What does it mean to live in a world that seems increasingly opposed to our beliefs?

Robert Bosley addresses the challenge of living faithfully in a culture that seems to be turning away from Christian values. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty in placing us in our current time and environment. This understanding should shape our interactions and thoughts, as we acknowledge that God has a purpose for us here. Bosley specifically highlights the role of fathers, who are called to love their wives, raise their children, and uphold biblical teachings, despite being viewed as outsiders by society.

Similarly, Bosley speaks to the role of wives and mothers, affirming that their responsibilities remain unchanged even in a pagan culture. They are to love their husbands and children and maintain their role as homemakers. Although the surrounding culture may challenge these duties, Christian wives are to remain steadfast in their calling. The world may not understand their commitment, yet they are to continue living according to God's commands, knowing that their purpose is divinely appointed.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NKJV): "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven."

How did a young man stand firm in Babylon?

Pooyan Mehrshahi discusses the steadfastness required for young men living in a challenging environment like Babylon. The key to standing one's ground lies in regular prayer and communion with God. By engaging with the Word of God, a young man sharpens his spiritual sword, staying connected with the Lord's people and avoiding isolation, which is a tactic of the devil. The importance of community is emphasized, as the devil seeks to isolate individuals, making them more vulnerable to spiritual attacks.

The speaker further highlights the value of seeking wise counsel from older believers. Young men are encouraged to learn from older mentors, as they provide guidance and support. Working diligently and avoiding compromise are crucial, as Babylon is not a place for rest but for contributing positively. Trusting in God's sovereignty and remaining hopeful in His ultimate victory is essential. Even in dire circumstances, glorifying God and placing hope in Jesus Christ is the young man's calling in Babylon.

1 Corinthians 15:58 (NKJV): "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."

Why do we often find ourselves fearing the face of man rather than trusting in God?

Paul Carrington explores this question by highlighting the danger of placing our trust in human strength over God. He references Jeremiah 17, which contrasts the cursed man who relies on human wisdom with the blessed man who trusts in the Lord. Carrington warns against the temptation to preserve our reputation or platforms, which can lead us to fear people's opinions more than God's. By prioritizing God's honor, we can avoid becoming like a shrub in the desert, missing the good that comes from God.

Fearing man is a common struggle, as Carrington notes with references like Proverbs 29, which states that the fear of man brings a snare. However, those who trust in the Lord find safety. Despite this challenge, we are called to fear God above all else, knowing that true peace comes from obeying Him. Carrington encourages believers to maintain a clean conscience, even when obedience comes with a cost, understanding that we will ultimately stand before God and give an account of our lives.

Isaiah 51:12 (NKJV): "I, even I, am He who comforts you. Who are you that you should be afraid of a man who will die, and of the son of a man who will be made like grass?"

How can we faithfully build and plant our families in Christ?

Dr. Joel Beeke emphasizes the importance of bringing the whole counsel of God into our family lives, starting with our relationships. A strong, loving relationship between husband and wife serves as a model for children, illustrating Christ's love for the church. This love should be evident through both words and actions, creating a nurturing environment where children feel secure and cherished. Demonstrating such love sets a foundation for the family, encouraging children to emulate these values in their future relationships.

Family worship is highlighted as the cornerstone for teaching biblical truths. By consistently gathering for worship, parents can impart essential biblical knowledge and values to their children. It's important not only to focus on teaching but also to incorporate biblical principles into everyday conversations, such as during dinner time or while encountering daily events. Creating a habit of prayer and integrating God's word into daily life helps children understand the importance of living a life grounded in scripture.

Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV): "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."

How should Christians navigate obedience to governmental authorities?

Jeffrey D. Johnson challenges the notion that Christians should follow any state directive unless it explicitly contradicts Scripture. He argues that believers are called to obey the state only within its legitimate sphere of authority. This principle is akin to the jurisdiction we have over our families, where we may offer advice to others, but lack the authority to impose it. Similarly, the state should not overreach its bounds, especially in areas where it lacks divine sanction.

Johnson warns against the state's tendency to assume a god-like role, demanding total allegiance and control over individuals' lives. This elevation of the state to a place of ultimate authority is akin to paganism, where the government becomes a false deity. While Christians are called to respect civil authorities, this does not extend to surrendering God-given rights over personal conscience and family protection. Believers must discern when state demands infringe upon these divinely ordained rights.

Acts 5:29 (NKJV): "But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: 'We ought to obey God rather than men.'"

How should Christians respond when the state challenges the commands of God?

Kevin Swanson addresses the tension between obeying God's commandments and the demands of a totalitarian state. As Christians, we have a responsibility to gather together and not forsake the assembly, despite potential state-imposed restrictions. The judgment of God is a more significant concern than any earthly constraints, urging us to prioritize our spiritual commitments over governmental pressures. When faced with such challenges, believers must maintain their commitment to meeting as the body of Christ and pursue God's will above all else.

In navigating these challenges, Swanson encourages Christians to engage actively in the civil arena. He highlights the importance of advocating for parental rights and the freedom to assemble, drawing inspiration from biblical figures like Joseph and Daniel. Living in a politically challenging environment, Swanson has witnessed success in defending these liberties due to God's sovereignty. He underscores that when God's people commit to their responsibilities, God provides the means to retain their freedoms, regardless of being in the minority.

Acts 5:29 (NKJV): "But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: 'We ought to obey God rather than men.'"

What is the most crucial gift that pastors can offer to their congregations?

In his message, Conrad Mbewe emphasizes the importance of making the Bible the primary focus for church members through regular expository preaching. This practice helps to cultivate a biblical culture within the church, contrasting the often negative influences of the surrounding secular culture. By faithfully expounding on scriptures, pastors enable their congregations to internalize the teachings and principles found in both the Old and New Testaments, thereby making biblical truth the natural lens through which they view the world.

Mbewe further highlights that this approach serves as a safeguard against the prevailing cultural trends, allowing believers to discern the difference between worldly values and biblical truths. As church members grow in their understanding of scripture, they affirm that Jesus, not worldly authorities, is Lord. This acknowledgment reshapes their perspectives on personal, familial, and societal levels, recognizing the significant impact of the gospel through individual responses to scripture.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJV): "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."

What is the foundation upon which we build our lives as Christians?

In his video, Alexander Strauch emphasizes the importance of building on a solid foundation. This foundation is not based on human ideas or philosophies but is grounded in the Lord Jesus Christ, who is God in the flesh, and His chosen apostles and prophets. It is a foundation of truth that is unchanging and eternal. As Christians, we have a blueprint and a guide for how to live our lives, set before us by God through His word. This guide helps us navigate the complexities and ethical questions of life that arise in our ever-changing world.

Strauch points out the contrast between Christians and non-Christians in terms of having a word from God. While Christians have a solid foundation in the teachings of Jesus and His apostles, non-Christians rely on societal majority or power to determine their path. This highlights the stability and certainty that come with building one's life on the teachings of Christ and the apostles. As believers, we are encouraged to look to this foundation for guidance, strength, and encouragement in our daily lives.

Matthew 7:24 (NKJV): "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock."

What does it mean to live between the 'already' and the 'not yet' as a Christian?

Brian Borgman explores the unique position of believers as they navigate their spiritual journey. As members of God's family, Christians have already experienced profound transformations such as spiritual resurrection, adoption, and justification. These elements define the 'already' part of their faith, marking them as distinct from the world. This spiritual identity makes them, in a sense, end times people living in the present, enjoying the blessings of salvation now.

However, believers must also prepare for the 'not yet' aspect of their faith. This involves equipping themselves for the spiritual battles they face in this world, recognizing their identity as a heavenly people living on earth. The promise of ultimate victory provides hope and encouragement, with the assurance that one day they will win big and enter into glory. Thus, maintaining a dual focus on present realities and future promises is crucial for spiritual growth and perseverance.

Romans 8:18 (NKJV): "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."

How should Christians perceive and embrace the responsibility of raising children in today's world?

Tom Ascol emphasizes the importance of returning to the authoritative and sufficient Word of God, especially in the context of family life. He observes that many Christians have been subtly influenced by worldly values rather than being guided by biblical principles. According to Ascol, the church must reclaim its role in discipling believers, encouraging them to understand and live out God's commands regarding family and children. This includes viewing children as a blessing and a heritage from God, as stated in Psalm 127, and challenging the cultural tendencies that minimize the value of having and raising children.

Ascol's message underscores the biblical mandate given to Adam and Eve to cultivate the earth and reflect God's glory through their dominion and multiplication. He argues that Christians today should recognize the privilege and responsibility of bringing children into the world, not out of obligation but as a reflection of God's blessings. This involves nurturing and raising children with the intention of equipping them to be effective instruments for God's purposes, much like arrows in the hands of a warrior. By doing so, believers participate in God's plan to manifest His glory through their families.

Proverbs 22:6 (NKJV): "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."