Top 20 Most Frequently Asked Bible Questions

1. What does the Bible say about women pastors?

The Bible includes examples of women in leadership roles, such as Deborah in the Old Testament and Phoebe in the New Testament. However, there are different interpretations of Scripture on this matter. Some believe that women can serve as pastors, while others interpret Paul's writings to limit women from teaching in the church. It's important to explore these passages and understand the context of each.

2. What does the Bible say about homosexuality? Is it a sin?

The Bible contains verses that are often cited in discussions of homosexuality, such as those found in Leviticus, Romans, and 1 Corinthians. These verses are interpreted by many as prohibiting same-sex relations. However, there is ongoing debate about the cultural context of these texts and their relevance today.

3. What does the Bible say about tattoos?

Leviticus 19:28 is often referenced regarding tattoos, which says, “You shall not make any cuts on your body for the dead or tattoo yourselves.” While this verse is a part of the Old Testament law, many Christians believe the New Testament freedom in Christ supersedes this command.

4. Once saved, always saved? / Is eternal security biblical? / Can a Christian lose salvation?

This question has been debated for centuries. Some believe in the doctrine of "eternal security," asserting that once a person is truly saved, they can never lose their salvation. Others believe that a Christian can fall away from faith through willful sin. Scripture speaks to both sides, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith.

5. Masturbation - Is it a sin according to the Bible?

The Bible does not directly address masturbation. However, it does speak about sexual purity and avoiding lustful thoughts. Many believe that masturbation becomes sinful when accompanied by lustful fantasies or leads to sexual immorality.

6. What does the Bible say about interracial marriage?

The Bible does not prohibit interracial marriage. In fact, Scripture celebrates the diversity of God’s creation, and there are examples of interracial marriages, such as Moses' marriage to a Cushite woman. God's commands about marriage focus on the spiritual compatibility of a couple rather than their race or ethnicity.

7. Who was Cain’s wife?

The Bible does not explicitly name Cain’s wife, but it is commonly believed that Cain married one of his sisters or a close relative, as Adam and Eve were the first humans created, and their descendants would have intermarried early in history.

8. What is the Christian view of suicide? What does the Bible say about suicide? What about a believer who commits suicide?

The Bible does not specifically address suicide but emphasizes the sanctity of life. Many Christians believe that suicide is a tragic result of overwhelming despair and that God’s grace extends even to those who struggle with this burden. The Bible encourages believers to find hope in God, even in their darkest moments.

9. Do pets / animals go to heaven? Do pets / animals have souls?

The Bible does not provide a clear answer about whether animals go to heaven. While humans are uniquely created in God’s image, some believe that God's love for all His creatures extends beyond this life. Scripture emphasizes the hope and restoration of creation, which may include animals.

10. What happens after death?

The Bible teaches that after death, believers are immediately with the Lord, while those who reject Christ face separation from God. Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 25 and Revelation describe judgment and the eternal destinies of both the righteous and the wicked.

11. What does the Bible say about Christian tithing? Should a Christian tithe?

Tithing is an Old Testament practice that encouraged giving 10% of one’s income to the church or the poor. While the New Testament does not mandate tithing, it encourages generous giving and stewardship, emphasizing a cheerful heart and willingness to support God’s work.

12. What is the gift of speaking in tongues? Is it for today? What about praying in tongues?

Speaking in tongues is described in the New Testament as a spiritual gift given by the Holy Spirit. Some believe that this gift ceased after the apostolic age, while others believe it continues today as part of the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in believers' lives.

13. What does the Bible say about dinosaurs? Are there dinosaurs in the Bible?

The Bible does not specifically mention dinosaurs, but it describes various creatures that some believe may have been dinosaurs, such as the "behemoth" in Job 40. The Bible focuses on the creation of all living things, including animals, but does not directly address the existence of dinosaurs as we understand them today.

14. What is the importance of Christian baptism?

Baptism is an outward sign of an inward change, symbolizing the believer’s identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. It is an important step in obedience to Christ and serves as a public declaration of faith.

15. What does the Bible say about drinking alcohol? Is it a sin for a Christian to drink alcohol?

The Bible does not prohibit drinking alcohol but warns against drunkenness and excessive drinking. Ephesians 5:18 and 1 Corinthians 6:10 both warn about the dangers of overindulgence, which can lead to sinful behavior.

16. What does the Bible say about gambling? Is gambling a sin?

The Bible does not directly address gambling but teaches against greed and the love of money. Christians are encouraged to be wise stewards of their finances and to avoid actions that lead to selfishness or harm to others.

17. What does the Bible teach about the Trinity?

The Trinity is the belief that God exists as three persons in one essence: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus), and God the Holy Spirit. While the term “Trinity” is not explicitly used in the Bible, the doctrine is derived from numerous passages that show the distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

18. What does the Bible say about sex before marriage?

The Bible teaches that sexual intimacy is designed for marriage between a man and a woman. Hebrews 13:4 and 1 Corinthians 6:18 emphasize the importance of sexual purity and avoiding fornication.

19. Did Jesus go to hell between His death and resurrection?

Some Christians believe that Jesus descended to hell between His death and resurrection to proclaim victory over sin and death. This belief is based on passages like 1 Peter 3:18-20, though interpretations vary among denominations.

20. What does the Bible say about divorce and remarriage?

The Bible permits divorce in cases of infidelity or abandonment, but it stresses the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness. Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 19 and Paul’s writings in 1 Corinthians 7 provide guidance on divorce and remarriage, emphasizing commitment and the sanctity of marriage.