Christianity
Q&A for committed Christians, experts in Christianity and those interested in learning more
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Is there a biblical basis for Pescetarianism?
> Pescetarianism is the practice of following a diet that includes fish > or other seafood, but not the flesh of other animals. ([Wikipedia](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pescetarianism)) Any insights would be really helpful, thanks. To specify, I'm asking from a Methodist point of view.
> Pescetarianism is the practice of following a diet that includes fish
> or other seafood, but not the flesh of other animals. ([Wikipedia](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pescetarianism))
Any insights would be really helpful, thanks.
To specify, I'm asking from a Methodist point of view.
Nick
(170 rep)
Dec 4, 2014, 11:48 PM
• Last activity: Oct 22, 2025, 07:30 PM
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Historical Creationism and Books
Do you know of any other books (besides those by John Sailhamer) that advocate for Historical Creationism?
Do you know of any other books (besides those by John Sailhamer) that advocate for Historical Creationism?
Maurício Cine
(19 rep)
Aug 26, 2024, 11:45 AM
• Last activity: Oct 22, 2025, 12:01 AM
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What are the Biblical reasons for getting married?
The basis for this question comes from a conversation I had with a friend. She said to me 'The only reason that two people should get together and get married is because they can do more for the Kingdom of God together than they can do apart.' On the face of it, this viewpoint makes sense and is not...
The basis for this question comes from a conversation I had with a friend. She said to me 'The only reason that two people should get together and get married is because they can do more for the Kingdom of God together than they can do apart.' On the face of it, this viewpoint makes sense and is not without some positive aspects, and it is certainly one that I have heard in the church for years. But I don't believe that there is a specific biblical passage that would support this viewpoint.
This led me to ask myself, and to ask here, what reasons does the Bible give for getting married? Is the notion that married people can do more for the Kingdom a Biblical one, or is there another reason given for getting married?
A. Still
(404 rep)
Jan 21, 2013, 01:14 PM
• Last activity: Oct 14, 2025, 10:21 PM
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What is the biblical basis for Mary being the ark of the new covenant?
Both Orthodox and Catholic Christians believe and affirm that the Blessed Virgin Mary is the ***ark of the new covenant***, but is there a scriptural basis for this and if so where do we see this in the Old or the New Testament?
Both Orthodox and Catholic Christians believe and affirm that the Blessed Virgin Mary is the ***ark of the new covenant***, but is there a scriptural basis for this and if so where do we see this in the Old or the New Testament?
user60738
Feb 24, 2023, 05:32 AM
• Last activity: Oct 11, 2025, 03:03 PM
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Does the Bible ever describe the Fall in ways different than Genesis 3?
In his book *In the Beginning*, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger wrote the following with regards to the pre-Pauline hymn of Phil 2:5-11: > We cannot consider this extraordinarily rich and profound text [Phil > 2:5-11] in detail. We want to limit ourselves here to its connection > with the story of the Fal...
In his book *In the Beginning*, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger wrote the following with regards to the pre-Pauline hymn of Phil 2:5-11:
> We cannot consider this extraordinarily rich and profound text [Phil
> 2:5-11] in detail. We want to limit ourselves here to its connection
> with the story of the Fall, even though **it seems to have a somewhat
> different version in mind** than the one that is related in Genesis 3
> (cf., e.g., Job 15:7-8).
What is the account of the Fall presumed by Phil 2:5-11? And what is the account of the Fall related in Job 15:7-8?
More over, are there other places where the Bible gives an account of original sin (either explicitly or implicitly)? If this question is too involved, I would be satisfied by any book/article recommendations.
Doubt
(738 rep)
Oct 27, 2019, 02:53 AM
• Last activity: Oct 10, 2025, 01:24 PM
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What is the Old Testament basis for the belief that God has a unique Son?
### Introduction The NT presents Jesus of Nazareth as the **unique Son of God** in John 3:16: > For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son (**μονογενης υιος, monogenēs huios**), that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. The concept of a single 'son of God' is s...
### Introduction
The NT presents Jesus of Nazareth as the **unique Son of God** in John 3:16:
> For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son (**μονογενης υιος, monogenēs huios**), that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
The concept of a single 'son of God' is seemingly not found in the Hebrew bible. The phrase **bene-elohim/בְּנֵי־הָאֱלֹהִים** (sons of God) are referenced several times in different contexts. Several named characters such as Satan are called **bene-elohim**, such as in Job 1:6:
> "One day the **sons of God** (**בְּנֵי הָאֱלֹהִים, bene-elohim**) came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them."
### Question
What is the Old Testament basis for believing that God has a single, unique son?
Avi Avraham
(1440 rep)
Oct 1, 2025, 01:54 PM
• Last activity: Oct 2, 2025, 10:31 AM
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About the birth of Jacob and Esau, the sons of Rebecca and Isaac
Why did God said to Rebecca that the **elder shall serve the younger?**
Why did God said to Rebecca that the **elder shall serve the
younger?**
Godbless Agbenu
(21 rep)
Sep 23, 2025, 11:34 AM
• Last activity: Sep 28, 2025, 10:17 AM
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How to reconcile God telling Jeremiah to preach to people that won't listen while also saying not to cast your pearls before swine
God tells Jeremiah to preach to people that will not listen: > **Jeremiah 7:2,27 NIV** - Stand at the gate of the Lord’s house and there proclaim this message...[*long message*]...When you tell them all this, they will not listen to you; when you call to them, they will not answer. Later on in bibli...
God tells Jeremiah to preach to people that will not listen:
> **Jeremiah 7:2,27 NIV** - Stand at the gate of the Lord’s house and there proclaim this message...[*long message*]...When you tell them all this, they will not listen to you; when you call to them, they will not answer.
Later on in biblical history, Jesus, whom Christians believe to be God, tells his crowd to not waste words on people that won't listen:
> **Matthew 7:6 NIV** - Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.
What's an overview of Christian responses to how these two things can coexist without contradiction?
LCIII
(9559 rep)
Jul 12, 2018, 03:20 AM
• Last activity: Sep 18, 2025, 10:36 AM
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What is the Biblical basis for concluding 'Jesus is Yahweh (Jehovah or LORD)'?
Of course Christianity believes Jesus is God, but I am interested in this question for the argument that Jehovah (I AM), the name of God which later Jews were not allowed to speak, is a term not unique to the Father. In other words, is this special name 'I AM' just as valid for the Son, as it is the...
Of course Christianity believes Jesus is God, but I am interested in this question for the argument that Jehovah (I AM), the name of God which later Jews were not allowed to speak, is a term not unique to the Father. In other words, is this special name 'I AM' just as valid for the Son, as it is the Father?
Is Jesus = (Jehovah/Yahweh/YHWH) in the flesh?
Note: Yahweh/YHWH are just more original Hebrew representations of the English word Jehovah or capital LORD in our Bibles. These are all the same meaning, i.e. the name 'I AM'.
Mike
(34600 rep)
Mar 17, 2013, 08:28 AM
• Last activity: Sep 17, 2025, 07:43 PM
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Was there a war in Heaven?
There seems to be an idea among some Christians of a metaphysical timeline that goes something like this: 1. All the angels are created sometime before or during the 7 days of creation in Genesis. 2. Satan desires to become like God, and starts a "war in heaven" 3. Satan loses the war and is cast ou...
There seems to be an idea among some Christians of a metaphysical timeline that goes something like this:
1. All the angels are created sometime before or during the 7 days of creation in Genesis.
2. Satan desires to become like God, and starts a "war in heaven"
3. Satan loses the war and is cast out of Heaven along with many other angels before or during the time Adam and Eve reside in Eden.
4. Satan, fallen and cast out of Heaven, appears in Eden in the form of a serpent to tempt Eve, and Adam.
5. Satan continues to tempt, torment, and accuse mankind, as evident in Job.
6. Satan is bound for a time when the Messiah comes into power.
7. Satan is released from bondage and wages a final war upon Heaven with his fallen angels and many nations who follow him.
8. Satan is defeated and cast into the lake of fire, which is eternal destruction.
Was there a war in Heaven for which Satan was cast out that occurred _before_ the fall of man?
What Biblical sources can be cited that describe the events that led to the exile of Satan from Heaven?
Andrew
(8195 rep)
Jun 20, 2014, 08:06 PM
• Last activity: Sep 4, 2025, 03:25 AM
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Many Catholic Depictions of Christ Crucified Show the Piercing into the Right Side. What is the Catholic Basis and Support from the depositum Fidei?
## Many Catholic Depictions of Christ Crucified Show the Piercing into the Right Side. ## **Here are some examples of crucifixes from monastery.com:** - **[Crucifixion Icon][1]** - **[Byzantine Crucifix][2]** And - **[San Damiano Crucifix][3]** It was from the image of Christ in the crucifix at **Sa...
## Many Catholic Depictions of Christ Crucified Show the Piercing into the Right Side. ##
**Here are some examples of crucifixes from monastery.com:**
- **Crucifixion Icon **
- **Byzantine Crucifix **
And
- **San Damiano Crucifix **
It was from the image of Christ in the crucifix at **San Damiano** which miraculously spoke these words to **St. Francis of Assisi**:
> **"Go repair My Church."**
## What is the Catholic Basis and Support from the *depositum Fidei* for the Depiction of the Piercing into the Right Side of Christ? ##
The **best answer** will have arguments from the **72 Books of the Catholic Bible** and **from the writings of the Church Fathers**.
*If there is any relevant supporting information on the topic, such as from the well known private revelations, that may be included in an Endnote.*
----------
## Related Question ##
On what side was Jesus' stab wound?
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Crucifix San Damiano
(1 rep)
Jul 31, 2025, 09:29 PM
• Last activity: Sep 4, 2025, 03:23 AM
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What is the biblical basis for the concept of male headship?
The concept of "male headship" is prevalent in various Christian traditions. What is the essence of and the biblical basis for this concept? *I understand that this is a controversial subject, but this question is seeking a rational answer from the position of those who subscribe to it.*
The concept of "male headship" is prevalent in various Christian traditions. What is the essence of and the biblical basis for this concept?
*I understand that this is a controversial subject, but this question is seeking a rational answer from the position of those who subscribe to it.*
Narnian
(64616 rep)
Jul 3, 2013, 07:40 PM
• Last activity: Sep 4, 2025, 12:55 AM
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Bible verses on Pouring Baptism
I was just hoping that some of you could help find bible stories or scripture that supports the view of Pouring Baptism.
I was just hoping that some of you could help find bible stories or scripture that supports the view of Pouring Baptism.
Midway32
(193 rep)
Sep 3, 2025, 05:21 PM
• Last activity: Sep 3, 2025, 07:15 PM
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What is the Biblical basis for the Oriental Orthodox belief in Miaphysitism?
The Oriental Orthodox Church holds to Miaphysitism—that in the person of Jesus Christ, divinity and humanity are united in one nature (mia physis) without separation, confusion, or change. This view differs from the Chalcedonian definition, which speaks of two distinct natures united in one person....
The Oriental Orthodox Church holds to Miaphysitism—that in the person of Jesus Christ, divinity and humanity are united in one nature (mia physis) without separation, confusion, or change. This view differs from the Chalcedonian definition, which speaks of two distinct natures united in one person.
What passages of Scripture are used by the Oriental Orthodox Church to support the doctrine of Miaphysitism?
Glory To The Most High
(5094 rep)
Sep 2, 2025, 04:17 PM
• Last activity: Sep 3, 2025, 03:35 PM
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5
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What is the biblical basis or precedent for restricting women from serving in war?
In the United States, the Secretary of Defense just lifted the ban on women in combat. Many Christians seem to oppose this idea and believe that women should not be put in combat. What is the biblical basis or precedent for this position?
In the United States, the Secretary of Defense just lifted the ban on women in combat. Many Christians seem to oppose this idea and believe that women should not be put in combat.
What is the biblical basis or precedent for this position?
Narnian
(64616 rep)
Jan 28, 2013, 09:25 PM
• Last activity: Sep 3, 2025, 01:01 AM
7
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What are the biblical arguments against the idea of a post-mortem opportunity for salvation?
Some Christian traditions and theologians suggest that there might be an opportunity for repentance and salvation after death. Others reject this view and argue that Scripture teaches salvation must be received in this life. What are the key biblical arguments against the idea of a post-mortem chanc...
Some Christian traditions and theologians suggest that there might be an opportunity for repentance and salvation after death. Others reject this view and argue that Scripture teaches salvation must be received in this life.
What are the key biblical arguments against the idea of a post-mortem chance for salvation? In particular, which passages are commonly cited to show that the opportunity for repentance ends at death?
Glory To The Most High
(5094 rep)
Sep 1, 2025, 02:15 PM
• Last activity: Sep 2, 2025, 04:27 AM
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What is the scriptural basis for the belief that demons can be behind addictions or persistent sinful habits in Christians?
I’ve often heard a distinction made between *oppression* and *possession*, with the claim that while demons cannot possess Christians, they can still oppress them. In particular, I’ve heard it said that when a Christian struggles with an addiction or a persistent sinful habit, a stronghold they cann...
I’ve often heard a distinction made between *oppression* and *possession*, with the claim that while demons cannot possess Christians, they can still oppress them. In particular, I’ve heard it said that when a Christian struggles with an addiction or a persistent sinful habit, a stronghold they cannot seem to overcome, there may be a demonic influence behind it. This does not mean the believer is unsaved; rather, they are genuinely saved but still wrestling with a stronghold that requires deliverance. My question is: is there any scriptural support for the idea that Christians can be oppressed (but not possessed) by demons, and that they may need deliverance from such oppression, for example in cases where a demon is tied to an addiction or persistent sinful habit from their past that they have not yet overcome?
user117426
(654 rep)
Aug 25, 2025, 08:07 PM
• Last activity: Aug 29, 2025, 11:19 AM
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Is there any Biblical Basis for God hard-determining human behaviour?
As an example of human behaviour: "and he ate" Genesis 3:6. ESV. A. Adam acted out of freewill. B. Adam's action was determined by God positively withholding from Adam the grace to obey Him and refrain from eating. God did this because He wanted to make the point that grace to obey would come throug...
As an example of human behaviour: "and he ate" Genesis 3:6. ESV.
A. Adam acted out of freewill.
B. Adam's action was determined by God positively withholding from Adam the grace to obey Him and refrain from eating. God did this because He wanted to make the point that grace to obey would come through the 2nd Adam, and therefore God withheld it from the 1st Adam. 1st and 2nd Adam are mentioned in 1 Corinthians 15:45-47.
>"And from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace." John 1:16 ESV
C. Stroud
(401 rep)
May 21, 2022, 05:47 PM
• Last activity: Aug 20, 2025, 09:24 AM
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Which Bible Passages Support that God Knows All Future Events?
In "The Biblical Basis of the Doctrine of the Trinity - Introduction" by Robert M. Bowman Jr., he states that God knows all future events. He provides the following verses as support - Is. 42:9; 44:7. Unfortunately, while he provides verses suggesting that God can control the future, he provides no...
In "The Biblical Basis of the Doctrine of the Trinity - Introduction" by Robert M. Bowman Jr., he states that God knows all future events. He provides the following verses as support - Is. 42:9; 44:7. Unfortunately, while he provides verses suggesting that God can control the future, he provides no verse supporting that God knows any or all future events which God chooses not to control.
Which Bible Passages Support that God Knows All Future Events?
I understand that the answer may require showing that God is outside of time.
Hall Livingston
(700 rep)
Aug 17, 2025, 04:20 AM
• Last activity: Aug 19, 2025, 08:39 PM
4
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1
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What is the scriptural support for the concept of having an "encounter with Jesus Christ"?
I was watching a well-known sermon by Paul Washer: ***[Shocking Youth Message (2002) | Paul Washer | HeartCry Missionary Society](https://youtu.be/HkPFv7v9CkY?t=1902)***. At minute 31:42, Paul Washer says: > Brother Paul, it’s absolutely absurd. It is impossible, Brother Paul, to have an **encounter...
I was watching a well-known sermon by Paul Washer:
***[Shocking Youth Message (2002) | Paul Washer | HeartCry Missionary Society](https://youtu.be/HkPFv7v9CkY?t=1902)*** .
At minute 31:42, Paul Washer says:
> Brother Paul, it’s absolutely absurd. It is impossible, Brother Paul, to have an **encounter** with something as large as a logging truck and not be changed.
>
> And then my question would be to you: **What is larger—a logging truck, or God?**
>
> How is it that so many people today profess to have had an **encounter with Jesus Christ**, and yet they are not permanently changed?
So my questions are:
- What does Paul Washer mean by an "encounter with God" or "encounter with Jesus Christ"? How is this different from a "false" encounter with no lasting impact?
- What is the scriptural support for the idea of having such "encounters"?
user117426
(654 rep)
Aug 18, 2025, 08:26 PM
• Last activity: Aug 19, 2025, 04:32 AM
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