Results 321 - 340 of 3591
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Results from: Answered Bible Questions, Answers, Unanswered Bible Questions, Notes Author: BradK Ordered by Verse |
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Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
321 | Can Satin read our minds?Chaser. | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 138710 | ||
Dear Forum: The Nature of Satan As a fallen angel, all that is true of angels in general is true of Satan and his fallen angels (demons). (1) He is a Creature: like all angels, Satan is a creature, created by Christ, the Creator of all things (cf. John 1:1 with Psa. 148:1-5; Col. 1:16; Ezek. 28:13). (2) He is a Spirit Being: Hebrews 1:14 describes angels as spirits and demons are called unclean spirits (Matt. 8:16; 12:45; Luke 7:21; 8:2; 11:26; Acts 19:12; Rev. 16:14). Further, the fact we are told that “we do not wrestle with flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in heavenly places” (Eph. 6:12) also suggest that Satan and his demons are spirit beings. Finally, the fact that Paul describes them as invisible also shows they are spirit beings (Col. 1:16). (3) He Has Limitations: Though extremely powerful, Satan is neither omnipotent, omniscient, nor omnipresent. He simply cannot be everywhere at once. Angels, though spirit beings and very powerful, are not omnipotent, omniscient, or omnipresent. They cannot be everywhere at once and this is true of Satan. However, as the chief of his demons forces or as the “prince of the power of the air” (Eph 2:2), he is chief of a vast host of demons who are so numerous as to make Satan’s power and presence seem to be practically ubiquitous or everywhere at once (cf. Mark 5:9). Question: Can Satan put thoughts in our minds that can be used to tempt us to sin? Answer: This is really a tough question and many Bible students would probably offer different opinions. The issue, as always, is what does the Bible teach us on such issues? So I’ll share a few thoughts on this. I can think of no passage which specifically states that Satan can do this by directly tampering with our minds, i.e., inserting thoughts apart from some instrument, but he certainly has a multitude of ways by which he seeks to influence our thought processes through the world system over which he rules as the one called the god (ruler) of this world or age (2 Cor. 4:4; John 12:31). This seems to be the general focus of Scripture on his many schemes, temptation, and deceptions. Ephesians 6:16 speaks of the flaming arrows sent by the wicked one (Satan). This may simply refer, however, to the varied external temptations and testings by which he seeks to control or influence our minds through what we see, read, and hear. Due to his great power and cunning, however, it could possibly go beyond this. We all wonder at times just where some of our thoughts come from and it may be that, if we are not as focused on the Lord and His truth as we should be, Satan through his demon hosts can somehow raise thoughts and questions in our minds. John 13:2 is a passage which may support this, though we aren’t told just how the devil put it into Judas’ heart to betray the Savior. This could simply refer to the culmination of the processes of external temptations that affected Judas’ own thinking because of his failure to respond and truly believe in Christ. In John 13:27 we are told that Satan entered Judas, but this was after the statement of 13:2. James 1:14 tells us that ultimately, all temptation to sin comes from our own sinful nature. Satan simply seeks to influence that nature in any way he can. Genesis 3 gives us a picture of the way Satan operates. He uses instruments through which he seeks to speak and present his nefarious ideas and temptations. But James later promises us that if we resist the devil, he will flee from us. We resist him by drawing near to the Lord through prayer, fellowship with other Christians, and by the careful open-hearted study of the Word (cf. Jam 4:7-8). People, of course, can tamper with demonic things (the occult, mediums, fortunetellers, Ouija boards, even drugs, etc.) and through these avenues come more and more under Satan’s influence and control even to the point of demon possession, but this is by choice. When people fail to respond to God’s grace, they open themselves up to greater and greater [Bible.org/Topic/Satonology] Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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322 | Can Satin read our minds?Chaser. | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 138718 | ||
Hi Janae, I would really encourage you to think about brother Tims' response to you because he's on solid ground! You're saying things that scripture doesn't say. Matt. 16:19 doesn't say anything SPECIFICALLY about "praying for the mind of Christ". Though there is nothing wrong with seeking that, the verse you quote doesn't implore or even imply that. Again, let's look at 1 Cor. 2:16: "For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he will instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ." It's in the present tense- so its' something we have-to those who are spiritual (vs. 15). We have received the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God (vs.12). Consider Paul's admonition in 1 Cor. 4:6,"...so that in us you may learn not to exceed what is written..." God's Word must be the final authority for determining the validity (truth) of spiritual matters because it IS TRUTH (John. 17:17). Experience is a poor substitute. Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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323 | Can Satin read our minds?Chaser. | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 138720 | ||
Hi Janae, In all seriousness I don't take the Matt. 16 verse as a "catch-all" for prayer. I definitely believe in praying scripture back to God and I ask to be more Christ-like, to Know Him (Phil. 3:10), and to walk in the Spirit (Gal. 5:16). I seek the truths of Proverbs 3:5-6. Again, I really encourage you to consider the advice of the many brothers who have responded to your initial question. As scripture says, "there is wisdom in a multitude of counsellors". (Prov. 13:10, 18:1) God Bless, BradK |
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324 | Can Satin read our minds?Chaser. | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 138923 | ||
Hi Janae, If I might offer 3 observations in order to help in your understanding:-) 1. I don't think anyone is trying to "take this lightly". However, I would -again-recommend that you heed the advice given! Are you or are you not truly "trying to learn all I can about His Word"? True learning necessitates listening and acting on advice (Prov. 19:20). 2. Time and again you use NON-BIBLICAL TERMINOLOGY. This only confuses the issue because we (and you) must define what you're refering to. There is no such thing as a "spirit of suicide"- BIBLICALLY! Scripture also NEVER commands us to "PRY" anybody loose. Again, without clear definitions we can only guess what you mean. 3. Scripture clearly defines our "battle-dress" for spiritual warfare in Eph. 6:10-18. I do not lessen the necessity of prayer- it's included. "The Armor of God 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. 14 Stand firm therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,..." Note that our only offensive weapon is the Word of God! Prayer is closely coupled with this. I trust this will be of some help to you. BradK |
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325 | Are you interested in studying with me? | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 139132 | ||
Nikkicole, It's really not appropriate to solict, aka proselytize here on the SBF. I would familiarize yourself with the posting guidelines. As you are admitting to be a member of the Watchtower Organization, please be respectful of the purpose and intent of this Forum. Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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326 | About the Rapture... | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 139136 | ||
Nikkicole, Please get your facts right! You state that "The Bible does not indicate that there will be a literal, bodily return of Christ to earth.". I beg to differ. What of Rev. 1:7? No, to learn more and get bible questions answered, search the SCRIPTURES. I hope this helps, BradK |
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327 | Theoretical Question | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 139174 | ||
Hamartolos, The best answer I can give to that question is found in Eph. 2:11-13: " 11 Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “Uncircumcision” by the so-called “Circumcision,” which is performed in the flesh by human hands— 12 remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ." Salvation has always been by grace through faith! You might read Romans 1 as additional background. I hope this helps, BradK |
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328 | Do retards go to Hell? | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 139193 | ||
Dust, To quote the late Dr. Walter Martin from his book entitled "Essential Christianity": "To argue that this text teaches that God intends to save all men is exegetical folly.The yexy itself states nothing of the sort. ...but the text does not say that all men will be saved; rather, it teaches that God in the Measureless depths of His eternal love has made provision for their salvation, a provision which some of them will never accept" [pg 119] Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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329 | Theoretical Question | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 139724 | ||
Dustprophet, Maybe I'm not following, but could you clarify what you mean by "and we must seperate the EVil God From the Good God." Scripture teaches that there is only one God (Deut. 6:4). Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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330 | Theoretical Question | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 139745 | ||
Eric, I'm sorry, but I'm not only NOT following your theology, I have to wonder where you're coming from?! "YOUR GOD and he does not pardon TRANSGRESSIONS". Who is this Angel that was to oversee Isreal through the forest..To become their God...and who would not Pardon their transgressions? The scary thing is it was Satan." Say what? Can you clarify this from a biblical perspective. Its' new to me... "This is obvious to anyone with eyes to see that they are NOT THE SAME BEING." How so and on what basis? Maybe you could proide us some background as to where you're at "spiritually"? Do you acknowledge Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour? Do you embrace the whole of scripture- both OT and NT- as authoritative? This would help. Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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331 | Theoretical Question | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 139749 | ||
Eric, You don't make sense! You say "The old testimon God was a murderer. Jesus is not. The old testimont God did not forgive Transgressions (Ah what did the REAL god WARN MOSES before they got into the wilderness??) BINGO!!!" This is simply not true for a couple of major reasons: 1. This goes against Gods' character- He is sovereign (Ps. 115:3), just, holy and righteous! "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; Lovingkindness and truth go before You." (Ps. 89:14) 2. He did (and does) pardon iniquity. His forgiveness of man’s sin is characteristic of God: Ex 34:7; Nu 14:18; Ne 9:17; Ps 86:5; 99:8; Da 9:9) It is also based on His character: Ex 34:6–7; Ps 51:1; 103:8–12; Is 55:7; Mi 7:19) It's not clear how and why you have this perpective, but it's definitely not, BINGO my friend. As God is one, he cannot deny Himself or act contrary to his Character. Do you therefore deny the trinity? Speaking the truth in Love, BradK |
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332 | pre-marital sex | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 139750 | ||
Dustprophet, This sounds more like Gnosticism. How is this "the way of God"? Inquiring minds would like to know- gnosis- you know! BradK |
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333 | Theoretical Question | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 139757 | ||
Eric, I read quite well, thank you! It would be kind of you to provide a better basis and foundation for your assertions so that we can better understand you and where you're coming from. I prefer not to assume:-) As you are new to the Forum, I welcome you, However, it would be wise of you to read and familiarize yourself with the posting guidelines and Terms of Use. May God bless you. BradK |
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334 | Theoretical Question | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 139763 | ||
Hello Eric, 1. Please be a bit more tolerant, my friend. You are the one making assertions that are not true. It is incorrect to ASSUME that I don't understand and YOU do. Why don't you be so kind as to enlighten me and show me the error of my ways? You've proved nothing up to this point other than the fact of making assumptions. 2. What makes you think I don't believe in the GRACE OF GOD? Titus 2:11-12 sums up one of my theme verses and puts God's grace right down where the "rubber meets the road"! 3. You obviously do not believe in the trinity! The overwhelming majority on this Forum do. Might you again be so kind as to provide a little basis for where you coming from? What is you theological persuasion, denominational affiliation, etc. It is quite honestly very difficult to dialog with a new-comer (such as yourself) and seek any type of meaningful understanding without having established any basis. In other words, where are both of us coming from? I do not know your point of reference. If you'd care to view my user profile- feel free. Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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335 | Hank - Doctrine from God or Man ? | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 145994 | ||
Hi Merv, I hope you (and the rest of us) continue to struggle with certain issues over the next 2 years- and then some. We all need to wrestle with the things of scripture and be challenged in our thinking. That's how we learn. I've learned and been challenged a great deal in my almost 3 years on the SBF. Unfortunately most, when challenged, seek comfort in the safety of other like-minded individuals and leave in disgust. If it is truly your "hope that this forum can give me a great opportunity to discuss the Bible with fellow believers", then stick around, learn and grow. It's OK to disagree, but the maturity is in HOW we handle disagreement. As John Maxwell has wisely said, "Learning is the beginning of listening." Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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336 | passover offering you get 7 blessings? | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 146240 | ||
Manyapples, My colleagues, Hank and Steve have already given you a good basis for your question. Might I add a couple of thoughts: 1. This type of teaching might be better labled "Show Me the Money" from the movie Jerry Maguire. 2. Ask yourself about your motive to do so. In this scenario, why else would someone seek to "give a passover offering"? Because Benny has PROMISED (on behalf of the Lord) that the Lord will give you something for doing so! This "god" is nothing more than a vending machine for us to go to to get something. How about seeking Him as Job did in Job. 1:9 or Psalm 46:10:-) Most likely the reason you didn't catch the bible references is that there are none! I hope this helps, BradK |
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337 | Hank - Doctrine from God or Man ? | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 147020 | ||
Hi Merv, Well, I hadn't given it much thought and don't honestly know to what you refer, so I guess not:-) Could you clarify? Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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338 | Hank - Doctrine from God or Man ? | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 147278 | ||
Hi Merv, Here is my brief answer to your question. I would look at 3 things: 1. We need to understand what the relationship of believers was prior to the cross: Eph. 2:11-13 says, "11 Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called “Uncircumcision” by the so-called “Circumcision,” which is performed in the flesh by human hands— 12 remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ." 2. As I believe the cross to be the pivotal point in scripture, what did it do regarding our relationship to the law? Paul tells us in Romans 6:14, "For sin shall not be master over you, for you are not under law but under grace." And further, in Romans 7:6, "But now we have been released from the Law, having died to that by which we were bound, so that we serve in newness of the Spirit and not in oldness of the letter." I think this is a key distinction to note. Also, in Col. 2:14 he writes, "having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross." 3. I would submit Romans 14 in answer to you. We should note that the "kingdom of God is not food and drink". (vs. 17) The overriding principle is verse 14: "I know and am convinced in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself; but to him who thinks anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean." The operative word here is, "grace". I should show grace to you because, "we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another." I would accept you as a brother, regardless of out differences in how we view the law. I would hope you could do the same. Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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339 | Hank - Doctrine from God or Man ? | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 147436 | ||
Hi Merv, Did I detect a little sarcasm in your response? I trust not:-) I'm not trying to be flippant or cavalier, but honest. I think Galatians 5:1, 13 answers the abuse of freedom and liberty quite well. No one- least not myself- is "making a mockery of God's law." As I've said before, the Christian life is not about seeing how close to the edge we can get, but about seeing how close to the Savior we can be. How about Gal. 5:16 as to what we should strive for? I just hope that those who seek to be "lawkeepers" are not fooling themselves into thinking they're living holy. The law can give one a false sense of righteousness and even pride. Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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340 | Does God have wings? | Bible general Archive 2 | BradK | 150597 | ||
Hi Danny P, You are shouting when you use all caps! Your opinions are interesting, but little else. Could you possibly establish a sound basis for your points and then back them clearly with scripture when you answer? The hit-n-run method doesn't seem to be working real well- at lwast with me:-) Speaking the Truth in Love, BradK |
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