Christianity
Q&A for committed Christians, experts in Christianity and those interested in learning more
Latest Questions
4
votes
1
answers
3466
views
How can Matthew 2:18 be fulfilled prophecy if Ramah is north of Jerusalem and Bethlehem is south?
Regarding the passage `Mt 2:13-18`. Joseph flees to Egypt with Jesus and Mary after being warned by an angel that Jesus’ life is in danger. Herod then kills all the male children less than 2 years old in and around Bethlehem (8 miles *south* of Jerusalem). Matthew calls this tragic event the fulfill...
Regarding the passage 
Mt 2:13-18. Joseph flees to Egypt with Jesus and Mary after being warned by an angel that Jesus’ life is in danger. Herod then kills all the male children less than 2 years old in and around Bethlehem (8 miles *south* of Jerusalem). Matthew calls this tragic event the fulfillment of Je 31:15:
> A cry is heard in Ramah… Rachel weeps for her children… for her children are gone.
However, OT verses and sources from bibleatlas.org point to Ramah being 8+ miles *north* of Jerusalem. How can the verses in Matthew and Jeremiah refer to the same place if they are 16+ miles apart? What am I missing?
cb4
(216 rep)
May 8, 2022, 04:15 PM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 11:33 PM
5
votes
4
answers
395
views
What is the foundational support for interpreting prophecies as having dual fulfillments?
There are a handful of prophecies that Christians consider as having ["dual fulfillments"][1] - one at the time, and one in the future. Matthew 24, Isaiah 7:14, etc. are examples. Where did this method of interpretation originate, and more importantly upon what foundation / first-principles does it...
There are a handful of prophecies that Christians consider as having "dual fulfillments" - one at the time, and one in the future. Matthew 24, Isaiah 7:14, etc. are examples.
Where did this method of interpretation originate, and more importantly upon what foundation / first-principles does it rest? One could say, let's give it three interpretations, or let's say it was a failed prophecy, or let's say the original prophecy was fulfilled - but in a different way, etc. but instead Christians choose to utilize this Dual Fulfillment method on many prophecies.
The explanation I've come across typically goes something like: "the first prophecy did not fully come about, so we'll see it fully happen sometime in the future." But, that's an obvious False Dilemma , as there are many other ways to explain the first prophecy not being "fully fulfilled". Would appreciate someone with more expertise chiming in.
Julian
(175 rep)
Feb 27, 2023, 08:22 PM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 11:33 PM
0
votes
1
answers
71
views
Does Jesus cooking for His disciples in John 21 set an example for Christians to learn practical skills like cooking?
In John 21:9-14, after His resurrection, Jesus prepares a meal of fish and bread for His disciples by the Sea of Galilee. This moment is both intimate and practical, showing Jesus serving His followers with a simple act of hospitality. Does this scene offer any theological or moral encouragement for...
In John 21:9-14, after His resurrection, Jesus prepares a meal of fish and bread for His disciples by the Sea of Galilee. This moment is both intimate and practical, showing Jesus serving His followers with a simple act of hospitality.
Does this scene offer any theological or moral encouragement for Christians today to develop practical life skills like cooking and serving others, especially within the context of ministry, hospitality, or daily Christian living? How have different Christian traditions interpreted this act?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jun 18, 2025, 06:02 AM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 11:22 PM
1
votes
0
answers
47
views
What is the biblical basis for rejecting Origen’s idea of cycles of creation, given that Scripture doesn’t reveal what God did in His eternal past?
Origen and some early Christian thinkers speculated that God may have created and destroyed worlds in cycles before the current creation described in Genesis 1. This idea, though speculative, raises the question: since Scripture does not detail what God did in His eternal past (before "In the beginn...
Origen and some early Christian thinkers speculated that God may have created and destroyed worlds in cycles before the current creation described in Genesis 1. This idea, though speculative, raises the question: since Scripture does not detail what God did in His eternal past (before "In the beginning"), on what biblical basis do Christian traditions reject such views?
Given that:
- God is eternal and existed before time,
- Genesis 1 focuses on the beginning of our world, not necessarily God's first act of creation,
- Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, "He has put eternity into man's heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end,"
How do Christians who reject Origen’s cyclical creation model ground that rejection **biblically**, rather than merely philosophically or theologically?
Are there specific Scriptures or doctrinal principles that limit God's act of creation to a single beginning as described in Genesis?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jun 21, 2025, 09:23 AM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 11:19 PM
-1
votes
1
answers
95
views
Should we believe any divine encounter affirmed by more than two human witnesses?
In **Deuteronomy 19:15**, Scripture says: >*“A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”* (NIV) This principle is echoed in the New Testament as well (e.g., **2 Corinthians 13:1**, **Matthew 18:16**), and it forms a biblical basis for establishing truth through multiple...
In **Deuteronomy 19:15**, Scripture says:
>*“A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”* (NIV)
This principle is echoed in the New Testament as well (e.g., **2 Corinthians 13:1**, **Matthew 18:16**), and it forms a biblical basis for establishing truth through multiple witnesses.
Recently, a group of around fifty schoolgirls claimed to have witnessed what they described as a literal white horse moving in the sky. The account spread quickly, with many asserting that it was a divine or supernatural sign. While some observers dismiss such claims as imagination or psychological suggestion, others argue that the number of consistent witnesses makes the event harder to ignore.
This raises the theological question:
>**According to Christian teaching, should the testimony of multiple human witnesses—especially when it involves a supposed divine encounter—be taken as credible?**
Or are there other tests (e.g., alignment with Scripture, discernment by spiritual authorities, the fruit of the encounter) that must also be considered?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jun 23, 2025, 05:46 PM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 11:15 PM
3
votes
5
answers
2644
views
Was Mary Magdalene chosen to be the first witness to the resurrection because the testimony of women is more credible than that of men?
I was listening to a preacher and he made this claim that a woman was the first witness to the risen Christ because traditionally our societies hold the testimony of women to be more credible than that of men. I thought Mary became the first witness because of co-incidence but he suggests otherwise,...
I was listening to a preacher and he made this claim that a woman was the first witness to the risen Christ because traditionally our societies hold the testimony of women to be more credible than that of men. I thought Mary became the first witness because of co-incidence but he suggests otherwise, is he correct that Mary Magdalene being the first witness to the risen Christ was part of God's plan because the testimony of women is more credible?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Feb 24, 2025, 08:37 AM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 11:14 PM
1
votes
2
answers
74
views
Is it possible for a Christian to protest against government authority in a Christ-like manner?
Given the biblical call to submit to governing authorities (e.g., Romans 13:1–2, 1 Peter 2:13–17), and yet also the examples of godly resistance (e.g., Acts 5:29, Daniel 3, Exodus 1), is it ever appropriate for a Christian to protest government actions? If so, what would such a protest look like in...
Given the biblical call to submit to governing authorities (e.g., Romans 13:1–2, 1 Peter 2:13–17), and yet also the examples of godly resistance (e.g., Acts 5:29, Daniel 3, Exodus 1), is it ever appropriate for a Christian to protest government actions?
If so, what would such a protest look like in a way that remains faithful to the character and teachings of Christ—especially in light of commands to love enemies, be peacemakers, and turn the other cheek?
Are there historical or biblical examples that support the idea of Christ-like protest? How have various Christian traditions understood this tension between submission and resistance?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jun 25, 2025, 09:12 AM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 11:08 PM
0
votes
0
answers
58
views
According to followers of the Unity Church, is the Holy Spirit seen as feminine because of being called a helper like Eve?
Unity Church often [refers][1] to the Holy Spirit in feminine terms, a view that contrasts with traditional Christian doctrine. This raises the question of whether their belief is tied to certain biblical wordings. In Genesis 2:18 (ESV), Eve is introduced with: > “Then the Lord God said, ‘It is not...
Unity Church often refers to the Holy Spirit in feminine terms, a view that contrasts with traditional Christian doctrine. This raises the question of whether their belief is tied to certain biblical wordings.
In Genesis 2:18 (ESV), Eve is introduced with:
> “Then the Lord God said, ‘It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.’”
In the Gospel of John, the Holy Spirit is called a helper multiple times. For example, John 14:16 (ESV) says:
> “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever.”
Other similar references include John 14:26, 15:26, and 16:7, all using the Greek term paraklētos (translated as Helper, Comforter, or Advocate).
Is Unity Church’s feminine understanding of the Holy Spirit based on this shared role/title of “helper” between Eve and the Spirit? Or is their interpretation shaped more by metaphysical symbolism or other theological influences?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jun 26, 2025, 02:44 PM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 11:06 PM
0
votes
1
answers
113
views
Does Bible prophecy describe the end of time or the end of evil?
In reading biblical prophecies about the end times—particularly in books like Daniel, Matthew 24, and Revelation—it's clear that major events such as the final judgment, the defeat of Satan, and the creation of a new heaven and new earth are prophesied. But does the Bible actually predict the end of...
In reading biblical prophecies about the end times—particularly in books like Daniel, Matthew 24, and Revelation—it's clear that major events such as the final judgment, the defeat of Satan, and the creation of a new heaven and new earth are prophesied.
But does the Bible actually predict the end of time itself, or is it more accurate to say it describes the end of evil and the restoration of righteousness?
Do any Christian traditions interpret these eschatological passages as pointing to a timeless eternity after judgment, or is time understood to continue in a renewed creation?
Relevant passages might include Revelation 21–22, 1 Corinthians 15:24–28, and others.
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jun 24, 2025, 03:48 AM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 11:03 PM
0
votes
2
answers
259
views
Is the ability to accurately predict the future a reliable test of a true prophet, given that Satan does not know the future?
Deuteronomy 18:21–22 says that if a prophet’s words do not come to pass, then the Lord has not spoken through them. This seems to suggest that fulfilled prophecy is a sign of true prophecy. Some Christians also believe that Satan does not know the future in the way God does (i.e., perfectly and comp...
Deuteronomy 18:21–22 says that if a prophet’s words do not come to pass, then the Lord has not spoken through them. This seems to suggest that fulfilled prophecy is a sign of true prophecy. Some Christians also believe that Satan does not know the future in the way God does (i.e., perfectly and completely), so any accurate future prediction would necessarily come from God.
However, in Matthew 24:24, Jesus warns of false prophets performing great signs and wonders that could deceive even the elect if that were possible. Does this imply that even seemingly accurate future predictions could come from deceptive sources?
So my question is:
Can fulfilled predictions about the future be used as a reliable test to determine whether a prophet is truly from God, considering the claim that Satan does not know the future? Or are there additional biblical criteria that must be used to discern a true prophet?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jun 27, 2025, 05:52 AM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 11:02 PM
0
votes
1
answers
106
views
Did Jacob's impersonation of Esau constitute the sin of lying?
Rebecca, after overhearing Isaac telling Esau to go and catch a game, prepared a meal for Jacob so he could bless him. However, she advised Jacob to impersonate his brother to receive Esau's blessings instead. How does that not constitute the sin of lying through impersonation, which is deemed immor...
Rebecca, after overhearing Isaac telling Esau to go and catch a game, prepared a meal for Jacob so he could bless him. However, she advised Jacob to impersonate his brother to receive Esau's blessings instead.
How does that not constitute the sin of lying through impersonation, which is deemed immoral and can lead to condemnation if a Christian unapologetically commits? (See story in Genesis 27.)
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Apr 1, 2025, 06:22 PM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 10:58 PM
-1
votes
2
answers
57
views
Do some people face setbacks in life because they have digressed from God's purpose, as seen in the case of Jonah?
In the book of Jonah, the prophet is commanded by God to go to Nineveh, but he chooses to flee in the opposite direction. As a result, he faces a storm at sea and is swallowed by a great fish, symbolizing a form of divine intervention or correction. Eventually, he fulfills his mission. Can some of t...
In the book of Jonah, the prophet is commanded by God to go to Nineveh, but he chooses to flee in the opposite direction. As a result, he faces a storm at sea and is swallowed by a great fish, symbolizing a form of divine intervention or correction. Eventually, he fulfills his mission.
Can some of the difficulties or losses that believers experience in life be attributed to them having strayed from the specific purpose or calling God has placed on their lives, similar to Jonah’s situation?
- Are there theological or denominational views that support or reject this idea?
- How does the New Testament handle this concept, especially in the context of grace and free will?
- Are there examples besides Jonah where people faced hardship because of ignoring God’s will?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jun 29, 2025, 03:52 PM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 10:57 PM
-2
votes
2
answers
125
views
Is 1 Samuel 16:7 why some denominations choose to worship in dark or dimly lit environs?
I've observed that some modern Christian denominations, such as Hillsong and others influenced by contemporary worship culture, often conduct services in dark or dimly lit environments, sometimes using stage lighting, fog machines, and concert-like atmospheres. This seems to contrast with more tradi...
I've observed that some modern Christian denominations, such as Hillsong and others influenced by contemporary worship culture, often conduct services in dark or dimly lit environments, sometimes using stage lighting, fog machines, and concert-like atmospheres. This seems to contrast with more traditional worship settings, which tend to be well-lit and minimalistic.
A possible justification might come from 1 Samuel 16:7, which says:
>*“The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (NIV)*
My question is:
Do denominations that worship in darker environments use 1 Samuel 16:7 to justify this style, emphasizing internal sincerity over external aesthetics?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jun 27, 2025, 03:13 PM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 10:55 PM
-3
votes
1
answers
47
views
Was the Great White Throne in Revelation 20:11 created, or is it eternal like God Himself?
In Revelation 20:11 (KJV), it says: >*“And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away...”* This verse describes the **Great White Throne Judgment**, a central event in Christian eschatology. However, Scripture does not explicitly say whethe...
In Revelation 20:11 (KJV), it says:
>*“And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away...”*
This verse describes the **Great White Throne Judgment**, a central event in Christian eschatology. However, Scripture does not explicitly say whether the throne itself was created (as part of creation) or whether it is eternal — existing with God before creation.
From a Christian theological perspective, is the Great White Throne:
- A **created object**, like the rest of the heavens and earth, or
- An **eternal and divine seat**, inseparable from God's being?
Do any Christian traditions (e.g., Catholic, Orthodox, Reformed, etc.) address the nature and origin of this throne in their teachings or theological writings?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jul 1, 2025, 04:07 PM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 10:53 PM
1
votes
1
answers
68
views
Does the Book of Jubilees imply that the Genesis and Exodus narratives are disorganized or incomplete?
The Book of Jubilees is included in the canon of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and known from the Dead Sea Scrolls. It retells the events of Genesis and part of Exodus, but with significant expansions, reinterpretations, and a highly structured chronological system based on 49-year "jubilee" cycles....
The Book of Jubilees is included in the canon of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and known from the Dead Sea Scrolls. It retells the events of Genesis and part of Exodus, but with significant expansions, reinterpretations, and a highly structured chronological system based on 49-year "jubilee" cycles.
Does the Book of Jubilees imply that the Genesis and Exodus accounts are disorganized, incomplete, or in need of correction?
I'm especially interested in how this is understood within Christian theology, rather than purely literary or historical analysis.
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jul 1, 2025, 09:44 AM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 10:52 PM
4
votes
4
answers
430
views
How could Jesus “become sin” without compromising His divine nature or moral perfection?
In 2 Corinthians 5:21, Paul says: >"For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." (ESV) As someone who affirms the full divinity and sinlessness of Jesus, I’m trying to understand how He could be said to "become sin" without that implyi...
In 2 Corinthians 5:21, Paul says:
>"For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." (ESV)
As someone who affirms the full divinity and sinlessness of Jesus, I’m trying to understand how He could be said to "become sin" without that implying any corruption in His nature or character.
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jul 5, 2025, 05:10 AM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 10:50 PM
1
votes
5
answers
268
views
Why is astrology considered an occult practice from a Christian theological perspective, even though the Magi followed a star?
Astrology is often categorized as an occult practice in Christian theology, especially in Protestant and evangelical circles. I’m trying to understand the theological basis for this. Why is astrology — the practice of interpreting celestial bodies for guidance or insight — considered spiritually dan...
Astrology is often categorized as an occult practice in Christian theology, especially in Protestant and evangelical circles. I’m trying to understand the theological basis for this.
Why is astrology — the practice of interpreting celestial bodies for guidance or insight — considered spiritually dangerous or forbidden? Is it primarily because it involves divination or seeking knowledge apart from God?
I'm also curious how this view is reconciled with the story of the Magi in Matthew 2:1–12, who followed a star to find the newborn Jesus. The Magi are often described as astrologers or wise men from the East who interpreted celestial signs.
If astrology is inherently occult, why would God use something resembling it (a star as a sign) to guide them?
Are there biblical or doctrinal distinctions made between the Magi's actions and the kind of astrology that is condemned in Scripture (e.g., Isaiah 47, Deuteronomy 18)?
I’m looking for a response grounded in Christian theology, not just personal opinions.
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jul 4, 2025, 03:23 PM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 10:47 PM
0
votes
1
answers
27
views
What are the kinds of things the Apocalyptic Beasts in Revelation represent from a Catholic Perspective?
What are the kinds of things the Apocalyptic Beasts in Revelation represent from a Catholic Perspective? Are they the Antichrist, individual kings, kingdoms, etc. I am especially interested in the **First Beast** and **The Second Beast**, which are introduced in **[Revelation 13 (RSVCE)][1]**. [1]:...
What are the kinds of things the Apocalyptic Beasts in Revelation represent from a Catholic Perspective?
Are they the Antichrist, individual kings, kingdoms, etc.
I am especially interested in the **First Beast** and **The Second Beast**, which are introduced in **Revelation 13 (RSVCE) **.
Crucifix San Damiano
(1 rep)
Jul 25, 2025, 10:45 PM
0
votes
0
answers
20
views
Do the 24 elders in Revelation represent the unity of God’s people from both the Old and New Covenants?
Revelation 4:4 describes 24 elders seated around God’s throne, clothed in white and wearing crowns. Many commentators suggest that the number 24 may symbolize the **12 tribes of Israel** (Old Testament) and the **12 apostles** (New Testament), together representing the full redeemed people of God ac...
Revelation 4:4 describes 24 elders seated around God’s throne, clothed in white and wearing crowns. Many commentators suggest that the number 24 may symbolize the **12 tribes of Israel** (Old Testament) and the **12 apostles** (New Testament), together representing the full redeemed people of God across both covenants.
Do Christian scholars or traditions interpret the 24 elders in Revelation as symbolizing the unity of God's people — that is, 12 representing Israel and 12 representing the Church?
Are there denominational views (e.g., Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox) that formally teach or reject this interpretation?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jul 2, 2025, 05:11 AM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 10:43 PM
1
votes
3
answers
103
views
According to those who believe Numbers 24:17 is a Messianic prophecy, how did Jesus crush the skulls of Moab?
Numbers 24:17 says: >*“I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star shall come out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel; he shall crush the skulls of Moab and break down all the sons of Sheth.”* This verse is commonly understood by some Christian traditions to be a Messiani...
Numbers 24:17 says:
>*“I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star shall come out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel; he shall crush the skulls of Moab and break down all the sons of Sheth.”*
This verse is commonly understood by some Christian traditions to be a Messianic prophecy pointing to Jesus Christ—with the “star” and “scepter” symbolizing His **divine authority** and **kingship**.
However, the latter part of the verse includes a violent image:
>*“he shall crush the skulls of Moab.”*
According to those who believe Jesus is the fulfillment of this prophecy, how did he fulfill this part of the verse?
This is because this verse was fulfilled in David who led his armies against the Moabites and conquered them, so how do they reconcile that?
So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jul 5, 2025, 07:51 AM
• Last activity: Jul 25, 2025, 10:42 PM
Showing page 9 of 20 total questions