When does my sin block my prayers according to Scripture? 10 Qs with Mike Winger (Ep 48)
Mar 28, 2025
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Explore how ongoing sin can hinder prayer, drawing from Psalm 66:18. Delve into the essential definitions of a church and the discussions around limited atonement using John 17:9 and John 3:16. Hear about discerning divine messages in relationships and the differences between agape and phileo love. The classification of non-sapien hominids sparks intriguing questions about humanity's origins. Enjoy a mix of humor and serious insight into church dynamics and accountability.
01:06:15
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Quick takeaways
Ongoing sin can hinder communication with God, as suggested by Psalm 66:18, emphasizing the importance of repentance in prayer.
A small church can still be valid as long as it includes a community of believers in fellowship, regardless of size.
The interpretation of John 17:9 regarding limited atonement is debated, highlighting the need for context in understanding Scripture's implications.
Deep dives
Understanding Prayer and Sin
The discussion emphasizes how a person's ongoing sin can impact their relationship with God, particularly in terms of prayer. It highlights Psalm 66:18, which suggests that if someone cherishes iniquity in their heart, God may not listen to their prayers. The idea is not to imply that God entirely rejects prayers from those who sin, but rather that harboring unrepentant sin can hinder communication with God. Furthermore, examples from other Scripture, such as 1 Peter 3:7, reinforce the notion that one’s conduct, particularly in relationships, directly affects their prayer life.
Defining a Church
The definition of a church is explored, noting that it need not be large to be meaningful. Instances of house churches in the New Testament illustrate that gatherings can occur in smaller settings yet still be considered valid. The presence of church leaders, such as elders, is discussed as critical for healthy church function, pointing out that smaller groups may struggle to meet these leadership requirements. Overall, there is an acknowledgment that a church must include a community of believers in fellowship, which is fundamental to its identity.
Evaluating Limited Atonement
The question of whether John 17:9 supports the doctrine of limited atonement is analyzed. While some interpret this verse to indicate that Jesus only prays for the elect, it is argued that the context concerns prayer rather than atonement. Additional scriptural references, including 1 John 2:2, challenge the idea that Jesus's sacrifice is limited to a select group, suggesting the potential for broader implications. Ultimately, the passage reflects on the nature of Jesus's relationship with his followers rather than definitive claims about who is included in atonement.
The Role of Anointing with Oil
James 5:14-15 introduces the practice of anointing the sick with oil, indicating that it is a ritual that can accompany prayer for healing. The discussion acknowledges that oil's use can symbolize various elements, including the Holy Spirit or one’s consecration to God. While some suggest that anointing pertains primarily to medicinal practices, others view it as inherently spiritual. The recommendation is made that leaders can incorporate this practice when praying for the sick, while also clarifying that the oil itself does not guarantee healing.
Interpreting Deuteronomy 22:28-30
The translation of Deuteronomy 22:28-30 raises significant questions regarding consent and the Bible's treatment of women. The differences in translations, particularly the NIV's use of the word 'rape,' are examined against the New King James and ESV, which use terms suggesting an aggressive 'seizing' rather than outright assault. It is highlighted that the cultural context plays a vital role in understanding the implications of these verses, noting that they serve to protect the woman’s rights despite the serious wrongdoing of the man. Overall, the passage's interpretation is complex, reflecting broader societal views of moral conduct and its consequences.
1. 0:23 {My Sin Blocks My Prayers?} Psalm 66:18 says, "If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened." Does this mean God will ignore a person's prayers if they have active, ongoing sin in their life? How should we understand this verse in context and alongside other Scriptures about God hearing prayers? 2. 9:07 {Biblically Defining a “Church”} Biblically (not legally), what constitutes a church? If someone were to host a weekly Bible study and do some volunteer work with just a few people, would that be considered a small church service? 3. 15:29 {Support for Limited Atonement?} How does John 17:9 work alongside John 3:16? Could John 17:9 be a valid point toward Limited Atonement? I do not want to believe in Limited Atonement, but I see verses like this and wonder. 4. 24:40 {Discerning God’s Voice & Direction} My girlfriend recently told me that God told her to break up with me. She got us "promise bracelets" that promise that we will get married. Is what she heard really from God? 5. 29:26 {Agape vs. Phileo Love} Are agape and phileo love synonymous in Greek? John 3:19 & John 12:43 use agape for loving darkness and men's praise, respectively, while John 5:20 uses phileo to describe the Father's love for the Son. 6. 34:29 {Non-Sapien Hominids: Thinking Biblically} How do non-sapien hominids (Neanderthal, Denisovan, Floresiensis, etc.) fit into creation? Do they have the Imago Dei? Are they animals? 7. 39:19 {The Apostle John Still Alive?} Have you ever heard the theory that the Apostle John might still be alive and be the second witness in the Tribulation? I found the arguments interesting, as conjecture. 8. 45:47 {Is Anointing Oil for Today?} Should we still use oil anointing today (used by elders praying for the sick)? What would that look like? 9. 52:00 {An Error in Translation?} In the NIV translation, Deuteronomy 22:28-30 uses the word “rape,” but other translations imply consent. Is this a legitimate translation error? 10. 57:16 {Are Charitable Tax Deductions Sinful?} Is claiming our charitable donations on our taxes “receiving our reward on Earth” (Matthew 6:1-5)?
Helpful Links:
My FULL teaching on divorce and remarriage according to the Bible: Click Here
My original video on Limited Atonement and Universalism, and why I see both as unbiblical: Click Here
After that original video, I got a response from James White, and I included his video and my response in a longer video focused just on the topic of Limited Atonement HERE.
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