Category Archives: JUST ASKING / CURIOUS QUESTIONS

JUST ASKING / CURIOUS QUESTIONS, THE NATION ISRAEL, What were the “stones” of Matthew 3:9?, What were the “stones” of Matthew 3:9?

What were the “stones” of Matthew 3:9?

WHAT WERE THE “STONES” OF MATTHEW 3:9?

by Shawn Brasseaux

“And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.” Have you ever wondered about the “stones” of which John the Baptist spoke in Matthew 3:9? Why of all things did he mention “these stones?” What stones? To answer this, we must go back into Jewish history. Be prepared for Bible study!

For sake of brevity, we will simply consult the book of Joshua, and forgo comments until later. We begin in Joshua chapter 3: “[7] And the LORD said unto Joshua, This day will I begin to magnify thee in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee. [8] And thou shalt command the priests that bear the ark of the covenant, saying, When ye are come to the brink of the water of Jordan, ye shall stand still in Jordan.”

Joshua chapter 3: “[9] And Joshua said unto the children of Israel, Come hither, and hear the words of the LORD your God. [10] And Joshua said, Hereby ye shall know that the living God is among you, and that he will without fail drive out from before you the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Hivites, and the Perizzites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Jebusites. [11] Behold, the ark of the covenant of the LORD of all the earth passeth over before you into Jordan. [12] Now therefore take you twelve men out of the tribes of Israel, out of every tribe a man. [13] And it shall come to pass, as soon as the soles of the feet of the priests that bear the ark of the LORD, the LORD of all the earth, shall rest in the waters of Jordan, that the waters of Jordan shall be cut off from the waters that come down from above; and they shall stand upon an heap.”

Joshua chapter 3: “[14] And it came to pass, when the people removed from their tents, to pass over Jordan, and the priests bearing the ark of the covenant before the people; [15] And as they that bare the ark were come unto Jordan, and the feet of the priests that bare the ark were dipped in the brim of the water, (for Jordan overfloweth all his banks all the time of harvest,) [16] That the waters which came down from above stood and rose up upon an heap very far from the city Adam, that is beside Zaretan: and those that came down toward the sea of the plain, even the salt sea, failed, and were cut off: and the people passed over right against Jericho. [17] And the priests that bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firm on dry ground in the midst of Jordan, and all the Israelites passed over on dry ground, until all the people were passed clean over Jordan.”

Joshua chapter 4: “[1] And it came to pass, when all the people were clean passed over Jordan, that the LORD spake unto Joshua, saying, [2] Take you twelve men out of the people, out of every tribe a man, [3] And command ye them, saying, Take you hence out of the midst of Jordan, out of the place where the priests’ feet stood firm, twelve stones, and ye shall carry them over with you, and leave them in the lodging place, where ye shall lodge this night. [4] Then Joshua called the twelve men, whom he had prepared of the children of Israel, out of every tribe a man: [5] And Joshua said unto them, Pass over before the ark of the LORD your God into the midst of Jordan, and take you up every man of you a stone upon his shoulder, according unto the number of the tribes of the children of Israel: [6] That this may be a sign among you, that when your children ask their fathers in time to come, saying, What mean ye by these stones? [7] Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD; when it passed over Jordan, the waters of Jordan were cut off: and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever. [8] And the children of Israel did so as Joshua commanded, and took up twelve stones out of the midst of Jordan, as the LORD spake unto Joshua, according to the number of the tribes of the children of Israel, and carried them over with them unto the place where they lodged, and laid them down there. [9] And Joshua set up twelve stones in the midst of Jordan, in the place where the feet of the priests which bare the ark of the covenant stood: and they are there unto this day.”

Joshua chapter 4: “[10] For the priests which bare the ark stood in the midst of Jordan, until everything was finished that the LORD commanded Joshua to speak unto the people, according to all that Moses commanded Joshua: and the people hasted and passed over. [11] And it came to pass, when all the people were clean passed over, that the ark of the LORD passed over, and the priests, in the presence of the people. [12] And the children of Reuben, and the children of Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh, passed over armed before the children of Israel, as Moses spake unto them: [13] About forty thousand prepared for war passed over before the LORD unto battle, to the plains of Jericho.”

Joshua chapter 4: “[14] On that day the LORD magnified Joshua in the sight of all Israel; and they feared him, as they feared Moses, all the days of his life. [15] And the LORD spake unto Joshua, saying, [16] Command the priests that bear the ark of the testimony, that they come up out of Jordan. [17] Joshua therefore commanded the priests, saying, Come ye up out of Jordan. [18] And it came to pass, when the priests that bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD were come up out of the midst of Jordan, and the soles of the priests’ feet were lifted up unto the dry land, that the waters of Jordan returned unto their place, and flowed over all his banks, as they did before.”

Joshua chapter 4: “[19] And the people came up out of Jordan on the tenth day of the first month, and encamped in Gilgal, in the east border of Jericho. [20] And those twelve stones, which they took out of Jordan, did Joshua pitch in Gilgal. [21] And he spake unto the children of Israel, saying, When your children shall ask their fathers in time to come, saying, What mean these stones? [22] Then ye shall let your children know, saying, Israel came over this Jordan on dry land. [23] For the LORD your God dried up the waters of Jordan from before you, until ye were passed over, as the LORD your God did to the Red sea, which he dried up from before us, until we were gone over: [24] That all the people of the earth might know the hand of the LORD, that it is mighty: that ye might fear the LORD your God for ever.”

Now, we can proceed to understanding John’s comments in Matthew.

JOHN THE BAPTIST’S MINISTRY

John the Baptist water baptized in the Jordan River Valley in the region of Judaea. That was just north of the Dead Sea. It is no coincidence that Joshua led the Jews into the Promised Land in this same area. Under Joshua’s command, the Bible says Israel put 12 stones to commemorate their entrance into the land. God’s design is to have John the Baptist’s ministry loop back to Joshua’s ministry. John is water baptizing to set apart a people whom God will use to inherit the Promised Land, the very land Israel should have inherited in Joshua’s day.

Matthew 3:1-9: “[1] In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, [2] And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. [3] For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. [4] And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. [5] Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, [6] And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. [7] But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? [8] Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: [9] And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.”

John the Baptist is somewhat sarcastic—but on the other hand there is truth to what he is saying. Those stones are a witness, a monument, to God wanting a people for His name so they can dwell in His land. The Pharisees and Sadducees are completely clueless. They do not really understand what God was doing with Israel under Joshua’s command. They still do not know what God is doing with John the Baptist. They believe that as children of Abraham, they have inherent righteousness. They do not think they need John the Baptist’s baptism of repentance for the remission of sins—they supposedly do not have any sins! In short, those nonliving stones “knew” more about God’s purpose for Israel than the Israeli religious leaders!

Also see:
» Was John the Baptist really Elijah?
» Does Hebrews 10:25 really teach we must attend church?
» Why is water baptism necessary in Israel’s program?

Did Jonah live in the whale’s belly?, JUST ASKING / CURIOUS QUESTIONS

Did Jonah live in the whale’s belly?

DID JONAH LIVE IN THE WHALE’S BELLY?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Many say Jonah lived three days and three nights in the great fish’s stomach. This has caused Bible scoffers to laugh at such an “impossibility.” Others say that he died in the whale’s belly. Can we really prove from the Bible which position is correct?

For some years, I believed like most that Jonah lived in the whale’s belly for three days and three nights. One day, someone showed me some verses that caused me to change my view. Let me just say that, had God wanted to keep Jonah alive in the whale’s belly for three days and three nights, He could have easily done so. If He could (and did) call the universe into being from nothing, then surely nothing is too hard for the Creator God. However, for two main prophetic reasons, among other reasons, I do not think God wanted to keep Jonah alive.

1. THE BIBLE NEVER SAYS JONAH “LIVED” IN THE BELLY OF THE WHALE

Remember, the LORD God personally saw to it that Jonah be swallowed up by a special, large aquatic creature. The Bible never explicitly says that Jonah lived three days and three nights in the belly of the fish. It simply declares: “Now the LORD had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights” (Jonah 1:17). So, where is the indication that he died?

2. THE BIBLE DOES SAY JONAH “CRIED OUT OF THE BELLY OF HELL”

If we look at Jonah’s prayer in chapter 2, he began with: “I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the LORD, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice” (Jonah 2:2). Such language is indicative of physical death. “Hell” in this context does not mean suffering in eternal flames. It was a general term where all souls went upon death in the “Old Testament economy.” According to Luke chapter 16, “hell” in time past was divided into paradise and torment. We will say more about this in point #3 in just a few moments. Since Jonah prayed (“cried out”) of the belly of hell, we see that we are conscious after physical death. Otherwise, Jonah could not pray!

3. THE BIBLE DOES SAY JONAH PICTURED JESUS CHRIST DEAD THREE DAYS AND THREE NIGHTS

In Matthew 12:38-40, we read: “[38] Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee. [39] But he [Jesus] answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: [40] For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” An abbreviated version is Luke 11:29-30—while it does not mention the three days and three nights, it does refer to “Jonas” (Greek form of “Jonah”).

The Lord Jesus said Jonah in the whale’s belly was a picture of His own physical death. As Jonah spent three days and three nights in the whale, so Jesus spent three days and three nights in the heart of earth. If Jonah were not dead, then we are forced to conclude that neither was Jesus! Jonah was physically dead in the whale as Jesus was physically dead in the tomb. Jonah’ soul was in the paradise side of hell. Likewise, Jesus’ soul was in the paradise side of hell (Luke 23:43). Jonah then resurrected. Jesus likewise resurrected. These many parallels are very interesting, seeing as to Jonah lived circa 800 B.C.

4. THE BIBLE INDICATES JONAH PICTURED ISRAEL “DEAD” AMONG THE NATIONS

We read in chapter 37 of the book of Ezekiel, commonly called “The Vision of the Dry Bones:” “[11] Then he said unto me, Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel: behold, they say, Our bones are dried, and our hope is lost: we are cut off for our parts. [12] Therefore prophesy and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel. [13] And ye shall know that I am the LORD, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves, [14] And shall put my spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land: then shall ye know that I the LORD have spoken it, and performed it, saith the LORD.”

Once God dispersed Israel among the nations beginning with the Babylonian captivity in 606 B.C., Israel “died” with respect to her Promised Land. The lands of the Gentiles are called Israel’s “graves” (verses 12 and 13 above). One day, after our Dispensation of Grace is finished, God will restore Israel. He will “breathe new life” into her, causing her to reenter her land—this time, forever, never again to banish her from it. This is when the Abrahamic Covenant will be fulfilled. This is when Israel will become God’s kingdom of priests to the Gentiles. You can see Isaiah 2:1-3, Zechariah 8:20-23, Isaiah 60:1-3, Isaiah 61:6, et cetera, for more information.

The nation Israel refused to be God’s messengers to the Gentiles. Israel starkly rejected JEHOVAH God and His Word. Likewise, Jonah fled from the presence of the LORD when the LORD instructed him to preach to the Ninevites (Jonah 1:1-3). Israel did not want to become God’s people so they could minister to the families of the earth on God’s behalf. They did not have faith in the Abrahamic Covenant of Genesis 12:1-3. Once God chastised Jonah, Jonah dying and resurrecting, he went to Nineveh without a fuss (Jonah 3:1-3). Likewise, once God chastises Israel via her dispersion, gives her life again, she will minister to Gentiles in her kingdom (Jesus Christ’s Millennial Reign).

CONCLUSION

Personally, I believe Jonah died. There are four lines of evidence that cause me to believe that Jonah literally died in the sea and was dead in the whale’s belly. Firstly, the Bible never says Jonah lived in the whale’s belly. It says he was merely in the whale’s belly. Secondly, the Bible says Jonah “cried out of the belly of hell.” That indicates physical death. Thirdly, Jonah, in order to picture Jesus’ death, had to also be dead. Lastly, Jonah, in order to picture Israel’s “death,” had to also be “cut off.” When God resurrected Jonah, He was picturing Jesus Christ’s resurrection and Israel’s resurrection. How simple, dear friends, how simple!

Enjoy our Bible Q&A articles? You can donate securely to us here: https://www.paypal.me/ShawnBrasseaux. Thanks!

Also see:
» What swallowed Jonah—a fish or a whale?
» Where was Jesus during the three days between His death and resurrection?
» Was Jesus really crucified on Friday?

BIBLE VERSIONS AND MANUSCRIPTS, JUST ASKING / CURIOUS QUESTIONS, What made the crucified thief repent?, What made the crucified thief repent?

What made the crucified thief repent?

WHAT MADE THE CRUCIFIED THIEF REPENT?

by Shawn Brasseaux

At the beginning of the crucifixion, both thieves (or malefactors, criminals) mocked Jesus Christ hanging on the cross. But then, one thief had a drastic change in mind and heart. Why?

We begin reading at Luke 23:33: “And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.” By the way, you must have a King James Bible to read of “Calvary” here. Modern English versions remove the term—you cannot sing or teach about “Calvary’s cross” if your Bible never says anything about it!

During Jesus’ crucifixion, He was subjected to much taunting and laughter. The common Jews mocked Him, so did their religious leaders and the Roman soldiers. Even the two crucified thieves criticized Him as a fraud. “The thieves also, which were crucified with him cast the same in his teeth” (Matthew 27:44).

Verses 34-39 of Luke chapter 23 continue: “[34] Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. [35] And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided [ridiculed] him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God. [36] And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar, [37] And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself. [38] And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. [39] And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.”

Later, one of the thieves had a change in heart: “[40] But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? [41] And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.” Evidently, the thief read the superscription and believed it, and Jesus Christ guaranteed his soul salvation! Verses 42 and 43 conclude: “And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise!” The convicted thief, being nailed to a cross himself, unable to do anything else, saw the sign over Jesus’ head—“THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.” So, he cried to out to Jesus in faith: “Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom!” The thief saw and trusted Jesus as “King” and “Lord” indeed.

SUPPLEMENTAL: THE MODERN-VERSION PERVERSION OF LUKE 23:42

People often ask why we make such a “big deal” about using the King James Bible. We already saw how modern English versions remove the word “Calvary” from Luke 23:33. This is significant because that term “Calvary” no longer has a Biblical basis; it can no longer be rightly called a “Scriptural” term. Do you see how dangerous the modern-version issue is? But, there is something more serious in the modern versions concerning this passage. Most never catch their error. I will gladly expose them for you, my friend.

The modern versions, following their handful of underlying corrupted Greek manuscripts from Alexandria (Egypt), do not contain the title “Lord” (kurie) in Luke 23:42. Rather than the King James expression (supported in most Greek manuscripts), “He said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me…,” the thief in a modern version says, “Jesus, remember me…” (NASB, NIV, HCSB, Amplified, ESV, NLT, NRSV, The Voice, et cetera). That is, the modern English versions—so-called “bibles”—have removed a reference to Jesus being “Lord!” Furthermore, they have hidden the thief’s testimony, his acknowledgement of Jesus not simply being “King” but also the “Lord.” This is just one of the dozens of places where the modern versions do this. They hide the correlation that the Jesus of the New Testament is the “Lord” (JEHOVAH) of the Old Testament. Since these Bible editors and translators have such a low opinion of the Lord Jesus Christ, why would we want to use their worthless manuscripts and useless books as the bases for our lives? Once again, a simple verse shows us that the King James Bible is theologically superior to all the modern English versions and all their manuscripts combined!!!!

Also see:
» Were there five crosses on Calvary?
» Why does the Bible say Jesus was hanged on a “tree?”
» Why did Jesus forbid others from preaching that He was Christ?

Could you describe Jesus’ resurrected body?, JUST ASKING / CURIOUS QUESTIONS

Could you describe Jesus’ resurrected body?

COULD YOU DESCRIBE JESUS’ RESURRECTED BODY?

by Shawn Brasseaux

“Is Jesus’ resurrected body that was on earth the same body that He has in heaven now, or was there some sort of transformation that His body went through to have a spiritual body fit for heaven? And, will we see the holes in His hands when we’re with Him in heaven?”

Short answers first. “Is Jesus’ resurrected body that was on earth the same body that He has in heaven now [YES], ….or was there some sort of transformation that His body went through to have a spiritual body fit for heaven [NO]? And, will we see the holes in His hands when we’re with Him in heaven [YES]?” Now, the long answers.

Jesus’ resurrected body was undoubtedly physical in one sense. (There is a common myth in some groups that Jesus was raised merely a “spirit” but that is nonsense.) His resurrected body had hands and feet, and flesh and bone that human hands could touch (Luke 24:39-40; John 20:17,27). It ate physical fish and physical honeycomb (Luke 24:41-43). Clearly, that was not a spirit. It was a body very similar to ours, except it did not have blood. Yet, at the same time, that physical body of Christ had an extraordinary structure that allowed it to pass through locked doors and walls (John 20:19,26). Jesus instantly appeared in and immediately disappeared from crowds (Luke 24:31). So, Christ’s resurrection body was not merely physical but had some sort of supernatural spiritual aspect, too. In fact, He traveled to the third heaven to His Father and back to Earth in less than eight days (John 20:17-27)!

Certainly, an ordinary physical body like ours could not do that! It had some enhancements at His resurrection, so I would call Jesus’ resurrected body an “enhanced physical body” for simplicity’s sake. It was physical and yet more, so it is somewhat mysterious to classify and describe. We really have no comparison in life so the full imagery of that body is elusive. (We will have a definite answer one day!)

Remember how Jesus’ body radiated with light on earth (Matthew chapter 17, the Mount of Transfiguration), and then it returned to normal? That is a picture of Him coming back at His glorious Second Coming (Matthew 16:27). According to Scripture, He glowed no other time in His earthly ministry. The Scriptures are silent about this even during the 40 days between His resurrection and ascension.

However, some 30 years after His ascension in Acts chapter 1, Paul wrote that Jesus Christ “dwelleth in the light which no man can approach unto” (1 Timothy 6:16). That is Christ ascended in heaven, at His Father’s right hand. That same light evidently appeared to Saul/Paul at his conversion in Acts 9:3 (cf. Acts 22:6; Acts 26:13). Perhaps that is what Paul meant when He mentioned Christ’s “glorious body” (Philippians 3:21). There is not enough detail in the Scriptures to make further comment here, but I will offer an informed opinion (which you have the option to accept or reject). It seems like Jesus’ resurrected body was equipped enough to do other “super-human” things, so it probably had the ability to glow, but it did not actually glow until He went to heaven. Remember, even before His resurrection, His body could glow when He willed it (go back to Matthew chapter 17). The “glow” of Matthew chapter 17 did not appear again until Paul saw Him in heaven.

Overall, these verses lead me to conclude that Christ’s resurrection body is the same body in heaven today. (Likewise, I believe our bodies fit for heaven, 2 Corinthians 5:1-9, will be given us at our resurrection, the Rapture.) That resurrection body allowed Him to go to heaven and come back in less than eight days (John 20:17-26). It can travel super fast, certainly not like our bodies today!! For that reason, I would say His resurrection body was already fit for heaven before the ascension of Acts chapter 1. Once Jesus came out the grave, that body was already equipped to function in heaven. It went to heaven in John 20:17-26 and came back, evidently looking the same, and then returned to heaven in Acts chapter 1 to stay for the last 20 centuries. How awesome are these thoughts, friend!

Now, to answer your final question. “Will we see the holes in Jesus’ hands?” I would say “yes” because Zechariah 13:6 references Him coming back to Israel at His Second Coming, and He still has those nail prints in His hands. Evidently, they can see Him and recognize Him by those scars where He was pierced with the nails (Revelation 1:7; cf. Zechariah 12:10; Zechariah 13:6). This will be after He ascended to heaven in Acts chapter 1, after His time in heaven, and yet He still has those scars. (Had His resurrected body undergone some “transformation” as you wondered, I think those scars would have disappeared.) So, I would say those scars will be there forever on the Lord Jesus Christ. They will always be a reminder for all people and angels to see—the great price He paid for us on Calvary’s awful tree!

Also see:
» How is mankind “lower than the angels?”
» Is John 20:29 applicable to us today?
» Where was Jesus during the three days between His death and resurrection?

HOLIDAYS, JUST ASKING / CURIOUS QUESTIONS, Why do people use “Xmas” instead of “Christmas?”, Why do people use “Xmas” instead of “Christmas?”

Why do people use “Xmas” instead of “Christmas?”

WHY DO PEOPLE USE “XMAS” INSTEAD OF “CHRISTMAS?”

by Shawn Brasseaux

Every Christmas Season, you have seen and heard the phrase, “Merry Xmas.” Have you ever wondered why people do not just write and say “Christmas?” Should we Christians use the term “Xmas?”

Here are three reasons why “Xmas” is a popular expression:

Firstly, our English word “Christ” is transliterated from the Greek christos (Χριστός). The letters are “CHi-Rho-Iota-Sigma-Tau-Omicron-Sigma.” The first character, the Greek letter “chi” (pronounced KI), as you can see, resembles our English letter “X.” So, when people use “Xmas,” they are actually referring to Christ (although, to English speakers, this is not obvious.)

Secondly, “Xmas” is much shorter than “Christmas.” This abbreviation can be written quicker and it can fit limited spaces more easily.

Thirdly, some people use “Xmas” just so they do not offend non-Christians. (Furthermore, some do not like to say, “Merry Christmas,” so they say, “Happy Holidays,” not realizing that “holiday” is from the Old English word for “holy day.” If they do not like spiritual connotations, they had better not say “Happy Holidays” either!)

Personally, I have never used and I will never use “Xmas.” I just say and write “Christmas” because Jesus Christ means so much more to me than some “offended” person!

Also see:
» Was Jesus Christ really born on December 25th?
» Should I display a Christmas tree?
» What is the real “Immaculate Conception?”

How should we cope with the death of a pet?, JUST ASKING / CURIOUS QUESTIONS

How should we cope with the death of a pet?

HOW SHOULD WE COPE WITH THE DEATH OF A PET?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Having experienced this very thing just a month ago, I can relate to this question.

Our Australian Cattle Dog died October 10, 2015, at the age of 11 years (about 60 in human years). He lived a good, long life, although for the last five months of his life, he battled prostate cancer. Our veterinarian estimated he only had two weeks to live. Orion lived 10 times longer—five months! We enjoyed every minute of him after his diagnosis. For five months, we prepared ourselves to lose him. When he finally passed, we were ready. All of the family members miss him still, but he is suffering no more. Every chance I remember him, I thank Father God for the time He did give him to us. Orion knew he was loved, and that is all that matters.

The death of a pet is never an easy life event with which to deal. After all, pets take on a strange, human-like form in our minds. They become a part of our family. We feel excitement when they are happy and we feel sadness when they appear lonely. They like for us to talk to them, scratch them, and play with them. In their own special way, they “talk” to us—facial expressions, vocal sounds, scratching gently at our clothes or on our skin, and so on. When they die, it feels just like a human being died. Once they die, a part of us dies with them.

As King Solomon observed in Ecclesiastes chapter 3: “[19] For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity. [20] All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. [21] Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth?” There is one common trait between humans and animals—they are both destined to die and their physical bodies will return to the earth. Humans, however, are different in that they are “living souls” (Genesis 2:7), and thus can never pass into nonexistence. Humans merely leave the physical world and enter the spirit world (heaven for Christians, hell for everyone else).

There is some good news in the death of a pet, though. When pets die, they do not exist anymore. They just disappear entirely. They do not go to heaven or hell. There is no more suffering for them. We need no longer worry if they are well feed, well watered, sheltered, and healthy. We can release them to the ages. Our heart can grieve the loss, our mind can recollect the good times and wish there were more to come, but we can be at peace. These creatures served us well, and we creatures served them well. Will we see our pets again? The Bible is silent in answering and we too are silent in answering. (Certainly, God can call them back into existence if He so chooses.)

Sin kills. It takes. It divides. It hurts. Creation is fallen. Every creature, man or animal, has to die at some point. This is not the way God intended life to operate. Never, ever blame Him for what Adam deliberately chose to do. God never uses the death of people or pets to punish us or teach us lessons. That is religious nonsense. Additional good news is that creation is not hopelessly lost to sin forever. With each passing day, we hasten toward the time when God will make all things new. In that new creation, sin and death will be absent. They will never be heard from again.

I have found it most beneficial in my own life to thank God upon every remembrance of Orion. Whenever you miss your deceased pet, friend, just be thankful that Father God gave the animal to you at all. Which is better? Having never had the joy of a pet in your life, or having had the joy of having it for the time you did?

As we learn from our Apostle Paul, whether good times or bad, whether in times of need or in times of prosperity, Jesus Christ can and will see us through them. Difficult circumstances will not be easy, but they will be easier. You can cry or weep, but, rather than being bitter and saying, “Oh God, You are so mean because You took my pet away from me!,” you can say, “Oh God, thank You so much for my having the animal at all!” That is the key to overcoming the grief, no matter what the difficulty in life. Philippians 4:11-13: “[11] Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. [12] I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. [13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

And, as Paul had to learn about his trials and tribulations, 2 Corinthians chapter 12: “[8] For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. [9] And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. [10] Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” No matter what the difficulty in life, Jesus Christ has given us an internal capacity to endure it. We can bear the trouble using His power. It does not have to destroy us. His grace (everything He can do for us through His finished crosswork) will certainly see us through every difficulty and struggle in life… whether concerning people or pets! 🙂

Also see:
» What about “modern-day faith healing?”
» Why did Jesus weep when Lazarus died?
» What is the Lord’s will for my Christian life?

BIBLE CONTRADICTIONS / CONFUSING VERSES SIMPLIFIED, How many daughters did Lot have?, How many daughters did Lot have?, JUST ASKING / CURIOUS QUESTIONS

How many daughters did Lot have?

HOW MANY DAUGHTERS DID LOT HAVE?

by Shawn Brasseaux

Friend, I once had a problem with this. Others have had difficulty with it as well. It really is not complicated as we make it out to be. We simply read the English Bible text and use a little common sense.

In Genesis chapter 19, when the men of the city of Sodom came to have sexual relations with the angels staying in Lot’s house for the night, Lot offered to them his two virgin daughters. These women had not yet known men in the biblical sense. Notice:

“[4] But before they lay down, the men of the city, even the men of Sodom, compassed the house round, both old and young, all the people from every quarter: [5] And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where are the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them. [6] And Lot went out at the door unto them, and shut the door after him, [7] And said, I pray you, brethren, do not so wickedly. [8] Behold now, I have two daughters which have not known man; let me, I pray you, bring them out unto you, and do ye to them as is good in your eyes: only unto these men do nothing; for therefore came they under the shadow of my roof.”

The angels had come to destroy Sodom for their sexual immorality (sodomy, homosexuality). Verse 14 says that Lot went to warn his sons-in-law and his daughters they married. This means he had at least two married daughters. “[14] And Lot went out, and spake unto his sons in law, which married his daughters, and said, Up, get you out of this place; for the LORD will destroy this city. But he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons in law.”

In verse 15, the angels tell Lot to take his wife and his daughters and leave. Verse 16: “[15] And when the morning arose, then the angels hastened Lot, saying, Arise, take thy wife, and thy two daughters, which are here; lest thou be consumed in the iniquity of the city. [16] And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him: and they brought him forth, and set him without the city.” Verse 30 also mentions two daughters. By the end of the chapter, his two daughters have children by him.

So, how many daughters did Lot have? The common assumption is that he only had two daughters. However, that number does not fit the passage. At minimum, Lot had four daughters. He had at least two married daughters (often overlooked) and two unmarried/virgin daughters (who later had children by him).

Also see:
» Were there five crosses on Calvary?
» Did David’s father Jesse have seven or eight sons?
» Were there really three wise men?

How long did it take for Israel to cross the Red Sea?, JUST ASKING / CURIOUS QUESTIONS

How long did it take for Israel to cross the Red Sea?

HOW LONG DID IT TAKE FOR ISRAEL TO CROSS THE RED SEA?

by Shawn Brasseaux

“How long did Moses and the millions of Israelites stand at the Red Sea with his rod stretched out until the waters backed up and they walked across on dry land? Was it hours, days, or how long was it? Was it instantly? Are there any Scriptures to back up your answer please? Thank you so much.”

Thank you for your question. It took some studying but I believe I have some Scriptural insight. I can tell you that it was certainly not days. The Bible does indicate a rough estimation of how many hours. Let me show you how we can use verses to approximate the time.

Remember, it was nighttime when the Jews left Egypt after Passover and during Unleavened Bread. God told Israel that He would smite Egypt’s firstborn at “midnight” (Exodus 12:29). Pharaoh called Moses and Aaron in the night, shortly after the firstborn were slain, giving Israel permission to leave Egypt (verse 31). Israel left Egypt sometime after midnight. Exodus 12:42,51: “[42] It is a night to be much observed unto the LORD for bringing them out from the land of Egypt: this is that night of the LORD to be observed of all the children of Israel in their generations…. [51] And it came to pass the selfsame day, that the LORD did bring the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt by their armies.”

Now, Exodus 14:20: “And it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the one came not near the other all the night.” It was still nighttime when the Egyptian armies tried to attack Israel on the banks of the Red Sea. “[21] And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided. [22] And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground: and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left. [23] And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them to the midst of the sea, even all Pharaoh’s horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.”

The Bible says that God drove the waters back “all that night.” This seems to be some hours’ passage of time: “[24] And it came to pass, that in the morning watch the LORD looked unto the host of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of the cloud, and troubled the host of the Egyptians, [25] And took off their chariot wheels, that they drave them heavily: so that the Egyptians said, Let us flee from the face of Israel; for the LORD fighteth for them against the Egyptians. [26] And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand over the sea, that the waters may come again upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and upon their horsemen. [27] And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to his strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it; and the LORD overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea.”

Verse 24 says that by “the morning watch” (“the last portion of the night”), the Egyptian armies are still trying to reach the Red Sea and attack Israel. By the “morning,” the sea had returned to its normal state and covered the Egyptian armies.

The waters went back instantly I am sure, as God’s miracles are instant in Scripture (Matthew 8:3; Mark 1:32; Mark 10:52; Luke 4:39; Luke 18:43; John 5:9; Acts 9:18; et cetera), but it evidently took several hours for all of the Jews to cross the Red Sea. It was during this time period of hours that God sustained these walls of water. The waters went back instantly after God held them.

True, we do not know how many Jews there were who walked side-by-side across the Red Sea. What we can surmise is that the opening and the closing of the Red Sea happened within the time-span of one night, and thus not days. Exodus 12:29 (“midnight,” Israel told to leave Egypt) and Exodus 14:27 (“morning appeared,” Red Sea covered Egyptians) would give us an estimation of less than six hours, for the Jews to enter the Red Sea and safely pass through to the other shore.

Also see:
» Why did God kill the Egyptians’ firstborn sons?
» What is the “great cloud of witnesses” of Hebrews 12:1?
» Are Christians obligated to observe Passover?

JUST ASKING / CURIOUS QUESTIONS, What about those “strange distractions” when we witness to others?

What about those “strange distractions” when we witness to others?

WHAT ABOUT THOSE “STRANGE DISTRACTIONS” WHEN WE WITNESS TO OTHERS?

by Shawn Brasseaux

“When sharing the Gospel I have noticed at the most crucial time, diversions which SEEM perfectly timed, have thwarted people’s attention away from hearing the truth. Is this just coincidence? Some of these were extraordinary… almost paranormal. Can believers be buffeted as Paul was in 2 Corinthians 12:7?”

So you have experienced this too, friend? Brother, every believer knows a little something about how annoying those “diversions” are!

I am afraid that those types of “perfectly timed” distractions are very useful to Satan. Just today, a sister in Christ was telling me that her “Christian” (?) husband was using a noisy leaf-blower machine while she was trying to give the Gospel to a lost man doing some work near their home! Whether it is distracting children, an urgent phone call, sudden bad weather, or unexpected illness, there is always something to sidetrack us while we are witnessing to others. The people are distracted and we are distracted.

When the Bible says Paul was “buffeted,” that is the idea of being punched, struck, or handled roughly. It is physical violence. Like when the soldiers spat in Jesus’ face, and “buffeted” Him, and smote Him (Matthew 26:67; Mark 14:65). That same term is used to describe Paul and the apostles being physical abused (persecuted) in 1 Corinthians 4:11. Peter uses it to describe a beating or punishment (1 Peter 2:20). So, no, our distractions while witnessing, those are not buffetings. Although, when a convicted lost person or angry “Christian” grabs us and smacks us for telling them the truth of God’s Word, that, my friend, is most definitely “buffeting” in the truest sense of the word!

The thorn in the flesh Paul experienced in 2 Corinthians chapter 12 was in the context of numerous trials and tribulations, including persecution and physical abuse (see verse 10). Personally, I believe that a large part of that thorn in the flesh was that Paul had physical infirmities as the result of his beatings and torture. You have to remember Paul endured many lashings/scourgings (195!), stonings, beatings, et cetera (2 Corinthians 11:22-33). No doubt there were some broken bones and torn muscles involved. Paul’s physical body surely abounded with scar tissue. There seems to be partial blindness in Paul as well. The language in Galatians 4:13-15 is that Paul had a somewhat hideous appearance (related to his eyes?) but that the Galatians had overlooked his physical problems and believed the Gospel that he preached. These difficulties were certainly the direct influence of Satan. Then, Satan would exploit the matter even further. Paul’s critics would come along and say, “And that man—all bruised, beaten, and crippled—he is Jesus Christ’s apostle to you?! No way!” False teachers (religious leaders), looking to deceive, were boasting in their nice appearance and criticizing Paul for his weak appearance in order to discourage the Corinthians from listening to him (2 Corinthians 10:7-10; 2 Corinthians 5:12).

Actually, brother, I believe those distractions (noisy kids, for example) that we face during witnessing episodes is largely coincidence, certainly not Satan’s direct influence as in the previous paragraph with Paul. Now, if you are talking about religious people interrupting you, that is Satan’s direct work. There is no coincidence about that! When you are talking to someone about the Gospel or dispensational Bible study, and someone else interrupts you to talk about some religious material, that is how Satan and his devils work. They work in the form of false teaching and false teachers (1 Timothy 4:1-5). The “seducing spirits” there are the voices of people—preachers, teachers, et cetera—speaking error with false gospels, wrongly-divided Scripture, denominational teaching outside of the Bible, and so on. This is where Satan accomplishes his best work. The people he is using may or may not be aware of his influence.

When you get those distractions, you just ask the Holy Spirit to keep your mind on the truth of those verses you have studied. As long as you are sharing Bible verses, those verses will somehow get to that person’s eyes or ears, no matter what the distraction. God’s Word never returns to Him void, and it will prosper wherever He sends it (Isaiah 55:11). Look at all the distractions He has already overcome so we (grace believers) could learn what little we know about His Word! Hope that explains it, friend!

Also see:
» How does Satan operate today?
» Is Acts 16:31 a sufficient Gospel message?
» What about Romans 10:9-10?

JUST ASKING / CURIOUS QUESTIONS, Was Luke a Jew or a Gentile?

Was Luke a Jew or a Gentile?

WAS LUKE A JEW OR A GENTILE?

by Shawn Brasseaux

For a long time now, theologians and others have argued over whether Luke was a Jew or a Gentile (non-Jew). I believe the Bible is clear as to which he was. Will we believe the Bible so we can then move on to more important matters?

Consider what the Apostle Paul wrote in the fourth and final chapter of Colossians: “[10] Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister’s son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;) [11] And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.” When Paul talked about his Jewish helpers in Christ here, verses 10 and 11 discussed men “of the circumcision.” These were undoubtedly Jews.

Then, Paul talks about a Christian named Epaphras in verses 12 and 13. For sake of brevity, we will skip these verses.

Now, when we come to verse 14, note: “Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you.” Luke was not classified in the “circumcision” group. From verse 12 onward, Paul mentioned Gentiles. It seems to me that if Luke were a Jew, Paul would have added Luke in verses 10-11, or Paul would have noted Luke was also “of the circumcision.” Since Paul did neither, the wording in Colossians chapter 4 leads me to conclude that Luke was a Gentile, a non-Jew. If Luke truly did write the Gospel Record According to Luke as well as the Book of Acts, that would mean that a Gentile wrote those two Bible books. Luke’s Gospel and the book of Acts thus had some Pauline influence, for as we saw in Colossians, Luke accompanied Paul. Luke followed Paul on his apostolic journeys throughout the book of Acts. Other than Luke being a Gentile Christian, a medical doctor, and a close companion of Paul until the very end of Paul’s life (2 Timothy 4:11), the Scriptures are silent about Luke’s origin and life.

Also see:
» Can you explain Paul’s ministry during the book of Acts?
» Was Saul a pastor, a prophet, or an evangelist?
» How were Gentiles saved before our Dispensation of Grace?