Results 241 - 260 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# | |||
241 | Paul our pattern to follow, not Jesus? | 2 Tim 3:16 | charis | 169606 | ||
Dear Bereaniam, Greetings in the name of Jesus! Long time, no post, but... After reading the many and various answers to your question and your subsequent posts, I can't help but state the obvious... "...for our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake." 1 Thessalonians 1:5 NASB If any Christian is relying only on personal interpretation of Scripture, then they will inevitably have a bias. Every denomination or other form of division I know of is biased in this manner. The work of the Holy Spirit is to bring us beyond personal understanding of what we read, or even the preached word. "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you." John 14:26 NASB I think the main question is if we are taught of the Holy Spirit or not! In Christ Jesus, charis |
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242 | Is all new doctrine false doctrine? | Titus 1:9 | charis | 35424 | ||
Dear Listener, Greetings in Jesus' name! "Is all new doctrine false doctrine?" No. Not any more than all old doctrine is true doctrine! If we say that 'doctrine' equals the traditions of men, then all doctrine is false. "BUT IN VAIN DO THEY WORSHIP ME, TEACHING AS DOCTRINES THE PRECEPTS OF MEN." Matthew 15:9 NASB. However, if we say that 'doctrine' equals the Word of God, then all doctrine is true. Actually, in this interpretation there is no old or new, only truth. "That which has been is that which will be, And that which has been done is that which will be done. So there is nothing new under the sun. Is there anything of which one might say, 'See this, it is new'? Already it has existed for ages Which were before us." Ecclesiastes 1:9,10 NASB. New doctrines are not 'developed,' but only re-discovered. Sometimes a person will come forth and say that he has a 'new revelation' from God. This is impossible! However, there are forgotten *previous* revelations from God. Usually they are only forgotten in that particular group! :-) God's entire Word is alive and complete right now! The problem is that nobody has it all together. (though many claim it!!) Please try not to be too harsh on those that claim 'new revelation' of truth. Most do not really believe they have something that nobody ever had before. (though I admit that some do!) I count this error to be in the same league as those that claim 'complete revelation' of truth. :-) Peace in Christ Jesus, charis |
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243 | Christian Dressing | Hebrews | charis | 32476 | ||
Dear Ify-J, Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus! "Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments, but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women making a claim to godliness." 1 Timothy 2:9,10 NASB. The People's New Testament says, " In simple attire which not attract attention." "With shamefacedness. A shrinking from all that is indelicate." "Sobriety. Self-restraint; not yielding to vain impulses." Some may say that it's just fashion. Well, modern fashion certainly seems to cater to the flesh, and show a lot of it, too. What do you say to a young Christian? If you want to be treated like a mature, sensible person, than you will do better to look like one. If your attire is faddish (young lemmings :-)) or rebellious, you will most probably be treated as a mindless youth or a rebel. Unfair? No, it is natural to assess the appearance of a person, as it often gives us an idea of their attitude and bent. By the way, all this applies to us 'old folks,' too! :-) In Christ Jesus, charis |
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244 | How do we Trust Christians again? | Hebrews | charis | 81795 | ||
Dear Emily, Greetings in the name of Jesus!! My sister in Christ, I guess it's time to pack your bags and come to Yokohama! ;-) Seriously, I am sad, and somewhat shamed by the things you have experienced. I hear of these kind of things often, and can only say that many churches seem to be more interested in serving man than serving God. Worse, serving 'man' usually equals serving self! Another factor seems to be the desire of so many ministers (thus, churches) to create large, wealthy and progressive organizations that 'can do so much for God' at the expense of the sheep. I, for one, have endeavored to 'seek after the lost sheep,' sometimes depriving the 'ninety-nine' of a 'democratic (socialist?) full church experience.' (Luke 15:4) The result is that, by grace, our fellowship is blessed with peace and love, though perhaps lacking in the 'bells and whistles' that so many churches deem necessary. So, my prayer is that the Lord would lead you to a simple, 'early church' church. One that meets the needs of ALL those sent by the Lord. Seek a shepherd who can discern the needs of God's flock, this is more important than services and programs and amenities. Strangely, the whole flock is fed when the least among them is ministered to. For those that point to 'the needs of all' and 'orderliness' as primary, I can only say these are for politics and religious institutions, not the church of God. "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another." John 13:34 NASB Peace to you. I am so sorry that you missed an Easter Sunday fellowship with the saints. To answer your original question, "What happens if there is no church in our area?," I say either check again to see if you have missed one, or move! For what circumstance makes you stay in an area without a church? Job? Mortgage? School? Relatives? According to the Bible, should any of these things prevent you from serving the Lord in His body? I don't think so! Please email to the address in my User Info if you want a more personal discussion. Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
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245 | What is "progressive revelation"? | Heb 1:1 | charis | 4735 | ||
Dear Hank, Yes! "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you." John 14:26 NASB. The Holy Spirit will continue to lead us and reveal the will of God to us. He will guide His servants to proclaim a living Gospel. It is ongoing, as we progress toward the goal of the return of the Lord Jesus. No! it is not progressive as in previously unspoken. As the above Scripture states, the Spirit will 'bring to remembrance' what has already been spoken. All present revelation must be in accord with Scripture. But, like the words of Jesus when He spoke to the Jews, they will be fresh and new and full of authority. Blessings upon you in Jesus' name, charis |
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246 | Is eternal life possible right now? | Heb 1:1 | charis | 15448 | ||
Dear amadeuse, Could you please tell me the True Name of God? Though I do believe that the Holy Spirit reveals Christ to believers, this revelation is always in accord with the Bible. You have decried the church of God, and His servants in a railing judgment! Though I, too, see many areas in the church that need repentance, your vision borders on folie de grandeur, or megalomania. Please, seek help. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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247 | Is Christ now visible and touchable? | Heb 4:12 | charis | 2439 | ||
Dear inhzsvc, Yes, in a metaphorical sense we can touch, taste, smell, hear, and see Jesus. These would seem to come under the awareness of the soul that is turned toward Him. In a spiritual sense, we can know Jesus, and His salvation. Our faith works in this realm, a spirit-to-Spirit relationship. As to the fleshly, physical sense, no, Jesus is at the right hand of the Father in Heaven. He has sent His Spirit to indwell the church, causing us to be the body of Christ, which is beautiful to behold. But individual people and subdivisions of the church are not Jesus, and often poor reflections of our Savior. Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
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248 | Tying a rope around priest's ankles? | Heb 7:23 | charis | 16525 | ||
Dear Nolan, Brother, this was a challenge! I have heard this before, too, but have never heard a Scripture reference. Apparently, the tradition started after the Law, and before the New Testament. "And the former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers, because they were prevented by death from continuing," Hebrews 7:23 NASB and, "...who does not need daily, like those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins, and then for the sins of the people, because this He did once for all when He offered up Himself." Hebrews 7:27 NASB. It seems that some of the sacrifices offered for their own sins were not accepted! This is a good starting place. Anyone else? In Christ Jesus, charis |
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249 | Blood sacrifices during the Millenium? | Heb 10:12 | charis | 1430 | ||
Dear Nrojac, Hebrews 10:12 states, " but He, having offered one sacrifice for sins for all time, sat down at the right hand of God," This is said in other ways throughout the New Testament. For anyone to negate this teaching, it would seem the burden of proof is upon the one proposing it. I can find no reference to reinstatement of blood sacrifices, and have no reason to believe God is going to send 'Christian offspring' to hell. In Jesus |
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250 | What day are we COMMANDED to gather? | Heb 10:25 | charis | 220503 | ||
Though the DAY is not specified, assembling together is commanded by the author of Hebrews: Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, 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 10:23-25 NASB The tradition of gathering on the first day of the week, Sunday, the day of Jesus' resurrection, comes from Acts 20:7 and I Corinthians 16:2 where Paul spoke of bringing collections. For those determined to undermine the necessity and blessing of gathering together, they DEMAND to see the word COMMAND. But the above Scripture is abundantly clear that we are to gather together, even though "some" have a different habit. Peace in Christ Jesus! charis |
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251 | 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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252 | Are churches preaching cheap grace? | Heb 12:11 | charis | 85416 | ||
Dear holy warrior, Greetings in the name of Jesus! Yes, many churches are preaching 'cheap grace.' As the above Scripture says, we are to be disciplined and bear fruit. Many churches seeking numbers, fame and mammon (whatever their claimed motive), are willing to forego preaching discipleship, repentance, sanctification, commitment and responsibility. They teach that we are forever a 'baby on Daddy's knee.' Well, just as in the natural, God wants His children to grow up and get potty-trained and care for themselves and eventually share in the chores of the household. Of course, other churches go too far, and begin to teach that we become independent of God's grace, and say that our salvation depends on works and organization. There is no amount that we can pay to secure or maintain that grace. We are always dependent on His grace. Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
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253 | Is marriage when you sign a paper ? | Heb 13:4 | charis | 68676 | ||
Dear Pris, Greetings in the name of Jesus! The above Scripture guides us to honor marriage! This would include pastoral counsel, a wedding before God and witnesses, and consent of parents. With all due respect, does your boyfriend want an honorable wedding or not? Is he saved? Otherwise, you could be unequally yoked. "Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?" 2 Corinthians 6:14 NASB. Get some pastoral counsel on this before you are talked into something you might regret. Blessings and peace in Christ Jesus, charis |
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254 | Is marriage when you sign a paper ? | Heb 13:4 | charis | 68697 | ||
Dear Pris, Greetings again in Jesus' name! I have been praying for you since I answered your post. I cannot help but feel you are unable to find Godly, pastoral counsel where you are. Though I cannot shepherd you in the true sense, if you want to talk more privately, please contact me by my hotmail address in my personal profile. (just click on 'charis' below to find it) You can see my homepage there, too. If not through me, please get some good help from a minister of the Gospel near you. May the Lord grant you discernment and guidance by the Holy Spirit. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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255 | Does my Pastor have to live in my state? | Heb 13:17 | charis | 21608 | ||
Dear mincc, Blessings in Jesus' name! "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you." Hebrews 13:17 NASB. I really find it hard to believe that a person that is not involved in your life is truly capable of watching over your soul. This would be akin to a recent president that "Feels your pain." :-) A *shepherd* should care for you in a real and immediate sense, not through rhetoric. A pastor is much more than a teacher, he is there! In Christ Jesus, charis |
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256 | The question stands | James 2:10 | charis | 19238 | ||
Dear Steve, Greetings in Jesus' name! "Wisdom shouts in the street, She lifts her voice in the square;" Proverbs 1:20 NASB My friend, I think that if you were to take the sum total of what Jesus said about the Pharisee's ideas about 'keeping the Sabbath' or 'keeping the Law,' you would be led to the conclusion that both were set up as a light of wisdom, truth and common sense. The intent, the purpose was to get an unruly people to adhere to what they *should* do, and know what they *should* know. Even though the Ten Commandments were common sense and common knowledge (to anyone possessing a brain and faith toward God), AND they were written by the finger of God, they STILL couldn't keep them, and spent an inordinate amount of time and effort in figuring how to weasel out of them, or use them to their advantage. Now, praise God!, we have the Holy Spirit to lead us, from the inside, to all truth. The Sabbath and the Law were NOT abolished, but *enhanced.* They are made better! Their *tutorial* role is still intact, but the New Covenant has fulfilled their original intent and purpose. The thing that stands between us, as participants in this New Covenant, and spiritual adherence of these treasures, is the Old Covenant mentality of legalism and the *Old Man* mentality of self that we are *supposed to* be set free from. Sorry that I do not give a lot of Scripture to back this up, but I must be off... Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
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257 | Demons or Sin? | James 3:15 | charis | 29935 | ||
Dear KamanUCI, Greetings in Jesus' name! Demons are the minions of satan, fallen angels. They are those that heard the master of lies and believed him instead of their Creator, and were cast down for their rebellion. Though they do not have the power to make us sin (the devil made me do it!), they do have the ability to speak the lies of the enemy, distracting us from our path. This distraction or deception is sometimes (sadly) enough to bring out the 'old nature of sin and death' in us, which is the battle that Paul speaks of. The enemy is a liar, and his stooges seem to try to lead us astray with those lies, perhaps to ease their torment? The origins of evil and sin are the first rebellion by lucifer (satan), and his deception of Adam brought this sin to us. Praise be to God that Jesus came to cleanse us from this sin! In Christ Jesus, charis. |
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258 | Did Jesus enter into Hell? HopeStreet | 1 Peter | charis | 30886 | ||
Dear HopeStreet, Greetings in the name of Jesus! Indeed, this has been 'hashed over' on several occasions. :-) "(Now this expression, "He ascended," what does it mean except that He also had descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is Himself also He who ascended far above all the heavens, so that He might fill all things.)" Ephesians 4:9,10 NASB. Please consider, though, that Jesus did not 'fall' into hell. He 'went' there with a purpose, clearly written in the context of the above verses. He knew where and why He went, and accomplished every thing He set out to do! Victory over death and hell! And it was no 'great conflict' either. Jesus won total victory with a breath. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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259 | Are there stillborn Christians? | 1 Pet 2:2 | charis | 16549 | ||
Dear CDBJ, Greetings in Jesus' name! I don't know about the proper Greek grammatical construct of this verse, but to answer the question, "Are there stillborn Christians?" I would have to say no. This is from God's point of view. One is considered a Christian when you, in summary, "... confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved;" Romans 10:9 NASB. (This seems to be the Lowest Common Denominator for Biblical salvation.) This is an awesome thing, not to be taken lightly, or parceled out wholesale! While the Gospel is to be spread in every possible manner, the reciept of the Good News is an event on the order of childbirth, with the same responsibilities. I recommend a bit of 'pre-natal' and 'post-natal' instruction to over-anxious believers. We live in an age of 'cheap grace.' Many churches are anxious for as many 'souls' added to their statistics as possible. It is called 'zeal,' but they so desire numbers that they water down the Gospel. I have witnessed many times that salvation is reduced to 'a threat or a bribe.' After the 'sinner's prayer' is repeated, a person is declared 'saved, sanctified and filled with the Holy Ghost.' Though I am aware that this IS possible, I have seen unfruitful aftermath too many times. I have spoken to church leaders about this, and invariably they say, "but some ARE saved, and Jesus is happy for even ONE!" While this is certainly true, I strongly believe that the same results, or even better results, are available through a more personal, more patient form of evangelism. In fact, for all those that are 'victims' of this 'cheap grace,' they find their hearts are further hardened against Jesus because of the impersonal, rushed showtime atmosphere, and the hypocrisy of the leadership. In the Parable of the Sower, there is one type of 'stolen' seed, two types of unfruitful seed, and one type of fruitful seed, bearing a normal crop. I believe that the church is responsible for sowing, watering and reaping. 30, 60, or 100-fold crops are normal to any farmer that knows his business! Another problem I see is that 'altar calls' are watered down by 'rededications.' I cannot tell you how many times I have seen a church or special meeting proclaim a 'call to the lost' that had only a few come forward. As it becomes obvious that not very many will come forth, the call is 'broadened' to include those who are 'not right with God,' and 'those who have sinned toward a brother,' and so on. Sometimes it gets ridiculous! Finally, just about everyone there is 'blackmailed' into coming forward for 'renewal' or 'rededication.' Then, after the meeting, they are counting up how many got 'saved' that night. Does the Bible really speak of 're-salvation' as a common occurrence? I have asked, "How many times a person can be saved?" The answer is, "You don't have any faith!" :-) Can Christians be stillborn? NO. Can people be duped? YES. How many times can a Christian be saved? ONCE. Is that enough? YES. What should be done? The church should act like the church, and chuck the 'prime-time' antics and circus acts. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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260 | Define "Pope." | 1 Pet 2:9 | charis | 1521 | ||
Dear friend, Instead I'll define Peter: A simple fisherman, probably wearing fairly simple clothes, surrounded by fairly simple people who had thrown away their 'tradition' to follow a simple Man. Peter was married. He was a servant first, and exhorted those around him (and us, too!) to be examples to the flock, never 'lording over' them. Peter never spoke a word concerning his righteousness, and never hinted that he was a priest between God and man. Please compare Peter with the definition provided by PNLamb. Blessings in Christ Jesus. |
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