Author: PastorJim (Jim McClarty)

Q – I recently had a conversation with a person who said, “I believe that God wants everyone to be saved. That’s what is says in the Bible.” What do you say to that? Jim – Not to sound unkind, but I’d say, “I don’t care what you ‘believe.’ It only matters what God believes...

In April of 2001, Jim preached a message containing the central arguments that brought him back to Christianity in the early 80’s. A transcription of that sermon served as the outline for the following article. We feel that every Christian should be familiar with these facts and arguments, “always being ready to make a defense...

Q – I watch Animal Planet all the time and there was a story about chimps that gave me a thought about evolution. My roommate had just recently gone over it in class and remarked how easy it is to see how evolution could be true. I have to agree somewhat that the evolutionary chart...

Q – Does the Greek designate what the “it” is that is being referred to in Ephesians 2:8-9? I know that “it” is supplied by the translators, so maybe the better thing to ask is: what is “the gift” referring to. Is it grace or faith? I know that most people think that grace is...

Q – Are you familiar with William Hendrickson’s interpretive approach to Revelation (perhaps not originating with him) called “progressive parallelism”? Jim – Yes, I’m familiar with Hendrickson. His book “More Than Conquerors” is one of the more popular Amillennial defenses in print (although I find it humorous that he took his title from the book...

Q – If those of us who are saved for heaven all get the same reward, regardless of our works (except for the rewards of crowns that we’ll throw down before the throne), then does that mean that horrible people like Saddam Hussein who throw people in meat grinders feet first will get the same...

Q – Was Namoi a bitter person? I have heard so many preachers/teachers and they all seem to say the same thing, that she was very bitter. But then I read how Orpah and Ruth clung to her, did not want to leave her, and then they all wept together. And if she was so...

Q – At the beginning of the summer, I took a study course on the tabernacle by Beth Moore. When I was going through this study, I came to realize how completely irreverent I am in prayer to God. I mean, I know this is the King of Kings, Lord of Lords. I know He...

Q – Are you familiar with Ephraim the Syrian? And, if so, what is the controversy surrounding him and the rapture? Thank you for taking my question. I really like the Q and A section of your website! Jim – Well, there’s a question you don’t often see! But, you’re right. There is a controversy...

Q – Was John Calvin a Murder? Jim – This is a question that shows up in my email from time to time. It’s a claim that is leveled by those who seek to besmirch Reformed Theology. Usually, the claim that Calvin was a murderer is an attempt to make all Calvinistic doctrine wrong through...