Results 41 - 60 of 190
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Results from: Answered Bible Questions, Answers, Unanswered Bible Questions, Notes Author: Bill Richardson Ordered by Date |
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Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
41 | No last names of people - why not? | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231179 | ||
Just thought I'd share as I just head this lecture just a few months ago and it made a lot of sense. In the growth of our world from the Biblical perspective of about six thousand years, we must remember large cities like you and I are used to did not exist. For a very long time, practically no one lived in cities; almost everyone lived on a farm where almost every residence and every person was self-sufficient so there wasn't a lot of visiting, just a lot of work to get by. Then the age of tools came along and specialists were needed to maintain them, refine them and make them better. Now we're talking about cities maybe consisting of a couple hundred people. It was not practical to have more than maybe two blacksmiths or more than two stores with special wares to support such a small number of people. The total number of farmers in the surrounding areas couldn't support a bunch of toolmakers so the other sons of the blacksmith would move on to another town. Now as technology grew and more and more moved to town, it would grow in diversity, goods and services, ie banks and specialty shops, etc. In the small towns the two blacksmiths would be known as Mike and Joe. The shopowners Jeff and John. They were all known by the first name and then "of Town X." This worked for quite a while. But when there's so many of a given profession, it becomes a little more difficult to keep up with them, then another name becomes practical. Now when did this become the norm? Who knows but it seems to have taken a long while. Another factor keeping the growth slow. Very few could afford a horse with which to go to town. Fewer still could afford enough to own their own tools and quite possibly, the land owner might go out and hire his own blacksmith for tool maintenance. The point is the growth of towns and the use of multiple names was a very slow process. There's probably many other unknown factors keeping this growth slow, ie fear of towns or dislike by the landowners, lust for maintaining power. Hope this helps; Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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42 | sins forgiven, what about new sins? | 1 John 1:9 | Bill Richardson | 231178 | ||
I've been taught that as human beings, we're all weak and sinful creatures. First we have to succeed in avoiding "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye and the pride of life," 1 John 2:16 which is incredibly difficult to do. Then another very difficult weakness of ours as humans, we can't possibly match Jesus in His Life as described in... James 4:17 Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. We can't possibly do every little good thing of we which we could think to do. We simply don't have the energy or the self-discipline but we also just choose NOT to do it. We are a people of convenience; I'll admit it as I am this way. We like our routines and really don't want to go out of our way looking for new and fresh opportunities to "do good." Also Paul tells us in... Rom 3:21 But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, 22 even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all[h] who believe. For there is no difference; 23 FOR ALL HAVE SINNED AND FALL SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD, 24 being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, 26 to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. What are we to do with this conundrum, a seemingly almost impossible task imposed on us by our Lord? We do the best we can; we set the best kind of example around our co-workers, avoid those obvious sins above and go home to our family as that too is a responsibility charged to us by God in... 1 Tim 5:8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel. Finally we just got to go to bed and give over all our inadequacies, cares and frustrations to our God in prayer. I like to do this at night, wake up the following morning and start fresh, resolving to do the best we can in devoting ourselves to imitating His Son, 1 Cor 11:1. This is all part of the Process we call Grace, bestowed on us by our Lord. He gives us that kind of comfort as long as we're maintaining that relationship as cited in... 1 John 1:5 This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. So we must maintain a proper attitude of gratitude instead of pride and not do more sinning to bring on more Grace. That we must not do... Rom 1:1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? 3 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. I hope this helps; Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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43 | will all christians go to heaven | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231169 | ||
I'm thinking the most important Guidance in this area is from Peter in... 2 Pet 2:18 For when they speak great swelling words of emptiness, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through lewdness, the ones who have actually escaped from those who live in error. 19 While they promise them liberty, they themselves are slaves of corruption; for by whom a person is overcome, by him also he is brought into bondage. 20 For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning. 21 For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them. 22 But it has happened to them according to the true proverb: “A dog returns to his own vomit,” and, “a sow, having washed, to her wallowing in the mire.” Other examples from John in... 3 John 1:9 I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to have the preeminence among them, does not receive us. 10 Therefore, if I come, I will call to mind his deeds which he does, prating against us with malicious words. And not content with that, he himself does not receive the brethren, and forbids those who wish to, putting them out of the church. 11 Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. He who does good is of God, but he who does evil has not seen God. It's such a sad end for a christian to turn away from the Lord and go back to the world of darkness, and eventually Hell itself. Some christians get caught up in being to full of themselves and instead of being examples following Christ, they choose someone else and get themselves lost like that of Diotrephes above. Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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44 | Balance: Faith and Works | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231168 | ||
Quoted for reference: On previous post Bill said, "We should look at our relationship with our Lord and Saviour as our working off a debt as He paid for our sins for our very souls. I think this is made so clear in the Lord's Parable of the debtor in prison, Matt 18. That's why I think it's important for us as christians to adopt a ministry of some kind if it's nothing more than cleaning the building on a regular basis." BradK said: Are you suggesting salvation entails us workig to repay this debt to our Lord? Are you suggesting we to do this in order to maintain salvation? Or, are you suggesting we do this in order to show we are saved (cf Eph. 2:10)? Response: I thought my previous post made this clear. Seems like I said we can never, EVER even begin to think we can gain anything by these "works of faith." We should do them as proof of our genuine faith. James makes it very clear: the conjunction "and" marries these two items for a true christian. Faith and works go together like all the other couples in the Bible. We see that we must "worship God in Spirit AND in Truth," John 4:24. We must love God first and foremost BUT we must also love our fellow man, 1 John 2:9-11. Does this mean our walk with God is like a balancing act? I think that might be an extreme way of putting but to some degree, God does want us to do our best. I do agree with the sentiment of your post; I do think we must always place our faith in God far above our works. It's just that we can't take this position as a license to get out of working for the Lord. BradK said: I hope you're not implying that we do this to merit (earn) any justification before God? Response: No, please don't misunderstand. See above. As a matter of fact, as you alluding to, any hint of such pride in such an attempt to earn might be just the thing that keeps us out of Heaven forever. Prov 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall. 19 Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, Than to divide the spoil with the proud. 20 He who heeds the word wisely will find good, And whoever trusts in the Lord, happy is he. I hope this is an adequate response; gotta go to school and get myself all edumacated. I'll check back with you later this evening. Thanks for the dialouge. Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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45 | Exo 29-30 bread w/o yeast? | Ex 13:9 | Bill Richardson | 231167 | ||
Welcome to the Bible Forum. You must be new to Jewish History. Generally, unleavened bread was a custom started long ago indicating devotion to God. I looked and the very first mention of this kind of bread is in Gen 19 with Lot's meal with angels in Sodom before its destruction. So it seems this custom could have possibly been done to simply rush the meal as it takes a little while for leavened bread to rise. But the most memorable reason for most is from... Ex 13:3 And Moses said to the people: “Remember this day in which you went out of Egypt, out of the house of bondage; for by strength of hand the Lord brought you out of this place. No leavened bread shall be eaten. 4 On this day you are going out, in the month Abib. 5 And it shall be, when the Lord brings you into the land of the Canaanites and the Hittites and the Amorites and the Hivites and the Jebusites, which He swore to your fathers to give you, a land flowing with milk and honey, that you shall keep this service in this month. 6 Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread, and on the seventh day there shall be a feast to the Lord. 7 Unleavened bread shall be eaten seven days. And no leavened bread shall be seen among you, nor shall leaven be seen among you in all your quarters. 8 And you shall tell your son in that day, saying, ‘This is done because of what the Lord did for me when I came up from Egypt.’ 9 It shall be as a sign to you on your hand and as a memorial between your eyes, that the Lord’s law may be in your mouth; for with a strong hand the Lord has brought you out of Egypt. 10 You shall therefore keep this ordinance in its season from year to year. And of course it sets the precedent for us as christians when we observe and partake of the Communion or the Lord's Supper as described in... Matt 26:26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, “Take, eat; this is My body.” Now of course, the Lord and His disciples started this meal as their traditional Passover Meal and a person could ask why didn't Jesus do something different. But I think it's was a good thing that He was following the Pattern from His Father's preference for unleavened bread. It's something that gives us human beings an additional reason to pause and think about what we observing in the Lord's Supper, His being the Ultimate Sacrifice. Remember we're not doing this for us or any other reason as thought by man. We're following God's Commands because He's God and that's the Pattern He set for us. Hope this helps; Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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46 | Why is wisdom referred to as HER? | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231165 | ||
In addition to these good answers, I'm thinking a big reason for thinking of wisdom as feminine, especially for us men is the elusive quality of wisdom. I know she has eluded me all of my life except when I married my wife. Prov 2:1 My son, if you receive my words, And treasure my commands within you, 2 So that you incline your ear to wisdom, And apply your heart to understanding; 3 Yes, if you cry out for discernment, And lift up your voice for understanding, 4 If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures; 5 Then you will understand the fear of the Lord, And find the knowledge of God. 6 For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding; At least, it's been my experience that knowledge comes somewhat easy. One has to work a little harder to gain understanding, especailly some of the complexities of life, you know the conundrums. But most elusive of all is wisdom. Even Solomon had a little difficulty applying wisdom to his own life. So we pursue wisdom to the end of our days and count ourselves Blessed to die in the Lord with His Name on our lips. Believe me, I know. I've had my "brush with death" and it was just a bit premature. Makes one take a "pause for the cause," and slow down a bit to appreciate life. As always, Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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47 | What do we learn from praying | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231162 | ||
In addition to all the good answers you've received, I can't help but think back to the Words of our Lord... Matt 6:6 But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. 7 And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. 8 “Therefore do not be like them. FOR YOUR FATHER KNOWS THE THINGS YOU HAVE NEED OF BEFORE YOU ASK HIM. So many come up with the response: "If God knows what I need, why should I pray about it?" Yeah, I agree great immaturity but still to some extent, the question deserves an answer. I've always been taught that by praying to our God, it helps us to acutally focus our mind on our needs and distinquish those from our wants. Thus we see in so many instances, God does take care of our needs. Secondly if we're in constant prayer as Jesus modeled for us and Paul encourages us, then we'll establish a regular dialouge with our Father just like our earthly parents love to hear from us. Then we know to go to God's Word, at least daily and see the answers to our prayers for there truly is "nothing new under the sun," Ecc 1:8 All things are full of labor; Man cannot express it. The eye is not satisfied with seeing, Nor the ear filled with hearing. 9 That which has been is what will be, That which is done is what will be done, And there is nothing new under the sun. 10 Is there anything of which it may be said, “See, this is new”? It has already been in ancient times before us. 11 There is no remembrance of former things, Nor will there be any remembrance of things that are to come By those who will come after. Yes good answers all; keep ourselves humble and in service to our Lord as His vessels on this earth as described by Paul... 2 Cor 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. 8 We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed— 10 always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. Great discussion; Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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48 | How does God handle a backslider? | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231161 | ||
In support of Lionheart's good answer, I thought I'd throw in some scripture. It's always a pleasure to converse with a fellow backslider. In some ways, I'm thinking almost all of us christians are in that category. Gal 6:1 Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. 2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4 But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. 5 For each one shall bear his own load. 1 Pet 4:7 But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. 8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” 9 Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. 10 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 11 If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. I'm so thankful for teamwork; my wife is the one who helps the Lord in keeping me on the straight and narrow. We all slip up now and again but Thanks be God, we can repent ever day and stay in God's Light by asking forgiveness. 1 John 1:5 This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us. Go with God in all His Ways and He'll Bless you, dear friend, Bill |
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49 | make up of the Syrian Antioch Church | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231160 | ||
My mistake CDBJ, clicked on the wrong clicker. To my friend DEagle There are 21 different verses with this city, Antioch mentioned. I would have to refer you to the Internet for any more information about its "make up." Personally, I think the most significant thing about this city is the origin of the name, Christian in fulfillment of Prophecy. Acts 11:26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. in fulfillment of Is 62:1 For Zion’s sake I will not hold My peace, And for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, Until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, And her salvation as a lamp that burns. 2 The Gentiles shall see your righteousness, And all kings your glory. You shall be called by a new name, Which the mouth of the Lord will name. Pretty Awesom, huh? And this is just one of over 300 prophecies proving that God's Word really is Inspired and Completely Inerrant. Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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50 | make up of the Syrian Antioch Church | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231159 | ||
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51 | What does the book of Jonah mean ? | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231158 | ||
There's a couple of messages I get from this wonderful Book. 1) It was a good reminder to the Jews that God really does care about the Gentiles of the world in spite of the Jews hatred for them. Nineveh was just one of many places in the world that probably needed God's Guidance but He chose them for His Own Reasons. It also showed a sad commentary in that Jonah was looking forward to the destruction of Nineveh. However, it's also a sad note that this city WAS destroyed about a 100 years later, about 612BC, from Wikipedia. Yes, they repented but then went back to their wicked ways and God punished them for it, Zeph 2:13 And He will stretch out His hand against the north, Destroy Assyria, And make Nineveh a desolation, As dry as the wilderness. 2) I think God is speaking to the whole world, throughout all time, including us here in America. We as a nation need to wake up to the downward spiral of unGodliness that has overtaken our country. We all need to re-read the Book of Jonah and apply the message to ourselves and repent as a nation. America used to be known as a christian nation to the world but we can no longer rightfully claim that title. Let's all resolve to do some introspection, soul-searching and do what's right in God's Sight and for the souls of our future generations. I'm recommending that we contact our Government representatives/leaders and let them know our concerns, that they do a better job of returning to the roots upon which this country was founded. Our greatest example in this area was Apostle Paul as he did his best to exert influence over his Government leaders, Felix and Festus, Acts 24 and 25. I'm very much afraid time is short and we need to do this with a bit of haste. "God Bless America" and let us come to her aid again with His Help. Go with God in all His Ways. Bill |
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52 | Balance: Faith and Works | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231157 | ||
Yes indeed, I'm in full agreement. It all boils down to our attitude. We can never, EVER think we can approach God Almighty on Judgment Day with the thought that we earned even the lowest badge of recognition for any deed or action we performed. I'm thinking Paul's example is a great one to follow; in spite of all his accomplishments as an Apostle, he still considered himself "chief of all sinners." What a great humble attitude. We should look at our relationship with our Lord and Saviour as our working off a debt as He paid for our sins for our very souls. I think this is made so clear in the Lord's Parable of the debtor in prison, Matt 18. That's why I think it's important for us as christians to adopt a ministry of some kind if it's nothing more than cleaning the building on a regular basis. Again this is clearly depicted in Jesus' Parable of the three men and their talents, Matt 25. It seems so ironic that the word talents has a dual meaning, the one used in the first century referring to money and the way we now use it referring to our skills or abilities to do something well. All of us should look about us throughout our respective congregations and see if there's some hole or ministry NOT being done that can match one of our talents and then go to work. It's ideal if no one else knows or sees our endeavors in such a ministry, as our Lord will reward us in Heaven. Matt 6:1 “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Now of course, we should exercise due care and make certain we're taking some ministry away from someone else. It might be OK to approach such an individual and see if they're interested in taking on a partner and rotate so as to share the burden of work. But it's so much better if we can find that something that's NOT being done but needs doing. But as you've said, it's absolutely PARAMOUNT that all of this is done with the proper attitude of complete humility and submission to our Saviour. We must never even think a hint of pride in what we're doing for our Lord. 1 Pet 1:13 Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 14 as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; 15 but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.” 17 And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; Thanks be to God for His Mercy and Grace. Go with God in all His Ways. Bill |
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53 | Paul's missionary work | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231154 | ||
I'm just trying to get this all straight in my mind. Do be patient with me. Thanks in advance. Quoted for reference: Sola scriptura (Latin ablative, "by scripture alone") is the doctrine that the Bible contains all knowledge necessary for salvation and holiness. Consequently, sola scriptura demands that only those doctrines are to be admitted or confessed that are found directly within or indirectly by using valid logical deduction or valid deductive reasoning from scripture. However, sola scriptura is not a denial of other authorities governing Christian life and devotion. RATHER, IT SIMPLY DEMANDS THAT ALL OTHER AUTHORITIES ARE SUBORDINATE TO, AND ARE TO BE CORRECTED BY, THE WRITTEN WORD OF GOD. Sola scriptura was a foundational doctrinal principle of the Protestant Reformation held by the Reformers and is a formal principle of Protestantism today. (All caps above mine for emphasis and clarity.) I think I can live with this statement if I'm understanding it correctly. Go with God in all His Ways. Bill |
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54 | Balance: Faith and Works | Not Specified | Bill Richardson | 231153 | ||
Perfect Sense of Balance -- A Worthy but Difficult Goal from the Introductions to these Books, of the New King James Version Galations The Galatians, having launced their Christian experience by faith, seem content to leave their voyage of faith and chart a new course based on works--a course Paul finds disturbing. His letter to the Galatians is a vigorous attack against the gospel of works and defense of the gospel of faith. Paul begins by setting forth his credentials as an apostle with a message from God: blessing comes from God on the basis of faith, not law. The law declares men guilty and imprisons them; faith sets men free to enjoy liberty in Christ. But liberty is not license. Freedom in Christ means freedom to produce the fruits of righteousness through a Spirit-led lifestyle. James Faith without works cannot be called faith. "Faith without works is dead," Chapter 2:26, and a dead faith is worse than no faith at all. Faith must work, it must produce, it must be visible. Verbal faith is not enough; mental faith is insufficient. Faith must be there, but must be more. It must inspire action. Throughout his epistle to Jewish believers, James integrates true faith and everyday practical experience by stressing that true faith must manifest itself in works of faith. Faith endures trials. Trials come and go, but a strong faith will face them head-on and develop endurance. Faith understands temptations. It will not allow us to consent to our lust and slide into sin. Faith obeys the Word. It will not merely hear and not do. Faith produces doers. Faith harbors no prejudice. For James, faith and favoritism cannot coexist. Faith displays itself in works. Faith is more than mere words; it is more than knowledge; it is demonstrated by obedience; and it overtly responds to the promises of God. Faith controls the tongue. This small but immensely powerful part of the body must be held in check. Faith can do it. Faith acts wisely. It gives us the ability to choose wisdom that is heavenly and to shun wisdom that is earthly. Faith produces separation from the world and submission to God. It provides us with the ability to resist the Devil and humbly draw near to God. Finally, faith waits patiently for the coming of the Lord. Through trouble and trial it stifles complaining. I'm making preparations to start a new Wed nite Bible Class in which we're going to tackle a rather ambitious goal, a Survey of the NT. During my research tonite, I discovered the perfect way of putting into words what I've been trying to explain. Paul makes it very clear that we can never, ever even come close to earning our way to Heaven by works of faith. Our attitude MUST be one of gratitude that God extends Mercy and Grace and indeed that is a major requirement. Although at the same time, we must also understand this faith as Paul describes MUST also produce works as James describes in his epistle. No, works is not required to save us; it's required as proof that our faith is genuine, to prove our faith is real and productive in the Name of Lord. I beleive Jesus described this best with His Parable of the Vine and the branches in... John 15:1 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. 5 “I AM THE VINE, YOU ARE THE BRANCHES. HE WHO ABIDES IN ME, AND I IN HIM, BEARS MUCH FRUIT; FOR WITHOUT ME YOU CAN DO NOTHING. 6 IF ANYONE DOES NOT ABIDE IN ME, HE IS CAST OUT AS A BRANCH AND IS WITHERED; AND THEY GATHER THEM AND THROW THEM INTO THE FIRE, AND THEY ARE BURNED. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. (All caps are mine above for emphasis.) I'd love to discuss with you all. It seems the NKJV team read the original transcripts and understood it this way. Is there some other way to interpret this relationship between Faith and Works based on that Faith? Looking forward to some good discussion; Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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55 | Balance: Faith and Works | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231155 | ||
Perfect Sense of Balance -- A Worthy but Difficult Goal from the Introductions to these Books, of the New King James Version Galations The Galatians, having launced their Christian experience by faith, seem content to leave their voyage of faith and chart a new course based on works--a course Paul finds disturbing. His letter to the Galatians is a vigorous attack against the gospel of works and defense of the gospel of faith. Paul begins by setting forth his credentials as an apostle with a message from God: blessing comes from God on the basis of faith, not law. The law declares men guilty and imprisons them; faith sets men free to enjoy liberty in Christ. But liberty is not license. Freedom in Christ means freedom to produce the fruits of righteousness through a Spirit-led lifestyle. James Faith without works cannot be called faith. "Faith without works is dead," Chapter 2:26, and a dead faith is worse than no faith at all. Faith must work, it must produce, it must be visible. Verbal faith is not enough; mental faith is insufficient. Faith must be there, but must be more. It must inspire action. Throughout his epistle to Jewish believers, James integrates true faith and everyday practical experience by stressing that true faith must manifest itself in works of faith. Faith endures trials. Trials come and go, but a strong faith will face them head-on and develop endurance. Faith understands temptations. It will not allow us to consent to our lust and slide into sin. Faith obeys the Word. It will not merely hear and not do. Faith produces doers. Faith harbors no prejudice. For James, faith and favoritism cannot coexist. Faith displays itself in works. Faith is more than mere words; it is more than knowledge; it is demonstrated by obedience; and it overtly responds to the promises of God. Faith controls the tongue. This small but immensely powerful part of the body must be held in check. Faith can do it. Faith acts wisely. It gives us the ability to choose wisdom that is heavenly and to shun wisdom that is earthly. Faith produces separation from the world and submission to God. It provides us with the ability to resist the Devil and humbly draw near to God. Finally, faith waits patiently for the coming of the Lord. Through trouble and trial it stifles complaining. I'm making preparations to start a new Wed nite Bible Class in which we're going to tackle a rather ambitious goal, a Survey of the NT. During my research tonite, I discovered the perfect way of putting into words what I've been trying to explain. Paul makes it very clear that we can never, ever even come close to earning our way to Heaven by works of faith. Our attitude MUST be one of gratitude that God extends Mercy and Grace and indeed that is a major requirement. Although at the same time, we must also understand this faith as Paul describes MUST also produce works as James describes in his epistle. No, works is not required to save us; it's required as proof that our faith is genuine, to prove our faith is real and productive in the Name of Lord. I beleive Jesus described this best with His Parable of the Vine and the branches in... John 15:1 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. 5 “I AM THE VINE, YOU ARE THE BRANCHES. HE WHO ABIDES IN ME, AND I IN HIM, BEARS MUCH FRUIT; FOR WITHOUT ME YOU CAN DO NOTHING. 6 IF ANYONE DOES NOT ABIDE IN ME, HE IS CAST OUT AS A BRANCH AND IS WITHERED; AND THEY GATHER THEM AND THROW THEM INTO THE FIRE, AND THEY ARE BURNED. 7 If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. 8 By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples. (All caps are mine above for emphasis.) I'd love to discuss with you all. It seems the NKJV team read the original transcripts and understood it this way. Is there some other way to interpret this relationship between Faith and Works based on that Faith? Looking forward to some good discussion; Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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56 | Who was Isaacs wife | Gen 24:14 | Bill Richardson | 231152 | ||
First of all, welcome to the Bible Forum. This is one of the most beautiful and powerful stories of God's Providence in the Bible, in my humble opinion. But you really should read the whole story yourself in this chapter and you'll appreciate it as all of us kids in Sunday School have grown to do so. God Bless you as you study His Word, Bill |
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57 | THE MAN THAT INITIATED ABRAHAM | Gen 12:1 | Bill Richardson | 231148 | ||
First of all, welcome to the Bible Forum. I don't think there was any man that initiated or inspired Abraham (Abram). Please advise as to how you arrived at this conclusion, preferbably with Scripture in support. If no Scripture, please describe the origin of this radical idea. Maybe you really meant to ask about God's Instruction to Abram as cited in Scripture above? Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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58 | Judas Iscariot is a FREE Man | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231146 | ||
I love to talk Bible too and I'm certainly NOT going to fight you on anything but I got see your rationale about your most unusual statement: "But I will prove to you that Judas is a saved soul." The biggest obstacle you need to overcome is the fact Judas committed suicide which is considered murder and in the case of suicide, there's possible way to repent of one's sin. We all know God's Punishment for murder. I do feel for Judas as he just couldn't forgive himself long enough to wait for Jesus' Good News of Salvation for everyone, including those commiting the very worst of crimes/sins in man's eyes. This should be a most interesting thread of discussion. Go with God in all His Ways. Bill |
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59 | Negative/Postive Divided Kingdom | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231143 | ||
I assume you're referring to the dividing of the Israelite Kingdom as described in the OT. Naturally we all know of the negative impact of dividing any institution started by God. The biggie in my mind would be those that chose to go with the unGodly King and follow his lead away from God. The one big positive impact of which I just thought would be God's Preparation of His people in deciding who they would follow AND set a precedent for others to follow. Jesus said it best in... Matt 12:30 He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad. From the beginning of the Jewish Nation, the people rebelled against God's Style of Leadership and didn't accept His Judges. They instead wanted a king like their neighbors and in spite of Samuel's warning they would regret it becauses of the abuses coming from certain kings in the future. 1 Sam 8:6 But the thing displeased Samuel when they said, “Give us a king to judge us.” So Samuel prayed to the Lord. 7 And the Lord said to Samuel, “Heed the voice of the people in all that they say to you; for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them. 8 According to all the works which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt, even to this day—with which they have forsaken Me and served other gods—so they are doing to you also. 9 Now therefore, heed their voice. However, you shall solemnly forewarn them, and show them the behavior of the king who will reign over them.” 10 So Samuel told all the words of the Lord to the people who asked him for a king. 11 And he said, “This will be the behavior of the king who will reign over you: He will take your sons and appoint them for his own chariots and to be his horsemen, and some will run before his chariots. 12 He will appoint captains over his thousands and captains over his fifties, will set some to plow his ground and reap his harvest, and some to make his weapons of war and equipment for his chariots. 13 He will take your daughters to be perfumers, cooks, and bakers. 14 And he will take the best of your fields, your vineyards, and your olive groves, and give them to his servants. 15 He will take a tenth of your grain and your vintage, and give it to his officers and servants. 16 And he will take your male servants, your female servants, your finest young men, and your donkeys, and put them to his work. 17 He will take a tenth of your sheep. And you will be his servants. 18 And you will cry out in that day because of your king whom you have chosen for yourselves, and the Lord will not hear you in that day.” 19 Nevertheless the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel; and they said, “No, but we will have a king over us, 20 that we also may be like all the nations, and that our king may judge us and go out before us and fight our battles.” It just seems all mankind has an inborn lust to rebel against God and His Leadership in our lives. It's part of what makes us human and not fit for Heaven in our current condition. Only through Christ with His Blood covering our sinful weaknesses can we hope for an Heavenly home. Good question; Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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60 | Christians Proselytizing in Prisons? | Bible general Archive 4 | Bill Richardson | 231142 | ||
Just splunking around the old topics and noticed these few didn't have a very long or thorough set of responses to the original question(s). I've always heard if one person asks a question in a class setting or a Forum such as this, then there's more than likely a second person in the "audience" thinkig the same line of reasoning. As you may have noticed, I do like to stimulate dialouge on my favorite topic, God's Word. I like to assist and inspire my fellow christians to think and get more and more into His Word and then respond with more questions and/or dialouge. Yeah, I guess I like to talk a lot. My wife tells me the same thing. Did you wish to post a question or a statement on this topic? Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |
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