in my upper level Greek
class. But considering how Demosthenes is going this fall, it might get
a bit rocky. And I actually DO love the "little dearies". They are the
only really good thing about the university. If in the course of being
bombarded with all manner of propaganda within and without someone has
deigned to actually try to get an education while they are supposedly
getting an education, they deserve a little consideration IMHO.
Thanks so much for those prayers, my friend!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
p.s., While he's gone to be with the Lord, Col. Thieme's material is
still available (at the
link).
Question #3:
Hi Bob,
"Reception" literature is a new and unfamiliar expression for me. If
you're referring to Shelly, though, I would argue that "inane" is an apt
term for what I see out there.
I have to note, I'm happiest when I don't read "news." I'm not convinced
that current events have any relevance. In fact, I don't know why I'm
still here. I assume the Lord has something yet for me to do though I
have no idea what at this point.
I agree with you about your "little dearies." Given what I see coming
out of schools, not many are interested in learning. There have been so
many times I wanted to ask you about academia, but decided you don't
need that distraction. I'm not sure it would make any difference,
anyway.
You're right about the greenies. When Marines are called in to clean up
feces, we've passed a point of no return. San Francisco, as well as NYC.
Chicago, Austin and all large cities are discovering with their
homeless. or should be discovering, that their Marxist policies don't
work.
On a brighter note, a young indigo (an indigenous snake) slithered by
this afternoon. They are the good guys. They have no interest in me but
eat rattler young and eggs. Since the weather broke and cooler
temperatures have come, life is returning to the prairie. We even got a
little rain today! God is good.
In our Lord,
Response #3:
What I mean by that term ("reception") is how later authors adapt
previous Classical literature for their own compositions. This
adaptation or borrowing has happened throughout antiquity and has never
stopped. When the movie, "O Brother, Where Art Thou", came out, it was
claimed that it was based on Homer's Odyssey, e.g.
Re: "I don't know why I'm still here", we would all be happy to
be with the Lord instead of continuing to endure "all this" – at least
that is the mature believer perspective.
For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.
Philippians 1:21-23 NKJV
However, Paul says in the very next verse . . .
Nevertheless to remain in the flesh is more needful for you.
Philippians 1:24 NKJV
Re: "I assume the Lord has something yet for me to do though I have
no idea what at this point." If nothing else, we can always pray.
Offering prayer support for our brothers and sisters in the Lord is no
small thing. Prayer support is like artillery support. The
"cannon-cockers" never really see the full impact of their help, but
what infantry unit would ever want to be without it? All ministry is
important, even when we don't see the effect of it in real time. We will
find out about it at the judgment seat of Christ if not before. This
ministry would never have happened and these materials would never have
been produced without the prayer support of godly believers like
yourself.
Also, we're not far from very perilous times, and we can't know ahead of
time exactly what the Lord's plans are for us once the darkness falls.
But He has a good reason for everything.
Glad to hear that things have moderated down there. Spent some time on
my free morning doing fence repair. Lovely day for it.
Keeping you in my prayers daily too, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #4:
Just a quick note to say how much I appreciate your studies and reading your
weekly emails. This year alone:
1) Someone inquired about a 1985 Kenneth Barker NIV bible. I ordered one and I
really enjoy the commentary. I just finished up an OT study on the kingdom
divided and the prophets and this commentary fills in a lot of gaps. For
example, I meant to look up the chronological order of Jeremiah. And this
commentary actually lists the sequence in the introduction!
2) Someone had commented how lonely they’ve become since growing spiritually. I
am going through a season of this. I’m 50 yrs old and I’ve shed several
friendships. Sometimes I wonder and I’ll ask God if I’m being prideful or
legalistic in regards to people. Yet, I’m just not interested in the same things
anymore and most often alcohol is a big part of social activities. I spent
decades unequally yoked with unbelievers and I don’t want to go back to that. It
was comforting to read someone else was asking the same thing.
Thank you for your time and efforts!
I pray for your encouragement, perseverance and peace.
Response #4:
Thanks so much for your encouraging email, my friend.
Yes, I love my Barker CSB (read from it daily). And yes, I just noticed the
other day (reading through Jeremiah myself), that they had a nice chronological
note in the intro (very helpful).
I think most of us who are trying to be faithful in following the Lord the right
way, through learning, believing and applying the truth, have had similar
experiences to one degree or another. When the truth is the most important thing
to you, your enthusiasm for relationships not based thereon will naturally
diminish – while it will naturally increase for those which are based on a
mutual desire to please the Lord the right way. The problem is, of course, in
this late day of Laodicea there are precious few believers who are determined to
do that. That makes it a bit lonely for us "Christian warriors" who find
ourselves out here on the battle line stretched pretty thin. But the Lord
provides. Most of us have found that drawing closer to Him daily is more than
sufficient compensation (even though we all crave Christian fellowship). When we
all stand together on the heights of Zion in New Jerusalem, united as one Bride
of Christ, closer to each other than we can presently imagine, praising the One
to whom we all belong, we'll have no regrets for this short time in the
wilderness. Meanwhile, every day is an opportunity to add to our heavenly
thesaurus in honor of our dear Lord Jesus Christ.
Are you part of the forum? Steven T. has set up an online meeting place for
readers of Ichthys. If you're not on it and would like to join, I can ask him to
send you an invite.
Thanks again for this thoughtful email.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #5:
[omitted]
Response #5:
Good to make your acquaintance.
There's plenty about this topic of the mechanics of salvation in the
major posting, BB 4B: Soteriology: the study of
salvation (at the link). Much shorter is the posting, "Salvation:
God's free gift". In BB 5, you might also see "The
Salvation ministries of the Spirit".
Spiritual regeneration by the Holy Spirit is indeed what being "born
again" means, although in Greek anothen means equally "from
above" as well as "anew" (compare Jn.3:3 with Jn.3:31: "again" and
"above" respectively are both anothen), stressing not only the
newness but also the origin. The rebirth / birth-from-above is
spiritual, accomplished by God when we respond to the gospel by faith
and results in the baptism of the Spirit wherein we are made one with
Christ and henceforth have the Spirit within us (see the prior link).
In terms of the Bible, please see BB 7:
Bibliology. If by "the Bible that took over a thousand of years
after Lord Jesus death and resurrection before it was available as we
know it today", you are referring to the English versions of the
Bible, that is certainly true. The entire Old Testament was available
during our Lord's day, and the entire New Testament in Greek, the same
one we have today, was completed and available to the early Christian
churches in toto well before the end of the 1st century A.D.
In Jesus our dear Savior,
Bob L.
Question #6:
[omitted]
Response #6:
Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved!
Acts 16:31
Simple faith in Christ is all that is necessary to be born again; if you want to
know what that means, please read the link: in
BB 4B: Soteriology:
"Faith".
1) First, emails received after COB on Friday (and there is a three hour time
difference between here and there where you are) have to wait until Sunday when
I'm "digging out"; Saturdays, as all Ichthys readers know, is when I do the
weekly email postings (to give readers something
substantive for the week since they're not going to be getting it at "church").
So I haven't been ignoring you – you just have to have a little patience. This
is a personal ministry. I also have a full time job and lots of other emails to
answer besides yours.
2) As to "arguing against the truth", you have me super-confused. What are you
talking about? This is a Bible study ministry and I answer Bible questions as
part of that ministry. Your first email, to which I did reply, seemed to be
asking questions to which I did my best to respond. I am quite sure that you
have not yet read all the material in the links I sent you (from what you
subsequently wrote).
3) If you have a question that I have not answered, please ask it in a more
simple fashion – like you were talking to a 5th grader.
4) If you are disagreeing with some doctrinal position held by this ministry,
please state the disagreement clearly, and I will attempt to engage for your
sake – since the Lord sent you here, that is the least I can do, one time at
least. This is not an apologetics ministry, so I do have limited time to debate
with people whose minds are locked and who are in fact unwilling to consider
what the Bible actually says.
5) Reading between the lines of what you wrote, if you are under the impression
that believers need some special extra "baptism of the Spirit" which involves
emotional excess and speaking in tongues, let me assure you that this is not the
case. As Romans 8:9 states unequivocally, "Now if any man have not the Spirit of
Christ, he is none of his." (KJV). That means that all who believe in truth, in
truth receive the Spirit (and that is clear from everything else written in the
NT). See also the links provided in the prior email.
6) If you are under the impression that somehow you don't need a teacher because you
have the Spirit, let me assure you that you misreading what 1st John 2:27a says
(see
this link for an explanation); better translation: "But as for you, the
anointing which you received from Him remains in you, and you have no need for
anyone to teach you [this (i.e., what was said in v.26 and previously)]."
Otherwise, why would there be a gift of pastor-teacher? If no one needed
teaching? Which, of course, is ridiculous on the face of it. Our Lord is not
called "teacher" dozens and dozens of times in the gospels for nothing, for the
above are not isolated passages (Matt.4:23; 5:2; 7:28-29; 9:35; 11:1; 13:54;
21:23; 26:55; Mk.1:22; 2:13; 4:1; 6:2; 8:31; 9:31; 10:1; 11:17; 12:35; 14:49;
Lk.4:15; 4:31; 5:3; 5:17; 6:6; 13:10; 13:22; 19:47; 20:1; 21:37; 23:5; Jn.6:59;
7:14; 7:28; 8:20; 8:28; 18:20), and He gave us the same mandate:
Then Jesus came over and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me, so go and make all nations my followers by baptizing them [with the Spirit] into the Person (i.e., “name”) of the Father and [into the Person] of the Son and [into the Person] of the Holy Spirit, and by teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you.”
Matthew 28:18-20a
7) If you are suggesting that the Bible is unnecessary, that is dangerously
incorrect. We would know and could know nothing about the Lord Jesus Christ
without the Bible. Peter tells us that the inspired Word of scripture is "more
certain" than even the revelations he saw with his own eyes (2Pet.1:19). The
only way we can know anything spiritual – beyond natural revelation – is through
the Bible . . . or learning from someone who got their information from the
Bible. No one today is receiving revelation directly from the Lord. That has not
happened since the canon was closed in the first century. I assure you that the
early church cherished the scriptures. That is the reason we have them in spite
of all opposition to and persecution of the early Church – by the grace and
mercy of God.
Believe you me I think of consequences all the time so that I always endeavor to
do what Paul did as he told the Ephesian elders:
"For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God."
Acts 20:27 KJV
I sincerely apologize if I have misread your emails (if you have someone else
look them over I think any neutral party would agree that they are confusing);
but if I have hit the nail on the head, then you would do well to consider YOUR
"consequences" – and please start reading your Bible.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #7:
[omitted]
Response #7:
I'm still not clear about what you are asking or trying to say. At one
point here you seem to suggest that this ministry, Ichthys, believes in
"once saved, always saved", whereas that is a false doctrine I have been
fighting since the inception of this ministry.
It does seem clear, at least, that you have issues about salvation,
which is, as scripture says, entirely, "by grace [God's part] through
faith [man's response]". Adding to salvation is extremely hazardous. If
it gets to the point where the person is relying on anything except
simple faith (and understanding WHAT that is is also important; see
prior link), is the definition of legalism and does not produce
salvation in fact.
So perhaps instead of writing long emails which are "all over the map",
we could take these things one at a time.
Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Luke 23:42-43 NKJV
The thief crucified next to Jesus was, as our Lord's response makes
clear, "saved" – through simple faith in Christ as the Son of God.
Please explain if and how you might see that differently.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #8:
[omitted]
Response #8:
Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ,[fn] save Yourself and us.” But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Luke 23:39-43 NKJV
Beyond all argument, in the passage above the thief on the cross WAS saved, though never water-baptized, though never having a hand laid on him. He was saved the way we all are: through faith in the Son of God.
Question #9:
[omitted]
Response #9:
For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” Now to him who works, the wages are not counted as grace but as debt. But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.
Romans 4:3-5 NKJV
Justification by faith is a key Christian doctrine. We are accounted righteous by believing in Christ just like Abraham our exemplar. And he is our model although Christ had not yet come in the flesh.
But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
John 1:12-13 NKJV
Those "who received Him" were saved through faith in Him, even before
the cross.
The Holy Spirit is the Agent of salvation; He has always made the gospel
understandable to those who heard it, even before the cross. The cross
has always been the issue, looking forward to it in shadows or back to
the reality of it in the face of Christ.
"He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."
John 3:18 NKJV
As our Lord makes crystal clear in the passage above, those who are
believers in Him are saved; those who are not believers in Him are not
saved – including those who are really relying on works or putative
experiences of some sort. Believers are saved. Unbelievers are not
saved. Salvation is about our relationship with Christ based on faith,
belief, trust, obedience, faithfulness – being a believer.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #10:
[omitted]
Response #10:
Re: "Your message is the doctrine of once saved always saved, I ask again did
you not say you do not believe in once saved always saved?" I answered this
in detail already: OSAS is a false doctrine as anyone seriously reading into
this ministry will understand (see the
link).
It is clear that you are not interested in being taught but in teaching. That is
your privilege, but not at this ministry. This is a Bible teaching ministry
dedicated to the truth of the Word of God, not to debate or apologetics. I've
explained to you what the Bible has to say and you have preferred your own
extra-biblical analysis. That is your privilege as well. However, my time is
limited, and as you are not listening to, let alone accepting, my responses,
this correspondence must now end.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #11:
Doc, do you think it's OK for a Christian to have someone be cremated or to be cremated? A lot of believers (or at least professing ones like Catholics if I remember correctly) see cremation as some kind of blasphemy against or denial of the Resurrection we'll all have. I personally believe it doesn't matter, God can do anything, He can resurrect in a new body a Christian who's been cremated, resurrect one digested in the belly of a beast, and resurrect one vaporized in a nuclear blast. What do you think though?
Response #11:
I would agree with you. While it is true that the Jewish practice was always
burial and while it is also true that this sent a message of confidence in the
resurrection (consider Joseph giving orders about his "bones": Heb.11:22), we
who have been blessed to have the entire New Testament do recognize that burial
is not what saves us. The Egyptians foolishly believed that preservation of the
physical body was what mattered. We know, however, that God does not need the
body or any bones to be preserved to resurrect us. He knows where every
subatomic particle that ever formed part of the bodies of Adam and Eve are
located, for example. Nothing is impossible for Him. Our faith is in His
promises, and not in any method of disposition of our bodies after death.
Otherwise, we might think that those lost at sea, for example, or blown to bits
in some explosion, would be lost. But scripture makes it clear that it is those
who refuse to believe in Christ who are lost, while all believers will be
resurrected, regardless of what shape their deceased bodies are in when that
blessed day comes – even if totally dispersed around the globe atom by atom.
Link:
The Resurrection of the Lamb's Bride
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #12:
Dr. Luginbill,
My wife's sister passed away recently. She had had a stroke about 8
years prior and had never recovered. She could function fairly well
physically but had real troubles speaking as she just could not come up
with the right words which greatly frustrated her. She and my wife were
very close. She was not raised in a Christian home but did attend the
Catholic church when she was very young (her mother was raised
Catholic). Her husband was (and still is) antagonistic to anything
spiritual, considering it all "fairytales". The life they lived and the
friends they consorted with were very worldly. They raised 5 children
who are all married and have families of their own. Four of those
children seem to be open to talking about our Lord while one is
following in the footsteps of his father and is antagonistic. Two of the
first four have expressed their belief in the Lord Jesus Christ and what
He has done for them - but only privately, not wanting to experience the
disgust of their father. During the last few days of her life, she was
bedridden and could barely speak at all. Against the wishes of their
father, two of their children asked a priest to come perform her "last
rites", after which she was able to say "Thank you so much" and seemed
to be at peace.
With that background, I have been asked by the two children who profess
salvation to speak at the upcoming graveside memorial service for family
and close friends. They stated that they did not want some priest who
did not know their mother to conduct the ceremony, but hoped that I
would lead the service because they knew that I "knew the Scriptures". I
do love the Lord and His Word but their opinion of my knowledge must be
far greater than my own opinion, for sure. I am greatly honored but
troubled by this request. Though I have never led a memorial service, I
have no fear of public speaking. I just don't know how to handle this
service with such a mixed audience.
First, I have no confidence that my sister-in-law was saved, and do not
want to portray the idea that I know she is now in heaven enjoying the
presence of our Lord, experiencing only blessing and no more tears or
pain. She may be, I very much hope so but I am not the Judge. How do I
comfort the family without promoting false assurances and conveying the
idea that I know she is in heaven? Should I just go ahead and paint that
heavenly picture so as to comfort the family? I don't want to mislead or
offer false hope, and I don't want to misrepresent our God knowing that
they consider me someone who "knows the Scriptures".
Second, I would guess that most of those attending will not be
Christians. Along with reading an obituary and giving a eulogy, I would
like to present the gospel. Would that be inappropriate? This is a time
to "memorialize" my sister-in-law and I doubt it would be proper
etiquette to preach to a captive audience of unbelievers. Probably
wouldn't go over very well.
I am praying that God will give me some direction about this. I do not
want to go unprepared and turn this memorial service into something
unbecoming or dishonorable to the deceased and her family. I need help.
Do you have any suggestions and/or direction for me or what Scriptures
might be appropriate in this situation?
In the name of our loving Lord,
Response #12:
I'm very sorry for your loss.
In terms of your dilemma, I must say that you have framed all of the
issues perfectly. This absolutely sharp analysis of the situation is a
testament to your spiritual growth and progress in listening to the
Spirit. So I commend you for that. While I will say a few things, please
don't take them as "scripture" since I don't have the level of
understanding of the situation you do. A man with this command of the
spiritual issues, I feel, ought to be able to navigate it correctly with
a clear conscience.
What you don't want to do: 1) make a pronouncement of which you are
unsure as to your sister-in-law's spiritual status; but also 2) fail to
give what comfort you can and also present the truth. It is at times
like this that unbelievers may actually be listening somewhat because
funerals remind us of our own mortality.
In general terms, it seems to me that one possible approach (it is only
one: you have be comfortable in your conscience with what you say) would
be to 1) eulogize your sister-in-law (you will probably not be the only
one recalling good things about her); 2) read a selection of scriptures
which the Lord has placed on your heart. Whatever you read will be true
and it will also not be "yours" except that you selected it and read it.
Reading verses about the resurrection in conjunction with salvation
verses will give anyone paying attention an idea of what scripture says
is next . . . for believers, and also what leads to salvation: faith in
Christ. Seems to me it would be difficult to criticize you substantively
for that.
Again, just a suggestion of a possible approach. I will say a prayer for
your guidance on this and also for things to go well. Let me know how it
goes.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #13:
Dr. Luginbill,
Just a note to tell you that we had the graveside memorial service for
my wife's sister last Saturday. First I want to thank you for your
suggestions on how to lead that memorial service and especially for your
prayers for guidance by the Holy Spirit. There were probably 50-60 in
attendance, mostly old-time cowboys who were long-time friends of
theirs, along with many family members - children, grandchildren, and
great-grandchildren. I began the service reading the obituary and a
eulogy for about 15 minutes, followed by a time of comments by
attendees. Then I said the following:
The family has asked that I say a few words of comfort from Scripture. This isn't a church service and I'm not a preacher but I do love the Lord, and I'm happy to share some Scriptures with you that I believe __ would consider appropriate. Some of her last words were a 'thank you' for some comforting words from Scripture.
Though people usually try not to think about it, it's times like this that make us realize in our heart of hearts that we will all leave this life someday. The Bible tells us that our death is not the end - that there is a better life to be had - a life with no pain, no sorrows, no tears, a life of joy unspeakable where we can be in the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for all of eternity.
In John chapter 11 - Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live."
Now the Sadducees were among a group of people who believed that there is no resurrection - no life after death. We have no spirit, angels don't exist. They believed that when you die, that is the end. You just return to the dust. The grave is the end and all that is left of you is memories. But Jesus said in Matthew 22, "You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God... have you not read what was said to you by God: 'I AM the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'? He is not the God of the dead, but of the living." God did not say "I WAS the God of these people while they were alive; He said "I AM the God of these people - they are ALIVE".
In 1 Corinthians 15, the apostle Paul says (paraphrasing) - Someone may ask, "How will the dead be raised? What kind of bodies will they have?" Well, as you know... when you put a seed into the ground, it doesn't grow into a plant unless it dies first. And what you put in the ground is not the plant itself, but only a bare seed of wheat or whatever you are planting. Then God gives it the new body he wants it to have... It is the same way with the resurrection of the dead. Our earthly bodies are planted in the ground when we die, but they will be raised to live forever.... They are buried as natural human bodies, but they will be raised as spiritual bodies. For just as there are natural bodies, there are also spiritual bodies. The natural body comes first, then the spiritual body comes later... What I am saying, dear brothers and sisters, is that our physical bodies cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. These dying bodies cannot inherit what will last forever.
In John chapter 6 (again paraphrasing) - Jesus told the people the next day after He miraculously fed the 5000, "Don't spend your lives working for food that perishes... Spend your energy seeking the spiritual food that leads to eternal life which the Son of Man can give you." Then they asked, "Well, what does God want us to do?" Jesus told them, "This is what God wants from you: Believe in the One He has sent."
John said, "God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him."
God does love us and He wants a relationship with us - just as He had with Adam & Eve in the Garden of Eden. Through the cross, Jesus has made it possible to have that relationship. Now, the best way to create and maintain a relationship with anyone, including God, is through communication, and we use prayer to communicate with God. God wants to hear from us, and He is always available to listen.
So now, let's bow our heads and talk to Him: Heavenly Father, as we bring this service honoring ___'s life to a close, we ask that your blessing and peace be with her family. Comfort and protect them as they return to their respective homes. In the days and years ahead, may they find peace in their hearts as they consider your faithfulness and your love for each one of them, and look to you for direction in each decision they make. We thank You for your Word and ask that it accomplish exactly what you meant for it to accomplish. We know that when we pray, You hear more than the words we say, You answer with more than we ask, and You give more than we can imagine. Thank You for watching over us and giving each and every one of us the opportunity to develop a relationship with You. In Jesus' wonderful name we pray, amen.
It honestly wasn’t as clear or direct of a presentation of the Gospel as
I really wanted to give, but I think anyone listening that was actually
interested would have something to think about that might entice further
investigation. I think my biggest surprise was the number of old cowboys
who came to me after the service and commented on how much they
appreciated the service and even how appropriate the Scripture reading
portion was. I did not expect that, and who knows whether or not they
were just being polite. But I do continue to pray that God’s Word will
accomplish what He meant for it to accomplish. So though I was hesitant
about what to say, I appreciate the opportunity to proclaim God’s Word
and I thank you especially for your guidance and encouragement.
In the name of our loving Lord Jesus,
Response #13:
I want to congratulate you on a wonderful eulogy, my friend! I can't
imagine anyone doing a better job. You thought about it. Got some help
with it. Worked hard on it. And you delivered it in a spirit of love and
humility – in the power of the Spirit. This was ministry. And, from the
sound of it, you made a "dent" as well. Well done you! To the glory of
Jesus Christ.
With your permission, I'd love to post this at some future time (names
removed, of course).
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #14:
Dr. Luginbill,
You may certainly post this if you think it might help someone else. Thanks
again.
Response #14:
Thank you!
I think it will be very helpful indeed.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #15:
Hello Bob,
Happy New Year as you continue your work for the advancement of the
gospel and the kingdom to come. You are much appreciated!
Please pray for my brother who is now in poor health but most
importantly remains unsaved despite prayers and pleadings. I am so
burdened for him, surely our Lord hears the prayers of my heart? If he
is not of the elect why am I so very concerned (apart from the fact that
he is my brother). We were both adopted and not blood relatives but
surely God engineered the circumstances that we were brought together?
Sometimes I get so confused by this but I hang on to the belief that God
can save to the uttermost even in the last hour.
Thank you Bob!
Response #15:
Thanks for the good words, my friend.
Can I ask you to please use questions2@ichthys.com in the future? The
other email is my university work address.
I will pray for your brother (I have been doing so). Also, I have a
request up on the website for him. Let me know if you want this expanded
or changed in any way.
I understand about those we love whose salvation we doubt or wonder
about – or know for certain aren't saved. The plan of God is perfect. He
certainly knows our hearts – and has from eternity past. So perhaps the
"hard cases" have been given to us because they needed a good deal of
prayer before coming around.
I absolutely agree that where there is life, there is always hope that a
person will come to Christ. I dare say that in the history of humanity
there have been very many "death bed conversions". Some people are just
prone to leaving things to the last minute. We hope and pray in the case
of your brother that he won't leave it that long.
Hope you're doing well personally. Keeping you and your family in my
daily prayers.
Wishing you a blessed 2023!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #16:
Doc I need to know if it's OK to mourn a family member who you know for a fact died an unbeliever...such feelings of grief I'm sure would be impossible to not have unless you let your heart go completely cold to them. She hasn't gone from this life yet, but I can't bear the thought of ___ passing and knowing she went to Hell, and being tormented with the fact I'm not allowed to grieve her. Please pray for her also...
Response #16:
Grief is human. Even Jesus wept for Lazarus – and even though He knew that He
was about to raise him from the dead. So we can't ignore the fact that we will
feel the loss of those we love, and it's a mistake to try.
As to those who are not yet departed and not believers, let's not give up hope.
Nothing is impossible for the Lord. Let's instead keep praying and keep
witnessing the witness of the life to them and for them. Let's be the absolute
best Christians we can be, growing and progressing and producing, so that they
may be more motivated to respond to the light of the truth as well.
(1) Likewise you wives [should be] subordinating yourselves to your own husbands, so that if any of them are not [at present] obedient to the Word of God, they may be won over without a word from you through the godly conduct of [you], their wives, (2) as they keep observing [that] pure conduct of yours [towards them], [rendered] with respect.
1st Peter 3:1-2
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #17:
Doc...can we mourn people we loved who weren't saved? I mean of they end up in Hell there shouldn't be sympathy for them right? But it just doesn't seem fair for natural feelings that come from the death of someone we had any bond with to be condemned as wicked...once again I understand God is God, and whatever He says goes, no matter how hard it is for us or how seemingly natural these actions or feelings are, but is this really the case?
Response #17:
Of course our feeling are our feelings. Whenever we suffer a loss, we
will naturally grieve and mourn over the person we have lost. God
understands that and there is no shame in it at all (cf. Jn.11:35).
If I'm understanding the subtext of your question correctly, I would
remind you that 1) as long as a person is still alive, there is a chance
that said person, if an unbeliever, will turn to the Lord. In the
history of the world, there have been very many "death bed conversions",
e.g. So we should never lose hope for those we love and we should
remember that the Lord loves us and knows very well how we feel about
friends and relatives who may not be saved; 2) in the case of those who
have passed on, it is also possible that we are not aware of all the
facts. As mentioned, many are saved at the last moment, often, I would
imagine, without giving a sign of it. When the end is nigh, well, for
those NOT saved, that event will have an amazing capacity to concentrate
the mind. If a person has heard the gospel previously, if we have prayed
for them, I'd never sell the Lord short; 3) we must never forget that
God knows everything while we have limited information. We should not
allow our ignorance or emotional upsets ever to cause us to swerve from
the strait and narrow. So to the extent we are being bothered by
something like this, we should recognize it for the test it is, pray for
the person (if still on this earth), and trust God that He loves us,
that He has heard our prayers, and that He is always working things out
for good. For those departed, it seems fit to me not to lose hope for
those we had loved until we find out for certain of their status on the
other side – at which point all will be well for us no matter what.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #18:
Doc, why does the world struggle to forgive some things? Why do so many people lash out against Grace, against absolute redeemability? I feel like a large part of it for most people is pride, the thought process of, even if they don't think that directly or admit it, "because I haven't done anything that's too bad, I still deserve love and happiness"! When you stop to think about it, it's almost a reverse works salvation. It's about me me me, what I do, what I've done to deserve forgiveness and redemption... I'm by no means downplaying how bad a lot of people or what they do are. There are acts, especially the ones a lot of people consider irredeemable, that truly deserve nothing but death. Why though do so many people refuse to forgive certain things when often times they don't even believe in something that can rationally and honestly be called an absolute standard of good? I understand their point, even if we force a serial killer for example to face the legal and other worldly consequences for their actions, they still get to go to Heaven for eternity...but still, if they have no God or other higher power to believe in, who decides what's unforgivable, or even what's right or wrong? I've heard all sorts of ludicrous excuses like "The existence of a God would actually disprove objective morality rather than prove", or "if you need a book/religion/God to tell you how to be moral you're not a good person", and my personal favorite,"maybe the universe's laws decided once sentient life came into existence that an objective morality is the standard"(as if we could even know that last one's the case!). I'm honestly tired of hearing people be so desperate to hang on to the hypocritical morality of their own making they have. It becomes clearer and clearer to me every day how people are suppressing the truth in their hearts.
Response #18:
"It becomes clearer and clearer to me every day how people are suppressing
the truth in their hearts." I think that is the bottom line. As often
pointed out in this ministry, whenever truth is rejected, some lie or system of
lies is accepted in its place (link).
Blessedly, we believers do not need to fret over the state of the world. It's
always "lay in the lap of the evil one" (1Jn.5:19). Our job is to please Jesus
Christ, not to worry about this temporary, corrupt world. If we do that
consistently, we have only good things to look forward to.
(10) According to the grace of God given to me like a wise architect I have laid down a foundation, and another is building upon it. But let each one take care how he builds upon it. (11) For no one can lay another foundation except the One that has been laid down: Jesus Christ. (12) And if someone builds upon his foundation with gold, silver, and precious stones, [or] with wood, hay, and stubble, (13) [in either case] his work will be made manifest [as to its true quality], for the Day [of judgment] will make it clear [for what it truly is], because it will be revealed (lit., uncovered) with fire. And the fire will evaluate (lit., "assay") the work of each person as to what its [true] quality is. (14) If anyone's work which he has built [on his foundation of faith in Christ] remains (i.e., is not burnt away by the fiery evaluation), he will receive a reward [for it]. (15) If anyone's work is burnt up, he will suffer the loss [of any potential reward for it], but he himself will be saved – but in this way [just described] as through fire [which evaluated his false works as worthless and burnt them up].
1st Corinthians 3:10-15
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #19:
Hello Dear Friend,
I pray this note finds you well & your spirit comforted after going
through last week. I've been praying mightily for you and your whole
family. I pray for peace & comfort & strength as your niece heals.
I mentioned the last time we talked that I had a question for you. It's
more of a story & it has happened to me spontaneously on two occasions.
I don't doubt it because I didn't bring the subject up in conversation,
however I don't know what to make of it.
We'll start with my daughter. She was an early talker & never really
babbled except when she was very young. Before her first birthday she
could put a few words together and by the time she was 2, was talking in
complete sentences.
One day, we were driving, doing errands, she was still in her car seat
so if memory serves I'd say she was 2, maybe 2 1/2. We were talking as
we drove as was our custom. She would tell me about her day. Out of the
blue, this particular day, she said "Mama, do you remember when I lived
with Baby Jesus?" I was... speechless. I gathered myself & said "Well,
not exactly Sweetheart but maybe you can tell Mommy and help me
remember." She proceeded to describe Heaven in a child's view. She told
me that she lived with Baby Jesus before she came to live with me. She
said that there's a long hall in Heaven and on the walls are all the
pictures of all the Mommy's in the world. She told me that she picked me
bc of my smile. She continued to tell me random bits and pieces over the
next few weeks, again randomly and spontaneously. As soon as it started,
it stopped.
My granddaughter was also an early talker. She's 3, & speaks very
plainly. One day, just as spring was starting, March, I'd guess, we were
making lunch and she was telling me what she wanted to eat & could she
help me make it....and out of the blue, she looked at me and said "God
made me Nonna." I said yes He did, thinking that was odd but she said it
with finality so I didn't question her. But she continued on. She said
she used to live with Jesus and He had purple eyes. She said that she
had to ask Him 5 times before she could come to her Mommy. She said that
all the little girls lived together and the boys lived together.
She had to help all her friends in Heaven pick out their Mommys before
she could come live with her Mama. __ doesn't know that my daughter had
been diagnosed with celiac and Hashimoto's hypothyroidism, which is
always present in celiacs but I believe you can have Hashimoto's and not
have celiac. The doctor - her endocrinologist - had told her that she
would never be able to carry children. So for ___ to say that she has to
ask Jesus 5 times (she repeated this particular part to me several times
while telling me about her experience.) is, odd, for lack of a better
word.
My question is, can children remember Heaven? As I said, it's happened
to me twice. The stories were not the same in detail at all except for
the fact that both of my girls chose their Mothers. I certainly realize
that this may be a question that won't have an answer.
I was reminded of it while praying for your niece and thinking about her
son. He may have chosen her for a reason we don't understand. I have
come to understand that the child I lost 15 years ago may have chosen
me. Although his/her time with me was short, I endured one of the
hardest tests I believe the Lord can give any of us - the loss of a
child at any stage. Again, I remember your words of comfort that until
God breathes the Breath of Life into a child, it hasn't received its
spirit.
Again, I'm not sure that this is something that requires an answer but I
suppose I'm interested in if it's possible. You know that old saying
once is happenstance, twice is a coincidence....
I'm quite interested in hearing from you about this.
You & your family remain in my prayers.
In Jesus,
Response #19:
Well, that is VERY interesting – obviously. As you know, however,
we can only actually know anything about God from scripture; all other
reports, even as amazing as these, we have to subordinate to what we
know of the truth (link).
So I don't know exactly what to tell you about all this. I can't think
of any scriptures that might shed any additional light. I will say that
if kids get to pick their parents, I personally made an EXCELLENT choice
– but very many would seem to have chosen very poorly, and I would
wonder about that.
It is certainly true, either way, that everything that happens is set in
the plan of God and was so before the Lord created the world and started
this whole process – taking into account the free will of all.
You have a blessed family, that is for sure! Thanks again so much for
your prayers for my niece and nephew-in-law. I had a nice voicemail
message from her thanking me for the prayers – she seems to be doing
pretty well, under the circumstances. She has strong faith and that
gives a person resilience – but I'm sure it's not easy.
Keeping you and your family in my prayers daily as well, my friend!
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #20:
Hello Dr Bob -
As I said, I wasn't sure if this was a question or just something I have
been wanting to share with you for the longest time. I agree that some
children, if they do get to choose, are in a hard spot from the green
light, to turn a phrase.
The only scripture I can think of & is hardly an adequate "answer" is
the one referencing "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's
womb." - Jeremiah 1:5. This doesn't seem to relate to a child
remembering Heaven, only that the Lord knows us before we come here.
I used to think __ was someone very special that my Mama knew, in the
flesh. Whenever my sister & I had exasperated her patience (which as a
mother myself now, looking back, rivaled Job's on some hot summer days)
she always would say, "You girls are going to drive me to the nut house,
so help me!" Mother's name is ___, & there was an ___'s Nut House at our
local mall. We didn't know why we made her want to go there but we did
believe it was her store.
I am blessed with a wonderful loving & very close family during my days
here in this world. I don't have anything but admiration and honor for
my parents, grandparents and extended family. My parents will be
celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary tomorrow. They've set a very
high bar for my sister and I.... which is why I struggle so with her
current situation.
Thank you, Friend, for indulging me in this little snippet of my life. I
know we pray for many who need your time, wisdom and encouragement in
far more pressing needs & situations. I continue to lift you, your
family and flock in prayer.
In Our Savior's Love,
Response #20:
It's my pleasure!
The Lord has clearly blessed you with a wonderful family.
I am keeping your sister and her children in my prayers – and you for your
coming operation.
Thanks so much for your prayers and encouragement as well, my friend.
In Jesus,
Bob L.
Question #21:
Hi Dr. Luginbill,
I was reading through your latest post on Ichthys and one of the
questions resonated with me about heaven. I used to also worry that
heaven would be boring. I think one of the reasons this is a common
worry is because most of our lives (not to mention the entertainment
that we consume) is based on conflict. The lack of conflict is
unimaginable. What will we talk about? What excitement is there in
knowing what will happen every day?
But it's just like you said. The Bible doesn't tell us much about heaven
because that's all we would ever focus on. We wouldn't be fruitful for
the purpose God has planned for us in this life.
Whenever I'm so overwhelmed with my own suffering, there's a specific
verse I think about -- one of the verses you mentioned but in a
different response.
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will
soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will
walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:31
That sounds pretty fun. I interpret that verse as one of the glimpses we
get into heaven; I hope I'm interpreting it correctly. I don't think I'd
ever grow tired of never getting tired.
I so badly want to be made new. I want to be a new person with a new
body free from my sinful nature. Never causing people disappointment,
never having regrets, never failing ever again -- it sounds too good to
be true. I guess that's why it's called heaven.
In Him,
p.s., Forgot to mention -- and I want to soar with wings like eagles!
Response #21:
Good stuff! Me too! Angels fly. Our Lord is superior to them (Heb.1:5-14), and
when resurrected, we will "be like Him" (1Jn.3:2), so why not us too?
There is so much we don't know about what is to come. As I often say, that is
probably a good thing, otherwise we'd be like the greyhound who caught the
rabbit (i.e., no longer motivated but in our case because we'd know that it's
all going to be so wonderful regardless we'd be thinking about that all the time
instead of getting on with our lives).
Some things to remember re: boredom. First, Jesus Christ is more important to us
and more wonderful to us than anything in this world – and we will be with Him
forever (we have a right and a duty to occupy our hearts with Him;
link).
Second, we derive a great deal of joy from being part of His Church now, knowing
that all our brothers and sisters are supporting us and praying for us and going
through the same sorts of struggles we are; but in eternity we will experience a
"oneness" with each other that is blessed beyond our present ability to
contemplate, and that will be wonderful beyond imagination. Third, we can't yet
imagine what having a resurrection body will be like (e.g., soaring and who
knows what else). Fourth, think of all the things that are interesting and
beautiful and wonderful in this world in spite of sin and evil and the devil –
because God made it. God will make the new heavens and the new earth too, and
without all of those negatives. So to the extent that anything is "not boring"
down here, it will exponentially not be so in eternity, with the absence of
conflict just making things that much more sweet. Finally, everything that is
good and wonderful and fine and legitimately fun comes from God. There is no end
of God. He is more interesting than we have any idea, and there is no end of the
wonder of Him. Eternity is not nearly long enough to learn everything about Him
or to enjoy everything He is going to give us on the other side (1Cor.2:9;
Rev.21:5).
Right now, we have to take all this "on faith", but that, after all, is how the
Christian life operates in every respect. Believe me when I say that nothing you
do now for Christ is to no purpose. It's just that at present we can only see
"through a glass darkly" all the wonders of eternity. But at that time, it will
all become clear when we see our Master "face to face" (1Cor.13:12).
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
1st Corinthians 15:58 NIV
So keep running a good race in pursuit of
the three crowns!
In Jesus,
Bob L.