I understand the Bible says that God requires a blood sacrifice (Hebrews 9:22). I have heard preachers say that if Jesus had not shed any blood, then his death would not have been a valid sacrifice. Why does God require a blood sacrifice? I know the life of the flesh is in the blood (you can not live without blood), but you can die without bleeding. What is the significance of the blood sacrifice?
Can I get scriptures that support baptism as part of salvation besides Mark 16:16?
What does Acts 2:38 mean?
Why is there such a recent surge in the popularity of movies and TV shows dealing with "messages from the dead?" Why is the practice of consulting with psychics, such as Sylvia Brown or John Edwards (who claim to talk to the dead and consult spirit guides) becoming spiritually acceptable to so many?
Graham Phillips writes that Antipater, son of Herod, was the biological father of Jesus with his wife Miriamne (Greek for Mary). He backs his claim with a close reading of the Gospels. If that is so, it would require a radical reinterpretation of the Gospels. Is Christian orthodoxy ready to do so if the "proof" of Jesus' paternity turns out to be true?
