August 13, 2015

Title: Church History – Day 4: Muhammad and Islam Part 1
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Muhammad and Islam Part 1

If you would like a more in-depth look at the letters and written form of the word Paraklatos and Parakleet used in this week’s lesson, click [here].    In this segment today, Mark explains the differences between the variations of this word, why Muhammad came to the conclusion he did about it, and how he was almost killed by his own people because of it!

Mark Lanier has been leading the Biblical Literacy Class at Champion Forest Baptist Church for over a decade and the class now has over 800 people in attendance each Sunday! That’s bigger than most churches!

This year, Mark has walked us through Church History, including lessons on Martyrs, Heresies, Science and the Bible, and even Muhammad and Islam. In August, he begins a new series entitled, “Life Group Greek: A New Testament Study Illuminated by the Greek Language”. All lessons are located [here]  so, if you miss a week, it’s no big deal!

Mark would love to have you visit Champion Forest for the 9:30 AM service in the main Worship Center and stay for his Biblical Literacy class, which begins at 11 AM in the Family Life Center.

Click [here]  for more information.

Remember, you can order a copy of his book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

August 12, 2015

Title: Church History – Day 3: Muhammad and Islam Part 1
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Muhammad and Islam Part 1

The Nestorian Monks were not the “good” kind of monks. In fact, they were kicked out of The Church and the Roman Empire. Mark explains what they did that was just so bad. They eventually found their way to Arabia, where Muhammad’s people lived. Muhammad was a very impressionable young boy when he met a Nestorian Monk; he believed every word they fed him and twisted those thoughts and ideas into something even worse. Listen in as Mark discusses this further using his awesome Greek background. Tomorrow he will go into much more detail about the word: Paraklatos (or Parakleet) from John 14:16 and its significance in relation to Muhammad and Islam.

Mark Lanier has been leading the Biblical Literacy Class at Champion Forest Baptist Church for over a decade and the class now has over 800 people in attendance each Sunday! That’s bigger than most churches!

This year, Mark has walked us through Church History, including lessons on Martyrs, Heresies, Science and the Bible, and even Muhammad and Islam. In August, he begins a new series entitled, “Life Group Greek: A New Testament Study Illuminated by the Greek Language”. All lessons are located [here]  so, if you miss a week, it’s no big deal!

Mark would love to have you visit Champion Forest for the 9:30 AM service in the main Worship Center and stay for his Biblical Literacy class, which begins at 11 AM in the Family Life Center.

Click [here]  for more information.

Remember, you can order a copy of his book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

August 11, 2015

Title: Church History – Day 2: Muhammad and Islam Part 1
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Muhammad and Islam Part 1

We are replaying Mark’s two-part lesson on Muhammad and Islam because it is such an important topic to know and understand. There are many misnomers about this religion - some good and some bad. If you know someone who is confused about the Islamic religion, please feel free to share these segments with them. We need to spread the Truth of the Gospel so all may know.

Yesterday, Mark discussed the background of Islam and why people have different ideas of what they believe. Today, he looks more into the man, Muhammad, and why he rose to fame so quickly. Tomorrow, you will learn what a Nestorian Monk is and why they had such an impact on a young Muhammad.

Mark Lanier has been leading the Biblical Literacy Class at Champion Forest Baptist Church for over a decade and the class now has over 800 people in attendance each Sunday! That’s bigger than most churches!

This year, Mark has walked us through Church History, including lessons on Martyrs, Heresies, Science and the Bible, and even Muhammad and Islam. In August, he begins a new series entitled, “Life Group Greek: A New Testament Study Illuminated by the Greek Language”. All lessons are located [here]  so, if you miss a week, it’s no big deal!

Mark would love to have you visit Champion Forest for the 9:30 AM service in the main Worship Center and stay for his Biblical Literacy class, which begins at 11 AM in the Family Life Center.

Click [here]  for more information.

Remember, you can order a copy of his book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

August 10, 2015

Title: Church History: Day 1 - Muhammad and Islam Part 1
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Muhammad and Islam Part 1

We are replaying Mark’s two-part lesson on Muhammad and Islam because it is such an important topic to know and understand. There are many misnomers about this religion - some good and some bad. With over 1,000,000,000 (One Billion) people affirming their faith in Islam, it is the fastest-growing religion in the world.

First, who was the man, Muhammad? How did he become so popular? What did he believe, exactly? Did he really have child brides? Did he believe in Jesus as the Messiah or just a regular man? What was the world like during the lifetime of Muhammad, specifically regarding religion? You will learn the answers to these questions over the next two weeks during Mark’s lesson on Muhammad and Islam.

If you know someone who is confused about the Islamic religion, please feel free to share these segments with them. We need to spread the Truth of the Gospel so all may know.

Mark Lanier has been leading the Biblical Literacy Class at Champion Forest Baptist Church for over a decade and the class now has over 800 people in attendance each Sunday! That’s bigger than most churches!

This year, Mark has walked us through Church History, including lessons on Martyrs, Heresies, Science and the Bible, and even Muhammad and Islam. In August, he begins a new series entitled, “Life Group Greek: A New Testament Study Illuminated by the Greek Language”. All lessons are located [here]  so, if you miss a week, it’s no big deal!

Mark would love to have you visit Champion Forest for the 9:30 AM service in the main Worship Center and stay for his Biblical Literacy class, which begins at 11 AM in the Family Life Center.

Click [here]  for more information.

Remember, you can order a copy of his book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

August 7, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 28
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Muhammad and Islam Part 2

“Holiness is not just a list of do’s and don’ts; it’s a condition of the heart.” – Mark Lanier

Points for Home:

Do your best to present yourself before God in a holy and worthy matter. Study and learn in order to seek Truth – always.

The Gospel is the reason we believe in salvation.

Jesus was, in fact, crucified, died for our sins, and was raised again. If you believe in Jesus, you must recognize this as fact.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

August 6, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 28
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Muhammad and Islam Part 2

God is merciful, but His mercy cannot discredit or alter His character as a Just God. This is the critical difference between Christianity and Islam and Jesus and Muhammad.

Mark also looks at conversion to Islam. First, it’s important to know that within Islam, there is no salvation from sin. The Qur’an doesn’t even have documentation of us being born into a sin nature. Islam simply teaches that individuals have a choice between right and wrong.

Christianity, however, is based on salvation. “We’re not saved because God was in the mood to save us!” Mark says. “We are saved because He justly saved us.”

Another difference between Islam and Christianity is worship and church. Listen in as Mark explains communion, tithing, singing, prayer, and fellowship.

Finally, Mark explains the “Five Pillars of Faith” in the Islam faith: Declaration of God and Muhammad, pray five times a day, give two-and-a-half-percent of savings to the poor and the needy, fast during the day during Ramadan, and travel to Mecca at least once during your life.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

August 5, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 28
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Muhammad and Islam Part 2

The Qur’an mentions Jesus many times (69 times, to be exact). But what does it actually teach about him? This is where the critical differences between Islam and Christianity arise.

Today, Mark sites some specific examples from the Qur’an where Jesus is mentioned by name. (Since the Qur’an doesn’t have normal chapters and verses, please listen to the segment to hear the references.)

There are many discrepancies within the Qur’an about the way Jesus lived, witnessed, and even died. For example, the Muslims claim in the Qur’an that they killed Jesus! This is not even close to being true.

Mark also reveals what the material which Muslims use in attempts to convert Christians to their faith states. Listen in as he explains how they believe Jesus was either a false prophet or was cursed. In reality, and all truthfulness, Jesus wasn’t cursed, but he did become the curse for us when he died on the cross for our sins.

If you know someone who is confused about the true faith of Islam, please share these links with them.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

August 4, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 28
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Muhammad and Islam Part 2

When looking at the Arabic language, things can get pretty confusing. Listen in as Mark explains some of the differences in Arabic, English, and Hebrew. What does Muslim mean, for example? What does Christ mean? What about Christian? How are all they all connected?

Next, Mark looks at the “supposed” words that were delivered to Muhammad by the angel Gabriel used in the Qur’an. How does this differ from the Words in the Bible, for instance?

The Qur’an mentions Jesus many times (69 times, to be exact). But what does it actually teach about him? This is where the critical differences between Islam and Christianity arise. Tune in tomorrow to hear specific Scriptures about this important matter.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

August 3, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 28
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Muhammad and Islam Part 2

Last week, Mark looked at Muhammad and Islam from a historical perspective. This week, his goal is to approach the subject from a theological perspective. He also explained more about the man, Muhammad. Mark actually had a pastor friend email him last week with a question about false prophet. What perfect timing! Mark believes It is so important for Christians to look for truth in all things, especially when it comes to religion and faith.

Islam and Christianity are vastly different, despite what the world might tell us. Mark uses two trees as an example. Listen in as he explains this analogy. He goes on to further describe “Allah” – the spelling, the meaning, the language used.

QUESTION: Is the god of Islam, Allah, the same God of the Bible? It depends… How and why? Mark explains! If you have questions about Islam, or know someone who might be confused, this is the lesson you need to listen to and share.

Tune in tomorrow to hear Mark explain more about the language differences he speaks of at the end of this segment.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 31, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 27
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Muhammad and Islam Part 1

Muhammad was not a very popular man in Mecca. He was ruining their economy by saying there is only one God. Remember – they made their money off people coming to worship the hundreds of idols and gods they had all around the city. He got kicked out of the city and traveled to Medina, where he starts converting a lot of people to the Islam faith.

But people still didn’t like him! He started a lot of battles over the Islam faith and things get kind of crazy for a while. Listen as Mark explains why the Christians had to start paying Muhammad a tax! Yes – a tax! (He’ll dig deeper into this next week.)

Who is the Parakleet, or Holy Spirit? Is it Muhammad or Jesus Christ? What is the job of the Parakleet? “The Holy Spirit is not just an idea. The Holy Spirit is not a human being. The Holy Spirit is not a prophet. The Holy Spirit is God, who can dwell within a born again, redeemed person,” Mark reveals.

Points for Home:

 - Choose to walk in the Lord. Let your light shine so others see God in you.

 - Gospel mean death, burial, resurrection of Jesus on our behalf.

 - If you not preaching the Gospel according to Paul’s message (see above), then you are not preaching the true Word of God.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 30, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 27
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Muhammad and Islam Part 1

Mark absolutely loves Greek and uses it often when explaining different aspects of Church History Literacy. If you would like a more in-depth look at the letters and written form of the word Paraklatos and Parakleet used in this week’s lesson, click [here]. 

Parakleet means “called to one’s aid in a court of justice” – basically a lawyer who will be your advocate before God.

There is another form of this word spelled “Periklute” – this is who Muhammad was thought to be. It is simply someone who is famous or worthy of praise.

So the Arab world got the two forms of this word confused because their Greek wasn’t all that great. Mark explains the differences in more detail and what Muhammad started teaching, which almost got him killed by his own people!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 29, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 27
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Muhammad and Islam Part 1

Yesterday, Mark began to explain who Muhammad was and a little about his background. When Muhammad was a young boy, he was befriended by a Nestorian Monk, who had a profound and impact on Muhammad. Listen in as Mark explains what Nestorius believed and how he challenged the birth of Jesus – on Christmas day!

The Nestorian Monks were excommunicated from The Church and the Roman Empire. Nestorius and his followers head to the Arab world and so now you know how Muhammad came in contact with this sect. Mark continues to explain the life of Muhammad, his countless wives (even child brides!), and his rise to leader. He was even chosen to rebuild The Cube! Then some more interesting stuff happens in his life. Listen as Mark explains.

Mark has a great tool for people to use when learning Greek letters, words, and phrases. It’s a bookmark! Come to class on Sunday (info is posted below) to get yours! Also, tune in tomorrow to hear an in-depth explanation of the word Paraklatos (or Parakleet) from John 14:16

NOTE: Mark will begin a Greek class in the middle of August, so make plans to attend!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 28, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 27
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Muhammad and Islam Part 1

Yesterday, Mark gave some background on the Islam faith (he’ll go into more detail on that in next week’s lesson) and also explained some of the differences between those within the Muslim faith. He also began to discuss how the Sasanian Empire was different than the Roman Empire. Today he continues with this explanation and the significance of the Sasanian Empire within the Muslim faith. There are Arab tribes and tents and camps and daughters who need husbands. Mark has a great illustration to explain all this, so listen in!

Ancient Mecca was the center of the empire at this time and the place where the people worshipped “The Cube”. (Mark explains this – don’t worry!) There was 360 idols in Mecca! It was a booming city, full of commerce and trade.

NOTE: This is also where Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Ishmael, and Isaac came into play. Sarah was unhappy with her new baby, Ishmael, which is actually Hagar’s baby, whom Abraham fathered with Sarah’s permission. Therefore, Hagar is sent out with Ishmael – banished from the land. The Quran teaches that Hagar and Ishmael are responsible for fathering the Arab tribes.

But, what about the man, Muhammad? What was so special about him? When did he enter the picture? It is believed that Muhammad was born around 570 – nobody knows for sure. His parents died when he was very young and soon after, he was befriended by a Nestorian Monk.

Tune in tomorrow to hear what a Nestorian Monk is! I’m curious; aren’t you?

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 27, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 27
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Muhammad and Islam Part 1

Uh oh. This week’s lesson might just step on some toes. Who is Muhammad and what is the Islamic religion really all about? This week is Part 1 of the series and Mark will be discussing the man Muhammad. Next week he will examine the Islamic faith. There are some very distinct differences between Christianity and Islam.

FACT: There are over 1 Billion Muslims in the world. 1 out of every 4-6 people affirm the faith of Islam. It is very important to learn more about this religion because the number is increasing quickly.

In 2001, the number 9-1-1 took on a different meaning to Americans. We were attacked on our own soil and over 3,000 men, women, and children lost their lives in a senseless act of terrorism. This is when Mark began to really study the Islam faith in order to learn more about it.

Mark looks at some of the differences between even those within the Muslim faith: why are some extremist terrorists and some are peaceful? What is ISIS? Mark goes back – waaaaay back – in history to get a better idea of the Islamic faith. Tune in tomorrow to hear how the Sasanian Empire was different than the Roman Empire.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 24, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 26
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 5

Brent Johnson is the Associate Pastor of the Biblical Literacy Class at Champion Forest Baptist Church. He is filling in for Mark this week, studying St. Patrick.

Today, Brent concludes the lesson on St. Patrick. He discusses the books and chants that St. Patrick wrote, specifically about hardships. Brent reads one of his favorite chants from St. Patrick and from Deuteronomy 6. You can find the handouts online with this information at the link below.

Points for Home:

1) God can use a lot for a little. Example: Moses.

2) Hardships should draw us closer to God. We should not only comfort others, but should accept help from them when bad things happen in our own lives. Pride is always a person’s downfall.

3) Confess what has happened in your life.

Listen in as Brent goes into more detail.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Remember, you can order a copy of Mark's new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 23, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 26
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 4

Brent Johnson is the Associate Pastor of the Biblical Literacy Class at Champion Forest Baptist Church. He is filling in for Mark this week, studying St. Patrick.

When things didn’t turn out the way that St. Patrick had envisioned, he didn’t tuck tail and sulk in the corner. He definitely did not have an easy life and he had every reason to be angry with God. Instead, he prayed – fervently.

He had been a slave for so long that when he was finally free, he did something very unorthodox. He didn’t party or get drunk or spend money unwisely. Nope! He shared the Gospel! That’s all he wanted to do. He shared the Gospel to the ship crew that he was able to board immediately after his release from slavery. Not everyone accepted and believed in Jesus, but they were open to the Truth. He planted the seed; God can do the rest.

St. Patrick was a deacon for around 30 years. He was then appointed Bishop when he was 60 years old. But he almost wasn’t given the title! Listen in as Brent Johnson explains why. He also discusses in more detail how many people St. Patrick touched through his faithfulness and willingness to follow God’s will.

NOTE: Brent Johnson says, “When you’re doing God’s will, it’s not always easy. That doesn’t mean you’re doing the wrong thing. It just means that, in your hardship, you can learn how to minister to other people.”

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 22, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 26
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 3

Brent Johnson is the Associate Pastor of the Biblical Literacy Class at Champion Forest Baptist Church. He is filling in for Mark this week, studying St. Patrick.

Brent Johnson continues to discuss some back history of St. Patrick. Did you know that he banished all the snakes from Ireland? Well, there weren’t snakes there to begin with, so…

Everything Americans do to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day is basically made-up. The parade is just for fun. The green beer is gross. Turning rivers green is dumb. And the four-leaf clover should actually be bad luck, not good luck! Listen in as Brent tells a fun personal story involving one of his twin daughters.

Back to St. Patrick… Brent continues to discuss more about the background of St. Patrick and when he came to the revelation that he was in need of saving grace. After his conversion, St. Patrick became very obedient to God’s commands over his life. He also lived a very lowly life. As he traveled around Ireland, sharing the Gospel, he never accepted any gifts from anyone. Why? Listen in as Brent explains. One aspect of being a Christian that St. Patrick was very passionate about was a believer’s “prayer life”. He felt it was vitally important to spiritual growth to spend time in prayer, not for ourselves, but for others.

Fun Fact: St. Patrick had a dream and he walked 200 miles to see if it was true or not! Listen to find out what happened next!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Brent’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 21, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 26
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 2

Brent Johnson is the Associate Pastor of the Biblical Literacy Class at Champion Forest Baptist Church. He is filling in for Mark this week, studying St. Patrick.

Brent Johnson continues to discuss some back history of St. Patrick. Did you know that he banished all the snakes from Ireland? Well, there weren’t snakes there to begin with, so…

St. Patrick’s family was very wealthy and probably would have had a different kind of life if he hadn’t been kidnapped and sold into slavery at the age of 15. He did have a Christian upbringing, and, after he was captured, he wrote several “confessions”, which Brent reads from in this segment today.

As a slave, Patrick was assigned to be a “shepherd”. This is not really a very “good” job – you slept with the animals, outside, and it was a hard life. Patrick knew what a “good life” looked like; he knew he was blessed before his enslavement. However, he knew he might not have given his life to Christ if he had not been kidnapped. That’s why, when he looked back on his life, he was actually grateful for his hardships.

Your circumstances can either push you toward God or push you away from Him. Which will you choose?

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 20, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 26
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 1

Brent Johnson is the Associate Pastor of the Biblical Literacy Class at Champion Forest Baptist Church. He is filling in for Mark this week, studying St. Patrick.

When you think of St. Patrick, what do you see? The color green? Leprechauns? Green beer? Maybe even Lucky Charms? Well, all of these things are wrong! Brent gives a little background on why we actually celebrate St. Patrick’s Day – and it’s definitely not supposed to be about beer! He also gives a brief history of the fighting and conquering that occurred in England over the centuries.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 17, 2015

Title: Christianity on Trial
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Today, Mark concludes his discussion on his new book: “Christianity on Trial”. Why did he write it? Who is the intended target?

Please consider buying a copy or two to give to your unsaved or religion-confused friends. ALL proceeds from the book go directly to the Lanier Theological Library. Mark isn’t making a dime of the sale of his books.

Listen in every day this week to hear part of Mark’s lesson.

You can order a copy of his new book on Amazon or direct from the publisher here.

July 16, 2015

Title: Christianity on Trial
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Mark Lanier has written an excellent book: “Christianity on Trial”. God is greater than everything you have ever learned and will learn. The Apostle Paul is a great example of someone who truly cherished and believed the Word of God. But, what if you know someone who is a “partial believer”? Mark references Chapter 7 (Reality and the Truth of God) from his new book. Mark says, “If we consider the cosmos and the world outside us, but also consider ourselves and where we sit in relation to it... The question becomes ‘What is real? What is true? What is actual? What story do we believe in?’ ”

Interesting thought: Will a computer be invented one day that will actually begin to think like a human? Listen in to find out who believes this!

Listen in every day this week to hear part of Mark’s lesson.

You can order a copy of his new book on Amazon or direct from the publisher here.

July 15, 2015

Title: Christianity on Trial
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Mark Lanier has written an excellent book: “Christianity on Trial”. God hard-wired us for language, not just to communicate with each other, but with Him, as well. Today, Mark talks a little bit about those “leaving the bubble”. Mark references a famous picture from TIME magazine to help explain what he means by that. Where are you comfortable? Are there certain places you won’t go because they are out of your comfort zone?

If you have a high school and college grad who will be experiencing new surroundings and new experiences, tell them to listen to this lesson from Mark. Better yet, give them a copy of Mark’s book!

Listen in every day this week to hear part of Mark’s lesson.

You can order a copy of his new book on Amazon or direct from the publisher here .

July 14, 2015

Title: Christianity on Trial
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Mark Lanier has written an excellent book: “Christianity on Trial”. Today, Mark talks about the idea behind his book, discussing the inquisitive believer, referencing Chapter 6. He gives real-life examples of why he does what he does, not only in his professional life, but specifically in his spiritual life.

Fun fact: There are 225 muscles activations each second you speak! That is God’s perfect design. We are wired for communication. Mark talks about the theory of how and why we communicate. It’s fascinating!

Listen in every day this week to hear part of Mark’s lesson.

You can order a copy of his new book on Amazon or direct from the publisher here.

July 13, 2015

Title: Christianity on Trial
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Mark Lanier has written an excellent book: “Christianity on Trial”. Does the Christian faith hold up under scrutiny? What does science tell us about the plausibility of a “god”? Can we trust the alleged eyewitness testimony of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus?

These questions are worth investigating in order to find an answer solidified in fact and evidence. Mark Lanier, one of America's top trial lawyers, uses his experienced legal eye to examine the plausibility of the Christian faith.

Listen in every day this week to hear part of Mark’s lesson.

You can order a copy of his new book on Amazon or direct from the publisher here.

July 10, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 25
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

St. Benedict and Early Monasticism

BONUS: There’s another surprise song from Phil Keaggy!! Two in one lesson!! We must be really special.

Examples of what “good” Monks should be doing, according to St. Benedict: love the Lord, love your neighbor, do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not covet, do not lie, respect all men, treat others as you would want to be treated, deny yourself to follow Christ, chastise (discipline) the body, do not take pleasure in worldly things, and love fasting. NOTE: Mark gives some secrets to fasting, especially if you’re a newbie.

Other issues the St. Benedict wrote about were: silence, reciting Psalms, sleeping (yes, sleeping!), prayer time, spend time along in prayer and meditation.

Points for Home: Keep your perspective in check and take holiness seriously. Listen as Mark explains why both of these are so important.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 9, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 25
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

St. Benedict and Early Monasticism

If you missed yesterday’s segment, you missed out a new Phil Keaggy song! It was to the tune of Benny and the Jets. Get it? St. Benedict? Benny? Anyway, listen to it. It’s great!

Mark also finished his list of pros and cons of the secularization of the church and started discussing the four types of “bad” monks from St. Benedict’s point of view. The first was cenobites. The second was anchorites (hermits). Third: sarabites (these are bad). Fourth: gyrovites (these are the worst). Listen in as Mark explains each.

St. Benedict also gave examples of what “good” Monks should be doing: love the Lord, love your neighbor, do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not covet, do not lie, respect all men, treat others as you would want to be treated, deny yourself to follow Christ, chastise (discipline) the body, do not take pleasure in worldly things, and love fasting. (That last one….I just don’t know about that!!!)

Tune in tomorrow to hear the final thoughts from St. Benedict and the points for home for you to ponder over the weekend.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 8, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 25
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

St. Benedict and Early Monasticism

BONUS: We get a new song from Mark’s good friend and famous singer/song writer today – Phil Keaggy! Yay!!

Yesterday, Mark outlined the “pros” which resulted from the secularization of the church. Today, he talks about the “cons”. And – finally – more on St. Benedict!

Con #1: People professed to be Christian, but they really weren’t! They just wanted the tax breaks.

Con #2: People stopped tithing because the government was taking care of things.

Con #3: Church attendance was low.

Con #4: Christian “Extremists” took their commitment to serve the Lord way too far.

Pro AND Con: During this time, more “real Christians” became monks and nuns. These men and women wanted nothing to do with the “fake Christians”. We have much of our Scripture and other biblical writings thanks to monks and nuns who were so faithful in keeping God’s Word available to the Church. HOWEVER…. More men and women were committing to a life of celibacy as a monk or nun simply so they could be “taken care of” – no, not killed; they knew they wouldn’t be required to work or pay for their own food or shelter. The government would take care of them.

St. Benedict was one of the “good” monks. He saw all these men coming to pray and worship God and knew they were lying through their teeth; he knew they were faking it. Since he was the main monk, he started to enforce a bunch of intense rules. Obviously the lazy monks didn’t like that and they tried to poison him!!

St. Benedict gave us the “four rules” which were basically four types of monks: First: cenobites, those who live in a monastery, not tasty rolls with icing on top. Tomorrow, Mark takes a look at the rest of the “four rules” and some of St. Benedict’s teachings in more detail.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 7, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 25
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

St. Benedict and Early Monasticism

Yesterday, Mark talked about the secularization of The Church. Some ideas were good and some were bad. He expands on more of the “pros” today. For example, Constantine was basically the first ruler to give rights to the people, specifically for women. Yay for Constantine!

The secularization of The Church also ended the Gladiator Fights, men killing each other for sports. Church rights concerning property ownership were vastly improved and polygamy and homosexuality were outlawed.

Side note: Paul is often misunderstood regarding the issue of women’s rights. Some people today still think Paul was a sexist pig, but this couldn’t be further from the truth! For example, Paul stated the male and female were the same under the church. He was actually very progressive, and so was Jesus. Listen in as Mark explains in more detail.

Tune in tomorrow to hear the “cons” of the secularization of The Church.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 6, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 25
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

St. Benedict and Early Monasticism

Self-help books are a dime a dozen. It seems like there is a new one every day promising to help you lose weight, or make a million dollars, or even get your toddler to stop whining! But how many of those books will still be available 5, 10, 50, 100, or 1,500 years from now? Some might last 5 or 10 years, but 1,500? Come on! That’s crazy talk! Or is it?? St. Benedict wrote “The Rule of St. Benedict” and is still being published 1,500 years later! This is the ultimate self-help book.

Mark uses the Parable of the Sower as an example of growing in the Lord in terms of human reaction and the human heart. We should all strive to be the type of people that are good “soil”, but not every Christian is that way. Last week, we discussed how some Pope’s were good and some were awful; it’s the same in every religious denomination.

Before we get into St. Benedict, however, Mark take a look at how the Church became very “secularized” with Constantine. There was a lot persecution and martyrs, which actually had the opposite effect that Constantine’s enemies had hoped for; all the hatred toward Christians really grew the church leaps and bounds!! Constantine started giving the people rights, which was a good thing, but some bad stuff happened, too. Make sure you tune in tomorrow to hear more!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 3, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 24
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

The History of the Papacy Part II

When the Pope speaks, people listened. His words were taken as truth. Well, we know now that isn’t true. What the Pope is not infallible, but he is still important.

Points for Home:

1) Your walk with Jesus doesn’t depend on the Pope or any other pastor, minister, or other spiritual leader. Your walk with Jesus depends on you and you alone.

2) We have a responsibility to show the world that we are one in the Body of Christ. Our unity will affirm our Lord to this world.

This week, Mark has a lot of PowerPoint pictures and information to help us better understand the history of the Pope. Make sure you check them out here!

Tune in next weekend as Mark looks at St Benedict and Early Monasticism.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 2, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 24
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

The History of the Papacy Part II

No Pope was perfect. Some were pretty good, but some were pretty awful. But God has – and always will have – the final authority. This is another good reason to have others helping the Pope, like Bishops, Elders, and Deacons.

What are Bishops, Elders, and Deacons? In Acts 20:17 and 28, Paul was bidding farewell to the elders in Ephesus. “Pay careful attention to yourselves and the flock which the Holy Spirit has made you Overseers.” So, in other words, Elders and Bishops are basically the same thing. Then is Titus 1:5-7, Paul confirms elders in every town and leaves them with specific instructions.

But wait – just a few short years later, Elders and Bishops start having different responsibilities. Mark uses some more Scripture as reference to this. He also gives some great Greek lessons today! Bonus!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

July 1, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 24
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

The History of the Papacy Part II

Yesterday, Mark explained how the Pope became “The Pope” and the responsibilities the title held. Up until the time of Pope Leo, the Pope was merely a leader/preacher/teacher in the church. Pope Leo was the first Pope to hold more responsibility than just preaching to the congregation. He was also the first Pope to be called “Great”, which was given to him by Emperor Valentino III. Mark explains more about Emperor Valentino III and Pope Leo the Great and how their creation of various responsibilities within the church directly affects us today – Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

At this point, Mark takes a look back at the New Testament Church. Who is really in charge? After all, we live in a Democracy and the power should be in the hands of the people, right? No, not really. Mark uses Scripture (I Timothy 3:1-13 and I Timothy 5:17) to reveal what the Bible says about authority in the church. There are three words in particular that Mark uses to emphasize his point: Overseer (Bishop), Elder, and Deacon. He discusses each of these titles in more detail in tomorrow’s lesson, so tune in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 30, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 24
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

The History of the Papacy Part II

Yesterday, Mark quickly ran through a list of events that had a huge impact on The Church. We pick up today where he left of with Constantine, who was a great guy, but a little egotistical. He decided to let The Church have Rome, but he still wanted a city to himself, which led to Constantinople. Listen in as Mark explains the growth in The Church’s power and its responsibilities. This is important stuff – it directly affects us today!

The Bishop was in charge of a lot of tasks, specifically overseeing the people – who works, who doesn’t, who gets “this” much, who gets “that” much. It wasn’t just about the sermon on Sunday morning. It’s the same today, even in the Baptist Church. The Senior Pastor has responsibilities to the other pastors, as well as to the congregation. Everyone has a job to do and the buck ultimately stops with him. Yes, his sermon is important, but it isn’t just about the words he preaches – it’s how he handles the body as whole.

Mark also begins his discussion on Pope Leo the First, who was in charge from 440-461 AD. This was during the time of Attila the Hun, by the way! Tune in tomorrow for the rest of his story!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 29, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 24
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

The History of the Papacy Part II

Not every Pope has been a “saint”. Some had children – remember, Pope’s don’t get married! Some were liars. Some were cheats. And some have just been really, really bad. Mark reminds us that we shouldn’t look to any leader – Catholic, Protestant, or whatever – to be our complete spiritual guide. They are, after all, only human. Always, always look to God and His Son Jesus Christ to lead you to the way of righteousness.

Mark is a lawyer by profession. He looks for the facts. He doesn’t rely on hearsay because, well, it isn’t fact! That is the same approach he is taking this week as he looks at the history of the Church and the Pope. Protestants and Catholics obviously have differing opinions on both subjects. When it comes down to the cold-hard truth – the facts – who is right?

Today, Mark reviews: Rome and its significance, Peter and Rome, The Council of Rome (leaders), The Church at Corinth, The Roman Church, Polycarp, the fight over Easter, The Trinity, the ripple effect of Constantine, and churches scattered all over the place that needed some help. Whew. It sounds like a lot but it is really just a warm-up for the rest of the week. Tune in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

Title: THE ENTIRE WHAT'S UP PROGRAM
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Terry Lowry
with Host of the What's UP Radio Program

Host Terry Lowry interviews influential and knowledgeable guests on relevant topics for today.

June 26, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 23
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

The Rise of the Papacy (the Pope)

Well, it looks like Mark will need to continue his lesson on the Pope and the history of the Catholic Church next week. Today, he wraps up this week’s lesson and gives a sneak peek into next week’s.

Protestants and Catholics obviously view the Catholic Church differently. The Pope, for example, has two kinds of primacy: Magisterial Primacy and Jurisdictional Primacy. Also, Protestants believe the Church is an invisible structure. Catholics believe that the Church has a specific governing structure. Mark explains this in more detail…

Also discussed are: Attila the Hun, Pope Leo and inheritance laws, and bad guys (aka Popes who misinterpreted the law).

Points for Home:

1) Ephesians 5:25-26 We are not special because of the Pope. We are special because Jesus Christ died for each and every one of us. He made us special, not our good works.

2) The Lord is my Rock, my Fortress, and my Deliver. The Church is built on the Solid Rock – on a firm foundation, which is Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

3) Colossians 2:8-10 Christ – not the Pope or Mother Mary of St. Paul or any Saint – only Christ is the head over every power and authority. Jesus Christ is the ultimate decision maker.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 25, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 23
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

The Rise of the Papacy (the Pope)

People knew that Jesus was different. They had seen him do things no other living man could do – or had ever done. They just didn’t know “why” he was so different. Until he told them he was The Messiah, then it all made sense…sort of. This revelation was new and confusing.

Listen in as Mark uses John 21:15-17 to explain the Protestant’s response to Jesus’s proclamation. This is where the Apostles are by the Sea of Galilea, eating breakfast. Jesus had already been killed, risen from the dead, and had made several appearances post death. Jesus asked Peter three times if he loved him. Listen as Mark explains why this is important to Catholics and why Protestants view this passage a different way.

Mark uses several other passages of Scripture to explain the differences between Catholic and Protestants viewpoints. Tune in tomorrow as Mark concludes his lesson on the Pope.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 24, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 23
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

The Rise of the Papacy (the Pope)

The Pope is the head of the Roman Catholic Church. The Pope is the pastor, vicar, and successor of the Chief of the Apostles. He is also called the Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church. He is the Patriarch of the West and the Top Church Official of Italy. He is the Arch Bishop and the Sovereign of Vatican City.

The most important of these titles is “Chief of the Apostles”. Mark takes a look at two separate questions concerning this title: How did the title come to be? And how significant is the title today? Mark uses Matthew 16:13-19 as reference for his explanation. This Scripture is about the people asking Jesus who he really is. Is he John the Baptist? Is he Elijah? Is he Jeremiah or another prophet? Simon Peter was the one who called him Messiah, the Christ, the Anointed one, the Son of the Living God. What does Jesus say to Simon Peter? Listen in as Mark explains more.

Tune in tomorrow to hear Mark give the Protestant’s response to Jesus saying he is the Messiah and gives another brief Greek word lesson. He will also explain the significance of “Chief of Apostles” title for the Pope.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 23, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 23
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

The Rise of the Papacy (the Pope)

Yesterday, Mark began his fascinating story of meeting the Pope in the Vatican. He concludes that story today by showing what is written on a wall of the Vatican (It’s super cool! Check out the PowerPoint online) and also begins explaining why the Pope is so important. He gives a brief background on some of the language spoken in Europe and other countries across the pond.

The Pope is the head of the Roman Catholic Church. The Pope is the pastor, vicar, and successor of the chief of the apostles. Think about what a huge job that is! Tune in tomorrow to hear more background about the Pope, what it means for Catholics and Protestants alike.

FUN FACT: The first use of the word Pope was used for the Bishop of Alexandria in 230 AD or 240 AD.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 22, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 23
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

The Rise of the Papacy (the Pope)

In this first segment this week with Mark Lanier, he talks about when he met the Pope last year. He gave the Pope a copy of his book, “Christianity on Trial”. He also describes the process of going through the halls in the building, the sights and sounds, the paintings, even the drapes were cool! Listen in as he portrays a beautiful picture.

Fun Fact: Mark’s wife, Becky, is fluent in Argentinean Spanish, which is the Pope’s first language. What a convenient language to speak when meeting the Pope, huh? Oh – but wait til you hear where Mark found the Pope’s copy of his book! It’s hysterical!

Mark will continue with his story about meeting the Pope and what is written on the walls in the Vatican tomorrow. He’ll also get to the meat of the lesson, so tune in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 19, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 22
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 5

St. John Chrysostom

The Points for Home:

Brent discussed the first PFH yesterday: Thank God for preachers. How would we know about Jesus if it weren’t for preachers?

The second PFH is: Be willing to receive the Word and examine the Scriptures. It’s not enough to just listen to the preacher and believe everything he tells you. Make sure you actually know the truth.

You’re spiritual journey is not about your preacher; it is about you and your zeal for the Kingdom of God. St. John Chrysostom believed that studying the Scriptures was vital to a Christian’s walk with Christ. In fact, he once said: “For that to fade away as you walk out the doors, is like pouring water into a bucket with holes in it. It does not do much good.”

St. John had a great solution for his followers – and even us today. Listen in as Brent explains and gives the third and final PFH.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church  building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 18, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 22
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 4

St. John Chrysostom

Yesterday, Brent discussed the five main points St. John Chrysostom wanted the people to always remember: 1) there is the Son of God; 2) there will be a resurrection of the dead; 3) the flesh is seated in heaven; 4) Jesus will come again; and 5) the Jews will be cast out and the Gentiles will come in. St. John was under the mindsight that the Jews will not be in heaven.

Brent also brings up the interesting fact that Matthew would never utter the phrase “The Kingdom of God”; he always said “The Kingdom of Heaven”. Luke, however, would say, “The Kingdom of God.” But, why?

The Points for Home start early this week. The first PFH is: Thank God for preachers. How would we know about Jesus if it weren’t for preachers? Brent will continue with the PFH tomorrow. Brent also gives another Greek lesson about angels, so listen in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 17, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 22
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 3

St. John Chrysostom

Up to this point in this week’s lesson, Brent Johnson has given us the background of St. John Chrysostom – where he grew up, his education, his salvation, his mother’s influence on his life, and how he became Bishop.

Today, Brent takes a deeper look into St. John’s life as a Bishop – what he did greatly affected the people, the other priests, and even his own health. He preached a lot about repenting and his faithfulness was greatly rewarded. But then he was exiled! Twice! This ultimately led to his painful and horrific death. Listen in as Brent explains these events.

During the time of St. John, being a Christian was the “in thing” – most people were Christians in name only, not in their spirit. He aimed his sermons at the truly saved, but had a servant’s heart for everyone, especially the poor. Brent goes on to discuss in more detail some of St. John’s excellent sermons. He once said, “I cannot let a day pass without feeding you the treasures of Scripture.” Wow. What an example of faith and commitment.

St. John Chrysostom had five main points he wanted the people to always remember: 1) there is a Son of God; 2) there will be a resurrection of the dead; 3) the flesh is seated in heaven…Listen in to hear the last two promises!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 16, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 22
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 2

St. John Chrysostom

So who was St. John Chrysostom? He was born in Antioch, Syria – where the term “Christian” originated. He was raised by a single mom after his military father was killed. Although it is believed that his mother was a Christian, St. John was raised with a pagan education. He even went to school to be a lawyer!

Listen in as Brent Johnson fills in the rest of the background of St. John, how and when he became a Christian, and what he did after. He eventually became the Bishop of Constantinople and he did amazing things for the people. Listen in and make sure you tune in tomorrow to hear more!

Brent also brings up a good point talking about sins. When a person in leadership, specifically ministers, mess up big-time, are their sins still forgivable? Should they still be allowed to lead others in the name of Christ?

Fun Fact: Chrysostom was not St. John’s real last name. It was given to him after he died because of his eloquent speaking ability. Chrysostom is a combination of two Greek words meaning “Golden Mouthed”.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 15, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 22
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 1

St. John

Brent Johnson is the Associate Pastor of the Biblical Literacy Class at Champion Forest Baptist Church. He is filling in for Mark this week, studying St. John. At the beginning of the lesson, he asks the question: “Who is your favorite pastor?” Even though he has already completed this week’s lesson, he would love to have an email from you on who your favorite pastor is! His email is bjohnson@cfbc.org

Brent also explains what makes a preacher “good”. Is it their teaching? Is it where they went to seminary? The way they dress? Brent reveals that a survey recently showed that 90% of people said the pastor was the deciding factor as to whether they joined a church or not.

You may not be a preacher or leader in your church, but as Christians we should trust God to lead us to a church that will feed us spiritually. If your church is not helping you grow in the Lord, then it is time to look for a new one. Period.

Jesus talked a lot about the importance of preaching. Matthew 4:23 is a great example of Jesus teaching to others. Tune in tomorrow as Brent continues with this thought pattern and begins his lesson about St. John, a great preacher himself.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 12, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 21
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

St. Augustine – Round 2

Free Will. Sigh. This is a never-ending battle among both Christians and non-Christians. We are all born sinners. We are all fallen from Grace before we are saved. Augustine had a very strong opinion on this issue and Mark does a great job of explaining it.

Points for Home: God is not everything! What?!?! God is light, in Him is not darkness. God does not have evil in Him. He did not create evil. Mark says, “If we claim to have fellowship with Him, yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live in the truth.”

“You are a chosen people,” Augustine said. God calls everyone back in to the light, not just certain people. From the beginning, He has called out to every single living person, no matter how good or bad. No one is beyond His reach. He has also called every nation to bow before Him.

Mark has one more point for home. Listen in to this last segment of the week on Augustine. Next week, Mark looks at St. John. You don’t want to miss it!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 11, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 21
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

St. Augustine – Round 2

Yesterday, Mark began to discuss Donatism and the people – even priests – who gave up their faith to spare their lives. Bibles were burned. Church buildings destroyed. Christians were murdered. But then Constantine comes to the rescue! He told the people that it really was okay to be a Christian. He told them they could pray and have church services. But what happened to all the priests who denounced Christ? Well, they were labeled traitors!

This is where Donatism started to gain momentum. Those following Donatism were a little crazy, even going as far as purposefully being put in jail! They also wouldn’t recognize any of the priests who had denounced Christ under the Roman Emperor.

So where does that leave St. Augustine? He came in and said, “Church structure is linked to apostolic succession.” What does that even mean? Don’t worry – Mark explains! He also said, “The sacraments, like communion and baptism, derive their power from God, not from the priest who’s giving it!” We are all human and do things we know we shouldn’t do. Forgive and forget.

Finally, Mark discusses “grace and free will”. This is a touchy subject for many people. And confusing! There was a man from England named Pelagius. He came to Rome and began teaching the people that we are all born without sin. Listen in to hear what Augustine had to say to that one! (Mark will conclude this week’s lesson tomorrow, so tune in!)

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 10, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 21
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

St. Augustine – Round 2

Manicheism is a combination of religions, Gnostic Christianity, Buddhism, and others, which focuses the conflict of good and evil. Augustine was fascinated with the notion of a good and evil force in the world, and the power behind it. He once said, “Only God is perfect. Man is good, but not perfect. And anytime you have something that this good and not perfect, good might be able to change on its own.” That change is not always for the good.

God didn’t create gluttony; He created food. It is our choice to either eat just until we get fool or we can choose to overeat. God didn’t make us eat too much; it’s our choice. Mark explains it in another way – how evil is simply the absence of light in the dark.

Mark also begins to discuss the Holy Sacraments in this segment today. After Augustine becomes a Christian, he completely shuns all the “things” of the world and lives a very simple life. During this time, in Africa, a new thought arose on the church and God and the hereafter: Donatism.

“Donatism was a mess,” Mark says. There were ordained ministers of the church when the Roman Emperor before Constantine declared Christianity illegal. Not only did he burn the Bibles or demolish churches, he even murdered Christians. Listen in as Mark begins to explain just what was happening during this time. Tomorrow he will continue with his explanation, so listen in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 9, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 21
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

St. Augustine – Round 2

St. Augustine was not a rich man. He was not famous. He was not popular. He was rebellious. He disobeyed his mama. He had a girlfriend who had his baby out-of-wedlock. But he got right with God and that’s the important thing. Mark discusses three issues which had a great effect on Augustine: good and evil, Holy sacraments, and grace and free will.

The struggle between good and evil has been around since Adam and Eve ate the apple in the garden. God made all things that are good. He is also the creator of all things. But who made evil? Who made sinners? Did God make bad things?

Manicheism was a popular opinion about good and evil back in the day. In fact, Augustine was, at one time, part of this crowd! Listen in as Mark explains what Manicheism is and how Augustine’s opinion changed on the issue.

Tune in tomorrow to hear more about what Augustine has to say about good and evil.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 8, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 21
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

St. Augustine – Round 2

Mark begins this week’s lesson with a look down memory lane….Listen in as he talks about the evolution of his lesson plans and how his opinion on certain issues, like pre-destination, have changed over the years.

Last week, we took a look at St. Augustine and the Fall of the Roman Empire. This week, Mark wants to focus more on just the man, what he did, why he did it, and who was affected. Like Mark, Augustine changed his views on issues depending on when he wrote a piece and where he was in his faith.

Last week, Mark briefly touched on the different tribes that were fighting amongst each other – violent, atrocious acts. He explains in more detail just how much this affected not only the Roman Empire, but the world. In addition, the writings of Augustine have affected more people throughout history – other than the writings of Paul.

FUN FACT: One phenomenon that is a direct result from this time period is actually a good thing: PANTS. Yes – pants!! Listen in as Mark tells why!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 5, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 20
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Augustine and the Fall of the Roman Empire

Yesterday, Mark explained in more detail about Augustine’s past and how he became a Christian. He also discussed the turmoil among the people of the Roman Empire. They were fighting over which group was responsible for the earthquakes – the pagans or the Christians. The Empire was just a mess. Then, people start invading Rome! It went from bad to worse!

At this point, Augustine steps in. He had enough of the fighting and bickering. He wrote a phenomenal letter entitled “The City of God”. He basically told the people, “There is a Kingdom of God and Rome is not that kingdom.” NOTE: Mark will discuss more of Augustine’s writings next week, so tune in!

Points for Home: If you wouldn’t miss your favorite TV show, why would you miss an opportunity to pray? Praise God first – and praise God in all things! Also, Mark encourages every Christian to not only have a mentor, but BE a mentor. And, lastly, do not wait to have your name written down in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 4, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 20
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Augustine and the Fall of the Roman Empire

So, here we have Augustine, who is an important man in history, right? But, he’s a pagan! How can God use a non-believer? Well, that’s when – and why – Bishop Ambrose enters his life. Augustine was enamored with “the man” Bishop Ambrose. So Augustine began going to church, not because of the message he preached, but because he was such a great speaker.

At this point, Mark explains a little more about Augustine’s wretched life. Like many wayward children, he was breaking his poor mama’s heart. She never quit praying for him, though. She never gave up hope.

Romans 3:13-14 “Therefore, let us not pass judgment on one another any longer but rather decide to never put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus. Nothing is unclean in itself but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it is unclean.” This is the BIG conversion passage that finally cause Augustine to see the light! Listen as Mark explains why and how it radically changed Augustine’s life.

Mark goes back to the Roman Empire and what was happening at the time. First, the area was experiencing earthquakes. But the Romans didn’t know that they were earthquakes! They didn’t understand what was happening. So, the pagans blamed it on judgement from the gods. They said they were jealous of Jesus. Of course, the Christians blamed the earthquakes on the pagans and their gods, saying God was sending down his wrath to punish unbelievers! It was just a big mess. Tune in tomorrow to hear more about the earthquakes, Goths, and treaties.

NOTE: God redeemed all of Augustine’s talent and used him to further His Kingdom in amazing ways. In fact, Mark believes that Augustine is one of the top five philosophers in history!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 3, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 20
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Augustine and the Fall of the Roman Empire

Augustine’s family was not well-off; in fact, at one point he had to quit school because his family couldn’t afford it. However, some of the people in his hometown realized his potential and paid for his education! And thank goodness for that!

Augustine’s mom, Monica, wanted him to continue his education after his father died. Listen in as Mark explains Augustine’s life after he went to a fancy school in Carthage, then went on to Rome, and how his mother reacted to him leaving.

Oh – and did I mention that Augustine, at this point, was a pagan? He ignored his mother’s pleas to trust in Jesus. He dabbled in other religions for a bit, but just wasn’t impressed with any of them. So, when did Augustine become a Christian? Monica, his mom, had a dream about it! Listen in as Mark explains – and brings Bishop Ambrose into the picture! Remember him? Yeah, he’s kind of important to this story.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 2, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 20
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Augustine and the Fall of the Roman Empire

Mark continues to discuss the conflicts between the Jews, Jesus, and the Romans. But when Pentecost came, things changed dramatically. For instance, the church began to expand tremendously. People across every nation were coming to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

One of the only issues that remained, however, was the problem the people had with the second coming of Jesus Christ. They thought they knew when, where, who, why, and how. Paul was one of several men who stepped up and said (paraphrased), “Nope. Y’all don’t know what y’all are talking about.”

Pagan nations outside of Rome and the events of the day often cause scholars to question the validity of Christianity in Rome and other large cities. However, just reading in the book of Acts (not to mention the entire Bible), you can see how Paul and others were such great influencers.

So, where does Augustine come in? Mark explains how Augustine’s mom, Monica, was a very important person in his life. He will continue his explanation tomorrow, so tune in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

June 1, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 20
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Augustine and the Fall of the Roman Empire

This week’s lesson on Augustine and the Fall of the Roman Empire combines history, theology, family, prayer, and life. Throughout history, it has been quite difficult – nearly impossible, in fact – to overtake Europe. Many have tried and failed. The Roman Empire was no different. It was 50 million people strong and steadfast.

In this first segment today, Mark explains more about the Roman Empire and also gives a Greek lesson. The term “basileia” (boss-uh-lay-uh) was used 56 times in the book of Matthew in the Greek! Listen in as Mark explains what this Greek word means plus more!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 29, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 19
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

St. Antony

Many people sought advice from St. Antony. One person was Emperor Constantine. That was a pretty big deal! But St. Antony told the others, “He is just a man.” Constantine was a man, needing advice, and St. Antony was going to help. Mark compares this to Obama walking into the church, saying he needed a word from the Lord. Most people – even Republicans – would be pretty impressed. But, Mark says, “Obama is just a man.”

Mark also talks about St. Antony’s death and why it was important.

Points for home: “Seek first the Kingdom of God.” This doesn’t mean you have to sell all your possessions and become a hermit like St. Antony. But we should all desire to do what God wants. If our priorities are not in alignment with His Word, then we should walk away from them.

Tune in next week to hear Mark’s lesson on Augustine and the Fall of the Roman Empire.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 28, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 19
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

St. Antony

We’ve been talking this week about St. Antony and his quest to learn more about God and be closer to Him. He didn’t have any money, a job, or a home. There was nothing left that could be taken from him, except his mind. He actually asked God to make him weak so he would have to rely fully on Him. But he always gave God the credit for his victories.

St. Antony’s experience in the wilderness was vastly different than a camping trip to the RV Park. As if the temptations from Satan weren’t bad enough, then the hyenas would scare the living daylights out of you! The hyenas in The Lion King were tame compared to the ones St. Antony encountered. They were vicious, fierce, and very large. St. Antony decided to verbally challenge them! What?!?! Why would he do that? Listen as Mark explains.

God sent many hermits to learn from St. Antony. He urged them to pray fervently and start each day anew, vowing to become closer to God. Romans 8:18 “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing to the glory that is to be revealed to us.” Listen as Mark explains what this means.

Tune in tomorrow to hear the conclusion of Mark’s study on St. Antony and the impact he had on so many people.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 27, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY - WEEK 19
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

St. Anthony

Today, Mark explains how Satan will always use the sexual side of our human nature to try and destroy our walk with God. It is so easy to get hooked on lustful thoughts, but it is very difficult to break free from it.

St. Antony was a very faithful man of God. He trusted God completely, and this made him a target for Satan and his demonic ways. When he was tempted, St. Antony would pray fervently. This just made Satan even more determined to break St. Antony down, so he hit him hard with lustful thoughts. But again, this just made St. Antony pray harder and longer. He also fasted and worshipped through song.

Tune in tomorrow to hear more about St. Antony, his temptations, and his faithful walk with God.

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, and PowerPoint slides click [here.]

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 26, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY - WEEK 19
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

St. Anthony

There are two well-known verses from the Bible: Matthew 6:33 “Seek first the Kingdom of God.” Immediately following this verse is Matthew 6:34 “Do not be anxious about tomorrow.” Do you think Jesus was trying to hint at something here when he said this? You know he was!

St. Antony took these verses to heart when gave away all his possessions. He then went out to the desert and lived among some hermits, simply and faithfully trusting God, memorizing Scripture, and studying the men he lived with. Mark explains what St. Antony learned from these hermits. It is quite amazing!

Now, who doesn’t like faithful, god-fearing men? Satan! So, of course, he set his evil eyes upon St. Antony. How did he fight off the temptations of the devil? Listen in tomorrow to hear more of the story and how we still fight off these same temptations today!

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, and PowerPoint slides click [here.]

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 25, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 19
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Saint Anthony

There are many Saint Anthony’s. This week, however, Mark will be focusing on just one: Saint Antony (or Anthony) of the Desert. There is a very interesting reason why he is called this, so listen in closely as Mark explains.

He also tells a story about some boots from the 1970’s, too! And…you are going to get a crash course in some Greek words. Have you ever wondered where the word “hermit” originally came from? You’ll find out today! Bonus: Mark will be starting a new study in the Fall incorporating his knowledge of Greek. Make plans to attend the class now!

Saint Anthony was friends with Athanasios, who actually wrote his biography. Whenever Athanasios would get kicked out of Rome, he’d go roam the desert with Anthony.

Now, Anthony was very religious. He was very devoted to his family, especially to his younger sister. He was also very wealthy and, like Ambrose, sold all of his possessions (except for what was needed to care for his sister and to live on). Tune in tomorrow to hear what Saint Anthony did next.

NOTE: Make sure you check out the Power Point presentation online to view all the goodies Mark will be discussing this week!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 22, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY - WEEK 18
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Athanasios, Ambrose, and Arianism

After the death of the Empress Justina and her son Valentinian the Second, Theodosius began his rule. He was a Christian, but he had some pretty messed up ideas concerning conversion. He decided to kill 7,000 innocent people! Ambrose was still the Bishop at this time and he threatened to excommunicate Theodosius. Listen as Mark explains what happens next.

These stories are great reminders that God still uses bad situations to bring glory to His name.

Points for Home: Sin is a human problem. That is why we have Communion. But, why do we partake in Communion? Is it to make us feel guilty about our sins? Is it to make a show to others about how holy we can be? We are living in the Kingdom of God. We are His church. We are His people. If you are a believer, than you have the assurance of Heaven. Communion is a big part of being a Christian. That is why Jesus made such a big deal about the Last Supper before his crucifixion.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 21, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 18
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Athanasios, Ambrose, and Arianism

When Ambrose became Bishop, he did something very unusual. Not many had done this back then – not many do it still today! He gave away all of his possessions and required everyone else working in the church to do the same! Wow. Talk about being faithful.

Valentinian the Second was the Emperor during the time Ambrose was Bishop, but it was Justina, his mother, who was really calling the shots. Justina was an Arian and she did not believe that Jesus was the Son of God. Ambrose didn’t really like this. At all. In fact, Ambrose called her a heretic! Uh-oh. Not a good idea! Listen in as Mark explains what she did in retaliation and Ambrose’s response. Hint: There are riots and soldiers involved!

Tune in tomorrow to hear the rest of the story about Theodosius, Ambrose, and the Roman Empire.

Bonus Info: Ambrose was a magnificent song writer!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 20, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 18
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Athanasios, Ambrose, and Arianism

After Athanasios was allowed to go home, everything seemed to be going well. Until, that is, someone accused him of murder! Athanasios really suffered for the cause of Christ. He even had to hide in a graveyard! Yikes! This guy just couldn’t get a break! But it everything turned out all right! Listen in as Mark explains the craziness! Seriously, it gets a little weird…

Mark also discusses the man Ambrose, whose father was a pretty important man in Rome. His family was very religious – his sister was even a nun! Ambrose was also very well educated. In fact, he became the Governor of Milan in his 20’s. He found himself in a bit of a pickle, though, when the Bishop died. Tune in tomorrow to hear the rest of the story!

BONUS: Have you ever heard the phrase, “That doesn’t matter one iota?” and wondered where it came from? You’ll find out in this segment!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 19, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 18
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Athanasios, Ambrose, and Arianism

The Niacin Creed has been around for a long time. Some churches still recite it every Sunday! The Niacin Creed has written during the “good times”, but not every Bishop or Priest agreed with it.

This is where Athanasios comes in; he was helping the Alexandrian Bishop and took his place when he died.

There were several characteristics that made Athanasios special. HINT: He stood up to Constantine and got in big trouble! But this turned out to be a good thing! Listen as Mark explains!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 18, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 18
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Athanasios, Ambrose, and Arianism

Mark begins the lesson this week with a story of his law-clerking days in Lubbock, Texas. A man by the name of John Ross worked with Mark and made a huge impact on his life. He gave him the “greatest secret to a successful job interview”. What was that secret? Listen in!

Life isn’t easy, even (and especially) for Christians. One day we will die. It’s a fact of life. Depressing, I know. But, as always, Mark doesn’t make the discussion boring or depressing. There’s music involved! As Christians, we have joy in knowing that one day we will be rejoicing in the Kingdom of God! Amen!

Mark will be discussing Athanasios, Ambrose, and Arianism this week. What does all this have to do with the lesson? First, Mark reviews a little from last week’s lesson about the Priest named Arias. Tune in tomorrow to hear more!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 15, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 17
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Constantine the Great and the Council of Nicaea

The end of the lesson this week is quite dramatic. It involves deceit, hatred, anger, murder, and forgiveness. So, basically, a Hollywood movie. Listen in as Mark concludes his look at Constantine the Great, who truly was great. Ultimately…

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 14, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 17
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Constantine the Great and the Council of Nicaea

Yesterday, Mark began discussing Constantine the Great’s vivid dream and the events that followed. He explained how the days of the week were named and also the months of the year.

More importantly, however, was how Constantine reunited the Roman Empire and even united believers from England to Africa! He restricted pagan worship. He made Christianity the official religion of the land. While this was great, in theory, it also caused some political friction. Listen in as Mark explains.

One of the men who was causing problems for Constantine was a priest named Arias. He had some odd ideas about the Bible. He claimed that Jesus was not God; Jesus was, in fact, less than God – according to Arias. Mark references John 14:28. This is the same verse that many Jehovah’s Witness followers use when “witnessing” to people. Another Scripture Mark uses today is 1 Corinthians 15:28.

Mark says these Scriptures need to be taken in context. Men who claim these and other verses are using their own interpretations when explaining their position. This is why we must learn the truth for ourselves; we need to stop taking other’s word as truth. Know they Truth yourself.

How does Constantine the Great respond to the teachings of Arias? Well, let’s just say he goes to some pretty extreme measures taken! Tune in tomorrow to find out what he does!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 13, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 17
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Constantine the Great and the Council of Nicaea

Yesterday, Mark touched on Diocletian and continues with his explanation of why he is so important to church history. He was the first to realize that when each “Caesar” passed away, there was always a fight for power. In 305 BC, for the first time in the history of Rome, something unheard of happened! Listen in as Mark explains! NOTE: Mark throws in some awesome power/fight music for about 5 seconds, so beware!

So, back to Constantine the Great…. He had a dream. It was very vivid and significant to the events that made him who he was. Mark discusses this dream, what it meant, what Constantine was to do, and how he became a Christian. Not only do the days of the week derive from the ideas of Constantine, so do the months of the year. There is also a French twist! Tune in tomorrow to hear more.

It’s amazing how it all ties together and the PowerPoint and lesson plan really help with the explanation. You can check them out at the link below.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 12, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 17
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

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Day 2

Constantine the Great and the Council of Nicaea

Reminder of things discusses yesterday: There are three important issues concerning Constantine the Great: 1) He adopted Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire. 2) He moved the capital of the Roman Empire to Istanbul. 3) He convened the Council of Nicaea.

But to understand all this, we need to understand Roman history. Before Julius Caesar was “appointed” an Emperor in 44 BC, Rome was a Republic, with an elected leader. After he was killed, there was an awful civil war, which ended around 27 BC. Listen in as Mark explains more about the various “Caesars” which lead to other important events.

Then comes a ruler named Diocletian. He really shook things up! What did he do? Mark begins his explanation today but continues with more tomorrow, so tune in.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 11, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 17
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Constantine the Great and the Council of Nicaea

This week’s lesson is a borderline straight history lesson, but it is important to the understanding Western civilization and the early church. Mark says if you altered the events surrounding the life of Constantine the Great and the Council of Nicaea “we wouldn’t even remotely exist or be who we are today.”

Most of this first segment this week is a personal story from Mark about a Jehovah’s Witness who once visited his home. Listen in as he ties the story in with this week’s lesson. He says, “The man’s heresy is not something that was invented in the last 150 years. It’s been around for a while.”

Some believe that no other “The Great” in history is more deserving of the title than Constantine. Mark agrees, but also believes that Moses and Paul were probably “better”.

There are three important issues concerning Constantine the Great: 1) He adopted Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire. 2) He moved the capital of the Roman Empire to Istanbul. 3) He convened the Council of Nicaea. Tune in tomorrow to hear more!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 8, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 16
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Science and the Bible

Today, Mark concludes his review of two well-known philosophers, Clement and Tertullian. Tertullian was definitely not a fan of Clement. In fact, he said many, many negative things toward him. To say things got a little heated is a massive understatement. Mark explains this thought further in this last segment of the lesson for this week.

Points for home: 2 Timothy 1:12 Paul revealed in this verse the true meaning of knowing God. You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to understand the love of God. Mark also uses Shakespeare to make a valid point about our faith. Listen in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 7, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 16
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Science and the Bible

Yesterday, Mark reminded us of Clement of Alexandria. He did not grow up as a Christian, but was very well-educated. It wasn’t until after he had tested and rejected many different “religions” that Clement became a Christian.

Today, Mark explains in further detail how Clement became a believer. Science played a big part in the life of Clement, and he used his knowledge of science to gain a deeper understanding of Christianity.

Clement quoted many Scriptures as well as other philosophers, specifically Plato. While he thought some of the philosophical teachings of others were false, he also found many to be true. Listen as Mark explains how Clement wasn’t the only one got in trouble because of his teachings – his students did as well!

Now, turn to Tertullian…He was also raised by Pagan parents and was well-educated. He, too, became a Christian later in life. One major difference between Tertullian and Clement is that Tertullian couldn’t care less about philosophers. He only cared about Christians and their teachings.

Tertullian was the one who posed this question: “What does Athens have to do with Jerusalem?” Listen in to the final segment this week as Mark reveals the answer!

Side note: Why is it important to be careful what you’re reading in church? Mark has a funny story to tell, so tune in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 6, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 16
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Science and the Bible

Today, Mark discusses how Judaism took a significant turn because there were no more sacrifices; there was no need for priests. But, if you were a Christian Jew, you were in deep, deep trouble.

If you’ve been listening for any length of time, you might remember Mark doing a study on Irenaeus. Irenaeus was a 2nd Century Bishop in France who wrote against the Gnostics Heresies. He was not Jewish, but his writings reflect Greek theology. Listen in as Mark explains what Irenaeus thought about Jesus, souls, and heaven.

Mark also discusses Clement of Alexandria. Not much is known or confirmed about Clement. What we do know is that he was not born into a religious family, but was well- educated. He tested various “religions” before he found Christianity. Tune in tomorrow as Mark explains why Clement became a believer and how science ties into it all.

BONUS: What does philosophy actually mean? And what does it have to do with Christianity?

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 5, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 16
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Science and the Bible

“What is your greatest challenge to faith?” Yesterday, Mark began discussing Science and the Bible and the famous astronomer, Galileo. Many people do not realize that Galileo was a Christian! Did his faith in God and interest in the heavens influence his findings? Most likely, yes.

Science and the Bible are not separate. Mark says, “I think we better understand Scripture when we can find independent truth that is reliable truth and read it in conjunction with the Bible.” There always has been and always will be conflict surrounding science, the Bible, and the Truth. But, God’s Truth is Truth. It’s the only Truth.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 4, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 16
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Science and the Bible

This week, Mark will be taking a crack at Science and the Bible. Touchy subject, we know. But, before he begins that, he gives a back story about a visit to Wheaton College he recently made. HINT: The topic for his talk was “What is your greatest challenge to faith?”

Listen in! It’s important to the lesson this week! If the biggest challenge to your faith is science and the Bible, then Mark wants you to know that this is not a new problem; it’s been around for a long time. You are not alone in your struggle. Mark brings up Galileo, the famous astronomer, and what happened to him because of his scientific belief.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

May 1, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 15
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

The Canon – Part 3

Mark says, “The New Testament, rather than being the result of rock-em-sock-em-robots, is the apostolic teaching that was used to guide and inform the creeds.” There may be parts missing; there may be a few incorrect words or phrases here and there. But one thing is for certain: God ensured, through the writers of each and every book of the Bible, that we would always – always – have an account of His love, faithfulness, forgiveness, and mercy.

Listen in as Mark uses the US Constitution as an example of something that “implies” thoughts or ideas and we must use our best judgment to determine what is true or false. He goes into a lot more detail about the Early Church, the second coming of Jesus Christ, and how to determine what is right and wrong in his lesson plan. Click on the link below to view and print the lesson plan to study on your own at home or work.

Points for Home:

We are all made in the image of God, but we also inherited Adam’s sin. However, we have the grace of God through Jesus Christ.

We also have righteousness. It wasn’t earned. It wasn’t bought for a price. It wasn’t a prize. It was given to us freely. Not because we are so good and holy, but simply because He loves us. That is what we were created for.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 30, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 15
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

The Canon – Part 3

Today, Mark continues to break down each line of the Niacin Creed. One common theme throughout the Creed is that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world. He is the Son of God. No questions about it. The Niacin Creed is in complete alignment with the Scriptures. It does not stray from fact.

Mark also discusses the second coming of Jesus Christ. The Thessalonians were worried that they had missed it, but Paul assured them that we will definitely know when he comes. There will be no doubt. Scripture after scripture reveals information about this and Mark takes a look at several of those.

Tune in tomorrow as Mark concludes his three week study of The Canon.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 29, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 15
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

The Canon – Part 3

Bart Ehrman, the man who Mark began refuting in yesterday’s segment, does not believe that several of the New Testament books were written by Paul. But, Mark says, even Bart has to agree that Paul was an important part of history and was a great missionary.

Today, Mark continues discussing the Lost Scriptures and also brings to light the Council of Nicaea and the Niacin Creed. The Council of Nicaea were men of great importance and intelligence. They wrote the Niacin Creed, which is:

“We believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of all things, visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ the Son of God, begotten of the Father….light of light, begotten not made, being of one substance with the Father, by whom all things were made for men and for our salvation, who came down and was incarnate…..He suffered, on the third day rose again, ascended into heaven, from whence he will come to judge the quick and the dead….We believe in the Holy Spirit.”

But….Is the Niacin Creed correct or just another heresy writing? That’s the real question of today’s segment. Listen in as Mark breaks down each line, using several Scriptures passages as evidence. He will continue tomorrow, so make sure you tune in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 28, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 15
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

The Canon – Part 3

When it comes to opportunities for ourselves and our children, the world is at our fingertips. But not everything they will learn, read, or hear is accurate. How are we, as parents, to teach them the difference? Mark discusses a specific author who is an intelligent man who some look to for answers. However, Mark says this man is just flat-out wrong about the Lost Scriptures.

Tune in tomorrow to hear Mark’s examination and critical analysis of this man’s teachings.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 27, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 15
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

The Canon – Part 3

We live in an expanding environment from an intellectual basis: Google. Google changes the way we think and the way we are informed about subjects. While we realize that not everything we read is true, the easy access we have to information is great.

Just like Google is not always accurate, the same goes for many books about the Bible. The focus this week is on the Canon and “Lost Scriptures”.

First, Mark shares a story of his first house and first flower bed in his brand new backyard. It’s quite humorous and also has a deep meaning that correlates with this week’s lesson. Listen in!

But wait….What about the Lost Scriptures and their importance? Tune in tomorrow for the rest of the explanation!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 24, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 14
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

The Canon – Part 2

The New Testament has the words of Jesus as recorded by the apostles. Those are the Holy Writings. But, who decided what went into the Bible? Both God and man! God through man. Prophets.

The Early Church knew, from Moses, that the next prophet would be Jesus. Moses even knew that Jesus would be killed by the people. How did he know this? It was from God!

Points for Home: Who knows the mind of God? Quick answer: No one. This is why we should treasure Scripture. Do not worship Scripture. Honor the Scripture. Know the Scripture. Treasure the Scripture. Live by the Scripture.

Tune in next week as Mark continues to discuss the Canon and its accuracy.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 23, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 14
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

The Canon – Part 2

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! Amen and amen!

Mark continues explaining how and why there are different accounts for the same scripture. He also tells a story of an angry Monk who got upset over the wrong translation of the Bible. NOTE: Is “stupidest” a word?

The question iss: Is this a human mistake or a God mistake? Well, it’s actually a trick question because God doesn’t make mistakes! God works through people and there is a reason or purpose for everything and everyone.

Mark concludes the segment today talking about trust and why it is so important to trust the things we cannot see.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 22, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 14
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

The Canon – Part 2

The Early Church was not too concerned about not having a Bible (per se) to read. Most people didn’t even know how to read until after the printing press was invented in 1450, so it wasn’t that big of a deal to not have (or know where) any written scripture was until then. They were very satisfied with what they had. Mark explains where most of the first scriptures have been found. You might be surprised where!

After the rule of Constantine the Great in the early-to-mid 300’s, more and more written scripture was available for individual and corporate reading. In fact, before he died, he ordered 50 copies of the Bible to be written and bound in leather! Listen as Mark describes how these copies were written down and why they are different.

NOTE: Constantine the Great made Sunday an official holiday for religious purposes!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 21, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 14
Topic: Church History

Discussed by  M. Lanier
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 2

The Canon – Part 2

If the church believed that scripture was so important, then why didn’t they have a Bible for over 250 years? Well, Mark believes that the answer lies within the question!

There have been a lot of different “types” of Bibles throughout the ages, Mark explains what the first one was called, when it was made, and where. But what were the people using the Bible for??? Interesting stuff, so listen in!

Mark also introduces us to Diocletian, the last Roman Emperor before Constantine. He hated the church. He martyred believers, ordered all churches leveled, and all scripture burned. Mark also talks about three women (nuns, really) and a mayor who stood up to Diocletian. What happened next? Listen in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 20, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 14
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

The Canon – Part 2

Mark is back with church history! Last week, we aired a sermon that Mark preached at Fallbrook Church, located in Northwest Harris County. To listen to the sermon, in five segments, view our archives above.

This week, Mark continues where Brent Johnson left off two weeks ago with The Canon. But first….a story about Mark’s very first Bible that he bought with his own money….

There is something special about God’s Word. Not as a coffee table book. Not because of how it looks or the notes that fill the pages. It’s not just a book comprised of stories by men from long ago. It’s called Holy because it is uniquely fashioned. There is a purpose. There is meaning.

Mark challenges us to think, while looking at The Canon, on why the Bible was written the way it was written. We hear about “lost scriptures” and may wonder why they aren’t included in the Bible. Where are they now? Are they true? Do they even exist? That is the focus of the lesson this week, so tune in each day as Mark unfolds a little more so that we may see more clearly.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 10, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 13
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 5

The Origin of the Canon

Brent concludes his lesson on The Canon today. No one has ever proven the Bible to be untrue. When you read the prophesies, sometimes they are hard to understand. But, if you “study”, even a little bit, they become clearer and clearer. So, in essence, the Bible proves itself!

Do we serve God because of what we get out of it or do we serve God because He is the creator God? It doesn’t matter what happens on our end; it only matters what happens in the end. There is one aspect of The Canon that Brent looks at today: The Apocrypha. These are considered “hidden books” of the Bible. Listen in as Brent explains why the Protestant Bible doesn’t include the Apocrypha.

There was years of silence and many people wondered “Where is God?” Have you ever questioned God? Have you ever wondered “Why isn’t He answering my prayer?” He always, always answers – sometimes the answer is no; sometimes the answer is yes; and sometimes the answer is wait.

Fruit for Home: When the moment comes, will you be ready? When time is spent and you are standing before the pearly gates, will the Heavenly Father know you?

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 9, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 13
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 4

The Origin of the Canon

What is the best way to read through the Bible? Many people read it like a novel, and that isn’t always the best approach, especially if you’re a new Christian. If you are looking for a new and different way to read through the Bible in a year (or longer!) try the Context Bible approach that Mark Lanier developed. All the outlines and information can be found at his website listed below.

Now, on to Septuagint… You know how different words in the English language mean different things? Well, many people get confused by the teachings in the Septuagint. Brent concludes the lessons this week (today and tomorrow) by explaining it in easy to understand terms. The disciples knew what they were doing when they recounted their experiences. The scholars were very specific when they translated those stories. This was not on accident.

God doesn’t need us to over think Him. God doesn’t need embellishment. God just needs us to study The Canon and know it so we can tell others about His love, mercy, and forgiveness.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 8, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 13
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 3

The Origin of the Canon

When you study the Word of God, you can’t help but grow. Brent warns us, though, not to judge others because they might not use a Bible on Sunday morning. Many people use an iPad or smart phone these days. Not everyone is as “spiritual” as another person. We are all at different levels of awareness with God. It doesn’t matter what level we are on, as long as we stay committed to getting to the next level.

During the time when the various books of the Bible were written, they obviously didn’t have them comprised in a “book”. They were written on scrolls and moved so frequently from place to place that they were hard to keep track of. So, why are the books in “our” Bible in the order they are in? Listen in as Brent begins to explain why! He will continue tomorrow with a great story and reminder of why we always must look ahead.

BONUS: If you listen closely to this segment, Brent also gives a free lesson on Star Trek and Klingons!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 7, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 13
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 2

The Origin of the Canon

When there is an important event in your life, you want to record it – video, pictures, written testimony. The most significant events in history are written in the Bible. And that is why it is closed. Shut. Complete. Nothing else SHOULD be added to the Gospel. Nothing else CAN be added. Those who add to it are lying. Brent uses scripture from Deuteronomy and Revelation to support this.

FACT #1: Remember what the first book ever printed on a printing press was? THE BIBLE.

FACT #2: Do you know what the number one selling book of all time is? THE BIBLE.

FACT #3:: The Bible was written over a span of 1,500 years by 40 different authors, stretching over 3 continents and in 3 languages.

All these facts are important because it makes the Bible authentic and true. Other Canons, specifically the book of Mormon, written by Joseph Smith, are not God-ordained. Brent explains why.

But, where do we get The Canon? Why do we have it? What is the significance? Brent begins to explain the purpose of the Bible in this segment. He will continue tomorrow, so make sure you tune in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 6, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 13
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Pastor Brent Johnson
with Champion Forest Baptist Church (www.ChampionForest.org)

Day 1

The Origin of the Canon

Mark apologizes that he is not able to be here again this week. He is a busy, busy, busy man! Brent Johnson, the Associate Pastor of the Biblical Literacy Class at Champion Forest Baptist Church, will be filling in for Mark this week, studying The “Origin of the Canon”.

Learning about the canon is an “explosive subject” (Get it? Canon. Explosive. Well, different kind of cannon….) It will ignite your passion for God, His Word, and His people.

The writer of Hebrews says this: “The Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword…discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”

However, Brent points out, if the writer knew about canons, he would have written this differently. Brent explains why he believes this, gives a little history lesson, and discusses why studying the Bible is vital to the life of Christians, so listen in. There’s also a little tidbit from Vicar Melvin Tinker! Don’t miss it!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 3, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 12
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Mark Lanier concludes his lesson today with some rules and regulations from Barnabus, then takes a look at another Clement – not the Rome one; Clement of Alexandria. How does the spirit, Jesus, scripture, and these various letters all tie in to us today?

Points for home: Preach the Word. Rebuke with patience. The time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but will make up their own stuff.

Quote of the Week: God is not a computer programmer. If He was, it would be all His fault if we have a software glitch. But we have free will; that’s how He made us. So it’s our fault when we mess up.

Tune in next week as Mark looks at the Origin of the Canon.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 2, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 12
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Mark continues with the Epistle of Barnabus today. He compares is to First Clement. First, both were hard for the people of the time to accept. Alexandrian ideas prevailed in Barnabus’s letter. Its goal was to warn Christians against a Judaism concept of the Old Testament. Listen in as Mark explains in detail the Epistle of Barnabus and gives several scriptural references to support his teachings.

Mark also reveals some very interesting and cool things about numbers and Jesus’s name! Don’t miss it!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

April 1, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 12
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Terry Lowry
with Host of the What's UP Radio Program

Day 3

Philo was not “weird”. He was regarded as very intelligent and respectable. But what did the Christians in Alexandria think about Philo and his “teachings”? Well, first, the Christians turned Philo’s teachings upside down. They said, “No no no! This is not right!”

Mark explains how some scholars think that Paul wrote the book of Hebrews; some believe it was a Jew named Apollos. But who is Apollos? Listen in as Mark discusses a story out of Hebrews about Apollos and how it ties into Philo, the Christians, and Alexandria.

Mark also briefly mentions Barnabus in today’s segment. Like Apollos, no one knows exactly who wrote about Barnabus. Mark will continue with more on Barnabus tomorrow, so tune in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 31, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 12
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Today, Mark begins to examine the “Alexandrian Approach to Biblical Interpretation”. No, not Alexandria the Great. The “city” Alexandria. He describes the city, the culture, the people of Alexandria. It was a very religious city: Christians, Jews, Christian Jews, pagans, philosophers, even Buddhists!

Mark talks about Philo of Alexandria who was born in approximately 20 BC and died 50 AD. This is important because Paul was already doing missionary work during the life of Philo, who wasn’t even mentioned by name in the Bible! So, how do we know about Philo? Why is he important? Was Philo influenced by Paul? Was Philo even a believer? Listen in as Mark explains some of Philo’s teachings. He will continue with this tomorrow, so tune!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 30, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 12
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Mark Lanier is back! He begins the lesson this week by telling some of his adventures while in Jerusalem visiting his son and daughter-in-love (who live there). They all ran in a 5K while there! This all ties into the topic for this week’s lesson.

Biblical interpretation is nothing new, but how are we to understand the Bible? If we, as modern Americans, followed the 10 Commandments to a “T”, we would walk to church – not matter how far it was! Why because driving is work! We wouldn’t cook, clean, or do any type of work. Also, have any of you sold all your possessions and given them to the poor as the Lord commands? I didn’t think so.

Mark tells the story of a heretic, Mercian, who was from the Roman church in the 1st or 2nd Century. He believed and taught that the God of the Old Testament was different than the God of the New Testament. Listen in as Mark explains Mecian’s thinking and why it was wrong.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 27, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 11
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Vicar Melvin Tinker
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Mark Lanier and his beautiful wife, Becky, are in Israel for a few weeks and he has a very special guest filling in for him.

Melvin Tinker has been the parish priest for the Anglican Church, St. John Newland in Hull, England since 1994. As well as speaking around the country and abroad, Melvin is the author of over sixty published articles dealing with a wide range of subjects relating to ethics and theology.

God opened up doors for several members of Mark’s class to visit Hull, England in 2014, for a mission trip to spread the gospel in Hull, England. Once a very religious city, the number of churches and Christians has decreased dramatically over the last decade. Please pray for Vicar Tinker and his parish in Hull, England as they spread the Gospel to people who so desperately need the Word of God.

You can find more information on Hull, England, and Vicar Tinker’s parish by visiting Biblical-Literacy under the “Mission to Hull” link.

The first part of Melvin Tinker’s lesson today includes a “Thank You” video from the people of Hull, England, for Mark’s class. Listen in to the video and as Vicar Melvin expresses his personal thanks. It’s amazing what God is doing in Hull, England and the people’s lives there. There are many challenges they face, both spiritually and financially.

Now for the lesson…. The Trinity - Part 2.

When we examine the unity between man and wife, we can understand The Trinity. Theologian Karl Barth argues that “The male/female picture of being made in God’s image is ‘the’ image to help us understand what God is like.” Melvin uses John 14:10-11 as a perfect example of Jesus proclaiming his relationship with the Father.

“This reveals the special nature of the relationship of the Father and the Son,” Vicar Melvin Tinker proclaims. “They are not independent of each other; rather their identity arises from their relationship.” He goes on to add that “The fellowship of the Holy Spirit revealed in God’s relating to us reflects that fellowship within the life of God. The spirit can be seen as the person who mediates, sustains, and enables the love between the Father and the Son.”

So what does The Trinity have to do with our day-to-day lives? Melvin says, “Is there anything more vital than love? God IS love!” He explains that Muslims don’t have a god to love, because Allah is a singular being. Listen in as Vicar Tinker compares Muslims and Christians and why we, as Christians, have such a greater hope for the future.

Points for Home: We become what we worship. If we worship the world, we will be like the world. If we truly worship God, the one and only Creator, we will become more like Him. Also, find ways to build up the church to everyone you meet. Through prayer and practice, endeavor to bring a little bit of Heaven down to earth, to share with those you come in contact with.

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 26, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 11
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Vicar Melvin Tinker
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Mark Lanier and his beautiful wife, Becky, are in Israel for a few weeks and he has a very special guest filling in for him.

Melvin Tinker has been the parish priest for the Anglican Church, St. John Newland in Hull, England since 1994. As well as speaking around the country and abroad, Melvin is the author of over sixty published articles dealing with a wide range of subjects relating to ethics and theology.

God opened up doors for several members of Mark’s class to visit Hull, England in 2014, for a mission trip to spread the gospel in Hull, England. Once a very religious city, the number of churches and Christians has decreased dramatically over the last decade. Please pray for Vicar Tinker and his parish in Hull, England as they spread the Gospel to people who so desperately need the Word of God.

You can find more information on Hull, England, and Vicar Tinker’s parish by visiting Biblical-Literacy under the “Mission to Hull” link.

The first part of Melvin Tinker’s lesson today includes a “Thank You” video from the people of Hull, England, for Mark’s class. Listen in to the video and as Vicar Melvin expresses his personal thanks. It’s amazing what God is doing in Hull, England and the people’s lives there. There are many challenges they face, both spiritually and financially.

Now for the lesson…. The Trinity - Part 2.

God the Son and God the Father have the same nature. Jesus is the exact representation of His being, meaning that every character that is in God is in Jesus. We do not see a hateful person. We see someone who is loving and just and kind. Does he hate sin? Yes, just as God hates sin. God sent His son Jesus Christ to be the “human face of God”.

But what about the Holy Spirit? People were confused already about the whole God the Father and God the Son thing. They were having a really tough time factoring in the Holy Spirit. Vicar Melvin Tinker describes a meeting which was held in 381 AD in Constantinople. There was a new clause to the Creed that was causing a stir. There is an “order”, per se, within The Trinity but that doesn’t mean there is inferiority. But isn’t God the most important? Listen in as Vicar Tinker explains this one!

Melvin closes today’s segment with a comparison of The Trinity to the relationship of man and wife. When a man and woman become one in holy matrimony, they aren’t really one person, physically, but they are emotionally and spiritually. Tune in tomorrow to hear the rest of his explanation!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 25, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 11
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Vicar Melvin Tinker
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Mark Lanier and his beautiful wife, Becky, are in Israel for a few weeks and he has a very special guest filling in for him.

Melvin Tinker has been the parish priest for the Anglican Church, St. John Newland in Hull, England since 1994. As well as speaking around the country and abroad, Melvin is the author of over sixty published articles dealing with a wide range of subjects relating to ethics and theology.

God opened up doors for several members of Mark’s class to visit Hull, England in 2014, for a mission trip to spread the gospel in Hull, England. Once a very religious city, the number of churches and Christians has decreased dramatically over the last decade. Please pray for Vicar Tinker and his parish in Hull, England as they spread the Gospel to people who so desperately need the Word of God.

You can find more information on Hull, England, and Vicar Tinker’s parish by visiting Biblical-Literacy under the “Mission to Hull” link.

The first part of Melvin Tinker’s lesson today includes a “Thank You” video from the people of Hull, England, for Mark’s class. Listen in to the video and as Vicar Melvin expresses his personal thanks. It’s amazing what God is doing in Hull, England and the people’s lives there. There are many challenges they face, both spiritually and financially.

Now for the lesson…. The Trinity - Part 2.

When the Early Church attempted to decipher and understand The Trinity, the people tried to separate God, Jesus, and The Holy Spirit into three categories: people, animals, and things. This didn’t work out so well, but Tertullian did the best he could.

Melvin Tinker introduces us to another man, an Egyptian by the name of Athanasius. In 328 AD, he was appointed Bishop of Alexandria in a time when most of the church had already abandoned the idea of The Trinity. In fact, he was exiled five times, fleeing for his life, because of his beliefs. Listen in as Vicar Tinker shares the story of Athanasius and his persistence in proving The Trinity as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 24, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 11
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Vicar Melvin Tinker
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Mark Lanier and his beautiful wife, Becky, are in Israel for a few weeks and he has a very special guest filling in for him.

Melvin Tinker has been the parish priest for the Anglican Church, St. John Newland in Hull, England since 1994. As well as speaking around the country and abroad, Melvin is the author of over sixty published articles dealing with a wide range of subjects relating to ethics and theology.

God opened up doors for several members of Mark’s class to visit Hull, England in 2014, for a mission trip to spread the gospel in Hull, England. Once a very religious city, the number of churches and Christians has decreased dramatically over the last decade. Please pray for Vicar Tinker and his parish in Hull, England as they spread the Gospel to people who so desperately need the Word of God.

You can find more information on Hull, England, and Vicar Tinker’s parish by visiting Biblical-Literacy under the “Mission to Hull” link.

The first part of Melvin Tinker’s lesson today includes a “Thank You” video from the people of Hull, England, for Mark’s class. Listen in to the video and as Vicar Melvin expresses his personal thanks. It’s amazing what God is doing in Hull, England and the people’s lives there. There are many challenges they face, both spiritually and financially.

Now for the lesson…. The Trinity - Part 2.

It’s not really surprising to learn that the people in the Early Church had a difficult time believing in The Trinity; it’s hard to trust and believe in it now, even knowing what we know! It takes a lot of faith.

However, just as quickly as some of the people believed, many people rejected the notion of The Trinity. In addition, there were several “theories” which arose trying to “explain” it.

Melvin Tinker recalls a class he once took on the 4th Century Theologian Augustus. Listen in as Melvin tells the story and discusses several other men who are essential in the teaching of The Trinity.

We will never fully understand God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try to learn everything we possibly can.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 23, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 11
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Vicar Melvin Tinker
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Mark Lanier and his beautiful wife, Becky, are in Israel for a few weeks and he has a very special guest filling in for him.

Melvin Tinker has been the parish priest for the Anglican Church, St. John Newland in Hull, England since 1994. As well as speaking around the country and abroad, Melvin is the author of over sixty published articles dealing with a wide range of subjects relating to ethics and theology.

God opened up doors for several members of Mark’s class to visit Hull, England in 2014, for a mission trip to spread the gospel in Hull, England. Once a very religious city, the number of churches and Christians has decreased dramatically over the last decade. Please pray for Vicar Tinker and his parish in Hull, England as they spread the Gospel to people who so desperately need the Word of God.

You can find more information on Hull, England, and Vicar Tinker’s parish by visiting Biblical-Literacy under the “Mission to Hull” link.

The first part of Melvin Tinker’s lesson today includes a “Thank You” video from the people of Hull, England, for Mark’s class. Listen in to the video and as Vicar Melvin expresses his personal thanks. It’s amazing what God is doing in Hull, England and the people’s lives there. There are many challenges they face, both spiritually and financially.

Now for the lesson…. The Trinity - Part 2.

The lesson this week was taught on the Sunday before St. Patrick’s Day. However, Vicar Melvin Tinker went to great lengths to put together a fantastic play-by-play analogy of what Patrick might have come up against in Ireland when he traveled there to minister to the people, sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is hilarious, so listen in!

Next, he compares the book “Windows for Dummies” to the documents called “Creeds”, which is the focus of this week’s lesson and how they are tied into the teachings of The Trinity. “The purpose of the Creeds was not to say everything about what Christians believe; rather it was to help Christians get a handle on the basics, especially when it came to The Trinity,” Melvin says.

Vicar Tinker goes on to explain the purpose of the Creeds in further detail and why it was so important that the Early Church chose to believe in them. Listen in…

Note: I left off with a bit of cliff-hangar with today’s segment! Tune in tomorrow to hear the rest of the story!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 20, 2015

Title: church history - Week 10
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Vicar Melvin Tinker
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Mark Lanier and his beautiful wife, Becky, are in Israel for a few weeks and he has a very special guest filling in for him.

Melvin Tinker has been the parish priest for the Anglican Church, St. John Newland in Hull, England since 1994. As well as speaking around the country and abroad, Melvin is the author of over sixty published articles dealing with a wide range of subjects relating to ethics and theology.

God opened up doors for several members of Mark’s class to visit Hull, England in 2014, for a mission trip to spread the gospel in Hull, England. Once a very religious city, the number of churches and Christians has decreased dramatically over the last decade. Please pray for Vicar Tinker and his parish in Hull, England as they spread the Gospel to people who so desperately need the Word of God.

You can find more information on Hull, England, and Vicar Tinker’s parish by visiting Biblical-Literacy under the “Mission to Hull” link.

The first part of Melvin Tinker’s lesson today includes a “Thank You” video from the people of Hull, England, for Mark’s class. Listen in to the video and as Vicar Melvin expresses his personal thanks. It’s amazing what God is doing in Hull, England and the people’s lives there. There are many challenges they face, both spiritually and financially.

Now for the lesson…. The Trinity.

Some churches have an unclear view of The Trinity. Melvin Tinker says they have a “small view of God”. He quotes Dr. Peter Adam, Former Principal of Ridley University in Melbourne, Australia, concerning The Trinity: “Life caught up in God is more like relating to a loving community than it is relating to a loving individual.”

One illustration, which comes from C.S. Lewis’s book “Meer Christianity”, describes how we can move in space in three different directions. Listen in as Vicar Tinker explains what he believes C.S. Lewis means by this illustration using squares and cubes!

Favorite quote from today: “The Triune Being of God is the vital oxygen of Christian life and joy.”

Points for Home: 1) When you start with Jesus, then you end up as God as Triune. 2) A weak view of The Trinity will result in a weak view of salvation.

Melvin also gives a sneak peek into his lesson for next week. Make plans to tune in each day as he digs even deeper into The Trinity and scripture.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 19, 2015

Title: church history - Week 10
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Vicar Melvin Tinker
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Mark Lanier and his beautiful wife, Becky, are in Israel for a few weeks and he has a very special guest filling in for him.

Melvin Tinker has been the parish priest for the Anglican Church, St. John Newland in Hull, England since 1994. As well as speaking around the country and abroad, Melvin is the author of over sixty published articles dealing with a wide range of subjects relating to ethics and theology.

God opened up doors for several members of Mark’s class to visit Hull, England in 2014, for a mission trip to spread the gospel in Hull, England. Once a very religious city, the number of churches and Christians has decreased dramatically over the last decade. Please pray for Vicar Tinker and his parish in Hull, England as they spread the Gospel to people who so desperately need the Word of God.

You can find more information on Hull, England, and Vicar Tinker’s parish by visiting Biblical-Literacy under the “Mission to Hull” link.

The first part of Melvin Tinker’s lesson today includes a “Thank You” video from the people of Hull, England, for Mark’s class. Listen in to the video and as Vicar Melvin expresses his personal thanks. It’s amazing what God is doing in Hull, England and the people’s lives there. There are many challenges they face, both spiritually and financially.

Now for the lesson…. The Trinity.

The Gospel actually demands belief in The Trinity. In 2 Corinthians 5:19, we’re told “God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself.” And then there is also the most famous verse in the Bible, John 3:16.

But how does the Holy Spirit come in to play? Where does the Holy Spirit “fit” in this big puzzle? Listen in as Vicar Melvin Tinker explains how Jesus, who was both priest and victim, offered himself as a sacrifice in the power of the Holy Spirit. Melvin references 2 Corinthians 3:17 for this explanation.

Melvin says this of the Holy Spirit, “The gifts to the church, which come from God, the Holy Spirit, are meant to enable us to express the servant hood of Jesus the Son by the enabling power of the Holy Spirit. We would not have a church if it weren’t for The Trinity. There is one God who exists within the eternity of his own glorious being as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.”

This segment is packed full of knowledge and explanation about The Trinity, so listen in. Tune in tomorrow to for the completion. Vicar Melvin Tinker will be back with us next week, as well, so make plans to listen each day.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 18, 2015

Title: Church History: Week 10
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Vicar Melvin Tinker
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Mark Lanier and his beautiful wife, Becky, are in Israel for a few weeks and he has a very special guest filling in for him.

Melvin Tinker has been the parish priest for the Anglican Church, St. John Newland in Hull, England since 1994. As well as speaking around the country and abroad, Melvin is the author of over sixty published articles dealing with a wide range of subjects relating to ethics and theology.

God opened up doors for several members of Mark’s class to visit Hull, England in 2014, for a mission trip to spread the gospel in Hull, England. Once a very religious city, the number of churches and Christians has decreased dramatically over the last decade. Please pray for Vicar Tinker and his parish in Hull, England as they spread the Gospel to people who so desperately need the Word of God.

You can find more information on Hull, England, and Vicar Tinker’s parish by visiting Biblical-Literacy under the “Mission to Hull” link.

The first part of Melvin Tinker’s lesson today includes a “Thank You” video from the people of Hull, England, for Mark’s class. Listen in to the video and as Vicar Melvin expresses his personal thanks. It’s amazing what God is doing in Hull, England and the people’s lives there. There are many challenges they face, both spiritually and financially.

Now for the lesson…. The Trinity.

People didn’t understand The Trinity because they couldn’t see it – they couldn’t touch it. They only knew “things”, but things can’t love. Things can’t relate. That is what The Trinity is: Love and relationship.

There will always be an element of mystery to the Trinity. It’s not a matter of understanding; it’s a matter of belief. People were afraid to believe it; it scared them to think of Jesus as God. Melvin Tinker references John Calvin to help explain why worshipping anything or anyone other than God is not true worship. John Calvin says this, “It’s a bare, empty name.”

Melvin begins a deeper examination of The Trinity and why the Bible does not specifically reference it. There are several – numerous – references, however, to The Trinity, just not in so many words. 1 Thessalonians 1:1, for example, references God the Father and Jesus Christ, Lord. Then in 2 Corinthians 13:14 “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” Then in Ephesians 1:3-11, it goes even further! This was just too much heavy for the First Century Church to comprehend!

Where did The Trinity come from, though? Inquiring minds want to know! Listen in as Vicar Tinker explains…

But are we, today, too familiar with these words? Do they still mean anything to us? We know it and we believe it, but do we live it?

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 17, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY Week 10
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Vicar Melvin Tinker
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Mark Lanier and his beautiful wife, Becky, are in Israel for a few weeks and he has a very special guest filling in for him.

Melvin Tinker has been the parish priest for the Anglican Church, St. John Newland in Hull, England since 1994. As well as speaking around the country and abroad, Melvin is the author of over sixty published articles dealing with a wide range of subjects relating to ethics and theology.

God opened up doors for several members of Mark’s class to visit Hull, England in 2014, for a mission trip to spread the gospel in Hull, England. Once a very religious city, the number of churches and Christians has decreased dramatically over the last decade. Please pray for Vicar Tinker and his parish in Hull, England as they spread the Gospel to people who so desperately need the Word of God.

You can find more information on Hull, England, and Vicar Tinker’s parish by visiting Biblical-Literacy under the “Mission to Hull” link.

The first part of Melvin Tinker’s lesson today includes a “Thank You” video from the people of Hull, England, for Mark’s class. Listen in to the video and as Vicar Melvin expresses his personal thanks. It’s amazing what God is doing in Hull, England and the people’s lives there. There are many challenges they face, both spiritually and financially.

Now for the lesson…. The Trinity.

Melvin Tinker continues to discuss the realization that Jehovah’s Witnesses deny The Trinity because the Bible does not teach The Trinity doctrine. But, Melvin points out, we have Deuteronomy 6:4 “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.” But what does that mean? And when did The Trinity become doctrine? How can we know it is true? How do the Jews fit in with The Trinity?

Melvin uses Paul’s writings as references in today’s segment. Paul says one thing, then in the next sentence he says something completely different! Paul was not out to start a new religion; he was a very intelligent man and was simply trying to explain to the people (mainly Jews) how God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit were all connected.

Quote to remember: “Belief in The Trinity is a matter of revelation not speculation.” Listen in to hear what Melvin means by this statement!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 16, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY Week 10
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Vicar Melvin Tinker
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Mark Lanier and his beautiful wife, Becky, are in Israel for a few weeks and he has a very special guest filling in for him.

Melvin Tinker has been the parish priest for the Anglican Church, St. John Newland in Hull, England since 1994. As well as speaking around the country and abroad, Melvin is the author of over sixty published articles dealing with a wide range of subjects relating to ethics and theology.

God opened up doors for several members of Mark’s class to visit Hull, England in 2014, for a mission trip to spread the gospel in Hull, England. Once a very religious city, the number of churches and Christians has decreased dramatically over the last decade. Please pray for Vicar Tinker and his parish in Hull, England as they spread the Gospel to people who so desperately need the Word of God.

You can find more information on Hull, England, and Vicar Tinker’s parish by visiting Biblical-Literacy under the “Mission to Hull” link.

The first part of Melvin Tinker’s lesson today includes a “Thank You” video from the people of Hull, England, for Mark’s class. Listen in to the video and as Vicar Melvin expresses his personal thanks. It’s amazing what God is doing in Hull, England and the people’s lives there. There are many challenges they face, both spiritually and financially.

Now for the lesson…. The Trinity.

The bible does not actually “teach” the Trinity, but there are many references to it. Melvin even quotes Thomas Jefferson concerning the issue! More on the topic tomorrow….

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 13, 2015

Title: church history chapter7 - Heresies: Gnosticism Supplement
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

HERESIES

Mark concludes his lesson today on Early Church Heresies and looks at several passages to explain Gnosticism in a deeper way. First, in 1 John 2:22, John talks about the anti-Christ compared to the “real” Christ. Then, in Chapter 5:1, John explains belief in Jesus Christ and what it means for Eternal Salvation. And in chapter 4:2-3, he warns again of false prophets.

So, basically, John was big on believing and saying the Truth when we proclaim our faith. Don’t sugar-coat it. Don’t tell a little white lie. Don’t deceive with flowery words. Don’t exaggerate. Just tell the Truth.

Points for Home: Ideas have consequences. Make sure you know your facts before you start telling others about something. Also, remember that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. Change how you live because God is living within you.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 12, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY CHAPTER 7 - HERESIES: GNOSTICISM SUPPLEMENT
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Dr. Mark Laaser
with Dr. Mark Laaser (www.FaithfulAndTrueMinistries.com)

Day 4

HERESIES

Irenaeus was a big inspiration for John, who in turn influenced many, many in the First Century Church – even up until the book of Revelation and today! Their lessons made people question the Gnostic teachings. Maybe God was the only “god”. Maybe God really was Jesus. Maybe Jesus really was God. Maybe Jesus was really sinless. Maybe Jesus really did die on the cross and rise again three days later.

Mark discusses how, from the beginning, He has been. He always will be. In 1 John, we see how the people saw Jesus after his death. They touched him. This is not some made-up story. They testified to it! That was a very vital point.

Listen in as Mark explains how Gnostics did not believe you needed to be saved from your sins because “your body is your body”. They believed real salvation is the liberation of your mind from your body. Kinda new-agey, don’t you think?

But John says “No no no!” You don’t unite to God through “secret knowledge”. You unite to God by the historical fact that a human God as Jesus Christ came to earth, lived a blameless life, died for all of our sins, and rose again so that we might have a relationship with Him and live with Him forever.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 11, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY CHAPTER 7 - HERESIES: GNOSTICISM SUPPLEMENT
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

HERESIES

There were two approaches to heresy in the church. Mark discusses these in today’s segment. One approach, Docetism, proclaimed that God was a real being, but he wasn’t a real person; God never came to earth and lived as a human. If He had come to earth, He would have sinned; He would have been evil.

The other strain of thought that believed there was a man named Jesus, who was born from Mary and Joseph, but not of a virgin birth. When Jesus went to get baptized, the spirit of God descended upon Jesus and He became Jesus Christ. But then Jesus began to suffer, so the spirit left him to suffer more on the cross.

Irenaeus continued to contradict these heresies, plus others. Why? There was just so much going wrong, it’s hard to know where to begin. Listen in as Mark reveals how this is what prompted John to write the Gospel! Coincidence? I think not!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 10, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY CHAPTER 7 - HERESIES: GNOSTICISM SUPPLEMENT
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

HERESIES

For three or four centuries, Greek thought has been the center of Christianity, in large part to Plato, of all people. “Behind every object, there is a thought of that object.” If you limit your understanding to only what is seen, you will often miss the point. How does this pertain to Christianity?

Ideas have consequences. What you believe affects how you live, what you do, and even your values. When Christianity entered the scene, the people just started to go crazy over religion. They picked what tasted good and discarded what was bitter in their mouth. They would seduce others with their “secret knowledge”. People wanted answers – they longed to know how the world came to be, why they were here, and who is this God?

Perhaps one of the most perplexing issues of the day was how Jesus could be God and God could be Jesus. Tune in tomorrow to hear more on this!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 9, 2015

Title: church history chapter 7 - Heresies: Gnosticism Supplement
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

HERESIES

Last week, Mark took a look at the heresy known as “Gnosticism”. To refresh your memory, Gnosticism was a serious problem that rocked the church – not in a good way. It took over 200 hundred years to root it out of the church, but it has never completely disappeared. Throughout history, there have been people claiming to be “in the know” or to have found “codes” in the Bible.

Mark says this of Gnosticism and people who claim to know it all: “This idea that there is some super spiritual secret is something we should all be cautious of.”

In today’s segment, Mark reference a book from a few years back, “The Bible Code”, which duped millions of people. Listen in as he explains the “secret” this book “found” in the Bible. And check out the video or the handout info linked below to see the “code” as Mark explains it! It’s actually quite amazing!

Now that you have the recap of last week, tune in tomorrow to hear the continuation of Mark’s lesson on heresies and why we should pay attention to them – even today.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 6, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY chapter 7: Heresies-Gnosticism
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

GNOSTICISM

Yesterday, Mark revealed some information about a great man of God, Irenaeus, and compared him to another man discussed earlier in the week, Valentinus. Irenaeus was a very intelligent man, and, to Mark’s delight, used a good deal of logic in his teaching.

How do Squash, cucumbers, and pumpkins fit into the mix? Listen in to hear Mark’s analogy! Hopefully you’ve eaten lunch because you’ll just get hungry!

As we live in this crazy, mixed-up world, we must stay focused on the goal – the prize: Heaven. We must stay focused on winning other souls for the Kingdom of Heaven.

Points for Home: Error creeps in slowly. We need to be extremely careful to hold on to the Truth. We must teach our children to cling to the Truth. Also, it’s not a question about what we believe. It’s about WHO we believe.

Next week, Mark looks at 1 John chapters 1 and 2 and hypocrisy. Make plans to listen in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 5, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY chapter 7: Heresies-Gnosticism
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

GNOSTICISM

Is there really any truth the numbers? Has someone actually discovered the “Secret Knowledge”?

Jesus was 30 when he started his earthly ministry. Jesus taught about the 30 ions in heaven. Any coincidence? After Valentinus, Irenaeus enters the scene. Irenaeus wrote a book against the hearsay – against Valentinus! His argument included the ions from Jesus! Oh – and do you remember Polycarp who we studied a few weeks ago? He was Irenaeus’s teacher! Another coincidence?

Mark reveals how Irenaeus was a scholar and every picture we have of him includes a book! History itself was already unfolding at this point with a fierce emphasis on scripture. But is it the correct scripture? Or is it twisted around? Also, is this similar to modern-day Mormon belief?

Irenaeus was extremely knowledgeable about the scripture and an all-around smart guy. In fact, in most instances, he used logic to explain his position. But was he right or wrong? Tune in tomorrow for the conclusion of this week’s lesson!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 4, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY chapter 7: Heresies-Gnosticism
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

GNOSTICISM

DNA and Gnosticism aren’t usually topics brought up in the same conversation. But Mark always has a twist! Yesterday, he started comparing them and we left off with what the world started looking like when Jesus stepped into the scene. Was he evil? Was he good? People always over think things – especially the smart people.

Now, today, he explains “In the beginning…” is directly involved with “DNA”. Is scripture right or wrong? Gnostics generally believed you just needed knowledge about the Bible and you were set. However, we know this is far from right. Just look at Lucifer. And just because you are a super awesome Christian, that doesn’t mean that you know everything.

People have been trying to destroy Christianity since the dawn of time. That is why we must study scripture and memorize. A self-called Christian, Valentinus, had some interesting thoughts about God and Christianity. Listen in as Mark exposes this guys’ crazy philosophy!

And finally, more numbers… Mark continues talking about the ions and how the Kingdom of Heaven is like…. Oh no! Wait! What happened? Tune in tomorrow to hear the rest of the story!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 3, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY chapter 7: Heresies-Gnosticism
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

GNOSTICISM

DNA is the stuff that makes us who we are. It’s very interesting, actually! Did you know that you can take two different strands of DNA’s and make new DNA? Did you know that you probably eat DNA-altered food?

What in the world does DNA have to do with Gnosticism?

Good and evil cannot coexist. When a person becomes a Christian, it’s very hard to stop living like a pagan. Some people can flip the switch very easily; most cannot.

But then Jesus came to us. How did He change the world’s DNA? Mark will continue his explanation tomorrow, so make sure you tune in! Quote of the Day: Greeks said: “The body is the prison house of the soul.”

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

March 2, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY chapter 7: Heresies-Gnosticism
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

The focus of Mark’s lesson for the next two weeks is “Gnosticism”. First, though, he reviews a little of last week – First Century Communion and First Century Church Service, with an emphasis on the singing. If you were able to listen to all of last week’s segments, you might remember Mark played a clip of what singing sounded like in the Frist Century. Well, he sent the clip to his good friend Phil Keggy and he put some scripture to the melody! Listen in!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 27, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY chapter 6: EARLY CHURCH WORSHIP - Part 2
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

FIRST CENTURY CHURCH SERVICE

Mark concludes his look at worship during a First Century Church service. He references Philippians 2 beginning in verse 5, which Paul “wrote”, but is actually copying someone else, and we don’t even know who the original writer was! The scripture is actually one of Mark’s favorite songs. Listen in to find out which one it is and why!

Points for Home: Psalm 100 – Only God is worthy of our praise. Worship is a deliberate act. Its purpose is to transform our lives.

Every knee will and every tongue will ultimately confess that Jesus Christ is Lord! Get on board now before it is too late.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 26, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY chapter 6: EARLY CHURCH WORSHIP - Part 2
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

FIRST CENTURY CHURCH SERVICE

Yesterday, Mark talked about singing in the church and gave some great examples of what the singing might look and sound like. Where did he get his information? Well, from the Bible, of course (and the internet, but that doesn’t count)!

In Ephesians 5, beginning in verse 19, Paul writes to the church in Ephesus, telling them to be careful with their days. Do not be foolish. Don’t get drunk on wine, but instead get drunk on the Spirit. And sing to one another with hymns and spiritual songs. Colossians 3:16 says basically the same thing. And then we see in 1 Corinthians 14:26 “Then brothers, when you come together in worship, each one has a hymn of revelation…”

Mark also explains with a story about persecution how, why, when, and where the people would sing praises. This is where Psalms come in. Even Paul quotes some of the songs in Psalms! Listen in as Mark gives more Scripture references and explains in more detail, even using Greek words!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 25, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY chapter 6: EARLY CHURCH WORSHIP - Part 2
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

FIRST CENTURY CHURCH SERVICE

We don’t really know when singing became part of the church service, but we do now it was and still is very important. Should there be musical instruments? Is a Capella more “holy”? Mark takes a look at a man, Alexandria, who had a major influence on contemporary worship in the First Century Church.

In the early church service, first the people would have a meal, a teacher would do a short lesson, and then a “worship leader” would lead them in a hymn. Sometimes the hymn was made up; sometimes the hymn was passed around to others. After the singing, others would take their turn teaching and singing and the people chanted Scripture. Finally, they have another meal. But wait! There’s more singing!!!

What is the obsession with singing in a church service? Listen in as Mark explains why people have always loved to sing, especially praises to God.

BONUS: Mark found an audio track of what the singing might have sounded like in the First Century. He also found some old sheet music from which the people might have used to sing and how it might look today! Super fascinating, so check out the lesson at the link found below and listen to the entire segment to hear the song!

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 24, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY chapter 6: EARLY CHURCH WORSHIP - Part 2
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

FIRST CENTURY CHURCH SERVICE

Yesterday, Mark started discussing the various “sects” within the Christian faith, using Acts 5:17 and Acts 15:5 as Scriptural references. The main sects were: Pharisees, Sadducees, Nazarenes, and Christians. The Jews, however, just considered all these sects part of the Jewish faith. There were vast differences in the way each sect worshipped, however, and that is the focus of this week’s lesson.

In a Synagogue, for example, all the elders sat up front in the church, on separate sides. This showed respect for the elderly. The synagogue was full of prayer and chanting of the Scriptures. One specific prayer that Mark talks about it today’s segment is the “Shema”, which derives from 3 different parts in the Old Testament. Listen in as Mark gives the details!

Sometime, we’re not sure when, the Lord’s Prayer was introduced to the worship services, as well as singing. The early church more than likely had a Capella singing. But where did the singing come from? What is the significance? Tune in tomorrow to hear more!

FACT CHECK: Synagogue is translated into “House of Prayer”.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 22, 2015

Title: CHURCH HISTORY chapter 6: EARLY CHURCH WORSHIP - Part 2
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

FIRST CENTURY CHURCH SERVICE

Last week, Mark reviewed what a First Century Church Service would look like. He talked about how the church “buildings” were more than likely just meetings in homes. He read from the Dedache and recited the prayer first century Christians said when taking Communion. The entire class even took Communion as they would in the first century. You can search the archives if you missed it.

Until Jews started converting to Christianity, they mainly worshipped in Synagogues. Before that, they worshipped in the Temple, but when it was destroyed, they moved their worship to Synagogues. Scholars have debated for decades as to why. Listen in as Mark explains some of this in today’s segment.

Within Judaism, at least until the destruction of the temple, there were different sects. Mark references Acts 5:17 and Acts 15:5 to give more information about these sects, or “parties”. Why were these sects so important?

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 20, 2015

Title: Church History Week 6: EARLY CHURCH WORSHIP
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

FIRST CENTURY CHURCH SERVICE

In the final segment this week, Mark narrates from the Dedache to illustrate how the Lord’s Supper was prayed during the First Century. The one major difference in then and now is that the wine (or Baptist grape juice) was taken first, then the bread. Listen in as Mark explains why. He also has quite a few comical moments in this last segment, so get ready to laugh a little!

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 19, 2015

Title: Church History Week 6: EARLY CHURCH WORSHIP
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

FIRST CENTURY CHURCH SERVICE

Mark continues with his demonstration of different types of churches/homes from the early church. Make sure you check out the PowerPoint online with the link below to view all the amazing buildings and houses used as churches. Simply amazing.

Mark refers to the services as “stews” – they were a mixture of aspects from a traditional service in a Synagogue and a Jewish temple. It’s hard to let go of traditions, but they still wanted their new-found Christian faith to have a different meaning – a new purpose.

Did you know that worshippers in a Synagogue did not partake in the Lord’s Supper? That came later, with the new churches. They would just have a common meal, called a “Love Feast”, and they often fed the poor at this time. The Dedache was the manual used for the Lord’s Supper and Mark reads from this during this segment and the final one tomorrow when he reviews the traditional Lord’s Supper and what was said and done during it.

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 18, 2015

Title: Church History Week 6: EARLY CHURCH WORSHIP
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

FIRST CENTURY CHURCH SERVICE

Yesterday, Mark started explaining the early Synagogues. He continues with this today and also discusses the early temples. But what happens when the Jews became Christians? They certainly couldn’t go to the Synagogue or temple! Where did they go? And how did they worship and pray? How different were they?

Listen in as Mark explains the differences in the “buildings” and types of worship. Is this when the first Sunday School Classes began? What about tithing? Was it private or out in the open? Even the singing was different in the new churches! How big were the places the new Jewish Christians worshipped?

Mark uses a lot of pictures and other visual aspects in this segment so make sure you check out the PowerPoint online with the link below.

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 17, 2015

Title: Church History Week 6: Early Church Worship
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

FIRST CENTURY CHURCH SERVICE

How did we get where we are today? How did the church evolve from nothing to “this”? Some of you may not be aware of the TV show “Dr. Who” but to say Mark is a fan would be an understatement. Mark uses a reference to the TARDIS to travel back in time. (If you don’t know what the TV show is about, YouTube it for 2 minutes and you’ll see why he likes it…)

Mark uses the scripture Acts 8, beginning in verse 3, to describe where, why, and how Saul was ravaging the area, dragging Christians to prison. It was difficult to know where Christians were meeting because people usually met in houses, in small groups. There weren’t church “buildings”. There were, however, synagogues. Mark discusses more about the synagogues in tomorrow’s segment, so tune back in!

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 16, 2015

Title: Church History Week 6: Early Church Worship
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

FIRST CENTURY CHURCH SERVICE

This week, Mark Lanier explains what an early church service might look like. Where would it be held? Who would be there? How long would it last?

Mark will also read what the early church said during communion; it is not the same as what Evangelicals might read or say today. Listen in each day as Mark explains a different aspect of the service.

NOTE: The video mentioned in this segment today is not linked with the lesson notes. If you would like to view the video, please contact the Biblical Literacy team.

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 13, 2015

Title: Church History Week 5: MARTYRS - IGNATIUS AND POLYCARP
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Martyrs

Polycarp was a super nice guy. The soldiers came to take him to his death and Polycarp fed them and prayed for them! Would you have been that nice to your killers?

The next day, Polycarp was led into the stadium where the people chanted – even cheered – for his death. Polycarp was again given the chance to recant his faith in Jesus, but he still refused! He hushed the crowd and said “I am a Christian. Let me show you what that means.” Listen in as Mark describes the rest of the story.

Points for Home:

Looking back does nothing for anyone. Dwelling in the past brings no good. Learn from the past, but do not stay there. Everything works together for the good of the Lord.

Stay in the Word. Memorize it. Treasure it. Keep it close to you always.

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 12, 2015

Title: Church History Week 5: MARTYRS - IGNATIUS AND POLYCARP
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Martyrs

Yesterday, Mark revealed some of the encouragement Ignatius wrote in his letters to the Ephesians, Philadelphians, and Smyrnians. Today, he continues with a letter Ignatius wrote to Polycarp, the Bishop of Smyrna, who was martyred around 167 AD.

Ignatius urged Polycarp to know his congregation – have personal relationships with them, become friends. Ignatius also instructed Polycarp to tell married couples to stay true to their spouse, to flee from adultery.

Why would Ignatius be so adamant over these two issues? Listen in as Mark gives more details about the letter to Polycarp and his death.

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 11, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 5: MARTYRS: IGNATIUS AND POLYCARP
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Martyrs

Ignatius was ready to give his life for Christ. He knew it was coming. The words he was writing to the churches were the undying truth (no pun intended). He’s not going to lie when he’s on his way out! That would just be silly! So, in other words, the people absolutely believed the words Ignatius wrote; there was no reason to doubt him.

After his letter the Ephesians, Ignatius wrote a letter to the church in Magnesia. This letter emphasizes the life of Jesus and reiterates that he really did live, die, and come back to life three days later.

Then comes the letter to the Philadelphians, which reveals church structure. This is where the importance of the Lord’s Supper is discussed with the people.

The church in Smyrna is the next church to receive a letter from Ignatius. Mark uses Revelation 2:8-11 as a scripture reference with this letter.

Listen in as Mark discusses in more detail each of these letters from Ignatius to the various churches.

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 10, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 5: MARTYRS: IGNATIUS AND POLYCARP
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

Martyrs

Ignatius, the Bishop of Antioch, wrote many letters to various churches. He told the Ephesians that they were blessed by the Heavenly Father. This was very similar to Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. Listen in as Mark explains the differences.

Remember Onesimus, the runaway slave Paul converted in Rome? Paul sent Onesimus back to his owner Philemon. We’re still not sure what Philemon did with Onesimus, but Mark points out that the bishop at Ephesus was named Onesimus! Was this a coincidence or is it the same man? NOTE: Onesimus means “useful”. It was a slave name. It was not a name used among the elite. Why is this even important? Listen in as Mark explains!

Mark also talks about why it is so important to pray for our enemies and people who wish us harm. We must not retaliate in anger but in love. This is how Ignatius reacted when the Roman soldiers were leading him to his death. The meaner they were to him, the nicer he was. The soldiers were dumbfounded!

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 9, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 5: Martyrs: Ignatius and Polycarp
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 6, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 4
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

NOTE: Due to some technical difficulties in class last week, the first few minutes of this week’s lesson are unavailable. If you would like to review the written notes for this lesson, please click on the link below. Sorry for any confusion this may cause. Thank you for your understanding.

Yesterday, Mark started talking about the Emperor, Trajan. Now, Trajan received several letters about Christians and the ruckus they were causing. What did Christians believe? Was it crime to be a Christian? Are children as guilty as adults? Should they pardoned if they denounce their Christianity? Or should they still be punished?

The list goes on and on and on….Listen in as Mark explains in further detail!

Also, the Christians were doing some “Strange” things – like not committing crimes or adultery; they repaid loans; they didn’t eat human flesh; they chanted uplifting verses and sung beautiful songs. Oh no!!! The Christians aren’t “bad people”! Let’s kill them all!

Points for home: 1) Our goal is not to avoid persecution; our goal is to serve God whether or not it’s “easy”. 2) We are not perfect, but we are definitely forgiven. 3) Love people. Period.

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 5, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 4
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

NOTE: Due to some technical difficulties in class last week, the first few minutes of this week’s lesson are unavailable. If you would like to review the written notes for this lesson, please click on the link below. Sorry for any confusion this may cause. Thank you for your understanding.

What does Mark mean by “Government Sponsored Persecution”? Nero, the Emperor during this time, was so mean he was even killing his own family! Just imagine what he was doing to Christians!

Mark takes a look at another attorney, Tacitus, who was only 10 years old at the time Nero burned many houses and buildings to the ground. Of course, he wasn’t a lawyer at the age of 10, but he writes about the experience when he was older. What did he have to say? There are people who think that Christianity is made up. Tacitus is not a believer! In fact, he doubted the whole life of Jesus! Listen in as Mark explains why this is so important.

Mark also takes a brief look at yet another Emperor, Trajan. He will continue with this tomorrow in the final segment this week.

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 4, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 4
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

NOTE: Due to some technical difficulties in class last week, the first few minutes of this week’s lesson are unavailable. If you would like to review the written notes for this lesson, please click on the link below. Sorry for any confusion this may cause. Thank you for your understanding.

At the end of Tuesday’s segment with Mark Lanier, he started talking about a lawyer named Tertullian, who pointed out that the Jews were blaming all the bad stuff on the Christians. He said to feed some to the lions and see what happens. Well, we all know how that turned out!

Mark talks a lot in this segment about communion, The Lord’s Prayer. What is the point of communion? Well, back then, people were just ignorant. The “outsiders” (those who were not Christians and not invited to partake) thought something evil was transpiring! They literally thought that Christians were eating people and drinking blood. They also thought that the Christians were having incestuous relationships with their own kin because they called each other brother and sister! They couldn’t grasp the concept that it was symbolic and not literal. We tend to be most scared of things we cannot explain, hence the fear of Christians.

Something to Ponder: Only because of the Lord has Christianity survived all this time. It would have died out long ago if it weren’t for Jesus. The third type of persecution is “government sponsored persecution”. At first, Christianity was viewed as a legitimate religion. So, what happened over time? Why have so many people strayed? Mark will continue to look at government sponsored persecution tomorrow. You don’t want to miss it!

Make sure you check out the PowerPoint slides for this week’s lessons to view all of Marks pictures and explanations.

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 3, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 4
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

NOTE: Due to some technical difficulties in class last week, the first few minutes of this week’s lesson are unavailable. If you would like to review the written notes for this lesson, please click on the link below. Sorry for any confusion this may cause. Thank you for your understanding.

Christianity was threatening the entire fabric and structure of the Jewish system. Jewish law revealed that a man who died on a cross was cursed; this is why the Jews did not believe Jesus could actually be the Messiah. Now, Mark is not ignoring the law. In fact, he says the point of Jesus’s death was to change the law!

The Jews also persecuted Christians out of jealousy. One thing Mark says about jealousy that I just love is: “Jealousy is very real to the human condition.” We have all been jealous of something or someone. Someone is more successful. Someone’s spouse is better-looking. Someone has a nicer house or car. Someone’s child is better at sports or is smarter than our kid.

One other way the Jews were persecuting Christians was because of religion and politics. For example, Jews were required to make regular sacrifices in the temple and use a specific type of silver as their offering to the elders. The temple was the center of their life. Then came the Christians, who only went to the temple to pray, not to pay money or make sacrifices. Whoa! What a crazy thought! Using the House of the Lord to pray!

Another reason the Christians were being persecuted was “local persecution”, which existed in many of the cities but not in every city. Economics played a big role in this type of persecution. Natural disasters were also occurring and the Christians got blamed for them! They weren’t worshipping in the local pagan temples because they were praying to the One True God. Oh, come on now! We can’t have this happening! Let’s go get those big, bad Christians!

We end this segment today with a teaser of an attorney named Tertullian and what he had to do with this big ol’ mess! Some scripture references Mark uses today are: Luke 22:2; John 4:21-24; John 2:13-16; Acts 5:17; Acts 24:1-9

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

February 2, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 4
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

NOTE: Due to some technical difficulties in class last week, the first few minutes of this week’s lesson are unavailable. If you would like to review the written notes for this lesson, please click on the link below. Sorry for any confusion this may cause. Thank you for your understanding.

This week, Mark focuses on Martyrdom. What were the attitudes of the people who were killing Christians? Were they just ignorant? Were they superstitious? Were they simply blood-thirsty? Were they scared and jealous? Was it nothing but Satan and his henchmen waging war on the body of Christ?

Mark actually wants to look at the source of the persecution – the source of the Martyrdom. He is going to divide this lesson into three segments: The Jewish persecution of the church, local persecution, and government-endorsed persecution.

Jews were killing Christians because the Jews just didn’t understand God and theology. They were clueless. Mark uses the following passages to illustrate his point: Deuteronomy 21:22-23 and 1 Corinthians 2:13. HINT: There was a curse involved….

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

January 30, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 3
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

The Dedache

Pronounced “did-uh-kay”, Dedache is a Greek word which means “teaching”. This word, or a variation of this word, is used over and over and over in the Bible.

Mark concludes his teaching on The Dedache today. There is also another surprise song from Phil Keggy! Make sure you listen in for the points for home and share this lesson with your friends.

NOTE: Check out the online notes for this week’s lesson, especially today’s, to see some really cool PowerPoint info about the Dedache!

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

January 29, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 3
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

The Dedache

Pronounced “did-uh-kay”, Dedache is a Greek word which means “teaching”. This word, or a variation of this word, is used over and over and over in the Bible.

Mark continues to review the list of do’s and don’ts in Scripture. One issue that Mark spends a good bit of time on today is “baptism”. What are the “rules”? How much do we still follow today? Why is cold water so important?

And what about fasting? How long? How often? How should we pray? When do we pray? What do you really think about when you’re praying? Do you just “pray” or do your prayers have a “purpose”?

NOTE: Check out the online notes for this week’s lesson, especially today’s, to see some really cool PowerPoint info about the Dedache!

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

January 28, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 3
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

The Dedache

Pronounced “did-uh-kay”, Dedache is a Greek word which means “teaching”. This word, or a variation of this word, is used over and over and over in the Bible.

Luke 10:27 “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with your soul, with all your strength, with all your mind. And love your neighbor as yourself.” How practically do we really love God and our neighbor? We say we love them, but do we really?

Mark goes over the list of do’s and don’ts in this segment today. The list is still the same today. Listen in to hear more.

NOTE: Check out the online notes for this week’s lesson, especially today’s, to see some really cool PowerPoint info about the Dedache!

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

January 27, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 3
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 2

The Dedache

Pronounced “did-uh-kay”, Dedache is a Greek word which means “teaching”. This word, or a variation of this word, is used over and over and over in the Bible.

Imagine you are a pagan Greek in Antioch. You are an obedient, law-abiding citizen who knows nothing of Christianity. Then, BAM! You learn about Jesus from a Christian Jew. This is exactly what the Dedache is all about! Whoa! Mind blown!

Mark explains that the Dedache more than likely pre-dates the book John, but was probably written around the time of Matthew and Mark. This is very important stuff, so make sure you listen in carefully!

Why do we do the things we do? Mark begins to breaks down the Dedache in today’s segment. There are two roads to choose from: one of life and one of death. It seems pretty simple, but think about your own life and how many times you have chosen one path when you should have chosen the other.

NOTE: Check out the online notes for this week’s lesson, especially today’s, to see some really cool PowerPoint info about the Dedache!

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

January 26, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 3
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 1

The Dedache

Pronounced “did-uh-kay”, Dedache is a Greek word which means “teaching”. This word, or a variation of this word, is used over and over and over in the Bible.

Acts 2:43 “And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and the fellowship and the breaking of bread.” This verse has been recognized by notable scholars as more than a simple statement. They believe it is “The Dedache” of the apostles; it was what they based their ministry around.

Mark also looks at Acts 5:28 and Acts 7:19 as examples of the teachings of the apostles. Now, there are many, many more references in the Bible other than these three verses, but these are the one Mark chose to focus on this week.

So, what is the history behind “The Dedache”? The apostles had a written copy of the Dedache to study and teach from. Many believed it had been lost forever, but in 1873 it was found! Listen in as Mark gives the details!

NOTE: Check out the online notes for this week’s lesson, especially today’s, to see some really cool PowerPoint info about the Dedache!

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

January 23, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 2
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 5

Drama, drama, drama…..

Mark concludes his look at Clement’s letter today. Although there was quite a bit non-factual information in the letters (which is the reason it wasn’t added as a book of the Bible), it was a marvelous take on the church and what the people should be doing. Basically, the jest of his letter says: “Practice peace, don’t follow those who simply preach it.” Don’t use fancy words just because you can. Use your words to guide and lead. Follow those who not only preach the Truth, but those who actually mean it.

Clement’s letter was like an instruction manual on how to be a “good Christian”. There were those who were fighting fiercely over who would be a bishop and who would be a mere elder (or deacon). They all, obviously, wanted the big-time job with an awesome title. Clement reminded the church at Corinth that the bishops are in their position for a reason – they were chosen for a specific purpose. They were not “better” than the elders and deacons. So much drama….

Points for Home: 1) Blessed are the peace makers; they will be called sons of God. 2) Obey your leaders and submit to them. 3) Listen in to hear what it is!!!!

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

January 22, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 2
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 4

Clement was a really smart man. He could quote the Old Testament like nobody’s business. In his letter to the Corinthians, he quoted Deuteronomy and I’m telling you – it was a weird verse to quote. In fact, pretty much everything Clement wrote to the church of Corinth were direct quotes from somewhere in the Bible, written in his own words, of course because they didn’t have chapters and verses available back then. Listen in as Mark tells you what it was and why he quoted this particular passage.

One of Clement’s favorite books was Hebrews and a close second was Isaiah. He refers to the “Old Testament” as “The Bible” and the “New Testament” as “The Word of God”. He says the apostles were given their inspiration from the Holy Spirit, who got the words from Jesus, which was given from God. Makes a lot of sense to me.

Interesting Fact: Did you know that some people wanted to make the letters from Clement an actual book of the Bible? Mark says why it was ultimately chosen to not be a book, but rather just a letter inside a book.

NOTE: Check out the handouts that are available online at the link below for all the scriptures that Clement used in his letter.

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].

January 21, 2015

Title: Church History - Week 2
Topic: Church History

Discussed by Mark Lanier
with Biblical Literacy (www.Biblical-Literacy.com)

Day 3

Remember that song we promised you yesterday? Well, it’s here! Phil Keggy was gracious enough to make a new, more Biblical version of the song “My Darling Clementine”. It’s terrifical! Click below to hear it!

Mark talks about several aspects of the letter Clement wrote to the church in Corinth that some people claim for the Roman Catholic Church even to this day. What is Mark’s opinion?

Also, most of the books of the New Testament have already been written, or are being written, during the time Clement wrote his letter. Now, they didn’t actually have a Bible back then, obviously, but some people were gathering the Gospels to copy and distribute to others. This was, of course, a very tedious task. Imagine how long it took them to do this!!

Mark Lanier, the leader of the Context Bible study at Champion Forest Baptist Church, is a practicing attorney who also holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from David Lipscomb University. He is both a committed student of Scripture and an excellent communicator of its truths.

If you do not have a church home, Mark invites you to come to Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Attend the early service at 9:30 AM and then go the Family Life Center (located near the center of the church building) for his Life Group class, which begins at 11 AM. Mark’s class averages about 800 people every Sunday, so don’t be shy! Come and join them this Sunday!

For the lesson, unedited audio, handouts, PowerPoint slides, and video click [here].

Listen in every day to hear a portion of Mark’s lesson.

Remember, you can order a copy of his new book, “Christianity on Trial”, directly from the publisher [here].