AboutRev C.Brian Ross Expertise I am happy to offer answers to anyone with a question that refers to the Christian Faith in its widest possible sense. I believe that the Bible is the living Word of God, and seek to base all of my life on its teaching. I also have some knowledge of some of the cults, and of Islam and Judaism. Of course, my answers are just one man's thoughts, and I would always advise a questioner to check with others, and with the Word of God.
Experience Served as a full-time parish minister in Scotland for about six years, and then spent the last thirty as a teacher (now 'retired') of Religious Education in Secondary Comprehensive schools (ages 11-17) while continuing my own preaching and teaching ministry. I also believe that learning is a life-time process, and have recently completed a Master's degree in Divinity.
Organizations Former Presenter on Revival FM - a local Christian, community radio station, broadcasting in west central Scotland, and online at revival.fm Involved with a number of organisations that support Christians who are currently suffering persecution in some 70 countries around the world.
Publications Various articles in Christian magazines. I also have two blogsites - www.crazyrev.blogspot.com and (with audio messages) www.revcbross.blogspot.com
Education/Credentials Diploma of The Bible Training Institute, Glasgow;
Licentiate in Theology of the University of Glasgow;
Associateship of The Philosophical Society of England;
Bachelor of Arts Degree (Hons) in History from The Open University;
Post-grad Certificate of Education - Religious Education and History;
Post-grad Cetificate in Learning and Teaching;
Post-grad Diploma in Management and Learning in Education;
Master of Science Degree from the University of Strathclyde;
Master of Divinity Degree (Hons) from Trinity College and Seminary (accredited by the University of Liverpool)
Question i was a very strong beliver in christ jesus.Until recently i have had so many problems that i have started questioning God.Also please tell me about the UFOs and aliens.What about the face on mars, the bible does not talk about it.I feel lost.Please pray for me--kuldip
Answer Dear Kuldip,
Thank you very much for your interesting question.
There is a sense in which you might be better asking it of a Christian scientist (which I make no claim to be!) but I am happy to share the following thoughts with you.
First of all, there have been so many sightings of what are commonly referred to as Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), often reported by people of unquestionable credibility, that there would seem to be some grounds for accepting that they exist. The problem is enshrined in the name – they are unidentified, i.e. we (at least the vast majority of us) do not know what they are. Two thoughts have always intrigued me.
1. They are frequently observed near to military establishments. Does this suggest that there are some sort of secret aircraft being tested without public knowledge? The conspiracist would probably say “Yes” – but, of course, would be speculating every bit as much as I have just done!
2. Even in our modern age of space exploration, I am not aware of any UFO having been observed from outwith the earth’s atmosphere. The devil is referred to, in the Word of God, as the “prince of this world” (Jn.12:30-31; 14:30) and, even before the Lord Jesus, claimed to have authority in this world (Lk.14:6). This would suggest, to some, that what we refer to as UFOs have a satanic origin. As the end-times rapidly approach (if they are not already upon us!) and the Rapture of true believers becomes increasingly imminent, it could be that the appearance of UFOs is a satanic ploy to “explain away” that momentous event. The people who will suddenly disappear will, it may well be claimed, have been abducted by aliens! The exhortation of I Jn.4:1 should be kept in mind!
Regarding the alleged “face on Mars”, I can only say that light and shadow play all sorts of tricks upon the human mind. I am sure that, like myself, you have often seen “objects” in particular cloud formations, or in the glowing embers of a fire. Others have claimed to see the face of Jesus on a slice of toast; or His mother, Mary, in a poached (or was it fried?) egg. I understand that the method of photography used by the camera involved, is more like a photocopier with a single line “scanning” the area involved. It would require a lot of alternative angles/perspectives to allow anyone to come to any reasoned conclusion – and even then, it would be difficult to prove that whatever shape is there, is not the result of natural erosion!
The bottom line for such issues may well be the reminder in the Old Testament book of Deuteronomy: “The secret things belong to YHWH our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children for ever, that we may follow all the words of this law.” (29:29). These are things that the devil uses to spread doubt and confusion.
You say that you were once “a very strong believer in Christ Jesus”. May I encourage you to come to Him afresh, seek His forgiveness, and go forward in His grace and strength. Be assured of my prayerful remembrance.
I trust that the above will have been helpful, and calmed at least some of your obvious fears.
Blessings,
C.Brian Ross
