Q/A: I have been reading some of your questions and answers and I cannot tell by the answers what you believe.  It seems to me that you believe whatever suits your purpose at the time.  As close as I can tell you think that all one has to do is believe in Christ and the rest doesn’t matter—not even the 10 Commandments.  You can go to whatever church you want, do anything you want as long as you have the love of the Lord in your heart.  Is that what you believe? - Carol

Q/A: I want to start going to church but I don’t know what denomination of church I should attend.  I was doing research on the differences between denominations, which is how I found your web site, and I couldn’t really find a simple answer.  Can you tell me what the differences are, or should I attend a non-denominational church? - Lindsey

Q/A: Is it enough to pray, read the Bible, do your best to follow in Jesus’ footsteps and not attend any church?  I was brought up Catholic and have begun to question many issues, the main one being the second commandment, which tells us not to worship idols or make any graven images from heaven, the earth or anything below the sea.  The Catholic Church does exactly this.  I started attending a Pentecostal church, but in reading your site, I may be getting involved in some legalism.  I feel confused!  Please help me. - Elizabeth

Q/A: I had been a Catholic for years until about 5 years ago when I became a born again Christian.  I have been going to the same Protestant church since coming out of Catholicism.  When I was Catholic I never read the Bible because nobody ever told me I should.  Since becoming a Protestant I read the Bible all the time.  I notice that if you sit in a church and get spiritually fed only by the church that you are really doing yourself a disservice.  In the church (at least where I go) you get the milk, but in order to get the meat you must study the Bible on your own.  I’m trying to study on my own but I was wondering if there are tools that I should be using along with the Bible.  I do find it very challenging studying on my own, but I know that I have to do it in order to know what God is really saying to us.  If you could help me I would really appreciate it. - Maureen

Q/A: My wife was raised as a Catholic and I as a Lutheran.  My wife does not practice the Catholic faith.  I am with you on all your responses about the Catholic faith, but would like a clearer picture of Maryology.  Could you please explain this in a fuller definition? - Jack

Q/A: You have said, “the only true freedom comes under God’s control and his plan— freedom from all human traditions, religion, and ideas”.  God gave Moses quite a list of “do’s” and “don’ts”.  How do you define “religion”?  What is the difference between “Christian” and “Christian religion”?  You also said, “Religion is a carnival— Counterfeit Christianity does all of this in the name of the God of the Bible (and Jesus Christ)”.  I agree with you.  I am trying to get a handle on a concise definition of religion so that I may answer one who asks “what is the difference?”  You are so “on target” with God’s word to man.  I appreciate what you and the Plain Truth ministries are doing in the poor lost world. - Tom

Q/A: I must start off by saying how much I appreciate your ministry.  I wanted to get some feedback on something that is taking place in the church of which I am a member.  Every New Year’s Eve we have a celebration at my church to ring in the New Year.  To me, it seems that every year it’s getting more and more radical.  I am a member of the women’s dance team ministry.  This year they have decided not to use gospel music, but to use secular music in an effort to win souls.  I am not in agreement with this at all.  I am not against secular music.  I don’t believe that all secular music is bad, but I do feel that there is a time and a place for everything and a line has to be drawn when it comes to the church and drawing people to Christ.   I believe that my church is getting out of focus.  I believe that they are more concerned about drawing people to the church with entertainment than they are with drawing people to Christ... - Beth

Q/A: I’m a bit confused.  Why is it that most Christians pray to God while Catholics pray to the Virgin Mary?  What did I miss in the Bible on this topic?   Fatima, Portugal, 1913.  What did the three children actually see?   Why is it that Christians see visions of Christ and Catholics see visions of the Virgin Mary?  How would anyone know they are looking at something divine? - Pablo

Q/A: My husband and I have recently started re-attending a Baptist church.  The past few weeks I have been waiting for him to get saved (I did last year).  This Sunday when we returned from church I asked him why he has not yet been saved.  He told me he has a lot of questions: 1) what is the differences in churches; 2) if you are saved, what happens if you sin; and 3) he doesn’t believe in healing. Please help clarify some of this and where in the Bible he can find references to these questions. - Tammy

Q/A: I know some Christians who are always going on about “binding” this or that and “rebuking” just about anything in the name of Jesus and by the “stripes” of Jesus and doing “deliverance” for however long it takes to get “deliverance” for that particular person.  I don’t want to criticize, but I personally don’t feel comfortable with all this, but maybe it’s because I don’t really understand it.  I just feel like there’s a “hocus-pocus” thing about it and I can’t relate.  When I’ve heard them pray, they sound very demanding of God to give them whatever it is they need because they’ve been faithful and God promised it to them.  I have not been a Christian as long as they have and when I speak with them, I am left feeling that I am somehow inadequate and weak in my beliefs.  Am I wrong not to jump on their bandwagon? - Nani

Q/A: I am a fairly new Christian (two and a half years), and have grown closer to Christ tremendously in that time, but I have a little bone to pick.  Why do we Christians talk so much about the great stories of conversion and lives being radically transformed without looking at the other side of things?  As opposed to putting a number to the number of converts, why do we not closely monitor how they are doing as new Christians?  Are they growing, “have they stuck with it”, or worse yet, how many give up on or convert from Christianity?  There are many that convert from Christianity to Islam or other religions.  What are those numbers, and why does it happen? - Kurt

Q/A: I was brought up in a Southern Baptist Church.  I have not been to church in many years.  I have visited a Presbyterian Church and feel very comfortable there and feel that it would be a wonderful place to take my children.  I don’t know all the Baptist beliefs, but can you tell me the main differences between the two churches? - Melissa

Q/A: I was baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints back in 1981.  I have noticed some comments in the Q and A section about “Mormons” having an imperfect idea of Jesus Christ.  Please explain where we depart.  We believe he was the same as the God of Abraham who came to earth in the flesh, was crucified, died and rose on the third day.  I realize we differ on many other issues, but essentially, Christ is Christ, Lord God and Savior. ... “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  The same was in the beginning with God.  All things were made by him, and without him was not anything made that was made.”  (John 1:1-3) This quote from the Bible draws a lot of consternation from many, but our faith believes that Jesus Christ was Jehovah and he was the Creator.  Is this where we disagree? - Gina

Q/A: I’m from the Philippines and like most Filipinos, I am Catholic.  However, I’ve had questions about the Catholic Church since my college days when I started reading the Bible. Now, at 42, I have received Christ as Lord and Savior.  I am compelled, more than ever, to come out of the Catholic Church.  Most of its teachings and practices are not biblical and I don’t sense the Spirit of God moving among its leaders—from the priests up to the Pope.  If the Roman Catholic Church is not the whore of Babylon , as you have said, is it an apostate church or a false church?  Should I come out of it as Revelation 18:4 commands? - Vic

Q/A: I have noticed a trend among some evangelists.  They mention the “anointing”.  What is it they are referring to? - Ron

Q/A: I would like to know where the true church is.  I know that Christ came to this earth and established his church.  He told his apostles to go and preach the good news of the kingdom of God.  He also said that it would not be destroyed.  My dilemma is what happened to that church?  We have so many denominations that can be traced back to men that set up churches.  We know that the king of England broke ties to the Roman Catholic Church and established the Anglican-Episcopal church.  So where is the church that we should follow in order to be followers of Jesus Christ? We are also told to come out of her my people.  What or who is the “her”?  I would really appreciate an answer. - Sally

Q/A: I came to the faith of Christ in 1990 through a non-denominational Christian church.  Just recently I became a Catholic because the woman I married is Catholic and because of the influence of her parents.  Do you think Christ is in the Catholic Church?  I believe completely in Christ, and I believe that Christ is the only way to salvation. - Steven

Q/A: I started attending church services again after a long absence.  After I started attending, I prayed that my husband (who used to be a minister) would start attending church again too.  Well, God answered my prayers, but in his infinitely humorous way.  My husband started attending a different church than I do.  Now my husband wants us to start attending church “together”, with which I wholly agree.  However, he will not visit my church even though I have visited his several times.  I am not totally comfortable in his church.  I am still praying for a resolution to this new dilemma. What do you think? - Zee

Q/A: I have a friend becoming heavily involved in “A Course in Miracles”.  I know it is anti-biblical.  Can you recommend a book for me to read so I can be fully aware of its pitfalls? - Sherlyn

Q/A: My brother recently started studying the Bible and attending a Lutheran church—I believe it’s a Lutheran Confession Church.  I was thrilled that he is going to church and has expressed that he knows the Lord now rather than just knows OF the Lord. My concern is that he expressed that they are “strictly by the Word” and that includes that they should not even PRAY with people who are not of their denomination because they don’t “have the truth” and would be “unequally yoked” because all other denominations are deceived. I feel these examples are signs of being VERY judgmental and putting themselves at the seat of judgment where only God belongs. I am not sure if I should say anything more to him or not.  I don’t want to build walls between us more than the church may have already built since I belong to a United Methodist Church and am not “one of them”. - Sheila

Q/A: We recently started attending a Pentecostal church in our area.  We are very unfamiliar with the speaking in tongues issue.  We are from a Baptist background and the topic of speaking in tongues came up.  We truly feel the Holy Spirit is at work in this church and have recently witnessed or heard of people speaking in tongues.  We are not sure whether we should be uncomfortable with this or not. - Darryl  

Q/A:  I have an unusual question.  How can one tell if a pastor is teaching according to the Word (Holy Spirit) or his own flesh? I’m horrified by some of the teachings I hear being taught on the TV.  I’m also equally horrified by what I see that is being done in the name of Jesus.... I don’t know you personally, but yet, from the answers to some of the questions you get, I can tell that you are a man of character and integrity.  You bring Jesus into focus.  I don’t see a trace of who you might be. Does that make sense?  That’s how my pastor teaches.  He brings forth God’s Word and there is no “showmanship” or flashy things and such.  I hear nothing but Jesus in your answers and in my pastor’s teachings. I guess my question is: how can one tell if a pastor is on the “mark” or not?  And how can we not fall into the emotions that these guys spin people into? - Char

Q/A: My wife and I have been married for 9 years.  When we married I assumed that she believed in God as I did, as one God existing as a trinity of persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.... I found out shortly after we were married that she was raised in the United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI).  The United Pentecostal Church (UPC) teaches that God is one, manifesting himself in three ways.  They believe Jesus is not only the Son but also the Father and Holy Spirit.  This belief has been referred to as “oneness” or “Jesus only”.... For our entire nine years of marriage we have both been members of a church that teaches the Trinitarian view of God.  I assumed that she now accepted this. Five or six months ago her father passed away.  He was also a member of the UPCI.  Ever since the time of her father’s death she has started attending the UPCI church meetings by herself on Tuesday mornings and Wednesday evenings.  She has been attending church on Sundays with me at our home church for the a.m. and p.m. services.  I have told her that I do not support the theology and doctrine of the UPCI and that I basically consider it a cult. Now she says she wants to attend the UPCI church exclusively by herself since she knows that I will not attend there with her.... I think she started going to the UPCI after her father’s death because it made her feel closer to him, due to this being his home church.  I did not object at the time because I knew she was grieving for her father.  Now I don’t know what to do. I gave her scripture where she is not being submissive to me on this and she blew it off.... Any opinions for a brother in the Lord?  Please pray for my situation.- Larry

Q/A: I have read with interest many of your Q/A, especially concerning the Rapture.  I am a Pentecostal minister and of course believe in the pre-Tribulation Rapture and that it is biblically sound.  However, I can see why others believe differently and that their understanding is based on Scripture.  You are absolutely right though, that this issue need not divide.  We are all being conformed to the image of Christ despite our differences or even our possible error. God bless you. - Ken

Q/A: What does it mean to be slain in the spirit?  How do you know when speaking in tongues is legitimate? - Twana

Q/A: In light of the ecumenical movement, don’t you think Bible-believing Christians are sacrificing truth for unity? Do you believe that the whore in Revelation represents the Roman Catholic Church? If not, why not? To me, that is the only religion that fits the description. What do you think of Mary worship and of Mary being the “Co-Redemptrix”? - Irene

Q/A: The problem is not that people give up on God but that the frauds that run religions have separated people from God by making a mockery of everything Christ taught. Christ taught that there are human responsibilities. Because of Paul, Christian religions are used to convince people that they do not have any responsibilities. The Moslem religion is more constructive because it teaches discipline. Why do they need to know about Christ when the so-called Christians know nothing about him and worship Paul instead? - Gary

Q/A: Do you have any guidance and information about cell groups?  I would love your thoughts and insight. - Ron

Q/A: My wife has recently become involved with a church in her home state of Virginia.  She will be moving back there shortly and I will follow in about six months.  I have not been able to attend any services with her yet due to my work schedule.  At this time she is very vulnerable emotionally and spiritually due to the death of a close friend of hers. I have been told by my wife that the pastor “dances with the Lord” among other things.  I know that people worship in many different ways that are biblical, but I know that ministries such as Benny Hinn’s and the like do similar things.  However, the teachings of Mr. Hinn and his counterparts are not entirely biblical.  My wife seems to have found joy and hope by going to this church and I do not want to spoil her experience by being overly protective of her during this time of spiritual vulnerability.  There are just so many ministries out there that are wolves in sheep’s clothing. - Ron

Q/A: Can one be filled with the Holy Spirit without ever speaking in tongues? - Belinda

Q/A: Firstly, I am a reader of your magazine and appreciate the content of your articles.  I am interested to know your beliefs in relation to speaking in, and interpretation of tongues.  I am a pastor (not of a Charismatic or Pentecostal Church).  I recently attended a meeting of a Revival Fellowship Church and was introduced to a Pastor of that church.  This gentleman insisted that because I did not speak in tongues I had no authority to minister, that I had never received the Holy Spirit and that I had been “conned” by my church.  My understanding of the Scriptures is that the gift of tongues is simply one of many spiritual gifts, as listed in 1 Corinthians.  I do not believe that the gift of tongues is the only proof of the presence of the Holy Spirit in one’s life.  I would appreciate enlightenment on this topic. - Alfred

Q/A: What do I need to look for or consider when deciding on a church to attend?  Are there certain warning signs I should be aware of? - Ronald

Q/A: I would greatly appreciate your comment on my understanding of John 15:1-3. Jesus said, “every branch in me that bears no fruit, God the Father takes it and throws it away.  Every branch that does bear fruit, he prunes it that it might bear more fruit.”  Did Jesus mean each individual or was he talking about a group of believers or both in the sense of being a part of him?  If we are the branches that bear fruit, then we are of one true vine, which is Jesus Christ.  Therefore, every denomination that bears fruit, God will ensure that the church will grow and bear much fruit. We as Catholics believe that we are the one and only church which Christ started.  But if you think about it, most denominations believe that they are doing the right thing and that theirs is the one true church.  How are we to know the truth?  I believe that each church and every denomination that teaches the word of God is the Church of Jesus Christ—which is the one and only church.  The word catholic simply put means universal.  The point I am trying to make is this: God our father will multiply every branch that bears fruit and that means whether we are Catholic, Baptist or whatever denomination as long as we are fruitful.  Are we to question that which God does in his infinite wisdom? - Milton

Q/A: At my place of work I had a conversation with a fellow worker who happens to be Catholic.  Somehow the conversation got around to the Catholic Church’s forbidding its priests to marry and I brought up 1 Timothy 4:1-3.  I told him I would ask you about this scripture and that I would share it with him. .... My Bible refers to “later times” which I wonder if it could apply to our present time or a later time during Paul’s life?  I also wonder if one can apply this warning of Paul to the present Catholic Church or if this is a misapplication of these verses and taking them out of context. - David

Q/A: At the time of Christ’s Transfiguration, where were Moses and Elijah summoned from?  The gates of heaven had not yet been opened and there would not have been any escape from hell.  Could there have been another place as described in the Creeds where Christ descended for three days? - Dave

Q/A: How should Matthew 18:18 be applied in the church today? -  Jim

Q/A: I am a Filipino.  I just want to ask if you have any idea or know of any denomination that teaches that the original Hebrew name of God was and is YHVH instead of YHWH, and sounds like Yahvahshua instead of Jesus.  I had come across this while talking to a friend recently. Thank you for your time and may God continue to guide you in this ministry. - Efren

Q/A: My stepdaughter who is 6 years old went to church today and told me she wanted to get saved.  I took her outside to make sure that she understood.  She explained everything to me.  So she went to the altar and got saved today.  Now everyone in my husband’s family, including my husband, doubts that she knew what she was doing. So my question is this: does she really know what happened today? - Julie

Q/A: I have read the Jan-Feb 2002 issue of the Plain Truth and found the article entitled “Fundamentalism: Breeding Ground for Fanaticism?” very unsettling and more than a little unfair to those who call themselves Fundamental Christians.  From what I gathered from the article, it seemed like the article was comparing the Taliban to the Independent Bible Fundamentalists that are in our country.  I understand that you did not write the article, but I am wondering how the two can be compared when they are totally different?  It seems like the writer of the article does not know what a true Bible Fundamentalist believes.  With that in mind, that will create confusion to those who don’t know.  I will not get into everything, but on the last page of the article he equates David Koresh and Jim Jones with Bible Fundamentalists.  These men were not, in any way, representatives of a true Bible Fundamentalist.... What do you think about this article and subject?  Thank you for your time in discussing this subject and for reading my E-mail. - Mike

Q/A: Some members of my Bible study group here in England have a friendly debate from the Scriptures.  What do you think of the “Universal Salvation doctrine” where ALL die in Adam but ALL live in Christ? Does this mean that ALL men will live for eternity as Christ died for the whole world and for everyone to live?  Would appreciate your comments on this for the Bible study group that likes to search the Scriptures with an open mind. - Jeremy

Q/A: How have you been eating pig when your Old Testament shows God saying not to eat pig?  As you know, Jesus (PBUH) came not to change God’s law but to fulfill it.  As you can see, eating pig is certainly a change of the “pig eating law”.  Some good Christians don’t eat pork, but about 80% of you Americans, Christians or not, know nothing but pig?  Don’t be a deceiver, give an answer. - M. Ali

Q/A: Is it true that only a few “called out ones” are being called now to be a light to this dark world and/or to preach the gospel? Please answer this question today as I am attending a Bible study tonight that is teaching that all mankind is not being called at this time. - Joanne

Q/A: My sister says that her church teaches that drinking wine or other alcoholic beverages is a sin.  They also teach that when wine is mentioned in the New Testament that it does not mean fermented drink but only grape juice.  The Bible talks about people getting drunk on wine and that this is wrong.  I believe that drinking in moderation is fine and that good wine is a blessing from God.  In fact, I make my own wine and enjoy it very much. What are your views on drinking wine and other alcoholic beverages? - John

Q/A: We have been attending a very small church for a few years now.  We were introduced to the church shortly after we were married and have been attending ever since.  The problem we are facing now is that the church no longer meets our needs.  I have two children, ages one and four.  The church offers no Sunday school or anything else for the children.  They are forced to sit through the sermon quietly, not understanding anything about it.  I have never understood the pastor, nor do I agree with his beliefs.  Looking back, I would say that we only attended the church out of convenience.  We made the decision to leave the church in search of another.  We were close friends with many people in the church as well as my in-laws.  We have not been back to the church in over a month.  My question is, how do I handle questions when we are asked why we left the church without hurting anyone’s feelings? - Tammy

Q/A: John 10:16 says, “And other sheep I have which are not of this fold.” Who are the “other sheep”? - Joanne

Q/A: I have a friend who is a professing Christian.  She claims that God gives her visions.  She says that are like “The Celestine Prophecy”, which I understand is New Age.  I am trying to compile biblical evidence that what she is involved in is not of God and that is New Age.  Any help would be greatly appreciated. In His grace, - Mary

Q/A: Is it OK for Christians to partake in the Holy Eucharist during the Holy Mass of the Roman Catholic Church?  I understand that during the Mass, Catholics believe that the priest literally “transforms” bread or wafers into the body of Christ.  They teach that your sins will only be forgiven if you partake in this rite.  Is it OK for you to partake of it understanding that they are mistaken and you just want to show your Christian love or brotherhood?  Am I right also to think that the Roman Catholic Church is an apostate church? - Hanzel

Q/A: I have read that Jesus is in the Koran and is help in some esteem while never being identified as the Son of God.  If this is true and if it is also true that Islamic followers believe that Jews are inferior and to be hated, why would they (Mohammed) include Jesus in his writings? - Sue

Q/A: In John chapter 6 Jesus says, “If you do not eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.  He who feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life…” Then, at the Last Supper, he introduces the Eucharistic sacrifice which is practiced today.  Is the taking of the Eucharist the only way to “feed on the flesh and drink the blood” of Jesus?  Might not the acceptance of the sacrifice made by Jesus on the cross, by faith, be equivalent to “feeding and drinking” of Jesus?  If the Eucharist is the only way to feed and drink of Jesus, how often is it required to remain in union with Jesus (John 6:56)? - Don

Q/A: If you don’t mind, I would like to solicit your opinion about the subject of drinking wine.  Our pastor seems to teach that what the Bible mentions as wine is actually grape juice, especially what Jesus and the apostles drank.  They pointed out that in the Last Supper, the Bible did not mention “wine” but instead used the phrase “fruit of the vine.... My church believes that just a little wine often leads to abuse later on.  Our congregation also teaches us that to drink even just once would give a bad example to others, especially to young people, as they would tend to misunderstand that it is OK to drink liquor. What do you think about the wine that Jesus drank.  Is it really unfermented?  How about our position not to drink liquor at all? I want to be sure what I am teaching to others is accurate. - Hanzel

Q/A: As I understand it, the Ten Commandments and festival days are obsolete. 1 John 3:4 states that sin is breaking God’s law.  What law is this? (This is not a trick question). Also, can a person attend any church, or must it be a certain one? - Ralph

Q/A: Although I am a Turk and Muslim I have something that makes me confused about Islam.  Is Islam a real religion sent by God?  In what ways is Christianity different and does it offer a better solution after death?  I will be pleased if you could help solve my troubles that have been affecting me.  Is it only a coincidence that all Islamic countries suffer from lack of money and food? - Orhan

Q/A: ...When Jesus spoke to the crowd, telling them that they must eat his body and drink his blood or they could have no life in the, (John 6:53-57) they all began to walk away (John 6:60-61).  After all, did not their religion teach them that cannibalism was a great evil?  Jesus knew what they were thinking and could have easily corrected their impression if he had meant his words in a figurative sense only.  Then instead of explaining his “true” intent to his disciples, he asked if they also wanted to leave him (John 6:67).  Jesus wanted to drive home an important point.  He was speaking very literally and he was demanding that they understand and believe that he was really going to give them his body and blood to eat and drink (John 6:35, Mark 14:22-24, Luke 22:19,20). ... What if God’s Word is literally true?  What if the bread and wine are truly transformed by God himself when we partake of it in his memory?  What if we really can share in the cup that was poured out for many?  How great a responsibility!  Small wonder some ministers fear to obey this command on a regular basis! - Larry

Q/A: In reading your PT Commentary for Jan/Feb 2002 you say “…we know that the majority of Muslims and …Arabs are peace-loving.” Greg, consider this: wherever they are in the majority, we Christians are killed and for centuries they have killed their own for converting to Jesus.  Greg, this is a huge difference. So, my thought is for you to re-think this. - Patrick

Q/A: A Christian friend of mine asked if it is appropriate to play musical instruments in church.  He said the Bible (the New Testament) does not give examples of playing musical instruments.  Is it wrong to play musical instruments in the church? - Karlene

Q/A: I have a few questions: 1.   Is it wrong to seek counseling?  After September 11, my university set up various places where we could go talk to someone.  A member of my church said that it was a waste of time because we should have faith in God and not go talk to anyone else. ....... 2.   What do you think of a church that seems to cater primarily to young couples? ......3.  Is it wrong to have an informal relationship with God (so to speak)?.... 4.   I want to work for Social Service agencies and with families (such as teaching welfare families how to manage resources, etc.).  Why do some see that as wrong? ..... - Sue

Q/A: My son recently went to church on a day when the rest of us stayed home sick.  He says he was baptized in the Holy Spirit and received the gift of tongues.  I had never heard of this before and was worried. Can you please tell me what your views on this are?  If this is indeed true, does he still need to be baptized with water? Also, is it not true that you receive the Holy Spirit when you are baptized by water?  This is what I always believed, but I have been looking for scriptures to support this.  Also, the church we are attending seems to have everyone speaking in tongues as their goal.  What is your view on this? - Yvette

Q/A: Is it OK for not-yet-baptized believers to participate in the communion?  They might be waiting for the baptism to be held and assume they understand the truth behind it. - Soong En

Q/A: My questions are of one I am frequently asked and I would love more insight about where and how to biblically answer them:  Speaking in tongues?  I believe they are still here and are a wonderful gift of many that the Holy Spirit gives as He chooses.  I am aware that this gift is debatable among Christians. Explain some of what we can know about them and also about “praying in tongues” as compared with “speaking in tongues.” - Mike

Q/A: I am wondering what you think of being slain in the Spirit?  I have some very good friends, and my sister and her husband believe in it.  Is there any scripture that refers to being slain in the spirit? The preacher at the church I attend says that being slain in the spirit is evil, not good, that anyone believing in being slain is very misled.   I have searched my Bible for information on it, but have not come across anything.  Could you help? I am a new Christian and I am very confused.  I don’t want to be misled, and I don’t want my friends or family to be either.  If my preacher is wrong or if my friends and family are wrong I would like to be able to show them in the Bible the truth. - Cindy

Q/A: I want to know the difference between a Messianic Jew and an Orthodox Jew, not just that one is liberal and the other is not. - Rebecca

Q/A: Do Muslims teach that there will be no peace on earth unless all Christians and Jews are either killed or in subservient positions?  Is Allah another name for the God of scripture? - Sue

Q/A: I know this is a BIG question, but what is the major difference between the Islamic and Christian views of life?  Can you boil this down? - Bob  

Q/A: I am a Roman Catholic and having read your responses to those who ask questions regarding a Roman Catholic teaching, I have noticed many times you have misrepresented our beliefs.  I see many errors in your answers.  I have a question for you and would very much like an in-depth answer with biblical proof.  If we are left to interpret the Bible on our own and Christ did not establish ONE CHURCH before he left this earth, then are you telling me that the Holy Spirit is confused?  Most Christian churches believe they have the truth even if they began within the last 100 years.  These many denominations have many beliefs that are very different.  Yet all claim to be guided by the Holy Spirit. I personally like the idea that my Catholic Faith has been here since Christ walked this earth and is still here (remember Jesus promised never to leave us), and I might add, stronger than ever!! May you discover the truth, - Annie

Q/A: How do your beliefs differ from the orthodox Reformation theology of John Calvin? - Hannah

Q/A: My husband and I are in ministry.  We have been told by people from different churches that we should not be doing what we are doing because we do not have spiritual accountability, as we are not under the authority of leadership.  I had never heard of any of this, ever, and cannot find this in the Bible.  If God has called you to do something, do you have to get man’s permission first?  That’s what this sounds like.  I read a short commentary that claimed that if a church is teaching these things, that they have a spirit of control. - Penny

Q/A: At times I help take care of an 89-year-old elderly woman, Mary, who is Episcopalian.  Last night I asked her some questions about her faith.  She told me that she believes in God and Jesus Christ.  Mary does believe in the resurrection.  I asked her if she is born again.  She said that her church does not use that term.... Greg, because people like her believe in the name of Jesus Christ, will they go to heaven too?  I specifically asked Mary if she believes Jesus is God.  She said no; Jesus is God’s son.  Is it enough to believe in Jesus’ name and become baptized for one to be saved?... She does not believe in the term, “born again.”  She said that term is from a present-day fad of Christians. - Angela

Q/A: There is much discussion concerning the ability to “SENSE” God’s “leading”.  For example, “I sensed God’s call. . .”, “I prayed and sensed that God wanted me to…”, “One of our members felt led to…”, etc.  ..... My question, “Is there any record or evidence of knowledge referring to discovering God’s will based on “sensing” or internal prompting?”   I cannot find in the scriptures where we must “hear” or “sense” God before we can make decisions.... - Nancy

Q/A: In searching through your “See what others are asking Greg”, I was sparked by a question about “anointing”.  I hear a lot of teachings that are always about receiving “the anointing”.  Almost all references to “the anointing” are usually from television evangelist programs with formats surrounding “money”, prosperity and the like.  Is there biblical reference to passing on “the anointing” or “imparting the Holy Spirit” or “imparting anointing gifts”? -  Laurie

Q/A: Are feelings an accurate guide in matters of religion?  The apostle Paul argued that they were not.  But since you often contradict the teachings of Paul and other apostles, what do you think?  God gave us a brain and he expects us to use it. - P.N.M.

Q/A: Thank God for your ministries.  They have really been helpful to me.  I have a question concerning Buddhism.  I do hope I have spelled the name right.  I was watching the Chinese Channel, and the language was interpreted in English.  The service reached very deep on what was or rather is the truth regarding the happenings of today.   I would like to know if this ministry is really what our God would have ministered to us.  Are they really preaching the true ministry of God?  I once heard that Buddhism is an acknowledgement of an idol named Buddha.  Then I thought to myself that maybe this is the name that God is called in other languages.  Would you please enlighten me on this matter? - Sally

Q/A: I am struggling in my understanding of men and women as being equal in God’s eyes.  Pastors tell me that we are created equal, but have different roles.  Somehow these “roles” seem to limit women.  We are “allowed” to do certain things in the church, but ALL things are fine for a man to do.  Because there is no specific scripture that states a woman was a pastor (which, by the way, where is there a scripture that states a man was a pastor?) women are not “allowed” to be elders or pastor a church.  But when I read about women’s roles in the Bible I see them as prophets, judges, evangelists, etc. This is a stumbling block to me.  Could you help me, through scripture, clear this up?  I know scriptures can be interpreted in different ways, and perhaps because of that this question will be reserved for when I see Jesus. Thank you for your very open and honest answers. - Nancy

Q/A: If the Bible is the “only” word of God, and the word of God is Truth, and the truth is “ONE”, how come there was only one church for 1500 years (the Eastern Church was still in communion with Rome except for the authority of Rome).  Since 1517 (the Reformation) until 1900 there were 1500 new sects and from 1900 to today we see over 28,000 new Protestant religions.  Don’t you find that rather revealing since the truth is one? - Patrick

Q/A: Please explain the Russian Orthodox religion to me. - Roper

Q/A: What function should a deacon have in a church?  I need biblical reasons. - James

Q/A: Most, if not all, mainstream Christian churches do not take an active part during communion in the foot washing ceremony, as far as I know.  Will you set my mind straight on this subject?  Is it a necessary physical action required for salvation, church membership, etc.?  How does God view this?  I’ll appreciate your comments on this. - Leith  

Q/A: You say many teachings in the Catholic Church are unbiblical.  For example, the adoration of Mary, mother of Jesus.  Surely recent Marian apparitions and bleeding/weeping statues of Mary and Jesus in various parts of the world (like Madugorje, and Naju) are signs from God and cannot be dismissed as false off-hand.  What about Fatima and Lourdes?  Rosary praying is always encouraged, repentance urged by the Blessed Virgin at these places, through the Visionaries.  Surely God won’t use an unbiblical (un-Christian) means to reach to the world. - Lydia

Q/A: I have a friend who is of the Catholic faith.  She says that the virgin Mary never had any other children besides Christ.  Is this true?  If not, where would I prove this from scripture? - Joe

Q/A: Which church is the REAL Church?  I know that believing the Bible is the most important thing a Christian should do.  However, from my study of church history, the first century Christians were made up of JEWS and non-Jews.  Polycarp was a disciple of John, the Jewish Christians soon totally vanished, from around 300 to 1400 the Roman Catholic Church was the “only” church.  The Protestant church is only 500 years old and is a break-off of the Catholic Church.  I am not saying that salvation is in an organization, God forbid, I just want to find the first century church. -  Jeremiah

Q/A: Yoga is a really big thing right now.  People who are doing yoga correctly seem to have pretty incredible bodies, both with muscle and in flexibility.  Is Yoga O.K. for Christians to follow? - Rhonda

Q/A: I would like your opinion on the belief of the Seventh-Day Adventists that it is a sin to eat pork and certain seafood.  In Leviticus chapter 11 it speaks of the clean and unclean animals.  But I just recently read in the book of Mark, chapter 7 where Jesus says that what you eat won’t defile you.  Food doesn’t come in contact with your heart, but only passes through the stomach and then comes out again.  He says that you are not defiled by what you eat, you are defiled by what you say and do. - Donna

Q/A: My query, relating to purgatory, involved my witnessing to a Catholic friend, who insists on believing in purgatory, the Virgin’s intercession, and praying for the dead (the latter based on 2 Maccabees).  Certainly Ephesians 2:8-9 is clear to me... One more question relates to Jesus on Calvary’s Cross telling John to look upon Mary as his mother and vice-versa.  The R.C. position is that Jesus then made Mary our spiritual mother and that all of God’s graces and blessings come through her alone.  My interpretation has been that Jesus was teaching us compassion for others in spite of personal difficulties.  Your comments please. - Joe

Q/A: What is a stigmata?  Is this a denominational belief of other Christian faiths? - Debbie

Q/A: The Catholic Church teaches that we receive grace by participating in the sacraments: baptism, confirmation, communion, etc.  Do non-Catholic Christians believe that Our Lord dispenses grace in this manner? - Dave

Q/A:  I understand that in coming to a relationship with Christ and being born again, you should expect to experience great joy and peace.  Yet, I feel neither of these emotions.  My new-found faith in Christianity has brought me a great deal of loneliness, for I have had to leave the Catholic Church and all my friends behind, and now attend Calvary Chapel alone.  I do have a sense of comfort and a feeling of being on a journey of discovery, but no joy.  Also, I ache for my two teenage children who were always disenchanted with the Catholic Church, but have not felt called to any other faith community.  My husband, as well, prefers not to attend any church at this time.  Therefore, I am not at peace because I worry about my loved ones' salvation and I feel as though I have not prepared my children to know the Lord. My prayer life is very much alive, but at home I pray alone.  Every week, when I leave to go to a bible study or church service, I feel as though I am having to choose between God and family.  Sometimes, I will reluctantly stay home because I hate going alone, yet I resent their not going with me.  I had always thought of my family and friends as gifts from God.  Now, these divisions deeply hurt my heart and cause me so much sadness. Please pray for me. - Debbie

Q/A: I am a former Roman Catholic.  In witnessing to family members I run across barriers because they believe Mary has been empowered to grant all grace.  The argument is that on the cross Jesus told John “Behold, your mother”.  Since everything in the Bible was recorded for a purpose, they insist God wants believers to go to God through Mary. - Joe

Q/A: My question is what do you mean that the Catholic view of law plus grace is not biblical and leads to legalism?  Is the law you are referring to works?  From what you said “Catholics need to understand the doctrine of justification”.  I don’t see how the Catholic Church believes that we are saved by works (or church law) plus grace. -  Robert

Q/A: Don’t you think that we can argue about religion over and over again and really not know the true answers until we see Jesus? I am a Catholic and I read the PT magazine from cover to cover and find it to be a very fair look at religion.  I belong to the Charismatic Group of the Catholic Church.  Just so you can see where I am coming from, I am very well versed in the Bible. - Ruth

Q/A: I have been attending Baptist church for three years but when I disagree with something I tend to go back to Plain Truth magazine or your web page for answers.  Do you have any advice? - Delia

Q/A: My wife is a non-denominational Christian, while I am a Roman Catholic-Christian.  Every now and then we get into an argument about the celebration of holidays, in particular Easter and Christmas.  She says that you should not celebrate these days as religious holidays: 1.  because we should celebrate these miracles every day and, 2.  because we are not told to do so in the Bible.  However, she and her family do participate in Christmas and Easter activities “just for fun”.  They have Christmas trees and Easter egg hunts and the like. My argument is that there is nothing wrong with the celebration of these days so long as you use the celebration as a means of spiritual grounding or meditation, but that salvation is not conditional on the celebration of these days.... - Joel

Q/A: What is an ‘Evangelical?” - Sylvester

Q/A: I am currently searching for a church. I have been to an American Baptist Church, Methodist Independent Churches and the Pentecostal Church. I am finding that there are differences. However, it is confusing. I am leaning more towards the Pentecostal because of their unity, but I struggle with their belief about the outward knowing of conversion is that you speak in tongues. Which of all the churches is correct? What should I be looking for?I love the Lord with all my heart, soul and mind and I have prayed about this…help! - Robin

Q/A: What do you think about the Brownsville revival and the Toronto revival? - Paul

Q/A: I attend the Catholic church. I would really love to know what Christian groups (especially non-denominational) try to influence the Catholic church (to change)? I hope and pray that the church changes on the few main issues that divide mainstream Christianity. We have so much to gain by being one body in Christ. I have my own ideas that the church should rename itself to the Christian Catholic Church, state that the Pope is human and fallible and to re-state the position on Mary and the Saints. - Robert

Q/A: I have really been questioning things – speaking in tongues and slain in the spirit mostly. I don’t understand why we need them. What are they supposed to do? I have heard that speaking in tongues is a form of communication between us and God. But why do I need to speak a different language if I can communicate with him just fine through the language I speak? I really don’t think that speaking in tongues are bad. I just don’t get the point of them. Isn’t there supposed to be a translator there? For all I know, they could be praying something bad on me. And slain in the spirit – I have tried to look it up in the Bible. I have found nothing. What does it do anyway? So you fall down and lay there? I just don’t understand it. People have given me verses saying that it backs up both tongues and slain in the spirit, but it just doesn’t make sense. I have never experienced either so I can’t really say anything, but if you could help me, I would appreciate it - Ashley

Q/A: Someone told me that Christianity is actually a religion based upon Mithraism (a pagan sun god I think) and that most of the gospel was stolen from that belief system. Many similarities can apparently be made such as Mithra’s death and resurrection. What is the origin of this pagan religion and why would someone say this proves Christianity is false? - Diane

Q/A: I was wondering if you had any insights into the work of evangelists like Billy Graham and his son Franklin. I once thought that Billy Graham was spreading confusion by telling people to go to the church of their choice, but now I see it as a powerful organization spreading the message of Jesus Christ and backing it up with powerful evangelistic and humanitarian efforts around the world. But I also have concerns about the message he is bringing that people must receive Jesus Christ in this life. Is this biblically correct or are they too hasty and shallow in their zeal to spread the gospel? - Dave

Q/A: Jesus told Peter and later other apostles that whatever they will bind on earth will be bound in heaven and whatsoever they shall lose on earth will be also in heaven. This was when he told Peter that he will build his church on him (Peter). To whom is this authority conferred today, seeing that before the reformation only the Roman and the Eastern churches were the legitimate Christians? - Joseph

Q/A: I have been attending an Episcopal church for the last couple of weeks. In general is this a healthy, well-balanced denomination? They seem to have a lot of women in high ranking positions. I hope I am not being chauvinistic. - Donald

Q/A: Is the Lord’s prayer in Matthew 6: to be a repeated part of a service? - David

Q/A: What is the difference between the Baptist church, Church of God, Church of Christ and Southern Baptist churches? Also what exactly is a Christian church? I have no idea which to go to. Can you enlighten me a little? - Melissa

Q/A: My husband and I are having problems with regard to which church we should attend. We both live in the same town where we grew up, however, we both still have membership at the church we were baptized, which are different churches (same denomination). My husband does not attend church regularly anymore. I presently sing in the choir, teach a Sunday School class and serve in an administrative position at the church where I am a member. My husband feels that we should be members of the same church. I attend the church he is a member of occasionally, but when I am not in attendance at the church I am a member of, I feel that I am not fulfilling my duties. My husband believes that I must adhere to his decision because I should obey my husband and we should become as one body. Please give us some direction. This has been a problem that we have discussed numerous times. - Joyce

Q/A: I have a concern. In order to be involved in the ministry in the church that I belong to, we must agree to some rules given to us by the church. There happens to be only one rule that I do not agree on. This is that we must attend church every time the door is open. This would be Sunday morning and evening and Wednesday Bible study. If you have some scripture to share with me concerning this, I would be most grateful. - Rob

Q/A: Where in scripture does it tell Christians, or anyone who professes Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, to address pastors as Reverend, Bishop or Father, as if they have some special relationship with God that if you are not a preacher you don’t have? - Robert

Q/A: A friend of mine spoke to me and sent me information, basically saying that all Catholics are not saved. I am not Catholic and I myself don’t care for the Catholic religion, but I don’t feel it is my place to judge them guilty, especially since I know a few who appear to be truly good Christians. How do you feel we, as Christians, should respond to issues as these? There are those that I feel are "lost", but still that is not for me to judge and it is only my opinion. I share my faith and my belief with all people when it is appropriate with the Spirit’s leadings. Guess I was just lost as to how to handle his telling me that I need to "tell them the truth of the lies in their doctrines or they will go to hell." - Sheila

Q/A: A conversation with other Christians has brought up this question. Last night, Wednesday, a dozen or so of us men and women got together for a prayer time focused on our church problems. I have been realizing our church needs to repent within ourselves and seek God more deeply. The second time I prayed with the group last night, I prayed in a repentant attitude rather strongly. When I finished a brother in Christ asked the people close to me to lay their hands on me while he prayed for me and said I had a loveblock. After he finished, a conversation ensued about what a loveblock is. He explained I was not allowing God to love me. Something was stopping me from allowing God to love me.... - Ron

Q/A: I see by your questions and answers you state that Catholics are Christians. How would you define what a Christian is? How do you explain the Council of Trent? Maryology? Works, rather than grace? ... We must remember that by far the larger percentage of those professing to be Catholic are not Christian, since most Catholics hold to Roman Catholic doctrine on salvation and have never trusted Christ alone for eternal life. - Marty

Q/A: I’m a member of a fundamental Baptist church here in my country. We are taught to seek a close relationship with God our Father through Jesus Christ, and we believe we are sealed with the Holy Spirit since we gave our heart to God in repentance. However, I’ve been asked by "someone on the net" if we had "the promise" in our church. Can you send me information or links where I can study with more details about the charismatic and Pentecostal movement and their beliefs? Or maybe you can give me your opinion on this regard. - Alexander

Q/A: ...According to Scripture a Christian is one who believes that Jesus is the Christ (1 John 5:1). A person becomes a Christian through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). And the Christian can know that because of this faith he or she has eternal life (John 3:16). According to your definition of a Christian, he/she is anyone who believes in Jesus Christ and lives according to his teachings. That definition would include Mormons, too. The teachings of Mormonism are considered by many to be false and cultic... - Marty

Q/A: ...We have been visiting other churches now for a couple of months, and we cannot tell at all where God wants us.... Can you please give us some guidelines or suggestions as to how we can be sure where God wants us to be? I have heard that you should only leave the body if there are doctrinal problems. - Charles

Q/A: I have been in an independent fundamental Baptist church for 11 years. I believe that they teach truth. However, they seem to be somewhat legalistic and everything revolves around one man – the pastor. What is your opinion of fundamentalist Christians, i.e. Jack Hyles, Jerry Falwell? - Kevin

Q/A: I was wondering about the theory of Reincarnation and your opinion on this topic. I have heard some good points on this issue and I would like your opinion on this subject! - Bob

Q/A: I am a Sergeant of Police in the state of New South Wales, Australia, and I have asked a question of you previously. Articles from your magazine have been posted on the New South Wales Police Christian Bulletin Board. I have been asked to pose this question to you: If I cannot trust Genesis as a literal account of God’s creation of the universe then can I trust the New Testament accounts of the miracles performed by Jesus or of his death and resurrection or of God’s love and forgiveness? ...(also) 1) The time of the original formation of the Koran. 2) The same for the Hindu "Vedas." 3) The Book of Mormons. 4) Information concerning the writings about "Zoroaster."  - Jeff

Q/A: ...I grew up in a Catholic home, and have always had some kind of knowledge of God and his Son.... About 3 years ago, I began to learn more about the grace of God and what his Son has done for the world (actually I began to pay more attention to it, than when I was a kid). In January of this year, I was baptized by a pastor ... My question is that I feel a deeper desire to live up to the expectations that God has of me as a Christian and a servant. However, the expectations of others conflict with his and usually overwhelm me. What I want to know is whether or not I should ignore their expectations and focus solely on his. As of right now, I feel great guilt if I were to blow off the others. I’m afraid that it would make them feel that I don’t care about them. I could use all the help you can give me. - Miguel

Q/A: I have recently contemplated leaving the church of my childhood to worship with my friends from college at the student services at their church... I am a young Christian and I felt that at this stage of my growth, I need to be in a Bible-centered body to grow. The problem – I am African-American and my church is predominantly black, while my college friends’ church is predominantly Korean. My mother feels that I am not honoring her or my community by leaving my childhood church for this one... Is she right? I am not honoring her or my ancestors by going to a church outside of my community?... - Calvin

Q/A: One of my favorite authors of Bible materials says: I never teach anything that cannot be taught in 2-3 plain scriptures. He says, "In the mouths of 2 or 3 witnesses shall every word be established."...Also, he talks about the... seven Dispensations of Man. - Mark

Q/A: Can you still be a Christian and not attend Church gatherings? Is it okay to have services in your house with a small number of people, maybe as low as two or three, and is that acceptable to God? - Dennis

Q/A: I am presently a member of a Presbyterian church (USA). Our Senior Minister recently fired our Choir Director for breach of trust and/or contract. Many of us feel certain that the reason had more to do with his sexual preference. The choir has suffered a great loss, in that this director was a superb teacher. Many members think that the decision was very harsh, and accused the pastor of being a dictator. Although I feel terrible about this, I know in my heart that the pastor could not condone this behavior in a staff member. What are your thoughts on this? I am considering the possibility of finding a new church home. - Jeanne

Q/A:  I would like to know if there is a difference between a Christian and a Catholic? - Richard

Q/A:  Can you give me some examples (denominational names) that hold to tritheism, modalism, subordinationism, pantheism, and panentheism? I am doing a study on these for a men's group at church. - Tony

Q/A:  Some churches believe that it is wrong to have women as pastors in the church and don't allow them to hold any offices of authority over men. Are there any verses in the Bible to support this? - John

Q/A: Some churches have in their hierarchy prophets and prophetesses. Is it scriptural to have live prophets in today's Christian churches or are all the prophets dead? I am only speaking in terms of the churches that hold to the historic Christian faith, (based on 5 fold ministry). Note: I found out about your web site from The Bible Answer Man with Hank Hanegraaff. - Jim

Q/A: What about Mary? Catholics believe she was raised from the dead. I thought Jesus was the only one raised after death? And are there angels walking around earth? Or are people today just imagining these spirits? Could it be the devil in disguise? - Deborah

Q/A: I have a friend that I haven’t seen around our church for a while (Good Shepherd Presbyterian in California – Presbyterian Churches, USA). I found out that he got married to a Jehovah’s Witness and is now going to their church. He is an intelligent person. Do you have any words of advice on how to reach him? I do not know much about the J.W.’s, other than they are a cult and base their beliefs on the Watchtower. - Edward

Q/A: To put my question in the simplest form: "What’s your stand on the Roman Catholic Church?... - Dario

Q/A: I do not believe that the Catholic church is the great whore of Revelation. But I don’t agree with their teaching – that’s why I left. Should I have? And how should I try to reach Catholic friends? - Todd

Q/A: ... I am a Christian, but I don’t go to church or adhere to any orthodox viewpoint, or any other viewpoint, and would not say I am a Catholic or Protestant. Most of the Christians I meet and know, and without doubt often good people, seem to always belong to a particular branch. I lean on Jesus and I pray regularly and try to live in word and deed, as a Christian should. I would like your view on the many Christians who try, as honestly as they can, to live in the example of Jesus, without feeling the need to be a part of any church or organization. - Tim

Q/A: I have a question that I have been meaning to write about and if you can help me understand, I will be eternally grateful. It is about the early church fathers, how much credence can we give them? I mean, are they really the early church fathers? Do they have apostolic succession, not in terms of the way Catholics believe, but is there a history of their being converted and discipled by the original apostles, and thus, carry on the work that was started by Christ?... - Raymond

Q/A: Roman Catholics start and close a prayer by making the sign of the cross on themselves. Apparently Protestants do not. What’s the significance? Why the difference? - Grev

Q/A: If the church has been changing its views on what it considered dogma in the past (i.e. earth only 7000 years old, hell is literal fire, earth was created in seven 24 hours days, apostolic succession, works vs. faith, election). What assurance does anyone have that other church doctrines and creeds will withstand the test of time such as the trinity (not specifically stated in the Bible), two natures of Jesus (developed later in church history)? Though very popular today in the Christian theater, one thing is sure: Church doctrine has changed with the times throughout history. - Adi

Q/A: My questions is: Do we give money to the building called the church or do we give to those who have need? I am starting to wonder if the million dollar buildings the "church" is building is worth the money. Especially if the money could go to helping those in need. - Dan

Q/A: I really enjoy reading the “Ask Greg” section of PTM’s web site.  I read a phrase from a Christian web site that I recently visited that I have never heard of or read before.  What is “Orthodox Christianity”?  I have heard of different movements within Christianity but never have I heard of Orthodox Christianity.  Can you give me some insights into this? - Mike

Q/A: I am a Christian and attend the local Baptist church.  I raised my two daughters in the church as well.  They were baptized at 10 and 12 years old.  They had both prayed to ask Jesus into their hearts and fully understood what becoming a Christian meant.  My oldest daughter, now 18, became involved with the 24-year old neighbor boy who is strongly Pentecostal.  Instead of jumping head-long into the faith of her youth and discovering more of what she could do for our church, she dove head-first into his Pentecostal belief system.  Now it’s long skirts and hair pulled back so it will grow long!  I am devastated because the young man was attracted to her physically fit body, which was part of her job at the fitness center but now it’s a sin for her to wear pants?  I don’t like it, but I would like some biblical ammunition to help her understand the difference between bondage to old laws and the freedom that we have through Christ.....  Anyway, I have experienced the Pentecostal movement–my mother’s dad was a preacher–and I have seen the life.  I hope that you can give some insight to this.  Mainly, how do I let her know that dressing a certain way doesn’t make her any better than she was a year ago or less attractive to “men”? - Mom

Q/A: ... I am a practicing Roman Catholic, but I believe very strongly in the idea of “one body, many parts”.  I would, however, like to clarify the sentiment that most Catholics deny that faith is the only way to salvation and that salvation is conditional on works.  The real belief is that the two are intertwined; through your faith in Jesus our Lord comes a love for humanity as creatures of God and the practice of good works.  In truth, good works are in fact a requirement of the faith.  I do not believe that works alone will save you, but faith without works cannot exist.  Through faith comes works.  Jesus commands that we feed the hungry, visit the sick, and clothe the naked.  This is an integral part of keeping the Faith.  Faith in Jesus is in fact the only way to salvation, but with this faith comes works; otherwise, that faith is empty.  I would appreciate your comments on this subject. - Joel

Q/A: My friend is an ardent admirer of Jack van Impe ministries.  I have watched the program a couple of times.  It is interesting, but I am not sure what I think about it.  I don’t want to be led astray by unsound preaching.  Could you please give your own opinion of this ministry? - Bonnie

Q/A: I have been receiving a lot of e-mail on Nostradamus lately.  Can you tell me your thoughts? - David