Hanging in the Balance Q&A

Shawn McCraney emphasizes the importance of discerning sound Christian doctrine by evaluating whether it promotes purity and love as instructed in scripture. He cautions that a teaching leading to "uncleanness" or diminishing faith and love indicates its faultiness, urging believers to critically assess their beliefs to ensure they align with the teachings of Jesus Christ and promote spiritual growth.

Failing doctrines or interpretations that do not foster faith in Christ and agape love for God and others should be reconsidered, as God desires His children to respond with faith and love, rather than anger and division. Paul reminds believers that God is our Father, Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior, and the Holy Spirit provides us power and might, emphasizing the importance of understanding and living by these truths in unity with faith and love.

Shawn teaches that God was fully present in Jesus Christ, making Jesus "God with us" as the embodiment of God in human form. Believers are encouraged to follow Jesus, who, as the "God-Man," serves as the mediator to God the Father, and accepting Jesus is the means to connect with God’s will and receive eternal life.

Jesus, in his conversation with Pilate, declares his purpose as bearing witness to the truth and being a King of a realm not of this world, emphasizing that those who are "of the truth" will hear his voice. Those who are truly seeking, desiring, and living by this truth are considered "of Him," and they listen to, follow, and embody his teachings and love, consequently existing in a profound connection with Jesus and the Father.

Understanding God and loving Him steadfastly is about seeking personal guidance directly from Him, akin to Jesus resisting worldly temptations in the wilderness. Emphasizing the importance of dedicating our lives to God's purposes and plans, it's crucial to engage with God personally, prioritizing this connection over worldly distractions, while also recognizing that religious institutions may serve as valuable introductions to this relationship.