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Calvinism and John 6
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Proving God's Existence
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Was Cain a Believer?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Was Cain a believer?
Answer: This is an interesting question, but it is not one that we can give a definitive answer to. Yet, there are indicators in the Bible that seem to suggest he was.
First, we must go back to Genesis and consider what we can glean ...
Question: Was Cain a believer?
Answer: This is an interesting question, but it is not one that we can give a definitive answer to. Yet, there are indicators in the Bible that seem to suggest he was.
First, we must go back to Genesis and consider what we can glean ...
Was Melchizedek Noah’s Son Shem?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Was Melchizedek Noah’s son Shem?
Answer: A common Mormon belief is that Shem (Noah’s son) was Melchizedek. This can be tied directly to the corrupt teaching of the false prophet Joseph Smith.[1] This same teaching concerning Shem and Melchizedek has become ...
Question: Was Melchizedek Noah’s son Shem?
Answer: A common Mormon belief is that Shem (Noah’s son) was Melchizedek. This can be tied directly to the corrupt teaching of the false prophet Joseph Smith.[1] This same teaching concerning Shem and Melchizedek has become ...
What Does it Mean to Walk in the Spirit?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What does it mean to walk in the Spirit?
Answer: There are some wonderful promises in the Bible. Galatians 5:16 includes one of those promises. Paul told the churches of Galatia, “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the ...
Question: What does it mean to walk in the Spirit?
Answer: There are some wonderful promises in the Bible. Galatians 5:16 includes one of those promises. Paul told the churches of Galatia, “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the ...
Lord’s Day or Sabbath?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: God refers to the Sabbath as Saturday, so why do Christians worship on Sunday?
Answer: God certainly did give the Sabbath to the nation of Israel. We read this in Exodus 16:29, “See! For the LORD has given you the Sabbath; therefore He gives you on the ...
Question: God refers to the Sabbath as Saturday, so why do Christians worship on Sunday?
Answer: God certainly did give the Sabbath to the nation of Israel. We read this in Exodus 16:29, “See! For the LORD has given you the Sabbath; therefore He gives you on the ...
Does Revelation 3:5 Mean My Name can be Blotted Out of the Book of Life?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
How Do I Overcome My Struggles with Sexual Sin and Pornography?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How do I overcome my struggles with sexual sin and pornography?
Answer: I am convinced that believers often struggle with besetting sins. It is different for each believer in Christ Jesus. I worked in construction for many years before becoming a ...
Question: How do I overcome my struggles with sexual sin and pornography?
Answer: I am convinced that believers often struggle with besetting sins. It is different for each believer in Christ Jesus. I worked in construction for many years before becoming a ...
Is Cremation Biblical?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Is Cremation Biblical?
Answer: I remember my first funeral as a pastor. The casket of my friend Jim was suspended in the air above the grave. After the funeral, the cemetery workers would lower the casket into the burial vault and complete the burial after ...
Can a Divorced Christian Get Remarried?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Can a divorced Christian get remarried?
Answer: First, let’s talk about some general principles from the Bible. We know that God’s design for marriage is that a husband and wife are to stay together for life (Genesis 2:24). Death ends a marriage. We also ...
Question: Can a divorced Christian get remarried?
Answer: First, let’s talk about some general principles from the Bible. We know that God’s design for marriage is that a husband and wife are to stay together for life (Genesis 2:24). Death ends a marriage. We also ...
What Started the Thirty Years War?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What Started the Thirty Years War?
Answer: The Thirty Years War (1618-1648) should be remembered as a dark chapter in the history of the Church. The Peace of Augsburg had put an end to the religious wars in Germany for a time. Rulers were now allowed to ...
Question: What Started the Thirty Years War?
Answer: The Thirty Years War (1618-1648) should be remembered as a dark chapter in the history of the Church. The Peace of Augsburg had put an end to the religious wars in Germany for a time. Rulers were now allowed to ...
When do We Confront Someone and When do We Turn the Other Cheek?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: When do we confront someone and when do we turn the other cheek?
Answer: It can be difficult to know when to confront someone. While I believe the Bible firmly has the answers to our questions, it is also true that this teaching is scattered throughout the ...
Question: When do we confront someone and when do we turn the other cheek?
Answer: It can be difficult to know when to confront someone. While I believe the Bible firmly has the answers to our questions, it is also true that this teaching is scattered throughout the ...
What was the Purpose of Fasting in Zechariah 7?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What was the purpose of fasting in Zechariah 7?
Answer: The evening meal is an important part of our family life. But there are times with an active family life (three kids with my wife and I both working) that this evening meal gets delayed or missed ...
Question: What was the purpose of fasting in Zechariah 7?
Answer: The evening meal is an important part of our family life. But there are times with an active family life (three kids with my wife and I both working) that this evening meal gets delayed or missed ...
Why did God Command Hosea to Marry an Adulterous Wife?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Why did God command Hosea to marry an adulterous wife?
Answer: The opening words from the book of Hosea can be an affront to our understanding of God. Hosea was instructed to, “Go take yourself a wife of harlotry” (Hosea 1:2). This heart-wrenching ...
Is There an Unpardonable Sin?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Is there anything a person can do, or is there a sin they can commit, to irrevocably and irreparably condemn them to Hell - such as blasphemy, taking the mark, worshipping the enemy, or selling their soul?
Answer: Did you know that the Bible actually ...
What is John Warning About in 2 John 8?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is John warning about in 2 John 8?
Answer: Your greatest contribution to the Kingdom of God could be found in the lives of the people you disciple for Christ. This idea is present in the text of 2 John 8. In this brief statement we also have one of ...
Question: What is John warning about in 2 John 8?
Answer: Your greatest contribution to the Kingdom of God could be found in the lives of the people you disciple for Christ. This idea is present in the text of 2 John 8. In this brief statement we also have one of ...
Does Authorship of 2 Peter Matter?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: I have heard that there are some stylistic differences between 1 and 2 Peter. I agree that 2 Peter is authentic and was written by Peter, but does it really matter?
Answer: A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Regarding the Word of God, it is ...
Question: I have heard that there are some stylistic differences between 1 and 2 Peter. I agree that 2 Peter is authentic and was written by Peter, but does it really matter?
Answer: A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Regarding the Word of God, it is ...
How Does James 2:14-26 Impact Our Faith?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
What is Wrong with the Reformed View of the Warning Passages in Hebrews?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is wrong with the Reformed view of the warning passages in Hebrews?
Answer: Properly understood, the book of Hebrews can cause believers to move on towards a life that brings glory to Christ and rewards to individuals in the coming Kingdom. Improperly ...
Question: What is wrong with the Reformed view of the warning passages in Hebrews?
Answer: Properly understood, the book of Hebrews can cause believers to move on towards a life that brings glory to Christ and rewards to individuals in the coming Kingdom. Improperly ...
Why is the Closing of the Canon an Important Issue?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Why is the closing of the canon an important issue?
Answer: The closing of the New Testament canon is a central issue to the Christian faith. It may not seem like it, but it most certainly is. This can be illustrated for a number of reasons.
In order for ...
Question: Why is the closing of the canon an important issue?
Answer: The closing of the New Testament canon is a central issue to the Christian faith. It may not seem like it, but it most certainly is. This can be illustrated for a number of reasons.
In order for ...
1 John 1:9 and Rewards
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does 1 John 1:9 lead us as believers to be in a constant state of confession? If we fail to confess our sins, how does this interact with our future rewards in Heaven? Can our failure to confess our sins negate our future rewards?
Answer: There are several ...
Question: Does 1 John 1:9 lead us as believers to be in a constant state of confession? If we fail to confess our sins, how does this interact with our future rewards in Heaven? Can our failure to confess our sins negate our future rewards?
Answer: There are several ...
What is Postmodernism?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is postmodernism?
Answer: Postmodernism is a term that describes the mindset of our current culture—a collective mindset that is markedly different from the mindset of the previous era (the modern era). We are living in the postmodern era....
Question: What is postmodernism?
Answer: Postmodernism is a term that describes the mindset of our current culture—a collective mindset that is markedly different from the mindset of the previous era (the modern era). We are living in the postmodern era....
Why are there Different Books in the Bible?
(By Raymond Isbell)
Question: Why are there different books in the Bible?
Answer: This is a very good question, and one that I’m not sure anyone can answer completely. At bottom, the Bible with its 66 books was chosen by God as His primary communication tool with man. It is a compendium of ...
Question: Why are there different books in the Bible?
Answer: This is a very good question, and one that I’m not sure anyone can answer completely. At bottom, the Bible with its 66 books was chosen by God as His primary communication tool with man. It is a compendium of ...
What is the Remnant Principle?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is the remnant principle?
Answer: The remnant principle, as seen in Scripture, is that historically God moves in the minority. This can be seen all the way back with Noah, in Genesis 6–7. Noah and his family survived, but everyone else perished....
Question: What is the remnant principle?
Answer: The remnant principle, as seen in Scripture, is that historically God moves in the minority. This can be seen all the way back with Noah, in Genesis 6–7. Noah and his family survived, but everyone else perished....
Why should we study prophecy when no one seems to agree on it?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Why should we study prophecy when no one seems to agree on it?
Answer: Unfortunately, many Christians shun Bible prophecy because of the assumed controversy that surrounds it. Prophecy is relegated to a secondary doctrine, which is seen as not essential ...
Question: Why should we study prophecy when no one seems to agree on it?
Answer: Unfortunately, many Christians shun Bible prophecy because of the assumed controversy that surrounds it. Prophecy is relegated to a secondary doctrine, which is seen as not essential ...
Is the Rapture Before the Tribulation?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Can we know with certainty that the Rapture of the Church is before the Tribulation?
Answer: My wife and are truly blessed. We have two teenagers and a beautiful three year old little girl. The difference in age is remarkable. With our older children (both ...
Question: Can we know with certainty that the Rapture of the Church is before the Tribulation?
Answer: My wife and are truly blessed. We have two teenagers and a beautiful three year old little girl. The difference in age is remarkable. With our older children (both ...
How do We Grow in Our Faith?
(By Raymond Isbell)
Question: How do we grow in our faith? The Bible refers to walking by faith and renewing our minds. How do these factor in? Is there more to it?
Answer: Growing in faith is an important concept, and is an essential part of the Christian life. Before answering “how,” I’d ...
Question: How do we grow in our faith? The Bible refers to walking by faith and renewing our minds. How do these factor in? Is there more to it?
Answer: Growing in faith is an important concept, and is an essential part of the Christian life. Before answering “how,” I’d ...
Will People Be Able to Fly in Heaven?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: When we receive our glorified bodies will we be able to fly?
Answer: I have noticed over the years that there is a lot of confusion on this subject. I tend to think that some of this stems from the influence of the culture around us. Certainly movies and ...
Question: When we receive our glorified bodies will we be able to fly?
Answer: I have noticed over the years that there is a lot of confusion on this subject. I tend to think that some of this stems from the influence of the culture around us. Certainly movies and ...
Understanding the Atonement
(By Raymond Isbell)
Question: I have been trying to understand the Atonement for some time. I have developed an understanding of this, and I wanted to know if it is contradicting the Bible.
Answer: Your attempt to seek support of your view of the Atonement reflects both humility and wisdom. ...
Question: I have been trying to understand the Atonement for some time. I have developed an understanding of this, and I wanted to know if it is contradicting the Bible.
Answer: Your attempt to seek support of your view of the Atonement reflects both humility and wisdom. ...
How Do We Avoid Sin Like Christ?
(By Raymond Isbell)
Question: How did Jesus endure the Cross and be firm with men in His ministry without sinning? How do I show love while remaining firm as I deal with difficult people (or difficult situations) without sinning?
Answer: Your question has two parts. Let’s look first at how ...
Question: How did Jesus endure the Cross and be firm with men in His ministry without sinning? How do I show love while remaining firm as I deal with difficult people (or difficult situations) without sinning?
Answer: Your question has two parts. Let’s look first at how ...
Am I Living in Sin or am I Married?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: I am living with a member of the opposite sex. We have been involved, to some degree, physically. Does this mean before God that we are married?
Answer: No, you are not married in the eyes of God. This, however, does not mean that your actions are ...
Question: I am living with a member of the opposite sex. We have been involved, to some degree, physically. Does this mean before God that we are married?
Answer: No, you are not married in the eyes of God. This, however, does not mean that your actions are ...
Can I Lose My Salvation?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Can I lose my salvation? Is once saved always saved taught in the Bible?
Answer: Once Saved Always Saved (OSAS) is a title given to a doctrine that many evangelical Christians affirm, which simply is the belief that once a person is saved by faith in the ...
Question: Can I lose my salvation? Is once saved always saved taught in the Bible?
Answer: Once Saved Always Saved (OSAS) is a title given to a doctrine that many evangelical Christians affirm, which simply is the belief that once a person is saved by faith in the ...
Can You Clarify the Meaning of Matthew 16:19?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Can you clarify the meaning of Matthew 16:19? In specific, how does this relate to the Kingdom of Christ?
Answer: Before we can answer this question, let us make sure we understand the context. Jesus was directly addressing Peter, and had just made His ...
Question: Can you clarify the meaning of Matthew 16:19? In specific, how does this relate to the Kingdom of Christ?
Answer: Before we can answer this question, let us make sure we understand the context. Jesus was directly addressing Peter, and had just made His ...
Are House Churches Biblical?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: My family and I are considering joining a house church. We want to worship God without compromising. What are your thoughts?
Answer: The location of where you meet with a local assembly of believers should not be the focus. The New Testament Church met ...
Question: My family and I are considering joining a house church. We want to worship God without compromising. What are your thoughts?
Answer: The location of where you meet with a local assembly of believers should not be the focus. The New Testament Church met ...
Has the Kingdom Come?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Why shouldn't we understand Rev. 1:5-6, 9; 5:10 as clearly asserting that the Kingdom 'has come' in some form?
Answer: Let’s take the time to take a brief look at each of the verses that you mentioned. In Revelation 1:5 the text speaks of Christ as the, ...
Question: Why shouldn't we understand Rev. 1:5-6, 9; 5:10 as clearly asserting that the Kingdom 'has come' in some form?
Answer: Let’s take the time to take a brief look at each of the verses that you mentioned. In Revelation 1:5 the text speaks of Christ as the, ...
Did Peter Write Hebrews?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Is it possible that Peter wrote Hebrews?
Answer: Let’s ask the question a different way, “Who wrote Hebrews?” Quite often, people assume it was the Apostle Paul. This, itself, is unlikely. It is quite notable that the language of Hebrews is vastly ...
Has the Kingdom of Christ Arrived?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does Matthew 16:28 (along with Mark 9:1 and Luke 9:27) teach that the Kingdom of Christ has arrived in some form?
Answer: These verses cannot teach that Jesus would return to establish His Kingdom during the lifetime of the disciples present on that day ...
Question: Does Matthew 16:28 (along with Mark 9:1 and Luke 9:27) teach that the Kingdom of Christ has arrived in some form?
Answer: These verses cannot teach that Jesus would return to establish His Kingdom during the lifetime of the disciples present on that day ...
Did the Body of Jesus Rot or Decompose?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Did the Body of Jesus rot or decompose?
Answer: This question can be answered directly from Scripture. We remember that on the day of Pentecost Peter began to preach to the Jews in Jerusalem (Acts 2:14). Peter quoted from a Messianic Psalm that was written ...
What is Lordship Salvation?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is Lordship Salvation?
Answer: First, let us be clear that Lordship Salvation is not a debate about whether or not Jesus Christ is Lord. This is an obvious truth from Scripture (Phil. 2:11). Further, let it be noted that 1 Peter 3:15 teaches, “But ...
Question: What is Lordship Salvation?
Answer: First, let us be clear that Lordship Salvation is not a debate about whether or not Jesus Christ is Lord. This is an obvious truth from Scripture (Phil. 2:11). Further, let it be noted that 1 Peter 3:15 teaches, “But ...
Calvinism and John 6
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Proving God's Existence
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Does Authorship of 2 Peter Matter?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: I have heard that there are some stylistic differences between 1 and 2 Peter. I agree that 2 Peter is authentic and was written by Peter, but does it really matter?
Answer: A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Regarding the Word of God, it is ...
Question: I have heard that there are some stylistic differences between 1 and 2 Peter. I agree that 2 Peter is authentic and was written by Peter, but does it really matter?
Answer: A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Regarding the Word of God, it is ...
How Does James 2:14-26 Impact Our Faith?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
What is Wrong with the Reformed View of the Warning Passages in Hebrews?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is wrong with the Reformed view of the warning passages in Hebrews?
Answer: Properly understood, the book of Hebrews can cause believers to move on towards a life that brings glory to Christ and rewards to individuals in the coming Kingdom. Improperly ...
Question: What is wrong with the Reformed view of the warning passages in Hebrews?
Answer: Properly understood, the book of Hebrews can cause believers to move on towards a life that brings glory to Christ and rewards to individuals in the coming Kingdom. Improperly ...
Why is the Closing of the Canon an Important Issue?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Why is the closing of the canon an important issue?
Answer: The closing of the New Testament canon is a central issue to the Christian faith. It may not seem like it, but it most certainly is. This can be illustrated for a number of reasons.
In order for ...
Question: Why is the closing of the canon an important issue?
Answer: The closing of the New Testament canon is a central issue to the Christian faith. It may not seem like it, but it most certainly is. This can be illustrated for a number of reasons.
In order for ...
What is Postmodernism?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is postmodernism?
Answer: Postmodernism is a term that describes the mindset of our current culture—a collective mindset that is markedly different from the mindset of the previous era (the modern era). We are living in the postmodern era....
Question: What is postmodernism?
Answer: Postmodernism is a term that describes the mindset of our current culture—a collective mindset that is markedly different from the mindset of the previous era (the modern era). We are living in the postmodern era....
Calvinism and John 6
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Proving God's Existence
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Was Cain a Believer?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Was Cain a believer?
Answer: This is an interesting question, but it is not one that we can give a definitive answer to. Yet, there are indicators in the Bible that seem to suggest he was.
First, we must go back to Genesis and consider what we can glean ...
Question: Was Cain a believer?
Answer: This is an interesting question, but it is not one that we can give a definitive answer to. Yet, there are indicators in the Bible that seem to suggest he was.
First, we must go back to Genesis and consider what we can glean ...
Was Melchizedek Noah’s Son Shem?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Was Melchizedek Noah’s son Shem?
Answer: A common Mormon belief is that Shem (Noah’s son) was Melchizedek. This can be tied directly to the corrupt teaching of the false prophet Joseph Smith.[1] This same teaching concerning Shem and Melchizedek has become ...
Question: Was Melchizedek Noah’s son Shem?
Answer: A common Mormon belief is that Shem (Noah’s son) was Melchizedek. This can be tied directly to the corrupt teaching of the false prophet Joseph Smith.[1] This same teaching concerning Shem and Melchizedek has become ...
What Does it Mean to Walk in the Spirit?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What does it mean to walk in the Spirit?
Answer: There are some wonderful promises in the Bible. Galatians 5:16 includes one of those promises. Paul told the churches of Galatia, “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the ...
Question: What does it mean to walk in the Spirit?
Answer: There are some wonderful promises in the Bible. Galatians 5:16 includes one of those promises. Paul told the churches of Galatia, “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the ...
Lord’s Day or Sabbath?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: God refers to the Sabbath as Saturday, so why do Christians worship on Sunday?
Answer: God certainly did give the Sabbath to the nation of Israel. We read this in Exodus 16:29, “See! For the LORD has given you the Sabbath; therefore He gives you on the ...
Question: God refers to the Sabbath as Saturday, so why do Christians worship on Sunday?
Answer: God certainly did give the Sabbath to the nation of Israel. We read this in Exodus 16:29, “See! For the LORD has given you the Sabbath; therefore He gives you on the ...
Does Revelation 3:5 Mean My Name can be Blotted Out of the Book of Life?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
Is Cremation Biblical?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Is Cremation Biblical?
Answer: I remember my first funeral as a pastor. The casket of my friend Jim was suspended in the air above the grave. After the funeral, the cemetery workers would lower the casket into the burial vault and complete the burial after ...
Can a Divorced Christian Get Remarried?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Can a divorced Christian get remarried?
Answer: First, let’s talk about some general principles from the Bible. We know that God’s design for marriage is that a husband and wife are to stay together for life (Genesis 2:24). Death ends a marriage. We also ...
Question: Can a divorced Christian get remarried?
Answer: First, let’s talk about some general principles from the Bible. We know that God’s design for marriage is that a husband and wife are to stay together for life (Genesis 2:24). Death ends a marriage. We also ...
When do We Confront Someone and When do We Turn the Other Cheek?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: When do we confront someone and when do we turn the other cheek?
Answer: It can be difficult to know when to confront someone. While I believe the Bible firmly has the answers to our questions, it is also true that this teaching is scattered throughout the ...
Question: When do we confront someone and when do we turn the other cheek?
Answer: It can be difficult to know when to confront someone. While I believe the Bible firmly has the answers to our questions, it is also true that this teaching is scattered throughout the ...
What was the Purpose of Fasting in Zechariah 7?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What was the purpose of fasting in Zechariah 7?
Answer: The evening meal is an important part of our family life. But there are times with an active family life (three kids with my wife and I both working) that this evening meal gets delayed or missed ...
Question: What was the purpose of fasting in Zechariah 7?
Answer: The evening meal is an important part of our family life. But there are times with an active family life (three kids with my wife and I both working) that this evening meal gets delayed or missed ...
Why did God Command Hosea to Marry an Adulterous Wife?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Why did God command Hosea to marry an adulterous wife?
Answer: The opening words from the book of Hosea can be an affront to our understanding of God. Hosea was instructed to, “Go take yourself a wife of harlotry” (Hosea 1:2). This heart-wrenching ...
Is There an Unpardonable Sin?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Is there anything a person can do, or is there a sin they can commit, to irrevocably and irreparably condemn them to Hell - such as blasphemy, taking the mark, worshipping the enemy, or selling their soul?
Answer: Did you know that the Bible actually ...
What is John Warning About in 2 John 8?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is John warning about in 2 John 8?
Answer: Your greatest contribution to the Kingdom of God could be found in the lives of the people you disciple for Christ. This idea is present in the text of 2 John 8. In this brief statement we also have one of ...
Question: What is John warning about in 2 John 8?
Answer: Your greatest contribution to the Kingdom of God could be found in the lives of the people you disciple for Christ. This idea is present in the text of 2 John 8. In this brief statement we also have one of ...
How Does James 2:14-26 Impact Our Faith?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
What is Wrong with the Reformed View of the Warning Passages in Hebrews?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is wrong with the Reformed view of the warning passages in Hebrews?
Answer: Properly understood, the book of Hebrews can cause believers to move on towards a life that brings glory to Christ and rewards to individuals in the coming Kingdom. Improperly ...
Question: What is wrong with the Reformed view of the warning passages in Hebrews?
Answer: Properly understood, the book of Hebrews can cause believers to move on towards a life that brings glory to Christ and rewards to individuals in the coming Kingdom. Improperly ...
1 John 1:9 and Rewards
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does 1 John 1:9 lead us as believers to be in a constant state of confession? If we fail to confess our sins, how does this interact with our future rewards in Heaven? Can our failure to confess our sins negate our future rewards?
Answer: There are several ...
Question: Does 1 John 1:9 lead us as believers to be in a constant state of confession? If we fail to confess our sins, how does this interact with our future rewards in Heaven? Can our failure to confess our sins negate our future rewards?
Answer: There are several ...
What is the Remnant Principle?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is the remnant principle?
Answer: The remnant principle, as seen in Scripture, is that historically God moves in the minority. This can be seen all the way back with Noah, in Genesis 6–7. Noah and his family survived, but everyone else perished....
Question: What is the remnant principle?
Answer: The remnant principle, as seen in Scripture, is that historically God moves in the minority. This can be seen all the way back with Noah, in Genesis 6–7. Noah and his family survived, but everyone else perished....
How do We Grow in Our Faith?
(By Raymond Isbell)
Question: How do we grow in our faith? The Bible refers to walking by faith and renewing our minds. How do these factor in? Is there more to it?
Answer: Growing in faith is an important concept, and is an essential part of the Christian life. Before answering “how,” I’d ...
Question: How do we grow in our faith? The Bible refers to walking by faith and renewing our minds. How do these factor in? Is there more to it?
Answer: Growing in faith is an important concept, and is an essential part of the Christian life. Before answering “how,” I’d ...
Will People Be Able to Fly in Heaven?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: When we receive our glorified bodies will we be able to fly?
Answer: I have noticed over the years that there is a lot of confusion on this subject. I tend to think that some of this stems from the influence of the culture around us. Certainly movies and ...
Question: When we receive our glorified bodies will we be able to fly?
Answer: I have noticed over the years that there is a lot of confusion on this subject. I tend to think that some of this stems from the influence of the culture around us. Certainly movies and ...
Understanding the Atonement
(By Raymond Isbell)
Question: I have been trying to understand the Atonement for some time. I have developed an understanding of this, and I wanted to know if it is contradicting the Bible.
Answer: Your attempt to seek support of your view of the Atonement reflects both humility and wisdom. ...
Question: I have been trying to understand the Atonement for some time. I have developed an understanding of this, and I wanted to know if it is contradicting the Bible.
Answer: Your attempt to seek support of your view of the Atonement reflects both humility and wisdom. ...
How Do We Avoid Sin Like Christ?
(By Raymond Isbell)
Question: How did Jesus endure the Cross and be firm with men in His ministry without sinning? How do I show love while remaining firm as I deal with difficult people (or difficult situations) without sinning?
Answer: Your question has two parts. Let’s look first at how ...
Question: How did Jesus endure the Cross and be firm with men in His ministry without sinning? How do I show love while remaining firm as I deal with difficult people (or difficult situations) without sinning?
Answer: Your question has two parts. Let’s look first at how ...
Did the Body of Jesus Rot or Decompose?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Did the Body of Jesus rot or decompose?
Answer: This question can be answered directly from Scripture. We remember that on the day of Pentecost Peter began to preach to the Jews in Jerusalem (Acts 2:14). Peter quoted from a Messianic Psalm that was written ...
Calvinism and John 6
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Proving God's Existence
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Was Cain a Believer?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Was Cain a believer?
Answer: This is an interesting question, but it is not one that we can give a definitive answer to. Yet, there are indicators in the Bible that seem to suggest he was.
First, we must go back to Genesis and consider what we can glean ...
Question: Was Cain a believer?
Answer: This is an interesting question, but it is not one that we can give a definitive answer to. Yet, there are indicators in the Bible that seem to suggest he was.
First, we must go back to Genesis and consider what we can glean ...
Was Melchizedek Noah’s Son Shem?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Was Melchizedek Noah’s son Shem?
Answer: A common Mormon belief is that Shem (Noah’s son) was Melchizedek. This can be tied directly to the corrupt teaching of the false prophet Joseph Smith.[1] This same teaching concerning Shem and Melchizedek has become ...
Question: Was Melchizedek Noah’s son Shem?
Answer: A common Mormon belief is that Shem (Noah’s son) was Melchizedek. This can be tied directly to the corrupt teaching of the false prophet Joseph Smith.[1] This same teaching concerning Shem and Melchizedek has become ...
What Does it Mean to Walk in the Spirit?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What does it mean to walk in the Spirit?
Answer: There are some wonderful promises in the Bible. Galatians 5:16 includes one of those promises. Paul told the churches of Galatia, “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the ...
Question: What does it mean to walk in the Spirit?
Answer: There are some wonderful promises in the Bible. Galatians 5:16 includes one of those promises. Paul told the churches of Galatia, “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the ...
Does Revelation 3:5 Mean My Name can be Blotted Out of the Book of Life?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
Can a Divorced Christian Get Remarried?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Can a divorced Christian get remarried?
Answer: First, let’s talk about some general principles from the Bible. We know that God’s design for marriage is that a husband and wife are to stay together for life (Genesis 2:24). Death ends a marriage. We also ...
Question: Can a divorced Christian get remarried?
Answer: First, let’s talk about some general principles from the Bible. We know that God’s design for marriage is that a husband and wife are to stay together for life (Genesis 2:24). Death ends a marriage. We also ...
What was the Purpose of Fasting in Zechariah 7?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What was the purpose of fasting in Zechariah 7?
Answer: The evening meal is an important part of our family life. But there are times with an active family life (three kids with my wife and I both working) that this evening meal gets delayed or missed ...
Question: What was the purpose of fasting in Zechariah 7?
Answer: The evening meal is an important part of our family life. But there are times with an active family life (three kids with my wife and I both working) that this evening meal gets delayed or missed ...
Is There an Unpardonable Sin?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Is there anything a person can do, or is there a sin they can commit, to irrevocably and irreparably condemn them to Hell - such as blasphemy, taking the mark, worshipping the enemy, or selling their soul?
Answer: Did you know that the Bible actually ...
What is John Warning About in 2 John 8?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is John warning about in 2 John 8?
Answer: Your greatest contribution to the Kingdom of God could be found in the lives of the people you disciple for Christ. This idea is present in the text of 2 John 8. In this brief statement we also have one of ...
Question: What is John warning about in 2 John 8?
Answer: Your greatest contribution to the Kingdom of God could be found in the lives of the people you disciple for Christ. This idea is present in the text of 2 John 8. In this brief statement we also have one of ...
How Does James 2:14-26 Impact Our Faith?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
What is Wrong with the Reformed View of the Warning Passages in Hebrews?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is wrong with the Reformed view of the warning passages in Hebrews?
Answer: Properly understood, the book of Hebrews can cause believers to move on towards a life that brings glory to Christ and rewards to individuals in the coming Kingdom. Improperly ...
Question: What is wrong with the Reformed view of the warning passages in Hebrews?
Answer: Properly understood, the book of Hebrews can cause believers to move on towards a life that brings glory to Christ and rewards to individuals in the coming Kingdom. Improperly ...
1 John 1:9 and Rewards
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does 1 John 1:9 lead us as believers to be in a constant state of confession? If we fail to confess our sins, how does this interact with our future rewards in Heaven? Can our failure to confess our sins negate our future rewards?
Answer: There are several ...
Question: Does 1 John 1:9 lead us as believers to be in a constant state of confession? If we fail to confess our sins, how does this interact with our future rewards in Heaven? Can our failure to confess our sins negate our future rewards?
Answer: There are several ...
Can You Clarify the Meaning of Matthew 16:19?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Can you clarify the meaning of Matthew 16:19? In specific, how does this relate to the Kingdom of Christ?
Answer: Before we can answer this question, let us make sure we understand the context. Jesus was directly addressing Peter, and had just made His ...
Question: Can you clarify the meaning of Matthew 16:19? In specific, how does this relate to the Kingdom of Christ?
Answer: Before we can answer this question, let us make sure we understand the context. Jesus was directly addressing Peter, and had just made His ...
Did Peter Write Hebrews?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Is it possible that Peter wrote Hebrews?
Answer: Let’s ask the question a different way, “Who wrote Hebrews?” Quite often, people assume it was the Apostle Paul. This, itself, is unlikely. It is quite notable that the language of Hebrews is vastly ...
What Started the Thirty Years War?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What Started the Thirty Years War?
Answer: The Thirty Years War (1618-1648) should be remembered as a dark chapter in the history of the Church. The Peace of Augsburg had put an end to the religious wars in Germany for a time. Rulers were now allowed to ...
Question: What Started the Thirty Years War?
Answer: The Thirty Years War (1618-1648) should be remembered as a dark chapter in the history of the Church. The Peace of Augsburg had put an end to the religious wars in Germany for a time. Rulers were now allowed to ...
Does Revelation 3:5 Mean My Name can be Blotted Out of the Book of Life?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
What is John Warning About in 2 John 8?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is John warning about in 2 John 8?
Answer: Your greatest contribution to the Kingdom of God could be found in the lives of the people you disciple for Christ. This idea is present in the text of 2 John 8. In this brief statement we also have one of ...
Question: What is John warning about in 2 John 8?
Answer: Your greatest contribution to the Kingdom of God could be found in the lives of the people you disciple for Christ. This idea is present in the text of 2 John 8. In this brief statement we also have one of ...
1 John 1:9 and Rewards
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does 1 John 1:9 lead us as believers to be in a constant state of confession? If we fail to confess our sins, how does this interact with our future rewards in Heaven? Can our failure to confess our sins negate our future rewards?
Answer: There are several ...
Question: Does 1 John 1:9 lead us as believers to be in a constant state of confession? If we fail to confess our sins, how does this interact with our future rewards in Heaven? Can our failure to confess our sins negate our future rewards?
Answer: There are several ...
Why should we study prophecy when no one seems to agree on it?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Why should we study prophecy when no one seems to agree on it?
Answer: Unfortunately, many Christians shun Bible prophecy because of the assumed controversy that surrounds it. Prophecy is relegated to a secondary doctrine, which is seen as not essential ...
Question: Why should we study prophecy when no one seems to agree on it?
Answer: Unfortunately, many Christians shun Bible prophecy because of the assumed controversy that surrounds it. Prophecy is relegated to a secondary doctrine, which is seen as not essential ...
Is the Rapture Before the Tribulation?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Can we know with certainty that the Rapture of the Church is before the Tribulation?
Answer: My wife and are truly blessed. We have two teenagers and a beautiful three year old little girl. The difference in age is remarkable. With our older children (both ...
Question: Can we know with certainty that the Rapture of the Church is before the Tribulation?
Answer: My wife and are truly blessed. We have two teenagers and a beautiful three year old little girl. The difference in age is remarkable. With our older children (both ...
Will People Be Able to Fly in Heaven?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: When we receive our glorified bodies will we be able to fly?
Answer: I have noticed over the years that there is a lot of confusion on this subject. I tend to think that some of this stems from the influence of the culture around us. Certainly movies and ...
Question: When we receive our glorified bodies will we be able to fly?
Answer: I have noticed over the years that there is a lot of confusion on this subject. I tend to think that some of this stems from the influence of the culture around us. Certainly movies and ...
Can You Clarify the Meaning of Matthew 16:19?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Can you clarify the meaning of Matthew 16:19? In specific, how does this relate to the Kingdom of Christ?
Answer: Before we can answer this question, let us make sure we understand the context. Jesus was directly addressing Peter, and had just made His ...
Question: Can you clarify the meaning of Matthew 16:19? In specific, how does this relate to the Kingdom of Christ?
Answer: Before we can answer this question, let us make sure we understand the context. Jesus was directly addressing Peter, and had just made His ...
Has the Kingdom Come?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Why shouldn't we understand Rev. 1:5-6, 9; 5:10 as clearly asserting that the Kingdom 'has come' in some form?
Answer: Let’s take the time to take a brief look at each of the verses that you mentioned. In Revelation 1:5 the text speaks of Christ as the, ...
Question: Why shouldn't we understand Rev. 1:5-6, 9; 5:10 as clearly asserting that the Kingdom 'has come' in some form?
Answer: Let’s take the time to take a brief look at each of the verses that you mentioned. In Revelation 1:5 the text speaks of Christ as the, ...
Has the Kingdom of Christ Arrived?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does Matthew 16:28 (along with Mark 9:1 and Luke 9:27) teach that the Kingdom of Christ has arrived in some form?
Answer: These verses cannot teach that Jesus would return to establish His Kingdom during the lifetime of the disciples present on that day ...
Question: Does Matthew 16:28 (along with Mark 9:1 and Luke 9:27) teach that the Kingdom of Christ has arrived in some form?
Answer: These verses cannot teach that Jesus would return to establish His Kingdom during the lifetime of the disciples present on that day ...
Calvinism and John 6
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Proving God's Existence
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Was Cain a Believer?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Was Cain a believer?
Answer: This is an interesting question, but it is not one that we can give a definitive answer to. Yet, there are indicators in the Bible that seem to suggest he was.
First, we must go back to Genesis and consider what we can glean ...
Question: Was Cain a believer?
Answer: This is an interesting question, but it is not one that we can give a definitive answer to. Yet, there are indicators in the Bible that seem to suggest he was.
First, we must go back to Genesis and consider what we can glean ...
Does Revelation 3:5 Mean My Name can be Blotted Out of the Book of Life?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
Is There an Unpardonable Sin?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Is there anything a person can do, or is there a sin they can commit, to irrevocably and irreparably condemn them to Hell - such as blasphemy, taking the mark, worshipping the enemy, or selling their soul?
Answer: Did you know that the Bible actually ...
How Does James 2:14-26 Impact Our Faith?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
Understanding the Atonement
(By Raymond Isbell)
Question: I have been trying to understand the Atonement for some time. I have developed an understanding of this, and I wanted to know if it is contradicting the Bible.
Answer: Your attempt to seek support of your view of the Atonement reflects both humility and wisdom. ...
Question: I have been trying to understand the Atonement for some time. I have developed an understanding of this, and I wanted to know if it is contradicting the Bible.
Answer: Your attempt to seek support of your view of the Atonement reflects both humility and wisdom. ...
Can I Lose My Salvation?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Can I lose my salvation? Is once saved always saved taught in the Bible?
Answer: Once Saved Always Saved (OSAS) is a title given to a doctrine that many evangelical Christians affirm, which simply is the belief that once a person is saved by faith in the ...
Question: Can I lose my salvation? Is once saved always saved taught in the Bible?
Answer: Once Saved Always Saved (OSAS) is a title given to a doctrine that many evangelical Christians affirm, which simply is the belief that once a person is saved by faith in the ...
What is Lordship Salvation?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is Lordship Salvation?
Answer: First, let us be clear that Lordship Salvation is not a debate about whether or not Jesus Christ is Lord. This is an obvious truth from Scripture (Phil. 2:11). Further, let it be noted that 1 Peter 3:15 teaches, “But ...
Question: What is Lordship Salvation?
Answer: First, let us be clear that Lordship Salvation is not a debate about whether or not Jesus Christ is Lord. This is an obvious truth from Scripture (Phil. 2:11). Further, let it be noted that 1 Peter 3:15 teaches, “But ...
When do We Confront Someone and When do We Turn the Other Cheek?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: When do we confront someone and when do we turn the other cheek?
Answer: It can be difficult to know when to confront someone. While I believe the Bible firmly has the answers to our questions, it is also true that this teaching is scattered throughout the ...
Question: When do we confront someone and when do we turn the other cheek?
Answer: It can be difficult to know when to confront someone. While I believe the Bible firmly has the answers to our questions, it is also true that this teaching is scattered throughout the ...
Are House Churches Biblical?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: My family and I are considering joining a house church. We want to worship God without compromising. What are your thoughts?
Answer: The location of where you meet with a local assembly of believers should not be the focus. The New Testament Church met ...
Question: My family and I are considering joining a house church. We want to worship God without compromising. What are your thoughts?
Answer: The location of where you meet with a local assembly of believers should not be the focus. The New Testament Church met ...
Calvinism and John 6
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Question: How do you answer the Calvinist who uses John 6:37 to teach individualistic determinism in regard to salvation?
Answer: The question centers on the words of Jesus, “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me.” The related statement is found in John 6:39, ...
Proving God's Existence
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
What Does it Mean to Walk in the Spirit?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What does it mean to walk in the Spirit?
Answer: There are some wonderful promises in the Bible. Galatians 5:16 includes one of those promises. Paul told the churches of Galatia, “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the ...
Question: What does it mean to walk in the Spirit?
Answer: There are some wonderful promises in the Bible. Galatians 5:16 includes one of those promises. Paul told the churches of Galatia, “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the ...
Lord’s Day or Sabbath?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: God refers to the Sabbath as Saturday, so why do Christians worship on Sunday?
Answer: God certainly did give the Sabbath to the nation of Israel. We read this in Exodus 16:29, “See! For the LORD has given you the Sabbath; therefore He gives you on the ...
Question: God refers to the Sabbath as Saturday, so why do Christians worship on Sunday?
Answer: God certainly did give the Sabbath to the nation of Israel. We read this in Exodus 16:29, “See! For the LORD has given you the Sabbath; therefore He gives you on the ...
Does Revelation 3:5 Mean My Name can be Blotted Out of the Book of Life?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
Question: Does Revelation 3:5 mean my name can be blotted out of the Book of Life?
Answer: Revelation 3:5 tells us that Jesus said, “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his ...
How Do I Overcome My Struggles with Sexual Sin and Pornography?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How do I overcome my struggles with sexual sin and pornography?
Answer: I am convinced that believers often struggle with besetting sins. It is different for each believer in Christ Jesus. I worked in construction for many years before becoming a ...
Question: How do I overcome my struggles with sexual sin and pornography?
Answer: I am convinced that believers often struggle with besetting sins. It is different for each believer in Christ Jesus. I worked in construction for many years before becoming a ...
Is Cremation Biblical?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Is Cremation Biblical?
Answer: I remember my first funeral as a pastor. The casket of my friend Jim was suspended in the air above the grave. After the funeral, the cemetery workers would lower the casket into the burial vault and complete the burial after ...
Can a Divorced Christian Get Remarried?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Can a divorced Christian get remarried?
Answer: First, let’s talk about some general principles from the Bible. We know that God’s design for marriage is that a husband and wife are to stay together for life (Genesis 2:24). Death ends a marriage. We also ...
Question: Can a divorced Christian get remarried?
Answer: First, let’s talk about some general principles from the Bible. We know that God’s design for marriage is that a husband and wife are to stay together for life (Genesis 2:24). Death ends a marriage. We also ...
When do We Confront Someone and When do We Turn the Other Cheek?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: When do we confront someone and when do we turn the other cheek?
Answer: It can be difficult to know when to confront someone. While I believe the Bible firmly has the answers to our questions, it is also true that this teaching is scattered throughout the ...
Question: When do we confront someone and when do we turn the other cheek?
Answer: It can be difficult to know when to confront someone. While I believe the Bible firmly has the answers to our questions, it is also true that this teaching is scattered throughout the ...
What is John Warning About in 2 John 8?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is John warning about in 2 John 8?
Answer: Your greatest contribution to the Kingdom of God could be found in the lives of the people you disciple for Christ. This idea is present in the text of 2 John 8. In this brief statement we also have one of ...
Question: What is John warning about in 2 John 8?
Answer: Your greatest contribution to the Kingdom of God could be found in the lives of the people you disciple for Christ. This idea is present in the text of 2 John 8. In this brief statement we also have one of ...
How Does James 2:14-26 Impact Our Faith?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
Question: How does James 2:14-26 impact our faith?
Answer: “It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.” These words came from John Calvin in 1547 as he responded to Canon 11 of the sixth session of the Council of ...
What is Wrong with the Reformed View of the Warning Passages in Hebrews?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: What is wrong with the Reformed view of the warning passages in Hebrews?
Answer: Properly understood, the book of Hebrews can cause believers to move on towards a life that brings glory to Christ and rewards to individuals in the coming Kingdom. Improperly ...
Question: What is wrong with the Reformed view of the warning passages in Hebrews?
Answer: Properly understood, the book of Hebrews can cause believers to move on towards a life that brings glory to Christ and rewards to individuals in the coming Kingdom. Improperly ...
1 John 1:9 and Rewards
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Does 1 John 1:9 lead us as believers to be in a constant state of confession? If we fail to confess our sins, how does this interact with our future rewards in Heaven? Can our failure to confess our sins negate our future rewards?
Answer: There are several ...
Question: Does 1 John 1:9 lead us as believers to be in a constant state of confession? If we fail to confess our sins, how does this interact with our future rewards in Heaven? Can our failure to confess our sins negate our future rewards?
Answer: There are several ...
How do We Grow in Our Faith?
(By Raymond Isbell)
Question: How do we grow in our faith? The Bible refers to walking by faith and renewing our minds. How do these factor in? Is there more to it?
Answer: Growing in faith is an important concept, and is an essential part of the Christian life. Before answering “how,” I’d ...
Question: How do we grow in our faith? The Bible refers to walking by faith and renewing our minds. How do these factor in? Is there more to it?
Answer: Growing in faith is an important concept, and is an essential part of the Christian life. Before answering “how,” I’d ...
Will People Be Able to Fly in Heaven?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: When we receive our glorified bodies will we be able to fly?
Answer: I have noticed over the years that there is a lot of confusion on this subject. I tend to think that some of this stems from the influence of the culture around us. Certainly movies and ...
Question: When we receive our glorified bodies will we be able to fly?
Answer: I have noticed over the years that there is a lot of confusion on this subject. I tend to think that some of this stems from the influence of the culture around us. Certainly movies and ...
How Do We Avoid Sin Like Christ?
(By Raymond Isbell)
Question: How did Jesus endure the Cross and be firm with men in His ministry without sinning? How do I show love while remaining firm as I deal with difficult people (or difficult situations) without sinning?
Answer: Your question has two parts. Let’s look first at how ...
Question: How did Jesus endure the Cross and be firm with men in His ministry without sinning? How do I show love while remaining firm as I deal with difficult people (or difficult situations) without sinning?
Answer: Your question has two parts. Let’s look first at how ...
Am I Living in Sin or am I Married?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: I am living with a member of the opposite sex. We have been involved, to some degree, physically. Does this mean before God that we are married?
Answer: No, you are not married in the eyes of God. This, however, does not mean that your actions are ...
Question: I am living with a member of the opposite sex. We have been involved, to some degree, physically. Does this mean before God that we are married?
Answer: No, you are not married in the eyes of God. This, however, does not mean that your actions are ...
Proving God's Existence
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Question: How can you use the Word of God and His existence to prove He is real if both of those are what is in question? Most unbelievers do not trust the Word (Bible) because it was written "by" men, and they just simply don't believe in the existence of God ...
Does Authorship of 2 Peter Matter?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: I have heard that there are some stylistic differences between 1 and 2 Peter. I agree that 2 Peter is authentic and was written by Peter, but does it really matter?
Answer: A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Regarding the Word of God, it is ...
Question: I have heard that there are some stylistic differences between 1 and 2 Peter. I agree that 2 Peter is authentic and was written by Peter, but does it really matter?
Answer: A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Regarding the Word of God, it is ...
Why is the Closing of the Canon an Important Issue?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Why is the closing of the canon an important issue?
Answer: The closing of the New Testament canon is a central issue to the Christian faith. It may not seem like it, but it most certainly is. This can be illustrated for a number of reasons.
In order for ...
Question: Why is the closing of the canon an important issue?
Answer: The closing of the New Testament canon is a central issue to the Christian faith. It may not seem like it, but it most certainly is. This can be illustrated for a number of reasons.
In order for ...
Why are there Different Books in the Bible?
(By Raymond Isbell)
Question: Why are there different books in the Bible?
Answer: This is a very good question, and one that I’m not sure anyone can answer completely. At bottom, the Bible with its 66 books was chosen by God as His primary communication tool with man. It is a compendium of ...
Question: Why are there different books in the Bible?
Answer: This is a very good question, and one that I’m not sure anyone can answer completely. At bottom, the Bible with its 66 books was chosen by God as His primary communication tool with man. It is a compendium of ...
Why should we study prophecy when no one seems to agree on it?
(By Pastor Mark Fontecchio)
Question: Why should we study prophecy when no one seems to agree on it?
Answer: Unfortunately, many Christians shun Bible prophecy because of the assumed controversy that surrounds it. Prophecy is relegated to a secondary doctrine, which is seen as not essential ...
Question: Why should we study prophecy when no one seems to agree on it?
Answer: Unfortunately, many Christians shun Bible prophecy because of the assumed controversy that surrounds it. Prophecy is relegated to a secondary doctrine, which is seen as not essential ...