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Mike Winger idea 2020-03-16

Not going to church during a pandemic is wisdom, not fear. Two types of fear: (1) terror about what might happen (unnecessary — God is sovereign even in worst outcomes), (2) proper respect/prudence that avoids testing God. Proverbs 27:12: "The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it."

Wisdom vs fear — prudence in Proverbs

Proverbs 27:12 Proverbs 8:5 Proverbs 27:12 prudence Proverbs 8:5

Mike Winger idea 2020-03-16

Selflessness should drive decisions — even if you're low-risk, older/vulnerable congregants face serious danger. Mike's personal practice: running errands for his elderly mother with COPD. Churches can close for a season without spiritual compromise — maintain community through calls, small groups, and online gatherings.

Selflessness and community during lockdown

Hebrews 10:25 Hebrews 10:25 COVID lockdown church closures

Mike Winger idea 2020-04-08

Works come AFTER salvation, not before. Ephesians 2:8-10: saved by grace through faith, not of works — but created in Christ Jesus FOR good works. You don't earn forgiveness; you receive it and then good works flow from the new life. The danger: thinking you need to be a better person first.

Works after salvation — Ephesians 2:8-10

Ephesians 2:8-10 Luke 18:9-14 Ephesians 2:8-10 grace through faith Luke 18:9-14

Mike Winger idea 2020-10-05

The Sanhedrin's "we don't know" answer is pretend agnosticism — they knew what they believed but wouldn't say it. This is a modern plague: people claim not to know as a cover for not wanting to submit to the evidence.

Analysis of the Sanhedrin's non-answer and modern pretend agnosticism

Mark 11:27-33 Sanhedrin Sanhedrin Mark 11:27-33

Mike Winger idea 2020-10-26

The Mirror Bible is endorsed by John Crowder ("toking the holy ghost") and William Paul Young (author of The Shack, later a universalist). It's part of a broader movement: progressive Christianity, hyper-charismatic theology, and universal salvation all pushing the same direction.

Endorsers and broader context of the Mirror Bible

John Crowder Mirror Bible Mirror Bible John Crowder

Mike Winger idea 2020-11-23

The world's morality is loving PEOPLE as the whole story. Biblical morality is loving GOD first, with loving people as an expression of that. Both dangers: lowering the standard of holiness, or forgetting grace and living in defeat.

The moral error the world makes and the balanced Christian response

greatest commandment love God first

Mike Winger idea 2021-01-11

Mark 12:38-44 is Jesus's warning about fake spirituality in leadership and money-grubbing preachers, paired with the widow's offering showing what genuine sacrificial giving looks like. This is a pervasive, ongoing danger.

Introduction to Mark Series pt 51 on the scribes and the widow's mite

Mark 12:38-44 Mark series Mark 12:38-44 Mark series fake spiritual leadership

Mike Winger idea 2021-01-11

The veneer problem: leaders can portray a greater spirituality than they actually possess. Those who don't notice it reward it, installing fake spiritual leaders who install more. Character must trump stage skills in leadership selection.

The danger of rewarding veneer over substance in church leadership

leadership accountability leadership accountability fake spiritual leadership

Mike Winger idea 2021-05-14

Fight sin at its earliest stage — Jesus teaches in the Sermon on the Mount that the beginning state of sin (lust, anger) is already where you've lost the fight. Draw personal boundaries far from the sin, not close.

Q9: How to fight the temptation to lust?

Matthew 5 Matthew Jesus Matthew 5 Matthew

Mike Winger idea 2021-07-23

Is Biblical Numerology Really Biblical?: What are your thoughts about “biblical numerology”? Are certain numbers in Scripture intended by God to carry hidden theological significance for us to find, or is this a man-made and potentially dangerous thing to look for while studying?

Q&A question: Is Biblical Numerology Really Biblical?

Mike Winger idea 2021-05-07

When to “Shake the Dust from our Feet”: At what point are we to "shake off the dust from our feet" as mentioned in Matthew 10: 14 when trying to witness to friends, strangers, loved ones, etc.?

Q&A question: When to “Shake the Dust from our Feet”

Matthew 10 Matthew Matthew 10 Matthew

Mike Winger idea 2021-12-03

About Pastors Preaching on Certain Sins: How would you respond to a pastor who says “I don't need to teach that a particular practice is a sin”? What dangers do you think are there if someone doesn't recognize certain sins?

Q&A question: About Pastors Preaching on Certain Sins

pastoral ministry

Mike Winger idea 2021-12-10

How to Initiate Gospel Conversations: How do I start conversations about Jesus with strangers/acquaintances?

Q&A question: How to Initiate Gospel Conversations

Jesus

Mike Winger idea 2022-05-06

Struggling with Repeated Sin: There are sins listed in 1 Corinthians 6 that seem to send people to Hell. I struggle often with gluttony and anger. I repent, but I fall back into it often. What’s the difference?

Q&A question: Struggling with Repeated Sin

1 Corinthians 6 1 Corinthians 6 hell

Mike Winger idea 2022-08-13

Safeguarding Ourselves While Witnessing: I have felt God call me to minister to the JWs, and He has opened doors for me to do so. What should I do to make sure my faith is not endangered when I am doing ministry? I meet with them tonight.

Q&A question: Safeguarding Ourselves While Witnessing

evangelism

Mike Winger idea 2023-04-21

Witnessing to Strangers: What’s your favorite way to witness to strangers?

Q&A question: Witnessing to Strangers

evangelism

Mike Winger idea 2023-12-29

Should we “Sin Boldly”?: Martin Luther has a quote that says “sin boldly.” I’ve heard he meant don’t be afraid of sinning and do so boldly knowing it has been paid for, but I feel that this is dangerous. Your thoughts?

Q&A question: Should we “Sin Boldly”?

Martin Luther

Mike Winger idea 2024-01-26

Satan’s Guide to The Bible?: There is a dangerous video gaining popularity, called "Satan's Guide to The Bible," that illustrates a pretend children's Sunday school class learning from Satan as their substitute teacher. He claims that pastors keep secrets from their congregants, but that he will reveal those secrets and tell them the truth. Can you please analyze this video and refute its false claims about the Bible?

Q&A question: Satan’s Guide to The Bible?

Satan pastoral ministry

Mike Winger idea 2024-02-23

Did Jesus Leave the 99 in Danger?: Regarding Matthew 18: 12, does Jesus know the 99 are safe when He leaves to find the 1? I’m trying to understand how this is responsible. Should we not do things for the greater good, but for the 1?

Q&A question: Did Jesus Leave the 99 in Danger?

Matthew 18 Matthew Jesus Matthew 18 Matthew

Mike Winger idea 2024-02-23

Strategic Evangelism to Strangers: How do you initiate sharing the Gospel with a stranger? Is it best to be direct (e.g., “Can I share the Gospel with you?”), or would you recommend a more gradual approach?

Q&A question: Strategic Evangelism to Strangers

angels

Mike Winger idea 2024-03-01

Effectively Caring for the Homeless: How are we expected to help homeless people in our modern culture? Are we still expected to invite strangers into our very homes as they did in Bible times?

Q&A question: Effectively Caring for the Homeless

Mike Winger idea 2024-04-05

Homosexuality vs. Other Sins: Why should we not ordain homosexuals in church although it’s a sin, when other people with less visible sins (hate, anger, etc.) are serving? What is the biblical view on this?

Q&A question: Homosexuality vs. Other Sins

homosexuality

Mike Winger idea 2024-07-26

Dangerous Recreational Activities: What does the Bible say about participating in dangerous activities, particularly those that are recreational, such as riding motorcycles, mountain climbing, big wave surfing, etc.?

Q&A question: Dangerous Recreational Activities

creation

Mike Winger idea 2024-10-18

Anger at God’s Word?: Do you have any specific advice on how to deal with emotions while reading the Bible? Recently, I can’t even get through a few verses without feeling overwhelmed with anger or frustration!

Q&A question: Anger at God’s Word?

Mike Winger idea 2024-12-13

Avoiding Anger while Guiding Others: I see a lot of New Age-ish things (energy, manifesting, vibes) creeping into Christ followers’ lives around me. I’ve gotten blow-back trying to correct people in love. Do you have any advice about how to continue the conversation without angering them?

Q&A question: Avoiding Anger while Guiding Others

new age

Mike Winger idea 2025-05-09

Is All Sin the Same?: Is it biblical to say that all sin is the same, and is equally bad?

Q&A question: Is All Sin the Same?

Mike Winger idea 2025-05-09

Prophets Today?: Should the Church appoint/recognize official prophets, or is this something similar to apostles (only the original 12 + Paul)? See 1 Corinthians 12: 28, Ephesians 4: 11. Is it an office, a gift, or some mixture of the two?

Q&A question: Prophets Today?

1 Corinthians 12 Ephesians 4 prophecy Apostles 1 Corinthians 12

Mike Winger idea 2025-05-09

Why Would God Allow a Pope?: Why would Christ allow someone to be appointed as His vicar on Earth? If the authority of the pope is illegitimate, how is that not the worst manifestation of blasphemy? How is it allowed by God?

Q&A question: Why Would God Allow a Pope?

blasphemy papacy

Mike Winger idea 2025-05-09

Resentful of the Father but Not the Son?: After a long and HARD life, I sometimes feel almost resentful of GOD the Father whom I’ve never seen, heard, or felt. But every day I love JESUS more and more. Is this normal?

Q&A question: Resentful of the Father but Not the Son?

Jesus

Mike Winger idea 2025-05-09

Why Doesn’t God Save Everyone?: My brother is an atheist and says he wouldn’t follow a God that he knows is real, who knowingly creates people who will reject Him and go to Hell, despite having power to save everyone. It’s hard to reason. Thoughts?

Q&A question: Why Doesn’t God Save Everyone?

atheism hell

Mike Winger idea 2025-05-09

Jesus’ Spirit Separate from HS?: Does Jesus have a distinct Spirit apart from the Holy Spirit? It seems that Jesus has His own Spirit (Luke 23: 46) that is distinct from the Holy Spirit.

Q&A question: Jesus’ Spirit Separate from HS?

Luke 23 Jesus Luke 23

Mike Winger idea 2025-05-09

Questioning our Pastors?: My pastor said that since God called him to shepherd, unless he is teaching false doctrine, you don't question your pastor even if you don't agree with something or they do something wrong. Is this right?

Q&A question: Questioning our Pastors?

pastoral ministry

Mike Winger idea 2025-05-09

Advice for a Discouraged Pastor: I’m feeling discouraged in my new job as a youth pastor. I don’t know if I’m making an impact or if I’m meant to do this. Any advice?

Q&A question: Advice for a Discouraged Pastor

pastoral ministry

Mike Winger idea 2025-05-09

Transitioning from Cult to Christianity!: I’m in the process of leaving the LDS church for real Christianity (thank you for your videos!!). Do you have any advice or resources for the deconstructing and reconstructing of faith after leaving?

Q&A question: Transitioning from Cult to Christianity!

Mormonism

Mike Winger idea 2025-05-09

Where is Jesus “Seated”?: What does Jesus sitting at the right hand of the Father mean when it’s also said that Jesus was seated on the throne in Revelation?

Q&A question: Where is Jesus “Seated”?

revelation Jesus revelation

Mike Winger idea 2025-07-18

Should Shame Linger?: As a kid, even after apologizing, I felt my parents' shame/disappointment/anger in the room until a period of time would pass. I know my sin harms my intimacy w/God even though Romans 8:1 is true, so I can't get over the "awkward in the room" feeling when I try to pray or draw near to God after sinning. Should shame linger for a period of time?

Q&A question: Should Shame Linger?

Romans 8 Romans 8

Mike Winger idea 2025-10-03

Street Healings: Are They Real?: Are street healings real? Christians pray for strangers who report relief from pain and various illnesses. But atheist Derren Brown has produced similar results. Are these miracles or psychological effects?

Q&A question: Street Healings: Are They Real?

Derren Brown miracles atheism

Mike Winger idea 2026-01-02

Hyperbole in Scripture: The Sermon on the Mount has some hyperbole (cut off your hand). How do you know what is hyperbole and what isn't, specifically regarding anger?

Q&A question: Hyperbole in Scripture

Pulpit research note

Commentary: Deception Is Not Gender-Specific — Paul Fears It for the Whole Church

Paul writes: "But I am afraid that, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ" (**2 Cor 11:3,** NASB). Paul is

2 Corinthians 11:3

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Works come AFTER salvation, not before. Ephesians 2:8-10: saved by grace through faith, not of works — but created in Christ Jesus FOR good works. You don't earn forgiveness; you receive it and then good works flow from the new life. The danger: thinking you need to be a better person first.

The Sanhedrin's "we don't know" answer is pretend agnosticism — they knew what they believed but wouldn't say it. This is a modern plague: people claim not to know as a cover for not wanting to submit to the evidence.

The Mirror Bible is endorsed by John Crowder ("toking the holy ghost") and William Paul Young (author of The Shack, later a universalist). It's part of a broader movement: progressive Christianity, hyper-charismatic theology, and universal salvation all pushing the same direction.

The world's morality is loving PEOPLE as the whole story. Biblical morality is loving GOD first, with loving people as an expression of that. Both dangers: lowering the standard of holiness, or forgetting grace and living in defeat.

Mark 12:38-44 is Jesus's warning about fake spirituality in leadership and money-grubbing preachers, paired with the widow's offering showing what genuine sacrificial giving looks like. This is a pervasive, ongoing danger.

The veneer problem: leaders can portray a greater spirituality than they actually possess. Those who don't notice it reward it, installing fake spiritual leaders who install more. Character must trump stage skills in leadership selection.

Fight sin at its earliest stage — Jesus teaches in the Sermon on the Mount that the beginning state of sin (lust, anger) is already where you've lost the fight. Draw personal boundaries far from the sin, not close.

Is Biblical Numerology Really Biblical?: What are your thoughts about “biblical numerology”? Are certain numbers in Scripture intended by God to carry hidden theological significance for us to find, or is this a man-made and potentially dangerous thing to look for while studying?

When to “Shake the Dust from our Feet”: At what point are we to "shake off the dust from our feet" as mentioned in Matthew 10: 14 when trying to witness to friends, strangers, loved ones, etc.?

About Pastors Preaching on Certain Sins: How would you respond to a pastor who says “I don't need to teach that a particular practice is a sin”? What dangers do you think are there if someone doesn't recognize certain sins?

How to Initiate Gospel Conversations: How do I start conversations about Jesus with strangers/acquaintances?

Struggling with Repeated Sin: There are sins listed in 1 Corinthians 6 that seem to send people to Hell. I struggle often with gluttony and anger. I repent, but I fall back into it often. What’s the difference?

Safeguarding Ourselves While Witnessing: I have felt God call me to minister to the JWs, and He has opened doors for me to do so. What should I do to make sure my faith is not endangered when I am doing ministry? I meet with them tonight.

Witnessing to Strangers: What’s your favorite way to witness to strangers?

Should we “Sin Boldly”?: Martin Luther has a quote that says “sin boldly.” I’ve heard he meant don’t be afraid of sinning and do so boldly knowing it has been paid for, but I feel that this is dangerous. Your thoughts?

Did Jesus Leave the 99 in Danger?: Regarding Matthew 18: 12, does Jesus know the 99 are safe when He leaves to find the 1? I’m trying to understand how this is responsible. Should we not do things for the greater good, but for the 1?

Strategic Evangelism to Strangers: How do you initiate sharing the Gospel with a stranger? Is it best to be direct (e.g., “Can I share the Gospel with you?”), or would you recommend a more gradual approach?

Effectively Caring for the Homeless: How are we expected to help homeless people in our modern culture? Are we still expected to invite strangers into our very homes as they did in Bible times?

Homosexuality vs. Other Sins: Why should we not ordain homosexuals in church although it’s a sin, when other people with less visible sins (hate, anger, etc.) are serving? What is the biblical view on this?

Dangerous Recreational Activities: What does the Bible say about participating in dangerous activities, particularly those that are recreational, such as riding motorcycles, mountain climbing, big wave surfing, etc.?

Anger at God’s Word?: Do you have any specific advice on how to deal with emotions while reading the Bible? Recently, I can’t even get through a few verses without feeling overwhelmed with anger or frustration!

Avoiding Anger while Guiding Others: I see a lot of New Age-ish things (energy, manifesting, vibes) creeping into Christ followers’ lives around me. I’ve gotten blow-back trying to correct people in love. Do you have any advice about how to continue the conversation without angering them?

Is All Sin the Same?: Is it biblical to say that all sin is the same, and is equally bad?

Prophets Today?: Should the Church appoint/recognize official prophets, or is this something similar to apostles (only the original 12 + Paul)? See 1 Corinthians 12: 28, Ephesians 4: 11. Is it an office, a gift, or some mixture of the two?

Why Would God Allow a Pope?: Why would Christ allow someone to be appointed as His vicar on Earth? If the authority of the pope is illegitimate, how is that not the worst manifestation of blasphemy? How is it allowed by God?

Resentful of the Father but Not the Son?: After a long and HARD life, I sometimes feel almost resentful of GOD the Father whom I’ve never seen, heard, or felt. But every day I love JESUS more and more. Is this normal?

Why Doesn’t God Save Everyone?: My brother is an atheist and says he wouldn’t follow a God that he knows is real, who knowingly creates people who will reject Him and go to Hell, despite having power to save everyone. It’s hard to reason. Thoughts?

Jesus’ Spirit Separate from HS?: Does Jesus have a distinct Spirit apart from the Holy Spirit? It seems that Jesus has His own Spirit (Luke 23: 46) that is distinct from the Holy Spirit.

Questioning our Pastors?: My pastor said that since God called him to shepherd, unless he is teaching false doctrine, you don't question your pastor even if you don't agree with something or they do something wrong. Is this right?

Advice for a Discouraged Pastor: I’m feeling discouraged in my new job as a youth pastor. I don’t know if I’m making an impact or if I’m meant to do this. Any advice?

Transitioning from Cult to Christianity!: I’m in the process of leaving the LDS church for real Christianity (thank you for your videos!!). Do you have any advice or resources for the deconstructing and reconstructing of faith after leaving?

Where is Jesus “Seated”?: What does Jesus sitting at the right hand of the Father mean when it’s also said that Jesus was seated on the throne in Revelation?

Street Healings: Are They Real?: Are street healings real? Christians pray for strangers who report relief from pain and various illnesses. But atheist Derren Brown has produced similar results. Are these miracles or psychological effects?

Hyperbole in Scripture: The Sermon on the Mount has some hyperbole (cut off your hand). How do you know what is hyperbole and what isn't, specifically regarding anger?

Commentary: Deception Is Not Gender-Specific — Paul Fears It for the Whole Church

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