The Bible Line - February 7, 2012

A listener has a question about those "under the altar" during the Great Tribulation as mentioned in the book of Revelation.

A Christian man with a heart full of love for God and motivation to please Him is in a great relationship with a wonderful woman. A son was given to the family 21 months ago and that blessing has been the most heart changing event in his life with the exception of the moment he let Christ into his life. He has a desire to get a Bachelor of Science in Psychology - Christian Counseling. During preparation he has given thought to a future pastoral position. Prior to becoming a Christian the individual went through a marriage and divorce with no children as well as a few other relationships. One of these relationships, or the breaking off of the relationship was the devastation the led to him accepting Christ and never looking back. With the divorce in this mans life 'prior' to becoming a christian, is this man unable to become a pastor while remaining biblically obedient?

A listener has a question about sanctification.

Another listener has difficulty reconciling the concept of free choice and election.

A listener follows up on the response to the divorced man wishing to become a pastor. Biblically speaking, what is the difference between a man who has had many relationships with women but these relationships were before he was married. Does having relationships with women before you are married count as "marriages"?

Dan from Bluffton: In thinking about the proposed casino in Hardeeville I have a question about investing.  Is investing in stocks or mutual funds gambling?  They carry a risk of loss don't they?  Is that being a good steward of God's money?  If you risk losing your money than they are no different than going to a casino.  However in Matthew the parable of the talents the master rewards the servant who invested his money.  I know your chance of an increase is better with traditional investments because casinos have the advantage but is it right to take a chance of loss with the money God has intrusted to me?