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Before the formal study begins, John Ritenbaugh delves into the question whether it is permissible for a Christian to be employed in a public or private security position in which carrying a weapon or side-arm is demanded, concluding that the spirit of the sixth and ninth commandments are violated in the process, making the employee vulnerable to the Selective Service Commission about sincerity in the event of substantiating conscientious objection. When God led Israel in the Promised Land, He promised to fight their battles for them. The similar response could be made for those working in the tobacco industry, an industry contributing to the ill health and death of millions of people. The apostles’ inability to drive out the demon in Matthew 17 indicates that faith is not a constant factor; it will deteriorate if it not constantly exercised through persistent prayer and fasting. Rather than promoting living faith, modern Protestantism emphasizes escapism and good feelings. Jesus' example of paying the Temple Tax by having Peter work for it (catching a fish) provided a principle for us that we cannot expect a miracle unless we do our part (being willing to work). Matthew 18 delves into the topic of the essence of personal relations, including having (1) an attitude of humility, (2) a sense of duty or responsibility, (3) a sense of self-sacrifice, (4) personal attention and care, (5) knowledge about correcting a person who is wrong, (6) a predisposition to forgive, and a (7) willingness to forgive. In human relationships, cooperation seems to produce greater results than competition. Like children, we must develop humility, dependency upon God and trust. [NB: This series of Bible Studies from 1981-82 is incomplete.]

Competition Conscientious Objection Cooperation Defense industry Demon possession Demons, personalities of Department of Defense Dr. Hoeh Epileptic seizure Escapism Faith Fighting Healings Inconsistencies Jewish idiom Kevin Dean Killing Lunatic Michael Booze Man proposes ; God disposes Military Service and War Money changers Multitude of counselors Protestantism Security officers Temple tax Tobacco industry Tribute Unbelief Vespasian

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