Hey guys: LISTEN!
This is a thread that is supposed to be about Jesus. Last week I wrote that the "spirit" here is all wrong. I stand by my belief. Each one of us needs to consider whether we are unwittingly being used by the enemy in pushing HIS IDEAS. Satan loves division (which IS his idea). Many view christianity (certainly our version of it) as a joke. This thread, with a few exceptions, is not disappointing them.
As a believer, I'm bored to death reading some of these long diatribes as well as the usual rebuttals. What is the non- believer thinking?
Think about this, folks. What is being accomplished here? I disagree with Brian's views (the few I've read or partly read). I don't expect him to change, yet I'm not against him personally. Truedog, recognize that Brian has a place in the Body of Christ even if you or I can't understand it too well. There are some who are challenged by his views. Don't "set him at nought" while you may think he's doing that to you or others. Even if true, you still have no excuse to do the same. Overall, one has to consider whether or not he's beating a dead horse with all this ranting back and forth.
The "dead" need to be "resurrected" and we are the lights of the world, called to shine the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ upon them. Are we?
To all: Is your contribution drawing people or distancing them? If it is distancing them is it truly because it's the message of Christ or is it YOUR message that's turning them off? Carefully, read others responses to you.
To the seeking or curious, I introduce to you Jesus, the Son of the Living God, as answer to all your questions, problems and needs. Begin reading the word of God, the bible, and ask Him to guide your understanding. Recognize that God is clear about the matter of interpretation when He says that "God is true and every man a liar." Every one of us is deceived until He opens our eyes. This includes the matter of understanding when it comes to scripture. There are things I thought I knew years ago as a christian, which later on I found to be in error. This is called "growing."
Unfortunately, there are some who will always think they are right and that their "private interpretation" holds true regardless of what others point out. This is throughout the body of Christ as well as cults. Yes, christians can have a cultic mentality. Be wise, keep your spirit open to change. You'd be surprised how often you find you really were wrong when you thought for sure you were right. Doesn't it say somewhere in Proverbs that "Even a fool is considered wise when he keeps his mouth shut" (loose interpretation). To all of us: Learn to listen.
Finally, God's word is true and so is He. Depend solely on Him, and He will lead you to the right people, books, churches etc. that will help you grow. Beware of those who have all the answers. They don't. The answer IS a person: Jesus Christ. Beware also of those who cause division. We are to "edify" even though there may be some serious disagreement. |
