Results 261 - 280 of 729
|
||||||
Results from: Notes Author: charis Ordered by Verse |
||||||
Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
261 | Why did Elisha have to see Elijah taken | 2 Kin 2:9 | charis | 33620 | ||
Dear Searcher, Greetings in the name of Jesus! Brother, as you said earlier, 'anointing' (Strong's 5545) comes from 'anointed' (Strong's 5548) chrio khree'-o probably akin to 5530 through the idea of contact; to smear or rub with oil, i.e. (by implication) to consecrate to an office or religious service:--anoint. This, IMHO, is applicable to the situation. Elisha asked that Elijah's spirit, mantle, anointing be passed to him. Certainly God did the choosing, the consecrating, the anointing, and Elisha was the recipient of this blessing, this gift. Elisha was anointed, and took up the mantle of prophet. Frankly, I don't get what you are saying about 'no relation.' Could you explain? In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
262 | Anoint? | 2 Kin 2:9 | charis | 33755 | ||
Dear Robert, Greetings in the name of Jesus! Friend, I am a layman, a carpenter and PC technician by trade, a minister of the Gospel by calling. Forgive me for being so dense, But WHAT is it you agree with our fellow forumer Searcher? I agree with your definition from Strong's. I used the Greek equivalent in my post more than once. Anoint means consecrate (unto God) for the purpose of serving the Lord. It seems (to me) that the Hebrew and the Greek agree on the basic meaning. I have said that I believe that Elisha was anointed to the ministry of prophet. He succeeded Elijah, took up his mantle, was endowed with the gifts necessary to perform his calling. I have NOT said that I agree with the doctrine or all the posts written by our colleague 'prophet ezra brown,' but that we owe him the dignity of counting him among the brethren of God. I simply said that I agree with Brother Brown that the spirit of Elijah was indeed passed to his heir, Elisha. I also agree that the 'double' part of 'double-portion' is not a numerical 2X. It means that the legacy was passed on. With all due respect to you, and to my esteemed (steamed?) colleague, Searcher, what is the ado about? I can't find a thing in your post that I disagree with, except the 'I agree with Bro. Searcher... part. I don't even know what HE is so upset about. :-) I hope not to put you out of joint, too! :-) In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
263 | Anoint? | 2 Kin 2:9 | charis | 33779 | ||
Dear Searcher, Greetings in the name of Jesus! I quote from Jamieson, Fausset and Brown Commentary: This request was not, as is commonly supposed, for the power of working miracles exceeding the magnitude and number of his master's, nor does it mean a higher endowment of the prophetic spirit; for Elisha was neither superior to, nor perhaps equally great with, his predecessor. But the phrase, "a double portion," was applied to the first-born [Deu 21:17], and therefore Elisha's request was, simply, to be heir to the prophetic office and gifts of his master. (end quote) Brother, I find it hard to believe that this whole thing, calling me a 'Scripture-twister' and all that was simply to prove your point about the semantic difference between the the 'anointment' in 1 Kings 19 (i.e. the pouring of oil on the head by God's representative) and my use of the word 'anointing' as in 'endowed with gifts from God.' As far as I am concerned, you win the legal battle, and gain the crown of triviality. :-) Many, many blessings to you in the abundant life that our Lord gives. In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
264 | Double portion is really only two-thirds | 2 Kin 2:9 | charis | 33946 | ||
Dear Indy, Greetings from the Far East in the name of Jesus! My friend, I agee with you! That is precisely why I sometimes write like the Amplified Bible. :-) I did that this time and found that one of my 'amplifications' was totally unacceptable to some folks for reasons I could not fathom for some time! Theological significance!? Yeah, right! :-) I don't envy your arguments about 'chaste.' At least we have settled THAT one in our local church. But, we don't have many (any) theologians, either! Good luck! If I may say so, I have never had such 'discussions' in Japanese. Maybe English has too much (convoluted) history, and too much 'poetic license!' In my second language (first after 30 years?) of Japanese, this entire thread is summed up as, "American Christians sure have a lot of free time on their hands!" :-) I sometimes try to explain to my congregation the 'issues' portrayed on this forum, and all I get is a dumdfounded stare. From a former Hoosier. In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
265 | Is prayer of Jabez special? | 1 Chr 4:10 | charis | 4484 | ||
Dear Joe! I agree with points 1,2,3 and 4. I must heartily disagree though, that this was a rant. A GOOD rant must have some ALL CAPS screaming. A lot more exclamation points are required!!! Yuo wood hafto mispel a bunch moor werds, two. Now that would be a RANT!!! Blessings upon you, sir or ma'am, for a great posting. Now, I know that Joe is usually a male moniker, but how can I know for sure unless you post a personal profile? Friend, give us a bit more info than Texas :-) In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
266 | Prophet idolatry? | Job | charis | 32322 | ||
Dear Jensen, Greetings in the name of Jesus! Perhaps the difference is that I see prophets as chosen ministers of God, whose gift is simply to speak forth God's word for the edification, exhortation and consolation of the saints, the church. This would include speaking of future events, but only as God wills. I, personally do not think that God wills us to know that much of the future. I think that God will speak to his saints words of future ministry, and perhaps a vision for the church for encouragement. But we do NOT need to know specific numbers, names and dates in order to walk the path He has set before us. As to the details of the lives of Biblical prophets, we hardly know anything at all. But I see no evidence that they just walked around all day every day spewing forth the mind of God and telling everyone of future events. I would imagine that the greater part of their life was not too different from other servants of God. As to whether they were special or not, God told Elijah that there were 7,000 other prophets in tha land even after great persecution. Only a few were chosen to bring forth what would become the Bible, but this does no diminish the 'other' prophets in God's sight. To counter your demand that I bring forth proof that these fellows were prophets 'all the day long,' I could ask you to prove from the Bible that these fellows were NOT normal people, In New Testament language, 'parts of the body.' My friend, I believe that you have fallen into the trap of looking at today's charlatans, and being disgusted by their antics, have decided to discount the faithful servants of God that do not seek fame and fortune. I am glad that sanity is winning, and that you have some discrimination, but do not throw out the good with the bad. I'm with you about numerology! There is only one capital "P" Prophet. All the rest are prophets. Frankly, I am not too impressed by anyone that makes a living with 'Prophet' on their namecard. They HAVE TO perform, whether God is speaking or not! Because they have booked this big hall, and hypnotized thousands into coming to hear their 'oracles.' What a sham! (but, Oh! the 'black ink!' :-)) Is it 'OK' to be sometimes wrong as a prophet of God? Of course not! That is why a prophet (or any gifted minister) must be careful with their words to make sure God is speaking. Is there grace? Of course there is! But should we sin that grace abound? May it never be! Prophets today need to be trained in the Bible, and in wisdom and humility before they start serving the church. As far as 'international ministries,' I don't know a one that I consider holy. But I DO know servants of the local church that fulfil the requirements of the Bible. I any case, I am not here to persuade, but learn and share, just like you! In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
267 | Are Modern Prophets Always Accurate ? | Job | charis | 32353 | ||
Dear Jensen, Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus! I realized that I got carried away answering your other posts and forgot to get back to this one. Confrontation plus intolerance minus grace is sin, whatever you claim to be defending. :-) My point was that prophets is prophets, whatever their era. Indeed, a modern prophet should be accountable. But stoning someone today is murder, so I do not suggest this course of action. It would be wise for a prophet to make sure that he is hearing from God before he speaks in the name of God. No, a forth-teller could speak God's revelation of the present reality, and confirm former revelation, as well as revealing things to come. To 'bring forth' God's word is not always revealing future events. Your experience with false prophets or false tongues or any false gifts does not negate all the gifts of the Spirit. This is simply bigotry. What you are witnessing is the manifestation of the spirit of the age. Indeed, it is sad that many are led astray. It seems to me that we should be praying for a discerning spirit rather than denying all gifts. Come to think of it, that IS one of the gifts that God gives to His church! Will wonders never cease! (I hope NOT! :-)) You really seem to be hung up on the 'perfect, never-wrong prophet' thing. Do you measure your pastor and his preaching with the same meter-stick? After all, preaching the Gospel and counseling the flock is pretty serious business, too. I don't think that prophets should be wrong. But perfection? I can listen and discern with a small grain of salt without compromising my salvation, I hope. If you demand absolute perfection in those who are recipients of God's gifts and callings, you will be disappointed in ALL of His servants. As far as I can see, prophecy is but one of several gifts that the Lord has blessed His church with. Are modern prophets continuing to write (or re-write) the Bible? I don't think so. I see their role in the church as one of edification and guidance. I believe that their words should always be in accord with the Bible. Please, do not say that I impied that Isaiah made false prophecies. That is ridiculous! I merely said that not every word that proceded forth from that normal human being's mouth was an 'in the name of the Lord' prophecy. If this were so, the Book of Isaiah would be thousands of pages long, otherwise we would 'miss' some of God's words. Keep your 'icky.' :-) Well, it is late! I probably missed a few things. Sorry! As we all know a 'true poster' would run spell-check, grammar-check, and proof read twice before posting. Alas, I fall short... In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
268 | Truly searching for a prophet? | Job | charis | 32838 | ||
Dear Jensen, Bigotry, not bogotry! :-) Sorry. I noticed that in a recent post that you asked, "Do you think God must back up His Word with the Bible?" My answer to that is, "No, God doesn't HAVE to, but He DOES anyway!" The Lord often employs reiteration, confirmation, and affirming witness of His word to us. This is because we are so self-righteous, so stiff-necked, and so DENSE! Even the Bible backs Itself up again and again. The preached sermon MUST be confirmed with Scripture. Our testimony is dependent on the Bible. The shared Gospel is founded on the written Word. Nowhere do I find a job description that says prophets must write the Bible. The Bible is written! Prophets then and now have other jobs, too! And the words they speak will always be in accord with the Bible, and be harmonious with the Spirit that speaks to your heart. (unless, of course, your heart is hardened to hearing His servants!) Peace, my friend, in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
269 | Truly searching for a prophet? | Job | charis | 32851 | ||
Dear Searcher56, Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus! At the end of your post you write, "All of this is bad." If you are saying that we should not listen to the preachers of the Word, I disagree. Though we must all read and study the Bible, even the saved need to hear the preaching of the Gospel. The preached word is not only the Gospel of salvation, but the Good News of present and eternal life in Christ Jesus. As to wanting to know God's direction for their individual life and a vision for the future of their local church, I cannot find fault. Of course I do not think that we should dabble in fortune-telling or have an inordinate interest in asking for details. But we should all seek a vision from God, and He still does use His servants to give guidance and direction in order that we may serve Him and His people. My friend, it is our attitude that is the problem, in my opinion. If we ask with wrong motives, then you are correct. If we prophesy, preach, or misuse the gifts, then God is not pleased. In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
270 | Are you truly searching for a prophet? | Job | charis | 32916 | ||
Dear Joe! Greetings, my friend, in the name of Jesus! I couldn't agree with you more! (except that the modern punishment for modern false-prophecy is not quite so extreme! :-)) Indeed, these Old Testament qualifications for prophets should serve as a deterrent for hasty prophecy! Sadly, they do not. I, too, have witnessed the 'run-of-the-mouth' prophecies, endless, pointless and Spirit-less. I have also heard the 'blessing upon blessing' prophecies that are so exciting to hear, but are only vapor. I have heard the 'Alterenate Revelations (sic)' prophecies that claim detailed information about the 'End Times.' I've even heard the 'magical, mystical' prophecies that no one understands, but seem soooooo deep. So what do we do? Deny prophecy as described in I Corinthians 14:3? "But one who prophesies speaks to men for edification and exhortation and consolation." (NASB) If we were to do away with anything that men abuse, then there would be no drugs (penicilin?), food (McDonalds? MandMs?), television (any sitcom!) or forums. :-) Virtually every good thing has been abused by sinful men, Christian and non-, including the Bible and the church. My answer to this dilemma is that all men who desire to serve God and His people in the gifts and ministries MUST submit to the qualifications set forth in the pastoral epistles. (it seems to me that too many are claiming 'waivers' in this area! :-)) "Do not be hasty in word or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter in the presence of God. For God is in heaven and you are on the earth; therefore let your words be few." Ecclesiates 5:2 NASB. "When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who restrains his lips is wise. The tongue of the righteous is as choice silver, The heart of the wicked is worth little." Proverbs 10:19,20 NASB. Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
271 | Truly searching for a prophet? | Job | charis | 32945 | ||
Dear Jensen, Greetings in Jesus' name! (a) No, prophecy will always be in accord with Scripture. And there is no NEW revelation of God's will for the church. The Lord may speak to the individual or to the local church for vision or direction, but His message to the whole church is finished with the Scriptural canon. (b) Please be careful that you do not consider yourself in perfect communication with the Holy Spirit. That is precisely why we need the Bible and the gifts and ministries working within the church. Harmony is NOT a personal opinion. :-) I think we are closer than you may think, but I kind of get the idea that you alone will judge whether a person is a prophet or not. (?) In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
272 | Are Modern Prophets Always Accurate ? | Job | charis | 33007 | ||
Dear trykkleif, Greetings in the name of Jesus! No, you are not right. A TRUE PROPHET does NOT have to be a hundred percent right! His prophecies spoken in the name of the Lord cannot be spoken presumptously. This particular Scripture is clearly speaking of revealing future events. Prophets in the New Testament do more than write the Bible (which is finished) and tell the future. "But one who prophesies speaks to men for edification and exhortation and consolation." 1 Corinthians 14:3 NASB. We cannot measure the above ministry to the saints in terms of 100 percent right or totally false. Otherwise, all of the other gifts and ministries would come under the same (impossible)scrutiny. This would leave the church without ANY guidance. The Bible is written, and all of the future events that the (universal) church needs to know are revealed. What remains, Scripturally, for the present-age prophets, is the encouragement of the saints and the God-given guidance to individuals and the local church. A shepherd without any prophetic ability is useless in counseling and setting the course for his flock. Otherwise, the church can only depend on intellect and training. While this may be enough for some, I prefer a Spirit-led church. Surely we use natural abilities, but all under the unction of the Holy Spirit. By the way, I would ask your motive for making this assertion. Are there no more prophets? Which other gifts and ministries are done away with? Which remain in your walk with Jesus? Blessings to you in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
273 | Seeking a prophet, or not? | Job | charis | 33117 | ||
Dear Jensen, Greetings in Jesus' name! If you are NOT seeking a prophet of God, you will never find one. :-) You did not answer my question, again. Do you demand that every minister of the Gospel meet YOUR standard of perfection? Pastor, preacher, evangelist, counselor, Sunday School teacher, etc.? (while I am asking, does the same apply for family, friends, and brothers-in-the-Lord?) Dyslexia is a terrible condition. I gently suggest you do something about that. :-) I never said that I agree with YOU. I said, quite clearly, "If we are speaking of fortune-telling or future-telling..." The *IF* denotes a portion of your stance, not in toto. I agree with you about charlatans, self-serving frauds, and 'para-church' monomaniacs. I do not, and have never agreed with you that there are no longer any prophets in the church. I am sorry that you have seen instances and situations of abuse of the gifts of the Spirit. I have too! But that is the fault of irresponsible shepherds who do not practice order and common sense in their churches. It is also the responsibility of sheep to have some discerning, and not be so greedy for 'blessings.' Circuses "Give 'em what they want!" Churches should give what they NEED! Overall, my friend, I see the problem as what YOU stated at the end of your diatribe, "...*my* reading of the Scriptures." (my emphasis*) It seems that your experiences rule your bias in the interpretation of the Bible. "Take a stand."(?) I HAVE taken a stand! "This debate never was about anything other than how to discern a false prophet." (?) Well, if you are so worried about discerning FALSE prophets, then my explanation of what a TRUE prophet is should be of some help! :-) "...kissed and made up." (?) Don't get mushy on me! "TEST all things..." Trust me, I do! All the time. Peace and joy to you in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
274 | Two prophets? | Job | charis | 33177 | ||
Dear Searcher, Greetings in the name of Jesus! "They cannot ever vary from the Word of God." Like Moses, David, Jonah, John or Peter, right? This is an admirable standard, my friend. I can only pray (for you) that your measure is correct. Peace and love in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
275 | Two prophets? | Job | charis | 33264 | ||
Dear Jensen, Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus! "Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father." Colossians 3:17 NASB. I have agreed with you that any prophet that speaks presumtuously in the name of the Lord is out of order. If he persists, ignore his prophecies, perhaps even censure him. This is the responsibility of every pastor of every church. If a prophet leads people astray, it is because the pastor is not doing his job. In addition, the saints of God have some responsibility to discern false prophets, and beware of them. To this extent I agree with you. If you rant and rave about false prophets, then it is VERY PERTINENT to ask about true prophets. You, sir, are the one that has been dancing around this side of the issue. My point (since the 28th of January) is that there ARE true prophets today, and that their spiritual gift and ministerial gift is closely tied to that of the other gifts given to the church. Prophets encourage the church, as is clearly stated in the Bible, and you have ignored totally: "But one who prophesies speaks to men for edification and exhortation and consolation." 1 Corinthians 14:3 NASB. There are no more Old Testament prophets. There are only New Testament prophets. The do exactly what the Bible says they do. They do not bring new future revelation from God to the universal church (i.e. add to or re-write the Bible). They encourage the (local) church at the ministerial level, and their gift compliments (perfectly!) the other gifts given to the church. That there are false prophets does not take away one whit the purpose and necessity of the prophetic ministry. This same logic would deny us every gift and ministry in the church, because there are charlatans masquerading in every level of church activity. No, my friend, I do NOT know that I am missing any mark. I am simply stating an opinion based on my study of the Bible and experience in the ministry. Your "for the lack of 'accuracy'... the Kingdom of God fell" argument is very intersting! :-) In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
276 | Two prophets? | Job | charis | 33278 | ||
Dear Brian, Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus! Well said, my friend, well said! (If I recall my Bible history, Israel was supposed to stone the false prophets, but killed all the true prophets for a fact!) In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
277 | Two prophets? | Job | charis | 33328 | ||
Dear Jensen, As a resident of the New Testament, I tend to put all things in that perspective. Though some may see the Old Testament as rigid and without tolerance or grace, I see it differently. The Law is indeed firm, and *apparently* without leniency, but in reality, God practiced grace from the Book of Genesis. My witness is God's gracious dealings with His chosen servants from the early days of recorded history. Therefore, though the Law is our tutor, setting a standard of absolute perfection, the love and grace of the Lord has always been our bulwark. As Paul so clearly spoke, we cannot *depend* upon this love as an excuse for sin, but we CAN completely trust in His salvation. I cannot condemn the actions of any Christian except a clear and obvious case of denying the Holy Spirit. I would not want to be in the shoes of a false teacher, but I do not hold the command of their condemnation. As to our brother and colleague, prophet ezra brown, I do not consider his ideas of prophecy to be solely Old Testament in nature. I am familiar with many types of Christian *religion,* and I see that our forum fellow does uphold many aspects of New Testament prophecy. Though I might disagree with him on style and format, I would imagine that in his fellowship the saints are encouraged in their faith by his message. You may see it as false, but then again, I don't know the style and format of prophecy in YOUR fellowship. :-) Indeed, we shall meet again! Until that time I remain your friend in Christ Jesus, charis In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
278 | Is God fair? | Ps 11:7 | charis | 2250 | ||
Dear robbitybob, Good points and good website! As Chris said, "God is JUST" Amen! The Bible speaks of reward, and also of reaping what you sow, very clearly. However, when it comes to salvation, everyone is saved equally (fairly). Nobody can be 'partially in Heaven' or 'partially in Hell.' Here on earth, and in His holy presence, we have varying ministries, gifts, talents and rewards. But these are not in the human sense of 'one above another' or one more righteous than another. More, it seems only to be that one may have more responsibility for service than another. Certainly, 'reward' cannot be in earthly currency. Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
279 | Advise on contradictions found in bible | Ps 25:4 | charis | 17558 | ||
Dear Sir, Welcome back in Jesus' name! Thank you for the compliment. To be called wise by one who appreciates the message of Matthew 10:16 is a blessing to me! I pray that our fellow Benjibabs receives my post in the spirit is was given; in Christ's love. In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
280 | Advise on contradictions found in bible | Ps 25:4 | charis | 18240 | ||
Dear Benjibabs, Greetings in Jesus name! My friend, in no way was I suggesting that you were not a Christian. My point is that we are to defend our faith and show forth the Christ within us, not 'convince' the Gentiles with logic or argument. "but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame." 1 Peter 3:15,16 NASB. Yes, there are many books that strengthen our own faith, giving us courage and and a certain amount head-knowledge to use to knock down the feeble attempts to discredit the Bible. Apologetics is to reinforce our faith, and to shine the light of truth to dispel the lies of the enemy. But if there is no room in the heart to accept Good News, and they would instead desire to sway your faith, then no amount of proof will convince the adamant skeptic or hostile unbeliever. Some good books have been written by Josh McDowell that dispel the untruths spread to disparage the Word of God. Francis Schaeffer's Christian philosophy can help against the 'mental attacks' of humanism and nihilism. C.S. Lewis chronicles his conversion to faith in a way that touches many wayward souls. Foxe's Book of Martyrs (especially the updated version) gives us a clear picture of the value of faith held by saints throughout the history of the church, their very lives. If you will visit www.carm.org you will find enough on Christian apologetics to keep you occupied for months, without spending anything but your net time. Well, it is late in Japan, though mid-day in Nigeria. I really enjoy discussing this with you, and pray that you will be encouraged in your faith. I am somewhat aware of the situation in your country, as one of my fellowship is from Lagos. Contact me if you would like to hear the experiences of a countryman in Yokohama. Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
Result pages: << First < Prev [ 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 ] Next > Last [37] >> |