Sermons and Biblical Studies

We quote from an eminent authority an explanation as to the reason for the contention between Michael and the Devil: "The Lord Himself buried Moses, hiding the place of the sepulchre. The primary reason for this probably was to hinder the Israelites from carrying his corpse as a mummy, which in after time might have … Continue reading “In Jude 9, is described a contention and dispute between Michael, the Archangel, and the Devil over the body of Moses. Why this dispute?”

As the Scriptural narrative does not contain the information as to the modus operandi by which the Apostles recognized the Patriarchs, we are forced to rely upon our own resources, and to accept that which would appeal to us as the most reasonable solution of the matter, without forming a too positive conclusion. There are … Continue reading “At the transfiguration of Jesus, `Matt. 17:3`, states that Elias and Moses appeared and talked with Him. Will you please explain how it was possible for the Apostles to recognize that these two who were with the Lord were Moses and Elias?”

It is true that we can worship the Lord at home, and unless we do worship the Lord at home, our church worship would be of little benefit. Worship is not a mere form but devotion of the heart. However, we are admonished of the Lord to "forsake not the assembling of ourselves together" (`Heb. … Continue reading “I am a young married man and my wife and I desire to be good Christian people. We think we ought to go to church and worship God, but as there are ten different churches in our neighborhood, where should we go?”

A critical examination of the parable should thoroughly convince any Bible student that the "branches" could in no way represent the five-or six-hundred different religious denominations of Christendom. At the time the parable was given, there were no denominations, and none were organized until several centuries afterward. The Lord never authorized the formation of these … Continue reading “In the parable of the vine and the branches given by the Lord Jesus (`John 15:1-8`), are we to understand that the branches would represent the different churches and denominations?”

The following is a more literal translation of the verses cited than that in the Authorized Version: "Is any weak among you (weak in the faith, morally and spiritually weak or ailing) let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of … Continue reading “Are we to understand from `James 5:14-16`, that it is possible for the “Elders of the Church,” at the present day, to heal the sick by prayer and anointing with oil?”

A babe in Christ might pray for physical health in all good conscience and might be granted an answer as a reward for the faith and prayer. But an advanced Christian, who had proceeded from justification to sanctification–one who had consecrated life and health and all to God, and who, in return, had been begotten … Continue reading “Is it proper for Christians to pray for health?”

The word "purgatory" is from the Latin tongue and signifies primarily a place of purification or making clean. The thought usually involved in the consideration of the term is that an intermediate state of condition exists for those who die and who at the time of death–while professing Christianity– were not sufficiently cleansed from their … Continue reading “Is there such a place as purgatory, and if so, where is it taught in the Scriptures?”

We answer that "it" is the soul that is restored or resuscitated. What was it that died? The Scripture reply is: "The soul that shineth, it shall die." The living, intelligent, sentient being is to be raised up by Divine power in the time of resurrection–"when all who are in their graves shall come forth." … Continue reading “Since the Apostle clearly explains in `1 Cor. 15:35-38`, that the body will not be resurrected, what does he mean when he says: “So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption,” etc. (`1 Cor. 15:42-44`) What is meant by the expression, “it”? What is resurrected?”

The matter of exterminating dogs and cats is being agitated in some of the large cities as it is claimed that these animals transmit disease germs and more or less endanger the lives of the people in various other ways. Mr. A's dog may be highly thought of in the family circle and yet be … Continue reading “Will faithful animals such as dogs and cats be resurrected?”

The Bible is the only book in all the earth that does teach a general resurrection of the dead. In the first place, it sets forth that the dead are dead and not alive; and that because they are dead a resurrection is necessary to make them alive. If alive already, there could be no … Continue reading “Can you show from the Scriptures that there is any such thing as a general resurrection of the dead?”