Ask Pastor Mike

Many church traditions observe a season of fasting and penance leading up to Easter. But where did this practice come from? Is it something all Christians should do? Pastor Mike Fabarez talks about the facts surrounding the Lenten season.

We’re a transient society. People are constantly changing jobs, changing homes, and even changing names and identities. But is there any benefit to keeping things the same? Join Pastor Mike Fabarez for a one-on-one discussion about the perks and pitfalls of church hopping, and how to combat Christian consumerism.

As Christians, we have an enemy who wants to take us down! But how far can he go, and can he really defeat us? Pastor and Bible teacher Mike Fabarez sheds light on what Satan can and cannot do. Keep him from sabotaging your life with a glimpse into the dark side on this edition of Ask Pastor Mike.

The loss of a loved one is always hard. And the family is often left with some difficult decisions regarding the burial. Many these days are choosing cremation. But what does the Bible say about this practice? On this edition of Ask Pastor Mike, learn what the Bible says about our bodies, the resurrection, and burial traditions.

Every day we’re faced with a thousand different decisions, ranging from what to wear, where to live, or which careers and relationships to pursue. But how do we know what’s right? Pastor Mike Fabarez explains how to determine God’s will in every decision we make.

From the tiniest cross on an ankle to a colorful, full-body display, tattoos are becoming increasingly prevalent, even among Christians. So, what does the Bible say about this trend? Pastor Mike Fabarez answers the question: “Should Christians get tattoos?”

From the “Gospel of Thomas” to books like The Da Vinci Code—it seems like the Scriptures are under attack! But there are solid answers to the questions about the Bible’s reliability. Pastor Mike Fabarez tackles these questions head-on and clarifies the confusion over alleged contradictions and misinterpretations.

Jesus came as the Prince of Peace. Yet, as we look around, it seems like chaos and conflict are still running rampant in the world. Why is that? Pastor Mike Fabarez answers a listener’s poignant question: Where’s the peace God promised?

There are few biblical characters quite as intriguing and mysterious as the Wise Men, or Magi, in the Christmas narrative. But who were these men? Where did they come from? Pastor Mike Fabarez tackles these Christmas questions and much more.

Are you done with the commercialization of Christmas? Maybe you’re simplifying or even skipping the usual gift exchange. But what if the Bible actually presents a reason for pulling out all the stops? Mike Fabarez presents a counter-cultural case for celebrating the birth of Christ with generous abandon!

Hanging stockings, stringing lights, and decking the hall—Christmas is jam-packed with so many traditions. But, where did these traditions come from? Are we really celebrating Jesus’s birth, or are we perpetuating pagan rituals? Pastor Mike Fabarez tackles these fascinating questions from a listener like you.

At Christmastime, we often hear mention of an ancient political figure named Herod the Great. But who was Herod? Is he the same “Herod” who later took part in the arrest and crucifixion of Jesus? Get answers from Pastor Mike Fabarez on this helpful and historical edition of Ask Pastor Mike.

You know that “little voice” that warns you when you’ve made a mistake or convinces you to make good choices? Well, is that the Holy Spirit talking—or your own conscience? Pastor Mike Fabarez shows us how to determine the source, so we can respond appropriately.

Communion is observed in various ways by Christians all around the world. But what exactly is the Lord’s Supper, according to Scripture? Pastor Mike Fabarez walks through the significance of communion and compares the various church traditions surrounding this sacred ordinance.

What is biblical love? The word “love” is used to express many different sentiments. Some say they “love” football. Others say they “love” lasagna. Some even croon love songs to their dog or cat! Pastor Mike Fabarez re-examines the biblical standard for true love.

Politics continue to dominate the headlines. But as Christians, what should our role be in the public square? Should we wave banners of support for our candidate, protest, or refrain from getting involved at all? Pastor Mike Fabarez walks verse-by-verse through Romans 13 to discover the connection between politics and faith.

Should Christians pay their taxes, even if they don’t like what the government is doing with their money? Pastor Mike Fabarez addresses your questions about taxes, government spending policy, and what the Bible has to say about these controversial topics.

The gift of salvation is free! So why do people make it sound so hard? Even Jesus said following him would require some sacrifice. Pastor Mike Fabarez explains the simple difference between justification and sanctification.

When it comes to prayer, some Christians say we should always take a position of authority, declaring things in the name of Christ! So, is that a biblical standpoint? On this edition of Ask Pastor Mike, Pastor Mike Fabarez presents a balanced and biblical view of our role in prayer.

In our materialistic world, contentment can be an elusive goal. Sadly, many people will never find it. But it doesn’t have to be that way! It’s possible to be content, no matter what cards you’ve been dealt. Pastor Mike Fabarez reveals the biblical secret to finding joy.

Is Hell a real place or simply a metaphor? Does our loving God really condemn people to eternal punishment? And how can we balance an understanding of God’s grace with this uncomfortable truth? Pastor Mike Fabarez leads us in searching the scriptures to answer these sobering questions.

The Old Testament was written ages ago. So, how can it possibly apply to our lives today––especially now that the New Testament is available? Afterall, Jesus said he came to fulfill the law. So, aren’t those ancient rules obsolete? Pastor Mike Fabarez answers the question: “Why Study the Old Testament?”

As Christians, we know evangelism is important. But how often do we actually put that knowledge into action? Pastor Mike Fabarez reminds us that our desire to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others grows stronger when we clearly see what’s at stake.

We know there’s nothing we can do to earn, buy, or deserve God’s favor. But does that mean we can live as we please? Pastor Mike Fabarez examines what’s behind that question as he unpacks a scriptural understanding of God’s grace.

God is a God of order, and the universe follows His unchanging natural laws. But every so often, God steps in and breaks the very laws He created! Pastor Mike Fabarez applies logic and insight to the very real and biblical evidence for miracles.

You’ve probably faced some tricky questions, like: Is it OK for Christians to drink alcohol? What about gambling? And where and when do you draw the line on worldly enjoyments? Well, thankfully we can Ask Pastor Mike! Work through some uncomfortable “gray” areas with Pastor Mike Fabarez as he provides helpful biblical guidelines for decision-making!

Throughout the Old Testament, a mysterious figure keeps appearing in dramatic ways, speaking with unquestionable authority to God’s people. So, who is he? And why is his presence shrouded in such mystery? Pastor Mike Fabarez answers the question: “Who is the Angel of the Lord?”

Throughout the centuries, so-called prophets have claimed to know a path to spiritual enlightenment. And some of these leaders went on to establish major world religions. So why can’t there be many paths to God? Pastor Mike Fabarez addresses Jesus’ exclusive claim to be “the way, the truth and the life” by answering the question, Is Jesus really the only way to get to Heaven?

King’s James, English Standard, New American Standard—when it comes to picking out a good Bible, it seems like there’s nothing “standard” about them! Are some versions better than others? Which one’s right for you? Pastor Mike Fabarez explains the differences between several popular, modern versions on this practical and informative edition of Ask Pastor Mike!

No one wants to be accused of being legalistic. It doesn’t sound good. But… just what does it really mean? Pastor Mike Fabarez helps us define “legalism” according to Scripture. Learn how God’s law and God’s grace can peacefully co-exist.

You may not think about Satan very often. Maybe you even avoid mentioning his name. But Scripture warns us not to be ignorant of his plans! Pastor Mike Fabarez answers these important questions: Who is Satan? How does he operate? And what’s his problem with mankind anyway?

We all know that nobody’s perfect! So how can we be sure the imperfect authors and transcribers of Scripture didn’t make mistakes along the way? Pastor Mike Fabarez grapples with this question: Does the Bible really contain the accurate words of God?

Yahweh… Jehovah… Adonai. God has many different titles throughout the Bible. So, what is God’s real name? Join Pastor Mike Fabarez for an insightful conversation about the significance of God’s names and how God wants to be known.

It’s depicted in movies and novels and dismissed by many as a silly superstition. But scripture is clear—the Rapture is coming! Pastor Mike Fabarez sits down for a fascinating conversation about the return of Christ and what we can expect on that day.

We all know from experience that life can be unfair. But how far should we go to demand justice? If Christians are supposed to be loving and forgiving, is it ever okay to sue someone? Pastor Mike Fabarez explains what scripture teaches Christians about using the legal system.

How do you know you’re really saved? Are you sure beyond a shadow of doubt? That’s a question every one of us eventually needs to face. Pastor Mike Fabarez tackles this topic and explains what we need to know about the assurance of salvation.

When a person becomes a Christian, do they enter into a full-access relationship with God? Or do some Christians have the special privilege of a deeper connection? Pastor Mike Fabarez talks about how we relate to God in our Christian experience. The topics are Christian Mysticism and “spiritual formation.”

Kids today have access to a virtual “Pandora’s box” of tech-driven entertainment. And many parents struggle to establish and enforce reasonable limits. Pastor Mike Fabarez and his wife, Carlynn, discuss dating, social media, and videogames, and explain how parents can navigate around the pitfalls of today’s technology.

How can we protect our kids from life’s dangerous pitfalls and still prepare and equip them to handle these challenges on their own? The temptation for many parents is to hover over their children and guard them against any harm. But is it effective? Pastor Mike Fabarez and his wife, Carlynn, talk about the trap of “helicopter parenting.”

We often see celebrity children photographed on social media and dressed up in designer outfits, looking like adorable accessories for their A-list moms and dads. But God’s purpose for children goes far beyond bringing status and attention to their parents. Pastor Mike Fabarez and his wife, Carlynn, discuss the true purpose and calling of parenthood.