"Once we, too, were foolish and disobedient. We were misled and became slaves to many lusts and pleasures...But when God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us...Because of His grace He made us right in His sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life." (Titus 3:3-5, 7) The book of Titus is a little pastoral letter in the back of the Bible that's easy to miss. Yet it has some great advice from the Apostle Paul for church leaders, and it also reinforces a few key doctrines and kingdom truths. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we dive in.

"Tell me, you who want to live under the law, do you know what the law actually says? The Scriptures say that Abraham had two sons, one from his slave wife and one from his freeborn wife. The son of the slave wife was born in a human attempt to bring about the fulfillment of God’s promise. But the son of the freeborn wife was born as God’s own fulfillment of his promise." (Galatians 4:21-23) The Bible teaches that every believer has two natures: the old, fallen nature of Adam and the new, perfect nature of Jesus Christ. What this means is that, in a sense, Christians are bipolar. We explore that idea in this 20-Minute Bible Study.

"He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might..."(2 Thessalonians 1:8-9) Some passages of the Bible are just unavoidably clear: Those who do not know God will face eternal damnation in the Lake of Fire. The opening of Paul's 2nd letter to the Thessalonians is one of those passages. Or is it? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we go deeper in order to make sure our doctrine is true.

"'Shouldn’t you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?’ Then the angry king sent the man to prison to be tortured until he had paid his entire debt. 'That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart.'” (Matthew 18:33-35) The Bible teaches us to forgive, but sometimes that’s easier said than done, right? We know refusing to forgive is wrong, but did you know there can be real consequences? Join us for a 20-Minute Bible Study to find out why.

"'Let us be glad and rejoice and let us give honor to Him. For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, and His bride has prepared herself. She has been given the finest of pure white linen to wear.' For the fine linen represents the good deeds of God’s holy people." (Revelation 19:7-8) It’s a common belief among Christians that every believer will be part of the bride of Christ. But is that what scripture teaches? Join us for a new 20-Minute Bible Study as we defend our answer to this question.

The enemies of Christianity claim that the Bible is immoral because it condones slavery. But what does the Bible actually say about slavery? And what can we learn from the verses that talk about it? Let’s find out together in this 20-Minute Bible Study.

A listener wrote us asking, "While doing our group Bible study I could not find any satisfied answer on 1 Cor 8:11 – ‘And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died?’ What does ‘perish’ mean here?” Our answer is this 20-Minute Bible Study.

A listener recently asked a famous radio host: "How does one reconcile Colossians 1:21-23 with the teaching of ‘once saved, always saved’”? The radio host thought for a bit and responded: "There is a belief that is not adequate to the task” of salvation. Is that what these verses are teaching? Join us for another 20-Minute Bible Study to find out.

"I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser...If anyone does not remain in Me, he is thrown away like a branch and dries up; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you remain in Me, and My words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. " (John 15:1,6-7) Can Christians fall away from the faith and be thrown into the fire of hell and burned? Can Christians who invoke the name of Jesus get whatever it is they wish for? Join us for another 20-Minute Bible Study as we examine our Lord's "true vine" allegory and address these common misconceptions about its meaning.

“Thomas said to Him, 'Lord, we do not know where You are going; how do we know the way?' Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me.'” (John 14:5-6) That Jesus is the way, truth and life is a familiar statement to Christians. We nod along in agreement without thinking too much about those three words Jesus used. But if we really pause to consider them, they represent a pretty controversial worldview. Join us for another 20-Minute Bible Study.

At a university seminar given by a famous Christian apologist, a young woman challenged the idea that once someone is saved, she will always be saved and cannot lose her salvation. What did the Christian apologist say? What do we say? What does the Bible say? To find out, please join us for another 20-Minute Bible Study.

"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die.'" (John 11: 25-26) Everyone knows the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, but few have paid close attention to what our Lord said before He performed that miracle and what it reveals about the future of every Christian. Join us for another 20-Minute Bible Study.

"I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep ... I am the good shepherd, and I know My own, and My own know Me, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep." (John 10:11, 14-15) Some people believe that Jesus never claimed to be God. But did you know that in just five words in John 10, Jesus claimed to be God not once, but twice? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explain -- and we also explore the Good Shepherd metaphor in greater detail.

"Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, 'I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.'” (John 8:12) The light metaphor is the second of seven "I am" metaphors our Lord used to describe Himself in the gospel of John. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we’ll take a close look at what this metaphor reveals about Jesus and what it has to teach us about earning rewards in the Kingdom of Heaven.

"Jesus said to them, 'I am the bread of life; the one who comes to Me will not be hungry, and the one who believes in Me will never be thirsty.'” (John 6:35) The bread metaphor is the first of seven "I am" metaphors our Lord used to describe Himself in the gospel of John. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explore how it connects the Old Testament to the New Testament, and how it gives special meaning to a famous story about the Israelites.

“I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world...Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.” (John 17:14,17) Have you ever wondered what it would be like to listen in on a conversation between Jesus and God the Father? Thanks to the gospel of John, we can do just that. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we discuss a portion of our Lord's prayer at the garden of Gethsemane.

"In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us. In all wisdom and insight, He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him." (Ephesians 1:7-9) The blessings of belief in Jesus transcend space and time. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we discuss predestination and the deep mystery of God’s plan for mankind.

"So having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now proclaiming to mankind that all people everywhere are to repent, because He has set a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all people by raising Him from the dead.” (Acts 17:30-31) The word “faith” appears 239 times in the Bible. But in one place, in the book of Acts, the same Greek word is translated "proof." In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we discuss why this is so important and also examine the way Paul argued the case for Christ at the Areopagus before the leading philosophers of his day. Note: In this lesson we mention Frank Turek and his radio show/podcast, "I Don't Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist." For more information about that show, visit CrossExamined.org

"For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope." (Romans 15:4) The Old Testament was meant for Israel. The New Testament is meant for the Church. So what’s the point of reading the Old Testament? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we look to the Apostle Paul for the answer.

"Therefore, ridding yourselves of all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not just hearers who deceive themselves." (James 1:21-22) Knowing the Word is great, but DOING the Word is what really counts. In this 20-Minute Bible Studies, we dive into James and clear up some confusion about faith vs works in the context of salvation.

"And He summoned the crowd with His disciples, and said to them, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me." (Mark 8:34) We call Jesus our Lord, but what does that really mean? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we answer this question by closely examining a familiar passage of scripture.

"For everyone who partakes only of milk is unacquainted with the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. But solid food [or meat] is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to distinguish between good and evil." (Hebrews 5:13-14) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we discuss two powerful metaphors for spiritual maturity from the book of Hebrews.

“[A]ll have sinned and fall short of the glory of God...the wages of sin is death, but the gracious gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord...” (Romans 3:23 & 6:23) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we revisit a classic tool that evangelists have been using for decades, a walk through the book of Romans called The Romans Road.

"And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet; and bring the fattened calf, slaughter it, and let’s eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.'" (Luke 15: 21-24) Jordan's youngest daughter asked him recently: "Who is the Prodigal Son supposed to be?" In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we revisit the story and seek to answer that question.

"Peter said, 'Behold, we have left our own homes and followed You.' And He said to them, 'Truly I say to you, there is no one who has left house, or wife, or brothers, or parents, or children for the sake of the kingdom of God, who will not receive many times as much at this time, and in the age to come, eternal life.'" (Luke 18: 28-30) Jesus said that “it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we look for an answer to the question the disciples asked in reply: “Then who can be saved?”

"When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have set in place; What is man that You think of him, And a son of man that You are concerned about him?" (Psalm 8:3-4) As those of us who promote our faith in public know, the world is full of people who think Christian beliefs are anti-science and unsupported by evidence. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we present two ironclad ways to defend for your belief in God using only logic and science.

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also ... You cannot serve God and wealth." (Matthew 6:19-21, 24) A key theme of the Sermon on the Mount is that disciples must keep their eyes focused on gaining treasures that can be included with our salvation. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explore whether these treasures will be here for us on earth or waiting for us in heaven.

"But Peter said, 'Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back some of the price of the land? While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not under your control? Why is it that you have conceived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.'" (Acts 5:3-4) In a recent episode, we established the truth of the Trinity with a specific focus on all the scriptures that prove Jesus is God. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we also take the time to focus on all the scriptures that prove the Holy Spirit is God.

"For this reason we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it. For if the word spoken through angels proved unalterable, and every transgression and disobedience received a just penalty, how will we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? " (Hebrews 2:1-3) What is the Great Salvation? Is it different from what we commonly think of as salvation? If so, how? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we provide scriptural answers to these questions.

"May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Thessalonians 5:23) Man, like God, is three in one – a trinity of mind, body and spirit. For the first three centuries, this was church doctrine. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we revisit the four key scriptures that support the doctrine.

“After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him, and behold, a voice out of the heavens said, ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased.’” (Matthew 3:16-17) Have you ever met a Christian who denied the truth of the Trinity? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we share our experiences with Trinity deniers and the biblical evidence we used to counter their arguments.

"Then the king said to the servants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’” (Matthew 22:13) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we answer another listener question: What happens to a person's soul at the Judgement Seat of Christ if it does not go into the kingdom?

"For as the rain and snow come down from heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth, making it bear and sprout, and providing seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so will My word be which goes out of My mouth; it will not return to Me void, without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it." (Isaiah 55: 10-11) In this week's lesson, we discuss a question all Christians ask at least once during their spiritual walk: Do I have to make the gospel sound good in order to be effective?

"And Jesus said to His disciples, 'Truly I say to you, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.'" (Matthew 19: 23-24) A listener wrote to chastise us, saying: "The kingdom of God is not the same thing as the kingdom of heaven ...you should not be trying to teach the two kingdoms as being the same.” Is he correct? In this lesson, we address his challenge.

"...that is, the mystery which has been hidden from the past ages and generations, but has now been manifested to His saints, to whom God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. " (Colossians 1:26-27) Jesus told His disciples that it had been granted to them to know "the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven." But what does that phrase mean? Of what “mysteries” was Jesus speaking? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we look to the Apostle Paul for an answer.

"'For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.'” (John 3:17-18) How does salvation happen? Does it happen in the heart with a feeling? In the mind with a concept? Do you have to confess with your mouth for it to be real? Or perhaps demonstrate it’s real by being baptized? Listen to this 20-Minute Bible Study for scriptural answers to these questions.

"When they had appointed elders for them in every church, having prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed." (Acts 14:23) What is the ultimate purpose of fasting and prayer? Should it be approached as some sort of formula? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we address these questions, which were recently raised by an earnest listener.

"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love." (1 John 4:18) Should Christians fear God? The Bible says the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 1:7). But the verse above says “there is no fear in love." So which is it? Listen to this 20-Minute Bible Study to find out.

We've hit a milestone: This is the 100th episode of 20-Minute Bible Studies. A big THANK YOU to all of our longtime listeners & supporters! For those who have been with us since the beginning, you may have noticed we continue to go deeper in our Bible studies and are not shying away from the more difficult topics. This lesson on the "outer darkness" is no exception. It is perhaps the deepest we've gone to date, and it will no doubt be controversial to many. Let us know what you think.

"You have heard that the ancients were told, ‘You shall not commit murder’ and ‘Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother, ‘You good-for-nothing,’ shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell." (Matthew 5:21-22) A listener recently asked: "Would you please clarify Gehenna and those who will go there? I don’t want to be one. " What would your answer be? Check out this 20-Minute Bible Study to hear our answer.

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock. Everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. The rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and it fell—and great was its fall.” (Matthew 7:24-27) If salvation is the gift of God with no works required (Ephesians 2:8-9), why did Jesus tell His disciples they must hear His words and "act on them" like a wise man building on a proper foundation? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we discuss an answer to this question.

"[D]o you not know that the saints will judge the world? If the world is judged by you, are you not competent to constitute the smallest law courts? Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more matters of this life?" (1 Corinthians 6: 2-3) Should Christians judge others? The Bible seems to say yes ... and also no. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we take on this seeming contradiction.

"Thomas said to Him, 'Lord, we do not know where You are going, how do we know the way?' Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.'" (John 14:5-6) Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. This is a phrase every Christian knows. But have you ever taken the time to consider each word and what it means? Join us as we do exactly that in this 20-Minute Bible Study.

"Jesus answered them, 'Has it not been written in your Law, "I said, you are gods"? If he called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be broken), do you say of Him, whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God’"? (John 10: 34-36) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we take a closer look at an intriguing passage of scripture that some have used to promote the false teaching that humans can be equal to God. What do these verses actually mean? Tune in to find out.

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being ... And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:1-3 & 14) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we review the many scriptures that prove Jesus is God. Not just a prophet who died. Not only the SON of God – but also GOD the Son. God Himself.

Episode 122 of our original "Mysteries of the Kingdom" radio show. Andy & Jordan introduce the important theological concept of "dispensationalism" and how this present age, the Age of Grace, fits within it.

"Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If any man destroys the temple of God, God will destroy him, for the temple of God is holy — and that is what you are." (1 Corinthians 3:16-17) The Bible says your body is a temple, and that means you shouldn't smoke, drink or eat unhealthy food — right? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we examine that claim in responding to comments from a vegetarian believer.

"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15) Should Christians divide the Word of God? And if so, what does that even mean? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we discuss methods and challenges in rightly dividing the Word.

"If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple. Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple … So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. " (Luke 14:26-27,33) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we learn the true cost of discipleship by tackling some of the hardest things to hear that our Lord Jesus ever said.

“For it was Adam who was first created, and then Eve. And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression." (1 Timothy 2:13-14) Was Adam weak-minded for listening to his wife, Eve, and accepting her call to eat of the forbidden fruit? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explore an alternate interpretation.

"Answering them, He said, 'Who are My mother and My brothers?' Looking about at those who were sitting around Him, He said, 'Behold My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of God, he is My brother and sister and mother.'" (Mark 3:33-35) God is “our Father in heaven.” Christians are our “brothers and sisters in Christ.” In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we discuss the amazing realizations that follow from this understanding of God's family.

“Now, therefore, fear the Lord and serve Him in sincerity and truth; and put away the gods which your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:14-15) Have you ever been asked: How did you choose your God from the hundreds of other gods? As with all things, the Bible has the answer. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we go back and see how the Israelites dealt with this question.

"And a lawyer stood up and put Him to the test, saying, 'Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?' And He said to him, 'What is written in the Law? How does it read to you?' And he answered, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.' And He said to him, 'You have answered correctly; do this and you will live.'" (Luke 10:25-28) Every Christian knows the story of the Good Samaritan. But did you know there's a lesson about the Kingdom in the introduction to that parable? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we take a closer look.

"Jesus summoned His twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every kind of disease and every kind of sickness … These twelve Jesus sent out after instructing them: 'Do not go in the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter any city of the Samaritans; but rather go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.'" (Matthew 10: 1, 5-6) Everyone knows the Great Commission. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” But did you know that was the second commission? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we examine the first.

Fact 1: No one knows for sure when Jesus was born. Fact 2: Christmas is not based on a pagan holiday. Fact 3: There’s no need to put the “Christ” back in “Xmas.” Fact 4: There’s no reason to believe there were only three wise men. Fact 5: Jesus wasn’t a newborn when the wise men reached Him. Fact 6: The gifts the wise men brought were symbolic and prophetic. Fact 7: Christmas reminds us that Jesus is the Messiah, the promised King of Kings. But it should also remind us of the promise that we can be kings!

"Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. " (1 John 2:15-16) The Bible commands: Do not love the world. But what does loving the world really mean? And what, exactly, should we be doing to avoid falling into that trap? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we provide scripture-backed answers to these questions.

"For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. " (1 Corinthians 1:18) Do you know your 'tenses' of salvation? If not, this 20-Minute Bible Study is for you.

"And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. " (Hebrews 11:6) We must have initial faith in Jesus Christ in order to be saved. But, crucially, we must also continue to believe throughout our lives that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we examine a passage from the Hebrews 'Hall of Faith' to better understand this truth.

"Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them." (Hebrews 7:25) The above is a great verse to begin questioning your understanding of the words “salvation” or “save” when they appear in the Bible. These words can have different meanings other than just initial salvation (or salvation from hell). In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we demonstrate this with a closer look at the precise wording of scripture.

"...if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved" (Romans 10:9) We are saved by grace through faith and not as a result of works. Yet in the above scripture, it says you must confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord to be saved. Isn’t that a work? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we discuss and resolve this seeming contradiction.

"But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons." (Galatians 4: 4-5) The phrase most focus on from this passage, typically during the holiday season, is “God sent forth His Son, born of a woman.” This indeed ties in with the Christmas story nicely, but those with spiritual ears will hear clearly the phrase at the end of this passage, which has deep meaning. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explain and explore that meaning.

"I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned. " (John 15:5-7) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we examine the True Vine metaphor for Jesus Christ and clear up some common misunderstandings about its meaning.

"So Jesus said to them again, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. '" (John 10: 7-9) What did Jesus men when He called Himself a door? Who were the sheep of which He spoke? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we answer these key questions, and more.

"But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up. " (2 Peter 3:10) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we dig into 2nd Peter and a prophecy about the end times.

"For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;." (1 Peter 3:18) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explore a foundational passage for the doctrine of Assurance. That is, the doctrine that teaches "once saved, always saved."

"I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints." (Ephesians 1:18) The Apostle Paul’s promise of inheritance should inspire great excitement in every Christian who reads of it. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explain why.

"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us..." (Hebrews 12:1) Can Mary and the saints hear our prayers? Those who believe they can cite the verse above as evidence. But is this verse compatible with that interpretation? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we take a closer look.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2: 8-9) The oft-cited passage of scripture above represents the foundation of Protestantism. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we take the time to study it more closely.

"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3: 16-17) The first few words of the above verse are well known and quoted by every Christian. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we go a little deeper in order to understand the meaning of the rest of this section of scripture.

"From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and violent men take it by force." (Matthew 11:12) A listener sent us this verse and asked: "Is Jesus speaking about a spiritual kingdom of heaven, or the preaching of the gospel of the kingdom of heaven? What or which kingdom of heaven is suffering violence?" In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we provide our Bible-supported answer.

"Jesus answered, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. '" (John 3:5) Do you need to be baptized to be born again? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we look carefully at God's Word to find out.

"Yet we do speak wisdom among those who are mature; a wisdom, however, not of this age nor of the rulers of this age, who are passing away; but we speak God’s wisdom in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God predestined before the ages to our glory." (1 Corinthians 2:6-7) What is the "hidden wisdom" the Apostle Paul spoke of in his letter to the Corinthians? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we go to the Word to seek an answer.

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me. He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. " (Revelation 3:20-21) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we study two verses you’ve probably heard many times ... but may have some misunderstandings about what they mean.

"For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12) Like God, we are a trinity of mind (soul), body and spirit. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we share the scriptures that support this truth.

“If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it from you; it is better for you to enter life crippled or lame, than to have two hands or two feet and be cast into the eternal fire. If your eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out and throw it from you. It is better for you to enter life with one eye, than to have two eyes and be cast into the fiery hell." (Matthew 18:8-9) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we take on this confusing and often controversial passage from the gospel of Matthew.

"So also it is written, 'The first man, Adam, became a living soul.' The last Adam became a life-giving spirit." (1 Corinthians 15:45) The Bible makes a clear connection between Adam and Jesus that reveals a deep truth about the Trinity. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explore this connection.

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30) The rest Jesus offered in Matthew 11 is one of three key "rests" that appear in the New Testament, each one representing a different, critical aspect of salvation. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explore each one.

"When the hour had come, He reclined at the table, and the apostles with Him. And He said to them, 'I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I say to you, I shall never again eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.' And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He said, 'Take this and share it among yourselves; for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine from now on until the kingdom of God comes.' And when He had taken some bread and given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, 'This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.'" (Luke 22:14-19) When you take communion, do you ever think about the kind of bread the church has chosen? Some use regular bread, but did you know Matzah is the proper choice? That’s because using regular bread ruins a biblical type. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we make the case using the Word of God.

"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him." (Romans 5:8-9) The wrath of God is a tough topic. Focusing on it risks turning people off and taking the focus away from God’s love and the many positive attributes of the faith. And yet, it is a biblical truth. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we take up the challenge.

"At that time the disciples came to Jesus and said, 'Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?' And He called a child to Himself and set him before them, and said, 'Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever then humbles himself as this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. '" (Matthew 18:1-4) Who will be the greatest in the Millennial Kingdom? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we look at how Jesus answered that question when it arose among His disciples.

"For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. When he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius for the day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour and saw others standing idle in the market place; and to those he said, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right I will give you.’ And so they went. Again he went out about the sixth and the ninth hour, and did the same thing. And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing around; and he said to them, ‘Why have you been standing here idle all day long?’ They said to him, ‘Because no one hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You go into the vineyard too.’" (Matthew 20:1-7) Parables contain the highest level of Christian knowledge, and we can access it if we behave as true disciples. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we examine the Parable of the Laborers in order to perceive what it has to teach us.

"...He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved." (Ephesians 1: 4-6) The Old Testament and the New Testament agree: God has planned everything in advance – and that means He also has a timing for a person’s salvation that is predetermined. For evidence of this, check out this 20-Minute Bible Study.

"Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary." (Galatians 6:7-9) As you pursue a God-honoring life, you'll encounter those who doubt His will, His word and His way. Rest assured: God won’t allow them to have the last laugh. In His time, He will always give you the victory.

"The Chaldeans answered the king and said, 'There is not a man on earth who could declare the matter for the king, inasmuch as no great king or ruler has ever asked anything like this of any magician, conjurer or Chaldean' ... Because of this the king became indignant and very furious and gave orders to destroy all the wise men of Babylon. So the decree went forth that the wise men should be slain; and they looked for Daniel and his friends to kill them." (Daniel 2:10, 12-13) God comes through on time in providing wisdom during tough situations. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explore several biblical accounts where God's timely wisdom was vital.

"Jesus answered and said to him, 'If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our abode with him. He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine, but the Father’s who sent Me. These things I have spoken to you while abiding with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.'" (John 14:23-26) We must act when and how the Lord commands us to act because our timely obedience not only affects ourselves but so many others. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we look at how God provides teaching at the right time to benefit those who heed it.

"The Lord said, 'I have surely seen the affliction of My people who are in Egypt, and have given heed to their cry because of their taskmasters, for I am aware of their sufferings. So I have come down to deliver them from the power of the Egyptians, and to bring them up from that land to a good and spacious land, to a land flowing with milk and honey.'" (Exodus 3:7-8) God has a plan, purpose and will for our lives. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we review two famous stories from the Old Testament that remind us of God’s timing for training us up.

"When David and his men came to the city, behold, it was burned with fire, and their wives and their sons and their daughters had been taken captive. Then David and the people who were with him lifted their voices and wept until there was no strength in them to weep ... But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God." (1 Samuel 30:3-4, 6) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we examine a story from the Old Testament that exemplifies God’s timing for encouragement when we need it.

"So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, 'Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?' He said to Him, 'Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.' He said to him, 'Tend My lambs.' He said to him again a second time, 'Simon, son of John, do you love Me?' He said to Him, 'Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.' He said to him, 'Shepherd My sheep.' He said to him the third time, 'Simon, son of John, do you love Me?' Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, 'Do you love Me?' And he said to Him, 'Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.' Jesus said to him, 'Tend My sheep.'" (John 21:15-17) Encoded in a seemingly simple story about Jesus asking the Apostle Peter if he loves Him are several deeper truths about love, spiritual maturity and the Kingdom. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we unlock and explore these truths.

"As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ." (Ephesians 4:14-15) Growing into spiritual maturity is the only way we can hope to qualify for the reward of ruling and reigning with Christ Jesus when He returns. However, many are stuck in spiritual infancy with no idea of how to grow in Christ. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we take another look at what the Bible has to say about this topic and what spiritual maturity looks like in a believer.

"Like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation." (1 Peter 2:2) A deeper teaching of the Bible is that the message of salvation – the Gift – is spiritual milk meant only for new believers. The Bible also teaches that mature Christians must progress to understanding what is beyond the Gift, moving on to the spiritual meat of the Word, in order to please God and earn heavenly rewards. Several scriptures support these beliefs, but one scripture from First Peter seems to contradict it. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we take a look at that scripture in detail.

"Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. For this, 'You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,' and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law." (Romans 13:8-10) What is true love? According to the Bible, it's not any of the types of love we think about in daily life. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we examine God's definition.

"A nobleman went to a distant country to receive a kingdom for himself, and then return. And he called ten of his slaves, and gave them ten minas and said to them, ‘Do business with this until I come back.’" (Luke 19: 12-13) “For it is just like a man about to go on a journey, who called his own slaves and entrusted his possessions to them. To one he gave five talents, to another, two, and to another, one, each according to his own ability; and he went on his journey." (Matthew 25: 14-15) While similar in theme and structure, the parable of the minas and the parable of the talents teach different lessons. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we examine both in close detail.

"Peter said to Him, 'Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.' And He said, 'Come!' And Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, 'Lord, save me!' Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, 'You of little faith, why did you doubt?'" (Matthew 14:28-31) Sometimes, the storms of life never seem to stop blowing. You might ask yourself, How can God allow these constant storms to happen to me? Am I always failing God and others because of my sins? Will my life ever change? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we answer these questions by more closely examining a familiar Bible story.

"Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified." (1 Corinthians 9:24-27) Among the many great things the Apostle Paul gave us, under inspiration of the Holy Spirit, were analogies that are useful for understanding some of the most important messages of the Bible. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explore two of these: the runner and the boxer.

"For you yourselves know full well that the day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night. While they are saying, 'Peace and safety!' then destruction will come upon them suddenly like labor pains upon a woman with child, and they will not escape. But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day would overtake you like a thief." (1 Thessalonians 5:2-4) You’ve heard it before: The Day of the Lord will be like a thief in the night. But have you ever paused to consider that metaphor? What does it mean? And when exactly is the Day of the Lord? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explore the answers to these questions and get a better understanding of prophecy.

"For I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that our fathers were all under the cloud and all passed through the sea; and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea; and all ate the same spiritual food; and all drank the same spiritual drink, for they were drinking from a spiritual rock which followed them; and the rock was Christ." (1 Corinthians 10:1-4) The Apostle Paul makes it clear in 1 Corinthians that Jesus is the Rock. (Sorry Dwayne Johnson.) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explain the deep meaning of this type as it appears throughout scripture.

"Truly I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven" (Matthew 18:18) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we tackle another often-misunderstood Bible verse and use it to understand how God wants His disciples to handle the 'gray areas' when trying to determine whether something is a sin.

"For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus in the night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, 'This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me.' In the same way He took the cup also after supper, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.' For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes." (1 Corinthians 11: 23-26) All Christians agree that Holy Communion is a very important event in the Bible that God commands us to practice. But is it the ceremony itself that Jesus wants us to honor, or does understanding the types that the ceremony represent take precedent? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we use the Word of God to answer that important question.

"So Jesus said to them, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in yourselves. He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. For My flesh is true food, and My blood is true drink. He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him.'" (John 6: 53-56) Does a believer literally need to ingest the body and blood of Jesus Christ in order to be saved? In our latest 20-Minute Bible Study, we tackle this controversial question by closely examining the gospel of John.

"Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised ... [W]e are not of those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the preserving of the soul." (Hebrews 10: 35 & 39) In our latest 20-Minute Bible Study, we discuss confidence and cowardice. Not self-confidence or big egos, and not the kind of cowardice that men care about, but the confidence and cowardice God cares about.

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8) In our latest 20-Minute Bible Study, we look carefully at the meaning behind this very simple and often-quoted verse. We explore why it’s important to apply it to all aspects of our lives and, by doing so, gain a greater perspective and appreciation of just how awesome is our God!

"Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice." (Ephesians 4:29-31) Many understand "let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth" to mean that cursing is against God’s Word. But is that actually what the Bible is teaching? In this latest 20-Minute Bible Study, we examine this admonition from the Apostle Paul more carefully.

"When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him. He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying, 'Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth ...'" (Matthew 5:1-5) At the beginning of His famous Sermon on the Mount, our Lord Jesus Christ made nine statements, all beginning with the word "blessed." Many Bible teachers refer to them as wise sayings. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we go deeper and look at how they are related and sequential – a ladder of maturing faith.

"And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." (Romans 5:3-5) In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we look at how God defines hope for the believer. Is having hope similar to having faith? Doesn’t everyone have it? Listen in to learn the answers. Hint: It all hinges on reading scripture in context.

"And He was transfigured before them; and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him." (Matthew 17:2-3) We all know the story: Three favored disciples saw Jesus transfigured and standing with two famous prophets. But did you ever wonder why? Why did this happen? Why those prophets? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we unlock the deeper meaning of this event.

"If you love Me, you will keep My commandments ... He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will disclose Myself to him ... If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our abode with him.” (John 14:15, 21 & 23) When the Kingdom comes, will you be beside Christ Jesus, ruling and reigning with Him? Will you be royalty – or just a subject? Or, worse yet, will you be outside the Kingdom looking in, and outcast who traded your inheritance for the fleeting pleasures of the flesh? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we discuss the 12 commandments of Jesus Christ and how they chart a clear path to the throne room.

"But he who is spiritual appraises all things, yet he himself is appraised by no one." (1 Corinthians 2:15) Did you know God places all people in one of three categories? Do you know what category God is placing you in? Find out in this 20-Minute Bible Study, as we examine the Apostle Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian church.

"After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh." (Matthew 2:11) Did you know that each of the three gifts given to baby Jesus had a hidden meaning? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explore their deep meaning.

"But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:8-9) Most interpret the above verses as teaching that God has delayed the coming of the end times in order to give the world the most amount of time to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. But in our latest 20-Minute Bible Study, we show that's not quite what those verses mean.

[Jesus said] “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14) You’ve no doubt heard the expression: Broad is the way that leads to destruction. Like many, you may think this means the highway to hell is wide and well-traveled. But in our latest 20-Minute Bible Study, we show that this is a misinterpretation of Scripture.

"According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 3:10-11) The Apostle Paul's "master builder" metaphor is a critical passage of scripture. Included within it is everything a believer needs to know about salvation, how to live in the present and what will happen in the future. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we fully explore its meaning.

"But the lovingkindness of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, And His righteousness to children’s children, To those who keep His covenant And remember His precepts to do them." (Psalm 103:17-18) Many have stumbled over the infamous 'African boy' question. It goes something like this: "What about the African boy who grows up in the middle of a remote country with no knowledge of the gospel? How is it fair if he does not come to salvation?" In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we explore one answer from the Word of God.

"If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved" - Romans 10:9. "Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption" - Ephesians 4:30. "Therefore, I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, 'Jesus is accursed'; and no one can say, 'Jesus is Lord,' except by the Holy Spirit" - 1 Corinthians 12:3. “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter” - Matthew 7:21. In studying the Bible, we most often focus on a single passage of scripture. To truly increase our understanding, though, we often need to put various scriptures together. In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we consider one of these "spiritual equations": Romans 10:9 + Ephesians 4:30 + 1 Corinthians 12:3 = Matthew 7:21.

"For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools … For they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen." (Romans 1: 20-22 & 25) Some have argued that the intellectually honest answer to the big questions about the origin of life and the universe is: “I don’t know.” It sounds rational, but is it correct? In this 20-Minute Bible Study, we consult one of the greatest intellectuals who ever lived.

“Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done.” (Revelation 22:12) In our latest 20-Minute Bible Study, we seek the answer to the question so many Christians ask themselves at one point or another: “I know I’m saved by God’s grace alone, so why must I strive to be perfect?”