"CORINTHIANS" in Bible Discussions

 
  • Richard H Priday - 1 day ago
    John 6:54 states: Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.

    There are two views on the subject; the "transubstantiation" argument of the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions and the purely symbolic or metaphorical doctrines we find in many Protestant churches. In the first view we have to hold to an abhorrent view that there is an ongoing or perpetual reinstitution of Christ's sacrifice at every communion; clearly contrary to where Christ stated "it is finished" on the cross and Hebrews 9:28 speaking of His one time sacrifice for many. The Protestant viewpoint; however can tend to treat communion and in fact many other rites or ceremonies as merely symbolic and thus be calloused to verses such as 1 Corinthians 11:30 which states that many have become sick and died (fallen asleep) due to taking communion unworthily.

    Communion therefore is something which each individual is held accountable for but also involves a union in the Body of Christ through the function of the Holy Spirit. We certainly can't isolate these warnings just for communion; for instance we have no business being baptized without a proper confession of faith and marriages also need to be taken seriously in regard to the covenant vows. The New Covenant brings the blood ATONEMENT which essentially exchanges His life for our own as our spiritual sustenance; along with His broken body. He purchased us with the cost of His life and redeemed us from death and hell by taking our place on the cross of Calvary. Such a detestable imagery of a snake on a pole was an early representation of this Numbers 21. A man was cursed when hung on a tree ( Deut. 21:22-23). We are then partakers in Christ and His sufferings ( 1 Peter 4:13); see also Hebrews 3:14 on enduring to the end.

    In terms of eternal physical life; we of course have the tree of life as mentioned in the Garden. We also will be raised incorruptible if we are in Him.
  • Richard H Priday - 2 days ago
    Job 13:15 states: Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.

    In 1 Kings 13; we see a story of an unnamed prophet who God slayed after disobeying the command not to eat or drink or go back the way he came after a fellow prophet lied to him; later the word of God came through that same prophet foretelling his burial won't be with the other ancestors and he died after leaving the meal; mauled by a lion who then stood next to his natural pray a donkey by the body. It is understood that the Spirit wasn't indwelling as it is today permanently with believers; but it would seem this man was disciplined by the Lord rather than going to hell. The same principle is stated in 1 Corinthians 11:30 where it talks about taking the Lord's supper unworthily (interestingly related to a meal taken wrongly as well).

    My general point here is that there are many out there who claim we can "lose our salvation". We forget the many verses that contradict this which I won't get into right now; because there are so many others that seem to justify this concept. I have already discussed at length many times the idea of God chastising those He loves (and the opposite fact that we are all illegitimate sons if not ( Heb. 12:8).) What I am saying now is that the dying process begins at the day of our salvation and continues throughout our "sanctification" process. The outer evidence of this comes from the fruit in our hearts and is tied into our behaviors; attitudes; words; praises; service; etc. The world has it's own way of "sacrifice" whether as dramatic as "stigmata" or some kind of outer manifestation that appears like the wounds of Christ on their body (certainly demonic); or acts of contrition; service; etc. I don't want to force the terminology realted to the 5 points of Calvin to make my point. I do want to suggest that when God begins a work He completes it. Let us learn the lessons from scripture and take them to heart.
  • Adam - In Reply - 3 days ago
    Not according to the Bible.

    1 Corinthians 14:34

    1 Timothy 2:11-12

    The real question is what is the goal: to please God or please man? We already know what God wants because its written down and is clear what it means. Naturally, some will try to twist that to mean whatever else they want it to mean, but that doesn't make it true. God knows our hearts when we try to distort the truth.
  • Ronald Whittemore - In Reply - 3 days ago
    Hey Sonofman 1973

    God's eternal purpose

    Jesus the Messiah/Christ God's only begotten Son is the purpose, I do not know if I am reading your question correctly, may you and others have more or different understandings.

    1 Corinthians 2:16 tells us we have the mind of Christ, but no one can know the mind of God. 2 Peter 3:18 tells us to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus. All began with Jesus; Jesus is the beginning of God's plan. Isaiah 45:18 Isaiah 46:8-10 God and there is none like Him, He declared the end from the beginning His counsel (His purpose and plan by His will) shall stand and God will do all His pleasure, Psalms 33:11.

    God is not in our time the end of His plan is as the beginning God's plan was completed when He made it, we have the Bible, and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit His plan is made known to us as our time comes to be, as in Ephesians 1:10-12 to be the praise and glory to God.

    God declared from the very beginnings of history, Acts 17:24-26 there is but one human race, we all are of the same blood, and in Jesus Christ we become brothers and sisters. In God's plan, it is finished, nothing will change. In God, it is finished already to Him who is from everlasting to everlasting, Psalms 90:2 and how He can "calleth those things which be not as though they were." Romans 4:17-18.

    Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

    Ephesians 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:

    God bless,

    RLW
  • Richard H Priday - 1 week ago
    Romans 2:9 states: There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile..

    (NIV); but says tribulation and anguish in the KJV. There is another verse stating that judgment begins at the house of God. ( 1 Peter 4:17).

    Just as not all Israel is Israel ( Romans 9:6); not all the "professing" church is the possessing church; that is possessing the Holy Spirit and true salvation. Jesus made that perfectly clear to those who thought because they were the physical descendants of Abraham that gave them some sort of benefit were sadly mistaken ( John 8:39-44). Those who had seen Christ; knew the prophecies about the Messiah and yet rejected Him would in fact be worse off than Sodom and Gomorrah in their punishment. ( Matt. 11:21-24). We see similar warnings for those who have knowledge of the truth and become reprobate; in that it would be better not to have known it in the first place ( 2 Peter 2:21).

    Testing ourselves to see if we are in the faith is sadly lacking today among professing believers; or we would see a reality check in the fruits of many lives. (2 Corinthians 13:5). We can glibly see this example as a carnal bunch of people and think that being steeped in our own religious training or theology that we are automatically exempt from this test. I have said before that there are dangers in any extreme that is lacking the balancing attribute; such as with loving people and warning them of judgment to come ( John 16:8). We see in the Ephesian church everything being done properly but their first love somehow becoming distant in their hearts. Look at 1 Corinthians 13:6; love rejoices in the truth. The basic fact that man's heart is desperately wicked ( Jeremiah 17:9) and that our sin makes us enemies of God ( James 4:4) means that there is a wall between opposing parties and yes God is angry with the wicked (i.e. us) every day. ( Psalm 7:11). Having our heads in the sand doesn't help anyone.
  • Ronald Whittemore - In Reply - 1 week ago
    GiGi,

    Part 5 and last Trinity discussion,

    Do you believe that Jesus lived a sinless life?

    Scripture is clear Jesus had no sin, Hebrews 4:15 1 Peter 2:22 1 John 3:5 Romans 5:12-15.

    Do you believe that the Father and the Son are one as Jesus said in Jn. 17 or that He and the Father are "in" one another and if they see Jesus, they see the Father?

    Both, Jesus said I and my Father are one John 10:30 and in other places, one means unity. Jesus was one with the Father not because Jesus was God but because He was filled with the Spirit and God dwelt in him, John 14:10, as we see God was in Christ 2 Corinthians 5:19

    God dwelt in Jesus and empowered Him by His Spirit that gave Jesus the power and authority like Matthew 11:27 All things are delivered to Jesus of His Father, Jesus did not have it, all was given to Him. God was manifest in Jesus, John 12:49 John 14:10. This is why Jesus said if you have seen me, you have seen the Father, John 14:9.

    Jesus in His prayer asked the Father that we may be one, as He and His Father are one through the words of the disciples, John 17:20-23. God and Jesus will dwell in us and we in them, 1 John 4:13-16 1 John 3:23-24.

    How is it that Jesus AND the Father send the Holy Spirit if there is only one person as God?

    Jesus said He would pray to the Father to give another comforter, John 14:16, we see in John 14:26 the Father will send in Jesus's name. In John 15:26 Jesus said I will send but this is from the Father and the Spirit of truth that proceedeth from the Father. This is not a person it is the Spirit of God.

    Please don't take this wrong, in the Trinity there is one God who eternally exists as three distinct Persons: The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, each Person is fully God, coequal, coeternal, and consubstantial. I'm sorry my understanding, is Scripture does not support that, Scripture is clear the Father is above all.

    Thank you, GiGi, I hope this is what you wanted I am not the best at this.

    God bless,

    RLW
  • Ronald Whittemore - In Reply - 1 week ago
    GiGi,

    Part 4 Trinity discussion.

    Do you believe that the will of the Father and the will of the Son are always the same or different?

    Jesus was obedient to the Father, Jesus said many times it is not His will but the will of the Father who sent Him, the same as we are to do, John 4:34 John 5:30 Mark 3:35.

    Do you believe that a human being can truly save all men from sin and death by a perfect life in their own will?

    First, I will have to say it was the will of the Father, Jesus at the end even asked His father if there was another way but not Jesus's will but the will of His Father, Matthew 26:39 Luke 22:42. We are told this is the foundation of our faith, Jesus' sacrificial death. God cannot die God is Spirit He has no blood to shed for sin it had to be a man, His Son, born of a woman.

    John 3:16 God gave His Son not Himself 1 John 2:22 1 John 4:3 2 John 1:7 Romans 5:8 2 Corinthians 5:21, God cannot be made sin, 1 Corinthians 15:17 Jesus died, and God raised Him from the dead, the first man to live a perfect life, the first fruits of those who sleep in death. 1 Corinthians 15:14 as said if Jesus was not a man who lived a perfect life and died and was raised from the dead all is vain.

    The first Adam was the first man Jesus was the last Adam and the second man, 1 Corinthians 15:45-47. 1 Corinthians 15:21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. The law had to be fulfilled by a man.

    How would a human being know that they are the Messiah from birth and thus know not to ever sin?

    As we see Luke 2:51-52 Jesus grew up increasing in wisdom and stature in favor with God and man. Jesus was twelve years old and He knew His father was God, but it doesn't say Jesus knew then He was to be the Messiah. God also said He would raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, Deuteronomy 18:15, Isaiah 11:1-5 Isaiah 61:1-2 confirmed in Luke 4:18-21. Romans 1:1-4 2 Timothy 2:8.

    See part 5
  • Ronald Whittemore - In Reply - 1 week ago
    GiGi,

    Part 3 Trinity discussion,

    Do you believe the Son is a created being?

    What is the meaning of created? Does it mean something that is made out of nothing? I would have to say no, Jesus is the Son of God who was conceived in the womb of Mary, Matthew 1:20 Luke 1:35, I do not think I would say He was created.

    If so, when did He come into existence?

    In God's plan before anything and physically when He was conceived in Mary's womb.

    Do you believe that the Son is only human in nature?

    Jesus is the Son of God fully human but without sin same as the first Adam, Scripture is clear when Jesus was baptized, He was anointed with the Holy Ghost/Spirit without measure, John 3:34. All the works of Jesus were done by the Spirit of God, Matthew 4:16 Matthew 12:28 Acts 10:38.

    Do you believe that Jesus became "the Christ" during His lifetime (Adoptionism)?

    I had never heard of Adoptionism until now, I had to look it up, it's false. Christ and Messiah are the same; Jesus was anointed by the Spirit of God after He was baptized by John, He then was made the Messiah/Christ fulfilling the prophecy in Daniel 9:25. Jesus is the Son of God conceived in the womb of Mary by the Holy Ghost/Spirit.

    Do you believe Jesus ever aquired a divine nature in His earthly life?

    If you mean a divine nature is to have all the attributes that make God who He is I would have to say no. If so, Jesus could not sin or be tempted, Matthew 4:1 Hebrews 4:15. If so, Jesus living a perfect life without sin is meaningless. Jesus could not have died; Jesus was given the power of the Holy Spirit when He was anointed the Messiah. After He rose from the dead God gave Jesus all power in heaven and on earth, Matthew 28:18. God raised and placed Jesus on His right side, Ephesians 1:21-23. Jesus did not return to where He was before, God the Father placed everything under Jesus God's only begotten Son's feet and Jesus will reign until the last enemy is destroyed, 1 Corinthians 15:24-28.

    See part 4.
  • Richard H Priday - 1 week ago
    Marriage

    It is said by Catholics that marriage is a sacrament that is only necessitated by the vow a man makes with a woman; and I agree with that view despite disagreeing with many other things in their belief system. The idea of a minister to oversee the event from what I can tell helps to involve two or three witnesses (usually along with parents) such as 2 Corinthians 13:1 states. There are other verses as well; none directly discuss a marriage or any other vow; but it does apply in the fact that should one or more parties violate the covenant church discipline can be used against them. I am not sure how things are in the big picture but it seems whenever marriages do occur it is often in another church that the family prefers and many times there is little sense of a whole congregation being involved at least like they used to in the past. Maybe I am off somewhat but that's how I see it.

    Good counsel is helpful in that respect however; if anything to keep a healthy balance of older women guiding the youth and allowing for good interactions and support. This is something more favorable it seems today in the Reformed churches from my experiences. Such interactions of a church being a family of course should extend to foreign missionaries that are affiliated with a denomination. It is a shame when we think of missionaries being "out there" and we detach ourselves emotionally when we give financial support. Their marriages and family are components of their witness as much as their evangelism and one can't be separated from the other; although of course some are single individuals on the mission field.

    Again; it is sad to say that from my viewpoint there is a tolerance for remarriage in these same sort of congregations (although many won't perform them). I would say that existing marriages have greater chance of longevity and less for divorce in the Reformed circles than others who have 50 percent divorce rates as all of society if they marry at all.
  • Richard H Priday - 1 week ago
    Whole counsel of God: Church membership or not

    To continue on the subject I would consider attending someplace for at least a year to understand fully doctrines ascribed to as well as to how genuine the love for Christ is in the church. If we are seeing little opportunities to contribute (which can happen in a place where one Pastor seems to hold all the cards); or where there is a great deal of pettiness; family pride (like where founders of the church and their children have had control for a long time in decision making) it may be a situation best avoided in such a commitment. This situation is occurring where a friend of mine is a new Pastor in a rural church in the Midwest.

    Communion rules

    In taking communion; there are what is known as closed or open communion. I am convinced that anyone who is Born Again and not living in unrepentant sin is eligible for communion. Nevertheless; there should be some discussion with a person beforehand to make sure they are indeed in the faith if someone comes in as a stranger and I can certainly get why some churches want to see if someone regularly attends for a period of time first. Waiting months on end without being given permission is something I have experienced in the past and I think that is going overboard. We shouldn't have a double standard either assuming just because someone has attended church as a member for years that they are "good to go" either; but without any real suspicion I can see how in that case an "open communion" (i.e for all members) can be given. We need to attend to warnings in Corinthians about those dying who take communion unworthily ( 1 Cor. 11:27-34). Unity in the Body of Christ in the church is represented with Communion and His presence is there along with any other actions such as two or more praying together. This is why we are to clear things up with our brother first ( Matthew 5:23-24) it should be settled-this discusses a gift at the altar but seems fitting nonetheless
  • Ronald Whittemore - In Reply - 1 week ago
    GiGi,

    Part 2 Trinity discussion

    Did Jesus exist before creation? Did the Holy Spirit exist before creation?

    Jesus existed in God's plan, Jesus is the beginning of creation Rev. 3:14 and by Him were all things created Col. 1:16 my understanding is Jesus, was the first in God's plan of creation and everything was created by God, in and through the plan and purpose of Jesus. My understanding Jesus did not physically exist until the fullness of time. Ephesians 1:10 He was born of Mary the Son of God. the seed of woman. Genesis 3:15 Matthew 1:20

    My understanding is the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, not a person, Genesis 1:2. We see all the greetings are from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 1:7 1 Corinthians 1:3 2 Corinthians 1:2 Galatians 1:3 Ephesians 1:2 Ephesians 6:23 Philippians 1:2 Colossians 1:2 and 6 more. The Holy Spirit not being included is a good clue the Holy Spirit was not considered a person by Paul and others at that time.

    If so, who were they in relation to the Father?

    I believe the above answers this.

    How did the Father, the Son, and the Spirit all create all that is, seen or unseen?

    My understanding is God the Father created all, Genesis 1:1 Genesis 1:31 Proverbs 16:4 Isaiah 45:18 Nehemiah 9:6.

    Does Scripture teach that God is only one person who manifests in three forms, but all these manifestations are only one person?

    Scripture does not support Modalism I have never considered this and do not know anything about it.

    See part 3.
  • Ronald Whittemore - In Reply - 1 week ago
    Hi GiGi,

    Part 1 Trinity discussion

    To start; I used to have a similar understanding of the Trinity doctrine but over time it has changed, and I am still studying it. I do not consider myself part of any group or denomination other than a believer and follower of Jesus. I feel we should inspire each other to study in prayer for the truth and to be open to the Holy Spirit to unveil the truth as we know nothing.

    With me, it started with two verses, 2 Corinthians 11:3-4, I contemplated these verses for a long time, it was like they stuck in my mind unanswered. In my study of the Trinity, I found out how it developed and how many deaths it caused even after the Reformation, and the questions I asked in Churches, many could not explain it and said it is a mystery that man cannot comprehend.

    Is God and has He always been one solitary person?

    Deut. 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD, Mark 12:29 and as said in 1 Cor. 8:6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. My understanding is God the Father is eternal He has always been and will always be Psalms 90:2. God is Spirit, if a person means He has a will, emotions, the ability to speak, rationalize, self-awareness, to have a relationship with His creation, love, hate, etc. yes one person.

    Before creation was, He always and only alone, without anyone to love?

    What was before creation in Scripture we have no writings or information, Scripture tells us the hosts of heaven were before the creation of the earth and the galaxies, Job 38:4-7. How long before the physical world and universe we see we do not know. God's plan He declared the end from the beginning, Isaiah 46:9-10. I may be wrong, but God has never been alone inside Himself, time nor space cannot contain who He is, the beginning of His plan was Jesus.

    See part 2
  • Richard H Priday - 1 week ago
    Love is patient; love is kind. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8). This section of scripture gets into all of the attributes of true love which characterizes "agape" which is the deepest kind of love which we can experience coming from heaven itself. Every other type of human affection is stereotyped by a particular relationship; but cannot stand the test of time truly without the Lord's love being in the mix. "Storge" for instance is defined as a type of familiar bond; which I would think describes a kinship with family members.

    This is often flipped as to the responsibility and frustrations of a parent for a child then later on for a caretaker as myself the burden of assisting family members losing their physical stamina; mental acuity; as well as the emotional volatility that can result from such deterioration. fThere is another term for "self love" which up until now I am unfamiliar with called "philautia" which I suspect is retlated to "philia" which is a sort of plutonic affection (without eros) for others. As a Christian; of course we are instructed to die to self and live out the new life of Christ; nonetheless the law itself says to love your neighbor as yourself ( Leviticus 19:18 as well as quoted in the Gospels. There are other passages that state we should care for our wives as our own body ( Ephesians 5:29).

    What is necessary; of course is to honor what God has given us stewardship over; whether it is our own bodies; our finances; marriages; or anything else the Lord has given us. Trusting God to provide; as well as guide us through self deprivation; fasting; and suffering even leading to death needs to be done trusting that God has the best ultimately even if it means martyrdom in terms of our eternity. This allows us to have the proper commitment to others entrusted to our care as well as having a love for the brothers and sisters both in our midst and abroad preaching the Good News. We need to trust God in maintaining what He has provided for us
  • Richard H Priday - 2 weeks ago
    Necessary doctrines: Concluding thoughts

    I am one who believes in the hard sayings in particular that those who are living in adultery we should warn of their fate and also that taking communion should not involve those who are living in fornication and adultery or any other unrepentant sin involving a lifestyle of sin in particular. In my mind that involves second or later marriages of those whose first spouse is still living which is an issue I am currently dealing with in my church. I am not here going to debate on this particular posting the meaning of the "exception clause" due to "fornication" in Matthew 5 and 19 which is NOT present in parallel passages in Luke and Mark; and further bolstered by passages in Romans and Corinthians.

    My concluding concept here is that ALL doctrines according to 2 Timothy 3:16 are important for teaching; edification; etc.

    There are always some things debated; and no church has a perfect understanding or is sinless. Nonetheless the things that are clearly taught should be obeyed whether we like it or not to maintain a place where the Spirit is welcome and we aren't in danger of the "candlestick" going out as we see with the Ephesian church in Revelation who abandoned their "first love." This doesn't leave any room for partiality or pride whether it be for our leadership or church members; traditions; etc. It is God's church; not our own. The Lord disciplines His own; and we are being tested to see if we will be faithful until the end. If the enemy comes into the camp; through our own wickedness or the invasion of others then we are negligent in our duties if we don't try to stop it. We do what we can; God may indeed have determined to let a local church fail to fulfill greater purposes; but we need to be jealous for the truth as long as some truth prevails; at least until God opens a door for us to move on; or we are thrown out. The ten thousand dollar question is whether the Spirit is welcomed or locked out.
  • Richard H Priday - 2 weeks ago
    Necessary doctrines: Heaven and hell.

    There is only one time that I am aware of where a literal heaven was spoken against; in this case a book on Postmillenialism. I don't have the book with me at present (it may be buried in a box somewhere). I should note that one good point was in that book; namely that many of the PreMil camp tend to state or act as though the gates of hell are too powerful; rather than holding out to the promises that they will not prevail until the end ( Matthew 16:18). In the proper context (as opposed to a Dominioninsm mentality) this is a valid criticism of many who are hiding out waiting for the Rapture and not occupying until He comes ( Luke 19:13).

    In regard to hell; however of course there are many more professing believers who have convinced themselves that it is merely a symbolic statement. Such often tend to hold on to a cessation mentality; that is of a human soul before the final Resurrection presumably at the end of the Millennium or at least the Rapture. They think that someone will simply wake up thinking it was just a moment before that they died at the Resurrection; thus making the suffering of the lost delayed into the future to assuage their conscience (often if not for their own fate for that of their loved ones at present who have died). Of course; in light of verses such as 2 Corinthians 5:8; and Hebrews 9:27 among others this seems like a ridiculous concept. I would argue this point of a belief in literal hell is important enough that we cannot consider fellowship with other believers who don't agree at least in our own place of corporate worship. Again; we can try to witness to them the truth. This is needed doctrine because we need to explain the grave state of the lost; and that there is NO peace for the wicked. ( Isaiah 48:22 and many other passages). Hell not being literal is due to a misunderstanding of the meaning for the grave and sheol (the land of the dead).
  • Richard H Priday - 2 weeks ago
    Necessary doctrines: Fruit vs non fruit bearing activities

    When we get into practical things; for instance the last few chapters of Romans after the lengthy dissertation on the depravity of man (no one is rightous); and the "Gospel of Grace" related to covenants and the like; there could be a tendancy to discount our behaviors as being as important as these doctrinal truths. The fact is they are both important and we can't live bearing good fruit without following the truth and showing obedient love for Christ with our lifestyles. We only need to look at Luke 6:46 to see the importance of doing what He says; and John 14:15 which shows that if we love Him we will obey His commandments. The basic command to love one another is seen in both the Gospel of John and first John as a necessary mandate for a true brother in Christ. This should be a basic litmus test to draw out those who are Judas Iscariot's in our midst. These issues make things difficult when we follow such commandments as 1 Corinthians 5:11 where we are told not to even eat with one who is living in immorality or other sins as a LIFESTYLE or continuing pattern who calls themself a "Christian". This should eliminate many prosperity Gospel folks who are "swindlers"; and those practicing idolatry where a false Christ is worshipped at least in the midst of a given true fellowship of saints. There are times when we can witness to others who are in error if we are not worshipping where they are if we can have some control on the meeting situation. In short; producing good fruit is mentioned in numerous scriptures and thus only occurs with a true believer as the Parable of the Sower indicates. This is essential doctrine which is evidenced by those who are drowning in perdition due to the cares of this world overtaking them ( 1 Timothy 6:9; see also Matthew 13:23). The attitude toward authority covered in Romans 13:1-2; we are called whenever it doesn't contradict scripture to obey authorities.
  • Richard H Priday - 2 weeks ago
    Doctrines of Grace

    Whether in the "Arminian" or "Calvinistic" camps; God's sovereignty and man's inability to save himself apart from His grace is fairly universally accepted. The issue comes in as to whether mans' "free will" acts to make a decision whether to follow or not follow Christ and "accept" Him into their hearts. Both camps will hold to Romans 10:9 related to a verbal and heartfelt confession accompanying saving faith. I would contend that it is not as some like to call it "decisional regeneration" that occurs as a result of something we say; but that what we say is a reflection of God already moving one towards repentance as scripture states it is a gift of God ( 2 Tim. 2:25 and also stated in the Book of Acts). We are truly saved "apart from the law" ( Romans 3:21) by grace; but of course Paul makes it clear that we aren't granted a "license to sin" once we have escaped from the wrath of God. Nothing we can do will earn us grace; and more importantly there is no desire in unregenerate man to follow God; at best man can try to avoid the consequences of sin which of course makes us all as Judas Iscariot who betrayed Christ yet realized he had betrayed an innocent man and thus hung himself. (see 2 Corinthians 7:10). It should be obvious how essential the doctrine of grace is; as all other eligions and even Christian cults will offer a combination of faith in Christ and works as needed to be saved; or it is asceticism such as Eastern religions offer that seem to bring a utopia for someone after doing good works after a lengthy cycle of death and rebirth (reincarnation) which of course fundamentally is opposed by Hebrews 9:27. Often it is another Christ; whether presented as as sage or great prophet which is expounded that we should follow rather than the true Jesus who was the Son of God. John 8:24 makes it clear that we must believe that "I am" truly meaning that He is the Christ. ( Matt. 16:13-20). ONLY CHRIST CAN REVEAL THE TRUTH TO A MAN.
  • Richard H Priday - 2 weeks ago
    Essential doctrines

    To know Christ and to make Him known is the theme of the Navigators ministry and correlates with 1 John and other passages.

    This is a good summary of understanding the personal meaning of Christ's sacrifice on the cross for atonement as well as our duties fulfilling our part in the Great Commission.

    I imagine most here know the necessary doctrines of believing Christ is a member of the Godhead and thus Divinity Himself who was the only one who could atone for sins (as the sinless spotless Lamb of God) by becoming a man as we are without sin and remaining so throughout His earthly ministry; then dying on the cross and resurrecting from the dead 3 days later. Finally; He is to return once again physically to rule and reign on the earth.

    2 Timothy 2:8 and 2 Thessalonians 2:2 show we should avoid the error of stating that the resurrection has already occurred or the day of the Lord is at hand. Matthew 24:26 states that the Lord hasn't come yet for those who say He is hiding somewhere and also states the likeness of His arrival as lightning in the very next verse. This should be enough to disclaim what Preterists state that the Lord has already come. Therefore I would contend that full Preterists that state this are far enough off in doctrine that we should avoid fellowship with them.

    Assuming we have the essentials of salvation straightened out; there are many other warnings and admonitions in scripture such as testing ourselves to see if we are in the faith would involve (2 Corinthians 13:5). We need to accept that doctrines aren't just what is required to be saved; but also what is necessary to prove that we are bringing fruits worthy of repentance ( Matthew 3:8 and many other similar verses). We are not subject to the law in some sense IF we are truly dead to sin ( Romans 6:11) in one sense; because we have a new nature; but in the same token we DESIRE to obey Christ and love and serve Him as Lord; Master and Savior.
  • Adam - 3 weeks ago
    Wondering what others believe about this verse about everything God created being "good"- Some use this to say it's morally ok for them to do drugs like weed, cocaine, mushrooms, meth?

    "For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:" 1 Timothy 4:4 KJV. Also Genesis 1:31, Romans 14:14, Acts 11:7-9

    At what point do we believe something is no longer God's creation, but a man-made creation, like a drug made in a lab? And how do we balance that with harming the body? "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?" 1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV

    Thank you.
  • Richard H Priday - 1 month ago
    On Christian music and idolotry:

    The second and third lines in Chris Tomlin's song "Good Good Father" state:

    But I've heard the tender whisper of love in the dead of night

    And You tell me that You're pleased and that I'm never alone

    David Crowder's song "He really loves us" has this in the third line

    "There is no judgment"

    And Danny Gokey's song "Love God Love People" says at the end of the fourth stanza

    "Love God and love People" (no brainer).

    Finally there is the song "What would Jesus do" states in the 11th Stanza

    "What would Jesus do

    He would love first..etc."

    The first question here is what is God's love? There is nothing in any of these songs that show any differentiation of God's love from that of man. Assuming that God never has anything negative to say goes against the verses that state God chastises anone He loves and we are illegitimate sons otherwise (see Hebrews 12:6; 12:8). To say there is no judgment is only true as to a believer's standing at the Bema Seat Judgment and missing the Great White Throne condemnation. We are judged according to 2 Corinthians 5:10 and be judged as to works done for Him; good or bad. If we aren't one of His own we are judged and condemned already ( John 3:18).

    No one should argue as to a Christian demonstrating love and patience; but that doesn't mean that we should stand for hypocrisy within the House of God; or societal evils such as abortion without sounding the trumpet as a watchman to avoid the condemnation warned of in Ezekiel 3:18. But such exhortations seem to be missing entirely in today's Christian songs; whether it is warning of the deceptiveness of Satan or sin itself; or the Tribulation to come or hell itself without repentance. Anyone on this forum who wishes to rebut that statement let me know; perhaps there are some independent artists I should be made aware of that I haven't heard lately.

    Thus; artists are idolized saying what people want to hear and are "Christian" by name only.
  • Richard H Priday - 1 month ago
    First Corinthians 5:11 states:

    But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people.

    I have focused in today's postings on those who are nonbelievers; whether in an openly hostile lifestyle to God's Word; or a person who in their own efforts tries to be good and has the outward appearance of a morally responsible individual.

    Exodus 12:48 states: A foreigner residing among you who wants to celebrate the LORD's Passover must have all the males in his household circumcised; then he may take part like one born in the land. No uncircumcised male may eat it.

    (in short no pain no gain)

    Leviticus 17:8-9 shows the rules of sacrificing before God were the same for a foreigner as well as an Israelite.

    These verses are brought out to demonstrate that in the house of God there is no pandering for special interests. In the age of Grace we must accept His sacrificial atonement for our sins; and live accordingly. Just as we can't let the enemy in the camp as a principle in the Old Testament; this verse in Corinthians along with others show that we CANNOT fellowship with those who are sexually immoral; which includes homosexuality; fornication and adultery (and the theme is repeated in 1 Corinthians 6:9). Similar warnings are found in 2 Timothy; Ephesians and 2 Thessalonians and other places. We also need to address the rest of the verse about greedy people or swindlers; and that in many cases involves the Pastor himself. Someone partaking in New Age would be an idolater; and a slanderer could be someone caught up in gossip and believing everything he hears or deliberately lying. Finally; a drunkard which may be the one sin people tend to agree on also needs to repent; but such a person when reformed tends to display the most radical changes of all. We all need to carefully examine our friend
  • Richard H Priday - 1 month ago
    Witnessing today in today's culture: Introduction

    Today people are often identified by their political affiliation or the community that they identify as "politically correct". In reality this often makes a particular sin the sum of their identity (such as those in the pro choice or same sex attraction crowd.) We don't see such titles given for individuals committing such activities in scripture; where infanticide was performed by those who would identify as idol worshippers (Molech worshippers for example); or sodomites would often be classified by their social status as to who was the perpetrator and who was the victim of such atrocities in the time of Christ. 1 Kings 14:24 talks in general about sodomites and the abominations that they were involved with; and it seems that they did live in the same area as we see with the story of Sodom and Gomorrah thousands of years before Christ.

    We need to take heart; as we see in the story of Jonah that even the most wicked people can repent. Today it seems mainly with individuals who are "detransitioning" for instance that the Lord indeed can change people; and when we see legislation against preaching such truths those who used to live that lifestyle of course are most affected. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 identifies those now sanctified as believers who used to live sinful lifestyles. While it is true that there are particular sins; such as shedding of innocent blood that God particularly hates ( Proverbs 6:16-19); all sin leads to death. Clearly at this point the world doesn't celebrate someone who identifies themselves as a thief; extortioner; murderer and some other things but we should expect that it will once we get to the Tribulation or perhaps sooner when "anyone who kills you will think that they are doing God a favor." ( John 16:2).

    We need also to get beyond the stereotypes the world is giving us of those in the LGBTQ+. Some are conservatives and some liberal politically for instance. More later.
  • Adam - In Reply - 1 month ago
    The world socially bullies others to publicly affirm and validate another's' sin, or face consequences such as cancelling and public shaming. Since when are rights contingent on someone else's opinion of you?

    Is it more important to appease men, or more important to please God? To the church, it should be obvious what the priority is, but I think some cave to public pressure and fear they may lose funding or social status by not siding with the bullies. Some try to appease the world instead of God.

    What's this bullying really about and why the huge push in recent years? They claim its their identity, they're born that way, and don't have a choice. But has anyone challenged this assumption?

    What are other examples of someone born with such a high proclivity to sin that they absolutely "have no choice"? I'm not aware of any, in fact, the Bible says we always have a choice- a way out of sin. 1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV

    We all have different obstacles in life; some, like Paul, had a thorn in the flesh. 2 Corinthians 12:7

    I reject the assumption that some people are more "equal" than others. Equal means equal, not special protected classes and treatment. I've learned that the woke movement is now racially separating people just like they did 100 years ago, whether for hiring, or DEI classes, and who knows what else. Amazing full circle. They totally ignored everything MLK stood for.

    "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus." Galatians 3:28 KJV

    The culture is ignoring this verse that we're equal.

    There's no evidence anyone's identity is tied to sin so much they can't help but do that. No baby desires such things. It's learned and when opportunities present themselves. Now pedos use same arguments to excuse their horrific abuse of kids. The culture will use clever words to defend it. There's no end to the evil progression. It's a choice.
  • S Spencer - 1 month ago
    We can do the right thing at the wrong time and it falls short of perfection.

    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.
  • S Spencer - In Reply - 1 month ago
    Justification. Sanctification and Glorification.

    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.
  • S Spencer - In Reply - 1 month ago
    Justification. Sanctification and Glorification.

    Part 5. J Vernon Mcgee. (Paul and James View Justification.)

    Therefore, we see that when Paul uses the term justification he is talking about a man's relationship with God; when James uses the same term, he is talking about a man's relationship with the world. One is perpendicular, and the other is horizontal.

    Paul and James View Faith.

    The same procedure runs true in their use of the term faith. Again, they mean something different. When Paul talks of faith he is talking about that which is toward God. Paul says that saving faith - a faith that is genuine and real - will transform a person's life. Paul said of himself,

    But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. ( Philippians 3:7)

    A real revolution took place in his life when he came to Christ. Looking again at Galatians 3:6, we read that "as Abraham believed Godit was accounted to him for righteousness." And then in Romans:

    But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. ( Romans 4:5)

    Paul is speaking here of that which we bring to God. The only thing that a sinner can bring to God is faith in Jesus Christ. When James writes about this, he is not talking about faith toward God but about the works of faith. So Paul is talking about the root of faith, and James is talking about the fruit of faith, but they are both defending the citadel of faith.

    Here in James 2:14.

    James is not talking about the works of the Law. The faith that James is talking about here is professing faith, that which is phony and counterfeit. Paul refers to the same idea when he says in 1 Corinthians 15:2, "unless ye have believed in vain." Paul also wrote, "Examine yourselves, whether you are in the faith" (2 Corinthians 13:5). James simply says that the faith which saves you will produce works-"works of faith.

    See Part 6. Paul and James View Faith.
  • GiGi - In Reply - 1 month ago
    Hi Momsage.

    I was not meaning that you have sinned in the ways I mentioned.

    I do not think of myself as one who is defeated by sin and the sinful nature that still exists in me. I know that the Holy Spirit in me helps me to say no to sin when it tempts me. But I cannot say that I am 100% sinless as you seem to think that you are. This does not mean that I take sin lightly or give in readily. I don't to either of these. I believe we are being sanctified in an ongoing way, yet, like Paul does say, that we are in a fight against the sinful nature in us. (He calls it the "flesh"). Romans 7 shows us how Paul, as a believer, fights against the grip of sin-in his heart and soul, he desires to obey God, yet in his sinful nature (the "flesh")- not speaking of our actual cellular, material flesh, but the sin nature-causes him to do what he ought not do. And in 1 Corinthians 9 he speaks of fighting on so that he may not be cast away in the end.

    I know we differ in this doctrine, You believe in complete sanctification (holiness, sinlessness) as taught by Wesley and holiness groups. I do not believe we reach this state in this life. The more obedient we are to God and the more we desire to live for Him in godly ways, the more aware we are of how we miss the mark of complete holiness that Jesus had in His human nature. For me, to say that one has reached complete sinless perfection is to say that one is completely holy like Jesus. That is a pretty audacious way to view oneself. I can honestly say that I do not always love as I ought to in every aspects of my life and relationships. I cannot speak for you. It is between you and the God we serve whether we are perfect as God is perfect in this life. We do have the righteousness of Christ imputed to us that justifies us before God, but from what I read in the Word, we still need Jesus to mediate between us and the Father as long as we are alive in this life.
  • S Spencer - In Reply - 1 month ago
    Part 2.

    Justification.

    Sanctification.

    Glorification.

    If you are a Christian, you are guaranteed all three steps (see Romans 8:29-30).

    You are forever justified, you are being sanctified, and you will for sure be glorified.

    1 Corinthians 6:11.

    All three of these things are from God's grace, not because of anything you have done or will do to earn them. see Ephesians 2:8-9.

    You cannot earn your justification, you cannot achieve your sanctification, and you cannot merit your glorification.

    You can do nothing without Christ.

    John 15:4-5.

    Romans 3:10-24.

    God bless and Good night.
  • Oseas - In Reply - 1 month ago
    Greetings in Christ JESUS

    Adam

    I repeated the original evidence because there is not greater EVIDENCE than the everlasting Word of GOD, is there? The Word is GOD, the invisible, the Omnipotent, and Omniscient and Omnipresent GOD, for me it is He Who is "the Strong's identifier". The Word is self-executing / executable because the Word is GOD, understand? Psalm 33:9 - He -the Word- spake, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.

    Yes,I stated that the added name Jehovah(a demonic name of Satan)is not in the original Scriptures as being GOD,Father of my Lord JESUS, but as Lucifer,the son of perdition,father of the Jews as said my Lord JESUS- John 8:44-,transfigured as God- Isaiah 14 combined with 2Thes.2:2-3 among other biblical references, and no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 2Corinthians 11:14. Be careful, for Satan is wiser than Daniel; there is no secret that can be hidden from him, understand? How can the believers fight against the devilish traps and strategies of the Devil if are not knowing so well the depths of Satan?

    You said that If I think there's holes,how am I believe and trust the rest of it and where I draw the line,so I must say that the

    limit of the line is in Genesis 2:16-17 and 3:1 combined with Matthew 16:23.Take a look.By the way,his throat is an open sepulchre

    You said that I'm using a different translation, and asked so how I know its more accurate and not less accurate.Well,well, I used and am using the same source you used to quote Isaiah 12:1-2,right? 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?

    Furthermore, answer your question if I have any more evidence, so let me ask: Is there evidence more truer than the true Word of GOD? The evidence is the Word of GOD. The testimony of GOD is greater.

    As you know,the Word of GOD is from everlasting to everlasting,the Word is GOD
  • GiGi - In Reply on Psalms 51 - 1 month ago
    Good afternoon, Momsage, I am one who thinks that faults and propensities in our personalities and character can be considered sinful. If one has a quick temper, is easily provoked, unwilling to forgive offenses, is self-seeking, envies, prideful, thinks evil thoughts, or any number of "faults' or "weaknesses" one is sinning with these faults/weaknesses when we give in and let them be expressed. See 1 Corinthians 13

    If I have tendencies to complain, gossip, talk behind another's back, be lazy when I should do what task I need to do each day, fail to give my husband attention and affection and care to fill up his need-all these are sinful. It is highly probable that you have faults such as these or others that when you read of them in Scripture the Holy Spirit pricks your heart. We are to live godly lives in this wicked generation, especially in our own home and with our family and close friends. We are to practice keeping a guard on our hearts and minds and actions with diligence.

    If you read I Corinthians 13 and find that you do not always follow what it says about love, then you can know you are failing to love as God wants us to. Loving others is a really huge aspect of obedience to God's ways. And one area that I don't think ANYONE can do rightly 100% of the time in their lives even as a believer.

    Glad to see that you are feeling better. Always feels so good to be feeling good after an illness! Thank the Lord!

    Momsage. I do not ant to get into a long discussion about this topic as we have discussed this recently pretty thoroughly. I just wanted to respond to your statement of not being a sinner. I will be glad to hear your response, but please understand if I do not engage in a lengthy discussion.

    Have a great evening.


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