In this edition of Ask the Pastor, Pastor Devon Ortiz takes a humble, scripturally grounded approach to answering practical and theological questions submitted by the church family. He begins by clarifying his heart behind the Q&A format—not to appear as a “know-it-all,” but to share biblical insights gleaned from over 20 years in ministry and study.

Why Did Jesus Get Baptized?
Pastor Ortiz explains that Jesus’ baptism was not for repentance or remission of sin—since He was sinless—but to fulfill all righteousness. This act:

• Fulfilled prophecy (Matt. 3:15)
• Identified Him with sinful humanity
• Marked the start of His public ministry
• Revealed the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit present)
• Foreshadowed His death, burial, and resurrection

Where Did Cain Get His Wife?
Adam and Eve had many children over their long lifespans—possibly hundreds in over 700 years. Their descendants, over time, spread out and intermarried. Though early inter-family unions occurred, they became more distant over generations. While unusual by today’s standards, this was part of the necessary and sovereign origin of human civilization.

Why Did Lifespans Decrease After Adam?
The decrease in human longevity is explained through the environmental shift after the flood. The pre-flood Earth likely had a water canopy that protected people from aging solar radiation—similar to a greenhouse. After the flood, that protection was removed, and God's judgment capped human lifespans to about 120 years due to increasing wickedness and spiritual apathy.

What Does True Forgiveness Look Like?
Drawing from Ephesians 4, Pastor Ortiz outlines how true, Christ-like forgiveness begins with a renewed mind. Key points include:

• Human forgiveness differs from divine forgiveness because we retain memory
• True forgiveness requires grace, humility, and honesty
• Emotional suppression leads to bitterness, which gives Satan a foothold
• Forgiveness must be practiced with tenderheartedness, speech that edifies, and without malice or revenge
• We forgive as God forgives us—freely, repeatedly, and undeservedly (Eph. 4:32)

He also shares personal stories to illustrate how easily we can let anger, clamor, and malice creep in—and how choosing to let go protects our hearts and relationships.

Is It a Sin to Miss Church for Work or Life Events?
Pastor Ortiz addresses this sensitive topic with clarity and balance:

• Hebrews 10:25 warns against forsaking (i.e., abandoning) the assembly, not occasional absence
• Work is not sin—Scripture teaches us to labor and provide
• However, believers should seek to prioritize God and the local church when possible
• Resting in God includes spiritual restoration through church fellowship and teaching
• If regular attendance is difficult, seek alternatives: evening services, midweek, rotating shifts
• Communicate with employers and trust God to open doors for faithfulness

Final Encouragement
Throughout the Q&A, Pastor Ortiz emphasizes the importance of:

• Spiritual maturity through grace and growth
• Honest questions and biblical answers
• Yielding to the Holy Spirit for renewed thinking, speaking, and living

This session of Ask the Pastor reminds us that God cares about our sincere questions and that living a Spirit-filled life requires intentional choices—guided by grace, truth, and a heart to please Him.

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