Results 141 - 160 of 277
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Results from: Answers On or After: Thu 12/31/70 Author: charis Ordered by Date |
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Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
141 | Order of events at the 2nd Coming? | 1 Thess 4:17 | charis | 14968 | ||
Dear Nolan, :-) I think we have just about finished the (amicable) outline of events of the Second Coming of Christ. Much more than this an we run into the very real danger of attracting dissenters, or worse, hitting the 'wrong button' among ourselves! 80 (amicable) postings, then Hank arrives to 'sit a spell.' When someone new comes to the Forum, we can always tell them to use 'search' for this thread! This would just about guarantee a place in the Guinness Book for thread length :-) And so, as Ed has accused, and Nolan accedes, this is all your fault, Nolan! ROFL! :-) Ladies and gentlemen, as clerk in charge of disclaimers regarding end-time discussions, and by the merit of being the only one up (because in Japan it is mid-day), I hereby end this thread for at least 15 minutes. Blessings to all, until our Redeemer comes! In Jesus, charis |
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142 | Order of events at the 2nd Coming? | 1 Thess 4:17 | charis | 14924 | ||
Dear Gentlemen, I have read this thread to this point, at which you all seem to have come to a 'conclusion.' Please, someone tell me how this matters a whit? How does this change your attitude or action? Please explain Biblically the result of your conclusion? Be honest! :-) What weren't you doing before that you will do now? Friends, I do not mock you. I really would like to know what the hullabaloo is all about. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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143 | Will it be our generation? | Bible general Archive 1 | charis | 14778 | ||
Dear CDBJ, No, none of us will be truly ready in our own strength. But in Him we can do anything! The Spirit will give us what we need at the appropriate time. I don't think that dwelling on end-time prophecy will help much, but honestly looking at church history and the present-day reality is a start. Read "The New Foxe's Book of Martyrs' for a bit of (grisly) history of faith in persecution. This updated version is in readable language and has a section on more recent trials of the faithful all over the world. Indeed, those in 'major power' nations have a hard time understanding what it takes to profess Christ for a good portion of the 'rest of the world.' Preparation for serving Jesus starts 1)in our own home, establishing our ability to show forth the Christ within to those close to us. The next battle is 2)serving our local church. (and I don't mean Sunday attendance or the envelope on the offering plate! Wash someone else's dishes, change the diapers of other's children, bless the person in the next row in the name of Jesus!) When we (finally) get these two down pat, then 3)bring food to the bowery, help at the nursing home, volunteer for prison ministry, give your vacation to a foreign church (out of your own pocket!), and heed the calling of the Holy Spirit if He calls you to a less-comfortable venue. When you have performed 1 and 2, and are working on 3 for a while, you will be ready for any number 4 that Jesus gives you! Blessings in Jesus' name, charis |
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144 | The Writings of the Apostles? | 1 Cor 12:27 | charis | 13156 | ||
Dear Tim, and saints, Yes, the Twelve Apostles were special. Nobody is arguing that (that I am aware). They were chosen by God for a special purpose. God did write through them (some of) the Bible. Some other writers of the New testament are not identified as apostles. God also chose soem of their writings (is this a trick question?), in the sense that it is very possible that these men wrote other things in their lives-ministries. If we try to say that every word written by these men was inspired by God, then where are they? The canon is finished, so we can assume that subsequent letters cannot be 'found,' nor can we assume that God 'lost' them. Ministers minister, but office-holders don't office. (they administer) Ephesians is very clear that God gave (ministerial) gifts to men, but not necessarily every Christian, but not exclusively to only the Twelve, plus Paul, plus others named as apostles. Ephesians speaks about the need for these ministries until the church is 'done.' Some of my respected colleagues have postulated that the church is 'done' because the canon is finished. I strongly disagree. The canon is finished, but the church is not! "Notice that the text uses plural nouns." Of course! Notice that some have deleted one or two of these five. One of the problems with the church is that we have allowed the ministries within he church to degenerate into 'offices.' No believers were called to an office, including the (mistakenly exalted) apostles to the Lamb. Almost every commentator I have read states that there are three uses of the word 'apostolos' in the Bible. 1)Jesus 2)the Twelve (Matthias was the only 'replacement') and 3)the 'other' apostles. These are sometimes called 'minor,' 'lesser,' or 'general' apostles. But they are called apostles nonetheless! Some have different ideas as to where Paul fits in. Some say that they did not 'self-perpetuate,' but do not back this up in the Scripture. Mostly, it seems that they must admit the existence of these ministers, but their tradition or religion does not allow them to be around today. All of the Bible references to their exclusivity are referring to the Twelve, not the 'others.' Brother, and brethren, I would ask that someone would give me a Biblical definition of 'office,' it's 'institutional' and-or 'organizational' meaning, as compared to a minister, a servant. The crux of the matter is that 'office' denotes an organized religion, closer to the Pharisees than I am comfortable with. Yes, we have a difference of opinion. I chose a simpler, faith-based church that is (still) being led by the Holy Spirit. Some may insist that this means disorganized and irresponsible, but I challenge you to come to Yokohama and see that it is possible to be orderly AND filled with the Holy Spirit. Just because you have never seen it does not mean it is non-existent :-) Peace in Christ Jesus, charis |
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145 | Define Faith. | Heb 11:1 | charis | 12411 | ||
Dear Netta, The Bible gives us a very clear, succinct definition of faith: "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1 NASB. This is enough... In Jesus' name, charis |
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146 | Finding a Church? | Bible general Archive 1 | charis | 8177 | ||
Dear roverjbh99, I, too, am looking for a church in Hawaii. Not for me, but for my daughter, who will be going to college in the fall. You have received some good advice, most of which I agree. Indeed, pray! Pray that you would be sensitive to the Holy Spirit. Pray in thanksgiving for where He has set you. Pray in belief that He has a local fellowship for you. I disagree that you must find a church near you. (I know that the advice was 'if possible') If you are on Oahu, you could travel 'to the ends of the earth' every Sunday in less than 2 hours :-) I find it appalling that some Christians chose convenience over God's choice. Go where you must to be in His will. You may even move your domicile to be close to the fellowship God has reserved for you. To me, church comes before work and career. A local church must have commitment to God and to one another, or it is not a church. A church without shepherding is not a church. Commitment and shepherding are NOT programs and staff! Sheepskins on the wall are not the mark of a shepherd (pun intended!). Find a local church that will both serve you in Christ, and have a place of service for you in Christ. Do not chose a church by their 'worship team.' Music can be had on the radio, and pageantry can be found on TV. Holy fellowship is ONLY available in the local church. Much too much emphasis is given these days to 'extracurricular activities.' God wants you in a church that preaches the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This would be new hope for the lost, and daily faith for the saved. A church must be evangelizing the neighborhood, and each member's family, including their own children. So many focus on just adding to the membership, or on a certain 'category' of potential people. True evangelism is to all you know and meet. Finally, my friend, trust the Lord. He wants you to be a 'living stone' in the dwelling place of His people. 'Living stones' are not raw materials, but active parts of the structure known as His church. Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
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147 | God's love not important in daily life | Rom 12:12 | charis | 8108 | ||
John 3:16 says "For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotton Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have enternal life." John 3:6 also says "That which is born of flesh is flesh, but that which is born of the Spirit is spirit." Yes some will be condemed to hell, but of their own choosing, not God's love. In the book of Job, Satan challenges God to have his health, wealth and family taken away and Job will not serve God but Satan. When Job passes the test, Job 42:12 says and the Lord blessed the latter days of Job more than the first...." Jesus didn't have to go to the cross. He really didn't want to go. He went out of obedience to God and God's love for us through his plan of salvation. As far as torture and death, read Romans 8:35 - 39. Jesus has also said in John 16:33 "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation; but take courage; I have overcome the world." | ||||||
148 | Tithes and offerings designation | Bible general Archive 1 | charis | 7518 | ||
Dear retxar, Basically speaking, the Old Testament pattern was for tithes to be used for the livelihood of the Levites, who did not have a portion in the Promised Land. Offerings were for the upkeep of the Temple. Though tithes and offerings are not specifically required by the Lord Jesus, I think they make more sense than the church just relying on 'good will' or a constant barrage of 'appeals' for money and 'special offerings.' The congregation has a right to know the overall financial situation, but not the details. (Unless, of course, there is evidence of misuse or abuse, then an accounting is appropriate) As to the designation of offerings: an offering is from your heart through the leading of the Holy Spirit. By definition, you should have some say in how it is used. However, the final decision should be in the hands of the eldership. God blesses a cheerful (trusting) giver. Make known your feelings about the offering, but don't usurp the leadership's authority. They are required by God to correctly discern the needs of the church. (If they are wrong, God will deal with it!) In Christ Jesus, charis |
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149 | Define "local church." | Phil 1:1 | charis | 7512 | ||
Dear JVH0212, Very appropriate 1,000th posting! Congratulations, my good friend. A local church is a 'mutually committed expression of the body of Christ in a specific locality.' A family of believers that have bound themselves together before God, dedicated to showing forth Jesus to their neighborhood. In the early church, these were usually gathering in a saint's house. "how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from house to house," Acts 20:20 NASB "also greet the church that is in their house. Greet Epaenetus, my beloved, who is the first convert to Christ from Asia." Romans 16:5 NASB "The churches of Asia greet you. Aquila and Prisca greet you heartily in the Lord, with the church that is in their house." 1 Corinthians 16:19 NASB "and to Apphia our sister, and to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in your house:" Philemon 1:2 NASB Another aspect is that there should be fellowship, as in the sharing of lives, with our homes open to eachother. This implies a commitment to one another beyond *membership.* "And they were continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." Acts 2:42 NASB Finally, I can find no reference in the Bible to connecting one local church to another in any form of organization. The thought of 'strength in numbers' is never spoken, nor is the binding of any local body to another for denominational (divisional) identity ever portrayed. The absence of any encouragement to 'make a name for yourselves,' and the many warnings not to become like the Pharisees, Saducees, scribes, or any other 'named' grouping, leads me to believe that God never intended for their to be anything more than the local church. I would welcome anyone that can Biblically defend 'denominationalism' without claiming superior doctrine or 'strength in numbers.' (both points are moot in Jesus) Blessings to all, and blessings to the local church. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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150 | how do I read the full answers? | Revelation | charis | 7431 | ||
Dear KOBUS, Greetings and welcome to the Forum! There are several ways to browse this forum interface. First, if you scroll down to the bottom of a page, you will see a 'tree' representation of the 'thread' or topic. The tree is a bit hard to grasp at first, but if you follow the lines you will see how the connect. Also, pay attention to the date-time stamp on the right. If you click on the blue 'opening phrase' of the note, question or answer, it will be displayed in it's entirety. Click on the name of the poster (screen name), and you will (someimes) find out more about him-her. The other major tool is the 'Search' button at the top left. Click on this and you can easily find postings by date, Bible reference, screen name, or a specific word or words. Blessings upon you, and praying that this forum is a help to your walk in Christ. If you have any other questions, just post anywhere, and someone will find it and help. In Jesus' name, charis |
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151 | Need more on THE HOUR and the ALL who he | Rev 20:5 | charis | 7362 | ||
Dear Isabel, If I may ask, what is the purpose of knowing the answer to this question? Please, I mean no harm. I understand that all believers should desire to know more about God, His plan, and how to live in Him. When I was a new believer, I was stricken with a curiosity about the end times. I am not that 'old' now, but I can no longer see that point in striving for that which is hidden, and will remain hidden until the return of the Lord. Please remind me. If possible, tell me where in the Word we are encouraged to seek after such answers. Again, please do not be upset with me. I see a lot of focus on these things, yet no one has explained from the Bible why they spend so much time on them. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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152 | Is Entire Sanctification Scriptural? | Bible general Archive 1 | charis | 7356 | ||
Dear Tim, I am not quite sure how you are defining the term 'entire sanctification,' but I'll give some of my thoughts and some of the references I've found. 'Entire Sanctification' proponents: "Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it." 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 NKJV It was "the grand depositum which God has lodged with the people called Methodists; and for the sake of propagating this chiefly He appeared to have raised us up." John Wesley believed the doctrine of entire sanctification was Methodism's distinctive gift to Christianity. He called it "the great promise of God," Christian perfection, holiness of heart and life. On the other hand, Charles Finney's "Systematic Theology" speaks out against 'perfect holiness' in this life. He said that we could not live on earth in this state. My personal thoughts. The idea of 'entire sanctification,' 'perfect holiness,' ' attaining sainthood,' and 'walking in the perfect will of God' all speak of perfect goal, a holy pursuit of sinless life. However, we are told this is impossible with man. '...as it is written, "There is none righteous, not even one;"' Romans 3:10 NASB, and 'But when they persisted in asking Him, He straightened up, and said to them, "He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her."' John 8:7 NASB. Only Jesus walked a blameless life on this earth. 'For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin.' Hebrews 4:15 NASB. The Bible says that God sees us in our perfected state, because He knows the result of His holy plan. The Word of God exhorts us to seek perfection with all our being. Jesus spoke, "Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." Matthew 5:48 NASB. But I can find no record or reference in the Bible that says any man *attained* perfection. Honestly, it sounds more like a Buddhist search for earthly *enlightenment* than trusting God to perfect us in resurrection. I hope this helps, brother. (and I hope you are not a strict Methodist! :-) If so, I beg your pardon.) In Christ Jesus, charis |
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153 | What does NT say about the wrath of man? | NT general Archive 1 | charis | 7336 | ||
Dear JVH0212, The KJV uses tis phrase: "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God." James 1:19,20 KJV Many a time I have heard a Christian attempt to justify anger. Usually, the example of the Lord Jesus in the Temple courtyard is cited, and maybe Paul or James' letters. But rarely do I see the anger of man fall into the same category of these holy examples. More often, anger is an emotion stemming from pride or vengeance. 'Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord.' Romans 12:19 NASB '...not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.' 1 Peter 3:9 NASB "But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be guilty before the court; and whoever shall say to his brother, 'Raca,' shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever shall say, 'You fool,' shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell." Matthew 5:22 NASB 'Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger,' Ephesians 4:26 NASB I believe that the spiritual opposite of anger is peace. This last Scripture seems to allow anger, but specifies that we MUST find peace the sun goes down. My own interpretation, 'Never sleep with anger in your heart. Make peace with men, and therefore with God, before you finish your day. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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154 | When was the book o f Joel written ? | Amos | charis | 7328 | ||
Dear Mylwa, From the New Unger's Bible Dictionary: Critics commonly date Joel's prophecy anywhere from the division of the kingdom (c. 932 B.C.) to the time of Malachi (c. 400 B.C.) or even later. The safest date seems to be preexilic. The reign of Joash (835-796 B.C.) is most appropriate for the prophecy. Several lines of argument would seem to indicate that Joel's prophecy is early. Its style and general spirit are dissimilar to that of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, postexilic prophets. Its language and style rather belong to the period of Hebrew classical literature. Joel's diction seems reminiscent of Amos, who himself seems to have made use of Joel (cf. JOE 3:16 with AMO 1:2; JOE 3:18 with AMO 9:13). Perhaps most significant is the lack of the mention of a king in the book. Joash was a minor and for a long time under the guardianship of Jehoida the high priest. Then too, Israel's enemies were the Phoenicians and Philistines (JOE 3:4), the Egyptians and Edomites (JOE 3:19), and the Assyrians and the Babylonians who harassed Israel from the time of Amos to the Exile. Cornill, Oesterley and Robinson, Merx, and S. R. Driver agree for a postexilic date but their evidence is inconclusive. JOE 3:2 is supposed to allude to the Exile but this is clearly a predictive passage of the nation's present-day scattering and by no means needs to refer to the Babylonian captivity. The mention of the Javanim or "Ionians" does not necessitate a date after the Exile. These people are alluded to in the Assyrian records of the eighth century B.C. Arguments based on the silence with regard to a king or idolatrous places of worship in the Northern Kingdom are pointless. Such mention is also lacking in Nahum, Jonah, Zephaniah, and Obadiah. In Jesus' name, charis |
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155 | Bible quotes | Bible general Archive 1 | charis | 7266 | ||
Dear Josh, Any reasonable Bible translation is acceptable for quotation here. Of course, we see a lot of NASB, but many others, including the KJV are represented. It seems the next most popular Bible to quote from (after the NASB) would be the MacArthur Study Bible in the NKJV. Other study Bibles we see are the Ryrie Study Bible and the Scofield Bible. There are several fans of the ASV, too. (I have an ASV arriving by courier day after tomorrow. My wife's friend is visiting us and bringing it :-) Oh, yes! The Amplified is another favorite, while the NIV and Living Bible don't seem to get much 'air time.' In Christ Jesus, charis |
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156 | Salvation wihout Jesus? | John 14:6 | charis | 7244 | ||
Dear Glory777, Good question, but loaded! :-) Generally, the Bible seems to have a special place of (possible) grace for the spouse of a believer, and for the (even unborn) children of the believer. That the salvation for 'all the family' of a believer is automatic is hard to justify using the Bible. (I have heard opinions that this would apply up to second cousins. Of course, no Bible reference was made :-) Another possibility is the salvation of all children up to an 'age of accountability.' As the Bible is not clear on this, it comes under the 'I am sure that God would save kids' or 'Sorry, but...' Personally, I prefer 'The Bible is not clear, I leave it in God's hands.' Next, about the 'people without access to the Gospel.' I live in a country that is less than 1 percent Christian. Many could claim that their friend, family member, or long-dead ancestor would fall into this category. They 'know that God's mercy would save them.' With this kind of emotional security(not Biblical faith), many avowed Buddhists or Hindus would be included in God's plan for salavation! If we search for 'loopholes' in John 14:6, we can find a bundle! (and wreak havoc on the Gospel) If we trust that God is righteous and sovereign, we will have peace. Blessings in Jesus' name, charis |
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157 | Is Hollywood biblically accurate? | Bible general Archive 1 | charis | 7242 | ||
Dear Nolan, You actually asked two questions. 1) Is Hollywood faithful to the Bible? No. Generally speaking, Hollywood is more concerned with making money by satisfying the majority's perceived notions of the Bible, and not offending anyone, no matter how perverted they are, than being faithful to the teaching of the Word of God. 2) Is it possible to do so? Yes. There are a few Christian movies that place more emphasis on the convictions of faith than making money or a 'poll-approved' movie. Can 'Hollywood' do this? I seriously doubt it. The director and-or producer would be considered a renegade and 'heretic' for choosing faith over mammon. Finally, the definition of 'accurate' would be subject of the whims of many. This forum is (unfortunately) an excellent example of the division of opinion among Christians. You may like one of the above movies, but another may consider it an abomination. On your 'questionable' list, another might consider a movie 'valid artistic representation.' :-) Good question with a volatile answer. In Jesus' name, charis |
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158 | Babies and young children a distraction? | 1 Cor 14:40 | charis | 7235 | ||
Dear Nolan, Children are a blessing, no doubt! But we cannot regulate infants and toddlers to the point that they will not 'steal the show' from spiritual proceedings. I believe that we can begin to discipline children at a very young age, and have had some success in this area. However, the wills and needs of young babies confound the best intentions of parents, relatives and friends :-) In my church we provide a nursery for children up to the age of 3 years. The nursery workers are all parents and volunteers in rotation, paired with youth workers. This has a manifold purpose. It allows parents, especially mothers, to pay attention to the Lord approximately 3 Sundays a month. Most mothers have have 'babes-in-arms' and 'pulling-their-skirts' on a full-time basis for several years per child. They deserve a break! A few free hours on Sunday can truly bring refreshing. In this manner, a father can have a chance to worship the Lord with his 'Honey' without distraction. Conversely, a father gets the opportunity to change diapers and pull his hair out once a month. Taking care of his own child, and other children brings new appreciation of his wife :-) By requiring young people (approximately 12 to 16 years old) to participate in nursery under adult supervision, they gain responsibility and wisdom. This is a great way to prepare them for reality! I have been to churches where children have little or no supervision. Mothers are oblivious to those around them. We should be praising God and listening to the preaching of the word, not 'cooing' babies or being annoyed by them. I once went to a church that mothers would nurse their babies in the sanctuary. Honestly, though it is 'natural,' it blessed no one but the baby. Sorry if any are offended by this opinion. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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159 | Will we see God's face? | Bible general Archive 1 | charis | 7228 | ||
Dear JVH0212, I believe that we will see Him face to face one day! "...but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away... For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I shall know fully just as I also have been fully known." 1 Corinthians 13:10-12 NASB. (I am aware that this may not be a direct reference to meeting our Lord, but one might want to capitalize 'Perfect' (Ray, take note!) in order to understand the things to come. Obviously, we have not experienced the 'perfect' anything, yet.) "Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we shall be. We know that, when He appears, we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him just as He is." 1 John 3:2 NASB. As Nolan pointed out, "No longer will we be 'imprisoned' by this body of sin that we dwell in, but Christ will be exalted!" In us! Amen! In Jesus' name, charis |
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160 | NAS like the NWT??? I HOPE NOT! | Bible general Archive 1 | charis | 7110 | ||
Dear roverjbh99, Where did you see this chart? That sounds ridiculous! Please do not put your NASB down, as it is widely considered to be one of the most accurate English Bibles available. (In my opinion, THE most accurate) Could it be that the JWs or Mormons made this chart? You know da kine, eh? Aloha in Christ Jesus, charis |
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