Results 141 - 160 of 277
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Results from: Answers On or After: Thu 12/31/70 Author: charis Ordered by Verse |
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Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
141 | is the young man of Mark 14:51 Mark? | Mark | charis | 33190 | ||
Dear veejay, Greetings to you in the name of Jesus! Good question! After checking 10 sources, I have 10 answers! :-) Most agree on only one thing: Any answer is pure conjecture. Mark, John the disciple, James, the brother of the Lord, a person who lived near the garden, an young man of the house, someone mistaken for a disciple of the Lord, and finally, anyone but a disciple. Take your pick! :-) After reading these comments, I come to the conclusion that the identity is not important, but the reporting of this event is to emphasize that it is an eye-witness account. Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
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142 | Please explain this verse? | Mark 15:34 | charis | 1561 | ||
Dear friend, you are right! It is a shame when our zeal to inform others of our thoughts turns us from the 'job at hand.' I will attempt to stay on track, and thank you for reminding me of focus and dignity. The words Jesus spoke are a quote from Psalm 22:1. Some say that He probably prayed the entire psalm, as a testimony that He Himself answered the prophecy of this psalm. (The Pulpit Commentary) "Posterity will serve Him; It will be told of the Lord to the coming generation.They will come and will declare His righteousness To a people who will be born, that He has performed it." Psalm 22:30,31 NASB I am of this camp, I find it unthinkable that the Lord was 'temporarily seperated' from the Trinity, or that He 'experienced' hell. I do believe that he experienced death and derision that the prophecies would be fulfilled, and that He would indeed be proven victorious over Satan. Only God's Anointed could do so. Though He was 'as a lamb led to slaughter,' from the moment after "It is finished," He was crowned in glory and resurrection power. For us, Amen! In Christ Jesus. |
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143 | Is BAPTISM a SYMBOL? | Mark 16:16 | charis | 31882 | ||
Dear Terra, Greetings in the name of Jesus! There are three baptisms in the New Testament, and all are related to Old Testament cleansing. In the New Testament we may like that word to sanctification, which is the process that starts upon knowing/being known by Jesus, and finishes when we meet the Lord. All three baptisms are a real spiritual work, not just a symbol. They accomplish much more than placing your name on the roles of a religious institution. Baptism is also related to the circumcision of heart: "...and in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ; having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead." Colossians 2:11,12 NASB. Baptism is not *necessary* for salvation, but *desired* by Him for the sake of the believer. Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
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144 | Question not answered..... any help? | Mark 16:16 | charis | 39922 | ||
Dear Luke, Greetings in the name of Jesus! I just read your user profile, would like to address your question, "How can people accept theories with no proof over theories with TONS of scientific proof?" First let me say that I was brought up in Japan, in an agnostic home. No Jesus (except exclamations and curses) in my environment at all. Not a one of my friends were Christian, and as far as I know, none of their parents were Christians. This is just to say that I had no 'subliminal' influence or childhood memories that brought me to Christ Jesus. In fact, my father was military, logical and mechanical, and taught me to trust in science and rational behavior. I swallowed it all. Then one day 20 years ago, when I was 25 years old, after meeting and talking with some 'nutty' Christians, I found myself called to believe in Christ Jesus. I did not go quietly! I fought these fellows with every bit of logic, philosophy, and rational thought that I had in my (somewhat formidable) arsenal! I argued with them, and with the Spirit of God which assailed my heart. I denied creation, evolution, the supernatural and the Bible. Yet an honesty within me made me to investigate these very things, and to take a good look at my own 'theories.' I found that these so-called 'sciences' and 'proven facts' were not as solid as I was taught they were. I found that the 'truths' I was so certain of had little cement, and a lot of sand! (if you have worked concrete, you know what I mean) The 'experts' were often bigoted, dishonest men, seeking fame and favor. Their 'science' was mere theory, often with weak links of data, fact and logic. In fact, after reading many biographies, I found these men were asking me to 'believe' them, sometimes requiring 'leaps of faith' that would shame a good Cristian! My friend, I suggest you go through some of these 'TONS' of proof. I think you will find 'ounces' of theory! It is true that knowing Christ requires faith. But the Bible if full of truth that science is just now getting around to 'proving.' The historical record of the Bible is being 'proven' by recent archeological discoveries of more accurate dating methods. The social and moral teachings of the Bible are being 'discovered' to be more stable than any philosophy or psychology. Luke, faith in Jesus is anything but blind! It is freedom from the delusions you (and I!) have been fed. My prayer is that you will look into those things you take for granted, and read the Bible. Your eyes will be opened! Blessings to you in Christ Jesus, charis |
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145 | Are there degrees of punishment in hell? | Luke 12:47 | charis | 4176 | ||
Dear Nolan Keck, With all due respect, what does it matter? To us, it is moot, and we can only desire salvation from Hell for those the Lord sends us to. To those in Hell, there is little comfort in knowing that someone else is in a 'deeper Hell.' The only place I can see any comfort in Hell, is when said person knows that his loved ones are not following, but going to heaven instead. (Luke 16) I look forward to your answer. In Jesus' name, charis |
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146 | What was Jesus writing? | John | charis | 729 | ||
Dear K, I don't think that anyone knows what He was writing, because we are not told. However, why He was writing could be that, as with any animal, eye contact causes emotions like anger and fear to escalate. This crowd was about to 'do their duty' of killing someone in the name of the Law. Jesus, with His unprovoking nature, logic, and authority, gave an opportunity for repentance and life to this sinner. Thank You, Jesus! | ||||||
147 | Was the wine alcoholic or not | John 2:10 | charis | 378 | ||
Dear Kathy, Yes the wine was alcoholic, in the sense that there is alcohol in grape juice. Though nobody knows the actual percentage, it is safe to say that this wine was less potent than present-day wine. | ||||||
148 | Deacons Qualifications | John 10:4 | charis | 30536 | ||
Dear Grace7044, Greetings in Jesus' name! "When he puts forth all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice." John 10:4 NASB. If a deacon (elder) in the church does not meet the qualifications cited in 1 Timothy 3 (and Titus 1), you should first talk with your pastor abut it. Ask him to outline the procedure for appointing deacons, and if said deacon has met the Bible qualifications. It could be that you are missing something, but the pastor may not be aware of how the sheep feel. Please remember that some Godly men lack human charisma, so do not judge a person for having no 'spirit' unless you can truly discern a lack of the Spirit. Blessings to you in Christ Jesus, charis |
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149 | Teaching about Santa Claus? | John 10:10 | charis | 22786 | ||
Dear Pixel "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." John 10:10 NASB I think this verse gives us clear evidence that our enemy, who is a great liar, steals and destroys. Jesus, on the other hand, came that we might have abundant life! To a child, fun, family, presents, sharing, are all part of abundant life. Don't lie to your little girl! But don't get all worried that Santa Claus is the devil in disguise either! Teach her that it is fun to enjoy all the Christmas sounds and colors, and to some point, the 'characters.' Yes, I include Rudolph! But don't lie and create a problem for yourself by having to explain why Santa is on the street corner, and in the department store, and on TV all at the same time. I have two teenage daughters, and when they were small we said Santa is Ho-Ho-Ho and fun and PRESENTS, but not real. He *represents* some of the feelings of good will that are shown forth this time of year, but Jesus is the True Giver. At our annual Christmas party for the neighborhood (unsaved), Santa makes an appearance! But Jesus is spoken, and His Gospel portrayed. We make sure that everyone knows that the guy in the red suit is someone they know, but everyone has fun anyway! You know, kids can 'pretend' and have fun without 'believing.' It is the adults that can't do that! :-) I am aware that many on this forum will be shocked at my answer. Well, too bad! :-) During the holidays, we have fun! We don't lie! And the balance of our lives show clearly that Jesus is Lord! The alternative is (in my humble opinion) to teach our kids that all fun is evil. I think this idea flies in the face of the above verse. Balance, honesty, integrity, and a bit of humor and fun is my 'teaching.' Blssings and peace in Christ Jesus, charis |
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150 | Are there compartments in heaven or hell | John 14:2 | charis | 35411 | ||
Dear kadgaley, Greetings in the name of Jesus! "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:2,3 NASB. While it seems to be clear that heaven has many dwelling places, or mansions, I am not so sure that hell has the same type of accomodations! :-) In any case, as Christians, it seems that there is 'rank in the kingdom' that is awarded to us for our faithfulness to God. (NOT for our faith in God for salvation!) "Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire." 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 NASB. As to clear reference about 'levels' in hell, who cares?! The most comfortable place there is not comfortable! Neither is the worst place there any more damned! Surely it is necessary for us to know the consequence of unbelief, and the state of unregenerate man, but don't 'dwell' on it! (pun very much intended! :-)) Peace and joy in Christ Jesus, charis |
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151 | One religion as good as another? | John 14:6 | charis | 3106 | ||
Dear Hank, I have studied non-Christian religions a bit, and find that they rely upon a mystical relationship with god-gods and-or nature. Hinduism and Buddhism (and their many offspring) do not give any hope for today, only for a far-off 'someday.' Present-day Islam is far from their origins, the faith of Abraham. (I believe the Koran teaches great respect for the 'followers of the Book (the Bible),' which is not adhered to very much these days. As to the Jewish faith, this is more difficult. Thought the nation of Israel has strayed from the faith, I cannot find anywhere that specifically denies individual faith in God through the covenant to Abraham. It is easy to dogmatically deny salvation to all who do not call upon the name of Jesus. But then we make exception for children of believers. Again, how can WE, here, know when faith is applicable in, for instance, the mentally ill? At what point do we accept/deny deathbed 'confessions of Christ?' To answer your question, No, one religion is not as good as another. But how we measure the 'absolute' salvation in God the Father is, in my estimation, beyond our authority. I believe in Christ Jesus, and I will preach the Good News of His victory on the cross to all I know and meet. But to nullify His covenant to Abraham, and claim the ability to 'determine' salvation of others is not my burden. Love in Jesus' name, charis |
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152 | 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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153 | How is this done? | John 15:4 | charis | 498 | ||
Amigo, By the Holy Spirit! Faith, obedience, fellowship with the body of Christ (His church), sharing the Good News, etc. These will produce the 'fruit of the Spirit.' (Gal 5:22,23) Live in Christ, Christ lives in you. |
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154 | When did the day of worship change? | Acts | charis | 18944 | ||
Dear tranard and forum saints, "For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath." Mattew 12:8 NASB. I think that the Bible clearly states (this particular passage and context is recorded in Matthew, Mark and Like) that Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath. Common sense supercedes legalistic observation of the Sabbath. In Christ Jesus, every day is holy! You can worship any day you please! However, we have an opportunity to worship on Sunday, a day recognized by a great deal of Christianity. If you insist on worshipping on Saturday, and being 'correct,' fine. But to denounce the practice of others as displeasig to God, I don't think the Bible supports this attitude (heart). You could hardly be pleasing to God your self! :-) "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." Galatians 3:24,25 NASB. Insisting on Saturday as the 'true Day of the Lord' is just plain Pharisaical. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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155 | Baptism, Trinity, and Teachers? | Acts 2:38 | charis | 4716 | ||
Dear Hank, I read the posting to which you refer, and had the exact same three questions, though my conclusions are a bit different. 1)I can't find anywhere in scripture that would support Jesus baptizing in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, or in the name of Jesus (Himself) either. I can't 'do' anything with Matthew 28:19. As I said earlier, I do not believe in a 'formula,' but in a holy prayer from the heart. This is a dilemma for me, as we have Jesus' commandment and the historical record of His holy messengers. I cannot even, in good conscience, 'say' both ways just to satisfy all (human) hearers. I, personally, trust that Peter and the disciples and saints in the Book of the Acts of the Apostles had a purpose that came from God when they Baptized in the name of Jesus. I will some day stand before God, and I pray that He will see my heart, my faith, my convictions when I give answer for my decisions. My prayers in the name of Jesus are not a result of teaching I received, but of my (humble) understanding of the commandmants of the Lord Jesus, and His disciple's obedience to them. 2)I could never say that "The Trinity is symbolic of one Spirit." I am a firm beliver in a Tri-une God, or the Trinity. I have been reading Reformer Joe and his excellent attempts to explain the Trinity, and am in complete agreement with his 'One God, Three Persons' theology. (Though I prefer JVH0212's exposition) I am not, and have never been Oneness or Jesus-only. My decision to pray in the name of Jesus has nothing to do with a 'Jesus is God is the Holy Spirit' theology. I am much too simple-minded to believe in that spiritual (mystical) spaghetti :-) But, before you start patting me on the back... I am not Trinitarian! Not because I am against their doctrine, but because I do not like adjectival Christianity. I am a Christian, a follower of the Lord Jesus, the Anointed One of God. I believe that He sent His Spirit as Comforter, to indwell and lead His church to the return of Christ. 3)"The answer is not in man." True, but men have been entrusted to preach the Gospel since Day 1, when Peter stood up to proclaim the Risen Savior, and new life in Him. "My advice to the gentleman who responded to my queston is that you put your trust in no man and don't let another interpret for you." I have heard both side claim Divine understanding to support their bent. Of course I read the Bible (Duh!), but I also read and listen to men. Then, under the direction of the Holy Spirit, I try to discern the mind of God.(in the cacophony:-) God's ways are always less complicated than man's, and always bear the fruit of peace and love. Thank you always for your insightful commentary. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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156 | How to Grow spiritually | Acts 2:38 | charis | 18575 | ||
Dear superdude, Greetings in Jesus' name! "What should we do?" Peter said to them, "Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Acts 2:38 NASB. After this, read the Bible, find a Bible-believing, Bible-preaching church. Submit yourself to the spiritual authority of the pastor, and commit yourself to the fellowship of that local body of Christ. There, you should be able to see a holy example of the leading and indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Though you will also probably see some imperfections, the Holy Spirit will guide you to discern the difference and follow the good examples. As to the baptism of the Holy Spirit, there is great division regarding this. One man's opinion: You do not 'get' it, nor is it automatically poured upon all upon 'accepting' Christ. It is a gift from God that is part of our sanctification (cleansing or washing). The baptism is according to God's sovereign will, though we should earnestly desire this gift. There should be no pressure or requirement on man's part. This is in God's hands, and He is faithful. Yes, indeed the Holy Spirit will lead us to all maturity in Christ Jesus. If you desire the fruit of the Holy Spirit, you will certainly be baptized in Him. Blessings and goodness to you in Christ Jesus, charis |
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157 | Baptism question in Acts 2 and John 3 | Acts 2:39 | charis | 1214 | ||
Dear Bereian, A lot of people from various backgrounds heard Peter preach these words. True, most were Jews. However, suppose it were only for Jews. Then it would only be the Old Testament-Part 2. The fact that we have the rest of the New Testament proves that these words were for all who hear and believe. The alternative is ludicrous. As to the words of Jesus in the book of John, I believe the Lord was speaking clearly about water baptism and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Apparently, thinking of 'water' as being water from the womb is trying to legitimatize the idea that we no longer need water baptism. I think the book of Acts is pretty clear that water baptism is a valid act of faith, a cleansing and a strength to all believers in Jesus. See Acts 8:26-38, 10:44-47, 19:1-5 I pray that these will help you. In Jesus' name. | ||||||
158 | Birthday of the church? | Acts 2:41 | charis | 6646 | ||
Dear Hank, Yes! The day is correct, but I think the time was a bit before, when the Holy Spirit came upon those gathered. Note the word 'added' in verse 41. "And when the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a noise like a violent, rushing wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. And there appeared to them tongues as of fire distributing themselves, and they rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit was giving them utterance." Acts 2:1-4 NASB Though God has had a chosen people from the beginning, this is the first time His 'called-out saints' were filled with the Spirit as one Body. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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159 | USA a Christian nation? | Acts 11:26 | charis | 17241 | ||
Dear onnig, Greetings in Jesus' name! No, America is not a Christian nation. Truly, it never was. No nation ever was. Only individuals or churches can be named Christian. Frankly, even a whole church would have a hard time living up to this standard, but grace is applied to the local gathering of living stones being fitted together, by faith, into a family of God. No nation in history has been successful in creating a true religious state. To try and force this faith upon all inhabitants dilutes the faith, and turns it into dead religion. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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160 | What was the problem in the church? | Acts 15:1 | charis | 6703 | ||
Dear Hank, The first verse speaks of the 'Judaizers' (from Judea) that came to (Syrian) Antioch saying that circumcision was required for salvation. (Which would effectively cut women away from Christ, pun intended:-) Thought the focus was on circumcision, these men were also attempting to require the whole Law of Christians, which would make our faith into a sect of Judaism. Paul and Barnabas had 'no small dispute' with them, and were sent to Jerusalem to ask for wisdom. Peter stood up to say that Christians should not be made to bear what Jews could not, the Law. After Paul and Barnabas gave testimony of their mission journey, the apostles and elders agreed to send emmissaries to Antioch with a letter discrediting the requirements of the 'Judaizers,' and encouraging the saints to abstain from pagan offerings and practicing immorality. In other words, we are not bound by the fetters of the Law, rather by Christ's work in the heart, which sets us free! In Jesus' name, charis |
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