The Grace Message

Were people in the Old Testament born again just like we are today? Does behavior matter? After salvation, do we still sin? How does grace impact discipleship?

This message in my “101 Bible Questions” series tackles judgment, rewards, and crowns – topics that might leave you feeling fearful and uncertain of what to expect in the future. Understanding your total forgiveness is key to comprehending the final judgment. And as we explore what will actually happen on the Day of Judgment, you’ll be captivated by the clarity and certainty that Scripture provides. You’ll also hear me challenge some common misconceptions Christians have about rewards and crowns, including whether they’re based on our works, length of service, or something else. This message sheds light on why you can approach the Day of Judgment with confidence. I encourage you to check this one out – it contains powerful and important truth that will revolutionize the way you see God’s judgment. Discussion Questions for “101 Bible Questions” – Fear, Judgment, and Reward: 1. Why is our total forgiveness so important to understanding the final judgment? 2. In your own words, describe what will actually happen to you on the Day of Judgment. 3. What does the truth about the final judgment make you feel? 4. React to this statement: The bema seat is a great, white throne. It’s all one judgment! 5. How does the phrase “reward of the inheritance” help us understand our reward better? 6. What happened in the Parable of the Vineyard Workers? How does that factor in? 7. What are the three crowns mentioned? What do they represent? How do the 24 elders drive this point home?

Does Ezekiel 3 mean I should feel guilty for not warning the wicked? What are the “greater things” that Jesus said we’d do? What are the battle of Gog and Magog about? Why does God warn about being “lukewarm”? A former pastor in our town seems to be taking advantage of others. Is it okay to say something? Is there a second baptism of the Holy Spirit? I have an “uphill battle” with my men’s group. Wondering how to handle it? How do we reconcile Jesus‘s conversation with Mary after the resurrection with His earlier conversation with the thief on the cross?

Why does God give us choices? Will only some Christians be raptured at Jesus’s return? Is Jesus only the Son of God, or is He actually God also? Why is there an altar mentioned in the Book of Revelation? What about those who think there’ll be future animal sacrifices in a new Temple?

What specifically do you need to do to be saved? What is a grace perspective on grief and loss? Why did Jesus curse the fig tree? My husband passed away and is in Heaven. I wonder if he can hear me when I speak to him; what does the Bible say?

I’ve struggled with anxiety for most of my life. What are your thoughts on therapy? My wife has been unfaithful in multiple ways and is unwilling to get counseling with me. Am I letting God down if I get a divorce? Have you visited BibleQuestions.com to ask your question?

Why did Jesus answer Pilate's questions but not Herod's? If we were spiritually dead, then what part of us died at salvation? If it died, then how are we alive now? Do we have a human spirit that is distinct from God's Spirit? My pastor said tongues is not for today because of 1 Corinthians 13:8. Have some spiritual gifts gone away? What's the true gift of tongues anyway?

My mother-in-law claims to interpret dreams, and it feels manipulative. What should I do? I'm depressed and worry about losing my salvation. Can you help? My husband had an emotional affair about six months ago. I'm working on forgiving him, but I'm also just not sure what to do. Thoughts?

Imagine living with the assurance that you’re forgiven once and for all, not little by little. Believing this truth sets you free from the burden of guilt and shame, allowing you to experience the fullness of God’s grace and love. In this latest message from my new series, I explore the profound distinction between sins merely being “covered” versus sins being completely “taken away” forever. I also reveal the true meaning of 1 John 1:9 and invite you to consider how total forgiveness can impact your anticipation of Christ’s return. This is one of our best, most important messages ever. I encourage you to take some time to soak it in, knowing you’ll find healing, freedom, and a deeper understanding of God’s incredible love for you! Discussion Questions for “101 Bible Questions” – Forgiveness: 1. Why is the distinction between “covered” and “taken away” important? 2. How does Hebrews highlight Jesus’ posture regarding our forgiveness? 3. React to this statement: You’re forgiven once for all, not little by little. 4. What does it mean to you that God keeps no record of your sins? 5. Explain in your own words how forgiveness in the “Lord’s Prayer” should be understood. 6. What is the true context and meaning of 1 John 1:9? 7. How does this message of total forgiveness impact your view of Christ’s return?

How do you find a place to express your spiritual gifts? I know a pastor who says we Christians need to have a repentant heart. Is that true? When will you publicly debate me about (water baptism for) salvation? I feel like I’ve fallen from grace, and I wonder how to get back to God. Can you help? What was Jesus really like (His personality toward others)? Does Revelation 3:5 mean we might be deleted from the Book of Life? In whose name should we be baptized - Jesus’ or the whole Trinity’s?