Results 201 - 220 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# | |||
201 | When God directs..is it always perfect? | Gal 5:22 | charis | 17139 | ||
Dear Sister, Greetings in Jesus' name! No, life is not so simple as wanting, then receiving things and situations. In fact, often these things end up being chains around our necks like Bob Marley. "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 find that the *things and situations* so many Christians desire, and pursue, and even demand have nothing to do with abundant life in Christ Jesus. Often the job is a snare, keeping you from serving Jesus and His church by greed and promotion. Often the dream house has a mortgage that strangles you, and steals your offerings and service to God. The true gauge and measure of a life in Christ is in the bearing and keeping of the fruit of the Spirit. All of these fruit have their 'opposite number,' and if you find yourself swinging emotionally between the true and ther false fruit, then you are not truly bearing them. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." Galatians 5:22,23 NASB Many of those that I see claiming 'abundant lives' also bear much anger, anxiety, and wanton sin, as well as dysfunctional marriages and families. Reevaluate the definition of blessing, and you will have your gauge. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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202 | Do we "use" the Spirit as we shoul? | Eph 1:13 | charis | 27307 | ||
Dear Searcher, Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus! Yes! I heartily agree that we do not utilize the gifts and the grace of the Holy Spirit nearly enough! I just meant that some may be offended by receiving your phrasology as, "We need to use God more," as if He were a tool in our hands. I also feel that the local church is under-utilized, too! God created a community of faith that shares gifts, grace, blessings and difficulties, hopes and burdens. I see the church (not ALL churches) becoming institutionalized, professional and cliquish, more akin to a food court than a community banquet. We use the same 'facilities,' but we partake from different 'tables.' :-) This said, I still don't see the Bible clearly teaching that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is synonymous and synchronous with salvation or justification, though clearly all part of God's desire for all of His children. Blessings, 'waga tomodachi' (my friend), in Christ Jesus, charis |
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203 | Thanks, but what about....? | Eph 2:5 | charis | 16866 | ||
Dear Bill, Your questions are valid, especially to those who have little faith that God is bigger than *our* understanding of salvation. The only way I could attempt to explain that would be to say that what God starts, He will finish. As I said, from His lofty vantage, salvation is a single event. This illustration was simply to expound on the path to Christ, not to take it apart. On the other hand, the explanation that salvation is a 'done deal' the moment we publicly 'accept Christ' is just a open to skepticism. I guess the answer is to discern the attitude of the hearer, and explain as the Spirit of God leads. Frankly, I like my version better. It gives God complete sovereignty, while explaining the things we perceive as creatures bound by location and time. I am certain that there is no power that can come between the receipt of the Gospel and 'Home,' and that the Holy Spirit can handle any storms that assail us on the way. (we will NEVER be delivered to the 'wrong shore!') Blessings and peace in Christ Jesus, charis |
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204 | How do you define apostle? | Eph 4:11 | charis | 2163 | ||
Dear Xapis, Excellent observation! Actually, I have tried to explain my ideas on this in several other 'threads.' I admit that it was my fault in posting similar questions, but afterwards others were 'cross-threading.' :-) The major problem, as I see it, is that many are adamant that an Apostle must be like Peter or Paul, and a Prophet must be like Isaiah or Jeremiah. APOSTLE (Gk. (apostolos,) a "delegate"). One sent with a special message or commission. In this sense the word is used in the LXX (1KI 14:6; ISA 18:2), and in the NT: JOH 13:16, "Neither is one (who is sent) [apostle] greater than the one who sent him"; 2CO 8:23; PHI 2:25, where persons sent out by churches on special errands are called their (apostles,) or messengers. In HEB 3:1 Jesus is called "the (Apostle) and High Priest of our confession." (New Ungers Bible Dictionary) The Bible describes 3 'types' of apostles; 1) Jesus. 2) The 'Apostles to the Lamb,' also called the 12. Matthai replaced Judas Iscariot, the only 'replacement' apostle in the Bible. 3)The 'post-ascension apostles.' Paul and Barnabas, among others, continued the ministry of 'special commissions' between churches. Sometimes these are referred to as the 'lower sense' of the apostolic ministry. I believe this continues today, although often misinterpreted and abused. I do not think that the present-day apostle equals the missionary, as I know too many missionaries that do not fit the Bible's description. However, some missionaries may well be working in an apostolic calling. Prophet-"But one who prophesies speaks to men for edification and exhortation and consolation." 1 Corinthians 14:3 NASB. Though many definitions demand that a prophet be a soothsayer, I believe that a New Testament prophet will probably speak God's word for the above purposes more than for telling the future. (Though soothsaying is also still possible, this gift must be used carefully, and must be tested before placing spiritual 'weight' upon it) This encouragement should be for the church, not for the 'pumping up' of the people, nor for the edification of the prophet. Both the apostle and the prophet should be servants to the church, in the same manner as the evangelist, pastor and teacher. I have seen abuse and personal use of all 5 ministries, but I have also seen wonderful, godly application of them, too. I pray that the gifts of ministry will be poured upon the church of Jesus Christ in a fuller sense as we come closer to His glorious return. I hope this makes my viewpoint clear. Blessings and peace to you. In Jesus' name, charis |
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205 | Replies to a vulgar comment. | Eph 5:4 | charis | 67137 | ||
Tom, You realize that there was no need to give the entire quote verbatim, don't you? There is no specific Bible passage to 'reply' to someone like that, because someone using this kind of language probably has little regard for Scripture. For that matter, such a person has little regard for people, especially women. The above Bible reference is appropriate for such a person, and applies to you, too. Bless this person with the Good News of Jesus Christ! Do not stoop to their level by becoming involved in the specifics of foul talk and attitude. Wisdom to you, my friend, in Christ Jesus, charis |
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206 | Is drug use a sin against God as well? | Eph 5:18 | charis | 68110 | ||
Dear Pris, Greetings in Jesus' name! The above verse speaks against getting drunk, instead be filled with the Spirit of God. Marijuana is not mentioned in Scripture. Are you trying to justify the use of marijuana, or to discourage someone from using it? Anyone who knows the Lord Jesus will have no need of euphoria, we have eternal life! Except for certain medicinal uses, marjuana use is just another form of drunkeness, and considered foolishness. My own experience with those that are users is that it gives a false sense of well-being, and can impair judgement and reflexes. Those that tell you different are either deceived or deceivers, maybe both! Blessings and peace in Christ Jesus, charis |
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207 | Is alcohol is the only drug mentioned? | Eph 5:18 | charis | 68122 | ||
Dear Pris, Greetings in Jesus' name! You won't find anything more specific in the Bible. But is this person saved? I can't imagine a saint needing artificial euphoria. If they are not saved, any amount of Scripture will be ignored. No, marijuana is not specifically mentioned. No L.S.D., no cocaine, not even Scotch or 151 proof Rum. Honestly, what does it matter? One look at someone 'high' tells you all you need to know, whatever the drug. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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208 | Eph. 5:23 | Eph 5:23 | charis | 66735 | ||
Dear gdswrd, Greetings in the name of Jesus! If the wife's reasons are good, then the husband will listen. That is if the husband is good! :-) I think that the main question is if the marriage is sound and united in faith? Separate churches is more foolish than submission to 'unreasonable' authority. If the wife has a problem with the present church, then the couple should visit the pastor (or an elder) together to settle the problem. One thing that you did not mention is if the home is committed to the church. Commitment to the local church is directly related to your service unto Jesus. Is it that easy to 'change churches?' If it is, then the basics of faith may need to be confirmed. It would be interesting to know if you are the 'wife' or the 'husband?' :-) Blessings of unity in Christ Jesus, charis |
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209 | Urgent and swift help needed!! | Eph 6:12 | charis | 5882 | ||
Dear TheresaEP, You have received some very good advice from the saints of the Forum, Of course, prayer is absolutely necessary, but you have obviously passed the point of passive prayer. I agree wholeheartedly with Hank. His insight about money was spot on! Battling for the sake of your financial 'investment' in this church is not pleasing to God, but battling for your heart 'investment' of fellowship is worthy. As orthodoxy (and others, as well as your question verse) pointed out, Biblical discipline requires confrontation of the offender. Your pastor must spearhead this action, or he is not a shepherd. The sheep will be slowly scattered if nothing is done, and this kind of church destruction always sends many away from the church bitter and filled with doubt. Gird up your loins, do your homework about the legal situation, and go forth! The problem is afterward. Do something! Regroup the flock into a church, even if it is only in a living room. Don't dwell on past things, just start afresh, and put away bitterness. My home church went through a similar situation, and many are still hurting themselves by opening up old wounds, 3 years old. Theresa, I will be praying for wisdom, courage, and the leading of the Spirit. |
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210 | 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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211 | Is long life in this world a desideratum | Phil 1:23 | charis | 4485 | ||
Dear Lionstrong, YES! Any time we have here to serve and glorify Christ is worth the discomfort. Paul said,"...to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better;" He meant better for Paul himself, but not for Paul in Christ. He continued to say that his service to the saints, and therefore service to Christ was truly better. "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself;" Philippians 2:3 NASB. Let us live to the fullest every moment given us, for it is desiderata to serve Jesus and His church! We cannot preach the Gospel to the lost in heaven, either, so in every sense it is better to be here until He calls us home. In Jesus' name, charis |
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212 | Selfish or Self-interest? | Phil 1:23 | charis | 4534 | ||
Dear Lionstrong, I gave up Kant a long time ago :-) A man devoid of self is a shell. I do believe that God enjoys the many 'flavors' of His people, and loves each of us individually, complete with the 'self' part. Otherwise, we would be lifeless. Self-interest denotes self-awareness, while selfishness would mean self-focus. I do not think that Paul was 'being' either, but proposing a hypotheses. I do not think that he was truly 'torn' by this question. He was telling the saints in Philippi the correct attitude to hold. Of course, everybody wants to go to heaven! But the only way to hurry that along would be suicide. I am not sure if this would negate my salvation (murder in some eyes), but I cannot imagine God happy about taking our own life! So, Paul was not seriously suggesting pursuing death. As to the question about serving our Lord in heaven; sure we can and will. But, as I said, there are no unsaved in heaven, therefore no evangelism or active Gospel-preaching. We would be denied the ability to participate in the Great Commission. Dear friend, I am not nearly so altruistic as my posting may have sounded :-) But, to speak otherwise would not glorify Christ, so I pray that action will follow my confession. Paul did clearly assert that it is better to serve God here as long as God called him to do so, here and in all his letters. Longing for heaven, to go home to Jesus, is normal for every Christian. But accepting our calling, our situation, and doing our best in faith for the duration of our sojourn is what God wants. Blessings, my fellow, in Jesus' name, charis |
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213 | Selfish or Self-interest? | Phil 1:23 | charis | 4536 | ||
Addendum: I did not clearly state that self-interest (awareness) is fine, but selfishness (self-focus) is sinful. Also, WTE posted while I was writing. In addition to RC Sproul, Francis Schaeffer writes of Christian philosophy very well. Blessings, dear Lionstrong, in Christ Jesus, charis |
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214 | what do you think about monday | Col 2:16 | charis | 25603 | ||
Dear buffalo, Greetings in Jesus' name! With all due respect to the other answer you recieved, and not knowing the 'rest of the story,' I must say that Monday could be your pesronal Sabbath, but not your time of 'assembling together' with the saints. Is there any particular reason you have chosen a job that would deny you this privilege 'every Saturday and Sunday' of the year? Is this a permanent situation that you have no plans to change? There can be seasons that God could bless your situation for a special reason, but fellowship with the saints, and the responsibility of serving in your local church is not something you should write off lightly. God blesses you, and you bless others as a living stone in a spiritual family. Have you given up on that? If you are just talking theory, fine. But in practical terms, no, Monday should not be considerd your own personal Sabbath. "...not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." Hebrews 10:25 NASB. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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215 | The headship of Christ | Col 3:17 | charis | 1264 | ||
Dear Ray V.H., Why? For instance, the body of Christ, the name of the Lord. It would not denote a personal name, so no capital. Possibly, "My Head, my Savior?" In Jesus. | ||||||
216 | Ending prayers in Jesus Nane. | Col 3:17 | charis | 16949 | ||
Dear farout, I don't know if there is a specific Scripture that says to end your prayers in Jesus' name, especially to the effect that it won't be heard for failing to do so. I use the above Verse often, not because it is legally required, but because I enjoy it, and I believe it! I love to greet a Christian brother or sister in Jesus' name. I enter the home of a believer and give my blessings in Jesus' name. I receive my meals in Jesus' name. I begin my prayers to the Father, in Jesus' name, and end in Jesus' name. (If you start that way, you can safely fall asleep! :-)) I have been told that I overdo it, but I feel it is not enough, considering the above exhortation. TV and movies only speak Jesus' name as a curse or exclamation. Many churches 'wiggle around' that holy name, saying just about anything BUT Jesus' name! My personal feelings are that speaking His name with reverence increases our faith, and reminds us of His salvation. Whenever I speak or write His wonderful name, it makes me pause and think, and focus. In the name of Jesus, charis |
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217 | Do all Christians agree on the rapture? | 1 Thessalonians | charis | 489 | ||
Dear HeirofGod, No. Christians, like most people, agree on very little. When we can rid ourselves of the traditions of man and selfish emotion, the Holy Spirit will lead us to revelation of the one and only truth, which is in Christ Jesus. In any event, the only way to prepare for this future event is to adjust our present heart and circumstance. | ||||||
218 | Pre Wrath Rapture? | 1 Thessalonians | charis | 1262 | ||
Dear EveryHome, Watch "Left Behind." I am not 'pre-tribulation' per se, but the concept was interesting. (Except the 'empty wombs' bit, implying that all babies are saved) Discuss! In Christ Jesus. | ||||||
219 | should Christian children have boyfriend | 1 Thess 4:3 | charis | 35602 | ||
Dear aduvukace, Greetings in the name of Jesus! Inasmuch as the world's view of dating/going steady is pretty much linked to having a sexual relationship, or at least private physical contact, I would say that it is better to abstain. Especially if, as your post seems to say, it is a relationship between a born-again Christian and a non-Christian. Even among two Christians, you (they) walk a tightrope of temptation with a huge chasm of potential problems with the slightest misstep! "For this is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor, not in lustful passion, like the Gentiles who do not know God;" 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 NASB. Never underestimate the power of the flesh! Period! In Christ Jesus, charis |
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220 | House wife or career wife? | 1 Thess 4:11 | charis | 6827 | ||
Dear Louder, Before I specify the role of the Christian wife-mother, I think it is proper to clarify the role of the Christian husband-father. I firmly believe that the order of priority in the home is, serve God, serve immediate family, serve your local church family, then do a good job in whatever you do in order to pursue the above three priorities. Sure, men (and women) can have a career, if their priorities are straight. Men have the responsibility to be the pillar of their household, and this can only be accomplished if they are around and available. A modern 'career-minded' person has a hard time fulfilling his-her true responsibilities in Jesus. A 'two-career' family has little or no chance of serving the Lord in the way that He wants. Some may disagree with me, but I am sure that reality is on my side. Christian wife, can she work? Yes. There are many kinds of work that allow you to make money while serving Christ-family-church. Staying at home and raising children is not a prison sentence, unless you make it one! The Bible portrays this as honorable and fufilling. Can she work if necessary? Yes, but often greed overcomes honesty. Get out of financial debt, by all means! But don't use it as an excuse to get away. Also, don't stay in debt. I have seen that paying taxes, day-care or baby-sitters and giving your kids guilt-offering bribes for not being around can cost more than not working. If you have 'too-much house,' move! No true Christian will judge you for repenting of pride and greed. Re-evaluate your life with Christ in mind, and careers, houses, cars, bank accounts, 'personal freedom' and worldy 'self-esteem' disappear. Jesus replaces all these things with holy satisfaction in Him. In Jesus' name, charis |
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