The Bible Line January 2, 2024

Joanne, Bluffton, SC -- I asked Alexa, What is the meaning of Christmas? She responded that Christmas is an annual celebration commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ.  Western churches celebrated on Dec 25, a date thought to be tied to the winter solstice. The holiday fell out of favor in Europe and America in the 17th century but was reinvented in the 19th century by writers like Washington Irving, and molded by immigrant's traditions, it became the celebration that we know today. Would you please give a more truthful understanding of what Alexa said about Christmas for me? Thank you. I am a believer and know the true meaning of Christmas. I also asked Alexa the meaning of Hanukkah and received a more accurate description. Wanted to try some Muslim holiday but could not think of any to ask.

Kelly, Rincon, GA (Live Dictation) -  How should I answer people who ask about Tattoos and body piercings, is there a difference between the Old and New covenant with regards to these, I see some Christians who have them and I wonder why?

Pierre, Beaufort, SC (Live Caller) - In the garden of Eden how did Satan know what God had said to Adam and Eve?

Kelvin, Buchanan, VA -- Is it sinful to pledge allegiance to the flag? Why do some Christians liken this to idolatry?

Kaye, Ertter, Beaufort, SC (Live Dictation) - What do you know about the Maryland Bible College affiliated with Greater Grace World Outreach and was founded by Carl H. Stevens Jr?
Someone we know studied online with that college, while He was in prison in Baltimore, Maryland.   Apparently, the college is King James only.   One book they use is the King James Bible Commentary with contributions from Edward G. Dobson, Charles L. Feinberg, Edward E. Hindson, Woodrow Michael Kroll, Harold L. Wilmington.  Another one is the Strongest Strong 's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. The Big concern with this person is that they are not loving even toward his wife. So, his wife believes he was involved with a cult bible group.  He was released from prison in June but by September 27th she had to get him out of her house because of his hatred and anger. I am once again developing a relationship with her so, of course, this is challenging when she is not a believer. Thank you.

James E., Beaufort, SC -- I have a question to help me prepare for some teaching that I will be doing starting in March. What are the top 3-5 commentators (or more) that you have favored for the study of passages like Ephesians 1, and Romans 9 thru 11. And what authors, or articles, you might  suggest for topics of predestination and election?

Rick, Beaufort, SC -- Can you talk about the conflict in Israel, and how it relates to scriptures? Also, since you have made many trips to that region, can you give us a sense of what’s happening there? Thanks