Online Bible Institute | James Overfelt | Activity

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 17:44:07 -0400

Thanks for the post. Whenever I get too legalistic, I refer back to Galatians. It is interesting how the early church was contending with legalists and Judaizers on one front and the beginnings of Gnosticism on another. The evil one did not waste any time in going into attack mode. Galatians 2:20 really hits home for me. “I have been…

In reply to - Ricardo Perez posted an update

The book of Galatians, written by Paul to believers in Galatia, aims to correct false teachings of Jewish legalism in the church. Paul emphasizes freedom through faith in Christ […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 17:35:19 -0400

Very informative and detailed. I still marvel at Paul’s discussion of our identity in Christ. Ephesian 2: 8-9 explain the gospel in two verses. One of my very favorite passages in Ephesian 6: 10-18 discussing spiritual warfare and the armor that God provides. Thanks for the great post.

In reply to - Ricardo Perez posted an update

The book of Ephesians, authored by Paul for the church at Ephesus, reveals believers’ spiritual wealth in Christ and guides their conduct. It emphasizes unity, spiritual […]

James Overfelt posted an update: Old Testament Bible Survey Lesson 2: The Books of […]

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 17:24:57 -0400

Old Testament Bible Survey

Lesson 2: The Books of the Bible

This class reviews all the books of the Bible. I do well with knowing most of the books but struggle with the minor prophets and the epistles after Philippians. I am working on it and like the idea of writing a little blurb about what the book is about. This chapter also…

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 18:40:09 -0400

We are so blessed with the many different versions of the English Bible which are available. I was reading in “A General Introduction to the Bible” by Geisler and Nix that as of 1986 there were over 300 versions of the Good Book. I use many different one every day including the NKJV, NIV, NASB, NLT and CSB. I will use them all to…

In reply to - George posted an update

History of the Bible

Module 8

This Module traces the long and often tortuous path of the English Bible. It begins with the Lindisfarne Gospels around 715, translated into Old […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 18:29:09 -0400

I have had a personal experience with intercessory prayer recently in my life. I have been struggling with chronic pneumonia for the past year and a half. I would see the doctor and get a little better but then I would get sick again. I just spent 9 days in the hospital and at one point they thought I had cancer. I had so many people…

In reply to - Andrea posted an update

Intercessory Prayer Lesson 4

I love how the introduction reemphasizes that the goal of prayer even intercessory is still that the Glory of God be revealed. I remind me that Gods will […]

James Overfelt posted an update: Old Testament Bible Survey Lesson 1: Introducing […]

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 18:20:25 -0400

Old Testament Bible Survey

Lesson 1: Introducing the Bible

This lesson provides a broad overall look at the Bible. It is the inspired word of God and its purpose is to provide doctrine, reproof, correction and instruction in righteousness for mankind regarding God’s will.

Bible means the books and it consists of 66. These books are…

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 01:57:46 -0400

Which makes me think of: Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9,l NKJV.. The Lord tells te children of Israel not to be afraid so many times.

In reply to - Timothy posted an update

Strategies For Spiritual Warfare

Lesson 24

This lesson gives us a summary of the whole course, reminding us that we are in a war, but there are strategies that The Lord wants us to […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 01:43:50 -0400

I appreciate and like the emoji’s. Your post is well laid out and it helps to improve understanding. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12, NKJV)

In reply to - Rubeena posted an update

Mobilization Methodologies: Chapter 16: Principles Of Penetration

Ever feel stuck just short of what God promised you? Here’s what I learned from Joshua about breaking through and […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 04:53:46 -0400

OBI is doing wonderful God inspired work. Thank you and praise you Lord!

In reply to - Steve posted an update

I recently received this from a former student and thought I would share it with all of you!

Dear Pastor Steve,

This is Tristan from the Philippines, one of your former students in the […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 14:10:40 -0400

One of my favorite verses is Romans 4: 20, talking about Abraham.

He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief but was strengthened in faith giving glory to God.

It would seem that faith is so simple, but I have difficulty and wish that I had more. Of course, God promises us in Hebrews that he will reward us if we diligently seek…

In reply to - Joseph posted an update

Foundations of Faith (Harvestime)

Chapter 4: Faith Toward God

This lesson gives an overview of what faith is and how it’s essential to the Christian life. Faith is necessary for one’s […]

James Overfelt posted an update: Chapter 6: Strategies for Spiritual Harvest (Harvestime) […]

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 15:45:44 -0400

Chapter 6: Strategies for Spiritual Harvest (Harvestime)

Key Verse: They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. (Psalms 126:5-6)

The next two chapters discuss strategies for an abundant spiritual harvest.…

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 15:29:17 -0400

Spend more time in the word.

In reply to - Youvenson posted an update Course: The Doctrine of Salvation (Soteriology) Temptation Part 2

In this lesson, instructor David Hocking delves deeper into the topic of temptation, emphasizing the necessity […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 15:25:47 -0400

Great post. Jesus plus nothing equals salvation. Our small group leader is always encouraging us to spend more time in the work. “It will keep you from sin or sin will keep you from the bible.

In reply to - Youvenson posted an update Course: The Doctrine of Salvation (Soteriology) Temptation Part 2

In this lesson, instructor David Hocking delves deeper into the topic of temptation, emphasizing the necessity […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 15:22:25 -0400

I don’t know if you have seen the movie “Shadowlands” but it is about his relationship with his wife and losing her to cancer. I have been wanting to watch it again. There are two different versions. The one with Anthony Hopkins is better. My wife says if we discuss a topic I will invariably think of a movie. 😄 Thanks for the post.

In reply to - Martinus posted an update

C.S. Lewis: His Theology and Philosophy – Lesson 21: Problem of Pain (Part 1)

This lesson introduces Lewis’s exploration of why suffering exists in a world created by a loving God. He […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:11:40 -0400

Church history is fascinating. The work of God is apparent in his empowerment of great theologians even from the very beginning. “…you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you” Acts 1:8. God’s Spirit is apparent throughout the ages. Thanks for the thoughtful post.

In reply to - John posted an update

Church History 1 (BTI)

Lesson 8: The Latin Church, Jerome and Augustinem

In this lesson, I learned about Jerome and Augustine and their impact on the Latin Church. Jerome translated the […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Sat, 29 Mar 2025 19:43:00 -0400

I pray that the Holy Spirit will give me the strength to live according to the principals taught here.

In reply to - James Overfelt posted an update

Chapter 5: Rusty Sickles, Empty Fields

Strategies for a spiritual harvest. (Harvestime)

This section of the course addresses “objectification” or the plan to facilitate a […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Sat, 29 Mar 2025 19:36:08 -0400

Thanks to all. These pod casts are quite infromative.

In reply to - Douglas posted an update

Here’s the latest episode of the OBIN podcast – give it a watch when you can.

https://youtu.be/qeYReLc0xT0

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 14:40:00 -0500

That is fascinating about the Auca people. I think that whatever language we translate the Bible the Holy Spirit will be there to provide an accurate work. Thanks for your post.

In reply to - Varun posted an update

Course: Basic Bible Survey Old Testament (Harvestime)

Lesson 3: Versions Of The Bible

The Bible was initially composed in three languages: the majority of the Old Testament is in Hebrew, […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 14:34:35 -0500

The bible is such a God breathed document to His children. I always think about the sign of Jonah mentioned by our lord in Matthew 12:38–41. I think that God used the Jonah in the belly of the whale to foretell of Christs resurrection. Thanks for the great post.

In reply to - Kirolos posted an update Course Name: The Book of Jonah

Lesson Number: 36

One aspect of the 36th lesson that impacted me was the exploration of God speaking to the fish in Jonah 2:10. This detail, […]

James Overfelt posted an update: Chapter 5: Rusty Sickles, Empty Fields Strategies for […]

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 14:26:56 -0500

Chapter 5: Rusty Sickles, Empty Fields

Strategies for a spiritual harvest. (Harvestime)

This section of the course addresses “objectification” or the plan to facilitate a spiritual harvest. The chapter looks at barriers to the winning of souls.

The biblical “if-but” principal looks at the conditional promises of God. God promises that…

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 16:54:44 -0500

I enjoy learning about how the Scriptures came to be. Your post helps me understand it better.

In reply to - John posted an update

Course: Rise of the Messiah

Session 2: The formation of the Gospel

We have four gospel books. In these four gospel books, Dr. Tim has created three great theories stating how the […]

James Overfelt posted an update: Chapter 4 The World in the Word Strategies for a […]

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 16:35:45 -0500

Chapter 4 The World in the Word

Strategies for a spiritual harvest. (Harvestime)

Memory Verse:

9 having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself, 10 that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in…

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 16:33:24 -0500

I am working on the same class, and your post helped me to understand it better. Thanks.

In reply to - Gamshini Thomas Mayaya posted an update CHAPTER ONE.

While reading Chapter One, “The Birth of a Vision,” a few concepts stood out significantly:

1. The Importance of Spiritual Vision: Proverbs 29:18 […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 16:31:12 -0500

I wonder what the difference was between the Sadducees and the Pharisees. The Sadducees were such a boring lot who did not believe in the resurrection or anything supernatural, but the Pharisee’s did. Paul definitely believed in the inspiration of Scripture (2 Tim 3: 15-16). Did he receive direct revelation about that or was it something he…

In reply to - Mitch posted an update

Intro to Hebrew Bible Session 3 What are some of the main differences between the TaNaK arrangement and the Christian arrangement of the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible? Could a […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 16:23:58 -0500

I have never thought of Jesus in this way. It adds deeper insight into his glory. I am looking forward to the time when I will be with Him and have greater understanding. It is interesting that I was just reading in my lesson that God wants to unify all things under Christ and to spread the Good News to all the earth. Thanks for the post.

In reply to - John posted an update

Course: Rise of the Messiah

Session 3: Macro Design of Matthew’s Gospel

In this lesson Dr. Tim M. discussed the following themes in the Book of Matthew:

Jesus is the son of Abraham. Jesus is […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Sat, 21 Dec 2024 17:38:06 -0500

Thanks for the thoughtful post.

The effective fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:16

In reply to - Stuart posted an update

Pastoral Care and Leadership

Lesson 4

Pastoral Care to the Sick

This session on pastoral care emphasizes the importance of connecting with individuals, particularly during their times […]

James Overfelt posted an update: Strategies for a Spiritual Harvest part […]

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 21:17:33 -0500

Strategies for a Spiritual Harvest part 3. (Harvestime)

Key Verse:

Psalm 66:7b – “His eyes behold the nations.”

When God looks at the world, He sees multitudes of people standing in a spiritual gap. It is the gap between being lost or finding eternal salvation. The reason for the gap between God and man is sin. Neither God nor Man can…

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 19:13:21 -0500

I feel reassured that God continued to stay with Jonah despite his best efforts to avoid the Almighty. I am amazed at the patience and love that God has for us.

In reply to - Kirolos posted an update Course Name: Heaven and Earth

Lesson Number: 23

The exploration of Jonah’s prayer from the belly of the fish in Jonah 2 was profoundly impactful, particularly in its portrayal of […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 19:08:08 -0500

Thanks for the thoughtful post. It is interesting that when the bible mentions the Holy Spirit it is frequently in reference to power. It was his power that raised Jesus from the dead. We will receive power when the holy spirit has come upon us (Acts 1:8). I pray that I might be more aware of His presence with me and use His power to…

In reply to - Youvenson posted an update Course : The Person and Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Blue Letter Bible Institute) Lesson 4 – The Holy Spirit : Restrainer of Evil What is the meaningful to me, Jesus spoke of His […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 19:02:42 -0500

In our church (which is fairly large but not a mega-church) we are encouraged to join a small group where we may get to know other members of the congregation. It is hoped that as relationships develop greater accountability and mentoring will occur. It is difficult for believers to get to know each other in these modern times. It is even…

In reply to - Brain Tanko posted an update DISCUSSION OF THE WEEK

Hello, everyone and merry Christmas to all. Praying the best for you as you go through the courses. For anyone who has issues with the site or any of our […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 17:08:30 -0500

Since it is Christmas, I have been reading a lot of excerpts from Isaiah. It is marvelous that he prophesied over 700 years before coming or out Lord. How awesome is our God.

In reply to - Patti posted an update

Course: RSM Survey Of The Bible 2

Lesson 1: Isaiah

According to Ray Stedman Isaiah was the greatest of the prophets. Isaiah is the fullest revelation of Christ in the Old Testament. […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 17:00:59 -0500

The Edenic covenant was something that I had forgotten and had to look it up. According to “GotQuestions.org” it is also known as the covenant of works. I marvel at how disobedient the Israelites were but then again, as you have pointed out, how disobedient the west is. I am so thankful that we live under the covenant of grace and Jesus…

In reply to - Jake Hansen posted an update

Bible Project Ezekiel: Session 4

This session summed up some themes from session three as well as talking about Israel’s role their banishment. The sciptural justification for why […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 16:50:05 -0500

Thanks for this insightful post. I know that our pastors teach that their job is to equip the congregation to do the work of the Lord. They support the idea that internal is very necessary for vital church growth.

In reply to - Ilrick Geffrard posted an update
Course : methodology of multiplication Lesson 6 The internal growth should be the first priority of a local church. The reason is that when a church doesn’t have an […]

James Overfelt posted an update: Strategies for Spiritual Harvest: Lesson Two: The […]

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 22:32:31 -0500

Strategies for Spiritual Harvest: Lesson Two: The Vison. (Harvestime)

John 4:35 – Do you not say. There are still four months and then comes the harvest. Behold: I say to you. Lift up your eyes and look at the fields they are already ripe for harvest. John 4:35, NKJV

This lesson discussed how He uses natural events to explain…

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 18:29:08 -0500

Thanks for the great post. Even though our translations of the bible are not perfect I still believe that God has preserved His holy word. I do think we must be careful and only use those translations which are considered reliable.

In reply to - Jeremy posted an update

Biblical Hermeneutics: Lesson 5: Various Issues in Hermeneutics

Because English words continue meaning over time, no translation of the Bible can ever be the final translation. This […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 18:25:29 -0500

Our Lord is the perfect example of the servant leader. Even though he is God he lowered himself to the realm of men and continued to the agony, shame and suffering of the cross. He put up with all the nonsense, fear and hate that was going on around him and continues to live us all. He was and is God and yet he finds to time for us…

In reply to - John posted an update

Servant Leadership (BLBI)

Lesson 24: The Supremacy Of Love By: Wayne Taylor

In this lesson, Wayne Taylor teaches that love is what truly shows we’re disciples of Christ. He explains how […]

James Overfelt posted an update: I am starting over again and review the two classes […]

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 18:17:04 -0500

I am starting over again and review the two classes that were previously completed.

Spiritual Harvest – The Birth of a Vision

“Where there is no vision the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18.)

Many Christians lead lives that are without purpose. They are saved but unresponsive to God’s plan for their lives. By developing a spiritual vision of God’s…

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 17:46:39 -0500

Great way to look at the separation of the waters. I have always struggled with this a bit. I will have to watch for it next time I watch the movie. Thanks

In reply to - George posted an update

I am just now watching the movie, Crimson Tide. Here is a scene depicting the interior crew spaces of the nuclear attack submarine, Alabama. There is an aquarium fish tank with fish. […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 16:15:03 -0500

Ephesians 6: 10 – 18. I am trying to be more aware of the `spiritual hosts of wickedness` Satan has arrayed against us and rely on God`s power and armor to overcome.

In reply to - Mariah posted an update

Developing a Biblical world view: chapter 1

Somethimg that was interesting to me was that satan’s work in the spiritual world manifests into the physical world. This is why we have to […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 15:54:34 -0500

Thanks for your post. It was quite informative. The on-going process of Bible translation is fascinating. As we improve our understanding ancient Greek and Hebrew we learn more about God’s word. I use the NKJV for more in-depth study but have an NLT readily available when a passage is unclear or difficult to understand.

In reply to - Jeremy posted an update

Biblical Hermeneutics: Lesson 4: Hermeneutical Issues (Part 2)

There are guidelines to be followed in order to be a good translation. First, it should be based on the best […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 19:24:38 -0400

Ruth is a wonderful story. There is the love Ruth has for Naomi and then there is the love Boaz and Naomi have for each other. It is a great example of the kinsman redeemer which points to Christ and his redemption for us. Thanks

In reply to - Amos posted an update BASIC BIBLE SURVEY 1.

Lesson 12: Ruth.

In this lesson I got interested about Ruth’s determination to follow Naomi and how God rewarded her faithfulness and willingness to even serve the God […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 19:22:12 -0400

Excellent points brother. I have been reviewing lessons one and two of this course and it has struck home to me how many people have no vision of God’s plan for them. God and church are a thing to check off as a part of weekly activities. Read the bible, say your prayers and attend service, check. I pray that God will help us all to find…

In reply to - Youvenson posted an update Course : Strategies for Spiritual Harvest (Harvestime) Lesson : Chapter One_The Birth Of A Vision Before you are born again you are blinded by sin. Through salvation by the blood […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 13:31:09 -0400

The Judaizers were trying to teach the Galatians that they must practice the law to be saved which is not true. “For by grace you have been saved through faith…(Eph 2.8). The Jerusalem council in Acts 15 addresses this issue. 1 John tries to correct another heresy related to gnosticism. I am thankful we have God’s word and the Holy Spirit…

In reply to - Michael posted an update

New Testament Survey – Acts to Revelations

Lesson 21 – Galatians – Background

The letter of Galatians does not refer to a city. It refers to a province or territory and includes a […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:38:48 -0400

I am so thankful that all scripture is God breathed and alive today. Its wisdom calls us to holy living even today. It is wonderful that we can apply its precepts to our modern world.

In reply to - John posted an update Survey Of The Bible 3 RSM

Lesson 8 1 Corinthians: The Epistle to the 21st Century

In this lesson, Ray talks about Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians and how it relates to us today. He […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 23:48:18 -0400

I think it is interesting that Mark fell out with Paul when he deserted Paul and Barnabas during the first missionary journey (Acts 15:37). Paul then refused to allow him to travel with him on later journeys but then we see that they had reconciled in 2 Timothy 4:11 when Paul states he was helpful to him in his ministry. God then uses him…

In reply to - Mark posted an update

Basic Bible Survey – Part Two New Testament – Chapter 2 – Mark

Authored by “John Mark” a companion of Paul. Mark is one of three “Synoptic Gospels” [Matthew, Mark, Luke], synoptic […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 17:21:15 -0400

I have been reading the entire bible this year as a personal. I don’t know how many times I have seen many phrases: : Fear not,” “Be Strong,” “Do not be dismayed,” “I am the Lord your God.” Thanks for the great insight.

In reply to - Andrew posted an update

The Book of Jonah (Bible Project)

Presented by Dr Tim Mackie

Session 9

Reflecting on Biblical Patterns

This lecture explained how we are to note the Hebrew Bibles use of […]

James Overfelt posted an update: Strategies for Spiritual Harvest: Lesson Two. The Vison. […]

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 16:49:56 -0400

Strategies for Spiritual Harvest: Lesson Two. The Vison.

God uses natural examples to relay His truth. One example is the wheat fields which are ripe for harvest. This can be compared to lost souls who need to hear the gospel. It is His desire that all are saved. God does not want us to find excuses for delaying this harvest. We…

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 17:18:56 -0400

Great post. I have always liked Genesis 3:15 – “…I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; He shall bruise your head and you shall bruise His heel.” Referring the to the serpent Satan. It is interesting to think of snake seed versus God seed.

I had one other thought. Why did Moses put a serpent on his staff?

In reply to - Dillon posted an update Course: Introduction to the Hebrew Bible Lesson: Module 5 ” Repeated Words and Design Patterns ” SESSION 28: NARRATIVE ANALOGY: JACOB AND GENESIS 3. In this lesson Dr Tim Mackie […]

James Overfelt posted a new activity comment

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 16:47:33 -0400

Thanks for your post. I always like hearing about the good news, but I did not realize that it could mean different things. I pray that my life will shine before men that they may see the good news in me and in that way, I am effective evangelist. 😇

In reply to - Sandra Parolari posted an update

Chapter One Leaven-like Evangelism

We learn the definition and the need for evangelism through the example in (Luke 13:20-21). And again He said, Whereunto shall I liken […]

James Overfelt posted an update: Spiritual Harvest – The Birth of a Vision “Where there […]

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 17:47:44 -0400

Spiritual Harvest – The Birth of a Vision

“Where there is not vision the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18.)

God has a plan for everyone. As disciples of our Lord, we must be in tune with His plan for us. The plan must first be planted by the spirit and eventually be birthed into God’s vision for us. We must develop spiritual vision to see…