This service centers on an extended Ask the Pastor session designed to strengthen believers’ understanding of their faith by addressing sincere doctrinal, biblical, and practical questions. The pastor emphasizes that the purpose of this format is not to showcase knowledge or debate theology, but to help believers think biblically, ask honest questions, and grow in discernment. Christianity is presented not as blind tradition but as a faith grounded in Scripture, history, and thoughtful application to everyday life.

Clarifying Christian Traditions: Christmas Trees and Christmas Itself

One major question addressed concerns whether Christmas trees are pagan and therefore inappropriate for Christians. The pastor explains that Christmas trees do not originate from pagan worship. Historically, they trace back to Christian symbolism, often referred to as “paradise trees,” representing the Garden of Eden and pointing to Christ as the “second Adam” who redeems humanity from the fall. Over time, these trees became associated with celebrating Christ’s birth, particularly in medieval Europe. The misuse of certain Old Testament passages—especially from Jeremiah—was addressed, clarifying that those verses condemn idol worship, not decorative trees. The key pastoral guidance given is this: if something violates personal conviction, one should refrain, but Scripture does not forbid Christmas trees.

Similarly, the question of whether Christmas itself is pagan is addressed. The pastor explains that while Christ was not born on December 25, the date was chosen historically as a time when Christians could freely gather and celebrate Christ, often while surrounding cultures were occupied with other festivities. The existence of pagan holidays around the same time does not make Christmas pagan. Instead, Christians intentionally used this season to honor Christ’s incarnation. The message stresses that Christian meaning defines the celebration, not cultural overlap.

Salvation, the Holy Spirit, and Acts 8

Another key theological question focuses on Acts 8, where believers appear to receive the Holy Spirit through the laying on of apostles’ hands after baptism. The concern is whether this contradicts the teaching that the Holy Spirit is received immediately at salvation through faith. The pastor explains that Acts 8 presents a historical narrative, not a doctrinal formula. Scripture must be interpreted by allowing clearer passages to interpret narrative sections. Salvation in the New Testament includes the immediate sealing of the Holy Spirit, and Acts records transitional moments in church history rather than prescribing a repeated process. The order described is literary, not instructional.

Temptation, God’s Nature, and the Lord’s Prayer

A question from James is raised: if God cannot be tempted, why do believers pray, “Lead us not into temptation”? The pastor explains that temptation, as described in James, refers to being morally swayed or altered—something God cannot experience because He is unchanging. However, Jesus Himself was tempted in the wilderness, demonstrating that temptation can exist without sin or compromise. The prayer is not asking God to entice believers into sin, but rather expressing dependence on Him for protection, guidance, and spiritual strength in the face of human weakness.

Loving Enemies and the Question of Satan

A thoughtful question asks whether loving enemies includes loving Satan. The pastor clarifies that Scripture’s command to love enemies applies to people, not Satan. Satan is a defeated, irredeemable enemy with no possibility of repentance. Humans, however—even those who harm or oppose believers—can repent and be transformed by God’s grace. The emphasis is on loving people while recognizing spiritual realities.

The Law, Grace, and Matthew 5

A deeper doctrinal discussion arises from Matthew 5:18–19, where Jesus says that those who break the least commandments will be called least in the kingdom of heaven. The concern is whether this implies that people who break God’s commands still belong to God’s kingdom. The pastor explains that Jesus is emphasizing the authority and permanence of God’s Word, not excusing sin. The passage warns teachers to handle Scripture faithfully. There is a distinction between ignorant misuse of Scripture and intentional false teaching. The warning highlights accountability and reward, not loss of salvation. Grace does not erase the law; rather, the law reveals humanity’s need for grace, and obedience must now flow from the heart, not mere rule-keeping.

Bullying and Biblical Parenting Wisdom

A highly practical question addresses how Christian parents should respond when their child is being bullied. Drawing from personal experience, the pastor stresses balance: children must be taught to communicate, seek help, and use their voice, while also learning kindness and restraint. Turning the other cheek does not mean allowing repeated abuse. At some point, standing up for oneself is appropriate. Parents—especially fathers—are encouraged to teach children discernment, confidence, and courage without promoting aggression. Bullying does not end in childhood, and learning healthy boundaries is essential for adulthood.

Numbers, Culture, and Discernment (67 and 666)

Questions surrounding modern cultural fears—such as whether “67” or similar trends are demonic—are addressed with caution and clarity. The pastor rejects superstition and urges believers not to engage in fear-driven speculation. Christians live in a fallen world where many influences come from non-Christian sources, yet discernment—not paranoia—is required.

Regarding 666, the pastor explains its biblical origin in Revelation as the “number of man.” Historically, it connects symbolically to oppressive rulers like Nero, while prophetically pointing toward the Antichrist. The focus of prophecy is not prediction obsession, but holy living in the present. Prophecy strengthens faith, not fear.

Final Emphasis: Study, Discernment, and Unity

The session closes with a strong encouragement for believers to study Scripture personally, examine Christian history, and never rely solely on secondhand teaching. Questions are welcomed, faith should be examined honestly, and unity within the church should be preserved. The goal of every answer given is to help believers know what they believe and why they believe it, standing firm in truth while walking in grace.