A: There are several ways to deal with this question. Let's do it this way... When a person repents and accepts Christ, they are saved. The Bible says that there is nothing we can do that will separate us from God's love (Romans 8.35-39). This means that Jesus loves us and is faithful to us, even when we are not faithful. Jesus promises to never leave us (Hebrews 13.5). This means that Jesus is with us. We are saved.
However, we must never take that salvation for granted. A slip-up seems to imply that it is a one-time sin. But we should be cautioned to always be in an attitude of repentance. Jesus is willing to forgive us over and over again, but we must take care to not abuse his grace. When you sin, repent.
Q: If there is baptism by water and baptism by the Holy Spirit, why do some argue that full submersion is required to get into heaven?
A: This question has been addressed in previous posts, so let me just say that God speaks to everyone in different ways. He may call some people to be immersed for baptism. The important thing is that you and I find grace, acceptance and understanding as we deal with others on this, or any other issue. If God has called you to be immersed, then I should respect that and support you. Likewise, if you were sprinkled as a baby, and God has worked his grace in your life, I should not be judgmental or harsh to you.
FYI: I was immersed for baptism as a boy. I accepted Christ and made my own decision for baptism. My daughter was sprinkled as a baby and then confirmed in the faith and church as a teen.
Q: Who created God?
A: Without trying trying to be flippant, this is the easiest question so far. No one created God. He has always been. He created all that is. John 1.1 reminds us that God was in existence from the very beginning- since before the beginning.
Q: Why did God allow the Jews to be persecuted if they were his chosen people?
A: There are two ways to answer this one.
1. The Jews were, have been and are persecuted because they are God's chosen people. Parents discipline their children when they are disobedient or in danger. God is the same way. Throughout the Old Testament God sends enemies to correct and reprove his children. We can assume from this that God will bless those that follow him, but that he will call them back when they become unfaithful.
2. The Jews have been persecuted not because of God, but in spite of God. There are many questions that we cannot answer. The fact that bad things sometime happen is one of those. There is sin in the world and one consequence of sin is evil. I do not believe that the persecution comes from God, but it is because of the evil in the world that this happens. Be sure to not limit this to Jewish people, however. I believe that sometimes faithful Christian people experience tragedy because of this same problem.
Q: Where were the believers first called Christians? What does "Christian" mean?
A: The believers were first called Christians in the town of Antioch (Acts 11.26). Christian means to be like Christ.
And one bonus question from the congregation...
Q: Why are we called Methodists?
A: The name Methodist was initially given to members of John Wesley's Holy Club at Oxford University. It was a term of derision referencing the systematic way the members approached spiritual growth and discipleship. It was later applied to Wesley's system, or method, of organizing is classes, bands and churches.
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