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I got to thinking about this topic because of something that happened today. Spouse and I had talked a couple of weeks ago about something, and I had pointedly stated that if we made the purchase we were talking about, there was a certain brand which I liked, and that the other brands I wasn't so keen on. So what happened today? Spouse, intending to be nice, makes the purchase - but purchases a brand I said not to purchase. And when I was displeased, suddenly I was the "ungrateful" person. It was a difficult moment, and the purchase as ultimately returned unopened.
But how often do we do this with God? He has given us the Holy Scriptures in which his will is recorded. The Holy Spirit speaks to us through our reading of these scriptures. Yet how often do we go directly against what God has told us, and still expect him to be pleased?
Here's a verse which can be troubling if one thinks about it and applies it their own life.
I have said all this to you to keep you from falling away. They will put you out of the synagogues; indeed, the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God. John 16:1-2 Revised Standard Version
In the past I have read this verse as referring solely to people seeking to kill me. Terrorists who bomb public places. Vigilantes who don't like my faith. And so on.
But could the reverse be true? What is my attitude about the killing of terrorists? Vigilantes? And so on? Am I happy about this? Do I think God is pleased? The answer is in the Bible.
But if a wicked man turns away from all his sins which he has committed and keeps all my statutes and does what is lawful and right, he shall surely live; he shall not die. None of the transgressions which he has committed shall be remembered against him; for the righteousness which he has done he shall live. Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, says the Lord God, and not rather that he should turn from his way and live? Ezekiel 18:21-23 Revised Standard Version
God is NOT pleased when the wicked die. So we shouldn't be either. And we need to be careful about ourselves. It is entirely possible to do things - believing we are pleasing God - that actually displease God very much.
Showing posts with label Holy Spirit. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Holy Spirit. Show all posts
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Sunday, November 15, 2009
We are all Fools, And We Continue to Go Astray
It's been a while since I've posted. Posting here has become difficult. As much because this blog gets so few hits as because of weariness. But I just read something this morning which bothers me to no end, and I have to post about it. What is it? What else?
Religious Intolerance acting in the name of Christ.
If you are curious about what I read you may find it here. The blog is maintained by Lee Wind. It is a blog supporting the Gay->Bi-sexual->Lesbian->Transgender segments of society.
This hatred in the name of Christ has to be the most disgusting thing on the planet. It's worse than pedephilia, terrorism, murder, rape, or any other crime you can think of. Why? Because if you accept this kind of hatred - hatred in the name of God - then you are capable of ALL of those crimes - and much more.
Who in the Bible did Christ hate?
NOBODY!
He didn't even hate the Pharisees and Sadduces who plotted to kill him. He wept for them because of the horrors which were coming.
So how can anyone who claims to have Christ's spirit in them hate so much?
I was reading in Romans today.
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. Romans 8:5 Revised Standard Version
When we focus our attention on banning books, or withholding social rights to others are we not focusing on the flesh?
When we create entire political action organizations using the name of Christ, have we not set our minds on the things of the flesh?
We do these things and we claim we are doing them for God. We claim we are representing God.
THAT IS A LIE!
Read what Jesus Christ himself said about governments and politics.
He said to them, "Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." Luke 20:25 Revised Standard Version
The laws of our society are NOT Christ's concern. How much, or even whether, we pay taxes. Where should speed limits be set? What books should be allowed here or there? These are the things of the flesh. They are NOT Christ's concern.
Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's slave and cut off his right ear. That slave's name was Malchus. Jesus said to Peter, "Put you rsword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup with the Father has given me?" John 18:10-11 Revised Standard Version
Jesus answered, "My kingship is not of this world; if my kingship were of this world, my servants would fight, that I might not be handed over to the Jews; but my kingship is not from the world." John 18:36 Revised Standard Version
We are NOT to fight. That is a direct order from Jesus himself. If he refused to allow it when he went to the cross, how much more will he refuse to allow it over the matter of books?
This is what Paul says.
But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blashpemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! 2 Timothy 3:1-5 New King James Version
I hilighted the portions which come to mind when I see and hear people who talk and act like Christian Conservatives.
I can't think of a single person on the planet who associtates Christian Conservatism with love.
What did Jesus say to the church of Ephaesus?
I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name's sake and have not become weary. Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left you first love.Revelation 2:2-4 New King James Version
God does not want us wasting our time hating other people who are different from us. Not even if we are absolutely convinced they are horrible, sinful, people. Because is that not what we are without Christ? Nobody is holy and pure except that God, through Christ, forgives their sins. There is no degree of sin to get in or be excluded from heaven. One sin. Any sin. Keeps us out. And we have all sinned. God says so.
You worried about worldly influences on yourself, your family, your children? Don't be. Hear what God has to say.
Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 Revised Standard Version
Spend less time worrying about the "don't" and more time on the "do's".
The "do's" of God are love and forgiveness.
Please, Please, Please remember that. I wish I could only make the Political Religious understand this.
Religious Intolerance acting in the name of Christ.
If you are curious about what I read you may find it here. The blog is maintained by Lee Wind. It is a blog supporting the Gay->Bi-sexual->Lesbian->Transgender segments of society.
This hatred in the name of Christ has to be the most disgusting thing on the planet. It's worse than pedephilia, terrorism, murder, rape, or any other crime you can think of. Why? Because if you accept this kind of hatred - hatred in the name of God - then you are capable of ALL of those crimes - and much more.
Who in the Bible did Christ hate?
NOBODY!
He didn't even hate the Pharisees and Sadduces who plotted to kill him. He wept for them because of the horrors which were coming.
So how can anyone who claims to have Christ's spirit in them hate so much?
I was reading in Romans today.
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. Romans 8:5 Revised Standard Version
When we focus our attention on banning books, or withholding social rights to others are we not focusing on the flesh?
When we create entire political action organizations using the name of Christ, have we not set our minds on the things of the flesh?
We do these things and we claim we are doing them for God. We claim we are representing God.
THAT IS A LIE!
Read what Jesus Christ himself said about governments and politics.
He said to them, "Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." Luke 20:25 Revised Standard Version
The laws of our society are NOT Christ's concern. How much, or even whether, we pay taxes. Where should speed limits be set? What books should be allowed here or there? These are the things of the flesh. They are NOT Christ's concern.
Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's slave and cut off his right ear. That slave's name was Malchus. Jesus said to Peter, "Put you rsword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup with the Father has given me?" John 18:10-11 Revised Standard Version
Jesus answered, "My kingship is not of this world; if my kingship were of this world, my servants would fight, that I might not be handed over to the Jews; but my kingship is not from the world." John 18:36 Revised Standard Version
We are NOT to fight. That is a direct order from Jesus himself. If he refused to allow it when he went to the cross, how much more will he refuse to allow it over the matter of books?
This is what Paul says.
But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blashpemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! 2 Timothy 3:1-5 New King James Version
I hilighted the portions which come to mind when I see and hear people who talk and act like Christian Conservatives.
I can't think of a single person on the planet who associtates Christian Conservatism with love.
What did Jesus say to the church of Ephaesus?
I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name's sake and have not become weary. Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left you first love.Revelation 2:2-4 New King James Version
God does not want us wasting our time hating other people who are different from us. Not even if we are absolutely convinced they are horrible, sinful, people. Because is that not what we are without Christ? Nobody is holy and pure except that God, through Christ, forgives their sins. There is no degree of sin to get in or be excluded from heaven. One sin. Any sin. Keeps us out. And we have all sinned. God says so.
You worried about worldly influences on yourself, your family, your children? Don't be. Hear what God has to say.
Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 Revised Standard Version
Spend less time worrying about the "don't" and more time on the "do's".
The "do's" of God are love and forgiveness.
Please, Please, Please remember that. I wish I could only make the Political Religious understand this.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Are You Rich or Are You Poor
And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" Mark 10:17 Revised Standard Version
It's a question many of us have asked. Some continue to ask it. Oh, maybe we don't use those words, but the question is there. How do I get to heaven?
The punchline answer is, "die". But that's actually the last step, not the first. If you're not on your way there before you die, you certainly won't be after.
So what do you (do I) have to do to get to heaven?
Do you pick up the arrogance in the question? There's an assumption there which is an affront to God. Fortunately, he knows we are flesh and silly and will treat with us on our level, so we can understand him. That's why he became flesh. So we could understand.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. John 1:1-3 New King James Version
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 New King James Version
The assumption, of course, is that we can somehow "earn" our way into heaven. We can purchase the right through some deed, or series of deeds, on our part. And that if we were to accomplish these deeds, God would have no choice but to let us in. In effect, we would have more power than God. I think that's what Lucifer tried to do. Just look what happened to him.
Now the truth is, there is something we can do to get to heaven. We can obey God. But that's reactive, not proactive. God speaks to our spirits, and how we respond to him will ultimately determine our future.
This story of the rich young ruler is repeated in the Book of Matthew. There, Jesus' response to the young man is recorded thus:
So He said to him, "Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments." Matthew 19:17 New King James Version.
Keep the commandments. Of course, we can guess the young man's response to that, and Matthew also records that.
He said to Him, "Which ones?" Jesus said, "'You shall not murder,' 'You shall not commit adultery,' 'You shall not steal,' 'You shall not bear false witness,' 'Honor your father and your mother,' and, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'" Matthew 19:18-19 New King James Version
That pretty much covers all commandments from God. The key to remember here is, "from God," not from man. We mortals have a tendency to add and subtract from God's commandments.
The young man felt he had achieved all of this, but he still wanted to hear it from Jesus. Why? Because somewhere inside himself he probably still felt empty and unsure. His next question supports this theory, for it suggests he senses he is still lacking something. He was.
The young man said to Him, "All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?" Jesus said to him, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. Then Jesus said to His disciples, "Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." Matthew 19:20-24 New King James Version
When people are rich they have a difficult, if not impossible, task of understanding their need for God, forgiveness, and mercy. Heaven is not a concern. Either they assume they are going, or they don't care one way or another.
I think it is important to point out that a person can be rich in things other than money, and that those other riches can be just as much a deterrent to seeing heaven as money itself. In the movie, "Pirates of the Caribbean", Jack Sparrow accuses Will Turner of being obsessed with treasure. Turner gets indignant and denies it. Then Sparrow says something profound: "Not all treasure is silver and gold, mate." He's right. It's not.
A lot of people who have little, or no, money are rich in other things. Perhaps it's their spouse. Their children. Their fame. Their power. Their friends. Could be anything, really. If we focus on those other things, and money is included in this list, to the point where God is falling out of his place of importance in our lives, there is an excellent chance that God will make us "poor" in order to make us understand where our needs really lie.
It's a horrible experience to lose money, people, prestige, possessions, talent, health, whatever. But if we allow the experience to turn our hearts and thoughts to God, it will ultimately be for our own good. And in due time we will regain those things, people, abilities that we lost. How do we regain someone who has died? But biding our time and living our life until such time that God reunites us in heaven.
It's horrible, and we go through a very natural phase of being very angry with God. Don't get too bent out of shape about getting angry with God. He understands. And he's not intimidated by our anger. He will not respond in kind. He will respond in kindness.
Psalm 103 New King James Version
[1] Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name!
[2] Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits:
[3] Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases,
[4] who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
[5] who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
[6] The LORD executes righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed.
[7] He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the children of Israel.
[8] The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.
[9] He will not always strive with us, nor will He keep His anger forever.
[10] He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor punished us according to our iniquities.
[11] For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;
[12] as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.
[13] As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear Him.
[14] For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.
[15] As for man, his days are like grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourishes.
[16] For the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more.
[17] But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children's children,
[18] to such as keep His covenant, and to those who remember His commandments to do them.
[19] The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.
[20] Bless the LORD, you His angels, who excel in strength, who do His word, heeding the voice of His word.
[21] Bless the LORD, all you His hosts, you ministers of His, who do His pleasure.
[22] Bless the LORD, all His works, in all places of His dominion. Bless the LORD, O my soul!
It's a question many of us have asked. Some continue to ask it. Oh, maybe we don't use those words, but the question is there. How do I get to heaven?
The punchline answer is, "die". But that's actually the last step, not the first. If you're not on your way there before you die, you certainly won't be after.
So what do you (do I) have to do to get to heaven?
Do you pick up the arrogance in the question? There's an assumption there which is an affront to God. Fortunately, he knows we are flesh and silly and will treat with us on our level, so we can understand him. That's why he became flesh. So we could understand.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. John 1:1-3 New King James Version
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 New King James Version
The assumption, of course, is that we can somehow "earn" our way into heaven. We can purchase the right through some deed, or series of deeds, on our part. And that if we were to accomplish these deeds, God would have no choice but to let us in. In effect, we would have more power than God. I think that's what Lucifer tried to do. Just look what happened to him.
Now the truth is, there is something we can do to get to heaven. We can obey God. But that's reactive, not proactive. God speaks to our spirits, and how we respond to him will ultimately determine our future.
This story of the rich young ruler is repeated in the Book of Matthew. There, Jesus' response to the young man is recorded thus:
So He said to him, "Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments." Matthew 19:17 New King James Version.
Keep the commandments. Of course, we can guess the young man's response to that, and Matthew also records that.
He said to Him, "Which ones?" Jesus said, "'You shall not murder,' 'You shall not commit adultery,' 'You shall not steal,' 'You shall not bear false witness,' 'Honor your father and your mother,' and, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'" Matthew 19:18-19 New King James Version
That pretty much covers all commandments from God. The key to remember here is, "from God," not from man. We mortals have a tendency to add and subtract from God's commandments.
The young man felt he had achieved all of this, but he still wanted to hear it from Jesus. Why? Because somewhere inside himself he probably still felt empty and unsure. His next question supports this theory, for it suggests he senses he is still lacking something. He was.
The young man said to Him, "All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?" Jesus said to him, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. Then Jesus said to His disciples, "Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." Matthew 19:20-24 New King James Version
When people are rich they have a difficult, if not impossible, task of understanding their need for God, forgiveness, and mercy. Heaven is not a concern. Either they assume they are going, or they don't care one way or another.
I think it is important to point out that a person can be rich in things other than money, and that those other riches can be just as much a deterrent to seeing heaven as money itself. In the movie, "Pirates of the Caribbean", Jack Sparrow accuses Will Turner of being obsessed with treasure. Turner gets indignant and denies it. Then Sparrow says something profound: "Not all treasure is silver and gold, mate." He's right. It's not.
A lot of people who have little, or no, money are rich in other things. Perhaps it's their spouse. Their children. Their fame. Their power. Their friends. Could be anything, really. If we focus on those other things, and money is included in this list, to the point where God is falling out of his place of importance in our lives, there is an excellent chance that God will make us "poor" in order to make us understand where our needs really lie.
It's a horrible experience to lose money, people, prestige, possessions, talent, health, whatever. But if we allow the experience to turn our hearts and thoughts to God, it will ultimately be for our own good. And in due time we will regain those things, people, abilities that we lost. How do we regain someone who has died? But biding our time and living our life until such time that God reunites us in heaven.
It's horrible, and we go through a very natural phase of being very angry with God. Don't get too bent out of shape about getting angry with God. He understands. And he's not intimidated by our anger. He will not respond in kind. He will respond in kindness.
Psalm 103 New King James Version
[1] Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name!
[2] Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits:
[3] Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases,
[4] who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
[5] who satisfies your mouth with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
[6] The LORD executes righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed.
[7] He made known His ways to Moses, His acts to the children of Israel.
[8] The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.
[9] He will not always strive with us, nor will He keep His anger forever.
[10] He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor punished us according to our iniquities.
[11] For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;
[12] as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.
[13] As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear Him.
[14] For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.
[15] As for man, his days are like grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourishes.
[16] For the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more.
[17] But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children's children,
[18] to such as keep His covenant, and to those who remember His commandments to do them.
[19] The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.
[20] Bless the LORD, you His angels, who excel in strength, who do His word, heeding the voice of His word.
[21] Bless the LORD, all you His hosts, you ministers of His, who do His pleasure.
[22] Bless the LORD, all His works, in all places of His dominion. Bless the LORD, O my soul!
Saturday, May 9, 2009
I Am Weak and Foolish
Did not read my scripture this morning. In fact, I don't believe I read it yesterday, either.
Been paging through the New Testament looking for a specific verse which has troubled my mind since I first read it back in the 1970s. Hadn't been able to find it, even using Strong's Concordance. Found it. At last. I was beginning to think I was remembering something that wasn't there. But here it is:
James (chapter three) Revised Standard Version
[1] Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, for you know that we who teach shall be judged with greater strictness.
[2] For we all make many mistakes, and if any one makes no mistakes in what he says he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body also.
The reason I couldn't find it is because my Strong's Concordance is based on the King James Version, which I do not regularly read. I do read the New King James Version, but that has been modernized, too. This is how it reads in the King James Version.
[1] My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall received the greater condemnation.
[2] For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.
By speaking out publicly, I make myself to be a teacher, and thus bring myself under the "stricture judgment", and "greater condemnation".
This bothers me. Often. But I so want people to know that God loves them. That God forgives them. That God wishes to talk and live with them.
To hear many television preachers these days one would get the impression that God insists on significant life changes in order to receive his love and forgiveness. But this just is not so.
Romans (chapter five) New King James Version
[5] Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
[6] For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
[7] For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die.
[8] But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
[9] Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.
And here it is in the King James Version.
[5] And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
[6] For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
[7] For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.
[8] But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
[9] Much more than, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
It bothers me that I am not a stalwart of faith. I am not someone to whom others can look and say, "I wish I were at least like him." No. Anyone who aspires to be like me has low aspirations indeed. My consolation comes from 1 Corinthians.
For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the cleverness of the clever I will thwart." Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the pwoer of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than me. For consider your call, brethren; not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth; but God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong. God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in th epresence of God. He is teh source of your life in Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom, our righteousness and sanctification and redemption; therefore, as it is written, "Let him who boasts, boast of the Lord." 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 Revised Standard Version
Been paging through the New Testament looking for a specific verse which has troubled my mind since I first read it back in the 1970s. Hadn't been able to find it, even using Strong's Concordance. Found it. At last. I was beginning to think I was remembering something that wasn't there. But here it is:
James (chapter three) Revised Standard Version
[1] Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, for you know that we who teach shall be judged with greater strictness.
[2] For we all make many mistakes, and if any one makes no mistakes in what he says he is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body also.
The reason I couldn't find it is because my Strong's Concordance is based on the King James Version, which I do not regularly read. I do read the New King James Version, but that has been modernized, too. This is how it reads in the King James Version.
[1] My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall received the greater condemnation.
[2] For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.
By speaking out publicly, I make myself to be a teacher, and thus bring myself under the "stricture judgment", and "greater condemnation".
This bothers me. Often. But I so want people to know that God loves them. That God forgives them. That God wishes to talk and live with them.
To hear many television preachers these days one would get the impression that God insists on significant life changes in order to receive his love and forgiveness. But this just is not so.
Romans (chapter five) New King James Version
[5] Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
[6] For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
[7] For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die.
[8] But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
[9] Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.
And here it is in the King James Version.
[5] And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.
[6] For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.
[7] For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.
[8] But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
[9] Much more than, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
It bothers me that I am not a stalwart of faith. I am not someone to whom others can look and say, "I wish I were at least like him." No. Anyone who aspires to be like me has low aspirations indeed. My consolation comes from 1 Corinthians.
For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the cleverness of the clever I will thwart." Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the pwoer of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than me. For consider your call, brethren; not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth; but God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong. God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in th epresence of God. He is teh source of your life in Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom, our righteousness and sanctification and redemption; therefore, as it is written, "Let him who boasts, boast of the Lord." 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 Revised Standard Version
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
From the Quran
Here is a bit from the Quran. I confess to being absent from it for a couple of weeks now. Been busy and been wiped. To be completely honest, I have not been reading my Bible every morning either. But today I am posting from the Quran.
It brings to mind a conversation I had with a relative recently. We were discussing the Bible and what certain passages might be telling us. He made a comment about inspiration. I don't recall it word-for-word, but basically, he said that the Quran and Jewish texts left out of the Bible are not inspired of God.
There was a time when I would have agreed with him without thinking. Now, however, I am thinking, and I am not so sure. Not when I read the Quran and find the same messages that I'm finding in the Bible.
Possibly, the only real conflict between Christianity and her sister faiths is what one chooses to believe about Jesus. People of the Christian Faith believe that Jesus is God, and that his death and resurrection are the reason people can again be united with God. Muslims will go as far as to say Jesus was a great prophet, but hold back from calling him God. I don't think Jews go even that far.
Personally, I don't see my role as being one to convince people of anything. I will simply state I believe Jesus is God. I am fine with what you believe. Talk to God about Jesus and let him tell you. That's between you and him.
Regarding God inspiring the Quran, I'll be honest. Coming from a Christian perspective I don't know. Those of you who are Muslim have no doubt whatsover, just as I have none regarding my Bible. What I do know is that the Quran and the Bible often are saying the same thing, as I found in this passage I read this morning.
Oh, I got it from this website.
[2:152] You shall remember Me, that I may remember you, and be thankful to Me; do not be unappreciative.
[2:153] O you who believe, seek help through steadfastness and the Contact Prayers (Salat). GOD is with those who steadfastly persevere.
[2:154] Do not say of those who are killed in the cause of GOD, "They are dead." They are alive at their Lord, but you do not perceive.
[2:155] We will surely test you through some fear, hunger, and loss of money, lives, and crops. Give good news to the steadfast.
[2:156] When an affliction befalls them, they say, "We belong to GOD, and to Him we are returning."
[2:157] These have deserved blessings from their Lord and mercy. These are the guided ones.
[2:158] The knolls of Safa and Marwah are among the rites decreed by GOD. Anyone who observes Hajj or `Umrah commits no error by traversing the distance between them. If one volunteers more righteous works, then GOD is Appreciative, Omniscient.
[2:159] Those who conceal our revelations and guidance, after proclaiming them for the people in the scripture, are condemned by GOD; they are condemned by all the condemners.
[2:160] As for those who repent, reform, and proclaim, I redeem them. I am the Redeemer, Most Merciful.
[2:161] Those who disbelieve and die as disbelievers, have incurred the condemnation of GOD, the angels, and all the people (on the Day of Judgment).
[2:162] Eternally they abide therein. The retribution is never commuted for them, nor are they reprieved.
[2:163] Your god is one god; there is no god but He, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
[2:164] In the creation of the heavens and the earth, the alternation of night and day, the ships that roam the ocean for the benefit of the people, the water that GOD sends down from the sky to revive dead land and to spread in it all kinds of creatures, the manipulation of the winds, and the clouds that are placed between the sky and the earth, there are sufficient proofs for people who understand.
[2:165] Yet, some people set up idols to rival GOD, and love them as if they are GOD. Those who believe love GOD the most. If only the transgressors could see themselves when they see the retribution! They will realize then that all power belongs to GOD alone, and that GOD's retribution is awesome.
[2:166] Those who were followed will disown those who followed them. They will see the retribution, and all ties among them will be severed.
[2:167] Those who followed will say, "If we can get another chance, we will disown them, as they have disowned us now." GOD thus shows them the consequences of their works as nothing but remorse; they will never exit Hell.
[2:168] O people, eat from the earth's products all that is lawful and good, and do not follow the steps of Satan; he is your most ardent enemy.
[2:169] He only commands you to commit evil and vice, and to say about GOD what you do not know.
[2:170] When they are told, "Follow what GOD has revealed herein," they say, "We follow only what we found our parents doing." What if their parents did not understand, and were not guided?
[2:171] The example of such disbelievers is that of parrots who repeat what they hear of sounds and calls, without understanding. Deaf, dumb, and blind; they cannot understand.
[2:172] O you who believe, eat from the good things we provided for you, and be thankful to GOD, if you do worship Him alone.
[2:173] He only prohibits for you the eating of animals that die of themselves (without human interference), blood, the meat of pigs, and animals dedicated to other than GOD. If one is forced (to eat these), without being malicious or deliberate, he incurs no sin. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.
[2:174] Those who conceal GOD's revelations in the scripture, in exchange for a cheap material gain, eat but fire into their bellies. GOD will not speak to them on the Day of Resurrection, nor will He purify them. They have incurred a painful retribution.
[2:175] It is they who chose the straying instead of guidance, and the retribution instead of forgiveness. Consequently, they will have to endure Hell.
It brings to mind a conversation I had with a relative recently. We were discussing the Bible and what certain passages might be telling us. He made a comment about inspiration. I don't recall it word-for-word, but basically, he said that the Quran and Jewish texts left out of the Bible are not inspired of God.
There was a time when I would have agreed with him without thinking. Now, however, I am thinking, and I am not so sure. Not when I read the Quran and find the same messages that I'm finding in the Bible.
Possibly, the only real conflict between Christianity and her sister faiths is what one chooses to believe about Jesus. People of the Christian Faith believe that Jesus is God, and that his death and resurrection are the reason people can again be united with God. Muslims will go as far as to say Jesus was a great prophet, but hold back from calling him God. I don't think Jews go even that far.
Personally, I don't see my role as being one to convince people of anything. I will simply state I believe Jesus is God. I am fine with what you believe. Talk to God about Jesus and let him tell you. That's between you and him.
Regarding God inspiring the Quran, I'll be honest. Coming from a Christian perspective I don't know. Those of you who are Muslim have no doubt whatsover, just as I have none regarding my Bible. What I do know is that the Quran and the Bible often are saying the same thing, as I found in this passage I read this morning.
Oh, I got it from this website.
2- The Heifer (Al-Baqarah)
[2:151] (Blessings) such as the sending of a messenger from among you to recite our revelations to you, purify you, teach you the scripture and wisdom, and to teach you what you never knew.[2:152] You shall remember Me, that I may remember you, and be thankful to Me; do not be unappreciative.
[2:153] O you who believe, seek help through steadfastness and the Contact Prayers (Salat). GOD is with those who steadfastly persevere.
[2:154] Do not say of those who are killed in the cause of GOD, "They are dead." They are alive at their Lord, but you do not perceive.
[2:155] We will surely test you through some fear, hunger, and loss of money, lives, and crops. Give good news to the steadfast.
[2:156] When an affliction befalls them, they say, "We belong to GOD, and to Him we are returning."
[2:157] These have deserved blessings from their Lord and mercy. These are the guided ones.
[2:158] The knolls of Safa and Marwah are among the rites decreed by GOD. Anyone who observes Hajj or `Umrah commits no error by traversing the distance between them. If one volunteers more righteous works, then GOD is Appreciative, Omniscient.
[2:159] Those who conceal our revelations and guidance, after proclaiming them for the people in the scripture, are condemned by GOD; they are condemned by all the condemners.
[2:160] As for those who repent, reform, and proclaim, I redeem them. I am the Redeemer, Most Merciful.
[2:161] Those who disbelieve and die as disbelievers, have incurred the condemnation of GOD, the angels, and all the people (on the Day of Judgment).
[2:162] Eternally they abide therein. The retribution is never commuted for them, nor are they reprieved.
[2:163] Your god is one god; there is no god but He, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
[2:164] In the creation of the heavens and the earth, the alternation of night and day, the ships that roam the ocean for the benefit of the people, the water that GOD sends down from the sky to revive dead land and to spread in it all kinds of creatures, the manipulation of the winds, and the clouds that are placed between the sky and the earth, there are sufficient proofs for people who understand.
[2:165] Yet, some people set up idols to rival GOD, and love them as if they are GOD. Those who believe love GOD the most. If only the transgressors could see themselves when they see the retribution! They will realize then that all power belongs to GOD alone, and that GOD's retribution is awesome.
[2:166] Those who were followed will disown those who followed them. They will see the retribution, and all ties among them will be severed.
[2:167] Those who followed will say, "If we can get another chance, we will disown them, as they have disowned us now." GOD thus shows them the consequences of their works as nothing but remorse; they will never exit Hell.
[2:168] O people, eat from the earth's products all that is lawful and good, and do not follow the steps of Satan; he is your most ardent enemy.
[2:169] He only commands you to commit evil and vice, and to say about GOD what you do not know.
[2:170] When they are told, "Follow what GOD has revealed herein," they say, "We follow only what we found our parents doing." What if their parents did not understand, and were not guided?
[2:171] The example of such disbelievers is that of parrots who repeat what they hear of sounds and calls, without understanding. Deaf, dumb, and blind; they cannot understand.
[2:172] O you who believe, eat from the good things we provided for you, and be thankful to GOD, if you do worship Him alone.
[2:173] He only prohibits for you the eating of animals that die of themselves (without human interference), blood, the meat of pigs, and animals dedicated to other than GOD. If one is forced (to eat these), without being malicious or deliberate, he incurs no sin. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.
[2:174] Those who conceal GOD's revelations in the scripture, in exchange for a cheap material gain, eat but fire into their bellies. GOD will not speak to them on the Day of Resurrection, nor will He purify them. They have incurred a painful retribution.
[2:175] It is they who chose the straying instead of guidance, and the retribution instead of forgiveness. Consequently, they will have to endure Hell.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
The Way I Understand God's Names
I had meant to only post here on Sundays. However, I am reading a book, The Faith Club, by Ranya Idliby, Suzanne Oliver, and Priscilla Warner, and some of the things they had to deal with before they could complete their work are striking chords with me.
One is the charge that Christians do not worship a single God. We talk about The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit as if these were three separate Gods, or pieces of God. We use inaccurate analogies, such as a three-stand rope. With every effort to explain our monotheist view we only encourage others to believe we're talking about three different beings.
So, despite being highly uneducated compared to most, I will attempt at demonstrating how we can say Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and still be talking about God. One God.
In keeping with the Christian tendency to use silly analogies, let me use a familiar name to most. Barach Obama.
Barach Obama is a single person. Yet he has different names. Not titles. Names. How so?
Should we of the American Public address him face-to-face, we would call him Mr. President. Whatever else we might say about him when not addressing him personally, when we do talk to him we would say, "Mr. President."
He is still Barach Obama. A single person.
Michelle Obama, and the president's close friends and family, most likely call him, Barach. I certainly can't see his wife calling him, "Mr. President." Perhaps in public, at a function, but in private he is Barach.
He is still Barach Obama. Mr. President. A single person.
The president's children call him Dad, Daddy, Father, or something of the like, I'm sure. Again, at a function they may use his formal title. But at home, together, he is Daddy.
He is still Barach Obama. Mr. President. Barach. A single person.
So it is with God.
Our names for God do not reference different gods. Neither do they reference "parts of God". They identify God acting in one of his many capacities.
The Father
God created everything. How he went about it is still up for speculation. That he did it, should not be. (For some it is, and for others they are convinced he had nothing to do with it - because they don't even believe he exists. Different issue.) God is also in charge of everything. How he administers things is also something which can be debated. That he is in charge, should not be.
God is holy. He is in charge. He is Creator. He is Master. However you wish to view it, there is no one of greater importance than God. When addressing God in this capacity, Christians use the term, "Father." We (Christians) believe that God granted humanity this term of affection by means of what he did in forgiving us.
The Son
We (Christians) believe that God personally indwelt a physical human being called Jesus. There was no other spirit than his own in that body. His purpose in doing this was to offer himself as the sacrifice for humanity's sins. That being done, justice was satisfied and he could welcome all of humanity back into his arms.
When we speak of God paying for our sins, we speak of God acting as The Son. He is still God. Just as "Barach" is still "Mr. President."
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is how we (Christians) think of God when he addresses us personally. This is done on a spiritual level we cannot fully comprehend. We know God convicts us of sin when we go wrong. We know God comforts our hearts when we are grieved. We know God inspires us to works, both great and small. It is God's activity in our personal lives which we refer to as "The Holy Spirit."
But God is still God. There is only one God. Sometimes he touches our hearts to guide us, or comfort us. He has taken it upon himself to pay for humanity's sins in order that humanity may abide with him forever. He is majestic and in charge. He is all of these things, and much, much more. If we wanted to, we could probably come up with a hundred names for God.
But there would still only be God. One God. With many names.
.
One is the charge that Christians do not worship a single God. We talk about The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit as if these were three separate Gods, or pieces of God. We use inaccurate analogies, such as a three-stand rope. With every effort to explain our monotheist view we only encourage others to believe we're talking about three different beings.
So, despite being highly uneducated compared to most, I will attempt at demonstrating how we can say Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and still be talking about God. One God.
In keeping with the Christian tendency to use silly analogies, let me use a familiar name to most. Barach Obama.
Barach Obama is a single person. Yet he has different names. Not titles. Names. How so?
Should we of the American Public address him face-to-face, we would call him Mr. President. Whatever else we might say about him when not addressing him personally, when we do talk to him we would say, "Mr. President."
He is still Barach Obama. A single person.
Michelle Obama, and the president's close friends and family, most likely call him, Barach. I certainly can't see his wife calling him, "Mr. President." Perhaps in public, at a function, but in private he is Barach.
He is still Barach Obama. Mr. President. A single person.
The president's children call him Dad, Daddy, Father, or something of the like, I'm sure. Again, at a function they may use his formal title. But at home, together, he is Daddy.
He is still Barach Obama. Mr. President. Barach. A single person.
So it is with God.
Our names for God do not reference different gods. Neither do they reference "parts of God". They identify God acting in one of his many capacities.
The Father
God created everything. How he went about it is still up for speculation. That he did it, should not be. (For some it is, and for others they are convinced he had nothing to do with it - because they don't even believe he exists. Different issue.) God is also in charge of everything. How he administers things is also something which can be debated. That he is in charge, should not be.
God is holy. He is in charge. He is Creator. He is Master. However you wish to view it, there is no one of greater importance than God. When addressing God in this capacity, Christians use the term, "Father." We (Christians) believe that God granted humanity this term of affection by means of what he did in forgiving us.
The Son
We (Christians) believe that God personally indwelt a physical human being called Jesus. There was no other spirit than his own in that body. His purpose in doing this was to offer himself as the sacrifice for humanity's sins. That being done, justice was satisfied and he could welcome all of humanity back into his arms.
When we speak of God paying for our sins, we speak of God acting as The Son. He is still God. Just as "Barach" is still "Mr. President."
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is how we (Christians) think of God when he addresses us personally. This is done on a spiritual level we cannot fully comprehend. We know God convicts us of sin when we go wrong. We know God comforts our hearts when we are grieved. We know God inspires us to works, both great and small. It is God's activity in our personal lives which we refer to as "The Holy Spirit."
But God is still God. There is only one God. Sometimes he touches our hearts to guide us, or comfort us. He has taken it upon himself to pay for humanity's sins in order that humanity may abide with him forever. He is majestic and in charge. He is all of these things, and much, much more. If we wanted to, we could probably come up with a hundred names for God.
But there would still only be God. One God. With many names.
.
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