WhatBible passages I could use to help someone understand certain issues. For example, Why should we attend church? Do we have to attend for get or maintain salvation? What happens to others upon death if they are not born-again believers? What about those who never heard of Christ? Those belonging to other faiths, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, indegious, etc. What publication can assist me in helping to address the above questions other than the Bible - something condense. Please direct me so that I may help other find Christ.

Thanks

-- Anonymous, December 13, 2001

Answers

Although there are many books that can answer of your questions, the Bible is the only one that presents the truth on all issues that we face in life. In Psalms 122:1 the Psalmist says, "I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord". The author of the book of Hebrews wrote, "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching". Hebrews 10:25

There are many verses in scripture that tell us to go to the house of the Lord to worship together. In the Old Testament, God said that He set His Spirit in the tabernacle (church) perpetually.

This is just a start on your many questions, there is so much more that will enlighten and encourage you and anyone seeking the truth. Those who never heard of Christ, ah! you can begin in The Gospel According to St. John 1:1-5 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. v2 The same was in the beginning with God. v3 All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made. v4 In Him was life and the life was the light of men. v5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. John presents the Diety of Christ.

For even more understanding and for those of other beliefs, read Romans 10 and 12, as well as, the Book of Hebrews. The only book that I can really recommend is the Bible to answer all of your questions.

Some of our pastors will give you a more clearer understanding when they see your questions.

God bless you is my prayer.

-- Anonymous, December 14, 2001

Dear Mr. Alexander,

In response to your query about those individuals who have never heard of Christ, I recommend that you read this scripture from the Living Bible, Life Application Bible or The Book in Romans 1:19-21. The scripture is as follows:

" For the truth about God is known to them instinctively; God has put this knowledge in their hearts. Since earliest times men have have seen the earth and sky and all God made, and have known of his existence and great eternal power. So they will have no excuse when they stand before God at Judgment Day. Yes, they knew about him all right, but they wouldn't admit it or worship him or even thank him for all his daily care. And after awhile they began to think up silly ideas of what God was like and what he wanted them to do. The result was that their foolish minds became dark and confused." Romans 1:19-21 from the THE BOOK .

JazzMan

-- Anonymous, December 14, 2001

Bro. Alexander, Because you asked for some publication(s) that would help you to explain your many and varied questions, I've taken the liberty to suggest a couple of Bibles and commentaries that might be helpful to you in your endeavors. However, as I fore said, the book that would best serve your purpose is the Bible.

Since you seem to be seeking answers to questions that would assist not only you but others, you might want to consider a topical Bible study. Your pastor can help you in this area using a good study Bible. The Open Bible (KJV) Thomas Nelson, publisher has a wonderful topical outline, as well as, The Open Bible, The Living Translation, Thomas Nelson, publisher. Both of these are excellent study Bibles. The back of both has a guide to Christian workers, which also lists many excuses that people use for not attending church, etc.

Also, for a pertinent commentary, Halley's Bible commentary is good. The latest edition has in the front a synopsis of each Book and then has a "story behind the story" adjacent for correlation. There is also the Matthew Henry commentary, which is now in paperback. Rev. Warren Wiersbe has various study books that can be found in Christian book stores, most helpful would probably be his "B" series.

But I must caution you, nothing, nothing, nothing will replace the Holy Spirit teaching you what the Word of God says to all of us from the inspired, inerrent, infallible Book called the Holy Bible.

-- Anonymous, December 18, 2001