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Results from: Notes Author: wilmap Ordered by Verse |
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Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
1 | Does the warning against tattoos apply | Lev 19:28 | wilmap | 157250 | ||
As has been noted, the source of such practices is false religion. The source of a practice is important, since God is jealous for the faithfulness of his servants. Like a husband is rightfully jealous for his wife and would question her desire to put pictures of an old boyfriend on the bedroom dresser, we should not incite God to jealousy by adopting practices rooted in paganism. Illustration: Someone offers you a piece of candy. Would you take it if informed that it was found in the gutter? Food for thought. |
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2 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158070 | ||
Did anyone watch the national news last night? This verse was quoted by a "born again" representative of the Zion Oil company. Having just been awarded the "Asher Permit" by the Israeli government, he said this verse provides proof that enough oil to eliminate the country's dependence on foreign oil is present in this region. But is crude oil what is spoken of here? Prior to entry into Canaan, Moses’ prophetic blessing again predicted a prosperous portion for Asher. The tribe was figuratively to ‘dip its foot in oil.’ (De 33:24, 25; compare Job 29:6.) Their allotment of territory stretched along the Mediterranean coastal plains from below the town of Dor, S of Mount Carmel, on up to the N boundary of Palestine at Sidon. (Jos 17:7-11; 19:24-31) This included some of the most fertile land in all Israel, where olive trees would provide abundant oil, while other fruits would provide dainties fit to grace a royal table. (Ge 49:20; De 33:24) When olive oil can be used to fuel cars, I suppose this verse could fulfill this person's goal. With this fundamental misunderstanding, I wonder if they're even going to drill in the correct area? Let's not even get into whether or not the fleshly nation of Israel is still God's chosen people. |
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3 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158076 | ||
Mark: Guess I should have left that last comment out, since I'm sure this topic has been beat to death on this forum. But you can't help but wonder, when someone spends millions of donated money from others that have made the same basic mistake of interpretation, whether more widely believed "truths" are unfounded in Scripture. The "Religion" section of the Atlanta Journal and Constitution (January 22, 1983, p. 5-B) reported: "Contrary to the churches’ centuries-old teachings that God had ‘cast off his people Israel’ and replaced them with a ‘new Israel,’ he [Paul M. Van Buren, theologian at Temple University in Philadelphia] says churches now affirm that ‘the covenant between God and the Jewish people is eternal. This amazing reversal has been made by Protestants and Catholics, on both sides of the Atlantic.’" The New York Times (February 6, 1983, p. 42) added: "‘There is a fascination on the part of the evangelical right with Israel and a belief that everything Israel does must be supported, because God is on Israel’s side,’ said Timothy Smith, a professor of theology at Johns Hopkins University and a Wesleyan evangelical." If the Jews, who say they are under the Mosaic Law, were today in Jerusalem as God’s chosen people, would not the temple devoted to his worship have been rebuilt? Matt. 21:42, 43: "Jesus said to them, "Have you never read in the Scriptures: " 'The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes'? Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit." Does God’s covenant with Abraham give assurance that the Jews continue to be the chosen people of God? Gal. 3:27-29: "for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 9If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise." So, from God’s standpoint, it is no longer natural descent from Abraham that determines who are Abraham’s seed. I don't expect to change your mind on this, but please understand that anyone that believes that Christians are the "new creation" and the "Israel of God," would not be the first. Among whom do the prophecies about restoration of Israel have fulfillment today? Gal. 6:15, 16: "Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is a new creation. Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule, even to the Israel of God." So "the Israel of God" is no longer determined on the basis of conforming to the requirement laid upon Abraham for all the males of his household to be circumcised. Rather, as stated at Galatians 3:26-29, those who belong to Christ and who are spirit-begotten sons of God "are really Abraham’s seed." Jer. 31:31: "‘Look! There are days coming,’ is the utterance of Jehovah, ‘and I will conclude with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah a new covenant." God has not lied, and the Scriptures have been fulfilled, including the fact that the majority of all mankind (that includes Jews) will choose the "wide and spacious road leading to destruction." I'll hold this position until the unfolding of future events, including Armageddon, makes the truth plain. Wilma |
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4 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158077 | ||
True, but at least the Scriptures backed Columbus: "He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth, and its people are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like a canopy, and spreads them out like a tent to live in." (Isa 40:22) |
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5 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158090 | ||
We do have benefit of hindsight in this case - Asher's portion of the promised land was ideal for agriculture. I don't think its your intention to provide fodder for the countless Bible critics out there, but if you're saying that the Bible teaches that the earth is flat or square or both, we both know that can't be what the One that created it and inspired the Bible knows it not and cannot lie. So I guess I'm not sure of your point. As for Matt 24:4-39, I hope we all know that it is meant for the ones that want to know the truth - Christ's disciples. They were the ones that asked (verse 3), and we are the ones living in the last days that Jesus warns to "keep on the watch." (verse 42) Again, I'm only suggesting that people should know the difference between olive oil and crude before they rush out to waste their time spending millions on a false hope, or attempting to teach others the "deep things of God." (1 Cor 2:10) Wilma |
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6 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158093 | ||
Whatever "scholar" you're quoting is not acquainted with "the pattern of sound teaching" that Paul reflected. Read Hebrews chapter 11. Were Abel, Enoch and Noah Jews? Why did Paul include these among faithful Jews like Abraham, Isaac and Moses, all of whom would not be 'made perfect apart from Christians'? I will comment on Romans 11:23,24. Notice in the context of verses preceding it Paul uses that ever important word "if." That is, "if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again." But we don't want to get into a "once saved, yaddah, yaddah, yaddah" discussion, do we? Let's don't be like those "in the last days" that are always "learning but never able to acknowledge the truth." (2 Tim 3:7) Wilma |
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7 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158094 | ||
It might be plain if we didn't understand how God can use the "always" while not eliminating our freewill. For example, after Solomon prayed at the dedication to the temple, "the LORD said to him: "I have heard the prayer and plea you have made before me; I have consecrated this temple, which you have built, by putting my Name there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there." But notice what he also promised: "But if you or your sons turn away from me and do not observe the commands and decrees I have given you and go off to serve other gods and worship them, then I will cut off Israel from the land I have given them and will reject this temple I have consecrated for my Name. Israel will then become a byword and an object of ridicule among all peoples. And though this temple is now imposing, all who pass by will be appalled and will scoff and say, 'Why has the LORD done such a thing to this land and to this temple?'" (1 Kings 9:3,6-8) I again raise the question: Where is the temple today? Yes, exactly as Jesus said it would be -"abandoned" and "thrown down." (Matt 23:38, 24:2) Just as the LORD said to Solomon. WP |
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8 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158112 | ||
Are you suggesting that every Jew is guaranteed salvation? The only such guarantee that I am aware of is for Christians that endure to the end.(Matt 24:13; Rev 2:10) I'm sure you're not saying that eventually all Jews will end up in Israel in order for Jeremiah's words to be true. We need to realize the impartiality of God as didPeter: "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right." (Acts 10:34-35) All of Adam's sinful descendents have the same possibility as well as the same requirements to receive it. I refuse to believe that God is less just than that and I believe history recorded in the Bible supports God's justice. |
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9 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158117 | ||
The expression "four corners of the earth" as derived from the Bible is still in use today. It means "all parts of the earth." Why does it have to mean something different when Isaiah says it versus you or I? Isaiah was at least as smart as me, and when I look at the moon or sun (when able), I see a round or spherical object. I don't think it's genius to deduce that the earth might share this feature. Even the "chicken-little" flat earth proponents of old had their opposers. But I digress. At any rate, your logic is faulty and I won't be persuaded by it. As regards the "last days," I will start by making an observation regarding Matt 24 (also Luke 21 and Mark 13). If you agree, I'll proceed to discuss further the truth of the last days as prophesied in Scripture. In the way of background: The disciples ask for "a sign" of his "coming" or literally and more accurately his "presence" and the end of the "age." This question follows Jesus' statement regarding the destruction of Jerusalem, so naturally, some of what he says must apply to this event. However, since it relates to Jesus coming, the sign must have further application for the end of Satan's world that has ruled since Adam's sin. After describing in detail features that make up the sign, Jesus at v.32-34 guarantees that when his disciples see these things occuring, they should be confident of what will soon follow - their salvation by him. However, in the following verses he says that exact day and hour are only known by the Father, and that despite how obvious this sign might appear to them, to the majority it would be as in Noah's day - no one seeing anything out of the ordinary or worthy of particular attention. Thus, he warns them not to lured into the world's same complacency, putting off what God has ordained. My observation is this: True disciples will recognize the sign while others will not, and will know that we are in the "season" even if the exact day and hour are unknowable. Look forward to hearing back. |
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10 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158171 | ||
I never gave much attention to the "personal profile." Jesus gave his disciples these instructions: "Whatever town or village you enter, search for some worthy person there and stay at his house until you leave. As you enter the home, give it your greeting. If the home is deserving, let your peace rest on it; if it is not, let your peace return to you. If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town." (Mt 10:11-14) I try not to label people or judge them by their present beliefs or practices. I assume that if they knew better they would believe and act differently and that there are powerful reasons why people cling to wrong beliefs, but the right amount of changing circumstances and pursuasion can lead to the Father drawing anyone. The most fantastic information I've learned from my study of the Bible is that it truly is the word of God!(1 Th 2:13) Its internal harmony despite being written over a 1,600 year period by some 40 writers, its candor in describing the failures of its main characters, even the writers themselves and fulfilled prophecies among other features testify to this fact. That God reveals the truth to "little children" (like me in spiritual years) and hides them from the "wise and learned" (theologians, ministers, etc.) is a miracle of justice, love, wisdom and power. (Luke 10:21) That I can know the answers to the questions that have escaped the most educated persons on earth (What is the meaning of life? Why did God create the earth and humans? Why does he permit suffering? Why do we die? What happens to us at death, and is there truly any hope beyond death?) is humbling, and to not share such knowledge would be a sin that would justifiably deserve my exclusion from the most wonderful truth - the realization of God's original purpose for Adam and Eve when given life in Eden. Oops, I went over 40 a while ago. Hope to continue our discussion. |
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11 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158176 | ||
Mark: You and I were created in the image of God. I take that to mean we share in his fine fine qualities - love, justice, mercy, loyalty, for example. Now if you had 2 children that you promised a new bicycle, how do you think they would feel if you just put the one on the new bike and said "here you go," while to the other you said "you'll get your's when you do the following . . ." (This is also how I get people to thing about the misconception that life is a test by God and if we pass it, we get to go to heaven. After all, why didn't the angels have to undergo such a test?) Now if we, in our sinful state, know this is outrageously unjust, surely God will not perpetrate such a travesty! (Deut 32:4) From my perspective, the Scriptures you cite can be understood to not contradict this fact, but only when harmonized with the ones I've cited. Sincerely, Wilma |
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12 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158221 | ||
It's difficult to sense completely via the cold medium of cyberspace your sentiments, but I'm not convinced you're trying to "restore (me) gently." (Gal 6:1) Regardless, I'll assume you have good intentions. If I sound boastful, I only intend to echo the sentiments of Paul, who quotes from the following(Jer 9:24) at 1 Cor 1:31: "but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight," declares the LORD." My only shame would be if I were too cowardly to speak out against God-dishonoring false teachers. This is not to say that all ministers are wicked or that nothing they teach is true. I'm talking about the all too prevalent "kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over weak-willed women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth." (2 Tim 3:6-7) To those being lead by such "blind guides," I try (and I do mean try) to tactfully and patiently lead them back to the "narrow road." But if someone is content with their beliefs, that is, they are not one of "those who grieve and lament over all the detestable things that are done in it (Jerusalem - representing the seat of true worship)," then I kick the dust off my shoes and move on. Based upon the lack of response I've gotten from my reasoning thus far, I'm thinking maybe I'll try another approach later. Wilma Joyce Puttington (sounds more impressive with the middle name) |
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13 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158223 | ||
I have noticed that many see Christianity as having changed dramatically from its 1st century counterpart. Take for example Paul's observation of Christians: "For consider your calling, brethren, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, but God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord." (1 Cor 1:26-31) Today, people don't bother to read the Bible - "Its too complicated and hard to understand" they say. "My preacher though, God has blessed him with wisdom and knowledge. I trust he's telling me the truth." But note what Luke writes about the Berean Christians to whom Paul evangelized: "Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true." (Acts 17:11) People walk into a church after falling on hard times, and after hearing a half of a sermon walk up to get baptized and "born again." Do they have the slightest inkling what they are dedicating themselves to? Read Luke 14:26-30. There's a new "prosperity gospel" being preached in South America and other developing areas, but I think its been preached in the land of "the Almighty Dollar" for years. (This thought just flashed in some reader's mind, not necessarily your's: Now he's saying you have to be poor to be a true Christian. If that's what they want to believe, nothing I can say will change their minds.) You seem like a nice guy, Tim. I hope some of what I've said makes sense. Wilma |
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14 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158224 | ||
I guess its not such a good illustration if the hearer doesn't get the point! Why do Jews get a free pass while gentiles have to at least choose to believe in Jesus? By the way, even belief takes "work" for many. Humor me for a second,please, and address my illustration as I've applied it to humans versus angels. Why do all of us have to suffer, and some unimaginably before we get the bike, when the angels just ride their's acress the clouds watching our misery. (This is not my view, but that of many oppressed people.) |
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15 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158354 | ||
Your failed to humor me, so why should I bother responding to post as antagonistic as your's? | ||||||
16 | What sort of oil? | Deut 33:24 | wilmap | 158359 | ||
Tim: Theology is "the study of the nature of God and religious truth; an organized, often formalized body of opinions concerning God and man's relationship to God." Theologians have made the study of God's word akin to philosophy. Jesus said his disciples would know the truth and it would set them free. It seems most if not all theologians make a living off the sale of their endless line of books and tapes. Jesus said "You received free, give free." This is the kind of self-righteous, self-promoting garbage that gives Christianity a bad name. As for ministers, I am one. So, naturally, I don't object to all of such. But those that belong to a "clergy" class, and dress up in costume (even the cute collars) are reminiscent of the religious leaders in Jesus days, you know, that want the front row at all the big affairs. I do admire people that devote their life to studying, and more importantly, to applying God's word. I have benefitted everlastingly from some that have, without charge. Of course, I gladly support such a ministry financially and other otherwise. Hope that clarifies my view. Wilma |
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17 | Did American Revolution violate Rom 13:1 | Rom 13:1 | wilmap | 157548 | ||
AH, What's up Doc? Can you explain how "God dealt with this question"? I'm not sure what God's role was in the American Revolution. I've been doing research since I read your comments, and am unable to find any facts to support your statements. Everything I read indicates that the British Empire was the "govererning authority" over the colonies. Additionally, I've learned that Sam Adams brewery was affected by British legislation, at times to its detriment, and this appears to have lead to much anomosity and hostility from Adams toward Britain. Yes, the love of money is the root of all sorts of injury, and attempting to reap by sowing in the soil of Satan's world will not yield Christlike fruitage. James said: "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves." (1:22) This is why such discussions are vital to our approved standing before God. At Romans 13, Paul gives clear and straight-forward counsel to Christians living under the Roman yoke, one far more oppressive than that of the British Empire on the colonies. Satan is the ruler of this materialistic world, and he has successfully mislead the overwhelming majority, including professed Christians, into believing their worship is acceptable to God, when in fact it is not. "If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." (James 1:26,27) Mr. Adams had an unbridled tongue that did not "honor" and "respect" those in authority. He even went so far as to refuse a direct command to "pay Caesar what is Caesar's." Yes, he "was polluted by the world." We need to imitate the faith of one's like the apostle Paul, not worldly people like Sam Adams. Then our heavenly Father will exalt us in due time. I hope you'll agree that I'm only advocating the handling of God's word of truth correctly. Wilma |
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18 | Did American Revolution violate Rom 13:1 | Rom 13:1 | wilmap | 157607 | ||
Kal, You're familiar with the saying: "Those who forget the lessons of history are doomed to repeat them." That's why its not moot. We may claim to love God, but how we react to what his inspired Word teaches will reveal our true thoughts, even the very intentions of the heart. I won't comment on your suggestion that persons with concerns like mine relocate, but I assure you that true Christians can be found in these lands as well. These will have to consider the same questions that I am encouraging us to consider. The majority of "Christians" in Germany in the late 1930's rationalized their allegiance to the Nazi regime. "Do not put your trust in princes, in mortal men, who cannot save." (Ps 146:3) |
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19 | Did American Revolution violate Rom 13:1 | Rom 13:1 | wilmap | 157649 | ||
Mark: Thanks for jumping in. You illustrate some of the confusing thoughts that may lead one to misinterpret the obvious meaning of Paul's counsel. Was this meant to be rhetorical: "If God's purposes were not served through the revolution, would it have succeeded?" The Assyrians were a world power for centuries, and even laid the 10-tribe kingdom of Israel to waste, but I dare say that all they succeeded in was God's purpose. Neither the US government nor any other, except Israel, was ever "established" by God, but rather, they only exists because he tolerates them. When the Israelites asked for a king like the surrounding nations, God said they had thus "rejected Him from being king." (1 Sam 8:8) How can any other nation thus claim to be established by God? As respects the saying about the lessons of history, I agree with you that the study of it appears to have only lead most to repeat it. However, my point was to study it in light of God's Word, just as we would study the good and bad examples in the Bible, emulating the former and rejecting the latter. Judging is a touchy word with many, as people in glass houses don't like throwing stones. But when someone claims to represent Christ, we are to judge those on the inside (of the Christian congregation." (1 Cor 5:12) It's also words and actions of others that need to be judged in order to avoid bad association. (1 Cor 15:33) So to answer your original 2 questions: 1) Yes, I already had the answer in mind. 2) We don't need to judge hearts to determine whether their words and actions are out of harmony with God's will. We do need to be aware of our inability to "direct our way" apart from God's guidance, as well as how "deitful the heart can be." (Jer 10:23; 17:9) I'm going to try to address a few of the others comments now. Later. |
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20 | Did American Revolution violate Rom 13:1 | Rom 13:1 | wilmap | 157654 | ||
Brad: Do you acknowledge the the majority of people in Germany were professed Christians? I would ask you: How did they not only allow the atrocities of the Nazis to occur, but even directly or indirectly support them? Stepping from the American Revolution, taking the "fork in the road" to Nazi Germany, we arrive at any country in the 21st century where any true Christian may find himself a citizen. Now, how do we avoid "polluting" ourselves in this violent Satanic world. Rev 2:10 indicates it will take real courage to obtain "the crown of life." The ruler of this world wants us to compromise our allegiance to Christ and his kingdom. Do you believe his kingdom will come, and crush all the kingdoms of this world, even the USA? (Dan 2:44; Rev 16:16) Read Matt 24:4. Did you notice that Jesus said that, as his disciples, we would "hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed." He didn't say anything about being involved in such wars, nor will you find any support for Christian participation in wars of the nations. In fact, you will find just the opposite counsel: "The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world." (2 Cor 10:4) We arm ourselves with spiritual armor and our offensive weapon is "the sword of the Spirit, God's Word." (Eph 6:17) I don't expect anyone to adopt my view overnight, but I do believe God will require all to adopt his before too long. Thanks to you, and all that have participated in this discussion, for your views. Wilma |
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