Q&A Session by Bro Vincent & Bro Victor
Introduction to the Session
Ninety-four questions were received, six short of one hundred. A separate conference for addressing questions on various topics was suggested due to the volume. Answers may not be perfect because of human imperfection, potential miscommunication in how questions are framed, and lack of knowledge about the questioner’s background or circumstances. The guidance of the Holy Spirit is hoped to lead to solutions, as God is the answer to every problem. The session was scheduled to close by 5:30 PM, and not all questions might be covered. Those with unanswered questions are encouraged to discuss them with elders or mature brothers and sisters.
Fasting: Purpose and Practice
Question: Why do we fast, and what do we do while fasting?
Fasting is practiced as a discipline to prioritize love for God and His Word over food. It is an occasion to demonstrate commitment to God, as Jesus instructed in the Gospels. During fasting, time is set apart to study the Word of God, sing praises, and worship effectively. The Bible uses "when you fast" rather than "if you fast," indicating Jesus’ expectation that fasting is part of spiritual life (Matthew 6:16).
Experiencing God’s Joy
Question: How can one experience the joy that God gives practically in day-to-day life?
In God’s presence, there is fullness of joy and everlasting peace (Psalm 16:11). Experiencing God more deeply brings joy and peace. When filled with the Holy Spirit, joy overflows, transforming daily life.
Feeling Distant from God
Question: I pray, and God answers miraculously, but I don’t feel His love personally or experience Him as my Father. It feels like He is far away. How can I walk with God daily, listen to Him, know Him as my Father, and have eagerness to do His will?
Relying on feelings can be misleading; instead, prioritize facts, faith, and feelings in that order, like a three-carriage train. The fact is that the Word of God declares believers as children of God, which should be trusted regardless of feelings (John 1:12). Faith follows, affirming belief in God’s forgiveness and adoption. Feelings are unreliable, like chaff blown by the wind, and should not lead one’s spiritual life. Live by the truth of God’s Word, not by fluctuating emotions.
Knowing God’s Presence
Question: How do I know God is with me?
When the Spirit of God is present, there is conviction about areas of life such as thoughts, attitudes, motives, or deeds. This conviction is a sign of God’s presence, providing light and guidance.
Handling Religious Festival Contributions
Question: In apartments, people collect money for religious festivals. How do I avoid contributing?
Contributions should not be made for religious festivals. Donations for common facilities like a library, swimming pool, or maintenance are acceptable. When asked specifically for religious festivals, politely and dignifiedly decline.
God’s Anger
Question: How do I know if God is angry with me?
God is not angry with believers, as His wrath was fully expressed on the cross at Calvary (Romans 5:9). God may be saddened by hurtful behavior or words, but He is not angry.
Maintaining Fellowship with God
Question: I get salvation but lose it quickly. What should I do?
The question likely refers to losing fellowship, not salvation. If sin disrupts fellowship, confess it immediately and reconcile with God. If the sin involves another person, reconcile with them first, then with God to restore fellowship (1 John 1:9). Salvation is not something that is repeatedly lost and regained. The notion of "once saved, always saved" is not true, but the Spirit of God convicts and provides opportunities for repentance to preserve salvation. Maintain continual fellowship with God and consult local elders for clarity.
Keeping a Clear Conscience
Question: How do I have a clear conscience? I used to listen to my conscience, but sometimes I ignore it, and now it’s too late to fix things. How do I regain a sensitive conscience?
To maintain a clear conscience, obey the Spirit’s conviction immediately. Each act of obedience sharpens the conscience, making it sensitive even to small matters. Ignoring conviction dulls the conscience, reducing its sensitivity. For example, Paul, in Acts 23:1, called the high priest a "whitewashed tomb" but immediately apologized when convicted, demonstrating a sensitive conscience (Acts 23:1-5). To regain sensitivity, promptly obey convictions and settle matters as they arise.
God Bearing Witness
Question: How does God bear witness for someone, and what does it mean?
God bears witness by giving the Holy Spirit, as seen in Acts 15:8, where He confirmed His acceptance through the Spirit. At Jesus’ baptism, the Father bore witness by sending the Holy Spirit and declaring His pleasure (Matthew 3:16-17). When God is pleased, He provides the Holy Spirit as a witness.
Overcoming Past Spiritual Losses
Question: How can I make up for lost time in my spiritual life to be what God originally intended?
Forget past failures, as dwelling on them leads to discouragement, which is a tactic of the devil. Focus on the future and move forward. Many men of God achieved great things later in life, even starting at 40 or 50. The Spirit of God reveals purpose through the Word, enabling progress despite past losses (Philippians 3:13-14).
Receiving Revelation from God’s Word
Question: How do I get revelation from the Word of God?
Revelation comes through the Holy Spirit speaking to the believer’s spirit as they read Scripture with the fear of God. Over time, the Word and God’s will become clearer. Fellowship with brothers and discussing difficult passages can provide clarity. Meditating on Scripture is emphasized, and memorizing it is beneficial (Psalm 119:11).
Meditating on God’s Word
Question: How do you meditate on God’s Word to uncover its depth, riches, and treasures?
Proper reading of Scripture is essential, avoiding random or inconsistent reading habits, such as jumping between books like Matthew, Hebrews, or Proverbs. A disciplined approach, such as reading Psalms 2 and Proverbs 2 on the second day of the month and continuing sequentially, honors God’s Word. Meditation involves studying spiritual resources, such as books by godly Bible scholars, to go deeper. The Holy Spirit reveals the depths of Scripture as one persists in meditation (Joshua 1:8).
Prioritizing Bible Reading vs. Devotion
Question: I lack time in a day. Should I prioritize listening to daily devotions or reading the Bible?
The choice depends on circumstances. When traveling, daily devotions are convenient for listening. At home with sufficient time, prioritize Bible reading followed by devotions. Adapt based on the situation.
Overcoming Sin and Discouragement
Question: I desire to live like Jesus but often fall into sins like losing my temper, anger, or impure eyes. I repent but get discouraged. How do I gain victory and live a life pleasing to God?
Though the desire to live like Jesus exists, frequent falling can lead to discouragement. Repentance is crucial, but victory comes through reliance on the Holy Spirit and persistent effort. Focus on God’s grace to overcome sins like anger or impurity, and avoid discouragement by trusting in His strength (1 John 1:9; Philippians 4:13).
Appropriate Anger
Question: Is it okay to be angry in certain situations, like Jesus in the temple?
Anger is not justified in daily life, as believers have not reached the level of zeal for God’s house that consumed Jesus (John 2:17). In authority roles, such as parenting or workplace leadership, raising one’s voice or showing sternness is acceptable if the spirit remains undefiled. If anger defiles the spirit, judge and cleanse oneself immediately.
Sinlessness
Question: Is there any man who has never sinned except Jesus?
No human, except Jesus, has never sinned (Romans 3:23).
Overcoming Sin by God’s Strength
Question: When striving to overcome sin and temptation, how do I know it’s not by my strength but by God’s help? Will resisting sin take away God’s glory?
Overcoming sin by personal strength leads to self-glory, boasting, and despising others. Victory through faith and the Holy Spirit avoids boasting and fosters humility. For example, Peter fished all night without success but caught 153 fish by faith in Jesus’ word, giving glory to God (John 21:11). All areas of righteousness should glorify God, not self.
Avoiding Hypocrisy
Question: When denying myself in tempting situations, my behavior sometimes resembles hypocrisy. How can I avoid this?
Live before God, not men, focusing on righteousness before Him. Do not fear appearing hypocritical to others, as the priority is working out salvation with God (Philippians 2:12). Deny self and disregard others’ opinions.
Loving and Obeying God
Question: Why am I unable to love and obey God’s commands despite knowing His love and sacrifice?
The love of God is shed abroad in believers’ hearts through the Holy Spirit’s baptism (Romans 5:5). Pray for God to fill the heart with His love, enabling obedience to His commandments.
Escaping Temptation Online
Question: If I know my tablet’s password and something inappropriate pops up, how can I escape it? Are mobile games okay to play?
Inappropriate content may appear due to prior exposure, as artificial intelligence tracks interests. If such content pops up, correct the system to prevent recurrence. For example, I once encountered an inappropriate image on an old desktop, promptly disconnected it, and sought help to fix it. Mobile games are generally unsuitable for young people, indicating a lack of spiritual maturity. Parents should set boundaries for children, encouraging alternative activities to avoid games. If a tablet is shared, ensure others’ usage does not introduce inappropriate content.
Overcoming Personal Failures
Question: I struggle with loving food, sleeping excessively, and laziness at work. How do I gain victory?
These struggles reflect the sins of Sodom, as described in Ezekiel 16:49. The solution lies in applying the principles in that verse, such as seeking God’s strength to overcome indulgence and idleness.
God’s Forgiveness
Question: Does God tire of forgiving the same sin repeatedly?
God never tires of forgiving. He forgives repeatedly, as stated in Micah 7:18-19, delighting in mercy.
Overcoming Pride
Question: Proud thoughts come repeatedly, and I try to reject them, but they persist. How do I know if I’ve yielded or overcome?
Proud thoughts require persistent rejection. Overcoming is evident when humility grows through the Holy Spirit’s work. Focus on Jesus’ example to discern progress (Philippians 2:5-8).
Growing in Humility
Question: How do I grow in humility, remain humble after blessings, and avoid self-focused thoughts after doing well?
Humility grows by looking to Jesus, who exemplified it (Matthew 11:29). The Holy Spirit reveals Jesus’ humility, transforming believers to reflect it. Compare oneself to Jesus, not others, to maintain humility. After blessings or achievements, give glory to God, avoiding self-focused thoughts by focusing on Christ’s example.
Being Filled with the Holy Spirit
Question: How do I get filled with the Holy Spirit? Should I ask once and believe, or keep asking?
To be filled with the Holy Spirit, have a clean heart, washed by Christ’s blood, with all known sins confessed and forgiven. Ask with genuine thirst, as Jesus promises living water to the thirsty (John 7:37-39). Continue asking until the Spirit assures filling, similar to the assurance of forgiven sins. One sign of the Spirit’s presence is control over the tongue, leading to holy speech.
Expecting Spiritual Experiences
Question: I experienced the baptism of the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues five years ago but haven’t felt that spontaneous experience since, despite spiritual growth. Should I expect or pray for it again?
The Bible does not require repeated experiences. Focus on seeking continual filling with the Holy Spirit, not the same physical experience. Pray for assurance of the Spirit’s presence, which may not involve identical sensations (Ephesians 5:18).
Demonstrating God’s Power
Question: How can I demonstrate God’s power through my life?
God’s power is demonstrated by being a witness in the home, workplace, and church, as promised in Acts 1:8. Others will recognize godliness, and sin will be taken seriously, leading to victory over it (Ephesians 1:19).
Choosing a Job
Question: How do I find God’s will when choosing a job offer?
To discern God’s will, pray for guidance and peace about the job. Ensure it does not hinder spiritual growth, church attendance, or fellowship. Investigate the company’s reputation, salary reliability, and ethical practices. Consult those already working there and avoid jobs involving cheating or unethical dealings. Reading “Finding God’s Will” by a recommended author can provide further guidance (Philippians 4:6-7).
Wealth and Prosperity
Question: Is it wrong to make wealth to help others and improve my standard of living, seeing money as a resource? As God’s children, shouldn’t we live abundantly?
Seeking wealth with the intent to help others and improve living standards must align with godliness and contentment, which is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6). Pursuing riches can lead to evils, as warned in 1 Timothy 6:9-10. Seek God’s kingdom and righteousness first, and necessary things will be provided (Matthew 6:33). The question may reflect a misunderstanding of the prosperity gospel, which is not aligned with biblical teaching.
Forgiving Cheaters
Question: In money matters, if someone cheats me and denies it, should I forgive them? If I forgive and continue with them, but they cheat again, should I persist?
Forgive the offender, but do not continue associating with them if they persist in cheating. Be guileless as doves and wise as serpents, protecting oneself from further harm (Matthew 10:16).
Giving Negative Feedback
Question: How do I express negative feedback about a college department without a grumbling spirit?
Before submitting negative feedback, consider the consequences, such as potential retaliation. Ensure the feedback is within one’s boundaries and revise it multiple times, like silver refined seven times (Psalm 12:6). Take time to view the situation from others’ perspectives and avoid emotional haste to maintain a constructive tone.
Work-Related Thoughts While Sleeping
Question: Why do work-related thoughts persist in my subconscious while sleeping? How do I address this?
The body processes workplace stress through dreams, releasing accumulated tension. Ignore these dreams unless they are sinful, in which case, cleanse the heart and monitor inputs, as “garbage in, garbage out.” Most dreams are vain and meaningless, as stated in Ecclesiastes 5:7.
Purpose of Life
Question: Is life hard? Are we living to impress others or achieve degrees?
Life is not inherently hard, nor is it about impressing others or accumulating degrees. True purpose lies in living for God’s glory, not worldly achievements (Colossians 3:17).
True Love
Question: What is true love?
True love is agape love—selfless, unconditional, and reflective of God’s love for humanity (1 John 4:8).
Office Team Dinners
Question: Can I participate in office team dinners where no one forces alcohol or dancing, considering professional growth?
Office team dinners are not lawful and are considered sinful, as they involve compromising situations like cinema songs. Believers should avoid such events, as cautioned in 1 Peter 4:4, where dissociation from sinful activities may lead to criticism. Honor God, and He will provide promotion, which comes from Him, not worldly compromise (Psalm 75:6-7).
Workplace Attitude
Question: What is the right attitude for a Christian at the workplace? Should I work toward a promotion?
Work as unto the Lord, not for human approval, as stated in Colossians 3:24. This attitude governs all workplace efforts, including pursuing promotions, which should align with God’s will.
Using Work Time
Question: Can I listen to songs or messages during idle work time, provided it aligns with company policy?
If company policy allows and colleagues do not object, idle time can be used to listen to songs or messages. Consult brothers and sisters in similar work environments, such as IT, for clarity, ensuring alignment with workplace norms.
Balancing Responsibilities
Question: With work and family responsibilities, how do I listen to God and fulfill His plan beyond daily tasks?
Practice God’s presence amidst daily tasks, as exemplified by Brother Lawrence, who communed with God while washing dishes despite noise. Jesus likely practiced God’s presence in His carpentry work. Meditate on this, and the Holy Spirit will provide light. Reading “Practicing the Presence of God” by Brother Lawrence offers further guidance (Psalm 16:8).
Professional Certification Ethics
Question: For professional certifications, can I buy question papers with answers to save time, as it won’t affect my increment or promotion?
Buying question papers is unethical and a poor testimony, violating conscience. Even if it does not impact promotion, integrity must be maintained, as cheating dishonors God (Proverbs 11:3).
Academic Integrity
Question: In college, I copy assignments from AI or friends to save time. Is this unfaithful? How do I balance faithfulness with prioritizing God’s work?
Copying assignments defeats the purpose of learning. The goal of assignments is to gain knowledge, so even if using AI as a tool, read and understand the content before submitting. Faithfulness involves integrity in work while prioritizing God through disciplined time management (Colossians 3:23).
Workplace Competition
Question: At work, competition causes strife, and managers expect weekend work. I pray for wisdom, and some issues resolve without my effort, but managers don’t credit me. Am I obeying God or hurting Him?
In competitive workplaces, seek God’s wisdom, as promised in James 1:5. Work as unto the Lord, not to please managers (Colossians 3:24). Trust God to handle outcomes, as honoring Him ensures His honor in return. If solutions arise without effort, God may be leading or teaching reliance on Him.
Dealing with Toxic People
Question: How do I deal with toxic friends or relatives?
Love toxic individuals, pray for them, and show God’s character through actions. Do good to those who mistreat, as this may lead to their conviction, though the goal is not to shame them (Romans 12:20-21). A case study was shared of helping a poor sister during delivery, demonstrating practical love.
God’s Help
Question: Why does God not help us sometimes?
God always helps, as a loving Father who gives good gifts, unlike earthly fathers (Matthew 7:11). The notion that God withholds help is a lie from Satan. Trust in His constant care.
Praying for Healing
Question: How do I pray for healing when God’s will may differ, and how does faith grow in uncertainty?
Pray for healing persistently, even in dire situations, resisting death until the end. Faith grows by trusting God’s wisdom, even when His will is unclear (James 5:15).
God’s Timing
Question: Why does God take His time to give the best things?
God’s timing reflects His wisdom, which surpasses human understanding (Ecclesiastes 3:11). Trust His perfect plan.
Maintaining Humility
Question: I walk with God easily when humbled, but struggle to stay humble when circumstances improve, leading to sin. How do I remain steadfast?
Be firm and strengthened by God’s Word to remain stable, like a righteous man, not swayed like chaff (Psalm 1:3-4). Consult local elders for guidance to maintain humility.
Judgment and Salvation
Question: What happens when we die? Will everyone face judgment?
It is appointed for all to die and face judgment (Hebrews 9:27). Everyone will be judged.
Judgment of the Unreached
Question: Will those who never heard of Jesus be judged?
Those who never heard of Jesus will be judged according to their conscience, as described in Romans 2:14-15.
Fate of Newborns
Question: What happens to newborn babies who die?
Until a person can distinguish between right and wrong, they are not accountable. Newborns who die go to heaven (2 Samuel 12:23).
Animal Suffering
Question: Animals like goats or hens suffer when killed. If we emphasize love, how can we justify this?
All creatures die, and death is inherently painful, whether natural or induced. Research indicates that adrenaline masks pain during sudden attacks, such as a lion killing a deer. When animals are slaughtered, death is quick, often less painful than natural death. God created animals for human use, but the focus should not linger on their suffering (Genesis 1:26).
Validity of Christianity
Question: Other religions claim to be true, and some view Christianity as fake. How do I know Christianity and God are real?
The historical reality of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection divides history into BC and AD. The empty tomb and resurrection are verifiable, as explored in a recent retreat where young people confirmed Jesus’ death through detective-like investigation. Christianity is not a religion but a relationship, as God took the initiative to reach humanity, unlike religions where humans seek God (John 14:6). Reading and hearing God’s Word builds faith, revealing God’s reality (Romans 10:17).
Trinity
Question: If Jesus is the Son of God, who is God? Explain the Trinity.
Human understanding is limited, like a dog unable to comprehend binary numbers. In heaven’s calculation, 1+1+1 equals 1, not 3. The triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—exists in fellowship, expressing love. The Spirit reveals this truth, removing doubt (1 John 5:7).
Christianity and Privilege
Question: Would I be Christian if not born into a Christian family? Is God unjust for giving privileges to some?
God is impartial and righteous, never unjust. Cornelius, a Gentile unaware of Jesus, was heard by God because of his alms, and received the Holy Spirit when Peter preached (Acts 10:1-48). God’s fairness is evident in His response to all who seek Him.
God’s Love
Question: How do I know God loves us?
God demonstrated His love by sending His only Son to die on the cross (John 3:16).
Marriage Timing for Women
Question: Is it wrong for a girl to marry after studies without work experience or to work, earn a high salary, and then marry?
Both paths are acceptable, depending on God’s leading. A woman may marry after studies or work first to meet financial needs, such as wedding expenses, as guided by God (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Choosing a Spouse
Question: Should I consider someone for marriage who is immature and overly attached to his mother?
Do not consider such a person, as they are not ready for marriage. Maturity is essential for a godly union.
Boundaries with Women
Question: Should I consider someone for marriage who lacks boundaries with women?
Do not consider such a person. Lack of boundaries indicates ungodliness, which may worsen after marriage. Ensure clarity about their godly character before proceeding (2 Corinthians 6:14).
Heavenly Marriage
Question: How do I have a glimpse of heaven in my marriage?
Peace, love, and mutual forgiveness between husband and wife create glimpses of heaven. Forgiving mistakes fosters a godly marriage (Ephesians 4:32).
Feeling Controlled in Marriage
Question: I feel controlled and suffocated in marriage, needing approval for every move, which restricts fellowship and church attendance. I feel scared and lost. What should I do?
This specific situation requires consultation with local elders, who can provide tailored guidance to address the restrictions and emotional distress.
Bearing the Cross at Home
Question: I feel I always take up the cross at home. I need help.
Bearing the cross is a joy, as Jesus endured it for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2). Reflect on the eternal purpose achieved through this endurance to find strength.
Neglectful Spouse
Question: My partner neglects home commitments for fellowship, dishonoring God. How do I fix this?
Prioritize personal spiritual life, then family, and finally ministry, as foundational principles. Neglecting family for ministry undermines peace and success at home. Live considerately with one’s spouse, as lack of understanding hinders prayers (1 Peter 3:7). Communicate lovingly to restore balance.
Maternal Impurity
Question: As a mother, tiredness leads to impure thoughts. How do I overcome this?
Tiredness does not inherently cause impurity. If impure thoughts arise, cleanse them through confession and feed on God’s Word. Renew the mind to discern God’s will, avoiding worldly conformity (Romans 12:2).
Forgetting Father’s House
Question: As a married woman, I struggle to forget my father’s house. How do I do this?
“Forgetting your father’s house” means letting go of emotional attachments to past family life, such as comparing current circumstances to parental care (Psalm 45:10). Focus on the present, supporting husband and children, to improve family life.
Part-Time Work for Wives
Question: With rising costs, is it okay for a wife to do part-time work?
With the husband’s permission, a wife may do part-time work, considering family needs, such as childcare and safety. Evaluate the family situation before proceeding (Proverbs 31:16).
Sexual Refusal in Marriage
Question: If my spouse refuses physical intimacy most of the time, how do I live without complaining?
Investigate reasons for refusal, such as sickness or weakness, and seek God’s grace for self-control. If the spouse is healthy but refuses, it is sinful, as it burdens the partner, per 1 Corinthians 7:3-5. Communicate considerately to address the issue.
Hypocritical Spouse
Question: My spouse pretends to be spiritual but lives in sin, watching inappropriate content and neglecting responsibilities. How do I win their soul? Should I inform others?
Address the spouse lovingly to convict them of sinful behaviors, praying with a burden for their repentance. Avoid informing others, focusing instead on personal conviction through the Holy Spirit (Matthew 18:15). Prayer and example can lead to change.
Difficult In-Laws
Question: How do I deal with taunting in-laws who disturb my peace?
Avoid difficult in-laws to preserve peace, but do not speak ill of them or act rudely. Seek peace through distance (Romans 12:18).
Patience with Children
Question: How do I be patient with disobedient children and rejoice in the situation?
Be patient, as God is patient with His children. Over time, children’s behavior improves. Rejoice by trusting God’s work in them (Ephesians 6:4).
Guiding Children to God
Question: How do I guide my kids to God?
Be an example, pray with children, and teach God’s Word through engaging methods like picture Bibles. Instill kingdom values, as Timothy’s mother and grandmother did, or Moses’ mother in Pharaoh’s palace (2 Timothy 1:5; Exodus 2:9-10).
Handling Bad Words
Question: How do I answer kids asking about bad words heard at school?
Do not explain the meanings, as this fuels curiosity. Simply instruct them not to use the words, ending the discussion.
Disciplining Children
Question: How do I discipline children, especially when my husband is harsh, causing disunity?
Discipline should not involve punishment for every mistake. Use words, restrictions like limiting playtime, or age-appropriate measures. Avoid physical discipline after age 12 or 13. Seek God’s wisdom for godly discipline. To preserve unity, discuss calmly with the husband to align on methods, ensuring peace (Ephesians 6:4).
Chronic Lateness
Question: How do I address chronic lateness by a family member causing unrest, especially after years?
Lovingly highlight what is missed due to lateness, fostering awareness. Avoid pushing, as this may reinforce the behavior. Change takes time, so persist without sinning (Proverbs 15:1).
Children’s Dishonesty
Question: How do I handle children who repeatedly lie and are dishonest despite correction?
Dishonesty often stems from fear of punishment. Create a safe environment where children can share freely, reducing the need to lie. Teach that God hates lies and encourage repentance when they lie, fostering gradual change (Proverbs 12:22).
Obedience to Parents
Question: How do I become obedient to my parents?
Obedience begins with action. Start obeying, and obedience will follow (Ephesians 6:1).
Children Viewing Pornography
Question: During COVID, my children accessed pornographic sites on my laptop. How do I help them?
Do not react harshly, as this may entrench the behavior. Prayerfully and patiently explain the evils of pornography, emphasizing Jesus’ sacrifice for their sins. Pray with the spouse for deliverance, as united prayer has power. Use tools like Covenant Eyes to monitor content, fostering accountability, and set boundaries, such as positioning the laptop screen visibly to others (Matthew 18:19).
Parental Sin and Sickness
Question: Do our parents’ sins affect us with long-term sickness?
Once in Christ, believers are cut off from the Adamic curse, and generational curses do not apply. They are grafted into Christ’s life, receiving His blessings (Romans 11:24; Galatians 3:13).
Church Discipline and Forgiveness
Question: Explain Luke 17:3-4 regarding rebuking and forgiving a sinning brother.
If a brother sins, rebuke them with a burden for their repentance, praying and showing concern. If they repent, forgive them, as God desires all to repent (Luke 17:3-4).
Weak vs. Hypocritical Believers
Question: Explain Romans 14:1 and 2 Timothy 3:1-5 about accepting the weak and avoiding hypocrites.
Accept those weak in faith without condemnation, associating with them to support growth (Romans 14:1). Avoid hypocrites who have a form of godliness but deny its power, as they may defile others (2 Timothy 3:1-5).
Fellowship Pressure
Question: How do I handle pressure from co-fellowship sisters?
If facing pressure, approach a sister or local elder for guidance, as the question lacks clarity.
Choosing Fellowship Partners
Question: How do I know a good sister for fellowship? Is it wrong to be close with certain sisters?
It is not wrong to be close with certain sisters, as Jesus was with Peter, James, and John. Choose godly, humble sisters who do not judge or backbite, ensuring profitable fellowship. Avoid those who lack humility or engage in gossip (Proverbs 13:20).
Jealousy in Fellowship
Question: A believer cannot bear my family mingling with others but wants recognition. Should I continue fellowship, and what is true fellowship?
Be patient, show Christ through actions, and pray for them. True fellowship is spiritual, not merely social visits or meals. It occurs in the spirit, even with infrequent meetings, and does not require weekly family visits, which may disturb others (1 John 1:7).
Burden for Evangelism
Question: How do I develop a burden for reaching the unreached and sharing the gospel?
Being a disciple does not preclude sharing the gospel. The burden comes from the Holy Spirit, not self-effort. Pray for God to provide opportunities to share with those in need, like sowing seeds in fertile soil rather than scattering indiscriminately. Share briefly, praying for openness, and trust God to work (Matthew 7:6; Acts 1:8).
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