Can you find the gospel online?

Can you find the gospel online? 

We often ask students, whom we have the privilege to teach, where to find Bible related information. The automatic answer these days is to use an online search since they are fast and convenient. However, websites are written by different authors and the person writing may not hold a biblical view of Christianity.

Christian related websites are probably safe for material nouns such as person, places or things. For example, the tomb of Jeremiah or the temple in Jerusalem. However, great care is needed when searching theological topics such as salvation by faith and security of salvation. Despite these concerns little hard evidence exists, to our knowledge, if Christian websites provide either accurate or misleading theologically related information. 

Teleios recently evaluated the accuracy of websites in presenting biblically related information by searching the term ‘gospel’. We assessed if the plan of salvation, as described in the Bible, was presented accurately and clearly. We included the first 55 websites that appeared in order. To emulate a person searching for the contents of the gospel we limited the time on each linked website to one minute to determine if the gospel message could be clearly found. Read more data from this study at https://teleiosresearch.com/gospel-online/. 

The study assessed the presence of the four basic elements of the gospel message from Romans 3:23-26 and Ephesians 2:8-9 on each site provided by the online search:

1. Everyone has sinned.

2. God is just and requires a punishment for sin.

3. Out of love God sent His Son, Jesus Christ who by dying on the cross, provided forgiveness for your sins by taking your punishment for you.

4. Therefore, by faith alone in Christ’s sacrifice for your sins and belief in His resurrection, you can gain eternal life.

These four points were found in 22 (40%) sites. Incomplete or no gospel information was found on 27 (49%) sites and doctrinal errors were found on 6 (11%) sites (4 added works to salvation while 2 minimized the importance of the substitutionary death of Christ). Of the 22 (40%) sites that correctly presented the gospel, we judged the 4-step plan to salvation was easily found and understood within one minute on 9 (16%) sites.

This study shows for someone who searches for ‘how to become a Christian’ using a popular search engine with the term ‘gospel’, the plan of salvation is easily found and understood within one minute in about one-sixth of sites.

Further, in searching online for the gospel:

• It may take some persistence and surveying a number of websites before finding the gospel correctly stated.

• Many sites are verbose, and information is difficult to find.

• Some sites have doctrinal errors or incomplete information which may be confusing.

Consequently, the seeker might need to confirm the information found online with a knowledgeable Christian friend, pastor or by comparing to other websites. Also, they might compare the website information directly with scripture using a search function as in e-Sword (https://e-sword.net/). 

This study was limited to one question, although a very important one. More research is needed to determine more completely the advantages and disadvantages of internet search engine queries for a Christian studying scripture. 

Please visit our website we devoted specifically to the gospel - The Gospel | Teleios (teleiosgospel.com). 

William C. Stewart, MD

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email - info@teleiosresearch.com 

Website - http://teleiosresearch.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/TeleiosResearch 

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/TeleiosVideos/ 

Disclaimer - This blog and its content are provided only as information and are intended for visitors 18 and older. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.

How do we approach learning the Bible?

How do we approach learning the Bible?

Thank you for reading my blog. It is a privilege to create this blog and to have you visit. I hope you find the information encouraging. Our mission at Teleios is to provide science-based information on the truth of scripture, its positive impact in our lives and to educate on these results. 

We performed a survey on the Instagram account, InstaPray, asking participants about their Bible study and discipleship beliefs. We had 822 participants of whom: 75% were female; 80% were 30 or younger; 40% resided in the United States; and 80% described themselves as evangelical. Please visit HERE for the full findings. The survey discovered many points about beliefs about Bible study and discipleship. This week let us discuss what it revealed concerning how to learn the Bible long-term.

Future Christian educational goals 

When asked ‘Over the next 5-10 years what are your scripture educational goals’, 63% of respondents indicated they wished to read the whole Bible, while 60% answered they should learn the major themes of the Bible. Also, 47% noted they needed to learn what was in each book of scripture and 25% wanted to master verse-by-verse study methods.  

It is so heartening to see our participants have educational goals in the Bible. Very few (8%) indicated they had no study goals. At Teleios we emphasize three initial goals to most efficiently learn the Bible.:

1. Verse by verse study in the Epistles – This method of study provides a greater depth, joy and learning and consequently the more benefit of knowing scripture. 

o We suggest the Epistles because those letters are to the church and for our direction specifically. 

o We emphasize especially starting in Ephesians or Colossians because they provide the most efficient, compelling study comprising both who Christ is and the Christian walk.

2. Major themes of the Bible - Where verse by verse gives you an exciting idea of what is in each book and a competency in reading and interpreting scripture, studying the major biblical themes such as: salvation, security, the Church Holy Spirit etc. integrates scripture from all portions of the Bible to provide you topical knowledge. This is vital because as you talk to others you typically do so topically and not verse by verse. Books about Christian theology by Charles Ryrie or Lewis Sperry Chafer are very helpful (1,2).

3. Bible overview – Gaining a general knowledge of each book, its history, major themes and how it fits into the plan of God, does not take much time and completes an overall knowledge of scripture until the books can be studies individually. Talk Thru the Bible by Wilkinson is a good resource (3).

We have a wonderful text of scripture that is reliable and our ability to know God through it is almost endless. Our study of scripture provides a chance to influence not only our own lives, but our immediate community and society as a whole.

Thank you for reading my blog. Please join us again next week as we continue to discuss the immense value and truth of scripture.

William C. Stewart, MD

1. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L1U112E/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

2. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004BA51EK/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

3. https://www.amazon.com/Talk-Thru-Bible-Bruce-Wilkinson/dp/0785212213

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email - info@teleiosresearch.com 

Website - http://teleiosresearch.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/TeleiosResearch 

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/TeleiosVideos/ 

Disclaimer - This blog and its content are provided only as information and are intended for visitors 18 and older. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.

How to speak fluent Christian

How to speak fluent Christian

How we speak to each other is critical in living a godly life. Yet controlling our speech is quite difficult and rarely discussed.

Teleios Research recently evaluated adolescents and millennials regarding their speech. The survey was promoted on the Christian Instagram accounts, InstaPray and GodsHolyScriptures. Of the 215 participants the majority were: female (52%), <30 years old (93%), from the United States (83%), and evangelical (68%). See full results here - How to use Christian speech.

The top 3 responses nicely show a strong minority, at least on a list provided by a survey, are cognizant of the need to help others with speech and to discuss our great God with others.

 Table 1: What is the primary purpose of biblical speech for Christians

Table 2: How should I speak to the needs of others as the Bible commands in Ephesians 4:29?

Not bad responses!

From a biblical standpoint, how do we speak “Christian” with each other? Like learning any language, it takes some discipline and training, but it is doable.

Fortunately, with biblical input and thinking, we will find it much easier to speak in a fashion that loves and encourages people as well as pleases God. However, biblical speech patterns do not come naturally. Here are some hints how to speak effectively as a Christian:

• Consider first speech is not about you - Have you ever noticed that people generally talk about themselves, even at church? However, unless we really need someone else to bear our burdens (Galatians 6:2) speech should not be about us but about the other person (Ephesians 4:29). Biblical speech should address other people's needs. This is a huge transformation in thinking for many of us but it's an important first step to converse with others as God desires.

• Realize you have much to give – Remember, the Bible is true and good for anyone who hears it (please see the Teleios website for scientific proof). Therefore, when you are speaking scripture and its truth, commending, being thankful, and praising God, you are using your speech as a powerful tool to help others.

• Think before you speak – Prior to meeting with somebody consider specific ways you can express gratitude, commendation and encouragement. Planning ahead may not seem natural but if we don’t consider encouragement beforehand, generally it will not happen. Be specific in your commendation and thankfulness; the more precise the better. 

Spiritually, plan ways to encourage a friend or colleague in Christ, whether by discussing an applicable Bible verse, teaching other people (formally or informally), sharing answered prayed or even imparting the gospel if needed.  

We are all busy, if we don’t consider positive biblical speech ahead of time, we generally won’t do it. 

• Build a solid relationship - This is vital as people need to know that you genuinely like and respect them. There are many books on the subject and perhaps the best starter is the classic, How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie. You can buy a cheap used copy (or download a copy) at Amazon. It is frightfully easy to read and apply. Get a copy and read it!

• Ask questions – If you do not know how to encourage someone then ask them questions or search their on-line presence!  

People love to talk about themselves. The more questions you ask, and the deeper the follow-up questions, presented in an interested and genuine way, the more you will learn about your colleague, spouse, boss, friend or new acquaintance. They will think you are wonderful and the extra knowledge will help you better pray for them as well as help and encourage them.

• Build a solid spiritual relationship - This can be done by simply asking them about benign religious topics, progressing through such questions as: 

o Ask general questions about their life, family, or work. Follow up with more specific questions based on what they initially tell you. Show interest! Listen!

o Go deeper, ask “What do you think about religious-based political issues such as Christian persecution?” Or “Does religion or the church help our culture?”

o Ask their opinion about a challenging Bible verse, or a difficult doctrine like baptism or predestination.

o Ask questions to help them based on everything that you have heard. Perhaps a question about the security of their salvation followed by an applicable verse such as in Ephesians 1:13-14 or 1 Peter 1:4-5. Perhaps they mention they struggle in their marriage and so you could take them to Ephesians 5:20-32.

• Final step, biblical speech – Use the information that you have gathered about a person to consider how to help them with your speech. 

o How can you express specific commendation or thankfulness for them in their character or actions? 

o How can you encourage them in scripture? 

o How can you urge them to greater Christian growth or actions? 

Summary, biblical speech is key to a functioning, effective, loving body of Christ. 

Thanks for joining me today. Meet me here again next time as we discuss the truth and joy of God’s word and how it helps us live a fruitful and godly life.

William C. Stewart, MD

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email - info@teleiosresearch.com 

Website - http://teleiosresearch.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/TeleiosResearch 

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/TeleiosVideos/ 

Disclaimer - This blog and its content are provided only as information and are intended for visitors 18 and older. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.

How Christianity can impact wellbeing!

How Christianity can impact wellbeing!

Teleios has previously shown that Christians who adhere to their faith report better general wellbeing than those who do not routinely practice their faith, and the more one adheres generally to their faith the better their wellbeing (1,2). Here is compelling evidence!

Wellbeing is improved in Christians or religious people in Christian countries, affecting:

• Demographics – All age groups (10 years and older), both genders, and African-American as well as Caucasian races (2-11).

• Broad wellbeing effect – Specific wellbeing related measures such as: sense of purpose, satisfaction, hope, stronger social relationships, and ability to forgive (1,12).

• Social measures – Vital areas of life such as the family, career, a sense of community and socialization.

• Family life – Christianity is associated with good health and higher levels of education and less substance abuse in the children (13). Family religiosity predicts better functioning for parents (14), better social network, and ties with families of friends (9). Further, church promotes happy marital relationships by encouraging spouses, especially the men, to live decent lives and to treat their partners decently (15).

• Careers – Christianity helps people’s ability to make career decisions and assists them to being open to a variety of career options. They also have been shown to have more positive feelings toward work (16,17).

• Service – Those who serve in or outside the church have better wellbeing questions including contentment, peace, joy, purpose and community acceptance (1).

• Practice of the faith – Those who practice the faith especially engaging in prayer, praise, fellowship, church attendance, studying the Bible and outreach to others have better wellbeing than those who do not. Further, the more one practices their faith the better generally will be their wellbeing.

• Physical health, healthy and patient populations – Christianity assists wellbeing in specific diseases including: glaucoma, rheumatoid arthritis, various cancers, chronic pain, fatigue, diabetes, diabetic eye disease, congestive heart failure, and HIV (18-23).

Teleios recently explored the effects of Christianity by evaluating evangelicals versus non-believers and self-reported levels of wellbeing. This is the first survey, to our knowledge, evaluating wellbeing in young Christians versus non-Christians. These findings make sense based on prior research. The survey was conducted on two Instagram accounts frequented by adolescents and millennials; one being mostly followed by Christians and another by the general population.  See full results here - Christians have better personal wellbeing than non-Christians.

There were 1186 responses. The majority of responses were: female (68%), < 30 years (76%), and primarily from the United States (40%) and Europe (16%). The respondents identified themselves as: evangelical Christians (33%), social Christians (29%), Christian seekers (5%) and non-Christians (33%).

Personal wellbeing was better among evangelical Christians (4.6, on a scale of 0-6 with 6 being highest) compared to social Christians (4.1), Christian seekers (4.0) or non-Christians (4.3, P=0.001). The findings for wellbeing were also supported by further results that evangelicals were more content (P=0.001), at peace (P>0.001), and joyful (P=0.002) than the other groups. No differences between groups were observed in feelings of guilt (P=0.426).

We do not know all of the factors associated with good wellbeing and Christianity, but here are a few good potential reasons:

• A sure confident relationship with God leaving guilt behind

• A source of truth for daily living which helps avoid unethical people and damaging situations while allowing you to conduct a healthy life with good professional and family relationships

• A confident hope for the future, and that no matter what happens in this life as well as in death, you have a sure home with God

In summary - Our gracious and loving God has provided us a wonderful salvation and a way through scripture to live a wise, fruitful and joyful life. Join us again soon for another exciting blog in the benefits of scripture.

William C. Stewart, MD

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email - info@teleiosresearch.com 

Website - http://teleiosresearch.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/TeleiosResearch 

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/TeleiosVideos/ 

Disclaimer - This blog and its content are provided only as information and are intended for visitors 18 and older. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.

References

1. MacIlvaine WR, et al. Association of strength of community service to personal well-being. Community Ment Health J 2014;50:577-82.

2. MacIlvaine WR, et al. Association of strength of religious adherence to quality of life measures. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2013;19:251-5.

3. Francis LJ, Kaldor P. The relationship between psychological well-being and Christian faith and practice in an Australian population sample. J Sci Study Relig 2002;41:79-184.

4. Francis LJ, et al. Religiosity and general health among undergraduate students: a response to O’Connor, Cobb, and O’Connor (2003). Pers Indiv Differ 2004;37:485-94.

5. Leondari A, Gialamas V. Religiosity and psychological well-being. Int J Psychol 2009;44:241-8.

6. Koenig LB, Vaillant GE. A prospective study of church attendance and health over the lifespan. Health Psych 2009;28:117-24.

7. Krause N. God-mediated control and change in self-rated health. Int J Psychol Relig 2010;20:267-87.

8. Hamilton JB, et al. Reading The Bible for guidance, comfort, and strength during stressful life events. Nurs Res 2013;62:178-84.

9. Smith C. Religious participation and network closure among American adolescents. J Sci Study Relig 2003;42:259-67.

10. Demir M, Urberg KA. Church attendance and well-being among adolescents. J Belief Values 2004;25:63-8.

11. Markstrom CA. Religious involvement and adolescent psychosocial development. J Adolesc 1999;22:205-22.

12. Stewart WC, et al. The source and impact of specific parameters that enhance well-being in daily life. J Rel Health 2016;55:1326-35.

13. Caputo RK. Parent religiosity, family processes, and adolescent outcomes. Fam Soc: J Contemp Soc Serv, 2004;85:495-510.

14. Agate ST, et al. Praying, playing, and successful families: an examination of family religiosity, family leisure, and family functioning. Marriage & Family Review 2007;42:51-75.

15. Wilcox WB, Wolfinger NH. Living and loving “decent”: religion and relationship quality among urban parents. Soc Sci Res 2008;37:828-43.

16. Duffy RD, Blustein DL. The relationship between spirituality, religiousness, and career adaptability. J Voc Behav 2005;67:429-40.

17. Martinson OB, Wilkening EA. Religion, work specialization, and job satisfaction: interactive effects. Rev Relig Res 1983;24:347-56.

18. Stewart WC, et al. Association of strength of religious adherence to attitudes regarding glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Ophthalmic Res 2011:45:53-6.

19. Chen S, et al. Prevalence and correlates of supportive care needs in oral cancer patients with and without anxiety during the diagnostic period. Cancer Nursing 2010;33:280-9.

20. Cotton S, et al. Exploring the relationships among spiritual well-being, quality of life, and psychological adjustment in women with breast cancer. Psychooncology 1999;8:429-38.

21. Matthews D, et al. Effects of intercessory prayer on patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Southern Medical Journal 2000;93:1177-86.

22. Silvestri G, et al. Importance of faith on medical decisions regarding cancer care. J Clinical Oncology 2003; 21:1379–1382.

23. Stewart WC, et al. Review of clinical medicine and religious practice. J Relig Health Mar 2013;52:91-106.