Results 1561 - 1580 of 1935
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Results from: Notes Author: BradK Ordered by Date |
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Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
1561 | Why would we be undone? | 1 Cor 11:30 | BradK | 120425 | ||
Rowdy, I can't speak for Hank, but I will address 3 points here: 1. We are seriously failing to communicate, my friend! 2. I am not "dodging" any point. However, if we don't get a basic understanding of the terminology and definitions regarding how we're saved (that's Soteriology), it's useless to continue. We'll play cat and mouse ad infinitum. 3. As to John 15, it must be understood in light of Pauline doctrine regarding salvation. Remember, Christ had not yet died on the cross. In short, I do not base my ENTIRE understanding of salvation or Eternal Security upon this passage. The thief on the cross was told by the Lord that "today you will be with Me in paradise". His faith in recognizing that Christ was the savior must have been sufficient. Lastly, this is just a recommendation, but if you're not familiar with terms such as Soteriology, etc. you might want to consider reading a work on Systematic Theology. (Lewis Sperry Chafer is good- there are many others as well). Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1562 | Why would we be undone? | 1 Cor 11:30 | BradK | 120410 | ||
Rowdy, If I may interject here:-) Opinions do not matter, nor should we be concerned with them. Once again, "being undone" is NOT Biblical terminology. We must define terms before throwing them out there. Otherwise we have what I call "warm fuzzies". What you are advocating is (maybe) being saved by grace, yet being kept by works! Without trying to be cavalier, the Lord is not some Mafioso Boss who'll "rub us out" or "put us on ice" if we "leave His service"! It's not serve-to-the-end-or-you'll-be-eliminated! You're misunderstanding the MOTIVATION behind our service. In conclusion here are 3 verses that may or may not serve to clarify: "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men,instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age," (Titus 2:11-12) "For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf." (2 Cor. 5:14-15) "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them." (Eph. 2:10) Rowdy, I serve the Lord because of my LOVE for Him, and because He has blessed me so abundantly! Not because I'm doing so under compulsion or because He's going to somehow "undo me". I would hope that you'd see the difference- because it's HUGE! Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1563 | Grace AND? | Matt 6:20 | BradK | 120395 | ||
Rowdy, I'm afraid you're completely miising the point. you are back to saved by grace, kept by works:-( You're mixing the completed work of salvation with the PROCESS of santification. We need to revisit the definition of salvation. We'll dialog a bit more later. I've got to go, my friend. BradK |
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1564 | Grace AND? | Matt 6:20 | BradK | 120384 | ||
Rowdy, You're almost getting it my friend:-) If you would, re-read what Tim wrote you. It is succinct. You said "But I'm convinced like you that we can't possibly earn our way to Heaven but I'm also convinced we can't go to Heaven unless we've done everything in our power and truly gave it our best effort to be fruitful and productive in the Lord's vineyard." This still sounds like you're stradling the fence- maybe we need to substitute "should" for "can't" when you speak of going to heaven. It's a done deal if I'm IN CHRIST! I am motivated to good works BECAUSE of His grace (Eph. 2:10,Titus 2:11-12). Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1565 | who can explain to me? | John 1:1 | BradK | 120342 | ||
Faith must have an object, and that object is the Lord Jesus Christ! faith in and of itself saves no one! "For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1566 | Grace AND? | Matt 6:20 | BradK | 120332 | ||
Rowdy, Regarding James, I think we can agree that as a principle, scripture cannot contradict scripture. Realizing that many good men, such as Martin Luther have been perplexed by this as you noted. I believe that focus of Romans is Doctrinal, and that of James is more the practical outworking of our faith. The weight of doctrine regarding our salvation, justification, and redemption is found in the Pauline Epistles. We must give proper weight and consideration to the context of each book in scripture- though all are inspired- not all have the same emphasis! The focus- context- of James would be in line with Eph. 2:10. James cannot contradict Romans- they must be harmonized. For example, lets look at 2 contrasting and apparently contradicting verses: "By faith Rahab the harlot did not perish along with those who were disobedient, after she had welcomed the spies in peace." (Heb. 11:31) "You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone. In the same way, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way?" (James 2:24-25) Both verses appear to be contradictory, yet thet're not! In Hebrews the writer tells us that, "by faith" Rahab... This is true because the passage tells us so. This is dealing with the justifying faith of Romans 4. Now, James seems to be stating the opposite, that "Rahab the harlot was justified by works". However, again as scripture cannot contradict- the passages in question must be dealing with 2 different aspects of faith. I would submit that the Hebrews passage is speaking of justifying faith as it relates to our salvation, where the James passage is dealing with the practical outworking of our faith. We should show good works AS EVIDENCE of our faith.( Gal. 5:22) I see both Eph. 2:10 and James 2:24 as dealing with this aspect of faith. Possibly some others would care to comment or offer a hopefully clearer understanding of this "dilemma". Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1567 | Grace AND? | Matt 6:20 | BradK | 120320 | ||
Rowdy, Part 2: "The Requirements for Salvation Faith. Since the grace method of salvation is incompatible with works, it must also be true even by logic alone that the application to individuals of the salvation provided in that grace principle must also be of such a nature as to exclude works. And we do indeed find that the biblical presentation confirms our logical supposition. In order to see this it is necessary to look at (1) the meaning of faith, (2) the object of faith, and (3) the source of faith. We should note that the words variously rendered in English as “faith,” “faithful,” “believe,” “belief” and “trust” are translations of related words in Greek. The first presentation of the faith principle in Scripture is found in Gen. 15:1–6. There Abraham, who was childless, simply trusted God when He said He would give him physical heirs even though he and Sarah were past the age of having children. The exposition of this is found in Rom. 4. The point is that God promised, and Abraham believed He would do what He had promised. Abraham acknowledged that he could not establish his own line of physical descent (vv. 17, 19) and that God could and would do it. Abraham’s faith is not specifically exercised with regard to his own eternal welfare, but only with regard to God’s provision of an heir. But this was the issue for him. Further, Abraham believed that God was able to bring life from where there was death (vv. 17, 19; cf. Heb. 11:19). So Abraham acknowledged his inability, relied on God’s promises and ability, put confident trust in God despite outward circumstances (v. 17—God views the things that don’t exist as though they did), and counted on the life-giving ability of God. Paul’s discussion of Abraham’s faith is designed to show what saving faith is for those in any age. In general, then, we can say that faith is firm reliance, trust, and confidence in a God who provides what we cannot, especially when it comes to providing life (see Rom. 1:16–17 and its quotation of Hab. 2:4). From what we’ve already said, it is evident that the object of trust, saving faith, is the God who saves. It is not the faith that saves a person, but the object of faith. It’s not the faith itself as a psychological phenomenon that saves, but the work of Christ applied by the Spirit. Faith is the human requirement used by the Spirit. It is important to notice that the Bible never says that a person is saved on account of his faith, but rather through it. Why isn’t faith really a kind of work on our part? Our previous illustrations clarify this: 1. The grace principle excludes works. 2. Faith acknowledges our inability to do what is required to correct our relationship with God. 3. Faith is simple saying “I can’t, but God can. I can’t work, but God can and will.” 4. God has already provided salvation. It is spoken of as a “gift of grace.” (AV) J. Gresham Machen says: The reception of that gift is faith; faith means not doing something but receiving something; it means not the earning of a reward but the acceptance of a gift. A man can never be said to obtain a thing for himself if he obtains it by faith; indeed to say that he obtains it by faith is only another way of saying that he does not obtain it for himself but permits another to obtain it for him. Faith, in other words, is not active but passive; and to say that we are saved by faith is to say that we do not save ourselves but are saved only by the one in whom our faith is reposed. . . . As to the origin of faith, it is God Himself. There are a number of direct statements that demonstrate this: 1. Heb. 12:2—Jesus is the “author and perfector of our faith.” (NIV) Although the primary emphasis here may be on Jesus as an example for us to follow, it is also likely that the verse indicates that He is the source of our faith. One writer points out that our faith “is initiated and sustained by him because he has prayed the Father that we may come to faith.” 2. Phil. 1:29—Here our suffering and believing are linked; if we believe, then we can expect suffering, and both have their source in God. In fact the verb translated “given” (AV) and “granted” (NASB, NIV) suggests, more than the usual verb for “give”, a free, unsolicited gift. 3. Acts 3:16—Faith comes through the name of Jesus, apparently as individuals give Him His due. 4. Acts 13:48—Those appointed to eternal life believed (exercised faith). Although it is not specifically stated that faith comes directly from God, it is implied that they could not have had faith without some work of God. 5. Acts 16:14—Lydia’s response is made possible only by God. We conclude, then, that faith has its source in God, is the only divinely appointed channel for receiving God’s gracious provision in Christ, and is not a work." [Paul S. Karleen, The Handbook to Bible Study] I hope this helps, BradK |
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1568 | Grace AND? | Matt 6:20 | BradK | 120319 | ||
Rowdy, Let me see if I can tackle and answer your first question in 2 parts. What is the Grace of God and how does it apply to our salvation? "The Grace of God "In our discussion of the doctrine of salvation to this point we have already mentioned the grace of God several times. What is this feature of God’s activity toward human beings? In the Old Testament two different words are frequently involved in the presentation of God’s gracious work, one indicating unmerited favor of a superior to an inferior (Ex. 33:19, translated “gracious” [AV, NASB] and “merciful” [NIV], and the other suggesting faithful lovingkindness, particularly in covenant relationships (2 Sam. 7:15, translated “mercy” [AV], “lovingkindness” [NASB], and “love” [NIV]). In the New Testament the word charis (often used in the Septuagint to translate the above-mentioned Hebrew words) is used of general goodwill, loving-kindness, and favor (Acts 7:10, 46) as well as of the benefits of the death of Christ (1 Pet. 1:10: the appearance of Christ was the coming of grace; Jn. 1:17: grace and truth were brought through Jesus Christ). In 1 Cor. 15:8–10 Paul underscores the undeserved nature of grace as he emphasizes his unworthiness (“the least of the apostles” [NIV]). We could examine more passages, but the essence of the biblical picture of grace is this: (1) It was undeserved favor on the part of God that sent the Son; (2) It is undeserved favor that applies His work to some individuals. One particular passage that portrays the relation between our need and God’s response in grace is Rom. 4, where grace is related to the provision of righteousness. Abraham was justified, declared righteous, by the grace principle (v. 16). He could not obtain right standing before God by his works, because (1) no one can gain any merit before God, since our works are evil, and (2) works simply gain us wrath (4:15). But righteousness comes through grace because (1) we can’t earn it, and (2) we don’t deserve it, since we’re under wrath. The only responsibility we have in a grace transaction is faith. In the application of righteousness, works are not compatible with grace. But faith is (v. 16). Grace, then, is God’s undeserved and unsolicited favor toward those who cannot help themselves because of sin. God’s provision of salvation in sending Christ to die on the cross is an act of grace, as is its application to each individual. Works on our part are totally excluded. Faith can be part of the process because it is not a work, indeed, it has its source in God (Phil. 1:29)." [Paul S. Karleen, The Handbook to Bible Study] I hope this helps, BradK |
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1569 | who can explain to me? | John 1:1 | BradK | 120297 | ||
eveready, This is a Study Bible Forum which welcomes all, yet has guidelines for all to follow. The questions addressed to you are for the purpose of understanding where you are coming from- your point of view. If you choose not to answer, that's up to you. However, many such as myself will not take you seriously. You should care about who you study the Bible with. It makes all the difference, my friend. One sure way to confusion is to take everyone's advice, JW, Mormon, Buddist, Muslim, and Christian. there is but one truth and one way to the truth- Jesus Christ (John 14:6). If English is your second language, one sure way to be thoroughly confused is to seek to understand it by studying Italian, French, Spanish and Chinese! It doesn't make sense:-) Excuse the late hour, but if you like Burger King you can certainly have it your way. Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1570 | Grace AND? | Matt 6:20 | BradK | 120293 | ||
Rowdy, I would be willing to discuss with you if we can limit and define what we discuss. Your post simply has too many loose-end questions and covers too much- if I may be honest. What Hank said, I agree with. I think we need to limit any "discussion" to the basic points of Soteriology: Justification, Redemption, Santification, and Regeneration, etc. Three main points I will discuss with you are: 1. Works of God at the Time of Salvation; 2. Results of Christ's Death; 3. The Value of Christ's Death The reason I see it as necessary to limit what is discussed is to stay on focus and to define terms and understanding regarding this crucial doctrine. If you can't or won't- that's fine- but I think it would otherwise be unproductive.If this is agreeable to you, I'm completely willing and able to discuss with you to try and reach a mutual understanding with the goal of "seeking to know Him" better. Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1571 | Grace AND? | Matt 6:20 | BradK | 120269 | ||
Hank, I want to duly note your post with an AMEN! You are so right. I think there tends to be a lack of understanding basic Systematic Theology- and specifically Soteriology. The terms justification, sanctification, redemption, regeneration, etc. MUST be understood to have a cohesive, coherent theology that is in line with the Bible. I try to stay away from using non-biblical terminology because it can mislead and confuse. Further, if it's not based upon Biblical principles, then what do we really hold to? For example" the term "justification" can be found and defined from scripture- they are objectively defined. I think it fair to say that what any one of us "thinks" about something is subjective and depends on "my" reference point that may or may not be scripturally based. Thanks for your concise comments which do lend us all something to think about as we post. Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1572 | who can explain to me? | John 1:1 | BradK | 120267 | ||
eveready, Might I inquire as to whether you are a memeber of the Watchtower Organization, i.e. Jehovah's witness? Your questions and verse references seem to indicate that you may be. The reason I ask is this: it is pertinent to any fruitful continuation of discussion. Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1573 | Grace AND? | Matt 6:20 | BradK | 120257 | ||
Rowdy: This should pretty well sum up my stance in regards to God's grace: "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them." Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1574 | Grace AND? | Matt 6:20 | BradK | 120231 | ||
Rowdy, Without trying to create any undo criticism or re-hash an old debate, I'd like to offer a brief comment on your words. Your statement that "I believe very strongly in the concept of "better safe than sorry." may be commendable only for the fact that it is your opinion. My concern is that it is not found in, nor based upon scripture! I believe in the Word of God, not "concepts". You do not at all "make it any clearer". You appear to be stradling both sides of the fence, and all over the map with the theology you portray. I'm sorry, but I can't make abundant sense out of your post. I only say this in love, that others are not similarly confused:-) Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1575 | who can explain to me? | John 1:1 | BradK | 120214 | ||
eveready, Thank you for the clarification:-) First, since this topic has been discussed a great deal, type in the word, "trinity" in the upper right search box. You should find quite a bit of good discussion regarding this important doctrine. Second, although the word "trinity" is not found in scripture- the doctrine is there! The are three distinct persons in scripture who are referred to as God. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. I hope this helps, BradK |
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1576 | Righteousness of God? | 2 Cor 5:21 | BradK | 120158 | ||
Mommapbs, Upon further thought, I'd add Phil. 3:9, "...and be found IN HIM, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith." Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1577 | can you give some scriptures? | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 119812 | ||
Sir Pent, Thanks for your response. I don't think we're vastly far apart on this, but it does come down to (as you say)"whether we believe that the person committing suicide is denying God or not." We are dealing with a somewhat hypothetical scenario, but here are my thoughts. One question that comes to mind on this matter is this: Is sin denying God? Suicide is as much a sin as any other. Rom. 14:23 says "...whatever is not of faith is sin." Here's my position. We're either saved or not. One has placed their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ... or they haven't. So, could someone become despondent to the point of suicide? Yes, I believe they could. One could not walk in the Spirit and let the (despondency) of the flesh overtake them to the point of suicide (Gal. 5:16-17). I don't know of anyone personally, but it could happen. What I believe to be the core issue is that of a misplaced dependency. When one is dependent on self, and not the Lord, we can allow our feelings to control our actions. If the Lord Jesus is firmly in control of one's life and they're rooted and grounded (Eph. 3:17), I think suicide is a remote option. Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1578 | can someone please show me | NT general Archive 1 | BradK | 119682 | ||
happiness, Your syntax is very rough and makes it difficult to understand you:-) I believe the Jews as a whole thought that Jesus would usher in a political Kingdom. However, I think it still very speculative to say that "Judas thought being by Jesus he would give important position in Jesus new government"(sic). Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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1579 | From whom does faith originate? | Eph 2:8 | BradK | 119675 | ||
sheckey, Just a note: the individual you were responding to is no longer active on the Forum. However, I'll offer some brief thoughts.Weknow that faith is an attribute of God. As Hebrew 12:2 states, "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." I also believe that Romans 12:3 sheds some perspective "For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith." Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK PS Feel free to post a personal profile on yourself. Especially if you plan on sticking around, it helps us to get to know you:-) |
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1580 | can someone please show me | NT general Archive 1 | BradK | 119619 | ||
happiness, Exactly where in scripture does it tell us "Judas became jealous at Jesus and wanted his power to be appointed just as Jesus was. Judas wanted Jesus power and didn't want to go to the steps in obeience and trubulation to receive like other servants"? I find no account of this in any of the Gospels. Possibly I'm missing something, but it appears to be inferring something NOT in scripture. Could you elaborate? Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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