Results 121 - 140 of 277
|
||||||
Results from: Answers On or After: Thu 12/31/70 Author: charis Ordered by Verse |
||||||
Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
121 | Tithes into the storehouse | Mal 3:10 | charis | 21869 | ||
Dear retxar, Greetings in Jesus' name! The New Testament does not say very much about the amount, but says a lot about the attitude of giving. My own understanding is that the tithe was for the priests, thus would correspond with your local church, i.e. those who shepherd you and those with whom you share a commitment. Offerings are that which God speaks to your heart by the Holy Spirit, and can be given to any person or ministry that He leads you to. Personally, I do not hold too much faith in 'para-church ministries,' but I have given to those outside my fellowship on many occasions. This was in accord with the leading of the Holy Spirit, and I will continue to seek His counsel. Again, as to tithes, I believe it is for the building and maintenance of your local church, and especially for those who watch over your soul. By the way, I do not believe in 'special appeals' for money that come regularly. While I agree that there may be a time when the Lord will lead a minister to ask his flock to provide for a special need, I see many churches that have special needs all too often! This speaks to me of poor management of God's resources, and fleecing an already shorn sheep! :-) Blessings to you in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
122 | Difference bet. swearing and making oath | Matt 5:33 | charis | 30220 | ||
Dear frum, Greetings in the name of Jesus! I think that the verses that follow tell us what this means: "Nor shall you make an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. But let your statement be, 'Yes, yes' or 'No, no'; anything beyond these is of evil." Matthew 5:36, 37 NASB. In other words simpler is better. To try to embellish our words by swearing, as if to make them more important, is meaningless or even presumptuous. "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." Ecclesiastes 5:2 NASB. In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
123 | Oath is to God, swear is to man? | Matt 5:33 | charis | 30236 | ||
Dear frum, Greetings in Jesus' name! Friend, it seems that verse 33 is quoting the Old Testament (Numbers 30:2ff), and is speaking of solemn vows of obligation before God. In contrast, verse 34 appears to be speaking of more trivial things (in God's sight) that should be done without maybe a big thing of it. In our dealings with man, we should simply be men of our word, without theatrics. In our dealings with God, we should walk in obedience and responsibility to His commandments. Honestly, I don't know if we can apply a blanket understanding to the words 'oath' (horkos) and 'swear' (omnuo). Moreover, the context determines the meanings of each word in this case. As Brother Tim has noted, both words pertain to the English word 'oath.' In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
124 | Did you forgive the Tuesday terrorists? | Matt 6:14 | charis | 16138 | ||
Dear Steve, Frankly, I do not think that letting these people know these things while they are free is of any consequence. We are not talking about being slapped on the cheek by a brother, but an avowed enemy of all that we believe. I doubt that these hardened hearts would be impressed. When they are in custody, and able to see their victims and be seen by their victims, it is possible that shame could enter in to their souls, leading to a heart open to repentence. We should, at that time, let them know that Jesus is Lord, and could forgive their sins. At that time, we also should be able to control our anger, and replace it with compassion for the lost. Prior to this, we cast pearls before (loose) swine. Justice demands the rights of their victims be upheld. If it is God's will, they could come to a saving knowledge of Him. At their execution (to execute, or effect justice) they would be commended unto the Lord for His righteous judgment. Finally, have I, personally, forgiven them? I am not in a position to forgive them their sins. I can only say that their actions are cowardly and despicable, and that I am outraged by their perverted thinking. I will answer you when I see them disarmed and in chains. In Jesus' name, charis |
||||||
125 | Should we shake the dust from our feet? | Matt 10:14 | charis | 16877 | ||
Dear Bill, Greetings in Jesus' name! I think that "Do not give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces." Matthew 7:6 NASB, can be applied to countries or religions. Only with individuals or households can we discern this, and even then not a permanent judgment. We are to be wise AND gentle. Sometimes it is wise to discern a (presently) inpenetrable wall, and pray for the Lord to deal with it while we move on. There may come a time when the door for ministry is open. As to whether these verses can be applied on a larger (country) scale, I don't think it would work. We would 'give up' and surrender an entire nation or religion to the devil. Even in Afghanistan and North Korea there are faithful saints. Japan has an extremely low proportion of Christians for an 'advanced' nation, but I cannot give it to the enemy. I have had a few times when I have put certain individuals 'on hold.' In a few cases, doors were opened at a later date that were effective to salvation. Even 'don't throw pearls' and 'shake off the dust' are not permanent, but temporary or giving them unto another vessel for ministry. In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
126 | Where do we draw the line? | Matt 10:14 | charis | 16924 | ||
Dear Bill, Greetings from Yokohama! Oops! That's what I get (and you get) for trying to say something lucid past my bedtime after a long day. With a bit more sense, I say... These verses can NOT be applied to entire countries or religions, only on a more personal basis. Even 'towns or cities' would be difficult to justify considering the size of today's mega-cities. Regarding the missionary, I can only say that some (not all) are where they are because they have a holy burden for that people that was given by God. They devote their lives, and the lives of their family, to the land specified by the Holy Spirit. Whether their life is long, prosperous or 'effective' is not important. Even if it cut short, or they don't meet a 'quota,' they serve a Divine purpose. I , personally, cannot imagine 'quitting' this place, though I have not seen people or blessing flowing in. I have, however, seen a few bright lights of faith, and experienced more than a few victories for Christ. To be fair, I have had to 'stop throwing pearls' a few times, and had to 'shake the dust off my sandals' on a few doorsteps. Sadly, this includes a few church doorsteps. But I do not strike them from prayer, or pronounce a permanent ban. (more later) *We* don't send them, if they are true missionaries. God sends them! Historically, preaching the Gospel is potentially dangerous. We can't stop! Now, as to morals, we do have a problem. Brother Andrew, Open Doors ministries, etc. basically state that the call of God supercedes any political ban. I agree to some extent, but indeed some ministers-ministries are a bit too 'sneeky' for my taste. Many churches in Japan have no legal status, and do lie to the government. I do not condone this, as there are ways to preach the Gospel legally. (I do!) In some countries, this is impossible. Perhaps the Lord is gracious to those whose zeal overcomes honesty when the situation demands. :-) Is there a balance? YES! What exactly is it? I don't know! But each person answering the call of God must find that balance himself, and "Follow Him wherever He goes!" As to the permanence of 'giving up' on a person , place or situation, I do not think this is of God. In the Lord, *we* can never pronounce a permanent curse. That is His business. We can 'give unto the Lord' and-or 'give to another's care,' whoever that may be. Ours is to follow the leading (away) of the Holy Spirit, not pronounce the judgment. The time of repentance is not up to us, only the discernment of the present. I hope that this makes my opinion a bit more understandable, my friend. I am almost awake! :-) In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
127 | Can A Christian disown Christ? | Matt 10:33 | charis | 15877 | ||
Dear Steve, and fellow saints, This question is similar to 'once saved, always saved?' My answer (opinion) to this is, Yes, for all intents and purposes. There are places in the Bible that speak of 'falling away' and the 'unforgiveable sin.' Without becoming too deep for my own good, I will just say that there *seems* to be a possibility of disowning Christ, but it is remote! (Praise God!) In fact, it is so remote that I, personally, discount it, and place that decision in God's capable hands. (some may have noticed that I like that phrase!) The alternative seems to be that we on earth have some insight into the heart of man regarding his relationship with God. For instance, if we believe that we can (relatively easily) lose our salvation, few would 'make it.' Or, that those that seemingly 'fall away' were never saved in the first place, which is absolutely frightening. Is there going to be an earthly test? NO! The results are known only 'off-site!' "You shall know them by their fruits?' Who is 'you?' And are 'you' going to tell 'us?' All I can say is that these alternatives stink! I preach and portray the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I pray for those I meet and know, regardless of my view of their 'status' with God. I serve them, knowing that if they are saved, I must serve them as His, and if they are not, I must serve them His promises. The only time I am 'off the hook' is when I could be 'casting pearls before swine.' Even then, my prayer is that another might be more effective in giving forth the Good News. I have several acquaintances that once served Christ with me years ago, that now are not doing so. I have no Biblical foundation for condemning them to Hell. I did my best to dissuade them from worldly ways, but was unable to do so. Are they unsaved because I don't see their salvation? Sorry, but that's not my department! Can a Christian disown Christ, (and thereby be stripped of salvation?) I HOPE NOT! What do you hope? What do you know? Blessings and much grace. In Jesus' name, charis |
||||||
128 | Will there be degrees of judgment? | Matt 11:22 | charis | 6868 | ||
Dear Hank, I have read this thread with great interest. I have one comment: What does it matter to God's people whether there are degrees of punishment? Frankly, I can see no good reason to dwell on the 'degree' of judgment. Friend, was this an intentional pun? If it was, it was great!! Will 'X' be roasting at 240F, and 'Y' at 275F? Poor 'Z' is right on the coals at 500C!! I suspect that maybe the Lord has a way to cause 'greater discomfort' in Hell, but I can see no purpose in *our* measuring it :-) It would appear that the rich man (looking upon Lazarus) had some remorse. He seemed to accept his plight, but hoped that maybe there was some way to warn others of their danger, if they continued in their evil ways. Would this 'remorse in Hell' grant him a lower temperature? To what end? After all, he is in Hell. A great question, but some of the answers were a bit 'academic,' IMHO. In Jesus' name, charis |
||||||
129 | work on the sabbath? | Matt 12:1 | charis | 19033 | ||
Dear huckle7berry, Greetings in Jesus' name! I am sorry that I was not clear about my meaning. "At that time Jesus went through the grainfields on the Sabbath, and His disciples became hungry and began to pick the heads of grain and eat." Matthew 12:1 NASB. In the following verses the Lord defends His disciples and speaks of the Pharisee's foolishness in regard to their constant worrying about 'breaking the Sabbath,' while often breaking the 'laws' of common sense. Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath, not religious observance. My friend, please try to reply to the same thread for the sake of continuity. Just type your answer or note in the box provided when you 'open' that particular post. Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
130 | having to work the sabbath | Matt 12:1 | charis | 33880 | ||
Dear brac17070, Greetings in Jesus' name! Working on Sunday (if that is the day your church assembles) would keep you from the fellowship you need with God's people, your family in Christ. "...not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." Hebrews 10:25 NASB. "...you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 2:5 NASB. In order to be healthy in the Lord, you need His Spirit, His Word (the Bible), and His House (the local church). The local church brings forth love, faith, responsiblity, gifts and ministry. (and much more!) By committing your self to a local church, and placing yourself under shepherding care, the fulness of the Gospel is made manifest, producing the fruit of the Spirit in your life. Back to job situation, it is not a legalistic thing. It is not that you may NEVER miss church. But if your job takes you away from the fellowship of the saints on a permanent or constant basis, you probably are working the wrong job! Ask if adjustments can be made, petition God to work on your behalf, make a goal (vision) of getting a more healthy lifestyle. I have seen the Lord move on behalf of those that trusted Him to make a way! Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
131 | we obey from the heart not the letter. | Matt 12:8 | charis | 18961 | ||
Dear huckle7berry, Nobody said anything (that I am aware of) about *abolishing* the Law. This is alarmism and extremism, my friend. Don't degrade yourself or your brethren with such a ridiculous *if-then* statement. Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath (Matthew 12:8, Mark 2:28, Luke 6:5), indicating that the Spirit-led, fruit-of-the-Spirit-bearing walk in Christ supercedes the legalistic, Pharisaical observance of the letter of the Law. (Which nobody could do anyway!) Jesus healed on the Sabbath, and allowed, even encouraged His disciples to 'work' on the Sabbath. Unless you can come up with a better 'observance' of the Law than the Pharisees (which is impossible) all such methods are simply Pharisaical. "Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor." Gal 3:24,25 NASB. The 'tutor' has not been abolished at all! We still need it, even today. But we are no longer under the 'thumb' of this teacher, but encouraged to take those lessons and apply it in the Holy Spirit, which the Jews could not do. The intent and heart of the Law is much more important than the letter. Truly, not one letter shall be done away with. But the academic adherence to the letter was never God's intention. Witness King David, who was allowed to live after so blatantly breaking the Law. You are mistaken about the 'only day' ideology. Jesus has come and made every day holy, indeed, He fulfilled the Psalm: "This is the day which the LORD has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24 NASB. Grace and peace to you in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
132 | Can a homosexual be an "Elect" | Matt 12:31 | charis | 1889 | ||
Dear TruthSeeker, As I am not in a position to say whether or not a person is of the elect (it is, after all, not a 'feeling'), it is difficult to answer. However, after reading the exhortations in Romans 1:18-27 (reagarding the unnatural lusts of people rebelling against common sense), I find it difficult to believe that God would call such a person without providing a way for them to be set free from that sin. I can well imagine God saving anyone, because He saved me, but He gave me victory over my many sins. As yet, I am not sinless, and I do not expect to become sinless in this life, but the direction of my life changed dramatically. I would say that homosexuality would come under the category of 'in need of drastic change of direction.' Without getting into an 'election' discussion, how might someone determine their 'elect' status without some profound evidence? To say, "My fundamental rebellion against the Word of God remains, but I am convinced I am of the 'elect,'" is a questionable statement of faith. I hope this answers the question. In Jesus' name. charis |
||||||
133 | Sorcery justified? | Matt 13:34 | charis | 68864 | ||
Dear biblesearcher, Greetings in the name of Jesus! "All these things Jesus spoke to the crowds in parables, and He did not speak to them without a parable." Matthew 13:34 NASB Parable - from Latin and Greek 'comparison' - a usually short fictitious story that illustrates a moral attitude or a religious principle. M-W Dictionary. These two series were written to portray to children the battle between good and evil. They are both fantasy, but never show sorcery as good. In fact, even sorcery used for good purpose has consequences. I enjoy both of these, and my children do, too! To me (and my girls) the imagery leads to understand more about God, as well as dignity, honor, love, vision, purpose, responsibility and respect. These attributes are always lifted up as good, and temptation, greed, lust and deceit are always called evil. I think that we must be careful with ANY publication! I have read some recent 'Christian' novels that I thought were more dangerous than these two works of fiction. Blessings and peace in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
134 | keys to the kingdom | Matt 16:19 | charis | 3582 | ||
Dear Buf, On the Day of Pentecost, when he delivered the first Christian sermon, and revealed the Christ to all. In Jesus' name, charis |
||||||
135 | Peter at the gate? | Matt 16:19 | charis | 21118 | ||
Dear retxar, Greetings in Jesus' name! "And I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades shall not overpower it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." Matthew 16:18,19 NASB. I, personally do not think that Peter 'stands at the gate,' but many traditions say so, and the thought has become ubiquitous. Basically, this kind of thinking is in line with worshipping or beatifying Peter and other apostles. In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
136 | Do all little ones believe? | Matt 18:6 | charis | 66393 | ||
Dear Cyclist, Greetings in the name of Jesus! I can only hope that I don't sound like an ogre, but... My own observation of children leads me to believe that they are not 'little angels.' From a very young age, they manifest selfishness and willfullness toward authority. Most children are not naturally giving, or sharing, and most of their 'happiness' is when they are satisfied and entertained. Now that the majority of humanity and virtually every mother on earth considers me pond scum, let me say that I love children! Really! I thoroughly enjoyed raising my own two daughters, and continue to rejoice in them, one one almost-16 and the other a college-sophomore-18. Our home is always full of 'extra' babysat babies and children, friends over, and slumber parties. Our church is blessed with children, and we have had a church school for 8 years, almost unheard of in Japan. When I see the sin in children, I am only being honest, so that I can correctly bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4) To call a kid cute when they are rotten is mutual deception. :-) When I read the above Scripture, I believe that the Lord is exhorting us to be "as children," i.e dependent on God as a child is dependent on parents. Please also note that there is a good chance that there was a lot more discipline in the home, and in society in general, 2000 years ago. Yes, I'm sure that 'kids were kids' even then. But I doubt seriously that the present-age public tantrums and outward disrepect were anywhere near as prevalent as now. Jesus was talking about faith and trust in God, not the nature of children. For... "Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest." Ephesians 2:3 NASB. You can see what we do here at www.charisjapan.com Blessing and peace in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
137 | Do all little ones believe? | Matt 18:6 | charis | 66394 | ||
Dear Cyclist, Greetings again in Jesus' name! I forgot to answer your question! :-) No, I don't think that all little ones believe in Jesus. I cannot think of anything in the Bible that leads us to think that all children are born 'saved,' then at some point all become 'lost!' (the 'age of accountability' theory) How would we describe the point at which they stop believing? Where would sharing the "Good News" fit in? ("I once was saved, but now am lost, I hope I can get saved again!") I know it is popular to consider all children as 'innocent,' but isn't that doves? :-) I guess I back to 'ogre' status! :-( In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
138 | Are little ones trusting, easily led | Matt 18:6 | charis | 66485 | ||
Dear cwade, Greetings in the name of Jesus! My friend, not intrusion whatsoever! After all, this is a public forum! :-) I see what you are saying, but I will have to say that I think that the 'little ones' are actually faithful, dedicated believers, regardless of their significance or maturity 'level.' Some commentators even go as far as labeling them disciples or ministers. (I use "e-Sword" in my computer [last count, 13 commentaries], and "The Pulpit Commentary [23 volumes]" and 5 different Study Bibles) My own experience in Christ tells me that the faithful Christian becomes 'less complicated' with maturity. Though I have not yet 'arrived' at striving to be humble, it is my earnest goal. One more 'food-for-thought' comment. You asked if 'as children' might mean "...people who are very trusting by nature and easily led." I think that dedicated, faithful Christians, regardless of their 'maturity,' are NOT "very FOOLISH by nature and easily MISLED." Just because they might be 'caused to stumble' does not necessarily mean they are stupid and easily duped. I still think that the 'dependent on God' aspect is more in keeping with the context of this passage, rather than 'cute an innocent.' For instance, when we 'turn the other cheek,' we should be well aware that we will probably get smacked again. But willing anyway! It's usually not like the movies when the 'offender' breaks down in repentance seeing our humility! So, saints... "Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves." Matthew 10:16 NASB. I appreciate your comments. I know that my thoughts could 'rub the wrong way.' I just look at these Scriptures and see that they speak to 'converted' disciples of Christ. BTW, How are things in 'Joh-jah?' My big brother lives near Ellijay, Nohth Joh-jah! :-) In Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
139 | Why study prophecy? | Matt 24:3 | charis | 19725 | ||
Dear kalos, Greetings in the name of Jesus! The WHOLE counsel of God is worthy of serious study. The purpose of this study is to know His will and serve him accordingly. Therefore, we should study the entire Bible, and not focus on the beginning or the end. Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega, and everything in between! We are not told every detail of creation, and the details of the end times are hidden for good reason. We are to know what is revealed, and be at peace in what is not. In any case, our service to God does not rely on Genesis or Revelation, but on the entire Word of God. Blessings and peace in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
140 | Evidence that women's role has changed? | Matt 28:10 | charis | 40216 | ||
Dear erika, Greetings in the name of Jesus! So many theories! :-) I am not sure of the *exact* circumstances of the Corinthian church, in fact, no one is. But they were being instructed about proper and orderly conduct in the assembly, and correctly discerning the leading of the Holy Spirit and the gifts that He pours into the church. Apparently, though blessed in the things of the Spirit, they were out of spiritual order. My point is that it is not talking in the church building or during the times of assembly so much as it is the submission to authority. "A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet." 1 Timothy 2:11,12 NASB. "But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ." 1 Corinthians 11:3 NASB. Surely, a woman may talk in church, but just like men, be careful to talk when it is proper! Apparently, the church at Corinth had a problem with this, and I have witnessed this same problem in many modern churches. For some reason, I don't see men (in general!) needing this same exhortation. :-) Surely, a woman may teach! Of course women have much to contribute to discussions about Christ, the Bible, and the church! Teaching children, or teaching Sunday School (to children and adults), and teaching other women about the things of God is not the issue. The issue is usurping authority by claiming pastoral ministry in the church, or the headship of their home. (this can be outwardly or subversively) This is not God's will. Yes, we are all equal in Christ Jesus! Our salvation is the same, man or woman, slave or free. But authority in the home and the church rests solely upon God's chosen men. Are there 'extenuating circumstances?' Of course! But when these 'special situations' become the long-term norm or permanent policy, we abuse the freedom that Christ gave us. He is not pleased. Blessings and joy in Christ Jesus, charis |
||||||
Result pages: << First < Prev [ 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 ] Next > Last [14] >> |