I had a conversation with a member of a group that claims that Jesus was a sinner like anybody before he was baptized by John the Baptist. His claim is that if Jesus was not a sinner then why was he baptized for repentance by John the Baptist? I tried to explain that the Lord was being baptized ONLY for the fulfillment of the scriptures not necessary for repentance. Is there perhaps any other valid reason why The Lord was baptized by John the Baptist other than the one I mentioned? Can you also comment on the notion that Jesus was a sinner like any other person before John’s baptism?

How does a Pastor retire from the service of God? I can find no scripture to support this action. And from what I do see, It looks like all leaders of the old and new testament died in service to God. Even Paul was sick and God used him in his sickness. I just don’t get it. My Pastor was an anointed teacher of God and he stepped down this way. And I guess it still bothers me.

One of the titles God uses for Himself is I Am. I was just wondering what it means literally speaking?

In Romans 12:3, it speaks of “the measure of Faith” God has given us. My question is: do we all get the same “measure” of Faith, or are some of us given a bigger or smaller measure? Some of us are called to serve in areas where I would think they would need a very large measure of Faith.

I am studying James in a small group study. I understand and believe that we are saved by faith alone by the grace of God. I also understand that James is telling us that true belief and faith in Jesus’ finished work on the cross will produce good works. I agree. This is my question: James 2:21 says, “was not… Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?

I would say no, he was considered righteous by God because he trusted in God and the fact that he offered his son was proof (or evidence) of that faith, but was not what saved him. James in seeking to prove that faith produces works makes it confusing to me when he puts the cart before the horse in his wording, and perhaps partly why you get questions over and again about our works being able to save. Can you clear this up for me, as I believe the Bible is God breathed and alive. Thanking you continually for your work and God for enabling you.

Your short comment on baptism gives me thought on the verse that speaks of “one baptism” and since I’ve had more than one water baptism, it bothered me on how to respond. I now believe that my one baptism occurred when I first believed, and the Holy Spirit came into my heart, never to leave. Water should follow.

I have read a lot in your page about the provision of God and of the principle of looking for the Kingdom of God first and the rest would be added. My concern is the following: My boyfriend and I have decided to marry next year; however, we do not yet have the necessary funds to supply our elementary needs. We received a prophecy that it would be in the time of the Lord and we believed it, but I am disturbed by the idea that by our own strength we could be ahead of the plan of God for our lives if we decide on specific date for marrying without having the economic resources at the present moment. Are we acting well or are we hastened by the fact that we want to form a home centered in Christ? We sincerely want to do the will of God. I am very grateful for your advice.

I’ve been doing some thinking about the prophets from the Old Testament scriptures. What kind of men were they? Why did God choose them in particular? What about the nature of prophecy itself? Some people today claim to be prophets and sound very convincing, so what are some guidelines we can use when trying to determine if a person is truly gifted in prophecy, or just seeking attention?

Is it possible for someone to have faith in Jesus without repenting of their sins? If so, how does one go about repenting of their sins the biblical way?

I was wondering what your source is when you say according to “Jewish history” or “Jewish tradition.” I listen to your mp3 studies all the time. In fact I burn them to a disc and listen to them during my morning drive to work. I have searched the Internet over and cannot find a Jewish tradition or Jewish history site. I really enjoy all the historical background that you add to your studies. If I could only find a church that teaches like you do, I would show up every Sunday.