What does Matthew 5:21-22 mean about insulting and calling one’s neighbor a fool? Does this relate to judging others? Also, what does Matt. 5:33-37 mean? I’ve interpreted them as meaning that we shouldn’t promise things because we can’t insure that they’ll happen, but I’m not sure – I might be missing something here.

I have been in a long relationship with a woman who has done a lot of things that I don’t like. She has lied to me more than once. I have helped her out with money and emotional attachment. Am I wrong for not forgiving her this time and having nothing more to do with her? She has taken advantage of my good nature because I believe in the Bible about forgiveness. I think she is evil she doesn’t care who she hurts in the process. What should i do?

In John 11 is the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. It says he came forth bound hand and foot. I heard someone say once that they thought Lazarus was levitating when he came out of the tomb, but just the use of the word “levitating” frankly gives me the creeps. But it does say he was “bound” — any thoughts on how Lazarus “came forth”?

My question is this; As followers of Jesus and believers in the pre-trib rapture, how can we protect ourselves from re-occurring doubts about the rapture? I am surrounded by opposition to faith in the rapture and often begin to think that I might be so motivated to believe that I convince myself it is truth, especially when the Bible can be interpreted to say otherwise at times. Do you have any suggestions beyond the basics of nurturing our faith such as time in fellowship with the Lord, time studying His word, fellowship with like-minded believers, etc.?

I have a question about Samson. I recently heard a Pastor remark that Samson was a relatively small man and his strength was of God. I know the strength came from God and it would make it even more remarkable to those people at that time if he were small, but I don’t know if that is actually stated in the Bible. I believe the pastor was assuming he was of normal size and not muscle bound as most pictures portray him.

In Matthew 7:20-23 Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.’

Are the “many” here trying to enter heaven by their works (did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles)?

Why does the bible say that Jesus came to save the world and not condemn it but also Jesus says He didn’t come to bring peace but a sword turning son against father, etc?

First thank you for your website and your wisdom, which is why I write. I have been mulling over some personal issues in my life and I’ve been praying for guidance and wisdom but I don’t seem to find the answers I’m looking for. Is there any advice you can give me as to how I can listen for God’s counsel in these matters? I’m trying to avoid my own meddling and instead allow HIS grace to guide me, but I worry I’m unsuccessful. I appreciate your advice on this matter and look forward to your response.

My question is this, does 1 Cor. 10:13 apply to non-Christians? I have a relative that is going through some very difficult times and has contemplated suicide. He is a non-believer (I pray everyday for his salvation) and wonders if this verse is ever wrong. I explained that I believe this verse can never be wrong because God’s word is never wrong. But I also told him that I don’t know if this verse applies to non-Christians. I’m a believer and this verse has rang true on every occasion in my life. I know this book was written to the Christians in Corinth so my thought is it only applies to Christians. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

I recently read your article about the pre trib rapture in which you seemed to indicate that all the people with the exception of Israel will either be destroyed or cast off the earth after the rapture. Perhaps I read it wrong. If not what about the tribulation saints?