Bible Discussion Thread

Chris some people love to argue and that is about all they care for. There are some scriptures that agree with both if we use only chosen scriptures. But I am interested in getting people born again- Jesus said you must be born again. Changed into a new creature old things passed away. Stop lying, stealing, adultery, fornicating, all unrighteousness- follow peace with all men and Holiness without which No man shall see the Lord.

Thank you DWL. It's true in what you state about arguing a point & we'll always find Scripture to support our view to the rejection or avoidance of others. However, as Christians having come to believe a certain doctrine in a particular way (whether being taught from the pulpit, a book, the Web, the musings of our minds, etc.), we need to learn & consider all of the Word of God to formulate a true (or, as best as we are able) understanding of that doctrine or teaching. This is what I hope to see from the dear ones who come here to share their insights & beliefs, that they take in ALL of Scripture to learn about a doctrine & not come forward with a belief & then use Scriptures to support it. This doesn't help anyone - only their egos. And that is why, when I, or others give other Scriptures for them to consider on a subject (e.g. the Trinity), very rarely will they refer to them or exegete them as that would certainly introduce doubt in their minds (or, maybe due to an inability to deal with them). So I wonder what they would do to such Scriptures when they read them in the normal course of study - how would they force an interpretation to them to conform to their belief? And many preachers are complicit in this as their congregants are so enthralled by their charisma, skilful use of the Word, & many supporting Scriptures, that they think that the final correct answer is now in their possession. Rather than further 'searching' the Word, most accept readily what is being fed to them, not realizing that even ministers of the Word can be in error.

So, is the correct understanding of a doctrine necessary to be saved? Mostly, No. Unless the matter of the relationship between faith & works is not addressed. What spiritual carnage is left by well meaning Christians who fail to ensure that the enquirer clearly understands that it is only faith in Jesus that saves us, by God's unmerited Grace given to us & nothing, no nothing, of ourselves or our works can play a part in it.