Results 561 - 580 of 729
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Results from: Notes Author: charis Ordered by Verse |
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Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
561 | Thanks, but what about....? | Eph 2:5 | charis | 35778 | ||
Dear zach†, Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus! My friend, I apologize for being cynical. As soon as I posted it, I felt that what I said questioning your ministry in the body of Christ was not in keeping with the spirit of this forum. I am sorry. That said, I must strongly agree with your last sentence! "Finally Cultures may change, but Jesus never changes. (Christ Jesus the same yesterday, today and forever Heb. 13:8) Jesus can transcend cultures." In fact, I will even 'up the ante' and say that Jesus DOES transcend cultures! ALL issues are evangelical. That is, if we understand the word to mean 'of the preaching of the Good News.' The saved are as much in need of Good News as the lost, IMHO. However, if we consider evangelism as being for the sole purpose of presenting salvation to the 'lost-who-were-never-saved' as compared to the 'lost-who-decided-to-be-saved-but-later-decided-not-to-be-saved-and-are-now-permanently-and-irrevocably-lost' (let me catch my breath! :-)), then I can see your point. So...I disagree. The God I serve is the same One that saved Moses, David, Peter and Doubting Thomas. He saves those that don't deserve salvation, and His salvation is indelible and irrevocable. Personally, I have no problem reconciling this enduring salvation with the (few) Scriptures that clearly speak of 'lost' salvation. These are aberrations, examples of extreme willfulness that few could achieve even if they wanted to. The alternative, relatively 'easy' loss of salvation, turns us into judgemental, arrogant, and myopic Christians. Again, one man's opinion. My ministerial gift is to shepherd His flock, and encourage the saints. My method is perhaps more graceful than, "One strike and your outta there!" :-) Actually, my church is quite orderly, and WYSIWYG. (What you see is what you get) In my few years of experience, the mature need grace in exactly the same quantity and quality as the newborns. It just works in different areas and is more subtle. :-) I gotta go. Grace, peace and love to you as well. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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562 | The foundation of the church | Eph 2:20 | charis | 69411 | ||
Dear Joe! (twice! ;-)) Greetings in the name of Jesus! As you probably already know, I do not have much need for the modern 'capital-A, self-proclaimed, super-Apostle.' Indeed, the Apostles to the Lamb were twelve in number, witnesses and disciples of Christ, and Matthias was chosen to replace Judas Iscariot in Acts 1. Using this reference to set the requirements for all apostles is a bit thin, and there is little evidence that Paul was chosen to replace one of the Twelve. Barnabas, Andronicus, Junias, and James, the Lord's brother are named as apostles. While James may fit your requirements, proving the qualifications of the others is quite difficult. Ephesians 4:11-13 is (at least to me) speaking as if these ministies will continue to the purpose of 'building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith,' which I have yet to see. According to Ephesians, an apostle is a minister to the church, and looking to the clear examples of the Twelve, and the other named apostles, this ministry could very possibly be a present-day ministry. I propose that an apostle is a 'shepherd of shepherds,' an encourager of other ministers. I do not see this as a 'superior' ministry, or one to be flaunted and crowed about. In fact, from the Lord's exhortation (the last shall be first!) and Paul's example, an apostle should be the most humble and least exalted. I have met men that fit this description without the titles or trumpets. Whether they are called apostle or not, they are fulfilling the role portrayed in Scripture. Indeed, I am certain that apostolic ministry has always been in effect, and will be until the return of the Lord. But the true bearers of apostolic mantle will have no need to advertise it, or brandish it like a banner of greatness. Blessings to you, my brother, and 'Kirisuto ga umareta!' (Christ is born!) In Christ Jesus, charis |
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563 | The foundation of the church | Eph 2:20 | charis | 69493 | ||
Dear Joe! Greetings in the name of Jesus! You wrote: "The only shortcomings I see with your definition of an apostle (a 'shepherd of shepherds,' an encourager of other ministers) is that the mantle of apostle is appealed to as a source of final authority in Scripture:" Brother, if the only shortcomings you see in my definition of present-day apostles are the 'final authority' argument and attaching a revelatory role to the requirement, we have a discussion! ;-) Since there are no clear ministerial 'job descriptions' set forth in the Bible, there is a certain amount of leeway available here. I do not find a clearly Scriptural mandate for some ministries to 'cease' while others continue. Apparently, the most common argument is that the ministry of apostle and prophet are no longer necessary, while evangelists, pastors and teachers (as well as elders and-or deacons, board members, and in some circles youth pastors, music ministers, worship leaders, bishops, and a variety of specialized non-Biblical ministries) remain valid ministries. It seems that this argument 'rests its case' mostly on the veneration of these two exalted ministries. I, too, am in awe of the Biblical apostles and prophets, but not to the point of denying further need for their present-day ministry to the church. My proposal is based on the work of the apostle and prophet, i.e. continuing to do what they did. This would necessitate a definition of 'apostling' and 'prophesying.' There is little proof that every apostle in the Bible was 'with' the Lord, and even Paul considered himself 'born out of time.' Placing some of the other named apostles 'with' Jesus is difficult. The 'authority' argument begins to thin if we accept these other named apostles as bona fide. Not all wrote Scripture, and not all Bible authors are named as apostles. The revelatory role ties in closely with the ministry of prophet. There is no Biblical mandate requiring prophets to write Scripture or bring forth new revelation. A New Testament prophet may simply be fulfilling the words Paul wrote to the church at Corinth: "But one who prophesies speaks to men for edification and exhortation and consolation." 1 Corinthians 14:3 NASB. My point is the same as many Bible commentators; There is little Scriptural evidence to deny the present-day ministry of apostles and prophets, but to assign a comparitively 'minor' status to them. By 'minor,' we do not detract from their validity or purpose, but only clarify their position in comparison to the ministers described in the Bible. One disclaimer: My proposal in no way condones the abuse we see in this day. I abhor the recent rash (pun intended!) of 'apostles' prostituting themselves on the TV and 'Special Guest Circuit' these days. They mock God and the church with deception and sorcery. These are NOT present-day apostles and prophets. In fact, I believe they show why the history of the church doesn't flaunt these two ministries. If they are of God, there is no need to advertise, they will merely fulfil the Biblical description without fanfare. My friend, I very much agree with you about the role of 'illumination.' This ties in well with the above reference, and is coincides well with my proposal. Indeed, we "authoritatively interpret what is already there." Maybe not 'final authority,' but authority from God nonetheless. Blessings and joy to you and yours! In Christ Jesus, charis |
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564 | Jesus tears down the gates of hell? | Eph 4:8 | charis | 12478 | ||
Dear Steve and Nolan, How about "Be gracious to me, O Lord; Behold my affliction from those who hate me, Thou who dost lift me up from the gates of death;" Psalm 9:13 NASB and perhaps the imagery in "It is I who says of Cyrus, 'He is My shepherd! And he will perform all My desire.' And he declares of Jerusalem, 'She will be built,' And of the temple, 'Your foundation will be laid.' Thus says the Lord to Cyrus His anointed, Whom I have taken by the right hand, To subdue nations before him, And to loose the loins of kings; To open doors before him so that gates will not be shut:" Isaiah 44:28,45:1 NASB? This paraphrase is very common, yet Scripture reference is hard to find, yes? Blessings in Jesus' name, charis |
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565 | Jesus tears down the gates of hell? | Eph 4:8 | charis | 12484 | ||
Dear Steve, I'm not sure I get your point. Please elaorate. In Jesus, charis |
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566 | Jesus tears down the gates of hell? | Eph 4:8 | charis | 12504 | ||
Dear Steve, 2000 years ago, Christ 'led captivity captive,' freeing them from the depths. I am pretty sure this is a different thing from sealing up satan and his minions. I'm zonked! Good night. In Jesus, charis |
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567 | Double standard? | Eph 4:11 | charis | 2826 | ||
Dear RCScroll, I am fine, kind sir! Sorry I didn't get back to you, I have been very busy this last week. Your question is fair and poignant. Yes, there is one person in my church answering the description of apostle, and a few saints that fulfil the ministry of prophecy. None 'call themselves' Apostle or Prophet, and they are not considered 'above' anyone else in the congregation. It is simply what they do, and they do it as unto the Lord, serving His people. I agree that many call themselves apostles because they travel a lot, preaching here and there, and maybe write books about how to 'feel good' in Jesus. I do not believe this emulates Paul or Barnabas. (as they claim) I also agree that many long-winded, loud-mouthed preachers spouting unrelated, confusing scripture references, saying, "Thus saith the Lord..." and 'seeing' outrageous, disjointed and mutually exclusive visions are not prophets. I am truly sorry for your friends. There must be accountability for those who serve the Lord in His gifts. I have also been hurt by a man with a wonderful apostolic ministry that was ruined when he started calling himself an Apostle. It's not the name or the title, it's the service to the saints of God. If you want to know more contact me by Hotmail, and I will show you what I mean. By the way, I do not think that missionary equals present-day apostles. I know too many missionaries! Some may fulfil the description, but not very many. At least not the modern (per)version of missionary work. Blessings and love in Christ Jesus, charis |
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568 | Please pray, and Love to Ray | Eph 4:12 | charis | 34796 | ||
Dear Saints and Friends, Greetings from Yokohama in the name of Jesus! I may not be online much for the next month or so, as I am helping another Yokohama church rebuild their building and parsonage. I am coordinating an inter-denominational volunteer team in this work of service in conjunction with the Macedonian Mission Service. Please keep us in prayer as we build for the New Covenant Baptist Church of Yokohama, and for the Lord Jesus Christ. I would also like to add that we (Kanto Christian Church) are praying for you, my dear Brother Ray! Get well, friend and gentle sir, and may the peace of God be upon you and your family. Blessings to all my forum fellowship! I may be looking in once in a while, and even post if I get real excited! :-) In Christ Jesus, charis (Randy) |
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569 | Update User Info | Eph 4:16 | charis | 120434 | ||
Dear saints of the Forum, Greetings in Jesus' name! Just wanted to say that I have updated my User Info. Blessings to one and all... In Christ Jesus, Randy (charis) |
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570 | Holiness 'Missing Link?' | Eph 4:24 | charis | 69699 | ||
Dear Searcher, Greetings in the name of Jesus! Actually, I was thinking more in line with the meaning of the above Scripture, and the Amplified says it well...Godlike, i.e. Christ-like. :-) Kirisuto ga umareta! Christ is born! Peace and joy! In Christ Jesus, charis |
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571 | Goodbye, Friends | Eph 4:29 | charis | 7105 | ||
Dear Hank, I am very sad to read your farewell posting. I would like you to know that I do not consider you to be guilty of any crime. My desire is that you return to us as soon as you feel ready. I know that your are sincere in your prayers for this Forum fellowship, and we need your participation. For the rest of the saints reading this: My prayer is that we all reconsider our methods of expression. Discussion, and even some debate is appropriate, but many of us are guilty of much more than our brother Hank. May we all be sufficiently shamed before our Lord and Savior, and repent from foolish and divisive behavior. This forum has the potential to edify Christ Jesus and His church. May we all have the maturity and faith to fulfil that potential. In Jesus' name, charis |
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572 | Submit . . . unless it hurts? | Eph 5:33 | charis | 66473 | ||
Dear srching, Greetings in Jesus' name! Bearing physical persecution for the sake of your faith is one thing, bearing physical abuse for the sake of a whim from someone that promised to love you and care for you is another. In my experience, men do not abuse their wives 'because they became Christians,' but because they want to abuse their wives. "Yet if the unbelieving one leaves, let him leave; the brother or the sister is not under bondage in such cases, but God has called us to peace." 1 Corinthians 7:15 NASB. I would say that if physical abuse is chronic (and even psychological or emotional abuse in some cases), the the unbelieving (or even believing!) spouse is not 'with' their mate, but has 'left.' Mind you, every case needs the special attention of a caring shepherd, so I only speak in generalities. But physical abuse is dangerous and illegal. There is no Biblical commandment to bear this. Peace and wisdom to you. In Christ Jesus, charis |
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573 | Why Rabbi? | Eph 5:33 | charis | 66588 | ||
Dear justme, Greetings in the name of Jesus! I try to give the 'benefit of the doubt' to situations such as this. Indeed, there are many that simply want to share with others what they recieve at home. In many churches, calling a minister 'Elder Elijah' or 'Deacon David' or 'Pastor Paul' is considered a sign of both familiarity and respect. I don't have much problem with this, though I must admit it sounds a bit 'hokey.' :-) A major denomination is enthralled with the use of 'Bro.' and 'Bros.' (not spelled out 'Brother') I thought this was fine until I found that some were VERY serious about the proper usage. If the person did not meet with their standard, the 'title' was revoked. (apparently this has something to do with their doctrine of 'closed-communion' and recognition of standing with the Lord) This one, I believe, can be abusive. Other groups use 'Brother Barnabas (or Sister Sarah'), (spelled out) to mean minister, while others use it across the board for all of faith. While 'cute,' this can be a bit tedious and-or contrived. One major religion recommends calling it's ordained ministers 'Father,' and this is where a clear contradiction of Bible teaching shows up. I am sure they have a 'plausible' excuse for this. Perhaps I can be 'enlightened?' :-) FInally, we have a recent trend of calling ministers by some pseudo-Biblical moniker. I have heard 'Prophet Peter' and 'Disciple Daniel' and 'Teacher Thomas,' and I am sure there are others. Perhaps 'Rabbi Rueben' is a new one? I , too, find it difficult to use these 'titles,' but can't really judge. To be fair, I will explain my own situation. I pastor a church in Japan. In this society, first names are not often used, and even then, '-san' is added. When a person is a teacher, they are commonly called 'Sensei' (Watch 'Karate Kid' :-)) A pastor is often called 'Bokushi-sensei' (Pastor-Teacher) or even 'Bokushi-sama' (exalted Pastor). I found myself in a dilemma! Most Japanese people cannot bring themselves to call a 'teacher' by his first name, even with the '-san' attached! Well, for some reason obscured by time (senility?), I ended up being referred to as 'Pasutaa,' which is the phonetic representation of 'Pastor.' I guess it doesn't bother me so much, as this is the same word we use for Italian noodles. :-) For some reason, this satisfies the societal dictates, and I pray that I am not 'desiring' this moniker as a 'title' to rule over another soul. In fact, I get a chuckle (and so do they!) every time someone hears the explanation that 'pastor' sounds like 'pasta.' Now I have to go on a 'low-carbo' diet! :-) Friend, I agree with you, we have nothing to boast about! No amount of Bible-knowledge or years-in-faith or 'salvations-to-our-credit' will make us any 'more saved.' Blessings in Christ Jesus, charis |
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574 | Why Rabbi? | Eph 5:33 | charis | 66591 | ||
Dear Joe! Greetings in the name of Jesus! Don't you mean "Saint Joseph!" ? :-) Blessings, 'Friend' Joe! In Christ Jesus, charis |
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575 | Why Rabbi? | Eph 5:33 | charis | 66619 | ||
Dear Emmaus, Greetings in Jesus' name! Yes, 'Brother' Emmaus, it has been a while. ;-) Please accept my apology if I was rude about 'a major religion.' Please know that I hold you and your faith in Christ Jesus in the highest regard! I look forward to hearing from you about the title 'Father.' While I am saying that, let me also say that I have spoken at length with priests and brothers and long-time faithful Catholics, but never have I had the pleasure of real fellowship in Christ Jesus and the Bible until I met you here. You are a credit to your church. (I hope I didn't make you blush! :-)) With your permission, let me tell you some further experiences with 'titles' in Japan. Christians are rare here, and Christian ministers more rare. Most Japanese have never met a minister of the Gospel, and only seen them on TV, usually some 'gaijin' (foreigner) ackowledging wedding vows in a cheesy soap opera! Most of these TV directors have no clue what a Christian (of ANY persuasion) is, so invariably the minister is dressed in papal robes and regalia, and is called 'Fah-zah' (Father). Therefore, when introduced to people, I am always called 'Fah-zah' or 'Shimpu-sama' (exalted Priest). I've known some people for years, and they still call me 'Fah-zah!' :-) Whatever! As long as I have some respect in their eyes, and (susequently) an opportunity to share the Gospel, I am blessed! Peace and joy to you in Christ Jesus, charis |
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576 | Submit . . . unless it hurts? | Eph 5:33 | charis | 66636 | ||
Dear srchng, Greetings in the name of Jesus! you wrote: 'And the last plea I made was, "Please help me see where scripture relieves a wife of the resposibility under God to submit to her husband because it pains, injures, or even kills her."' The New Testament does not speak to us of abusive husbands. Beacuse the Bible is pure and simple truth, it is assumed that a 'husband' is one that makes covenant and commitment to care for and protect his chosen bride, and the mother of his children. Whether the husband is saved or not, it is natural for him to behave properly. When a man steps out of the bounds of propriety and dignity, when he stoops to the gutter of abuse and abasement, he forfeits his right to claim husbandship. He has 'left' his wife, and abandoned her. To equate the bearing of insane barbary with serving the Lord is lunacy. Truly, a wife (or husband) may be called to years of unanswered prayer for the spouse's salvation. Truly, a believer may be called to bear humiliation, boredom, and loss of reputation. But a spouse who renounces their vows of love and protection has nullified the contract. Frankly, to even hint that a woman must submit to such a person, even to death, is irresponsible, even criminal. God is NOT glorified! Scripture does not have to 'relieve' a spouse from such things. Common sense does that. As to 'lesser submission,' there is no such thing. There are abusive wives, too, you know! I hope that this gives you something to ponder. Peace in Christ Jesus, charis |
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577 | Submit . . . unless it hurts? | Eph 5:33 | charis | 66690 | ||
Dear srchng, Greetings in the name of Jesus! My friend, I well understand your desire for specific, pertinent Scripture. But please understand that there are times that the Bible often speaks through implication. I am pretty sure that the Word is not going to tell you how to fix Pentium 90MHz PC with 8MB RAM. But we might infer: "So Jesus then said to them plainly, "Lazarus is dead!" John 11:14 NASB. :-) Sorry, a little PCtech humor. Seriously, my friend, you must sometimes trust common sense and good advice. "Wisdom shouts in the street, She lifts her voice in the square;" Proverbs 1:20 NASB. "For by wise guidance you will wage war, And in abundance of counselors there is victory." Proverbs 24:6 NASB. Finally and foremost, understand that these situations must be solved case-by-case. There is no absolute. I HAVE been involved in many cases of physical and-or emotional abuse. My counsel was always accompanied by prayer and fasting, searching the Bible, and seeking the mind of God through the leading of the Holy Spirit. Each soul is individually precious in God's sight, and must be treated as such. But common sense dictates that if physical abuse is evident (not just perceived), then get that person away from the violence! (in all candor, DUH!) Now, my forum fellow, a bit of advice. If this is a specific situation, and you are asking for help, I think you have enough to work with. If, however, this is just FYI (for YOUR information), and you are asking out of idle curiosity, you are close to being annoying. You are insisting that 'there must be something more,' but some very insightful saints have told you there really IS no more. Frankly, unless there is a specific situation involving real people, then you have fallen into 'empty philosophy.' If there IS a real person involved, then the next step is to ask for pastoral advice from an experienced, trustworthy shepherd. I must go to school! (I'm the principal! :-)) Peace in Christ Jesus, charis |
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578 | Selfish or Self-interest? | Phil 1:23 | charis | 4724 | ||
Dear Lionstrong, I am at a loss. Perhaps it is just my inability to comprehend, but doesn't the above (mysterious, anonymous, scholarly, verbose? :-) quotation kind of make the same point I made? I stated that self-interest (akin to self-awareness in Christ) was fine, but selfishness (self-focus) was sinful. I have said that I am not altruistic, and am aware of self-interest, but desire to put away selfishness. In any case, this part of the discussion is way over my head. As to whether it is better to stay here or go to heaven, the question is moot. We have no choice in the matter, unless we choose to end our life. (it would be hard to state a case for God causing us to commit suicide) So, Paul was being neither, but stating a hypothetical for the sake of encouraging the saints and explaining why he would 'go on.' Deeper than that is out of my league. Question: will you tell me someday who wrote the above? Finally, what do you think about our inability to pursue the Great Commission in heaven? Doesn't this give us incentive to want to stay here and serve Jesus? Blessings in Jesus' name, charis |
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579 | Folks, It's Time for A Change! | Phil 2:14 | charis | 5048 | ||
Amen! and Amen! | ||||||
580 | What is this pattern? | Phil 3:17 | charis | 7130 | ||
Dear Tim, Good answer! I hope to talk more about the patterns that God has provided for us, his church. I will post later. Now, I must be off to church. My Sunday morning happens 13 or more hours before (most of) the rest of you :-) Charis has been my 'handle' for a number of years. Charissa is a beautiful name! Blessings to your daughter. BTW, grace is 'Megumi' in Japanese, a common girl's name among Christians here. In Jesus' name, charis |
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