Author: PastorJim (Jim McClarty)

Q – What do you think about Christmas? Is it okay to have a Christmas tree? And, what about Santa Claus? I heard that he was connected with Baal worship. Is that right? Jim – I purposely tabled these questions until after the holidays so I would not be introducing any crisis of conscience into...

The assertion I made that started this conversation was that the word “Israel” has not lost its meaning. “Israel” continues, even during the New Covenant era, to identify the particular descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The meaning of the word has not been broadened to encompass the Gentiles nor is it a New Covenant...

Q – I recently read a message on Acts 2:42 that commented, “Only the activities outlined in Acts 2:42 are valid for things to do in church. Teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer.” While this is the “fingerprint” of the church, whether meeting in a home, barn, or 10,000 sq. ft. building, how...

Q – I have been listening to your recent sermons on how there is not such thing as a Christian “celebrity,” or at least there shouldn’t be such a thing. Well, I was flipping channels tonight and I landed on TBN for a moment because I came across a sound that I like. It was...

Q – I have a question. It’s on the Great Commission. Here is the question: why did God give us the Great Commission if it’s all already decided for us: either we are chosen or not. I first looked on the question / answer section but I couldn’t find it. Jim – So, “The Great...

This Q and A concerns an article on Women Preaching Q – I just read your answer on women preaching. I have to admit I don’t agree with it (women preaching), even though I am a woman. But, I don’t agree with you either. If God wants a woman to preach, then who are we as...

Q – Jim, God bless you for your faithful teaching of the Bible. My wife found your explanation of Matt 5:17-18 on the internet and it is an answer to my prayers. I’ve been struggling with the law vs. grace issue — specifically over these verses, and have not had a better explanation by anyone....

{Note: This conversation is a continuation of a Q&A called “Revealed Doctrine.” You may find it helpful to review that exchange prior to this one. Jim. } Jim – It’s me – take two. Thank you for your generous and gracious response to our first go-around. You got it – this thing is not about...

Q – Hey Jim, I was reading Matthew and I hit 24:34 and I was having trouble with that verse. In context it seems that Christ is telling the disciples that he would return before the end of this generation. Or is he speaking of something different being fulfilled. I know eschatology is your specialty...

Q – Assuming the ‘substance of faith’ is true, and assuming that all children are born wicked, are children ever saved…or do they automatically perish? Jim – I’m not really sure what you mean by that first phrase, “assuming the ‘substance of faith’ is true.” The “substance of faith” is a phrase used by theologians...