My brother (nephew's dad in this conversation) has been a believer since high school. But he got involved with the Way International and then the Church of Christ while married and with his children. Since he moved away from his family 30 years ago due to being abusive to his step daughters, he kind of morphed the Church of Christ culture into his own brand of Christianity. When my nephew moved in with him when he turned 18 my nephew was totally dependent on his dad and having been "fake homeschooled" by his lazy mother, he never had a normal social life, nor an education past being able to sound out words,(which is K to 1st grade reading level),o n top of being very neglected by her. He was not able to get work because of his lack of literacy and severe allergies to most things one would come in contact with at a job which results in severe asthmatic and allergic reactions. He has been with my brother for a little over 10 years and so my brother has greatly influenced him with his "brand" of Christianity (which is very legalistic and tightly narrowed in regards to the "world" as he sees it. So my nephew has not been exposed to so much of what is everyday living for most people, including Christians. We are to be in the world but not of the world, as Jesus said. This sheltering has been detrimental to my nephew.
Since began to play in a blues trio around the area, he has become well known in the blues community and was making his own money finally with the gigs the trio did weekly. This music scene IS his social life now and his means of making money. But now that he cannot play the definitely feels the loss of that outlet for his talent. His depression began to get bad last fall, and came to a crisis level in February. Since then he has been in and out of several hospitals being held there in psych ward and still attempting to commit suicide in each one. He really has no power in and over his life and that is a terrible place to be.
THREE UNCLEAN SPIRITS LIKE FROGS - Revelation 16:13
I searched deeply an explanation for this biblical mystery, and by the Word of GOD what I found is the follow:
First of all, frogs are amphibians vertebrate animals that live in the aquatic environment and on the terrestrial environment. But is it the same in the spiritual environment? Yes, it is.
1-AQUATIC ENVIRONMENT OF THE EVIL SPIRITS LIKE FROGS
Revelation 17:15-And the angel saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues. NOTE: Except the TRUE CHRISTIANS/ ELIEVERS, all the peoples of all the nations are leaded and guided by the THREE UNCLEAN SPIRITS like frogs.TERRIBLE.
The aquatic environment of these three spirits of demons like frogs which guide the peoples or rule nations of all tongues in whole earth, through devilish systems, as religious systems(Catholicism, and Judaism, spiritism, budhism, islamism, among others),and also political systems,and military systems,and social and cultural systems,among others systems. In fact, Satan goes to and fro and from walking up and down among them.
2 - TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT OF THE EVIL SPIRITS LIKE FROGS
FIRST we need to understand that Israel is an island among the waters (Gentile nations)or in the middle of the sea, as is described above in according the Scriptures. Israel is the earth, a dry land, Genesis 1:v.10-3rd Day-or still the clay- Isaiah 64:v.8-a dry land surrounded by water on all sides or by allegory surrounded by the Gentile nations. Isaiah prophesyed saying: Is.41:1-2 -> 1-Keep silence before me,O islands; and let the people renew their strength:let them come near;then let them speak:let us come near together to Judgment.
2 Who raised up the righteous man from the east,called him to his foot,gave the nations before him,and made him rule over kings?he gave them as the dust to his Sword- Revelation 2:v.26 to 28-,and as driven stubble to his bow.(bow- Revelation 6:v.2)
Thank you Brother , I had never considered that the devil was lying when he said that to Jesus . You could say that he usurped humanity when he first lead us astray in the garden of Eden . It's now up to us as enlightened Christians to recognise his whiles and not allow him and this world to overpower us and lead us away from our Saviour . Those who are atheist are ignorant of his ways and just like Adam and Eve , seek his worldly wisdom so we can consider ourselves wise , wise enough to explain creation and everything in it in the guise of ' science ' which is the modern name for knowledge . Science and technology seek to explain away all God's awesome works and wonders , people are snared in this way , not wishing to have a benevolent God to rule over them and show them the right way to live and love . People don't want any boundaries on their behaviours , they see no reason for them as they think that humans are nothing more than the highest form of animal . They don't realise that God created us and created us in His own image , we are His children , not animals . So we shouldn't behave like animals , killing and eating each other up , physically and metaphorically . Cain's reply to God is ' am I my brother's keeper ' animals think that way , survival of the fittest , humans are brothers and sisters under our Father . We are to love and care for each other better than we do our own selves . Jesus is the perfect example of this behaviour and we should be seeking to emulate him as much as we possibly can in our behaviour towards each other .
Hello Brother Adam , I believe that you are a Christian so I shan't talk about why we die because you already know that . When you and I were born we were not Christians , we spent some part of our lives as atheists . Remember what we were afraid of ? The same thing atheists are still afraid of , death . A lack of faith in , and knowledge of , God , is a terrible way to live . To live and die in darkness and ignorance is terrible , nothing to look forward to other than death . That's what atheists are facing every day , they watch their loved ones die and see their own end approaching . No wonder so many of them live for the pleasures of this world , because they have nothing else to look forward to .
We know that nothing at all would even be alive if it wasn't for the grace of God , we know that God is kind to atheists every day . Life is God's gift , He is the source and sustainer of it and He can give and He can take away as Job says .
God puts a difference between His children and the atheists . We are in a covenant relationship with Him , they are outside of that . Christ is the door . As long as we are in Christ we need not fear the death of our bodies . Atheists live in faithless fear , insecurity and misery . Desperately trying to fill the void that can only be filled by the Truth . Here are some references that illustrate what I'm trying to say . Exodus chapter 23 v 31-33 , Ex Ch 34 v 10-17 , Lev Ch 20 v 22-26 , Deut Ch 10 v 17-19 , Deut Ch 20 v 10-18 , Deut Ch 32 v 39. Ezekiel Ch 18 v 32 , Eze Ch 33 v 11, Luke Ch 13 v 1-5 . John Ch 17 , Jesus's prayer and finally , what does God want for all of us ? Deuteronomy Ch 5 v 29 . Atheists do not accept God's Sovereignty , they think that they have ' rights' . They don't realise that anything and everything that they have had in the past , have today and will have tomorrow , is only because of God's mercy and kindness . They think they do things themselves and can create their own lives and destinies etc .
Ultimately; whether it be Armageddon or the final Great White throne judgment; or the individual demise of every person outside of the faith since Adam fell; the fate of unregenerate man is horrible beyond imagination. The biggest problem is that we don't know who Christ is; the eyes of those under Satan's power are blinded ( 2 Corinthians 4:4). Once we can see clearly we will be on our face; so it is better to do it now than under compulsion at judgment. The righteous also are constrained but by His love to praise and worship the Lord. The Holy Spirit when we are fully surrendered will fill our entire being with praise.
For now; it wouldn't surprise me a bit if an atheist would have less of an issue with say capital punishment as many who call themselves Christian. The Antichrist himself is called the "lawless one" and indeed at least one atheist I met was from a worldly standpoint a very "moral" person. What the law does is serve as a "schoolmaster" ( Gal. 3:24) to bring people to faith.
This explains why it is possible for the vilest sinner (such as possibly occured with Jeffrey Dahmer) to change. As Christians we shouldn't have a double standard we can exact justice to protect the innocent but still have an attitude of unconditional love and forgiveness which wouldn't be comprehended by an atheist.
Anyway another good point is that Christ never said the adage that God helps those who help themselves. If there was any other way certainly God would not have allowed His son to go through the suffering on the cross; or turn His back on Him at that instant of time. This shows sin is DEADLY serious.
Also of course 1 Corinthians 11:30 shows that even God' speople can have a shortened life living in disobedience. God delivered a man over to Satan so that at some point before death he would repent (apparently the man came to his senses and eventually was restored to fellowship). Better to make it to heaven through fire than hell.
Dear Brother hello and thank you for your previous messages that I have enjoyed very much . The Body of Christ is made up of very many different people from all countries and cultures and human experience this is reflected in our personalities which are all unique and all loved by our Lord . People are very very different and we all have our own unique way of expressing ourselves based on our personalities and perspectives which are as I said unique . This is a good thing I think . I don't believe that we should try to put ourselves or each other in boxes that give us strict boundaries on how we express ourselves . We already know that we are all Christians on here and therefore living our lives in the love of our Lord .That should be enough to inspire love and respect for each other . To make us all think and speak the same way is making robots and our Lord wants humans . First Corinthians chapter twelve is all about how we are all different and allowed to be so as we have the same Spirit of Truth in us . We can discuss on here as long as there are people to discuss with and if we are unhappy with things as they are then all we have to do is....start a discussion ourselves . Those who wish to join in will and those who don't won't . Discussions need people first and foremost but if the discussion is heated or impolite people may not feel willing or even able to join in . I hope you are not offended by me and my post I want to say what I truly feel but not offend I hope I have done both . Please forgive me if I have failed .
Further insights on propetic significance of blessing descendants
Genesis 12:3 shows a blessing from God to Abraham and his descendants which affects all those who bless Israel with a blessing; and curses those with a curse. This effectively puts us all in a position to reap blessings from being part of God's family even if not in the bloodline of Abraham. Romans 9:6-7 shows that is not bloodline that guarantees eternal inheritance and John 8:33-35 makes this clear and the punchline as it were is in verse 44 where Jesus tells them point blank that they are in reality sons of the Devil. They would literally spit in the face of the one who came to save all mankind; including those Gentiles they despised.
It is very interesting to me that there were no punches pulled with any of the Patriarchs in assessing the true condition and resulting destiny of their descendants; indeed it proves inspiration from God. There was never any argument as to the bad news so to speak as to the validity of the message; only anger in the case of Esau of a blessing lost to a usurper brother.
It does seem Esau mellowed out after being in a position where he likely would have killed his brother if his mother didn't have the wisdom to send him away. Eventually there was some restitution of family ties.
I highly recommend Hebrews 11 and 12 for further insight on the saints of God and admonitions for those who profess to be Christians. Here we see how tenacity was ineffective for Esau due to his generally sinful lifestyle; but also we can see Jacob's tenacity wrestling God all night long in Genesis 32 starting in verse 22. He was preparing to meet Esau and sent his family ahead; thus alone in the wilderness and God granted the blessing. Part of it no doubt was an attitude of humility toward his brother who accepted his gift and then he separated from him. Joseph's blessing no doubt validated the dream of his youth and was proven by his humbling as a slave and exaltation.
Now for a completely different discussion. Christians have argued about whether we should use humor or if God has a sense of humor. Given the verses about God laughing at the calamity of the wicked (such as Psalm 2); we need to be careful if we ask the Lord this question as well as with our intentions.
My experience (hitting the big THREESCORE this month) shows me that humor may be best served to lighten the burdens of our everyday annoyances; and SOMETIMES certain situations involving others can show the folly of this life. It is often better not to know the individual mentioned. Prayer is crucial as the most important thing we can do for others; and we need others to hold us accountable if we are ill advised in opening our mouths. The focus must be on the mission field; first and foremost. It is almost always best to let others bring up something humerous; because as with any other "liberties" someone may be easily offended and perhaps tempted to sin when they are the butt of a joke; no matter how "innocent" it may seem.
Few seem to categorize humor as something related to a joyful heart or spirit especially these days. It seems unheard of today in my life to think of someone who is that joyful who even smiles but maybe I am jaded in that mindset. Even laughing at ourselves can be wrong if we are constantly badmouthing ourselves. I had to rebuke brothers in the Lord who were too "hypercalvinistic" to the point where thy seemed boastful about what "worms" they were.
We then have the situation regarding nonbelieving friends and co-workers. Often I have found the best thing to do is either say nothing or excuse myself and try to say; eat my lunch elsewhere. I have in the past found family squabbles and the meetings involved when my former law firm I was employed at split up hilarious at times. Again; we shouldn't focus on character assasssination or take sides in these events but can't say humor is always wrong.
"And Jesus answered and said, while he taught in the temple, How say the scribes that Christ is the son of David?"(v.35). The scribes as mentioned here is a generic name for those who interpret the Law but they do not consider they are bound by it. "All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not." For they says, and they do not."(Matt.23:2-3). Matthew is referring to the scribes and the Pharisees who sit in Moses' seat. It is a metaphor for spiritual authority of the Law. Isaiah gives us a throne which is the ultimate authority "The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool."(Is.66:1)
Mark gives 'the woe to ye' discourse in Ch.23 as part of his doctrine which explains why the word of God is a two-edged sword (He.4:12).The Gospel is for salvation and if it is neglected it shall prove unto damnation. "And he said unto them in his doctrine," is consequential since it is the eternal word. In our times we could call what the scribes indulged was in Jesus talk. The saying of Jesus "but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not," is a sane advice for Christians who would want to live a godly life.
Jesus.
In vv.35-37 Jesus asks,"How say the scribes that Christ is the son of David?"The scribes erred in their textual criticism by omitting the intent and the integrity of the Psalm 110:1 This is what literal approach does. What they threw out is the everlasting covenant were seven days pendent on the day decreed for the Son. Along with it goes the significance of the Lamb slain, (Ps.2:7; Re.13:8) What happened in a megachurch where The elders had publicly disciplined a woman for refusing to take back her husband owes to their lack of understanding the word. As it turned out, the woman's fears proved true, and her husband went to prison for child molestation and abuse. The church never retracted its discipline or apologised in the 20+ years since.
Reading scriptures: Part One of main study how NOT to read the Bible
In previous postings I have discussed many different applications to the scripture. In reality an atheist can gain much from an academic exercise in a literary study as anyone else to deduce historical narratives that correspond with archaeology or an English professor can find beauty in the acrostic patterns of poetry in the Psalms and other hidden places in scripture.
Luke 12:48-50 indicates that more is required to those given much (my paraphrasing). If we are searching for truth it is one thing; but if we claim we are Christians and want to play games cherry picking to avoid tough verses related to our conduct; or just seeking "pleasant" scripture snippets then we are doing what one well known media advertises (I'll leave that to the audience to figure that out). I am convinced one of the most dangerous trends are those who are knowingly living in rebellion and yet claiming "authority" to "name and claim; blab and grab; etc". Promises in scripture are conditional; and even those that are UNCONDITIONAL related to promises in the New Covenant are based on HIS accepting us in the beloved ( Ephesians 1:6). However you slice it on terminology related to Predestination or "free will" it is clear that God chooses to reveal His Son to the elect ( Matthew 11:27). Just WHO the elect is; and whether God determines that ahead of time to those who will respond is beyond the scope of this study. The same idea is related to the PLAN of salvation; all those saved come to Christ the same way whether we consider the plan in general or the individual conforming to it. In short we only come to Christ one way through the Son; and as Romans 10:9 states that involves a verbal affirmation and a heart change which truly loves and embraces the Lord. Godly sorrow is associated with repentance; worldly sorrow leads to death ( 2 Cor. 7:10).
There are several speculations on what the mark may be, a literal mark, a computer chip, symbols, and more but the mark of the beast will be based on worship. It is the false prophet, the second beast who causes people to worship the first beast and his image. The number 666 goes back to Babylon, the 36 gods numbered 1 through 36, 6 columns and 6 rows the numbers were arranged in such a way that the sum of any given row, column, or diagonal was 111, and therefore the sum of all six rows or all six columns was 666, like 18+20+22+21+17+13 =111, 1+2+3 to 36=666.
We are told to have faith and patience Luke 21:19Hebrews 6:12 and hear in Revelation 13:10 and Revelation 14:11 that if we are strong in our faith and patience we will have the steadfastness and endurance (the meaning of patience) to not give into the temptation of the three who is to come, Satan, the beast out of the bottomless pit and the beast who will be the false prophet, even if we face death, the hour of temptation, Rev. 3:10.
Something like this was done in the past in the Decian persecution in 250 AD. The decree ordered sacrifices be performed in the presence of a Roman magistrate, it was a signed and witnessed certificate, issued to that effect. People had to perform a sacrifice to the Roman gods and the well-being of the emperor.
Christians were put to death for refusing to perform the sacrifices, many others apostatized and performed the ceremonies, and others went into hiding. Those who compromised were able to prosper economically. By way of contrast, those who did not have the certificate were unable to buy or sell and suffered economic hardship. Buying and selling was done in marketplaces ruled by Rome. This may be similar to what is coming but a mark instead of a certificate.
Luke and Matthew also give the context and the quote, "And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath."( Luke 6:5;12:8) The everlasting covenant is between two equals so the eternal word is the Law backed by the kingdom of the Father. In case of faith we have the basis of these two worlds (He.11:3) which we shall leave aside for the moment. What are the equal entities here? They are Power on the part of God Wisdom on the part of Man. St Paul separates Man as the Lord of heaven, from man who is the earthy. "The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven."(1 Co.15:47-48)
When Jesus was born of woman his deity was never in jeopardy since he is the Word become flesh and sent with the divine Mandate. ( John 3:16)
When Jesus spoke "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work" it is this Word was God it refers.( John 1:1; 5:17-23)
Speaking of the context Mark 2:24 we have the Pharisees questioning "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him."
Next point of Sabbath is that the day Seven. God has decree the day which touches his Alpha Omega aspect. " I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee./Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession."(Ps.2:7-8) There is no sanctity for observing Sabbath without the Son element incorporated in our lives. This heresy has arisen because the Christians interpret the word of God literally and assume it is the seventh day of a week. It is an error. It is thus approaching the Bible with out the aid of the Spirit. John's epistle speaks of those who have the Son has also the Father.
Hi Jazzmanrd. Not sure whether you're wanting to better understand this phrase in Nehemiah 1:5, or not. In case you are, Nehemiah, in his anguished prayer to God, described how he viewed this mighty God, Who alone could save His people & prosper his (Nehemiah's) request to the Babylonian king, Artaxerxes.
Sometimes, our present understanding of English words have changed as culture & word usage evolves. So here in this verse, Nehemiah describes the Almighty God as "great and terrible". In Hebrew, the word used for 'terrible' is 'yare', which means 'to take fright'. One might think, why should we be frightened or terrified of a God Who is merciful, kind & gracious? Though many Christians today hold only to such a view of God, we know from reading all the Scriptures, that God is also a God of Wrath & of Justice, all within His Glorious Holiness. So, in confronting such a God, anyone whose heart is not right with Him, would do well to tremble & shake in His Presence, even as Nehemiah knew this God Who had the Power to consign all of Israel to destruction for their many sins. Even the Hebrews writer could state, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" ( Hebrews 10:31).
So the word we could use today instead of 'terrible' would be 'awesome', not as the world uses the word, but unto the Living God before Whom we would stand struck with awe in both His Power, but also His great Grace.
Hello Havefaith85: It must be hard to know a loved one is suffering. My prayers are with you and your wife and your daughter also. God is a great, loving Father and He WILL meet your needs according to His will.
Don't feel like you can't pray whenever you need to. Asking for prayer for real and sincere needs is something God always wants us to do. He is our Heavenly Father and loves us unconditionally. Go to Him always with your needs and reach out to your brothers and sisters in the Lord also because the bible says to pray without ceasing which includes praying with other Christians.
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18
"16. Rejoice evermore. 17. PRAY WITHOUT CEASING 18. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
My mom was relaying a story tonight about a huge guy on the bus who went after someone trying to touch my Aunt (who is in her 80's) when travelling through a bad neighborhood for her part time job. The guy who defended her seemed to be dangerous himself (and perhaps was); but my point is illustrative of how the Lord works in unexpected ways.
I am not sure how it is for others on this forum; but often we expect God to answer our prayers either on our own; or with the help of our favorite circle of friends. I have seen the opposite happen more often; however. I worked with a very mentally abusive Paralegal in my former place of employment who the Lord used to help me get a decent agreement with my ex wife for divorce settlement. I didn't really care about what happened but didn't want long term issues. The only thing I was really wanting to do was to make it painful enough for her so that she may repent; or at least understand the dire consequences of committing adultery. Overall; my job there as a file clerk ensured that I had a full time income for many years and was able to support myself when I had to find a place to live on my own. The same thing could be said for someone who was part of the family practice that eventually split; as I was able to do a fair amount of notary and weekend work for some extra cash as well.
Those in the world know who is going to work hard and have principles even if they don't want to act very grateful much of the time. Nonetheless I was given a decent raise or two there.
I mention all this because I think it prudent for that task that we spend most of our waking hours doing for our working life be something we see the Lord's hand in. I was fortunate enough to have a number of deep conversations about Christ with a professing believer on that job; as well as others there (who would claim to be Christians but clearly through their actions weren't). To be continued next post....
Here I shall give what seven decades of studying the word of God has taught me. My parents both devout Christians kept family prayers at the core of their parenting responsibilities. This led me to read the Bible even when they sent me over to a boarding school at the age of eleven. My understanding of it went through several phases and only when I began doing my word ministry the Spirit took over my instruction. (2 Ti.3:16)
I shall give in brief my understanding of the God document.
Rightly dividing the truth we set children of light under one nation and the children of darkness in the other in terms of God who is the judge. John 5:22. Jesus Christ shall determine which are the goats and which are the sheep. This is given in a similitude. (Matt.25:31-46) 'When the Son of man comes in glory' gives It is the fulfillment of Ge.1:3-4.
Similarly the seven days in Ge.1 shall never contradict. These are seven bullet point headings in the Everlasting Covenant. So sixth day indicates God blessed man ,which is to lead man to the throne of God and of the Lamb. (Re.22:1) God blessed the seventh day signifying it is without repentance.(Ro.11:29). All events, names of land and people, their significance or what happens to them or their actions, are of consequence. New Jerusalem is fulfilled in heaven and comes down. So correct approach is to treat both worlds of the Spirit and of the earth as one. Col.1:1-3; 2 Co.5:1-5. Christian Living is walking the talk.
Comparing spiritual with spiritual is the correct way to explain the doctrine and shall not contradict the holiness of God under any circumstance. So promises are yea in the Son."
As most proclaiming Christ know Matthew 28:19 states:
Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
As to the definition of a disciple; that would be an interesting topic for those more familiar with the meaning of the original language. It certainly involves being a follower of those with true teachings; and is a group activity. Such should be the case in regard to evangelism; but from my experience it is often lacking. There is often inconsistency if group efforts to evangelize whether on the street or in a retirement community so that the routine relationships and the time spent and frequency of appearance for the recipients of the message discourages building deep and long lasting relationships. Such relationships are the basis for further instruction of doctrines from those in church leadership. It is admittedly hard when we are reaching those who are elderly or infirmed to establish a method of transportation to church; and hence it is easier when we can find those qualified to bring a service to such a location as a nursing home which I have seen with some success in the past. The same issue; of course has to be considered for those on the streets who may need special attention that may be violent or have substance abuse issues.
As believers; I have stated before that it is helpful on the streets for example to have some focusing on praying for others while others preach. We also can't undervalue prayer for the saints who are laboring as to their safety and reaching the individuals God has predetermined to meet on a particular day.
I am hopeful that funding for church missions can be more focused on activities in local communities rather than being funneled overseas in totality. If there is a disconnect between Christians fellowshipping in a building and how we to operate in evangelism going to church won't be understood properly.
Part 9. J Vernon Mcgee. God's Test - Genesis 22 continuing.
We should pause here to consider a deep truth for God's children today. Do you know, friends, that for the Christian the greatest testings do not necessarily come at the beginning of our life as a believer? Sometimes God waits until we have had many years along the path, and then He brings a testing into our life so that He might develop us - a testing that we would never have been given at the beginning of our walk with Him. Often these testings cause Christians to say, "Well, I do not see why God has allowed this to happen to me!" My friend, it is evidence of the fact that you are in favor with God. You have come to the place where He can test you. And remember that He will not test you beyond what you are able to bear (see 1 Corinthians 10:13).
Notice that this test did not come at the first part of Abraham's life. I am very frank to say that I do not believe that Abraham could have stood this test when God first called him out. At the beginning of his life of faith, he never would have gone this far with God. It was only after several times of lesser testings, then backsliding, but always returning to his relationship with God that he was put to this ultimate test.
Mount Zion founded in Zion is a fortress. The sorrows of death compassed the Psalmist yet he could say "The Lord is my rock, and my fortress" and what is our certainty? Is it not that he conquered death and he is the author and finisher of our faith. He refers to the valley of the shadow of death. Before us we have a cloud of witnesses, many martyrs ahead of us,"being destitute, afflicted, tormented;/(Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth/ And these all, having obtained a good report through faith,"(He.11:37-40) The earth is a vale of tears for those who have no hope beyond this world of shadows. "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me." It is thus we look at the two worlds of the Spirit and of this body.
" My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:/ And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand./My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand."( John 10:27-29)
Christian Living is walking by faith having no confidence in flesh but in our Savior who opened the way for us to follow. "Thy follow me" is his trust. So Living is in capital to distinguish from those Christians who walk after the earthly things.
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16.
The gospel is power!
Good advice is not worth the snap of the fingers unless there is power to see it through.
There is three steps to our Salvation.
Justification.
Sanctification.
Glorification
Justification is "an act of God whereby He pronounces a sinner to be righteous because of that sinner's faith in Christ." We are justified, or declared righteous, at the moment of our salvation.
Sanctification is "the process by which Christians are set apart for God from the rest of the world, or the process by which Christians are made holy." Progressive, or experiential, sanctification, as it is sometimes called, is the effect of obedience to the Word of God in one's life. It is the same as growing in the Lord ( 2 Peter 3:18) or spiritual maturity.
Glorification is "God's final removal of sin from the life of the saints so that they stand faultless before Him in glory in eternity"
As Christians, we were justified when we confessed Christ and believed ( Romans 10:9), we are sanctified as we grow in holiness through the work of the Spirit.
Ephesians 4:11-32; Galatians 5:16-24, and we will someday be glorified when we are resurrected into eternal life ( Colossians 3:4).
Justification is a one-time event, sanctification is a process, and glorification is a future event.
If you are a Christian, you are guaranteed all three steps.
I agree there are many people who claim they are "Christians" but don't walk the walk, however, I don't quite understand what you mean that Paul hadn't reached "salvation." Salvation is when we sincerely repent and accept Christ as our Savior and we are in God's good graces, we can trust that Heaven is our destination as long as we continue to walk in the Spirit. Paul was definitely saved, a true believer. It's perfection in the Christian life that we want to reach for, through the perfecting power of the Holy Spirit. We learn how to reach this perfection by sincere, consistent prayer, study of God's word and fasting, in always loving our Savior and by living a holy, righteous life, WITHOUT sin, which we must do. Some people believe that because we are human we are too weak to live without sin (sinning/christian doctrine) but to me that also says that the redeeming, divine blood of Christ is too weak to overcome our sinful natures. Not So! This doctrine ignores that we CAN live without the "old man nature" because Christ told us to. See Eph 4:21-24, Galatians 5:16, Galatians 5:19-21 and Galatians 5:24. This doctrine doesn't differentiate between faults/weaknesses, (same thing), and sins. EXAMPLE: If you are angry and jealous with someone at work and you always want to lash out at them but instead you trust the Holy Spirit to keep you from lashing out and to learn to love this person in Him, it stays a weakness until eventually the anger and jealousy change to the patient love of Christ and the weakness is overcome. But if you give in to the anger and jealousy and are always sullen and unkind to this person this mindset is sinful, your soul is in danger of being lost. Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." These two promises don't go together, they are an either/or promise from God. One is for sin, the other for righteousness. God bless :)
Whenever I feel the ay you describe I remind myself of how Elijah felt when he had run from Jezebel to the cave in I Kings 19 feeling as though he alone was zealous for God and His ways. God told Elijah that He had set apart 7000 in Israel that have not bent their knee to Ba'al nor kissed the image with their mouths. God spoke to Elijah in His still small voice, reassuring Elijah that he was not alone in following God whole heartedly and lifted up the prophet's spirit into being hopeful and courageous to go from the cave and do just as God told HIm to do.
We. too, can trust that God is able to keep those who are His and bring them to hope and assurance of having many brethren that are like you and I and many on this site. The world is full of strong Christians who are fighting the good fight of faith and obedience, many facing martyrdom. But in the U.S. and Europe, much complacency, as you state. Like you, I hate those whose witness is so shallow that any demand of discipleship is seen as too much for them to pursue and the commands of Christ in his recorded words in the gospels and what He spoke through Paul and other apostles are seen as an impingement on their "freedom in Christ".
Indeed, we are free in Christ, to do what is good and right, not to continue in evil ways and worldliness. Perhaps many people who live carnally for themselves, for their comfort, and for their preferred sins have been ill-taught, but anyone who truly searches the Scriptures knows that we are to live godly lives in this wicked generation, fight against the sinful nature that we all have up until our body dies, and resist the lies and deceptions of the wicked one who wants to woo us into complacency, desensitize us to our own sinful ways and that of the community we live in (socially and society wise), and have us believe that right is wrong and wrong is O.K. for believers as well as unbelievers. He will lull any who are not diligent and careful.
"Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you." Philippians 4:9 KJV
Those things which you do...
"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14 KJV
press toward the prize
"Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision." Philippians 3:2 KJV
But beware
"Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:12 KJV
Has hasn't yet attained the prize and has not been perfected yet, but strives to (v15).
"For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:" Philippians 3:20 KJV
What stood out to me about these verses is:
1. Paul gives a series of challenges and leads by example. He writes that Christianity is something that is practiced, involves effort, is an action, by doing, like running a race to receive a prize. Not that he's earning it by works. This is clarified many times. But genuine and not a 1-minute prayer someone made 30 years ago where nothing changed and nothing was practiced since.
2. Paul says he hasn't yet attained the salvation. He has hope for salvation, but doesn't say he was already "saved" and finished and can just sit around watching Seinfeld reruns.
The reason for sharing: I think it might help someone, because what I hear in sermons and the way people talk, it seems Christians don't take Christianity very seriously. There's little to no transformation. Paul says to become a slave of righteousness, and people are like, "no thanks, I didn't sign up for that." They're acting like they got a golden entry ticket and they're done. They assume they don't have to change, can continue to deeply enjoy sin, enjoy flesh, and enjoy the benefits of satan. Though they don't realize who they're actually following.
This discussion started for myself when Adam quoted Isaiah 12:1-2, and appeared the pseudo name of Jehovah, which was inadvertently added into the translation from the original source.
Comparing what Adam quoted from Isaiah 12:1-2 in the translations of Scriptures, with the Complete Jewish Bible, here's the difference:
Adam quoted: Is.12:1-2:
1- And in that day thou shalt say, O Lord, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me.
2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.
From Complete Jewish Bible-Is.12:1-2: (Comparison-see the difference)
1And you shall say on that day,"I will thank You,O Lord,for You were wroth with me;may Your wrath turn away and may You comfort me.
2Here is the GOD of my salvation,"I shall trust and not fear;for the strength and praise of the Eternal the Lord was my salvation."
So, Isaiah didn't cited the name of Devil when he preached the message to the people of Israel.Isaiah had the Spirit of Christ, understand?He was a messianic prophet,you know of this.By the way,JESUS still was in the bosom of the Father- John 1:18
You said I should supply my references that you may research this too,I agree,but I did not still do this because the site doesn't accept to post links.My assertions were based from a source called chabad,try to find it: It's Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible, Ketuvin(Scriptures).
As you said, it certainly is a serious matter if both Jews and Christians(then and now)are reading corrupt copies of the original.
Between both Scriptures above quoted,which of them is approved by the Holy Spirit?Only one is true,and approved by the Spirit of Truth.In my vision is the original source,but I'm referring strictly to this portion of Scriptures- Isaiah 12:1-2.
Therefore with joy shall we draw water out of the wells of salvation.
Hello Oseas. I've been following this thread & like Adam, am somewhat confused by your claim that the Names of God we read in the Hebrew we have (& what Israel has), are incorrect, indeed satanic.
You've just written, "Tell me: What Scripture is more accurate? The original Hebrew Scriptures, or the copies of the Hebrew Scriptures that were transcribed in a lot and different translations?" If this is so, i.e. you are quoting from the "original Hebrew", then could you supply your references where you learnt this so I may research this as well? Because it certainly is a serious matter if both Jews & Christians (then and now) are reading corrupt copies of the original.
As an example, when speaking with Muslims, I learned that they claim that our Bibles are corrupt, as Jews & Christians (the people of the Book), have changed verses, even removed or added some, making the Bible untrustworthy. So naturally I asked them to show me those changes that were made, & unfortunately but expectedly, they weren't able to, simply because they were parroting what they were told by their imams. In fact, the Qur'an also states that God can remove, change or replace a verse in the Qur'an (2:106; 16:101), but no Muslim can tell us whether what they read presently are true words or false since they might be reading words that have gone through revisions or deletions. Likewise, it is important to know the original, which you refer to, so that we may understand the matter & your belief in it. Thank you.
In light of my last posting a few seconds ago; when we wrestle with tough scriptures and go through emotional sadness over the condition of sin and its effects I thought of something else.
It probably goes without saying here how we in this country still even with all that's going on have it pretty good compared with most of the rest of the world. They wouldn't admit it of course; but this lack of scriptural knowledge on how we are called as Christians to suffer and have God chastise us has made us very weak indeed in general as believers in the USA today. If we are willing to suffer for His Name's sake; then all the arguments about the evils of the world at least can be relatable; that is hard for the prosperity teachers to grasp no doubt until perhaps some personal tragedy comes forth in their lives (which in their minds may be a financial bankruptcy due to their own greed for gain). No doubt many atheists will argue that they are concerned about evils in society; which is justified to a point as to how the compromised churches handle it or ignore problems in the world today. I'm sure some deconstructionists aren't concerned that much about others but that of course won't be an honest admission; unless they become diehard Satanists.
We of course have to be aware of how media may be bolstering views for those who disavow God and of course suppress those who do preach truth.
On the positive side there is much historical evidence for scripture; some of which is a couple hundred years old but nonetheless valid. I'm still learning myself but it is good when we can show evidence for a skeptic who is actually seeking validity of the scriptures in regard to the history. That doesn't seem to be the focus today. The whole "unhitching" concept brought up by Andy Stanley from the Old Testament seems only a step away from what many detractors are saying about Yahweh being a cruel and tempermental God.
I wanted to emphasize that those who spend a lot of time on social media are going to be blindsided by the rebuttal of well known teachers of truth by these individuals. I haven't the time or heart to stomach it; except for the rare instance when someone is discussing politics and how people are putting certain individuals on a level of worship (won't mention any names).
Sometimes there are Christians who can critique these things; but you can't be sure until watching certain videos where the narrator stands.
There are a few pastors and well known musicians who have embraced this mentality. Again; it is important for those who do believe to be aware of hypocrisy within the church so that a claim can be judged valid or invalid that is hurled as an accusation.
We can't of course win every intellectual or historical argument; but knowledge of the Bible and some worldly wisdom benefits us if we seriously engage these people; otherwise we may very well get steamrolled attempting any discourse with these individuals. Again; not for self justification-but I have attempted to bring out Calvin and Luthor as not being exactly steller examples of believers demonstrating the love of God to each other; but in the same token showing that they indeed grasp some deep truths in regard to characteristics of God's sovereignty and predestination in particular.
The hard verses I have also attempted to give some answer for where women and children; and men and animals were called for destruction. One of them is that some were giant offspring and therefore not human; and the other is that their sin (such as rampant infant sacrifices) were so heinous that if anything future suffering was relieved with their quick demise. The other point was that physical death doesn't always equate spiritual as for instance appears to be the case for children under a certain age.
If we can't struggle with the angst these truths show us we aren't very human.
In a nutshell; it is verbage intended to justify a move away from faith in the Bible. My concern is that we are able to grasp some of these concepts to have wise answers for those who examine the tough scriptures and find the God we believe in illogical; or just plain mean. These people at least are going to these passages and for those who aren't scripturally knowledgeable that is one issue; but for those who are easily swayed by these arguments will be tempted to fall away. I believe that this is part of the falling away and God judging the church; and its intended result by God would be to galvanize those of true faith to shine their light ever brighter.
It wasn't intentional on my part to focus on God's "emotions" as a direct rebuttal for such individuals; but I'm trying to go through tough scriptures. The hardest ones; of course talk of God destroying men; women and children. I suspect part of the problem is with professing believers who take concepts like God's love and want to forget about His wrath as having to be the other side of God's character; the same idea exists with blessing and cursings which also are prominent throughout scripture.
Misuse of scriptures by professing Christians; of course has justified in some minds adultery; abuse of women and children; and violence; a greedy "prosperity" gospel; etc. I believe we need more individuals weeping as it were in front of the altar; genuine remorse for sin; of course only comes from those transformed within; and most atheists cannot deny when a person is genuine; even if they hate what they have to say.
It used to be years ago that some would quietly walk away from church; often because they cherished their sin too much; but they had enough sense not to continue in church as a hypocrite with their lives contradicting in action what they were called to claim to believe. Nowadays; the pride of society seems to have brought many who want to prove through arguments how dumb our faith is.
"I don't believe that the Pope is speaking for God allowing for same sex marriages and the Pope isn't great, matter of fact I believe the the Pope is Satan himself." I don't believe he speaks for God either and, indeed, he personifies Satan himself. I was being factious. I left Catholicism too when I left my Catholic home at 18. I couldn't stand it and was so relieved when it was in my past.
I don't know exactly what you mean when you say "and have been searching for a long time for the "true" religion." "True religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." James 1:7. Because you are a true believer, God is in your heart, soul and mind. You belong to God. Those who are true believers are The Church of God, sometimes called the Kingdom of God. You are a part of the Body of Christ. This is your religion. James is saying if you love God you will show His love unconditionally, but especially to the needy and keep yourself holy. If you wonder how you can "keep unspotted in the world" do this - read Exodus 20: 1-17. These are the ten commandments of God-not laws-commandments written by God Himself. "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous." 1 John 5: 3 and Jesus said: "For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:30. Some Christians teach a Sinning/Christian doctrine but this is false. We may have weakness and faults as a true believer. These are not sins. When we are born again we are not "perfect", of course, but God helps us overcome these weaknesses and faults by maturing in Him but we are to "go and sin no more." John 8: 3-11/ 11- ....... And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more." I know I have been preaching :) and if I have presumed things about you that are wrong please forgive me, I just want to help if I can. God Bless :) I hope you will respond.
My brother (nephew's dad in this conversation) has been a believer since high school. But he got involved with the Way International and then the Church of Christ while married and with his children. Since he moved away from his family 30 years ago due to being abusive to his step daughters, he kind of morphed the Church of Christ culture into his own brand of Christianity. When my nephew moved in with him when he turned 18 my nephew was totally dependent on his dad and having been "fake homeschooled" by his lazy mother, he never had a normal social life, nor an education past being able to sound out words,(which is K to 1st grade reading level),o n top of being very neglected by her. He was not able to get work because of his lack of literacy and severe allergies to most things one would come in contact with at a job which results in severe asthmatic and allergic reactions. He has been with my brother for a little over 10 years and so my brother has greatly influenced him with his "brand" of Christianity (which is very legalistic and tightly narrowed in regards to the "world" as he sees it. So my nephew has not been exposed to so much of what is everyday living for most people, including Christians. We are to be in the world but not of the world, as Jesus said. This sheltering has been detrimental to my nephew.
Since began to play in a blues trio around the area, he has become well known in the blues community and was making his own money finally with the gigs the trio did weekly. This music scene IS his social life now and his means of making money. But now that he cannot play the definitely feels the loss of that outlet for his talent. His depression began to get bad last fall, and came to a crisis level in February. Since then he has been in and out of several hospitals being held there in psych ward and still attempting to commit suicide in each one. He really has no power in and over his life and that is a terrible place to be.
cont.
I searched deeply an explanation for this biblical mystery, and by the Word of GOD what I found is the follow:
First of all, frogs are amphibians vertebrate animals that live in the aquatic environment and on the terrestrial environment. But is it the same in the spiritual environment? Yes, it is.
1-AQUATIC ENVIRONMENT OF THE EVIL SPIRITS LIKE FROGS
Revelation 17:15-And the angel saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, are peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues. NOTE: Except the TRUE CHRISTIANS/ ELIEVERS, all the peoples of all the nations are leaded and guided by the THREE UNCLEAN SPIRITS like frogs.TERRIBLE.
The aquatic environment of these three spirits of demons like frogs which guide the peoples or rule nations of all tongues in whole earth, through devilish systems, as religious systems(Catholicism, and Judaism, spiritism, budhism, islamism, among others),and also political systems,and military systems,and social and cultural systems,among others systems. In fact, Satan goes to and fro and from walking up and down among them.
2 - TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT OF THE EVIL SPIRITS LIKE FROGS
FIRST we need to understand that Israel is an island among the waters (Gentile nations)or in the middle of the sea, as is described above in according the Scriptures. Israel is the earth, a dry land, Genesis 1:v.10-3rd Day-or still the clay- Isaiah 64:v.8-a dry land surrounded by water on all sides or by allegory surrounded by the Gentile nations. Isaiah prophesyed saying: Is.41:1-2 -> 1-Keep silence before me,O islands; and let the people renew their strength:let them come near;then let them speak:let us come near together to Judgment.
2 Who raised up the righteous man from the east,called him to his foot,gave the nations before him,and made him rule over kings?he gave them as the dust to his Sword- Revelation 2:v.26 to 28-,and as driven stubble to his bow.(bow- Revelation 6:v.2)
We know that nothing at all would even be alive if it wasn't for the grace of God , we know that God is kind to atheists every day . Life is God's gift , He is the source and sustainer of it and He can give and He can take away as Job says .
God puts a difference between His children and the atheists . We are in a covenant relationship with Him , they are outside of that . Christ is the door . As long as we are in Christ we need not fear the death of our bodies . Atheists live in faithless fear , insecurity and misery . Desperately trying to fill the void that can only be filled by the Truth . Here are some references that illustrate what I'm trying to say . Exodus chapter 23 v 31-33 , Ex Ch 34 v 10-17 , Lev Ch 20 v 22-26 , Deut Ch 10 v 17-19 , Deut Ch 20 v 10-18 , Deut Ch 32 v 39. Ezekiel Ch 18 v 32 , Eze Ch 33 v 11, Luke Ch 13 v 1-5 . John Ch 17 , Jesus's prayer and finally , what does God want for all of us ? Deuteronomy Ch 5 v 29 . Atheists do not accept God's Sovereignty , they think that they have ' rights' . They don't realise that anything and everything that they have had in the past , have today and will have tomorrow , is only because of God's mercy and kindness . They think they do things themselves and can create their own lives and destinies etc .
Ultimately; whether it be Armageddon or the final Great White throne judgment; or the individual demise of every person outside of the faith since Adam fell; the fate of unregenerate man is horrible beyond imagination. The biggest problem is that we don't know who Christ is; the eyes of those under Satan's power are blinded ( 2 Corinthians 4:4). Once we can see clearly we will be on our face; so it is better to do it now than under compulsion at judgment. The righteous also are constrained but by His love to praise and worship the Lord. The Holy Spirit when we are fully surrendered will fill our entire being with praise.
For now; it wouldn't surprise me a bit if an atheist would have less of an issue with say capital punishment as many who call themselves Christian. The Antichrist himself is called the "lawless one" and indeed at least one atheist I met was from a worldly standpoint a very "moral" person. What the law does is serve as a "schoolmaster" ( Gal. 3:24) to bring people to faith.
This explains why it is possible for the vilest sinner (such as possibly occured with Jeffrey Dahmer) to change. As Christians we shouldn't have a double standard we can exact justice to protect the innocent but still have an attitude of unconditional love and forgiveness which wouldn't be comprehended by an atheist.
Anyway another good point is that Christ never said the adage that God helps those who help themselves. If there was any other way certainly God would not have allowed His son to go through the suffering on the cross; or turn His back on Him at that instant of time. This shows sin is DEADLY serious.
Also of course 1 Corinthians 11:30 shows that even God' speople can have a shortened life living in disobedience. God delivered a man over to Satan so that at some point before death he would repent (apparently the man came to his senses and eventually was restored to fellowship). Better to make it to heaven through fire than hell.
Genesis 12:3 shows a blessing from God to Abraham and his descendants which affects all those who bless Israel with a blessing; and curses those with a curse. This effectively puts us all in a position to reap blessings from being part of God's family even if not in the bloodline of Abraham. Romans 9:6-7 shows that is not bloodline that guarantees eternal inheritance and John 8:33-35 makes this clear and the punchline as it were is in verse 44 where Jesus tells them point blank that they are in reality sons of the Devil. They would literally spit in the face of the one who came to save all mankind; including those Gentiles they despised.
It is very interesting to me that there were no punches pulled with any of the Patriarchs in assessing the true condition and resulting destiny of their descendants; indeed it proves inspiration from God. There was never any argument as to the bad news so to speak as to the validity of the message; only anger in the case of Esau of a blessing lost to a usurper brother.
It does seem Esau mellowed out after being in a position where he likely would have killed his brother if his mother didn't have the wisdom to send him away. Eventually there was some restitution of family ties.
I highly recommend Hebrews 11 and 12 for further insight on the saints of God and admonitions for those who profess to be Christians. Here we see how tenacity was ineffective for Esau due to his generally sinful lifestyle; but also we can see Jacob's tenacity wrestling God all night long in Genesis 32 starting in verse 22. He was preparing to meet Esau and sent his family ahead; thus alone in the wilderness and God granted the blessing. Part of it no doubt was an attitude of humility toward his brother who accepted his gift and then he separated from him. Joseph's blessing no doubt validated the dream of his youth and was proven by his humbling as a slave and exaltation.
Now for a completely different discussion. Christians have argued about whether we should use humor or if God has a sense of humor. Given the verses about God laughing at the calamity of the wicked (such as Psalm 2); we need to be careful if we ask the Lord this question as well as with our intentions.
My experience (hitting the big THREESCORE this month) shows me that humor may be best served to lighten the burdens of our everyday annoyances; and SOMETIMES certain situations involving others can show the folly of this life. It is often better not to know the individual mentioned. Prayer is crucial as the most important thing we can do for others; and we need others to hold us accountable if we are ill advised in opening our mouths. The focus must be on the mission field; first and foremost. It is almost always best to let others bring up something humerous; because as with any other "liberties" someone may be easily offended and perhaps tempted to sin when they are the butt of a joke; no matter how "innocent" it may seem.
Few seem to categorize humor as something related to a joyful heart or spirit especially these days. It seems unheard of today in my life to think of someone who is that joyful who even smiles but maybe I am jaded in that mindset. Even laughing at ourselves can be wrong if we are constantly badmouthing ourselves. I had to rebuke brothers in the Lord who were too "hypercalvinistic" to the point where thy seemed boastful about what "worms" they were.
We then have the situation regarding nonbelieving friends and co-workers. Often I have found the best thing to do is either say nothing or excuse myself and try to say; eat my lunch elsewhere. I have in the past found family squabbles and the meetings involved when my former law firm I was employed at split up hilarious at times. Again; we shouldn't focus on character assasssination or take sides in these events but can't say humor is always wrong.
"And Jesus answered and said, while he taught in the temple, How say the scribes that Christ is the son of David?"(v.35). The scribes as mentioned here is a generic name for those who interpret the Law but they do not consider they are bound by it. "All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not." For they says, and they do not."(Matt.23:2-3). Matthew is referring to the scribes and the Pharisees who sit in Moses' seat. It is a metaphor for spiritual authority of the Law. Isaiah gives us a throne which is the ultimate authority "The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool."(Is.66:1)
Mark gives 'the woe to ye' discourse in Ch.23 as part of his doctrine which explains why the word of God is a two-edged sword (He.4:12).The Gospel is for salvation and if it is neglected it shall prove unto damnation. "And he said unto them in his doctrine," is consequential since it is the eternal word. In our times we could call what the scribes indulged was in Jesus talk. The saying of Jesus "but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not," is a sane advice for Christians who would want to live a godly life.
Jesus.
In vv.35-37 Jesus asks,"How say the scribes that Christ is the son of David?"The scribes erred in their textual criticism by omitting the intent and the integrity of the Psalm 110:1 This is what literal approach does. What they threw out is the everlasting covenant were seven days pendent on the day decreed for the Son. Along with it goes the significance of the Lamb slain, (Ps.2:7; Re.13:8) What happened in a megachurch where The elders had publicly disciplined a woman for refusing to take back her husband owes to their lack of understanding the word. As it turned out, the woman's fears proved true, and her husband went to prison for child molestation and abuse. The church never retracted its discipline or apologised in the 20+ years since.
In previous postings I have discussed many different applications to the scripture. In reality an atheist can gain much from an academic exercise in a literary study as anyone else to deduce historical narratives that correspond with archaeology or an English professor can find beauty in the acrostic patterns of poetry in the Psalms and other hidden places in scripture.
Luke 12:48-50 indicates that more is required to those given much (my paraphrasing). If we are searching for truth it is one thing; but if we claim we are Christians and want to play games cherry picking to avoid tough verses related to our conduct; or just seeking "pleasant" scripture snippets then we are doing what one well known media advertises (I'll leave that to the audience to figure that out). I am convinced one of the most dangerous trends are those who are knowingly living in rebellion and yet claiming "authority" to "name and claim; blab and grab; etc". Promises in scripture are conditional; and even those that are UNCONDITIONAL related to promises in the New Covenant are based on HIS accepting us in the beloved ( Ephesians 1:6). However you slice it on terminology related to Predestination or "free will" it is clear that God chooses to reveal His Son to the elect ( Matthew 11:27). Just WHO the elect is; and whether God determines that ahead of time to those who will respond is beyond the scope of this study. The same idea is related to the PLAN of salvation; all those saved come to Christ the same way whether we consider the plan in general or the individual conforming to it. In short we only come to Christ one way through the Son; and as Romans 10:9 states that involves a verbal affirmation and a heart change which truly loves and embraces the Lord. Godly sorrow is associated with repentance; worldly sorrow leads to death ( 2 Cor. 7:10).
There are several speculations on what the mark may be, a literal mark, a computer chip, symbols, and more but the mark of the beast will be based on worship. It is the false prophet, the second beast who causes people to worship the first beast and his image. The number 666 goes back to Babylon, the 36 gods numbered 1 through 36, 6 columns and 6 rows the numbers were arranged in such a way that the sum of any given row, column, or diagonal was 111, and therefore the sum of all six rows or all six columns was 666, like 18+20+22+21+17+13 =111, 1+2+3 to 36=666.
We are told to have faith and patience Luke 21:19 Hebrews 6:12 and hear in Revelation 13:10 and Revelation 14:11 that if we are strong in our faith and patience we will have the steadfastness and endurance (the meaning of patience) to not give into the temptation of the three who is to come, Satan, the beast out of the bottomless pit and the beast who will be the false prophet, even if we face death, the hour of temptation, Rev. 3:10.
Something like this was done in the past in the Decian persecution in 250 AD. The decree ordered sacrifices be performed in the presence of a Roman magistrate, it was a signed and witnessed certificate, issued to that effect. People had to perform a sacrifice to the Roman gods and the well-being of the emperor.
Christians were put to death for refusing to perform the sacrifices, many others apostatized and performed the ceremonies, and others went into hiding. Those who compromised were able to prosper economically. By way of contrast, those who did not have the certificate were unable to buy or sell and suffered economic hardship. Buying and selling was done in marketplaces ruled by Rome. This may be similar to what is coming but a mark instead of a certificate.
Hope this helps.
God bless,
RLW
Luke and Matthew also give the context and the quote, "And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath."( Luke 6:5;12:8) The everlasting covenant is between two equals so the eternal word is the Law backed by the kingdom of the Father. In case of faith we have the basis of these two worlds (He.11:3) which we shall leave aside for the moment. What are the equal entities here? They are Power on the part of God Wisdom on the part of Man. St Paul separates Man as the Lord of heaven, from man who is the earthy. "The first man is of the earth, earthy; the second man is the Lord from heaven."(1 Co.15:47-48)
When Jesus was born of woman his deity was never in jeopardy since he is the Word become flesh and sent with the divine Mandate. ( John 3:16)
When Jesus spoke "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work" it is this Word was God it refers.( John 1:1; 5:17-23)
Speaking of the context Mark 2:24 we have the Pharisees questioning "For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him."
Next point of Sabbath is that the day Seven. God has decree the day which touches his Alpha Omega aspect. " I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee./Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession."(Ps.2:7-8) There is no sanctity for observing Sabbath without the Son element incorporated in our lives. This heresy has arisen because the Christians interpret the word of God literally and assume it is the seventh day of a week. It is an error. It is thus approaching the Bible with out the aid of the Spirit. John's epistle speaks of those who have the Son has also the Father.
Sometimes, our present understanding of English words have changed as culture & word usage evolves. So here in this verse, Nehemiah describes the Almighty God as "great and terrible". In Hebrew, the word used for 'terrible' is 'yare', which means 'to take fright'. One might think, why should we be frightened or terrified of a God Who is merciful, kind & gracious? Though many Christians today hold only to such a view of God, we know from reading all the Scriptures, that God is also a God of Wrath & of Justice, all within His Glorious Holiness. So, in confronting such a God, anyone whose heart is not right with Him, would do well to tremble & shake in His Presence, even as Nehemiah knew this God Who had the Power to consign all of Israel to destruction for their many sins. Even the Hebrews writer could state, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" ( Hebrews 10:31).
So the word we could use today instead of 'terrible' would be 'awesome', not as the world uses the word, but unto the Living God before Whom we would stand struck with awe in both His Power, but also His great Grace.
Don't feel like you can't pray whenever you need to. Asking for prayer for real and sincere needs is something God always wants us to do. He is our Heavenly Father and loves us unconditionally. Go to Him always with your needs and reach out to your brothers and sisters in the Lord also because the bible says to pray without ceasing which includes praying with other Christians.
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18
"16. Rejoice evermore. 17. PRAY WITHOUT CEASING 18. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
God Bless :)
My mom was relaying a story tonight about a huge guy on the bus who went after someone trying to touch my Aunt (who is in her 80's) when travelling through a bad neighborhood for her part time job. The guy who defended her seemed to be dangerous himself (and perhaps was); but my point is illustrative of how the Lord works in unexpected ways.
I am not sure how it is for others on this forum; but often we expect God to answer our prayers either on our own; or with the help of our favorite circle of friends. I have seen the opposite happen more often; however. I worked with a very mentally abusive Paralegal in my former place of employment who the Lord used to help me get a decent agreement with my ex wife for divorce settlement. I didn't really care about what happened but didn't want long term issues. The only thing I was really wanting to do was to make it painful enough for her so that she may repent; or at least understand the dire consequences of committing adultery. Overall; my job there as a file clerk ensured that I had a full time income for many years and was able to support myself when I had to find a place to live on my own. The same thing could be said for someone who was part of the family practice that eventually split; as I was able to do a fair amount of notary and weekend work for some extra cash as well.
Those in the world know who is going to work hard and have principles even if they don't want to act very grateful much of the time. Nonetheless I was given a decent raise or two there.
I mention all this because I think it prudent for that task that we spend most of our waking hours doing for our working life be something we see the Lord's hand in. I was fortunate enough to have a number of deep conversations about Christ with a professing believer on that job; as well as others there (who would claim to be Christians but clearly through their actions weren't). To be continued next post....
Here I shall give what seven decades of studying the word of God has taught me. My parents both devout Christians kept family prayers at the core of their parenting responsibilities. This led me to read the Bible even when they sent me over to a boarding school at the age of eleven. My understanding of it went through several phases and only when I began doing my word ministry the Spirit took over my instruction. (2 Ti.3:16)
I shall give in brief my understanding of the God document.
Rightly dividing the truth we set children of light under one nation and the children of darkness in the other in terms of God who is the judge. John 5:22. Jesus Christ shall determine which are the goats and which are the sheep. This is given in a similitude. (Matt.25:31-46) 'When the Son of man comes in glory' gives It is the fulfillment of Ge.1:3-4.
Similarly the seven days in Ge.1 shall never contradict. These are seven bullet point headings in the Everlasting Covenant. So sixth day indicates God blessed man ,which is to lead man to the throne of God and of the Lamb. (Re.22:1) God blessed the seventh day signifying it is without repentance.(Ro.11:29). All events, names of land and people, their significance or what happens to them or their actions, are of consequence. New Jerusalem is fulfilled in heaven and comes down. So correct approach is to treat both worlds of the Spirit and of the earth as one. Col.1:1-3; 2 Co.5:1-5. Christian Living is walking the talk.
Comparing spiritual with spiritual is the correct way to explain the doctrine and shall not contradict the holiness of God under any circumstance. So promises are yea in the Son."
As most proclaiming Christ know Matthew 28:19 states:
Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
As to the definition of a disciple; that would be an interesting topic for those more familiar with the meaning of the original language. It certainly involves being a follower of those with true teachings; and is a group activity. Such should be the case in regard to evangelism; but from my experience it is often lacking. There is often inconsistency if group efforts to evangelize whether on the street or in a retirement community so that the routine relationships and the time spent and frequency of appearance for the recipients of the message discourages building deep and long lasting relationships. Such relationships are the basis for further instruction of doctrines from those in church leadership. It is admittedly hard when we are reaching those who are elderly or infirmed to establish a method of transportation to church; and hence it is easier when we can find those qualified to bring a service to such a location as a nursing home which I have seen with some success in the past. The same issue; of course has to be considered for those on the streets who may need special attention that may be violent or have substance abuse issues.
As believers; I have stated before that it is helpful on the streets for example to have some focusing on praying for others while others preach. We also can't undervalue prayer for the saints who are laboring as to their safety and reaching the individuals God has predetermined to meet on a particular day.
I am hopeful that funding for church missions can be more focused on activities in local communities rather than being funneled overseas in totality. If there is a disconnect between Christians fellowshipping in a building and how we to operate in evangelism going to church won't be understood properly.
We can do the right thing with the wrong heart and we fall short of perfection.
TO BE PERFECT YOU WOULD HAVE TO BE BLAMELESS.
1 Corinthians 8:9-12 is another scenario to consider.
We often think of the things we do wrong as sin.
What about the things we don't do right or good? Consider James 4:17.
Here's our goal.
Galatians 5:25-26
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
Let's see if we are perfect in this using Galatians 5:24 "And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts."
Here's a list of the works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19-21.
( Most of these we can claim on the surface but God judges the heart.)
Are we PERFECTLY blameless in not doing any of these in our hearts?
THOSE ARE A LIST OF THINGS A CHRISTIAN SHOULDN'T BE DOING. ( If we are doing these we are sinning.)
Christians are known "BY" there Love for one another and should be barring fruit.
John 13:34-35.
1 John 4:20-21.
Matthew 7:15-16.
Let's use Galatians 5:22-23 to see what we should be doing. "PERFECTLY since our focus is on the ability to be perfect in these natural bodies.
love,
joy,
peace,
longsuffering,
gentleness,
goodness,
faith,
Meekness,
temperance.
IF YOU ARE NOT DOING THESE PERFECTLY "FOREVER ON! YOU ARE NOT PERFECT OR BLAMELESS.
Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. James 4:17.
God bless.
Part 9. J Vernon Mcgee. God's Test - Genesis 22 continuing.
We should pause here to consider a deep truth for God's children today. Do you know, friends, that for the Christian the greatest testings do not necessarily come at the beginning of our life as a believer? Sometimes God waits until we have had many years along the path, and then He brings a testing into our life so that He might develop us - a testing that we would never have been given at the beginning of our walk with Him. Often these testings cause Christians to say, "Well, I do not see why God has allowed this to happen to me!" My friend, it is evidence of the fact that you are in favor with God. You have come to the place where He can test you. And remember that He will not test you beyond what you are able to bear (see 1 Corinthians 10:13).
Notice that this test did not come at the first part of Abraham's life. I am very frank to say that I do not believe that Abraham could have stood this test when God first called him out. At the beginning of his life of faith, he never would have gone this far with God. It was only after several times of lesser testings, then backsliding, but always returning to his relationship with God that he was put to this ultimate test.
Part 10
The Supreme Sacrifice next.
God bless for now.
Mount Zion founded in Zion is a fortress. The sorrows of death compassed the Psalmist yet he could say "The Lord is my rock, and my fortress" and what is our certainty? Is it not that he conquered death and he is the author and finisher of our faith. He refers to the valley of the shadow of death. Before us we have a cloud of witnesses, many martyrs ahead of us,"being destitute, afflicted, tormented;/(Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth/ And these all, having obtained a good report through faith,"(He.11:37-40) The earth is a vale of tears for those who have no hope beyond this world of shadows. "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me." It is thus we look at the two worlds of the Spirit and of this body.
" My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:/ And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand./My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand."( John 10:27-29)
Christian Living is walking by faith having no confidence in flesh but in our Savior who opened the way for us to follow. "Thy follow me" is his trust. So Living is in capital to distinguish from those Christians who walk after the earthly things.
The gospel is not good advice.
However, the gospel is much more than good news!!
The gospel is "the power of God UNTO salvation".
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16.
The gospel is power!
Good advice is not worth the snap of the fingers unless there is power to see it through.
There is three steps to our Salvation.
Justification.
Sanctification.
Glorification
Justification is "an act of God whereby He pronounces a sinner to be righteous because of that sinner's faith in Christ." We are justified, or declared righteous, at the moment of our salvation.
Sanctification is "the process by which Christians are set apart for God from the rest of the world, or the process by which Christians are made holy." Progressive, or experiential, sanctification, as it is sometimes called, is the effect of obedience to the Word of God in one's life. It is the same as growing in the Lord ( 2 Peter 3:18) or spiritual maturity.
Glorification is "God's final removal of sin from the life of the saints so that they stand faultless before Him in glory in eternity"
As Christians, we were justified when we confessed Christ and believed ( Romans 10:9), we are sanctified as we grow in holiness through the work of the Spirit.
Ephesians 4:11-32; Galatians 5:16-24, and we will someday be glorified when we are resurrected into eternal life ( Colossians 3:4).
Justification is a one-time event, sanctification is a process, and glorification is a future event.
If you are a Christian, you are guaranteed all three steps.
THE GOSPEL IS "THE POWER OF GOD UNTO SALVATION!
God bless.
I agree there are many people who claim they are "Christians" but don't walk the walk, however, I don't quite understand what you mean that Paul hadn't reached "salvation." Salvation is when we sincerely repent and accept Christ as our Savior and we are in God's good graces, we can trust that Heaven is our destination as long as we continue to walk in the Spirit. Paul was definitely saved, a true believer. It's perfection in the Christian life that we want to reach for, through the perfecting power of the Holy Spirit. We learn how to reach this perfection by sincere, consistent prayer, study of God's word and fasting, in always loving our Savior and by living a holy, righteous life, WITHOUT sin, which we must do. Some people believe that because we are human we are too weak to live without sin (sinning/christian doctrine) but to me that also says that the redeeming, divine blood of Christ is too weak to overcome our sinful natures. Not So! This doctrine ignores that we CAN live without the "old man nature" because Christ told us to. See Eph 4:21-24, Galatians 5:16, Galatians 5:19-21 and Galatians 5:24. This doctrine doesn't differentiate between faults/weaknesses, (same thing), and sins. EXAMPLE: If you are angry and jealous with someone at work and you always want to lash out at them but instead you trust the Holy Spirit to keep you from lashing out and to learn to love this person in Him, it stays a weakness until eventually the anger and jealousy change to the patient love of Christ and the weakness is overcome. But if you give in to the anger and jealousy and are always sullen and unkind to this person this mindset is sinful, your soul is in danger of being lost. Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." These two promises don't go together, they are an either/or promise from God. One is for sin, the other for righteousness. God bless :)
Whenever I feel the ay you describe I remind myself of how Elijah felt when he had run from Jezebel to the cave in I Kings 19 feeling as though he alone was zealous for God and His ways. God told Elijah that He had set apart 7000 in Israel that have not bent their knee to Ba'al nor kissed the image with their mouths. God spoke to Elijah in His still small voice, reassuring Elijah that he was not alone in following God whole heartedly and lifted up the prophet's spirit into being hopeful and courageous to go from the cave and do just as God told HIm to do.
We. too, can trust that God is able to keep those who are His and bring them to hope and assurance of having many brethren that are like you and I and many on this site. The world is full of strong Christians who are fighting the good fight of faith and obedience, many facing martyrdom. But in the U.S. and Europe, much complacency, as you state. Like you, I hate those whose witness is so shallow that any demand of discipleship is seen as too much for them to pursue and the commands of Christ in his recorded words in the gospels and what He spoke through Paul and other apostles are seen as an impingement on their "freedom in Christ".
Indeed, we are free in Christ, to do what is good and right, not to continue in evil ways and worldliness. Perhaps many people who live carnally for themselves, for their comfort, and for their preferred sins have been ill-taught, but anyone who truly searches the Scriptures knows that we are to live godly lives in this wicked generation, fight against the sinful nature that we all have up until our body dies, and resist the lies and deceptions of the wicked one who wants to woo us into complacency, desensitize us to our own sinful ways and that of the community we live in (socially and society wise), and have us believe that right is wrong and wrong is O.K. for believers as well as unbelievers. He will lull any who are not diligent and careful.
Those things which you do...
"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14 KJV
press toward the prize
"Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision." Philippians 3:2 KJV
But beware
"Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:12 KJV
Has hasn't yet attained the prize and has not been perfected yet, but strives to (v15).
"For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:" Philippians 3:20 KJV
What stood out to me about these verses is:
1. Paul gives a series of challenges and leads by example. He writes that Christianity is something that is practiced, involves effort, is an action, by doing, like running a race to receive a prize. Not that he's earning it by works. This is clarified many times. But genuine and not a 1-minute prayer someone made 30 years ago where nothing changed and nothing was practiced since.
2. Paul says he hasn't yet attained the salvation. He has hope for salvation, but doesn't say he was already "saved" and finished and can just sit around watching Seinfeld reruns.
The reason for sharing: I think it might help someone, because what I hear in sermons and the way people talk, it seems Christians don't take Christianity very seriously. There's little to no transformation. Paul says to become a slave of righteousness, and people are like, "no thanks, I didn't sign up for that." They're acting like they got a golden entry ticket and they're done. They assume they don't have to change, can continue to deeply enjoy sin, enjoy flesh, and enjoy the benefits of satan. Though they don't realize who they're actually following.
This discussion started for myself when Adam quoted Isaiah 12:1-2, and appeared the pseudo name of Jehovah, which was inadvertently added into the translation from the original source.
Comparing what Adam quoted from Isaiah 12:1-2 in the translations of Scriptures, with the Complete Jewish Bible, here's the difference:
Adam quoted: Is.12:1-2:
1- And in that day thou shalt say, O Lord, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me.
2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation.
From Complete Jewish Bible-Is.12:1-2: (Comparison-see the difference)
1And you shall say on that day,"I will thank You,O Lord,for You were wroth with me;may Your wrath turn away and may You comfort me.
2Here is the GOD of my salvation,"I shall trust and not fear;for the strength and praise of the Eternal the Lord was my salvation."
So, Isaiah didn't cited the name of Devil when he preached the message to the people of Israel.Isaiah had the Spirit of Christ, understand?He was a messianic prophet,you know of this.By the way,JESUS still was in the bosom of the Father- John 1:18
You said I should supply my references that you may research this too,I agree,but I did not still do this because the site doesn't accept to post links.My assertions were based from a source called chabad,try to find it: It's Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible, Ketuvin(Scriptures).
As you said, it certainly is a serious matter if both Jews and Christians(then and now)are reading corrupt copies of the original.
Between both Scriptures above quoted,which of them is approved by the Holy Spirit?Only one is true,and approved by the Spirit of Truth.In my vision is the original source,but I'm referring strictly to this portion of Scriptures- Isaiah 12:1-2.
Therefore with joy shall we draw water out of the wells of salvation.
You've just written, "Tell me: What Scripture is more accurate? The original Hebrew Scriptures, or the copies of the Hebrew Scriptures that were transcribed in a lot and different translations?" If this is so, i.e. you are quoting from the "original Hebrew", then could you supply your references where you learnt this so I may research this as well? Because it certainly is a serious matter if both Jews & Christians (then and now) are reading corrupt copies of the original.
As an example, when speaking with Muslims, I learned that they claim that our Bibles are corrupt, as Jews & Christians (the people of the Book), have changed verses, even removed or added some, making the Bible untrustworthy. So naturally I asked them to show me those changes that were made, & unfortunately but expectedly, they weren't able to, simply because they were parroting what they were told by their imams. In fact, the Qur'an also states that God can remove, change or replace a verse in the Qur'an (2:106; 16:101), but no Muslim can tell us whether what they read presently are true words or false since they might be reading words that have gone through revisions or deletions. Likewise, it is important to know the original, which you refer to, so that we may understand the matter & your belief in it. Thank you.
In light of my last posting a few seconds ago; when we wrestle with tough scriptures and go through emotional sadness over the condition of sin and its effects I thought of something else.
It probably goes without saying here how we in this country still even with all that's going on have it pretty good compared with most of the rest of the world. They wouldn't admit it of course; but this lack of scriptural knowledge on how we are called as Christians to suffer and have God chastise us has made us very weak indeed in general as believers in the USA today. If we are willing to suffer for His Name's sake; then all the arguments about the evils of the world at least can be relatable; that is hard for the prosperity teachers to grasp no doubt until perhaps some personal tragedy comes forth in their lives (which in their minds may be a financial bankruptcy due to their own greed for gain). No doubt many atheists will argue that they are concerned about evils in society; which is justified to a point as to how the compromised churches handle it or ignore problems in the world today. I'm sure some deconstructionists aren't concerned that much about others but that of course won't be an honest admission; unless they become diehard Satanists.
We of course have to be aware of how media may be bolstering views for those who disavow God and of course suppress those who do preach truth.
On the positive side there is much historical evidence for scripture; some of which is a couple hundred years old but nonetheless valid. I'm still learning myself but it is good when we can show evidence for a skeptic who is actually seeking validity of the scriptures in regard to the history. That doesn't seem to be the focus today. The whole "unhitching" concept brought up by Andy Stanley from the Old Testament seems only a step away from what many detractors are saying about Yahweh being a cruel and tempermental God.
I wanted to emphasize that those who spend a lot of time on social media are going to be blindsided by the rebuttal of well known teachers of truth by these individuals. I haven't the time or heart to stomach it; except for the rare instance when someone is discussing politics and how people are putting certain individuals on a level of worship (won't mention any names).
Sometimes there are Christians who can critique these things; but you can't be sure until watching certain videos where the narrator stands.
There are a few pastors and well known musicians who have embraced this mentality. Again; it is important for those who do believe to be aware of hypocrisy within the church so that a claim can be judged valid or invalid that is hurled as an accusation.
We can't of course win every intellectual or historical argument; but knowledge of the Bible and some worldly wisdom benefits us if we seriously engage these people; otherwise we may very well get steamrolled attempting any discourse with these individuals. Again; not for self justification-but I have attempted to bring out Calvin and Luthor as not being exactly steller examples of believers demonstrating the love of God to each other; but in the same token showing that they indeed grasp some deep truths in regard to characteristics of God's sovereignty and predestination in particular.
The hard verses I have also attempted to give some answer for where women and children; and men and animals were called for destruction. One of them is that some were giant offspring and therefore not human; and the other is that their sin (such as rampant infant sacrifices) were so heinous that if anything future suffering was relieved with their quick demise. The other point was that physical death doesn't always equate spiritual as for instance appears to be the case for children under a certain age.
If we can't struggle with the angst these truths show us we aren't very human.
It wasn't intentional on my part to focus on God's "emotions" as a direct rebuttal for such individuals; but I'm trying to go through tough scriptures. The hardest ones; of course talk of God destroying men; women and children. I suspect part of the problem is with professing believers who take concepts like God's love and want to forget about His wrath as having to be the other side of God's character; the same idea exists with blessing and cursings which also are prominent throughout scripture.
Misuse of scriptures by professing Christians; of course has justified in some minds adultery; abuse of women and children; and violence; a greedy "prosperity" gospel; etc. I believe we need more individuals weeping as it were in front of the altar; genuine remorse for sin; of course only comes from those transformed within; and most atheists cannot deny when a person is genuine; even if they hate what they have to say.
It used to be years ago that some would quietly walk away from church; often because they cherished their sin too much; but they had enough sense not to continue in church as a hypocrite with their lives contradicting in action what they were called to claim to believe. Nowadays; the pride of society seems to have brought many who want to prove through arguments how dumb our faith is.
I don't know exactly what you mean when you say "and have been searching for a long time for the "true" religion." "True religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." James 1:7. Because you are a true believer, God is in your heart, soul and mind. You belong to God. Those who are true believers are The Church of God, sometimes called the Kingdom of God. You are a part of the Body of Christ. This is your religion. James is saying if you love God you will show His love unconditionally, but especially to the needy and keep yourself holy. If you wonder how you can "keep unspotted in the world" do this - read Exodus 20: 1-17. These are the ten commandments of God-not laws-commandments written by God Himself. "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous." 1 John 5: 3 and Jesus said: "For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:30. Some Christians teach a Sinning/Christian doctrine but this is false. We may have weakness and faults as a true believer. These are not sins. When we are born again we are not "perfect", of course, but God helps us overcome these weaknesses and faults by maturing in Him but we are to "go and sin no more." John 8: 3-11/ 11- ....... And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more." I know I have been preaching :) and if I have presumed things about you that are wrong please forgive me, I just want to help if I can. God Bless :) I hope you will respond.
View All Discussions...
Do you have a Bible comment or question?
Please Sign In or Register to post comments...
Report Comment
Which best represents the problem with the comment?