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NASB | John 7:17 "If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | John 7:17 "If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know whether the teaching is of God or whether I speak on My own accord and by My own authority. |
Bible Question:
John 16:13 tells us the Spirit of Truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth. We know it is true because GOD'S word says it. If we then have differing interpretations of GOD'S word, and assuming we are to rely on the Holy Spirit for the guidance, why would the Holy Spirit teach people totally different things on the same Scrpiture? Romans 14:5 also tells us, "Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind". Romans 2:15 says God's laws are written on our hearts. If further says in Matthew, Mark, and Luke that a kingdom divided against itself will not stand. With these scriptures in mind, can it be assumed the reason for the division among Christians is the fact that some are not being guided by the Holy Spirit - Spirit of Truth? I mean the really major issues like: Can you loose your salvation, Baptism being required for salvation, etc. I am a new Christian and amazed at the lack of unity regarding the interpretation of scripture. Any thoughts that can help? Please try to keep it simple, I have no formal education in any of this like it sounds that some of you have. Thanks Sam |
Bible Answer: Dear Sam, You've gotten some good answers (the ones I've read)! I'd like to encourage you, though, that the things that Protestant believers agree upon are far more numerous than the things we disagree on. The thing is, you see, is that we tend to talk the most about the things we are disagreeing about. That makes it seem like the disagreements are more numerous than the agreements. Also, keep in mind that God is not simple. His creation isn't simple so it would be foolish of us to imagine that the Creator was simple. That means that there is always still a lot to learn and a lot to discuss. Don't worry, though, God only holds a believer accountable for what he has learned. You have an incredible life ahead of you! Welcome to the family. In Him, Doc |