May 31st, 2025

“What Does the Bible Say About … Culture and Ethnicity?”

Peninsula Biblical Counseling Ministries (PBCM) is finalizing what I believe will be a historically significant, four-hour event aimed at energizing the local church. This gathering will focus on fulfilling the Great Commission, as outlined in Matthew 28:18–20, by embracing the Great Commandment in Matthew 22:37-40. We ask you to save the date: April 19, 2025. More details will be shared soon, so stay tuned for updates. This promises to be an impactful event not just for our community but also for the wider mission we all hold dear — “Biblical Reconciliation”. Thank you for your attention and anticipation.

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Join our ongoing September 19, 2024 discussion on "What Does the Bible Say About … Culture and Ethnicity?" On May 31st, 2025, come explore biblical teachings, embrace diverse perspectives biblically, and deepen your understanding of scriptural views on culture and ethnicity.

The Bible highlights the diverse and inclusive nature of God’s kingdom, emphasizing unity and love across cultural and ethnic lines. In Acts 17:26, it states that God made all nations from one man, highlighting our common origin and shared humanity. This unity is celebrated throughout Scripture, with Galatians 3:28 emphasizing that in Christ, cultural and ethnic divisions lose their significance, promoting equality among believers. 

The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) calls believers to make disciples of "all nations," reflecting God's desire for a diverse community that worships Him. The Great Commandment (Matthew 22:37-40) further deepens this by urging love for God and one's neighbor, emphasizing action beyond cultural and ethnic boundaries.

In Revelation 7:9, the vision of heaven includes people from every nation, tribe, and language, symbolizing the ultimate unity and diversity in God's kingdom. This scriptural perspective encourages followers to embrace cultural and ethnic differences as expressions of God's creativity, working towards reconciliation and unity.

Peninsula Biblical Counseling Ministries’ upcoming event on May 31st, 2025, aims to deepen understanding and commitment to these biblical truths. By focusing on “Biblical Reconciliation,” it seeks to inspire and equip churches to live out these principles, fostering a unified and loving community.What the Bible Says About…Culture and Ethnicity

Sexual Sin - May 17, 2025

The Bible addresses sexual sin by advocating purity and self-control. It teaches that sexual relations are meant for marriage, highlighting faithfulness in this sacred union. Verses like 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 urge believers to flee from sexual immorality, emphasizing that the body is a temple for the Holy Spirit. In Matthew 5:27-28, Jesus expands the concept, cautioning against lustful thoughts, equating them to adultery in the heart. The Bible encourages repentance and forgiveness for those who fall into sexual sin. Overall, it stresses living according to God's design for relationships, advocating respect, love, and the sanctity of marriage.

Learning Objectives 

1. Examine biblical teachings on sexual sin, understanding its impact on spiritual and relational well-being.

2. Learn counseling strategies to help individuals overcome sexual sin through repentance and spiritual growth.

3. Explore scriptural narratives addressing sexual sin, applying their lessons in contemporary counseling situations.

4. Develop tools for fostering accountability, healing, and redemption in those struggling with sexual sin.

Salvation - March 15

The Bible presents salvation as God's gift, attainable through faith in Jesus Christ. It teaches that human efforts alone cannot achieve salvation; instead, grace through faith is the key. John 3:16 highlights God's love, offering eternal life to believers. Trusting God with loved ones is advised when concerns arise. The Bible encourages prayer for their spiritual journey, acknowledging that God oversees every heart. In Philippians 4:6-7, believers are urged to replace anxiety with prayer, finding peace in God's care. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises trust over personal understanding, emphasizing reliance on God's wisdom. The parable of the Lost Sheep illustrates God's dedication to saving each individual. Ultimately, believers are called to demonstrate faith by surrendering control, trusting God's redemptive plan for everyone.

Learning Objectives 

1. Understand the theological basis of being "born again" through scriptural exploration and study.

2. Analyze biblical narratives illustrating the transformative power of salvation and spiritual rebirth.

3. Learn to counsel individuals on accepting salvation and understanding its significance in spiritual life.

4. Explore the role of faith in the "born again" experience, fostering growth and commitment.

Relationships - February 15

The Bible teaches that relationships are rooted in love, respect, and commitment. It emphasizes the importance of loving your neighbor as yourself, highlighting empathy and kindness. The story of Adam and Eve shows the significance of companionship. Jesus' teachings stress forgiveness, urging people to reconcile with others. The Apostle Paul speaks about selflessness in relationships, encouraging humility and patience. Marriage is portrayed as a sacred union reflecting God's love for the Church. In friendships, loyalty and honesty are valued. Overall, the Bible presents relationships as a reflection of God's love, calling for integrity, understanding, and mutual support.

Learning Objectives 

1. Understand biblical principles for building relationships across cultures and ethnicities, fostering spiritual unity.

2. Learn effective communication techniques for addressing cultural differences, enhancing mutual respect and understanding.

3. Explore biblical stories highlighting cross-cultural relationships, applying insights to modern counseling contexts.

4. Develop strategies for overcoming cultural barriers, promoting reconciliation and peace within diverse communities.