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The topics are listed Alphabetically, just choose a letter from above or scroll down for complete listings. If you do not find an answer please email us at The Watcher and we will add it to the list if it is appropriate.

Abortion - A very emotive subject and one which is very personal. The Bible says nothing directly about abortion, but two scriptures can be quoted against it. The first is from the commandments, 'thou shalt not kill' (Exodus 20:15 & Math 5:21), and the second is that your body or another's body is the 'Temple of God' and as such should not be defiled or destroyed by your hand (1Cor 3:16-17). The obvious dilemma is, are you killing a baby or are you not allowing a baby to live. Doctors can tell you something is alive but has it a soul. Adam only became alive when God 'breathed into him and he became a living soul' (Gen 2:7). He was formed before that but was not a 'person'. The problem being that we do not know at what point a baby becomes a living soul. We can not use the analogy of Adam as he was created not born and babies do seem to posses a personality whilst in the womb. Most now believe that you can set a time and after that an abortion is wrong, but as I said earlier it is a very personal choice and what ever the decision, you will have to stand before God and account for what you have done (Rev 20:11-12). There are many gray areas when dealing with this subject. Certain people who are pregnant perhaps should not be due to physical or mental illness or rape victims. But, the resultant child should not be made the scape goat or suffer for the sin of another, should they not be given a chance to live. As for the baby itself being deformed or ill in some way, then we go into another area of contention. How far should doctors fight to save the child's life if it will spend that life in distress, pain or hospital until it dies, due either to its illness or naturally (see life, Doctors power over). As a Christian you should not be having sex outside of marriage and within a marriage should not contemplate abortion because you feel you are not ready for a baby or you have too many or it has any infirmity. All life is given as a gift from God and should be treated as such (Psa 17:8 & James 1:17). The sad fact is, if you don't want to have children then don't have sex (This obviously excludes rape which is not done through mutual consent). Your selfish desires and/or lack of will may result in a life being born, remember children are never accidents, they are a result of two people agreeing together to have sex.
For further Info go to http://pro-life-resource.com

Addiction- (See also Drugs - Smoking - gambling) - Any Addiction is wrong, it is bringing yourself into bondage which is sinful and which puts God second in your life. An addiction and anything which causes an addiction must be left alone. Alcohol causes addiction in some people and if you have a problem then it is better to leave it alone, than enter into temptation (Mark 9:47 tells us it is better to go without than to have and die eternally). Those who have an addiction will tell you it is like having a Master who continually asks of you, this is why all your energy is put into feeding the addiction, taking your mind and thoughts off God (Luke 16:3 & Math 6:24).

To be addicted is to be in bondage which leads to death if you do not get set free (Gal 5:1).

Alcohol - (See alsoDrinking, getting Drunk) There is nothing wrong with Alcohol if it is drunk in moderation. It has medicinal properties which are beneficial when drunk in small quantities (1Tim 5:23) But Jesus did not drink any wine or strong drink (Luke 1:15 & Mark 15:23). As a rule, if you think by your drinking in front of someone it will cause them to question their faith or if they have a problem with alcohol, then the best course of action is to abstain. By bringing temptation on to some one by your actions, you could be bringing judgement on yourself. (Rom 14:2-3,21-23).

Armageddon - Armageddon is the War to end all wars so popular belief goes and yet if you examine the truth you will see there is no actual War at Armageddon (Rev 16:16). Armageddon is the Hebrew word for the place which is 'Har Megiddo' the mountain district of Meggido, North of Jerusalem. It will be the sight where the army is mobilised from, on its journey to Jerusalem. The actual war will be fought around Jerusalem (Zec 14:2-3) and it will not be a war between the Devil and God but between mankind led by the Anti-Christ and Jesus Christ and His saints (Rev 17:14). It will be more of a massacre by Christ

Armed Forces (see also war - killing - Conscientious objector) - A Christian who belongs to the Armed Forces, whether it be the Army, Air force or Navy is in a very difficult position unless they are employed in a Religious role (Chaplain, Vicar etc). It is the duty of all members of the Armed forces to bear arms in the event of a conflict, which means they 'might' have to kill. It could be said that many who enter the forces never see conflict and would never have to take up a gun, but as an employee of the Forces you must as a matter of a contractual agreement agree to kill if called upon. As a Christian you should in NO circumstances kill another person (Rom 13:9 / Math 5:21 / Deut 5:17 seeLaw - Commandments). God also asks us to obey our employers. If you join the Forces and are a practising Christian who will not kill, then you have deceived your employer (Heb 13:17 / Col 3:22)

Betting - (See Gambling)

Catholicism- (See also Virgin Mary, the) - The Catholic faith is a faith which combines Christian beliefs with idolatry. The bow before Mary (The mother of Jesus) and pray to her, expecting miracles and answers only God can give (Exo 20:4-5 & John 14:6). It is a religion founded on material goods and oppression of its followers. Many of the teachings in Catholicism are not Biblical, the idea of Purgatory, the order of Nuns and the position of Pope as supreme head of the Church, a position which Christ Himself holds. Many of the beliefs and traditions come from the Babylonian and Egyptian beliefs, the idolatry of Mary comes form the cult of Isis, who was called the 'mother of god' and 'Queen of heaven'. Iconography is another convergence of false faiths. Nuns are the extension of the Vestal Virgins and Purgatory is the underworld in which the Egyptians believed Osiris was ruler (the husband-brother of Isis).

There are however plenty of free thinking Catholics in the world, who love and follow the precepts of God. The political and theological philosophy of Catholicism can not be attributed to all its members.

Celibacy within Marriage - This practice is not Biblical and could be deemed as breaking the marriage vow or promise. The whole aim of marriage is to produce a traditional family environment in which children can be raised. This does not mean you must have children, but if you do there is a stable, educational and disciplined influence on them whilst they grow up. However it must be pointed out that it is not wrong for a man and woman who 'agree together' to live in celibacy within marriage, but it may put undue pressure on the relationship in later years if one or the other changes their mind. If you wish to live together just as 'friends' then as a Christian you should get married. What people think DOES matter, especially if you are a professing Christian (Rom 14:21)

Celibacy out of Marriage - (See also Single, staying ) - It is classed by God to be a good thing if you have the strength and will to stay single and abstain from sex (Math 19:11-12). These two must go together and your life must be one of spiritual marriage to God. (1 Cor 7:37). However it is not something that is commanded by God for anyone or any position. Any position in the church or ministry does not necessitate celibacy, the only order is for the position of Bishop who must be only married to one woman (1Tim 3:2).

Cinema - (See also Television) - Cinema has changed over the years and is no longer a seedy place. It is more reminiscent of its original hey day. Going to see a film is not sinful and there are obviously no commands in the Bible which speak against it. However what you see does fall under several scriptures. As a Christian you should not go to see films with foul language or blatant violence, although you may think you are immune (Pr 30:12) you have to realise people are always watching to pick fault and to point the finger. You must set a good example (Php 2:15), not to mention the fact that Christ resides within you (1 Cor 3:16), and what you see has a direct effect on the power of Christ to work in your life. Just because we like it does not mean Christ will put up with it (Eph 5:10-11 & 1 John 2:15-16). With all things pertaining to what we allow into out mind and body we should hold it up against the scriptures (not literally) to see if it is acceptable in the eyes of God (1 Thes 5:21-22)

Commandments, The - (see also Law) - The Commandments were a set of rules given to Moses by God for the people of Israel (Exodus 24:12). The commandments, 10 in total were designed by God to show man his sin, and with the advent of Christ the Law was to be fulfilled and He would take over. Unfortunately the Jews killed Jesus and they still live by the Law awaiting the Second Coming (First to them) of the Messiah the King. A list of the commandments can be found in Exodus 20. As Christians we follow the Commands of Christ (John 13:34-35 & Rom 12:20). The 10 Commandments are relevant to us but not in the context of the Law. As Christians we have the commandments in our heart.

Conscientious Objector - ( see also war - killing - Armed Forces) - Many Church leaders will tell you that during national conflicts, killing is classed as acceptable because you are doing it for the good of others. The enemy is evil and ungodly therefore God will sanction their demise and lead you to victory. This is totally false. Killing is wrong under all circumstances 'for a Christian'. However it is a personal choice in the event of conscription and you will have to answer to God for that choice. Not only for what you did but why you did it (Math 10:33). If you believe it is wrong based on the Bible you have no alternative but to face up to the consequences of refusing to Kill.

Divorce - (see also marriage) - In today's society marriages have been given a 1 in 3 success rate and the ease at which you can get a divorce is staggering. There is only one Biblical reason for divorce and that is 'fornication' (Math 19:7-9) and it says whoever divorces for other reasons than that will commit adultery if he/she remarries. Divorce makes a mockery of the sanctity of marriage and the vow which you both take. Most people split up because they should never have married in the first place. Lust is not a basis to build a relationship on, neither is loneliness, greed or a sense of duty, unless you are prepared for some real sacrifice. As a Christian you must work through the trials and tribulations, do not see divorce as a get-out-clause. The vow you make before God is a real one.

Drugs - (see also smoking - Alcohol - Addiction) - The word Drug covers a wide variety of substances, both legal and illegal. For the Christian anything illegal should automatically be left alone (the only exception being when it is in direct contradiction with the teachings of God ). Alcohol although an accepted drug must be viewed with scripture and taken in moderation (Php 4:5 & Rom 14:21). There are Drugs which have Medicinal uses and were either developed by man or designed by God just for those purposes. There is nothing wrong with accepting these drugs within the context for which they were designed and administered by doctors. Recreational drugs are generally medicinal drugs or developed from medicinal drugs. They are designed to alter the state of your mind and give you different feelings dependant on the drug. Most are addictive ( see Addiction) and open you up to attack by the Devil, not to mention the damage they do through prolonged use or abuse. The body is classed as the 'Temple of God' and as such if you defile or damage that temple you are bringing yourself in direct judgement by God (1 Cor 3:16-17). There is no reason why as a Christian you would want to take drugs for recreational purposes. Christ can not work in you when you are subject to outside forces and control.

Drinking, getting Drunk - (See also Alcohol) - Drinking Alcohol comes into two categories in the Bible, there is WINE and STRONG DRINK, both of which Jesus did not use (Luke 1:15). This is not a rule we must follow, as it was never commanded, but it is a rule which would be pleasing to God. Each of us is different and we react differently to Alcohol, some are prone to addiction while others, it has no effect. Jesus did not drink because he could never be accused of being a drunkard and he wanted to set a good example. That is why when a person goes into the ministry he should refrain from drinking too much, if at all (1Timothy 3:3,8 and Titus 1:7). Jesus actually told us a little WINE was good for the stomach (1 Timothy 5:23) also He turned water into wine at a party (John 4:46). The main rule of thumb for Drinking as with most things is do not be a slave to it and if it causes offence to another then you should refrain (Romans 14:21). In the secrecy of your own home, in moderation and not under the need or addiction for drink there is nothing wrong. (Philippians 4:5 & 1Peter 4:7 & 1 Corinthians 6:12 warn us). Other related verses are Prov 23:21 & 26:9 / 1 Cor 5:11 / 1 Pet 4:3 / Titus 2:3 & 1:7 / 1Tim 3:3,8 & 5:23 / Eph 5:18 / Rom 14:21 / Luke 1:15 / Eze 44:21 / Mark 15:23 / John 4:46.

Euthanasia - (see also life, Doctors power over- suicide) - Euthanasia is defined as 'bringing about of a gentle and easy death in the case of incurable and painful disease'. It can be split into two distinct categories, one the premeditated assistance with drugs and the other the removal of all medical aids. On a Christian standpoint - The first category would be Biblically wrong. It is a deliberate taking of a life and as such, killing or Murder (Exodus 20:15) on the part of the assistant and suicide on the part of the patient (1 Cor 3:17). If a person were to self administer the fatal drug, it would certainly stop admonish them from the guilt of making some one an accessory to their death, but would still put them on a clear path to be judged by God (Math 5:21). However to be in that position must be intolerable and we can not say in all circumstances that God would judge them guilty. Medicines today are responsible for the prolonging and agony of many patients and in that case we can only rest in the grace of God for their eternal soul. As for the removal of treatment whether personally or by a third party if you were unable to communicate there are not so many gray areas. To preserve life is to preserve the ability to live as a self contained unit. If drugs or a machine is being used to prolong that life in a state which causes pain and suffering and is NOT aiding in the eventual permanent recovery of that person, then the removal of any drugs or machines can not be classed as wrong, just giving the reigns of your/their life back to God. Drugs have created this monster and the search for immortality feeds the medical profession to perfect it. Unfortunately they do not, in a lot of cases want to take responsibility for a death no matter how natural. Drugs are now being seen as natural as air and administered as freely. God allotted an amount of time to each of us (Job 1:7) and it is wrong to try to overturn His decision, you will only suffer in the long run. On a Non Christian standpoint - There is no reason why anyone should want to live a life of pain and misery, knowing that they are slowly dying. I can understand and sympathise with their decision to go ahead, but the worst aspect about their choice would be that they were going to a lost eternity. I am sure that if they went ahead with their decision having spoken to a Christian, and had given their heart to God, He would welcome them. We can not judge what is in their heart and what they are feeling, only God can do that. Also with a non-Christian or a new convert their lack of understanding of God's Word could not be held against them weighed against the agony of living. However each case is as individual as our fingerprints and death should never be considered as an easy option.

Firearms, ownership of - (see also Hunting - killing) - There is nothing Biblically wrong with owning Firearms as long as its used purely for sport and/or hunting for food. Although Firearms are made with the intention of killing their use can be put to a peaceful pursuit. There is no inherent evil or will to kill in a firearm, the threat comes from the person who is using it. This can be said for a knife, folk, car or pencil, all have been used to kill. As long as you follow the law as regards storage to stop others who might use it for evil, and you do not let the sport take over your life, as with anything (1 Cor 6:12), then it is no more than a piece of metal and wood.

Gambling - (see also addiction) - Nothing is mentioned as regards the rights and wrongs of gambling in the Bible. The only scripture which could cover it is contained in the 'addiction of' and also in the standpoint of giving money away which could be put to God's use. However if you tithe from your gross income and give as a gift as well then the rest of your money after you have paid your bills (Luke 20:25 & Rom 13:7) is yours to do with as you will. To fritter away any money which is not yours or to bring yourself and/or your family into debt is wrong (Rom13:8) and is a bad testimony to others. It also depends on the type of gambling you are involved with, form the national lottery to casinos all can be viewed as a waste and may lead you into sinful acts of idolatry, carrying lucky charms and believing in 'luck', as opposed to the divine will of God who has a plan for our lives (Rom 8:28).

Gay - (See Homosexuality)

Guns - (see Firearms, Ownership of)

Homosexuality practising -

Homosexuality non-practising - (See also Single, staying)- To be a non-practising homosexual is to be likened to a single heterosexual. Your thoughts and feelings have to be kept in check and your life must be one dedicated and married to your faith. At one time you would be considered wrong even if you were not practising, but if you can keep your thoughts and desires from manifesting then there is no reason why you can not be a Christian. After all we are all sinners but as Christians we are 'non-practising sinners' who keep our thoughts and desires as pure as humanly possible. I think for the good of others and the potential harm the Church might suffer for him/her not seek to hold office in the ministry unless specifically called by God (Rom 14:21-23). Controversy should not be brought into the church neither should confusion or any adverse publicity which could be used by the Devil.

Hunting -(see also Firearms, Ownership of - killing) - Hunting animals for the purpose of eating is neither wrong or immoral, if done properly causes no undue suffering or pain to the animal. However the indiscriminate killing of birds, deer or any animal for fun is wrong and does not benefit your soul or your moral judgement (1Cor 6:12). Pest control requires the deaths of animals as does culling but this is a necessity due to man's intervention in nature, and to the continued existence of other animals. It is more your state of mind, and your reason that needs to be checked when hunting, not the act in itself.

Killing - (see also war - Armed Forces - Conscientious objector) - Killing a person is Murder unless it is an accident. Accidents do happen especially today as events and technology are becoming far quicker than human reaction times. The premeditated act of killing whether it be for yourself or in the employ of others is totally wrong and against all Bible teachings (Rom 13:9 / Math 5:21 / Deut 5:17). The act by whatever name is; the taking of another life, and there is no excuse or condition when it becomes acceptable or permissible (accidents excepted). This includes war, 'holy' or otherwise or personal protection (John 12:25 / Psalm 91:11 / Luke 4:10). To be faced with some one who is going to kill you must be a terrifying experience. Defending yourself is not wrong, it is a natural instinct, but killing that person is.

Law, The - (see also Commandments) - As Christians we no longer live by the Law as do the Jews. The Law was sent to prove to man he was sinful and could not find lasting forgiveness in a set of rules. The Law was an earthly rule book designed to show up the corruptibility and sinfulness of man, (Rom 8:1-4 & Gal 3:24) whilst Christ who gave us a new commandment (John 13:24 & Gal 5:14) and resides in us, in spirit is the culmination and conscience of the Law (2 Cor 3:3 & Rom 2:14-15). The Law is still for the Jew and he must follow the Law to be accepted and judged worthy to enter the promise given to them (Heb11:9-10). The Law was given to Moses but Jesus brought us a new life out of the Law. (John 1:17).

Life, Doctors power over - (see also Euthanasia) - It is a sad fact in today's society that man is trying to overturn the will of God. Through medical endeavours man is trying to prolong life, sometimes at any cost. When Doctors take the Hippocratic oath they promise to preserve life at all cost. Unfortunately today we see many doctors being led into court because they have allegedly helped a person to die. We have a condition where technology and the quest for immortality is causing pain and suffering, prolonging the inevitable, all in the name of humanity. Where once a child who was born seriously ill (Illnesses which would affect the child throughout life) would have died at birth, doctors can now keep that child alive indefinitely, regardless of the human or financial cost. Also at the other end of life, a person who is ready to die will be held back on drugs in a semi-conscious state, which is called living, because to remove medication is tantamount to murder. God's timing is best (Heb 9:27) and to refuse treatment in circumstances where the outcome no matter what, is inevitable, is not wrong. God's will is sometimes thwarted by our eagerness to hold on to loved ones or our life. Death is frightening but as a Christian our own desires must come second (Luke 22:42).

Marriage - (see also Divorce) - Marriage is a good an holy enterprise in the eyes of God (Heb 13:4). It is through marriage that God wanted a man and woman to come together with a promise that each will stay with the other, until death (Math 19:5 & Mark 10:7) It is a promise which God honours (Math 19:6 & 10:9). Marriage carries with it plenty of rules regarding the conduct of both parties. It is not politically correct today but Biblically the Male should be the head of the house and wife (Eph 5:23-24) but this does not mean it is a dictatorial partnership (Eph 5:25,28). Without this balance problems can occur within the marriage when either takes on the role of the other. This does not relate to the household chores or the male being the bread winner it relates to the authority and leadership within a relationship and the leading of God though the man. Although in Christ all are equal (Gal 3:28) on earth in our natural setting we must adhere to the will of God. Eve as punishment was told (and all women from her) that man would rule over her (Gen 3:16), again it was not meant in a domineering fashion.

Mary - (See Virgin Mary, The)

Masons - (See also Occult, The) - The Masons are a group of mainly men, although some female lodges have been set up, who gather in secret (Public meetings are censored) meeting and pursue their own agenda. They profess to be a non-religious group but a prerequisite of entry is a religious belief in God. They have a pyramidical system of authority which ascends in 'degrees'. The lower degrees are used to fund the agenda to which only the top degree masons are privy too. In the past some masons have spoken publicly and it is from these that secrets have filtered out.

The actual theology of freemasonry was encapsulated in 1889 by one of its leaders, Albert Pike (chosen to lead the Illuminati in the US), when he wrote that 'Lucifer, god of light and god of good is struggling for humanity against ADONAY (the God of the Bible, the father of Jesus Christ), the god of darkness and evil'. Pike also recorded the ultimate goal of freemasonry, which was 'the world will soon come to us for its sovereigns and pontiffs. We shall constitute the equilibrium of the universe and the rulers over the masters of the world.' Their core belief is that the Devil or Lucifer is the true God, which makes then Satanists. You can not be a Christian and be apart of the Masonic philosophy concerning Satan. What ever level you may be at you will have already made oaths that are contrary to Christian teaching and frightening to say the least. There is nothing symbolic in an oath, what you say is what you mean, and what may befall you will be out of God's hands unless you come repentant to Him in prayer.

Occult, The - (See also Masons) - The occult is something to keep away from it is of the Devil and against God. There are only two sides in this world God's and the Devil's. A belief in God and his son Jesus Christ is in direct opposition to all contrary beliefs, which originate with the angel of deception and lies The Devil, Satan or Lucifer. People who play around with witchcraft, Black or White Magic, Mediums, tarot cards and Ouija boards are all consorting with the Devil and risk losing your soul. There are many references in the Bible to the outcome of such dealings and who exactly they are. (Exo 22:18,20 & Det 18:10-13) The result for all those who pursue the occult will be the absence of their name from the Book of life (Math 18:3 & Rev 20:12-13) and they will be thrown into the Lake of Fire for eternity (Rev 20:14-15 & Rom 6:23).

Rapture, The - (See also Second Coming, The) - The Rapture or the 'Snatching out of the Christians' is an event that will take place iminently. The time of this event unlike the Second Coming is not known (Math 24:36 & Mark 13:32). It is different from the Second Coming in the fact that Christ does not return to the earth, but only as far as the 'air' or sky. He will only be seen by those who are called, both alive and dead (1 Thes 4:17). All will return with Christ to heaven to be rewarded for their service and to attend what is called the 'marriage supper of the Lamb'. The People taken at this time will return with Christ at the Second Coming (Jude 1:14 & 1 Thes 3:13).

Religious (in)tolerance - A Christian can not be tolerant of other religions. Unless the religion accepts that God is the one true God and that Jesus Christ is His Son, who came in the form of man to earth to die for our sins, then it is against God and should not be tolerated (John 4:16). This is not the case of the believers of that religion. Jesus taught that we were all equal and all had a chance if we accept him, to inherit eternal life (Math 18:3 & Luke 13:3). There is a move from Rome to bring all faiths together under one roof, separate but united. This is not of God and can not be accepted by true believers in Christ. There is only one way to receive eternal life and compromising that belief for religious unity is not acceptable (John 3:16).

Racism - There is no scripture found which states one colour or race is better than another. Jesus accepted all as equals and the Bible tells us that in Christ all are equal (Gal 3:28) and the only divisions among mankind are men and women then Jews, Christians and non-Christians. All are classed as being born into sin and all have the chance of forgiveness and eternal life.

Second Coming, The - (See also Rapture, The) - The Second Coming is so named as it is the second time Jesus Christ will return to earth, actually standing and residing on earth. It is different from the 'Rapture' as everyone will see Him come (Mark13:26 & 14:62) and it will mark the beginning of the Millennial reign of Christ. He will stand on Mount Olivet (The Mountain of Olives) at the time of the battle of Armageddon (Zec 14:4). It is an event which can be timed and dated and will be anticipated by the Anti-Christ. ( The date of the Rapture is not known Math 24:36). It will happen 7 years after the Anti-Christ comes to power, following the Rapture. It will not signify the end of the world, yet.

Single, Staying - (see also married - celibacy ) - The Single life is only for a few, who have the strength to stay clean or a virgin (Math 9:10-12). Their reward will be in heaven for this lifestyle (1 Cor 7:34,37). The single person becomes married to their faith and God becomes their partner. However there is no Biblical command that says you must be single - for anybody. The only command given was for the office of Bishop who must be of ONE wife only (1Timothy 3:2). It is a very hard road as your thoughts must be kept in check and your will strengthened daily.

Smoking - (See alsoDrugs - Addiction) - Smoking cigarettes damages your health and is responsible for countless deaths each year. It damages your body and that of others and therefore is wrong. We are told our body is the 'temple of God' (1Cor 3:16) because as Christians the spirit of Christ resides in us, we are also told (1Cor 3:17) that if we defile or damage that temple God will destroy you. This does not mean He will kill you it merely means he will judge you for what you have done. The destruction is the loss or removal from the Book of Life. It is not an immediate destruction but an eternal one (Rev 22:19 - example of). Smoking although a drug like Alcohol can not be classed with Alcohol, and taken in moderation. It is a destructive and addictive drug whose 'purpose' is to dull the mind and destroy the body. It has no medicinal properties and lures people into the bondage of addiction (1 Cor 6:12). When some one who smokes becomes a Christian through prayer God can remove the addiction. Not smoking is not a prerequisite to becoming a Christian, however as a Christian you should not contemplate smoking at all.

Suicide - (See also Euthanasia - life, Doctors power over - Killing) - As a Christian suicide in principal is wrong (1 Cor 3:16-17 & Math 5:21), it is the taking of a life albeit your own. You are saying God does not have the power to help you in your situation or that you do not want to deal with your situation. Using either of these two excuses will not cut ice with God. Again though there are various shades of gray and you can only say, as a rule suicide is wrong. People live in all sorts of situations, which we would think unliveable but not only do they live in that situation but they manage to have a relationship with God. To them death would seem like going to a better place and if they are truly right with God within their hearts who are we to say otherwise. Suicide is not and can never be an easy option neither is it something which should be done to escape ones responsibilities or through fear. As a sound able-bodied Christian with good health it would be a sin to take your own life, God has plans for you, and he has appointed when you will end your life (Job 1:7). God does not allow you to experience anything you can not get through, He always leaves a way though (Math 11:28). As a non-Christian life can seem worthless and the Devil will tell you so but the troubles you may be facing on earth will pale in comparison with an eternity without God. It is not something which can be reversed, when you realise where you are, eternity is forever as you are without change, so make those changes while you are alive and have the chance.

Television - (See also Cinema) - As a Christian you should not allow foul language or blatant violence to take hold of your thoughts. Although you may think you are immune (Pr 30:12) you have to realise people are always listening to what you say and how you act, what you have watched. The Devil will use people to pick fault and to point the finger. You must set a good example (Php 2:15), not to mention the fact that Christ resides within you (1 Cor 3:16), and what you see has a direct effect on the power of Christ to work in your life. Just because we like it does not mean Christ will put up with it (Eph 5:10-11 & 1 John 2:15-16). With all things pertaining to what we allow into out mind and body we should hold it up against the scriptures (not literally) to see if it is acceptable in the eyes of God (1 Thes 5:21-22 & Math 5:8))

Virgin Mary, The - (See also Catholicism) - Mary was the women who God used to bring His son, Jesus into the world (Math 1:20-23), she was a virgin and was chosen because of her goodness in the eyes of God. Mary served the Lord well, both before the birth of Jesus and after. Unfortunately she had been given the status of the 'Mother of God' and attributed with powers which are God's alone. It is not right to worship mankind or angels (Rev 22:8-9), God alone should be worshiped. To make Mary into an idol does her injustice and spoils the good work she has done, not to mention is contrary to God's will (Exo 20:4-5). She can not help you come to God, heal you or talk to you, she is dead and with the Lord (John 14:6 & Rom 10:17). She was a remarkable HUMAN BEING.

War - (see also Armed Forces - Killing - Conscientious objector) - War is wrong and against all the commands of God. There is no excuse for war and the practices of certain religions who conduct 'Holy wars' are acting against God's direct instructions. In the Old Testament killing your enemy was often commanded by God. However we do not live by the same law as they did, Christians live by the commands given by Jesus Christ, loving one another and our enemies (John 13:34 / Rom 12:20 / Math 5:43-44).