"...the more the Bible comes alive with meaning"
Reading The Bible Unlocked is an enriching journey for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Scripture and uncover the profound truths within the Word of God. This book serves as a guide to study tools and methodologies that allow readers to navigate the complexities of biblical text. With its emphasis on research and careful analysis, it equips believers with strategies to uncover the original meaning of passages, peeling back layers of historical context and cultural nuances that often obscure modern interpretations. By delving into the intent behind God's words, The Bible Unlocked inspires a more intimate and accurate relationship with the Scriptures.
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CHAPTER 16
  1. What does the Bible say about sex before marriage?

    In Biblical times, when a man spread his garment over a woman, it signified marriage in God’s eyes. In modern terms, this means that sexual relations symbolize a profound union. From God’s perspective, sex signifies a covenant similar to marriage.

    Parents should teach their children the importance of this sacred bond as they grow up. Promiscuity often leads to heartache and trouble. If people understood that intimacy implies a serious, lifelong commitment, they might think more carefully about their choices. While free will allows individuals to make their own decisions, it is crucial to consider whether your actions align with God’s will or stray toward sin.
     


     

  2. What does the Bible say about divorce and remarriage?

    For those who believe divorced individuals are unworthy, consider this: even God is described as a “divorcee” in the Bible (Jeremiah 3:8). Divorce is undoubtedly painful and affects everyone involved, particularly children. However, it is not an unforgivable sin.

    Through repentance and the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ, individuals can find forgiveness for their part in a divorce. While the Bible describes remarriage as adultery if done without repentance, genuine repentance restores one to a clean slate. To deny this is to doubt the full power of Jesus’ sacrifice and forgiveness.
     


     

  3. What does the Bible say about interracial marriage?

    In the Bible, God initially opposed interracial marriage to preserve the pure lineage leading to the birth of Jesus. Any disruption to this lineage could have interfered with God’s plan for our salvation.

    Today, with the gift of free will, individuals have the liberty to choose their life partners. However, it is important to exercise caution. As mentioned in question #34, different races may have different spiritual or cultural offspring. If one unknowingly marries someone incompatible with their faith or values, it could lead to challenges such as an unhappy marriage or even divorce. This is worth careful consideration for personal well-being and spiritual harmony.
     


     

  4. What does it mean when it is written, “if your body parts cause you to sin, cut them off”?

    This passage is not meant to be taken literally. Instead, it serves as a powerful metaphor. Jesus, as the Tree of Life, represents the source of spiritual nourishment, with believers symbolizing the many-membered body. The arms are the branches, the hands are the limbs, and the spine is the trunk.

    If a member of the church, symbolized as an “eye” (a visionary) or a “hand” (a worker), goes astray or becomes a harmful influence, the Scripture advises their removal to protect the congregation. This is the meaning of “if your eye offends thee, cut it out.” It emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the church and its mission by addressing detrimental behavior decisively.

    When encountering challenging or seemingly harsh passages in the Bible, it is essential to seek proper interpretation. The fault often lies not in the Scripture but in its misunderstanding.
     


     

  5. What does it mean when the Bible says you can pick up snakes or drink poison and they will not harm you?

    The reality is straightforward. If you pick up a rattlesnake by the tail, it will bite you, and without immediate medical attention, the consequences could be fatal. This Scripture is often misunderstood when taken literally. Its true meaning is spiritual, not physical. It signifies that if you remain steadfast in your faith, no matter the malicious or harmful words spoken against you, you will be protected by the Gospel Armor and the power of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

    As discussed in question #34, wearing the Gospel Armor provides wisdom and protection, ensuring that Satan’s poisonous darts, whether lies, temptations, or attacks, cannot harm you. However, this does not mean you should physically drink poison or handle snakes. In other words, do not put the Lord your God to the test.

    Use discernment when interpreting Scripture. Not everything is meant to be taken literally. Applying wisdom is key to understanding the Bible correctly.
     


     

  6. A friend told me that because of the New Testament, you can eat whatever you want, provided you ask for God’s blessings. Is that true?

    First and foremost, eating improperly is not a sin that will condemn your soul to the Lake of Fire. However, it is a sin against your body, which can lead to sickness and poor health. Jesus said, “I come not to change the law, but to fulfill it,” which implies that the food laws from Leviticus remain significant.

    Misinterpretations of Scripture often cause confusion. Consider this: have human bodies changed fundamentally since creation? No. The foods that affected people negatively in ancient times still affect us similarly today.

    Here’s an example from Scripture where God taught Peter a lesson using unclean food. God presented Peter with a vision of a sheet containing unclean animals and commanded him three times to eat. Each time, Peter refused. This vision was not about food, but served as an analogy. God was teaching Peter a lesson. He was talking about Cornelius the Centurion and his people, who were outside Peter’s door. Peter was not to call them unclean or unworthy if they believed in Christ. God’s message to Peter was about accepting all believers, not changing dietary laws.

    Then some people misquote the Book of Timothy, claiming that all foods are created to be eaten with thanksgiving. However, the key phrase in Scripture is “created to be received.” God did not create all foods to be consumed. While everything God makes is good, not everything is suitable for consumption. For instance, many rely on their doctor’s approval for eating certain foods, such as bacon. To them, I ask: will you follow your doctor or God?

    Take the pig, as an example. Pigs lack sweat glands on their bodies, so toxins from what they eat remain in their flesh. When you consume pork, those toxins can transfer to you, affecting your health.

    If someone continually eats improperly and ends up sick, they cannot blame God or Satan for their condition. Poor health is often the result of poor dietary choices. At the same time, just because the Bible lists certain foods as clean does not mean everyone should eat them. For instance, while the Bible states that beef is clean, if your body cannot tolerate animal protein, you should avoid it.

    In summary, use common sense, moderation, and personal discernment regarding food laws. Listen to your body and seek balance in honoring both Scripture and your health.
     


     

  7. How Do I Repent?

    Repentance can be as simple as offering this heartfelt prayer:

    “Father, forgive me for all of my sins. Cleanse my spirit and soul. Help me to grow and serve Your will. I ask this in Jesus’ precious name. Amen.”
     


     

  8. There are some people who believe the Earth is only 6,000 years old, while others believe it is billions of years old. Which is correct?

    Some teachings say that about 14,000 years ago, a catastrophic event occurred, often referred to as the Katabole, along with a worldwide flood. This event is attributed to Satan’s rebellion and his influence over a third of God’s children. As a result, the First Earth Age ended around 13,000 years ago, giving way to the current Earth Age.

    Many Biblical scholars argue that denying the existence of the First Earth Age requires disregarding significant portions of Scripture, including books such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Revelation, and much of Paul’s writings in the New Testament.

    To better understand the perspective of those who believe in a 6,000-year-old Earth, it helps to consider their point of view. In conversations with individuals holding this belief, the following perspectives often emerge:

    • They generally reject the concept of the First Earth Age.
    • Scientific methods like carbon dating and the measurement of light from distant stars are often viewed as flawed or inaccurate.
    • Some believe dinosaurs never existed and suggest that God placed dinosaur bones in the ground 6,000 years ago.
    • When asked about Satan’s age, many are reluctant to provide an answer.

    Even though the Bible states, “a thousand years to man is as one day to the Lord,” the 6,000-year timeline is typically based on interpreting the seven days of creation in Genesis as literal 24-hour periods. By counting the genealogies from Adam and Eve to the present, the total length of time humanity has existed is approximately 6,000 years.

    It’s important to note that this belief often pertains to the age of human civilization rather than the planet itself. Many who hold this view acknowledge that, while the current Earth Age spans 6,000 years, the Earth itself is far older, aligning with scientific evidence.

    A potential concern with the 6,000-year-old Earth theory arises when individuals dismiss the First Earth Age. Without awareness of Satan’s rebellion, the fallen angels, or the deeper significance of the events in the Garden of Eden, they may be more vulnerable to deception during spiritual trials.

    That said, it’s essential to respect free will. Everyone has the responsibility to choose their beliefs, and ultimately, it is God who judges.

    Here’s the bottom line: A person’s belief in a 6,000-year-old Earth does not impact their salvation. Is it worth debating the point? Probably not. Instead, focus on starting conversations that encourage others to explore the Bible for answers.

    Respecting differing viewpoints on this or any other Biblical topic is important. Be patient, love others for who they are, and plant seeds of understanding whenever possible.
     


     

  9. After I repent, how can I stop being haunted by those memories, or how can I forget the past memories that make me sad, angry, or ruin my day?

    Here’s a simple technique I learned many years ago. If it is a sin that you have repented for but it keeps coming up in your mind, the first step is to thank our heavenly Father for forgiving you for that sin. Once God forgives a sin, He doesn’t want to hear about it again. If it does come up again, simply thank our heavenly Father for already forgiving you.

    The next step is to distract your mind. To do this, say the words “don’t look back” repeatedly. At the same time, picture a brick wall in your mind and focus on it. By concentrating on the wall and saying “don’t look back” over and over, your mind gets distracted, and your thoughts will drift to something else. This technique is also very effective for overcoming pain.

    With practice, you’ll gain the ability to have more peace and happiness in your life.
     


     

  10. Why do you say… “If God willing, may you have a blessed day”? When isn’t God willing?

    It is written… “Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed”.

    In other words, you should only give God speed to those who follow the word of God. To put it another way, there are conditions that must be met before God will bless. God is not always willing. In other words, let it be God’s will whether they have a blessed day or not.

    If I unknowingly run across an atheist and I say… “If God willing, may you have a blessed day”, and they say I’m an atheist, I just say, “I’m sorry to hear that, then maybe God is not willing”, and I let the conversation end.

    Notice how I did not say “God bless you”, as so many people say to others in their everyday conversations. If I did, I would be offering God’s blessings to an unbeliever. Only offer God’s blessings, if it is God’s will. If in every day, in every way, you lived your life by God’s will, you would live a much happier life.

    Why Did I Choose 50 Questions?

    The reason I chose to answer 50 questions is because of the significance of the number 50 in Biblical numerics. It represents significant life changes, freedom, and the courage to embrace new experiences.

    The number 50 also stands for Pentecost, when the apostles spoke in the Holy Spirit tongue, marking the beginning of the Christian church’s mission to the world. And it also represents the Holy Spirit.