Results 2181 - 2200 of 2765
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Results from: Answered Bible Questions, Answers, Unanswered Bible Questions, Notes Author: Mommapbs Ordered by Verse |
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Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
2181 | Are our hearts HOLY or Wicked? | Eph 3:17 | Mommapbs | 138252 | ||
Part 2 Angel, you asked: "Consider this, if we are free and clear of unrighteousness, on our own--meaning not abiding in Jesus and Jesus in us, why would we suffer the internal struggle between the desires of the flesh and God's Holy Spirit?" My point exactly - we are NOT free of unrighteousness on our own, we cannot live nor can we resist sin apart from Christ. Imo, our adversary does not want us to understand this truth! Angel, you asked: "If we are new creatures in the Holy Spirit and we are not being lead by unrighteousness, what need do we have of Jesus mediating for us in front of the Father, would our righteousness not keep us from sinning?" We are a new creature, a new creation of God. He has removed our heart of stone and has given us a new heart - His dwelling place. Again, would God give us something that is sinful, evil or not holy and perfect? Sin still dwells within our bodies (Rom 7) so the potential to be led by unrighteousness is a sometimes not so "clear and present danger." Anytime we think we have no sin, that we have a righteousness apart from Christ, we deceive ourselves. And also, anytime we think that we can resist sin apart from the indwelling Spirit, we deceive ourselves too. It is HIS presence IN us that gives us confidence to stand before the Father. We are the "beloved of God." It is the righteousness of Christ that keeps us saved from the wrath of God. He is the mediator of a new covenant - He is alive - interceeding on our behalf before the Father, a continual reminder that our penalty HAS been paid. He remembers our sins no more . . .Under both covenants the righteousness of God is imputed by faith. Those He justified, He also glorifed . . . the just shall live by faith. When asked, "What shall we do, so that we may work the works of God?" Jesus replied: "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent." John 6:28-29 It is ALL about Christ in us, the hope of glory - He does ALL the work. It is even HIS work that we believe! He saves us; He imputed His righteousness to us so that by abiding in Him, chosing to live by the reality of the union of our spirit with His Spirit, we can resist the power of sin - I suspect that our enemy does not want us to be aware of this truth. Again. the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. Self effort is a huge obstacle - our worth and value are so tied up in performance expectations of self/others and the approval of self/others. This is contrary to who God says we are IN CHRIST - Completely forgiven, totally accepted and complete in Him. Anytime we try to work the work of God on our own, we are bound to fail! "Apart from ME you can DO nothing!" As a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Prov 23:7) If we believe our hearts are wicked, we will live a life that is based upon a lie. We will live in the flesh, denying the power of the resurrection that dwells within our hearts. We will despair and lose hope - hope deferred makes the heart sick . . . But upon our confession of faith in Jesus as our personal Savior from the penalty of sin, God has given us a new heart. Again, would He give us something that is sinful? if we believe that our hearts are good, that they have been restored to our original glory, we will live as Christ desires: we have life and will have it to the full. Our life is IN His, He is IN our hearts, the power of the resurrection is available to every believer who choses to live in ITS power and not the power of the flesh. What difference might this make in your life? I suspect it might set you free from some things you never considered are holding you captive. Please prayerfully consider these things. Blessings, mommapbs |
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2182 | The River of No Return part 2 | Eph 4:1 | Mommapbs | 21834 | ||
First of all, Jesus prayed in John 17 that we, the church, would be one as He and the Father were one. Ephesians 4 also commands us to be unified as one body. All parts are necessary and need to work together if the unity that Jesus prayed for is to be realized. The visual response I have in answer to your question is from an old Tarzan movie where the natives tied a man to a pair of crossed palm trees that were pulled down to the ground and secured with ropes. WHen the ropes were cut, the trees flew up and apart as did the body of the man. Disputes and disharmony within the church is likened to this kind of torture. We are Christ's body and we are tearing it apart by our squabbling and lack of love for one another! (And the devil leaps for joy when we behave this way.) | ||||||
2183 | How do you define apostle? | Eph 4:11 | Mommapbs | 49203 | ||
Greetings Charis! I appreciated your post here as I was "searching" for info on apostle. I am confused when some denominations refer to the office of apostle as to me the Apostles were the Biblical variety as you described in your post. I recall asking a question early on in my forum participation about the use of prophecy and you gave a stern warning - thank you. I have tried to use my gift appropriately, for the edification of the body (which usually means individuals as my gift has been rejected corporately). God has been very patient with me; He continues to teach and instruct me and I have learned to discern His voice, however, when I receive something apart from Scripture, I am not sure what to do with it. For example, when my cousin was ill last year, God spoke to me in the night (was it a dream, I don not know?)and very clearly said, "Your cousin is broken." This left me with a sense of urgency about her and I called my father, who was in a position to visit and share spiritually with her. A few weeks later she died. I have had several such encounters with God. And as awesome as this is, I am "fearful" of pursuing this gift. So far, I just let God speak as HE chooses rather than placing myself in a position of agressively seeking knowlege apart from His Word. I would sincerely appreciate any counsel from you. In the Name of Jesus, AMEN! Mommapbs |
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2184 | How is the body built? | Eph 4:12 | Mommapbs | 73490 | ||
How is the building up of the body of Christ accomplished? Does Acts 20:32 provide an answer? | ||||||
2185 | How is the body built? | Eph 4:12 | Mommapbs | 73544 | ||
Thanks for the reply EdB! I am delighted that you have chosen to think on these things. I know that there are issues that "divide" the Forum at times, so it is my desire to not be inflammatory in my questions. As I think about this, I am wondering if we confuse sanctification with "building the church?" Obviously, the Body of Christ will be stunted if the individual members are not growing, but should we be more thoughtful about separating the two processes? What about times when we are not in agreement. I think of the sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas (the encourager!) over John Mark (Acts 15:39). Did this have a weakening impact upon the church, or did the separation that occurred contibute to church growth elsewhere? Can we have unity without uniformity? I am bothered by this because I do not always agree with the "theology" I hear from the pulpit. How can I challenge a teaching without being divisive or being labelled as one who "breaks the unity" of the body? mommapbs PS: If you prefer not to tackle these questions, let me know and I'll re-post! |
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2186 | How is the body built? | Eph 4:12 | Mommapbs | 73602 | ||
Good counsel EdB - since my husband is the spiritual head of our home,the decision to leave the church is his to make. At the present time, he is wounded, but feels not called to leave. Because he does not have a thorough knowledge of God's Word (not do I!), he does not always recognize when things that are preached are inconsistent with the Gospel of Grace. A couple of years ago, the pastor of our church told us that he rejected my husband's offer to help in the church because he had examined our giving records and determined that we were not tithing. Recently, the pastor said from the pulpit that if a person is not tithing, it is a demonstration that he has not settled the ownership issue with God and is not fully surrendered to the Lord. Because we do not feel the need to defend our giving records to any "man," we are able to forgive this and we have learned to wait on God for His direction, allowing HIM to dertmine how HE wants to use (all that HE has given) us. My personnal struggle is in not having the freedom to challenge a teaching that I believe is not consistent with God's Word. In another message we were told that challenges from the body were divisive and only served to break the unity of believers. Several months ago, after seeking God's direction, I went to another of our Pastors to express concern over a message that he had given without noting that he had taken it from another well-known national Bible teacher.(The circumstances that led to my discovery of this were completely a "God thing")Plagerism in the pulpit CAN be a problem and when I expressed my concern, he basically told me that my feelings were not important because God's Word was preached and that was all that mattered. So now, I'm just a tad "gun shy." This has certainly influenced my thinking about the "church" but I'm not about to throw the baby out with the bath water. Through these experiences, my relationship with the Lord has deepened and HE has taught me! Blessings, mommapbs |
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2187 | How is the body built? | Eph 4:12 | Mommapbs | 73676 | ||
EdB - I so appreciate your thoughts. As far as titihing goes, we MORE than tithe, but our giving has always been God directed - what I suspect the pastor took exception to was that we had given a very generous donation to a parachurch ministry -(shame on whoever leaked that information!) and he most likely was bugged that the church did not recieve the same gift. But when he confronted us, my husband explained that God did NOT direct us to give in this way! So, "We must obey God rather than men!"- Acts 5:39 Since the Pastor has linked tithing as a means (HIS?) to measure of one's spiritual maturity, do you understand why I am concerned? And YES, with regard to the other pastor,the sermon was verbatim.(in fact, it was a message from one of YOUR favorite authors!) The message was sound, but it bothered me that the pastor did not cite his reference since the notes I took could have been lifted from the text I read on an internet site. To his credit, I will say that he has been more careful to give cite references where appropriate in his more recent sermons. I agree, there is nothing wrong with using what God has spoken to others, but I still believe that we must identify it as such. Anything I post is original; and in my writings, I try to be mindful of noting sources that have inspired me. Basically, if God is speaking to little old un-seminary trained me, then I should expect God to speak to our preachers as well. And yes, He does speak to us through others (that's what I thought we had preachers for!) - but please don't plagarize- the world is watching us too! Once again, thanks for your counsel. Hold down the fort as we are off to the cold of the Rockies for the next ten days! mommapbs |
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2188 | Measure of maturity | Eph 4:13 | Mommapbs | 52184 | ||
Greetings Tefo! Welcome to the Forum. Type in spiritual maturity in the "search' field and you can follow some excellent posts on this subject. The first verse that comes to my mind is Phil 1:6, "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." How wonderful to know that it is GOD who does the work of bringing us to completion in Jesus Christ. I can not imagine trying to attain this on my own! I suspect that those who would CLAIM to be spiritually mature, are in need of some more training! (Does that assertion sound Christ-like to you? See Phil 2:1-12!) I believe that this verse is a description of the ultimate spiritual maturity for the believer: "For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known." 1 Cor 13:12 Blessings, Mommapbs PS: What prompted your question? |
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2189 | Measure of maturity | Eph 4:13 | Mommapbs | 52211 | ||
I've been a believer for over 40 years and God is STILL very hard at work in me; to instruct me, to train me, to correct me, to mold and shape me so that HE CAN WORK THROUGH ME AND USE ME ACCORDING TO HIS PLANS! (Boy, am I a piece of work - or rather I will be, for I am in the Hands of THE Master!) Since we are both still here, God isn't finished with us yet! Blessings, Mommapbs |
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2190 | YOUNG SEPERATED FROM MAIN CONGREGATION? | Eph 4:16 | Mommapbs | 97954 | ||
Greetings! I can't uncover any Biblical mandate for either option. We are called to be unified in Christ, but I don't think that this entails the place or the method how we "grow up" in Him! The early church met in homes, I don't suspect they had a nursery or a sunday school program for the children, everyone was together to learn, yet these were undoubtedly small gatherings. There is value from being united in worship yet I wonder how much discipleship can take place across the ages represented in most churches. Charles, we are to use our spiritual gifts to edify one another. If edification is taking place in groups segregated by age, what is the problem? Frankly, there are many issues that the church SHOULD be addressing that would be inapporpriate for young children! mommapbs |
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2191 | Update User Info | Eph 4:16 | Mommapbs | 120435 | ||
Dearest Brother Randy! It is not what men think you are but who God KNOWS you are - HIS! Jesus told His disciples "rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven." (Luke 10:20) Randy, this isn't "American Idol" - but if there was a vote offered, I'd cast mine with you! God bless! In Christ's love, mommapbs |
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2192 | forgiveness of daughter-in-law | Eph 4:32 | Mommapbs | 54036 | ||
From a Daughter - For a Daughter I had given her my son; welcomed her into the family and made a place for her in our home. But she rejected me. I was ignored in my own house; my presence not acknowledged or sought out. She neither greeted me in the morning or bid me goodnight. She engaged in conversation with others and responded to their attention with smiles; but with me, any dialog I initiated was limited to one-word answers. Often, she removed herself and retreated to the room I gave her; it became a convenient barrier. This closed door was not an invitation for me to knock upon. Would I ever be allowed in? Would she ever want to know me? As I was pouring out my heart’s complaint before the Lord, He answered me with words that stung deeply. . . “I know just how you feel.” Author’s note: The experience recorded above was based upon my own perceptions; (or misconceptions!) though these “perceptions” were perhaps not intentional, they were indeed instructional! And for that, I am thankful! Be patient, learn to be a good forgiver - we as older women are responible for teaching the younger women to love their husbands. (Titus 3:4) Much forgiveness is needed in ANY relationship - let it begin and be modelled by YOU! Blessings, Mommapbs |
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2193 | Christain singles committed relationship | Eph 5:3 | Mommapbs | 145278 | ||
Greetings - I'm not quite sure what you are asking. Are you asking permission for something here? This is a Bible Study Forum - we search out God's Word for answers. Please be very specific with your question - it seems to me that you may be asking is it alright to enter the rapids just above the Falls? What do you think? Blessings, mommapbs |
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2194 | what is the scripture Paul quotes here? | Eph 5:14 | Mommapbs | 112809 | ||
Greeting Tim - I know that this is an old post, but as I read this I thought about Jesus praying in the garden (Mt 26:45-6) and asking His disciples to "keep watch." Yet what did they do but fall asleep! Notice how Jesus tells them to "get up"! Also when He was transfigured - Now Peter and his companions had been overcome with sleep; but when they were fully awake, they saw His glory . . . Luke 9:32. Possibly this is what Paul was referencing. My purpose in coming to this verse is to challenge believers to discern the days in which we live; to recognize the spiritual battle that rages all around us and to remind them that we must engage the enemy - and not slumber on . . . (certainly he has been on the prowl here lately!) Blessings to you and yours, t |
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2195 | why should a leader have passion | Eph 5:18 | Mommapbs | 34168 | ||
It isn't vital for a leader to be filled with anything except the Holy Spirit! Apart from Him, we can do nothing! No amount of passion, energy, excitement or positive outlook can compare to the activity of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. Without the presence or activity of the Spirit, our service or ministry is merely a work of the flesh. Perhaps we, as well as our leaders, need to be reminded of this! (This surely will take the pressure off us in one respect won't it?) Mommapbs |
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2196 | DOSE LADY HAS HER OWN VISSION ? | Eph 5:21 | Mommapbs | 81248 | ||
Greetings! The subject of women and their role has been addressed many times and you can acess this discussion using the Quick Search feature by entering in 'head of house.' God's Word is very supportive of both men and women in the marital relationship. First of all, Jesus tell us to love one another just as HE loves us (John 15:12 - what a high task!) Paul continues to drive the point home to men especially by telling them to specifically love their wives as Christ loved the church. But for women he tells them to RESPECT their husbands. (see Eph 5) My opinion: A husband is accountable before God for the spiritual welfare of his wife, regardless of the job he is doing in this matter, we as wives should respect the position that he has been given and love unconditionally. As a "help-mate" we do not lose our own identity, but we bring our unique God-given qualities to build a new identity as two become one. I hope this helps! God bless your day! mommapbs PS: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Gal 3:28 |
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2197 | what means wife you have to submit your | Eph 5:22 | Mommapbs | 77134 | ||
Greetings desi - welcome to the Forum. When you have a question on a specific verse, enter the verse in the "Translation" field at the right. When you get to the page with the Scripture, go to the verse and click on the "N" for notes. You will find a number of discussions for Eph 5:22. Another way to find answers is to use the "Quick Search" feature, again at the right. Put in some key words such as: wife submit and you can explore the archives of the Forum. It is best to begin searching for your answers here, then if you have need of further clarification you could post a question for the Forum to consider. I hope this helps get you started! Blessings, mommapbs |
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2198 | Can we put doctrine into practice? | Eph 5:25 | Mommapbs | 54017 | ||
Greetings In the Andes! I'm just wondering what you are really after here . . . do you REALLY desire to treat your wife as "queen of the home" or are you looking for some personal affirmation? Frankly, it's not about DOING it is a matter of BEING. Working on one's inward attitude will always reap a tangible harvest in any relationship. I have a husband who does MANY wonderful things, but these are spoiled in an instant when his words or even his body language do not mirror his actions! It's all about the heart. Jesus loved the church and gave HIMSELF UP for her. When we can grasp what "giving self up" means and looks like, I think we will be well on our way to enjoying one another in the Lord as He intends! You will "treat" your wife like the "queen of the home" when you really desire HER to be! Just some female thoughts for you to consider . . . Blessings, Mommapbs |
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2199 | Can we put doctrine into practice? | Eph 5:25 | Mommapbs | 54119 | ||
Greetings in the Andes! Great question, but you are asking the WRONG wife! In Christ's love, Mommapbs |
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2200 | Does God have a spiritual body? | Eph 5:25 | Mommapbs | 54197 | ||
Greetings In the Andes! Please don't be at a loss for words. I just want to know whether you have asked YOUR wife how you can be a better husband yet! I don't think we "dislike" practical Christianity here at the Forum, I suspect that there may be those who need more training in APPLICATION of doctrinal principles. I am always interested to know how God is speaking to others through His Word. In some of my posts I will ask for the significance or relevancy of a Scripture to our lives today - I don't get too many reponses which leads me to conclude that we need to spend more time in PERSONAL study and prayer! The Word of God is ACTIVE - it will accomplish God's purpose . . . perhaps our "dull flesh" presents a hindrance! In my reading today, the word of God was read to the people who could understand; God's Word was "translated" or explained in such a way that it could be understood. (Neh 8:8) Isn't this the role of a teacher? Wouldn't it be wonderful if that happened here on the Forum! The opportunity for instruction in lifestyle Christianity is lost to arguments or debate. Because we come to the Forum with fists clenched -holding on to our own brand of theology or doctrine so tightly that our minds are closed. We have memorized Scripture that conveniently supports our thinking and reject the possibility that there just might be "more" that God is trying to teach us about Himself . . . We need to be willing to consider the understanding that God wants us to have - even if we begin to understand that we don't know it all (Dt 29:29) Just some thoughts . . . Blessings, Mommapbs |
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