Explain why unsaved people are very happy and ethical: 10 Qs with Mike Winger (Ep 33)
Oct 18, 2024
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The discussion dives into how unsaved people can appear happy and ethical despite lacking faith. It tackles the role of false teachers and how to address them biblically. The implications of Jesus' prophecy regarding Jerusalem's destruction are examined, alongside how to pray for enemies. Additionally, the appropriateness of church coffee shops is debated, revealing tensions between community engagement and commercialization. The conversation also highlights the complexities of belief and emotional struggles while reading scripture.
01:27:05
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Quick takeaways
The podcast highlights that while non-Christians may perform morally good acts, true goodness is ultimately measured against God's holiness.
It emphasizes the universal nature of conscience that allows even non-believers to discern ethical behavior, underscoring humanity's inherent need for grace.
The discussion reveals a concern for the modern church's effectiveness, urging believers to stay hopeful and engage in authentic discipleship amidst challenges.
Deep dives
The Existence of Moral People Outside Christianity
The episode discusses the existence of moral and virtuous people who do not follow Christianity, raising the question of whether such individuals truly embody goodness. The speaker acknowledges that there are individuals who perform altruistic acts, like sacrificing for their children, comparable to what might be seen in a devout Christian. He references notable figures such as Gandhi, known for his ethical stance, to illustrate the complexity of determining goodness outside of a Christian framework. Ultimately, the speaker emphasizes the inherent sinfulness of all humankind as presented in scripture, suggesting that while acts of kindness can be identified, all are still in need of grace and forgiveness from God.
Understanding Sin and Human Nature
The podcast delves into the biblical concept of sin, highlighting Romans chapters 1 to 3 as a critical exposition of human nature. The speaker points out that all people, both Jews and Gentiles, fall short of God's glory and emphasizes that no one is inherently righteous without Christ. He discusses how, while individuals may perform good deeds compared to one another, these actions do not meet God's standard of holiness. By comparing human behavior with divine perfection, it becomes apparent that everyone is inherently flawed and in need of salvation.
Conscience and Moral Awareness
The episode explains that people possess an innate sense of right and wrong, which can lead non-believers to perform actions aligned with moral goodness. The speaker references Romans 2, noting that Gentiles can do good, even if they lack the Jewish law, due to their conscience guiding them. This suggests that there is a universal moral awareness granted by God, allowing people to recognize ethical deeds. However, this acknowledgment of conscience does not negate the need for Christ, as all are ultimately under sin.
The Limitations of Human Goodness
In addressing the perceived goodness of non-believers, the speaker mentions that even the good deeds performed by individuals outside of Christ are tainted by their sinful nature. He highlights the teachings of Jesus, who remarked that human beings, even in their inherent wickedness, can still perform good acts. This perspective suggests that while humans may strive for resilience and moral integrity, their actions, when scrutinized against God's holiness, reveal a deeper inability to achieve true goodness. This reality reiterates that all acts, regardless of their nature, fall short of divine standards.
The Balance of Good Deeds and Biblical Truth
The conversation also covers the importance of establishing a balance between recognizing good deeds and affirming biblical truth. The speaker mentions that while people can perform commendable acts, it does not validate their spiritual standing before God. He urges an understanding that even when good deeds are performed by non-believers, they cannot serve as a basis for salvation. The focus should always return to the need for redemption through Jesus Christ, emphasizing grace as the essential element for true righteousness.
The Role of the Church and its Challenges
Lastly, the episode addresses the challenges faced by the modern church regarding its biblical purpose and effectiveness. The speaker reflects on his experiences visiting various churches and expresses disappointment in the Sunday services' lack of depth and doctrinal strength. He suggests that although many feel discouraged by the state of contemporary Christianity, it's vital to remember that God still has a remnant of believers who are genuinely committed to their faith. The call is made for Christians to remain hopeful, actively engage in discipleship, and serve their communities, despite the challenges faced in the present landscape.
1. 0:04 {Ethical & Happy Non-Christians?} Can unsaved people “do good works”? Why do unsaved people often appear to be happy and live seemingly ethical lives? 2. 24:11 {Calling Out False Teachers} Who is supposed to call out false teachings and false teachers? How should it be done? I'm struggling to find Scripture. 3. 31:22 {The Destruction of Jerusalem} Do you believe that in Luke 21:20 Jesus is talking about the destruction of Jerusalem for today's time? 4. 39:49 {How to Pray for our Enemies} How can we pray for our enemies biblically? Especially those actively trying to kill those you love. 5. 43:07 {Church Coffee Shops – Sinful?} A church in town opened a coffee shop in the foyer. Some say it's akin to a marketplace in the Temple, and others say since it's run at cost (or even below cost) that it's fine. What are your thoughts? 6. 48:55 {Paul & the Female Slave} Why was Paul annoyed with the possessed female slave in Acts 16:16 when she was actually telling the truth? What about Philippians 1:18? 7. 54:47 {Does God Grant Our Belief?} What does Philippians 1:29 mean when it says that God "grants" us belief in Him? Is this deterministic? 8. 1:00:29 {Anger at God’s Word?} Do you have any specific advice on how to deal with emotions while reading the Bible? Recently, I can’t even get through a few verses without feeling overwhelmed with anger or frustration! 9. 1:04:30 {Exodus: Conjugal Rights vs. Adultery?} Exodus 21:10 says a man married to multiple women shouldn't deny them conjugal rights. Isn't each instance of intimacy in that situation adultery against one wife? 10. 1:12:22 {The Purpose of The Church} What is the biblical purpose of the church, and do you believe modern Christianity is fulfilling that purpose today? 11. 1:22:46 Bonus: More commentary on question #6 above!
LINKS you may be interested in:
If a polygamist gets saved, should he divorce his wives? Click Here
I do this live stream most Fridays at 1 p.m. Pacific Time. You're welcome to join. To ask a question you'll need to follow these instructions: 1. Don't post your question before you see me live on camera. 2. Post questions as comments in the LIVE chat at the beginning of the stream. 3. Post your question with "Q" at the beginning so we can easily identify that you are sending it in as a question for me and not just a comment in the chat. 4. Try to be as clear as possible so I won't misunderstand the question. Keep in mind that I don't know anything about your question other than what you type in that short comment. 5. Include specific verse references when possible or applicable.
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