I have been perplexed for some time now about the controversies that rage within the Body of Christ these days. There are large groups who hold views that other large groups claim are apostate. How can we all be led by the same Spirit in so many conflicting ways? Why is the discernment in one believer so different from the discernment in another? Why is there not a consensus amongst the Body of Christ?

Based on my interpretation of Matt 18:8-9, Mark 9:43-45 and John 20:25-27 I’ve concluded that our so-called incorruptible/glorified body will bear all the scars and amputations of our fleshly body. What do you think?

Re: What Does Deny Mean? You made the comment that some English translations use the word “disown” in 2 Tim 2:12, but the Greek word is never translated that way, and it changes Paul’s meaning because to disown means to renounce or repudiate. When I looked it up in the online interlinear Bible, it is always translated ‘disown’. Now I’m confused.

My question has to deal with the “elect” in the Olivet Discourse. Jesus was indeed talking to a Jewish crowd (his disciples). However, they were also His followers. I’ve taken Matthew 24 to mean that He’s referring mostly to the persecution of the Jews in His teaching. However, Luke 21:12, Jesus says, “…You will be brought before kings and ruler’s for my name’s sake.” Jews obviously don’t recognize “His name” as a deity, so clearly Jesus is referring to Christ-followers at this point. Historically, both Jews and Christians have been brought before kings and rulers, and been persecuted. So, I guess my question is, “Is Jesus talking to Jews, Christians, or both?” Also, do you believe the elect gathered from the 4 winds are Jews, or all of the Christians?

Re: Numbers 1:51. Why does the stranger who approaches have to be put to death?

Can you explain why the rebuilding of the Temple is so important? Why, when Jesus died to take away our sins and we are able to worship God without a temple? And why is a Temple necessary during the Millennium? If Jesus is here with us, why does the Temple need to be rebuilt? It seems to be so vital to the Israelis. Forgive my ignorance on this matter.

I have read Matthew chapter 25 about the 10 virgins, in the King James Bible, and it doesn’t mention anything in there about bridesmaids. Where did you get bridesmaids from Matthew 25?

As I was reading one of your responses, I noticed you referenced the Jewish historian Josephus. My former pastor claims that Josephus was an unreliable source, and was a self-serving ally of Rome. Have you come across such allegations?

When believers choose to live sinful lifestyles (i.e. have an attitude of I do not care whether I sin or not, since I love sin and it is my lifestyle), does that mean they would reject eternal security if their intent is to live a sinful lifestyle? Or does it reveal that they are not truly saved?

I always thought that God was a spiritual form only but after reading one of your commentaries it stated that when God was living in the Holy of Holies the high priest would visit with him once a year and a rope would be tied around his ankles to pull him out if he displeased God to keep God from destroying him if he sinned in his presence. This indicates to me that God was in human form at this time. Is this correct?