Subject: Is it a sin to play the lottery? |
Bible Note: Dear Jim, Peace upon you, friend. My, we are a bit sensitive, today, aren't we. :-) The title of Janie's original question was about the lottery. Some think this is innoucuous fun, but many (most?) are dead serious about winning a bunch of bucks and retiring. I do think that this is not a good attitude for a Christian, and a bad example for our children and peers. Thus my answer. Sorry if you felt I was butting in, but this is a forum... It seems that you think I am being legalistic or of the 'holiness' bent. I assure you this is not the case. I simply believe that we are to be aware of the image we portray, and not be ignorant of how others see us. We, as Christians, are exhorted to 'keep our behavior excellent among the Gentiles,' (1 Peter 2:12) and 'prove ourselves to be examples.' (1 Peter 5:3) I believe that these require a certain amount of responsibility. Please, do not throw away Lewis' Trilogy on my account! :-) Of course there is a balance. Same for all of your (sometimes outlandish!) examples. Please, in no way did I ever question Janie's salvation! Also, don't degrade yourself by becoming flippant about God's choice of Matthias. If I read your last paragraph correctly, the pursuit of a (Holy Spirit) perfected Christian life will split the church. Are we to just allow 'to each his own' and then say 'we are one?' Good luck, you'll need it! :-) (you really ARE a gambler!) Jim, we use (lately) Tropicana 100-percent Grape Juice. We have used Welches and Kirin. Wine is expensive here (except rice wine), and I would really have a hard time choosing between Cabernet Sauvignon and Akadama Sweet Wine. BTW, is there a point to be made? As to the bread, we use a whole loaf of white bread. Trust me, Japanese bread beats 'Wonder' any day! We literally break it and spend some time sharing our portion with others. Any other questions? Blessings and peace to you. In Jesus' name, charis |