Jesus often used simple stories that sometimes confused His listeners. Answer: Jesus used parables to reveal the truth to those whose hearts were open to hear and to conceal the truth from those who were willfully hostile or spiritually dull. Biblical Explanation: The Purpose of Concealment and Revelation: When the disciples asked why He spoke in parables, Jesus answered, "The knowledge...

The Question: The New Testament describes "gifts of the Spirit" like prophecy, healing, and speaking in tongues. Are these miraculous gifts still active in the church today, or did they cease after the Apostolic Age? Key Verses & Explanation: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 (The Variety and Source of Gifts): "Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit... To one is given through the...

Many wonder why a loving God would require such a violent act. Answer: Jesus died as a perfect sacrifice to pay the penalty for human sin, thus reconciling humanity to God.   Biblical Explanation: Sin's Penalty: The Bible states, "the wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23). All humanity has sinned (Romans 3:23).   The Atonement: Jesus' death was a voluntary act to take on this...

Answer: A prophet was a spokesperson or messenger for God, known as a "man of God" or "seer." Their primary job was not simply to predict the future (though they often did), but to deliver God's message, calling the people to repentance and reminding them of the covenant they shared with God.   Explanation with Verses: Deuteronomy 18:18: God says, "I will raise up for them a prophet...

Yes, the Gospels mention Jesus having brothers (James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas) and sisters (Mark 6:3, Matthew 13:55-56). Interpretations vary on whether these were biological children of Mary and Joseph, step-siblings, or cousins.