Ask the Pastor: One Hundred Questions and Answers Plus Twenty Bonus Questions and Answers Volume I

By Roscoe L. De Chalus M. Min.

It is my hearts desire that this book will increase the readers faith in the Lord. It is also my desire for this book to move those who do not believe in the Lord into a faithful relationship with the Lord. Some critical questions have not been answered over the years. This book will get those questions answered with the hopes that people will open their hearts up to accepting the Lord Jesus as their Savior.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Feb 7, 2018
• ISBN: 9781973612674

Roscoe L. De Chalus M. Min.

Pastor Roscoe De Chalus M. Min. is the President of Lord of Hope Association, and the President and Senior Pastor for Lord of Hope Ministries. He and his wife Revita are also Radio Bible Teachers and have served as Telephone Ambassadors for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Pastor Roscoe De Chalus is on the board of the Psalm 119 Association (Woodrow Kroll Ministries). http://www.psalm119association.org or http://wkministries.com/ Graduate of Masters International University of Divinity: Masters of Ministry, Pastoral Ministry Degree. Lord of Hope Ministries www.lohmin.org Roscoe has co-founded this ministry with his lovely wife Revita on August 18, 2002.

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Copyright © 2018 Roscoe L. De Chalus M. Min.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

This book is a work of non-fiction. Unless otherwise noted, the author and the publisher make no explicit guarantees as to the accuracy of the information contained in this book and in some cases, names of people and places have been altered to protect their privacy.

Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

KJV: Taken from the King James Bible

Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The NIV and New International Version are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™

Scripture quotations taken from the Amplified® Bible (AMP), Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. www.Lockman.org

WestBow Press

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Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

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ISBN: 978-1-9736-1268-1 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-9736-1269-8 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-9736-1267-4 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2018900032

WestBow Press rev. date: 01/29/2018

Contents

Endorsements

Preface

Introduction

Question: 1

How can someone distinguish the true miracle from God to that of the false prophets?

Question: 2

Is it true that some Bible readers say that in the Bible there is an error? Is it true or not?

Question: 3

Is December 25th the birthday of our Lord Jesus Christ?

Question: 4

Why did Jesus used so many three’s in His talking?

Question: 5

Why did Elisha ask for double possession of anointing?

Question: 6

Who wrote the second Ten Commandments after Moses destroyed the first one?

Question: 7

Why do people refer to God as He?

Question: 8

What does the church of the Brethren believe?

Question: 9

How much belief is enough belief to be saved?

Question: 10

Could you tell me where I can find the scripture that says Come as you are and the scripture that says Whosoever will let him come?

Question: 11

What is the meaning and importance of the Presence of God, and the difference between the presence and the Glory of God?

Question: 12

How should a Christian respond when treated unfairly or unjustly by another?

Question: 13

Is Matthew 10:23 a prophesy for Christ’s return? If so, hasn’t the gospel been spread through all the towns of Israel? Is this a false prophesy?

Question: 14

Is it wrong to want to serve God as a Pastor? If not, from my baptism to becoming a Pastor, what minimum length of time does it take on average to become one?

Question: 15

I have a hard time getting excited over my nieces’ and nephew’s children getting baptized at 7-11 years old, but wouldn’t this be more like a christening?

Question: 16

Why is God giving my uncle and sister-in-law new houses in great neighborhoods and I’m here in this bad neighborhood with no job and no money? I give myself to the bible daily and pray daily. They curse and cheat on their spouse, and talk bad about others, but they are rewarded?

Question: 17

I have been reading and listening to LWF ministry… And they are good in reaching out to people and spreading the Gospel… I have listened to a particular sermon about the coming back of our Lord Jesus… Mentioned in there that if you are not raptured before the tribulation then you are destined for wrath… Something like this… So, is it all those who will be left behind are only bad persons, and all will go to hell and will not be saved? Thanks!

Question: 18

What is the united church of god?

Question: 19

How closely should I scrutinize my church’s operating budget? Should the majority of tithes go to pay salaries and bills? What is the measuring stick for a church to be a good steward of the money they are given?

Question: 20

Backslider Questions… What is a back slider?

Question: 21

Question regarding leaving a church to go to college and because of a lack of freedom… Do you think it is wrong for me to do this?

Question: 22

Should Christians be resistant to the government, if something is incorrect?

Question: 23

Why is most of Israel Jewish, and most of Greece Orthodox instead of Christian? I just say those because they were main areas in the bible, and books of the bible were written there, apostles were from there, they went to these places, and the two countries have huge biblical history; yet most of them aren’t even in the religion, why is this?

Question: 24

Gen 22:18 declares the promise of God to Abraham that through his offspring all nations on earth will be blessed. Eph. 2:12 tells us that the gentiles are foreigners to the covenants of the promise. Paul is telling us that Gentiles are foreigners to the promise but Gen 22:18 says that they will receive the blessing. Please explain.

Question: 25

Why did God put the tree of knowledge of good and evil in the Garden of Eden?

Question: 26

The bible says there is a baptism of The Holy Spirit and a filling of the Holy Spirit. It distinctively states that they were filled with the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, Acts 2:4. Is it not reasonable to accept the breathing of Jesus as the initial baptism and the filling as receiving the power as Jesus said it would be in Acts 1:8? Were they baptized into Christ in John 20:22 as stated in Galatians 3:27?

Question: 27

What did Paul mean when he said in 1 Corinthians 9:27 that he buffets his body?

Question: 28

Your site says Christians do not continually live immoral lifestyles, nor do they reject the faith and deny Christ. Such actions are proof that they were never redeemed. But what about me, who has a problem with an immoral lifestyle? I am/was addicted to cigarettes, and alcohol, and cussing, but I still feel the Holy Spirit and read my Bible and pray - does that mean I am not saved if I live an immoral lifestyle, even when the Holy Spirit, I believe, resides in me, for it is very strong?

Question: 29

I am a recovering alcoholic. Sober since 1998. How can I either get saved or know I am saved?

Question: 30

What part of the Trinity raised Jesus from the dead? Was it the Father because the Son was dead?

Question: 31

What does the Bible say about making deals with God?

Question: 32

What does the Bible say about Prophet Lot, was he greedy, selfish, or otherwise?

Question: 33

Clarification regarding Lot being Righteous… This is a follow up to question 32

Question: 34

What does justify mean in Luke 10:29?

Question: 35

How can I know that there are not more than three persons in the God head? Is there a way that I can know for sure that there are not more than three persons in the God head?

Question: 36

Does GotQuestions.org have any opinions about specific ministries and preachers, like Reinhard Bonnke?

Question: 37

Is it okay to use my tithe money to help my family?

Question: 38

A person that comes to my church travels about 20KM in his own vehicle. I would like to reimburse him for his petrol. Do you think this is ok?

Question: 39, 40

In the bible, so many times it is mentioned the God Of Israel. What is this meaning? Suppose I am from India. How can I believe that he is my God because I am not belonging to Israel?

God created man in his own image (Gen 1:7) but the scientists says that human arise from a monkey. Which is correct?

Question: 41

How can I know if God has anointed me for something?

Question: 42

Is it wrong for a church to set a member down from church activities and ministries because of public sin?

Question: 43

Why are bishops and deacons only mentioned in the intro in Philippians? What I mean is, that it is maybe strange that Paul and the others didn’t include ‘bishops and deacons’ in the introduction to the other letters. And why were they included here? Was it only in this church that there were bishops and deacons?

Question: 44

I have developed empirical research findings which, if given to law enforcement officials, would lead to solution of several major conspiracy mysteries. Although my findings would be of great help to society at large with regard to conspiracy, government, and history, I do not consider that people in my position are NOT under any MORAL or ETHICAL obligation to help their future EXPLOITERS AND USERS. What does the bible say about this specific situation of not wanting to be a complete fool besides love one another and love your enemies?

Question: 45

Where do pastors go for advice or counsel, about ministry or otherwise? Can you recommend any good websites or resources for pastors to get good counsel or advice about ministry or otherwise?

Question: 46

What is meant by foreign god and alien god mentioned in Psalm 81:9?

Question: 47

Is Joel Osteen someone I should listen to?

Question: 48

Since God knew mankind would sin, why did God not just forget the whole plan considering the risk for so many people and just start over?

Question: 49

Who are the true followers of Christ? Is it the Jehovah’s Witness or who? What are the reasons and scriptures backing it?

Question: 50

Do Jehovah Witnesses believe only a limited amount of people will go to heaven and where do they get this from?

Question: 51

Is there proof of time going back other than the bible in Isaiah 38:8?

Question: 52

What do demons look like?

Question: 53

Go into all the world. Jesus said to the disciples (Mark 16:15). What does all the world mean? The earth as we know it?

Question: 54

I recently ran into a seventh day Adventist at the library near my home. I started talking to her and corrected her on some of her statements. Some of what she said seemed to be scriptural so out of ignorance I agreed. But I worry because according to the Bible I have bidded her God speed What should I do if I see her again? I should have known better than to talk to her. I am saved and feel that I did the wrong thing by talking to her?

Question: 55

Is it Biblical to say that if it is meant to be, it will happen? Are the personal areas of our lives meant to be? For example, a girl once told me that if we were meant to be together later, it would happen. Is that Biblical?

Question: 56

How do I know which of God’s promises are meant for me?

Question: 57

Where in the bible does it say you have to be called by God in order to be a preacher?

Question: 58

What is the difference between being a friend of God and follower of God?

Question: 59

If a Christian leader is separated from their spouse, should they continue in leadership?

Question: 60

Is the Old Testament accepted by all religions as historical fact (with some variations)?

Question: 61

How should a Christian respond if a friend or even a stranger comes out of the closet and admits they are homosexual or bisexual?

Question: 62

Why did John the Baptist simply tell the tax collectors Collect no more than is appointed to you (Luke 3:12-13), yet Jesus told a tax collector to leave everything and follow Him? Why do the tax collectors have a bad image?

Question: 63

Is Christian rap and light rock bad, or is it just a way to praise God? Also, clapping during songs, is this a sin or not?

Question: 64

But in Luke 19, could we not infer that Zacchaeus left his profession? Shouldn’t we take Jesus’ words priority over the words of John the Baptist?

Question: 65

I was speaking with an Atheist. They feel that the Old Testament law is eternal. I pointed to them that there are many verses that say Jesus ended the law, but they won’t accept the New Testament and feel Jesus undermined the law and did not fulfill the law, and that Paul’s teaching about the law contradicts the Old Testament. The atheist question was that he might believe if there are any foreshadowing’s in the Old Testament or prophecy that Jesus would end the law? Are there such verses?

Question: 66

Why couldn’t the Holy Spirit come before Jesus returned to heaven?

Question: 67

How do I respond to an email from a dear Mormon friend that promotes Mormonism?

Question: 68

A Pagans Rant I (Trouble believing…). I’m the Pagan with Faith & Hope & Love. I do have questions that I could use your help on. My basic understanding into the many paradoxes within the bible has led me to believe something is missing… The truth has been white-washed, tainted by corruption, for some to have control over others. I do believe in Jesus". But I strongly feel his teachings have been corrupted. I’m looking for ‘Truth’!

Question: 69

A Pagans Rant II (Trouble believing…).

Question: 70

A Pagans Rant III (Trouble believing…).

Question: 71

A Pagans Rant IV (Trouble believing…).

Question: 72

Should we imitate the widow in Mark 12:41-44 when it comes to giving, and should we imitate Stephen when it comes to being bold?

Question: 73

Question concerning tithing when spouse does not agree…

Question: 74

I happened to view YouTube of Nigerian Prophet TB Joshua and deep in my heart feel uncomfortable and unbelievable of what I had seen of his miracle healings, seemed too theatrical to me. Is his ministry false and is he a false Christian prophet?

Question: 75

Can you provide information on Jenetzen Franklin? Is he a false prophet?

Question: 76

Did Jesus ever receive worship while on earth?

Question: 77

Where in the bible does it say Jesus is God?

Question: 78

Why did Jesus say you call me Good? No one is good except God. This statement tells me he is not God.

Question: 79

Is it true that we are an image not a man?

Question: 80

Please show me a scripture where David worships God using instrumental music.

Question: 81

What do Native Americans believe in? Do they worship wolves, tigers, and animal spirits? What is that tribal stuff all about?

Question: 82

How do you break an emotional attachment?

Question: 83

Is it right for the pastor to bow down to the altar in a church? Pease share your biblical experience on this practice.

Question: 84

I was severely beaten and molested years ago. I have and continue to suffer from Bi-polar disorder. Does God still care?

Question: 85

My big problem, which I need help on, is learning how to love, and how to accept love if it is given to me…

Question: 86

Having Doubts: Sometimes I am tempted into thinking that the Bible just brings false hope for something more and that it’s too good to be true, even though I know that there is no way we’re here without God. Can I possibly be saved if I still doubt what He and the Bible says?

Question: 87

Is it okay for a Christian to own a gun?

Question: 88

Question regarding Homosexuality… I got this from an article and I’m wondering if it’s true? If any case, whether homosexuality results from genetics or upbringing, people don’t generally choose to be homosexual. Many homosexuals testify how agonizing it is to find yourself with these desires and to fight against them, and they’ll tell you they would never choose to be that way. And the Bible doesn’t condemn a person because he has a homosexual orientation. What it condemns is homosexual acts. It is perfectly possible to be a homosexual and be a born-again, Spirit-filled Christian. Just as an alcoholic who is dry will still stand up at an AA meeting and say, ‘I am an alcoholic, so a homosexual who is living straight and keeping himself pure ought to be able to stand up in a prayer meeting and say, ‘I am a homosexual. But by God’s grace and the power of the Holy Spirit, I’m living chastely for Christ." And I hope we’d have the courage and love to welcome him or her as a brother or sister in Christ.

Question: 89

Do we have to honor a parent that is severely immoral and brings out the worst in people? If so, how is it possible?

Question: 90

Why did God place humans on earth with the fallen angels? Why didn’t He put us on another planet to avoid sin? Why would He give Satan and the fallen angels a second chance to live and torment us here on earth? Is earth really hell? Shouldn’t the fallen angels be in hell somewhere? I don’t know what to believe anymore. So much has changed and has been hidden from us.

Question: 91

Can you baptize yourself?

Question: 92

Can a person be born a Christian if their parent or grandparent was one?

Question: 93

Should a lay person perform a marriage ceremony?

Question: 94

Should we pity and feel bad for evil men both in history, and nowadays, or hate them? As a child I felt pity for Judas and other evil men/women in the Bible. Is that bad? I obviously do not condone the evil and terrible things Judas or Cain did, but God has created much good from evil. So, I am confused about how I am supposed to feel about these men.

Question: 95

What does the Bible say about a ban or shunning? The Amish use the ban. Where do they get this from scripture? And what’s the right way to use it?

Question: 96

1 Thessalonians 4:16 say the Lord will come with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel. Jehovah witnesses say that this is proof that Jesus is Michael. Can you explain this verse for me please? Thank you & God bless!

Question: 97

I’ve often heard we are not to believe in anything that isn’t in the scriptures… Is this scriptural even if an experience makes you love or long for God more? Isn’t this what the Pharisees did with Jesus? Additionally, I know that the Pharisees said a few things to Jesus in regards to going against scripture…Did he actually go against the scriptures? Thanks.

Question: 98

Should negative words of knowledge that would hurt someone be announced publicly or conveyed privately to the person concerned?

Question: 99

What to do when you have abusive parents? How do I honor her in this? Should I tell someone close about this? Who is right me, my mom, or my sister?

Question: 100

Why did God Kill Uzzah? It seems he was only trying to keep the Ark from falling.

Bonus Questions

Appendix

References

About The Author

Bonus Questions Table of Contents

1. If diamonds are millions of years old and we have them in our rings how can people teach that the earth is young?

2. Did Jephthah really offer his daughter up for a burnt offering?

3. Is the Word of Faith movement biblical?

4. Is the rapture biblical?

5. How old was Adam and Eve when they were created?

7. Did Adam and Eve have belly buttons?

8. How old is the earth?

9. Who are the two witnesses in Revelation?

10. Do Jehovah’s Witnesses cast out spirits in the Lords name? Do they prophesy? I’m just trying to figure out Matthew 7:21. It makes sense for people who believe in Jesus but don’t believe he was physically raised from the dead. That would make the verse make sense. Why would a person who believes correctly and has relationship with Jesus Christ go to hell? Thanks for helping me understand.

11. Did Enoch and Elijah die before entering heaven?

12. If God took Adams rib why don’t males have one less rib than women?

13. Was it a whale or a fish that swallowed Jonah?

14. Will we remember our earthy life when we are in heaven?

15. Can Angels take on human form?

16. Should a Christian watch the Twilight series?

17. Someone I know asked a questioned that I don’t know the answer to… Who is the 144,000?

18. If a man has multiple wives and becomes a Christian, what is he supposed to do?

19. Since God is the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, do I have to pray to God or can I just pray to Jesus, since Jesus is God? When I pray to Jesus, am I praying to God?

20. How do I become born again (Saved)?

Endorsements

Everybody has an opinion. And when it comes to biblical issues, diversity of opinion is the norm. So where do you find thoughtful, reasoned answers to your questions? From God’s Word. Pastor Roscoe De Chalus searches the Bible to offer answers to people’s questions. Real answers to real questions. You have to admire him for even trying when opinions vary so greatly, but Ask The Pastor handily tackles 120 tough questions people like you are asking. You’ll be delightfully coached with the answers.

Dr. Woodrow Kroll, Woodrow Kroll Ministries

Roscoe De Chalus is a man of God who has dedicated his life to helping people come to know the Lord Jesus Christ and understand His Word. The answers contained in this book demonstrate his passion for God and his gifting for explaining the Bible.

S. Michael Houdmann, President and CEO, Got Questions Ministries

As an individual who sees people in a variety of situations; such as crisis, support, encouragement, and education, I find that this book is helpful for people in each of these situations. It is written so that the layperson can use it to respond to questions, as well as the ministry person for education and support. This is a resourceful guide with practical responses.

Revita De Chalus, President of SHEMWomen, License Professional Counselor, Chaplin at Amita-Alexian Brothers Health System

Roscoe De Chalus delivers scholarly, yet practical and easy to understand responses to many of the difficult biblical questions of our time. His answers are thorough, extensively researched and fortified using the Bible as his proof source. Mr. De Chalus treats each question, as if he is answering it face to face in his living room. His depth presumes an ability to give the person exactly what they need. I applaud his courage, as he tackles controversial topics, with unwavering faith and candor, as he adheres to God’s word.

Roscoe De Chalus does the research for you. He weaves the questions and answers together in a manner that makes them highly entertaining. The bonus questions are complimentary to the bonus information he provides when answering each question. Mr. De Chalus sends each reader through the Bible and numerous references to enhance their understanding of the questions. The profile of each person who asked the question is useful as it gives insight into the people posing the questions. Roscoe De Chalus approaches the information as a pastor who teaches his subjects in order to give them a better knowledge of the God we serve.

Orlando Ceaser, President & CEO, Watchwell Communications, Inc.

"What impressed me most was Roscoe’s gentle, but truthful manner in responding to each question. Roscoe’s use of scripture and in depth coverage of the questions was exceptional. Go for it brother! God bless you for your work for the Kingdom!

Gary Hrivnak, Former Defensive End of the Chicago Bears.

At this critical time in world history we need clear answers to life’s most challenging questions. Roscoe tackles these questions with scholarly wisdom and tact. Ask a Pastor book of 120 questions is a must have for everyone’s library.

Rev Huntley Brown

International Concert Pianist

Preface

Over the years I have always been a person who wanted to know biblical truths. I had bible questions, and religious questions that were increasing. Very little answers were forth coming as I did the day to day routines. I ended up enrolling in divinity school and studied many articles and videos on the web from credible ministries… I checked out what the false teachers were saying as well… I seem to be like a sponge absorbing all that was in my path and squeezing out any errors.

Unbeknownst to me, God had been preparing me to be one of His children who would be placed in a position to provide the answers, and make these answers available for others.

This book is one of the avenues being implemented to put questions and the answers in the hands of believers, churches, schools, and non believers.

This book is filled with questions I answered through Lord of Hope Ministries, and Got Questions Ministries. Many references to website articles were included to help the reader get a deeper understanding of the topics. This textbook was designed to be used at home, in churches, at schools, libraries etc…

This book is very important in that the reader will get answers and will end up being equipped to answer tough questions when they occur.

It is my heart’s desire that this book will increase the reader’s faith in the Lord. It is also my desire for this book to move those who do not believe into a faith relationship with the Lord. For some, critical questions have not been answered over the years. This book will get those questions answered, with the hopes that people will open their hearts up to accepting the Lord Jesus as their Savior.

The Glory shall be reserved for our awesome Lord!

Introduction

Ask a Pastor was put together because truth matters!

This book will help people get anchored in the truth that flows throughout the Christian bible. You can trust God’s word.

Many answers exist for questions you may have thought of. May you become more confident in your belief in God and His word as a result of reading this book!

2 Timothy 3:16-17 English Standard Version (ESV)

¹⁶ All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, ¹⁷ that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

May you be able to do what it says in Psalms 119:30 (ESV).

Psalm 119:30 English Standard Version (ESV)

³⁰ I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set your rules before me.

May this book help your readiness in answering biblical questions…

1 Peter 3:15 English Standard Version (ESV)

¹⁵ but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,

Tell a friend about this book for it may be just what they need.

It will make a nice gift as well!

It is our desire at Lord of Hope Ministries to help everyone who comes to us asking for help with biblical questions find answers so that they can grow in the faith.

This book presents the many questions I received and answered through Lord of Hope Ministries and Got Questions Ministries. At the end of the book I included some bonus questions I thought someone might ask. All bible verses are taken from the ESV (English Standard version) KJV (King James Version) and NKJV (New King James Version), unless specifically noted. Please use this book as a reference book to answer questions that you or someone else maybe having. May this book enhance everyone’s spiritual growth in Christ!

May God get the glory forevermore! The LORD is Worthy!

Question: 1

How can someone distinguish the true miracle from God to that of the false prophets?

Profile: Male 18-30 Uganda East Africa

Dear pastor, I am so confused… How can someone distinguish the true miracle from God to that of the false prophets? In our place there is a false prophet who is doing a lot of miracles like we do. They also sing the same songs that we sing…

Answer:

There are false prophets out there and the best way to identify them is to know God’s word.

Scripture says you will know them by their fruits:

Matthew 7:15-20 New King James Version (NKJV).

¹⁵ "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. ¹⁶ You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? ¹⁷ Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. ¹⁸ A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. ¹⁹ Every tree