When and how did you become a Christian? Was it when you repented of your sins? Was it when you believed? Was it when you confessed with your mouth? Was it when you were born again? Or was it when you were baptized?

In this bible study on Speaking in Tongues I will compare common beliefs, available resources and Scripture in an attempt to share a full understanding of this particular spiritual gift. The main question tends to be: Was it a sign of the times, or is it a spiritual gift of prayer language that is evidence of baptism of the Holy Ghost?

Dr Sam Storms of Enjoying God Ministries writes a two-part appeal to the International Mission Board (IMB) of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), which is quite interesting. His appeal is in response to their decision to forbid people who “speak in tongues” or use a “private prayer language” from serving as missionaries.

The Scriptures tell us that we must abide in the teachings of Christ, and hold firmly to the doctrine… so that we can encourage others, and also refute those who oppose it. This means that we should continuously study our bibles, seek to understand the full message that has been given to us, and keep ourselves fresh in the Word.

What I take away from this is that water baptism is not just a ritual or a ’show’ but that it is a renewal, and that you must be prepared to repent from worldly ways and change your behavior. The people didnt entirely understand, so John the Baptist explained to them what was expected…

Before I began this recent study of the new testament, I recall reading those same scriptures and thinking that Jesus was referring to his second coming and the judgement when Christ returns. In fact, many of those Scriptures are preached or taught in that context! However, careful study will tell us what the kingdom of God really is…

Paul urges believers not to form binding relationships with nonbelievers, because this might weaken their Christian commitment or standards. It would be a mismatch. This is where the term unequally yoked came from in regards to marriage. This is sound advice to Christians who are considering marriage - But what about those people who are already married and find themselves unequally yoked?

Jesus instructs us to go and bear fruit - fruit that will last. In this teaching we learn that Christ is the vine and God is the gardener who cares for the branches to make them fruitful. The branches are all those who claim to be followers of Christ. The fruitful branches are true believers. But those who become unproductive will be separated from the vine.

I would urge everyone to pull out their Bibles when watching the world news and search for TRUTH and pray for knowledge and understanding. If we know more about what is going on around us, we know better what to pray for and what types of choices to make. God expects us to watch and be diligent.

If there were a Tree of McDonalds in the Garden of Eden, what instructions would God have given to Adam and Eve regarding this tree?