Christians

[Adelheid]

Since I have a thread for Atheists, I think I should have one for Christians too, where all the Christians here can bring up any "theological" issue.

It's also good fellowship for us, and it'd be good to know who are the Christians here. This thread is meant to edify one another in Christ, and not t ridicule or tear others down, remember!

Now, Loki.... no playing here, k? Dangerous ground for you to come as: tsiehta... (!) :D

Right! Let the discussion begin! :nod:

[Jay]

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a157/jayellen/smileys/decide.gif

Not like I'd be a 'believer' but only Christians are allowed to come and play with the grown-ups? Why does it matter if one is or isn't a Christian?


it'd be good to know who are the Christians here

Why? To put labels on people? Why does it matter? 'blonde, blue-eyed' dangerously coming to mind.

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a157/jayellen/smileys/tomato.gif

[Koa]

well I guess that there's nothing too wrong in wanting to meet the other Christians, like one would like to meet the other fans of a particular singer or of a football team on the forum...(*wonders if the comparaison will be considered heretical* :D)
I also suppose that the non-Christians who want to say something about Christianism which is pertinent to the discussion and won't cause a war will be probably be allowed...
Or so I hope.
And Jay, that first smily you used it lovely!!!:D

Anyway I think that there are a lot of threads around where people are commenting the Bible and such... though it is not really my kind of topic so I have nothing to say for a discussion.

[Jay]

ok, I guess I might have overreacted a bit, I'm sorry. I just thought there's two kinds of people - theists (not sure if that's the proper word) and atheists (in this contexts anaway) and... I'm ranting.

[Adelheid]

sorry guys... or gals.... ;)

Yeah, guess you can come too! :D

[Loki]

theists

Yep, that's right, Jay. Theists believe in a god or gods, atheists don't believe in any god, deists who believe there was once a god but he abandoned the universe after making it, agnostics who aren't sure what to think/are neutral...

"Ist' possible?" All these ist's! ;)

[Ancestor]

Loki how about throwing in a Spiritualist the ist list? I am in a totally different ball park and if you were a spiritualist you were in bed with the Devil a century ago. Do not know about you but I do not believe in the guy so I guess I cannot lie with him. In fact there are only a few parts of the Bible I can agree with. My feeling is that if you are just as happy without a faith then I do not have a problem with that. I do not have a right to have a problem with that. My faith makes me happy and fill my spirit but that is my path to walk not anyone else's. :)

[Loki]

Loki how about throwing in a Spiritualist the ist list?

Ah, I forgot about that, sorry. There's even *more* ist's out there than I had expected! :eek:

But if you're a Spiritualist, does that mean that you don't believe in some kind of higher being? God, or gods? Wouldn't Spiritualism then be a specialised branch of theism? I don't know much about these things, so if I'm wrong, please don't take offence...I'm merely curious.

Loki out

[Loki]

Now, Loki.... no playing here, k? Dangerous ground for you to come as: tsiehta...

My am I slow-witted. I was wondering what you meant...but I see it now. Oh, the moments of incandescence...;)

[Ancestor]

Ah, I forgot about that, sorry. There's even *more* ist's out there than I had expected! :eek:

But if you're a Spiritualist, does that mean that you don't believe in some kind of higher being? God, or gods? Wouldn't Spiritualism then be a specialised branch of theism? I don't know much about these things, so if I'm wrong, please don't take offence...I'm merely curious.

Loki out

No offence taken and for me as a Spiritualist I do believe in the Great Spirit which is what I prefer to call God. I guess you could say it was a branch of theism but most people do not recognize it as a religion even but I do. ;)

[Taliesin]

Yep, that's right, Jay. Theists believe in a god or gods, atheists don't believe in any god, deists who believe there was once a god but he abandoned the universe after making it, agnostics who aren't sure what to think/are neutral...

"Ist' possible?" All these ist's! ;)
But how about pantheists, animists and animatists?

[Loki]

But how about pantheists, animists and animatists?

Ah, I had forgotten about them. :D

[Ancestor]

Anyone else have a ist word to add for Loki? :lol: I sure am learning a lot of new words here which is a good thing. :nod:

[Adelheid]

It's not desperation. It's out of being frustrated with the stubborness of others who wantonly stick to their own view and argue just for the sake of it. :brow:

[Loki]

It's not desperation. It's out of being frustrated with the stubborness of others who wantonly stick to their own view and argue just for the sake of it.

People like me, you mean. :p


Anyone else have a ist word to add for Loki? I sure am learning a lot of new words here which is a good thing.

Glad to hear it. As for more "-ist's", I have some right here: Buddhist, Methodist, Nonconformist, Conformist, feminist, cyclist, linguist, copyist, rightist, wrongist, tinkerist, winkerist, flibbertigibbetist...and a whole lIST of others. :lol:

[subterranean]

S/he is frustrated due to people s/he talked to, don't trust/accept the things s/he considered as truth (in this case about Christ and Christianity as a whole), no matter how hard s/he tried.

If I'm not mistaken, there's a verse in the Bible which says that it is the work of holy spirit that can make someone believe in the teachings. It is not human work at all.

[Koa]

If I'm not mistaken, there's a verse in the Bible which says that it is the work of holy spirit that can make someone believe in the teachings. It is not human work at all. Hence, I said, I don't really understand his frustration with people who can't accept Christianity.

Right. I can't be convinced of something I don't feel.

[Ancestor]

I did not think we were trying to make anyone feel any different but trying to learn about what makes us who we are. I do not get the impression we were being argumentative here. I have met quite a few people who believe that atheist should not be allowed to walk the face of the Earth along with Spiritualist or any faith. That to me is taking things far to far and no matter what others say I believe we all are free to believe or not to believe. I will not pass judgment upon another just because I disagree with them or they are a different color then I am. Besides we are here to learn and state opinions and not to change a person into a believer or non believer.

[Adelheid]

Does anyone have a topic that we can discuss on? It would be more interesting than just drifting around aimlessly. Any part of the Bible that you need help in, or interested in?

What about the End times- Revelation? I like that Book, because it's getting VERY relevant to us now.

[B-Mental]

I always consider myself a naturalist. Something like a spiritualist. I was raised Irish Roman Catholic, believe to an extent in JC, but I recognise the energy which exists in all natural materials. I would probably be most closely relate to the druids (Irish roots).

To me the Trinity is 1. the Father (the spirit of that which has lived previously) 2. The Sun, the source of life radiates from that 3. The Holy Spirit, the Moon, that which provides light in the darkness.

[subterranean]

B-Mental, why is "the father" is still used in your conception of holy trinity? I think the word "father" is used because Jesus is considered as the "son" in the new testament. Also, the old statement, didn't use the word 'father" because in this part of the Bible, Jesus was not yet "known".

[Stanislaw]

Well, I am christian, Catholic to be prsise, and not ashamed nor scared to admit.

[Ulalume<3]

Actually, "Jesus" is in the Old Testament, but he is not called Jesus. There are instances throughout the Old Testament where a being called the Angel of the Lord performs the acts of God and is almost directly called God, so we see signs of a being with the powers of God, but is not God the Father.

[subterranean]

Ula, I was referring to the term "son", not the "Jesus" part...

[B-Mental]

Actually, "Jesus" is in the Old Testament, but he is not called Jesus. There are instances throughout the Old Testament where a being called the Angel of the Lord performs the acts of God and is almost directly called God, so we see signs of a being with the powers of God, but is not God the Father.

I thought that was the Holy Spirit, in order to be Jesus it must be the 'son of God'.

[Stanislaw]

Actually, "Jesus" is in the Old Testament, but he is not called Jesus. There are instances throughout the Old Testament where a being called the Angel of the Lord performs the acts of God and is almost directly called God, so we see signs of a being with the powers of God, but is not God the Father.

not to be ignorant, but I thought Jesus was only prophesized in the Old testament, not actually present.

[B-Mental]

B-Mental, why is "the father" is still used in your conception of holy trinity? I think the word "father" is used because Jesus is considered as the "son" in the new testament. Also, the old statement, didn't use the word 'father" because in this part of the Bible, Jesus was not yet "known".

Probably to retain continuity, personally my father is dead. I'm not try to be chauvinistic, and am open to a word which conveys the concept.

[B-Mental]

not to be ignorant, but I thought Jesus was only prophesized in the Old testament, not actually present.


I agree whoelheartedly

[Psycheinaboat]

Just wanted to point out that agnosticism is a philosophy that comprises a bit more than just "not knowing." It may sound like playing semantics, but agnostics believe that humans can never know for certain, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that there is positively a higher being or lack thereof.

Agnosticism encompasses pure skepticism.

[B-Mental]

the word faith comes into play here...

[Psycheinaboat]

I would say agnostics have faith. They just have faith in the impossibilty of knowing through human perception.

Perhaps it could be said that they have faith in skepticism.

[mono]

the word faith comes into play here...
Faith definitely comes into play here, I agree entirely. I suppose I have a lot of trouble with so much labeling of religions and beliefs, and would like to think that we all have separate interpretations of, not only truth and perception, but religious texts (the Pope, I can easily assume, has very different interpretations of The Bible from Anton Szandor LaVey, for example). The labels, when you think of it, only apply to clumps of people who share similar interpretations, and a cult differs from a whole religion only by the number of its followers.
Faith and reason, I doubt will ever agree, and I have always viewed them as antagonistic pumping valves. Faith and reason, of course, can appear in accord with each other sometimes, but nothing will ever scientifically prove or disprove certain aspects of faith, and vice versa. Though I usually do not admit my faith in these forums, I consider myself a 'spiritual theist,' and not really declaring any religion, but mainly skepticism.

[Ulalume<3]

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word Elohim is used to talk about God, the -im at the end of it is used in Hebrew to mean 3 or more, showing that God is made of 3 or more, the Trinity. The words Father and Son were just used so that we could relate to it easier. The Son's purpose is to act as a Mediator, to relate to humans, and that is usually it's purpose in the Old Testament. As to it being the Holy Spirit, there is also another being that is called The Spirit of God, but it rarely shows up and is used for special purposes and taken away shortly after. One instance is Besalel, who was the man filled with the Spirit of God to build the Ark of the Covenant.

[B-Mental]

***********

[Rocket618]

The son was mentioned in the Old Testament, in Daniel 3:25-He answered
and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they
have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. - KJV

[Ulalume<3]

The son was mentioned in the Old Testament, in Daniel 3:25-He answered
and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they
have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. - KJV

That is a prophecy. I meant in terms of him dealing with the people of Israel

[B-Mental]

I would say agnostics have faith. They just have faith in the impossibilty of knowing through human perception.

Perhaps it could be said that they have faith in skepticism.

I beg to differ, from experience, agnostics have doubt, the opposite of faith. An agnostic would not make a leap of faith. The impossibility of knowing is doubt. To have faith one must accept something regardless of possibility of knowing.

[Stanislaw]

I beg to differ, from experience, agnostics have doubt, the opposite of faith. An agnostic would not make a leap of faith. The impossibility of knowing is doubt. To have faith one must accept something regardless of possibility of knowing.

I agree, agnostics dont' believe in God whole heartidly, they merely say, God is the best explenation within our current understanding. And doubt being the fuel for sin, it would appear that they are still stuck on the earthly concept of man.

[Taliesin]

Hmm, Stab, if we are not mistaken, agnostics statement isn't that god is the best explanation. They say that God's existence cannot be proven, but we can't still eliminate the existence of him.
Or at least we have heard so.

[B-Mental]

OK, back to the topic of Christians for a second. I've noticed that the harder I try to perform good deeds, the more I am beset by others that view me as weak. Does that make any sense? The kinder I am the more often persons seek to challenge me.

[Pendragon]

OK, back to the topic of Christians for a second. I've noticed that the harder I try to perform good deeds, the more I am beset by others that view me as weak. Does that make any sense? The kinder I am the more often persons seek to challenge me.Not at all. Read Romans chapter seven & eight for a Biblical explaination of this phenomena. :angel:

[rachel]

Well since I am a Messianic Jew I fit into another compartment altogether.But I bow down and worship (yep bow down) Jesus as the second Person of the Trinity.
I came to this place through a long journey and God did not seem to be offended at me.
I believe passionately that the Holy Spirit calls us gently every day and longs to share with us about God but it is our choice wether to listen or not. I myself did not for the longest time Ijust had to search out well, everything to make sure in my heart these things are so.
So what the others are saying I said and take no offence whatsoever.

"The fool says in his heart there is no God." Holy Scripture

[Psycheinaboat]

Hmm, Stab, if we are not mistaken, agnostics statement isn't that god is the best explanation. They say that God's existence cannot be proven, but we can't still eliminate the existence of him.
Or at least we have heard so.

I agree, Taliesin. I am not really agnostic, but I deal with doubt (a lot) in my Christian faith.

When Huxley coined the phrase "agnostic" he defined it as meaning that God cannot be proven or disproven using human perception of material phenomena.

The reason I posted that I felt that agnostics could still be said to have faith in skepticism or the impossibilty of knowing about God for certain, was that I feel that most of us have faith in something. To deny faith and belief in one thing is to usually claim faith in something else.

I may have been mistaken to bring this up on a thread about and for Christians, but my remarks were made in response to previous remarks on this topic. :)

[Adelheid]

Is Christ the head of your life? This is a Christian thread. It's all about CHRIST and not us. CHRIST- I Am Nothing. (CHRISTIAN)

Is He the head of your life? The first thought in all that you do ? Do you acknowledge Him in all that you do? Seek His direction for your plans and life? That is a short challenge I leave with you, fellow Christians.

Are you conducting your life in obedience to him- not merely on this website but even in your lives? His ultimate command: Go INTO the world and preach the gospel to every creature. Are you obeying? Or are you reasoning with yourself that it is not for you? Are you a believer and a follower of Jesus? If so, all the 49 commands that Christ gave is directed to you. Are you following them?

Can it be said of you, "well done, good and faithful servant." Are you faithful in the little things that God gave you to do? :nod:

[Ancestor]

Is Christ the head of your life? This is a Christian thread. It's all about CHRIST and not us. CHRIST- I Am Nothing. (CHRISTIAN)

Is He the head of your life? The first thought in all that you do ? Do you acknowledge Him in all that you do? Seek His direction for your plans and life? That is a short challenge I leave with you, fellow Christians.

Are you conducting your life in obedience to him- not merely on this website but even in your lives? His ultimate command: Go INTO the world and preach the gospel to every creature. Are you obeying? Or are you reasoning with yourself that it is not for you? Are you a believer and a follower of Jesus? If so, all the 49 commands that Christ gave is directed to you. Are you following them?

Can it be said of you, "well done, good and faithful servant." Are you faithful in the little things that God gave you to do? :nod:

I feel that you are a bit upset with some of the things said on this thread. If you have Christ in your heart then does it not make it a little bit about ourselves. After all our faith is within our being's very soul and Adelheid you opened that door. We of faith follow and practice differently then you but we are judge by one being in the end. I hear how strong your faith is to you but when you opened this thread other faith is shining as well. Not trying to offend you but Christians of all kinds are not going see Christainity the same.
Spiritualist is a diffent type of Chirstain faith and also is misunderstood by many. I felt welcomed to learn about Christians faith when you opened this thread and I am learning a lot from this thread. Just do not get upset but allow people to open up their beings to you and others. Sorry I think I am being too pushy and lecturing where I should not. I just wanted you to know it is so nice to read others ideals it adds to my own spiritual growth. :)

[B-Mental]

I feel that you are a bit upset with some of the things said on this thread....
Spiritualist is a diffent type of Chirstain faith and also is misunderstood by many. I felt welcome to learn about Christians faith when you opened this thread and I am learning a lot from. Just do not get upset but allow people to open up their beings to you and others. Sorry I think I am being too pushy and lecturing where I should not. I just wanted you to know it is so nice to read others ideals it adds to my own spiritual growth. :)

I concur wholeheartedly with your comments Ancestor. You are entirely correct and not being too pushy. Judge not lest ye be judged.

I believe that being a Christian is more about deeds than words. A lead by example type of faith. When I perform acts of charity the response of those persons is so honest. Their blessings are heartfelt. I'm talking about those in need, the ones most of our society ignores because of their status. All of the preaching in the world amounts to is communication. Can one not communicate by deeds.

I have a friend that is a christian that is afraid of everything. She always feels bad about passing a person asking for money, because she looks the other way and offers not even a kind word. She also believes I in saying prayers all of the time. "Hail Mary full of grace. Help me find a parking place."
I had to laugh at that one.

[Pendragon]

Is Christ the head of your life? This is a Christian thread. It's all about CHRIST and not us. CHRIST- I Am Nothing. (CHRISTIAN)

Is He the head of your life? The first thought in all that you do ? Do you acknowledge Him in all that you do? Seek His direction for your plans and life? That is a short challenge I leave with you, fellow Christians.

Are you conducting your life in obedience to him- not merely on this website but even in your lives? His ultimate command: Go INTO the world and preach the gospel to every creature. Are you obeying? Or are you reasoning with yourself that it is not for you? Are you a believer and a follower of Jesus? If so, all the 49 commands that Christ gave is directed to you. Are you following them?

Can it be said of you, "well done, good and faithful servant." Are you faithful in the little things that God gave you to do? :nod:OK. I realize that this interjection may not be well received, but believe me when I say that I do nothing out of spite or intent to injure anyone. I have tried to maintain my own Christian faith while listening to others tell me how they believe. Two pieces of scripture come to mind quickly. Luke 9:50 "And Jesus said unto to him, forbid [him] not: for he that is not against us, is for us." and Romans 14:4 "Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? To his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand." Not everyone will agree with you on everything, Adelheid. But I think it safe to say that most of us agree more than we disgree. And the fact is, we're not yet in the sweet by and by. This is the nasty now and now. I'm very happy that you seem to have a great deal of support in your Christian walk. Some of us are not as fortunate. Circumstances dictate that we must struggle on our own. But the promise is not to the one that starts the race, but to him that overcometh. So like Paul, I glory in my weakness, for when I am weak, then He is strong. May God richly bless you and The Peace That Passes Understanding be with you always!http://www.websmileys.com/sm/angels/teu25.gif

[Adelheid]

Thanks, Pendragon.

I understand that, and it was because of that fact that people are weak and need support that I set up this thread. The original intent was to edify others and not to discuss about Christianity. One can do that on almost any other thread. But edifying other is important, for as you say, not everyone is strong, and we all need the support and encouragement of friends to help us along the tough and lonely journey.

I didn't mean to preach but to challenge others to deepen their faith. Those who may not be so blessed as I to receive all this knowledge. I who have been blessed will have to give account of all my "talents" and my blessings. I can only share them with those less fortunate than I, who have not all the benefits I may have from all this knowledge and instruction.

Circumstances may dictate that you struggle on your own, but Jesus says that He is with us always. Thus we don't have to struggle onward on our own strength, but fully trust and rely upon Him. For as you so rightly put it, It is when I am weak that He is strong. It is when I need Him most that He is there.

Thanks for your reply, though. :nod:

[Pendragon]

Thanks, Pendragon.

I understand that, and it was because of that fact that people are weak and need support that I set up this thread. The original intent was to edify others and not to discuss about Christianity. One can do that on almost any other thread. But edifying other is important, for as you say, not everyone is strong, and we all need the support and encouragement of friends to help us along the tough and lonely journey.

I didn't mean to preach but to challenge others to deepen their faith. Those who may not be so blessed as I to receive all this knowledge. I who have been blessed will have to give account of all my "talents" and my blessings. I can only share them with those less fortunate than I, who have not all the benefits I may have from all this knowledge and instruction.

Circumstances may dictate that you struggle on your own, but Jesus says that He is with us always. Thus we don't have to struggle onward on our own strength, but fully trust and rely upon Him. For as you so rightly put it, It is when I am weak that He is strong. It is when I need Him most that He is there.

Thanks for your reply, though. :nod:Now, see, the Adelheid that I knew was there comes shining through in this post. Encouraging others through the knowledge given unto you. Paul says "Woe is unto me if I prech not the Gospel of Christ." But do everything with consideration for others. Yes, I know I am never alone. A great man of God once said "You and God make a majority anywhere!" I worry so much about how others perceive Christians. We sometimes talk a good sermon, but do we SHOW a good sermon? The sermon we show goes much further with people than the one we preach. I know from experience. I've been an ordained non-denominational minister since 1981, and traveled as an evangelist until my disabling illness struck out of nowhere. Now there are days I can't even leave the house, but He never promised an easy road, He just said He'd go with me to the end. Take care, and God bless! http://www.websmileys.com/sm/angels/angel3.gif

[rachel]

I read a true story written by a bishop that might help us a little bit here. God says plainly that He is no respector of persons but the man of every nation that does His will is acceptable to Him.If any of you are parents you would notice that even if you expect each child to obey the rules he or she has his or her own unique way of honoring you and doing so and to force each one to act exactly like the other would be a violation of the freedom given each mortal when they enter this world.God gently invites each of us to come to him.
This is the story the bishop wrote. he was travelling by ship to do some work with other parishes and as the ship came within a couple of miles one hot starry evening to a small island there was a clamour and great commotion aboard among the passengers and crew.
There to their utter astonishment were three companions who had heard that a bishop would be aboard and wanted him to pray over them since there was no congregation of any sort on their little home.
The amazing thing is the three were clearly walking on the top of the ocean with their bare feet. people took pictures and stared down at the trio.
the bishop talked to them a bit and gleaning how totally ignorant they were about God and the bible was about to teach them as much as he could in a short space of time when he stopped. "Who do you say God is?" he enquired. The admitted they only knew one thing, something they had each heard in his spirit. "They are three and holy just as we are three." that was their answer. The bishop felt humbled and small as he contemplated how that one sentence had given the men the confidence to believe Him for anything, sure of His love. They walked upon water. The bishop shared nothing with them at that time but what they shared with him changed his life forever.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" holy scripture.

[Adelheid]

Now, see, the Adelheid that I knew was there comes shining through in this post. Encouraging others through the knowledge given unto you. Paul says "Woe is unto me if I prech not the Gospel of Christ." But do everything with consideration for others. Yes, I know I am never alone. A great man of God once said "You and God make a majority anywhere!" I worry so much about how others perceive Christians. We sometimes talk a good sermon, but do we SHOW a good sermon? The sermon we show goes much further with people than the one we preach. I know from experience. I've been an ordained non-denominational minister since 1981, and traveled as an evangelist until my disabling illness struck out of nowhere. Now there are days I can't even leave the house, but He never promised an easy road, He just said He'd go with me to the end. Take care, and God bless! http://www.websmileys.com/sm/angels/angel3.gif

haha....lol. "the Adelheid that I knew was there" lol. Yeah well, I hope I didn't offend anyone. I don't think so though. But if I did, then I'm sorry, please forgive me. ;) But then, no one actually said anything before. :) Maybe it's only you who is offended. :D

If you have any encouraging comments, please feel free to say so. ;) This Sunday, the Pastor speaking at our Church was talking on the power of Encouragement. Everyone needs encouragement. It is vital to the Christian Walk too. So ..... *hint* :D

Anyway, God bless you! :nod:

[rachel]

dear Adelheid

you remind me of James the brother of John who were called the 'sons of thunder'. they wanted to call down fire from heaven upon those who did not stop immediately and listen and obey Jesus.
and yet after being with their Lord for three and a half years John and his brother, who was martyrd ( I always cry when I think of it) were so full of love that John became known as the apostle of love.
Our God says that the whole obligation of man is to get to know him. period. And Jesus said that we are to love Him with all our heart mind soul and strength and then to love others as ourselves.
So with this in mind we should never cease praying that the Holy Spirit touches the hearts of others. But in the end a walk with God is like a betrothal, a marriage, and y ou can't ram that down anyone's throat. God hates that. For the Bible says that He is the Lover of our souls. I cannot bear witinessing marriages or relationships where one is pounding the other on the head demanding to be loved and in this manner or that.
It is ugly and demeaning. Better would it be if each sought the advancement and joy of the other.
It is like that dear little story of the sun and the wind. The wind boasted he could make the man walking along the lonely road take off his coat before Mr Sun did.
He huffed and puffed and screeched andthe result was that the man shivering pulled his garment even tighter about him.Then the sun came along and gently and sweetly began to increase his warmth until the man flung off his coat.
I love your devotion to God. And I do understand your frustration with those that mock and belittle and make small the God of the universe. But you will only succeed in making yourself ill unless you realize that each person must take their own path and in the end accept Him or not. Just like any betrothal.
Bless you

Rachel

"But the greatest of these ...is Love." Holy Scripture

[Pendragon]

haha....lol. "the Adelheid that I knew was there" lol. Yeah well, I hope I didn't offend anyone. I don't think so though. But if I did, then I'm sorry, please forgive me. ;) But then, no one actually said anything before. :) Maybe it's only you who is offended. :D

If you have any encouraging comments, please feel free to say so.
Anyway, God bless you! :nod:I WAS trying to encourage you by letting you know that when you allow yourself to just let go of the fact that people are going to disagree with you, you come across as a very sweet, caring person, whose only desire is to share your Lord with others. I knew what you were trying to say all along, but with disbelievers, they need to know you care as well. I was not offended in the least. I still pray that God will bless and keep you. Have a wonderful day. :angel: The Joy of the Lord is my strength!

[subterranean]

I agree with you there pendrago...I came accros some facts that people cared towards others not because they really cared, but they did it mainly for the sake of penetrating their beliefs...

[IrishCanadian]

I was raised Irish Roman Catholic, believe to an extent in JC, but I recognise the energy which exists in all natural materials. I would probably be most closely relate to the druids (Irish roots).

Ok so this may not be too relevent withthe area it is being posted because i'm reading dated posts. I just had to let you know that energy in narural materials is part of the presence of the Holy Spirit. Perhaps i'm being naive but I thik you should gather a little more theology before you deny whatyou were raised with. E-mail me if you like, i don't wat to insult you but but i couldn't let you say that about my background and let it go past.
p.s. did you take that picture of the skelligs? its nice.

[Adelheid]

I can't imagine calling down thunder from heaven upon unbelievers, Rachel. :D (I like your name :nod:) I think that would be the last thing I would do, even if I got to a point where I am so frustrated, as I sometimes am with my brothers.

I don't usually write posts for the sake of writing and expounding my views, or even forcing my views on others. Indeed, that is the least thing I wish myself to do! No. When I do write, it is almost always out of the depths of my heart. I do not like seeing people so mislead by the great Deceiver. and besides, God Himself gave the command.

"When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked [man] shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul. Again, When a righteous [man] doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous [man], that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul." Ezekiel 3:18-21

I certainly do NOT wish having people's blood upon my head! And for certainty's sake, and for their sakes, as much as mine, I tell them- both the believer and the unbeliever. But if in doing so, I have offended anyone, I am truly sorry, and didn't mean to. But I hope that they see what I'm trying to point out, because it is true, and the Truth will last forever.

But thank you for sharing what you feel. It is great having other's imput. :nod:

And for Pendragon.... :D

Yeah, thanks too. I am very glad that you were not offended or anything. It is great having your imput too! God usually uses anyone who is willing to listen to Hm and obey Him to teach and edify others, and I'm so glad that you are one of them. :)

Thank you bothy Rachel and Pendragon for your blessings. :D I'm sure I will be blessed. :) May God bless you both in return, and abundantly! More than you can ever imagine! :wave:

Have a great day!

[tiny explorer]

I adelheid!just got here....nothing I can say as of now.As i've said I'm always in a hurry but I'm thankful you've posted this thread,I'm a CHRISTIAN and that makes the whole purpose of life.Living as the way God wants us to be.With a purpose actually.God Bless us all!!!

[rachel]

sweet adeheid

you remind me so much of Travis, my first born. I honestly honestly do understand your point of view, i have felt what you have felt to the point of despair. and when i lifted it to God He showed me a pool with all manner of fish in it and showed me there are as many ways of catching the fish as there are fish. and that is what we are to be, fishers of men.
once we do our part, the Holy Spirit will do great things and give the person we are in agony about a heart of flesh instead of a heart of stone. I was just trying in my clumsy way to show you that no matter how deceived,how rude, ignorant and all the rest someone might be God can do anything. our chief duty in life, as Holy Scripture says is to get to know God. And Jesus our Lord and Saviour of this world, said ' a new commandment I give you, that you must love the Lord your God with all your heart and mind and soul and your neighbor as yourself.'
it is amazing how when you show love to the most antagonistic hateful person that you in the flesh would rather smack God will use that to break down their defences so that in turn they will not tune Him out but listen and fall in love with Him unless they have it in their heart to hate Him.
so forgive me if I didn't seem understanding. it was because i so relate to you that i said what i said.
and thankyou it is my real name.
couldn't think of anything jazzy like the rest of you.

"I trust that age doth not wither nor custom stale my infinite variety" said he and I recognized in his voice the joy and pride with which the artist takes in his own creation. sherlock holmes to watson-adventure of the empty house

[Adelheid]

Ah... now I get what you mean!

Yes, it is true. Everything is all about our relationship with the Lord, and our obedience to His commandments. Nothing else will matter in the end. When we get to heaven, He is not going to ask about the amount of wealth we accumulated or the number of people we saved, etc. He will require from each of us an account of what we did with His Son Jesus (whether we accepted Him or not), what we did with what God gave to us, and whether we followed His 49 commandments.

I see what you are trying to get. :) Thanks fo telling me. God has been showing me the same thing too. It is not so much the people we save and all, but it is our personal walk with the Lord. The people we 'save' won't matter in heaven anymore. In heaven, I think our entire focus will be upon God. :nod:

Thanks, and I'm glad that you used your real name. It is a lovely name. :nod:

God bless you! :wave:

[querida]

I don't mean to sound ignorant... but would you mind helping me by letting me know where the 49 commandments came from? I'm not asking you to site them... just wondering what you mean by them... are they ones sited throughout the books of the law, or ... I can't think of any other source than that.... but do you have them listed somewhere or something?
I believe Matthew 22:37-39: Jesus replied "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second one is like it: "Love your neighbor as yourself" All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments. Isn't that enough?

[Pendragon]

I don't mean to sound ignorant... but would you mind helping me by letting me know where the 49 commandments came from? I'm not asking you to site them... just wondering what you mean by them... are they ones sited throughout the books of the law, or ... I can't think of any other source than that.... but do you have them listed somewhere or something?
I believe Matthew 22:37-39: Jesus replied "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second one is like it: "Love your neighbor as yourself" All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments. Isn't that enough?I am not getting into the 49 commandments as you addressed that questioned to Adeheid, and I have enough faith in her ability to answer you that I would not presume to answer for her. She is a wonderful Christian lady, and doesn't need my help to spread the seeds of faith. I will address your question of "Isn't that enough?" Remember the Rich Young Ruler? He came to Christ and asked how to receive Eternal Life. Christ told him that he knew the commandments and he stated he had kept them all from his youth up. I'll point out here that Jesus, who knew the very hearts of men did not call him a liar. He had kept them even as he said. But Christ said he lacked one thing: "Sell whatsoever thou hast,and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasue in heaven; and come, take up the cross and follow me." Mark 10:21 And he couldn't do that because his wealth meant more to him than Jesus did.

It is not just following the letter of the law. "The letter killeth, but the spirt giveth life" II Corinthians 3:6. You see, just following the letter of the law means you will only do your duty and not beyond it. That was this young man's problem. He would do as the law required, but no more. If he had given his due for the month people could starve before he would give any more. We should never assume we have done enough. If we weigh what we do for Him against what He went through for us, it is less than a grain of sand against the highest mountain. We can never do enough to repay Him. So we try to do every thing in our power to do anything He might ask of us.

I trust you will let this encourge you to do your best, not take it as a "I'll never measure up" statement. A final encouragment from Jude 1:24-25 "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you fautless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy. To the only wise God our Savior, be gorly and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen."

God Bless and keep you. :angel:

[Adelheid]

Oh, someone actually compiled all of Christ's commands (to make it easier for us to obey them if we knew them!). I don't know if you've heard of Mr. Bill Gothard? He stays in the US, but travels a bit to teach in conferences and seminars, etc.

Yeah, the Great commandment and the Royal Commandment are the 2 most important commandments. But all in all, Christ gave us 49 commandments, the last of which is the great commission.

Here is the 49 commandments which I spoke about. They are NOT in order of importance, because I believe they are all equally important as being God's commands. Rather, they are in order of time. Whichever was stated first will be first. :)

1. Repent (matt 4:17)
2. Follow Me (Matt 4:19)
3. Rejoice (Matt 5:11-12)
4. Let your light shine (Matt 5:14-16)
5. Honour God's law (MAtt 5:16)
6. Be Reconciled (Matt 5:23-24)
7. Do not commit Adultery (Matt 5:29)
8. Keep your Word (Matt 5:37)
9. Go the 2nd mile (Matt 5:38-42)
10. Love your enemies (Matt 5:44-46)
11. Be perfect (Matt 5: 46-48)
12. Practise Secret Disciplines (Matt 6:3-18)
13. Lay up treasures (Matt 6:19-21)
14. Seek God's kingdom (Matt 6:33)
15. Judge not (Matt 7:1-3)
16. Do not cast pearls (Matt 7:6)
17. Ask, Seek, Knock (Matt 7:7-8)
18. Do unto others (Matt 7:12)
19. Choose the Narrow Way (Matt 7:13-14)
20. Beware of False Prophets (Matt 7:15-16)
21. Pray for labourers (Matt 9:37-38)
22. Be wise as Serpents (Matt 10:16)
23. fear not (Matt 10:28)
24. Hear God's voice (Matt 11:15)
25.Take My yoke (Matt 11:28-30)
26. Honour your parents (Matt 15:4)
27. Beware of Leaven (Matt 16:6)
28. Deny yourself (Luke 9:23-25)
29. Despise not little ones (Matt 18:10)
30. Go to Offenders (Matt 18:15)
31. Beware of covetousnous (Luke 12:15)
32. Forgive Offenders (Matt 18:21-22)
33. Honour Marriage (Matt 19:4-6)
34. Be a servant (Matt 20:26-18)
35. Be a house of prayer (Matt 21:13)
36. Ask in Faith (Matt 21:21-22)
37. Bring in the Poor (Luke 14_12-14)
38. Render to Caesar (Matt 22:19-21)
39. Love the Lord (Matt 22:37-38)
40. Love your Neighbour (Matt 22:39-40)
41. Await my return (Matt 24:42-44)
42. Take, Eat, Drink (Matt 26:26-27)
43. Be born again (John 3:7)
44. Keep my commandments (John 14:15)
45. Watch and Pray (Matt 26:41)
46. Feed my sheep (John 21:15-16)
47. Baptize my disciples (matt 28:1)
48. Receive God's power (Luke 24:49)
49. Make disciples (Matt 28:20)

I hope you will try to read through each of them and memorise them. That's what I am working towards. :) God bless you! :wave:

[bhekti]

Just beware of legalism,ok? Always remember: not by our works, but by God's grace.

[IrishCanadian]

Wow! I thought you were jokeing when you said there are 49. I mean I know there were many (possibly thousands) before Moses brought the ten cammandments down from the mountain, so i thought yoyu were making an allusion to that. I'm surprised that none of these commandment came from proverbs though. Who gathered them?

[Adelheid]

Dr. Bill Gothard was the one who 'gathered' them. He did a study to look for all of Christ's commandments, and there we have the 49 of them. He also matched 49 Character Qualities with the 49 commandments. These CQ are essential in order for one to follow the commands :)

There certainly are other commandments throughout Scripture.

[DTrent]

Uh...Can there be a thread here just for Christians just like there can be for Jews? Or Muslims? Or Atheists? Or Evolutionists?
Or can there be a thread ABOUT those faiths that people of OTHER faiths can come in to ask questions (respectfully)?

[Adelheid]

Hi, DTrent. Welcome to the Forum! You mus be new here. :)

I don't quite understand your question. But you can post almost anything you want to talk about here, except several things. I think you can't talk about Politics, and you are suppose to respect the faith and believes of others. But yeah... other than that, you can set up any thread on any subject you like, in any category that it happens to fall under. :D

You can ask for help from any of the users here, and I think all will be happy to help you. :nod: Have a great day! :wave:

[Pendragon]

Uh...Can there be a thread here just for Christians just like there can be for Jews? Or Muslims? Or Atheists? Or Evolutionists?
Or can there be a thread ABOUT those faiths that people of OTHER faiths can come in to ask questions (respectfully)? You said the magic word there, DTrent, respect. A thread can be about almost anything people believe in as long as there is respect for others, and people who post respect the beliefs of the person who started the thread. Anything on your mind in particular? Let's discuss it! Who knows what you may have to teach us or what you may learn from one of us? No one knows everything, that's why God created more than one of us! Welcome to the forum! PS. Like your atvar! :wave:

[Ancestor]

Welcome DTrent to the forum and we all are looking forward to hearing what you have to say. Everyone here is pretty respectful and we all enjoying learning about each other as well as our taste in literature. Hope you enjoy it here. :wave:

[Adelheid]

Ancestor, I am just wondering whether you actually consider yourself a Christian? I know from your posts that you view things a little differently than I do, and that's alright, because many people do. :nod: but I'm curious to know where you stand on matters of religion? Who is your God, if you have one? Can you describe your faith? You told me that your faith was different than mine, how? Where is it different?

I sincerely hope you are not offended by this. I just wanted to know.... :angel:

[Adelheid]

What would you say is the 3rd greatest commandment? Anyone?

[Pendragon]

The Great Commission. "Go ye into all the Earth and preach the Gospel". I think this is rather interesting. The first two letters in the word "God" spell "go". That is what He wants us to do as best we can, always remembering that we ourselves, are nothing, and that Christ is everything. The first three letters in the word "Satan" spell "sat", which he would be very happy if Christians did that and never tried to reach anyone else at all! And sometimes I wonder if that hasn't happened in a lot of cases, people figure "Well, I'm OK, and I had to make the decision for myself." True, but someone along the pathway told you about Him. Yes. I can only show you where to look. You have to seek to find. But woe to me if I don't try to show you where to look! Not force you, but try to help you. :angel:

[samercury]

27. Beware of Leaven (Matt 16:6)


I understand the others, but I don't really understand what Jesus meant by that.
Could someone please explain it to me?

[Pendragon]

27. Beware of Leaven (Matt 16:6)
I understand the others, but I don't really understand what Jesus meant by that.
Could someone please explain it to me?Sam, just read all the way to the 12th verse and you'll find it explains itself. If you wonder about the doctrine of the Pharisees that Jesus was warning them about, read Matt 23:1-12 These people would talk a good sermon but not live a good sermon. God bless. :angel: :wave:

[smilingtearz]

thanx adelheid that set of 49 commandments might be of great help...

hey pendragon i know u prayed for me...and here's a request to my other friends here...things going wrong in my family...n i juz love my family n it hurts to see them upset...please do pray!

[Pendragon]

I will always take the time to pray for anyone who needs it. As the old song says "We all need somebody to lean on." Now I request my friends on the forum to pray for a problem in my own family that is breaking my heart. With others praying with me, I shall see a difference in my family. Bless you all. :angel:

[smilingtearz]

yes Pen i'll certainly pray for you...everyday from tonight onwards...do tell us when the problem disappears(for good!)
and guess what things are finally getting cleaned up in my family now...thanx to all who prayed...thx pen

[Adelheid]

Yes... me too, Pen. Is it about Summers? (sorry if I'm too obvious)

[Pendragon]

Yes... me too, Pen. Is it about Summers? (sorry if I'm too obvious)Adelheid, you have shared my story, so I will not hide from you. Yes, Summer and my son Jonathan as well.

[samercury]

Sam, just read all the way to the 12th verse and you'll find it explains itself. If you wonder about the doctrine of the Pharisees that Jesus was warning them about, read Matt 23:1-12 These people would talk a good sermon but not live a good sermon. God bless. :angel: :wave:

Thanks, I get it now...
:(

[Adelheid]

That's really sad, Pen. I pray God will help you through this tough time. Remember that God will always guide you and be at your side. You can overcome this problem with His grace, strength and help. :thumbs_up

Praying for you. :angel:

[Pendragon]

That's really sad, Pen. I pray God will help you through this tough time. Remember that God will always guide you and be at your side. You can overcome this problem with His grace, strength and help. :thumbs_up

Praying for you. :angel:And I could not ask for more.... :angel:

[Adelheid]

:) ;) :p :D :goof: :blush: :lol: :angel:.....

:wave:

(what lot of words smileys save!) :nod:

[Plastic Martyr]

Read between the lines!!!!






you built me up with your wishing hell
I didn't have to sell you
you threw your money in the pissing well
you do just what they tell you
REPENT, that's what I'm talking about
I shed the skin to feed the fake
REPENT, that's what I'm talking about
whose mistake am I anyway?
Cut the head off
Grows back hard
I am the Hydra
now you'll see your star
prick your finger it is done
the moon has now eclipsed the sun
the angel has spread its wings
the time has come for bitter things
REPENT, that's what I'm talking about
whose mistake am i anyway?
Cut the head off
Grows back hard
I am the hydra
now you'll see your star


the time has come it is quite clear
our antichrist
is almost here...
it is done

[Sprite]

:lol: Jesus was killed for a reason

[Sprite]

hunny jesus cant help you. hes dead!
god doesnt exist
you only have a religon
to help yourself through life
becuase you arent strong enough to survuive with out the thought of someone helping you through our tough times.
plastic martyr rules
hes my buddy.
and i've acutally met him
he goes to mys chool.

[Plastic Martyr]

GO SPRITE I LOVE YOU!
jesus is just an Illusion

[Scheherazade]

Please respect others' views and avoid making personal remarks on other members. This is a religious discussion, not an argument.

[Pendragon]

Like everything else, some will have to experience things before they either can or will believe. I shall pray that that particular tomorrow that they put things off until actually manages to come, because for some it never does. :nod: :angel:

[Scheherazade]

http://www.unitedmedia.com/comics/peanuts/archive/images/peanuts2005112210209.gif

[Miss Darcy]

Great comic strip, Scher! *Giggles* So true...

[emily655321]

Yay, Linus! :D

[Pendragon]

I'm the type that can enjoy a good laugh, even if it seems to be at my own expense. Remember, I always said the most profound religious statment that got me to thinking came from "Peanuts", when Snoopy writes a religious book entitled "Has It Ever Occured to You That You Could Be Wrong?" Try Schultz's excellent The Gospel According to Peanuts. :angel: ;)

[greenburke]

you arent strong enough to survuive with out the thought of someone helping you through our tough times.

Religion aside...
Who doesn't look to someone: a friend, family member, or a loved one to help them through hard times? At least a good book.

How healthy is it to seek complete alienation when you're hurting?

Social Health is one of the components of overall health.

"Social Health Social Health is the sense of well-being that one achieves by forming emotionally supportive and intellectually stimulating relationships with family members, friends, and associates. Living in communities rather than in isolation, identifying with social groups, and belonging to organizations streghten the social dimension of health. When social networks break down, health declines." --(Essential Concepts for Healthy Living, Third Edition 2003)

Like how you identify with plastic martyr and how you have joined this social forum.

[Scheherazade]

Remember, I always said the most profound religious statment that got me to thinking came from "Peanuts", when Snoopy writes a religious book entitled "Has It Ever Occured to You That You Could Be Wrong?" That is an awfully heavy load to burden the poor Schulz with!

;)

[Basil]

Not to nitpick, but The Gospel According to Peanuts and its follow-up The Parables of Peanuts were not written by Charles Schultz. They were written by a pastor named Robert Short, who used the comic strip to illustrate his own personal sense of faith. Incidentally, he and Schultz went on to become great lifelong friends (they had not known each other before Short sought permission to use the strip).

"Has It Ever Occurred to You That You Might Be Wrong" is a wonderful line and I think it shows the ambivalence Schultz felt on religious matters, as well as his willingness to concede that no one--including himself--is an authority on matters of faith. That said, I think Schultz's use of faith and scripture in his comic strip is wonderfully sincere and heartfelt, so much so that even a nonbeliever such as myself can respect and appreciate it.

[smilingtearz]

do we have an intercession thread in here?...
I'm starting one, coz i feel intercessions are really powerful...and help a lot
and wut's more,...they don't cost you anything except some time...

[Pendragon]

Not to nitpick, but The Gospel According to Peanuts and its follow-up The Parables of Peanuts were not written by Charles Schultz. They were written by a pastor named Robert Short, who used the comic strip to illustrate his own personal sense of faith. Incidentally, he and Schultz went on to become great lifelong friends (they had not known each other before Short sought permission to use the strip).

"Has It Ever Occurred to You That You Might Be Wrong" is a wonderful line and I think it shows the ambivalence Schultz felt on religious matters, as well as his willingness to concede that no one--including himself--is an authority on matters of faith. That said, I think Schultz's use of faith and scripture in his comic strip is wonderfully sincere and heartfelt, so much so that even a nonbeliever such as myself can respect and appreciate it.Basil, mon ami, it's not nitpicking to point out a glaring mistake. :blush: :blush: I have lost my copy of The Gospel According to Peanuts and made an assumption about the author, since I knew Schultz taught Bible study classes. My bad. Thank you for correcting me! God bless! :angel: :thumbs_up :nod:

[Adelheid]

In your opinion, what is the most important "tool" in the Christian life?

[Mililalil XXIV]

Not like I'd be a 'believer' but only Christians are allowed to come and play with the grown-ups? Why does it matter if one is or isn't a Christian?

Why? To put labels on people? Why does it matter? 'blonde, blue-eyed' dangerously coming to mind.


Christianity accepts every person, whereas a 'blonde, blue-eyed' condition does not. The greatest Commandment is to love GOD, the commandment to love one's neighbor (even one's enemy) following on this. If you are at a funeral, it may become important to meet with others that share your love of the person eulogized. GOD is with his People, but, since we must look to HIM even when HE seems somewhat concealed, during tests of our Love, we appreciate to know who shares this Love in common with us. As an adult responsible for many children wants to ascertain how many others are on hand to help care for every child present in the best possible way, so, too, in the hope of being used by GOD to disclose HIS Paternal Love to all, a responsible Christian wants to see who shares that concern, to organize the Church in such a way as to leave no valuable soul neglected by the Love that so concerns itself with all persons.

[Mililalil XXIV]

What would you say is the 3rd greatest commandment? Anyone?
The third greatest would have to be the best manifestation of applying oneself to keeping the first. Possibly the first of the Decalogue.

[Mililalil XXIV]

In your opinion, what is the most important "tool" in the Christian life?

Having "Ears to hear". This alone makes Scripture profitably used.

[Amra]

Christianity accepts every person, whereas a 'blonde, blue-eyed' condition does not.


Christianity accepts every person who believes that Jesus is God. Those who don't accept him as God will go to hell, as the Bible states. Why do you not say it the way it is, but portray something untrue so that the whole facade of loving Christians is upheld.

[Mililalil XXIV]

What is untrue about what I said? Every person can be a Christian - not every Christian can be blonde and blue-eyed. I am baby-sitting right now, so I will have to leave a further answer to a spare moment.

What do muslims think of all that say that whom they worship is not GOD? Where, Amra, do you expect such a one to end up? What loving reply would you offer a fellow muslim that found he didn't believe in `Allah? You have spoken of Shariah law. Is it equipped with Love? To do full justice to the matter you have brought up, I will have to give an answer about the reason for hell, the nature of Judgement, etc., which I will have to do when time is ample.

I refrained from bringing up certain matters in the quran-reading section, as well as in any threads dedicated to exchange of islamic thought between fellow muslims. You must have read the purpose for this thread. But are Christians not permitted to conduct their own exchange of Christian thought on a thread dedicated to it? While others are welcome, this thread was started in order to have e new one, separate from the ones that merely discuss Christianity, in order to see who holds which Christian sentiments in common.

If it matters to you at all, Amra, CHRIST and I love you.

[Theshizznigg]

Christianity accepts every person who believes that Jesus is God. Those who don't accept him as God will go to hell, as the Bible states. Why do you not say it the way it is, but portray something untrue so that the whole facade of loving Christians is upheld.


Too true.
Many don't like to talk about God or Christians in their true sense, but I will.
God created us a perfect beings, and we, WE! messed things up for ourselves, and have been trying to put things right again ever since.
We know those around us that don't believe are going to go to hell.
And in that respect Christianity is a quite beautiful religion, because unlike so many others religions which only hints, or shadows of Christianity, Christianity is quite the opposite, it has an absolute.
No excuses, no horseplay, but an absolute.
You may believe in Christ and be saved, or you may choose not to, and await your fate.
The difference is, (and it really is a difference) is that God gave you the choice, gave you the options, do I or don't I?
Whatever the choice is, it is YOUR CHOICE, and you must be willing to take the consequences.

Christ didn't gather a large army, or go around with a posse saying "I am the son of God, YOU WILL WORSHIP ME!"
But instead, he said follow him and salvation would be theirs.

As for Christian hating everyone else. I do not hate, nor does Christ, nor does God really.
Christ didn't ever say to his Christians, "I want you to turn against those who aren't for me." No, the inquisition, all stains on the human churches were precipitated by humans with false ideals.
Instead, Christ asked his followers to pray for those who did not believe, (pray for your enemies, and friends) that they may come to understand with time, Christs love.

I merely feel pity for those who do not know Christs love, his true love.
And thus I pray for them. I like people, and I do not wish them to perish, but I cannot force them to do anything, only preach and hope that something sticks.

And i'm quite sorry if you can't understand that side of Christian thought.
In the end its like I always say, all things are depend on God having given man the freedom of choice. What he chooses, is exactly up to him.

"Trying to force conversion, is like trying to catch the four winds in your hands. Impossible."

[Green Lady]

Having "Ears to hear". This alone makes Scripture profitably used.

I'd like to add to that. Ears to hear, heart to accept. Meaning, you hear and you understand and you accept. Okay, now it sounds cheesy but I hope it makes sense. :blush:

[RobinHood3000]

"Only a Sith deals in absolutes..."

Not to say I don't believe in a system of morals and absolute good and bad, but I fail to understand why people insist on making the leap from "presence of absolute good" to "presence of God."

[Mililalil XXIV]

I'd like to add to that. Ears to hear, heart to accept. Meaning, you hear and you understand and you accept. Okay, now it sounds cheesy but I hope it makes sense. :blush:
I certainly agree. A right heart makes good channels of the ears.

[Mililalil XXIV]

"Only a Sith deals in absolutes..."

Not to say I don't believe in a system of morals and absolute good and bad, but I fail to understand why people insist on making the leap from "presence of absolute good" to "presence of God."
We don't make a leap from one to the other, necessarilly, but some of us, like a child with his/her mother at birth, are already aware of the SOURCE first, then contemplate what stems from HIM. I was always aware of a Personal Presence, and didn't have to arrive at a mere idea of it by steps of logic. The bond between a mother and her child precedes the child's deeper understanding of the mother.

[RobinHood3000]

Aware? How?

[rachel]

Yes, that is what I would like to know as well. Although I had those feelings as a child, how do I know it wasn't just the same as playing with my dolls. And if you had that understanding, is it fair that kazillions don't? just wondering.

M'Lord I have missed you. Can we not have a thread once more of the merry woods and adventures just about you and your followers?. pleeeeeeeeeeeze.

[Green Lady]

I certainly agree. A right heart makes good channels of the ears.

It's all about the heart, that's what my sunday school teacher puts up on the board every sunday. It was the title of one of the lessons she gave us and she just started putting it up for every lesson.