10 Questions with Mike Winger SKEPTICS EDITION (Episode 21)
Jul 12, 2024
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In this enlightening discussion, Mike Winger, a respected speaker and creator known for examining biblical perspectives, tackles pressing questions that skeptics raise. He delves into biblical contradictions, addressing moral dilemmas and the interplay of faith and evolution. Winger also explores the fairness of salvation based on cultural contexts and the reliability of historical manuscripts. Further, he discusses the unique nature of gender identity from a Christian viewpoint and challenges listeners to navigate their doubts and beliefs thoughtfully.
The podcast emphasizes addressing Biblical contradictions with sincere respect and understanding to engage with skeptics effectively.
The discussion presents the evolution of Biblical understanding, highlighting how certain laws adapt based on context and maturity in faith.
The speaker clarifies that perceived contradictions regarding God's nature and human experiences are reconciled through deep theological interpretation.
It emphasizes the importance of genuine faith resulting in good works, distinguishing between mere belief and demonstrated transformation.
Building relationships with skeptics is crucial, as personal experiences often shape their doubts rather than purely intellectual disputes.
Deep dives
Welcoming Skeptics
The podcast addresses skeptics and doubters with an emphasis on treating their questions seriously and respectfully. The speaker expresses a desire to answer a variety of skeptic queries during an extended session. The initial discussion centers around perceived contradictions in the Bible, using arguments and examples derived from a list provided by the American Atheists Group. This approach sets the stage for a deeper exploration of faith and belief against the backdrop of skepticism.
Understanding the Sabbath
The first supposed contradiction addressed pertains to the Sabbath, comparing Exodus 20:8, which commands its observance, to Romans 14:5, which suggests it is a matter of personal conviction. The speaker illustrates that biblical rules may evolve and shift based on context, maturity, and the coming of Christ, likening this progression to a childhood learning experience. The law is seen as a guide or tutor that prepares believers for a more profound understanding post-Christ. Thus, the supposed contradiction is reframed as an indication of growth in faith rather than an inconsistency.
Earth's Permanence vs. Transformation
The podcast debates the biblical perspectives on the permanence of the earth, referencing Ecclesiastes' statement that the earth abides forever, contrasted with 2 Peter 3:10, which describes a destruction of the earth. The speaker clarifies that the term 'forever' in Ecclesiastes may refer to the longevity of the earth in the context of human generations, rather than absolute eternality. This view aligns with the understanding that while the current state of creation is temporary, it is ultimately transformed rather than annihilated, akin to a cosmic renewal. The discussion highlights theological interpretations that reconcile apparent contradictions.
Seeing God: A Theological Inquiry
Another contradiction presented discusses Genesis 32:30, where Jacob claims to have seen God face-to-face, contrasted with John 1:18 state that no one has seen God. The speaker asserts this theological conundrum requires understanding that God can reveal Himself in various ways throughout scripture. The distinction between physical sight and spiritual revelation is emphasized, suggesting that God's nature allows for diverse manifestations. This theological depth ultimately serves to showcase a more integrated understanding of how God's presence is experienced.
Human Sacrifice and Moral Dilemma
The conversation shifts to the topic of human sacrifice, citing Leviticus 18:21 which condemns it, while Judges recounts Jephthah’s vow to sacrifice his daughter. The speaker argues that this narrative does not endorse human sacrifice but instead highlights moral dilemmas faced by flawed characters. The biblical context establishes that God’s laws are designed to be followed, contrasting Jephthah’s tragic narrative as a reflection of human sinfulness rather than divine approval. The moral implications are woven into the broader narrative of human error and redemption.
The Power of God and Human Action
The next discussion revolves around the power of God as stated in Matthew 19:26 and Judges 1:19, where it appears God is unable to drive away iron chariots. The speaker clarifies that the limitation applies more to human action and decisions rather than God's capabilities. The interpretation that God is with Judah and not actively working against iron chariots signifies the complexity of divine assistance in human endeavors. This perspective sheds light on the collaborative nature of faith in action, emphasizing the need for human participation in divine plans.
Justice and the Old Testament Law
Reference to Exodus's eye-for-an-eye principle versus Jesus' teachings in Matthew 5 introduces a discussion about justice. The speaker explains that the Old Testament law focused on judicial justice, while Jesus emphasizes personal grace and forgiveness. This distinction highlights the evolution of understanding regarding justice and mercy in Christianity. Followers are encouraged to embody Christ’s teachings of love and grace instead of enacting personal revenge, which reframes the notion of justice within a relational and moral framework.
Salvation: Through Works or Faith?
The podcast tackles the apparent contradictions between salvation portrayed in the Bible as through faith alone versus faith plus works. The speaker explains that genuine faith naturally produces works as its outcome, whereas empty declarations of faith lack evidence of transformation. This discourse distinguishes between the methodology of receiving salvation and demonstrating it through one’s life. Ultimately, the speaker reassures listeners that it is not about earning salvation, but about living a life that reflects the transformation that faith brings.
Engaging with Skeptics
The questions and frameworks presented encourage engaging skeptics with understanding and compassion. The speaker notes that skepticism often arises from personal experiences or misperceptions of faith. This realization highlights the importance of relationship-building over mere argumentation when addressing doubts. By fostering open dialogue and genuine curiosity, skeptics may feel more inclined to explore the Christian faith without confrontation.
1. 0:40 {Discussing Biblical “Contradictions”!} Can you please discuss some different Bible passages that appear to be contradictory? 2. 41:10 {Unnecessary Body Parts = Evolution?} I have a coworker that is an atheist. He said that there are parts of our bodies that are not necessary and that might prove evolution rather than a Creator. Any thoughts? 3. 48:11 {Is Salvation Sometimes Unfair?} One of my biggest issues is that you NEED to believe in Jesus to be saved. If someone is born in a Muslim country, they would have to sacrifice way more than the average westerner. How is that fair? 4. 53:53 {Historical Jesus & Manuscripts} How can we believe in a historical Jesus if the oldest manuscripts we have are from the second or third century? 5. 1:00:40 {Is Christianity the True Religion?} How do I know Christianity is right/true compared to other world religions? 6. 1:09:20 {Does God Make Mistakes?} I often hear the argument, “If God doesn't make mistakes when it comes to gender, then what about people with disabilities?" How would you respond? 7. 1:15:08 {Applying PSA on Earth?} If the doctrine of Penal Substitutionary Atonement is just, would it be just for an earthly judge to impute the guilt of a murderer to an innocent volunteer and sentence the volunteer to death instead of the murderer? If not, why? 8. 1:18:30 {Joseph in Jesus’ Lineage?} Any idea why Matthew and Luke list Joseph’s genealogy when he’s not Jesus’ birth father? Does that mean Jesus’ lineage isn’t what it needs to be to fulfill prophecy? 9. 1:20:27 {Is there Really an Afterlife?} Why do Christians think there is an afterlife? Why not just look at death as a return to the quantum state, like before we were born? 10. 1:24:26 {Did God Create Cancer?} If God created everything, why did He create cancer? As a Christian mother, I still struggle with these sorts of questions. 11. 1:27:54 {The Best Argument for God} What do you think is the best evidence/argument there is for God? 12. 1:30:21 {Does Trusting First Invalidate our Faith?} If you have to believe first in order to experience the reality of Christianity, if the "proof" only comes alive when one chooses to trust it, isn't that "truth" make-believe? 13. 1:33:54 {Would a Good God make a Terrible Hell?} When Jesus said that for the person who would betray Him it would be better not to be born, I assume Hell is worse than non-existence. How does this match with a good God? 14. 1:35:58 {Unrepentant Heart – Still Saved by Faith?} If I believe in my heart that Jesus rose from the dead and trust in Him alone for salvation, why would God then send me to Hell for being actively gay? Am I not saved by my faith instead of my works? 15. 1:42:16 {Salvation in the OT} How were people saved in the Old Testament before Jesus? And if they were saved without believing in Jesus, then why did it change? 16. 1:46:11 {Why do Christians Ask for Forgiveness?} My question from a skeptic is, if you are already saved, why do you still ask for forgiveness for your sins? 17. 1:47:26 {Hypostatic Union – Contradictory?} Is Jesus being God and Man a contradiction? The Bible says that the Son doesn’t know the day or the hour of His coming. Can Jesus know (as God) and not know (as Man) at the same time? 18. 1:49:32 {Bible = Pure Fiction?} As a Christian, what is an appropriate answer to an atheist claiming that the Bible is pure fiction? 19. 1:55:48 {Mixed Messages in Scripture?} I lost my faith due to all the mixed messages in the Bible. For example, is salvation by faith alone like John 5:24, or faith plus works like James 2? Why doesn’t this cause you to doubt? 20. 1:58:39 {Does the Concept of Sin Apply to God?} Is God holy and sinless? Can God do things which, if we did them, would be considered sin? One example is killing the firstborn of Egypt. Does the concept of sin (or being sinless) even APPLY to God? 21. 2:03:30 {How to Trust in Christ} I’m a Bible believing non-Christian that hurt himself by absorbing bad Charismatic teachings. I have always had trouble trusting and accepting Christ. How would one begin to as a skeptic?
Other Links:
The Bible says "no one has seen God at any time" (John 1:18) yet also has people saying that they saw God (Gen 32:30). Is this a contradiction? Answered HERE
