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NASB | 1 Timothy 4:1 But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Timothy 4:1 But the [Holy] Spirit explicitly and unmistakably declares that in later times some will turn away from the faith, paying attention instead to deceitful and seductive spirits and doctrines of demons, |
Bible Question:
Dear 10EC, Greetings in the name of Jesus! I hear what you are saying. I consider this to be true. My question is, "Just how easy (or difficult) is it to commit this unforgiveable sin?" I know a man in Yokohama that owns a pub (Trust that I do not frequent such places any longer! My relation with said fellow is B.C.) named the '491 Club.' This person is quite familiar with the Bible, but not a Christian. His *statement* is that Christians believe in grace, but many limit it! Thus, *491* is the 'unforgiveable sin.' (7 times 70, plus 1!) Except that this 'falling away' is but a 'theoretical' possibility, how can we measure it? I do not believe we can, nor should we dwell on this 'possibility.' This I why I am "once saved, always saved!" In Christ Jesus, charis |
Bible Answer: Greetings, charis. I will be the first to admit that there is MUCH misunderstanding concerning just how great is the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. I consider this to be one of the most tragic of all observable phenomena in the entire arena of Christianity. I am convinced that there are very many who consider themselves irretrievably lost when they are really just a prayer away from reconciliation. We probably agree more than we disagree on this point. I simply would like to point out that there are far too many scriptures warning the believers against "apostasy" for it to be only a "theoretical possiblity." Why would automobile manufacturers repeatedly post warnings against the dangers of approaching the speed of light in a vehicle, for example? It is "theoretically possible" to do so, but "practically impossible" in our vehicles. Yet, we have repeated warnings against apostasy in the N.T. If it were only a "theoretical possibility," then many, many passages could be argued to have little or no practical value. One more passage for consideration: "But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive, were grafted in among them and became partaker with them of the rich root of the olive tree, do not be arrogant toward the branches; but if you are arrogant, remember that it is not you who supports the root, but the root supports you. You will say then, "Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in." Quite right, they were broken off for their unbelief, but you stand by your faith. Do not be conceited, but fear; for if God did not spare the natural branches, He will not spare you, either. Behold then the kindness and severity of God; to those who fell, severity, but to you, God's kindness, if you continue in His kindness; otherwise you also will be cut off." [Romans 11:17-22 NASB] Kind regards, Tim D. Cormier Tennessee Preacher |