Results 341 - 360 of 802
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Results from: Answered Bible Questions, Answers, Unanswered Bible Questions, Notes Author: Wild Olive Shoot Ordered by Date |
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Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
341 | Mary's virginity remained intact | Bible general Archive 3 | Wild Olive Shoot | 180604 | ||
I think I may see what you are trying to get at. Just for talking points, I’m not submitting anything impregnable, (no pun intended) I’ll address with my opinions some of the questions I see raised in the post. Q: Does it not qualify as adultery by virtue of the fact it was God who was involved? I would have to agree that it was not adultery, firstly, as you stated, it was not a sexual act. Simply because it was the Holy Spirit acting upon Mary also informs me that it was not adultery, physically or spiritually. Bottom line here is God cannot sin and would not partake of tempting anyone to sin. So from both God’s standpoint and Mary’s, there was no act of adultery, neither physically nor mentally. Q: Would Joseph feel betrayed? I think at first Joseph, by seeing what is recorded in the Gospels, did feel at least some sort of betrayal as he ponder things and because his plan was to divorce her, be it quietly. But I also propose this was before the angel of God informed him of what had actually taken place. At that point, we see his obedience and read no more about any sort of distrust or apprehension on his part, at least it is not recorded. My view is that God took great care in ensuring Joseph was okay with what happened. After all, He could have had Mary simply deliver the message and maybe she did and maybe Joseph already had some idea. But God sent an angel to inform Joseph. How could he not be okay with that? Albert Barnes writes in reference to Matthew 1:24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: “Did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him - That is, he took Mary to wife. Probably this was done immediately, since he was now convinced of her innocence, and, by delay, he would not leave any ground of suspicion that he had not confidence in her.” Q: Why it may be different because it was God, not man? “for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost; she has not been guilty of any criminal conversation with men; this conception of her's is of the Holy Ghost, and entirely owing to his coming upon her, and overshadowing her in a wonderful and miraculous manner. I say, the Angel not only encourages Joseph after this manner, but delivers something to him by way of prophecy, in the following verse.” – John Gill I think Joseph understood that and therefore looked upon this event as a divine event and being encouraged by the angel of the Lord that there was nothing to fear, considered it no longer. Matthew 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. “Joseph, suspecting she was with child by whoredom, was afraid of taking her, lest he should bring upon himself either guilt or reproach. No, saith God, Fear not; the matter is not so. Perhaps Mary had told him that she was with child by the Holy Ghost, and he might have heard what Elizabeth said to her (Luk_1:43), when she called her the mother of her Lord; and, if so, he was afraid of presumption in marrying one so much above him. But, from whatever cause his fears arose, they were all silenced with this word, Fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife. Note, It is a great mercy to be delivered from our fears, and to have our doubts resolved, so as to proceed in our affairs with satisfaction.” - Matthew Henry Just my opinions, and some others. Stand in His Grace, WOS |
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342 | 1st John 3:9 | 1 John 3:9 | Wild Olive Shoot | 180603 | ||
But with me Brother, you may have waited for some time, you know me and my lack of a quick response. :) Besides, when it comes to eloquence, you've got me hands down. WOS |
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343 | Mary's virginity remained intact | Bible general Archive 3 | Wild Olive Shoot | 180577 | ||
Question: "The core of my question is this: does what happened between Mary and the Holy Spirit constitute adultery?" Answer: No! There was nothing sexual that took place. If it had, it would not have been a "virgin birth". It would have been a "had intercourse one time birth". The last time I checked, to remain a virgin, which Mary was at the time of Christ's birth, meant that you had no sexual relations. Matthew 1:24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: Matthew 1:25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS. It was a miracle. And according to Easton’s Bible Dictionary, a miracle is: “An event in the external world brought about by the immediate agency or the simple volition of God, operating without the use of means capable of being discerned by the senses, and designed to authenticate the divine commission of a religious teacher and the truth of his message. It is an occurrence at once above nature and above man. It shows the intervention of a power that is not limited by the laws either of matter or of mind, a power interrupting the fixed laws which govern their movements, a supernatural power. “The suspension or violation of the laws of nature involved in miracles is nothing more than is constantly taking place around us. One force counteracts another: vital force keeps the chemical laws of matter in abeyance; and muscular force can control the action of physical force. When a man raises a weight from the ground, the law of gravity is neither suspended nor violated, but counteracted by a stronger force. The same is true as to the walking of Christ on the water and the swimming of iron at the command of the prophet. The simple and grand truth that the universe is not under the exclusive control of physical forces, but that everywhere and always there is above, separate from and superior to all else, an infinite personal will, not superseding, but directing and controlling all physical causes, acting with or without them.” God ordinarily effects his purpose through the agency of second causes; but he has the power also of effecting his purpose immediately and without the intervention of second causes, i.e., of invading the fixed order, and thus of working miracles.”… It was a miracle. Don’t attempt to logically explain it away by use of natural and even understood laws. God said it would be so and it was. Stand in His Grace WOS |
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344 | 1st John 3:9 | 1 John 3:9 | Wild Olive Shoot | 180570 | ||
Hello Dima, Quite simply, it means the regenerated do not continue their lives enslaved by sin because by the power of the Holy Spirit, by the grace of God, our new nature is one not conducive to sinning, though there are some single sins the regenerated cannot perform, we still may and do sin. But that's not our new nature, not that born of God. Stand in His Grace, WOS |
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345 | Genesis 3:16-17 | NT general Archive 1 | Wild Olive Shoot | 180460 | ||
In all honesty imosthebob, I’m hesitant to offer an opinion here but will nonetheless. The manifestation of this divine ordinance is often played out in a contorted manner by fallen man and this is very evident today. Often, “and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.”, is taken out of context to be used as a mandate for women to be subjected to men in general. However, I’m not sure that was the full intent. Eve was created as a “helpmeet”. She was a companion for Adam. A companion is more simply one of a pair of matching things or one employed to live with and serve another, that’s according to my handy Webster’s dictionary. So as Eve was in original creation, she was Adam’s helpmeet. Ultimately they were a match for one another. So as a man and woman, they were equal as is the general relationship between men and women and God and as today for those who are in Christ. There is no distinction of male and female at the cross. Galatians 3:26-28 Don’t forget however, that Adam and Eve were married. Gen 2:23,24: In the matrimonial state, there is another ordinance handed down from God that the Husband is to be the head of the union in all areas. 1Corinthians 11:2,3: Ephesians 5:23,24: 1Peter 3:7: As men and women, separate from the marriage union, stand before Christ, they are equal and Christ is the head. In the union of marriage, you have the coming together of two distinct persons into one flesh. Although they are one, they are still distinct individuals, and God has set man up as the head of this union. So when you ask for the manifestation of the consequences depicted in Genesis 3:16-17, I see the manifestation taking place on two very distinct levels. The twisting of this to place man above woman in general, and the use of this mandate in the matrimonial union, the latter of which is appropriate. There were instances in the primeval church in which women would have to serve as the spiritual head of the marriage union, as “Paul” makes reference to a non-believer being sanctified through a believing spouse. 1Corinthains 7:12-14: But after the Gospel had been effectually preached, and as the Word spread, we know that we are not to be unequally yoked. 2Corinthians 6:14: So we know taking an unbelieving spouse is to be refrained from. Therefore, among the earliest believers, you have to acknowledge that there were possibly some instances of the woman being the spiritual head, at least for a time. Now however, we have the given explicit instruction on how to function as man and wife, as has been previously posted in response to you. This is always the standard but often is not adhered to. Men are specifically instructed on how to treat their wives, and wives are instructed on how to treat their husband. The manifestation of this in today’s era is that you see the mandate being adhered to and functioning properly which leads to a healthy relationship as both parties submit to God’s will. Or you see it malfunctioning were one or both parties fail to submit to God’s will and there is inevitable strife within the marriage union, power struggles, selfishness and others. Eph 5:28-33: Husbands and wives you see, belong to one another. 1Corinthains 7:3,4: 3 God put His ordinances into effect and though we may not understand fully why, we need to acknowledge that they benefit us entirely. Back to the original verses to be discussed. I like what Albert Barnes stated in reference to it: …”The third part of her sentence refers to her husband - “Thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.” This is evidently a piece of that retributive justice which meets us constantly in the administration of God. The woman had taken the lead in the transgression. In the fallen state, she is to be subject to the will of her husband. “Desire” does not refer to sexual desire in particular. Gen_4:7. It means, in general, “turn,” determination of the will. “The determination of thy will shall be yielded to thy husband, and, accordingly, he shall rule over thee.” The second clause, according to the parallel structure of the sentence, is a climax or emphatic reiteration of the first, and therefore serves to determine its meaning. Under fallen man, woman has been more or less a slave. In fact, under the rule of selfishness, the weaker must serve the stronger. Only a spiritual resurrection will restore her to her true place, as the help-meet for man.” Stand in His Grace, WOS PS. Please see the Scripture referenced, I omitted the actual text due to posting restrictions and left only the reference. |
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346 | What happens immediatly after you die? | 2 Corinthians | Wild Olive Shoot | 180342 | ||
Brother Edwin, To your comment: …“which is why Jesus was able to say to the thief, "This day", because, as far as he is concerned, it is still this day.”… By advocating this, you are essentially claiming that Christ lied to the thief because the thief would not know any different. Are you sure you want support that position while taking into consideration the many references that have been posted in response to this subject? Just something to consider. Stand in His Grace. WOS |
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347 | The Law made void? | Rom 3:31 | Wild Olive Shoot | 179677 | ||
Following is some commentary on the law regarding it being made “void” and I used the word void, because I see many who have taken “we are no longer under the law” or “the law has no power over us” to mean just that. Frankly, that is not what God’s Word conveys to us. We are dead to the law, only in regard to our condemnation by it, for Christ ended that and God’s mercy and our faith assures us of that. Just my two cents worth. Romans 3:31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law. “Yea, we establish the law - That is, by the doctrine of justification by faith; by this scheme of treating people as righteous, the moral law is confirmed, its obligation is enforced, obedience to it is secured. This is done in the following manner: (1) God showed respect to it, in being unwilling to pardon sinners without an atonement. He showed that it could not be violated with impunity; that he was resolved to fulfil its threatenings. (2) Jesus Christ came to magnify it, and to make it honorable. He showed respect to it in his life; and he died to show that God was determined to inflict its penalty. (3) The plan of justification by faith leads to an observance of the Law. The sinner sees the evil of transgression. He sees the respect which God has shown to the Law. He gives his heart to God, and yields himself to obey his Law. All the sentiments that arise from the conviction of sin; that flow from gratitude for mercies; that spring from love to God; all his views of the sacredness of the Law, prompt him to yield obedience to it. The fact that Christ endured such sufferings to show the evil of violating the Law, is one of the strongest motives prompting to obedience.” … …”Jesus has died to satisfy its claims, and lives to honor its precepts. Thus, he hath brought in “righteousness,” which, being imputed to them that believe, forms such a ground of pardon and acceptance, as the Law cannot challenge.” – Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible “yea, we establish the law. The law is not made void, neither by the grace nor doctrine of faith: not by the grace of faith; for that faith is not right which is not attended with works of righteousness; and those works are not right which do not flow from filth. Such a connection there is between faith and works; and so much do the one depend upon the other. Moreover, none but believers are capable of performing good works aright, and they do them, and they ought to do them: besides, faith, as a grace, looks to Christ, as the end of the law for righteousness, and therefore do not make it void. Nor is it made void by the doctrine of faith, and by the particular doctrine of a sinner's justification by faith in Christ's righteousness, which is here more especially intended; for though it is made void by it, as to any use of it for justification by the deeds thereof; yet its use in other respects is not set aside, such as to inform us of the mind and will of God, to discover and convince of sin, to show believers their deformity and imperfection, to render Christ and his righteousness more valuable, and to be a rule of walk and conversation to them; and it still remains a cursing and condemning law to Christless sinners, though justified ones are delivered from it as such: yea, the law is so far from being made void, that it is established by this doctrine; for by it the perpetuity of it is asserted, the spirituality of it is acknowledged, the perfect righteousness of it is secured: according to this doctrine all its demands are answered; whatever it requires it has, such as holiness of nature, perfect obedience to its precepts, and its full penalty borne: it is placed in the best hands, where it will ever remain; and a regard to it is enforced under the best influence, by the best of motives, and from the best of principles.” – John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible |
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348 | Is this disciple following Jesus, Judas | John 21:20 | Wild Olive Shoot | 178713 | ||
Edd, Perhaps then, Judas was the writer of John’s Gospel account, for no man at the table knew why Christ spoke what He had to Judas, except the author of John. John 13:23-29: 23 Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved. 24 Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake. 25 He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it? 26 Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. 27 And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly. 28 Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him. 29 For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor. Clearly, it was John whose head was on Christ’s bosom and was so privileged to hear the heartbeat of God. WOS |
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349 | Women Preachers? Yes or No? | 1 Cor 1:1 | Wild Olive Shoot | 178577 | ||
When someone such as Kuhlman or Hinn can walk into a cancer ward or burn center in any one of our many Children's Hospitals and walk out with the place empty, then I think we can say something. But come on, do you really think that will happen? I'm inclined to think that such an enormous fascination with people of this sort is simply a matter of so many not realizing that God's grace is sufficient. It is, honestly, because He said so. Faith in people such as Hinn is a false and failing faith. Faith in Christ is a saving faith. We so strongly desire to see miracles worked that we defend lies and treachery to make us feel better. If so many more would realize the sufficiency of God, and how it works through faith in Christ, we could say good-bye to the heartbreak brought about by those who wrongfully claim to have the gift of healing. 2Corinthians 12:8-10: 8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. …”nothing short of the grace of Christ is sufficient grace; and this is sufficient for all the elect of God, Jews and Gentiles, Old and New Testament saints, the family in heaven and in earth, the people of God that are already called, and are to be called, and for the worst and vilest of sinners; and it is sufficient to all saving purposes, to the acceptance of their persons before God, to their justification in his sight, to their pardon and cleansing, to their regeneration and sanctification, to the supply of all their wants, and to their perseverance in grace unto glory; and it is sufficient in all their times of need, in times of bodily affliction, of violent persecution, soul desertion, Satan's temptations, and at the hour of death, and in the day of judgment.” – John Gill Stand in His grace. WOS |
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350 | Jesus' Deity? | Rom 10:9 | Wild Olive Shoot | 178539 | ||
Dear Mommapbs, One can believe what they want. The truth of the matter, by denying Christ's deity, they are denying Christ. 1 John 1:2,3: 2 (For the life was manifested, and we have seen [it], and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) 3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship [is] with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. 1 John 2:21-23: 21 I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. 22 Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the Father and the Son. 23 Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: [(but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also]. I'm no Greek scholar either, so someone more educated than I will have to address that part of the question. Stand in His Grace WOS |
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351 | once saved always saved? | John 6:39 | Wild Olive Shoot | 178053 | ||
Dear Gunner, Do not place your sins, past present or future, above what Christ accomplished for you on the cross, what His blood has purchased. Do not in the same, take this as a “license” to sin. Paul addressed this in the 6th chapter of Romans: Romans 6:1,2: 1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? 2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Paul answered as someone regenerated would, “God forbid.” Some who is not regenerated might very well render a “yes” in answer to the question. Romans 6:3-14: 3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. 7 For he that is dead is freed from sin. 8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: 9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. 10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. 11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. 14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. Stand in His grace. WOS |
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352 | I desire the gift of tongues how 2receiv | 1 Cor 12:11 | Wild Olive Shoot | 177856 | ||
Dear Faithful Husband, Brother Tim has given you some great advice, that is to present your request to God. Following is some commentary on 1 Corinthians 12:31 that helps me to understand what I should be desiring and why. Hope you find it helpful. WOS …”but if by the best gifts are meant the more useful ones of those before mentioned, as prophesying, or preaching, then the more excellent way designs grace, special and internal grace; and that either grace in general, regenerating, sanctifying grace, including all sorts of grace; which is the way of a soul's passing from the death of sin to a life of faith and holiness; and is the way to eternal glory, and which gives a meetness for it, and is inseparably connected with it. This is a more excellent way than gifts; for gifts, be they ever so great, may be lost or taken away, through disuse or misimprovement; but grace always remains, can never be lost, nor will ever be taken away, but will issue in everlasting life: men may have the greatest gifts, and yet not be saved, as Judas and others; but he that has the least degree of faith in Christ, hope in him, and love to him, shall be saved by him with an everlasting salvation: or particularly the grace of charity, or love to the saints, may be intended by the more excellent way; which is the evidence of a man's passing from death and life; the new commandment of Christ, and the fulfilling of the law; without which, a man, though he has never such great gifts, he is nothing as a Christian, nor in the business of salvation; and is the greatest of all the graces of the Spirit; and is of such a nature, that when prophecies, tongues, knowledge, and all external gifts shall fail, and even the internal graces of faith and hope shall cease, the one being changed for vision, and the other swallowed up in enjoyment, this will continue; and the rather this grace may be thought to be meant, since the apostle immediately passes to treat it in the next chapter, and prefers it to all gifts, and even graces.” … - John Gill |
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353 | Is it disrespectful to not use a title | Bible general Archive 3 | Wild Olive Shoot | 177757 | ||
To your question: “Does that look like it can be used as a title?” Most certainly if read in the proper context. I don’t wish to debate this with you Sister. Simply wanted to provide some Scripture you claimed didn’t exist. Christ has many titles and Apostle was one of them and most assuredly it was implied and applied by the author of Hebrews as I have pointed out. If you do your word substituting here and elsewhere, the Twelve could not have the title either so let’s just remove the word and the title and office it is associated with. Some commentary below that I find helpful. Hope you do as well. In Him, WOS “The apostle - The word “apostle” is nowhere else applied to the Lord Jesus. The word means one who “is sent” - and in this sense it might be applied to the Redeemer as one “sent” by God, or as by way of eminence the one sent by him. But the connection seems to demand that; there should be some allusion here to one who sustained a similar rank among the Jews; and it is probable that the allusion is to Moses, as having been the great apostle of God to the Jewish people, and that Paul here means to say, that the Lord Jesus, under the new dispensation, filled the place of Moses and of the high priest under the old, and that the office of “apostle” and “high priest,” instead of being now separated, as it was between Moses and Aaron under the old dispensation, was now blended in the Messiah. The name “apostle” is not indeed given to Moses directly in the Old Testament, but the verb from which the Hebrew word for apostle is derived is frequently given him. Thus, in Exo_3:10, it is said, “Come now, therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh.” And in Heb_3:13, “The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you.” So also in Heb_3:14-15, of the same chapter. From the word there used - shaalach - “to send.” The word denoting “apostle - shaliyach - is derived; and it is not improbable that Moses would be regarded as being by way of eminence the one “sent” by God. Further, the Jews applied the word ” - shaliyach - “apostle,” to the minister of the synagogue; to him who presided over its affairs, and who had the general charge of the services there; and in this sense it might be applied by way of eminence to Moses as being the general director and controller of the religious affairs of the nation, and as “sent” for that purpose. The object of Paul is to show that the Lord Jesus in the Christian system - as the great apostle sent from God - sustained a rank and office similar to this, but superior in dignity and authority.” – Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible “the Apostle and High Priest of our profession — There is but one Greek article to both nouns, “Him who is at once Apostle and High Priest” - Apostle, as Ambassador (a higher designation than “angel”-messenger) sent by the Father (Joh_20:21), pleading the cause of God with us; High Priest, as pleading our cause with God. Both His Apostleship and High Priesthood are comprehended in the one title, Mediator [Bengel]. Though the title “Apostle” is nowhere else applied to Christ, it is appropriate here in addressing Hebrews, who used the term of the delegates sent by the high priest to collect the temple tribute from Jews resident in foreign countries, even as Christ was Delegate of the Father to this world far off from Him (Mat_21:37). Hence as what applies to Him, applies also to His people, the Twelve are designated His apostles, even as He is the Father’s (Joh_20:21). It was desirable to avoid designating Him here “angel,” in order to distinguish His nature from that of angels mentioned before, though he is “the Angel of the Covenant.” The “legate of the Church” (Sheliach Tsibbur) offered up the prayers in the synagogue in the name of all, and for all. So Jesus, “the Apostle of our profession,” is delegated to intercede for the Church before the Father. The words “of our profession,” mark that it is not of the legal ritual, but of our Christian faith, that He is the High Priest. Paul compares Him as an Apostle to Moses; as High Priest to Aaron. He alone holds both offices combined, and in a more eminent degree than either, which those two brothers held apart.” – Jamieson, Fausset and Brown Commentary |
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354 | once saved always saved? | John 6:39 | Wild Olive Shoot | 177743 | ||
Dear Gunner, Here is a very informative bit of info. Hope you find it as helpful as I did. http://blueletterbible.org/Comm/lewis_chafer/salvation/salv10.html http://blueletterbible.org/Comm/lewis_chafer/salvation/salv11.html WOS |
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355 | Is it disrespectful to not use a title | Bible general Archive 3 | Wild Olive Shoot | 177741 | ||
Dear Bereaniam, Didn't the author of Hebrews apply the title of Apostle to Christ? Hebrews 3:1 Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; WOS |
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356 | Is it an organization or Christ's body? | Col 1:18 | Wild Olive Shoot | 175470 | ||
JaCobb, Welcome to the forum. Here is some info I was able to put together. Hope this helps. Westminster Confession of Faith Chapter XXV Of the Church I. The catholic or universal Church, which is invisible, consists of the whole number of the elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one, under Christ the Head thereof; and is the spouse, the body, the fulness of Him that fills all in all. II. The visible Church, which is also catholic or universal under the Gospel (not confined to one nation, as before under the law), consists of all those throughout the world that profess the true religion; and of their children: and is the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ, the house and family of God, out of which there is no ordinary possibility of salvation. III. Unto this catholic visible Church Christ has given the ministry, oracles, and ordinances of God, for the gathering and perfecting of the saints, in this life, to the end of the world: and does, by His own presence and Spirit, according to His promise, make them effectual thereunto. http://www.reformed.org/documents/wcf_with_proofs/index.html Ephesians 4:11-13: 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: “Eph 4:12 - For the perfecting of the saints, The chosen ones, whom God has sanctified or set apart for himself in eternal election: the ministry of the word is designed for the completing the number of these in the effectual calling; and for the perfecting of the whole body of the church, by gathering in all that belong to it, and of every particular saint, who is regenerated and sanctified by the Spirit of God: for the best of saints are imperfect; for though there is a perfection in them, as that designs sincerity, in opposition to hypocrisy, and as it may be taken comparatively with respect to what others are, or they themselves were; and though there is a perfection of parts of the new man in them, yet not of degrees; and though there is a complete perfection in Christ, yet not in themselves, their sanctification is imperfect, as their faith, knowledge, love, sin is in them, and committed by them, and they continually want supplies of grace; and the best of them are sensible of their imperfection, and own it: now the ministration of the word is a means of carrying on the work of grace in them unto perfection, or "for the restoring or joining in of the saints"; the elect of God were disjointed in Adam's fall, and scattered abroad, who were representatively gathered together in one head, even in Christ, in redemption; and the word is the means of the visible and open jointing of them into Christ, and into his churches, and also of restoring them after backslidings: for the edifying the body of Christ; not his natural body the Father prepared for him; nor his sacramental body in the supper; but his mystical body the church; and gifts are bestowed to fit them for the preaching of the Gospel, that hereby the church, which is compared to an edifice, might be built up; and that the several societies of Christians and particular believers might have spiritual edification, and walk in the fear of the Lord, and in the comforts of the Holy Ghost, and their numbers be increased, and their graces be in lively exercise.” – John Gill’s Exposition of the Entire Bible Ephesians 3:21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. “Observe, The seat of God's praises is in the church. That little rent of praise which God receives from this world is from the church, a sacred society constituted for the glory of God, every particular member of which, both Jew and Gentile, concurs in this work of praising God. The Mediator of these praises is Jesus Christ. All God's gifts come from his to us through the hand of Christ; and all our praises pass from us to him through the same hand. And God should and will be praised thus throughout all ages, world without end; for he will ever have a church to praise him, and he will ever have his tribute of praise from his church. Amen. So be it; and so it will certainly be.” – Mathew Henry Colossians 1:16-18: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. WOS |
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357 | Will worshiping the Lord change in Rev? | Deut 11:19 | Wild Olive Shoot | 175451 | ||
Just a quick note I wish to add to this. This evening at the dinner table, I posed the question, "What does Lord mean to you?" to my nine year old and my seven year old. My nine year old's response: "King?" My seven year old's response: "Boss" Both stated "ruler or person in charge" when I asked what their responses meant. I thought it was pretty interesting. It took us to a good conversation throughout dinner. I think an assumption is being made that the youth of today cannot comprehend the words in which God uses to describe His own self or others. I think our young understand better than we think they do. Maybe we need to be giving them more credit and emphasizing that in recognition of understanding the meaning to the words, there has to be accountability. Personally, I think many just do not want the accountability and therefore disregard the true meaning. Just some thoughts. WOS |
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358 | Alternative to the term "Jesus is LORD"? | Deut 11:19 | Wild Olive Shoot | 175339 | ||
Ephesians 1:15-23: 15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, 16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; 17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: 22 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. Philippians 2:9-11: 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Revelation 17:14: These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful. Revelation 19:16: And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. “for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings; he is so by nature, as God and Creator, to whom the kingdom of nature and providence belongs; and by office, as Mediator, being made higher than the kings of the earth; hence he is more than a match for them, they cannot stand before him; this is a reason why he overcomes them, and it cannot be thought it should be otherwise: this Lamb is the lion of the tribe of Judah, and when he rouses himself, and stirs up his wrath, and exerts his power, kings and great men flee from him; see Rev_6:15. This is a proof of Christ's proper deity, the same titles being given to him, the Word and Son of God, as to God himself, Rev_19:16.” – John Gill Considering the above, it seems to me that the names or titles that God puts forth in His Word are nothing less than appropriate. To even consider changing the titles or names He sets for Himself for the sake of those who seem to put awe, reverence and respect in the back seat, is borderline blasphemous in my opinion. Rather than changing God’s word to compliment a modern day mindset, we need to be changing our mindset to live according to God’s eternally perfect Word. WOS |
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359 | Did Cain marry one of his sisters? | Eph 5:25 | Wild Olive Shoot | 174863 | ||
magellan, I did say there is no reason to debate this. I'll keep it there. The verse I posted refutes in total, your entire theory. If your theory contradicts one little teeny piece of God's word, then it is not true. God's word is truth my friend. Eve was and is the mother of all living. Now if you can't understand this in it's simplest terms we are right back at the beginning of this debate because I can in no way explain it any better than that. Please, let's get beyond this subject and on to more enlightening things that God offers us in His truth, His Word. By the way, concerning the usage of hayah and as you say refers to a future event. Well isn’t that obvious? When Adam made the statement, Eve was not yet a mother of anything. Why do you have to take the generations all the way to Noah? At the birth of Cain, this was made true and continued endlessly from that point. WOS |
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360 | 14 yr old dressing inappropriately-HELP! | Eph 6:1 | Wild Olive Shoot | 174801 | ||
Dear psalm46v10, Brother Mark gave you some very well rounded and sound thoughts. If I can add to that… A few verses come to mind of which you have already recognized one: Ephesians 6:1 1Corinthians 8:12, 13: 12 But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. 13 Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend. “I make my brother to offend: this is truly Christian charity, a proof of brotherly love, and it shows a concern for the peace and welfare of others, when a person foregoes his own right, and drops the use of his liberty, rather than grieve, wound, and offend a brother in Christ.” - John Gill The verse from 1Corinthians, in my opinion, has a very broad application. Your Husband and his current wife are they Christians? They need to closely listen to your requests and wishes when it deals with your children. Although your children may not be under your direct guidance, you are their mother and your wishes should be respected, especially in dealing with their spiritual upbringing. Not taking into consideration the weaker Christian aspect, because this can vary greatly from person to person, but the charitable thing to do, once you know something is offensive to another, is to simply stop doing it for their conscience’s sake. There are many things I find non-offensive of which I’ll refrain from in certain company. Not because I think it is wrong, but simply because others may. Your position on this matter concerning your daughter surely needs to be considered by the others involved. All involved here, the father, stepmother, daughter and you need to be sure to take all feelings into account and reason to a suitable outcome, keeping Christian morals and principles in the forefront. With that said, you may want to approach the other parental unit and discuss this with them, which you may have already done to no avail. I would think you should also discuss with your daughter. Ultimately, it seems that she is wearing what she thinks is appropriate as well. If you can convince her that it may not be so, and explain why, she may reject the attire in question and even if it is purchased for her, she’ll opt not to wear it. It is most definitely what is on the inside that matters most. 1Peter 3:3,4; 3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; 4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. To achieve an understanding on your daughter’s part, simply ask her to adorn these items and then proceed to gather with the congregation of a church. Most likely, she’ll feel the uneasiness and maybe get a feeling of how unbecoming some attire can be. I agree that our attire, as well our actions, does reflect to an extent where our hearts are. Stress that to your daughter as well. How does she want to be perceived by her peers and others? Does she set the example of who she truly is with her attire and actions? Ultimately, prayer for an acceptable resolution is your best course of action. God has control of the situation you can be sure. Find peace in that while you persevere in helping your daughter and her father and stepmother to understand your mind-set and why you feel the way you do. I hope this helps in some way. I’ll close with the following: 1Timothy 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; “The true idea here is, that her attention to her appearance should be such that she will be offensive to no class of persons; such as to show that her mind is supremely fixed on higher and more important things, and such as to interfere with no duty which she owes, and no good which she can do, either by spending her time needlessly in personal adorning, or by lavishing that money for dress which might do good to others, or by neglecting the proprieties of her station, and making herself offensive to others.” – Albert Barnes “They must be very modest in their apparel, not affecting gaudiness, gaiety, or costliness (you may read the vanity of a person's mind in the gaiety and gaudiness of his habit), because they have better ornaments with which they should adorn themselves, with good works. Note, Good works are the best ornament; these are, in the sight of God, of great price. Those that profess godliness should, in their dress, as well as other things, act as becomes their profession; instead of laying out their money on fine clothes, they must lay it out in works of piety and charity, which are properly called good works.” – Matthew Henry In Him, WOS |
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