How many of you can remember me asking you to “move to the center of the pew” at some point in the last year? If you’ve attended a holiday service or our 10:30 am service, you’ve probably heard me ask that. God continues to do amazing things at PAC through continued growth. Should we be surprised? No! We shouldn’t expect anything less from the faithful God we worship and serve.
We have seen continued growth in many key areas at PAC, including our weekly attendance. We have planted our first church in Hamilton that is averaging over 250 people weekly. Since launching 217church, we have averaged 1,430 in attendance, here at PAC. Almost half of those individuals attend the 10:30 am service on Sunday. The sanctuary is at capacity during the 10:30 am service. When asked, “Why do you prefer the 10:30 am service?” we heard answers like, “We love the sense of community we feel in a full sanctuary, all joining in worship together.” and “The timing just works for us. It’s not too early and not too late.”

We are growing as a congregation. What a pleasant problem to have…but…we need to do something…and fast.

Sanctuary Expansion

To better accommodate the existing Body and those that God is sending to PAC, we are planning to expand the main level sanctuary by 150 seats. Considering the current economic environment, we looked for the best possible solution to expand the sanctuary with minimal investment. The proposed expansion will cost PAC approximately $200,000. We will be paying for it by using cash on hand, so that no debt is incurred. Additionally, no capital campaign will be needed. We can remain focused on giving to our existing priorities:

The General Fund – funding our internal ministries
He Cares We Care, – our ministry to the “least of these” supplying basic needs of food, shelter and transportation
The Great Commission – our mission outreach with primary focus on Mexico, Brazil and Thailand
217church – our new church plant in Hamilton, NJ
So, here’s what’s happening:

Construction is scheduled to begin the week of June 21.
The project is targeted for completion by the first week in September.
Disruption to the stage and back walls in the sanctuary will last for four to six weeks.
We have worked extensively with the contractor to minimize impact on the weekend worship services.
During this time our worship team will adjust their approach to accommodate the construction.
And how about our kids’ summer camp? The stage will be back in place before camp. No work will be done during camp hours to allow us to focus on ministering to our children without distraction!
Shift in Service Times

After careful consideration, we are proposing a change in service times to maximize our potential for “what works” on Sunday mornings, after the remodel is complete.

Considerations included:

Sense of community that is felt with a full sanctuary vs. a sanctuary that’s half full
Staff and volunteer time needed to pull off three services each Sunday
Expanded facility usage for small/mid-size group activities occurring on Sunday afternoons
We believe the most efficient outcome is to move the three Sunday services to two. We believe two services of 600+ in attendance, has a lot more community synergy than our current status. Therefore, we are planning to shift the Sunday services as of our kick-off weekend of September 11 – 12. The new service times will be 9:30 am and 11:15 am.

Celebrate

This is an exciting time of growth for PAC. Join me in celebrating our response to God’s calling as we look for new ways to meet the needs of our congregation and community. Celebrate that we are a thriving community here at PAC because of God’s work here! Celebrate that we are reaching even more broken people around the globe, only made possible through God’s grace! Celebrate our sanctuary expansion as an opportunity to fill these new seats with more people that have an opportunity to worship our Savior! As we celebrate God’s good works in the midst of construction, it all comes down to the heart of worship. It’s all about our Lord and Savior, and helping people experience Him to the fullest! We will not lose focus of that. And, I’m sure God will bless us with some “aha” moments along the way.

Seeking the Lord together with you,

Boyd Hannold
Senior Pastor
Princeton Alliance Church

1. What is Princeton Alliance Church about? How is it different from other churches?

PAC is an evangelical church with a contemporary worship style. It belongs to the Metro District of the Christian and Missionary Alliance of churches. The best way to answer this question is to come to a Discover PAC class (contact adults@princetonalliance.org to get information on the next class) where we will take a couple of hours to help you get to know us.

2. Does God care if you get a tattoo? Please reference Lev 19: 28.

Leviticus was written around 1450 to 1400 B.C. by Moses after the LORD spoke to them. Verse 28 says we are not to make any marks on our bodies. At the same time, verse 27 says that we are not to round off the side hair growth on our heads or on our beards. Verse 26 says we are not to eat any meat with the blood in it. However, many Christians today grow beards of all shapes and love to eat rare meat. There has always been a dividing mark between the laws of the Old Testament – moral and ceremonial. The moral laws, such as the 10 commandments, still remain. The ceremonial laws were fulfilled in Christ. These verses in Leviticus were written because these activities were two practices of the heathen 3500 years ago. The LORD was giving laws for daily living in this section of the Bible for the Israelites to distinguish themselves from the heathen in the broader context setting standards for God’s people in His call to holiness. Today, God’s call is to Jesus. It is about drawing all people to himself regardless of outward appearances. He sent His Son, Jesus, specifically to fulfill the law once and for all as the perfect sacrifice for all.

3. Why was John the Baptist not allowed to drink alcohol?

John the Baptist took a vow as part of a monastic type community he was a part of. He took the Nazarite vow (Numbers 6:1-27) which also included not cutting his hair or going near anything unclean such as graves. It was a personal choice that John the Baptist made and not a mandate from scripture for everyone to follow.

4. Why did God set Adam & Eve up to fail? He knew everything that was going to happen, so did He cause all this by setting it in motion?
Why wouldn’t God want Adam & Eve to have knowledge of good and evil? Wouldn’t that be a good thing?

God does know everything and knew that Adam and Eve would fail. God’s nature is one of love and wanting to be in relationship with man that he created. God could have prevented sin or just made us His perfect worshipers, the end result being more of a ‘robot’ style of relationship where we simply do what we were commanded. Instead He chose to give us a free will, to choose to follow His ways and worship Him. The same goes for the tree of knowledge of good and evil, it was a choice for Adam and Eve to be obedient and be in relationship with God. If they had not eaten of it, God would not have to leave them to their own interpretations of what was actually good and what was evil. He would be in relationship with them to lead them always down the proper path. By eating of that tree, they not only understood but they understood without the ability of God to choose the “good” path at all times. That’s why it was not a good thing to eat of the tree.

Love that is forced is not love. God knew that and put the “test” there so that He could have a relationship with us. They didn’t have to fail, in fact they didn’t fail until Satan got involved and Adam and Eve chose to not follow God’s guidelines. The result was that evil, sin, suffering, sickness, and death entered the world ever since. Adam and Eve’s decision results in each and every person being born with a sin nature, a tendency to sin. Adam and Eve’s decision is what ultimately required Jesus Christ to die on the cross and shed His blood on our behalf so that we would be free from the curse of sin. But since God was all knowing, He had the plan of Christ ready even before Adam and Eve sinned. He loves us that much, even including the sacrifice of His son into his plans from the start. Through faith in Christ, we can be free from sin’s consequences. God did not set them up so that he could punish them for eternity. He made a way for them to have a genuine relationship with Him.

When we live a life as Christ as our savior, not only do we have this amazing opportunity to be in relationship with the creator of the universe, be free from the curse of sin and as Jesus said in John 10:10, we can live live to the fullest as sons and daughters of God.

1. How does God look upon someone who has made the decision to divorce someone they thought they loved, but, turned out otherwise?

Matthew 5:31-32 says, “It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery.” This passage from Jesus speaking in the Sermon at the Mount is clear concerning acceptable reasons for divorce. There are additional considerations that you will find in a message from Boyd Hannold delivered on the weekend services on January 13, 2008. You might want to get that message off the website or in DVD format. However, falling out of love with your spouse is not one of those reasons given by God to allow for divorce. Probably many marriages today are in a state of lovelessness for a variety of reasons, either legitimate or not. Classes like Marriage Built to Last at PAC help couples find Christ-centered marriages that involve hard work, clear communication and mutual respect for one another.

2. What is the Biblical perspective on romantic relationships with non-believers?

The question, “Should Christians go out with or date a non-Christian?” is an age-old question. There are of course many stories of Christians dating non-Christians who eventually give their lives to Christ and they go on to be married. Unfortunately, there are more stories to the contrary that end in heartache and splitting up either before or after marriage. The Bible says guard your heart above all else. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.” Be careful of getting into situations that could end badly and a root of bitterness springs up in you. Hebrews 12:15 says, “See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” Jesus is our model of dedication to God and we are limited as Christians in the things we should do. Our lives should reflect the principle of living for God as much as possible, rather than the concept of how much we can get away with. The Bible is clear that a believer should not marry a non-believer. 2 Corinthians 6:14 says, “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?” So, why should we put ourselves in the position of possibly falling in love with an unbeliever by dating them in the first place? This is one where great care should be exercised.

3. Is dating ok? Should we encourage or discourage kids from dating?

While most people have differing opinions about dating, it is one area where the Bible does not give a lot of information. We live in a culture that revolves around dating. To avoid it completely would be difficult at best. However, Christian teens can get some idea of God’s expectations from certain scripture verses:
• Genesis 2:24: “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.”
• Proverbs 4:23: “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.”
• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

These three scriptures give insight into the Christian dating life. We need to realize that God means for us to meet the ONE person that we are meant to marry. According to Genesis, a man will leave home to marry one woman to become one flesh. You do not need to date a lot of people (although there is no prohibition not to) – just the right one.
Also, Christian teens need to guard their hearts. The word “love” is thrown around with little thought. Yet, we often live for love. We live for God’s love first and foremost, but we also live for the love of others. While there are many definitions of love, 1 Corinthians tells us how God defines love.
It is love that should drive Christian teens to date, but it should not be the shallow version of love. When you date it should be taken seriously. You should know the person you are dating, know their beliefs and seek to help them in their walk.

4. What if you are a non-believing spouse?

I am not exactly sure what the question is focused on. However, assuming you are a spouse to a believer and you are looking for answers related to restore/improve your marriage to a believer much is the same in all marriages to continually reach deeper levels of intimacy. You are free to make your own choices as to how you will handle the relationship but Scripture should guide the believing spouse. Real intimacy will only occur when the deepest belief systems between two people match. There are three verses that apply to this type of marriage as well:

Genesis 2:24: “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.”
Proverbs 4:23: “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-7: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

The difference for the non-believer is that the believer has made Jesus the Lord of their life. If they are a practicing believer they are following Jesus’ teachings and are conforming their character to that of Jesus. Since Jesus is the believer’s model they are limited as Christians in the things they should do. They have to sacrifice many things the world does not and one of those things is putting Jesus first even above the relationship with the spouse. This does not mean that the believer does not love the spouse. It does mean that they may be called to a higher standard of behavior towards God and other human beings.

This summer our high school students have an incredible opportunity to be a part of a life-changing experience – the LIFE 2010 conference in Louisville Kentucky.

The LIFE conference happens once every three years.  LIFE 2010 will equip our students to grow and mature in their faith.  Students spend five days listening to powerful speakers, incredible bands and being enriched by seminars and break out sessions focused on:

• Learning how to grow in their faith
• Developing community with one another
• Equipping them to bring hope into the world around them

Here’s how you can help…

• Sponsor a student  now through June 30.  If you would like to help sponsor a student and would like work done around your house, babysitting, cleaning, tutoring, etc., please complete the questionnaire available at the link below.

http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dERRcHU4b0U0QkdNY0xhTjhpZXZ1bUE6MQ

The student ministries’ team will take the information and match you up with a student.  The goal is to have the work done before the student goes on the trip.  However, if you have other work that needs to be done later in the summer, just let them know.

• Get your car washed! Come by for a car wash and make a donation to help a student attend the LIFE 2010 conference.  Saturday, June 12 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at PAC.

If you have any questions, contact the student ministries’ team at students@princetonalliance.org.

Thank you for your help in making a difference in the next generation.

Boyd Hannold
Senior Pastor
Princeton Alliance Church

What does the Bible say about contraception? What, if any, kind is acceptable? Is using the pill a sin?

Our view would be that contraception is not a sin and that using the pill is not a sin. There simply is not enough biblical evidence that points towards contraception being a sin. Contraception becomes then a matter of personal conscience that should be taken with great care. One view would state that contraception interferes with the will of God on someone’s life and that the sole purpose of marriage is procreation. (Genesis 38:1-10) While procreation is a reason God gives marriage there are other reasons as well: Companionship (Genesis 2:18) and pleasure and intimacy (1 Corinthians 7:3-5). God can work through human choices and is about redeeming his purpose of marriage.

What does the Bible say about intervention for infertile couples? Is IVF acceptable or playing God?

Because of the technological revolution that has allowed modern medicine to help people conceive and keep children alive, we have this privilege as God has allowed us to preserve life and encourage the health and repair of a woman’s body. Medicine can be used for the beautiful purpose of sustaining life or destroying it. The key is that God values life. Even when natural conception happens, it is clear that it is God who ordains and sustains life. (Nehemiah 9:6) One needs to be careful of extreme position on this issue because the clear view is that God values human life. All human life from the point of conception needs to be treated with care, dignity and respect.

How do I let go of worry and anxiety in this upside down economy?

Anxiousness and worry is a part of life we will struggle with but God gives us his peace that comes with the Holy Spirit. Peace is actually a fruit of having the Holy Spirit dwell in you. God promises his peace and we should pray for his peace. WIth things the way they are in today’s economy the key is to not put our trust in the things, money and systems of the world for our eternal significance. Jesus and Paul give specific words that say “Do not worry” (Luke 12:22) and “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6) Jesus does not want us to be entangled in greed, worry, or covetousness because they pull us away from God. Do I worry? Yes. Do I need to or have to? No. When you feel worried take a moment and stop for prayer and let God’s peace walk you through that moment. This type of situation also speaks to our need for others however. There are those times when we are going under and we know these truths and recite prayer, but we still can’t see how we will get through tomorrow. This is the biblical need and nature of the body. Having someone who can minister to you during this time is a critical piece of allowing the body to function at its best. We need each other and times like these allow that to happen.

Why are some saying 12/12/12 will be the end of the world?  Isn’t God the only one who knows when this day will be?

The 12/12/12 prediction is based on the Mayan calendar and their belief system, and has no link to Christian beliefs.

The Bible tells of many events that will occur before the Second Coming and which will be signs that the end is near. There will be wars, famines, earthquakes, false prophets, persecutions, and an increase in wickedness, the Gospel must first be preached to all nations and the temple at Jerusalem would be destroyed. (The temple was in fact destroyed by the Romans in 70 A.D.)

The timing of the Second Coming has been a subject of hot debate within Christianity from the beginning. Jesus, Himself, said no one would be able to predict exactly when He would return:

“No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.” Mark 13:32-33

“Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. ” 1 Thessalonians 5:1

We should also not use Jesus’ gift of salvation as insurance to get to heaven. We should embrace living a life in relationship with Jesus, utilizing the time we have to serve God in His earthly kingdom until the day He calls us unto himself.

What do the end times look like?  What are the signs or critical points? Can we study the book of Revelation or is it hard to understand?  Can we have a sermon series on this?

Our knowledge of the end times is largely based on the words of Jesus referring to His return as well as apocalyptic prophecy (God’s revelation of a specific end time) we find in books like Daniel, Ezekiel, Zechariah and the book of Revelation.  We recognize scripture as the divine words of God, but care must be taken with interpreting apocalyptic literature and not read more into it than was meant.  This is not an easy task and it is the reason that there are so many “camps” when we talk about details of the end.  Probably the one best passage that describes signs of the end times is Matthew 24.  You should read that and make your own list.  Of all the passages on the end times, this one is most easily understood.

By the way, we should not only look at Revelation as a study of the “end times” but also to other lessons that can be gained from this book.  Its principles include those of redemption, the reign of Christ in judgment and the establishing of the kingdom of God.

Yes, we could have a sermon series on this.  I tend to concentrate on those Scriptural issues that we clearly need to understand for our life in Christ in the here and now.  Obviously, all Scripture has some relevance to our lives at this point in time but those dealing with the final days are not high on my list for a sermon series.

And yes, Revelation is hard to understand.

Is it okay to question God or to ask “why Lord”?

Even the prophet Habbakuk had questions regarding the timing of the Lord’s plan. Habakkuk, rather than being rebuked for his questions, is patiently answered, and the prophet ends his book with a song of praise to the Lord. Many questions are put to God in the Psalms (Psalms 10, 44, 74, 77). These are the cries of the persecuted who are desperate for God’s intervention and salvation.

Although God does not always answer our questions in the way we want, we conclude from these passages that God welcomes a sincere question. In these times we should be in dialog with God, not only asking but also listening, being in relationship with Him.

We may not get the answer we’re looking for, or even be able to change what has happened, but by coming into God’s presence we enter into a special place, a place of comfort, of healing, a place where we can find peace and acceptance. Part of the process is us understanding God’s sovereignty, His perfect plan and understanding and the fallen nature of man that has placed us in an imperfect world.

We can question God, but we should not with the attitude of demanding an answer. And like Job, if we cross the line from questioning for an answer to question in judgment, God has every right to remind us how little we know and how much greater He is than us.

God knows our hearts, and knows whether we are genuinely seeking Him to enlighten us.

How do you reach a child who is unlovable and says, ‘I don’t think there is a God?’

I believe by you asking the question, you still love them (even though they are unlovable). So, that’s where we’ll start. In spite of poor behavior (and there should be consequences for that), in spite of their lashing out, in spite of them declaring there is no God, you still love them. And if you are at the point where the pain is so severe that you are struggling to love them, give them over to God and His love for them, which is perfect, everlasting and complete. And do that through prayer for them. If the child is old enough to be on his/her own it may include the possibility of them moving out of the household in order to protect the rest of the family and in order for you to be able to manage your emotions and response to him/her. But it never includes cutting all lines of communication.

Do all you can to love them with the love that God has shown you. But remember that there should be standards set and maintained by the parents. In the book of 1 Samuel the priest Eli was reprimanded because he did nothing to turn his children away from their sin.

1 Corinthians 13: 4 – 7
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

God sent His only son, not to condemn your unlovable child (even though right now they are rejecting Him), but to love and save them!

John 3: 16 – 17
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

Romans 8: 38 – 39 (read Romans 8: 28 – 39 for the whole story)
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

I struggle with one major element of Christianity. How am I to worship a GOD that sacrifices loved ones?

I am not completely sure I understand your question. If you are referring to God’s sacrifice of his Son remember that God sacrificed His loved one to save you. Romans 5:8 says, But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners Christ died for us and John 3:16 says, For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son that whoever believes in Him will have eternal life. Romans 6:23 says, For the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. The sacrifice was huge but was also temporary in that Jesus was then raised from the dead to return to the Father.

And remember that Jesus’ death was in replacement for mine. I was supposed to be judged for my sin. One sacrifice cleared the way for all of us to be saved from it. Isn’t it amazing that God loves me and you so much that he would send His only Son to die for us? He loves us so much to do that. I see that as amazing. He sacrificed His Son knowing that it would be hard and painful just so that He could spend eternity with you and I. He also knew that because Jesus is God that He would conquer death. What other god expresses His love for you and I in this way. There is no other. Why would you not want to worship a God like this?

I hear people say God only did miracles in the days of Noah and Moses but if we don’t expect God to do miracles why would He do them in our day?

To say that God only does miracles in the days of Noah and Moses is somewhat short-sighted. There are miracles throughout the Scriptures. Jesus did many in the Gospels. The apostles did even more in the book of Acts. 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 says, “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines.” And 1 Corinthians 14:5b and 13 says, “He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified.” For this reason anyone who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret what he says.”

This 1 Corinthians passage is clear that there are miracles that are included in the gifts of the Spirit. Our pastor of Spiritual Development Matt Murphy had a miracle happen to him in the healing of his knee. Jesus also said that we could do greater works than He did. I always wonder if that refers to the miracle of leading someone to Christ. You are right, though, in that there is an element of faith or expectation involved. Jesus says in Matthew 17:20 that if we have faith as small as a mustard seed we can move mountains. We need to expect and believe for anything to happen in God’s Kingdom. In the practical realm, we do seem to see fewer miracles today. I am not sure why but it may be because in those early days it was necessary for everyone to see God’s power through Jesus. Now we have His Word as well as the testimony of millions who have had their lives transformed.

Why did Jesus put a curse on the fig tree? Matthew 21:18-21

There is no reason given but in looking at the context, we can see where there might be several reasons for this. First, Jesus wanted to show the disciples that with a little faith they can do great things like move a mountain (v21-22). Secondly, there are many parallels in this passage. In the Old Testament, judgment on Israel is described in terms of the land producing no fig trees. (Micah 7:1-6 and Jeremiah 8:13) Jesus may have done this to help His disciples remember this comparison. Now was the time of judgment for Israel. Mark also shares this same story in Mark 11:12-25 and has it in the midst of Jesus condemning what was happening in the Temple. Right after Jesus turns over the tables in the Temple in the Mark passage, Peter remembers what Jesus did when they saw the fig tree. The imagery comes together for Peter. This would lead us to believe that it came together for the disciples as well. He cursed the fig tree to show that the unspiritual exercises in the Temple were to come to a cease. But remember, the bottom line is that we do not know for sure.

so we are continuing to provide answers until every question is answered.  Visit princetonalliance.org/worship/online to hear some of the topics already discussed during weekend services.

How do I keep God first in my life ALWAYS?

It begins with a choice. “Whom will you serve, God or man?” We must choose this as a priority in our life. If He is a top priority, we will continually look for ways to understand Him, to seek Him, and to discover what He has in store for us. It can be simply divided into 6 categories (which spell out HABITS). H stands for hang time with God, this is our prayer time, discovering who He is, worshiping Him, finding a quiet place to hear His voice and discovering answers with His guidance. A stands for accountability – we need other people in our lives that will help keep us on track. This can also be someone who is challenging us when we get off track, or just someone who asks ‘are you keeping God first in your life?’ B is Bible memorization – this may seem like it is for kids, but scripture tells us to hide God’s word in our hearts, so when we are at a place where we don’t have support, or we feel distant from God, we can remember the promises He gives us. Often, He will use the memorized scriptures to speak to us right when we need it. This is a great way to keep God first all the time. Choose to take time, choose to learn His words, and constantly roll them over in your mind. When we get into a questionable situation, what will come to mind first are the verses we have memorized. I stands for involvement. Part of staying connected with God is to be a part of where He is working. Finding a ministry, or an opportunity to serve either in the church or in an area where God is working, we will continually be able to see Him, and also be able to experience Him in a new and fresh way. For example, if you go on a retreat with students or children, you will have a whole weekend in which you can see God changing lives. It not only encourages you, but also inspires you to be further involved in what God is doing. T is tithing – this is not only with money, but also with time. S stands for Scripture – it is important to continually be in God’s word, discovering the truths He gives us.

These are tips to strengthen your relationship with God but human nature and circumstances will play into this as well. Some days (or weeks or months) will be more successful than others. So it may take a recommitment to these principles every once in a while. That is what Romans 12:1-2 is all about. “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. This is not a one time “offer.” You should ask yourself every six months, “How am I doing on my H-A-B-I-T-S?

How do you avoid gossip or topics you do not want to discuss with other people?

You can excuse yourself politely, or say no. Avoiding gossip seems to be the most difficult because it feeds off of other people, especially those who you consider friends. However, it is also wrong if you speak of someone while not in their presence and certainly if it is not for the “building up of the body.” (Ephesians 4:16) Philippians 4:8 also says to concentrate only on those things that are pure, noble and good. My advice would be to say ‘sorry, I would rather not talk about that’, or simply excuse yourself. And if you do hear of something, make sure you do not become a conduit by repeating it to anyone else. In the case where someone has a grievance toward another and brings it to you, refer them back to the person that has offended them. Matthew 18:15, “If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you.”
Is it possible for the Bible to be wrong? How do all the people who preach about the Bible know that they are correctly interpreting the Word?

For the first part of this question, please listen to the message from May 2, 2010 (last weekend). As far as question 2 is concerned, obviously I cannot speak for ALL those who preach. I can speak for myself. First, some passages are clear and the literal sense is always the best first choice. Second, I study. I read the passage in context. Why were these verses originally given in the context of the passage in which they are placed? How have others interpreted them over the years? There are commentaries on these passages written by scholars who know their trade. In my case, I have also studied for years in formal institutions, including the backgrounds of the various books of the Bible and the original languages in which they were written. I use that in my preparation. Lastly, I pray and ask the Holy Spirit to help me to understand what it means, how to apply it today and how to communicate it to others. In actuality, you can do the same. You might lack the formal study in languages but the rest of this process is available to you. Don’t just read the Bible quickly. Take time to study. 2 Timothy 2:15 – “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”

How do I be there for my sister when I do not agree with her actions? I believe her loneliness leads her to make poor choices.

There are at least 2 parts to the question: How do I be there for her, but make sure she knows I don’t agree with her actions? Galatians 6:1-2 reads, “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” The first part is in the being there – Even though it’s often very difficult, when we see those we love hurting themselves, you should make sure that God’s love for your sister and your love for her continues to shine through. You need to keep the lines of communication open, which means she has to hear your concern/love for her as a sister and not just your opinions on what she is doing wrongly. And especially since you believe loneliness is one of her root issues, all the more reason to make your presence felt in her life.
The second part is that you don’t have to agree with her actions. Galatians tells us to be gentle but to work at restoration – getting her back to where she should be and away from lifestyles that damage what God wants to do in her life. So in fact you have a responsibility to not support her actions, if they are hurting her. If she is hurting herself, she is accountable for destroying the body that God has given her.
But, I’m sure there are underlying reasons that she is behaving this way. So, you should speak to her in love, the love of Christ. Pray for discernment in responding to the day-to-day behavioral issues, and allow the Holy Spirit to do the work in her.

Love her as God loves you…

Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

1 Corinthians 13: 4 – 7
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Romans 15: 13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
But, be strong and courageous in standing against her actions if they are hurting her…

1 Corinthians 3: 16 – 17
Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is sacred, and you are that temple.

1 Chronicles 22:13
Then you will have success if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws that the LORD gave Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.

What do you do when your husband lifestyle does not line up with Word of God?

First of all, I’m assuming that your husband’s behavior is not putting you or any family member at safety risk. If there is risk of injury or safety, then you need to get immediate help. We, as the Church, are there if you need us in this situation.
If the issues are those of obedience to The Word and your husband seeking God’s direction and will in his life then…
You should focus on your relationship with God and allow your husband to see that as an example of how God is doing a work in you. Let the fruit of the Spirit shine through you.

You should not support or ignore poor behavior, but let God do the work of convicting your husband of the lifestyle issues (sin) in his life. Pray that you might both live in relationship with Him, through His Spirit! Spend some time on the following verses.

Galatians 5: 16
So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.

Galatians 5: 22 – 26
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

1 Peter 2:1-2
Wives, in the same way be submissive to your husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives.

What is speaking in tongues and what is PAC’s stance on tongues?

1 Corinthians 12:7-11 says, “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines.”

Then in 1 Corinthians 12:29-30 Paul asks some rhetorical questions. “Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret?” The answer is no.  As a body, we all have different gifts.  That allows us to understand that speaking in tongues is not a gift or sign of everyone who is baptized in the Spirit.

But 1 Corinthians 14:5b and 13 says, “He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified.”  “For this reason anyone who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret what he says.”

Speaking in tongues seems to be the miraculous ability to speak in another language that you never learned.  We believe these passages explain that if someone is to speak in tongues to communicate something then there needs to be an interpreter. In Acts 2, the disciples were speaking in tongues so that the Gospel may go out to people whose language they did not know how to speak and no interpretation was needed. However, when speaking in tongues that no listener understands, Paul’s writings indicate that there needs to be edification for the body of believers and it needs to be interpreted.

What about tongues in private prayer?

1 Corinthians 14:14-15 says, “For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind.” Based on this passage it would seem that there is nothing wrong with praying in tongues in a private setting. But it also says your mind is unfruitful in that prayer because you do not understand what you are praying. Paul is cautioning that you should not limit yourself to just praying in tongues but you should pray with your mind as well.

Why do some speak in tongues and others do not?

1 Corinthians 12:14-20 says, “Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. If the foot should say, ‘Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,’ it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. And if the ear should say, ‘Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,’ it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body.  If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body.”

Each of us has a different role in the body and are given different gifts so not everyone will get the gift of tongues.

Why doesn’t PAC allow women to speak about Bible stories?

We do allow women to speak about Bible stories. The only office that a woman cannot hold in our denomination is the role of elder/pastor based in part on Titus 1:6 “An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife.”

However, here at PAC we believe a woman has all the rights to all the gifts of the Spirit as men do.  As such, they can be team leaders, ministry heads, and department leaders.  They can teach in all settings, including from the stage on weekends (as you will see happen on Mother’s Day in a couple of weeks).  Any ministry opportunity open to men is also open to women, including holding a position on the governing board.

Why doesn’t the Jewish Passover date coincide with Christian Holy Maundy Thursday?

This is actually a bit complicated.  Probably the easiest way to explain this is to understand that the two holidays are celebrated by different religious groups using a different calendar system.

Easter, celebrated by Christians, is the first Sunday after the 14th day of the lunar month (the nominal full moon) that falls on or after March 21 of the Gregorian calendar (nominally the day of the vernal equinox).  Maundy Thursday is the Thursday prior to that Sunday.  Maundy Thursday is so named after the latin word “mandatum” from which we get mandate or command.  It was in the upper room on that first Maundy Thursday that Jesus left his disciples with a new command to love one another.

Passover, celebrated by Jews, begins on the 15th day of the month of Nisan of the Jewish calendar, which typically falls in March or April of the Gregorian calendar. In accordance with the Hebrew Bible, Nisan is the first month of the Hebrew calendar’s festival year. Passover is a spring festival, so the 14th day of Nisan begins on the night of a full moon after the vernal equinox.

What about taking medication for a bio-chemical depression?

There are no clear directives in scripture for when to and when not to use a physician or medication. You will see physicians mentioned many times, and in fact one of Jesus’ disciples Luke, was a physician.

But there is also clear evidence, on many occasions, that miraculous healing takes place and the concept of seeking God’s help in your healing becomes critical. So there is no directive to not ask for all the help that physicians can give, but the process should begin with asking for Jesus to heal you.

2 Chronicles 16:12
In the thirty-ninth year of his reign, Asa was afflicted with a disease in his feet. Though his disease was severe, even in his illness he did not seek help from the LORD, but only from the physicians.

Mark 5:26 & 34
She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had yet instead of getting better she grew worse…He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.”

James 5: 13 – 16 – The Prayer of Faith
Is anyone of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. Is anyone of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up.

Is gambling a sin?

There is no clear directive on gambling in scripture. The question can be answered in where and how you are spending your resources; time and money.

If we agree that all that we have is ultimately belongs to God (answered previously in questions regarding New Testament view on tithing), then the question becomes whether you believe God would want you to spend your time and money in this way. If gambling distracts from you spending time and money on kingdom work or relationships, then it can become a barrier or sin in your life. If it then escalates into an addiction or obsession (as it is proven that it has the potential to be) then you can become consumed by its hold on your life.

Do you want to focus on being transformed into all that God has in His plan for you, or are you continuing to conform to what the world has to offer? This can apply to gambling or to any other worldly distraction. Whether something becomes a sin or not, depends on how much of you it consumes, and is it driving you to focus on yourself more than God and others.

Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

1 Peter 1: 13 – 15
Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.

What do we believe about “speaking in tongues” and “being baptized in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues”? Thoughts on it in personal prayer, and also as a gift to the church. Why do some people do it and others don’t?

This is a mammoth question that needs to be broken down into smaller bites.

To answer this question we need the answer to: What is being baptized in the Holy Spirit and what is the evidence of it?

1 Corinthians 3:16 says, “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you?” Later in the same book, in 1 Corinthians 12:13 we read, “For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.” We believe that everyone who has believed in Christ’s work on the cross and accepted it on their behalf has been reborn In Christ and is baptized in the Holy Spirit at that moment. That baptism is the proof of real conversion and should begin to show itself in a transformed lifestyle. The fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 is the ultimate sign of true conversion. Some believe that speaking in tongues is the evidence of this experience. I will address more on that below.

However, Scripture also speaks of being filled with the Spirit. Paul in Ephesians 5:18 says, “be filled with the Spirit.” Since Paul is speaking to Christians then it is clear that you can be a Christian and baptized in the Spirit without being filled with the Spirit. We believe that being filled with the Spirit is an ongoing commitment that takes daily attention. It is the process of becoming more like Christ and what the Bible calls sanctification. Ephesians 5:18 literally means to continue (daily) to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Since that entails an act of the will it is what our denomination, Christian and Missionary Alliance, terms the “crisis sanctification.” It is subsequent to salvation and takes a decision of will on your part that leads to a lifestyle change.

What is the evidence of being baptized in the Holy Spirit?

As you read the Acts 2:1-4 passage, it is easy to deduce that we will speak in tongues at the baptism of the Spirit. But that is not necessarily true. Galatians 5:22-23 gives us the fruit of the spirit as: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Another key passage for the use of tongues is 1 Corinthians 12:27-13:3, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? But eagerly desire the greater gifts. And now I will show you the most excellent way.” If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.”

Speaking in tongues is just one of the gifts of the Spirit and it is clear from scripture that Love is the greatest gift and Love is the evidence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit not tongues. Scripture does not point at all to speaking in tongues as the only evidence of being baptized in the Holy Spirit.

Can Christians be possessed by evil spirits?

1 Corinthians 6:19 says, “Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit?” If our bodies as Christians are the temple of the Holy Spirit then how could any other spirit also dwell in us? As Christians, we can be influenced by evil spirits but we cannot be possessed since God, in the person of the indwelling Holy Spirit, cannot dwell together with demons.