Q. What makes a person a Christian?
A. God’s grace in Jesus Christ is what makes a person a Christian. The hymn Rock of Ages reminds us of this fact as it states, “Could my tears forever flow, Could my zeal no langour know, These for sin could not atone – Thou must save, and Thou alone: In my hand no price I bring, Simply to Thy cross I cling.” This verse tells us that our regrets, our sorrow, our efforts, our undying zeal would never achieve what is necessary to be saved. Our sin and rebellion has earned us eternal punishment. Read the rest of this entry »
Q. Does God cause illness as a punishment for sin? It appears that He does in Deuteronomy 28:22.
A. Yes and No. You are correct that the passage in Deuteronomy reveals a way in which God punishes sin. The passage states, “The Lord will smite you with consumption and fever and with inflammation and with fiery heat . . .” Before entering the Promised Land, Moses reminded the children of Israel of the consequences disobedience would bring. They knew that if they were disobedient, God would discipline and purge.
Similar warnings are given all throughout the Old Testament and even appear in the New Testament. Read the rest of this entry »