Differing Things

Our host Bill Petri conducts an interview with Dr. David Williams. The topic of their discussion is Dr. Williams' book The Plan of the Ages. This interview promises to be a very interesting look at a very controversial topic! A subject when properly understood will revolutionize your Biblical understanding!

When Jesus was tested in the wilderness for forty days, we are told by Satan that the kingdoms of this world were delivered to him (Satan). Why is this fact so important? What is a Believer's responsibility to human government? Where is our citizenship today and how does this knowledge impact our daily walk?

The angelic beings watch us continually. Why?

There are two basic ways to critique any belief system. An External critique, judging by standards it does not accept, or an internal critique, judging it according to standards it does accept. One of the strongest internal critiques of Islam is what is commonly called the Islamic Dilemma. When followed carefully it presents a serious problem that cannot be resolved without undermining the Qur'an.

Romans 8:18-28 lay out six affirmations toward an understanding of suffering from God's perspective. Our short journey through this present eon is a journey filled with calamities and illnesses. How do we respond to these things? How do we not lose faith? Understanding these verses will give us great comfort in these times of trouble, and it will allow our faith to grow through the suffering!

Many so-called Bible teachers will use passages like Hebrews 13:8 and Malachi 3:6 to attack the principles of correctly cutting the Word of Truth. They create unsound arguments trying to convince individuals to abandon Right Division. What they fail to understand is God has one plan to put ALL under His headship, using two different realms, heaven and earth!

As the governments and societies of the west have become more polarized, we are hearing the words, communism and fascism frequently. What are they? Hoe do they differ and how are they alike? What happens when their theories are put into practice? What does the Bible have to say about their core values? Is it acceptable for the Believer to involve himself or herself in the governments of this world? Please do not forget to leave your comments!

Anxiety and depression. These words impact over half of all Americans. They create a self-imposed isolation on individuals who struggle in their lives. They cause untold sorrow, and heartache that Satan thrives on. But God has an answer!

Paul has been called the Apostle of gratitude. This makes perfect sense, as Paul frequently instructs us to be thankful in everything. Gratitude is joy in the goodwill of a giver occasioned by a gift! We as believers know that joy in God glorifies God. So how can we turn our thoughts into thoughts of gratitude?

The concept of liberty is central to the Bible's message of salvation and freedom through faith in and of Jesus Christ. This Differing Things podcast will explore the Biblical meaning of liberty, tracing its themes through Old and New Testament passages about deliverance from oppression and new life in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

This Differing Things Podcast is a message our host gave at the recent Northeast Ohio Bible Conference. Bill's message on dealing with worry and anxiety is critically important in today's world. How often have you asked the question, "What if"? We ask it with regrets about the past, sometimes we ask it with worry about the future. "What if I get laid off"? "What if I had done something different"? What if questions gender worries and anxiety in countless lives throughout the world. Thank goodness God has answers to your worries and anxieties.

This Differing Things Podcast is a message our host gave at the recent Northeast Ohio Bible Conference. Bill's message on dealing with worry and anxiety is critically important in today's world. How often have you asked the question, "What if"? We ask it with regrets about the past, sometimes we ask it with worry about the future. "What if I get laid off"? "What if I had done something different"? What if questions gender worries and anxiety in countless lives throughout the world. Thank goodness God has answers to your worries and anxieties.

We are taught by religion that sin separates humanity from God. We are taught that God cannot bear to look upon it, nor can he look at the sinner. We are told that sin puts people into a place of non-ending torture called hell. But, the Bible says something totally different!

Translation from one language to another is a very difficult task, the expression of nuances in one tongue may be practically impossible in another language because of lack of appropriate vocabulary. The Greek word "aion" and all forms of this word constitute major problems for English speakers. The word is rendered over 40 different ways in common English Bibles. How should we understand this word?

What is God's relationship with time? Many will teach that God is outside of time, others teach that time is contained within God. But we must ask, what verse states this? Where do we see any verse that shows God outside of time? We do, however, have many verses that sow us God working within the confines of time. What are the ramifications of all of this. Today we look in detail at God's relationship with time.

The phrases "from olam" and "to olam" and "from the olam" and "to the olam" are not common in the Old Testament. The very use of “min”, the Hebrew for “from”, and “ad” for the English word “to” demands a distinguishable difference between two entities. In respect to time (as of course to space) one may speak of passing 'to' and 'from' a single entity (to-X-from); but to go 'from' one point or period 'to' another logically requires two entities (from X to Y). Understanding this basic grammar will impact our doctrine significantly. Today Differing Things looks at the significance of these words.

If the assumption that the Hebrew had some concept of endlessness as to both past and future, was not injected into the Hebrew OLAMIM passages, would these bear a rational interpretation consistent with the contexts in which this word occurs and with the Bible in general? In other words, should we use "forever," "everlasting," or "eternal" to translate 'olamim'? Are there better alternatives? Does it even matter?

O'lam is a Hebrew word that is greatly misunderstood. Many Religions construct doctrines based on a flawed understanding of this word. Consider Genesis 3:22 for example. It reads "... take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live le-olam." Most common Bible translations render le-olam as forever. Is this a good rendering? Why or why not? The way one understands olam will determine how one understands this passage. This is just a small example of why it is important to have an understanding of this very important word.

All agree that individuals who have heard and appropriated the Gospel concerning Jesus' death, entombment, and resurrection have been assured a future life with the Lord. But what about the rest of humanity? There are really three views as to what happens to this vast majority of people. In order to understand these three views, one must understand what the underlying Greek and Hebrew words mean. Today's Differing Things begins a multiple week study looking at these views, and the underlying Hebrew and Greek words. This study may change your long-held conceptions, whatever they may be!

Our Host Bill Petri's opening to today's Differing Things Podcast states; "Few doctrines in Christianity are as terrifying or as misunderstood as hell." This podcast will dissect the doctrine of hell, examining its moral contradictions, its lack of Biblical foundations, and how the concept of hell evolved over time.

One of the greatest men of the Bible is John the Baptist. We all have heard his name, and most of us even know a little bit about him. But who was he really? Why is he such an important figure in the New Testament? There is much we have not considered about John the Baptist and who God intended him to be. Today's Differing Things takes an in-depth look at who John the Baptist was!

In today's world we are taught to hate our enemies. Wars have raged for as long as any of us can remember because of hatred. We must ask ourselves what does the Scriptures teach? Is there a difference between Jesus' message to Israel and Paul's message to the Body of Christ? Paul instructs us to follow him as he followed Christ. What does that look like? Today's Differing Things Podcast looks at this topic.

While considering the end of the Apostle Paul's earthly life, the Scriptures offer insight into his circumstances leading up to his death. What can we learn from the Scriptures to help sustain us in an increasingly anti-Christian society?

There are three great truths that confirm the historical fact -- Jesus really did rise from the grave, and by doing so He defeated death! These facts are: The tomb in which Jesus was entombed was discovered empty by women. Jesus' disciples had real experiences with one whom they believed was the risen Christ. As a result of the preaching of these disciples, which had the resurrection as its cornerstone, the Christian church was established and grew. How do these three great truths prove the historical reality of Jesus' resurrection? This is the topic for this Differing Things Podcast.

Have you ever wondered how ancient scriptures relate to contemporary mental health issues? The Bible is clear: God sees, understands, and cares deeply about our emotional and mental struggles! If you are navigating mental health challenges, know this: you are not alone, and the Bible is full of people who walked similar paths. Do not forget to give us a like, or better yet why not follow us, so that you never miss an episode of Differing Things!

Recently our host, Bill Petri, did a study on sanctification. This is a very theological word that is often times misunderstood. What is sanctification? How does it work? What is the relationship between justification and sanctification? These questions form the basis for this week's Differing Things Podcast

A proper understanding of the Scriptures teaches Christians how to wage war. We fight a different kind of war, not a physical war but a spiritual war. We are to always remember in everything we are to demonstrate the love of Christ even to our enemies. What does this look like? Has it ever really worked?

This past weekend war broke out in the Middle East. The USA, Israel, and Iran began a conflict that has been brewing for some time. Many Christians believe we are entering Daniel's seventieth week prophecy, Christian Nationalists are viewing it as an opportunity to establish a Christian Theocracy, and most think we need to protect and guard Israel. Unfortunately, no Christians are asking, "Is this really what God wants?" "Is God operating through the USA to bring about His will?" Do not forget to leave a like, and better yet start following us!

Who is are/is the higher powers of Romans 13? How can they be human governments when human governments are more likely to promote the evil with things like abortion, homosexuality, and questionable ethics? How does right division, and the Apostle to the Gentiles fit into a study of Romans 13? All these questions form the basis for the continuation of this much needed study of Romans 13.

It is crucial for a Believer to understand his relationship with earthly Governments and nations. In order to understand this relationship, it is crucial for us to know basic rules the Bible gives us in how to approach God's Word. Failure to apply these rules creates confusion, error, and frustration!

History can and often does teach us lessons that will predict our future. Nations, much like people can learn much from the past. The past teaches us that all nations have a life cycle, and how long that cycle continues in contingent on how well the nation learned some truths from the past. Back in 2012 former President Obama made a simple statement. He said, "the best is yet to come." We should ask ourselves, "Is it?"

Special Guest Nathan Scranton explains his long winding path to ultimate reconciliation. This is a fascinating journey through addictions, fear of God our Father, and how ultimate reconciliation liberated him from a life of rebellion. Our host Bill Petri and Nathan have a really engaging conversation that will allow others to see the glorious light of how Christ won freedom for all His creation!

How does our understanding of the different Greek words translated as world or earth impact our understanding of Daniel's Seventy Weeks Prophecy? Why is it important for us to get a real understanding of these words? Be prepared to really think, this Differing Things will challenge all your preconceptions!

How does our understanding of the different Greek words translated as world or earth impact our understanding of Daniel's Seventy Weeks Prophecy? Why is it important for us to get a real understanding of these words?

Often, January brings depression to a large number of people. Depression can make an individual feel as if they are drowning with no chance of rescue. Scripture gives us many examples of great men of God who struggled with depression. What can we learn from these men to help us defeat depression's grip?

The world is facing a looming depopulation crisis. This should cause all of us to consider deep questions about family, faith, and culture. What is depopulation? Why is it happening? What do believers need to consider in the face of a shrinking population?

"Why the Apostle Paul?" This may be the most important question a Christian can ask. It is not an exaggeration to say that without a correct answer to this question little can be understood about the Scriptures. The whole doctrine of ecclesiology, God's creation and formation of the church, the Body of Christ depends on a correct answer to this question. It truly ranks in importance with God's call of Abram, and the giving of the Mosaic Law to Moses.

What is the Trespass Offering and how does it differ from the Sin Offering? Today's Differing Things Podcast brings to a conclusion its on-going series on the Levitical Offerings. Guest host John Ewen brings a keen insight to a greatly misunderstood topic.

Several years ago, our host Bill Petri spoke at a Bible Conference. HIs topic was a very thought provoking look at a very familiar area of Scripture. Moses' meeting of YAHWEH and the hardening of Pharaoh's heart. This two-part study will be both thought provoking and challenging.

Several years ago, our host Bill Petri spoke at a Bible Conference. HIs topic was a very thought provoking look at a very familiar area of Scripture. Moses' meeting of YAHWEH and the hardening of Pharaoh's heart. This two-part study will be both thought provoking and challenging.

Recently, President Donald Trump spoke of the persecution Christians are facing in Africa. Our Apostle in this present Dispensation was no stranger to persecution and ministering to those enduring severe persecution. Paul's second epistle to the Thessalonians is an example of how we should respond to those enduring persecution. Today's Differing Things will take an in-depth look at the persecution of believers throughout the world and what we in the west can do!

At this time of year residents of the USA reflect on what they are thankful for. Throughout the Scriptures we see instructions telling us to give thanks.  Upon reflection we all have many things to be thankful for. However, as people we often times become ungrateful and unthankful. What does being unthankful produce in our lives. How did being unthankful impact humanity? This is a very important un-talked about subject worthy of our deep reflection, let us learn from the Scriptures the danger of becoming unthankful.

There is no author in all of Scripture who gives thanks more than the Apostle Paul. Yet, Paul very rarely tells anyone thank-you. How did our apostle to the Body of Christ express his thanks? This Thanksgiving let us try our best to be imitators of the Apostle Paul and follow his pattern of giving thanks! If you enjoy this Podcast please consider following us, leave your comments, and give us a like!

Much confusion abounds throughout Christendom in regard to the sin offering. Special guest John Ewen talks in detail about the sin offering and how it typifies our Savior Jesus Christ.

Much confusion abounds throughout Christendom in regard to the sin offering. Special guest host John Ewen talks in detail about the sin offering and how it typifies our Savior Jesus Christ.

Thank you for joining us as we celebrate our 200th episode of Differing Things! Throughout Christianity it has been taught that Jesus was forsaken by the Father at the time of His greatest need. This is a view that should terrify all believers. If the Father can forsake Jesus at the time of His greatest need, why would He not forsake us? Just what is being taught by the Scriptures and how should we understand Jesus' quotation of Psalm 22? Do not forget to follow us and leave your comments!

Many members of the Body of Christ have had a journey to get to where they are today. Our Special Guest Rick Schmitt had an extraordinary journey. Rick shares with us his journey from extreme legalism and bondage to the Freedom and Liberty Grace brings!

Man's idea of justice is often different than God's idea of justice. Man seeks revenge, while God seeks to rehabilitate. These differences often skew our thinking when it comes to God's future plans. Man, often places upon God our standard of justice. Thank goodness God stays faithful and accomplishes what He set out to do!

Luke records many instances where Jesus Christ interacted with women. One such place is Luke 8:1-3. What can these women, living under law, show us today in this Dispensation of Grace? What is Luke's point in this passage, and what are the ramifications of missing this point? Do not forget to leave your likes, and comments!

Whether in the pub or in the pew, there is one question you can always count on hearing: “Did you see that game?” Sports are prominent in culture and relevant to life, which is why the average sports show often spends as much time talking about ethics, racism, crime, and sexuality, as it does athletics. What is the meaning of sports? This week's Differing Things Podcast attempts to answer this question. Do not forget to leave your comments, and better yet why not start to follow us!