Can God Make a Round Square?

What Time Does Church End?

What Time Does Church End?The duration of church services varies widely depending on the denomination, tradition, and purpose of the gathering. Typical Sunday services for many Protestant and Catholic churches last one to two hours. Additional services, such as midweek Bible studies, evening worship, or special celebrations like Easter or Christmas, may have different lengths. In some evangelical or Pentecostal traditions, services can extend beyond two hours due to extended worship, prayer, and fellowship activities.Structure of a Church ServiceThe elements of a church service often determine its length. Common components include prayer, worship through music, Scripture readings, sermons, and sacraments like communion or baptism. In liturgical churches, such as Catholic and Orthodox, the order of service is fixed and typically lasts one to one and a half hours. Non-denominational or evangelical services, which may feature longer sermons and contemporary worship, often last longer.Flexibility and Cultural PracticesIn some cultures, church gatherings are seen as communal events that go beyond formal worship, extending into shared meals or fellowship. This reflects the biblical model seen in Acts 2:46: "And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart."Why This MattersThe duration of a church service reflects the focus and priorities of a congregation, whether it’s teaching, worship, or community building. Regardless of time, the primary goal is to honor God and foster spiritual growth.

Why Doesn’t God Punish Racists?

Why Doesn’t God Punish Racists? Racism, the belief that one race is superior to others, is a deeply sinful attitude that is condemned by Scripture. The Bible teaches that all people are made in the image of God and that we are called to love one another (Genesis 1:27; Matthew 22:39). So, the question arises: why doesn’t God punish racists immediately? The Bible offers a few important insights into why God may not intervene immediately, while still holding people accountable for their actions. God’s Patience and Mercy One reason God does not immediately punish sinners, including those who harbor racist attitudes, is His great patience and mercy. 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us, “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” God desires that all people repent of their sins and come to salvation. His patience allows for the opportunity for sinners to turn from their wicked ways and seek His forgiveness. The Role of Free Will Another reason God doesn’t immediately punish racist individuals is that He has given humanity free will. Each person has the ability to choose their actions, including whether or not to harbor prejudiced beliefs. While God may not intervene immediately, He holds each person accountable for their actions. Romans 14:12 states, “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” God will judge everyone according to their actions, including the sin of racism, at the appropriate time. God’s Call to Love All People Although God may allow racist individuals to live out their lives without immediate judgment, He calls all believers to love everyone, regardless of race or ethnicity. In 1 John 4:20, it says, “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” Jesus commands His followers to love their neighbors as themselves, and this includes people of all races. Racism is a violation of God’s command to love one another, and Christians are called to actively fight against it through prayer, advocacy, and spreading the love of Christ. Conclusion God does not immediately punish racists because of His patience and desire for repentance. However, He holds everyone accountable for their actions, and the sin of racism will ultimately be judged. As Christians, we are called to love all people, regardless of race, and to actively combat racism through Christ-like love and justice.

What Does It Mean to Have Faith in God?

What Does It Mean to Have Faith in God?Having faith in God means trusting in His character, promises, and sovereignty even in uncertain circumstances. Faith involves belief, reliance, and a personal relationship with God, rooted in His Word and demonstrated through daily actions and decisions.Biblical Foundations of FaithDefinition of Faith: Hebrews 11:1 states, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen," emphasizing trust in God’s unseen plans and purposes.Examples of Faith: The Bible highlights figures like Abraham, who trusted God’s promises (Genesis 15:6), and the centurion, whose faith in Jesus’ authority led to a miracle (Matthew 8:10).Faith in Action: James 2:17 teaches that "faith without works is dead," encouraging believers to demonstrate their trust in God through obedience and good deeds.ConclusionHaving faith in God means trusting His plans, relying on His promises, and living out that trust through obedience, prayer, and good works, even when circumstances are uncertain.

When Will Jesus Return?

When Will Jesus Return?The Bible teaches that Jesus will return to earth, but it does not provide a specific date or time. Instead, Scripture emphasizes being spiritually prepared for His second coming, as it will happen unexpectedly. Jesus Himself said in Matthew 24:36, "But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only."Biblical Signs of Jesus’ Return1. Signs in the World: Jesus described signs such as wars, famines, earthquakes, and persecution in Matthew 24:6-8. These events, often referred to as "birth pains," signal the approach of His return.2. Preaching of the Gospel: In Matthew 24:14, Jesus said, "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come."What Believers Should DoThe Bible calls Christians to live in readiness and faithfulness. In 2 Peter 3:10-11, Peter writes, "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night... Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness."Why This MattersThe promise of Jesus’ return encourages believers to live with hope, urgency, and a commitment to sharing the gospel. It reminds them to focus on eternal priorities, trusting in God’s perfect timing.