Listener Questions.
Find answers to some of life’s challenging questions from the pages of the bible.
Q: What is the difference between “the kingdom of God” and “the kingdom of Heaven”?
A: If you take the time to read through the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, you may notice that Jesus refers both to “the kingdom of God” and “the kingdom of Heaven”. And some may wonder what the difference is between the two. And the answer is quite simple, they refer to the same thing.
What is happening here is that “heaven” is being used as a metonymy for “God”. A metonymy is a figure of speech in which something related to a person or thing is being used as substitute for that person or thing. An obvious example of “heaven” being used as a metonymy for “God” occurs in the famous parable of the prodigal son. In that story, after the prodigal son has shamed his father and squandered his inheritance, he returns home to confess his sin and throw himself at the mercy of his father. And when he does so, notice what he says, “Father, I have sinned against heaven [italics mine] and before you.” (Luke 15:21) The prodigal here is not suggesting he has sinned against a place, but rather against God himself. And thus, since “heaven” is representative of God’s dwelling place, it serves as a natural metonymy for God himself.
Q: I'm struggling with forgiving someone who has deeply hurt me. How can I find the strength to forgive and move forward?
A: forgiveness can be one of the most challenging things we face, especially when we've been deeply hurt. However, the Bible is clear about the importance of forgiveness in our lives. In Ephesians 4:32, we're told, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." This verse reminds us that forgiveness is not optional for followers of Christ; it's a commandment.
When we struggle to forgive, we can turn to God for help. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus says, "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." As we receive God's forgiveness for our own sins, we're called to extend that same forgiveness to others. It's important to remember that forgiveness is not condoning or excusing the other person's actions; it's releasing the hold that their actions have on us and choosing to let go of bitterness and resentment. When we forgive, we free ourselves from the burden of carrying anger and pain, and we open the door to healing and reconciliation.
So, if you're struggling to forgive, pray and ask God for the strength and grace to forgive as He has forgiven you. Trust that He will give you the power to let go of the past and move forward in love and freedom.
Q: How can I know if I'm hearing God’s voice or just my own thoughts?
A: Hearing God’s voice and discerning it from your own thoughts is a question that has challenged many believers. The Bible gives us guidance on how to develop the ability to hear and recognize the voice of God.
First and foremost, it is essential to know that God does speak to His children, and He desires a relationship with us where communication is part of our everyday lives. In John 10:27, Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” This verse reassures us that as believers, we can learn to recognize His voice, just as sheep know the voice of their shepherd.
Here Are Some Ways to Discern God’s Voice:
Does it Align with Scripture?
God’s voice will never contradict what He has already revealed in His Word. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Paul reminds us that “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” If what you believe you are hearing goes against biblical principles or teachings, it is not from God. For example, if a thought encourages selfishness or deceit, it’s not from Him.Is There Peace?
One of the markers of God’s voice is peace. Philippians 4:7 speaks of “the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,” guarding our hearts and minds. When God speaks, even if the message is challenging or corrective, there is an underlying peace that accompanies His voice. If a thought leaves you anxious or fearful, it’s wise to step back and evaluate it carefully.Is It Self-Serving or God-Serving?
Ask yourself whether what you’re hearing points you to serve and honor God or whether it’s more focused on fulfilling your desires alone. God’s direction often encourages us to love others, seek justice, and walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8). If the voice prompts actions rooted in selfish ambition, it might be more reflective of your own thoughts.Seek Confirmation Through Prayer and Counsel
In situations where you’re unsure, seek confirmation through prayer and wise counsel. Proverbs 11:14 says, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” Speaking with spiritually mature friends or mentors can provide clarity. Often, God uses others to confirm His voice and guide us in our understanding.
Q: I'm facing a lot of uncertainty and fear about the future. How can I find peace and trust God's plan for my life?
A: Thank you for sharing your concerns with us. It's normal to feel anxious about the unknown, but the Bible offers us reassurance and hope in times of uncertainty. In Jeremiah 29:11, God says, "For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." This verse reminds us that God has a good plan for our lives, even when we can't see it clearly.
Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
So, when you're feeling overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty, turn to God in prayer. Surrender your worries to Him, trust in His goodness, and ask Him for the peace that surpasses all understanding. Remember that God is with you, guiding you each step of the way, and His plans for you are filled with hope and purpose.
Q: I've heard people question the reliability of the Bible, claiming it's just a collection of myths and legends. How can I trust that the Bible is truly the word of God and not just a product of human invention?
A: The question of the Bible's trustworthiness is a common one, and it's understandable to seek assurance in matters of faith. The Bible itself addresses this issue, affirming its divine inspiration and authority. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, we read, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."
This passage emphasizes the divine origin of Scripture, asserting that it is not merely the product of human interpretation or invention but is directly inspired by God Himself.
Additionally, throughout history, the Bible has demonstrated its reliability through fulfilled prophecies, archaeological discoveries, and its enduring impact on individuals and societies. The consistency and coherence of its message across diverse cultures and time periods further attest to its divine authorship.
Ultimately, trusting the Bible requires a step of faith, but it's a faith grounded in the evidence of God's revelation and the transformative power of His Word in the lives of believers. As you seek to deepen your understanding of Scripture, pray for wisdom and discernment, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you into a deeper relationship with God through His Word.
Q: What does it mean to “Walk in the Spirit?” And how do I do that on a daily basis?
A: To walk in the Spirit means to live each day guided by the Holy Spirit, aligning your thoughts, actions, and decisions with the will of God. In Galatians 5:16-17, Paul writes, “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh.” This emphasizes the inner battle between our human nature and God’s influence within us.
Walking in the Spirit is not merely about behaving morally but involves nurturing an active, ongoing relationship with God. It means inviting the Holy Spirit to influence your actions, speech, and thoughts throughout the day. When Paul talks about “keeping in step with the Spirit” in Galatians 5:25, he encourages believers to maintain a rhythm of life that reflects spiritual growth and intimacy with God.
To walk in the Spirit daily, consider beginning your day by surrendering your plans to God and asking Him to fill you with His Spirit, as Ephesians 5:18 suggests: “Be filled with the Spirit.” This filling is not a one-time event but a continuous practice of yielding yourself to the Lord’s leadership.
Practically speaking, walking in the Spirit means choosing kindness, patience, and love, even when it is difficult. It’s when we pause before speaking to ask, “What would Jesus want me to say?” or when we respond to frustration with grace instead of anger. The fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23—love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—become markers of a life led by the Spirit.
Ask yourself throughout your day: Am I being led by the Spirit right now, or am I acting in my own strength? This simple reflection can help realign your heart to be in tune with God.
Q: I often feel overwhelmed by the challenges of life and struggle to find peace. How can I experience true peace in the midst of chaos?
A: finding peace in the midst of life's challenges is something many of us struggle with. However, the Bible offers us hope and guidance on how to experience true peace, even in the midst of chaos. In Philippians 4:6-7, we're encouraged, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This verse reminds us that peace comes from trusting God and bringing our concerns to Him in prayer. When we surrender our worries and fears to God and trust in His faithfulness, He promises to give us a peace that goes beyond our understanding. In John 14:27, Jesus says, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." As followers of Christ, we have access to the peace that comes from knowing Him and trusting in His promises. So, if you're feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, spend time in prayer, meditate on God's Word, and trust that He is with you, bringing peace to your heart and mind.
Q: How do I defend my faith in a secular world?
A: Defending your faith in today’s secular world involves a mix of understanding what you believe, living out those beliefs authentically, and being able to communicate them clearly and respectfully. Here's how you can approach this:
Equip Yourself with Knowledge
First, it's essential to know what you believe and why. Spend time reading and studying the Bible so you understand its core messages and teachings. Additionally, explore apologetics, which is the discipline of defending your faith through reason and evidence. There are many great resources out there, including books and online courses, that can help you learn how to respond to common questions and challenges about Christianity.
Live Out Your Faith
Your actions often speak louder than your words. Strive to live in a way that reflects the values and teachings of Jesus. This means showing love, patience, kindness, and integrity in all aspects of your life. When people see you living out your faith authentically and consistently, it can have a powerful impact. Serving others, being compassionate, and showing genuine care for those around you are practical ways to demonstrate your faith.
Engage in Respectful Conversations
When talking about your faith, always aim to be respectful and loving. Listen to others' viewpoints and try to understand where they are coming from. This doesn’t mean you have to agree with them, but showing that you respect their perspective can open the door to meaningful dialogue. Share your beliefs calmly and clearly, without being confrontational or argumentative. Your personal stories and experiences can be particularly powerful, as they show how your faith has made a difference in your life.
Pray for Guidance and Boldness
Prayer is a crucial part of defending your faith. Ask God for wisdom in how to approach conversations and for the courage to speak up when needed. Trust that He will guide you and give you the words to say.
Be Patient and Trust God
Finally, remember that changing hearts and minds is ultimately up to God. Your role is to share your faith and live it out; God is the one who works in people's hearts. Be patient and trust that He will use your efforts in His timing and in His way.
Q: How can I be a better witness for Jesus at work?
A: Being a better witness in the workplace starts with living out your faith authentically and intentionally. Colossians 3:23-24 says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” This means that your work itself can be an act of worship. When you approach your tasks with integrity, excellence, and humility, others are more likely to notice the difference in your character and be drawn to ask about your faith. Your work ethic and attitude can speak volumes about your relationship with Christ before you even say a word.
Another essential aspect of being a witness is demonstrating Christ-like love and kindness.
In John 13:34-35, Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” This can translate into small but impactful acts: listening when a coworker needs to talk, offering help when someone is overwhelmed, or showing grace during conflicts. These behaviors build trust and open the door for deeper conversations about your faith.
Lastly, be ready to share your story when the opportunity arises. 1 Peter 3:15 instructs us, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” Sharing personal testimonies, rather than sermons, helps others relate to your experiences. Be genuine and let God use your words to touch their hearts. Trust that God will guide those moments and give you the right words to say when the time is right.
Remember, being a witness is less about preaching and more about embodying the teachings of Jesus in everyday actions. Your consistency, compassion, and openness can light the way for others to see Christ in you.