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These are answers that whitefawn_ has provided in Christianity
| Question/Answer | | Choux... asked on 11/02/06 - "Intelligent" Design or A HUGE BLOODY MESS Pt I of 100 "...A loving *Intelligent* God would infuse his creation with models of moral goodness everywhere, in the very function and organization of nature. He would not create an animal kingdom that depended on wanton rape and murder to persist and thrive, nor would animals have to produce hundreds of offspring because almost all of them will die, most of them horribly. There would be no disease or other forms of suffering among animals at all...."<<<< Carrier *my addition.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
An intelligent designer? A rather poor design, wouldn't you say?
Choux
Mary Sue using my real username. :) whitefawn_ answered on 11/03/06:Mary Sue, I would be a hypocrite, if I said’ I have never question myself, when I see so much cruelty in the world.
I have questioned the Bible, on so many things, that sometimes I loose my faith.
I was watching the discovery channel the other day, as they were celebrating some kind of custom in Spain, slowly killing a bull running the streets with darts, it took over four gruesome hours for the poor animal to die, that to me is so cruel and I find people cruel and I myself can't understand it.
Sometimes I think we are like a theater to God, and he just changes the channels.
Perhaps we are rated Stupid, and pure cruel with no kindness left in us, or love for one another, and animals that should be respected.
Although, you are correct, he did create Satan, and Satan is having a ball in this world, but no way are you going to hell.
Hell is symbolic it is the "common grave", and if people would open their eyes to the Bible they could understand, and if that were true, I could never serve nor have belief in such a cruel God.
That is not the God I worship, or do I listen to the religions in this world.
But I know, this world will not continue to act this way, according to the Bible, you are better off than those whom read their bible, I will find you that scripture.
Even God himself found sadness in his heart and regretted that he had created man-kind.
But this burning hell, is not real it is "symbolic", and the truth is. We are already in hell!
With Love. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 11/03/06 - THINK I'LL VACATION FROM HERE 4 A WHILE..... TO MUCH B.S. AND NOT ENOUGH SUBSTANCE. NOT WORTH WASTING THE TIME ON ANYMORE. SEE YA ALL ON THE FLIP-SIDE. whitefawn_ answered on 11/03/06:Stony, your needed here, but we all need a break from something in our life.
I could use a break from my mother-law, but that is just wishful thinking.
It can get stressful on here, but please first consider, subjects will change in time, and you will be missed, I'll e-mail you, so just take it easy, and if you need something, please let me know.
Blessings Stony, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 11/03/06 - This, my fellow experts is what "hurts" Christians and makes unbelievers sceptical of Christ COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The leader of the influential National Association of Evangelicals, a vocal opponent of the drive for same-sex marriage, resigned Thursday after being accused of paying for sex with a man.
The Rev. Ted Haggard also stepped aside as head of his 14,000-member New Life Church while a church panel investigates, saying he could "not continue to minister under the cloud created by the accusations."
The investigation came after a 49-year-old man told a Denver radio station that Haggard paid him to have sex.
Haggard, a married father of five, denied the allegations in an interview with KUSA-TV late Wednesday: "Never had a gay relationship with anybody, and I'm steady with my wife, I'm faithful to my wife."
In a written statement, Haggard said: "I am voluntarily stepping aside from leadership so that the overseer process can be allowed to proceed with integrity. I hope to be able to discuss this matter in more detail at a later date. In the interim, I will seek both spiritual advice and guidance."
Mike Jones, 49, told The Associated Press that Haggard paid him to have sex nearly every month for three years. His allegations were first aired on KHOW-AM in Denver.
Jones said that he had advertised himself as an escort on the Internet and that a man who called himself Art contacted him. Jones said he later saw the man on television identified as Haggard.
He said that he last had sex with Haggard in August and that he did not warn him before making his allegations this week.
Jones said he has voice mail messages from Haggard, as well as an envelope he said Haggard used to mail him cash, though he declined to make any of it available to the AP.
"There's some stuff on there (the voice mails) that's pretty damning," he said.
Richard Cizik, vice president for government affairs for the evangelicals association, expressed shock.
"Is this something I can imagine of Ted Haggard? No," he said.
Carolyn Haggard, spokeswoman for the New Life Church, said a four-member church panel will investigate the allegations. She did not identify the board members.
"This is really routine when any sort of situation like this arises, so we're prepared," she said. "The church is going to continue to serve and be welcoming to our community. That's a priority."
___
Associated Press writer Dan Elliott in Denver contributed to this report.
___________________________________________________
Comments:
MaggieB whitefawn_ answered on 11/03/06:Maggie, I don't believe in everything I hear or read, some people can also make terrible accusations about a person, which can be un-true, and that kind of gossop can ruin a good person's reputation for the rest of life.
Perhaps Prayer would be best for Rev. Haggard.
That is my opinion. Blessings. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 11/01/06 - Does anyone here remember Ruth Baker? There is someone posting here now that is a reminder of her.
Aton remembers her thus, “Ruth Baker's mother died after a long illness, that terminated in dementia that Ruth attributed to "demonic possession", claiming that both SHE and her mother could see the demons circling round her head. In one of her posts (much to her regret) she stated that she told her mother it was time to die and go to a better life...Her mother died shortly after, and I believe it sent Ruth into a prolonged guilt trip. That is why she is so 'touchy' about her 'dead' mother.”
Question: Who here now could Aton be referring to as possibly Ruth Baker with a different moniker? whitefawn_ answered on 11/02/06:Oh Goodness Fred! I think I know whom you are referring about, but I won't say the name.
That is so sad about her Mother, but I am sure it could not had been due to demonic possession.
When one is suffering, she or he, does not even know what they may be saying, this is so sad, and I'm so sorry for this person, but now I think I know what name this person is using, I have often thought that myself, but didn't have the courage to bring it up.
Blessings Fred. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 11/02/06 - Changing the subject This question was asked and I would like your comments
and understandings of "backslidden" state.
Could anyone define a "backslidden" state?
Does it mean that you have lost your salvation and if you die, you are doomed?
MaggieB whitefawn_ answered on 11/02/06:Maggie, we all back slide, perhaps not a big sin, but as bashing others could be the same as back siding, as we are only humans, we will always back slide, until Jesus takes his throne, and than we are made perfect.
Talking behind others back, gossip and not following all the Laws of Christ.
Blessings to you. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 11/02/06 - Brand new book on creation and evolution -- I just finished cataloging:
Creation as science : a testable model approach to end the creation/evolution wars by Hugh Ross
Colorado Springs, CO : NavPress, 2006
291 p.
ISBN 1-57683-578-2
Add it to your Christmas list! whitefawn_ answered on 11/02/06:Creation Science Evangelism was started in 1989 by Dr. Kent Hovind. Kent Hovind is one of the most requested speakers on the Creation and Evolution topic in churches and Universities all over the world. Dr. Hovind served as an educator for many years teaching Biology, Anatomy, Physical Science, Mathematics, Earth Science, and many other sciences. Dr. Hovind has debated the Creation and Evolution controversy over 100 times all over the world, in many large Universities, and on thousands of radio talk shows.
Thank you CeeBee, and I'll look into it, sounds like a good read, even if I should disagree, education is always an accentual.
Thanks for sharing. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 11/01/06 - an important Christian lesson? A minister decided that a visual demonstration would add emphasis to his Sunday sermon. Four worms were placed into four separate jars. The first worm was put into a container of alcohol. The second worm was put into a container of cigarette smoke. The third worm was put into a container of chocolate syrup. The fourth worm was put into a container of good clean soil. At the conclusion of the sermon, the Minister reported the following results:
The first worm in alcohol - Dead.
The second worm in cigarette smoke - Dead.
Third worm in chocolate syrup - Dead.
Fourth worm in good clean soil - Alive.
So the Minister asked the congregation - What can you learn from this demonstration?
Maxine was setting in the back, quickly raised her hand and said, "As long as you drink, smoke and eat chocolate, you won't have worms! whitefawn_ answered on 11/02/06:That was good:) I need to share that!
Thank you. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 11/02/06 - Where can a person get real objective news reporting? This guy is obviously biased about mainstream media reporting, but he does have a few points worth considering.
By John Gibson
I have long thought the mainstream media is decidedly left wing. Now there's proof.
The Center for Media and Public Affairs did an accounting of the network newscasts from September 5 thru October 22 and found an overwhelming liberal bias.
On the "Big Three" network newscasts, the audit showed a clear jihad against the Republican Party. Only 12 percent of election stories that aired on NBC, ABC, or CBS could be regarded as remotely "favorable" to Republicans.
In contrast, as The Washington Times put it this morning, "Democrats basked in glory." The study showed that 77 percent of news accounts in the six-week period offered favorable evaluations of Democratic candidates and lawmakers.
Robert Lichter, director of the CMPA, said: "The numbers are pretty striking. The coverage has become a referendum on Republican leadership."
The killer stat from this study: Midterm elections in 2002 warranted only 35 stories from the "Big Three." Midterms in 2006 got 167 stories, and 77percent were pro-Dem.
Now, we've known for many years that reporters, editors and news executives are overwhelmingly liberal or Democrat. There really isn't much point debating that anymore. But what's changed here — this time around — is the willingness to come out of the closet. Instead of just tilting left in the story while pretending to be objective, the mask is now off. The mainstream media, typified by the "Big Three," is rooting for the Dems to win, and slant coverage to make it happen.
They want to make sure the conservative argument is shouted down, buried and made entirely disreputable. They do it with coverage: story selection, interview selection, sound bite selection and snarky scripts, and lead the viewers to their network conclusions that were set in stone at the 9 a.m. meeting.
These are people who think so little of their own vaunted tradition of objectivity that they are willing to throw it all away just to see their favorites win an election. And why is that? whitefawn_ answered on 11/02/06:www.worldvision.org - World Vision Report: Hear the human drama behind global issues and events affecting the world's poorest children and families.
This is a good Site Fred.
Blessings. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | Pericles asked on 11/02/06 - On the name of this board .
There have been many posts on the name and intentions of this board.
Many seem to be unable to understand that a Christianity Board is ABOUT Christianity, but NOT unavoidable by Christians only.
There were proposals to change the name of this board into "Atheist and Humanist" board, what was nonsensical of course.
But if I read the questions and responses on the last couple of pages I get the impression that this board has become more a place where fundamental pro-creation Christians have come to roost.
So if the name of this board should be changed, would it not be better to split it into two different Christianity Boards?
1- The middle-of-the-road Christianity Board
2- The fundamental Pro-creation Christianity Board.
That would solve a lot of problems ....
. whitefawn_ answered on 11/02/06:It should be a board for everyone, not just Christians.
All should be able to voice their opinions.
There is only a couple on here, that need to shut thier traps before they fall into them.
You have a good day! Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | curious98 asked on 11/02/06 - Steward Copeland's idea of Mr. Bush The American born Stewart Copeland, ex-member of The Police (the three-piece British Rock band along with Sting and Andy Summers) is attending these days a music festival in Spain.
Because of his obvious popularity he has been interviewed by the media and one of his comments has been that:
Quoite:
“politized religion, which our president has been so far relying upon to justify his aberrant decisions, is the antithesis of spirituality. Bush is a total wretch that has managed to transform the USA (that 6 years ago, everywhere I went, I could see it was a highly respected country) into a country that is now considered as the new menace of the world, because it is run by someone who would not hesitate to trigger a nuclear conflict if God tells him so.”
Unquote:
Do you think this California resident has raised a good point when referring to Bush’s frequent references to his connections with the Lord?
Comments,
Curious98
whitefawn_ answered on 11/02/06:Fred, I strongly believe he used the Christians for his votes.
Blessings to you. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 11/02/06 - tempararaly off line due to a computer crash I will be off line for a few days love you all !
dorothy whitefawn_ answered on 11/02/06:We love you Dorothy, and will be waiting for your return! | | Question/Answer | | CeeBee2 asked on 10/31/06 - This is one of the best places to visit to find out what a slice of humanity interprets and thinks about God. Here we can read musings and testimonies and witnessing from everyone who posts here. What a fantastic opportunity to learn about each other's beliefs!! whitefawn_ answered on 10/31/06:It very well is CeeBee, it is one of my favorites places to visit. One can learn so much on here from all type of personalities and to learn different subjects.
Besides one of my favorites on one Site called, "Guide to Grammar and writing"
Now I like to learn from you, because you're a writer, although I get a little nervous when I answer, because your a teacher, and I check my writing.
I do have something to post,and a testamony to share, but I think I'll wait for a while, although, I also want to thank you, for what I have learned from you, and it is an complement to even know of you.
I wish you the very best. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 10/30/06 - MY ANSWER TO PEDDLER:
"How did your cat scan go?" (Your question) I have a little bleeding in the middle of my frontal lobe. A false/positive result. It can cause an aneurism but ... come what may! Thanks for asking.
*************
"It occurs to me you have never backed up your claims that I am a simpleton and you would have to "talk down" to me to explain how the world is billions of years old and Genesis is only believed by stupid people.
Go for it! Talk down to me, make your case." (Your words)
Our human consciousness tries to dissect REALITY into the conscious and the subconscious, soul and body, mind and matter, life and environment, freedom and necessity, CREATOR and creatures, GOD and Devil, good and bad, right and wrong, love and power, old and new and my favorite, cause and effect. Most philosophers believe such binary 'structures' are indispensable categories of thought. In short, they are our only means of apprehending REALITY, as far as they're within our power. I conclude that they are baffling but enlightening.
We cannot think about the Universe without assuming that it is articulated. On balance: I cannot defend the articulations. Most Philosophers think they are artificial and arbitrary. It can always be shown that they break up something that is indivisible and let slip something that is ESSENTIAL. Without MENTALLY articulating the Universe, we cannot ourselves be articulate. For one, I can't go on thinking that I can regain the unity of a mystical experience. I must apprehend REALITY sufficiently to be able to act and live in the light of the TRUTH as far as I can discern it. A TRUE mental image of REALITY is impossible for my mind to fathom.
To close: If there is a genuine novelty in the Universe, and if events occur that have never occurred before, HISTORY must be an incomplete explanation of the present. In order for me to learn from the past, there must be recurrences and similarities both throughout the past and between it and the present.
Are your choices, Peddler, partially illuminated and enlightened? REALITY has some meaning, which is accessible to all of us by the mental process of EXPLANATION. Please EXPLAIN! Just remember that facts can't come into existence without the good qualities of an HYPOTHESIS. GO TO IT!
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 10/31/06:I'm happy to hear you're doing okay Hank.
Keep your stress down, and remember to eat healthy, because we love you.
Many Blessings. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | saramando asked on 10/30/06 - To Peddler Peddler:
It seems you are not wanted or welcome on this board.
Check the latest posts & see what you think.
You may try to have me removed again, but I will be back tomorrow.
Enough is enough!!
Pete
whitefawn_ answered on 10/31/06:I have to disagree with the others Pete.
I could live without neither of them. That is why we could report them or better yet. Deport?
They have more hate toward other Christians, and if some want to call this Christian, than I'm a "Saint" | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 10/31/06 - A poem for you....................................... I got this from Judgement_Day. A really good guy. Remember him?
A drunk man in an Oldsmobile
They said they had run the light
That caused the six-car pileup
On 109 that night.
When broken bodies lay about
"And blood was everywhere,"
"The sirens screamed out eulogies,"
For death was in the air.
A mother, trapped inside her car,"
Was heard above the noise;
Her plaintive plea near split the air:
Oh, God, please spare my boys!"
She fought to loose her pinned hands;
"She struggled to get free,"
But mangled metal held her fast
In grim captivity.
Her frightened eyes then focused
"On where the back seat once had been,"
But all she saw was broken glass
andTwo children's seats crushed in.
Her twins were nowhere to be seen;
"She did not hear them cry, "
And then she prayed they'd been thrown free, "
"Oh, God, don't let them die! "
Then firemen came and cut her loose, "
But when they searched the back, "
"They found therein no little boys, "
But the seat belts were intact.
They thought the woman had gone mad
"And was travelling alone, "
"But when they turned to question her, "
They discovered she was gone.
Policemen saw her running wild
And screaming above the noise
"In beseeching supplication, "
Please help me find my boys!
They're four years old and wear blue shirts;
"Their jeans are blue to match.""
"One cop spoke up, ""They're in my car, "
And they don't have a scratch.
They said their daddy put them there
"And gave them each a cone, "
Then told them both to wait for Mom
To come and take them home.
"I've searched the area high and low, "
But I can't find their dad.
He must have fled the scene, "
I guess, and that is very bad."
"The mother hugged the twins and said, "
"While wiping at a tear, "
"He could not flee the scene, you see, "
"For he's been dead a year."
"The cop just looked confused and asked, "
"Now, how can that be true? "
"The boys said, ""Mommy, Daddy came "
"And left a kiss for you."
He told us not to worry
"And that you would be all right, "
And then he put us in this car with
"The pretty, flashing light. "
"We wanted him to stay with us, "
"Because we miss him so, "
"But Mommy, he just hugged us tight "
And said he had to go.
He said someday we'd understand
"And told us not to fuss, "
"And he said to tell you, Mommy, "
"He's watching over us."
the mother knew without a doubt
"That what they spoke was true, "
"For she recalled their dad's last words, "
" I will watch over you."
The firemen's notes could not explain
"The twisted, mangled car, "
And how the three of them escaped
Without a single scar.
"But on the cop's report was scribed, "
"In print so very fine, "
An angel walked the beat tonight on Highway
109. whitefawn_ answered on 10/31/06:Now that I like.
Thank you for this poem. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 10/31/06 - Do you think these people are serious or dangerous? A Hamas video just released on their web site focuses on the broader Palestinian Islamic ideology, promising the eventual conquering and subjugation of Christian countries under Islam. The way Israel "ran" from Gaza after terror is presented as the prototype for future Israeli and Western behavior in the face of Islamic force.
The video is a collection of statements by Hamas terrorist leader, Yasser Ghalban, killed last week by Palestinians, in the ongoing internal fighting.
The following is the transcript of selections from the Hamas video:
"We will rule the nations, by Allah's will, the USA will be conquered, Israel will be conquered, Rome and Britain will be conquered… The Jihad for Allah... is the way of Truth and the way for Salvation and the way which will lead us to crush the Jews and expel them from our country Palestine. Just as the Jews ran from Gaza, the Americans will run from Iraq and Afghanistan and the Russians will run from Chechnya, and the Indian will run from Kashmir, and our children will be released from Guantanamo. The prisoners will be released by Allah's will, not by peaceful means and not by agreements, but they will be released by the sword, they will be released by the gun". whitefawn_ answered on 10/31/06:Yes, we have been forewarned.
Mt 24:6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars; see that ye be not troubled: for [these things] must needs come to pass; but the end is not yet.
Mt 24:7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there shall be famines and earthquakes in divers places.
Mt 24:8 But all these things are the beginning of travail.
Mt 24:9 Then shall they deliver you up unto tribulation, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all the nations for my name`s sake.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 10/31/06 - Please read and think about this? Thankyou. Hello Everyone,
Something very sad happened to me yesterday which makes me realize how important life is and how important we all need wake up and start treating other in this world not just on this board with respect, dignity and honor. I also came to appreciate that whatever we say to people might be the last thing we can ever say to them. Being alerted to this very fact, from this day forward I will not get caught up in the negative disputes on this board any longer.. If it does one good to disrespect my religion, which is a fact I am one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, then so be it, that is their choice. I though will not reply to any negative comments any more that are rude or disrespectful. Why? Because it is wrong and if I have ever said anything that offended any, here is my sincere apologies. "I hope12 (Anna Murray) do hereby apologies with all my heart. Please forgive me?"
No matter what we believe, there are lovers of truth in nearly all religions. People who deeply appreciate what is true and who are willing to search for it can be found among Hindus, Catholics, Jews, and others. Yet, religion seems to divide mankind. Some even use religion for evil ends, or to control.
1) Does anyone here feel that it is possible for all sincere people from all over the world and from other religions who have love for what is good and true ever be united?
How disturbing it is to see that religion is increasingly the cause of division!
Consider some of these conflicts. Hindus fight Buddhists in Sri Lanka. Protestants, Catholics, and Jews have shed blood in various conflicts. “Christians” fight Muslims in Chechnya, Indonesia, and Kosovo. And in March 2000, two days of strife linked with religion left 300 Nigerians dead. Indeed, religious hatred has fueled the ferocity of these conflicts.
Godly kindness is unselfish. It asks for nothing and expects nothing in return. Our Creator kindly “makes his sun rise upon wicked people and good and makes it rain upon righteous people and unrighteous.” Matthew 5:43-45; Acts 14:16, 17 In imitation of our heavenly Father, not only do we refrain from harming the unthankful but we do good to them, even to those who have acted as our enemies. By displaying kindness, we show God and Jesus that we desire to live under eternally.When kindness and other godly qualities will permeate all human relationships.
I am inclined to believe that all people should display kindness, and especially if one is claiming or trying to set an example of good conduct. This allows God’s spirit to work in us. For any who do not believe in a Creator, then kindness and love should be a welcomed quality as a human. We all live in this world and we all struggle and it is not until sad events bring us back to our senses and to reality. People show kindness to all, tell people around you and that who you deal with each day that you love them. You may never have that chance again. Remember Jesus Christ died for us even though we didn’t know him yet, how much love he had for us. Do we have that same love for those we do not even know except by a screen name? Respect is cheap it costs nothing but can do a world of good it can save life~! Love let’s other know that you really care about them as Jesus let us know he cares for us by laying down his life. How can one claim to follow Jesus and not love those who are just a name on a board. Get to know each other and learn about those you comment to, you may soon learn that you really like them.:) Once we find the common ground then the love Jesus spoke about will take over. Don’t hate anyone for you only can tell others how much you love them while they are here, once they leave this scene and enter into the sleep of death, then it is too late.
2-What are some practical ways in which we can show kindness in comments and dealing with others on this board?
3- Kindness and love cover errors, why not forget what everyone said in the past and start over, if someone disagree’ s with another person on the board, that is okay, but don’t knock their religion or beliefs, religious or otherwise. It is fine to disagree otherwise this world would be boring. What is wrong is to bring up opinions or comments that are placed on the board to disrupt it or to hurt another. Why? If one has a disagreement with someone’s religion then by all means go to that persons religious place of worship and take it out with them. Disagreements with ones opinion here on the board should be kept to what the expert/member has said and not what religion or non-religious associations/organizations they belong too. Also stick to what was commented on, not all the other beefs you may have about their religion, or organization they may be affiliated with.
If we adhere to these simple respectful consideration, this board will prosper and ,more people would feel free to come here and visit.
Any comments: Please only comment to the issues at hand and please with respect.
Thank you for reading this but I felt it important for this to be said and in a respectful manner.
I love all you guys, yes even Tom777 and peddler. I want us all to be able to give a comment of opinion without all the attacks and hatred. I also want to have a freedom of choice for all of us not just what some wish or believe we should believe in and do. Respect and treating others fairly and in good taste, that is not much to ask especially from those who are claiming to represent the human race of mankind/womankind. :)
Take care,
Hope12
whitefawn_ answered on 10/31/06:What you had just wrote, took courage and the true love of God.
Although, "Bad associations spoil useful habits"
Is is best not to even read them, they might have been Jehovahs Witness's, and that could bring badness into your home.
As for the belittling of Peddler. I refuse to read anymore of his negative ness and his hatred towards Gods people.
Remember what Jesus went through when on earth. A whole lot of Peddlers and workers of Satan, tried their very best to destroy them, and they did destroy Jesus in the flesh, but not in the spirit, and you have a very kind and loving spirit, when they hurt you, they also have hurt the Father and his Soon Jesus, our Lord.
I wish I could say the same as you just had, but I guess all one can do is leave it in the Lords hands, and may God have mercy upon their souls.
Blessings Dear Hope, with love. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 10/24/06 - FYI a few quotes from the quoran(the peacefull faith??) Cruelty in the Quran
(((warning this is long and for this I appologise however we hear no appologies from its followers!)))
For disbelievers is a painful doom.--2:104
Don't bother to warn the disbelievers. Allah has blinded them. Theirs will be an awful doom. 2:6
Allah has sickened their hearts. A painful doom is theirs because they lie. 2:10
A fire has been prepared for the disbelievers, whose fuel is men and stones. 2:24
Disbelievers will be burned with fire. 2:39, 90
If you believe in only part of the Scripture, you will suffer in this life and go to hell in the next. 2:85
Jews are the greediest of all humankind. They'd like to live 1000 years. But they are going to hell. 2:96
For disbelievers is a painful doom. 2:104
For unbelievers: ignominy in this world, an awful doom in the next. 2:114
Allah will leave the disbelievers alone for a while, but then he will compel them to the doom of Fire. 2:126
The doom of the disbelievers will not be lightened. 2:162
Allah is severe punishment! 2:165-6
They will not emerge from the Fire. 2:167
Those who hide the Scripture will have their bellies eaten with fire. Theirs will be a painful doom. 2:174
How constant are they in their strife to reach the Fire! 2:175
"Fight in the way of Allah." 2:190, 2:244
Believers must retaliate. Those who transgress will have a painful doom. 2:178
Kill disbelievers wherever you find them. If they attack you, then kill them. Such is the reward of disbelievers. (But if they desist in their unbelief, then don't kill them.) 2:191-2
War is ordained by Allah, and all Muslims must be willing to fight, whether they like it or not. 2:216
Those who die in their disbelief will burn forever in the Fire. 2:217
Disbelievers worship false gods. The will burn forever in the Fire. 2:257
Those who disbelieve the revelations of Allah, theirs will be a heavy doom. 3:4
Those who disbelieve will be fuel for the Fire. 3:10
Those who disbelieve shall be overcome and gathered unto Hell. 3:12
Those who disbelieve, promise them a painful doom. 3:21
Theirs will be a painful doom. 3:77
All non-Muslims will be rejected by Allah after they die. 3:85
Disbelievers will be cursed by Allah, angels, and men. They will have a painful doom. 3:87-88
Disbelievers will have a painful doom. And they will have no helpers. 3:91
Disbelievers will have their faces blackened on the last day. They will face an awful doom. 3:105-6
Those who disbelieve will be burnt in the Fire. 3:116
The Fire is prepared for disbelievers. 3:131
We shall cast terror into the hearts of those who disbelieve. Their habitation is the Fire 3:151
Theirs will be an awful doom. 3:176
Disbelievers do not harm Allah, but will have a painful doom. 3:177
Disbelievers will have a shameful doom. 3:178
Those who brag about doing good will go to hell. 3:188
"The doom of Fire" 3:191
Disbelievers will go to Hell. 3:196
Those who disobey Allah and his messenger will be burnt with fire and suffer a painful doom. 4:14
For the disbelievers and those who make a last-minute conversion, Allah has prepared a painful doom. 4:18
For disbelievers, We prepare a shameful doom. 4:37
Hell is sufficient for their burning. 4:55
Unbelievers will be tormented forever with fire. When their skin is burned off, a fresh skin will be provided. 4:56
Allah will bestow a vast reward on those who fight in religious wars. 4:74
Believers fight for Allah; disbelievers fight for the devil. So fight the minions of the devil. 4:76
Have no unbelieving friends. Kill the unbelievers wherever you find them. 4:89
If the unbelievers do not offer you peace, kill them wherever you find them. Against such you are given clear warrant. 4:91
Believers who kill believers will face the awful doom of hell. 4:93
Those who oppose the messenger and become unbelievers will go to hell. 4:115
Those who believe, then disbelieve, then believe and disbelieve again will never be forgiven by Allah. 4:137
For the hypocrites there will be a painful doom. 4:138
Allah will gather hypocrites and disbelievers into hell. 4:140
The hypocrites will be in the lowest part of hell and no one will help them there. 4:145
You must believe everything Allah and his messengers tell you. Those who don't are disbelievers and will face a painful doom. 4:150-151
For the wrongdoing Jews, Allah has prepared a painful doom. 4:160-1
God will guide disbelievers down a road that leads to everlasting hell. 4:168-169
If you don't do good works, Allah will punish you with a painful doom. 4:173
Those who deny Islam will be losers in the Hereafter. 5:5
Disbelievers are the rightful owners of Hell. 5:10
Those who make war with Allah and his messenger will be killed or crucified, or have their hands and feet on alternate sides cut off, or will be expelled out of the land. That is how they will be treated in this world, and in the next they will have an awful doom. 5:33
Disbelievers will have a painful doom. 5:36
Disbelievers will want to come out of the Fire, but will not. Their will be a lasting doom. 5:37
Cut off the hands of thieves. It is an exemplary punishment from Allah. 5:38
Allah makes some people sin. He will not cleanse their hearts. They will have ignominy in this world, and in the Hereafter an awful doom. 5:41
Life for life, eye for eye, nose for nose, ear for ear, and tooth for tooth. Non-muslims are wrong doers. 5:45
Christians will be burned in the Fire. 5:72
Christians are wrong about the Trinity. For that they will have a painful doom. 5:73
Disbelievers will be owners of hell-fire. 5:86
Allah will test believers to see if they are afraid. Those who fail a second test will suffer a a painful doom. 5:94
Many generations have been destroyed by Allah. 6:6
Allah will torment those how deny his revelations. 6:49
Those who disbelieve will be forced to drink boiling water, and will face a painful doom. 6:70
When nonbelievers die, the angels will deliver to them doom and degradation. 6:93
Allah allows some to disbelieve in the afterlife, and to take pleasure in their disbelief, so that he can torment them forever after they die. 6:113
Allah chooses to lead some astray, and he lays ignominy on those who disbelieve. 6:125
Allah will send everyone the Fire, except those he chooses to deliver. 6:128
Let the idolaters kill their children. It is Allah's will. 6:137
How many a township have We destroyed! As a raid by night, or while they slept at noon, Our terror came unto them. 7:4-5
Disbelievers are the rightful owners of the Fire. 7:36
Entire nations have entered the Fire. Some get a double torment. 7:38
Disbelievers will be excluded from heaven. Theirs will be a bed of hell. 7:40-41
Those in the Fire will cry out to those in heaven, saying: "Pour water on us." But Allah has forbidden that to disbelievers. 7:50
"Why preach ye to a folk whom Allah is about to destroy or punish with an awful doom?" 7:164
Allah will throw fear into the hearts of the disbelievers, and smite their necks and fingers. 8:12
Disbelievers will be tormented in the Fire. 8:14
When you fight with disbelievers, do not retreat. Those who do will go to hell. 8:15-16
Those that the Muslims killed were not really killed by them. It was Allah who did the killing. 8:17
"Rain down stones on us or bring on us some painful doom!" 8:32
Those who disbelieve will be gathered into hell. 8:36
The angels smite the face and backs of disbelievers, saying: "Taste the punishment of burning!" 8:50
The worst beasts in Allah's sight are the disbelievers. 8:55
Don't let the disbelievers think they can escape. They are your enemy and the enemy of Allah. 8:59-60
Had it not been for an ordinance of Allah which had gone before, an awful doom had come upon you." 8:68
Give tidings (O Muhammad) of a painful doom to those who disbelieve. 9:3
Slay the idolaters wherever you find them. 9:5
Don't let idolaters tend the sanctuaries. Their works are in vain and they will be burned in the Fire. 9:17
Give tidings (O Muhammad) of a painful doom to the rich and greedy Christian monks and Jewish rabbis. 9:34
Those who are tormented in the Fire will have their foreheads and backs branded. 9:35
If you refuse to fight, Allah will afflict you with a painful doom. 9:39
Disbelievers go to hell. 9:49
Those who vex the Prophet, for them there is a painful doom. 9:60
Those who oppose Allah and His messenger will burn in the fire of hell. 9:63
Allah promises hypocrites and disbelievers the fire of hell. Allah curses them. They will have a lasting torment. 9:68
Fight the disbelievers and hypocrites. Be harsh with them. They are all going to hell anyway. 9:73
Allah will afflict disbelievers with a painful doom in this world and the Hereafter. 9:74
"Theirs will be a painful doom." 9:79
Those who refuse to give their wealth and lives to Allah will face the fire of hell. 9:81-83
For disbelievers there will be a painful doom. 9:90
The unbelieving Arabs will be punished by Allah with an evil fortune. 9:97-98
"We shall chastise them twice; then they will be relegated to a painful doom." 9:101
Believers must fight for Allah. They must kill and be killed , and are bound to do so by the Torah, Gospel, and Quran. But Allah will reward them for it. 9:111
Don't pray for idolaters (not even for your family) after it is clear they are people of hell-fire. 9:113
Fight disbelievers who are near you, and let them see the harshness in you. 9:123
Disbelievers will have a boiling drink and a painful doom. 10:4
Those who neglect Allah's revelations will make their home in the Fire. 10:7-8
Allah has destroyed entire generations. 10:13
On the last day Allah will kill all the disbelievers (and then he will torture them forever in hell). 10:45
Those who disbelieved will face a dreadful doom. 10:70
Allah drowned those who disbelieved his revelations. 10:73
Moses asked Allah to harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they would not believe until they saw the painful doom. 10:88
If you deny the revelations of Allah, you will be among the losers and will "see the painful doom." 10:95-97
Allah will send a painful doom on several nations. 11:48
Those in the Fire will suffer as long as the heavens and earth endure. 11:106-7
Allah will fill hell with humans and jinn. 11:119
"What shall be his reward, who wisheth evil to thy folk, save prison or a painful doom?" 12:25
Disbelievers are the rightful owners of the Fire 13:5
Those who do not answer Allah's call will go to hell. 13:18
Disbelievers will be tormented in this life, and suffer even more pain in the Hereafter. 13:33-34
The reward for disbelievers is the Fire. 13:35
Woe unto the disbelievers. Theirs will be an awful doom. 14:2
Those who are in hell will be forced to drink festering water which they can hardly swallow. They will want to die, but they will not be able to. Theirs is a harsh doom. 14:16-17
"Lo! for wrong-doers is a painful doom." 14:22
Those in hell will be chained together. Their clothing will be made of pitch and fire will cover their faces. 14:49-50
Disbelievers are evil and will dwell in hell forever. 16:27-29
Theirs will be the Fire, and they will be abandoned." 16:62
"Theirs will be a painful doom." 16:63
Allah will add doom to doom for those who disbelieve. 16:88
Those who oppose Islam will face an awful doom. 16:94
Disbelievers will have a painful doom. 16:104
Those who loose their faith in Islam will face an awful doom. Allah's wrath is upon them. 16:106
Those who invent lies against Allah will have a painful doom. 16:116-7
Allah made hell to be a dungeon for disbelievers. 17:8
Allah has prepared a painful doom for those who disbelieve in the Hereafter. 17:10
Allah destroyed entire towns. 17:16
How many generations Allah has destroyed since Noah! 17:17
Allah intends to burn people in hell. 17:18
Allah will destroy every town before the Day of Resurrection. 17:58
Allah will send disbelievers astray. Then he'll burn them in hell, increasing the flames from time to time. 17:97-98
Allah has prepared a Fire for the disbelievers. When they want a shower, Allah will give them a shower of molten lead to burn their faces. 18:29
Those who are condemned to the Fire know they will have no way to escape. 18:53
There is an appointed time in which the doomed will find no escape. 18:58
Allah has destroyed many towns. 18:59
On a certain day, Allah will present hell, in plain view, to the disbelievers. 18:100
Allah will welcome the disbelievers into hell. 18:102
The good works of disbelievers are all in vain. They will go to hell anyway. 18:104-105
Hell is the reward for disbelievers because they made a jest of Allah's revelations and messengers. 18:106
Allah will pluck out from every sect those who should burn in hell. 19:69-70
Allah will record what disbelievers say and then prolong their torment. 19:77-79
Allah has sent the devils on the disbelievers to confuse them. 19:83
Allah will "drive the guilty unto hell, a weary herd." 19:86
Allah has destroyed many generations. 19:98
Allah destroyed entire towns, yet the people still disbelieved. 20:6
The people cried out for mercy, but Allah killed them anyway. 20:15
Allah destroyed entire towns, yet the people still disbelieved. 21:6
Disbelievers will not be able to put out the fire on their faces and backs. They will be stupefied and no one will help them. 21:39-40
Every person alive at the time of the flood was evil. So Allah drowned them all. 21:77
The disbelievers will stare in terror at what Allah has in store for them. 21:97-99
When the doom of Allah comes, pregnant women will suffer miscarriages, and men will act like they are drunk. 22:1-2
The devil will guide some to the punishment of the Flame. 22:3-4
Those who turn from the way of Allah will face ignominy in this world and burning in the next. 22:9
Whoever thinks that Allah will not give Muhammad victory should go hang himself. 22:15
Disbelievers will wear garments of fire, boiling fluid will be poured on their heads, their bellies and skin will be melted, they will be tormented with iron hooks, and when they try to escape they will be driven back with the taunt: Taste the doom of burning. 22:19-22
Allah will provide the disbelievers with a painful doom. 22:25
How many towns Allah has destroyed! 22:45
Those who disregard Allah's revelations are the owners of the Fire. 22:51
Those who disbelieve Allah's revelations will have a shameful doom. 22:57
Those who disbelieve Allah's revelations will burn in the Fire. 22:72
Allah told Noah not to bother pleading for the people he was about to drown. 23:27
Those who don't believe in the Hereafter will receive extreme punishment from Allah. 23:74-77
When fire burns their faces, they will be glum. 23:104
Scourge adulterers and adulteresses with 100 stripes. Do not show them any pity. Have a party of believers watch the punishment. 24:2
Those who spread slander will face an awful doom. 24:11
Those who murmur will face an awful doom. 24:14
Those who traduce virtuous, believing women ... cursed are they in the world and the Hereafter. Theirs will be an awful doom." 24:23
Disbelievers will never escape the Fire that will be their home. 24:57
Those who deny the coming of the Hour will be chained together and burned with fire. They will pray for their own destruction. 25:11-13
Allah will force the evil-doers to taste great torment. 25:19
It will be a hard day for disbelievers and wrong-doers. They will gnaw on their hands and wish they had chosen Islam. 25:26-27
Those who deny Muhammad's revelations whitefawn_ answered on 10/24/06:These people are real sick Rev, I couldn't believe my eyes upon reading this, there is no more I wish to learn from a sick Nation as this.
All I can say' Is may God have mercy upon their Souls.
I know I may sound harsh, but this is all man made prophesy from a dictator of false teachings.
I have learned all I need, these people are from hate and I see no love, nor mercy.
Love you, Girl. | | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 10/24/06 - for praecipio (aton??) have I ever denied that yes I am anti Islamic??I and also pro Christian If your greatest desire is to kill me and mine then yes I am against you
from the quoran
Kill disbelievers wherever you find them. If they attack you, then kill them. Such is the reward of disbelievers
Don't bother to warn the disbelievers. Allah has blinded them. Theirs will be an awful doom. 2:6
Allah has sickened their hearts. A painful doom is theirs because they lie. 2:10
A fire has been prepared for the disbelievers, whose fuel is men and stones. 2:24
Disbelievers will be burned with fire. 2:39, 90
If you believe in only part of the Scripture, you will suffer in this life and go to hell in the next. 2:85
Jews are the greediest of all humankind. They'd like to live 1000 years. But they are going to hell. 2:96
For disbelievers is a painful doom. 2:104
For unbelievers: ignominy in this world, an awful doom in the next. 2:114
Allah will leave the disbelievers alone for a while, but then he will compel them to the doom of Fire. 2:126
The doom of the disbelievers will not be lightened. 2:162
Allah is severe punishment! 2:165-6
They will not emerge from the Fire. 2:167
Those who hide the Scripture will have their bellies eaten with fire. Theirs will be a painful doom. 2:174
How constant are they in their strife to reach the Fire! 2:175
"Fight in the way of Allah." 2:190, 2:244
Believers must retaliate. Those who transgress will have a painful doom. 2:178
Kill disbelievers wherever you find them. If they attack you, then kill them. Such is the reward of disbelievers whitefawn_ answered on 10/24/06:Goodness, I never knew that, do you have a link one could follow?
This is a very dangerous sort of people, and a very dangerous sort of thinking.
This is simply Terror
Thank you for sharing this, and I would like to learn more, or better yet stay away from these kind of people, and it sounds like a very dictating Country.
"God Bless America!"
Blessings, Dot. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | jackreade asked on 10/23/06 - God is a Scientific Hypothesis "America founded in secularism as a beacon of eighteenth century enlightenment, is becoming the victim of religious politics, a circumstance that would have horrified the Founding Fathers. The political ascendancy today values embryonic cells over adult people. It obsesses about gay marriage, ahead of genuinely important issues that actually make a difference to the world. It gains crucial electoral support from a religious constituency whose grip on reality is so tenuous that they expect to be 'raptured' up to heaven, leaving their clothes as empty as their minds. More extreme specimens actually long for a world war, which they identify as the 'Armageddon' that is to presage the Second Coming. Sam Harris, in his new short book, Letter to a Christian Nation, hits the bull's-eye as usual:
It is, therefore, not an exaggeration to say that if the city of New York were suddenly replaced by a ball of fire, some significant percentage of the American population would see a silver-lining in the subsequent mushroom cloud, as it would suggest to them that the best thing that is ever going to happen was about to happen: the return of Christ . . .Imagine the consequences if any significant component of the U.S. government actually believed that the world was about to end and that its ending would be glorious. The fact that nearly half of the American population apparently believes this, purely on the basis of religious dogma, should be considered a moral and ¬intellectual emergency.
Does Bush check the Rapture Index daily, as Reagan did his stars? We don't know, but would anyone be surprised?
My scientific colleagues have additional reasons to declare emergency. Ignorant and absolutist attacks on stem cell research are just the tip of an iceberg. What we have here is nothing less than a global assault on rationality, and the Enlightenment values that inspired the founding of this first and greatest of secular republics. Science education - and hence the whole future of science in this country - is under threat. Temporarily beaten back in a Pennsylvania court, the 'breathtaking inanity' (Judge John Jones's immortal phrase) of 'intelligent design' continually flares up in local bush-fires. Dowsing them is a time-consuming but important responsibility, and scientists are finally being jolted out of their complacency. For years they quietly got on with their science, lamentably underestimating the creationists who, being neither competent nor interested in science, attended to the serious political business of subverting local school boards. Scientists, and intellectuals generally, are now waking up to the threat from the American Taliban.
Scientists divide into two schools of thought over the best tactics with which to face the threat. The Neville Chamberlain 'appeasement' school focuses on the battle for evolution. Consequently, its members identify fundamentalism as the enemy, and they bend over backwards to appease 'moderate' or 'sensible' religion (not a difficult task, for bishops and theologians despise fundamentalists as much as scientists do). Scientists of the Winston Churchill school, by contrast, see the fight for evolution as only one battle in a larger war: a looming war between supernaturalism on the one side and rationality on the other. For them, bishops and theologians belong with creationists in the supernatural camp, and are not to be appeased.
The Chamberlain school accuses Churchillians of rocking the boat to the point of muddying the waters. The philosopher of science Michael Ruse wrote:
We who love science must realize that the enemy of our enemies is our friend. Too often evolutionists spend time insulting would-be allies. This is especially true of secular evolutionists. Atheists spend more time running down sympathetic Christians than they do countering ¬creationists. When John Paul II wrote a letter endorsing Darwinism, Richard Dawkins's response was simply that the pope was a hypocrite, that he could not be genuine about science and that Dawkins himself simply preferred an honest fundamentalist.
A recent article in the New York Times by Cornelia Dean quotes the astronomer Owen Gingerich as saying that, by simultaneously advocating evolution and atheism, 'Dr Dawkins "probably single-handedly makes more converts to intelligent design than any of the leading intelligent design theorists".' This is not the first, not the second, not even the third time this plonkingly witless point has been made (and more than one reply has aptly cited Uncle Remus: "Oh please please Brer Fox, don't throw me in that awful briar patch").
Chamberlainites are apt to quote the late Stephen Jay Gould's 'NOMA' - 'non-overlapping magisteria'. Gould claimed that science and true religion never come into conflict because they exist in completely separate dimensions of discourse:
To say it for all my colleagues and for the umpteenth millionth time (from college bull sessions to learned treatises): science simply cannot (by its legitimate methods) adjudicate the issue of God's possible superintendence of nature. We neither affirm nor deny it; we simply can't comment on it as scientists.
This sounds terrific, right up until you give it a moment's thought. You then realize that the presence of a creative deity in the universe is clearly a scientific hypothesis. Indeed, it is hard to imagine a more momentous hypothesis in all of science. A universe with a god would be a completely different kind of universe from one without, and it would be a scientific difference. God could clinch the matter in his favour at any moment by staging a spectacular demonstration of his powers, one that would satisfy the exacting standards of science. Even the infamous Templeton Foundation recognized that God is a scientific hypothesis - by funding double-blind trials to test whether remote prayer would speed the recovery of heart patients. It didn't, of course, although a control group who knew they had been prayed for tended to get worse (how about a class action suit against the Templeton Foundation?) Despite such well-financed efforts, no evidence for God's existence has yet appeared.
To see the disingenuous hypocrisy of religious people who embrace NOMA, imagine that forensic archeologists, by some unlikely set of circumstances, discovered DNA evidence demonstrating that Jesus was born of a virgin mother and had no father. If NOMA enthusiasts were sincere, they should dismiss the archeologists' DNA out of hand: "Irrelevant. Scientific evidence has no bearing on theological questions. Wrong magisterium." Does anyone seriously imagine that they would say anything remotely like that? You can bet your boots that not just the fundamentalists but every professor of theology and every bishop in the land would trumpet the archeological evidence to the skies.
Either Jesus had a father or he didn't. The question is a scientific one, and scientific evidence, if any were available, would be used to settle it. The same is true of any miracle - and the deliberate and intentional creation of the universe would have to have been the mother and father of all miracles. Either it happened or it didn't. It is a fact, one way or the other, and in our state of uncertainty we can put a probability on it - an estimate that may change as more information comes in. Humanity's best estimate of the probability of divine creation dropped steeply in 1859 when The Origin of Species was published, and it has declined steadily during the subsequent decades, as evolution consolidated itself from plausible theory in the nineteenth century to established fact today.
The Chamberlain tactic of snuggling up to 'sensible' religion, in order to present a united front against ('intelligent design') creationists, is fine if your central concern is the battle for evolution. That is a valid central concern, and I salute those who press it, such as Eugenie Scott in Evolution versus Creationism. But if you are concerned with the stupendous scientific question of whether the universe was created by a supernatural intelligence or not, the lines are drawn completely differently. On this larger issue, fundamentalists are united with 'moderate' religion on one side, and I find myself on the other.
Of course, this all presupposes that the God we are talking about is a personal intelligence such as Yahweh, Allah, Baal, Wotan, Zeus or Lord Krishna. If, by 'God', you mean love, nature, goodness, the universe, the laws of physics, the spirit of humanity, or Planck's constant, none of the above applies. An American student asked her professor whether he had a view about me. 'Sure,' he replied. 'He's positive science is incompatible with religion, but he waxes ecstatic about nature and the universe. To me, that is ¬religion!' Well, if that's what you choose to mean by religion, fine, that makes me a religious man. But if your God is a being who designs universes, listens to prayers, forgives sins, wreaks miracles, reads your thoughts, cares about your welfare and raises you from the dead, you are unlikely to be satisfied. As the distinguished American physicist Steven Weinberg said, "If you want to say that 'God is energy,' then you can find God in a lump of coal." But don't expect congregations to flock to your church.
When Einstein said 'Did God have a choice in creating the Universe?' he meant 'Could the universe have begun in more than one way?' 'God does not play dice' was Einstein's poetic way of doubting Heisenberg's indeterminacy principle. Einstein was famously irritated when theists misunderstood him to mean a personal God. But what did he expect? The hunger to misunderstand should have been palpable to him. 'Religious' physicists usually turn out to be so only in the Einsteinian sense: they are atheists of a poetic disposition. So am I. But, given the widespread yearning for that great misunderstanding, deliberately to confuse Einsteinian pantheism with supernatural religion is an act of intellectual high treason.
Accepting, then, that the God Hypothesis is a proper scientific hypothesis whose truth or falsehood is hidden from us only by lack of evidence, what should be our best estimate of the probability that God exists, given the evidence now available? Pretty low I think, and here's why.
First, most of the traditional arguments for God's existence, from Aquinas on, are easily demolished. Several of them, such as the First Cause argument, work by setting up an infinite regress which God is wheeled out to terminate. But we are never told why God is magically able to terminate regresses while needing no explanation himself. To be sure, we do need some kind of explanation for the origin of all things. Physicists and cosmologists are hard at work on the problem. But whatever the answer - a random quantum fluctuation or a Hawking/Penrose singularity or whatever we end up calling it - it will be simple. Complex, statistically improbable things, by definition, don't just happen; they demand an explanation in their own right. They are impotent to terminate regresses, in a way that simple things are not. The first cause cannot have been an intelligence - let alone an intelligence that answers prayers and enjoys being worshipped. Intelligent, creative, complex, statistically improbable things come late into the universe, as the product of evolution or some other process of gradual escalation from simple beginnings. They come late into the universe and therefore cannot be responsible for designing it.
Another of Aquinas' efforts, the Argument from Degree, is worth spelling out, for it epitomises the characteristic flabbiness of theological reasoning. We notice degrees of, say, goodness or temperature, and we measure them, Aquinas said, by reference to a maximum:
Now the maximum in any genus is the cause of all in that genus, as fire, which is the maximum of heat, is the cause of all hot things . . . Therefore, there must also be something which is to all beings the cause of their being, goodness, and every other perfection; and this we call God.
That's an argument? You might as well say that people vary in smelliness but we can make the judgment only by reference to a perfect maximum of conceivable smelliness. Therefore there must exist a pre-eminently peerless stinker, and we call him God. Or substitute any dimension of comparison you like, and derive an equivalently fatuous conclusion. That's theology.
The only one of the traditional arguments for God that is widely used today is the teleological argument, sometimes called the Argument from Design although - since the name begs the question of its validity - it should better be called the Argument for Design. It is the familiar 'watchmaker' argument, which is surely one of the most superficially plausible bad arguments ever discovered - and it is rediscovered by just about everybody until they are taught the logical fallacy and Darwin's brilliant alternative.
In the familiar world of human artifacts, complicated things that look designed are designed. To naïve observers, it seems to follow that similarly complicated things in the natural world that look designed - things like eyes and hearts - are designed too. It isn't just an argument by analogy. There is a semblance of statistical reasoning here too - fallacious, but carrying an illusion of plausibility. If you randomly scramble the fragments of an eye or a leg or a heart a million times, you'd be lucky to hit even one combination that could see, walk or pump. This demonstrates that such devices could not have been put together by chance. And of course, no sensible scientist ever said they could. Lamentably, the scientific education of most British and American students omits all mention of Darwinism, and therefore the only alternative to chance that most people can imagine is design.
Even before Darwin's time, the illogicality was glaring: how could it ever have been a good idea to postulate, in explanation for the existence of improbable things, a designer who would have to be even more improbable? The entire argument is a logical non-starter, as David Hume realized before Darwin was born. What Hume didn't know was the supremely elegant alternative to both chance and design that Darwin was to give us. Natural selection is so stunningly powerful and elegant, it not only explains the whole of life, it raises our consciousness and boosts our confidence in science's future ability to explain everything else.
Natural selection is not just an alternative to chance. It is the only ultimate alternative ever suggested. Design is a workable explanation for organized complexity only in the short term. It is not an ultimate explanation, because designers themselves demand an explanation. If, as Francis Crick and Leslie Orgel once playfully speculated, life on this planet was deliberately seeded by a payload of bacteria in the nose cone of a rocket, we still need an explanation for the intelligent aliens who dispatched the rocket. Ultimately they must have evolved by gradual degrees from simpler beginnings. Only evolution, or some kind of gradualistic 'crane' (to use Daniel Dennett's neat term), is capable of terminating the regress. Natural selection is an anti-chance process, which gradually builds up complexity, step by tiny step. The end product of this ratcheting process is an eye, or a heart, or a brain - a device whose improbable complexity is utterly baffling until you spot the gentle ramp that leads up to it.
Whether my conjecture is right that evolution is the only explanation for life in the universe, there is no doubt that it is the explanation for life on this planet. Evolution is a fact, and it is among the more secure facts known to science. But it had to get started somehow. Natural selection cannot work its wonders until certain minimal conditions are in place, of which the most important is an accurate system of replication - DNA, or something that works like DNA.
The origin of life on this planet - which means the origin of the first self-replicating molecule - is hard to study, because it (probably) only happened once, 4 billion years ago and under very different conditions from those with which we are familiar. We may never know how it happened. Unlike the ordinary evolutionary events that followed, it must have been a genuinely very improbable - in the sense of unpredictable - event: too improbable, perhaps, for chemists to reproduce it in the laboratory or even devise a plausible theory for what happened. This weirdly paradoxical conclusion - that a chemical account of the origin of life, in order to be plausible, has to be implausible - would follow if it were the case that life is extremely rare in the universe. And indeed we have never encountered any hint of extraterrestrial life, not even by radio - the circumstance that prompted Enrico Fermi's cry: "Where is everybody?"
Suppose life's origin on a planet took place through a hugely improbable stroke of luck, so improbable that it happens on only one in a billion planets. The National Science Foundation would laugh at any chemist whose proposed research had only a one in a hundred chance of succeeding, let alone one in a billion. Yet, given that there are at least a billion billion planets in the universe, even such absurdly low odds as these will yield life on a billion planets. And - this is where the famous anthropic principle comes in - Earth has to be one of them, because here we are.
If you set out in a spaceship to find the one planet in the galaxy that has life, the odds against your finding it would be so great that the task would be indistinguishable, in practice, from impossible. But if you are alive (as you manifestly are if you are about to step into a spaceship) you needn't bother to go looking for that one planet because, by definition, you are already standing on it. The anthropic principle really is rather elegant. By the way, I don't actually think the origin of life was as improbable as all that. I think the galaxy has plenty of islands of life dotted about, even if the islands are too spaced out for any one to hope for a meeting with any other. My point is only that, given the number of planets in the universe, the origin of life could in theory be as lucky as a blindfolded golfer scoring a hole in one. The beauty of the anthropic principle is that, even in the teeth of such stupefying odds against, it still gives us a perfectly satisfying explanation for life's presence on our own planet.
The anthropic principle is usually applied not to planets but to universes. Physicists have suggested that the laws and constants of physics are too good - as if the universe were set up to favour our eventual evolution. It is as though there were, say, half a dozen dials representing the major constants of physics. Each of the dials could in principle be tuned to any of a wide range of values. Almost all of these knob-twiddlings would yield a universe in which life would be impossible. Some universes would fizzle out within the first picosecond. Others would contain no elements heavier than hydrogen and helium. In yet others, matter would never condense into stars (and you need stars in order to forge the elements of chemistry and hence life). You can estimate the very low odds against the six knobs all just happening to be correctly tuned, and conclude that a divine knob-twiddler must have been at work. But, as we have already seen, that explanation is vacuous because it begs the biggest question of all. The divine knob twiddler would himself have to have been at least as improbable as the settings of his knobs.
Again, the anthropic principle delivers its devastatingly neat solution. Physicists already have reason to suspect that our universe - everything we can see - is only one universe among perhaps billions. Some theorists postulate a multiverse of foam, where the universe we know is just one bubble. Each bubble has its own laws and constants. Our familiar laws of physics are parochial bylaws. Of all the universes in the foam, only a minority has what it takes to generate life. And, with anthropic hindsight, we obviously have to be sitting in a member of that minority, because, well, here we are, aren't we? As physicists have said, it is no accident that we see stars in our sky, for a universe without stars would also lack the chemical elements necessary for life. There may be universes whose skies have no stars: but they also have no inhabitants to notice the lack. Similarly, it is no accident that we see a rich diversity of living species: for an evolutionary process that is capable of yielding a species that can see things and reflect on them cannot help producing lots of other species at the same time. The reflective species must be surrounded by an ecosystem, as it must be surrounded by stars.
The anthropic principle entitles us to postulate a massive dose of luck in accounting for the existence of life on our planet. But there are limits. We are allowed one stroke of luck for the origin of evolution, and perhaps for a couple of other unique events like the origin of the eukaryotic cell and the origin of consciousness. But that's the end of our entitlement to large-scale luck. We emphatically cannot invoke major strokes of luck to account for the illusion of design that glows from each of the billion species of living creature that have ever lived on Earth. The evolution of life is a general and continuing process, producing essentially the same result in all species, however different the details.
Contrary to what is sometimes alleged, evolution is a predictive science. If you pick any hitherto unstudied species and subject it to minute scrutiny, any evolutionist will confidently predict that each individual will be observed to do everything in its power, in the particular way of the species - plant, herbivore, carnivore, nectivore or whatever it is - to survive and propagate the DNA that rides inside it. We won't be around long enough to test the prediction but we can say, with great confidence, that if a comet strikes Earth and wipes out the mammals, a new fauna will rise to fill their shoes, just as the mammals filled those of the dinosaurs 65 million years ago. And the range of parts played by the new cast of life's drama will be similar in broad outline, though not in detail, to the roles played by the mammals, and the dinosaurs before them, and the mammal-like reptiles before the dinosaurs. The same rules are predictably being followed, in millions of species all over the globe, and for hundreds of millions of years. Such a general observation requires an entirely different explanatory principle from the anthropic principle that explains one-off events like the origin of life, or the origin of the universe, by luck. That entirely different principle is natural selection.
We explain our existence by a combination of the anthropic principle and Darwin's principle of natural selection. That combination provides a complete and deeply satisfying explanation for everything that we see and know. Not only is the god hypothesis unnecessary. It is spectacularly unparsimonious. Not only do we need no God to explain the universe and life. God stands out in the universe as the most glaring of all superfluous sore thumbs. We cannot, of course, disprove God, just as we can't disprove Thor, fairies, leprechauns and the Flying Spaghetti Monster. But, like those other fantasies that we can't disprove, we can say that God is very very improbable".
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Richard Dawkins is the Charles Simonyi Professor of the Public Understanding of Science at Oxford University. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society, and the author of nine books.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ whitefawn_ answered on 10/24/06:Wouldn’t it be grand, if Science could study the human brain, to come to an understanding of why we believe in God?
I have to admit, the reason I believe in God, is because of the Love Jesus has taught us, but than we must remember how ignorance of not learning the science of the human brain, and to come to an understanding, that we who do believe in God, are willing to be wronged.
Can we do this?
Even if one has seen visions, it could have been the sub-conscious mind that is acting.
It is totally ignorance if we can’t ponder upon what science knows.
Why is it, we need spiritual answers?
And not that of the human brain?
Without the sarcasm and the confusing of the truth, even I myself whom has studied the Bible has seen so many contradictions.
I still have faith, in the God I believe in, but not that of the Church.
If they were to say’ I believe in God, than why do they kill?
If they believe in God. Why is it, they can’t follow all the laws of the Bible, as in the Sabbath law?
If a "Scientist" would had changed the Sabbath, they would still be worshipping on the Sabbath- Saturday, and not Sunday.
When a man tells them, to blow up planes, and they will "transform into Paradise", or lets drink the 'cool-aid and we all go to heaven"?
But when the Church changed the Sabbath, that was okay.
Oh how confuse we all are, never willing to be wronged, or to even listen or comprehend what science can teach us.
We should allow ourselves to learn that of both sides, without the arguments.
Thank you for the Post, and have a good day. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | praecipio asked on 10/23/06 - 15 Answers to Creationist Nonsense 15 Answers to Creationist Nonsense
Opponents of evolution want to make a place for creationism by tearing down real science, but their arguments don't hold up (By John Rennie - Scientific American : July 2002)
When Charles Darwin introduced the theory of evolution through natural selection 143 years ago, the scientists of the day argued over it fiercely, but the massing evidence from paleontology, genetics, zoology, molecular biology and other fields gradually established evolution's truth beyond reasonable doubt.
Today that battle has been won everywhere--except in the public imagination.
Embarrassingly, in the 21st century, in the most scientifically advanced nation the world has ever known, creationists can still persuade politicians, judges and ordinary citizens that evolution is a flawed, poorly supported fantasy.
Some anti-evolutionists, such as professor Philip E. Johnson (Univ. Berkeley) admit that they intend for intelligent-design theory to serve as a "wedge" for reopening science classrooms to discussions of God.
Besieged teachers and others may increasingly find themselves on the spot to defend evolution and refute creationism. The arguments that creationists use are typically specious and based on misunderstandings of (or outright lies about) evolution, but the number and diversity of the objections can put even well-informed people at a disadvantage.
To help with answering them, the following list rebuts some of the most common "scientific" arguments raised against evolution. It also directs readers to further sources for information and explains why creation science has no place in the classroom.
Click on each question to follow the link and get the rebuts (or read the entire article).
1. Evolution is only a theory. It is not a fact or a scientific law.
2. Natural selection is based on circular reasoning.
3. Evolution is unscientific, because it is not testable or falsifiable.
4. Increasingly, scientists doubt the truth of evolution.
5. The disagreements among even evolutionary biologists show how little solid science supports evolution.
6. If humans descended from monkeys, why are there still monkeys?
7. Evolution cannot explain how life first appeared on earth.
8. Mathematically, it is inconceivable that anything as complex as a protein, let alone a living cell or a human, could spring up by chance.
9. The Second Law of Thermodynamics says that systems must become more disordered over time.
10. Mutations are essential to evolution theory, but mutations can only eliminate traits.
11. Natural selection might explain microevolution, but it cannot explain the origin of new species and higher orders of life.
12. Nobody has ever seen a new species evolve.
13. Evolutionists cannot point to any transitional fossils--creatures that are half reptile and half bird, for instance.
14. Living things have fantastically intricate features that could not function if they were any less complex or sophisticated.
15. Recent discoveries prove that even at the microscopic level, life has a quality of complexity that could not have come about through evolution.
Add-on : "Creation science" is a contradiction in terms.
whitefawn_ answered on 10/24/06:You missed the 16 answer.
Why are there still Peddlers on the earth?
Although, Science never said' we had evolved into apes. We were ape like.
The one problem with religion is, we can learn from Science.
"The ignorance of all man kind, is never willing to be wrong."
I myself do believe in God, although I could also be wrong, and that would hurt, but at least "I would not be burning in "Hell Fire", as a couple of so called experts have quoted on here.
Ignorance is not learning, I have seen visions, although, perhaps they were an delusional vision, so we believe in what we want to believe in.
I need to choose God.
Why are we afraid to question ourselves?
"From dust I was, and to dust I shall return." That is what the Bible Say's.
Flesh and blood, cannot inherit Gods Kingdom.
We should make the best out of this life, and not to let ignorance over rule us, the brain is very powerful of letting in false hopes, and reasonings.
So, I guess I am being lukewarm on this subject.
The question, I really ponder upon myself,
Is God real? Does the mind want to believe in this, because as humans, we don't want to believe in death, but an everlasting life.
Could the mind cause us to believe in this, perhaps we can better understand the mind, I would like to learn from Science, because the sub- conscience is a very powerful tool, and it can fool us.
I still believe in God, but as I have said' I am willing to be wronged.
You have a good day, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | praecipio asked on 10/23/06 - To all peacefull Muslims : ENJOY !!! I wish all peacefull Muslims a nice time and happy celebrations at the end of the Ramadan period : Enjoy !!!
What do our "experts" know of the Ramadan and the traditionally following celebrations?
(No need to let me know that this is the Christianity Board. Nothing wrong with improving your general religious knowledge by either reading incoming comments here, or searching these yourself!)
![]() whitefawn_ answered on 10/23/06:All I can say' Is that is beautiful!
I don't know much on the Ramadan and the traditionally celebrations, although, I would love to learn more, and I personally want to "Thank you for sharing this beautiful photo, and I Pray that other Muslims may see this, and know that Americans have good people with loving hearts, and that do care about them.
"It is ones like you, that bring peace to all.
Thank you again!
I wish you the best, and for your kindness for all other Nations!. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 10/22/06 - What is a "Child" "...16-year-olds everywhere are undergoing an identity
crisis. Are they children or not?
On the one hand, we've got a kerfuffle of righteous outrage on their behalf from the self-appointed grown-ups of America. "PROTECT THE CHILDREN" is the new clarion-call catchphrase for Democrats and Republicans alike: "Republican leadership chose politics ahead of PROTECTING CHILDREN," tsk-ed Jen Psaki, spokeswoman for the Democratic Campaign Congressional Committee. "The Foley scandal shows what happens when political correctness is put ahead of PROTECTING CHILDREN," wailed Tony Perkins of the super-conservative Family Research council. Indeed, according to the New York Times, 79% of Americans believe that the Republicans of Congress "put their political interests ahead of PROTECTING THE SAFETY" of the children.
On the other hand, what children? My last post abused the word "pedophile" like a McMartin Daycare pupil, and I discovered from the comments that for every indignant child-protector, there's a literalist keen to define what a "child" really is. A pedophile, they argued, is attracted to children, and Mark Foley's favorite young studs were too old to be children. Instead, they said, Foley is simply "a homosexual predator who went after teenaged males" and "a self-proclaimed gay man who likes boys." (Do you hear that? It's a collective shudder from the gay community. Thank you, Mr. Foley, for turning the clock back thirty years on gay acceptance and understanding.)
It's time to settle this question once and for all: What is a child? How long should children be innocent from sex? As usual, history can be relied upon to cloud the issue. In fact, the very concept of "children" is relatively new, and so is the illusion of sexual innocence.
Let's start off as far back as we can, in ancient Greece. The ancient Greeks had a myth in which Zeus abducts a young boy named Ganymede, carrying him up to Mt. Olympus to be his eternal boy-lover. This is occasionally referred to as "the rape of Ganymede," but everyone in the story -- including Ganymede's father -- is fairly pleased with the situation.
The Ganymede myth was a cornerstone of Greek pederast culture, especially on the island of Crete, where inhabitants performed a ritual described by the Greek historian Ephorus: men would ceremonially "abduct" young boys, taking them into the countryside for two months of feasting, hunting, and sexual intercourse. The boys' families would pretend to resist the abduction, but in reality it was all a game, like "kidnapping" a bride before her wedding. A family that tried to protect their son from his abductor was considered "extremely shameful," wrote Ephorus, "since in effect they are publicly admitting that the boy is unworthy to get such a lover."
Culturally sanctioned boy-love turned out to be a passing fad, but it was a long time before the modern concept of childhood arose. In fact, it wasn't until the Renaissance that children appeared in Western art at all -- young people were depicted as miniature adults. Perhaps because of the shorter lifespans back then, infancy was thought to lead directly into adulthood; to this day, the French language doesn't make a distinction between "baby" and "child" (both are translated as enfant).
It was a Frenchman, the influential social historian Philippe Ariès, who in 1965 wrote about the sexualized infancy of Louis XIII, quoting the diary of Henri IV:
"Louis XIII was not yet one year old: 'He laughed uproariously when his nanny waggled his cock with her fingers.' An amusing trick which the child soon copied. Calling a page, 'he shouted "Hey, there!" and pulled up his robe, showing him his cock.'
He was one year old: 'In high spirits,' notes Heroard, 'he made everybody kiss his cock.' This amused them all....During his first three years nobody showed any reluctance or saw any harm in jokingly touching the child's sexual parts."
When Louis XIII turned seven, though, school replaced sex games, for "he had become a little man." And only seven years later, "Louis XIII had nothing more to learn, for it was at the age of fourteen years two months that he was put almost by force into his wife's bed." As America will soon learn from Sofia Coppola's new movie, Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were not much older when they took the throne.
The myth of childhood as we know it today -- sanitized, idealized, rosy and prolonged -- arose in the nineteenth century. You can trace it back to the eighteenth-century return-to-innocence philosophy of Rousseau. You can blame the Evangelical Revival, the increased length of the average lifespan, or the general prudishness of Victorianism. You can see it in the work of Charles Dickens, the legislation against child labor, and the invention of the children's literature genre. And you can feel in the air today, as American protectors of innocence wring their hands in despair. Yes: our contemporary view of childhood is Victorian.
So what is a child? Has the American child lost his innocence, or was he not so innocent to begin with? Perhaps we should leave the last word to Plato, the wisest man of the ages:
"Some men are male-oriented. While they are boys, because they are chips off the male block, they love men and enjoy lying with men and being embraced by men; those are the best of boys and lads, because they are the most manly in their nature. When they're grown men, they are lovers of young men. Do you want me to prove it? Look, these are the only kind of boys who grow up to be politicians."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I was talking to my friend Doris this week about when sexual activity was acceptable for individuals, and I was surprised that we both agreed that sixteen was a perfectly fine age for people to begin intimacy.
I remember my childhood; kids were very much sexual beings. Isn't the main issue that immature, unmarried women not have children? Isn't it normal and healthy for individuals over age 12 to begin to have some sort of sex life?
Are Christian teachings about sex harmful to children, for the most part. Do most children pay any attention to the teachings? whitefawn_ answered on 10/22/06:Children are what Parents "mold them to be".
As of my divorce, my one Son Lazlow, has came a long way, to reach maturity, and is doing quite well now in his second year of College, although, already owning his own home, I miss him a lot.
Although, I had remarried, going on 19 years now.
We have a sixteen year old, Mary Sue, and this child is so exceptional, that when he was dating a younger girl for over two years, and knowing he is about to turn seventeen years of age this month, did some investigations on his own, and under the Law, that he could be in trouble for dating a fifteen year old, whom looks like a model, and has a very sweet heart, well, he had decided to break it off, because he was brought up, with open discussions and with love.
He had knew what is right and what is wrong, and also knows he need no red tape for his Education.
A good Parent will put aside, what they may need as "material processions' and spend more essential time on their children.
Education, is the number one key for a child to learn and have a healthy and good life.
My Son whom is sixteen, has his very own drivers license, and also knows that Driving is a "Privilege and not a right."
He drives me to my appointments, and even buys me flowers, and is never afraid to give me a hug in front of his buddies, whom also call me Mom.
One of the most important elements we can teach our children is not to be afraid to say I love you, for this is what all four of mine do. Before anyone leaves this house, it is always. (I love you, and I or my Husband' will answer back. "We love you more."
I want to keep my Alfred near home when he leaves for College, although he wants to go to LA My Alfred, can sing, and play almost every instrument he is also a straight A student, I guess, I’m not ready to let go yet.
I love him to much! Us Parents must understand, Yes these are children, put our life aside, get to know all the Teachers. Teach your children well, and put them first, because at sixteen, they are still children.
They have not yet reached maturity in their bodies or Mentally, nor Physically although, we need to teach them, that having children, after they are Married is very serious and not to be taken lightly.
Once I actually sat Alfred, and his friends down and we watched the Maury Show, on who is the Father?
This was a good lesson for these children, for the girls are getting to be something else, in this day and age. It shocked me, that children are having children at the tender age of thirteen, and one on there was only eleven years of age!
No, at sixteen they are still children, and are in need to developed into good citizens, we can do this by living a good example.
Although, we still need the Government to intervene when it comes to neglected and abused children.
We need the Services they provide for some children, whom some Parents believe in almost (as a Dog has puppies), not thinking what kind of life these children will have, or not caring in that matter,
We want our children to have the best of life, and to help with all, in the Communities and other issues of life.
These are children, and not puppies. People should think a head, about how much money they have? Is it enough, to send a child to College, to clothe, if not, than please, I wish these people would not have children.
I'm sorry if I sound harsh, and I didn't mean to make this so long.
You have a great day! Joy. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 10/20/06 - Which one is the right one to use. Hello Everyone,
Which versioin of the Bible do you use in your religion?
Jehovah's witnesses use mostlty the KJV, NKJV and the NWT is the one they use in theie studies, yet we have no objection in using other versions.
Why because it leaves out the thou and thus, an old english and are more modern in the words used so these copies are easier to understand.
Does it matter which Bible we use? Do all Bibles say the same thing? In the many different versions, does the message change? If yes, how? If not, why do you feel that way?
How do we know which Bible version is the right one to use?
I am looking forward to all answers that are done in a respectful way of all religion.
Take care,
Hope12 whitefawn_ answered on 10/22/06:The New English standard. It's on a Bible Software that I use frequently, for Study and on this Site.
Example, this is the King James Version;
Eph 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, (as dear children;)
New English Standard
Eph 5:1 Be ye therefore imitators of God, (as beloved children.)
As you can see, there is not much a difference, as in dear children as the same as beloved children.
Plus, I love to read the "Early Christian Writings of the New Testaments"
Blessings, and it is great to see you.
Joy. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 10/21/06 - THEY'VE DISAPPEARED!
Matthew
IamDyan
LTgolf
islandangel
madima
awatech
sunkissed02
MELO_GIBSON
tarot10
johnh1234
MrBlack
ladybugca
Liz22
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 10/22/06:Liz was me Hank, than remember I had told all, after I had asked the management for my old name back, except my old user name "Liz" lost a lot of points, because I took back my old name, and the one I love.
I am Joy Elizabeth in English (Whitefawn given to me from (Tribal of Potowami)
Just don't come here to Gamble. At the (Soaring Eagle Casino:)
Blessings. Liz. Whitefawn. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 10/21/06 - POSTS!
Can't we make them SHORT and 'SWEET?' Who has time to read and then comprehend 20 paragraphs? It also takes time to scroll down and click the ANSWER button. The same goes for clarifications. How about it, guys and gals? These long c/p posts are the pits.
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 10/22/06:Yes! I totally agree Sometimes we get so lost in the reading, than don't know what the questioner asked to begin with.
I have post some long questions, although they were of my writing and not that of someone else’s work.
Blessings. Hank. | | Question/Answer | | praecipio asked on 10/21/06 - A good and happy Divali to all of you !!! To all peacefull Hindu friends here and all over the world : A good and happy Divali to all of you !!!
![]() whitefawn_ answered on 10/22/06:From the research I have found,
"This is a celebration of the victory of the god Krishna over the evil Narkasura"
The photo is pretty as I love candles, and somethimg new to study.
Thank you for sharing this.
Blessings, and a Great day! Joy.
PS- Keep those photos coming! I love them. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 10/21/06 - Ready for another sex story????????................ How to save the airlines.........
Dump the male flight attendants. No one wanted them in the first place. Replace all the female flight attendants with good-looking strippers! What the hell - the attendants have gotten old and haggard-looking. They don't even serve food anymore, so what's the loss? The strippers would at least triple the alcohol sales and get a "party atmosphere" going in the cabin.
And, of course, every businessman in this country would start flying again, hoping to see naked women.
Because of the tips, female flight attendants wouldn't need a salary, thus saving even more money. Hell, I suspect tips would be so good that we could charge the women for working and have them kick back 20% of the tips.
Muslims would be afraid to get on the planes for fear of seeing naked women. Hijackings would come to a screeching halt, and the airline industry would see record revenues. This is definitely a win-win situation if we handle it right - a golden opportunity to turn a liability into an asset.
Why the didn't Bush think of this? Why do I still have to do everything myself?
Sincerely,
Bill Clinton whitefawn_ answered on 10/22/06:Fred. I am not ready to hear another sex story.
You have my respect, but can we keep this a clean Site? Joy. | | Question/Answer | | OneGodFurther asked on 10/22/06 - Introduce Myself I'd like to introduce myself. A friend recommended this Board on this website because of heavy traffic and strong conversation.
My name is OneGodFurther. Guess I'll just answer some questions and see how it goes.
Sincerely,
OGF whitefawn_ answered on 10/22/06:Welcome! My name is Whitefawn, I am of Native Potowami near a local Reservation.
One God further sounds like an excellent name, for this kind of Site.
I am very easy to get a long with, some even call me a people pleaser.
Please feel welcome, and share with us.
Blessings to you, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 10/17/06 - I am here to stay. Hello everyone,
I have decided to stay and make paraclete's claim accurate.
I was so appreciative to see the ones who really felt some comfort or encouragement from my comments on the board. I thought about it and have decided to stay and not let anyone chase me from doing something I enjoy doing, and that is commenting to all your posts and comments. Some have encouraged me to ignore those who attack others, but instead I offer my hand in peace and say lets start over and disagree with me if you must, but please be adult and Christian enough to not attack my religion. I also may disagree with you but I will never attack your religion. I always disagree in a respectful way and no where in any of my comments or posts have you ever seen me attack anyone because of what religion they belong to.
So again if I have offended anyone, please take my apology and lets start fresh. Also from now on I will only quote scriptures from the New King James version, or King James version of the Bible. I can use any bible because they all say the same thing, it is the interpretations that are different. God never changes and the Bible never changes it's original message.
Take my peace or not I will no longer waste time on the board commenting on any topics or comments that are out and out attacks.
I look forward to reading and commenting on the many posts of those who act as an adult and who display respect for others no matter what religion they are.
Thank you for your patience and understanding and for all the kind encouragement. I gave it good thought and the constitution of the United States, give me the right to practice whatever religion I choose to practice. Notice what it says.
Similarly, courts have found that the principle of a "religious liberty" exists behind in the First Amendment, even if those words are not actually there:
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof...
The point of such an amendment is twofold. First, it ensures that religious beliefs - private or organized - are removed from attempted government control. This is the reason why the government cannot tell either you or your church what to believe or to teach. Second, it ensures that the government does not get involved with enforcing, mandating, or promoting particular religious doctrines. This is what happens when the government "establishes" a church - and because doing so created so many problems in Europe, the authors of the Constitution wanted to try and prevent the same from happening here.
Can anyone deny that the First Amendment guarantees the principle of religious liberty, even though those words do not appear there? Similarly, the First Amendment guarantees the principle of the separation of church and state - by implication, because separating church and state is what allows religious liberty to exist.
Here is something to think about: If God allows the authority to make the rules and laws of the land and we are to obey what God says, then no group or single person should either.
While recognizing that human rulership is often beastlike, true Christians subject themselves to the governmental “superior authorities,” as the Bible directs.
Romans 13:1 (New King James Version)
New King James Version (NKJV)
Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
1 Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.
When such authorities command them to act contrary to God’s law, however, they “obey God as ruler rather than men.”—
Acts 5:29 (New King James Version)
New King James Version (NKJV)
Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
29 But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men.
Take care,
Hope12
Hope12 whitefawn_ answered on 10/18/06:Hope, I only have five words for you!
"Its great to see you back"
And I love you, Please listen to Judgement Day, anf the rest that care very much for you, there's always going to be a bad Apple, but you didn't let the old Devil win, and that is what he wanted!
But you make us happy, and your among the best of experts!
Love you girl. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 10/16/06 - What ever happened to the mansion built for Abraham, Isaac and Jacob? Rutherford prophesied that the patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob would return visibly to the earth to help promote the kingdom of God. He was so sure of this prediction that he built a large palatial mansion in San Diego, California, for Abraham, Isaac and Jacob to live in when they would return sometime between 1925 and 1929. But 1929 came and went and Abraham, Isaac and Jacob never showed up. That’s when Rutherford moved into the mansion himself and lived there until he died in 1942. Fast Facts on False Teachings, Ron Carlson, and Ed Decker, Harvest House Publishers, 1994, page 119 whitefawn_ answered on 10/16/06:You think that is something, you should see how our Local "Methodist Minister lives" like,
An lustrous eight bedroom home, on twenty acres, all free! we use to go, but I was never getting any spiritual food, I found more in my Bible.
My Husband watched on as his Boss, gave this Methodist Preacher over 8,000 for what they call. "An Appreciation day"
Although, Jehovah Witness’s later in time, realized this was wrong, and no longer give such a large amount of money.
Plus, all their Ministers have an employment outside the Kingdom Hall, some are Doctors, builders and so on, none depend upon others to give them money, there is no plate passed around.
It is usually the Doctors and Lawyers that will pay the utilities bills, and no name is said’ For they believe as the Bible say’s.
Do not do as the Hypocrites do, and not to let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, nor blow a trumpet, as my Husbands Boss did. For they are getting their reward now, and in full.
I have often teased my Husband, and said’ "If we wanted to, we could start a Church, and get very rich, Just tickle their ears, and let them believe they can do what they want, and they will go to the heavens. Instead of teaching them as Jesus taught us, "Go and sin no more."
But we couldn't lie to so many people
I have "not been to a Kingdom Hall" in over ten years, but I will say this, "Have fun trying to find the contribution box, that is way in the back, and not to be seen."
They also do not expect poor people to put any money into it.
Perhaps that is why Hitler had tried to kill them off, along with the Jews, and any other Religion group he did not like, I believe Hitler was a (Catholic,)
Perhaps Catholics will be next week.
Look at the way the Pope lives? Like a King, in large garments and gold?
Lets do the Pope in a couple of weeks, how many people carry him around anyways? It seems like they should get more excercise?
Jesus said' They like to be seen in front of a large amount of people, and to enlarge their outer garments"
Be Blessed. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 10/15/06 - JOHN THE BAPTIST:
Was JOHN the forerunner of Christ?
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 10/15/06:No man born from Woman,was greater than John, but the Angels in heavens are higher than he is."
Jesus Christ, said that, after John was killed.
On earth, he will again be the greatest, on the day of his resurrection, for he had died, before Jesus had the keys to death, and hell, the common grave.
Have a nice Sunday Hank, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 10/15/06 - JESUS: THEN & NOW
Jesus lived in one culture. We live in another. If you saw and heard the real Jesus preaching in your town square today, would you think the guy dressed up like Jesus was a NUT, completely insane or just another evangelist? Remember, noone seems to know what Jesus looks like!
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 10/15/06:He has won victory over this world, he see's all that is happening.
As a mere man, I would only Pray, none would want to put him back on the Cross!
Although, someday, we will all have to face God, and when he questions us, "What have we done to inherited his Kingdom," what will our answer be.?
Did we visit him in prison, and in sickness?
Did we feed him when he was hungry?
Did we clothe him, when he was naked?
Did we give him water when he was thirsty, and other questions, we all need to answer.
Are we able to answer those questions?
I don't think I would ever have the boldness to look God in the face, after what I have seen happening in the world around us.
Blessings Hank. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 10/15/06 - PEOPLE & RELIGION:
Why is religion important?
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 10/15/06:If it goes against what really is important, and that is the "Word Of God" than it is not of any importance to me Hank.
Only following the Laws set before us, and the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ is what should be importance.
My favorite person in the Bible besides Jesus and his Father, is John the Baptize for he spoke with boldness and that of truth, though, they hated him and had him killed, he is another fine example for all real Christlike to follow.
Although, I do wish they would stay with the Word, and leave Politics with the world.
"Church and State"
Blessings to you. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 10/14/06 - What tracts would you recommend? I hand out Jack Chick and Ray Comfort tracts? What other tracts would you recommend that give an uncompromised gospel message? whitefawn_ answered on 10/14/06:I have always enjoyed the Awake magazine, it is mostly very intellectual news about what is going around us.
Now you have reminded me to up-date my subscriptions, although, that is another pagan holiday I have quit, so lights out in this house.
The way this world is heading, I would be so afraid to let my children take treats from strangers.
What hypocrites are we? We tell our children, don’t talk to strangers, than we turn around and lie to them, and wonder why are our children are going the other way.
Like Dr. Phil always say’ “Our children learn from us.”
You be Blessed. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 10/14/06 - Hello Dear Tom777,
Your profile states:
Toms777's Profile
Last Login: 10/14/06 11:38 GMT
No. of Unanswered Questions: 0
No. of Questions asked in the last 2 days: 2
Visit my personal website at http://discern.ca
(This is a website against Jehovah's Witnesses and just your opinion.)
You also signed up for the Jehovah’s Witness site not to help them or to make the truth know but notice in your own words.
I quote you:
“I am a born again Christian, saved through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross, and have studied both scripture and the teaching of the Russelites for a number of years.
- Former member of the counil of a local church
- Speaker at the "Last Days Bible Conference"
- Reasearcher into religious movements and cults (maintain website with information on some of these movements and cults) Jehovah's Witnesses
- Former No.1 Expert on the Askme.com Jehovah's Witness' Board: “
(But you do not understand any of their teachings, how can you be an expert? You thing you understand but instead you are full of hate and anger towards them. Why? Is it something we teach that hits you hard and makes you hate us? Or does what we teach, using your own Bible, make you mad because we can prove what we teach with any Bible. Can you Tom777? Yes, you are an expert but not with the truth about Jehovah’s Witnesses but you are an expert when it comes to telling false teaching against them.)
You continue to say:
-“Last but most certainly not least: I am a born again believer in Jesus Christ, having accepted his sacrifice on the cross as payment for the penalty that I incurred as a result of sin.
According to 1 Peter 2:5, as a believer in Jesus Christ, having accepted his sacrifice on the cross, I am priest of His holy catholic church..
I hold to the view that the Bible is inerrant and infallible, and I belief that the Bible is our sole authority on matters of faith and doctrine (Sola Scripture, Sola Fide)
As with any area of belief, it is important to understand that the basis for my responses will be the Bible and will be in part an opinion based upon an interpretation obtained by examining the whole of scripture, thus using scripture to interpret itself.”
Tom, this is your choice not mine and therefore have the freedom to believe what ever you choose to, but please read my words: "I do not believe in what you teach or believe in. That is my choice. Please allow me the same freedom you expect."
I say –to you Tom, unless you stop attacking me, you will force me to block you because you are harassing me and why? Because you disagree with my religion. You are suppose to be an expert Christian, where is your self-control, and patience and endurance? As a Christian you should be able to speak your opinion without harassing others or belittling them. I have taken the scripture Tom, and used your Bible and have proved beyond any doubt that what and why I say what I say and you still keep on harassing me. If you disagree, then do so politely and move on. This discussion is hereby ended on my part, not because you have said anything that makes my faith or beliefs in anyway changed. I am ending it because it is going no where. I also end it because this board is not just for you and I but for all other member that come here to comment or post. They should not have to see or hear this nonsense go back and forth and go no where. I am not posting or commenting to change you or anyone else on this board, no one can nor should anyone try to change another I come here to encourage others by my comments and to learn not dictate to other what they should or should not belief.
In the future if you post anymore post against Jehovah’s Witnesses and their religion except to disagree in a polite and adult manner, I will block you and report you. I in return will treat you with respect and as in the past I will never downgrade you Baptist religion and I certainly expect the same from you. There will be no more replies to any future posts about this from me, if I have offended you, please allow me to apologize, but I will never change my beliefs unless proven wrong and so far no one has done that. Again I am sorry if I have offended you in anyway but as a Christian I need to end this here and now, it really Tom is going nowhere at all.
I wish you well and peace.
Take care.
Hope12
whitefawn_ answered on 10/14/06: But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
This is exactly what you are doing. It is sad, but nearing the to the returning of Christ. Lets remember these scriptures.
Lets also remember Hope, that during these times. People are un willing to be wronged, always have to be right!
They go against the ten commandments, everyday, they believe in Wars! The nations are coming apart, just as the Book of Danial told us. It is sealed and only reveled to Gods People.
You are very fortunate to know the truth, don't throw your pearls before swine, so men can st ample on them, it is not worth you time.
Just thank Jehovah, and his Son Jesus Christ, that you were chosen, some of us are not that fortunate.
You may have to do what I did, write to Management and ask for a block, they understand, and they care about the bashing and putting down other Religions.
Just make sure you want this, because, I now wish, I would had not blocked Peddlers, he is very intelligent on all Religions, but as mush as I care about Tom, I had to, it was not worth the arguing and the low ratings he would give to most, when it was not even his post!
Lu 9:5 And as many as receive you not, when ye depart from that city, shake off the dust from your feet for a testimony against them.
1co 6:8 Nay, but ye yourselves do wrong, and defraud, and that [your] brethren.
1co 6:9 Or know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with men,
1co 6:10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
1co 6:11 And such were some of you: but ye were washed, but ye were sanctified, but ye were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in the Spirit of our God.
So my answer is sweetie, dust off that key board, and put a smile on your face, and know there are some of us, that are listening!
And most of all, when they had hurt you, they had hurt Christ and his Father the "LORD
Jehovah"
No more energy spent on negativeness, I visited that Site once, and found plenty wrong, but I have not the time to do a simple debate.
Hope, you know well as me, eyes will soon be open, and ears will hear, by than it will be to late.
That is why, there are no more Pagan Holliday's in my home! And one reason why? Is because I listen to you, not Tom.
I am not going to eat his crumbs, I want real food, and someday day, the Rich Churches will fall. Just as The Rich man and Lazarus
"Lu 16:23 And in Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom."
This will happen again! I myself am no longer taking crumbs from any Church, but I am listening to you.
It's sad, some can not see this as symbolic.
Love you forever. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 10/12/06 - Negative comments about others Religious choices: Hello Everyone,
THIS POST IS FOR ALL THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN UNFAIRLY AND DISRESPECFULLY ATTACKED ON THIS BOARD. PLEASE READ THIS AND RESPOND IF YOU WOULD LIKE.
ANY NEGATIVE REPLIES WILL RECEIVE 1 BLACK STAR. NEGATIVE DOES NOT MEAN AS TO DISAGREEING WITH WHAT I HAVE SAID BUT LITERALLY ATTACKING OR BEING RUDE TO OTHERS.
We all seen the difficulty of some so called mature adults on this board who have tried putting others down and attack one religious group after another. First the Mormons, then the Jehovah’s Witnesses, then the Catholics, and then Jesus Christ himself being called a bigot. How sad such conduct is being tolerated on this board. I personally have been here each day, however, I will not lower myself to the level that some are at on this board and then claiming to be a Christian. Some of the non-Christians behave better. One does not need to be a Christian to show respect to others.
Remember this though for those who want to have peace and show love and respect towards other. After all what right does one person feel they have to look down on another?
Jesus said: “If the world hates you, you know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were part of the world, the world would be fond of what is its own. Now because you are no part of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, on this account the world hates you.” (John 15:18, 19; see also 1 Peter 4:3, 4.) The Bible shows that the whole world lies under Satan’s control; he is the principal instigator of the persecution, and harassment and attacks. 1 John 5:19; Rev. 12:17.
Jesus also told his disciples: “You will be objects of hatred by all people on account of my name.” Mark 13:13 The word “name” here means what Jesus officially is, the Messianic King. Persecution comes because Jehovah’s Witnesses put his commands ahead of those of any earthly ruler.
It is no laughing matter when so called adults, maliciously harass others especially when they do so because you endeavor to live by Bible standards. Christians for example, are known for sharing their faith with others. But, there are those who put others down to raise themselves up and above others. Yes, like faithful servants of God in ancient times, many Christian youths receive a “trial by mocking.” (Hebrews 11:36) They are to be commended for their courage in enduring such reproaches!
You may wonder how to make your tormentors leave you alone. First, consider why the teasing takes place. “Even in laughter the heart may be in pain,” says the Bible at Proverbs 14:13. Laughter erupts when a group of people harass someone. But they are not ‘crying out joyfully because of the good condition of the heart.’ Isaiah 65:14 Often the laughter is a mere camouflage of inner turmoil. Behind the bravado, the tormentors might really be saying: ‘We don’t like ourselves, but putting someone down makes us feel better.’
As you can see, the tormentors are the ones with the problem, not you who are being tormented.
Jealousy also prompts the attacks. Recall the Bible’s account of the teenager Joseph, whose own brothers turned on him because he was his father’s favorite. Intense jealousy led not only to verbal abuse but even to the contemplation of murder! Genesis 37:4, 11, 20 Likewise today, a student who is exceptionally bright or well liked by the teachers may arouse the jealousy of his peers. Insults seem to ‘cut him down to size.’ But is it really the bright student being literally cut down or is it the one giving the insults that things he is cutting him down? You be the one to decide on that, however, no one is above another, so why try pushing others lower then yourself by hateful words and false accusations? Insecurity, jealousy, and low self-esteem are thus often the reasons for ridicule. Why, then, should you lose your self-esteem because some insecure adult has lost his?
Remember that the ridiculer wants to enjoy your reaction, to revel in your misery. Lashing back, becoming defensive, or bursting into tears is likely to encourage him or her to keep up the harassment. Why give that one the satisfaction of seeing you get upset? The best way to fend off insults is often nonchalantly to ignore them.
King Solomon further said: “Also, do not give your heart to all the words that people may speak [“Don’t pay attention to everything people say”—Today’s English Version], that you may not hear your servant calling down evil upon you. For your own heart well knows even many times that you, even you, have called down evil upon others.” Ecclesiastes 7:21, 22 To “give your heart” to the caustic remarks of the ridiculers would mean to be overly concerned about their judgment of you. Is their judgment valid? The apostle Paul was unfairly attacked by jealous peers, but he replied: “Now to me it is a very trivial matter that I should be examined by you or by a human tribunal. . . . He that examines me is Jehovah.” 1 Corinthians 4:3, 4 Paul’s relationship with God was so strong that he had the confidence and inward strength to withstand unfair attacks.
At times you may be mocked because of your way of life as a Christian. Jesus Christ himself had to endure such “contrary talk.” Hebrews 12:3 Jeremiah too “became an object of laughter all day long” because of boldly speaking Jehovah’s message. So persistent was the harassment that Jeremiah temporarily lost his incentive. “I am not going to make mention of him [Jehovah], and I shall speak no more in his name,” he decided. However, his love for God and truth eventually impelled him to overcome his fear. Jeremiah 20:7-9.
So do not let “contrary talk” by peers break your spirit. When appropriate, show a sense of humor. Respond to evil with kindness. Refuse to feed the fires of contention, and in time your tormentors may find little pleasure in targeting you for ridicule, for “where there is no wood the fire goes out.”—Proverbs 26:20.
BTW: You can also block such ones from contacting you. Whatever you decide, remember if negative comments are ignored then they soon will tire and go away. If they don’t just ignore them and only respond to those who are peaceful and do not think of themselves as better or brighter then others. Remember those that think they know it all are not well informed and get all confused because they just don’t have the truth of matters.
Take care,
Hope12
whitefawn_ answered on 10/12/06:Thank you Hope, for waking me up.
Some think they are saving us from the pits of eternal fire and damnation.
I have even been told, "that I was sending people to hell in a loving way! And that I was one of Jehovah's witnesses, my answer back was I wish I was, but it is a hard road to follow.
It saddens me, when I see Religions tore down, and it becomes confusing, never knowing if they are right or wrong.
Perhaps I am Luke warm, but I am Praying' That will all change soon.
I started a lot of this, when I had posted, the question. "Should Christians Celebrate Christmas?"
And all the information, I was reading did not come from a Witness's Site, it was a Pastor, so a few thought I was a Witness, only I wish, because I feel as if I am no part of this world, I can't believe what I see some do, in the name of God.
Perhap's I'm afraid to be hated, and disliked if I go with the teaches of Christ, and not of this world.
So, I have to hurry and find what is right for me, and I know that road, it is narrow, and only a FEW are finding that, just a little number.
Although, I Promise for now on, if I see any bashings on other denominations I will pass the post, except for something that should be explained, as Hell Fire, and that of custums that Pagans practice.
Peddler, helped me through this, and brought excellent answers concerning Pagan Hollidays!
Sisterly love, Joy
And, I'm so happy to see you back, you were deeply missed, and much wanted! | | Question/Answer | | holly23 asked on 10/12/06 - Is a Christian God a loving God? Do you really think that an all knowing loving God would damn everyone to eternal hell for not hitting the mark on the "only one true religion" part of eternity spent living here on earth? What about people who get it wrong for whatever reason but still try to be as close to "Christ-like" during their living as they possibly can- taking into consideration their peculiar understanding of God? Afterall isn't it pretty much given that you can raise up a child to believe anything?If everyone must get to heaven through Jesus or else spend an eternity suffering damnation in hellfire and brimstone, why would a *loving all knowing God* make it such a puzzle to finding "the" one and only true way to worship and believe while failing to take notice of the Godly intent that all the wrong people have? Honestly it is arguements like I see here that make me want to stay away from people who say they are Christians.
I believe that if God is a "loving" God, it matters not to which church dogma you follow, what matters is what is in your heart! Talk is cheap and if God is all knowing, surely actions speak louder than words. Of course I also realize that if God exists at all it is rather beyond my ability to fully understand and comprehend..... unless of course it was so important for me to know about, we would all have the same clear understanding and experience. Which experts here think I'm going to hell for not believing in the only one right way? whitefawn_ answered on 10/12/06:Hi Holly, and welcome a board. My answer would be NO.... The Bible is also symbolic, and If God was working with Satan, than this kind of hell would be real, but I know God can't lie, nor can he work with the Devil and become "Partners with him."
My God is a loving God, he taught me to love others, and never to bring harm upon anyone, and his Son Jesus Christ, is the same way.
Never would a loving God, have you burn in Hell forever and ever.
To me, death in Hell would be to never wake up again, in the Resurrection of Christ.
Again Welcome! Joy. | | Question/Answer | | Judgment_Day asked on 10/08/06 - Block announcement.... Due to Peddler7118's poor unChristianlike attitude he has earned first honors on my block list. I request that if you do not put him on your block list, just ignore him for now on.
I know that what I'm doing may not be popular with some people here, but as a Christian I'll be the first to take a stand. He owes Joy an apology and he owes me one as well. I've admonished him several times now.
"I did not insinuate anything. I speak plainly.
I said that anyboby who accepts several different versions of the truth from one person is an idiot. Do you disagree?
I accepted Joys apology earlier but I do not recant a single thing I said because I spoke the truth.
I am not an idiot so I do not accept that a person telling multiple stories is telling the truth on any of them.
She apologized , I accepted. That is it. I have nothing to apologize for I said nothing I did not mean.
That is my policy. I do not insinuate anything, I say what I mean and mean what I say.
If you do not like that so be it."
Unfortunatly his policy did not include Christ. That was his last reply after being given several opportunities. whitefawn_ answered on 10/11/06:Hello Judgment Day, I too also had to block a couple, I see no wrong with this. It is sad, we have to do this, but the Management understood when I had told them.
Remember also, that Jesus' Once said,
"Wipe their very dust off your feet"
I totally agree with you, all the way, and this is a Christian Question, you are asking here. It is sad, some can't see it here.
In the Novel I am writing, I have these words wrote.
"Always questions, rarely rewarding answers, or at least a solution of the certainty, the questioner needs to know"
Please remember this Scripture.
Lu 9:5 And as many as receive you not, when ye depart from that city, shake off the dust from your feet for a testimony against them."
What is happening here, is your testimony of the ones whom proclaim to know Christ, but they are not Christ-Like"
I'm with you on this, and all the way.
I will keep you in my Prayers, as I had already said one, What worries me most, is the burden you carry for the Love of goodness, and that of Christ, your deep love
to keep the Laws Clean. There is nothing worst than an amputated Spirit.
May the Lord Jesus Bless you even more, you will continue in my Prayers, for I know, the Lord knows you. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | Gimbo asked on 10/08/06 - Dinner You can invite two people from this board for dinner at your house.
Who, & what two dishes & wines are you going to prepare for them.
Reasons are not needed;) whitefawn_ answered on 10/08/06:Peddler and Tom. A great big Turkey Dinner, with everything, and bottle of 1953 Red Wine.
Although, I would much rather invite everyone and have one big party! We could listen to Johnny Cash, and argue the Bible. But me and Peddler won't argue, because we got rid of Santa Clause, and CeeBee could bring some of those delicious cookies, and than calm us all down.
And you can come too, I think we would all have a blast, and than I couldn't block anyone, because there would be no rating system.
Sorry about the reason.
I think that would be great! | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 10/08/06 - Did the Jehovah Witnesses really use to preach the cross? according to toms777, the Jehovah Witnesses used to embrace the doctrine of the cross. Can anyone provide information if that is true?
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18
whitefawn_ answered on 10/08/06:Perhaps Tom may be right about that, although, even when I was a little girl, my Half Sister always said, That Jesus died upon a tree, or a stake.
I could never match up to my sister, I love her, but Mom use to always boast her up, and than I could never match up to Jehovah's people.
I can't see why God would bring all of us to destruction, plus, the nightmares of Armageddon, I can't see what the difference is, all I know is that Jesus had to love us very much, in order to put his life on the cross for all of us.
Although, I may be wrong, but,if you get the time take a look at the old childrens books, Tom can tell you. They are like watching a horror movie. Very frightning!
Blessings to you. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 10/08/06 - When was Jesus Born????????????...................... When was Jesus Born?
Best Guess: September 29, 5 B.C.
Want the details? Read more below.
Biblical scholars readily tell us that it was most likely NOT on December 25th, A.D. 0. Why?
When were shepherds in the fields?
Israeli meteorologists tracked December weather patterns for many years and concluded that the climate in Israel has been essentially constant for at least the last 2,000 years. The Interpreter's Dictionary of the Bible states that, "broadly speaking, weather phenomena and climatic conditions as pictured in the Bible correspond with conditions as observed today" (R.B.Y. Scott, Vol. 3, Abingdon Press, Nashville, 1962, p. 625).
The temperature in the area of Bethlehem in December averages around 44 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius) but can drop to well below freezing, especially at night. Describing the weather there, Sara Ruhin, chief of the Israeli weather service, noted in a 1990 press release that the area has three months of frost: December with 29 F. [minus 1.6 C.]; January with 30 F. [minus 1.1 C.] and February with 32 F. [0 C.].
Snow is common for two or three days in Jerusalem and nearby Bethlehem in December and January. These were the winter months of increased precipitation in Christ's time, when the roads became practically unusable and people stayed mostly indoors.
This is important evidence to disprove a December date for Christ's birth. Note that, at the time of Christ's birth, the shepherds tended their flocks in the fields at night. "Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields," wrote one Gospel writer, "keeping watch over their flock by night" (Luke 2:8). A common practice of shepherds was keeping their flocks in the field from April to October, but in the cold and rainy winter months they took their flocks back home and sheltered them.
One commentary admits that, "as these shepherds had not yet brought home their flocks, it is a presumptive argument that October had not yet commenced, and that, consequently, our Lord was not born on the 25th of December, when no flocks were out in the fields; nor could He have been born later than September, as the flocks were still in the fields by night. On this very ground the nativity in December should be given up. The feeding of the flocks by night in the fields is a chronological fact, which casts considerable light upon this disputed point" (Adam Clarke's Commentary, Abingdon Press, Nashville, note on Luke 2:8).
Another study source agrees: "These humble pastoral folk are out in the field at night with their flock—a feature of the story which would argue against the birth [of Christ] occurring on Dec. 25 since the weather would not have permitted it" (The Interpreter's One-Volume Commentary, Abingdon Press, Nashville, 1971, note on Luke 2:4-7).
The Companion Bible, Appendix 179 says:
Shepherds and their flocks would not be found "abiding" (Gr. agrauleo) in the open fields at night in December (Tebeth), for the paramount reason that there would be no pasturage at that time. It was the custom then (as now) to withdraw the flocks during the month Marchesven (Oct.-Nov.) from the open districts and house them for the winter.
The census described by Luke
Other evidence arguing against a December birth of Jesus is the Roman census recorded by Luke. "And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered... So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem..., to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son..." (Luke 2:1-7).
The Roman and Judean rulers knew that taking a census in winter would have been impractical and unpopular. Generally a census would take place after the harvest season, around September or October, when it would not seriously affect the economy, the weather was good and the roads were still dry enough to allow easy travel. According to the normal dates for the census, this would probably be the season of Christ's birth.
One author states that this census "could hardly have been at that season [December 25], however, for such a time would surely not have been chosen by the authorities for a public enrollment, which necessitated the population's traveling from all parts to their natal districts, storms and rain making journeys both unsafe and unpleasant in winter, except in specially favorable years" ("Christmas at Bethlehem," Holy-Days and Holidays, Cunningham Geikie).
Luke's account of the census argues strongly against a December date for Christ's birth. For such an agrarian society, an autumn post-harvest census was much more likely.
The year of Christ's birth
Jesus wasn't born in A.D. 0 either. In 525 Pope John I commissioned the scholar Dionysius Exiguus to establish a feast calendar for the Church.. Dionysius also estimated the year of Christ's birth based upon the founding of the city of Rome. Unfortunately because of insufficient historical data he arrived at a date at least a few years later than the actual event.
The Gospels record Jesus' birth as occurring during the reign of Herod the Great. Herod's death is recorded by Jewish historian Flavius Josephus (Antiquities of the Jews, Josephus, Book 17, Chpt. 8) and occurred in the spring of 4 B.C. (New Testament History, F.F. Bruce, Anchor Books, p.23). Therefore, Christ's birth had to take place at least four years before the traditional date!
Jesus was not born on December 25, A.D. 0. [Actually there is no such year as A.D. 0. Our calendar jumps from 1 B.C. to A.D. 1 with no intervening year of zero.]
The celebration of Christ's birth in the the early church
In the first 200 years of Christian history, no mention is made of the calendar date of Jesus' birth. Not until the year 336 do we find the first mention of a celebration of His birth.
Why this omission? In the case of the Church fathers, the reason is that, during the three centuries after Christ's life on earth, the event considered most worthy of commemoration was the date of His death. In comparison, the date of His birth was considered insignificant. As the Encyclopedia Americana explains, "Christmas... was, according to many authorities, not celebrated in the first centuries of the Christian church, as the Christian usage in general was to celebrate the death of remarkable persons rather than their birth..." (1944 edition, "Christmas").
Speculation on the proper date began in the 3rd and 4th centuries, when the idea of fixing Christ's birthday started. Quite a controversy arose among Church leaders. Some were opposed to such a celebration. Origen (185-254) strongly recommended against such an innovation. "In the Scriptures, no one is recorded to have kept a feast or held a great banquet on his birthday. It is only sinners who make great rejoicings over the day in which they were born into this world" (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1908 edition, Vol. 3, p. 724, "Natal Day").
During this time eight specific dates during six different months were proposed by various groups. December 25, although one of the last dates to be proposed, was the one finally accepted by the leadership of the Western church.
A summary of the debate on the dates of Christ's birth appears in The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church: "Though speculation as to the time of year of Christ's birth dates from the early 3rd century, Clement of Alexandria suggesting the 20th of May, the celebration of the anniversary does not appear to have been general till the later 4th century. The earliest mention of the observance on Dec. 25th is in the Philocalian Calendar, representing Roman practice of the year 336. This date was probably chosen to oppose the feast of the Natalis Solis Invicti [nativity of the unconquerable sun] by the celebration of the birth of the 'Sun of Righteousness' and its observance in the West, seems to have spread from Rome" (1983 edition, Oxford University Press, New York, 1983, p. 280, "Christmas").
Around 200, when Clement of Alexandria mentioned the speculations about Christ's birthday, he said nothing about a celebration on that day. He casually reported the various ideas extant at that time: "And there are those who have determined not only the year of our Lord's birth, but also the day..., the 25th day of Pachon... Furthermore, others say that He was born on the 24th or 25th of Pharmuthi" ("The Stromata, or Miscellanies," The Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. 2, Eerdmans, Grand Rapids, 1986, p. 333).
Later, in 243, the official feast calendar of the time, De Pascha Computus, places the date of Christ's birth as March 28. Other dates suggested were April 2 and November 18. Meanwhile, in the East, January 6 was chosen, a date the Greeks had celebrated as the birth of the god Dionysus and the Egyptians as the birth of the god Osiris. Although pagans commonly celebrated the birthdays of their gods, in the Bible a birthday is never celebrated to the true God (who, of course, had no birth or day of origin).
December 25 popularized
In Rome December 25 was made popular by Pope Liberius in 354 and became the rule in the West in 435 when the first "Christ mass" was officiated by Pope Sixtus III. This coincided with the date of a celebration by the Romans to their primary god, the Sun, and to Mithras, a popular Persian sun god supposedly born on the same day. The Roman Catholic writer Mario Righetti candidly admits that, "to facilitate the acceptance of the faith by the pagan masses, the Church of Rome found it convenient to institute the 25th of December as the feast of the birth of Christ to divert them from the pagan feast, celebrated on the same day in honor of the 'Invincible Sun' Mithras, the conqueror of darkness" (Manual of Liturgical History, 1955, Vol. 2, p. 67).
Protestant historian Henry Chadwick sums up the controversy: "Moreover, early in the fourth century there begins in the West (where first and by whom is not known) the celebration of December 25th, the birthday of the Sun-god at the winter solstice, as the date for the nativity of Christ. How easy it was for Christianity and solar religion to become entangled at the popular level is strikingly illustrated by a mid-fifth century sermon of Pope Leo the Great, rebuking his over-cautious flock for paying reverence to the Sun on the steps of St. Peter's before turning their back on it to worship inside the westward-facing basilica" (The Early Church, Penguin Books, London, 1967, p. 126).
The Encyclopedia Americana makes this clear: "In the fifth century, the Western Church ordered it [Christ's birth] to be observed forever on the day of the old Roman feast of the birth of Sol [the sun god], as no certain knowledge of the day of Christ's birth existed" (1944 edition, "Christmas").
Is there any evidence from the Bible that will help us fix the date and year of Christ's birth?
Actually from the Bible, we can at least determine the probable season and year of His birth. The most convincing proof of when Jesus was born comes in understanding the evidence that is presented in the book of Luke concerning the birth of John the Baptist.
Luke 1:5-17 says:
In the days of King Herod of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly order of Abijah. His wife was a descendant of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. Both of them were righteous before God, living blamelessly according to all the commandments and regulations of the Lord. But they had no children, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were getting on in years. Once when he was serving as priest before God and his section was on duty, he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to enter the sanctuary of the Lord and offer incense. Now at the time of the incense offering, the whole assembly of the people was praying outside. Then there appeared to him an angel of the Lord, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was terrified; and fear overwhelmed him. But the angel said to him: "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John. You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He must never drink wine or strong drink; even before his birth he will be filled with the Holy Spirit. He will turn many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. With the spirit and power of Elijah he will go before him, to turn the hearts of parents to their children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord."
Zechariah was of the division of Abijah (Luke 1:5,8). Back in King David's day, the priests had been separated into 24 turns or divisions. These turns began in the first month of the Jewish calendar (1 Chronicles 27:2), March or April of our modern calendar. According to Talmudic and Qumran sources, the turns rotated every week until they reached the end of the sixth month, when the cycle was repeated again until the end of the year. This would mean that Zechariah's division served at the temple twice a year.
We find in 1 Chronicles 24:10 that Abijah was the eighth division of the priesthood. Thus, Zechariah’s service would be in the tenth week of the Jewish year. Why the tenth week? Because all divisions served during primary feast weeks of the Jewish year. So all of the divisions of the priesthood would serve during Passover and the Days of Unleavened Bread (the third week of the year). Likewise, all of the divisions of the priesthood would serve during the Feast of Weeks or Pentecost (the ninth week). Thus, the eighth course of the priesthood would end up serving on the tenth week of the year.
Now we must make an assumption here. Remember we said that Zechariah's division served at the temple twice a year. The Bible does not specify which of the two shifts of service it was. Regardless, nine months after one of the two dates John the Baptist was born. This would place his birth in March or September.
We will assume that Luke is recording Zechariah's first shift of service for the year. We will find that assumption tends to prove true as we discover the dates of John the Baptist's and Jesus' birth. Therefore, the date of Zechariah's service would be the Jewish date of Sivan 12-18 (See the Companion Bible, Appendix 179, Section III).
Picking up the story in Luke 1:23-25:
When his time of service was ended, he went to his home. After those days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she remained in seclusion. She said, "This is what the Lord has done for me when he looked favorably on me and took away the disgrace I have endured among my people."
After his service in the temple, Zechariah went home to his wife. Due to the laws of separation (Leviticus 12:5; 15:19,25), two additional weeks have to be counted. Now I don't know about you, but if an angel had told me that I was going to have a special child, I would get to it just as soon as the law allowed. So we will make a second assumption, that Elizabeth conceived a child two weeks after Zechariah's return.
Allowing for this and going forward a normal pregnancy places the birth of John the Baptist at the time of the Passover (Nisan 15)! The Jews always looked for Elijah to return on the day of Passover. Even in modern times there is an empty chair and a table setting for Elijah whenever Passover is celebrated. Little children also go to the door of the home and open it in anticipation of Elijah's coming. The Old Testament prophets had said that God would send Elijah before the coming of the Messiah (Malachi 3:1; 4:5-6). According to these calculations John the Baptist was born at Passover. Remember the angel's words to Zechariah? The angel said that John the Baptist was to come "in the spirit and power of Elijah" (Luke 1:17). Elijah came at Passover!
Continuing in Luke 1:26-36:
In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you." But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end." Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?"
The angel said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren.
Luke tells us that Elizabeth was six months pregnant when the angel Gabriel visited Mary. The beginning of Elizabeth's sixth month would have been the celebration of the Jewish feast of Hanukkah, which occurs in December of our modern calendar. Hanukkah (Chanukkah) is known as the "Feast of the Dedication" (John 10:22) because it is connected with the dedication of the second Jewish temple and the rededication of the temple after the Maccabean revolt. Mary was being dedicated for a purpose of enormous magnitude: God's presence in an earthly temple, i.e. a human body (John 2:18-21).
If Mary did conceive on Hanukkah, John the Baptist would have been born three months later at Passover. And assuming a normal pregnancy of 285 days, Jesus would have been born on the 15th day of the Jewish month of Tishri (September 29 by modern reckoning). This is significant because it is the first day of the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot). It is a high day, a special Sabbath, a time of great rejoicing.
The Feast of Tabernacles and Jesus
As you have seen, the birth of our Lord can be reasonably shown to have occurred in the autumn of the year on the first day of the Feast of Tabernacles. The Feast of Tabernacles is a joyful feast. Jewish believers would build a tabernacle or booth known as a "sukkah" out of green tree branches. They would eat their meals and sleep in this sukkah for eight days.
There are some very interesting connections in Scripture with Jesus and aspects of the Feast of Tabernacles.
John 1:14 says:
And the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us. [literal translation of the Greek]
Look at what Dr. Samuele Bacchiocchi has to say concerning this verse:
To introduce the nature and mission of Christ, John in his Gospel employs the metaphor of the "booth" of the Feast of Tabernacles. He explains that Christ, the Word who was with God in the beginning (John 1:1), manifested Himself in this world in a most tangible way, by pitching His tent in our midst: "And the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory, as of the only Son from the Father" (John 1:14).
The Greek verb skenoo used by John means "to pitch tent, encamp, tabernacle, dwell in a tent." The allusion is clearly to the Feast of Tabernacles when the people dwelt in temporary booths. In his article "The Feast of Tents: Jesus’ Self-Revelation," published in Worship (1960), David Stanley notes that this passage sets the stage for the later self-revelation of Jesus at the Feast of Tabernacles in John 7 and 8. Stanley writes: "The most basic clue to the mystery pervading this entire narrative [John 7 and 8] is provided by the symbolic action that gives this feast its name: the ceremonial erection of little bowers, made with branches of trees, in which every Jew was expected to live during the festival. These shelters were commemorative of the forty years’ wandering in the desert when Israel had lived as a nomad in such intimate union with her God. For John this dwelling in tents is a primordial symbol of the Incarnation: ‘Thus the Word became a mortal man: he pitched his tent in the midst of us’ (John 1:14). It is this insight which presides over the composition of John’s narrative which we are considering [John 7-8]. All that happened, all that Jesus said on this occasion has some reference to the Incarnation."
In seeking to describe the Messiah’s first coming to His people, John chose the imagery of the Feast of Booths since the feast celebrates the dwelling of God among His people. This raises an interesting question on whether or not John intended to link the birth of Jesus with the Feast of Tabernacles.
[from: God’s Festivals in Scripture and History Part II: The Fall Festivals, page 241.]
According to the Companion Bible, Appendix 179:
The word tabernacled here receives beautiful significance from the knowledge that "the Lord of Glory" was "found in fashion as a man", and thus tabernacling in human flesh. And in turn it shows in equally beautiful significance that our Lord was born on the first day of the great Jewish Feast of Tabernacles, viz. the 15th of Tisri, corresponding to September 29 (modern reckoning).
The Circumcision of our Lord took place therefore on the eighth day, the last day of the Feast, the "Great Day of the Feast" of John 7.37 ("Tabernacles" had eight days. The Feast of Unleavened Bread had seven days, and Pentecost one. See Lev. 23).
From The Seven Festivals of the Messiah by Eddie Chumney we read this:
As we have stated earlier in this chapter, the Feast of Sukkot (Tabernacles) is called "the season of our joy" and "the feast of the nations." With this in mind, in Luke 2:10 it is written, "And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings [basar in Hebrew; otherwise known as the gospel] of great joy [Sukkot is called the 'season of our joy'], which shall be to all people [Sukkot is called 'the feast of the nations']." So, we can see from this that the terminology the angel used to announce the birth of Yeshua (Jesus) were themes and messages associated with the Feast of Sukkot (Tabernacles).
Light was also a prominent feature of the Feast of Tabernacles. At the end of the first day of the Feast, the Temple was gloriously illuminated. According to the Mishnah (Succah 5:2), gigantic candelabras stood within the Court of the Women in the temple. Each of the four golden candelabras is said to have been about 75 feet tall. Each candelabra had four branches, and at the top of every branch there was a large bowl. Four young men bearing 10 gallon pitchers of oil would climb ladders to fill the four golden bowls on each candelabra. And then the oil in those bowls was ignited. Picture sixteen beautiful blazes leaping toward the sky from these golden lamps. There was not a courtyard in Jerusalem that was not illuminated by this light (Succah 5:3).
According to Alfred Edersheim (Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, chpt. 8):
...the Court of the Women was brilliantly illuminated.... In connection with this we mark, that the term 'light' was specially applied to the Messiah. In a very interesting passage of the Midrash we are told, that, while commonly windows were made wide within and narrow without, it was the opposite in the Temple of Solomon, because the light issuing from the Sanctuary was to lighten that which was without.
This reminds us of the language of devout old Simeon in regard to the Messiah, as 'a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of His people Israel.'
John 1:6-9 says:
There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.
In these verses John refers to Jesus as "the light" and as we have also seen, verse 14 says that he "became flesh and tabernacled [literal meaning of the Greek] among us". Since John chapter one is a passage about Jesus' coming, these verses could be references to the Feast of Tabernacles at which time Jesus was born.
Magi from the east
The Scriptures tell us that there were wise men (scholars) who came from the east looking for the birth of the Messiah, saying "we have seen his star in the east". Who were these scholars from the east? Why were they looking for a Jewish Messiah?
Matthew 2:1-6 says:
In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, "Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage. When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet: 'And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.'" [cited from Micah 5:2]
Babylon was known as "the land to the east." At the time of the birth of Jesus, the largest Jewish population was actually in Babylon, not in Palestine! Nearly five hundred years earlier, the entire nation of Judah had been carried away captive into Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar. Only a small colony of Jews returned to Palestine after sixty-three years of captivity. The greater number of them remained where they had established homes in the land of Babylon.
The Greek for "wise men" is magoi. Daniel was referred to by this same title (Daniel 4:9). The word is somewhat equivalent to the Jewish term "rabbi." It is possible that the wise men from the east were Jewish rabbis who had been anticipating the coming of the Messiah because of Daniel’s seventy weeks prophecy [Daniel 9:24]. They had spotted a new star in the sky and took it to be a sign of the coming of the Messiah.
At the very least, even if the wise men were not Jewish, they would have been influenced by Daniel's writings. At an earlier time, Daniel had been the Master of the Magians of Babylon (Daniel 2:48; 4:9; 5:11), so anything Daniel wrote would have been important to even Gentile magoi. Parts of the book of Daniel are even written in Aramaic (the international language of the eastern Gentiles), so that it could be read by them.
The star and the Feast of Tabernacles
There is one time of the year when Jews would typically look at the stars. That time was during the Festival of Tabernacles. As we already said, Jewish believers would build a tabernacle or booth known as a "sukkah" out of green tree branches. They would eat their meals and sleep in this sukkah for eight days. It was customary to leave a hole in the roof of the sukkah so that one could look at the stars. If the magoi were Jewish, then Jewish "wise men" celebrating the Feast of Tabernacles would have noticed the appearance of a new star.
Of course, if the magoi were Gentile, it is still likely that a new star would have been noticed by them rather quickly. The Babylonian magoi excelled at astrology. As a matter of fact, the Babylonians are generally credited with the birth of astrology.
The year of Jesus' birth
Jesus was born while Herod the Great was still living (Matthew 2:1). Wise men appeared in Jerusalem asking about "one who has been born king of the Jews?" Of course, this upset Herod, who had been given the title "King of the Jews" by the Roman Senate. Herod talked to the wise men secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared (Matthew 2:7). The wise men then journeyed to Bethlehem and found Jesus, Mary, and Joseph in a house (Matthew 2:11) and they bowed down and worshiped Jesus.
When the wise men did not return to give Herod a report, "Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the wise men. He was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the wise men" (Matthew 2:16).
This tells us that Jesus may have been born two years before the appearance of the wise men and the death of Herod. Herod died the spring of 4 B.C. (according to the Jewish historian, Josephus). Let's assume that the star appeared at Jesus' birth. Let's also assume that Herod was already close to death when the wise men appeared. It was the custom in ancient Israel to count the years of one's age from the date of conception - in other words, when a child is born he is one year old until his first birthday (this is still a practice in some oriental cultures). Therefore, Herod actually killed the children one year old and under according to the way that age is calculated today. This would mean that Jesus had to have been born in 6 B.C. (if Jesus was one year old) or 5 B.C. (if Jesus was under one year and Herod was just being extra careful).
This date for Jesus' birth fits with other Biblical data such as Jesus being "about thirty years old" when He began his ministry (Luke 3:23). From evidence given to us in John 2:20 about the construction of the temple, we know Jesus' ministry began in A.D. 26. Counting forward from 6 B.C. to A.D. 26 (one year has to be subtracted because there is no year zero) would make Jesus 31 years old when he began his ministry -- that is, about thirty years old. Counting forward from 5 B.C. to A.D. 26 would make Jesus 30 years old when he began his ministry. The birth years of 5 or 6 B.C. also fit with the best date for the crucifixion, that is A.D. 30. Personally I opt for the 5 B.C. date, because I assume the wise men would want to come at once and the time for a journey from Babylon to Jerusalem takes only four months.
When was Jesus born? Nothing is absolutely certain, because we are dealing with implications and assumptions, but a good guess from the Scriptures and history is September 29, 5 B.C.
Sources of Information for this Article:
• The Biblical Festivals: God's Appointed Times from Hebraic Roots of Christianity by Eddie Chumney.
• The Gospel of Luke by William Hendriksen, Baker Book House.
• When was Jesus born? by Christian Renewal Ministries International.
• New Testament History by F.F. Bruce, Anchor Books.
• When Was Jesus Christ Born? by Mario Seiglie, The Good News, United Church of God, 1997.
• Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah by Alfred Edersheim, 1890.
• The Companion Bible, Published by Kregel Publications.
• God’s Festivals in Scripture and History, Part 2 by Samuele Bacchiocchi, PhD.
Available from: Biblical Perspectives
4990 Appian Way
Berrien Springs, MI 49103
The purpose of this article is NOT to suggest that we change the day of Christmas or the year of our calendars! It is to give added meaning and insight to our Lord's birth, particularly from a Jewish perspective. But shouldn't we celebrate Jesus' birthday on the correct day? If it really mattered to Jesus when we celebrate His birth, then He would have made the exact day crystal clear with absolute certainty. What we celebrate is far more important than the day we celebrate it one. For example, in the United States we celebrate Presidents Day in February, but this doesn't mean that all the presidents were born in February.
The essential fact is that God did enflesh Himself in time and space (1 John 4:2). He was born from a woman on a specific day in a specific year, walked among us, died for our sins, was raised from the dead, and ascended into heaven. This is what we celebrate at Christmas: God was (and is) with us! whitefawn_ answered on 10/08/06:September 29, 5 B.C. That is the same Date, that JWs have been saying for years!
Because it is true, that Shepherds were out pasturing their sheep.
Although, that is a lot of reading, and I am sure that is good imformation, except some of us do not have the time to read all of that, but I will asure you, that most of the Experts on here, could had told you that without the copy and paste Fred.
Peace and kindness Fred.
| | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 10/08/06 - For me and my house we will clebrate as the Bible says. How about you?
Psalms 98
1. O Sing to the Lord a new song,
For He has done wonderful things,
His right hand and His holy arm have gained the victory for Him.
2. The Lord has made known His salvation;
He has revealed His righteousness in the sight of the nations.
3. He has remembered His lovingkindness and His faithfulness to the house of Israel;
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
4. Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth;
Break forth and sing for joy and sing praises.
5. Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre;
With the lyre and the sound of melody.
6. With trumpets and the sound of the horn
Shout joyfully before the King, the Lord.
7. Let the sea roar and all it contains,
The world and those who dwell in it.
8. Let the rivers clap their hands;
Let the mountains sing together for joy
9. Before the Lord; for He is coming to judge the earth;
He will judge the world with righteousness,
And the peoples with equity.
Do you celebrate the blessings of the Lord God such as His Birth, Death, Reserrection, Salvation, and all else he has given? whitefawn_ answered on 10/08/06:This is a must do for the remembrance of our Lords last Supper.
Lu 22:19 And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and gave to them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.
Kindness and peace Fred. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | madddawg asked on 10/08/06 - Why did Jehovah Witnesses change their position on keeping Christmas Having seen the photographs of the Christmas celebrations at the Watchtower Headquarters provided by toms777, does anyone know why the Jehovah Witnesses changed their policy about keeping Christmas? whitefawn_ answered on 10/08/06:I believe it was around the sixties, because my half sister Dorothy is one, I could never be one, because I could never buy into Armageddon, than I could be wrong.
But I do know one thing, I wish I would had never brought the word Xmas up. I don't think, I'll ever post again!
maddawg, "I am not a Jehovah's Witness", I only wanted truth, and I'm still looking for that. I wish Hope was here, so she could answer this.
You have a good Sunday, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | Judgment_Day asked on 10/08/06 - There's still room on the list..... I'm clearing my life of the self-righteous hypocrites that claim to be Christians here. I'd rather dine like Jesus did with the sinners of the world in the public eye than eat with "proclaimed Christians" that think their beyond reproach or are so Biblical inclined when they are desperately lacking! They're worse than my ancestors that were the forerunners to rabbinical Judaism, that is the Pharisees. I'm not going anywhere. My block list is not complete I have room for more.
whitefawn_ answered on 10/08/06:I don't want to be on that list, but I want to be more like you. To have boldness for our Lord Jesus, one can learn from you.
I only Pray' I'm not a self-righteous hypocrite.. I also wish I knew what Religion you are, because I am looking for the right one, and seeing your words, I believe I may have found the Lord.
But may I ask of you Judgement Day, for just a little Prayer, I know the Lord Jesus knows you, and hears you.
I'm sorry your in this,
You have a good day, and forget about all of this, you have the Lord, and that is what counts.
| | Question/Answer | | Gimbo asked on 10/07/06 - Toms777 has made a move & I quote "I challenge you - if you believe that there are lies being brough out on here, then provide the facts, sources by which it can be validated and you will do much more to address these concerns than "bashing" Christians by some vague accusations"
I need to know what Tom means by "facts"?
Are they "what is printed in his version of the Holy Bible"?
A simple answer will do, but I doubt I will get even that. whitefawn_ answered on 10/07/06:You may have to do what I did, and that is having someone blocked.
Some will not admit it or bring themselves to "be wronged".
Some people get angry when you do not belong to a (their denomination), and only theirs is the only truth. In their eyes. Tom has lied about me, when he said’ "I was a Jehovah Witness when in fact I am not."
In Truth, I kind of wish I were, but it's to hard to do what they do, and I still don't know what is truth…
It is far better having the person blocked, than arguing with him, because you will never win. And if they are bothering you, than that person or persons are winning. Forget about it, I know it’s harder than done. Because I have been there, and don't want to see you go through the same.
But I wish you the best on here, and I wish you goodness, and happiness, and Joy. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 10/06/06 - What Cable News do you watch??????????............ According to “Market Watch” Fox News is number one in popularity since 2002.
I do not get Fox News..
I do get CNN which I think is far to negative and pro ACLU.
If you go get FOX news, what do you think of it?
If you get both FOX and CNN which one do you thinks is best and why? whitefawn_ answered on 10/06/06:I watch CNN, Why? Because, Bush owns Fox News, so I stay away from it!
Fox is being Bush whacked
CNN, is way better, more up to date.
Forgot to mention, if you decide to get Satellite, get DirecTV, and tell them I sent you!
(I'll get $50 off my next bill!)
You have a good Thursday. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 09/30/06 - RIDICULUM!
"To Tom777 in connection with Laura's poste... hOPE12 09/30/06 3
Prove what kind of person/persons you are: - ... hOPE12 09/30/06 7
In Defense of Laura - Wow! I thought I held t... peddler7118 09/30/06 0
In Defense of Laura - Wow! I thought I held t... peddler7118 09/30/06"
************
Let's get down to business and start posting some KNOWLEDGE about any religion ... or lack of ... instead of this crap, guys. Won't some of you people ever learn? If you have a gripe, go to the EXPERT FORUM. It doesn't belong here! My brother checked out this Board yesterday. I heard from him this a.m. He thought some of you were "NUTS." He asked me what we were accomplishing by acting the way you do. My answer, "NOTHING."
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 10/01/06:I would like to vote for a moderater, and that would be.
Dygade
Hank
Excon
Judgement day
Hope
Richland
Bobbie!
CeeBee!
PurpleWings!
To name a few, and myself!
Although, "the truth" is Hank, here in the real world, we are all going to disagree on something.
If it is to clear a matter up, as Hope did.
She was hurt Hank, when someone loves God the Father and his Son Jesus, as much as she does, than someone of a different (Religion or denomination) puts her down for that, it hurts clear to the heart and to the Soul, as the same some have done with Ronnie.
It would be so nice for it to stop, but we can't blame management, we are very lucky to have this Site, and I know they check in, and we should have deep appreciation for them.
One thing we can do, is what I am doing for now on, ignore their post's, and simply' say a little Prayer to have their hearts lighten up a little.
That is all we can do for now on.
You have a good Sunday. Joy.
Words can hurt | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 09/30/06 - Is lying a real problem? Hello Everyone,
Common as it is, though, lying is bad for society and bad for the individual. Columnist Clifford Longley correctly notes: “Lies hurt the liar and the lied-to, at the profoundest level of their being, by severing that essential contact between mind and reality.”3
The American Journal of Psychiatry states: “The psychological impact on persons on the receiving end of lies can be devastating. Major life decisions may be based on false information believed to be correct. Lies may also have adverse effects on liars themselves.” How much better to tell the truth. It makes others feel better and you would be surprised at how great it is to tell the truth.
In a more positive vein, the Bible tells us that we should be concerned for others, show love for them, and be helpful to them. Jesus’ words are well known: “All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must likewise do to them.”—Matthew 7:12.
On a humanitarian level, how much better the world would be if everyone followed this rule! Moreover, according to a psychological study conducted in the United States, individuals would feel better. The 1,700 people studied reported that helping others gave them a sense of calmness and relief from stress-related disorders such as headaches and voice loss. The report concludes: “It appears, then, that caring about others is as much a part of human nature as caring about ourselves.” That being the case, how much better everyone would feel, if they would only tell the truth.
What is your personal feeling on the matter of those who lie and liars? Do you believe in little white lies, or is a lie a lie. Remember a person who lies must tell another lie to cover the first lie and then another lie to cover the cover lie. What a vicious cycle.
Does lying show that you really care about other?
We can go to the moon, talk to people thousands of miles away and yet some humans have not found the cure for lying. Why do you think that is?
Take care,
Hope12
whitefawn_ answered on 10/01/06:The Father of all lies began with Satan. The first lie, and the first murderer.
A lie is when someone uses sarcasm to confuse the truth.
The Internet is a useful tool to confuse belevers of the Father and his Son Jesus Christ.
These are also, Scam Artist's to get you to buy something- example as books, I believe you know what I am talking about?
There are also Sites that the Father of lies would want you to visit, to stray you from what is truth. False accusations, as saying' "That most of Religions are Cults."
All of us will fall short, and will tell a white lie, or make a mistake, and not knowing they are lying. Yet a lie is a lie, and liars will not enter Gods Kingdom.
I loved isizathu's answer to this, and a good one to learn from.
Yes, all lies hurt, not just one person, but sometimes misleading many.
Sisterly Love, and you have a good Sunday.
Joy. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 09/30/06 - Prove what kind of person/persons you are: Hello Everyone,
I have three questions to ask everyone on this board.
1) What is the main way according to each of your own religious or non religious beliefs, can we all prove the kind of person we are, and what rules or principles do you live by in your home?
2) Do we prove who we are by actions or by words, or should we seek prominence and look down on those who are like us?
3) If you invited me to your home and my conduct was not approved by the rules in your home, what would you do?
According to your answers, if given in all sincerity and carefully, we would have and answer in how to improve this board. We all need to take an active roll in cleaning up the board of those who wish to attack and belittle. Answer those three questions according to your principle’s and standards practiced in your home and then you will find the answer to the question on how to make this forum a more pleasant place to come, and it will separate those who are here for a positive experience and those who are here because they wish to show everyone how much more intelligent and better then they are compared to others.
Can’t wait to see the replies on this one!
:)
Take care,
Hope12
whitefawn_ answered on 09/30/06:I would welcome you in, in a heart beat, we would share the Bible, together. There are manners and morals. "I would ask you, if you would like a cup of coffee.
Remember' Jesus once said' Even if you offer these little ones a drink of water because they are mine, you're reward will be that of a Prophet
There is no swearing, we are also anti gun. "You live by the sword, you die by the sword."
There are many rules in our home, We do not allow drinking, for we are non-drinkers.
Drunkards shall not inherit the Kingdom of God.
We prove whom we are, both by actions and those of words, A kind person will use kind words. Never should we look down upon any man.
Although, also lets remember.
"Bad associations spoil useful habits"
If one person's conduct did not apply to our Rules in our home, I would politely ask him/her to please leave.
That only happen once, for an example. "One neighbor used the "N word" in my home, and I had told him, that is not allowed by me, or in my home.
Many Blessings to you Hope. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 09/30/06 - To Tom777 in connection with Laura's posted questions. To Tom777,
First you attacked the JW’s . Here it is in your own words Tom.
" Clarification/Follow-up by Toms777 on 09/29/06 10:03 pm:
Our JW friend has also not answered the first question directly and did not even address the question of whether Jesus is God.
"
Clarification/Follow-up by Toms777 on 09/30/06 8:15 am:
Laura, I was not picking on anyone, but certainly those are questions that a JW and a MOrmon could not give "Yes"'s to and be in concert with their faith.
It is worthy of note. It is not picking on the person but speaking of the beliefs of the religion.
If the purpose of your question is so significant that it would be inappropriate for anyone to comment, then you should not keep it secret. "?
Then to top it off, you replied to my answer to Laura's questions.
With
First rating from Toms777 (Hoope, great stuff...I thinjk that I will use this post as the basis for some new articles on my JW webpage, by using the argument and then show how scripture refutes these arguments.
In the meantime, I think that you will finmd that evidence for Jesus being God is quite overwhelming if you read these pages:
Is Jesus God
Jesus Is God )
____________________________________________
I say this to you Tom777, In my reply to Laura I had said you can disagree with anything I wrote one point at a time. I personally gave any who wish to attack JW's in any way shape or form to reply and feel free to discuss in a respectful manner one point at a time and we can talk. Instead you choose to answer the way you did above.
If you can refute what I have put in my reply to Laura then do so but in front of the other experts. Why hide behind the treat of using your Webpage to downgrade JW's? That is the cowards way out and it proves you have no backing for what you teach. A person who is telling the truth has nothing to hide from others.
As to the links you offered, I do not need them, but thanks anyway. You see I have found what I was looking for and can back up what I say with scriptures, and not just quoting a lot of scriptures to make myself look intelligent. I can also explain those scriptures. Can you Tom777? I don't think you can or you would have taken me up on my invitation to do so. I invited any who wanted to, to refute my proof one point at a time. The invitation is still there Tom777. Will you take it or will you just attack in your usual cowardly way? You see, Tom777, you can pull your garbage with some on this board, but don’t play those games with me, because I will put you in your place without saying any disrespectful to you. I will allow the scriptures to do it for me.
Have a nice day,
Hope12
whitefawn_ answered on 09/30/06:My Dear Hope, I was hoping you would never get caught up in Toms bashing as he has also done to me in the past few months.
Lets remember, What the Lord Jesus said about this.
"No Slave is above his Master"
Mt 5:10 Blessed are they that have been persecuted for righteousness` sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Mt 5:11 Blessed are ye when [men] shall reproach you, and persecute you, and say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
Mt 5:12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets that were before you.
They had also bashed Jesus, when he was upon this earth.
So, sweetness, put a smile on, and as you have taught me, and what I had shared with my Husband last night,
"Is that it makes Satan happy to see, when one has put you down, or when you are un-happy."
Remember the "LORD Jehovah" will Bless you even more, and the "Lord Jesus"' knows his sheep, and his sheep know him.
What I have done lately, instead of listen to the bashing from these two experts, is to Pray for them.
With Sisterly Love, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | Laura asked on 09/29/06 - This is addressed to Christians for the moment How many professing Christians on this board believe the Bible to be the inspired Word of God?
How many professing Christians believe that Jesus is the same yesturday, today, and forever according to that inspired Word of God.
How many professing Christians believe Jesus Christ to be "God"?
Simple yes or no answers will do. Five stars no matter what the answer is and no comments will be made by me concerning your answers. whitefawn_ answered on 09/30/06:Yes. Jesus is the Word. And the word tell's us to love all' even our enemies.
Jesus is the same yesturday, today, and forever, he is now sitting at the right throne of his Father, and he will soon be our King again. "On this very earth"
He also went to those, that did not believe in him.
As he once said' Those that do not need a physican are already saved, he went to the ones that didn't believe in him more than he did with the ones without sin.
I find that real love, the only love, and to follow in his footsteps, "and to love all."
Many Blessings to you, and have a good week-end. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | Laura asked on 09/28/06 - I don't know, maybe it's just me but it seems that in the fifties and sixties and even most of the seventies television portrayed parents as wise and dependable, strong and reliable. Children were basically obedient and respectful and turned to their parents and teachers for advice and counsel.
Also during these times spankings for dicipline was basically a given. Except for the likes of Dr Spock it was accepted as proper.
Now my question is this. Now TV portrays parents as sexually promiscous druggies. Fathers are portrayed as dumbells and mothers as emotional criples. Our children's "heros" have changed from their parents or teachers to sports figures and rebel rock band figures.
Spanking is a dirty word that one would be well not to condone in public...
Why is our society morally bankrupt today?? Could these things have anything to do with it?? I think so. whitefawn_ answered on 09/28/06:That's Hollywood Loral. Truthfully I believe the Parents of today are way better than back than.
Today, most of us put our children first, we set plans and goals and persist that our children have a better education.
Not just dropping them, like puppies as the Parents in the fifties and sixties having eight to sometimes twelve children and not paying attention to them.
My Parents were terrible back in the sixties, My Mother, though was a beautiful Soul, but my Father I could have write the best seller and a horror story at that.
Back in the sixties with under privilege children sitting home and watching these phony parents as Ozzy And Harriet made these other un- fortunate children feel lost, and great confuse, hurt that their Parents were not like this.
The result was usually rebellious, and children of low self-esteem, and a feeling of non- worth, and most never had a chance of entering College.
Most of the children now, realizes, that they are important, we have Child Protecteve Service's they can turn to, if they are being abused, better Teachers than I ever had back in the sixties.
But, Yes. TV today what I call the idiot box has lost all of it's morals, plus it has made our children immune to violence, and killing. I would never even dream of seeing death on Television, but we do.
Except for the many times we all had seen our President shot in the head over a hundred times viewing in Texas, back in those days.
We have even sat back and watched the War on Irac, unfold in front of our very eyes.
I can't stand the lust they show.
Although, I do not believe in spanking our children, it is way better to sit down and talk with our children.
(Unless, it is a two year old "running out in the street"!) Than yes, it's better to be spanked than, to get run over by a car.)
But Yes, they have changed, dramatically.
It was also warned in the Bible, that children would turn against their own Parents in the times of the end.
Yet still. I think we can win them over with love, and education.
And TV has a great influence on the way our children behave.
Plus, our News. Young people become famous when they kill someone, look at the Scott Petterson Case, and the Culombine killings, these are the nobodies that want to be the somebody, and they choose it in a terrible way, they achieve this fame.
Do we ever remember the Vitims name? Or is it we remember Charls Mannson, and the many others out there.
YES. Hollywood, has a lot to blame for this and their love for money!
You have a great day, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | richturner asked on 09/28/06 - What Goes on Here? I'm new on the Christianity board although I'm something of an old-timer at Answerway. I added my name to the experts on the Christianity board (though I'm no expert on any religion) mainly so that the current questions on the board would pop up on my Summary page and because a participant here drew my attention to some interesting exchanges. I hoped to learn something.
It certainly is an active board, but I am shocked by the amount of hostility, mud-slinging, and name-calling that I'm seeing. It strikes me as ironic to see so little good will, such an absence of attempts at understanding varying points of view, and such blatant hurling of brickbats on, of all places, a board devoted to discussions of Christianity. It doesn't take long, in a random reading of the daily posts, to see someone calling someone else a bigot – or worse. As I said, I hoped to learn something. What I am learning, unfortunately, is that an awful lot of Christians are outright mean, not only to "outsiders" but to one another as well. What goes on here? whitefawn_ answered on 09/28/06:Your an English Teacher, so I have to be careful how I write this.
First may I welcome you, and it would be an enjoyment for you stay with us, and share your opinions.
Not everyone on here is cruel with his or her words; I know I had just posted one question, because I believe the truth should be shown. But I am trying to remove it.
Not all on here are Christians, although, they have studied Christianity.
There are just a few troublemakers, if you don't go with their Religion some get angry.
Something we all need to work out.
Again welcome, and please stay!
A good day to you. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | hOPE12 asked on 09/27/06 - To Do or Not to Do to Others?
“
Hello Everyone,
I was sitting today thinking about this board and the good, kind people that come to this board. We all need to set up a number of ways that might make this board more enjoyable for those who are respectful and among those who truly bring insight and encouragement to this “so called Christian” board. Here is what I personally feel is the problem.
We all want to be liked by others. It is a normal desire. However, what you do not want done to you, do not do to others.” This ethical maxim is attributed to the renowned Chinese teacher and philosopher Confucius. Today, some 2,500 years later, many still hold to the belief that a person has done his moral duty simply by refraining from doing any harm to others.
For sure, this Confucian code of conduct has its merits. The Bible, on the other hand, reveals another dimension of human behavior and interaction. In addition to what might be called the sin of commission, that is, committing wrongs against one’s fellow humans, the Bible speaks of the sin of omission. The Christian disciple James wrote: “If one knows how to do what is right and yet does not do it, it is a sin for him.” James 4:17 Rather than simply instructing Christians not to do bad to others, Jesus Christ offered this counsel: “All things . . . that you want men to do to you, you also must likewise do to them.”—Matthew 7:12.
God originally purposed that all mankind treat one another as they would like to be treated. He set the finest example in expressing care for the welfare of others in the way he created humans: “God proceeded to create the man in his image, in God’s image he created him; male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:27 This means that God lovingly endowed humans with a conscience, which, when properly trained, would guide them to treat others the way they themselves would want to be treated.
Many today suffer hopelessly and helplessly at the hands of thoughtless and self-centered people. Clearly, what is needed is more than simply not to do what is bad and harmful to others but, rather, to do what is good and helpful to them.
Now that I have said the above, I wish every person on this board to remember this. For those claiming to be a Christian follower of Christ should remember that a Christian’s conduct reflects on his faith. When observers make that connection, that is, when they see that the Christian’s fine conduct is a direct result of his faith—it brings glory to God.
For those who are none Christian then remember what Confucius said: “what you do not want done to you, do not do to others.” Normal people behave in a positive way. They do so in a spirit of love, doing to others what they would want done to themselves.
For those who need to attack and treat others as if they are dirt or scum or the earth, I say to you guys, grow up because what and how you treat others, will soon blow up in your faces. Why? We all make our own life and either it is peaceful and full of love or it is hateful and full of violence and bad. You may get away with it now but it will catch up with you, and when it does, think back to how you treated others. You can then honestly say, you are being treated the way you have treated others. There will be no pity for you, because the evil and wickedness you gave to others has been returned back to you.
Do you have any suggestions that might free to board of those who just come here to attack others?
If so share it with us and maybe we could get a letter together to send to the owners of Answerway.
Take care,
Hope12
whitefawn_ answered on 09/28/06:True Hope, but as Christians, we also need to be bold. To not be afraid when it comes to telling or hiding the truth.
I have seen more bashing on here mostly by the strictness of Christians because they don't like another Religion, and are using two user names and more. Yes, something should be done about that!
And the ones that are non- Chistians are making more sence than the ones whom claim to be Christians.
Hank said best' Mostly out of confusion'
And like you said' The truth will come out, but who will be bold enough to make that first step.
Well, I already did, it's on the top post, and I believe everyone is entitled not to be fooled, if we really care for all on here. Lets be truthful!
Have a great day, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | twelfth_imam asked on 09/28/06 - Now that Bigots and bigotry have been vanquished from the board ....
Now that Bigots and bigotry have been vanquished from the board .... will everyone say something nice about a religion or person they have been bigoted towards just to prove that their hearts have been cleansed of bigotry and prejudice?
![]()
Aaaaaah!
whitefawn_ answered on 09/28/06:I just can't get over these hypocritical ones--Now using more than two or even more user names, and calling themselves Christians.
I just want to share with them one scripture...
And they know who they are.
1ti 1:10 for fornicators, for abusers of themselves with men, for menstealers, for liars, for false swearers, and if there be any other thing contrary to the sound doctrine;
Thank you Twelfth man,
And a good day to you,
But I do know now, I owe my Son an oplogy, I had no idea, or couldn't even conceive that peddler was WAKEN! | | Question/Answer | | isizathu asked on 09/26/06 - Puddles and empty and hypocrite claims
Peddler7118 AKA Lazlow AKA Credendoviris has on this board accused Saburamo now in two different topics on posting cartoons with animals using the Bible for toilet paper.
Saburamo denies that, and has asked peddler to show WHERE such cartoons were posted, but puddles so far failed to answer to that request.
Isn't it highly HYPOCRITE and UNCHRISTIAN to accuse someone of something, while apparently being unable to support such an accusation ?
And isn't it time for all Christians to do something about this degeneration of values on this board, to prevent it from following the agony that Lazlow was able to introduce on WeTellYou ???
:)
whitefawn_ answered on 09/27/06: Today I Promise to try again to call Lazlow, if his girl friend will give him the message.
And see for the truth, but if he is peddler, he owes everyone on here, an open oplogy, and none of this is funny.
People should not be used for home work or for making up Characters.
As for Sab, I love his pictures, all of them, he gives zip to this site, but I never seen one bad photo.
I sure wish I could do it!
I wish to add, I am not smart enough to be more than one person, goodness, it's hard just being one.
Going on the phone now, and see for myself, will get back with all, plus, if Judgement Day, want's to post my private answer on the board, he has my permission,
I had explained everything, even about Lazlow's Fathers death, and I'm sorry, I didn't get Lazlow until he was fifteen years of age, I love him, and perhaps he blames me for his Fathers death, which was in 1995.
But I'm still alive! At least I hope so!
Love to all. Truly Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | Judgment_Day asked on 09/26/06 - JOY (whitefawn_) and P7118 Because of the recent accusations...please let you word be heard.
Joy is P7118 your son?
P7118 is Joy your mother? whitefawn_ answered on 09/27/06:Lazlows Father did pass away, in 1995, but his Mother Joy, is well and doing good, and I love my Son, maybe I am wrong to asume that he was peddler, although, it's not my fault.
I was told that, and I was hurt by both experts, I only wish I knew why?
Peddler, if I am wrong, I owe you an open opology.
Truly Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 09/26/06 - Mormonism God gave us the gift of free choice if there are those among us who choose to follow Mormonism this is thier choise and whilst I personaly do feel them in error I am trough with this baiting and will refuse to participate in any more discource on this subject! whitefawn_ answered on 09/26/06:I think everyone could agree with you Rev on this one post, Answeraway is a place where “I thought” It was for different questions, and to help others on different ideas besides this.
If we quit answering the questions on this same subject to the same certain expert; perhaps he will get this out of his mind.
It is not being cultivated and not taking us anywhere there is so much of information and research on the web if one wants to learn about Mormonism so peddler should not be so preoccupied with the same subject over and over again.
Goodness, there is so much more one could learn from Christianity. Perhaps the subject is not in the wrong, although the expert has to learn to control and to come to grips with why is he thinking so much on this same "boring subject," and it could lead to his extension from this board.
A good idea may be is for some experts to post different questions on more important subjects.
America is about our freedom, and the greatness about that, is we have "Freedom Of Religion"
I have deep respect for you and many others on here, but peddler; is someone to be ignored at this time, and perhaps' he will get this off his mind, or perhaps he is having fun with us, so don't give him your time.
You have a great Tuesday
And know you are loved, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 09/25/06 - Do my eyes decieve me again? Why do those of the Islamic persusian keep telling us they are a "p ISLAMOFASCISTS TO POPE BENEDICT XVI: "APOLOGIZE -- OR ELSE"
Fri Sep 22, 12:00 AM ET
Pope Benedict XVI, during a speech in Germany, at a university where he used to teach, quoted a 14th-century Byzantine Christian emperor: "He said, I quote, 'Show me just what Muhammad brought that was new, and there you will find things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached.' . . . Violence is incompatible with the nature of God and the nature of the soul. 'God,' the emperor says, 'is not pleased by blood -- and not acting reasonably is contrary to God's nature. Faith is born of the soul, not the body. Whoever would lead someone to faith needs the ability to speak well and to reason properly, without violence and threats.'" And, the pontiff even condemned violent jihad, or "holy war."
Note that the pope, in a very lengthy speech critical of the growing secularization of the West, devoted only three paragraphs to the subject of jihad. Moreover, the pope repeatedly said that those words were not his own. And later, the Vatican said the pope intended only to spark dialogue, and that the emperor's words in no way reflected the thoughts of the pope himself.
How did some adherents to the religion of peace react?
Angry riots, death threats, burning of the pope in effigy, and demands for an apology.
Somali Muslims shot an Italian nun who worked in a Somali hospital. They shot her four times in the back as she left the hospital, and as she lay dying on the ground, she muttered in Italian to her killers, "I forgive, I forgive."
Firebombs were hurled at seven churches during one weekend in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. One group demanded a televised apology, or they would blow up all of Gaza's churches.
As usual, the Council on American-Islamic Relations, a "moderate" pro-Arab organization, condemned the pope's words, but not the violent reaction to them.
The deputy leader of the Turkish prime minister's party said, "He is going down in history in the same category as leaders such as Hitler and Mussolini."
Al Qaeda in Iraq issued this death threat, "You infidels and despots, we will continue our jihad and never stop until God avails us to chop your necks and raise the fluttering banner of monotheism when God's rule is established governing all people and nations. . . . [The cross-worshipper pope] and the West are doomed. . . . We will break up the cross, spill the liquor and impose the jizya [non-Muslim] tax, then the only thing acceptable is a conversion [to Islam] or [being killed by] the sword."
Following this violent reaction, the pope, at his weekly Angelus blessing this past Sunday, used the word "sorry." Sorry, that is, for the violent reaction to his words. Still, the pope refused to retract his statements. And why should he? After all, the violent reaction proved his point in ways the pope's words never could.
Now, what about stateside? Editorials in two major American newspapers criticized -- the pope! In an editorial chastising the pope for alleged insensitivity, the Los Angeles Times said, "The pope shouldn't be quoting people who call [Islam] 'evil.'" The editorial concluded, " . . . [P]opes need to watch their words when they have political consequences."
Calling the pope a "doctrinal conservative," The New York Times said, " . . . [H]is greatest fear appears to be the loss of a uniform Catholic identity, not exactly the best jumping-off point for tolerance or interfaith dialogue. The world listens carefully to the words of any pope. And it is tragic and dangerous when one sows pain, either deliberately or carelessly."
So this is where we are. The people behind the publication of the "offensive" Danish cartoons fear being seen in public, lest they suffer the fate of filmmaker Theo van Gogh. Van Gogh, a descendant of the painter Vincent van Gogh, made a film that criticized Islam's treatment of women. Authorities found him shot and stabbed to death, and a five-page manifesto declaring holy war pinned to his chest with the same knife used to stab him.
An Iranian newspaper recently sponsored a "contest" asking for submissions of anti-Semitic holocaust-denying cartoons. One showed the Statue of Liberty holding a book on the Holocaust in one hand and giving a Nazi-style salute with the other. The reaction? No Jews rioted, no Jews committed kidnappings, no Jews engaged in beheadings. Meanwhile, the web site TheReligionofPeace.com records deadly terror attacks committed by Islamofacists since 9/11/2001. The tally, as of this writing, stands at 5,870.
So there you have it. The West, says the pope, pursues reason without faith -- and Westerners failed to riot. But when the pope accuses Islam of pursuing faith without reason -- Islamofascists demand an apology . . . or else.
Larry Elder is a syndicated radio talk-show host and author.
whitefawn_ answered on 09/25/06:In a way I want to answer this, than I don't, because it would be very bold to say' That nether side is right, but are both with the world.
That a man of God should be able to back his words up."
It looks to me like some Religions are falling, if not, than why didn't God protect his people?
The Pope, reminds me of the scriptures Jesus spoke of.
"They like to enlarge their garments and to be seen in front of men, and in Market places but they are getting their reward in full now."
I'm sorry Maggie, but I don't put my faith in one man, as a pope, he is only a human, my faith is in the Lord Jesus Christ, and his Father.
We are in the world, but we should be no part of it.
Revelations tells us that Babylon the great is falling, and this is happening right now.
I say this out of boldness, now for the stones.
Have a good Monday, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 09/25/06 - THANK YOU, HOPE:
"Anyone on this board should feel free to reply or comment on any post, however they should not feel free to do so in a dogmatic and hostile way." - HOPE
I have an idea. Don't answer any post, follow-up or clarification that opposes HOPE's statement, per "in a dogmatic and hostile way."
There it is ... our chance to become civilized and add a little sophistication to this Board. Perhaps we can consider HOPE's words as being a DIRECTIVE. How about it?
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 09/25/06:Very directive Hank, it went to the point where I just had them both blocked.
Life is way to short, to worry about the negative, lets live, and like Mary Sue's words.
"Enjoy Life", how true.
But I had already put up a clarification before seeing this, but it's of kindness.
No more clarifications from me though, no matter how bad they write about me. I'll let it ride, anyway's I have work to do, what I don't see, won't hurt me.
Love you Hank, and a great Monday. Joy,
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 09/25/06 - Are you Guys sick of this stuff yet? Hello Everyone,
Thank you for reading this and I hope it settles matters on this board so that no one denomination needs to be attacked. Discussions on a certain denomination can be presented without downgrading or harassing anyone. State your facts as you understand but please stop all the attacks. Yes, Mormons believe differently then Christians, but some Christians believe differently then other Christians, why? I personally believe because we all came into existence by one Creator and yet instead of all believing in one God and one set of Commandments given to us, everyone wishes to put their own twist on things. That is why we have so much hatred, and problems in this world.
Anyone on this board should feel free to reply or comment on any post, however they should not feel free to do so in a dogmatic and hostile way. One can say what they feel they would like to say and do so in a respectful and mature manner. We do not need to go as low as Peddler has and actually harass and downgrade others, as he is always doing to the Mormons. That is not being a Christian but a inmature person with no love in their heart for others. I am really tired of those who claim they read the Bible and are Christians and yet behave in the way some on this board have. STOP IT PLEASE. It certainly does not speak highly of the Christian beliefs and it surely does not draw others to Christians.
Maybe what happens in this world is becuase of people like Peddler who like to attack others. Peddler grow up and become a man. Are you a Christian, then act like one. Leave the Mormons alone. I do not either support their beliefs but they have every right to believe whatever they choose to believe and without being harassed by you.
All you experts, are you guys going to continue to allow such trash to continue on this so called Christian forum? I hope not!
Take care,
Hope12
whitefawn_ answered on 09/25/06:YES, very much so, even if I myself do not believe in a certain Religion, I do believe in the freedom of Religion;
Some Experts believe they must scare you with hell fire, so that they may save you.
These same Christians whom are mostly Holy rollers and yell a lot in their Churches, but yet this same kind of judgmental Christians are going to Wars, to protect America with Our Freedom Of Religion.
You can use friendly words to show someone the true God, or to help them out of an Cult in an entirely different way instead of yelling and arguing with one another, that leads no where.
I think one expert on here, without names, is using another expert to show what foolishness is? I do not see this person as a Christian at all, but only on here to make fools out of people, and should be reported for abusing and bashing other experts.
It's a shame when I had to block both of them, although, I don't need their sarcasm nor their negativeness, and the bashing of all other faiths of Christians.
(Like my Mother once said' You can get more flys with sugar than you can with vinager.)
Jesus was an excellent example to follow, he does all things in love, and he used illustrations because to a few, it was already given, (The truth) but he also had trouble with the scribes that thought they knew it all, and the same is happening today.
This is why the world is still angry, still blind, because there is no love among one another.
Jesus said' You are my followers if you have love among yourselves.
I see that not on here, nor to come.
You have a good Monday Hope,
With Love, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 09/25/06 - This is for peddler............................. No, I do not have do denounce anyone not matter what you may say.
I do not have to do anything that you say.
peddler,
Thanks for your admission that you do not know it all.
In doing so you cannot claim that sex was NOT involved in some way with the pregnancy of Mary.
Now I'm going to tell you ONE MORE TIME that I have made my choice. I BELIEVE IN THE 5 BASIC FUNDAMENTALS OF CHRISTIANITY.
I am not a pagan and never was.
I simply said that any one who is a friend of Jesus is a friend of mine.
You are assuming much more than you should about that.
I am not judging the heart or believe of those who are members of the Mormon Church or any other. That is God's job and I think you should keep that in mind.
You appear to be doing a lot of not well hidden judging on this board.
Those who judge will be judged. whitefawn_ answered on 09/25/06:Dearest Fred, there is nothing you need to prove to anyone. Hank took the words, please remember those words.
You can also do as I did, if you want to block negative attitudes, because life is way to short, to worry about sarcasm and put downs, what goes around will come right back, and these are very lonely people.
"Never willing to be wronged, and are always right." Block that out of your life.
We know you love Jesus and that is all that matters.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 09/24/06 - When lost, some relgions get really lost!
Hello Everyone,
This article was found today in the outlook section of my local newspaper. You all be the one to judge as to who is really lost here.
"Pastor O'Neal Dozier speaks in terms of fear. If the Islamic Center of South Florida move to his neighborhood, he worries, "Pompano Beach will become a Muslim city."
He fears that converts will be taught jihad. Then Muslims will buy more stores and offices and take puplic office, then recruit converts from terrtorism:
"I haven't been this afraid since I left the military," says pastor of the World wide Christian Center. "I even bought a 9 MM pistol."
His muslim counterpart, Hasan Sabri, dismisses the talk but not the attitude. "He's trying to drag us into a fight of words." says the imam of the mosque that is planning to build in Dozier's neighborhood. "There is an anti-Islam atmosphere in America right now. Whenever Muslims are mentioned, they're usually bashed."
______________________________________________________The above is just part of the article I woke up with this morning while drinking my coffee. I read it and then thought about what it said. Here are my thoughts according to the scriptures as a Christian who is trying to follow Christ and what he taught.
First of all, what right does another have to dominate or control another, where they should live and worship. According to the scripture none of us have that right. We have all come into this world with nothing and we will leave with nothing. So who is it who can tell another where to live and worship or even how to worship. Not one of us.
Notice what all True Christians who follow Christ should be feeling and doing in their life.
The human family could never be successful in regulating itself without God’s rulership. Trying to be independent from him, people would devise social, economic, political, and religious systems that would conflict with one another, and ‘man would dominate man to his injury.’ Ecclesiastes 8:9.
It would be folly for humans to think that they could successfully regulate society without God ruling them. It would be contrary to the way they were made. Independence from God’s rule would, without fail, result in selfishness, hate, cruelty, violence, wars, and death. We certainly see what has happened by man trying to dominate others has done to this world.
Second, What has happened to those who claim to worship God? Do they really have a relationship with their Creator? I so, why would they need to purchase a MM pistol because other humans are moving into the neighborhood? Do these so called religious leader, truly love their neighbors as Jesus told them to? You all be the judge of that one.
Time and again, “the word of our God” encourages us to think and act on the basis of principles. When Jesus was asked to summarize the Law, he made two succinct statements—one emphasizing love for God, the other stressing love for fellowman. (Matthew 22:37-40)
(Matthew 22:37-40) He said to him: “‘You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.’ 38 This is the greatest and first commandment.
(Notice now this part)
39 The second, like it, is this, ‘You must love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 On these two commandments the whole Law hangs, and the Prophets.”
Jesus partially quoted from an earlier brief summary of basic tenets of the Mosaic Law, stated at Deuteronomy 6:4, 5: Evidently, Jesus also had in mind God’s directive found at
(Leviticus 19:18) “‘You must not take vengeance nor have a grudge against the sons of your people; and you must love your fellow as yourself.”
Having a firm grasp of such basic principles can help us to understand and apply more specific directives. Furthermore, if we do not thoroughly comprehend and accept basic principles, we might not be able to make sound decisions and our faith may be easily shaken. It might even cause us to purchase MM pistols instead of relying and trusting in our maker for protection.
Third: Fear of man is not a Christian quality!
At Hebrews 12:28 Christians are instructed to have godly fear:
“Let us continue to have undeserved kindness, through which we may acceptably render God sacred service with godly fear and awe.”
Jesus contrasted the wholesome fear of God with fear of man, saying, as recorded at Matthew 10:28: “Do not become fearful of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; but rather be in fear of him that can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna.” At Revelation 2:10 he also counsels Christians: “Do not be afraid of the things you are about to suffer.” Real love for God expels the cowardly fear of man that leads to compromise.
Jesus predicted that at “the conclusion of the system of things” a climate of fear would cover the earth. He said that there would be “fearful sights” and that men would “become faint out of fear and expectation of the things coming upon the inhabited earth.” (Lu 21:11, 26)
While people in general would be affected in this way, True servants of God should follow the principle expressed at Isaiah 8:12: “The object of their fear you men must not fear.” The apostle Paul explains: “For God gave us not a spirit of cowardice, but that of power and of love and of soundness of mind.”—2Ti 1:7.
Yes a true Christian will not try to dominate others to abide or live by their standards, but they leave all matters into God’s hands. As to the fear of man, why be afraid. As a true Christian, Faith in God makes us not afraid of man. And we should never compromise God’s laws when it comes to killing other’s because of fear. We need not live with pistols in our possession for those who live by the sword will die by the sword.
The fact that God blesses those who maintain Christian neutrality and decline to ‘live by the sword.’ True, at times God permits one of his servants to die, even as some Christian in our country have been murdered. Nevertheless, it is better to die showing full reliance on God than to allow fear of man to govern our course. (Matthew 10:28) These violent times should not cause us to ‘live by the sword’ or rely in any way on dangerous weapons for deliverance. The Bible assures us: “Trembling at men is what lays a snare, but he that is trusting in Jehovah will be protected.”—Proverbs 29:25.
JUST SOME INSIGHT AS TO HOW I FEEL ABOUT WHAT IT GOING ON IN THIS WORLD IN THE NAME OF RELIGION AND GOD. I HAD TO STATE WHAT IS FAIR AND WHAT IS HAPPENING TO INNOCENT PERSONS ON ALL SIDES IS WRONG DUE TO THE HATRED AND HOSTILITY OF THOSE WHO WISH TO THINK THEY ARE SOMETHING AND WHO GOD WILL SOON BRING TO NOTHING.
Why hate an innocent person because of what some do?
Why judge other’s because of there culture, race or religion?
Why say one loves God, yet hates their neighbor?
Why do some feel they are better then others?
Why can’t those who claim to be Christ follower, do what Christ taught?
Why don’t they practice what they preach?
Why don’t both sides of this issue stop speaking hatred and talk about positive things and how to love one another?
Why hate others because they look or act differently then yourself?
WHY CAN’T RELIGIOUS LEADER’S CLEAN UP THEIR OWN HEARTS BEFORE TRYING TO CLEAN THE HEARTS OF THEIR GONGREGATIONS?
Take care,
Hope12
whitefawn_ answered on 09/25/06:Jesus told us' If we live by the sword, we shall die by the sword.
Many Religions are still going around in this world, only believing in what they want to believe. Remember, her sins have reached the heavens.
My Husbands boss, is what you call a devoted Christian, he gives a lot of money to the Church, one day my husband while at work, said to him' Did you know Your window is broken?
"No' said his his Boss, I keep that open so if anyone tries to brake in, I'll kill him with my shotgun, which laid near the open window."
Now hope, this is the truth, and this man argues constantly with my husband on the Bible. He uses the old testament and not that of Jesus our Lord, whom taught us to love all.
My Husband is so sick of his hyprocrocy, he is ready to walk out.
Remember these scriptures,
Mt 7:20 Therefore by their fruits ye shall know them. to me, this means kindness, love and understanding, not ones of this world.
And what religion is doing this?
Mt 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven.
Mt 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by thy name, and by thy name cast out demons, and by thy name do many mighty works?
Mt 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Why would Jesus profess that he never knew them, when they thought they did so much, by going to Church every sunday, casting out demons, yet these same people kill everyday in the name of Religion.
Hope, the world is still in it's blindness, keep your eyes on the surprise, and you will be greatly blessed, and becareful of sharing your pearls, stay awake, for he is near at the doors!
Love you, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | Judgment_Day asked on 09/12/06 - Jesus is my personal Lord and Saviour!
Is Jesus your personal Lord and Saviour?
He is the First and Last,
The Beginning and the End!
He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all!
He is the Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times.
He always was, He always is, and He always will be ...
unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never Undone!
He was bruised and brought healing!
He was pierced and eased pain!
He was persecuted and brought freedom!
He was dead and brought life!
He is risen and brings power!
He reigns and brings Peace!
The world can't understand him,
The armies can't defeat Him,
The schools can't explain Him, and The leaders can't ignore Him.
Herod couldn't kill Him, The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, and The people couldn't hold Him!
Nero couldn't crush Him, Hitler couldn't silence Him,
The New Age can't replace Him, and "Oprah" can't explain Him away!
He is light, love, longevity, and Lord.
He is goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.
He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure.
His ways are right,
His word is eternal,
His will is unchanging, and His mind is on me.
He is my Savior,
He is my guide, and He is my peace!
He is my Joy,
He is my comfort,
He is my Lord, and He rules my life!
I serve Him because His bond is love,
His burden is light, and His goal for me is abundant life.
I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise,
the power of the powerful,
the ancient of days, the ruler of rulers, the leader of leaders, the overseer of the overcomers, and is to come. And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size.
His goal is a relationship with ME!
He will never leave me,
never forsake me,
never mislead me,
never forget me,
never overlook me and
never cancel my appointment in His appointment book!
When I fall, He lifts me up!
When I fail, He forgives!
When I am weak, He is strong!
When I am lost, He is the way!
When I am afraid, He is my courage!
When I stumble, He steadies me!
When I am hurt, He heals me!
When I am broken, He mends me!
When I am blind, He leads me!
When I am hungry, He feeds me!
When I face trials, He is with me!
When I face persecution, He shields me!
When I face problems, He comforts me!
When I face loss, He provides for me!
When I face Death, He carries me Home!
He is everything for everybody everywhere, every time, and every way.
He is God, He is faithful. I am His, and He is mine!
My Father in heaven can whip the father of this world.
So, if you're wondering why I feel so secure, understand this...
He said it and that settles it.
God is in control, I am on His side,
and that means all is well with my soul.
whitefawn_ answered on 09/13/06:Amen to that, (beautiful words.)
Yes, the Lord Jesus is my only, and only Lord and Savior, and my personal friend, whom I can alway's talk to.
Thank you for sharing those loving words.
Blessings, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 09/11/06 - LIVE A LITTLE:
"Joy is in release, so thankfully received,
Joy is in sorry, so sweetly mourned and grieved,
Joy is to be found, you find it through yearning,
Joy is in coming and going, waiting and watching, living and learning."
-Norris Chumley
I have been preaching this positive philosophy for your benefit for years. How about it? Is there room for JOY in your life 24/7?
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 09/12/06:That is my real name Hank!
And I love this from Norris Chumley, going to keep it, and add it on some of my cards!
Thanks, and God Bless You, Joy has to be un- release for now, will check in later, because I still have dial up and a teen ager, you know' what that's means?
(He want's the phone, to call his girl friend!)
Need to get that boy a cell phone very soon...
Love you again, Joy:) | | Question/Answer | tomder55 asked on 09/12/06 - Persistent vegetative state Is not irreversible
In the debates that surrounded the Schiavo case, many attacked the religious defenders of her right to life, arguing that everyone knew there was no possibility of recovery. But the Guardian now reports miraculous results in patients in a persistent vegetative state who were given a sleeping pill known as Ambien. No one knows why this sleeping pill awakes this people and permits them to communicate, but it does.
...................................
"We have always been told there is no recovery from persistent vegetative state – doctors can only make a sufferer’s last days as painless as possible. But is that really the truth? Across three continents, severely brain-damaged patients are awake and talking after taking … a sleeping pill. And no one is more baffled than the GP who made the breakthrough. Steve Boggan witnesses these ‘strange and wonderful’ rebirths.
For three years, Riaan Bolton has lain motionless, his eyes open but unseeing. After a devastating car crash doctors said he would never again see or speak or hear. Now his mother, Johanna, dissolves a pill in a little water on a teaspoon and forces it gently into his mouth. Within half an hour, as if a switch has been flicked in his brain, Riaan looks around his home in the South African town of Kimberley and says, “Hello.” Shortly after his accident, Johanna had turned down the option of letting him die.
Three hundred miles away, Louis Viljoen, a young man who had once been cruelly described by a doctor as “a cabbage”, greets me with a mischievous smile and a streetwise four-move handshake. Until he took the pill, he too was supposed to be in what doctors call a persistent vegetative state.
Across the Atlantic in the United States, George Melendez, who is also brain-damaged, has lain twitching and moaning as if in agony for years, causing his parents unbearable grief. He, too, is given this little tablet and again, it’s as if a light comes on. His father asks him if he is, indeed, in pain. “No,” George smiles, and his family burst into tears.”
Across three continents, brain-damaged patients are reporting remarkable improvements after taking a pill that should make them fall asleep but that, instead, appears to be waking up cells in their brains that were thought to have been dead.
.....................................
But why bother ? Disconnect their feeding tubes ;let them die of starvation . That's the humane thing to do .
whitefawn_ answered on 09/12/06:Tom, I was in that state, due from an car accident.
It is not like in the movies where you wake up, and say' "Where am I?"
Because you forget everything, even who you are, or any vacubulary of any kind, it's like walking in a dream world or nightmare.
But I was not in Terri's shoes, she could even do even more than I could had done, for she even tried talking, in which I could not do at all.
I was just very lucky to come out of it, you only know a very few things going around you.
But I still see this as murder, and I went on the Web-Site a year agoe, and went on a fasting for three days, and believe me. It was terrible! There is no such thing as an easy way out Starvation is simply murder.
My Husband' had me make up on a doucument the way I would want to die, if that came about, and we did put down No Starvation, or dehydration.
I am very lucky to have a loving husband.
My heart still breaks for Terri, but perhaps the Lord is using her' to see how we act, when it comes to' what we think is murder?
There is recovery from persistent vegetative state, if one can get therepy right away! In Terri's case her husband would not allow it, he had another girl friend and even children, he only wanted her out! And Satan is fond of what he owns, so her Husband won.
I,and my husband were against what happen to Terri.
God Bless her,
Blessings, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 09/06/06 - Genesis 3:14,15 Followup post: Hello Everyone,
Here is my understanding of this scriptures.
Please can you share scriptures with me on what your religion's beliefs are on Genesis 3:14,15. Thanks,
The prophecy of Genesis 3:15 was addressed to the serpent that had lied to Eve, suggesting to her that she would not die for her disobedience but that she would become independent, a goddess. The serpent thus made God out to be a liar and insinuated that humans could improve their lot by rejecting His supreme ruler ship. (Genesis 3:1-5) God’s sovereignty was challenged and his good name besmirched. The book of Revelation describes how the righteous Judge, and Creator, uses the Kingdom rule of his Son, Jesus Christ, to vindicate his sovereignty and clear all reproach from his name. Revelation 12:10; 14:7.
As for that term “serpent,” does it apply only to a literal snake? Not at all! Revelation identifies for us the infamous spirit creature that spoke through that snake. It was “the great dragon . . . , the original serpent, the one called Devil and Satan, who is misleading the entire inhabited earth,” that “seduced Eve by its cunning.”—Revelation 12:9; 2 Corinthians 11:3.
Genesis 3:15 speaks next of “the woman.” Was this Eve? Possibly she thought so. Genesis 4:1) But a long-lasting enmity between Eve and Satan became impossible when Eve died more than 5,000 years ago. Further, since the Serpent addressed by God is an invisible spirit, we should expect that the woman also belongs to the spirit realm. Revelation 12:1, 2 confirms this, indicating that this figurative woman is God’s heavenly organization of spirit creatures. Isaiah 54:1, 5, 13.
Two seeds appear next at Genesis 3:15. We should be deeply interested in these, for they are related to the great issue of rightful sovereignty over this earth. This involves each one of us, whether young or old.
First, there is the seed, or offspring, of the Serpent. What is this? It surely includes those other spirit creatures who joined Satan in his rebellion and who were finally “hurled down with him” to the realm of the earth. Revelation 12:9 Since Satan, or Beelzebub, is “the ruler of the demons,” it is apparent that they make up his invisible organization.Mark 3:22; Ephesians 6:12.
Further, Jesus told Jewish religious leaders of his day: “You are from your father the Devil, and you wish to do the desires of your father.” John 8:44 By their opposition to God’s Son Jesus, those religious leaders showed that they too were Satan’s offspring. They were part of Satan’s seed, serving him as their figurative father. Many other humans throughout history have similarly identified themselves by doing Satan’s will, particularly in opposing and persecuting the disciples of Jesus. Collectively, these humans may be described as making up Satan’s visible organization on earth. John15:20;16:33; 17:15.
The prophecy at Genesis 3:15 refers finally to the seed of the woman. While Satan was developing his seed, God was preparing for his “woman,” or wife like celestial organization, to produce a seed. For some 4,000 years, God progressively revealed to obedient God-fearing humans details related to the coming of the seed. Isaiah 46:9, 10 Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and others could thus build faith in the promise that the seed would appear in their genealogical line. Genesis 22:15-18; 26:4; 28:14 Satan and his henchmen often persecuted such servants of God because of their unswerving faith. Hebrews 11:1, 2, 32-38.
At last, in the year 29 of our Common Era, the perfect man Jesus presented himself at the Jordan River and was baptized. God there begot Jesus with holy spirit, saying: “This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved.” Matthew 3:17 Jesus was there identified as having been sent forth from God’s spiritual organization in heaven. He was also anointed as the King-Designate of the heavenly Kingdom that would restore ruler ship over the earth in God’s name, thus settling once and for all the issue involving government, or sovereignty. Revelation 11:15 Jesus, then, is the principal One of the seed of the woman, the foretold Messiah. Galatians 3:16; Daniel 9:25.
Would the woman’s seed be simply one prominent person? Well, what of Satan’s seed? The Bible identifies Satan’s seed as including a host of wicked angels and God-dishonoring humans. It should not surprise us, then, to learn of God’s purpose to select 144,000 integrity keepers from among mankind to become priestly co rulers with the Messianic Seed, Jesus Christ. Revelation refers to these when it says that the Devil, in his enmity toward God’s womanly organization, “went off to wage war with the remaining ones of her seed. ”Revelation 12:17; 14:1-4.
In the Bible, anointed Christians are called Jesus’ brothers, and as his brothers, they share the same Father and the same mother. Hebrews 2:11 Their Father is God. Hence, their mother must be “the woman,” God’s wifelike celestial organization. They become a secondary part of the seed, Christ Jesus being the primary part. The congregation of these spirit-begotten Christians on earth make up God’s visible organization that serves under his womanlike organization in the heavens, where they will be united with Christ Jesus at their resurrection. Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 3:16, 29 Though not part of the seed, millions of other sheep out of all nations are being united to serve with God’s organization on earth. Are you one of these other sheep? Then your happy hope is everlasting life in a paradise earth. John 10:16; 17:1-3.
This is my understanding of the first prophecy in the scriptures at Genesis 3:15. How does you religion differ from my understanding? Please explain. Thanks.
Take care,
Hope12 whitefawn_ answered on 09/06/06:Mt 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven.
Mt 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by thy name, and by thy name cast out demons, and by thy name do many mighty works?
Mt 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
They kill one another in the name of God and of Religion for leaving Gods word. "Thou shalt not kill."
The world is at a lost today, and Satan does rule this world, only a few will be finding the truth of God. The truth is many are still being blinded by Satan and his Angels. Lets remember that over one third of the Angels were threw down here from the heavens.
Much of the Law is forgotten from not getting the Spiritual food from the word of God, and just listening to mere humans is not enough to free one’s self from Satan and his Demons.
To free ones self and for someday to eat again from the tree of Life and to never die, is to constantly keep the Son Jesus Christ and his Father Jehovah as close as one can, to be awake for the Lord Jesus Christ is coming back again sooner than we may know.
Many today are leaving the Church. Getting tired of listening about hell fire instead of the love for one another, that the Lord Jesus taught us and showed us, when he gave up his very life for us. This God loved us so much, and we didn’t even deserve his loving kindness or even an answer from him, to die for our very sins, when all one has to do, is to forget about always being right, and to ask him for the answers and he will give to all those that is asking.
The serpent, in his Edenic form, is not to be thought of as a writhing reptile. That is the effect of the curse Genesis 3:14. The creature which lent itself to Satan may well have been the most beautiful as was the most "subtle" of creatures less than man. Traces of that beauty remain despite the curse. Every movement of a serpent is graceful, and many species are beautifully coloured. In the serpent, Satan first appeared as "an angel of light" 2 Corinthians 11:14.
Blessings and love to you Hope, From Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 08/29/06 - Polygamist sect leader caught! Polygamist sect leader held By Steve Gorman
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Warren Steed Jeffs, the fugitive leader of a polygamist sect and one of the FBI's 10 most wanted, was arrested in a routine traffic stop outside Las Vegas, authorities said on Tuesday.
Jeffs, 50, considered a "prophet" by his estimated 10,000 followers, is wanted for alleged sexual misconduct with minors in Arizona and as an accomplice to rape in Utah, the FBI said on its Web site.
He was stopped by the Nevada Highway Patrol on Monday night for expired license plates on his vehicle, and the patrolman recognized Jeffs, holding him at the scene until FBI agents could arrive to positively identify him, according David Nanz, an FBI special agent in Las Vegas.
Jeffs was traveling with one of his wives and a brother at the time of the arrest, which occurred about 6 miles north of Las Vegas, Nanz said, adding that Jeffs was being held in a county jail in Las Vegas awaiting extradition to Utah or Arizona.
Jeffs assumed control of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also known as the Fundamentalist Latter Day Saints, or FLDS, from his now-deceased father when the elder leader suffered a debilitating stroke in 1998.
The sect, long based in an enclave on the twin border towns of Hildale, Utah, and Colorado City, Arizona, split from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when the mainstream Mormon Church banned polygamy more than a century ago.
Jeffs, who had been on the run for at least two years, is accused of arranging marriages between older men and underage girls in the FLDS settlement, which is generally closed to outsiders. At the enclave, young men and boys are often forced out to ensure a supply of young brides for male elders.
His group is believed to be one of the largest polygamist sects that exist in the United States. A joint Utah-Arizona attorneys general report has estimated that 20,000 to 40,000 Americans still engage in the outlawed practice of plural marriage.
Elaine Tyler, the head of the Utah-based group HOPE, which helps people leave polygamist homes, hailed Jeffs' arrest.
"I cant believe they found him," she told Reuters. "He has broken up families. He has married off young girls against their will. It is time he started paying for what he did."
QUESTION: What should be the punishment for Warren Jeffs? Who will get all the millions he has acquired over the years? Who will be the next leader of this so-called cult?
MaggieB whitefawn_ answered on 08/30/06:(The gospel teaches that husbands and wives should love and care for each other “even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it” (Ephesians 5:25).
Successful marriages require constant nurturing to stay strong and healthy. They require Christlike love and self-sacrifice.)
I found this imformation on the Book Of Mormons Site. So perhaps as many Religions have a few sickos among themselves, but I also read the Site that Tom had provided, and found it disgusting, but very true that the founder of Mormons was a very disturb person. I couldn't believe the wives this man had, at least over twenty of them. I wish Ronnie could come and answer this.
As concerning, Warren Steed Jeffs, I would throw the book at this man, and have him put away for a life tme.
You can also see that this is an Cult and perhaps a very dangerous one at that.
Thank you Maggie for posting this.
| | Question/Answer | | MarySusan asked on 08/28/06 - Possessed by Satan? "Hitler and Russian leader Stalin were possessed by the Devil, the Vatican's chief exorcist has claimed.
Father Gabriele Amorth who is Pope Benedict XVI's 'caster out of demons' made his comments during an interview with Vatican Radio.
Father Amorth said: "Of course the Devil exists and he can not only possess a single person but also groups and entire populations.
"I am convinced that the Nazis were all possessed. All you have to do is think about what Hitler - and Stalin did. Almost certainly they were possessed by the Devil." From dailymail dot co dot uk
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Is evil separate from humans?
Isn't evil from the thinking of humans? whitefawn_ answered on 08/29/06:Yes. They were weak and had no love for humans, or any feelings what so ever.
Hitler was a bully even as a child, so it could be very easy for Satan and his demons to use him.
But, I don't think God will allow him any hot dogs to burn.
Although, as I read this post I can't help to dwell upon isizathu's responce.
Yes, "Both Hitler and Stalin, and a lot of other people (including religious people & leaders) acted / act evil."
Good words, and very true, because Hitler did have a mental condition, he loved death, and those poor people had been in hell, and went through it, right here on earth.
We are in hell. Just ask those that Survived Katrina and are still trying to re-build their lives.
I wish we had a cure for evil, but instead we are to busy making more bombs, and weapons to kill, instead of compassion for one another.
Bin Ladden is still a live and well and living in Washington DC. Now he is the one we want!
But we have to wait until big daddy gives him to us.
Love and Blessings to you, Mary.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 08/26/06 - SHOUlD WE OR SHOULDN'T WE?
God works in our lives through both His Law and His Gospel. The Law always tells us what to do and not do. The Law always shows our sin. The Gospel tells us what God is doing or has done for our salvation. The Law was given so that we would never look to ourselves but only Christ for salvation. I feel that we need both Law and Gospel. How about you? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace?
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 08/28/06:Hank, Remember what Jesus told the woman Mary, whom was about to be stone to death.
"Go and sin no more"
We are to imatate Christ, and to live by his laws, all of them.
Blessings and a good Monday, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | TTRalph asked on 08/26/06 - How can one place any faith in the Gospel of Mark, when he had not a clue about time and place? Fundamentalist Christians claim that Mark was either an eye-witness to the times of Christ, or got his ideas from those who were. How then does he come up with so many anachronisms like this:
Mark 10:12 "...and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery".
How could this utterance have even made sense to Jesus hearers since, in that time or place, no woman could even institute divorce proceedings, let alone be granted a divorce. ONLY THE HUSBAND Could institute divorce proceedings.
Just one more anachronism....a later idea that Mark puts into the mouth of Jesus. If so how can Christians continue to claim that the Gospels are the inerrent TRUE words of Jesus..and not just the agendas of the Evangelists?
p.s. Mark makes even less sense if, as scholars have noted, the Hebrew work "Shalach"...usually translated 'divorce' really means 'putting away or abandoning without provision'...something no women of Jesus time could do...logistically or legally. whitefawn_ answered on 08/26/06:I can't believe everything, because the Bible has been changed around so much in the past 1,000 years.
Jesus to me is really the only truth, not all of the others, should be based upon what is truth.
In Mark 10:11-12, Jesus forbids divorce: He answered, “Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. And if she divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits adultery."
Verse 12 implies that Mark believed women had a right of divorce in Jewish law. They did not."
Response:
“The wife's right to sue for divorce was unknown to the Biblical law. There is a germ of this right in Ex. xxi. 11, but it was not until the Mishnah that this right was established. The wife never obtained the right to give her husband a get, but when the court decided that she was entitled to be divorced from him, he was forced to give her a get….” However, “…during the reign of the Herodians, under the influence of Roman practice, cases are recorded in which women sent bills of divorce to their husbands” (Jewish Encyclopedia).
For more information please check this out http://www.preventingtruthdecay.org/markanddivorce.shtml
Have a nice Saturday, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 08/26/06 - TO SERVE : Do my words bring others to faith ? whitefawn_ answered on 08/26/06:Sometimes we do need to hear refreshing words, we need a wake up call, as speaking for myself. I like your refreshing words, and I appreciate any kind of enlightenment brought here. so I would have to answer yes to that question.
To others whom have no belief system or believe in Christ, your words can still help them. Because Jesus said' That they would not like you, the same they did not like him, and lets remember' No Slave is above his master' So like the Lord, you will have some that won't like your words.
I think they are great, and you Rolcam are a tool the Lord uses' to help others.
Don't let anyone get you down, remember the one's that you have helped up.
You are Blessed, With Love, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 08/26/06 - TO LOVE : Lord Jesus, help me to believe your words of life.
whitefawn_ answered on 08/26/06:Amen, and Amen.
Although, Rolcom. You do believe in the words of Christ. That is all we have left in this crazy world, is the words of life.
Lets continue to love one another, and to forgive one another.
Life is filled with mystery's. Sometimes the ones we love, we hate.
I also need Jesus to help me.
You Rolcom, have real faith in the word, and also wake some of us up, well, at least me.
Many more Blessings, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 08/26/06 - humour of a differnt kind? Nasruddin And The Judge
One day, Joe Christian passed by a restaurant. He was tired and hungry, for he had had nothing to eat all day. His nostrils caught the smell of the delicious food being cooked inside. He stopped and sniffed, smiled sadly, and began to walk away. But he did not get far. The owner of the restaurant, Rabbi Moishe, came storming out into the street. "Come here!" he bellowed. "I saw that! You took the smell of my food, and you'll have to pay for it!"
Joe Christian did not know what to do. "I cannot pay!" he stammered. "I have no money!"
"No money!" shouted Rabbi Moishe. "We'll see about that! You're coming with me to the judge!" Naturally, Joe Christian was frightened.
"Hmm," said the judge, when he had heard the story. "Well, this is an unusual case. Let me think. Come back tomorrow, and I'll pronounce the sentence."
What could Joe Christian do? He knew whatever sum the judge demanded, payment would be impossible. All night long he tossed and turned, unable to sleep for worry.
When dawn came he made his way to the judges court. As he passed by a mosque he spotted a familiar figure - Mullah Nasruddin. Suddenly, his heart lifted. For he knew that Mullah Nasruddin was a clever man, who was sure to be able to think of a way around the problem. He poured out his story, and Mullah Nasruddin agreed to come to the court and speak for him.
Rabbi Moishe was already at the court, chatting with the judge. Joe Christian saw that they were friends, and feared the judgment would go against him. He was right. The judge began heaping insults upon Joe Christian as soon as he saw him, and ordered him to pay a very large sum of money. At once, Mullah Nasruddin stepped forward. "My lord," he said to the judge. "This man is a good friend of mines. Allow me to pay in his place."
Then Mullah Nasruddin took a small bag of coins from his belt and held it next to Rabbi Moishe's ear. He shook the bag, so that the coins jingled. "Can you hear that?" asked Mullah Nasruddin.
"Of course," replied Rabbi Moishe, impatiently.
"Well, that is your payment," said Mullah Nasruddin. "My friend here, has smelled your food, and you have heard his money. The debt is paid."
And, in the face of such argument, the case was settled and the Joe Christian went free. whitefawn_ answered on 08/26/06:You want to hear some humor paraclete? The very person Peddler whom I even had blocked. Is my very Son....
I was with him on the phone last night as he posted, something I can't even understand. He is going to College for Journalism. I am thinking of posting it on the board, poor Tom he couldn't stand Lazlow. Now I have no idea of what to do?
Blessings to you, and a good Saturday, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | curious98 asked on 08/25/06 - Hello folks
Dear colleagues,
After a rather long convalescence due to a retina detachment that had to be surgically operated, I’m gradually returning to my normal visual activity, which means that you will once again have to put up with my written “logorrhoea”, which so patiently you all have been accepting.
Glad to be back
Curious98
whitefawn_ answered on 08/26/06:Its great to have you back! Hope you will be feeling a lot better,
Many Blessings, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 08/22/06 - Here is a poll peddler7118 asked for………………………………… Peddler said “As far as I can tell everyone here except me and Dgrade hate Tom. They say I am his daughter who they hate as well.
Maybe you can do a poll and see who they hate more, me or Tom.”
<><><><>
So here is the questions.
1. Do you HATE Toms777?
2. Do you Hate peddler?
My answer is I hate neither one of them. I hate no one.
But apparently peddler thinks “they” hate him and Toms (that is his use of the word ‘they” whoever they are)
So please, let them know how many here hate them of do not hate them.
Thanks a bunch,
Fred whitefawn_ answered on 08/22/06:Hello Fred, I am very Surprise that someone whom is a Christian would use the word hate.
Although, some Christians can hurt our feelings out of pure ignorance or perhaps not caring or approaching the other person, of why they dislike a few of us, and give some low ratings.
Sounds more like they dislike us, than anyone here to dislike them.
Matter of fact, I find peddler very intelligent and also Tom, but the word hate is not in my vocabulary. No I don't hate, but feel a little hurt, and sorrow for such a question peddler has ask. She is best off answering this question for herself, a little soul searching. As what have I done to make people dislike me?
As of Tom, only respect I have of him, on the other hand I am a HSP, but I wonder why, they would think some hates them. Such a strong word to use.
So my answer would be No.
Blessings to you Fred, and you stay cool today. Joy, | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 08/20/06 - WHY ME?
Poignant and personal, suffering invades the sacred precincts of life, wrecking the little fences built so tidily and intelligently around our emotions. What happened to Jesus happened for GOOD. Does what happens to us happen for GOOD? One must remember that Christ was a REAL man who died a genuine human death. His experiences benefit all of us. Was suffering and death different then?
HANK
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 08/20/06:Why not you?
Christ our savior was sent here because of one man's sins that man was Adam.
Lets remember that Jesus was a perfect man, born from the Father.
Yes, Pain would be very unnatural for a perfect human being as our Lord Jesus Christ.
He would had suffered much more than us.
But he gained the whole world, and because of his pains, we now have the choice to live forever!
That sounds wonderful to me, and can't wait for his Kingdom. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 08/20/06 - TO SERVE : How can I give spiritual life to others ? whitefawn_ answered on 08/20/06:By showing them love and through the Lord Jesus. I see you Rolcom as a true follower of Christ. Never afraid to post beautiful Prayers and to show us what it is to be Christlike.
Don't worry about others, and keep up the good works.
If any one has the Lord, you do...
I would say, Blessings on here, but it is not allowed by a few.
L.Y. Joy, | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 08/20/06 - TO KNOW : " Whoever eats this bread will live forever ". whitefawn_ answered on 08/20/06:Amen to that Rolcom, and very true,
Thank you for the Prayer and for your kindness and love for all.
The bread is the body of Christ, and Christ is our Lord and savior. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 08/20/06 - THE CROSS:
In the cross of Jesus Christ, you are not dealing with just another event in history. It is more than simply a moving tragedy. It is a decisive act in the plan of GOD. Is the cross God's completed action?
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 08/20/06:Because of that Cross Hank, we will all be saved. And we will even see the resurrection and our love ones again! It is completed. Jesus died for all of us, and out of God's love he gave his only begotten Son, so we can live forever. Now that is real love.
| | Question/Answer | | Jimbo asked on 08/20/06 - Toms777 May I respectfully ask, your opinions, on why the "expert" Toms777 does not answer questions.
He tends to hide his opinions in the clarification dept, but is handy with single dark stars!
I suggest he is a coward & don't expect a response from him.
Jim whitefawn_ answered on 08/20/06:Yes Jimbo, he has been having a lot of fun on here lately. He has brought up my five star average way down. One reason some of the experts have gotten their five stars is because of me. But I’m tired of rating people up, but perhaps now, because someone has taken notice as you have, he may start behaving. Before he gets himself reported for abusing the rating system.
But I am no longer going to brown nose any more on here. Or rate anyone up higher.
Thank You for taking notice,and for caring for some of us.
He will be back soon as mad as hell.:)
| | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 08/19/06 - Punny Biblical Q&A's **** Light hearted jokes !! Punny Biblical Q&A's
Q: Who was the greatest financier in the Bible?
A: Noah; he was
floating his stock while everyone was in liquidation.
Q: Who was the greatest female financier in the Bible?
A:
Pharaoh's daughter; she went down to the bank of the Nile and drew out
a little prophet.
Q: What kind of man was Boaz before he got married?
A:
Ruth-less.
Q: Who was the first drug addict in the Bible?
A:
Nebuchadnezzar; he was on grass for seven years.
Q: What kind of motor vehicles are in the Bible?
A: Jehovah
drove Adam and Eve out of the Garden in a Fury.
A: David's
Triumph was heard throughout the land.
A: Honda... because the
apostles were all in one Accord.
A: 2 Cor. 4:8 describes going
out in service in a Volkswagen, "We are pressed in every way, but not
cramped beyond movement."
Q: Who was the greatest comedian in the Bible?
A: Samson; he
brought the house down.
Q: Where is the first baseball game in the Bible?
A: In the Big
Inning, Eve stole first, Adam stole second, Cain struck out Abel, and
the Prodigal Son came home. The Giants and the Angels were rained out. whitefawn_ answered on 08/19/06:Thank you for sharing this Rolcom we could all use a good laugh. | | Question/Answer | | Jimbo asked on 08/18/06 - God's Time Line
"It is not how old the earth is it is how old God says it is."
How do you suggest I respond to the above statement posted by peddler7118?
God's quotes prefered!
whitefawn_ answered on 08/18/06:You can't Jimbo. He doesn't even seem to like himself. Look at his profile, the poor guy has a one star rating.
For now on I'm ignoring him, or having him blocked.
Blessings to you Jim, | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 08/17/06 - How many here remember the Death of JonBenet Ramsey???? Man Arrested in Death of JonBenet Ramsey
WASHINGTON -- A man arrested in Thailand is being held in connection with the slaying of JonBenet Ramsey, U.S. officials said Wednesday.
Federal officials familiar with the case, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the man was already being held in Bangkok on unrelated sex charges.
The girl was found beaten and strangled in the basement of the family's home in Boulder, Colo., on Dec. 26, 1996.
Law enforcement officials from Boulder were flying to Bangkok to present Thai authorities with documents in the slaying of the 6-year-old beauty pageant contestant, officials in Washington said. They asked to remain anonymous pending an announcement in Colorado.
The girl's parents, Patsy and John Ramsey, had been under an "umbrella of suspicion" in JonBenet's death. The Ramseys said an intruder killed their daughter. A grand jury investigation in Boulder ended with no indictments, and no arrests had been made in the case.
Patsy Ramsey died in July.
In 2003, U.S. District Judge Julie Carnes in Atlanta concluded that the evidence she reviewed suggested an intruder killed JonBenet. That opinion came with the judge's decision to dismiss a libel and slander lawsuit against the Ramseys by a freelance journalist, who the Ramseys had named as a suspect in their daughter's murder. The Boulder district attorney at the time said she agreed with Carnes' declaration. whitefawn_ answered on 08/18/06:Who could forget, and even Barbra Walters and many other Journalist, and people who had ask JonBenéts Mother if she had killed her daughter.
My heart cries for Patsy, and the suffering she had went through with all those that had judged her wrongly, with their finger pointing, it is sad she had passed away before they had finally found the murderer.
It makes you wonder how many are eating their words when they had said' The Mother did it....
It also Teaches us to be careful before we judge one another, for only God knows what did happen that terrible night.
But I truly believe she is with her beloved daughter now, and no man can take that away.
Blessings Fred, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 08/18/06 - A STATEMENT:
I live in America because I like my FREEDOM. That was God's plan for me umpteen years ago.
Why do you live in America ... if you do?
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 08/18/06:I was born here Hank, and yes, the freedom is good, and America is great.
Blessings, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 08/18/06 - How old is the Earth? The Universe? What do you base your belief on? whitefawn_ answered on 08/18/06:2pe 3:8 But forget not this one thing, beloved, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
I have done the math, that would be seven thousand years, almost eight now, because the Lord is just starting to wake up!
The Universe, no beginning, no ending.
Blessings to you peddler, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 08/17/06 - Was Grandma a Nuckle Walker? 5 May 2000
‘Early Man walked on all fours’ proclaims one news headline, while another asks, ‘Did Lucy walk on her knuckles?’ News media releases of the latest scientific ‘discovery’ about human origins1 herald the finding that the fossil ‘Lucy’ (Australopithecus afarensis) has the same wrist anatomy as ‘knuckle-walking’ chimpanzees and gorillas.
Some of the media said this was a surprise to evolutionists, who now have to abandon their theory that ‘our early tree-dwelling ancestors came down from the trees and were already adapted to walking upright.’ But evolutionists who insist that Lucy walked upright have already modified their story to accommodate the new information on Lucy’s wrist anatomy. Refusing to concede anything other than upright walking they say that her knuckle-walking wrist joints are a leftover (or ‘vestige’) from an early ancestor who came down from the trees and walked on her knuckles as chimpanzees and gorillas do.
But did australopithecines like Lucy walk upright? Careful study of the skeletal anatomy of australopithecine fossils indicates a stooped gait, probably similar to the ‘rolling’ knuckle-walk of chimps.
Sadly, in this regard the public are often misled by inaccurately reconstructed statues and images of Lucy displayed at museums and in textbooks, etc., as her feet (and hands, for that matter) are often portrayed as startlingly human-like. Many evolutionists themselves concede such errors, acknowledging that australopithecine hands and feet were ‘not at all like human hands and feet; rather, they have long curved fingers and toes’2—even more so than apes today that live mostly in the trees.
A serious reconstruction error is to wrongly align Lucy’s big toe alongside the smaller toes, like a human foot. In fact, using multivariate analysis, the anatomist Dr Charles Oxnard3 has shown that the big toe actually sticks out as in chimpanzees. This is a key point, for evolutionists point to the famous fossil footprints at Laetoli (which look just like human footprints but are claimed to pre-date humans), and they say ‘See, Lucy walked upright!’ But the (correctly reconstructed) australopithecine fossil foot bones show that Lucy could not possibly have made those footprints.
Also, CAT scans of australopithecine inner ear canals (reflecting posture and balance) by anatomist Dr Fred Spoor and his colleagues at University College, London, showed they did not walk habitually upright.4
And the Laetoli footprints? Remove the fallacious evolutionary assumptions that provide the basis for radioisotope ‘dating’, and there is absolutely no evidence that the Laetoli prints predate humans. Therefore Dr Russell Tuttle’s (of the University of Chicago) finding, that the Laetoli footprints are just like those of children who habitually walk barefoot, makes sense.
So what was Lucy? Oxnard’s multivariate analysis showed that Lucy could not possibly be an intermediate ‘missing link’ between humans and knuckle-walking ape-like ancestors. He found that the australopithecine fossils ‘clearly differ more from both humans and African apes, than do these two living groups from each other. The australopithecines are unique.’5
The latest evidence not only confirms this, but it also indicates that Lucy was a knuckle-walker, like today’s great apes.
References and Notes
Did Lucy walk on her knuckles?, , 22 March 2000; Walk Like an Ape, , 22 March 2000; Early Man walked on all fours, , 23 March 2000; based on Brian G. Richmond and David S. Strait, Evidence that humans evolved from a knuckle-walking ancestor, Nature 404(6776), 23 March 2000. Return to text.
‘Ape-woman’ statue misleads public: anatomy professor (Dr David Menton), Creation19(1):52, Dec. 1996 – Feb. 1997. Return to text.
Formerly professor of Anatomy and Biological Sciences at the University of Southern California, now professor of Human Anatomy and Human Biology, University of Western Australia. Return to text.
F. Spoor, B. Wood and F. Zonneveld, Implications of early hominid morphology for evolution of human bipedal locomotion, Nature 369(6482):645–648, 1994. Return to text.
C.E. Oxnard, in Fossils, Sex and Teeth—New Perspectives on Human Evolution, University of Washington Press, Seattle and London, p. 227, 1987. Oxnard had previously concluded much the same about Australopithecus africanus, Nature 258:389–395, 1975. Return to text.
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Available online at:
http://www.answersingenesis.org/docs2/4256news5-5-2000.asp
COPYRIGHT © 2006 Answers in Genesis whitefawn_ answered on 08/18/06:Science needs to live in a world that is still flat, they are afraid they may wake up and find the world is round, that help's them sleep better. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 08/18/06 - In a situation like this, what would you do??????? We were in Butte, Montana today and doing some shopping.
While my wife went into Wal-Mart I waited in the car with our 2 dogs.
I notice a young couple sitting near the door with a puppy and a cardboard sign with the word “HUNGRY” lettered on it.
People were coming and going and ignoring that threesome.
I watched for adout 15 minutes and decided to do something for them.
As I approached they looked dirty and somewhat ragged with nose and lip rings. They were huddled together as if they were cold but it was a nice 75 degree day.
What would you do?
I went by them into the store looking for something I could get them to eat then and there. I had decided not to give them money.
There wasn’t much to choose from, cookies, granola bars, and bags of corn chips and other junk food.
With the purchase of a large bag of fruit and nut Trail Mix I walked up to them and said, “Your sign says you are hungry. This should help”
The young woman said, “Thank you”. The young man look dazed and tried to smile as I walked back to our vehicle.
From there I watch them open the bag and begin to eat.
My wife came out and we drove away. I told her what I had done and she asked “Did you get anything for the puppy?”
I had not. I had not thought of the puppy but they could feed the pup some things from the trail mix bag.
Would you have given them money?
If you had got something for them to eat would you have remember to get something for the pup?
Or would you have just watched as others passed them by because they looked like druggies? whitefawn_ answered on 08/18/06:Yes, and I have before but only money, Sometimes we have to be careful, what if the person was a dietbetic- however you spell that...
Lu 6:30 Give to every one that asketh thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again."
Lu 6:32 And if ye love them that love you, what thank have ye? for even sinners love those that love them.
But what about the puppy? that is what I can't understand.
Peace fred. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 08/16/06 - Actually a survey: As it is apparent that there are many denominations on this Christian Board I was just pondering how long each of us have been Christians. I don't want to know your denomination, that is neither here nor there.
We must have quite a few years on board here.
Thanks,
MaggieB whitefawn_ answered on 08/16/06:Thank you Maggie.
I have been here over six years, both on askme and here on Answeraway. You find the very best on here. Made many friends here, but you know what a sweetie you are, and how much you are needed and loved by many!
Many more Blessings, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | peddler7118 asked on 08/16/06 - Is it abuse to post 30 questions in one day? You thoughts? whitefawn_ answered on 08/16/06:Hi peddler. No, you should be able to ask any amount, as long as you want, that is why we are here.
Keep them coming' I like your questions, and they make sence.
Haven't had the chance to answer some yet, although, I will, and you bring excitement to this site.
Welcome aboard! Joy, | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 08/09/06 - I hope well will soon be through with Bash Mormons week. <><><><>
And since we have some top notch denomination bashers here let’s have a week for each of the following denominations.
There is enough there to carry us through a whole year.
If we are not tired of it by then we can start on the rest of the 3000 different denominations.
We could call the effort "The Bigots Bashing Ball"
Here they are. Let's do 'em in alphabetical order.
Alliance of Baptists
Anglican Church of Canada
Anglican Communion, worldwide
American Baptist Association
American Baptist Churches in the USA
Assemblies of God
Baptist, Independent
Baptist State Convention of North Carolina
Children of God (COG)
Christian Reformed Church in North America
The Church of Christ
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Christian Science
Church of England
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon)
Church of Scotland
Community of Christ: (Formerly the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (RLDS):
Cooperative Baptist Fellowship
Coptic Orthodox Church (centered in Egypt)
Disciples of Christ (Christian Church)
Episcopal Church, USA
Evangelical Christian Church (Christian Disciples)
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Evangelical Lutheran Church of Canada
Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark
Jehovah's Witnesses
Lutheran Church of Australia
Methodist Church in Britain
Metropolitan Community Church
Mennonites
Presbyterian Church (USA): (3.4 million membership; mainline denomination)
Presbyterian Church in America (0.3 million membership; conservative denomination)
Presbyterian Church in Canada
The Amish
The Family
The Way
The Quakers
Reformed Church in America
Roman Catholic Church
Reformed Churches in the Netherlands (RCN)
Russian Orthodox Church
Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (RLDS): See Community of Christ
Seventh Day Adventists
Society of Friends (Quakers)
Southern Baptist Convention
Unification Church
Unitarian Universalist Association *
United Church of Christ
United Church of Canada
United Methodist Church
United Pentecostal Church International
Uniting Church in Australia
Unity Church
The Way, International
World Council of Churches
Worldwide Church of God whitefawn_ answered on 08/09/06:Hi Fred, I didn't read most of them. If that's their faith, than one should leave it at that.
Why does one want to hurt their feelings?
What does one gain by hurting one another?
Blessings, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 08/09/06 - Is there anyone here who rejects Jesus as the Christ? Today's Gospel (Mt 10:28-33): Jesus said to his apostles: “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body, but have no power to kill the soul. Rather be afraid of him who can destroy both body and soul in hell. For only a few cents you can buy two sparrows, yet not one sparrow falls to the ground without your Father's consent. As for you, every hair of your head has been counted. So do not be afraid: you are worth much more than many sparrows. Whoever acknowledges me before others I will acknowledge before my Father in heaven. Whoever rejects me before others I will reject before my Father in heaven”. whitefawn_ answered on 08/09/06:This shows us how much the Father and his Son Jesus loves us.
The one that can kill the Soul is simply Satan, the same one whom is running the world.
We are to be no part of this world, for this world is nearing the end, many will be mockers and laugh at Christians, because this is the end of times.
We are in the days of the Antichrist, just as the same as anti guns or anti abortions.
We need and have to imitate the Son Jesus Chist if we want to see what I call the new Earth.
Please remember, I belong to no organization, or Religion.
My only faith is in the Lord Jesus, and his word.
But we both know this. That many are leaving the true God.
They mock and make fun at us the believers there are more atheist than there ever were before.
One Scripture, explains this reason. “I thank you Father above, for you have hidden these things from the wise and intellectual and had the revealed to babes.
babes- meaning that some of us are not as smart as others, or use fancy and long words, and talk of politics all day....
Our Soul is intact. We are no part of this world.
I am an truly what you call a ASP, A highly sensitive person. These kind of people are very few, we have love and understanding, we get hurt very easy, and can't help but help those in need, we need time out from the rest of the world or we feel drained.
But Satan and his demons can only kill both the soul and our life.
All one has to do, is take a look around and see the antichrist.
Blessings arcura. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 08/01/06 - What are you doing to prepare for the end of time? Liturgical day: For Tuesday
Today's Gospel (Mt 13:36-43): Jesus sent the crowds away and went into the house. And his disciples came to him saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field”. He answered them, “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world; the good seed are the people of the Kingdom; the weeds are those who follow the evil one. The enemy who sows them is the devil; the harvest is the end of time and the workers are the angels.
“Just as the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so will it be at the end of time. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom all that is scandalous and all who do evil. And these will be thrown in the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the just will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. If you have ears, then hear”. whitefawn_ answered on 08/02/06:Every time, when I'm out in my gardens and pulling weeds, this scripture comes to my mind. There are many weeds in this world, and only a few good fruits.
And, lets remember, many are invited but only a few will be chosen"
It is best to imitate the Lord Jesus as much as we can do, follow in his footsteps, continue to love one another, and mostly our enemies. "What good is it? When we love only those that love us?" When even Tax Collectors do the same. We have to stay awake in these times, even when those that mock God, and make fun of him. This is no laughing matter.
Keep all the Laws! Keep the seventh day holy, do not kill!
We Pray for this Kingdom, in our daily Prayers, the way Jesus taught us to Pray.
"Lord our Father in the heavens; Let your Kingdom come!
Let your will take place on earth, as it is, in your heavens.
I don't know about others; but I myself am looking forward to a better kingdom, than the one that is ran by man-kind.
Lets hold our heads up high, when we see these things happening, for we than know, the Kingdom is near at hand.
No more death
No more tears
No more sickness
What a Kingdom! A dream? No but a real Kingdom a true reality.
Stay close to God, and watch out for false Religions!
Blessings to you, and stay cool today.
Sisterly Love, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 07/31/06 - It is Really getting to be old stuff, can't we find another way to deal with each other? Hello Experts,
I have been coming to this board for some time now and it seems to never end. What am I speaking about? Why do some corner others as if they are better then the one they try to corner?
Example:
When one disagrees with another’s religious following why not look for the good in that person not what bad or what you disagree on? It is one thing to disagree with another, but to hound them as if you and your beliefs are the only way, is childish and wrong. Why not grow up and act as adults?
I have been reading a lot on the board lately about Mormons and what fault some find with them. I know that Ronnie is a Mormon and I find him to be a very nice person and much more caring of others, then some on this board.
What happened to the Mormons and other who persecuted them, was wrong, not one of us should be persecuted or degraded or put down because of our religious beliefs, or for any other reasons. What gives one person/persons the right to hound or degrade another? If you think and feel differently, that is your right, but it is not your right to harass another person.
We all live in this earth and yet some feel they own it. Well, for those who think they do own the earth, let me be the first to tell you that you do not. God does!
When Jesus knew something was wrong or he felt someone was thinking or acting wrong, he reasoned with them and showed love and compassion, he did not corner them or degrade them. What right does anyone have to treat another so badly? NOT ONE PERSON DOES!
NOW ON A MORE POSITIVE NOTE:
We need to show kindness to one another. How can we as imperfect humans show godlike kindness? Jesus provided an example and guidelines that can help us to exercise such kindness.
1 Peter 2:21; 21 In fact, to this [course] YOU were called, because even Christ suffered for YOU, leaving YOU a model for YOU to follow his steps closely
Matthew 11:28-30 28 Come to me, all YOU who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh YOU. 29 Take my yoke upon YOU and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and YOU will find refreshment for YOUR souls. 30 For my yoke is kindly and my load is light.”
Yes Jesus is kindly and refreshing. Are we?
For instance, he indicated that we should be kind even to our enemies. Jesus said: “Continue to love your enemies and to do good and to lend without interest, not hoping for anything back; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind toward the unthankful and wicked.” Luke 6:35
So if we would show the superior quality of godlike kindness, we will be kind not only to family members, friends, and those who believe as we do, but also to those who are not in agreement with us and may even be our enemies.
Since our human inclination is to treat others as they treat us, we do well to remember God’s reminder: “In loving-kindness I have taken delight, and not in sacrifice.” Hosea 6:6
If we wish to have God’s favor, we must endeavor to display godlike kindness, or loving-kindness, in all our dealings with others. Micah 6:8.
Remember how we treat others is how God will treat us! Sometimes we are calling another person what we ourselves are guilty of. We want to be treated fairly and yet some have not learned how to treat others fair.
What are some ways that we can treat other fair and with respect on this board?
How can we be sure of what we say on this board will be approved by God?
Thank you for listening.
Take care,
Hope12
whitefawn_ answered on 08/01/06:Excellent Post Hope, Jesus's greatest commandment was to love our Lord, with all our heart, and our neighbor. That is the greatest law. I have not answered any of those post concerning Ronnies.
I felt like it a few times, but kept quite, I wish I had more boldness as you do. I care a lot about Ronnie, and I don't like to see anyone's feelings hurt on here.
We must immatate our Lord Jesus, with love and comppasion as he does with us.
May Jehovah the Father, Bless you for your kindness, and for your love of others.
Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 07/29/06 - Bible Studies ? Please nominate your personal choice
for a very prominent personality in the
New Testament.
Give your full reasons.
whitefawn_ answered on 07/29/06:On Bible Studies I would have to Suggest, Jesus Christ. Because we are to become imitators of him and follow his ways, and to be Christ like. What a world that would be. For knowledge means ever lasting life.
Blessings Rolcom and a nice Saturday!
A good day to rest. Joy,
| | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 07/28/06 - Hi, thanks to all who reponded Thanks to all who responded to my post re being gone to have surgery. Well, I am home and doing well, still
quite sore but on the mend.
I very much appreciate the kind words. You folk are "super".
God bless you all!!!
MaggieB whitefawn_ answered on 07/28/06:We love you Maggie, and I am so happy that all went okay. Now, you take it easy, and let someone else take care of you, and I send a Prayer for you today, for you to know you are in our hearts and thoughts.
You are much loved! And very much appreciated.
God Bless you more! Joy, | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 07/27/06 - This post is for those who do not believe in the Creator Christians call God. Hello Everyone,
Who of us don't appreciate a wonderful sunset or a singing bird? Yet these same ones do not believe in a Creator. Why? If there is not Creator, then where does all the awesome things our eyes see in the wonders of the world?
If there is no Creator, where did all the bueaty come from? Who made the glorious sunset, the flowers, and all in color? How do you who do not believe in a Creator explain such wonders?
Take care,
Hope12 whitefawn_ answered on 07/28/06:Goodness Hope! I have no idea, why God would ever listen to me. I am nothing but dirt, but when you had ask this question. I went dirrectly to my Bible, and thought in my mind.
Please Lord give me your answer, and as I swear upon my life. This is the first scripture I turned to! Without looking for it.
I am keeping this scripture today, and I'm putting it in my heart, maybe it was because of you, that he had showed me this.
I would be more lucky to hit the mega jackpot than to accidently come upon this scripture!
Listen experts I am telling you the truth, it is time for us to wake up, soon you will see. Wonders in the sky! My God is for real.
Here is the Scripture he has showed me, and you today!
Ps 14:1 The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works; There is none that doeth good.
Ps 14:2 Jehovah looked down from heaven upon the children of men, To see if there were any that did understand, That did seek after God.
Love to all, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 07/26/06 - What does the term “Historical Jesus” mean to you? To me it is misleading because the history of Jesus is in the bible.
To me the historical Jesus is the same person as is written about in the Holy Scriptures.
Do you see it differently?
If so why?
Peace and kindness,
Fred whitefawn_ answered on 07/27/06:Hello Fred. Jesus is the same as he has always been, I also agree with you.
Our savior can not change, he is of love and always hears our Prayers. He is the same today as he was when he was with the Father when they had created man-kind.
The Bible say’s. That one day to God is of one thousand years to man.
You have a great day, Joy | | Question/Answer | | cheriskae asked on 07/25/06 - Religion In what ways do churches , sects, and cults differ? whitefawn_ answered on 07/25/06:
The main reason I myself had left the Church or many of the denominations is because I too was confuse with so many Religions, and denominations.
Although, I still call myself a Christian. Meaning Christ like. What would Jesus do in this situation? The answer where one cannot go wrong is the word. The Bible. To study it and to live by it. An example could be used is like when we buy a car, it has a manual. Telling us what oil it needs, what kind of gasaline the car needs, how to make our car run longer?
I have seen much hypocrisy in Churches today, although, I know we are only human, but if we are to become like Jesus than we may have to leave the Religion if that Religion is not teaching us what the Bible is teaching us.
For the Bible tells us. To get out of her my people if you do not want to share with her, and her sins, for they reach clear up to the heavens.
Also to be Christ like, you have to be no part of this world, you can't kill one another, unless it is for self-defense or you are protecting your family. You need to keep the seventh day holy and not the first day Sunday.
So many people fall into traps because some one may tickle their ears, by telling them, you can keep on sinning, as long as you confess your sins, although the word. Tells us "Go and sin no more." That is my Religion. The Word, and only a few are finding the truth. That tells me not many really know the truth, and many are following false teachings.
They use the excuse that we are to fellowship and not to stay a part.
If you believe in it, it is a religion or perhaps 'the' religion;
and if you do not care one way or another about it, it is a sect;
but if you fear and hate it, it is a cult." Leo Pfeffer.
Cults are claimed to be deceitful. They are claimed to be harmful to their members. They are claimed to be undermining American values. Cults are claimed to be just about every bad thing in the book these days, and with the pervasive images of Manson and Jim Jones hanging over us, any group that is called a cult is immediately associated with those two people." J. Gordon Melton.
Religion can generate great commitment and passion in people, expressed as caring, love and respect for others. It can motivate believers to dedicate their lives to the alleviation of suffering and need. However, it can also motivate people to commit acts of extreme hatred and terrorism.
When the Lord Jesus told us "We are to love one another. This is the greastest of all laws!
Other religions were created by humans without the inspiration of God. They are very human documents, mistaken in parts, limited by the scientific knowledge and cultural outlook of the authors. Their God or pantheon of deities were created by humans.
"Sect", the past pass of "sectum", means "to cut, divide"... it is a small group which is an offshoot of an established religion. It holds most beliefs in common with its religion of origin, but has a number of novel concepts which differentiate them from that religion.
Blessings to you, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 07/25/06 - Was this a cleansing of my soul or something else? If anyone wants to read the story of my son's accident and the way I found God, it was published at Beliefnet.com
http://www.beliefnet.com/story/193/story_19327.html
I'd appreciate any opinions or comments.
Thanks
Loral whitefawn_ answered on 07/25/06:How strong one can be when God is with that person, and that story is a true miracle. Loral, I just want to thank you for sharing this with us, I am so happy that Lance is better, I Pray that you are doing better, because you are one beautiful person.
You know you should try being a writer, as I was reading this, I could actually see you as walking into the hospital, and my heart was pounding, praying inside, that all would be okay, once you came to Lance's bedside. What a beautiful post and an up-lifting, for those that love God.
You just showed that God does exist.
Blessings to you, and it's so nice to see you again!
Love you, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 07/24/06 - I will be gone for several days so please do not be "exasperated" if you have answered one o I have to be at the hospital at 6:00 a.m. Tuesday morning for surgery so it is a great probability that
I will not be on my computer for a short time.
Thanks and God bless,
MaggieB whitefawn_ answered on 07/25/06:Take care Maggie, and remember that you are loved. And have a speedy recovery, hope to see you very soon, with love, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 07/24/06 - You must see and hear this !! http://www.thepowerofmywaymovie.com/
rolcam whitefawn_ answered on 07/24/06:Power Of My ways. I needed that so much today. isn't it a wonder how the Lord uses his people to cheer those with a broken heart, to show his people that he is listening. It was so beautiful, I was crying to my husband because of nightmares. I have been having, than as I went on the address bar, it was the answer that I had needed.
I think though the nightmares are from the medication I have to take from my Doctor.
You are really from the Lord Rolcom, and you just showed it.
I Praise the Lord for people as you and Maggie, the best post's I have seen in such a long time on here.
I Pray the Lord will send you more Blessings than you could count.
Again thank you, I will send this to all my Christian friends. Joy, | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 07/24/06 - A very understanding explanation of why we believe/have faith in God Upon what evidence do we base our faith in Jesus?
BIBLE READING: Luke 11:29-32
KEY BIBLE VERSE: The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and now one greater than Jonah is here. (Luke 11:32, niv)
The evidence for faith is actually overwhelming! The Ninevites and the Queen of the South had turned to God with far less evidence than Jesus was giving his listeners—and far less than we have today. We have eyewitness reports of the risen Jesus, the continuing power of the Holy Spirit unleashed at Pentecost, easy access to the Bible, and knowledge of two thousand years of Christ’s acts through his church. With the knowledge and insight available to us, our response to Christ ought to be even more complete and wholehearted.
BIBLE READING: John 12:37-50
KEY BIBLE VERSE: Even after Jesus had done all these miraculous signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him. (John 12:37, niv)
Some won’t believe in spite of the evidence. Jesus had performed many miracles, but most people still didn’t believe in him. Likewise, many today won’t believe despite all God does. Don’t be discouraged if your witness for Christ doesn’t turn as many to him as you’d like. Your job is to continue as a faithful witness. You are responsible to reach out to others, but they are responsible for their own decisions.
BIBLE READING: Acts 14:8-20
KEY BIBLE VERSE: Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them. (Acts 14:15, niv)
The evidence is enough for anyone who wants to believe. Responding to the people of Lystra, Paul and Barnabas reminded them that God never leaves himself “without testimony.” Rain and crops, for example, are evidence of his goodness. Later Paul wrote that this evidence in nature leaves people without an excuse for unbelief (Romans 1:20). When in doubt about God, look around and you will see abundant evidence that he is at work in our world.
(This is so true: Don’t be discouraged if your witness for Christ doesn’t turn as many to him as you’d like. Our job is to continue as a faithful witness. We are responsible to reach out to others, but they are responsible for their own decisions.)
No matter how rude and obnoxious some can be, we are to hold firm, not cower and keep on keeping on.
Comments?
MaggieB
whitefawn_ answered on 07/24/06:Amen Maggie, and this is a very up-lifting post.
In this new age, so many are becoming cruel toward Christians. We need to stand firm in our Faith to our Savior Jesus, and not let Satan blind our eyes as he has done to so many.
Thank you for the scriptures, and we will not cower and lets keep hanging on to our faith.
For like the Lord has forwarned us; That we will be persicuted as he was, and no slave is above his master.
What the Lord went through, we may also go through, but he will protect us, and remember us,
Again, thank you for refreshing words. We sure can use them.
Blessings to you, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | uhmlanga asked on 07/24/06 - Is this a Christian thought? As this seems to me to be a rather essential question on Christian thinking, morals/ethics, and values, I once more - in the lack of hardly any serious reaction on an earlier post - bring the following again up for discussion here on this Christianity Board :
================================
If one makes statements on the internet like :
"REMEMBER SOME PEOPLE ARE ALIVE SIMPLY BECAUSE IT IS ILLEGAL TO SHOOT THEM."
can a person making such posts still be considered to be a "True Christian" ???
======================================================
Please support your views with some clear explanation as to why you think that way.
Thank you !whitefawn_ answered on 07/24/06:Please support our views with some clear explanation as to why we think that way.
And Thank you.
Did I read "Thank you?"
For what? You could care less about our views, except for giving us your little black stars.
So No Thank you;) | | Question/Answer | | uhmlanga asked on 07/22/06 - Question to all Christians on this board Over the last couple of weeks I have collected all the nasty statements that were posted here for me on this board.
As things are here, you never know when you need that .....
Specially active in this specific negative field were sissypants, Harmonyhill, JesseJamesDupree, JudgmentDay, Erewhon, and Arcura.
I always understood that this is the Christianity Board, the board where all subjects of discussion should be related to Christianity.
That means that you do not have to be a Christian to post here.
This seems to be - seen the many negative reactions I received - totally unknown to the majority of "experts".
And as reply to some critical posts on religion in general I received several posts suggesting that if I did not like Christians, I should "move" (and that is the diplomatic version of what was suggested).
Now I always understood that the basics of Christianity - besides the acceptance of JC as your savior - is to love and forgive your "neighbours" (i.e. all other people).
The reality of this Christianity Board is that no other board on AW shows more HATRED, more DESPITE, and more INTOLERANCE towards people of an other persuasion than just this board.
And no other board lacks more love and forgiveness than just this board.
Whenever a non-christian dares to post anything critical to the opinions of the christian "experts", it's like a like a kilo of fried minced meat pieces being thrown into a henhouse with an undernourished population .....
And on the level of communications here : Some go below that of the worst gutter language .....
The most silly, aggressive, ridiculous, and/or distasteful arguments are posted upon the first impression of criticism.
I always thought that one of the tasks of every Christian was to spread the word (and you do not do that with aggressive protesting against alleged rejection of Christianity).
Neither seem to me CHEATING, LYING, INSULTING, outright PROVOKING, and/or CONDEMNING to be the instruments by which the word is properly and succesfully spread.
I know very well that I'm not perfect, that I make mistakes too, that at times I'm a little too harsh, too direct.
But is that an excuse for Christians on a Christianity Board to DELIBERATELY behave as angry baboons?
Lately I'm beginning to ask myself : - What are you Christian people actually doing here on this board?
- Where are your Christian morals and values?
- Is nobody ashamed of what is really happening here?
- How can any Christian here look in a "mirror" and fail to see the worrying reality?
- Does everyone sleep well at night?
And than I'm not even addressing the hypocrisy of deliberatly ignoring of what is going on at the Christianity Board of WTY by one of your own here .....
Think about that, when you all sit in church tomorrow, acting as good Christians .....
:)whitefawn_ answered on 07/22/06:That is five questions
1 What are you Christian people actually doing here on this board?
First you may want to ask yourself. What are you doing on this board? What do you find interesting on Christianity? Could it be you feel at a lost in a world where you have not a belief system?
I come here to get away from the world of non-believers, from the Wars of this world, the crime, the hatred the insults the sarcasm. To find answers, for knowledge means everlasting life, and above all I'm a people lover
The experts here are to help others to learn about Christ. They don't have to be here, but have chosen to give up their time to help others to learn and to take in knowledge.
2 Where are your Christian morals and values?
They are intact they have kindness. Above all they have love, and they care about the truth of our Lord Jesus Christ, something we should embrace not destroy. There is nothing one can do to help those whom have no belief in God, we can only show them love, and keep Praying that perhaps they can see what we can see, and that is that the World is in the hands of another god, a god that is of jealousy and has a hatred for the doubter and the Christian both. This other god is so happy that he made the doubters. This is his world, but only for a short time.
3 Is nobody ashamed of what is really happening here?
I'm not.
4 How can any Christian here look in a "mirror" and fail to see the worrying reality?
Are you referring to the reality of this world, the ones with no morals, no love, no God, the experts I know on here can see what is exactly going on in the mirror on AW, and are very thankful we have it.
5 Does everyone sleep well at night?
Not when I have a headache.
Blessings to you, uhmlanga
And I don't go to Church on Sunday, today is my day of rest, as to those whom do go Church tomorrow, they are not acting, but go and to worship Jesus and to get out of the world for a day, from the doubter's and takers. The control people of the world. Let's give them a break, they don't have to think upon this.
Life is way to short to carry all that. Lets try and see the beauty in people and lets not judge one another.
Like Chou use to say' Enjoy life' uhmlanga.
Again, Many Blessings to you, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | Unknown asked on 07/21/06 - Conclusion
There is nothing wrong with religion as long as it doesn't get in the way of God??
whitefawn_ answered on 07/21/06:There is nothing wrong with Atheism as long as it doesn't get in the way of Atheism.
Keep it to yourself. This is a Christianity board, if you don't like us, there are many other places on the Web where you can blog among yourselves. Take your anger else where.
"Atheism implies no further belief system —
So you are not here to find answers, or are you? There seem's to be a reason why some Atheists stay here?
Perhap's they got lost, perhaps they are seeking out answers and wondering, maybe there is a God? Perhaps there is love, or perhaps thay are simply lonely, and hurting and want to believe in God but can't because the world is full with Atheists, that instill hatred, no morals, and most of all Love and respect for one another.
Atheists implies no beliefs about politics, no philosophy, no beliefs about society, no beliefs about science, no beliefs about religion, or even that the person is irreligious (because some religions are atheistic). Atheists vary as much in their beliefs and attitudes as theists do.
If you know that a person is an atheist, then you know that he or she lacks belief in gods — nothing more, nothing less."
| | Question/Answer | | STONY asked on 07/20/06 - JOY, IF YOU WANT A REAL SIDE SPLITTER LAUGH "READ THAT PERSON'S PROFILE!!" IT IS NOT MERELY A CASE OF THE BLIND LEADING THE BLIND. THIS ONE IS DEAF, DUMB AND BLIND. whitefawn_ answered on 07/21/06:He is all about mythology, and just trying to bring answeraway down, but heshe is kind of off:) I am also wondering what age this person really is? Is heshe old enough to be on answeraway?
Heshe has a hate for us whom believe in Jesus, but Jesus told us, there would be that kind that would hate us, as they had hated him. That is so sad.
I am proud of your profile, you have been to many place's, that some only dream of, and are jealous of.
You be Bless Stony
I'm Praying this place will change around soon.
Sisterly Love, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 07/18/06 - A Gift To Be Shared.
YESTERDAY I met a stranger…Today this stranger is my friend. Had I not taken the time to say “hello” or return a smile, or shake a hand, or
listen, I would not have known this person. Yesterday would have turned into today and our chance of meeting would be gone.
YESTERDAY I hugged someone very dear to me. Today they are gone…and tomorrow will not bring them back. Wouldn’t it be nice if we all knew TOMORROW we would all be here? But this is not to be, so take the time TODAY to give a hug, a smile and “I Care”.
JUST FOR TODAY, Smile at a stranger; Listen to someone’s heart; drop a coin where a child can find it; Learn something new then teach it to someone; tell someone you’re thinking of them; hug a loved one; don’t hold a grudge; don’t be afraid to say “I’m Sorry”; look a child in the eye and tell them how great they are.
Don’t kill that spider in your house, he’s just lost so show him the way
out; look beyond the face of a person into their heart; make a promise and keep it; call someone for no reason than to just say “hi”; show kindness to an animal; stand up for what you believe in; smell the rain, feel the breeze, listen to the wind; use all your senses to their fullest;
Cherish all your TODAYS.
Today I thought about you.
Send this to your friends and let them know
they were also thought about TODAY.
As each day is a GIFT to be shared . . .
rolcam
whitefawn_ answered on 07/18/06:A beautiful post, but I wish we could do this everyday, than all tomorrows may be our yesterdays. It's great to give kindness, and use it in our everyday lives.
To share a smile, and to let someone know they are cared about. To open doors for the elderly, and to to help those whom can not help themselves.
Life is to short for bickering and being angry all the time
Yes, I will send this to my friends.
My first is to you rolcam, Today I thought about you.
I also thought about that other post, and came up with this answer. I would say' I give 75 percent to the Lord, I find it is to hard to be one hundred percent. The words Of Jesus always come to mind, when he once said' The flesh is weak, but the spirit is willing.’
You have a wonderful day, and keep a smile, and to know you are Blessed, and thank you for bringing some sun-shine to this Site.
Sisterly love, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | uhmlanga asked on 07/16/06 - Have you already been at WTY? You stated to JesseJamesDupree :
Jesse, Hon, he is not worth your health. You try and drink a lot of Orange juice today. If we ignore him/her perhap's heshe will quit.
We love you, and so does the Lord Jesus. I just want you to know that.
Joy,
Of course I will quit. AFTER JJD Lazlow Thad Krewton stops stirring at this board (and preferably also after he stops at that other board. Do yourself a favour and GO TO WTY to see what Lazlow really is doing and posting there under the "Credendovirus" handle.
Once you have seen that, just tell me than once more what you think of this all.
:) whitefawn_ answered on 07/17/06:No. And I think this should all stop. Lets just keep working on AW, and just be thankful for this Site. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 07/16/06 - TO LOVE : Lord Jesus, give us the grace to hear and act
on your words in the Gospel.
My Hearing 100%.
My Acting (say) 75%.
What are your percentages ?
I must confess my acting is low due to my laziness.
rolcam whitefawn_ answered on 07/16/06:Hi Rolcom, I love these words of wisdom, and will remember them to day. To act upon and to use. well, my Husband is in a hurry but I want to answer the rest. This is a good question, and will dwell upon it today.
Thank you, and Blessings. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | uhmlanga asked on 07/12/06 - On asking questions and harrassing people : ..... I'm here - in compliance with this board's rules - to ask or reply to questions that have some connection with Christianity in all it's possible manifestations.
Now I'm told by JesseJamesDupree (the one who calls himself Thad and many other aliases at WTY - and who is doing there some rather unchristian activities) :
QUOTE
WIR and UHMgagla - Stop harassing me or I wil l report you etc. .....
UNQUOTE
I just like it stated very clearly here that I'm not harrassing JesseJamesDupree at all here at this board. I asked him a question earlier. That was all. And I closed that question afterwards.
Please note that I at least can spell JJD's handle correctly .....
My question here to you all is :
Do you think that asking a question to someone either in general or in an open post is identical to harrassing people ? Please explain your opinion.
Is there any Christian reference or advice you can add to your reply ?
This question will remain open, as it refers to nobody in particular, and just asks for your (Christian) opinions on technically an ethical viewpoint.
:) whitefawn_ answered on 07/15/06:Yes, I am the real whitefawn.
Now everyone knows what I look like. This is really embarrassing. Perhap's I should just stay off here. I liked you uhmlanga... But that photo was for another Site, not here.
As for Lazlow, he does not want to go on here. For one reason I need not to tell, is he is working plus school for Journalism. My young Son, even owns his own home, without any morgage, does not live at my home and is well off. | | Question/Answer | | Erewhon asked on 07/12/06 - Don't answer, I have ended the question. But, what do you think the question would have been? whitefawn_ answered on 07/12/06:You said' Don't answer. | | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 07/08/06 - Trying to change from a belief !!! A local gentleman attended the Southern Baptist Convention and wrote an article in our local newspaper which was very interesting and the following is one of the major discussions.
Southern Baptists denomination is trying to change from a belief that all who call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved, to a belief that God only saves those whom he chooses to save. The doctrine of "election" was mentioned.
Your thoughts and comments?
MaggieB
whitefawn_ answered on 07/11/06:Dearest Margaret
I have seen this question here, and for a while been afraid to answer it.
Although, with the scriptures I do believe the Lord will save only those that he has chosen or that he has elected.
Lets remember; He has hidden these things from the wise and intellectual and had them revealed to babes. Babes meaning. Meaning ones that are not that important to mankind and those that truly know the Lord, and the Lord knows them.
Jesus once said’ I know my sheep and my sheep know me.
There are to many scriptures to back this up with, so I wanted to be sure before I had answered this.
First Please let me tell you what I believe in. Is that any one whom studies the Word will live through the War of the Lord. I believe that only a small number will actually be saved, and with your heart you should be in that number.
We should talk to the Lord and the Father in everything that we do. Always Blessing his name, and give thanksgiving for what we have. If we do that now when we don’t need help. Imagined what he will do’ when we do need help.
To many scriptures to show, but here is one that stays in my mind.
Mt 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by thy name, and by thy name cast out demons, and by thy name do many mighty works?
Mt 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Mt 24:22 And except those days had been shortened, no flesh would have been saved: but for the elect`s sake those days shall be shortened.
Mt 24:24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.
Just a few Maggie, but there are so many more.
Blessings to you, and I am sorry it took so long for me to answer this.
Sisterly Love, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | Erewhon asked on 07/11/06 - Rosicrucianism ~~~~ ~~~~ ~~~~
Is Rosicrucianism consonant with Christianity? Please give detailed reasons for your answer.
Thank you.
whitefawn_ answered on 07/11/06:Yes Ronnie, The research I had found is that of any member of an international organization, especially the Ancient Mystic Order Rosae Crucis and the Rosicrucian Order, devoted to the study of ancient mystical, philosophical, and religious doctrines and concerned with the application of these doctrines to modern life.
"Being in agreement or accord: remarks consonant with our own beliefs.
Harmonious in sound or tone."
My answer would be yes...
Blessings to you, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | revdauphinee asked on 07/04/06 - Im back!
Just a note to let everyone know im back on line ,boy moving is not much fun im still living out of boxes but am slowly getting straight I have missed you all and hope to back full time in the next few days
Dorothy whitefawn_ answered on 07/05/06:It's about time. You have been very much missed. Now you should sit back and have a cup of coffee, I know what it is like when I had moved here, but soon you will be settle in. but you are very much appreciated Dorothy, and Loved!
Blessings to you. Joy, | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 06/30/06 - Just really trying to undestand what other believe. Hello Everyone,
In response to my previous post on Acts 7:59, I am confused at the many responses and need some questions answered. Can you answer them for me? For those who believe in the trinity, Please explain these things to me. I am confused on how this would make sense. I am being very serious and not trying to find fault with those who believe in the Trinity. I am truly trying to understand how this can be explained. Can anyone who believes in the Trinity explain this to me.
Christianity is based on Jesus Christ, however here is what I personally understand
the Bible says about Jesus and God. Is Jesus Christ actually God?
John 17:3, RS: “[Jesus prayed to his Father:] This is eternal life, that they know thee the only true God [“who alone art truly God,” NE], and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” (Notice that Jesus referred not to himself but to his Father in heaven as “the only true God.”) Why the mention of two persons and not one, if they are the same?
John 20:17, RS: “Jesus said to her [Mary Magdalene], ‘Do not hold me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brethren and say to them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’”
(So to the resurrected Jesus, the Father was God, just as the Father was God to Mary Magdalene. Interestingly, not once in Scripture do we find the Father addressing the Son as “my God.” Does this mean that God needs a God? )
For instance, consider what John further writes in chapter 1, verse 18: “No man has seen [Almighty] God at any time.” However, humans have seen Jesus, the Son, for John says: “The Word [Jesus] was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory.” John 1:14, KJ
How, then, could the Son be part of Almighty God? John also states that the Word was “with God.” But how can an individual be with someone and at the same time be that person?
Moreover, as recorded at John 17:3, Jesus makes a clear distinction between himself and his heavenly Father. He calls his Father “the only true God.” And toward the end of his Gospel, John sums up matters by saying: “These have been written down that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ the Son of God.” John 20:31
Notice that Jesus is called, not God, but the Son of God. This additional information provided in the Gospel of John shows how John 1:1 should be understood. Jesus, the Word, is “a god” in the sense that he has a high position but is not the same as Almighty God.
Please read some of the prophecies regarding the Messiah, Jesus Christ and then try to explain to me how this is showing that God Almighty is Jesus and Jesus is God???
Born of the tribe of Judah Genesis 49:10 Luke 3:23-33
Born of a virgin Isaiah 7:14 Matthew 1:18-25
Bible says God is and always was. If the Bible is true then God and Jesus are not the same.
“God is the “Creator” of all things. He had no beginning nor will he ever have an end. Jesus was born on earth. When Jesus was in the womb of Mary waiting to be born as a baby, who kept the Universe working and the moon and stars and planets functioning and in operation? Who kept the humans and animals alive here on earth while Jesus (if the same person as God)is in the womb of Mary?
Descended from King David Isaiah 9:7 Matthew 1:1, 6-17
If Jesus is God, then that means God is a descendent of king David a human?????
Declared by God to be his Son: Psalm 2:7 Matthew 3:17
Are we to believe that if Jesus is God, he at these scriptures is calling himself his own son???
Buried with the rich Isaiah 53:9 Matthew 27:57-60
If Jesus is “God, than are we to believe that God Almighty died and was buried??? Who took and made things here on earth and the universe work, if Jesus is God and he was dead and buried?
Raised before corruption Psalm 16:10 Acts 2:24, 27
Did Jesus who some think is God, raise himself up?
Exalted to God’s right hand Psalm 110:1 Acts 7:56
If Jesus is God, then this would mean that God exalted himself to himself at his own right hand??????
My deep appreciation for your time and efforts.
Thanks. Hope 12
whitefawn_ answered on 07/01/06:Hello Hope,
The answer is No, it is explained in Ge 1:26 "And God said, Let us make man in (our) image, after (our) likeness:
Our meaning two. There are many gods. But only one true God. The Father. Jehovah and his Son (our) King Jesus Christ.
Remember Jesus also once said' Why do you call me good, when there is only one good, and that is the FATHER.....
The same as with a married couple. They are no longer two. The Lord said' They are one.
There will come a day hope, when all eye's will be open, than they can understand the truth.
But sweetie, that will not be until the Lord allows it. Enjoy being in the truth. Jesus wanted all of us to love the Father as you do. Although, the sad truth is, some of these things were hidden from the wise and intellectual. Some would not believe it, even if Jesus whom is a God and our King whom also sits on the right throne of the Father, not on the Fathers throne, but the right side. Would come down here, and told them himself.
With love, and Blessings. Joy, | | Question/Answer | | blueboy. asked on 06/26/06 - How does this affect me? In an earlier response one of our experts stated:
"Why did Jesus die upon the cross? To save us
sinners from torment"
Will you please explain why "we" were in torment & what the occasion of Jesus' death did to make things better. whitefawn_ answered on 06/26/06:Hi blueboy, and I hope this is a good day for you.
One reason the Father sent his Son to this world was because of Adam.
Because sin entered through Adam all man-kind was at a lost.
It was than that Jesus the Son of God came down here and sacrifice his self for you, and to walk upon man.
He went hungry, and thirsty he wanted to take our pains and our sickness’ to know how we feel and to become our King as he will soon, and we will never again feel ill, nor grow old or die.
Through one mans sin, the Lord Jesus had saved us, so we can have ever-lasting life.
And plus to see our Love ones again in the resurrection when he returns again.
I Pray that Hope will see this post and she can give you an excellent answer.
Blessings to you blue. Joy,
| | Question/Answer | | Erewhon asked on 06/23/06 - Joseph Smith: His Creative Role in Religion
Over a century and a half ago a boy had a question. He found an answer, organized a church, published a book. He gathered in our fathers from the nations of the earth and imbued them with the faith to build a Zion in their own peculiar way.
It is indeed fitting that we honor the memory of this boy. Our debt to Joseph Smith is great and manifold in its source. In evaluating the work of Joseph Smith, one may stand at a distance, as it were, and see him organizing a church, translating a book, and building Nauvoo. If we look at him in that way, we have no great part in his work. It was done before we were born. All we can do is to accept his work gratefully and carry on.There is another way to pay tribute to the Prophet, I think, a way closer to our time—a contemporary way. That is to seek something in his life which we can appropriate even as he knew it, something which we can share in common with him.
Joseph Smith was human even as you and I. He made mistakes and had his weaknesses. Many of his dreams and aspirations, he failed to achieve, just as you and I fail. He was martyred at the age of thirty-eight, without knowing the autumn harvest. Even as you and I, he only planted and tasted something of the summer fruit. The thing which is inspiring about the Prophet is thatn he put his hand to the plow and did not look back. He kept his eye on the unplowed field ahead. He turned over virgin soil, again and again. One question led to another; one revelation called for another. Each day was a new day in the life of the Prophet.
It is this creative quality in his life, his teachings, and his work relative to religion that deserves tribute today. There is no joy in life, it seems to me, except the joy of creation. Creator is a name, an honored name, of Deity, and when God created man, he breathed into him part of his life, the urge to create, to build, to learn, to think, and to take old images and make them new. God has planted deeply in us the need to reproduce, to learn, and to build. When man is creative, he emerges from the prison of his own mind. He is no more a victim of circumstance, of the forces which are pressing upon him from all directions, but through the power of creation he builds his life anew, and the world in which he lives.
Goethe, the German poet, says, "One sees what one carries in one's heart." The creative soul recreates life after the image he carries in his heart. Too often religion has been taught us and accepted as a conservative force in life, as something which saves man from himself and from his sins. Religion is a conservative and a saving force, but it must be more than that. It is also a dynamic force in life in harmony with man's urge to create.
The Prophet Joseph Smith was creative. Everything he touched became a new thing. In him was something of the curiosity of a child, the imagination of an artist, the practical zeal of a reformer, the idealism of a utopian, and the fire of a prophet. His theology is dynamic. He used religion to remake life. He also assigned to each of us a tremendously creative role to play in religion.
In June of 1830, he received a revelation describing a vision which Moses had from God. Moses was so overwhelmed by the creations of God that he said, "Now, for this cause, I know that man is nothing, which thing I never had supposed." Moses recovered from this momentary disillusionment to ask a question of God. "Tell me, I pray thee, why these things are so, and by what thou madest them?" In the answer he received, we get a vision of a God who is creatively at work in the universe, bringing about his great purpose.
"Worlds without number have I created; and I also created them for mine own purpose; and by the Son I created them, which is mine Only Begotten. . . . The heavens, they are many, and they cannot be numbered unto man; but they are numbered unto me, for they are mine. And as one earth shall pass away and the heavens thereof even so shall another come, and there is no end to my works, neither to my words. For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man." (Moses 1)
This creative character of God is further reflected by the Prophet in his description of how God speaks to man. In the Book of Mormon we read, "Wo be unto him that shall say: We have received the word of God, and we need no more of the word of God, for we have enough! For behold, thus saith the Lord God: I will give unto the children of men line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; and blessed are those who hearken unto my precepts, and lend an ear unto my counsel, for they shall learn wisdom; for unto him that receiveth I will give more; and from those that shall say, We have enough, from them shall be taken away even that which they have." (2 Nephi 28:30-31.)
"Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth? Wherefore murmur ye, because that ye shall receive more of my word? Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? . . . And I do this that I may prove unto many that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and that I speak forth my words according to mine own pleasure. And because that I have spoken one word, ye need not suppose that I cannot speak another; for my work is not yet finished; neither shall it be until the end of man, neither from that time henceforth and forever." (2 Nephi 29:7-9.)
The revelations of God, according to the Prophet, were not to be confined to one man nor to one people. Men of all nations are inspired of God according to their need, their desire, and their ability to receive revelation. "For behold," says Alma, "the Lord God doth grant unto all nations, of their own nation and tongue, to teach his word, yea, in wisdom, all that he seeth fit that they should have; therefore we see that the Lord doth counsel in wisdom, according to that which is just and true." (Alma 29:8.)
In 1842 the Prophet had reached the height of his mortal success. The Church had been established and the gospel in its main outlines had been restored. He had premonitions of the end of his own life. One might expect him to close revelation, to think of himself as the pinnacle of this great principle. It is interesting that he, at this time, set forth the Articles of Faith, indicating his great faith in the continuance of revelation. The ninth Article of Faith reads,
"We believe all that God has revealed, all that he does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God." And, as though this were not enough, the last and thirteenth Article of Faith opens the door wide to eternity and to the universe.
"We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things."
Surely this was no accident. The thirteenth Article of Faith is a natural and logical result of the dynamic theological concepts of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.There is scarcely any theology in the writings of the Prophet that is treated abstractly, as if apart from life. Everywhere theology is functional, related to man, beginning here and carrying into eternity. The creative role that the Prophet ascribes to man in the religious life is ever a source of wonder and amazement to me. We can only suggest and illustrate this in one or two ways here.
Man is not simply God's creature, according to the Prophet's words. There is something in man that is co-eternal with the Creator himself. Mark these words from the Doctrine and Covenants:
"Man was also in the beginning with God. Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be. All truth is independent in that sphere in which God has placed it, to act for itself, as all intelligence also; otherwise there is no existence. Behold, here is the agency of man, and here is the condemnation of man; because that which from the beginning is plainly manifest unto them, and they receive not the light." (D&C 93:29-31.)
These words, intelligence, truth, and agency, are not defined carefully in scripture, but it seems clear that the intelligent basis of man's life, including his capacity for creative and moral living, is uncreated, and co-eternal with God and with other aspects of the universe. If so, man's relationship with Deity, with his fellow intelligences, and with himself has been, is, and ever will be creative and dynamic.I like these oft-quoted words the Prophet sent to the Saints who were trying to establish Zion in Jackson County, Missouri, in 1831.
Evidently some of the Saints thought that God was to establish Zion without their help: "For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward. Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness; for the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall, in no wise, lose their reward. But he that doeth not anything until he is commanded, and receiveth a commandment with a doubtful heart, and keepeth it with slothfulness, the same is damned." (D&C 58:26-29.)
Even in this great principle of revelation, God revealing himself to man, the Prophet has given man an active part. The finest statement we know in scripture on the meaning of revelation is in the first section of the Doctrine and Covenants:
"Behold, I am God and have spoken it; and these commandments are of me." So far, in that passage, revelation seems to be all of God, his work alone. But, the scripture continues, " . . . and were given unto my servants in their weakness, after the manner of their language, that they might come to understanding. And inasmuch as they erred it might be made known; and inasmuch as they sought wisdom they might be instructed; and inasmuch as they sinned they might be chastened, that they might repent; and inasmuch as they were humble, they might be made strong and blessed from on high, and receive knowledge from time to time." (D&C 1:24-28.)
The Prophet's own experience with revelation had taught him that God speaks to man when there is a need, when man is aware of that need, and when man is seeking, learning, desiring, and pleading in humility and faith with an eye single to the glory of God and his work.It is quite self-evident, I think, that when it comes to living the great principles of religion, faith, humility, and love, they have absolutely no meaning to man unless they are experienced and participated in creatively by man.Joseph Smith also made of the religious life an everyday creative experience.
The Book of Mormon, in particular, is filled with exhortations to us all to have love, charity, compassion, and tolerance for fellowmen. King Benjamin links theology and religion beautifully when he says:
"And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God." (Mosiah 2:17.)
A little further along in the same sermon he adds this note:
"And now, if you believe these things see that ye do them." (Mosiah 4:10.)
In chapter 34 of Alma is an exhortation to us to pray—to pray over our flocks and herds and households, to pray for ourselves. Toward the end of it, however, we read this:
"Yea, and when you do not cry unto the Lord, let your hearts be full, drawn out in prayer unto him continually for your welfare, and also for the welfare of those who are around you. And now behold, my beloved brethren, I say unto you, do not suppose that this is all; for after ye have done all these things, if ye turn away the needy, and the naked, and visit not the sick and afflicted, and impart of your substance, if ye have, to those who stand in need—I say unto you, if ye do not any of these things, behold, your prayer is vain, and availeth you nothing, and ye are as hypocrites who do deny the faith." (Alma 34:27-28.)
Most everyone knows that in the great principles of religion, life is a creative experience. People believe in the great principles. Most religions hold many of them in common, but there is a certain aspect of religion in which many people see no value. We refer to the ordinances, the rituals, and the ceremonies of a religion. Why should a man be baptized? Why should he partake of the sacrament? How can these things help a man to be a true disciple of Christ?
Even in these sacramental aspects of religion, Joseph Smith gives man a creative part. There is not an ordinance mentioned in the Doctrine and Covenants or the Book of Mormon that is not inseparably aligned with a religious life. It is only efficacious as it prepares or inspires us to live righteously.
This can be illustrated with one ordinance. Nowhere in the Prophet's teachings is baptism taught as a means of bringing forgiveness of sin for which we are not responsible. Nor is baptism taught merely as a gift from God bringing us entrance into the Church and remission of sin, in exchange for passive obedience.
Comments?
whitefawn_ answered on 06/25/06:Know ye not that I, the Lord your God, have created all men, and that I remember those who are upon the isles of the sea; and that I rule in the heavens above and in the earth beneath; and I bring forth my word unto the children of men, yea, even upon all the nations of the earth? Wherefore murmur ye, because that ye shall receive more of my word? Know ye not that the testimony of two nations is a witness unto you that I am God, that I remember one nation like unto another? . . . And I do this that I may prove unto many that I am the same yesterday, today, and forever; and that I speak forth my words according to mine own pleasure. And because that I have spoken one word, ye need not suppose that I cannot speak another; for my work is not yet finished; neither shall it be until the end of man, neither from that time henceforth and forever." (2 Nephi 29:7-9.)
Now. I like that, those words are beautiful. I have been doing some soul searching Ronnie, and had wondered about the book of Mormons.
Its always good to have a open mind, and to sometimes really listen, I am going to get the book. But Joseph Smith sounds like a very intelligent and a loving person. We never know Ronnie, and that's why it is good to search out. I had been with Jws and Methodist but I still can not find what I am looking for, and so far I like what you had posted, and I would like to learn more.
Thank you, and I will do some research.
Blessings to you Ronnie, and have a great sunday. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | MaggieB asked on 06/24/06 - Do you believe that anyone here on earth can hasten the end times???
'End times' religious groups want apocalypse sooner than later, and they're relying on high tech -- and red heifers -- to hasten its arrival.
For thousands of years, prophets have predicted the end of the world. Today, various religious groups, using the latest technology, are trying to hasten it.
Their endgame is to speed the promised arrival of a messiah.
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For some Christians this means laying the groundwork for Armageddon.
With that goal in mind, mega-church pastors recently met in Inglewood to polish strategies for using global communications and aircraft to transport missionaries to fulfill the Great Commission: to make every person on Earth aware of Jesus' message. Doing so, they believe, will bring about the end, perhaps within two decades.
In Iran, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has a far different vision. As mayor of Tehran in 2004, he spent millions on improvements to make the city more welcoming for the return of a Muslim messiah known as the Mahdi, according to a recent report by the American Foreign Policy Center, a nonpartisan think tank.
To the majority of Shiites, the Mahdi was the last of the prophet Muhammad's true heirs, his 12 righteous descendants chosen by God to lead the faithful.
Ahmadinejad hopes to welcome the Mahdi to Tehran within two years.
Conversely, some Jewish groups in Jerusalem hope to clear the path for their own messiah by rebuilding a temple on a site now occupied by one of Islam's holiest shrines.
Artisans have re-created priestly robes of white linen, gem-studded breastplates, silver trumpets and solid-gold menorahs to be used in the Holy Temple — along with two 6½-ton marble cornerstones for the building's foundation.
Then there is Clyde Lott, a Mississippi revivalist preacher and cattle rancher. He is trying to raise a unique herd of red heifers to satisfy an obscure injunction in the Book of Numbers: the sacrifice of a blemish-free red heifer for purification rituals needed to pave the way for the messiah.
So far, only one of his cows has been verified by rabbis as worthy, meaning they failed to turn up even three white or black hairs on the animal's body.
Linking these efforts is a belief that modern technologies and global communications have made it possible to induce completion of God's plan within this generation.
Though there are myriad interpretations of how it will play out, the basic Christian apocalyptic countdown — as described by the Book of Revelation in the New Testament — is as follows:
Jews return to Israel after 2,000 years, the Holy Temple is rebuilt, billions of people perish during seven years of natural disasters and plagues, the antichrist arises and rules the world, the battle of Armageddon erupts in the vicinity of Israel, Jesus returns to defeat Satan's armies and preside over Judgment Day.
______________________________________________________
Comments welcome!
MaggieB
whitefawn_ answered on 06/25/06:Hi Maggie. My comment is.
I don't think God has to worry about the end of times. People are doing a pretty good job at this themselves.
Perhaps God is just going to sit back and watch mankind destroy themselves. But what I would like to know is, how do these religious groups, know for sure God even want's them in his new world or his Kingdom?
Blessings to you. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 06/24/06 - How many of us here, Christian and not, follow this??? (Mt 6:1-6.16-18): Jesus said to his disciples, «Be careful not to make a show of your righteousness before people. If you do so, you do not gain anything from your Father in heaven. When you give something to the poor, do not have it trumpeted before you, as do those who want to be seen in the synagogues and in the streets in order to be praised by the people. I assure you, they have been already paid in full. If you give something to the poor, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your gift remains really secret. Your Father who sees what is kept secret, will reward you. whitefawn_ answered on 06/25/06:I see it everywhere Fred, it was the one main reason I had left the Church. When I hear one brag it makes me sick, and we hear this so often. Not just in Church but also in the media.
Now, I can not tell you the truth if I follow those Laws, for I would be bragging, and we know God hates a braggart. But in all truth, I can't understand why those Laws are so hard to follow.
Blessings to you, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | Erewhon asked on 06/21/06 - "Women should keep silent in the church ... "
What reasons could Paul have had for saying this?
whitefawn_ answered on 06/21/06:That is because man is the head ship of women as man is under Christ, and Christ is under the Father. Myself as a woman will obey the laws of God.
You are going to get alot of ladies upset:)
Blessings to you, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 05/25/06 - Just Wondering ...
... who climbed out of the boat to meet Jesus walking on the water?
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 05/26/06:Hi Hank, That was Peter, but than he lost his faith and started to fall in, and Jesus caught him.
Blessings Joy, | | Question/Answer | | belle33 asked on 05/24/06 - Is it a sin to believe that Jesus is not God but His son? If one does not believe the trinity theory is it a sin? whitefawn_ answered on 05/25/06:Mt 12:32 And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him; but whosoever shall speak against the Holy Spirit, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, nor in that which is to come.'
Blessings to you, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 05/23/06 - No longer living for ourselves??? Hello Everyone,
What does it really mean to "no longer live for ourselves?
(2 Corinthians 5:15) 15 and he died for all that those who live might live no longer for themselves, but for him who died for them and was raised up.
How can we do this? What steps must we take?
Take care,
Hope12
whitefawn_ answered on 05/25/06:Hello Hope. I admire true Christians that can do this. They give up everything in the flesh, and live and preach for the Lord Jesus, and of his coming.
They are no part of this world, and the world is not fond of them. Their whole life is Dedicated to God.
They also follow the word all the way, and not just part of it.
Many of them will come out to your home, and give out free Bible Studies that last for an hour or more, some Christians give forty or more hours in a week for free Bible studies.
Going down the narrow road and not the spacious road. The Bible tells us in 1pe 4:2 that you no longer should live the rest of your time in flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.'
Our body no longer belongs to us but to God. I tried to find the scripture I believe its in Peter where it mentions that we should lead our body as a slave-
It takes a lot of strength to be a true Christian. I can't imagine how it is to have doors shut in my face most of the time. True Christians give up everything in the flesh to serve God. I admire them.
I should had tried to give you a better answer, but I am kind of burned out this week.
Many Blessings to you Hope. Joy, | | Question/Answer | | Erewhon asked on 05/22/06 - When Is It Right To Abandon Our Personal Quest For Spiritual Truth?
It is evident that any open-minded search for truth requires courage, constancy, and humility. To quote an ancient prayer:
From the cowardice that shrinks from new truth,
From the laziness that is content with half truth,
From the arrogance that thinks it knows all the truth,
O God of truth, deliver us.
Is it ever right to abandon our quest for spiritual truth, and, if so, when is it right to do so?
whitefawn_ answered on 05/22/06:I would say' To never quit searching for what is truth. The word of God is Truth.
Mt 7:7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
Our quest for Spiritual food will continue, we will never reach or understand everything we want to know, until we are with our Lord. Although, still I don't believe we will ever leave or abandon or have the right to do so.
Although, I will leave a Church when it is double-minded about anything. When I have to deal with issues that have brought me confusion and indecision,or when one has to ponder at the pool of perplexity you are not moving forward, but back wards.
Blessings to you Ronnie, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 05/20/06 - TO LOVE : Lord Jesus, thank you for proving your love
by laying down your life for your friends. whitefawn_ answered on 05/21/06:Amen to that Rolcom, because of his love for all, we now have a second chance. That is what I call real love.
Blessings, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | excon asked on 05/20/06 - Santa Clause
Hello Christians:
If they had a Santa board on AW, and the people there were fervent believers in Santa, would you participate? Would you deride them? Would you ask them how Santa feels? Would you ask them how Santa thinks? Would you feel silly talking about Santa with a real Santa believer? Would you want to tell those people that Santa doesn't exist? What would you say to someone who receives messages from Santa?
excon
whitefawn_ answered on 05/21/06:I would ask him or her why is it, we can take the letters of 'SANTA'
and make Satan? Do you know of any other Riddles as that of Da Vinci Code.
Satan has santa, and they pick on the good Lord.
Blessings and a good Sunday, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 05/20/06 - John's two Greek words ?? 1) " agape " and
2) " phileo "
In your view what do these two words fully express? whitefawn_ answered on 05/21/06:This word seems to require explanation only in the case of its use by our Lord in his interview with "Simon, the son of Jonas," after his resurrection (John 21:16,17). When our Lord says, "Lovest thou me?" he uses the Greek word agapas ; and when Simon answers, he uses the Greek word philo , i.e., "I love." This is the usage in the first and second questions put by our Lord; but in the third our Lord uses Simon's word. The distinction between these two Greek words is thus fitly described by Trench:, " Agapan has more of judgment and deliberate choice; philein has more of attachment and peculiar personal affection. Thus the 'Lovest thou' (Gr. agapas) on the lips of the Lord seems to Peter at this moment too cold a word, as though his Lord were keeping him at a distance, or at least not inviting him to draw near, as in the passionate yearning of his heart he desired now to do. Therefore he puts by the word and substitutes his own stronger 'I love' (Gr. philo) in its room. A second time he does the same. And now he has conquered; for when the Lord demands a third time whether he loves him, he does it in the word which alone will satisfy Peter ('Lovest thou,' Gr. phileis), which alone claims from him that personal attachment and affection with which indeed he knows that his heart is full."
Blessings to you. Rolcom and a beautiful Sunday, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 05/20/06 - TO SERVE : How well do you keep JESUS command to love? whitefawn_ answered on 05/21/06:In all reality I cannot stand my Mother-In-Law. Especially when she say's the N word
And the calling down names on others. Her bigotry and unconstructive attitude on others.
But here is where the true test comes in. Here is where the Lord knows who follows his Laws.
Is when we love those whom hate us?
Love is unconditional it is up lifting and it never fails.
But I am a people lover, some still make fun of me, and say' "Good grief or lovey faun.
To those people I feel sad for, and can only Pray for, because something must had happen in their life time to make them Sarcastic and Cynical to try to make others look stupid and silly.
To follow in the Lord footsteps we must have love among one another, putting up with one another, realizing we are all sinners.
Willing to be wronged.
If the world had love, there would be no guns, no hate, no more Wars.
So we must be no part of the world, for the world is passing away and so is its desires.
And in time our Lord Jesus will take back his Kingdom, and the ones with no love will no longer be with us.
So in all reality, I do love people of all races and of all types. But I am also very susceptible in letting others take advantage of me, so I am weak in that part. (I don't know how to say NO.)
So many scriptures the Lord Jesus gave us, to follow him and to love those that do not love us, is a true test.
Mt 5:44 but I say unto you, love your enemies, and pray for them that persecute you;
Mt 5:45 that ye may be sons of your Father who is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sendeth rain on the just and the unjust.
Mt 5:46 For if ye love them that love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
So my answer would be Yes.
Many Blessings to you ROLCAM
And with LOVE....Joy,
| | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 05/19/06 - Do you know Him? In Matthew – He is the Messiah
In Mark – He is the Wonder-Worker
In Luke – He is the Son of Man
In John – He is the Son of God
In Acts – He is the Holy Spirit Moving and Working Among Men
In Romans – He is the Justifier
In I and II Corinthians – He is the Sanctifier
In Galatians – He is the Redeemer from the Curse of the Law
In Ephesians – He is the Christ of Unsearchable Riches
In Philippians – He is the God who Supplieth All Our Need
In Colossians – He is the Fullness of the Godhead Bodily
In I and II Thessalonians – He is Our Soon Coming King
In I and II Timothy – He is the Mediator Between God and Man
In Titus – He is the Faithful Pastor
In Philemon – He is the Friend of the Oppressed
In Hebrews – He is the Blood of the Everlasting Covenant
In James – He is the Lord Who Raiseth the Sick
In I and II Peter – He is the Chief Shepherd Who Soon Shall Appear
In I, II, and III John – He is Love
In Jude – He is the Lord Coming With Ten Thousands of His Saints
In Revelation – He is our King of Kings and Lord of Lord
To me, He is My King, My Precious Savior, My Healer, My Deliverer, My Life, in Him will I trust. whitefawn_ answered on 05/20/06:Yes. paraclete. He is my only Savior, he is my friend when others let me down, he lifts me back up. He is love, and he made me. He is the Word and everything was made through him.
He answers me, before I even ask.
He showed me what real love is.
Most of all. he is my King, and the Son of God, and is God.
A beautiful post to share with us about our Lord. I thank you for that.
Many Blessings, with love. Joy, | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 05/13/06 - TO SERVE : Is your ministry fruitful of unproductive ? whitefawn_ answered on 05/13/06:No. In the last two weeks in Church, I go home feeling drained, almost like being around a bunch of Vampires. I’m sorry to tell the truth here, but all I have received from Spiritual food is that the Church needs more and more money. I and my husband have just quit, and continue to study and read the word of God at home, and to continue to live by Gods laws, and not that of men.
I'm sorry Rolcom to be telling the truth of how I feel of unproduction, and as some don't give their sheep the real Spiritual food one needs to feel the Lords presence in the house of God.
We get more from the Lord when we just walk down to our Gazebo and in our Gardens and talk to the Lord in secret, and the amazing fact is. He always answers our Prayers, the Lord Jesus and his Father are amazing.
Blessings to you. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 05/06/06 - TO SERVE : How can I help work for Church Unity ?
rolcam. whitefawn_ answered on 05/08/06:Rolcom, I think you are in unity, If you have notice I even have you as a favorite, because of your kindness, towards others. You are a fine example of how a Christian should be, and you already are following Christ, so my answer would be; You have already helped your Church, by just being you.
Blessings to you rolcom
Sisterly love. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ladybugca asked on 05/08/06 - EXPLANATION of GOD.
>
> THIS ONE IS FABULOUS!!! It was written by an
>8-year-old named Danny Dutton, who lives in Chula Vista, CA He wrote it
>for his third grade homework assignment, to "explain God". I wonder if any
>of us could have done as well?
>
> >
> "One of God's main jobs is making people. He makes
>them to replace the ones that die, so there will be enough people to take
>care of things on earth. He doesn't make grownups, just babies. I think
>because they are smaller and easier to make. That way he doesn't have to
>take up his valuable time teaching them to talk and walk. He can just leave
>that to mothers and fathers."
>
> "God's second most important job is listening to
>prayers. An awful lot of this goes on, since some people, like preachers
>and things, pray at times beside bedtime. God doesn't have time to listen
>to the radio or TV because of this. Because he hears everything, there must
>be a terrible lot of noise in his ears, unless he has thought of a way to
>turn it off."
>
> "God sees everything and hears everything and is
>everywhere which keeps Him pretty busy. So you shouldn't go wasting his
>time by going over your mom and dad's head asking for something they said
>you couldn't have."
>
> "Atheists are people who don't believe in God. I
>don't think there are any in Chula Vista . At least there aren't any who
>come to our church."
>
> "Jesus is God's Son. He used to do all the hard
>work, like walking on water and performing miracles and trying to teach the
>people who didn't want to learn about God. They finally got tired of him
>preaching to them and they crucified him But he was good and kind, like his
>father, and he told his father that they didn't know what they were doing
>and to forgive them and God said O.K."
>
> "His dad (God) appreciated everything that he had
>done and all his hard work on earth so he told him he didn't have to go out
>on the road anymore. He could stay in heaven. So he did. And now he helps
>his dad out by listening to prayers and seeing things which are important
>for God to take care of and which ones he can take care of himself without
>having to bother God. Like a secretary, only more important."
>
> "You can pray anytime you want and they are sure
>to help you because they got it worked out so one of them is on duty all
>the time." "You should always go to church on Sunday because it makes God
>happy, and if there's anybody you want to make happy, it's God!
>
> Don't skip church to do something you think will
>be more fun like going to the beach. This is wrong. And besides the sun
>doesn't come out at the beach until noon anyway."
>
> "If you don't believe in God, besides being an
>atheist, you will be very lonely, because your parents can't go everywhere
>with you, like to camp, but God can It is good to know He's around you
>when you're scared, in the dark or when you can't swim and you get thrown
>into real deep water by big kids."
>
> "But...you shouldn't just always think of what God
>can do for you. I figure God put me here and he can take me back anytime
>he pleases.
>
> And..that's why I believe in God."
>
>
whitefawn_ answered on 05/08/06:I love this, God is more likely to listen to this, than all those crazy Prayers as. I broke a toe Lord, please heal me?
Jesus was so right, when he said' Don't stop the little children from coming to me, for the Kingdom of heavens belongs to such ones;
Un-like what Ronnie said' I don't care when this was whote. I find this beautiful and up-lifting. Children try to reach out, and there is so much we can learn from them.
At Church this past Sunday, my Son whom is sixteen, alway's holds my hand, and is never ashame of me, the one word we use a lot in our home is Love.
Thank you for this up-lifting letter, it has made my day brighter.
Blessings to you. Joy, | | Question/Answer | | DeckChair asked on 05/02/06 - Anti-Biblical Christians Jesus says clearly in the New Testament that his Kingdom is not of this world in at least two places , a spiritual Kingdom not an earthly kingdom/government. Christian theocracy is forbidden by Jesus.
That is why those Christians who are trying to force the American government into being a Christian theocracy are in serious error and at odds with major scripture.
Those who founded the American government wanted to do away with all the internecene bloodshed they escaped in Europe where Christianity and Government went hand in hand. That is why they founded a government where church and state were separate.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Who here wants to overthrow the Constitution? whitefawn_ answered on 05/02/06:Very true. Jesus also mention that we are to be no part of this world.
A true Christian will follow the Laws of Christ and that of the Bible. A true Christian will not kill their neighbor even if that neighbor lives thousands of miles away, because War is just plain evil. Although we also should up hold and abide by the Laws that Govern us as long as it does not go against Christ and that of his Father.
Many now days have even done away with the Sabbath day, because some in large garments and their fancy clothes tells us, we will worship on Sunday. Although, I also go to Church on Sunday, I will keep the Sabbath Day holy and Pray and thank the Father for the Sabbath which is one of our ten commandments.
Mt 4:8 Again, the devil taketh him unto an exceeding high mountain, and showeth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;
Mt 4:9 and he said unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.
Mt 4:10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Than on the other hand; He was in the world, and the world was made through him, and the world knew him not.
We should do our best to protect the Constitution as our President does, when he swears in by oath.
Again we are to be no part of this world, but abide by the laws in it, and always ask ourselves' What would Jesus do?
Blessings to you. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | revdauphinee asked on 04/18/06 - thank you! while this is not a question it needs to be said i wish to thank answerway for allowing me back on this forum and also I have to say that if in the past i have offended anyone or hurt anyone on here I am sincerly sory!It is so good to be back
Dorothy whitefawn_ answered on 04/18/06:It's great to have you back Dorothy!
Miss you, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 04/14/06 - I'M PROUD OF YOU ALL:
This is the kind of participation on this Board that I've always hoped would show itself. You're a great bunch! You've made my wish come true. THIS IS A GREAT BOARD WITH A GREAT BUNCH OF EXPERTS! (I'M REALLY GLAD TO BE BACK!)
HAPPY EASTER! (Wear your bonnets to Church, gals.)
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 04/15/06:I am way more Proud of you Hank, and have been thinking of you and alway's keeping you in my thoughts and my Prayers. I wish you would write to me, for my Book is almost finish, and want to share some with you.
It is called; "You are a Miracle"
It is meant to help foster children and to help those in gangs, and on drugs to realize how important they really are to our community.
With Love, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | Jesushelper76 asked on 04/14/06 - HAPPY EASTER TO EVERYONE!!!!!!! Happy easter to everybody on the board. Hope you all enjoy the holiday. God bless!
Joe whitefawn_ answered on 04/15/06:Happy Easter to you also Joe, and thank you may you and your Family be very much Blessed!
With Sisterly Love, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 04/15/06 - Are you trapped in a paradox? The Christian paradox
April 15, 2006
How can a faithful nation get Jesus so wrong? What it means to be Christian in America today. By Bill McKibben.
It is said that only 40 per cent of Americans can name more than four of the Ten Commandments and a scant half can cite any of the four authors of the Gospels. Twelve per cent believe Joan of Arc was Noah's wife. This failure to recall the specifics of Christianity may be further evidence of the nation's educational decline but it probably doesn't matter all that much in spiritual or political terms. Here is a statistic that does matter: 75 per cent of Americans believe the Bible teaches that God helps those who help themselves. That is, three out of four Americans believe that this notion, at the core of American politics and culture and which was in fact uttered by Ben Franklin, appears in Holy Scripture. And Franklin's homily is counterbiblical.
Few notions could be further from its radical summons to love they neighbour. On this essential matter, most American Christians are simply wrong; it's as if 75 per cent of American scientists believed that Isaac Newton proved that gravity caused apples to ascend.
When we say we are a Christian nation and, overwhelmingly, we do, it means something. People who go to church absorb lessons there and make decisions based on those lessons; increasingly, these lessons inform their politics. (One poll found that 11 per cent of American churchgoers were urged by their clergy to vote in a particular way in the 2004 election, up from 6 per cent in 2000.) When George Bush says that Jesus Christ is his favourite philosopher, he may or may not be sincere but he is reflecting the sincere beliefs of the majority of Americans.
And therein is the paradox. America is the most professedly Christian of the developed nations and the least Christian in its behaviour. That paradox illuminates the hollow core of our boastful, careening culture. Ours is among the most spiritually homogenous, rich nations. About 85 per cent of us call ourselves Christians. Israel, in comparison, is 77 per cent Jewish. About 75 per cent of Americans claim they pray to God daily and 33 per cent say they manage to get to church every week. Still, even if that 85 per cent overstates actual practice, there is nothing else that unites more than four-fifths of America. It is a nation saturated in Christian identity.
But is it Christian? This is not a matter of angels dancing on the heads of pins. Christ was specific about what he had in mind for his followers. In the days before his crucifixion, Jesus said you could tell the righteous from the damned by whether they'd fed the hungry, slaked the thirsty, clothed the naked, welcomed the stranger and visited the prisoner.
What if we chose some simple criterion, say, giving aid to the poorest people, as a reasonable example of Christian behaviour? In 2004, the US ranked second last among developed countries in government foreign aid, measured as a share of their economies. Per capita, we each give 15 cents a day in official development assistance to poor countries. And donations to private charities for relief work increased our average daily donation by only six cents, to 21 cents. We gave little to poor countries not because we were too busy taking care of our own; nearly 18 per cent of American children live in poverty (compared with 8 per cent in Sweden). Judging by just about any measure you want to propose - childhood nutrition, infant mortality, access to preschool - we come in nearly last among rich nations and often by a wide margin.
So Christian America trails badly in all these areas to which Jesus paid particular attention. And these social indicators are not getting better. The US Department of Agriculture reported in 2004 that the number of "food insecure" households had risen more than 26 per cent between 1999 and 2003. Despite the sixth commandment, the US is the most violent of the rich nations, with a murder rate four or five times that of its European peers. Its prison population is six to seven times bigger than those of other rich nations. Having been told to turn the other cheek, the US is the only Western democracy that executes its citizens, mostly in those states where Christianity is strongest. Despite Jesus' opposition to divorce, more than 50 per cent of US marriages end, compared with the European Union average of about four in 10. The divorce rate among the godless Dutch is about 37 per cent. Teenage pregnancy? We're at the top of the charts.
Are Americans hypocrites? Of course they are. But most people, including me, are hypocrites. The more troubling explanation for this disconnection between belief and action is that most Americans, which means most believers, have replaced the Christianity of the Bible, with its call for sharing and personal sacrifice, with a competing creed, possibly several competing creeds.
The one that frightens me most comes from the sprawling megachurches. Its deviation is subtle - most of what gets preached in these palaces isn't loony at all but disturbingly conventional, with pastors focusing relentlessly on individual needs. Their goal is to service consumers - not communities but individuals, those who feel the need for some spirituality in their (or their children's) lives. The result is a comfortable, suburban faith.
A reporter from The New York Times, who recently visited one booming megachurch outside Phoenix, found a typical scene: a drive-through latte stand, Krispy Kreme doughnuts at every service, and sermons about how to discipline your children, how to reach your professional goals, how to invest your money, how to reduce your debt. On Sundays children played with church-distributed Xboxes and many congregants signed up for a twice-weekly aerobics class called Firm Believers.
Not that any of this is so bad in itself. We do have stressful lives, humour does help and you should pay attention to your own needs. All the accompanying Christian self-help books have turned people into better parents, better spouses, better bosses. It's just that the authors of these creeds, in presenting their sensible advice, somehow manage to ignore Jesus' radical and demanding focus on others. It may be true that God helps those who help themselves, both financially and emotionally. (Certainly fortune does.) But if so it's still a subsidiary truth of Christianity.
The contemporary Christian creed mirrors those on the secular bestseller lists, indeed of secular culture, with their fixation on self-improvement and self esteem.
These similarities make it difficult (although not impossible) for the televangelists to posit themselves as embattled figures in a culture war - they offer too uncanny a reflection of the dominant culture, a culture of unrelenting self obsession. Who am I to criticise someone else's religion? After all, if there is anything Americans agree on, it's that we should tolerate everyone else's religion. I can answer only that I'm a Christian. Not a professional one; I'm an environmental writer mostly. I've never progressed further in the church hierarchy than Sunday school teacher at my Methodist church. But I've spent most of my Sunday mornings in a pew. I grew up in church youth groups and stayed active most of my adult life, started homeless shelters in church basements, served soup at the church food pantry, climbed to the top of the rickety ladder to put the star on the church Christmas tree.
My work has been, at times, influenced by all that I've written - extensively about the Book of Job, which to me is the first great piece of nature writing in the Western tradition - and about the overlaps between Christianity and environmentalism. It was my work with religious environmentalists that first got me thinking along the lines of this essay. We were trying to get politicians to understand why the Bible actually mandated protecting the world around us.
One day it occurred to me that the parts of the world where people actually had reduced their carbon emissions, lived voluntarily in smaller houses and used public transport, were the same countries where people were helping the poor and making sure everyone had health care - countries such as Norway and Sweden, where religion was relatively unimportant. How could that be? For Christians it was unnerving to contemplate that there were some getting around to solving their problems and strengthening their communities without religion.
But the European success is less interesting than the American failure. Because we're not going to be like them. Maybe we'd be better off if we abandoned religion for secular rationality but we're not going to; for the foreseeable future this will be a Christian nation. But what kind of Christian nation?
When one of the Pharisees asked Jesus what the core of the law was, Jesus replied: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind." This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it, "You shall love your neighbour as yourself".
Love your neighbour as yourself: although its rhetorical power has been dimmed by repetition, it is a radical notion. Jesus made it very clear who the neighbour you were supposed to love was: the poor person, the sick person, the naked person, the hungry person. The last shall be made first; turn the other cheek; a rich person aiming for heaven is like a camel trying to walk through the eye of a needle. On and on and on - a call for a radical, voluntary and effective reordering of power relationships, based on the principle of love. We tend not to talk about such things in public: my theory of what Jesus mostly meant seems like it should be left in church, or confined to some religious publication. But remember the overwhelming connection between America and Christianity; what Jesus meant is the most deeply potent political, cultural and social question. To ignore it, or leave it to the bullies and the salesmen of the televangelist sects, means to walk away from a central battle over American identity. At the moment, Jesus has been hijacked by people with causes that do not reflect his teachings. The Bible is a long book, and even the Gospels have plenty in them, some of it seemingly contradictory and hard to fathom. But love your neighbour as yourself - not do unto others as you would have them do unto you - suffices. There is no disputing the centrality of this message, nor is there any disputing how easy it is to ignore. Because it is so counter-intuitive, Christians have had to keep repeating it to themselves.
American churches, by and large, have done a pretty good job of loving the neighbour in the next pew. A pastor can spend all Sunday talking about the Rapture Index but if his congregation is thriving you can be assured he's spending the other six days visiting people in hospital, counselling couples and sitting up with grieving widows. All this human connection is important. But if the theology makes it harder to love the neighbour a little further away - particularly the poor and the weak - then it is a problem. And the dominant theologies of the moment do just that. They undercut Jesus, muffle his hard words, deaden his call, and in the end silence him. The consumer gospel of the suburban megachurches is a perfect match for conservative economic creeds about personal responsibility instead of collective action. Privatise social security? Keep health care for people who can afford it? File those under God helps those who help themselves.
Take Alabama as an example. In 2002, Bob Riley was elected governor of the state, where 90 per cent of residents identify themselves as Christians. Riley could safely be called a conservative right-wing major domo - Grover Norquist gave him a Friend of the Taxpayer Award every year he was in Congress, where he'd never voted for a tax increase. But when he took over Alabama, he found himself administering a tax code that dated to 1901. The richest Alabamians paid three per cent of their income in taxes, and the poorest paid up to 12 per cent; income taxes kicked in if a family of four made $4600 (even in Mississippi the threshold was $19,000), while out-of-state timber companies paid $1.25 an acre in property taxes.
Alabama was 48th in total state and local taxes, and the largest proportion of that income came from sales tax a super-regressive tax that in some counties reached into double digits. So Riley proposed a tax hike, partly to dig the state out of a fiscal crisis and partly to put more money into the state's school system, routinely ranked near the worst in the nation. He argued that it was Christian duty to look after the poor more carefully.
Had the new law passed, the owner of a $250,000 home in Montgomery would have paid $1432 in property taxes - we're not talking Sweden here. But it didn't pass. It was crushed by a factor of two to one. Sixty-eight per cent of the state voted against it meaning, of course, something like 68 percent of the Christians who voted. The opposition was led, in fact, not just by the state's wealthiest interests but also by the Christian Coalition of Alabama. You'll find most Alabamians have got a charitable heart, said John Giles, the group's president. They just don't want it coming out of their pockets.
On its website, the group argued that taxing the rich at a higher rate than the poor results in punishing success and that when an individual works for their income, that money belongs to the individual. You might as well just cite chapter and verse from Poor Richards Almanack. And whatever the ideology, the results are clear. I'm tired of Alabama being first in things that are bad, said Governor Riley, and last in things that are good.
A rich man came to Jesus one day and asked what he should do to get into heaven. Jesus did not recommend that he should invest, spend and let the benefits trickle down; he said sell what you have, give the money to the poor and follow me. Few plainer words have been spoken.
And yet the Christian Coalition of America, founded in 1989 to preserve, protect and defend the Judeo-Christian values that made this the greatest country in history, said last year that its legislative priority would be making permanent President George Bush's 2001 federal tax cuts.
A furore erupted last spring when it emerged that a Colorado jury had consulted the Bible before sentencing a killer to death.
Experts debated whether the (Christian) jurors should have used an outside authority in their deliberations and of course the Christian right saw that as one more sign of a secular society devaluing religion. But a more interesting question would have been why the jurors fixated on Leviticus 24, with its call for an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.
They had missed Jesus' explicit refutation in the New Testament: "You have heard that it was said, an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. But I say to you, do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also."
And on and on. The power of the Christian right rests largely in the fact that they boldly claim religious authority, and by their boldness convince the rest of us that they must know what they're talking about. They're like the guy who gives you directions with such loud confidence that you drive on even though the road appears to be turning into a faint, rutted track.
But their theology is also appealing in that it coincides with what we want to believe. How nice it would be if Jesus had declared that our income was ours to keep, instead of insisting that we share. How satisfying it would be if we were supposed to hate our enemies.
But the gospel, in demanding a departure from selfishness, conflicts with all our desires. Even the first time around, judging by the reaction, the Gospels were pretty unwelcome news to many people. But taking seriously the actual message of Jesus should serve at least to moderate the greed and violence that mark this culture. It's hard to imagine a con-job more audacious than making Christ the front man for a program of tax cuts for the rich or war in Iraq. If some modest part of the 85 per cent of us who are Christians woke up to this fact, then the world might change.
It is possible, I think. Yes, the mainline Protestant churches that supported civil rights and opposed the war in Vietnam are mostly locked in a dreary decline as their congregations dwindle and their elders argue endlessly about gay clergy and same-sex unions. And the Catholic Church, for most of its American history a sturdy exponent of a love-your-neighbour theology, has been weakened, too, its hierarchy increasingly motivated by a focus on abortion.
Plenty of vital congregations are doing great works but they aren't where the challenge will arise; they've grown shy about talking about Jesus, more comfortable with the language of sociology and politics.
The best-selling of all Christian books in recent years, Rick Warren's The Purpose-Driven Life, illustrates the possibilities. It has all the hallmarks of self absorption but it also makes a powerful case that we're made for a mission. What that mission is never becomes clear but the thirst for it is real. And there's no great need for Warren to state that purpose anyhow. For Christians, the message of the Gospels is clear enough. If you have any doubts, read the Sermon on the Mount.
Admittedly, this is hope against hope; more likely the money changers and power brokers will remain ascendant in our spiritual life. Since the days of Constantine, emperors and rich men have sought to co-opt the teachings of Jesus. As in so many areas of our increasingly market-tested lives, the TV men, politicians and the Christian interest groups have found a way to make each of us complicit in that travesty, too. They have invited us to subvert the church of Jesus even as we celebrate it. With their help we have made golden calves of ourselves, become a nation of terrified, self-obsessed idols. It works, and it may well keep working for a long time to come. When Americans hunger for selfless love and are fed only love of self, they will remain hungry, and too often hungry people just come back for more of the same.
- Harper's Magazine
Bill McKibben is the author of many books, including The End of Nature and Wandering Home: A Long Walk Across America's Most Hopeful Landscape. whitefawn_ answered on 04/15/06:I believe that many Christians are not Receiving the spiritual food when they attend Church, many go just to have their ears tickled and continue to ignore the bible and the Laws of our Lord, not just the ten commandments but all of the Law that Jesus gave us.
I quit Church myself when I had seen so much hypocrisy. Cheating on taxes the family melt down, back biting and being judgemental, and some just go to hide behind their Bible.
Some had called me Luke warm, because I study my Bible with the help of our Lord Christ Jesus, and not that of man. I want my spiritual food and the knowledge one can get from our Lord, and not that of man. For the Lord is also free to all whom want him into his life. Although sometimes it becomes hard when you are judge by many that do attend Church and tell me and my husband that we will burn in hell for studying the Bible, on our own, with the help of the Father, and through our Savior his Son Christ Jesus, and for not attending Church.
Many are called, but few are chosen'
Blessings to you paraclete, and a very Happy Easter. Joy,
| | Question/Answer | | jackreade asked on 04/11/06 - Christians Harass Homosexuals —"Ruth Malhotra went to court last month for the right to be intolerant.
Malhotra says her Christian faith compels her to speak out against homosexuality. But the Georgia Institute of Technology, where she's a senior, bans speech that puts down others because of their sexual orientation.
Malhotra sees that as an unacceptable infringement on her right to religious expression. So she's demanding that Georgia Tech revoke its tolerance policy.
With her lawsuit, the 22-year-old student joins a growing campaign to force public schools, state colleges and private workplaces to eliminate policies protecting gays and lesbians from harassment. The religious right aims to overturn a broad range of common tolerance programs: diversity training that promotes acceptance of gays and lesbians, speech codes that ban harsh words against homosexuality, anti-discrimination policies that require college clubs to open their membership to all.
The Rev. Rick Scarborough, a leading evangelical, frames the movement as the civil rights struggle of the 21st century. "Christians," he said, "are going to have to take a stand for the right to be Christian.
copy and paste from the LA Times on line.
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So, the "right to be Christian" means the right to harass homosexuals?
Huh, what would Jesus do?
whitefawn_ answered on 04/12/06:What would Jesus do?
Jesus was a loving and an understanding man. Although, he was also known for his temper. And that he would Probably tell us.
We know the commandments and those of his Laws. That men with lusts that lay down with men for un-natural purpose’s are not right.
Yet Christians do not have the right to be Bible thumpers or to harass anyone. But to follow in the Lords footsteps. To be kind to one another, up-building with understanding and to always remember. (You can win someone over with love.) Not with judgment.
Blessings, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 04/08/06 - Does this prove the Trinity false? Hello Everyone,
Have you ever wondered, when it comes to the false teaching of the Trinity, why John 12: 44-50 says this? Why did Jesus if he is God say these words?
44 However, Jesus cried out and said: “He that puts faith in me puts faith, not in me [only], but in him [also] that sent me; 45 and he that beholds me beholds [also] him that sent me. 46 I have come as a light into the world, in order that everyone putting faith in me may not remain in the darkness. 47 But if anyone hears my sayings and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I came, not to judge the world, but to save the world. 48 He that disregards me and does not receive my sayings has one to judge him. The word that I have spoken is what will judge him in the last day; 49 because I have not spoken out of my own impulse, but the Father himself who sent me has given me a commandment as to what to tell and what to speak. 50 Also, I know that his commandment means everlasting life. Therefore the things I speak, just as the Father has told me [them], so I speak [them].”
It really makes me wonder why Jesus would speak this way if he and the Father, were the same. Was Jesus confused?
Take care,
Hope12 whitefawn_ answered on 04/08/06:No Hope, but the ruler of this world would wish them to be.
Ge 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the heavens, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
There in this scripture is the word Us the significance is in us in( two separate beings.)
The word our meaning our also meaning (Two.)
after (our likeness.) We know Jesus and his Father had Love, understanding, beauty Nature Life, Jesus once told them, when they had ask what the Father had looked like?
And Jesus answer. If you had seen me than you had seen the Father. Meaning that they both had the same likeness as I had explained up above.
There is no confusion that I can see, lets look at the Lords Prayer.
Our Father who are in heaven; let your Kingdom come.
No man has seen God and yet live, if Jesus were the only God. Than when he had walked upon earth no one could had looked at him and lived.
As below this Scriptures; shows that Jesus was called the sun of righteousness
And here his Father is saying; That he shall do away with evil.
One more matter is. Why would our Savior whom was hanging upon a tree, say to his Father in the Heavens.
Mr 15:34 And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
(Forsaken means abandoned (isolated) left alone. You notice in this scripture Hope, that Jesus cried out My God! Whom was he calling to? A higher source than himself.
For his Father to save him from this ordeal of terrible pain, and to end it.
Jesus wanted his Father to have the attention. Jesus was humble and very un-selfish. The Son of Jehovah, loved us so much that he gave us Jesus, and I said the word us meaning all of us.
(Not just one.)
The Holy spirit is our breath of life, and also what moves us to worship the Father and the Son.
Have you ever wonder why some Bibles have LORD, where the name JEHOVAH appears.
Than you see Lord, where that would be JESUS
Some have eyes hope, but can not see
some have ears, but are un willing to listen.
The day is coming Hope, when all eyes will see what you are seeing, and ears will hear what they may not want to hear.
Yes, our Lord Jesus is sitting at the right hand of the throne of Jehovah, and he is our King, and three we have the Spirit or Holy ghost to serve him.
Another scripture is. The Father is over the Son, The Son is over the Husband, The Husband is over his Wife.
Mal 4:2 But unto you that fear my name shall the sun of righteousness arise with healing in its wings; and ye shall go forth, and gambol as calves of the stall
Mal 4:3 And ye shall tread down the wicked; for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet in the day that I make, saith Jehovah of hosts.
sun of righteousness is Jesus, and those that fear the Fathers name is you, and Jesus will heal you with his wings.
Hope, Sometimes in this messed up world. People will not see completely. They will continue to have Wars, to kill one another. They will hate you, and call you every sort of evil they can come up. But remember they also did this to Jesus. Calling him names, as confuse, and even a worker of satan.
When you worship the true God. You are taking the narrow path, you are following Jesus, and it can be lonely, because you are no part of this World.
The world is fond of what it owns, and it also owns Churches, just ask Bush how he got into office?
But remember this. He is with you, and his yoke is light. No slave is greater than his master Hope. But he will also pick you up, when you fall. He will have Angels to watch over you, I have said' A Prayer for you today, if you can, go outside and just smell the fresh air, and look upwards to the Heavens, and Jehovah is always with you.
For me and you know, there is not much time, lets get ready for better days!
With Love, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | sarnian asked on 04/08/06 - The only proof required is for God existence !
Every human being is born an atheist, but soon most parents start their campaign of religious indoctrination.
God's existence isn't a fact : it's a personal choice, a belief unsupported but by faith.
I am neither interested in atheist-bashing answers, but I do welcome evidence of any 'logical proof' of god's existence.
Atheists are WITHOUT BELIEF IN GOD. There is nothing to prove for them.
To provide proof is for those who believe in something that never has proven to exist.
whitefawn_ answered on 04/08/06:No one can prove to you the existence of God, as in a mathematical proof. But you still will be able to be certain of His existence...
When I was about five, my Father was sick. He was an alcoholic My two Brothers had committed suicide and which I am not proud of because of matters they had witnessed.
I lost just about all in my family. None of them had faith nor belief in God.
But me, a nobody. Lost in a giant world no where to turn. God had found me. There was no Religion. I have seen angels first handed and had heard them talk.
Miracles to many to mention.
The only Father I ever had and whom helped me from this messed up world was God, and his Son Jesus Christ.
I also have no Church, for some are back sliding and go against what the Bible say’s, but go to get their ears tickled.
You may not believe in God, but sometimes I have wondered' Does he believe in man?
Perhaps that could be a question.
Blessings to you anyway's. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | Erewhon asked on 04/08/06 - "Logical proof" for no God: What is it?
"Many atheists became atheists not because they were born into it (like most theists), rather because we contemplated god in its many forms and decided it just doesn't make an ounce of sense. This isn't a choice, it's fact - a logical proof. We are simply too logical to believe God is anything more than fantasy."
I am not interested in atheist-bashing answers, but I do:
1) welcome evidence of the 'logical proof' of which the author of the quote speaks, and
2) welcome evidence that some theists are as logical in their faith as this atheist writer claims atheists are without it.
whitefawn_ answered on 04/08/06:Atheist can't believe in God Ronnie. They go only by Science, and Science a lone.
Now you on the other hand. Have a good heart and you invite God into your heart and mind. But Atheist or Doubters have to wake up in the morning believing their world is flat that is the only way they can make sense of it.
But you have been called to God, and he knows you. You take in knowledge of his word. They take in Books made from man.
One logical excuse I had found on http://www.mustardseed.net/html/toathiests.html
"I don't believe in God because there is so much evil in the world." Many atheists consider the problem of evil an airtight proof that God does not exist. They often say something like: "I know there is no God because if He existed, He never would have let Hitler murder six million Jews."
Most logical excuses is that we came from evolution (The Ape) 'What I can't understand is’ "If we involved from Apes than why are we still not coming out of Apes?" and that of sea water?)
Mt 7:13 Enter ye in by the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many are they that enter in thereby
Mt 7:14 For narrow is the gate, and straitened the way, that leadeth unto life, and few are they that find it..
We are very fortunate and find myself feeling sorrow for those not knowing the true God. And when they find OUT the truth for soon the Bible say's He will open the eye's of non-believers, but it will be to late."
All we can do in this day and time. Is to Pray for those whom are at lost, and share the Gospel with them.
Blessings to you Ronnie, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 04/06/06 - Has Noha’s Ark been found? New satellite photo says maybe so. ABC NEWS— A satellite image may launch a scientific expedition to search for Noah's Ark. The snapshot captures a mysterious object on Turkey's Mount Ararat.
"I see for a 1,015 feet in length a shiplike object that has almost unbroken symmetry," said Porcher Taylor, an assistant professor at the University of Richmond.
Taylor, a professor of national security law, spent the past 13 years on a quest to discover what is on Mount Ararat, the area where the Bible says Noah steered his ark through raging floodwaters. Taylor persuaded a commercial satellite company to capture the mystery shot.
He calculated that the object in the photo had the same length-to-width ratio — 300 cubits by 500 cubits — of the ark described in the Bible. That is about the size of an aircraft carrier.
"Currently, I'm working with a naval architecture team, and they're trying to determine whether a wooden boat this size could actually float," Taylor said.
Many people have long been searching for the ark.
"Czar Nicholas sent an expedition in the early 20th century," said Bruce Feiler, author of "Walking the Bible."
"U2 spy planes were shooting this mountain in the 1950s, even [President] Jimmy Carter when he was on his way to Iran was said to be looking down to see if he could see Noah's Ark."
Skeptics say that the satellite images don't prove anything and that someone will have to actually examine the objects in person. Taylor hopes someone does and turns the most famous of biblical tales into a proven fact. whitefawn_ answered on 04/07/06:Happy are those with eyes that do not see, yet believe.
Mt 13:11 And he answered and said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given."
"In a recent article from the Washington Post, explorer Robert Ballard (discoverer of the Titanic) led a team to the Black Sea in search of evidence for Noah’s Flood. About 550 feet below the surface, they found evidence of a ‘sudden, catastrophic flood around 7,500 years ago—the possible source of the Old Testament story of Noah."
They captured sonar images of a ‘gentle berm and a sandbar submerged undisturbed for thousands of years on the sea floor.’ Then using radiocarbon dating, they determined that the remains of the freshwater mollusks found on this submerged beach were 7,500 years old and that the saltwater species were only 6,900 years old. (By the way, radiocarbon is not reliable in giving accurate dates going back thousands of years. AiG believes that Noah’s Flood should be dated to about 4,300 years ago.)
In an interview, Ballard said, ‘What we wanted to do is prove to ourselves that it was the biblical flood.
That date fred, would fit right into the age of the bible, and not of science.
Blessings, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | sarnian asked on 04/07/06 - More on : "Should Judas be redeemed?" I just saw the announcement that this coming sunday National Geographics will air worldwide in 164 countries a one hour documentary on Judas and his position in the group of JC and the other disciples.
.
Anyone interested?
. whitefawn_ answered on 04/07/06:Thank you sarnian for letting us know, I will be watching it.
Blessings to you. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 04/06/06 - Should Judas be redeemed? New testament: Judas redeemed
April 7, 2006
A fifth gospel challenges one of the basic Christian beliefs, writes Linda Morris.
Related coverage
* In his own words: Judas the betrayer was really Judas the chosen one
IN DECEMBER 1945 an Arab peasant digging in the reaches of Upper Egypt stumbled on a red earthen jar containing 13 leather-bound papyrus books.
He was not to know it at the time, but his archaeological discovery - which came to be known as the Nag Hammadi Library - was to prompt a re-evaluation of early Christian thinking.
Nor could he have comprehended its role 60 years later in the modern publishing phenomenon that is The Da Vinci Code.
What he had unearthed was a collection of 50 texts thought to have been destroyed during the early struggle to define Christian orthodoxy. The crumbling manuscripts included the Gospel of Thomas, the Gospel of Philip and the Gospel of Truth - scriptures denounced as heretical by the early church.
They were the works of a Christian sect that flourished in the second century, but whose beliefs survive today within some New Age sects.
Until this morning, the manuscripts were the limits of scholars' primary knowledge of the theology and beliefs of this long-dead sect. But overnight, with great hoopla, the National Geographic Society unveiled an ancient, 66-page Coptic manuscript, written by this group and dating from the third or fourth century.
It is said to contain the only known surviving copy of the Gospel of Judas, which challenges the portrayal of Judas as the reviled traitor, and suggests the disciple was acting under orders.
The society describes the find as one of the most important in biblical history, adding new understanding to the world's culture and history.
For academics, a new third-century Coptic manuscript was always going to be big news. "This is one more piece of evidence for the complexity of Christian thought in the second century, and for how long that view persisted," says Malcolm Choat, a research fellow in the Department of Ancient History at Macquarie University. "It further fills out a view of how multifaceted Christian belief was and provides further evidence of how that refracted in other countries, in other languages."
But, while the new text might prove a valuable addition to historical knowledge, many scholars believe it is not the document that will rewrite Christian teachings and change history. Like other gnostic texts, it is written too long after Christ's death to be considered entirely reliable.
The biblical gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John are not first-hand accounts, but most modern scholars believe they are the earliest oral accounts of Jesus, written down in Greek. Collectively, they are seen to illuminate the thinking on what a first generation of Christians believed His life to be and, from the writings of the hyperactive missionary Paul, the nature of the spread of Christianity.
As early as the first half of the second century, the Christian bishop Irenaeus reported that the four gospels were circulating together as authoritative sources in the church. By contrast, the Gospel of Judas is a much later document, allegedly copied down much later, sometime around AD300.
Choat says it is important to understand the manuscript is not supposed to be the work of Judas Iscariot but that the original was probably written by an elder, some time in the second century, as an alternative narrative of the life of Jesus to that of the prevalent Christian orthodoxy. That it is copied in Coptic, and not as an original Greek manuscript, also opens it to losses or mistranslations.
But misgivings go further. As Brian Powell, a lecturer in the New Testament at Morling College, points out, the gnostic gospels have never been trusted or recognised as sacred by either the Eastern or Western churches.
And the Coptic Orthodox Church has distanced itself from the Gospel of Judas and its companion texts. These texts, it says, are neither reliable nor accurate Christian texts and are "historically and logically alien to the main Christian thinking and philosophy of the early and present Christians".
"The persons who wrote these books were attempting to create a false amalgam of the Christian and the Greek mythology and the mystical Far-East religions," says Metropolitan Bishoy, a theological leader of the church. "The teachings of the gnostic gospels are diametrically opposed not only to the Christ of the New Testament, but also to the Christ preached by the Old Testament. Both Testaments believe in 'God Incarnated', while the gnostic gospels propagate a 'Sensual Human' elevated to be a god."
Choat says the gnostics, for want of a better label, represented an alternative stream of Christian thinking. "They would have called themselves Christians, but were Christians united in a couple of beliefs; that secret knowledge was the way to salvation rather than the redemptive narratives of the New Testament. They had a dualistic world view that the creator god, the Old Testament God, was a lesser, evil god, and hand in hand with that view was that this earthly stuff of our bodies was inherently evil and the good god is the father of Jesus and He is the source of light."
Nor did their images of women and Mary Magdalene necessarily fit with traditional Christian teaching. In the gospels uncovered in the Egyptian desert, the gnostics wrote of a claim that Jesus's most beloved disciple had been a woman - Mary Magdalene, His consort. They related that God had established five great sacraments or mysteries - "a baptism and a chrism, and a eucharist, and a redemption, and a bridal chamber".
Choat says the poor condition of the manuscript of the Gospel of Thomas makes it impossible to say if the authors were alluding to a physical relationship between Jesus and Mary.
That didn't stop Dan Brown, who wove his fictional plot for The Da Vinci Code around these pages, drawing on ideas of the Sacred Feminine - that God is neither male nor female in the Bible, but primarily Spirit - and of a special physical relationship between Jesus and Mary Magdalene.
But the stuff of popular 21st-century fiction never cut it with Irenaeus, at the forefront of a campaign to have only the four biblical gospels included in the canonical New Testament. It was he who declared the writings of the gnostic Christians heretical and confined their gospels to the dustbin of history.
That hasn't prevented the conspiracy theorists suggesting the early church conspired to suppress the alternative Christian writings. The Da Vinci Code asserts that after the Roman Empire became Christian under Constantine, the church and government persecuted believers who didn't play along and later controlled which New Testament books made it into the Bible.
"I suppose the question should be, why would the churches suppress these gnostic gospels?" says Metropolitan Bishoy. "What would be the benefit - Christianity lived and flourished in the midst of the most bloody and violent era of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth centuries.
"Christians were never known to be cowardly - particularly the Christians of Egypt. Over the centuries, millions have been murdered for the sake of upholding the truth. The gnostic gospels were deemed false by the churches because they were untrue, not historical and have no support from the foundation of the Christian faith."
One of Australia's leading Catholic scholars on the New Testament is Father Frank Moloney, the provincial of the Salesians of Don Bosco. That one stream of Christianity gained currency over another is a reflection of the adage that the victor writes history, he suggests. "Christianity has been around for 2000 years. This yearning for meaning and finding an answer outside the Christian tradition has always been around and has every right to be around. I think they are wrong, mind you. They deny the salvific impact of the teaching of the resurrection of Jesus."
Powell says the New Testament existed long before Constantine, and ponders the modern fascination with conspiracy theories about the church and its alleged suppression of the gnostic gospels. "I think some of the reactions to the material found outside the New Testament are more trusting than of the documents contained in the New Testament itself." Part of the answer, he says, lies in a rusted distrust of the institutional church and independent searching for the real figure of Jesus Christ.
Moloney says the books of the Bible were not meant to be a comprehensive retelling of history. "They are narratives that use narrative forms of literature to communicate an understanding about what God has done, first in the history of a chosen people, and then what God continues to do through Jesus Christ."
Says Choat: "Conspiracy theories are something humanity likes to indulge in … There is more to the picture than the four canonical gospels and the New Testament. They are not the whole truth, by any means, but what they are not is a complete fabrication and suppression of reality."
Jesus says: 'You will exceed all of them.'
The Gospel of Judas reveals:
- In the first scene Jesus laughs at his disciples for praying to "your God", referring to the gnostic notion of a lesser Old Testament God who created the world.
- The disciples turn away when Jesus challenges them to look at him and understand him.
- Judas is singled out several times for special status: "Step away from the others and I shall tell you the mysteries of the kingdom. It is possible for you to reach it, but you will grieve a great deal."
- In the key passage, Jesus tells Judas: "You will exceed all of them. For you will sacrifice the man that clothes me."
- Jesus tells Judas: "You will be cursed by the other generations - and you will come to rule over them." whitefawn_ answered on 04/07/06:Just as in the Book Of Trurh we find that the Father reveals what is hidden, reveals his bosom, that his bosom is the Holy Spirit, that what is hidden is his Son, that the aeons will cease laboring in search of him, that the deficiency will be filled, that the deficiency is the world, that the world is envy and strife, that unity should replace multiplicity, and light replace darkness, and knowledge replace ignorance...
paraclete. I love all these books. I just can't understand why early Christianity had to tell us, what and not what to read.
Thank you for posting this question, for I had book-marked all of the Books.
Perhaps also "In the key passage" We are to take a lesson in forgiving one another. Even Judas. Perhap's this is wrong to say' But someone had to do the dirty work, so Judas did it? This is what I gather from it.
Again Thank you, and many Blessings. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 04/05/06 - Demons Hello Everyone,
We recently had this question asked us and I would like to toss it to you experts on the board.
If a person is being harassed by the demons, what can he/she dop to get rid of them?
What is God's way to get rid of them? Can you site any examples?
Take care,
Hope12 whitefawn_ answered on 04/05/06:Hello Hope, Yes. Demons are actually fallen Angels that went down with Satan. They also have a hate for human kind, and turned against the Father and his Son. If one is having true difficult with Demonic influence in their life, than one good way is to take a good look around their home for such items as anything belonging to an a cult, Magic and especially The supernatural, mediums or a Median fortune tellers.
Demons can also enter in a home, as easy as buying something from a garage sale, unlikely but it can happen.
One can also call out Gods name out loud if they are having difficult times with these evil Angels.
And he will help. But the best way is not to have anything in your home that can draw them in.
Jesus did expell Demons but I use the name of the Father J-E-H-O-V-A-H, and now as we enter the end of times, they like their Father satan "know they have a short time left", and will use anything they can at this time.
Blessings to you Hope, and I hope this helps anyone with problems suchs as theses.
Joy.. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 03/29/06 - More interesting facts. In case anyone is interested, Saint Theresa is known
as the Saint of the Little Ways. Meaning she believed in doing the little things in life well and with great love. She is also the patron Saint of flower growers and florists.
She is represented by roses. May everyone who receives
this message be blessed.
Are there any flower growers among you?.
I love to see flowers in the garden, however,
I do not like them picked.
What are your feelings? whitefawn_ answered on 03/29/06:Yes, almost every Perennial, with over forty Rose Bushes and fruit trees as I raise Produce’s.
Every time I plant a seed, I Pray to the Lord Jesus to let him know,that this is his plant for he had made it, and if he will bless it.
Some call my home (The Garden of Eden)- Without the snake.
All that the Lord Jesus has created is beautiful and when ever I want to have peace one just has to walk out into, what I call his Gardens, and see his reflection and how much beauty there is upon his earth, the Lilacs are just coming in, and the scent is out of this world, as with the lavender. When one ask me’ Why so many Gardens? I say’ “All the Lord ever wanted was a Garden, and for us to take care of it.
My Husband loves to wander out to the Gazebo and Pray and offer Thanks to the Lord for all that we are blessed with.
The Lord Jesus is so beautiful.
Thank you Rolcom, for this nice post. It has been a long winter, and now the Tulips and Daffodils are just waking up, and to get back outside, raking leaves and getting all the Gardens ready for their show display is just to wonderful. One can really see God through the life in Gardens
Many Blessings to you, With Love. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ladybugca asked on 03/20/06 - in need of prayer my dad is in need of prayer for he is dieing,the doctors say they dont know how he is still living.he can no longer see he cant walk no more and he cant talk.he has brain cancer and of the lungs, i guess what i am asking for is that he is not surffing.i dont know if he is saved or not so please say a prayer that someone can get through to him before it is to late.i thank everyone for your prayers and may the lord bless you all. whitefawn_ answered on 03/21/06:Already said Lady, my heart goes out to you and your family, and I Pray to the Lord Jesus, that soon he will see again, and he will be able to walk freely with no pain, I pray that you will remain strong, and to know you are in our thoughts and hearts.
And remember that through Jesus, whom gave up his life for all, your Father is already saved. 'Death pays for all sins.' Your Father will be in a beautiful place, and in complete Love, and please remember' he would not want to see you sad, it's okay to cry, but sometimes we must let them go.
With love, and Many Blessings from Christ. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 03/19/06 - Watch and Pray!
"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
Mark 14:38
whitefawn_ answered on 03/21/06:So very true Rolcom, and we do need reminding. I wish the body could be as strong as the Spirit. It makes one happy to know that our Lord Jesus when upon this earth set us these fine examples. Sometimes we must do as Saint Peter once said' We need to lead our bodies as if we were slaves.
Thank you for the post,
Many Blessings to you. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | purplewings asked on 03/17/06 - Another Irish Blessing - add your own please May you have:
A world of wishes at your command.
God and His angels close to hand.
Friends and family their love impart,
and Irish blessings in your heart!
![]() whitefawn_ answered on 03/17/06:May each day find you happy
May each day find you well
May each day find you singing
And most of all
From all of the above
May each day bring you love
I gave it a try and thought of you when I wrote this....
Sisterly, Love. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 03/17/06 - ANGELS ?? Can Angels Abandon Us? whitefawn_ answered on 03/17/06:Dear Rolcom. I don't think they ever leave us, but find us humans, as rather humorous, almost as watching a movie, an entertainment to all the spiritual beings. I would rather not mess around with them, because if I should need them, they'll be here for me.
I think if I were an Angel, I would want to be in a place where I could make it count, and be a helper of mostly children, whom were abandoned in this life, to make a purpose in ones life.
Perhaps, if we could show God. What we are on this earth, and what we can do for others, will make a difference if we see Heaven and God
With Love, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 03/15/06 - Something special for you all. Hello all you in Answerway. I thought you might all like this.
IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER - by Erma Bombeck
(written after she found out she was dying from cancer).
I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.
I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.
I would have talked less and listened more.
I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.
I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.
I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.
I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.
I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.
I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.
I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.
I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.
When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, "Later. Now go get washed up for dinner." There would have been more "I love you's." More "I'm sorry's."
But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute...look at it and really see it . live it and never give it back. Stop sweating the small stuff.
Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what.
Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do love us.
Let's think about what God HAS blessed us with. And what we are doing each day to promote ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally. I hope you all have a great and wonerful day.
Take care,
Hope12 whitefawn_ answered on 03/16/06:Hi Hope, yes, It is the little things in life that are the most important, after that, there is nothing else.
We have found more news concerning lung cancer, most were blameing the smokers, but now, we are finding it is mostly an Hereditary disease thus we have less funding and one of the most difficult cancers to treat.
My heart breaks for this lady, and I find this writing beautiful.
May the Lord continue to Bless you Hope.
With love, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 03/16/06 - "When the Angels Sing" "When the Angels Sing" - Social Distortion
At last we meet again, dear God
Hear the angels sing
The funerals are nicer when we know you're there
When the angels sing
Sometimes
I try so hard
To understand
The things you do
I like to question you
When it all comes down
Hear the angels sing
Stand up strong
Feel the pain
When the angels sing
Love
And death
Don't mean a thing
Till the angels sing
The prisoners pray when they're on to death row
When the angels sing
The junky
Cries for love but it's all run out
When the angels sing
The sins
Of the world
And it's cold on the streets
And you're all alone
And the tears
They start to fall
When it all comes down
Hear the angels sing
Stand up strong
Feel the pain
When the angels sing
Love
And death
Don't mean a thing
Till the angels sing
Little
By little
Day by day
I watch the children play
Cause life
And death
Don't mean a thing
Till the angels sing
When the angel of death comes to looking for me
Hear the angels sing
I hope I was everything I was supposed to be
When the angels sing
There's gotta be a heaven
Cause I've already done
My time in hell
And a little
Baby's born when it all comes down
Hear the angels sing
Stand up strong
Feel the pain
When the angels sing
Love
And death
Don't mean a thing
Till the angels sing
Little
By little
Day by day
I watch the children play
Cause life
And death
Don't mean a thing
Till the angels sing
Sharing it with you.
rolcam
whitefawn_ answered on 03/16/06:This is beautiful Rolcom, I would like to keep a copy of when the Angels sing. I have alway's believed much in Gods Angels.
I want to thank you for sharing something up-lifting with us, and may you have Many Blessings from our Lord Jesus. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 03/15/06 - READ ONLY IF YOU HAVE TIME FOR GOD !! Let me tell you, make sure you read all the way to the bottom. I almost deleted this email but I was blessed when I got to the end.
Subject: READ ONLY IF YOU HAVE TIME FOR GOD
God, when I received this e-mail, I thought...
I don't have time for this... And, this is really inappropriate during work.
Then, I realized that this kind of thinking is... Exactly, what has caused lot of the problems in our world today.
We try to keep God in church on Sunday morning...
Maybe, Sunday night...
And, the unlikely event of a midweek service.
We do like to have Him around during sickness...
And, of course, at funerals.
However, we don't have time, or room, for Him during work or play...
Because.... That's the part of our lives we think... We can, and should, handle on our own.
May God forgive me for ever thinking...
That... there is a time or place where.....
HE is not to be FIRST in my life.
We should always have time to remember all HE has done for us.
If, You aren't ashamed to do this...
Please follow the directions.
Jesus said, "If you are ashamed of me, I will be ashamed of you before my Father."
Not ashamed?
Pass this on ONLY IF YOU MEAN IT!!
Yes, I do Love God.
HE is my source of existence and Saviour.
He keeps me functioning each and every day. Without Him, I will be nothing. Without Him, I am nothing. But, with Christ, HE strengthens me. (Phil 4:13)
This is the simplest test...
If You Love God... And, are not ashamed of all the marvelous things HE has done for you...
Send this to ten people and the person who sent it to you!
I don't think I know 10 people who would admit they love Jesus. Do You love Him?
THE POEM
I knelt to pray but not for long, I had too much to do.
I had to hurry and get to work For bills would soon be due.
So I knelt and said a hurried prayer,
And jumped up off my knees.
My Christian duty was now done
My soul could rest at ease.
All day long I had no time
To spread a word of cheer. No time to speak of Christ to friends,
They'd laugh at me I'd fear.
No time, no time, too much to do,
That was my constant cry,
No time to give to souls in need
But at last the time, the time to die.
I went before the Lord, I came, I stood with downcast eyes.
For in his hands God held a book;
It was the book of life.
God looked into his book and said
"Your name I cannot find.
I once was going to write it down...
But never found the time"
Now do you have the time to pass it on?
Make sure that you scroll through to the end.
Easy vs. Hard
Why is it so hard to tell the truth but Yet so easy to tell a lie?
Why are we so sleepy in church but Right when the sermon is over we suddenly wake up?
Why is it so hard to talk about God but yet so easy to talk about nasty stuff?
Why is it so boring to look at a Christian magazine, but yet so easy to look at a nasty one?
Why is it so easy to delete a Godly e-mail, but yet we forward all of the nasty ones?
Why are the churches getting smaller but yet the bars and dance clubs are getting larger?
Do you give up? Think about it .
Are you going to forward this, or delete it?
Just remember-God is watching you.
Prayer Wheel-
Let's see the devil stop this one!
Here's what the wheel is all about.
When you receive this, say a prayer for the person that sent it to you....
Prayer is the very best one....
There are no costs, but wonderful rewards...
GOD BLESS!
May God keep you and bless you. If this doesn't give you chills, nothing will! .this message is very true. Hope you are all as blessed as I was from this. I wonder how many people will delete this without reading it because of the title on it?
whitefawn_ answered on 03/15/06:Dear Rolcom. Most of my day's are a Prayer to the Father through his Son Jesus our Savior. But not alway's when I need a Prayer, but to thank him for his many Blessings. For that I don't need a e-mail.
Blessings to you, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | madima asked on 03/15/06 - Not a Q Just a Prayer request I just wish to request my Answerway family to please offer a prayer for the repose of the soul of Miguel Abadilla, my beloved father, who has passed away.
Thanks so much. whitefawn_ answered on 03/15/06:I'm sorry to hear of the your Father madima. You already have my Prayers,
It is very hard when we loose a love one. I lost my Parents a few years ago, but we have the promise that our Lord Jesus gave us, and we will see them again.
I Pray that you are not a lone at this time, and you have someone with you, to help you threw these times. Again I am very sorry,
And many Blessings, from the Lord.
With Love, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | deardra asked on 03/05/06 - is christianity really a good thing I hear a lot about what good religion is but when I look around that isnt what I see. Why is it that religions like christianity and the other major religions all teach love forgiveness and brotherhood but still remain involed in so much murder and hate around the world? whitefawn_ answered on 03/07/06:This is the main reason that I had quit Church, and the teachings of man. I believe the Kingdom of God is withen us. I do not believe in killing in the name of Religion and Oil.
When our Pastor started to pray for President Bush, me and my Husband stood up and walked out. To never return again.
I stand by Jesus, and not by the teachings of man, I don't believe it is right to use Christianity to become President. This all sounds like the harlot and the beast in the book of Revelation, although, there are to many blinded from the truth.
Many Blessings. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | HerrAirhorn asked on 03/04/06 - Equivalent Wisdom in Christianity? "If we can reach the uderstanding of what we actually are, there is no better remedy for elimiating all sufffering. This is the heart of all spiritual practices." >Kalu Rinpoche whitefawn_ answered on 03/04/06:Yes... When our Lord Jesus, returns for his earth and all that he had created. Than suffering and sadness, a long with all sickness and tears, and above all death will be gone.
We will reach that understanding, that we were made in God's likeness, Perhap's some have already reached there.
Blessings to you. Joy, | | Question/Answer | | kindj asked on 03/02/06 - Who's YOUR Jesus? Heard this several times over the last few days, and I gotta tell y'all, it hit me right between the eyes. The following is an excerpt from a Todd Agnew song called "My Jesus:"
"Pretty blue eyes, curly brown hair and a clear complexion
Is how you see Him as He dies for Your sins
But the Word says He was battered and scarred
Or did you miss that part
Sometimes I doubt we’d recognize Him
Cause my Jesus would never be accepted in my church
The blood and dirt on His feet might stain the carpet
But He reached for the hurting and despises the proud
I think He’d prefer Beal St. to the stained glass crowd
But I know that He can hear me if I cry out loud"
It got me to thinking about the church I used to attend and work at before we left there. Sad to say, but I honestly think there are people that would be offended if Jesus appeared in their church EXACTLY AS HE WAS WHEN HE WALKED THE EARTH. The dirt on his feet would be seen as unsanitary. His robes are not appropriate attire for today's church gathering. And >gasp!< he looks like a Middle Easterner, and that quite simply won't do!!!!!
Just curious as to your thoughts.
DK
whitefawn_ answered on 03/04/06:The Jesus I worship, was once a man whom walk upon water, My Jesus gave up his life for all of us, My Jesus is arayed in White, and he is God and the King of Kings. I quit Church, and had refuse to return, until they quit worshiping man-kind and the war for oil. My Jesus is of pure love, and even if I did quit Church, he still lives in my heart, and he is my real only friend.
He is my King....
Love to you DK, and Many Blessings from my Jesus. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | BeelzeBUSH asked on 02/25/06 - DO YOU SEE AN END TO THE VIOLENCE? I don't. The Golden Mosque bombing added fuel to an escalating violent civil war. The environment and conditions for our troops is not improving. Folks we need to stop referring to GW's tenure in Office as a "presidency." His current title is "funeral director." I want our children, our brothers, our sisters, our friends, and our neighbors in the US Armed Forces out of the limited confines of Iraq and back home in America where they belong.
I love myself,
George whitefawn_ answered on 02/25/06:No, It would be nice for our troops to come back home, how many more have to die?
This has been a sad War, because I also see no ending to the violence, and my heart breaks for the Parents of these young men and women.
Blessings George. | | Question/Answer | | Pete_Hanysz asked on 02/24/06 - To Paraclete Thanks for your kind offer Brian.
Please tell me all about Christ & how I can be saved (this is the problem bit, as I don't know what is attacking me).
I look forward to a long discussion & hope for a resolution.
Pete whitefawn_ answered on 02/24/06:Pete, you know all about Christ, you can't fool me.
No one should use fear tactics, on anyone.
Jesus probably, loves you more than he does me, because I have alway's cared about you, and you're a good guy, I wish I knew where any expert had said anything.
"The only resolution is not to start one."
My Words.
Blessings to you. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | excon asked on 02/24/06 - Note to whitefawn
Hello whitefawn:
>>>Why do I feel, as if ATHEISM want's me to convert to not believing in God?<<<
I am an atheist, and I am head preacher in my atheist church. We had a meeting last week of the UACW, the United Atheist Churches of the World. We decided to try to convert all the Christians, so what you feel is true.
Is it working?
excon
whitefawn_ answered on 02/24/06: Excon, I like you a lot, but I can't understand your question. Can you please explain it to me? I have not the time to do any research on being Atheist.
What else do you mean by "so what you feel is true?"
I'm at a lost here.
Blessings to you, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | kindj asked on 02/24/06 - A gentle reminder From time to time, all Christians need a reminder of who we are, what we’re about, and what our job is. I myself have needed to be reminded before, and will most likely need to be reminded again in the future. Probably several times. Therefore, I don’t presume to be some great sage or wise teacher, just a guy doing the best he can, but screwing up sometimes nonetheless.
I’ve been having rather disturbing feelings lately about the way we as a body have been conducting our evangelism. There seems to be a percentage that are using rather heavy handed tactics, and I’m not sure that such methods are the best way. In fact, as a general rule, I think they’re not.
For instance, let’s take the “believe or go straight to HELL!” approach. Put it in a different context. Let’s say that John or Jane Christian is listening to a speech by a politician, and that politician says that unless they start dressing and talking like him, they will be sent to prison for life. How likely are John and Jane to listen to another word this person says? So the politician has the power to back up his words and send them to prison. How many people are going to go to prison for life before the rest get the message? Let’s go a bit further: John and Jane, out of fear, begin to dress and talk “appropriately.” Why are they doing that? Out of love for this politician, because they admire and respect him so much? Or out of fear? Has there really been a heart change at all? Of course not, and they’re miserable.
While it is certainly true that a great many people have come to know Jesus Christ out of an INITIAL fear of hell, so many more have come to know him through displays of his unconditional love through US, those who bear his name.
I’m not picking on one person here, but I saw another example of something that might not work so well, in my opinion. The issue of name calling, be the name “heathen,” “pagan,” “swine,” “dog,” or even “fool.” Let’s say I pick up a book on a subject that I’m not familiar with at all, yet is potentially debatable, such as transcendental meditation. I am curious about the subject, so I ask someone who is knowledgeable about it for some insight. They tell me that the author of the book says that I’m a fool if I don’t believe in their theory, and that they agree with the author. Right away, I’ve been called a fool by a representative of this subject. How likely am I to pursue further study? The book may very well say that, but since I haven’t been exposed to the truth and benefits of the subject, I can’t take it in context and see it for what it is.
And so it goes, in the world and on this board. We have to ask ourselves periodically if we are being good and effective representatives of Christ each and every time we post or say a word. We have to ask ourselves if fear and intimidation is really the approach we want to use, because there are some who are not afraid and cannot be intimidated. Aren’t we glad that God used love instead of fear to motivate us? What makes us any different in that regard than anyone else? Fear is a poor motivator in the long run, and intimidation completely negates the Biblical concept of free will.
I myself do not enjoy being beat over the head with someone else’s beliefs, and to this day, being beat over the head has not changed my mind one iota. To the contrary, it’s made me a bit more stubborn and resistant to hearing any more of that person/group’s point of view. Personal relationships and kindness—now there’s a combination, and one that’s gone a lot farther over the years than the other.
As to the board specifically: According to the guidelines, we are to explicate the Christian faith. But I ask you, how can we do that if we don’t EXEMPLIFY it?
I remember what one of my favorite teachers told me long ago:
“Speak the Truth, and let the Holy Spirit do the work.”
We don’t need to beat anyone over the head. We don’t need to operate from a fear base. We don’t need to call anyone names. By explicating the faith, we are speaking the Truth.
DK
whitefawn_ answered on 02/24/06:All should be done from out of Love, and not of fear. Christ found me, when I was a child, and he had help me through many problems in life, he has belessed me more than I can count, but fear should never be used.
Blessings and Love to you, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | Jesushelper76 asked on 02/24/06 - Sports and God! Okay here is a question of your opinion on this matter. When people of a highly televised sport. Says he or she prays to God, Thanking God and so forth. Do you think God is interested in every single moment in our lives including sports? Does he care who wins or losses. Does he bless a person that is able to make a career in sports. Is it okay to pray to God for a win?
Thank you in advance!
Joe whitefawn_ answered on 02/24/06:No. There is much gambling that also goes on with these Sports, people get killed even. Some will loose their homes, over such nonsense.
When there is so much grief and suffering, as one Mother in one country Praying to the Lord, for a slice of bread, while obese people are sitting on the stands, eating and drinking, at the Silver Dome.
I believe God has more important matters Joe, but I too have often wondered how many other people do believe in that.
Blessings and Sisterly Love. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 02/24/06 - If Jesus said that there is a hell do you believe Him? (Mk 9:41-49): Jesus said to his disciples: «If anyone gives you a drink of water because you belong to Christ and bear his name, truly, I say to you, he will not go without reward. If anyone should cause one of these little ones who believe in me to stumble and sin, it would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a great millstone around his neck. If your hand makes you fall into sin, cut it off! It is better for you to enter life without a hand than with two hands to go to hell, to the fire that never goes out. And if your foot makes you fall into sin, cut it off! It is better for you to enter life without a foot than with both feet to be thrown into hell. And if your eye makes you fall into sin, tear it out! It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than, keeping both eyes, to be thrown into hell where the worms that eat them never die, and the fire never goes out. The fire itself will preserve them. whitefawn_ answered on 02/24/06:Lets not scare people with Hell, but you can win over with love.
Although, I do believe Jesus was with Terri Shivio, no one could help her, the Christians did try, but Satan rules this world, and this is a Spiritual battle there will be some pay back, Jesus knew about the holocost, and how many there had suffered, from Dehydration and starvation, there is such a lack of love in the world today.
"If your hand makes you fall into sin, cut it off! It is better for you to enter life without a hand than with two hands to go to hell, to the fire that never goes out. And if your foot makes you fall into sin, cut it off! It is better for you to enter life'
Yes, this is true in symbolic but not literally taken. Or none of us would have hands or feet, for everyone has sinned, at least once.
As even if you look at a woman with lust, you have already committed a sin
In your heart.
We want to be in that Book of life, so we must keep the laws of our Savior, and not want to partake in sin, but lets win over with love, and not of fear. Let them see Jesus through your love, and let your light shine, so all can see it.
Blessings to you. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/24/06 - JUST WONDERING ... ... if you believe the study of logic is an investigation into the fundamental structure of reality itself. Can it be applied to some doctrines or philosophies that associate themselves with religion?
HANK whitefawn_ answered on 02/24/06:Would have to say' No Hank.
This is a good Site you may want to visit, I found it just for you.
Religion, philosophy and metaphysics
In between the doctrines of religion and science, stands the philosophical perspective of metaphysical cosmology. This ancient field of study seeks to draw logical conclusions about the nature of the universe, humanity, and God. One important philosophical tool that attempts to resolve the conflict between religion and science is Occam's razor, which was originally developed by William of Occam to support religion but is now often used in the philosophy of science to support science. Occam's razor cuts both ways. One should also take note of the related philosophic field of epistemology which questions the very nature of how we come to understand and accept that a belief is true or false, such as belief in Darwinian evolution as compared to Christian young earth creationism and vice versa.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion
Love you Hank, and many Blessings. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/23/06 - JUST WONDERING ... ... if atheism lacks every characteristic of religion, such as belief in the supernatural, distinguishing between the sacred and the profane, presence of moral codes and religious feelings such as adoration?
HANK
whitefawn_ answered on 02/24/06:Atheism is confined to one factor: the existence or non-existence of a deity.
Atheism can involve the positive assertion that there is no deity. This is sometimes referred to as "strong Atheism." It is the most common dictionary definition for the term "Atheist."
Atheism can be the absence of a belief that there is a deity. This is the belief promoted by American Atheists and many individual Atheists.
That to me Hank, is very sad, lets be happy that we have something to believe in, We have a Father who gave up his only begotten Son Jesus Christ, for the other experts, I am not in fear of God, because I know Hell is just a grave, I only fear of letting my God down, because I love him, and want him to love me back, he was all I had when I was a child, he found me. I did not find him, plus' I have to many miricles to even count.
Blessings and love Hank, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | HANK1 asked on 02/20/06 - PLEASE ALLOW ME TO BE PROUD FOR A COUPLE OF MINUTES: The web definition of PRIDE is a feeling of self-respect and personal worth. So, I'll just say this in one sentence:
As of today, I have answered 10,012 questions and some 134,637 people have seen the answers I have posted at ANSWERWAY! (Gasp)
HANK whitefawn_ answered on 02/21/06:No. of Categories you've signed up as an expert in: 2
No. of Questions You've been Asked: 0
No. of Answers You've Given: 11
No. of Your Answers Viewed by Others: 46
No. of users who have you as a favorite: 0
No. of times your Profile Viewed by Other Experts: 8
No. of times your Profile Viewed by Other Users: 4
Overall Points (all categories): 140
(I have a long ways to go)
All this in one week, not bad.
But I'm happy for you Hank.
Blessings, Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 02/20/06 - Holocaust Facts: Hello Everyone,
During the time of the Nazi era, certain patches were worn by certain people who were captive.
What were the different patches and why were they worn, what did they signify?
Take care,
Hope12 whitefawn_ answered on 02/21/06:Yellow triangles were for Jews, red triangles for political prisoners, purple for Jehovah's Witnesses, pink for homosexuals, green for criminals, black for Gypsies and "asocials," and blue for emigrants. Letters printed on badges usually indicated nationality. Some were even tatoo.
A lesson from History is the terrible Holocost, lets also remember, the German's whom some were Jehovah's Witness's could had walked away, but chose to stand for what is right. They will have life everlasting, I believe anyone whom was murdered in the day of Hitler will be ressurected by Jesus.
We should never forget the evil of the Holocost, and to teach our children that hate is wrong, I really believe that when Hitler ruled Germany, was when Satan was thrown out from the heavens, for the Bible says' Whoa to the earth ect-
How sad those days were, and lets not ever forget, the many whom were murdered.
Blessings to you Hope. Joy.
| | Question/Answer | | hOPE12 asked on 02/20/06 - Being different and yet needing the same comfort: Hello Everyone,
Being that we are all from different cultures and races and religions, I was wondering how one beliefs and faith, helps them to cope with problems in their life. For instance, how does your faith and religious beleifs help you to cope with old age, and the horrific things going on around us each day. All comments are welcome.
Take care,
Hope12 whitefawn_ answered on 02/21/06:Knowing, and having the hope, that the Lord Jesus will return when his Father gives the order, than many will be resurected, and we can see our love ones again, knowing that Jesus will be our only King and his Kingdom will rule over all others. This is one way we can cope, with a world filled with violence and of hatred, the Bible tells us hope, that God will bring to ruin those who are destroying his earth. He simply didn't make it for nothing, and science has already prooved that through the DNA, man was not meant to die, now I'm walking on thin ice.
Blessings sweetie, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | FormerJesusHelper76 asked on 02/19/06 - Hello Everybody! Hi! I have contacted answerway several time on the point of trying to get on with my original handle from years ago that all of sudden stopped working for me. They informed me that I can still use that one and to let them know which one I wanted to use because on this site you are only allowed one. Well duh, I already new that. I have been on this site and others for over five years now. The only thing is when they deactivate this account who guarentees me that I will get on to my old account? We will soon find out. Of course, it took answerway 4 days to respond after sending them 3 repeat emails about wanting the change. I got to say I wish these people were more active on the site and quicker to respond. Well that is my rant for today. Joe whitefawn_ answered on 02/20/06:Hi Joe, I had to start all over again, and just let my old points go, and delete liz altogether, I don't care if I ever reach the top ten anyway's. I only Pray that aw stay's open so we can all keep in touch.
Just listening to your words, we know that you are the true Jesus helper.
Blessings to you Jesus Helper.
That is the name I will always remember you by.
Sisterly Love, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | Jesushelper76 asked on 02/19/06 - Hello Again Everybody! I finally have it working. Back on as the original. See everybody more often. Joe whitefawn_ answered on 02/20/06:It's great to see you Joe, I have been off for a few day's due to the ice storm, thousands are still without lights, I'm very worried about the elderly, and Praying they will have heat, love you Joe, and Many Blessings to you, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | ROLCAM asked on 02/18/06 - TO LOVE. Lord Jesus, heal us of anything that prevents us
from enjoying the full health you desire for us.
We shall be eternally grateful.
Do you want to be counted?
whitefawn_ answered on 02/20/06:Dear Lord, Please take care of all my friends here on answeraway, and help all like one another,and to get a long and most of all, Please Bless Dath, for letting us come together on here, to express our ideas, and Thank you for our friend Dear Rolcom, Please send him many Blessings, Through your Son Jesus Christ, I ask this Prayer. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 02/15/06 - Pete, I think you made a good point.............. That is not to push it.
I am getting tired of it and them.
So, I'll try not to.
Peace and kindness,
Fred whitefawn_ answered on 02/16/06:I have been wanting to say this for a long time. I would just forget it Fred, remember the ones, that love you, and it has been worrying me, your a good person, and I wish you the very best. And you are of peace and kindness.
Please read drgades answer, I loved it, for it is so true.
Many Blessings to you, Joy. | | Question/Answer | | arcura asked on 02/16/06 - AOL and Yahoo to tax Email. Is it something to worry about? I just got this from Grassfire.Net
The Issue:
AOL and Yahoo have announced that they will soon begin imposing their own “tax” on email. AOL is going to charge a fee for organizations like Grassfire to send our team members email. While AOL says the new fee is about stopping spam, it is really about money. Plus, this new fee will not stop spammers. Instead, it will restrict the legitimate emails that you can receive.
If AOL and Yahoo succeed, we expect every other ISP will quickly follow suit and it will not be long before the government finds a way to tap into this new source of revenue. This new “tax” is really extortion and is one of the most serious threats to online citizen activism that we have faced. We need every concerned citizen -- not just AOL and Yahoo members -- whitefawn_ answered on 02/16/06:My Mother-In Law, was telling me, they were going to start making us pay five dollars, for our e-mail, to be truthful Fred, I believe it, anything can happen now day's. I only Pray that Ronnie is right, and I love those clip arts that George uses,
by the way, I need to send everyone my new e-mail address, I don't know if I can put it on here?
Thank you for sharing that.
Blessings Fred. Joy. | | Question/Answer | | paraclete asked on 02/16/06 - a new form of confession, could it catch on? Man hands over grenade during confession
From: Reuters
From correspondents in Munich
February 16, 2006
A PRIEST in Germany got more than he bargained for during confession when a man not only declared his sins, but also handed over a machine gun and a hand grenade, police in Bavaria said.
"He also gave the priest a cardboard box with a clown's face and the words 'Red Nose Day March 26, 2004' on it containing 34 cartridges of 7.65 mm caliber," police said in a statement.
The priest from the southern town of Pfarrkirchen turned in the weapons to police but told them church rules governing confession prevented him from revealing the man's identity.
"It's unclear as to whether the church has forgiven the sinner, but specialists in Bavaria's regional crime agency who are bound to earthly laws are now investigating the matter in accordance with gun control laws," police said. whitefawn_ answered on 02/16/06:Yes! it very well could catch on.
This is my first answer, Please paraclete, this is Joy, and I have to confess, I feel kind of bad for loosing all my points, but I'm back! Me. Whitefawn.
Many, Many, Blessings to you. Joy. |
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