Sacrificing for Eternal Life

Scripture: Mark 9:1, Hebrews 9:27, Luke 23:46
Date: 01/06/2013 
After 21-year old Trevor Wikre badly shattered his little right finger at football practice, the doctors told him he’d need surgery, pins, and a cast to repair the damaged digit. But, Trevor, a star player with Mesa State College in Grand Junction, Colorado, knew this meant his 2008 football season would be over.
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Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Hello friends! This is Doug Batchelor. How about an amazing fact?

After 21-year old Trevor Wikre badly shattered his little right finger at football practice, the doctors told him he’d need surgery, pins, and a cast to repair the damaged digit. But, Trevor, a star player with Mesa State College in Grand Junction, Colorado, knew this meant his 2008 football season would be over. So, without hesitation, Trevor told the doctors just cut off the injured section of his pinkie.

At first, the doctors strongly tried to dissuade him, emphasizing how important the little finger actually was. But, Trevor insisted that he’d rather miss a finger that his senior football season. Reluctantly, the doctors finally agreed to amputate the finger at the second knuckle, leaving a little stump. Wikre only missed one game while his stitches healed. Did you know the Bible says sometimes an amputation is a better choice?

Stay with us friends. We’re going to learn more as Amazing Facts brings you this edition of Bible Answers Live.

[PROGRAM INTRODUCTION]

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Good evening friends and welcome to Bible Answers Live.

It’s a new Year and we are one year closer to the coming of the Lord. Good idea to get to know Him better. That’s why we have this program.

If you have any question about the Bible, the Word of God, we invite you to give us a call. We will do our best with the Bibles at our fingertips right now to search and find those answers together.

If you like to call in with your question, we do have a couple of lines still open. Good time to pick up the phone right now.

It’s a free phone call, 800-GOD-SAYS. That’s 800-463-7297, bring you in to the studio.

One more time, 800-463-7297, with your Bible questions. I’m Doug Batchelor.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

My name is Jean Ross. Good evening listening friends and Pastor Doug, let’s begin the program with a word of prayer.

Dear Father, once again we thank you for this opportunity that we have to study your Word together. We recognize the Bible is your book and so we invite your presence. We ask for your leading. Be with those who are listening, wherever they might be and guide us into a clear understanding of your will. For we ask this, in Jesus name, Amen.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Amen.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Pastor Doug, you opened the program by talking about a young man who made the decision and it didn’t seem to be too hard for him to make that decision to rather have part of his finger amputated than to miss a football game.

You can see how important that football game was to him.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yes, and you know, I’ve wondered if since then he’s regretted that decision because this happened in 2008, and unless he went in to professional football, his college games are probably over.

And, you really need your little finger. Matter of fact, Trevor admitted that after the surgery, that while he went back and continued playing football, he didn’t realize that when they gave him change at the market, you use your little finger to close of your hand to keep things from slipping out at the bottom. So, he dropped change a couple of times. But, he said, you know, football and his team was so important to him that he didn’t even hesitate.

And, while I’m not recommending everyone make the same decision, it made me think of that verse in the Bible where Jesus said, and by the way friends you’ll find this in Mark 9, beginning with verse 43, “If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It’s better for you to enter into life maimed than having two hands and go into hell, into the fire that is never quenched.” And, he says in verse 45, “If your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It’s better for you to enter life lame than having two feet and to be cast into hell, into the fire that will never be quenched. Where the worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.” And verse 47 says, “If your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. It’s better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.”

Now, for one thing, when I first read this, I wasn’t always a Christian, matter of fact, I’ll confess that I was totally lost, ware using drugs, misbehaving, the worldly, and among other things, I was shoplifting.

And, when I read this and I was starting to come to Christ, I thought, boy, I’m a thief.

“If your hand causes you to sin cut it off”, and I was wondering, Lord, do you really want me to cut off my hand? I said, well, if I cut of my right hand, I’ll steal with my left. It can’t be meaning that.

But, Jesus is really saying here that as hard as a decision might be, as hard as plucking out an eye, or a hand, or a foot, cutting out a hand or a foot, whatever it takes, very difficult, even painful sacrifices, in order to serve the Lord, we should be willing to make it.

Sometimes, to follow Jesus it might mean that you might need to cut off a bad relationship with sometimes friends that pull us away from God. You might really like them, but they’re pulling you away.

It might mean an addiction an addiction to some drug or habit that a person loves but they know that God does not approve of this.

Could be a struggle as difficult as a person plucking out their own eye or cutting of their hand.

Jesus is using the strongest terms possible that what could be more worth than eternal life? If something is pulling you away from God, make that sacrifice.

And, you know, one more thing before I leave this verse, it’s interesting here Jesus says your hand, your foot, your eye. In the Bible, a hand represented your actions, your foot represented your walk or where you are going, and the eye represented your thoughts or what your vision was and your spiritual understanding.

And so, this covers, really, every area of a person’s life.

And, the big, of course, struggle is doing what Jesus did in the garden of Gethsemane where we say, “Not my will Lord but your will be done”. The surrender of self is the big struggle.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

You know, you reminded me, Pastor Doug, of a verse and Scripture along those same lines.

Jesus said, “For what profit is for the man to gain the whole world and lose his own soul.”

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Uh-hmmm.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

What will a man give in exchange for his soul?

So, sometimes sacrifices required. The greatest sacrifice is a surrender of self. It requires a battle. But, a soul must submit to God before it can be renewed in holiness.

We have a book entitled, “The Surrender of Self”.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Uh-hmmm.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

This is where it all begins.

We would like to send this book for free if you’d call our resource line, the number is 800-835-6747. Again, 800-835-6747.

The book, “The Surrender of Self”, and will send that to you. Just ask for it.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Okay. Anything else…

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

I think we’re ready for the phone lines.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

First caller is John and he’s calling from Denham Springs, California.

John, welcome to the program.

Caller (John):

Hi. Hey pastor Doug and Pastor Ross.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Evening.

Caller (John):

It’s Denham Springs, Louisiana.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Okay. We got CA on o the screen here. [laughs]

Caller (John):

[laughs] Oh, okay. I wanna tell Pastor Doug how much I enjoy all your books. They’re amazing.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Oh, thank you.

Caller (John):

Thank you for that. It’s been a blessing.

Okay, my question is, since the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three co-internal spiritual beings, if Jesus have a spiritual being or ghost living inside of him, since it’s said in Luke 23:46 that He gave up the ghost.

If so, why do we only have the breath of life and not some ghost in us?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, when it says in Luke 23:46, “And when Jesus cried out with a loud voice, he said, “Father into your hands I commit my spirit””, having said this, he breathe his last.

The word “spirit” is used different ways in the Bible.

When it tells us that God breathe into man, the breath of life, that word there is “ruach” in Hebrew and it means “wind” or “breath” literally.

And then you got the word “pneuma”, which is where we get the word pneumonia or pneumatic tools, it means wind also in the New Testament.

When He gave that breath of life, that pneuma, it’s just saying that He stopped breathing. He died.

It doesn’t mean that Jesus didn’t have the Holy Spirit.

Now, of course, while Jesus walked the earth, the very phrase that Christ or the Cristo, so the Anointed, the Messiah. He was anointed with the Holy Spirit.

I’m sure Jesus had the Holy Spirit the first 30 years of His life but He was especially anointed with the Spirit for His ministry at His baptism. That’s when it came down like a dove.

So, there are two different things. One is the spirit of God filling the person, that’s the mind of Christ, the power of God. The other is the intangible, the breath of life.

Caller (John):

Like in Psalms 34:18, it says, “He says those whose spirits have been crushed”. If you say breath right there, it doesn’t really make sense…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

You’re right.

Caller (John):

… ‘cause it sounds more like it’s a feeling.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah. Well, when it says, “spirits that have been crushed….”--

Caller (John):

It’s a feeling that has been crushed.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

There it is. Talking about when a person’s spirit is like becomes depressed.

Caller (John):

Okay.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

And, the Lord can lift them up. And, you know, your character. We all know what it means when a spirit’s discouraged or crushed.

Caller (John):

Uh-hmmm. Okay.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

So, yeah. That’s what I meant. Perfect point. The word “spirit” is used many different ways in the Bible.

Caller (John):

Okay.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

It can be… You have to really read the original language and look at the context. And…

Caller (John):

Uh-hmmm.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

That helps a little bit.

When it says He’s breath His last on the cross, it just means He died. He exhaled His final breath, and…

Caller (John):

Uh-hmmm.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

… at that point… It says in Ecclesiastes 12, when a person dies, the body returns to the earth as it was and the spirit returns to god who gave it.

That’s the word there, is breath of life.

Caller (John):

And, that when He said He gave up the ghost, that was just his breath?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah. Doesn’t mean He lost the Holy Spirit in any special sense.

Caller (John):

Okay.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

You know, we got a book dealing with life in the spirit. Talking about the Holy Spirit and being filled with the Holy Spirit. And, we’ll send that to you John for free and to anyone who calls our resource line and ask for it.

The book is “Life in the Spirit”, and the phone number is 800-835-6747. 800-835-6747, that is the resource line, and ask for the book “Life in the Spirit”.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah, I was just looking as we were talking with John, King James says “give up the ghost”, new King James says “He breathe His last”, as does the New American Version. Having said that he breathe, it just means His final breath.

Appreciate your question John. Thank you.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

We have Scott listening in Ervine, California. Scott, welcome to the program.

Caller (Scott):

Hi. Hi pastor Doug and Pastor Ross. How are you guys?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Doing great.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Good.

Caller (Scott):

I have a question on c- sections. I have a wife who’s separated from me, and I’ve called a few times.

Basically, my question is on 1 Timothy 2:15.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Uh-hmmm.

Caller (Scott):

“Nevertheless, she will be saved in child-bearing if they continue in faith, love, and holiness, and self-control.”

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Right.

Caller (Scott):

My question is, is there any difference between the natural child birth and the C-section?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, yeah. You mean is there any difference biblically? Obviously, there’s a difference medically between natural child---

Caller (Scott):

What I’m saying is, does this hold true for someone that’s had a C-section?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, now, I’ve got to be careful about giving medical advice.

But, I will tell you, I know people personally that have had C-sections with their first child, and then they wondered if they could have a natural child birth the second time, and they did …

Caller (Scott):

Uh-huh.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

… without any complications. So, that’s possible.

You know, I don’t think a person should say, well, I’m gonna claim this promise here in 1 Timothy and do anything reckless. You know, a person should probably talk to the doctor.

I think if the mother heals up well and you have a healthy baby, whether it’s a C-section or natural birth, praise the Lord either way.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

But, you know, I think the word here in 1 Timothy, Chapter 2, verse 15, child-bearing , it’s not exclusively to giving birth. It’s sort of broaden its application. It’s raising children or being a godly parent.

So this virtue in raising, especially for the mother, in raising the child to fear God, to love God.

And, that’s also emphasized in the verse that goes on and says, “if she continued in faith, love, holiness, and self-control…”.

So child-bearing there is more than just giving birth.

Caller (Scott):

See, the problem I have is that in the old days, when the mother lost their life because they couldn’t deliver a child. And so, my question is, is that a form of natural, you know, selection?

And, you know, I’ve had troubles I can tell you. I can be honest with you. There’s a difference between a woman that has been… had delivered a baby and a woman that has… typical, I don’t know how to say it.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

C-section or…

Caller (Scott):

Well, we’ll just remove that question. So, I’ll take it at face value that you guys have answered my question. But, I also have another question on seared conscience.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Okay.

Caller (Scott):

In 1 Timothy 4:2?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Uh-huh.

Caller (Scott):

Basically, my wife went… she had a conversation with my mom and said a bunch of things that I double checked. And, I’m wondering if her conscience was, you know, confounded because she was raised Catholic. And, I’m not sure how to find out what’s, you know, what’s really going on with her. I don’t know if she’s been faithful. I don’t have any idea.

To be honest with you I have--

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, do you want me to answer a Bible question on the verse then?

Caller (Scott):

Yeah, sure.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Alright. Let me—

Caller (Scott):

Is a seared conscience the same as a confounded conscience?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, let me do my best for that. The word here “seared”, I actually did a study on this not too long ago, it comes from a word that was used on the Roman battlefield.

When a soldier had a wound, they didn’t have all the medical stitches and things available, they would sometimes heat up a piece of iron or sword or something and cauterize the wound to stop the bleeding. But, that would often kill nerves in the process and so it would lose feeling.

So, a person with a conscience that’s seared or cauterized, matter fact I think in Greek, the word is similar to that, they may lose the sensitivity to the spirit.

Now, of course, I can’t speak, Scott, specifically to what your situation is, not knowing the people involved.

A person’s past. You know, when we continue to resist the Holy Spirit, we can get where the volume goes down and we can sear our conscience. And, that can be from whatever the background is.

So, you know, it’s different with every individual.

By the way, we do have a new book that’s probably will touch on this, Scott. And, we’ll send you a free copy if you’d like.

It’s called “Beyond Mercy”. It’s a new book dealing with what is the unpardonable sin. “Beyond Mercy”. And, just call the resource line.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

The number is 800-835-6747, and the book is “Beyond Mercy”. We’ll be happy to send it to anyone who calls and ask for it. Dealing with the subject of the unpardonable sin.

We have Ryder who is listening from Dover, New Jersey on WMCA.

Ryder, welcome to the program.

Caller (Ryder):

Hi. How are you doing guys?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Doing well. And, your question?

Caller (Ryder):

Genesis 3:20.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Okay.

Caller (Ryder):

“And Adam called his wife name, Eve because she was the mother of all living”.

I got a little confused about this “mother of all living”?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yes. Well, keep in mind, Adam and Eve knew from the time they were created, they were like a computer that you take out of the store that got software pre-installed. They had a great deal of knowledge direct from the factory.

Adam did not have to learn how to walk or talk. And, when he first spoke his vocabulary, it was probably ten times greater than ours. His knowledge about what God’s plan was, for he and Eve, they understood. They were commanded to be fruitful and multiply. And, that they were to fill this new creation.

And so, when Adam named Eve “Eve”, I think it’s “Chavah” in Hebrew and that means “that is living”, he knew that all offspring, all future offspring would come through her. So, even though she had no children yet, she was named that in advance.

Something like Abraham was given the name “Abraham”, meaning father of a multitude, before he had his first son.

Caller (Ryder):

So, it’s referring as being the mother of all the animals.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

No.

Caller (Ryder):

No. Only… only—

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

It’s talking about to be mother of all living people.

Caller (Ryder):

Okay.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

So, each one multiplies, the Bible says, after their kind.

And so, it would the lions and tigers, and bears make more lions, tigers, and bears. And, Adam and Eve made more people. And so, she was the mother of all living.

Caller (Ryder):

Okay. I believe I still have some time. So, let me take you to Genesis 1:14.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Okay.

Caller (Ryder):

“And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of heaven to divide the day from the night and let them be for signs, and seasons, and for days, and years.”

I have heard about some people commenting on the lunar, solar calendar. And, the fact that we have inherited a pagan calendar then we are, by default, not following the Bible principle.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Alright—

Caller (Ryder):

What’s your insight?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

I’ll do my best to give you some ideas on that.

Of course, when God first created the sun and the moon and the stars, the seasons that they outlined were different, probably, than what we have now because it hasn’t even rained then. But, they were to be used for dividing times.

When you get to Isaiah Chapter, I think it’s Chapter 66, Pastor Ross, where it says from one new moon to another and from one Sabbath to another? Meaning from week to week and month to month, all flesh would come and worship the before the Lord.

So, even before the flood and before sin, God was gonna have divisions of the week and the month and the year. And, these things were gonna to be governed by the heavenly bodies. So…

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

That was Isaiah, Chapter 66, verse 23.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Thank you.

And so, it is true, right now, the calendar that the world follows is a Roman calendar.

We’re living now under the Gregorian calendar, that I think was activated and several changes were made to the Roman calendar. I think it was 1582, if I remember right, the Gregorian calendar kinda took effect. They had the Julian calendar.

It’s very convoluted right now because, for instance, October is supposed to be the 8th month, like ocho or an octagon, and instead, it’s now the 10th month. November, nueve, is supposed to be the 9th month. December, deca, is supposed to be the 10th month.

And, you got a month named after Augustus Caesar, August and then you got July named after Julius Caesar. And then they took days off February to make July and August the same length.

The Romans did a lot with the calendar that have messed things up.

But, you know, for the Christians, the main thing is that we would follow the weekly cycle where God has set aside a holy day. We’re not obligated to follow the Levitical annual Sabbaths. So, ‘cause they didn’t have those until the time of Leviticus.

We have a book we can send you, Ryder. That free copy of “Feast days and Sabbaths”, talking about what are some of those signs and seasons, and just call the resource number.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

The number is 800-835-6747, and the book is entitled “Feast Days and Sabbaths”. Just call and ask for that and we’ll send that to you, Ryder, or anyone who calls and asks.

We have Loretta who is listening from Savannah, Tennessee. Loretta, welcome to the program.

Caller (Loretta):

Yes, thank you Pastors. I really, really, really appreciate your work there.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Pleasure.

Caller (Loretta):

I have a quick question from Daniel 7?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Uh-huh.

Caller (Loretta):

That scene of the judgment, which judgment is it and how do you verify it?

I thought it was the… the judgment, I guess, around the great white throne or whatever. But, someone had suggested that that might not be the correct judgment scene.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, my understanding is that the judgment you find in Daniel, Chapter 7, where it talks about the ancient of days to sit in one like the son of man that comes before him and the books were opened.

I believe that this is the judgment that it’s talking about in 1 Peter where it says “judgment must begin at the house of God.”

You also find this—

Caller (Loretta):

Okay, so pre—

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

The pre-adven—

Caller (Loretta):

Pre-advent—

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah. There’s a judgment that goes on heaven prior to Christ’s coming.

Caller (Loretta):

Okay.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

I think that everyone knows that when Jesus comes, He rewards everyone according to their works. It says very clearly in Revelation, “Behold He comes in the clouds and He’ll reward everyone according their works.”

So, he knows who to save and the lost when he comes. Of course, he knows that now.

But, this judgment is taking place for the sake of both those being judged and for the unfallen worlds so that they’ll understand why these decisions were made.

And, this is the judgment in Daniel 7.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Yeah, the verse, I think, you’re referring to is Daniel 7:9, and it goes all the way through verse 13 where it describes one like another son of man coming before the ancient of days, and then the book was opened, and there was judgment.

And then at the conclusion of the judgment, it says, “The kingdoms of this world becomes the kingdoms of our Lord”. He receives the kingdoms.

And, that happens, of course, just prior to the second coming of Christ where Jesus comes as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Caller (Loretta):

So, are there any verses that depict the other judgment?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yes. The great white throne judgment is—

Caller (Loretta):

Yes.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

--you can find that in, I believe it’s…

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Revelation 20.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

… 22 also.

Caller (Loretta):

Okay.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah, where it talks about “whoever was not found…”, Revelation 20, “Whoever was not found in the book of life was cast to the lake of fire”. I think that one was Revelation 20.

You know, Loretta, we have a lesson. It’s called “Case Closed”. We have a lesson dealing with the theme of the judgment.

It’s interesting you asked this because this is what I preached about this weekend. I talked about the book of life, which also dealt with the great day of judgment.

Caller (Loretta):

Okay.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

If you like us to send you a free copy of the book, of our study guide, “Case Closed”, fully illustrated lessons. Anyone who wants to understand what the Bible teaches about the subject of the judgment.

Three phases, you’ve got the judgment takes place prior to Christ coming, the great white throne judgment, and then the executive judgment where the wicked are public – are punished. Well, you got the judgment during the 1,000 years…

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Uh-hmmm

Caller (Loretta):

Well, thank you—

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

And then the executive judgment.

Caller (Loretta):

Well, thank you so much.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

We’ll be happy to send it to you.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

The number to call is 800-835-6747. You can ask for the study guide “Case Closed”, talks about the judgment.

Our next caller is Craig, and he’s listening from Des Moines, Iowa. Craig, welcome to the program.

Caller (Craig):

Yes, hello…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Evening, Craig… You still there?

Caller (Craig):

Yes.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Oh, we lost you for a second. Your question tonight?

Caller (Craig):

Oh yeah. My question tonight is on the two witnesses. I have seen your sermon on it.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Okay.

Caller (Craig):

I’ve read your book on it. And, I still can’t get past the idea that suggest in Chapter 11, starting with verse 3, it seems like it still has to be two people and not two, you know, the law of the prophets.

I just can’t get that in my mind how that works when you got two people that says, you know, if anyone would hurt him and, you know, they had power to do things, and they’re gonna lay on the streets, and all these things.

It just sounds like it has to be two live entities that we will witness if we’re alive.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, keep in mind—

Caller (Craig):

I wonder if you had any more information on that.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

I’ll do my best. Keep in mind that when you read Revelation, there’s just a staggering amount of symbolism that is used.

In Revelation Chapter 2 and 3, it talks about the seven churches, and it says, “You’re allowing Jezebel to do her dirty work, and then you’re allowing Balaam.

So, there was no Jezebel or Balaam. Those are two Old Testament characters that had used to talked about a behavior that was happening in those seven churches. Jezebel, she was an idolater and Balaam was greed like Judas.

You go to Revelation 17, it talks about the church and it identifies it as a person who’s behaving like a harlot.

And, when you read about the two witnesses in Revelation 11, they’re typified by Moses and Elijah, who represent the law and the prophets or the Word of God.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

You know, I think a big clue to this passage is in verse 4 where it says, speaking of the two witnesses, “These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before God of the all earth”.

So, these two witnesses are olive trees and lampstands. So…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

It’s –

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

--it’s symbolizing something.

And, the Bible tells us the Word of God is the lamp unto our feet and the light unto our path.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Right. And, the olive tree was used for life because it illuminated, the oil from the olive illuminated and also fed, and people were anointed with this olive oil.

So, anyway, there’s symbolism.

And, you find out that the characteristics of these two witnesses, they have to do with… you look at the plagues, you look at fire coming down from heaven, you look at not raining. Those are the things that you find happening in both the New and the Old Testament where the prophecies of both Moses and Elijah.

You got plagues in the New Testament, plagues in the Old Testament. Two witnesses are the Word of God, law and the prophets. New and Old Testament.

You’re listening to Bible Answers Live.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Pastor Doug, we’re gonna be coming up on a break in just a few moments.

We do have a book dealing with the two witnesses, and I believe, it’s called, “The two Witnesses”.

And, for Craig or anyone wanting to learn more about this, just call our resource line. That’s 800-835-6747, and you can ask for the book on “The Two Witnesses”. We’ll be happy to send it to you.

Also believe there’s a sermon available at the Amazing Facts website.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yes.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Why don’t you go and search for “witnesses”, “two witnesses”…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, I think, the sermon is called “The Glorious Mount”.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Is that what it’s called?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

And, you can hear the sermon online.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yes. Yeah, we’ll be back in just a moment. Don’t go too far.

Also, new year, good time to get a revival in your personal devotions. I’d invite you to go to BibleUniverse.com. Get into a new year Bible Study. BibleUniverse.com.

Don’t go away.

[COMMERCIAL BREAK]

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

We’re back. Bible Answers Live. And, yes we are live. And, if you have a Bible question, I think, we have one or two lines open. And, that number is 800-GOD-SAYS. I’ll give it straight to you now. Ready? With your pencil in hand, 800-463-7297.

800-463-7297 will bring you into the studio with your question. And, keep that writing utensil handy ‘cause we’ll be giving out some websites and other numbers that take you to the resource line.

We like to answer as many questions as we can during the program. Generally take three or four minutes per question. And then, we direct people to the website so they can keep studying through the week.

My name is Doug Batchelor.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

My name is Jean Ross.

And, Pastor Doug, just before the break, you were talking about a website called BibleUniverse.com.

It’s the beginning of a new year. Folks are deciding to read through the Bible in a year, and they’re starting their Bible reading plan. But, we have a resource that would help in the study of the Bible.

It is the Amazing Facts study guide set of lessons.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Absolutely. And, friends, this is a very popular study guide series.

It’s actually… some things get to where they are hard to improve on. We’ve redone the artwork, but the truth of these lessons has been around for 35 years, we’ve been using this. And, they’re still one of our best sellers because it just takes people through a foundational understanding of the Bible.

They’re fully illustrated. They’re very interesting. And, they’re sprinkled with amazing facts that are very engaging.

If you are wanting to have a revival in your personal devotions and get to know the Lord better and be better prepared for Jesus’ coming and His plan for your life, get into a thorough Bible Study. Do these lessons with your Bible right there, to the side of them. And, they will guide you in understanding the Word of God.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Now, there’s two ways you can take these study guides. You can do it online or if you go to Bible Universe website, you can also enroll in the Correspondence Bible School Program where we will send you the lessons and you read through them, complete them, send them back for grading, and then we send you out the next set of lessons.

All of that information is available at BibleUniverse.com.

Our next caller is Tim and he’s calling all the way from Australia. Tim, welcome to the program.

Caller (Tim):

Yes, thank you. I’ve got a question.

I was sharing with a friend of mine at work and he said that Moses was most likely a stone mason and would have worked in the Ten Commandments, himself. I’m just skeptical about that. But, he… he got this from a guy called H.G. Wells.

So, I’m just wondering what your take on that is.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, H.G. Wells was a very bright writer. Of course, he wrote a number of books that were mostly fiction.

And, I wouldn’t get my Bible interpretation from that.

I think, he got that idea because they did so much stone work in Egypt with, you know, the pyramids and their great cities. But, Moses was raised in the palace. I doubt he was out in the fields with a chisel.

So, the idea that Moses chiseled them himself, H.G. Well was also an atheist, I might add, so he’s probably giving a cynical view of where, you know, Moses went up the mountain and he said, oh he didn’t really get them from God. He probably look to the right and left and when no one was around he chiseled them out himself ‘cause he learned to cut stone while he was in Egypt.

But, the Bible is pretty clear. It says that Moses was up on the mountains for forty days and forty nights. And, there was thunder and smoke on the mountain that whole time.

The people heard God’s voice. The whole nation audibly heard God’s voice give the ten commandments.

So, when it tells us in, I think it’s…

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

You know, in Exodus, Chapter 31, Verse 18…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

And also Deuteronomy 9:10.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

That’s where I was gonna go. It says written with the… the writing was the writing of God.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Uh-hmmm. “Written with the finger of God”.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

So, yeah. I appreciate your friend’s question on that. But, nothing in the Bible says that Moses was a stone mason.

He was probably more of a—

Caller (Tim):

Yeah, That’s right. So…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

I think he did have training, probably, in the military. It says he was trained in all of the wisdom of the Egyptians. I doubt that that meant that he was out there, you know, chiseling hieroglyphs.

So, I think, he was probably very skilled in other political and scientific and mathematical things. He was a great administrator.

But,… nope, I don’t think he chiseled the ten commandments ‘cause the Bible says that he didn’t.

Hey, I appreciate you call, Tim. We love to get a call from Australia. Thank you.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Our next caller is Patricia and she is calling from Portland, Oregon.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Pastor Ross…

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Yes.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

If Tim is still listening, We always like to make an offer.

We do have a book called “Written in Stone”.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Uh-hmmm.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Goes along perfectly with Tim’s question. We’ll send him a free copy.

And, he can read… you know, it takes a long time for a mail to get to Australia. It’s online, if he just goes to the Amazing Facts website.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

AmazingFacts.com, and you can type n there “Written in Stone”, and read the study guide on the ten commandments.

Our next caller is Patricia and she is calling from Portland, Oregon. Patricia, welcome to the program.

Caller (Patricia):

Thank you. Good evening Pastors. I’m not quite sure how to ask the question but it has to do with healing.

And there’s a ministry in Nigeria that promotes using stickers as well as holy waters with the name of the preacher on the sticker and above the holy water. And, allegedly, people go there and they had prayed using this as a quote to get to Jesus Christ.

Now, the person that told me about this claimed that there’s something biblical that Paul have spoke of being able to communicate through Christ and get healing through this source. Any source of healing as long as you have faith.

Can you address that?

I’m not sure I’m asking the question correctly, but that’s more or less the gist of it.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah, I appreciate your question. But, we’re turning your volume down. Seemed like we’re getting some feedback.

But, there is an example in the Bible where they would take handkerchiefs or a cloth or something from Peter, they may have done it with Paul too, and they’d bring it to people who were sick and they’d be healed.

Well, that’s… that was a rare occurrence in the Bible.

These folks, of course, were apostles that were anointed with the Holy Spirit. A special calling of Jesus on them. They had been chosen.

And, you know, that happened in the early part of the ministry.

But, I’ve not seen any modern evidence of handkerchiefs or holy water being brought… Well, there’s no example, I don’t think, of holy water being brought from the apostles.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

You know, the verse, I think, you’re referring to, Pastor Doug, is Act 19:12, which is a unique occurrence, but it speaks of handkerchiefs or aprons being brought from the apostles and laid upon those who are sick. And, they’re healed.

Now, of course, it was their faith in Christ that healed them, but as an exercise of their faith, they would ask for special blessing and that would come from the apostle.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

You know, the Lord can heal any way He wants, Patricia. You’ve got that one centurion who said, Jesus, you don’t even need to come to my house.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Uh-hmmm.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

And, sometimes, Jesus heal people remotely without even going.

These people thought, well, at least, if we bring a piece of cloth, that might strengthen the faith of the person being healed.

I was reading now on Acts 5. I was wondering whether it was Peter, Paul ‘cause there’s something similar with Peter. I think, you’re reading Acts 19 is Paul, if I’m not mistaken.

Acts 5, it says, “In as much as they brought forth the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and couches hoping that the shadow of Peter might overshadow them, and they’d be healed by that.”

You know, Jesus, sometimes, put mud on people’s eyes. There’s all kinds of interesting things that the Lord did when He healed people.

But, I think, that when they start having stickers of some of these fellow evangelists…

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Especially if you have to pay for your holy water. That would make me a little…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

… curious.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

I remember one Pastor that sent out his newsletter and he had a Xerox copy of a rug. It was a piece of paper but he had copied a rug on it. And he said, I’ve sent you this special prayer rug or prayer cloth, and if you wrap up the largest bill in your wallet and send it to me, you’ll have a miracle.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor & Pasto Jean Ross):

[laughs]

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

So, that’s a little dubious when that happens. Hey, I appreciate your question, Patricia.

And, I’d be suspicious. I think, I know the ministry you’re talking about. It looks a little suspect to me.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

We have William who is listening in New York, New York.

William, welcome to the program.

Caller (William):

Yes, hello. How you doing all, Pastor Doug and Pastor Ross? And, God bless you.

I’m going through a unique little problem here… big problem, actually. For someone who gives some Scripture, which would be 1 Peter 3:10-17, I Peter 4:12-19, 2 Thessalonians 1:4-12.

And, the problem is, I live in an apartment building and when I pray, the people above me has start banging on the floor, is going crazy, and start cursing me and all of that stuff. And, I’m getting a lot of sleep deprivation.

Now, my question is, does this sound like a trial or a thorn in the flesh to you ‘cause if it’s a thorn in the flesh, of course, it’s a Lord’s term, and if it’s a trial, then I hope God listens.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Now, you’re saying that when you pray, they start banging on the… Do they hear you praying?

Caller (William):

No, they shouldn’t. Yet, they’d be able would hear me praying. But, somehow, something just happened, and it’s causing them to go crazy.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, you k now—

Caller (William):

I explained this to people and I’ve looked on it for answer. This is like a unique thing. This is absolutely nuts.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, it’s not actually that unique, you know? The devil is never more afraid than when God’s people are on their knees, and it’s not uncommon for him to try and cause distractions or discouragement when a person’s praying.

But, I’d say just, of course, you know you don’t want to be praying so loud you’re annoying your neighbors, but it didn’t sound like you’re doing that.

Caller (William):

I mean, ‘cause the Bible says, pray without ceasing so, I’m not gonna stop praying. I pray… I actually go to the bathroom and run the water so nobody should be able to hear me.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, yeah—

Caller (William):

I just use a regular voice and…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah, praying in a regular voice and of course, you can pray without even talking.

You might even try and, you know, you can go to one of these electronic stores and get yourself a set of headphones. Sometimes I have to study at home where there’s a lot of activity in the house, and I put on this headphones and I play some nice classical music while I’m studying. And, it kinda drown out the other conversation in the other room. So, I’m able to focus a little better.

Caller (William):

And, I’ve tried that and this thing is like 24/7, and this is like so…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, if they’re being really disruptive, then you need to make a call to the landlord.

Caller (William):

Yeah.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

And, it’s just called serving the peace, at that point.

Caller (William):

I’m going through that route now. But, the thing is, I mean, if this is a trial, I feel God is …

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, definitely. It’s a trial.

Caller (William):

It’s a thorn in the flesh!

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

No, thorn in the flesh is usually a physical… A thorn in the flesh is usually in the Bible, Paul is speaking of some physical handicap or, you know, it could be anything from epilepsy to a bad back.

But, trials are everything else whenever we go through temptations or the devil trying to discourage us.

But, don’t be discourage. Persist in faith.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Uh-hmmm.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

And, keep praying.

We do have a book on prayer. We’ll be happy to send you a free copy.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

“Teach us to Pray”.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yes.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Call our resource line, 800-835-6747. You can ask for the book “Teach Us to Pray”, and we’ll be happy to send that to anyone who calls and asks.

Mike is listening from Michigan on WMUZ. Mike, welcome to the program.

Caller (Mike):

Hi. Thank you Pastor Doug, Pastor Ross. My question is, okay, it’s in Mark 9:1…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Okay.

Caller (Mike):

Where Jesus is speaking and they said to them, and I’m reading out at the NIV, “I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God comes with power.”

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yes.

Caller (Mike):

My question is, to me it sounds like who He was talking to could still be alive.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, if you wanna understand what He’s saying, keep reading.

He makes a cryptic statement.

“Some of you who are standing here”, He’s talking to the apostles. Well, “not dying ‘till you’ve seen the kingdom of God present”, and that “were present” there means come with power. And, you’ll find it read that way in the New American Standard Version.

And then, it says after six days, He takes Peter, James, and John, that was some of the 12 apostles. He brings them up the mountain, and Christ is glorified. God the Father speaks. They see Moses and Elijah.

They, basically, get a miniature picture of the kingdom of God and the glory of –

Caller (Mike):

Wow.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

--God’s kingdom in that vision.

Now, another reason we know this is you can read the same verse, it’s in Matthew, Chapter 16 and Luke, Chapter 9. And, immediately in Matthew 16 and Luke 9, as soon Christ makes the statement, they go to the experience on the mountain.

So, the experience on the mountain is the fulfillment of this prophecy.

Caller (Mike):

Okay.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

By the way, we mentioned it ones tonight, but I’ve written a little book. We’ll send you a free copy. And, it’s called “The Glorious Mount: Who are the Two Witnesses?”

Caller (Mike):

Oh, okay.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

And so, if you call the number Pastor Ross is gonna give you, we’ll send you a copy that explains this very verse, and the whole vision.

Caller (Mike):

Okay.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

The number to call is 800-835-6747, and the book again is entitled “The Two Witnesses” or…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

“The Glorious Mountain”.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

“The Glorious Mountain”. Just ask for the books and we’ll be happy to send it to anyone who calls and asks for it.

Again, if you have a Bible question, the number to call here to the studio is 800-463-7297. That’s 800-463-7297.

We have Pablo who is listening from Fort Collins, California. Pablo, welcome to the program.

Caller (Pablo):

Hi. Fort Collins, Colorado.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Oh… okay.

Caller (Pablo):

My question is, we see in the Bible where Jesus or God says that everything is possible. Nothing is impossible through God.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Right.

Caller (Pablo):

Well, what people could say about people who says they’re gonna go to Mexico or something like that… Hawaii, and have their medical cancer or whatever relieved through evil spirits, some voodoo doctors or something. And, they say that they can do that because nothing’s impossible through God.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, certainly nothing is impossible with God. The Bible teaches that many times. It’s what the angels said to Mary. And, several other places in Scripture.

Jesus said “With God all things are possible”.

When they asked “can a rich man be saved?” Jesus said, “With man it’s difficult but with God all things are possible”.

That doesn’t mean everything happens just because a person, you know, has, maybe, some inappropriate faith or faith in the wrong thing.

So, yeah, there are people who go to… you know, there are people who are healed because they have faith and they pray. Some might go to a faith healer, and they may not even be a Christian and they may not go to a Christian faith healer, and they can experience healing.

Or, does that mean that they’re pagan, you know, the person sacrificing chickens and they got better, does that mean that’s the way to do things?

No. God is merciful.

He heals sometimes through prayers. Jesus said God sent the rain on the just and the unjust. And, he sends blessings on good and bad. And, He helps people who might even be wrong.

So, I don’t k now if I’m answering your question. Is that kind of what you’re wondering?

Caller (Pablo):

What if somebody goes there and dies? Because…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

And, even though they had faith?

Caller (Pablo):

Yeah, even though they had faith. I think of how some people interpret the Bible, and how am I supposed to interpret it.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, whenever we pray according to God’s will, Christ said if you pray and you’ve got faith as a mustard seed, and if you’re in God’s will, the Bible says, “If you are guarding inequity in your heart, He will not hear you.”

So, if we are surrendered to God and if we have faith in God, He works all kinds of miracles.

But, even Godly, spirit-filled people got sick and old and died.

Yeah, Paul had a sickness he prayed about it and God said, no, I’m not gonna heal that because there’s a reason for you to have it. Elisha, the prophet, who had a double portion of the spirit of Elijah, there’s a spirit-filled prophet, says he finally got sick and then he died from the sickness, while here he performed all these miracles.

Well, you know, sin is still in the world and God has not removed all the results of sin.

Caller (Pablo):

Right.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

But, having said all that, Pastor Doug, you know, if somebody knows that dabbling in the occult or going to some witch doctor or some kind to try and obtain healing when they know what the Bible just say about seeking God and not seeking these things, that’s a dangerous thing to do.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

You never wanna open yourself up to the—

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

You’re on enchanted ground.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

--of satan. Right.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Absolutely. Yeah. We know better.

A matter of fact in the Bible, this King was sick, I think you’ll find this Chapter 1, 2 Kings, “The king of the Israel was sick and he sent his messenger to inquire of a pagan god whether he’d get better, and his messengers were interrupted by Elijah who said, “Why are you going to the pagans when here, you’re the king of Israel…

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Uh-hmmm.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Do you not think there’s a prophet in Israel? And, because you’re going to the pagans for healing, you’re gonna die.””

So, it’s a very dangerous thing when a believer goes to pagans when they know better…

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Uh-hmmm.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

… looking for healing and answers.

And, yeah, so we strongly advice against that.

Hope that helps a little bit Pablo. We appreciate you calling from Fort Collins, Colorado.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross): We have Mike who is listening on WMCA from Edison, New Jersey. Mike, you’re on the air.

Caller (Mike): Good evening gentleman. First of all, Happy new Year!

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor): Likewise.

Caller (Mike): I hope it’s a blessed one for you.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor): Thank you.

Caller (Mike): My question tonight is… is there a topic of being served before? And, I’m sure the majority of people that claimed to be born again or that are born again, such as myself, I know I had a troubled past and such. But, I have truly repented of my sins and I’ve accepted the Lord for some time now.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor): Wow.

Caller (Mike): It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. That being said, if the case of an [individual] as the “Son of Sam”, cured, David Berkowitz, he was a notorious killer in the ‘70s in New York City.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor): I remember. I lived there.

Caller (Mike): Yeah. This individual that claimed to get notice from their neighbor’s dog to carry out the killings and such. But, in the last few years, the media’s giving him attention, and the fact that he claims to be – seriously claims to be a Christian now, and that he supposedly repents of all his past crimes…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor): Are you wondering if a person like that could be for—

Caller (Mike): Like you know, if it’s possible for someone like that to be saved?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor): Well, we just had a question a minute ago where we were quoting that verse where with God, all things are possible.

Caller (Mike): Yes, I heard.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor): Let me answer that question with an example in the Bible.

There was a wicked king in Israel, one of the longest reigning king, named Manasseh. And, Manasseh even offered children to pagan gods as sacrifice. He, probably, is the one responsible for killing the prophet Isaiah, as well as a number of other prophets of God.

Because of his wickedness, he was conquered by the Assyrians and carried off and imprisoned in Assyria. And, while in prison in Assyria, Manasseh thoroughly repented of his sin. By the way, he was the son of a good king named Hezekiah. He repented of his sin and it says he humbled himself greatly and God heard his prayer and forgave him.

Now, knowing that God can do that with the wicked king like Manasseh, makes you wonder, is anything too hard for the Lord?

When a person dies, the old person dies and they’re born again.

You know, I’ve read what you’re saying, this “Son of Sam”, Berkowitz, which has gone through a dramatic conversion, is a believer now. That’s between him and God. Now, he’s gonna stay in prison for his crimes.

But, whether or not he can be forgiven… it’s really not a question of “Did he sin too much to be forgiven?”, it’s a question of “How powerful was Christ’s forgiveness?”.

Could it even forgive something like that? Could a person who’s guilty of murder and adultery, like David, be forgiven?

And so, we’ve gotta be careful of ever thinking that we’re better sinners than God is a forgiver.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

And, of course, having said that, we need to be cautious, you know, we’d hate to give somebody to get the idea, well, I can just keep sinning and…

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Go on a crime spree.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Yeah. You know, I can just ask for forgiveness before I die and I’ll be saved.

There is the hardening of the heart that takes place when a person dabbles in sin to the point where, you know, the Bible tells us that goodness of God leads a person to repentance. And, if the person is so hard in his heart where he doesn’t even hear the Holy Spirit calling and speaking to him, that’s a dangerous position to be in.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Yeah.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

So, no excuse for sin.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

That’s right. Well, I appreciate that Mike. Only God knows this person’s heart.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

Uh-hmmm.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

And, we’ll have to leave that in the good Lord’s hands.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

We have Paul calling from Indiana, listening on XM radio. Paul, welcome to the program.

Caller (Paul):

How you doing tonight?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Doing well. Thank you. Happy New Year!

Caller (Paul):

I have a question. I’ve been on a study on the history of the Bible and the Jewish people and different things. And, up until 1880, there were seven additional books in the Bible. And then, when it was kinda translated from the Geneva Bible into the one we have now, they’ve removed the seven books. And, part - two chapters of that Daniel and part of Esther.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Uh-hmmm.

Caller (Paul):

Why exactly did the American Bible Society did that?

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, we’re talking about the apocryphal books.

And, there were some books that were in the older versions of the Bible that were added, actually. They were not in the original Bibles. They were added during the Dark Ages. They were what they call the apocryphal books. They were of a very questionable origin.

And so, when the New Testament… or when the King James Bible and some of the reformation Bibles were compiled, they wanted to make sure that the only books that were included were books that were endorsed by other known books.

And so, there was no reference to some of these mysterious chapters of Daniel that suddenly appeared in history. The ancient Jews did not have them.

And, you know, the Bel and the Dragon and some of the apocryphal books and intertestamental books…

Jesus, for instance, refers to, you know, Daniel, he refers to Ezekiel, he… Jesus, 10% of what he said, he was quoting from the Old Testament. So, the Old Testament, we’re pretty sure of.

Then, you know, out of nowhere, some of these books like the Gospel according to Thomas and others suddenly appeared. It’s really doubtful about where some of them came from.

So, if they couldn’t be substantiated they were left out.

You know, we do have a free book we can send you, talking about the greatest resource. And, that’s the name of the book, Paul. It’s called “The Ultimate Resource”, dealing with the Bible and the Word of God. We’ll be happy to send you a free copy.

Host (Pastor Jean Ross):

The number to call for that is 800-835-6747, and the book is entitled “The Ultimate Resource”, and it talks about the Bible.

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Well, you know, I don’t think we’ve got time to take another caller.

Friends we are… don’t go away yet. Not done.

Just wanna tell you how much we appreciated you that you have kept us in the air for 17 years. Bible Answers Live has been going 17 years. Praise God! And, we’ve got people listening all over the world.

[theme music starts]

Host (Pastor Doug Batchelor):

Only thing that keeps us going, there is no organization or corporation or denomination, t’s just individuals like you who are listening right now.

We’d love to hear from you. We have a lot of free resources we make available to get the Word of Truth around the world and see people saved.

Go to AmazingFacts.org.

And, until then, God bless and we’ll talk again next week.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ END ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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