| From BrownFamilyfw (Q1040. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 10:32 pm. Seeker) |
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There is only one God, the Christian God.
Jesus is God in human form. It is through his sacrifice on the cross that it becomes possible for us to be reconciled with God.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From (Q1038. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 10:32 pm. Seeker) |
I've been reading all sorts of random discussions on the internet when I came across one saying how in the future only 4% of people will stand for God. Then I read the coments people were saying to that and ... |
Glad to hear that you believe in God.
What you can do is to do your best to live in obedience to the teachings of Jesus Christ (and it is wise for you to not drink or expose yourself to alcohol).
It is good that you recognize that you have not been taking a stand for Christ. It is not too late to change that however.
And 15 is not too young to take a stand for Christ. Be courageous. Depend on God. Pray daily, and live in daily relationship with him. Pray for courage. And take a stand for Christ.
Feel free to contact me if you have any specific questions -- I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html ).
Cordially,
John
| From TJ57 (Q1033. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 7:59 pm. Seeker) |
A classic example of this is the amazing story of Helen Keller(1880-1968) |
Excellent point :)
Every culture in the world has a concept of the supernatural and the concept of God.
There does appear to be universal belief in God.
Cordially,
John
| From Bifflefan83 (Q1030. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 7:59 pm. Seeker) |
Many have claimed to make contact with the other side via Electronic Voice Phenomena. They use tape and digital voice recorders, video cameras, answering machines, or even radios tuned between stations. |
In general it is not possible for us to contact the dead (God made an exception in the case of Samuel and Saul in the Old Testament).
The parable of Lazarus and the Rich man (told by Jesus in the New Testament) indicates that there is an uncrossable separation between the living and the dead (so the souls of dead people can not visit those of us who are physically alive).
When we get into the occult, we can contact spirits (demons) who then impersonate dead people.
Ghosts (when authentic) are actually demons (spirits) not the souls of dead people.
Cordially,
John
| From A66holder (Q1029. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 7:59 pm. Seeker) |
What is your thought on GOD? Do you Believe and if not why? |
I believe in the Christian God.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Spindle123 (Q1028. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 7:59 pm. Seeker) |
|
The "body of Christ" is made up of all individuals who have sincerely committed their lives to Christ (as evidenced by their living in daily relationship with the Christian God, and doing their best to live in obedience to his teachings).
Cordially,
John
| From Spindle123 (Q1027. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 7:59 pm. Seeker) |
|
God is neither male nor female.
God is Spirit.
Why? Based on what Jesus tells us about God and His nature (in the New Testament).
Cordially,
John
| From Orselo (Q1026. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 7:59 pm. Seeker) |
what is purpose? |
The purpose and meaning of Life, the Universe and Everything... :)
The Christian God indicates that one reason why he created the Universe, was for life to exist, and for humans to exist.
Our Universe is His "art project"; that is why it is so incredibly beautiful. And our Universe is His "scientific and engineering" creation; that is why it is so full of science and engineering, and we are learning this as we crawl in his footsteps via mathematics, physics, cosmology and molecular biology.
Earth is boot-camp for humans to come into relationship with him, and then for our experiences to provide opportunities for us to grow.
We fulfill the purpose for which God created us when we choose to come into relationship with the Christian God (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross)... and then live in daily relationship with Him.
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Sonya Prasetyo (Q1025. Archived Friday, 30-Jun-2006, 6:09 pm. Seeker) |
why? why? why????????? tell me where he died to. |
About 2000 years ago, God came to earth in the form of a man (Jesus). He lived on physically earth for about 30 years. He was crucified (nailed to a cross) by men who hated him. He (his body) died on the cross that same evening. He was then taken down from the cross and buried in a tomb.
On the third day after he was buried, he (his body) came back to life. After this, he was seen alive for a period of 40 days by more than 500 people. Many of these people who saw him alive went off and told other people that Jesus was alive. After 40 days, Jesus ascended up into heaven.
Jesus died on the cross to pay for your sins (and mine). If you repent (turn away from sin), and commit your life to Jesus Christ, you will become one of God's children. You can then live in daily relationship with the God of the Universe, and when you die one day, you can go to heaven to live with God for ever.
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
--
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From PL (Q1018. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Seeker) |
What is the most common excuses people give for not joining a church? |
Most common excuses -- I'm not interested or I'm too busy.
How do I answer them -- Not a problem. If you might be interested some day, here is some evidence for the existence of God and for the truth of Christianity.
Worship is telling God we love him; and experiencing God's presence, and enjoyed being with Him.
Church is a mutual support group where we help each other through the difficulties we face in life. And where we help each other grow to trust the Christian God more, and to grow closer to him.
I empathize with your statement that you are the reason Jesus had to suffer. I too am part of the reason why Jesus chose to suffer.
Cordially,
John
| From Sillyhead (Q1016. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Seeker) |
|
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From P L (Q1011. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Seeker) |
Is there anything that you should stop doing? |
Yes my soul was made to last for ever (not my body).
Thank you for the reminder. I should continue to focus on my relationship with the Christian God.
Cordially,
John
| From Angelina (Q1007. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Seeker) |
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Lasting happiness is difficult to find if we search for such happiness in the wrong places (i.e., apart from the Christian God).
The wrong places can give us short term pleasure and/or happiness, but nothing that is long lasting and/or eternal.
Cordially,
John
| From 2sweet (Q1005. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Seeker) |
I was just wondering if someone would come up with something better than the 5 proofs by St. Thomas Aquinas. |
For me, it is a combination of intellectual & scientific evidence in addition to experiential evidence (prayers answered; peace; presence of God etc) and mystical experience.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see here.
The link above describes the things that influenced me away from Atheism and towards Christ.
Also, for scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Sharon (Q1004. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Seeker) |
|
It appears to me that all of the major religions can agree upon the following...
That (a) there is a supernatural, (b) humans can come into contact with the supernatural, (c) that there is life after death, (d) that there is such a thing as right and wrong, (e) that there is a moral code that we ought to follow, (f) that humans too often fail in their attempts to follow this moral code, (g) that there is a need for something to be done to redeem humans given our moral failings...
Cordially,
John
| From johnusmaximus1 (Q1001. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Seeker) |
Can you use the Bible to back up your belief? |
The Old Testament uses the Hebrew word "Yom" which is often translated Day in English Bibles.
This word Yom can refer to (a) a 24 hour day, (b) an approximately 12 hour period of daylight, (c) an unspecified period of daylight, (d) an unspecified but extended period of time -- which could be thousands or millions or even billions of years long.
God uses different frameworks depending on the context (of his activity or the discussion of his activity in the Bible). Depending on the context, the concept of "Yom" refers to different lengths of time (as mentioned above).
Apart from this (framework above), it does not appear to be meaningful to define God as experiencing "days".
Cordially,
John
| From Small_tweet22 (Q999. Archived Wednesday, 28-Jun-2006, 8:53 pm. Seeker) |
|
I did wonder why were were put on this planet. I used to be an Atheist, and was not provided any ultimately meaningful answers to this question.
Over a period of time, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
One of the things that attracted to me to Christianity is that it has a meaningful response to the question you raise (and that I wondered about).
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Vince Lee (Q987. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Seeker) |
Basicially the philisophical question of god and good |
If there were no God, I would do some good and some evil.
Given that the Christian God exists and I have grown to be convinced of this, I am more motivated to do good (than if God did not exist).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
This has made a huge difference in my life as far as my motivation to good (rather than to do evil).
Cordially,
John
| From Fenz4rt (Q986. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Seeker) |
|
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Soccerchickym (Q985. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Seeker) |
I believe in God and he doesn't. I need help to figure out how to convert him to chirstianity. |
First, remember that your job is not to convert him. You do not have the power to convert your uncle. Your job is to share the gospel with him and leave the results to God.
Having said that... Pray for your uncle's salvation. And ask as many Christians as you know to pray for his salvation. Pray that the Holy Spirit would touch his heart.
You could also mention to him that there is scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God (e.g., see here).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Justbnme (Q984. Archived Tuesday, 27-Jun-2006, 9:50 pm. Seeker) |
No shallow or vauge answers please back up your answer with good reasoning. |
I do not believe in Fate because I have not come across any good reasons to.
I believe in the Christian God -- in part due to scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, as discussed here.
Cordially,
John
| From gReEn_p!LLoWs (Q980. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Seeker) |
i met him as my teacher and he's so idealistic being so firm about his belief. he really doesnt believe in God. I dont know what to do! help please. |
Good question.
Feel free to point him to the following...
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see here).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
Cordially,
John
| From Cristina (Q979. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Seeker) |
I grew up in a Catholic family but a very relaxed one. I guess my problem with the faith is I was attending CCD classes and my teacher was explaining to me that if someone killed a family member of mine that I must forgive them as a Catholic. But honestly most Catholics I know wouldn't even do that. Is this true that you must forgive someone so sick and twisted? Is there a good book or website that answers a lot of questions like this. I'm always questioning the faith to the point where I just believe something exists and I wont know what it is till I get there |
Good question.
It would be pretty difficult for most of us to truly forgive such a person (who killed one of our family).
If you are able to forgive the person, do so. Leave any vengeance or retribution to God. God understands though if you are not able to emotionally forgive the person.
You mention that you are always questioning the faith to the point where you just believe something exists and you wont know what it is till you get there....
If it will help you to strengthen your faith, please check out the following:
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see here.
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see here.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here).
Cordially,
John
| From Laura (Q977. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Seeker) |
just want some more information about it so tell me everthing you know with lots of details! |
Liberal Christianity includes a variety of viewpoints, key of which appear to be rejection of the authority of the Bible in a person's life.
Some self-styled Liberal Christians reject various combinations of (a) the deity of Christ, (b) the virgin birth, (c) the miracles of Christ, (d) the supernatural, (e) the resurrection, (f) the judgment, (d) the existence of a Personal God.
Cordially,
John
| From Lonely Walnut (Q975. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Seeker) |
islams, jews, christans and a bunch of other religions all have one god and they all have differant names, why |
Different religions have different views of God.
However...
... ultimately there is only one God. That God is the Christian God.
Cordially,
John
| From Gsit1988 (Q971. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Seeker) |
What if you are a good person that for example is fat or gay or had sex before marriage are you really going to hell just for that? Even if you worship him as well? |
If you have never ever sinned in your entire life, then you will go to heaven.
For the rest of us (who have sinned at times), we need to commit our lives to God based on what Jesus did for us on the cross.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see here.
Cordially,
John
| From SEXYe (Q966. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Seeker) |
i don't really belive that their is a certain religion that leads the path to god, also, what is the definition of athiesim?, by the way, i was raised christian but now i am nothing,i just belive very strongly in jesus christ |
I am a Christian (non-denominational, evangelical).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see here.
In practice -- Atheism is a faith-based belief that there is no God.
Cordially,
John
| From Budding Author (Q964. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Seeker) |
WHY if I believe in God ?? |
You do well to believe in God.
The next step is to commit your life to God based on what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see here.
once you commit your life to Christ, do your best to live in obedience to the Christian God.
One of the things the Christian God asks is that we participate in Christian community (e.g., in a church) so that we can be strengthened in our faith, and so we can strengthen the faith of other Christians, and so we can help one another (and we all need help at various times).
Cordially,
John
| From Music girl 88 (Q963. Archived Monday, 26-Jun-2006, 10:18 am. Seeker) |
|
I am a Christian (non-denominational, evangelical).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Namtho (Q962. Archived Sunday, 25-Jun-2006, 12:31 am. Seeker) |
|
Good question.
See below for links to relevant discussion.
Cordially,
John
| From Namtho (Q961. Archived Saturday, 24-Jun-2006, 9:17 pm. Seeker) |
|
INTRODUCTION
In the King James Bible, the term fornication is often used to refer to pre-marital sex, as opposed to adultery.
Adultery is a married person having sex with someone who is not their spouse.
Fornication is sex between individuals who are not married to each other. Excluding adultery, the largest category of such sex is pre-marital sex.
Consider Gal 5:19-21 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, ***fornication***...
Note that here fornication is listed as a separate item from adultery. In this usage, fornication is referring to pre-marital sex, as distinguished from adultery.
Keeping this in mind, let us look at relevant verses in the Bible.
---
NEW TESTAMENT
Acts 15:20 we write unto them {Christians}, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from ***fornication***, and from things strangled, and from blood.
Acts 15:28-29 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from ***fornication***: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well.
Acts 21:25 As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from ***fornication***.
Rom. 1:29-32 as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, ***fornication***, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
1 Cor 6:13b Now the body is not for ***fornication***, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.
1 Cor 6:18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth ***fornication*** sinneth against his own body.
1 Cor 7:2 Nevertheless, to avoid ***fornication***, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.
1 Cor 10:8 Neither let us commit ***fornication***, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.
2 Cor 12:21b I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and ***fornication*** and lasciviousness which they have committed.
Gal 5:19-21 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, ***fornication***, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
Eph 5:3 But ***fornication***, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
Col 3:5 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from ***fornication***.
1 Thess. 4:3 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from ***fornication***.
Jude 1:7 Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to ***fornication***, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. Likewise also these filthy dreamers ***defile the flesh***, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities.
Rev. 2:14 But I have a few things against you, because you have there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit ***fornication***.
Rev 20-21 Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because you tolerate that woman Jezebel, which calls herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit ***fornication***, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.
Rev 9:21 Neither did they repent of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their ***fornication***, nor of their thefts.
---
OLD TESTAMENT
If a man seduced an unmarried woman, he was obligated to marry her.
Exodus 22:16 -- And if a man entice a maid that is not betrothed, and lie with her, he shall surely endow her to be his wife.
When a woman was to be married, if she was found to not be a virgin at the time of marriage, she was liable for the death penalty in the Old Testament.
Deuteronomy 22:20-21,23-29 -- But if ... the tokens of virginity be not found for the damsel {who has just been married}; Then they shall bring out the damsel to the door of her father's house, and the men of her city shall stone her with stones that she die: because she hath wrought folly in Israel, to play the whore in her father's house: so shalt thou put evil away from among you.
Leviticus 21:9 -- the daughter of any priest, if she profane herself by playing the whore, she profaneth her father: she shall be burnt with fire.
---
SUMMARY
Our examination of relevant verses and passages from both Old and New Testament indicate that the Bible defines premarital sex as wrong.
---
RESOURCES
Cordially,
John
| From Renee C (Q960. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Seeker) |
When i was 17 i went to a psychic and unfortunatley followed what she told me to do. |
Satan can indeed use psychics to get us distracted.
I empathize with your situation...
I have experienced Peace and Joy after committing my life to Christ.
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe (through Jesus Christ and what he did on the cross for us), see here.
Once you have committed your life to Christ, avoid psychics and the occult in general. Trust in the Christian God, and seek his guidance for your life; pray, read the Bible, seek counsel from a Christian Pastor or Christian Counsellor.
Cordially,
John
| From Sista_girl06 (Q958. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Seeker) |
i listen to hip hop, crunk music, r&b, gospel, etc. i like all kinds of music, contemparary, i guess my question is where do we as christians draw the line...i'm having a hard time separating myself from the music that i know is stupid and meaningless, but the beat and fun that comes along with it keeps me coming back for more. and some people say it's not going to harm you but that's a lie because it's just like peer pressure, it influences you in ways you weren't influenced before you listen to it. does anybody have any suggestions, or substitutes. or just ways to break away from it. someone holla back! |
You're right that music influences us whether we like it or not.
It is indeed wise for Christians to stop listening to secular (non-Christian) music, or at least to be very careful to not listen to any secular music with questionable lyrics.
If you like particular styles of music, you can find Christian bands/ music from that style.
E.g., check out the music at
http://www.air1.com/
http://klove.com/
The links are to the websites of two different Christian Radio stations, with different styles of Christian music. There are many other Christian radio stations and many many Christian bands with a variety of styles. The odds are that you should be able to find a Christian band or bands with music of the style you like.
Cordially,
John
| From BuckarQQ (Q957. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Seeker) |
i consider myself beautiful while the rest of you is ugly! is it a sin? |
Yes, vanity is a sin...
Enjoyed your question though :)
Cordially,
John
| From vegasbill1963 (Q955. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Seeker) |
|
The great commission is to tell people about the gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ.
For a brief explanation of the gospel, see here.
Why do Christians share their Faith? See here.
Cordially,
John
| From vegasbill1963 (Q954. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Seeker) |
|
To live in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Evoldfield (Q951. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Seeker) |
(sitting in pews, singing hymns, praying, paying tithe)? |
Commiting your life to Jesus Christ.
Living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see here.
Cordially,
John
| From Kochu (Q950. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Seeker) |
i am a hindu, don't know much about it. |
The Christian God inspired specific individuals through the years to write the books of the Bible.
The Bible is not a single book. It is a collection of 66 books that were written by about 40 individuals (under the guidance of the Christian God) over a period of about 1500 to 2000 years.
The first compiled book in the Bible is from about 1500 BC. However some portions of the book (Genesis) are compiled very likely from earlier writings, dating back to 2000 BC and earlier.
For more detail regarding the Bible and what it teaches, please see here.
In what Order should I read the Bible ? See, here.
May God bless you with Peace and Joy today.
Cordially,
John
| From Sterling S (Q948. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Seeker) |
|
The Christianity of the New Testament.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see here. ).
Cordially,
John
| From Jack (Q944. Archived Monday, 19-Jun-2006, 12:24 am. Seeker) |
|
Christianity (~2.1 billion adherents, whether committed or cultural).
Cordially,
John
| From Discuss (Q939. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Seeker) |
and how so? |
Jesus did not forbid antidepressants.
However, he would not condone drug abuse of any kind.
Cordially,
John
| From Bill B (Q937. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Seeker) |
Feel free to use bible verses or tell it from your heart. |
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Bill B (Q936. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Seeker) |
I think it's in MATTHEW but im not sure. |
The first and greatest commandment is to Love our God with all of our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37; Mark 12:30; Deut 6:5).
The second greatest commandment is to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Cordially,
John
| From Bill B (Q935. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Seeker) |
|
The Holy Spirit is God with us. He is the comforter. He provides us peace and joy and maintains us (Christians) in relationship with God.
Cordially,
John
| From gfdgirl (Q932. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Seeker) |
If so, did you draw anything from that? These religious questions always get such heated, angry answers. I'd like to know exactly what place people are approaching that from. |
Yes, I've studied the major world religions.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Shepherd (Q924. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Seeker) |
What did Jesus do that was so offensive? |
Good question.
I think some people have been brainwashed into the idea that it is not polite to talk about religion.
Others hate Christians or Christianity and so are offended.
Some wish to live lives of sin and are offended by anything that might cause them to feel any kind of moral "oughtness".
Some others think there is no evidence for the existence of God and so it is stupid to believe in God, and so are offended by mention of the Christian God.
Such individuals are mistaken as you know. There is evidence for the existence of God e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.htm .
Cordially,
John
| From Tom (Q923. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Seeker) |
|
In response to your question ...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.htm
Cordially,
John
| From Anshun (Q922. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:48 pm. Seeker) |
Do you have worthy purpose in your life? |
Yes, I do live a meaningful life. I have a worthy purpose, and I do have hope beyond the grave.
I have meaning and purpose and hope beyond the grave because of my daily relationship with the God of the Universe based on what Jesus did for us on the cross.
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Shani (Q916. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Seeker) |
|
IHS = In Hoc Signo = in this sign ... i.e., the sign of the cross.
Cordially,
John
| From okayokayokay (Q915. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Seeker) |
|
I point to the evidence for the existence of God, and share my testimony of how I came from Atheism to Christ. And I am not offended if people reject me and/or what I have to say.
It is not my job to convert anyone. It is my job to share the gospel and the evidence for God, and my testimony and to then leave the results to God.
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.htm
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.htm
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Biomimetik (Q914. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Seeker) |
Prominent German physicist Max Planck said: |
Many scientists Do believe in God, and many scientists have spoken and/or written about evidence for the existence of God from Science.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God (in part due to the scientific evidence for the Existence of God), and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html ).
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.htm
For discussions of Science and God (and/or Science and Christianity), see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/science.htm
For discussion of Scientists and God (and/or scientists & Christianity), see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/scientists.htm
Cordially,
John
| From Anon (Q913. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Seeker) |
|
Good question.
I know of three such couples. In all three cases, the wife became a Christian after the couple's marriage. Prior to that, the wives were (a) no religion, (b) believed in God but no specific god, (c) same as b.
The difference in religion did create a lot of pressure on the wives (from their husbands).
In 2 of the three cases, after much prayer by the wife, and much discussion (5 years in one case; about 10 or more in the second case), the husbands finally committed their lives to Christ.
In the other case, the husband is a committed Muslim and will not let the wife take their children to a Christian church etc... and this has been the case for 15 years or so.
Cordially,
John
| From Unknown (Q912. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Seeker) |
|
One day Satan is going to be eliminated (cast into the lake of fire) by the Christian God.
Cordially,
John
| From Byefareed (Q911. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Seeker) |
to some of Bible verses when it is not. |
You can often tell a parable from the context.
You're right that the Bible will often introduce a parable by indicating that it is one.
We would have to look at specific examples to answer your question with reference to any specific parable.
Cordially,
John
| From Brandy (Q908. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Seeker) |
Because i want one really really badly! |
No you will not go to hell for getting a tatoo.
There is a reference though in the Old Testament for us to not mark or disfigure our bodies.
Apart from what the Bible says, please be aware that tatoos tend to be permanent... and if you change your time later (and dont like the tatoo) that would be too late.
Cordially,
John
| From Darwin_stalker (Q907. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Seeker) |
1. Middle of the desert |
I would choose to die at the time and method of choice of the Christian God.
My personal preference would be to die peacefully in my sleep (after having said my goodbyes to friends and family).
Cordially,
John
| From Abby C (Q904. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Seeker) |
Christianity verses non religious? |
I agree with you :)
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From TJ57 (Q903. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 11:17 pm. Seeker) |
|
I would say because Cain had a tendency towards arrogance.
God tested Cain, and instead of turning to God with humility, Cain grew angry with God, grew jealous, and killed his brother.
Cain failed the test.
Cordially,
John
| From licksumhonee (Q900. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Seeker) |
|
Good question. Some people do call it a cult.
I would call it a sect (because the word cult means different things to different people).
The Jehovah's witnesses believe doctrines that are different from those of historic Bible-based Christianity.
For instance they believe that (a) Jesus is a created being, (b) Jesus is Michael the Archangel (c) only 144,000 Jehovah's Witnesses will make it to heaven; the rest will live for ever on earth, (d) there is no immortal soul, (e) we do not survive the death of our bodies -- we are not conscious after death, (f) when we die we cease to exist, (g) rather at the Judgment, we will be recreated and then judged by God etc.
On the other hand, historic Bible-based Christianity teaches that (a) Jesus is NOT a created being, (b) Jesus is NOT Michael the archangel, (c) anyone who repents of their sins and commits their life to God, based on what Jesus has done for us on the cross, will live for ever with God in the postive afterlife that some refer to as heaven, (d) there is an immortal soul, (e) we do survive the death of our bodies; we are conscious after the death of our bodies, (f) when we die, it is merely our bodies that die; our souls continue to exist, and (g) at the Resurrection we will be given new bodies.
For articles that evaluate the teachings of the Jehovah's Witnesses, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/jw/jw00.html
Cordially,
John
| From blueberry (Q894. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Seeker) |
|
The Big Bang is actually evidence for the existence of God.
For a discussion of the Big Bang and its Theistic implications, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/bigbang.html
Cordially,
John
| From suicideblonde (Q891. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Seeker) |
|
I am a Christian.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From xoxbabiiox (Q885. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Seeker) |
i was born a muslim and was always proud but lately i havent been to happy with my faith, i like the ways of christians and how they go about their faith...but then some people say its a sin to change your religion and you should stay what u were born as...what do u think? |
No it is not a sin to change your religion if you are indeed truly seeking the God of the universe.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html ).
Also, many Muslims are submitting their lives to God through the teachings of the Prophet Isa in the Injil.
And many people from other faiths (and world-views) are commiting their lives to Christ. E.g., see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/00.html
May your day be blessed.
Cordially,
John
| From cfab (Q881. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:40 pm. Seeker) |
i am gay and i know it. its not a phase, if i tried to like the opposite sex, it wouldnt ever work, and even science seems to show there may be a genetic thing that causes homosexuality. my question is is it possible for a gay person to be religious? i admit that in the past, i have done some things i regret, and this year i just became a born again christian. i feel religion tames me as a person and makes me a better person. so since then, i'm not for a relationship with someone of the same sex. it's dirty and it seems wrong. besides, ive been a hopeless romantic my whole life, so i dont really care if im single cuz of this. is it ok to be gay and religious at the same time? is this not a societal expectation? cuz i would think most gay people would be hardcore liberals, eg gay marriage hasnt been legalized yet |
I was very touched by your writeup above.
In answer to your question -- Yes it is possible for a gay person to be religious (in the sense defined below). All humans are created (by the Christian God) with a God-shaped vacuum in our hearts. This is true whether we are gay or heterosexual.
You admit that you have done some things you regret in the past. So have I. To the extent that I have repented of my past sins and have turned from them and to the Christian God (based on what Jesus Christ has done for me on the cross), I am forgiven. And to the extent that you have repented of your past sins and have turned from them and to the Christian God, you too are forgiven. That is awesome ! :)
I am very glad to hear that you have just become a born again Christian. That is awesome! I look forward to seeing you in heaven one day :)
Remember the time when our Lord stopped the men who were going to stone the woman who was caught in adultery... Jesus loves you (and me) the same way he loves that woman... and he is willing to forgive you (and me) the same way he forgave that woman.
He forgave the woman (for her adultery) and then said to her "go and sin no more". He says the same thing to me, and to you.
I'm glad to hear that you choose to come away from a gay lifestyle, and that you dont mind being single because you are not attracted to women. This is very commendable.
You ask, is it ok to be gay and religious at the same time? If by this you mean -- you are attracted to the same-sex, but you choose to be celibate instead, and to be a born-again Christian (living in relationship with the Christian God)... then yes... it is very much ok :)
Your struggle with being gay (and choosing to be celibate and follow Christ) is similar to some extent to a heterosexual male who struggles with attraction to women, but chooses to follow Christ instead...
For many this is easier said than done... but with God's help this is indeed possible.
Also, it is relevant to note that
(1) Genes do not determine our behaviors; they can influence them, but do not determine them. So Genes do not make a person a mandatory gay. They can influence a person towards being gay, but do not mandate or force a person to be gay.
(2) There are many gays who have come out of homosexuality once they committed their lives to Jesus Christ. Many have then gone on to successful heterosexual marriage. (if nothing else, this argues against the idea that a person's homosexuality is absolutely determined by their genes).
(3) God has the power to free us from temptations and sins that attract us. It is in his power to deliver us from any homosexual (or inappropriate heterosexual) temptations. So, it is very relevant for us to pray earnestly to God that he would "deliver us from temptation; and keep us from evil" (to quote the Lord's prayer).
Cordially,
John
| From trinity_loves_neo1 (Q879. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
After being raped I felt so guilty and couldnt look at the man who did it in the face. I kept wondering why I felt guilty and since Im hidden from anyones view whos reading this I can say I think ( not sure ) I know partially why. At onne point as he was holding me down I realized that I was not going to escape and I was so exhausted and terrified that I finally submitted to him. I was so terrified I couldnt scream even though there were others in the very next room. I actually felt deep guilt for not screaming. I wonder how God heals something like this and how do you go on with your life ? It seems so impossible. |
I'm very sorry to hear that you were raped...
I know this is difficult, but you should report a rape to the authorities.
In response to your question...
Yes... the Christian God can heal you of this.
I would recommend -- start with memorizing Philippians 4:6-7 and Psalm 23 and the Lord's prayer. And each time you start to feel any guilt (or any sick feeling), turn your mind consciously to God, and pray for that He would take the feeling away... and recite the verses above... These will help take your mind away from this.
Also a person who has been raped can confuse shame with guilt. The person feels shame at what happened, and can confuse that with guilt.
Guilt is appropriate when you have done something wrong. If the rape was against your will, then you havent done anything wrong.
Sometimes guilt can arise because the raped person was actually seduced at least partially... the person then feels guilty because even though they did not mean to be raped, at least part of the act felt good... and so the person feels a conflict within themselves (which is then interpreted as guilt mixed with shame).
Another reason why a person can feel guilt, is because they might feel that they invited the rape in some way.
If you feel guilty for not screaming or calling out ... see below...
The best way to handle something like this (if you are able to) is to firmly tell yourself that the past is past. You can not change the past. However you can change the future. (i.e., in the future you will not put yourself in situations which can lead to your being either seduced, e.g., by a boyfriend by being alone with him, or raped). And each time a thought of guilt or shame comes into your mind, firmly say "get thee behind me Satan"... and keep putting it behind you each time the thought arises.
If you need to, please do contact a Christian Counsellor who can help you to work through some of these issues; particularly if you have issues with returning depression etc.
Some churches have support groups for women/girls who have been raped. You may wish to consider attending such a group if possible.
The bottom line is that the Christian God can heal you, and he will with time (if you depend on him).
One important thing though -- ensure that you are Living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross). For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Sir Franklin (Q878. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
Da Vinci Code... Last Temptation of Christ... is it true that Jesus Christ and Mary Magdalene were husband and wive?!? |
As per your request... please see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/dvc/ for articles discussing the claims of the Da Vinci Code... and the question of whether Jesus was married.
Cordially,
John
| From myra_169 (Q874. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
If everyone expecting God to help them in every way..be it in bad disaster like flood,accidents,fail in exam or whatever..then how humans can learn or experience anything? it will make the world go boring and dull... It better you be a monkey instead than be a God created supreme being..Please stop whining people!! |
Very well said :)
Cordially,
John
| From pixpaxx (Q872. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
Perhaps these sightings are slowly bringing to reality an event that will happen many years from now. The infrequent and not readily verified status of these sightings might just mean the reality of the second coming is still not about to happen. |
Interesting... and possibly true (I dont have enough information to say either way)...
Cordially,
John
| From Lucy (Q870. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
Can I create an own world ,with my own laws? |
Commit your life to God (based on what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross).
He will then give you peace of mind (if you live in daily relationship with him) and the ability to handle this crazy world which is controlled by selfishness and superficiality.
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From carole (Q869. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
As a non-Christian I have often wondered which is more important? |
To live as Christ would.
To live in obedience to Christ is however also to be involved in a community of Christian believers.
Cordially,
John
| From seekthetruth (Q868. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
Doesn't that parallel the Sacrament of Reconciliation where our body is marred by sin, we ask God for forgiveness in an act of contrition, and then we go to the priest to show ourselves to him, confessing our sins, so that we can be reconciled back to the Church? |
Well said. :)
(though I do not practice confession to a priest).
In the Jewish culture, the priest had the authority to pronounce the leper as contaminated (with leprosy or a skin disease) or to pronounce the leper as "clean".
Once the priest pronounced the leper as clean, the leper could be accepted back into Jewish society.
So, once Jesus healed the lepers, he sent them to the priest to enable the lepers to be integrated back into Jewish society.
Cordially,
John
| From Frederick M (Q866. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
if you believe.... why. |
I do not believe in Reincarnation.
Why?
If we are supposed to learn from our past lives, then why do we not remember our past lives with great clarity? If we did remember our past lives with great clarity then we could indeed learn from our past mistakes and not repeat them.
The fact that we do not remember our past live with great clarity makes it impossible for us to learn from our past mistakes (which destroys the point behind reincarnation).
Cordially,
John
| From summergirl (Q862. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
Everyday, i see on Discovery some reportages named HAUNTING! it's about some ppl who say that they're house is haunted! they reconstitue everything, and they tell how it happened! |
Some are likely fake, some may be real.
I think there really are spirit beings (the Christian Bible speaks of spirit beings who rebelled against God and were exiled to earth, away from heaven). These spirit beings can impersonate ghosts and/or souls of dead people. Some of these sightings would be viewed as hauntings (by people who see them).
Cordially,
John
| From Mr. Chip (Q860. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
Also why is there not one clearly correct religon?? |
Good questions.
Regarding trials -- earth is bootcamp for the development of character of humans. This is part of God's purpose for earth. Trials are a necessary component of such bootcamp.
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose...
--
Re correct religion...
There is evidence for the existence of God and the truth of Jesus Christ.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From goatboy_numberone (Q859. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
|
No it is not.
Depends on the motive of the person. If a person is seriously considering the existence of God, then it is not blasphemy to use the name of God/Christ in such discussion.
However if we cavalierly use the name of God/Christ as a curse-word then that is blasphemy.
Cordially,
John
| From rockonfoxi (Q858. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
|
From what Jesus says in the New Testament, God loves people who are humble (in spirit, in mind, in heart).
The Rich can often be haughty and arrogant and self-sufficient. The poor are often more humble and more ready to recognize their need for God.
Such poor people (who are humble) are closer to God's heart than rich people who are arrogant.
Having said that, if any rich person humbles himself/herself and recognizes their need for the Christian God... that person is completely loved and accepted by God (assuming repentence of the person of course).
The bottom line is that it really is the state of the person's heart (humility vs arrogance) that matters, rather than the state of their wallet.
Cordially,
John
| From flavormint (Q857. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
is there anyone that can endure what job endured loseing all his riches/children haveing his wife turn against him and GOD AND THEn SATAN gave him all kinds of boils desease who here would hang on to the belief that GOD would deleiver them from all these desaster? |
I do not believe I am as strong as Job was. If I had to face such troubles by myself, I think I would lose hope.
If I didnt lose hope, it would only be because God was with me, strengthening me...
Cordially,
John
| From nice_guy (Q856. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
What do you think ?One who has convincing power ,intelligence , vision ultimately wins everywhere . Good hearted , kind ,people can only stay in church or charity organizations (Not in business world ) ..Right ? |
I think to some extent you are right (particularly if we define winning as climbing the corporate ladder to become a VP of a large company).
I would say that in principle it is possible to run a business that is laced with kindness and good hearted people and practices. More likely to be able to do this with a small business than a big business.
The business world is not all evil (not saying you are saying that), but it is definitely more competitive than a church or charity...
Cordially,
John
| From okayokay (Q854. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
Hell refers to the negative-afterlife, where people will get their just desserts. |
Cordially,
John
| From luvlilpup (Q853. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
|
Yes, the Christian God is Real.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From Search4truth (Q851. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
Why or why not? |
Yes there is evidence for the Holy Trinity.
First, here is a brief synopsis of the Trinity:
There is only ONE God. He manifests himself in three personas/persons/manifestation... for the purposes of the redemption of, and relationship with, human beings.
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/trinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From marriemelodies7 (Q842. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
|
Baptism is not necessary for Salvation. However, baptism is an indication that we are willing to be obedient to God (and that we are turning away from the world and commiting our lives to Christ).
Salvation is by the Grace of God through our Trust (faith) in the Christian God (not by any works we do).
However a Faith that does not result in Good Works (and obedience to God) is not a saving faith.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.htm...
Once you understand the Christian Gospel, and truly commit your life to Jesus Christ, then do get baptised (in obedience to Christ).
Cordially,
John
| From karena855 (Q838. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Seeker) |
Liars, homosexuals, smokers, alcoholics, ladies of the evening, or clergy guilty of one or more? |
Any one who practices the items you mention above as a continuing lifestyle is a greater sinner (than one who tries to avoid those things, but who slips up now and then).
A habitual liar is a greater sinner than an occasional liar etc.
Having said that, we are all sinners before a Holy God. And we need the Grace of God (through Jesus Christ) to be saved.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Craig W (Q833. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Seeker) |
|
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but with prayer and supplication with thanksgiving make your requests known to God, and the peace of Christ that passes all understanding will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus our Lord. (paraphrased)
Cordially,
John
| From thatgirl (Q832. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Seeker) |
|
Nope...
Each of us eats of forbidden fruit each time we sin.
If Adam and Eve had not sinned, one or more of their descendants would have sinned.
Cordially,
John
| From blindguardian (Q831. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Seeker) |
Would you disown you children if they choose o believ in a religion that wasnt yours |
I would be disappointed, but I would not disown them.
Cordially,
John
| From Death's Beautiful Angel (Q828. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Seeker) |
Did I do something wrong? |
I empathize. This must truly be difficult for you.
God loves you very very much... and I do not think he is punishing you for your past.
I pray for God's touch in your life... I pray that you will experience His love, Joy and Peace (and emotional healing) through Jesus Christ.
Cordially,
John
| From somegurl557 (Q826. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Seeker) |
|
Actually I dont picture Jesus when I pray to God.
Most of the time I direct my prayers heavenward (without feeling the need to picture God). On the few occasions when I do picture God, I picture him as described in the Bible (in the visions of Ezekiel in the Old Testament, and John - in The book of Revelation in the New Testament).
Cordially,
John
| From The-wild-wild-west (Q825. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Seeker) |
|
The book of Revelation in the New Testament does speak about events which if understood literally would indicate burning...
There are indications in Revelation of a Meteor hitting earth, of earthquakes, of volcanic eruptions (and possibly a nuclear explosion or more.
Cordially,
John
| From Neisha Pooh (Q824. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 3:55 pm. Seeker) |
|
Good point.
As a Christian, I do not have to observe such times and practices, since I live under the protection of the Christian God.
Cordially,
John
| From drugsandgrapes (Q817. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
|
All human beings are inclined towards self-centeredness/ selfishness (this is described in the Bible as sinfulness).
Apart from that, God created us with free-will. We can exercise that free-will for either good or for evil.
Cordially,
John
| From akidagurl84 (Q815. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
|
You were created by the Christian God to come into relationship (as parent-child) with Him.
The Christian God indicates that one reason why he created the Universe, was for life to exist, and for humans to exist.
Our Universe is His "art project"; that is why it is so incredibly beautiful. And our Universe is His "scientific and engineering" creation; that is why it is so full of science and engineering, and we are learning this as we crawl in his footsteps via mathematics, physics, cosmology and molecular biology.
Earth is boot-camp for humans to come into relationship with him, and then for our experiences to provide opportunities for us to grow.
We fulfill the purpose for which God created us when we choose to come into relationship with the Christian God (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross)... and then live in daily relationship with Him.
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From John112 (Q814. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
I did it, after two years of dating, I broke up with my girlfriend. She was my 1st girlfriend ever when I was 21. I was so happy it was too good to be true, I guess. I loved her so much and took care of her always. Just about a month ago, she started to get really deep in her religion and it wrecked us apart. |
I empathize. This must be difficult for you.
Your ex-girlfriend's zeal for God is very commendable. However she is mistaken in her belief that you wont go to heaven unless you go to church on Saturday.
She is right though in saying no more sex until you marry her.
Sounds like you did the right thing in breaking up with her; better to break up now, than to get married and live in misery (due to these incompatibilities) for several years and then get divorced.
I am touched by your statement that you want to follow God yourself, and that you need the truth. I am very touched by that statement.
I provide some info / links below that might help you in your search...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurposes.html
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From matt c (Q812. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
Today i felt really close to jesus. i felt him taking away my sadness. has anyone else had those days where they felt warmed by the holy spirit? |
Thank you for sharing this. I am touched by your experience.
Yes I too have had such experiences...
I feel the closest to our God, when in the midst of beauty.
E.g., see the section titled "Have you had any Mystical Experiences" in http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
(I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see the link above.)
Cordially,
John
| From Toulouse (Q811. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
|
Avatar is a term referring to the incarnations of various Hindu gods, particularly Vishnu.
For info re Hinduism (and comparison with Christianity) see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/relig/hinduism.html
Cordially,
John
| From homey (Q810. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
b/c i believe in Jesus but i don't like christians/protestants/catholi... or anyone else who thinks they actually have it all figured out. |
Proper interpretation of the Bible involves
(a) careful study
(b) not taking single verses out of context
(c) reading the entire context of the verses
(d) building doctrines based on what the entire Bible says rather than one or two verses or a single passage
(e) the historic-grammatic-cultural approach to understanding the intent of the author in what he wrote
and in addition to all of these
(f) staying in daily relationship with the Christian God
(g) praying for God's wisdom and guidance
(h) the help of the Holy Spirit.
For more info regarding what the Bible teaches, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From maxunn1234 (Q807. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
|
I empathize.
Could it be because people are busy?
Or could it be because of human sinfulness (i.e., self-orientedness)?
Cordially,
John
| From yen s (Q806. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
its a specific scripture thats reads something like we will know each other like we know each other today rr something like that |
How about the Parable of Lazarus (the beggar) and the Rich man (in Luke 16 ?)...
In that parable, both the rich man and Lazarus are recognizable as who they were on earth.
Cordially,
John
| From sobrien (Q805. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
|
The memory of a life lived in Christ-likeness.
Cordially,
John
| From Liz M (Q803. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
I personaly dispise the word "religion" because it is associated with rituals and Jesus is not so much about that as He is your heart and faith. So what does the word "religion" mean to you? |
Well said.
I am not very much into religion as such.
Am more into living in daily relationship with the God of the universe (based on what Jesus has done for us on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From destineypyle (Q802. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
|
I like Mormons, though I find that their theology does not match the Bible.
It is evident (from reading the Bible) that the Mormon God is not the God of the Bible; the Mormon Jesus is not the Jesus of the Bible.
For instance, Mormonism believes in the existence of millions of Gods. The God of this earth (Elohim) was once a man who evolved into God by obedience to the Mormon Gospel. Salvation is through obedience to the Mormon church and Mormon gospel.
For more info re Mormonism, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/lds/lds.html
Cordially,
John
| From Story Junkie (Q801. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 2:48 pm. Seeker) |
Christ said that the true faith would be taken away from the chosen nation and given to the Gentiles because they did not recognize him when he came amoungst them. Do you suppose that when someone looses their faith, someone else gains it? |
Not necessarily.
People groups can come to faith or lose faith independently of each other (without a loss of faith for one group being correlated with arriving at faith for another group).
Cordially,
John
| From esther9364622 (Q798. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Seeker) |
Do you fill good today? |
I am blessed today, by the Presence of Jesus Christ in my life.
Cordially,
John
| From wondering (Q797. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Seeker) |
|
The meaning of Life, the Universe and Everything... :)
The Christian God indicates that one reason why he created the Universe, was for life to exist, and for humans to exist.
Our Universe is His "art project"; that is why it is so incredibly beautiful. And our Universe is His "scientific and engineering" creation; that is why it is so full of science and engineering, and we are learning this as we crawl in his footsteps via mathematics, physics, cosmology and molecular biology.
Earth is boot-camp for humans to come into relationship with him, and then for our experiences to provide opportunities for us to grow.
We fulfill the purpose for which God created us when we choose to come into relationship with the Christian God (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross)... and then live in daily relationship with Him.
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From beenthere (Q795. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Seeker) |
|
When humans dabble with the Occult (e.g., Tarot, Horoscopes, Ouiji boards, mind-altering drugs, mind-altering meditation, some forms of yoga, channeling, astral projection etc), that opens us up for demons (spirit beings/ascended masters etc) to interact with us and ultimately to dominate and control us.
Some of the items above are practiced by those who are into the New Age Movement. For information regarding the New Age Movement, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/sect/nam.html
For more info regarding what the Bible teaches on this and other topics, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From allstargamer10 (Q794. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Seeker) |
What exactly is worship? How do you worship God? How do people worship the devil? What exactly do they say or do? |
Worship is telling God you love Him.
Worship is expressing awe/admiration for the character of God (and for the beauty of his creation).
Cordially,
John
| From beenthere (Q792. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Seeker) |
|
The Last Days is referring to the concept that Jesus Christ will be returning soon (some Christians believe this 2nd coming of Jesus Christ could occur within our lifetimes).
There are various signs (that Jesus mentioned; things that would happen before he returned to earth). Many (or most) of those signs appear to have come true (or appear to be in the process of coming true). This is why some (or many) Christians believe that Jesus will be returning soon.
For more info regarding what the Bible teaches on this and other topics, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From dirty3rd713 (Q791. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Seeker) |
|
I would not want to be in any religion that does not accept Jesus Christ as God in human form.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/...
As I came out of Atheism, and during my search for God, I spent time with the major religions of the world... and found that there are elements of truth in all religions (and all world-views).
However I grew to be convinced that Jesus Christ (as described in the New Testament) is the clearest revelation of God to human beings...
Cordially,
John
| From missbofo (Q789. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Seeker) |
|
Actually questions about religion do not get me irritated or upset.
I enjoy reading the questions.
I also enjoy answering the questions.
Also, it was through asking questions (about the existence of God) and having answers provided to me, that I was able to move away from Atheism and to conviction of the reality of the Christian God, over time. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
And no, it doesnt bother me that not everyone shares my views. Makes life interesting :)
Cordially,
John
| From aussygirl87 (Q785. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Seeker) |
|
My answer to your question is yes.
I say that though I am not a Catholic. I am an Evangelical Christian.
Cordially,
John
| From Daniel A (Q783. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Seeker) |
|
The Christian God.
Cordially,
John
| From girlneedsadvise (Q782. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Seeker) |
|
The Jehovah's Witnesses are a sect that believes that
(a) Jesus Christ is a created being;
(b) Jesus was and is Michael the Archangel;
(c) Jesus is not God;
(d) Jesus was created by God;
(e) We do not have an immortal soul;
(f) when we die, we cease to exist, until we are re-created by God at the Resurrection, in time for the Judgment;
(g) only 144,000 Jehovah's Witnesses will make it to heaven;
(h) the rest of the Jehovah's Witnesses who were faithful to the Jehovah's Witness gospel and leaders will live for ever on earth (not in heaven).
For articles that evaluate the teachings of the Jehovah's Witnesses, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/jw/jw00.html
Cordially,
John
| From brianna_the_judging_angel (Q781. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 1:39 pm. Seeker) |
out of curiousity. |
The Jehovah's Witnesses are a sect that believes that
(a) Jesus Christ is a created being;
(b) Jesus was and is Michael the Archangel;
(c) Jesus is not God;
(d) Jesus was created by God;
(e) We do not have an immortal soul;
(f) when we die, we cease to exist, until we are re-created by God at the Resurrection, in time for the Judgment;
(g) only 144,000 Jehovah's Witnesses will make it to heaven;
(h) the rest of the Jehovah's Witnesses who were faithful to the Jehovah's Witness gospel and leaders will live for ever on earth (not in heaven).
For articles that evaluate the teachings of the Jehovah's Witnesses, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/jw/jw00.html
Cordially,
John
| From Dask (Q763. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 10:10 am. Seeker) |
|
To God.
And to one another (in the form of an accountability group or accountability partner).
There is a verse (in the New Testament) that says for us to confess our sins to one another... The motivation is to help us to move away from sin.
Cordially,
John
| From words_that_live_on (Q755. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Seeker) |
Do we know God or just those that do God's work for us? I know there is something on the other side of the physical world we see. |
No our grandfathers can not guide us (once they are dead). They can guide us as long as they are alive on earth.
Can we know God? The answer is yes.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Jon B (Q754. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Seeker) |
i have heard so much of the hidden scrolls in the vatican. |
There are no hidden books of the Bible.
All of the books that God intended to be in the Bible are in the Bible.
There are other writings by writers from later than the writers of the New Testament.
Such writings are not included in the New Testament. Only books which were written by immediate disciples/apostles of Jesus Christ and/or were authenticated by immediate disciples/apostles of Jesus Christ were included among the New Testament gospels.
Cordially,
John
| From Sindhu (Q752. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Seeker) |
Or should we belong anywhere at all? |
We were created by God to belong in Heaven with Him (if we choose to commit our lives to Jesus Christ, and to live in daily relationship with God).
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurposes.html
Cordially,
John
| From Bryan M (Q751. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Seeker) |
|
No the Da Vinci Code is false
(in its claim that Jesus was married and had a child).
Cordially,
John
| From snowbboots (Q748. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Seeker) |
|
I was influenced to/ towards Atheism by a person I respected (and also by writers who I respected).
I was led to believe that only stupid people believe in God; and only people of weak character (who cant stand on their own strength) need God as an emotional crutch. And that religion is the Opiate of the Masses etc...
Over a period of time however, I later grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Student of USA (Q745. Archived Sunday, 18-Jun-2006, 12:39 am. Seeker) |
|
Angels are not mortal.
Cordially,
John
| From so_what_if_im_a_blonde (Q738. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Seeker) |
I DONT GET WHAT IT IS ABOUT?!?!?! |
There is evidence that Joseph Smith (who created Mormonism) believed in occult amulets and their powers to protect people from harm.
For instance, it has been documented that Joseph Smith had a Jupiter Talisman on his person when he died. The Jupiter Talisman is an occult amulet which invokes various spirit beings to protect the wearer from harm or evil.
Similarly the Mormon special underwear was supposed to protect Mormons from harm (kind of like the occult amulets that Joseph Smith appears to have believed in). I have come across testimonies by Mormons who state that they were protected from some specific harm because they were wearing their special underwear.
For more information regarding Mormonism, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/lds/lds.ht...
Examples of Mormon beliefs: Mormonism believes in the existence of millions of Gods. The God of this earth (Elohim) was once a man who evolved into God by obedience to the Mormon Gospel. Salvation is through obedience to the Mormon church and Mormon gospel.
Cordially,
John
| From Simisola (Q735. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Seeker) |
I personally think for me, it will be Greed. I love money and having money and will do anything to have it sometimes even be disloyal. |
Financial Security...
For me it is the need for Financial Security though I do not think that is listed as one of the 7 deadly sins.
Cordially,
John
| From enigma21 (Q734. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Seeker) |
The Catholic Church existed before Constantine, since the day of the Apostles. He converted to Christianity in the 4th century. while he was Roman Emperor and stopped persecuting the Church. |
Excellent points.
I do not believe Constantine created the Catholic Church.
Cordially,
John
| From karen g (Q733. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Seeker) |
|
There is no credible historical evidence that Jesus had a wife.
Cordially,
John
| From karen g (Q732. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Seeker) |
|
Nope. The books that God intended to be in the Bible are already in the Bible.
Cordially,
John
| From mckinstry_daire (Q730. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Seeker) |
If Evangelicals are so quick to accept the idea of the 7 day Creation narrative, and are willing to believe litterally that this is the way that the world was created, why can they not accept that Jesus who is equally God as the son of God, is not able to make present himself in the form of the Bread and Wine. |
I am an Evangelical Christian.
However I am not a young-earth creationist (7-day creation 6000 years ago).
I am an old-earth creationist.For a brief description of Old Earth Creationism, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/crea/oec.html
One reason why I do not believe in Transubstantiation is because Jesus was still alive when he raised up the bread at the last supper and said "this is my body which is broken for you" and raised up the wine and said "this is my blood which is spilled for you" (paraphrased). At the time that he raised up the bread and the wine, he had not yet been tortured or killed. This happening is more consistent with the Lord's Supper being Symbolic (of Jesus' death for us) than literal.
However I am not personally bothered by Catholics who choose to believe that the Eucharist is literally the body and blood of Jesus.
Cordially,
John
| From Debra (Q729. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Seeker) |
Please reply only if affirmative. What denomination were you & what denomination are you now? |
Yes (in a sense)...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From duluthguy427 (Q727. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Seeker) |
|
Yes, there is a beautiful side to evil (otherwise many of us would not be attracted to evil).
E.g., as guys, we are attracted to beautiful women who dress revealingly... (the beautiful women in themselves are not evil; however dressing in very revealing manners, while beautiful, act to tempt men etc).
Cordially,
John
| From celine8388 (Q724. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Seeker) |
|
I would like to see you in heaven (and all of our readers).
Cordially,
John
| From celine8388 (Q723. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Seeker) |
|
I neither love myself nor hate myself. I am ok with myself.
IOW, I have never felt any particular need to love myself.
My sense of self-worth comes from my Living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe based on what Jesus did for us on the cross (as discussed in http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html )
Cordially,
John
| From heatheronfours (Q722. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:52 pm. Seeker) |
Is there anything like reincarnation?? I read a book a few years ago, about a kid in India, that remembered a town in england, w detail, and he was taken there and he could recognize places and stuff. |
I do not believe in reincarnation.
I believe that each of us is given ONE life on earth. And our eternal destiny is determined by our actions and our choices in this one life.
Those who choose to live in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross) will inherit eternity in heaven with God.
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From b89 (Q719. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Seeker) |
|
Ultimately, we will all be judged (at the Judgment) and our eternal destiny will be Heaven (the positive afterlife), or the negative after life (if we knowingly rejected the gospel of Jesus Christ).
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From blue_roses (Q711. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Seeker) |
i have just resently become christian and think i will become a beter person and christian by understanding other ppl's truth from god. |
My favorite verses from the Bible...
Philippians 4:6-7
Cordially,
John
| From Walle (Q706. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 11:12 pm. Seeker) |
Everyone i have asked give me different answer about what spirituallity is |
Living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From sam_walkiden (Q699. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Seeker) |
In the teachings we are taught to repentent for our sins and find the way to god and he will greet us. |
There is no evidence that Hitler repented of any of his actions. So the odds are very very high that he ended up in Hell (or will end up in Hell).
If a person TRULY repents of their sins (and turns to God through what Jesus has done on the cross), they can be saved.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From kibbles (Q698. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Seeker) |
|
I am not a Catholic (I am an Evangelical Christian).
Having said that, the DVC is a work of fiction based on the author's imagination.
None of the claims in the DVC (re Jesus' having been married; having a child etc) are historically substantiated.
Cordially,
John
| From sugersweets (Q694. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Seeker) |
|
Pray. Work Hard. Save money. Minimize your expenses.
Get involved in a Christian church and in a small community group (at church). There are baby-sitting co-ops in some churches (where parents take it in turns to look after each other's kids etc).
Cordially,
John
| From kibbles (Q691. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Seeker) |
|
Many Catholics are sincerely seeking God.
And many Catholics are commiting their lives to God (based on what Jesus did for them on the cross). I think that is pretty neat :)
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From celine8388 (Q690. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Seeker) |
|
With the Christian God, in heaven... Yes :)
Cordially,
John
| From malini (Q684. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Seeker) |
It is often said that all phases of our activities both mental and physical decide a place either in heaven or in hell and that this judgement is given by God on the judgement day.Is there any proof for this or a mere intimidation to do only right things? |
I have grown to be convinced that the existence of heaven, hell, the kingdom of God are true.
Where are they located? In a dimension outside our physical universe.
You ask for proof (or evidence)...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From zackg78 (Q683. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 10:42 pm. Seeker) |
|
The term comes from the book of Revelation in the Bible, and refers to an identification of the "Beast" (a world leader who is a strong anti-Christian).
Some Satanists have adopted this as their symbol, since they choose to rebel against God (and often against Christianity in particular).
Cordially,
John
| From paj701 (Q678. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
Why do you believe what you believe? |
Excellent question :)
In response...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Adder_Astros (Q673. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
OF COURSE!! Arrogant mortal. Who cares whether some pion human was there to hear it!! Like your presence is so freaking important or something!! |
Yes, it would :)
Cordially,
John
| From azalia (Q671. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
|
Most of the time fortune telling (of any kind) is fake.
Some fraction of the fortunes told appear to come true due to subjective validation.
Some fraction appear to come true due to random chance.
Some fraction appear to come true because the fortunes are so vague and general that the can fit just about any event.
A small fraction of the time, there does appear to be interaction with demonic spirits (who have rebelled against the Christian God) and these demonic spirits can give us information that is true some fraction of the time.
Cordially,
John
| From soumr b (Q669. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
why u see picture ( icons ) in all of there churches |
Orthodox Christianity is one form of Christianity.
One of its distinctives is the use of icons (pictures) to help the people remember the lives of the disciples/ apostles and significant Christians of the past (and to be inspired by those lives).
For more info on denominations within Christianity, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/denom/denominations.html
Cordially,
John
| From mjgc (Q668. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
|
Nope (I dont think we exist before we are conceived)...
I would be inclinded to say that our souls come into existence somewhere in between conception and viable fetushood.
Cordially,
John
| From living4every2nd (Q667. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
|
I've come across estimates of about 85% for cultural Christians compared with 2-20% for committed Christians.
I would also like to add that the Evangelical churches are really growing by leaps and bounds.
I know of many Christian (Evangelical) non-denominational churches which are having to hold 3 to 5 services a weekend because their attendance has grown so much that the previous 1 - 2 services were not sufficient.
Even among the Seeker churches I see many individuals who are growing deeper in commitment to Christ.
For the last several months, I've seen multiple Baptisms at church almost every weekend.
Cordially,
John
| From nayaks_rules (Q666. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
|
The DVC is a murder-mystery which claims (incorrectly) that Jesus was married to Mary Magdalene and they had a child.
The problem with this thesis is that it is not supported by any meaningful historical evidence.
Cordially,
John
| From wild_kimbo (Q661. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 4:14 pm. Seeker) |
|
It is possible to contact spirits.
However I do not think the spirits are the souls of dead people. Rather, they are spirits that have rebelled against God (when Lucifer rebelled against God), and have been exiled from heaven.
Cordially,
John
| From kp (Q659. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Seeker) |
can u write the full story of "adam and eve",within 2 para? |
God created Adam and Eve in a state of innocence, but with free-will.
Adam and Eve used their free-will and chose to sin by disobeying God. God then let them experience negative consequences.
Each time you or I choose to sin, we are making the same kind of Choice that Adam and Eve made, and as a result, we are likely to experience negative consequences as well.
Cordially,
John
| From russkaya2k3 (Q658. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Seeker) |
Do they exist? Why do they exist? |
Angels do exist. They are spirit beings who were created by God.
They exist as part of the beauty of God's creation.
An angel knows if they are an angel.
The Bible gives us a good bit of information regarding angels.
Cordially,
John
| From rojojr (Q657. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Seeker) |
For BOTH questions/answers, please tell me where I can find them in the Bible (author,chapter,verse). As for qustion # 2, please answer with as much detail as possible. |
The Golden rule is a summary of Jesus' teaching presented in the Gospels... "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" (Matthew 7:12 and Luke 6:31).
Original Sin is the first (original) sin committed by Adam and Eve when they disobeyed God in the garden of Eden (and ate from the tree that God told them to not eat from).
Cordially,
John
| From kp (Q655. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Seeker) |
|
Jesus is God in human form. Though he was (and is) God, he came down to earth in the form of a human in order to enable reconciliation between God and human beings.
He was born in Bethlehem, lived in Israel, performed miracles, died on the cross (for our sins), and rose again to life on the third day. He was on earth for about 40 days after he came back to life, and he was seen alive by more than 500 people.
Cordially,
John
| From Natty Ann (Q653. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Seeker) |
What does that mean?
|
Lutheranism was historically different from Catholicism on several points.
For instance, Luther's stand (which was different from the Catholic church of his time):
1. The church and papacy has no divine right in spiritual matters;
2. The Bible, not the priest or the church, has final authority over conscience.
3. People are forgiven by God Not by good works, or by rituals, but by their turning to God.
4. Justification is by Faith, not by ceremony.
5. Faith is not subscription to the dictates of the church; but rather the individual's trust in Christ.
6. The Bible is the clear, perfect, inspired, authoritative Word of God.
The Catholic church has however moved closer to the Lutheran postion on some of these items through the years (no offense meant to any Catholic).
Note: I am neither Lutheran nor Catholic, and I accept both Lutherans and Catholics who have sincerely committed their lives to Christ, as my siblings in Christ.
For more info on denominations within Christianity, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/denom/denominations.html
Cordially,
John
| From purposeliving77 (Q651. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Seeker) |
"Dear Jesus, |
Very well said :)
And along the same lines, ... for a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From purposeliving77 (Q649. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Seeker) |
Joh 14:6 Jesus said to him, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no one comes to the Father but by Me. |
Excellent question :)
Yes, Jesus is the only way to heaven (as per John 14:6 and Acts 4:12)
Cordially,
John
| From mohd_kareem (Q646. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Seeker) |
FALSIFICATION TEST : |
Good question :)
We can check its internal consistency and reliability with respect to external evidence.
We can then look at the nature of God that is presented in the book (is this God a God of love etc).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. (For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html )
One of the questions I had to deal with was can we believe the Bible? See http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html for information relevant to this question.
Cordially,
John
| From matchcom (Q641. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 3:14 pm. Seeker) |
|
The New Age movement is still around...
For information regarding the New Age Movement, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/sect/nam.html
Cordially,
John
| From thatoneguy (Q640. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
The devil and demons are fallen angels who got kicked out of heaven. So shouldn't they look the same? So why do people draw and paint them so diffrent from each other? |
They do not necessarily look different. Yes, people do draw or paint them differently.
However the Bible refers to Lucifer (Satan) as an Angel of Light...
Cordially,
John
| From Walt (Q639. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
Did you ever had a conversation with God? |
Every day (through prayer).
For discussion of "what is Christian prayer", see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/prayer.html
Cordially,
John
| From pinkiekim13 (Q637. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
do you think the writer if the da vinci code believes in god, jesus,ect.?? |
The DVC is a murder mystery which claims that Jesus married Mary Magdalene and had a child.
The writer of the DVC does not appear to believe in the Jesus of the Bible, and may or may not believe in a god.
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
For what the Bible teaches about God and about Jesus, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From LiL Brother (Q635. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
Does equality remove freedom? Are we all created equal? |
Freedom without responsibility breeds anarchy (resulting in pain and suffering). Hence I find that there is indeed a moral obligation to associate responsibility with Freedom.
Equality does not remove freedom (but might limit it).
Yes, the Christian God makes it clear that all humans are created equal.
Cordially,
John
| From somya (Q634. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
|
Each person is unique (being created by the Christian God as a unique individual).
To recognize this uniqueness would take time and relationship (e.g., friendship) with the person in question.
Cordially,
John
| From Coolguy (Q632. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
I am not relegious, so i am wondering how the average christian family protects itself from the rantings and ravings of thier said relegions extremists. There is nothing wrong about discussing what you believe, but ranting on about how you are going to hell if you dont accept jesus now you infedel is just out of the ballpark. I am not trying to be biast here... i just want to know. |
I agree that Christians do get a bad rap when individuals who call themselves Christians behave in extreme ways.
Having said that, I would defend the rights of anyone who may wish to tell me that I am going to hell (at least they care enough about me and my soul to tell me what they think -- and this can provide the opportunity for me to ask them why they come to this conclusion -- and may be I can learn from them).
My Background: I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From kramback123 (Q631. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
I knew someone who justified him bein' "evil' by saying "the world needs evil, or there would be no way to tell what is good!" |
Evil is a consequence of the presence of free-will. Given free-will, some people will choose good, and some will choose evil (some fraction of the time).
For good to exist, evil does not need to exist.
However, for good to be truly appreciated, evil may be a backdrop that makes good that much more appreciatable (to coin a term).
Also, there is greater virtue in being good when everyone around you is being evil.
And, the presence of evil provides an environment (for a limited period of time) where souls can grow and develop character (in a manner consistent with God's purposes for our universe and for us).
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurposes.html
Cordially,
John
| From Cluckyt (Q630. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
1 Peter 4:18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? |
NIV: 1 Peter 4:18 And, "If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?"
What does this mean to me?
That salvation is not something to be taken lightly (even for those of us who have committed our lives to Christ).
The verse appears to point towards Lordship Salvation (and away from Cheap Grace).
Cordially,
John
| From D_Nice_4Life (Q625. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
the Bible doesn't mention anywhere that there will be a holding place for boderline Christians. You are either for him or not. No man can serve two masters. |
Good points.
I dont believe Purgatory exists, either.
However if you wish to hear an alternate, neo-Catholic viewpoint on purgatory...
Quote (from CoolLuke):
Purgatory has it's foundations in mystical christianity. It has been suggested that purgation or purification of the soul is something that is happening in this very lifetime.
St.Catherine of Genoa in "Purgation and purgatory suggests that purgatory prepares the the soul for union with God. It cleanses of our sins which are impediments to God's love. she says there is no joy save in paradise compared to the joy of the souls in pugatory. This joy increases day by day as the impediment is worn away. this impediment is the rust of sin.
She also says (in summary) that God's love is so brilliant that the tiniest stain of sin becomes unbearable to the soul. It wants to be cleansed before it faces the brilliance of God's presence.
Purgatory is not a place as much as a state in which the soul is purged of sin to become worthy of the presence of God.
UnQuote:
Cordially,
John
| From LadyRebecca (Q624. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
dark prince and all his minions who practices ritualistic orgies every full moon ... do Christians still love him / her? |
As Christians, we are called to Agape them (not emotionally love them).
Agape means that we treat them the way Jesus would treat them. That does not mean that we should like their behavior (or even like them as individuals). And this does not mean that we should support or condone their behavior in any way.
For more info regarding what the Bible teaches on this and other topics, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From sallyezs (Q623. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
I read things like, if you expect to feel the presence of God through His word and worship, you will experience it. Well how do I know if that is me thinking I feel the presence of God, and how do I know if it is really God...??? |
Excellent question... :)
First some background:
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. (For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html )
For me, it is the combination of scientific and intellectual evidence (e.g.,
http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html ) together with experiential evidence (e.g., discussed in
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html ) together with consistency with what the Bible teaches -- the combination of all of these contribute to convincing me that what I am experiencing is the presence of the Christian God.
In http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html I also list a few near-mystical experiences I have had (which are relevant to your question above).
Cordially,
John
| From Off my meds (Q622. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
|
Sounds like it was meant to be an insult :)
For an overview of Buddhism, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/relig/buddhism.html
Cordially,
John
| From Bushko N (Q621. Archived Saturday, 17-Jun-2006, 9:36 am. Seeker) |
in the bible dinosaur never mentioned. but in the national geography dinosaur use to be the first to exist. |
Because the Bible is intended by God to provide a broad overview of the creation (without providing every last detail of creation).
And the Bible is primarily intended to provide us the information we need to be able to come into relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus Christ did on the cross for us).
For more info regarding the purpose of the Bile and what the Bible teaches, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
Cordially,
John
| From Jillie Bean (Q620. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
Their purpose is similar (in the sense of providing answers to ultimate questions such as the nature of reality, the existence or non-existence of God, the nature of the after life if any etc).
Apart from that they tend to be dissimilar.
Quote (from zerocool):
All religions (except Biblical Christianity) teach that one can reach God on their own merit by performing certain rituals or ceremonies and generally being "good."
Christianity teaches that there is nothing you can do to get to God and that your own merit falls far short of reaching God. The others teach man reaching to God. Christianity teaches God reaching to man.
UnQuote.
Cordially,
John
| From Breenie (Q618. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
i dont know if i believe this anyway i am just wondering what the story is |
There might be speculation by some to this end; however I dont see any evidence from the Bible to support the idea that the anti-Christ would be born on 6/6/06...
Cordially,
John
| From Nathan R (Q617. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
Or are we just products of our social environments? |
We are basically inclined towards self-centeredness; the Bible calls that Sin.
I do not believe that we are just products of our social environments. I see children from a given home (with the same social environment) turning out very differently from each other (this is evidence that we are not just products of our social environments).
Cordially,
John
| From mandbturner3699 (Q616. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
The Bible states in 1St Cor. Ch.14 V22 that "Tongues are a sign not to them that believe but to them that believe not" Who are those people refered to as "THEM" |
The "them" is non-Christians.
Cordially,
John
| From lam_9 (Q613. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
into a pit, shall not lay hold and lift it up, on the Sabbath days? |
Good point. It is not unlawful to save a life on the Sabbath.
Cordially,
John
| From Deb (Q611. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
I meant stop fighting against each other in the name of religion |
I agree that we should never let differences in religion cause strife and conflict.
However as long as there are some of us who are interested in Truth, it is not meaningful for us to just forget differences in Religion.
Given that there are differences in religions (and world-views), it is rational to infer that some one of them would the most correct.
It is not possible for all religions (and world-views) to be equally true.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From iluvswa02 (Q610. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
I believe as a Christian that God does speak to not only prophets but regular lay people as well, even today and gives them specific instructions and guidance. if someone comes to you and tells you they feel God has led them to share some information with you or encourage you in some way,how can you know test that the info is truly of God and not of Satan. hasn't anyone heard "satan looks good in his sunday clothes?" I would imagine satan would come to us as the deceiver he is by trying to trick us into beleiving that some idea of his is really that of Gods. Does the bible say how you can test a true profet from a false prophet? |
Yes, the Bible does say how we can distinguish a true prophet from a false prophet.
Deuteronomy 18:20-22 and Deuteronomy 13:1-5 provide information relevant to this question.
From http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible/clc/...
QUOTE:
-------------
God can reveal today. He did to prophets in earlier times, and He has not changed (1 Cor 13:8-12 refers to the resurrection and does not mean prophesy is impossible now).
However, there are two crucial facts about revelation.
First, anyone who claims to have a revelation from God, whether a dream, vision, or verbal message (Num 12:6-8) is to be tested as a prophet. We are commanded to "test the spirits" (1 John 4:1-3), “test everything” (1 Thess 5:21), and the rules for testing have been set down in Deut 13:1-5 (cf. Isa 8:20) and Deut 18:20-22.
First, God never contradicts His Holy Scriptures or any moral or other teaching in them.
Second, God never fails to carry out what He revealed He would do or make a mistake in what He indicated was true. These commands apply today; God has not changed.
-------------
END of QUOTE
(from http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible/clc/...
Cordially,
John
| From iluvswa02 (Q608. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
i believe God can hear my thoughts without speaking but can Satan? I know God gave him alot of supernatural powers while he allows him to have this Earth but does the bible specifically say if Satan can "read your mind?"or what power God did or didn't allow him to have? |
As far as I know, there is no verse in the Bible that indicates that Satan can read your thoughts.
Cordially,
John
| From mglauron2006 (Q607. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
The jury is out on the shroud of Turin.
A carbon-dating study suggested a later date (than the time of Christ) for the cloth of the shroud.
However it looks like the carbon-dating study may have been mislead by a more recent bacterial bio-film on the original shroud (which would skew the dates to a later date than the real timeframe of the cloth).
Apart from that carbon-dating study, there are a lot of reasons to infer that the shroud is authentic.
1. pollen studies
2. type of cloth
3. details of the crucifixion were amazingly authentic
4. piercing of the wrists (not palms, unlike the common mistaken understanding from the middle ages)
5. the fact that the image is a negative rather than a positive image
6. the 3-D nature of the image, providing depth of contrast which does not arise from painting
7. singeing of the fibers
etc..
Cordially,
John
| From elliottandelliottmtg (Q606. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
What does the Bible say about Jesus?
Jesus is God in human form. Jesus is not a created being; Jesus always existed as God -- but, he voluntarily took an inferior form, the form of a man, to effect our salvation.
Jesus is referred to as God (in the Bible).
See: http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jc/deity2.html
The Bible says that the fullness of God (deity/ divinity) dwelt in Jesus (see link above).
Titles and functions of Yahweh-God are attributed to Jesus (see link above).
Both Jesus and Yahweh-God are ‘Lord of Lords and God of Gods’ (see link above).
Passages referring to Yahweh-God (in the Old Testament) are quoted and applied to Jesus (in the New Testament). (see link above).
Jesus accepted worship (only Yahweh-God is to be worshipped: Exodus 34:14/ Matt 4:10) (see link above).
Jesus has the attributes of Yahweh God (see link above).
Jesus performed certain works that point to His being God (see link above).
For more detail, see articles in the section titled "Is Jesus God?" in http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From Tree (Q605. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
An evening spent...
...in a Christian Cathedral, experiencing the beauty of the architecture, the beauty of the candles, the beauty of evensong sung by a children's choir.
...experiencing the beauty and the presence of the Christian God.
... or at home in peace and quite, with a good book.
Beauty is something I treasure, and which brings me close to God. Beauty was one item which brought me out of Atheism and to the Christian God, -- e.g.,
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From princess_in_chanting (Q604. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
I was part of my church prayer visitation team and one day our leader called me and asked me to pray for " Michael " who was dying of cancer in the ICU in our local hospital. I went down there and his wife said yes to us praying over him. We only had 15 minutes in ICU so we just joined hands and prayed with him. His wife said he was a " smoking, drinking catholic boy " that attended church twice a year. We began to pray. The Lords face appeared at the window in such a bright light that he looked like the sun. He had a beautiful wedding canopy over His head. Then He disappeared and I continued to pray without saying anything. I went out into the waiting room and his wife came out a few minutes later. She said to me, " you are not going to believe this. My husband told me that as we prayed....Jesus appeared to Him...walked over to Him and hugged him for 5 minutes ". |
Thank you for sharing this event. I was touched by your experience.
I have come across the life-stories of many Muslims in particular who saw visions of Jesus Christ, and ultimately committed their lives to Christ.
Many people from other religions as well are coming to Christ (some through such visions).
E.g., see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/00.html
Cordially,
John
| From adriatic (Q603. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
Due to human sin.
The Bible teaches us that all humans are inclined towards sin (of various kinds). One such evil is racism.
The Bible teaches us also that all humans (no matter what color or race) are made equally in the image of God. This is why many committed Christians worked against slavery (and the slave trade) and ultimately succeeded in abolishing the slave trade, and slavery in many countries.
For more info regarding what the Bible teaches on this and other topics, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
In the New Testament book of Philemon (http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible/ntbooks.html ) the Christian Apostle Paul asks a slave-owner to accept his slave as a brother (rather than as a slave). This example has inspired many Christians through the years (to work for justice for slaves around the world).
Cordially,
John
| From Sweetzy (Q602. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
Can somebody explain to me about Buddha and Judaism as well as the holy books, make it simple.. i just wanna know the basic believes. True facts Please. |
Buddha was originally a Prince (named Siddharta) in ancient India. He was moved by human suffering and went off to try to figure out how to alleviate human suffering. As the story goes, he attained enlightenment (regarding suffering etc and how to avoid suffering) under a Bodhi tree.
The goal of Buddhism is to escape suffering and endless repeated reincarnations. Such escape is possible by correctly understanding the causes of suffering and following the 8-fold path of Right views, aspirations, speech, conduct, livelihood, effort, mindfulness and concentration.
For more info regarding Buddhism, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/relig/buddhism.html
--
The God of Judaism is the God of the Tanach (the Old Testament).
For more info regarding Judaism, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/relig/judaism.html
The founder of Christianity -- Jesus was himself born a Jew. He claimed to be Deity. The miracles he performed and His resurrection convinced many of his Jewish contemporaries that his claims were true. The resulting collection of believers were initially almost entirely Jewish. Over time, non-Jewish Gentiles experienced the power of Christ in their lives and joined the community of believers and Christianity spread around the world.
Cordially,
John
| From UWG lover (Q601. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 8:04 pm. Seeker) |
Im just curious about what others believe in... |
I am a Christian.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From mofri (Q600. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
which religion has it? the answer cant be christianity and islam, b/c each one denies the other, so if there is one, who owns it? |
Yes, there is an absolute truth.
I have grown convinced that the person and the teachings of Jesus Christ (in the New Testament) are the greatest revelation of God.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From samgangly13 (Q598. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
Spiritual Insight of this...? |
These verses appear to support the doctrine of the Trinity (that there is **one** God who manifests himself in three personas / persons / manifestations ).
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/trinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From celticremark (Q596. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
I'm 23 years old and am lookimng for it all. |
You can achieve contentment by truly (and sincerely) committing your life to Christ, and then living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
For a brief explanation of how to come into relationship with the God of the Universe, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
It was after this that I was able to experience contentment in my life.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Jamie Lynn (Q594. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
and please do not write nothing against them or i will get extreamly mad because the priest that i have grown up with are the nicest men in the world so until you actually know one of many of them for yourselves you don't have room to talk just because of what you see in the news. |
nope..
Cordially,
John
| From amai_74 (Q593. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
I have been very hurt and disappointed from people around me and need a pick me up, but not sure how. |
The idea of Karma was originally supposed to apply across reincarnated lives.
I do not believe in reincarnation (and so do not believe in Karma across reincarnated lives).
However I do believe that the Christian God will bless you if you choose to bless others (with your time, your talents, your compassion etc). So in a sense one could call that Christian-Karma... :)
So, as a Christian, I invite you to commit your life to Jesus Christ. You can then experience his peace, love and joy in your life.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. (For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html )
It was after this that I experienced the Love, Joy and Peace of God on a daily basis (and you could call this good Christian Karma if you wish).
Cordially,
John
| From reba4k (Q592. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
I heard recently that other (non-Biblical) traditional texts say it was the paralytic who had been healed by the Sheep's Pool. This seems unlikely to me, but I can't find the story that's out there being referred to. |
The Bible doesnt say this.
I agree with you. It would seem unlikely that someone who Jesus had healed would then slap him.
Cordially,
John
| From Jub Jub (Q589. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
My understanding is that some are, but not all.
Cordially,
John
| From Soapstone (Q588. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
A Protestant, is typically, a non-Catholic Christian who has committed his/her life to God based on the gospel of Jesus Christ.
For a brief explanation of the gospel (of salvation through Jesus Christ), see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
I am a non-denominational evangelical Christian (and would be classified as a protestant Christian).
Cordially,
John
| From princess_isa_of_spicez (Q584. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
We had heard from our friends that the Lord was making gold dust appear on people in his church. i was so, so skeptical but I wanted to believe that Jesus would do anything to bless His bride.There was a speaker that was given this gift quite often due at his church so we went. I sat up front so i could see if this was true or a hoax. The pastor came out to introduce this woman and I was eager to see her and this gold dust. As I sat there with a great war in my mind about it being true or not..this pastor friend was telling us that God was going to bless us with His gold. I sat and as I watched him walk and speak, the gold dust began to appear all over his face and legs.I couldnt deny it as I saw it popping into existance right in front of me. Then the lady came out and began to tell us how the Lord had healed her and gold began to appear all over her face and literally a cloud of it was appearing all over her from head to toe. Later I found a bible word that means 'gold dust spice'. |
Thank you for sharing this.
I am touched by your experience.
Cordially,
John
| From nicholas_dloniak (Q583. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
I am a Christian, and I do not hate Judas.
If anything, I feel sympathy / compassion for him...
Cordially,
John
| From raaj22 (Q582. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
Sai Baba is a man, a Hindu Guru, who claims to be god.
One of his close followers wrote a book based on his experiences in following Sai Baba (followed by growing disillusionment with Sai Baba, followed by the writer's coming to Christ).
The name of the book is:
Lord of the Air: Tales of a Modern Antichrist,
by Tal Brooke
and is available at http://www.amazon.com
Cordially,
John
| From striker478 (Q581. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
Yes, there are people who have had Near Death Experiences.
For discussion of Near Death Experiences (and references to studies regarding NDEs), see http://www.godsci.org/gsi/doxa/god/args/00.html
Cordially,
John
| From Ma Lee (Q580. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
did this mean that she couldn't marry? |
No, she could marry.
Her sin was that she was living with a man that she was not married to.
Cordially,
John
| From BabyDoll (Q579. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
Love.
The Christian God's nature is best described by "God is Love".
Cordially,
John
| From goodwithmyhands61 (Q576. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
I gather from your question that you are an intelligent person ;)
For intelligent Christians (and intelligent Christianity), check out
http://www.GodAndScience.org
http://www.GodSci.org
http://www.reasons.org
:)
Cordially,
John
| From amulet (Q574. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
A Christian would be disobeying the Christian God if he were to do so...
Cordially,
John
| From curry520 (Q573. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
Heard about the Holocost, but a meeting of important Nazi generals to discuss it like in "Conspiracy" on TV seems irrational. What was the pressing need to get rid of the Jews. I don't understand it. |
The Old Testament shows us how the Jews were the Chosen People (chosen as God's people, to share the good news of possible relationship with God).
As a result of this, Lucifer (an angel who rebelled against God) has had an intense dislike of the Jews (and of Christians who obey God).
In keeping with this, many people and races and cultures have hated the Jews (and today hate committed Christians as well).
Part of this is due to instigation by Lucifer; part of this is by the instigation of those who have been influenced by evil; part of this is by the instigation of those who have been influenced by anti-Semites and anti-Christians of various kinds.
The Nazi leaders for instance were followers of the Occult and the Nordic Pagan religions (in explicit rejection of the Christianity of the Bible). The Nazis persecuted and killed both Jews as well as committed Christians.
The Communists (of the Soviet Union and China) have explicitly been atheists and have severely persecuted both Jews and committed Christians.
Many Muslim nations are also severely persecuting Jews and committed Christians.
More than 150,000 Christians have been killed per year by anti-Christians in the last couple of decades.
And more Christians have been killed in the 20th century than in all of the centuries before that.
Cordially,
John
| From anzoo30b (Q572. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
The Holy Grail was a term used through the centures for the cup that Jesus drank out of at the Last Supper (before he will killed on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From lord_andy_of_all (Q571. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
I have talked to someone who I don't think would lie she and her boyfriend told me that I Bible apeared that said "Would you have a relationship with someone who could phase you out or go through an endless sea of thoubles that could phase you out" and I said "show me what it would be like if I didn't." but it takes this long to try to understand this universe there are some tools (not just telescopes) but machenes that have helped us understand things even though they are limited but over time they might one day end the confusion that comes with a big complex and disproportional universe. and since I've made that choice I love those I fought for. |
Yes, many things happened before the writing of the book of Genesis (e.g., all of the creation, as well as the lives of all of the humans before the time of Moses).
If you are asking of something happened before the events described in Genesis, yes...
God existed. He always existed (before the events described in Genesis).
And then, as Genesis states "In the beginning (of time; i.e., of the physical time of our physical universe) God created the heavens and the earth..." etc.
For a discussion of God, Infinity and Time, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/infinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From swellsourskittles (Q569. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
The return of Jesus Christ (will stop all terrorism).
Cordially,
John
| From superlacop (Q568. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
I'm a Christian, and I dont use Lime Wire.
Cordially,
John
| From california1488 (Q567. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
what is the meaning of what happening now in the bloody places?!?!? |
What's happening in the bloody places -- is a reflection (and consequence) of human sin.
Cordially,
John
| From pocomaxsandy (Q566. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
Satan (is referred to as the ruler of this world in the Bible).
E.g., see John 12:31, 14:30, and 16:11.
That power is permitted by God. When Jesus returns, Satan and his power will be overthrown.
Cordially,
John
| From Greymelken (Q563. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
And what do you know about this list? Share what you know about Jehova's Witness, why they go door to door, and what separates them from the other protestant christian denominations. |
I have had Jehovah's Witness missionaries come to my door on several occasions (and have met with them and discussed their beliefs in comparison with what the Bible teaches).
The following are Jehovah's Witness beliefs that are different from those of Protestant Christian Denominations.
Jehovah's Witnesses believe:
1. in the leadership of the Watchtower Society.
2. that the Trinity is false.
3. that Jesus is a created being, not God.
4. that Jesus was (and is) Michael the Archangel.
5. that the Holy Spirit is a Force not a person/persona of God.
6. that only 144,000 Jehovah's Witnesses will go to heaven.
7. that the other Jehovah's Witnesses will live for eternity on planet earth.
8. that once we die, we cease to exist, until God re-creates us at the Resurrection (before the Judgment).
9. that we, humans, do not possess an eternal soul that can survive the death of our body.
10. that when our body dies, we die; i.e., no spirit or soul survives the death of our body.
For articles that evaluate the teachings of the Jehovah's Witnesses, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/jw/jw00.html
Cordially,
John
| From Heba (Q561. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 7:20 pm. Seeker) |
It's too easy to be rough. Any one can do that. |
I agree with you that it can be hard. And there is always a possibility that I might slip up sometime...
Cordially,
John
| From marcellina_dago (Q560. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
|
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. [Philippians 4:6-7]
Cordially,
John
| From ajharpo (Q557. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
Let's say, Jesus was married to ole Mary, his cohort and beloved wife, then why would that be such a disgrace or sacriligious to God's name? The bible says she was a whore. But the accounts of this were written by men who depised her, especially Peter. Was it bad for Jesus to be married? How could a man of his age before his death be a bachelor? Jewish men had to be married by then. What if he was gay? What if he did have a blood line? Would that not make him more human than deity? If this was all true, then why would the Catholic church hide such a thing? Are we all male chauvinistic pigs? I am not liberal or conservative. A fine line in between. Please enlightment me with you answers! Thanks! BTW Jesus does love you. |
If Jesus were married, it would not reduce him in any way.
The point however, is that credible historical records indicate that Jesus was not married.
The alleged evidence put forward by Dan Brown in the DVC (for Jesus' alleged marriage) is basically weak to non-existent as evidence goes.
Cordially,
John
| From NGL007 (Q556. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
And there is not visible owner...keep it, returned to lost and found... |
Try to find the owner.
If you do your best to find the owner and fail, then use the money to help others (rather than spending the money on yourself).
Cordially,
John
| From rasco170 (Q553. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
|
Some Muslims believe in Islam because that is what they have been taught.
And there are other Muslims are sincerely seeking the God of the universe, and I see such Muslims coming to Christ.
E.g., see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From birdsdafly (Q552. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
What was it like and what did you obseve, have you ever had dreams about angles? I was having a lil pain in my chest area, but not that intense for a doctor care. I had one before, an angle touch me I was sleeping and awaken by the feeling. That Sunday morning I went to church. the pastor wife had heart surgery years later, and sense someone in the audience had the same problem. she focus on me, and said something about the heart. I did'nt say a word, hoping she would stop but instead she kept at it. Finanlly I Spoke,and told her about the dream she then fainted. |
Thank you for sharing your experience. I was touched by your story.
I have come across Muslims who have had a dream or vision about Jesus (after which they started reading the Injil -- the New Testament, and ultimately committed their lives to Christ).
Many people from other faiths and world-views (including Islam) are commiting their lives to Christ. E.g., see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From aiyana (Q551. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
Or is it just a coincidence as there are so many characters in the whole writings that there is more than ample space for a pattern to be formed. |
I personally do not believe in the Bible Code (though I do believe in the Bible, and in the God of the Bible).
Cordially,
John
| From Richard (Q550. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
If you consider yourself a religious person, can you answer this? |
I do not consider myself to be a religious person. However,
I live in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
Who gives me a harder time about my relationship with God ?
I would say internet atheists.
Cordially,
John
| From tommyboy38109 (Q549. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
I read a book about reincarnation. Every time you die, you are reincarnated over and over again untill you learn all your lessons, and then you will reach Enlightenment (Heaven). Thats the short of it. So if each time we die, if we have wronged someone we are returned to earth, to learn from past mistakes, that makes it seem as if Earth is Hell. I mean here we can feel pain, sicknizz, and suffer from so much, and the happiness that we can feel here is nothing compared to what happiness that supposed to await us in the afterlife. |
From the viewpoint of traditional Hindu Reincarnation, Earth (and our lives here) is indeed Hell.
Yoga, rituals, self-discipline, worship are all used as methods to try to break through the curse of reincarnation (to break the cycle of being reincarnated again and again into this Hell on earth that our lives are -- at least according to Hinduism).
The Christian God teaches however that earth is not Hell. It is bootcamp and was designed by God for purposes of developing character, integrity and Christlikeness in us (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose... )
And the Christian God teaches us that that we have only **one** life after which we are to be judged (and our eternal destiny is settled based on our one life and how we lived it).
Cordially,
John
| From Brown sugar (Q546. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
|
The Christian God is against Racism.
This is one thing that drew me to the Christian God.
Cordially,
John
| From MattC (Q545. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
|
To live in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
That is to fulfill God's purposes for us...
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose.html
Cordially,
John
| From Nahimana (Q544. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
|
None.
Cordially,
John
| From enduring_hope (Q542. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 5:29 pm. Seeker) |
|
Humans are naturally inclined towards self-serving and selfish behavior. In that sense we are naturally inclined towards evil (on the other hand, when we follow our conscience, or obey God's commandments, we are going against our natural inclinations).
Cordially,
John
| From liset_te (Q540. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Seeker) |
|
I have a reasonable understanding of the basics of Buddhism.
Feel free to contact if you have any specific questions regarding Buddhism.
Note: I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ. For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Veronica (Q538. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Seeker) |
|
I have had near-mystical experiences (in addition to intellectual reasons) that have contributed to my commitment to God (through what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross).
I have also had a hundred or more prayers answered by The Christian God (by his kindness and Grace).
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
The near-mystical experiences are described at the link above (if you are interested).
Cordially,
John
| From Know-It-All (Q536. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Seeker) |
This is just a random question. |
Kindness, consideration, and the 7 virtues.
Cordially,
John
| From js_08_fs (Q533. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Seeker) |
i believe that god created everything but theres one thing that i dont get..... |
In answer to your questions:
1. God always existed. He never came into existence out of non-existence.
2. Nothing created God.
For more detailed discussion of God, Infinity and Time, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/infinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From pacificwaves.rm (Q527. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Seeker) |
|
See http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.htm...
for a brief overview of each of the books in the Bible.
The overviews are listed in the sections titled "Books of the Bible (Old Testament; brief overviews)" and "Books of the Bible (New Testament; brief overviews)"
A brief overview/description of the stories in the Bible is in the works (but not ready for the web yet).
Cordially,
John
| From enigma21 (Q526. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Seeker) |
I am interested if anyone sees the development of leadership among Christians. |
Bishop = overseer (shepherd) of the church.
At first, the immediate disciples/ apostles of Jesus Christ provided leadership to the early Christian congregations.
However, with time, as Christianity spread to many cities and many local churches were formed, these became too many for the individual disciples/apostles to lead.
So, other leaders were appointed in the early churches, by the disciples/apostles of Chrit.
Cordially,
John
| From packers1665 (Q523. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Seeker) |
All I really need to know is what it is and where it came from. Please don't waste a long time typing a long paper or anything, all I need is a definition. |
The doctrin comes from Calvinism.
Within Hard Calvinism: the Elect are those who are chosen by God for Salvation.
Within Soft Calvinism (and Arminianism): the elect are those who are saved (whether by God's choice, or their own choice).
Cordially,
John
| From sweetgal (Q522. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:33 pm. Seeker) |
When Jesus was crusified,two thieves were also crucified along with Him.When one of them repenteed and asked Jesus to remember him when He is with God ,Jesus answered "You shall be with me in Paradise today"...which means that the person reaches his destiny on the very day of his death. |
Also look at the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus (the beggar).
Immediately after a person dies, their soul goes to be with God in heaven (if they are saved) or goes to a holding area that is Hell, or is like Hell (if they are not saved) while they wait for Judgment day.
At the Judgment, the bodies of the dead will be raised (or resurrected) and united with their souls. On Judgment day, God will pronounce eternal judgment on the unsaved (and provide rewards or remove rewards from the saved, depending on the extent to which they obeyed God while on earth).
After the Judgment, the saved will continue to be with God in heaven. And the unsaved will be punished (to an extent that matches the degree of thier sins). In some versions of Christian theology, the unsaved will then be destroyed. In other versions of Christian theology, the unsaved will continue to experience negative consequences for the lives they lived (but the more evil they were the worse the negative consequences; and the less evil they were, the less the negative consequences).
So, the Judgment is really a proclamation (or confirmation) of Judgment -- rather than a place where a person's fate is to be discussed, evaluated and then decided upon.
Cordially,
John
| From sweetistperson (Q518. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Seeker) |
he made us in his on image why should he hate us. he loves us not hate us. and all this war and everything going on is not his fault , its the work of the devil, don't you believe that, i do |
Usually due to some misfortune they have faced. Some people blame God for their misfortunes -- and so think that God hates them.
Wars can arise due to human sinfulness...
Cordially,
John
| From Contemplative Chanteuse (Q515. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Seeker) |
I'm not asking who in the Gospels became Christians, but is anyone in the Gospels called a Christian in the Gospels? |
The term Christian was a derogatory term used to mock the followers of Jesus Christ (and meant "little christ").
The term was first used in Antioch and is reported in the book of Acts.
Also see...
Acts 11: 26
26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
Acts 26: 28
28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.
1 Pet. 4: 16
16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
Cordially,
John
| From anup (Q514. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Seeker) |
|
Human life or life in general?
Life in general or "Life that is meaningful and purposeful" ?
Life is meaningful and purposeful when one is living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From Off my meds (Q510. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Seeker) |
|
Probably not. The Christian God is a compassionate God (who doesnt mock us in our frailties).
Cordially,
John
| From basua6 (Q508. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Seeker) |
From Hindu mythology -- to celebrate the victory of a good king over a bad king (If I recall correctly, Rama's victory over Ravana -- to rescue Rama's wife Sita whom Ravana had kidnapped). |
Cordially,
John
| From Dev (Q503. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Seeker) |
From marerialistic concept to spiritualistic (human values) one. |
Each person has to make that choice (to focus on materialism or on God).
Cordially,
John
| From Tom C (Q502. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Seeker) |
Would there be crime? Hunger? STD's? |
As close to heaven as we could get to (as humans) on earth...
There would be no betrayal, no crime, no divorce, no families torn apart by gossip, no drug abuse, and the things you mentioned above...
Cordially,
John
| From taxodonte (Q501. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:22 pm. Seeker) |
Genesis 6:2, The sons of God (angels) saw that the daughters of men were beautiful, and they married any of them they chose. |
Good question :)
Consider ...
Matthew 22:30: "At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven"
This suggests that Angels are not gender/sex/romance driven...
The phrase "sons of God" can also be interpreted as "sons of lords" or "sons of judges". or alternatively as "sons of the godly" (sons of the Godly line of Seth) in contrast to the "daughters of men" (or daughters of the godless line of Cain).
So, the verse can be understood as referring to marriage between descendents of those who followed YHWH (e.g., the spiritual or literal line of Seth) and the descendents of those who rejected YHWH (e.g., the spiritual or literal line of Cain).
The passage is not necessarily saying that Angels married human women...
--
Also, 1 Cor 11:10,15 are consistent with the idea of women being modest in their appearance at church -- in some of the cultures relevant to the NT, loose long hair (that was not tied back or confined in a head covering of some sort) was a hallmark of a courtesan (a prostitute). For Christian women to dress (or look) like a prostitue would be a breach of decorum (distract men etc) in the church.
And Angels in attendance at Christian worship would be sensitive to such a breach of decorum (because in a sense they watch over the spiritual health of a church -- and women appearing like prostitutes within the church would detract from the spiritual health of the church etc)...
So, 1 Cor 11:10 can be understood as referring to angels in this context (as in the paragraph above), rather than due to their likelihood of falling in love with the women.
--
So, overall, I would be inclined to think that angels are not likely to fall in love with human women (the verses above do not necessitate that angels can fall in love with women).
Cordially,
John
| From sarah_lones22 (Q499. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
My family is Catholic and I was brought up Catholic. I read the Bible and did some research on my own and I found out that a lot of the things in the Catholic church did not match with what the Bible said. Why did you convert? How did you get out? What did your Catholic parents say? This is a lot of questions, but I am a "Catholic" high school student and I don't want to be Catholic anymore. Any info, ideas, and suggestions will help! |
Have you considered an Evangelical Christian Church?
Cordially,
John
| From sen831 (Q498. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
I'm a Christian too, but I would really like to hear some reasons from other Christians as to why I should continue believing the Bible. No, I am not falling away from the faith; I am simply curious as to the responses you will give me. Do not tell me "because it is!"; I think that we've all had enough of that, though I think it is. Support of your answers with personal experiences or evidence. What makes the Bible the truth instead of a good (but long) bedtime novel? |
You request personal experience or evidence...
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Can we believe the Bible? See http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/bible.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From poohgirl (Q497. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
I would love to hear your stories on how you came to know Christ as your personal Saviour! |
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From chemistman (Q494. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
|
in which world ?
Cordially,
John
| From dcoltsfan (Q492. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
what are they really afraid of? is it that they are afraid He is real? |
I love God and respect Him. I am personally not afraid of God (because He has adopted me into his family based on what Jesus did for me on the cross).
Some people are afraid of God because they are aware of the Judgment (where our lives, our thoughts, and our actions will be judged by God).
Cordially,
John
| From sarah_lones22 (Q490. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
|
Thank you for your question.
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From Rose (Q489. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
|
What would you like to know.
Hinduism has different aspects (a) polytheism, (b) pantheism.
Polytheistic Hinduism believes in millions of gods.
Pantheistic Hinduism believes that the universe is god (including all objects within the universe).
Hindus also believe in Karma, Maya (illusion), Reincarnation and Nirvana.
Yoga, Rituals and worship are intended to break the cycle of Reincarnation to achieve Nirvana (cessation of personhood).
Cordially,
John
| From ymna24682002 (Q488. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
Is there a site that states how many people converted to another religion and so on by time period? |
I dont know about numbers (of such converts), but I know that many people from other faiths (and world-views) are commiting their lives to Christ.
E.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/00.html
Cordially,
John
| From inhim (Q487. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
for thier mistakes or things theyve said or done, people just have to be so mean its like im trying to do the right thing. |
I empathize... that is difficult when people are mean like this...
Cordially,
John
| From CruT (Q486. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
And why havent they been seen since?and what is the deal with people with dark skin being sinners? I'm not hating just trying to get a grasp on it |
The Mormon church teaches that Joseph Smith found golden tablets. From what I've seen, some Mormons believe this, and some don't.
The golden tablets havent been seen since because according to Joseph Smith they were taken up to heaven by an angel.
Also according to early prophets of the Mormon Church, dark skinned people were cursed with dark skin because they sinned against the Mormon God.
Cordially,
John
| From Mee (Q484. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
I have and a month later I got a call from some guy reading from a card. How about you? |
I did once. And I was visited by LDS missionaries (who tried to get me to join the LDS church).
We had some friendly conversations, and I learned a lot about Mormonism (but did not join the LDS church because I came to the conclusion that the Mormon God is not the God of the Bible, and the Mormon Jesus is not the Jesus of the Bible).
Cordially,
John
| From helen b (Q482. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
whats the reason you have changed to know God(Jesus christ) as your personal saviour ? any specific to become a christian? |
I used to be an atheist. Over a period of time however, I grew convinced of the existence of the Christian God, and ultimately committed my life to Christ.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
Cordially,
John
| From i4u_truely (Q481. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:12 pm. Seeker) |
|
Following the example of Jesus Christ.
Cordially,
John
| From Intro (Q479. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:02 pm. Seeker) |
I wouldnt do it. I've just always wondered. |
I think it is possible (at least in principle). There are many testimonies of people who did make deals with Satan.
Cordially,
John
| From MixedBeauty (Q477. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:02 pm. Seeker) |
|
Living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From ghost buster (Q476. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:02 pm. Seeker) |
Now tell me why do people lie when they do a mistake if so why do they do a mistake in the first place |
Human sinfulness.
It is often easier for people to lie to cover up a mistake, than to admit the truth (and face the possible consequences).
Cordially,
John
| From katykat (Q473. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:02 pm. Seeker) |
I am a 15 yr old catholic girl and i like my best friend. He is a firm atheist whith no possibility of change, but is a great guy. Would it be bad to date him? |
First, if you are culturally Catholic (and but not a committed Catholic Christian) then it does not matter if you date an Atheist.
However, of you are a committed Catholic Christian (who lives in daily relationship with the God of the Universe, based on what Jesus Christ did for you on the cross)...
... then the Bible recommends that you should not be unequally yoked (i.e., do not date or marry anyone who is not a committed Christian). Following that recommendation can save you a lot of pain and grief in the future.
Cordially,
John
| From Anonymous (Q466. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:02 pm. Seeker) |
|
As far as Justification (salvation) is concerned all sin is the same, in the sense that the smallest sin that we commit is enough to disqualify us from entry to heaven.
As far as Sanctification (growing to be like Christ) is concerned, some sins are worse than others. E.g., to hate someone is a lesser sin than to murder someone.
Also, as far as punishment in the negative afterlife is concerned some sins are worse than others. The NT indicates that there are levels of punishment in hell (consistent with the idea that there are degrees of sin).
Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit (systematic rejection of God and everything he is doing to draw us to him through the work of the Holy Spirit) is presented in the NT as an unforgiveable sin. Other sins are not presented as being unforgiveable. This is an example of a sin that is worse than others.
So, gossip is not the same as murder; however gossip can be as destructive (in destroying families, marriages, people, careers) as murder.
Cordially,
John
| From horstpferd420 (Q465. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:02 pm. Seeker) |
|
Duty to help your fellow men -- makes sense if Christianity is true (i.e., if the Christian God exists, and we believe his statement in the Bible that we are to help our less fortunate fellow men).
Gluttony is a sin (a mark of self-centered indulgence) whether by consumers from the US or from anywhere else in the world.
Cordially,
John
| From Bart S (Q464. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:02 pm. Seeker) |
|
Yes.
I used to be an atheist, but over a period of time have grown convinced that there is a God.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For scientific and intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
For evidence for the historicity and truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html1
Cordially,
John
| From puddingpop77 (Q462. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 4:02 pm. Seeker) |
|
I dont own this.. but the most prized thing in my life is my daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From Ike (Q457. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Seeker) |
|
Philippians 4:6-7
(in the Christian Bible)
Cordially,
John
| From citydancing77 (Q456. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Seeker) |
Have you ever been "the woman at the well?" |
I am a Christian (a guy, though).
I empathize with the woman at the well. I too was lost in sin (of a different kind than hers though) before Christ brought me to Himself.
For a draft-version of my journey from atheism to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/seek.html
For the life-stories of others who turned from lives of Sin (and/or from other worldviews), to Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/00.html
Cordially,
John
| From edd_805 (Q455. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Seeker) |
|
Christianity is based on Jesus Christ's death on the cross followed by his Resurrection... that these make it possible for us to be reconciled with God (if we commit our lives to God based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
The bottom line is for you to come into daily relationship with the God of the Universe through what Jesus did for us on the cross (whether you are Catholic or Christian or a Catholic Christian).
Feel free to email me if you would like to know more.
Cordially,
John
| From gravesendian (Q454. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Seeker) |
|
The OT says that the Messiah would be called Immanuel (meaning God with us). This was to represent his nature (that he was/is God with us; God in human form).
Jesus is presented as God with us (God in human form) in the New Testament.
The OT prophecy that Jesus would be called Immanuel has been literally fulfilled by Christians and Messianic Jews who have called Jesus Immanuel (recognizing that he is God with us) through the centuries.
Cordially,
John
| From neil l (Q450. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Seeker) |
|
There is nothing outside of God that forces him to be good.
Rather, God freely chooses to be good. And it is in keeping with God's Nature to be good.
Cordially,
John
| From headingthatway (Q446. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Seeker) |
|
You could read, or watch TV, or answer dialog here :)
Or you could join a Singles group (at a local church if you are a Christian) or elsewhere (if you are not), and you could join the activities of the singles group...
Cordially,
John
| From pala a (Q445. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Seeker) |
|
Nope (I have never been on welfare or on any charity program).
However my taxes are used to pay for welfare and charity programs, and I have volunteered (through church) to help the poor, feed the hungry, visit the sick etc.
Cordially,
John
| From cailloumoon (Q443. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Seeker) |
I mean, I see it in here all the time, and I'm wondering now, WHAT is evil? Is eatting shell fish evil? Is Desiring your neighbors wife, although you don't act upon those impulses evil? How about murdering MILLIONS of people in the name of GOD? That evil? Or Creating a new Bio-Virus that can kill people in the name of peace? Is that evil? Please explain to me. I just see the word EVIL a lot, and I think it's getting a little outta hand. |
Jesus summarized the 10 commandments when he said "love God with all your heart, mind and soul/strength" (that is the first 5 of the 10 commandments), and "love your neighbor as yourself" (that is the second 5 of the 10 commandments).
Breaking either of the two summarized commandments is a reasonable working definition of evil.
Cordially,
John
| From Dana D (Q442. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Seeker) |
|
Why not several?
Because even though there are commonalities among the different religions, they contradict one another on key issues (such as the existence and nature of God; the significance of Jesus; the way of Salvation; the presence or absence of an afterlife etc).
I am a non-denominational Evangelical Christian (as summarized here http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose.html ).
Cordially,
John
| From rkroxmysox915 (Q441. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:50 pm. Seeker) |
Any suggestions? |
Psalm 23; Psalm 1; Philippians 4:6-7
Cordially,
John
| From Liz (Q439. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Seeker) |
Well I can't really explain without going into to much detail, but I cut my hair, and now I'm dying for it to grow back. I gained a couple pounds from the advice of worried peers who thought I was going through anorexia (I wasn't). But most importantly I’m not happy lately and I don’t know why (but I do know it is not hormones)? |
Could be that you are experiencing existential angst... :)
For me (and for other committed Christians), happiness arises from my daily relationship with the God of the Universe through what Jesus did for us on the cross.
When you are living in a manner consistent with God's purpose for you (and for this universe), you can experience consistent Joy. That has been my experience.
For a brief explanation of God's purposes in creating the Universe and human beings, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose...
The offer (of a daily relationship with God) is open to you as well.
Cordially,
John
| From da dude (Q433. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Seeker) |
|
Lord, and LORD :)
Cordially,
John
| From d_phillips73 (Q432. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Seeker) |
|
Living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From princess_in_chanting (Q430. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Seeker) |
I had sensed the Lord for weeks telling me that I didnt know Him the way I needed to. He was also urging me to attend a series of upcoming meetings. As I sat in the back and listened to this man sing and play in deep worship of Jesus I heard and saw his wife deeply laugh all night long. I was stunned and sure I made a mistake in attending but came again as God instructed the next night. There she was again, laughing hysterically as she and her husband adored the Lord. Suddenly the Presence of Jesus fell on me so strong that I was filled to overflowing with the deepest laughter I had ever experienced. I laughed so hard I cried and laughed for weeks after that as I adored the Lord Jesus.The Lord then began to tell me over and over again..." my face is shining on you and filling you with joy as u adore me... The language of Heaven is laughter!". Here is their website if you want to take a sip of Heavenes wine... |
Thank you for sharing this. I was touched by your experience.
Cordially,
John
| From brad_pasla (Q429. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Seeker) |
ok...if you are catholic, you are assumed to go to heaven if you are a good person generally.....but if you are from a different land, its natural to believe in different things because that is your culture....you could be the most generous person in the world, but according to the bible (which is very picky) you would not be on the same level as a catholic/christian correct? i am catholic, and have basically learned that cathlics are "above" other religions and are closest to God, which i feel is "BS". what do you all think about this? In the bible's eyes, i'd go to heaven before a generous hindu man right? |
If you commit your life to God based on what Jesus Christ has done for you (and me) on the cross, then you are saved... this is true whether you are a Catholic or a Protestant or a Hindu or a Jew, or a Buddhist or a Muslim (culturally).
Many people from other faiths (and world-views) are commiting their lives to Christ. E.g., see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/00.html
Cordially,
John
| From pogiako (Q428. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Seeker) |
|
A Smart is typically viewed as one who has a high IQ.
A Wise person is one who lives his/her life in light of Eternity -- in daily relationship with the God of the universe -- and who makes life-decisions based on this relationship with, and knowledge of, God.
Cordially,
John
| From starcameo (Q427. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Seeker) |
|
Yes, I am happy
...living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did on the cross for me). :)
Cordially,
John
| From Emily (Q426. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Seeker) |
|
Books regarding Science, Christianity, the existence of God...
because I love to read -- particularly on these topics :)
Cordially,
John
| From saintfighteraqua (Q425. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Seeker) |
Of the following elements, which do you consider more powerful/important? |
Light.
God is Light and in Him is no Darkness... :)
God = The Christian God.
Cordially,
John
| From xxjayz894xx (Q424. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Seeker) |
|
I dont know if you are sinning as a Catholic... however if you believe in Karma in the Buddhist sense (i.e., that you are reincarnated again and again, and Karma from a previous life comes back to bite you), then your belief is not consistent with the teachings of the Catholic church.
The Catholic church teaches that you have only one life to live on earth (and after that is death followed ultimately by the judgment).
BTW, I am not Catholic. I am a non-denominational Evangelical Christian.
Cordially,
John
| From curious angel (Q423. Archived Friday, 16-Jun-2006, 3:38 pm. Seeker) |
opinion please???????????????????... |
I'm not sure what you mean by "systemic medical element it was breaking generational curses".
Cordially,
John
| From tanoli (Q417. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Seeker) |
|
Living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus did for us on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From jennifer (Q413. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Seeker) |
what do i do im so confused i dont know if i continue to like him, or if i say good bye? arent mormons not aloud to date christans, i dont want his parents to hate me or him |
Before you make any decisions, be aware that if you do marry him (someday) you will most likely have to become a Mormon (and/or your children will have to be brought up as Mormons).
As you may know, Mormonism is a different religion from Biblical Christianity. For instance, Mormonism believes in the existence of millions of Gods. The God of this earth (Elohim) was once a man who evolved into God by obedience to the Mormon Gospel. Salvation is ultimately through obedience to the Mormon church and Mormon gospel.
For more info, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/lds/lds.html
Cordially,
John
| From starcameo (Q412. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Seeker) |
If you find you must indulge, do you pray before, during or after? |
If you are in this situation...
Pray for God's help to overcome temptation.
Avoid situations that are likely to tempt you (run away, flee temptation and the source of temptation).
Cordially,
John
| From icer82 (Q409. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Seeker) |
Do you think those people who crucified Jesus will be condemned to Hell? YES or NO and WHY do you say so? |
Those who repented of their sins and turned to God (through Jesus did on the cross) would have been forgiven, and would end up in heaven with God.
Cordially,
John
| From the_moogle_pageant (Q408. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Seeker) |
|
I believe in the Christian God
(as in http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose.html )
Cordially,
John
| From jincy k (Q406. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Seeker) |
if she also sinned then why are people worshipping her |
You are right that people should not be worshipping Mary.
Cordially,
John
| From girl_with_no_identity (Q405. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:51 pm. Seeker) |
|
If we have committed our lives to God based on what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross -- then when we die, we go to be with God, to live in his presence for eternity.
If we reject the gospel of Jesus Christ (i.e., we do not commit our lives to God based on what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross) -- then we will ultimately go to the negative afterlife (where we will experience negative consequences that match the extent to which we sinned and rebelled against God and that match the extent to which we hurt others by our actions or inaction.)
Cordially,
John
| From Osprey (Q397. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Seeker) |
Maybe they are the same? |
There is one God who manifests himself in three persons/personas/manifestation... (referred to as YHWH or Yahweh in the Bible).
YHWH rules in heaven.
For an explanation (and defense) of the doctrine of the Trinity, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/trinity.html
Cordially,
John
| From midnightrider (Q396. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Seeker) |
|
Religion sites are where the interesting conversations are :)
Cordially,
John
| From bac (Q393. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Seeker) |
My spelling maybe wrong. It is the sect of Catholicism in portrayed in the Da Vinci Code. I have heard a bunch of stuff. I saw one report that it is mostly made up of women. |
Opus Dei is an organization which trys to encourage Roman Catholics to more authentically follow Jesus Christ (and his teachings).
The depiction in the DVC is incorrect.
Cordially,
John
| From edd_805 (Q392. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Seeker) |
It was founded in Iran. |
Bahai...
Cordially,
John
| From starcameo (Q386. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Seeker) |
As far as people go, I don't trust anyone. No one. Not one. Moreover, I believe that the intentions of others are nearly always self-serving. |
Thank you for sharing your viewpoint...
It must be lonely to live life without being able to trust anyone...
It is true that humans are self-oriented ny nature (the Bible calls this 'sinful').
However, with maturity and character growth, people can move away from being self-oriented all the time (to just some of the time).
I agree with you that God is not self-serving and He can be trusted.
Cordially,
John
| From toshan_saurabh42690159 (Q385. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Seeker) |
|
In general, religions arise due to human beings seeking the nature of ultimate reality, and due to human beings seeking God.
I have found that all religions (and world-views) have some elements of truth in them.
However, I have also come to the conclusion that Jesus Christ (as presented in the Bible) is the clearest revelation & manifestation of the One True God.
What Jesus did on the cross for us makes reconciliation possible bewteen God and human beings.
Cordially,
John
| From jengen36 (Q384. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Seeker) |
Acts 2:31; He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither did his flesh see coruption. |
The Old Testament uses the term Nepesh (which referred to the entire person, not just the spiritual part we refer to today as the soul).
So Psalm 7 means 'lest he tear me apart like a lion'.
And Ezekiel 18 is referring to the entire person as belonging to God (for both human father, and human son) and is basically saying that God has the right to pronounce judgment on the entire person for sin.
Acts 2 is alluding to one of the Messianic Psalms (saying that the Messiah's body would not be left to rot in the grave; the resurrection of Jesus Christ accomplished this).
The word translated "hell" in Acts 2 is better translated as grave (if I recall correctly). I.e., the Messiah was not left in the grave (Jesus rose from the dead), and the Messiah's body did not experience bacterial decomposition (which was true in the case of Jesus; he rose from the dead, and his body did not decompose in the grave).
Cordially,
John
| From jackdinah (Q383. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:24 pm. Seeker) |
Do we continue to change or progress after we die? |
I believe we have one life on earth (no reincarnation) followed ultimately by the judgment after which we receive eternal life with God (sometimes called heaven) or separation from God (i.e., the negative afterlife, sometimes called hell).
For those who enter the positive afterlife, I think we will continue to grow and progress.
Cordially,
John
| From karabout_u (Q379. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
The tearing of the veil signified that humans can now come directly to God (based on Jesus' death and resurrection) rather than having to go through intermediaries (as in case of the old testament Levitical priesthood).
Cordially,
John
| From curios_believer (Q378. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
After death, our souls go to be with God (if you have committed your life to Jesus Christ) or go to a place separated from God... waiting for the judgment... after the judgment, we either exist in the presence of God (and all that is good, and beautiful) or we exist in separation from God (and from all that is good and beautiful).
Cordially,
John
| From Nizzy (Q372. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
This is a question that my friends and I were talking about. We have been trying to understand it and just can't. Maybe someone can shed some light on this topic. This racism crap has been going on for so many years..I mean why? |
Racism is not purely a "whites hating blacks" kind of thing.
There are some blacks who hate whites (and vice versa), and similarly with any combination of races you can think of.
I think such hatred is a manifestation of human sin.
The Bible teaches us that ALL humans are made equally in the image of God. And this is why all races are equal (and should be treated as equal by us).
Cordially,
John
| From appa (Q371. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
In answer to your questions.
1. Yes, Jesus is God.
2. Yahweh (YHWH) is the God of the Bible.
3. The only God is Yahweh (the Christian God).
4. Yes says that he is the "I AM" (or YHWH).
5. God is a person not a power. However he has power.
Cordially,
John
| From CoN_TrO_vErSe_C (Q370. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
Please dont kill yourself...
God loves you and extends an invitation to you, to come into relationship with Him... and he promises that he will give you Joy and Peace (if you live in daily relationship with Him through what Jesus Christ did on the cross for you and me).
Cordially,
John
| From Franky (Q369. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
Why do you think that only life exsists on earth?Not thinking scientifically. |
I think that life exists only on earth (because the calculated probabilities of life originating elsewhere are too low; and because of the implications of Drake's equation, and the absence of intelligent electro-magnetic signals from the universe around us).
Having said that, it is possible that microbial life from earth has ended up on our neighboring planets (via meteors arising from asteroid impacts on earth)...
Cordially,
John
| From sublimelvr1979 (Q368. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
Nature, Nurture, my Free-Will choices, and my daily relationship with the God of the Universe (through what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From Big Truck (Q367. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
The Alarm clock woke me up :)
Cordially,
John
| From Eagle (Q366. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
Looking down from heaven, you see all the going-ons in planet Earth - Sex before marriage, divorce, wars/unrests in Middle East, bird-flu, earthquakes, hurricanes, robberies, murders, homosexual/lesbian activities, legalised gay marriages, rape, tornadoes, tsunami, child pornography, terrorists, etc. The list goes on. What do you think HE will say? |
Turn to God through what Jesus Christ did on the cross (his death on the cross enables forgiveness, and reconciliation bewteen God and humans).
Cordially,
John
| From stormysquirrel (Q365. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
Suppose these people always did the right and good things for themselves and others and were always 100% considerate of others when formulating your answer. |
Given current human nature, I would say yes.
If human nature were changed so that people always did good for themsleves and others (and were 100% considerate of others), then I would be inclined to say no (they wouldnt need rules or laws).
Cordially,
John
| From Kovacs Levente (Q364. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
Because of a combination of intellectual as well as experiential evidence. For instance, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence...
I am a evangelical Christian.
Cordially,
John
| From Zila R (Q361. Archived Thursday, 15-Jun-2006, 10:04 pm. Seeker) |
|
Jesus Christ.
Cordially,
John
| From jengen36 (Q359. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Seeker) |
2Tim.2:15; Rightly divide the truth. Two or three witnesses have to give facts on the same subject, collect them together and you know all about the resurrection, ect. |
If we read the Bible correctly in context (and using the historic-grammatic-cultural approach) we are likely to come to the same meanings of the words you mention above.
Cordially,
John
| From RealSprite (Q358. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Seeker) |
1. Why must Catholics go to confession for their sins to be forgiven when they say that it is God who forgive their sins? |
I am an evangelical Christian (not a Catholic). However, based on my understanding of Catholicism:
1. Catholics believe in mediated grace. When they confess their sins to a priest, the priest is like an intermediary between the layperson Catholic and God. God is believed to mediate grace through the priest to the layperson Catholic.
2. Catholics believe Mary was a perpetual virgin because the Catholic church teaches that this was the case. They interpret the NT references to Jesus' siblings as cousins rather than immediate brother or sisters.
3. Mary is believed by faith to be sinless (by many Catholics). Such sinlessness is believed to be necessary for her to be an intermediary (in a sense between humans and God). Many Catholics do believe that Mary is a kind of intermediary between God and humans (that is why many Catholics pray to Mary).
4. The infallibility of the Pope is accepted based on faith (by Catholics). The pope is not viewed as infallible at all times, but is viewed as infallible only when he is speaking "ex Cathedra" (i.e., in his official capacity as Pope).
Cordially,
John
| From Charmaine (Q355. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Seeker) |
|
Barnabas... I would like to encourage Christians in their faith.
Cordially,
John
| From snowbboots (Q354. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Seeker) |
|
I do (believe in the Christian God).
Cordially,
John
| From toobeaucoup2005 (Q352. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Seeker) |
|
Very possible.
Be aware though that ghosts are not the souls of people who have died.
Based on the Bible -- Ghosts are spirit beings who rebelled against God (and were exiled from heaven).
Cordially,
John
| From Feras (Q346. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Seeker) |
|
Submission to the Muslim God (through the teachings of Muhammad).
Quote from Zaheer (a Muslim): Islam, a name given by Allah to this religion (Quran 5:4), is an Arabic word which literally means obedience and peace. ISLAM is derived from the Arabic root "SALEMA": peace, purity, submission and obedience. So 'Islam' would mean the path of those who are obedient to Allah and who establish peace with Him... Its follower are called Muslims.
Cordially,
John
| From nish (Q345. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Seeker) |
have you ever seen ?i did see many videos....never saw them in real.... |
I do not personally believe that any spirits of dead people are wandering around us.
Cordially,
John
| From wy123 (Q342. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:34 pm. Seeker) |
|
I would define success as
...staying in daily relationship with the God of the universe through what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross. And being content in whatever circumstances we find ourselves in.
Cordially,
John
| From Bibleville International (Q339. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Seeker) |
Acts 4:10-12... |
The name is Yeshua. Jesus is an anglicization of Yeshua.
The verses are referring to the person ... and stating that there is salvation through the person of Jesus Christ (not in any other)...
The use of the term "name" is idiomatic (and is referring to "person").
A name by itself has no power. The person of Jesus Christ on the other hand has the power of Godhood. I.e., Jesus is God in human form, and so has God powers at his disposal. A name (even his name) has no access to power.
Cordially,
John
| From Charles B (Q338. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Seeker) |
My girlfriend has said she her house is haunted and has recieved cuts on her fingers and legs that felt like a burning match at first and then she sees the cuts shortly afterward. She says it's the way that ghost tell you they are there. Any answers? |
Connection between unexplained cuts and ghosts? Not necessarily.
It could be of interest to verify your girlfriend's statement (regarding her cuts) by independent witnesses... that could lend credibility to her interpretation of the cuts (or could disconfirm the interpretation).
Cordially,
John
| From jom156 (Q337. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Seeker) |
|
If the base is not Jesus -- then what is left is idol worship (the idols can be ourselves, human beings, family, good works, careers, money, sex, drugs, sports, or Satan)...
Cordially,
John
| From wearenotalone20 (Q336. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Seeker) |
not even the aliens. ::tear:: |
Sorry to hear this.
God loves you and invites you to come into relationship with Him (through what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From n2rj (Q334. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Seeker) |
|
Genesis has been attributed to Moses. He either wrote the book, or compiled the information from earlier sources (either way he would be viewed as the author/compiler).
There could have been minor additions to the book after his death.
Cordially,
John
| From rafinuota (Q332. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Seeker) |
Do u believe /read horoscopes ? Do u agree that there's some strength that rules all teh world and us as well? |
I do not belive in Faith (I believe in God, not in Faith).
And I do not believe in horoscopes (and I do not read horoscopes).
I agree with you however that there is a higher Power that rules the world and all of us.
I have come to the conclusion that that higher power is the Christian God.
If you are interested in Evidence for the Existence of God, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
And if you are open to evidence for the Truth of Jesus Christ, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From pinknblack_94 (Q331. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Seeker) |
|
From what I have seen, Astrology does not work.
Its predictions are typically so general that some of the predictions are interpreted by people as having come true.
And predictions that dont come true are ignored.
So, by random chance some fraction of the predictions come true (and are viewed as confirmation of Astrology by some people).
Cordially,
John
| From footsoldiers4jesus (Q330. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Seeker) |
|
Excellent question.
It is more rational to conclude that God exists and that he created the universe (and ultimately, us).
E.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/bigbang.html
and
http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From appa (Q326. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Seeker) |
|
I do not think they are the same (because I do not believe in reincarnation).
I believe in the one incarnation (avatar) of the One God of the Universe. That Avatar was (and is) Jesus Christ, who though he was God, came to earth in the form of a human being, and died on the cross for our sins.
I invite you to consider the claims of Jesus Christ the One Avatar of the One God. For detail, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.htm...
And for more information about Jesus, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.htm...
Cordially,
John
| From dbzgal04 (Q321. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 10:11 pm. Seeker) |
I believe in ghosts, earth-wandering spirits, whatever you want to call them. I must be honest and say that lately I believe I want to be one after "my time" comes. |
Yes, I believe that there are spirits here on earth. However I do not believe any of them are the souls of people who have passed away.
The Bible indicates that 1/3 of the angels joined Lucifer and rebelled against God. Some of these angels were incarcerated (at some stage), waiting for the Judgment. The majority of the others were banished from heaven (apparently to earth).
Those spirit beings can show themselves to susceptible humans, as "ghosts" or "earth-wandering spirits", or "as the souls of humans who have passed away" (but that is deception on the part of such spirits).
Unfortunately (or fortunately?) I do not think you have the option of becoming an earthbound spirit once you die.
Cordially,
John
| From doodlerah (Q320. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
|
Paul (from the New Testament) -- because I am struck by his intelligence.
Jesus (from the New Testament) -- because I am struck by his character.
Peter (from the New Testament) -- because I am struck by his deep love for God and his impulsiveness for God.
Cordially,
John
| From inhim (Q316. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
what is all this noncense, about God being a tyrant who loves to hurt his people, and about him not loving certain people. did he not send his only son to die for us. if that isnt love i dont know what is . |
I agree with you :)
Cordially,
John
| From Ron C (Q314. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
|
People deceive themselves...
By selecting the people they hang out with. By selecting the information they expose themselves to. By selecting the people they trust (and others they choose to not trust).
Cordially,
John
| From bigdude46992 (Q308. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
where did the dinosoars come from and why aren't they in the bible if adam and eve where the first two ppl on the earth? i have ask alot of preachers that and they can't give me a straight answer i know that carbon dating is not accurate but it dosen't say in the bible that while they where buiding the tower of babel some where eatin by a t-rex i am not trying to be funny i just want some input on this |
In response to your questions.
1. God created Dinosaurs.
2. They are not mentioned explicitly in the Bible because the purpose of the Bible is to bring us into relationship with God. The Bible is not a dinosaur text book. E.g., the Dinosaur does not mention the Ming Dynasty in China. It does not do so because that is not the purpose of the Bible.
3. Dinosaurs lived before Adam and Eve (I am an old earth creationist -- for more info on what this is, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/crea/oec.html)....
4. There were no dinosaurs around when the Tower of Babel was being built.
Cordially,
John
| From starcameo (Q307. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
|
There is a God indeed :)
Cordially,
John
| From sharon (Q305. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
|
A mind that is corrupted by rebellion against God.
Cordially,
John
| From so_what_if_im_a_blonde (Q302. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
horrible things happen all over how do you stay optimistic when things get bad |
I am able to stay positive because of my daily relationship with the God of the Universe (through what Jesus Christ has done on the cross for me).
Life without the Christian God is ultimately a Tragedy.
Life with the Christian God is ultimately a Comedy (in the classical sense of having a good ending).
Cordially,
John
| From heirtothethrone (Q301. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:47 pm. Seeker) |
|
You're right that Hell is not a pleasant place...
Cordially,
John
| From GruHairy (Q298. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
the fellowship is nice, I like people, but it depresses me to be around simple simon people who could believe all this tripe, what's a "normal" guy to do? |
I empathize...
Be aware though that there are many very intelligent Christians around. Find some and fellowship with them (if simple Simon turns you off).
For examples of intelligent Christianity, see
http://www.reasons.org (and the church they worship at)...
http://www.godandscience.org
http://www.godsci.org
and there are many other examples as well...
Cordially,
John
| From alan_8469 (Q294. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
and i dont want to here the heaven's |
Jesus always existed as God (Yahweh). He created heaven. He also created the entire physical universe. He created human beings. He then took the form of a human being to effect our salvation.
Cordially,
John
| From alan_8469 (Q293. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
She was born to Jewish parents.
Cordially,
John
| From peaches'n'cream (Q292. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
Im starting to lose my faith now.Im barely 17 years old now,but everyone thinks its an early age.What should I do to help get my faith back? |
Is your faith something you value?
If it is, work hard to not lose it.
If you are interested in evidence for the existence of God
see (http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence... and for the truth of Jesus Christ, see (http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.htm)...
And you are welcome to contact meif you wish to dialog on faith related topics.
Cordially,
John
| From Anonymous (Q290. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
Yahweh (YHWH), "I AM".
Cordially,
John
| From senior2006 (Q287. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
The very use of coins was forbidden lest it corrupt the desires of Spartans. |
The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil (that is the correct translation of the relevant verse in the Bible). This is sometimes misquoted as "money is the root of all evil".
Money is just a tool. It can be used for good or for evil. Having said that, money can be drug-like in its ability to seduce and destroy us.
If a society were stripped of money, we would degenerate into bartering, small tribes and feudalism.
If the profit motive is removed, I think we would degenerate into a subsistence level existence.
Cordially,
John
| From sikn_shadow_420 (Q284. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
if given the perfect opportunity to make millions of dollars (example: importing/exporting drugs or weapons) would you let your morale get in the way or let instict lead the way |
I would not do anything immoral or illegal for any money I earn.
Cordially,
John
| From portjeff143 (Q283. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
Is a mother who is a JW permitted to have contact with her child who used to be a JW but is no longer practising it? Or is she not to ever contact her child again as though he/she never existed? I know of an ex JW in this exact situation but his mother still calls him every now and again. From what I understand she shouldn't be doing this but I may have misinformation. The odd time he will still go and visit her briefly just to tell her he loves her and hug her, and she does the same. But I know it's very difficult for him to do because he does not want to jeopardize her affiliation with the JW's and he has total respect for her that she still practises it. He told me that he does not visit her often because if someone from the JW were to see him there she (his mother) would be disfellowshipped.If this is correct,why shouldn't a mother still be able to see her son? |
My understanding of the Jehovah's Witnesses is that if the son was disfellowshipped, then the mom would be expected to not have contact with him.
Cordially,
John
| From farrahann2727 (Q280. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Seeker) |
|
Personally, I do not choose any topics saying "I would like to stay uninformed on these topics".
Having said that, I do have to prioritize my time due to the many demands on my time. And I prioritize things based on my interests and in accordance with Pascal's Wager (e.g., I am interested in the existence of God, and the rationality of the Christian Faith).
Cordially,
John
| From venuscolony (Q277. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Seeker) |
Read Matt.12:40, For as Jonah was in the belly of the great whale for three days and three nights, so I, the Son of Man, will be in the heart of the earth for three days and three nights. |
Those verses are referring to Jesus' body being in the grave.
Jesus' suffering for us was on the cross (not in hades for 3 nights).
And yes he did declare victory to the spirits who were incarcerated... (a better understanding of that passage is a declaration of victory, rather than a preaching of the gospel to those spirits in prison).
Cordially,
John
| From curiousgothic (Q276. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Seeker) |
I well start the branches should only be christian. |
Presbyterian
Congregationalist
Wesleyan
Episcopalian
Anglican
...
Cordially,
John
| From light_house (Q273. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Seeker) |
where someone is baptised in the title words, father, son, and holy ghost? |
You're right...
The name of the Father is YHWH (Yahweh). The name of the Son is YHWH (Yahweh), also known as Yeshua (aka Jesus). The name of the Holy Spirit is YHWH.
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are manifestations (persons/ personas) of the ONE God, YHWH (Yahweh).
Cordially,
John
| From betterwithpie (Q269. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Seeker) |
do beleive in God and i do beleive |
At various times in my life I have been guided through God's communication in the Bible, and I have felt the presence of God. However I have never heard an audible voice.
Having said that, I have come across Muslims who were truly seeking God, and they say a bright light and an audible voice which said to them "I am the way, the truth and the life. Follow me" ... and this got them to start learning about the prophet Isa (Jesus) and ultimately they committed their lives to Christ.
Cordially,
John
| From iadorelara (Q267. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Seeker) |
i want us all to be more precise in what we desire from now on. focus, ladies and gentlemen it's time to turn ourselves to masterpieces, we can do it! |
Seeking what is honorable for us...
is to seek to know the true God of the universe through what Jesus Christ has done for you (us) on the cross.
Cordially,
John
| From berkeley45 (Q265. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Seeker) |
|
The human consciousness that originates in the brain and is manifested especially in thought, perception, emotion, will, memory, and imagination. (from dictionary.com)
Cordially,
John
| From hotty_who_loves_science (Q263. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Seeker) |
|
I am open to the possibility that there will...
Cordially,
John
| From book_n_dog_lover (Q261. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:34 pm. Seeker) |
|
Nope... :)
Cordially,
John
| From LiViNg4ChRiSt28 (Q259. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
Have you ever accepted Jesus Christ into your life? He loves You and died so that whoever believes in Himshall not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16). The Bible says that whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Romans 10:13) Once you accept Him, He will not let you go (John 10:28). Jesus changed me from a drunk, delivered me from anorexia, and bulimia. He is the love of my life. He offers life to everyone, but sadly some people say no. I did at first. Won't you say yes? |
Yes, I have committed my life to Jesus Christ :)
Cordially,
John
| From honorablepassion (Q258. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
no ignorant comments please - I have many proofs, i'm just looking for a full list. |
For evidence for the existence of God, please see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Excellent quote above (from Einstein) :)
Cordially,
John
| From hotty_who_loves_science (Q257. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
The Old Testament presents God's name as YHWH (and the New Testament is consistent with this).
YHWH is sometimes pronounced Yahweh by Christians.
Cordially,
John
| From Tony Soong (Q255. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
I used to be an Atheist. However, over a period of time, I became convinced of the existence of God (due to a variety of pieces of evidence)...
E.g., see: http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence...
And of the major world religions, I found Christianity to be the most rational and the best match with the evidence.
Given that God exists, the Resurrection of Jesus is a rational possibility.
The testament of history (both New Testament as well as sources outside the Bible) is consistent with Jesus Christ having risen from the dead.
E.g., see links at http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.htm...
Over a period of time I came to conclude that Jesus did rise from the dead, and that the Christian God is real (and that the message of the gospelof Jesus Christ is true).
Cordially,
John
| From Honeybun (Q254. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
A work of fiction. A kind of murder-mystery.
However the book tries to make it look as if certain speculations about Jesus are true (that he was married and had kids etc).
Cordially,
John
| From Ali (Q250. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
Jesus Christ.
Obedience to his teachings can lead the world to peace.
On an individual level, this means that each of us commits our lives to God based on what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross.
Cordially,
John
| From Sassy (Q249. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
Genesis 6:4 and Numbers 13:33 mention them and talk about 'giant people'... some people think that they may have been 'aliens'. I've heard others discount this idea because, they say, God would have told us about people on other planets. I disagree with that statement... God does not share EVERYTHING with us. And not everyone listens/hears God when he speaks... so He may have very well told someone, but they just didn't listen close enough to write into 'their' book of the bible. Any way, I find it to be an interesting topic and I wonder what others think of Nephilim? Aliens? Dinosaurs? |
Nephilim = A race of human beings who were big made and warrior-like (kind of like our current image of the Vikings; though the Nephilim were not Vikings).
I dont think the Nephilim were aliens or dinosaurs.
Cordially,
John
| From Peep (Q248. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
Ultimately, all of mankind will experience the Judgment and depending on the lives they lived (and whether they committed their lives to Christ or not) they will either face eternity in peace and Joy in the Presence of the Christian God, or eternity without Peace or Joy separted from God.
Cordially,
John
| From Indianadude (Q245. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
Yes, it is possible that life exists on other planets (but I wouldnt hold my breath waiting; the calculated probabilities are too low).
Also, discovering life on other planets would not contradict anything in the Bible.
Cordially,
John
| From curiousgothic (Q244. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 9:20 pm. Seeker) |
|
Religions are based on human beings searching for the ultimate nature of reality (including the nature of God).
Christianity is based on relationship with God through what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross.
I am a Christian (follower of Jesus Christ; non-denominational, evangelical).
Cordially,
John
| From gudi286 (Q240. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Seeker) |
Also God cann't do any wrong thing |
God **can** speak a lie. However he chooses not to.
And God **can** do wrong things. However he chooses to not do wrong things.
Cordially,
John
| From cruachanmusic (Q239. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Seeker) |
|
Jesus Christ.
The greatest servant-leader of all time.
Why? Because of his character, his exemplification of servant-leadership. And because of his lasting world-wide impact (for love, peace, joy and service to others).
Cordially,
John
| From cruachanmusic (Q237. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Seeker) |
When you pass away, will your life be remembered? Have you done something to change the world? Tell us about it. Maybe what some people have to say will inspire others. |
Yes, absolutely.
By virtue of the fact that I am an adopted child of the God of this universe... nothing that I do or have done for Him is in vain.
You ask -- have I done something to change the world? The answer is yes -- but nothing more than any committed Christian would do (feed the hungry, comfort the bereaved, help the sick, visit those in prison, share the love of Christ with others).
If my life touched just ONE other life for Christ... then my life was a life well worth living (in the grand scheme of things).
Cordially,
John
| From september_serenade (Q235. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Seeker) |
|
To live in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus Christ has done on the cross for me).
Cordially,
John
| From karatekowgirl (Q234. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Seeker) |
|
Mormons believe in a Christ -- just not the Jesus Christ of the Bible.
I.e., the Mormon Jesus is a different Jesus from the Bible (and the Mormon God is a different God than the God of the Bible).
This has been confirmed to me by discussions with Mormon Elders and Mormon church leaders.
Cordially,
John
| From dougbear2004 (Q232. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Seeker) |
1. It started in Heaven |
Angelic sin is a consequence of the free-will choice of Satan and 1/3 of the angels (when they rebelled against God).
Human sin is a consequence of the free-will choices of all humans (when we reject God).
Adam & Eve sinned when they disobeyed God. And each of us sins when we disobey God.
The remedy is reconciliation with God through what Jesus Christ did on the cross ...
Cordially,
John
| From pasolini (Q230. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Seeker) |
|
Just prayed for your grandmother, and for you and your family in this difficult time.
Grace and Peace to you through Jesus Christ,
Cordially,
John
| From mary_sconster (Q229. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Seeker) |
|
The Moon.
Each and every human being :)
Cordially,
John
| From curiousgothicchristi (Q224. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Seeker) |
Which one to your knowledge worship the devil give your openions now. |
I dont think any of these groups are explicitly (and knowingly) worshipping Satan.
There are explicit Satan worshippers however (or Devil worshippers as you mention) who explicitly and knowingly worship Satan.
Cordially,
John
| From ckay1976 (Q222. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:54 pm. Seeker) |
|
I used to be an atheist. Over the years I have grown to be convinced that the Christian God is real.
If you are interested in evidence for the existence of God, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
And if you are interested in the truth of Jesus Christ, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From holly (Q219. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Seeker) |
|
I do :)
Cordially,
John
| From bodhisattva (Q217. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Seeker) |
|
Experiencing the Love, Joy and Peace of Jesus Christ.
Walking in daily relationship with the God of the Universe.
Cordially,
John
| From arveen tambirasu (Q216. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Seeker) |
It should belong to christian, jews and islam? |
Mecca is important to Muslims because of association with the Muslim prophet Muhammad.
There are no such associations for Jews or Christians (with respect to Mecca).
Cordially,
John
| From thijelica_luv (Q214. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Seeker) |
Isn't GOD in people heart ? |
It can take a long journey (in life) to come to recognize the presence and activity of God in our universe and in our lives.
Cordially,
John
| From y_ru_mean2me (Q213. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Seeker) |
|
YHWH (Yahweh; meaning "I AM" or "I AM THAT I AM").
This means that YHWH is the only being whose existence depends only on Himself.
Sometimes Yahweh is referred to as Jehovah (but that is a mispronunciation).
The name "Jesus" is an Anglicization of Yeshua (Jesus is YHWH with us).
Cordially,
John
| From P (Q211. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Seeker) |
my best friend was 16 years old and died of a heroin overdose. |
I empathize with your pain. I too have lost people I have cared for.
It turns out however, that your friend did something really stupid and her death was a consequence of her action.
Sin has negative consequences (even though it is unfashionable in our world to speak of sin and of consequences)...
The people responsible for your friend's death are (a) herself, (b) the drug pusher, (c) the guy who injected her, and (d) her friends who did nothing to stop her from doing heroin.
It is not necessary for us to think that God killed her (as an example to us or for any other reason).
God gave her the power to keep her life or throw it away. She chose to throw it away.
We can choose to use her death as an example to us (or we can choose to not learn anything from this event).
I know that what I am saying can sound harsh. But there is love behind these words. If the example of your friend's death keeps you from doing drugs, then her death was not in vain.
Cordially,
John
| From KmkzA (Q209. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Seeker) |
If there really are aliens out there, do you think God created them too? Do you think we are the only humans out there in the whole universe? We are the image of God so I guess aliens will most look like us. |
I do not believe aliens exist (based on a calculation of the probabilities of life originating elsewhere by random-chance; and based on Drake's equation).
Cordially,
John
| From hilander62 (Q208. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Seeker) |
Are not all non believers of the Koran considered infidels? |
Historically (and based on the Quran), non-Muslims were to be given a chance to choose Islam
If they didnt, they were to be punished in different ways (e.g., punitive religious taxes, or second-class-citizen status) to encourage them to accept Islam.
If that didnt work then violence (including torture and killing) was to be used.
Cordially,
John
| From Dannelle (Q207. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Seeker) |
is this reversible? I'm only 21! It can't be over! How the hell did wordlifeecw do this? |
I am unable to say if you are serious or kidding.
If you are serious... (and you are seriously concerned because you have been cursed by some one)...
Then I would recommend for you to turn your life over to Jesus Christ (e.g., see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/invitation.... )
Jesus Christ has the power to protect you from any curse.
Cordially,
John
| From kritikos43 (Q206. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 7:31 pm. Seeker) |
|
The phrase means "let the Spiritually Dead bury the Physically Dead"...
In the previous verse a man who was a potential follower of Jesus said "let me go and bury my father [before I come and follow you]" which was an idiom in that culture that meant that the man was asking to go spend time with the family farms and/or business until his fathr grew old and died at some stage. After all of this was done then the man says he will come and follow Jesus.
Jesus' response is to say, no the time is now. The time to follow Jesus is Now (not later). And Jesus uses the idiom "let the spiritually dead bury the physically dead" (i.e., if you choose to put off following me, you are spiritually dead now. Dont be like that. Come, follow me now, be spiritually alive... and leave the business of the family farms and businesses be taken care of by others who are more interested in farms and businesses than in God.
Cordially,
John
| From cedarleb10452 (Q197. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Seeker) |
|
I am a non-denominational Evangelical Christian.
I believe that Jesus Christ died on the cross to pay for my sins. I have come into relationship with the God of the Universe by recognizing my need for God and for his forgiveness, and by committing my life to God through Jesus Christ.
Cordially,
John
| From Sana (Q194. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Seeker) |
I am just curious to know what people think |
From what I see around me, human relationships (of any kind) are not possible without some judgments being made (judgments of character for instance).
So, we are all in the situation of having to make judgments about the people we interact with (whether we like it or not).
However, each of us can make a choice to avoid jumping to negative conclusions based just on a person's appearance; and we can choose rather to give people the benefit of the doubt (while not being too naive about it).
Cordially,
John
| From jay jay (Q191. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Seeker) |
|
Some atheists believe that it is irrational to believe in God (I think they are mistaken -- e.g., http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/rationalbel... )
Some atheists believe there is no evidence for God (I think they are mistaken -- e.g., http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence... )
Some atheists wish to discard Judeo-Christian morality and so choose to be atheists.
Some atheists enjoy the feeling of rebelling against the society and culture around them. And if a lot of people in that society believe in God, such atheists rebel against beleif in God.
Some atheists had poor relationships with their dads (or had abusive dads) and so reject their dads and in so doing, reject God as well (who they perceive to be a tyrannical "father figure").
Some atheists learned to be atheists from people they trust and so they became atheists.
I was an Atheist. But over a period of time I came to believe that God exists, and ultimately I committed my life to Christ.
Cordially,
John
| From scott free (Q189. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Seeker) |
|
The Christian God indicates that one reason why he created the Universe, was for life to exist, and for humans to exist.
Our Universe is His "art project"; that is why it is so incredibly beautiful. And our Universe is His "scientific and engineering" creation; that is why it is so full of science and engineering, and we are learning this as we crawl in his footsteps via mathematics, physics, cosmology and molecular biology.
Earth is boot-camp for humans to come into relationship with him, and then for our experiences to provide opportunities for us to grow towards the beauty-of-character that will be a joy for eternity. The Bible refers to this as us "being conformed to the image of Christ".
For more info see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose.html
and
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/gospel.html
Cordially,
John
| From mark_intotdeauna (Q188. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Seeker) |
i see Christians stating that a person doesn't like the Da Vinci Code because it's fiction. it's wrong to write fiction? or it's only wrong to write fiction related to stories from the bible? |
I am a Christian, and I like fiction (particularly science-fiction).
The problem with the DVC is that it presents false claims about Jesus Christ (but presents the false claims as if they are true).
Cordially,
John
| From jasoncrain1 (Q187. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Seeker) |
|
I do not believe Karma exists.
Cordially,
John
| From flavormint (Q186. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Seeker) |
|
Yes... when you are in daily relationship with Him through Jesus Christ.
Cordially,
John
| From pamu (Q184. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Seeker) |
|
From what I have seen, such predictions are so general that by random chance some of them will appear to have been fulfilled.
I dont see any scientific proof or reason why the stars should be able to affect our lives.
Cordially,
John
| From 99 ways to smile (Q181. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:41 am. Seeker) |
Forgive me if I'm wrong in thinking all the prophets have been male. If I am ignorant of a female prophet, please enlighten me. |
Deborah... (one of the Judges of Israel)
And other women held in high esteem -- Esther; Naomi & Ruth...
And many others in the New Testament...
Cordially,
John
| From xlovebug (Q180. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Seeker) |
The free gift of Salvation through Jesus Christ (and what he did for me on the cross). |
Cordially,
John
| From alexis (Q178. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Seeker) |
Could it be that we just don't want to think that after we die, we are just done? So we fool ourselfs to think that there is still more? |
If you have committed your life to Christ your spirit (soul) goes to be with God.
If you have not committed your life to Christ your spirit/soul will be separated from God.
Children below the age of accountability (spiritual comprehension) will go to be with God.
Cordially,
John
| From xlovebug (Q175. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Seeker) |
|
You can buy momentary euphoria, but cant buy lasting happiness.
For me, lasting happiness comes from my daily relationship with the God of the Universe (based on what Jesus Christ did for me on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From Mj (Q173. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Seeker) |
The Bible says that we should not lie. However, there are at least 2 instances in the Bible where it seems OK to lie: |
In general we should not lie.
However, think of the Christians who hid Jews (in the Christian's homes) from the Nazis. In such a situation to lie is the lesser evil than to surrender the Jews to the Nazi concentration camps and to death.
Cordially,
John
| From Rocker Chick (Q172. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Seeker) |
|
God is neither man nor woman. God is Spirit.
In the Bible, God presents Himself in the Masculine (in keeping with the norms of the cultures he was and is communicating with).
Cordially,
John
| From Liz (Q170. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Seeker) |
And if it is, why would God let so much bad stuff happen that you want to die? |
Suicide is a sin (in the sense that God would prefer that you do not commit suicide).
If you are considering the possibility of suicide, please please talk with your parents and/ or your family doctor. Do not try to deal with this on your own...
Cordially,
John
| From Dad (Q169. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Seeker) |
What would that one desire be if you could have anything you could want. |
For the salvation of 6 billion people...
Cordially,
John
| From Anthony (Q168. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Seeker) |
|
God made them durable enough for a healthy long life.
We screw them up by eating refined sugar, and if we dont brush and floss ...
Cordially,
John
| From Thomas Chong (Q162. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Seeker) |
|
I would like to achieve financial security (not wealthy, not poor; reasonable living without worry, or ill-health).
Apart from that, to be content with what I have, and with whatever situation I am in, while living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (through Jesus Christ and what he did for me on the cross).
Cordially,
John
| From quantrill37 (Q161. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 8:31 am. Seeker) |
I am curious about Islam’s view of these figures? Are they considered Muslims in Islam? What about the Prophets? Isaiah? Jeremiah? Ezekiel? Etc. |
A lot of what Muhammad learned and taught about the various prophets appear to be based on what he had heard from Jews and Christians he had met. And if I recall correctly he learned a lot from one of his uncles who may have been influenced by Christianity.
However, some of Muhammad's teachings differ from the Biblical teachings regarding the prophets. For instance Muhammad appears to have believed that the Christian Trinity consisted of God the Father, Mary the Mother and Jesus the Son (and he disagreed with this of course). And he seems to have changed details of some of the events in the prophet's lives (compared to the Old Testament etc).
Cordially,
John
| From ReleeMike (Q159. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Seeker) |
|
Excellent question.
It could be because human beings have a tendency to try to transfer responsibility for their mistakes to someone else (like God)... :)
Cordially,
John
| From sharon (Q158. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Seeker) |
|
I would say probably not.
To say that it was a precursor to Armageddon, it would be useful to see a verse (in Revelations for instance) that states that Persia would attack Israel shortly before Armageddon. I am not aware of such a verse...
Cordially,
John
| From ravi_dixit (Q157. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Seeker) |
|
E.g., in part of the Latin Mass (really from one of the Psalms), we see the words "Dixit Dominus" -- which means "The Lord said"...
Cordially,
John
| From happymrzot (Q154. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Seeker) |
am in an environmental sociology class and trying to get a feel for the amount of environmental info talked about in your church? Understanding that the main goal of the church is to spread the word, but can you please answer these 3 questions? |
We recognize that we are to be good stewards of God's creation. And being good stewards means that we take care of the environment (we dont litter; or unnecessarily cut down swathes of forest; or go out of our way to destroy other species)... On the other hand we do not worship the earth either... So we try to walk a line between destroying the earth, and worshipping the earth (no innuendo meant here).
Church = non-denominational evangelical.
The church does not take a position on liberal vs conservative (politically).
Theologically, not fundamentalist or hyper-literalist. For instance, I am an old-earth creationist and I am allowed to teach at the church. Some church members and leaders are young-earth, some are old-earth.
Cordially,
John
| From vtsyid (Q152. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Seeker) |
|
John Mark (different from the disciple John, who wrote the gospel of John).
John Mark was a disciple of Simon Peter (who was a disciple of Jesus Christ). John Mark accompanied Peter, and wrote down things that Peter taught regarding Jesus, and compiled these (Peter's teachings/ memoirs of Jesus Christ) into the gospel of Mark.
Cordially,
John
| From Looking 4 love (Q151. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Seeker) |
|
Christ-likeness (kindness, compassion, integrity, beauty of character).
Cordially,
John
| From musical902003 (Q150. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Seeker) |
Could somebody please explain to me the origin of the Book of Mormon and why it is different from the Christian testaments. Also, what did Joseph Smith have to do with anything? |
Joseph Smith was a young man when he dictated the Book of Mormon (to 2-3 friends and relatives who wrote down what he was saying).
He stated that an angel gave him some golden plates which were written in a foreign language (possibly reformed Egyptian?). And he had an occult stone called a seer stone which he put into his hat; placed the hat on his lap; put his face down into the hat; and he said that when he did this, he would see a line of the Reformed Egyptian below which he would see a line of English (which he said was the translation). He would read this line of English out aloud and his scribe (friend or relative) would write down the English sentence. And this is how the Book of Mormon was written. It was published about 1830...
According to Joseph Smith, the Book of Mormon was dictated to him **word-by-word** from God. And this is why the book of Mormon (he said) was the most correct book on earth.
It is interesting to note however that since the time of Joseph Smith, the LDS church has made about 4000 changes (including correcting typo's, grammatical errors, changing names of kings and places etc)... This leads me to suspect that Joseph Smith didnt really receive the Book of Mormon from God.
The Book of Mormon has large parts that are copied from the King James Bible. In other areas, there are some differences between the Book of Mormon and what the Bible teaches.
There are several key differences between Biblical Christianity and Mormonism...
The Mormon church believes in a God who is not the Christian God (not the God of the Bible), and in a Jesus who is not the Christian Jesus (not the Jesus of the Bible).
According to Mormon theology, the Mormon God is a created being, who has a father and mother in heaven, grand parents, many wives etc. The Christian God is none of the above. The Mormon God was once a man on a planet, and he evolved into God by obedience to the Mormon Gospel.
The Christian God (based on what the Bible teaches) is none of these things (mentioned above).
The Mormon Jesus is a created being who did not exist for ever. And he is the literal blood-brother of Satan. The Mormon Jesus was literally born (in heaven) to a Heavenly mother. And on earth, the Mormon Jesus was born as the result of sexual intercourse between the Mormon God and Mary.
The Christian Jesus (based on the Bible) is none of the above.
Cordially,
John
| From sharon (Q144. Archived Wednesday, 14-Jun-2006, 12:09 am. Seeker) |
different people see things in different perspectives...so what is your definition of a hypocrite? |
A person who uses double-standards (one standard to judge themself and another to judge someone else).
Cordially,
John
| From Thepykie (Q136. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:42 pm. Seeker) |
|
The root of laziness is self-centeredness...
(e.g., I dont want to be bothered; I dont want to do anything to help someone else; I dont want to put in the effort to help society etc ... I, I, I...)
To deal with laziness... take it one step at a time... try to accomplish one little thing today despite my desire to do nothing... and accomplish one little thing tomorrow... and one little thing day after tomorrow... do that for a week... then move to 2 little things a day... then 3 little things a day... then 4 little things a day etc...
Keep growing.
And pray for God's help to break free of laziness.
Cordially,
John
| From Schizm5 (Q135. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:42 pm. Seeker) |
|
Satan has the power to do so.
Cordially,
John
| From Tiger Lamb (Q134. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:42 pm. Seeker) |
Will any Muslims give a synopsis of what they think happened to Jesus? Obviously, Christians believe he died for our sins....but what is taught in the Muslim faith? |
Many Muslims believe that Jesus (pbuh) did not die on the cross (that Allah substituted another man on the cross, possibly Judas Iscariot).
And that Jesus ultimately ascended up into heaven, and will return again (in the 2nd coming).
It is interesting to note that though Muslims view Mohammad as a greater prophet than Jesus, it is Jesus (even within Muslim theology) who will return at the 2nd coming and destroy the anti-Christ (and to force the submission of all humans to Allah -- according to Muslim theology).
Cordially,
John
| From Flyingtotahiti (Q131. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:42 pm. Seeker) |
|
No I do not... :)
Cordially,
John
| From Soli_man86 (Q126. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:42 pm. Seeker) |
God wants us to know that this world is only a test to determine the righteous from the sinner, the believer from the disbeliever, the thankful from the ungrateful, the generous from the miser, the patient from the hasty, and the steadfast from the weak. Yes, there is a lot of evil in this world: this pushes people to think that God does not exist. But if God did not exist, then this world is just a cruel place that has no purpose. People need to understand that the evil in this life is only temporary, and it will be punished, just not now, after death (i.e. Judgement Day; Heaven; Hell). That’s why it makes sense to say there is a God: denying God’s existence is saying that evil prevails and that cannot be true. If it were so, then our lives would have no meaning and good and evil would lose their value: you, for instance, could be considered no better than Hitler – both of you will cease to exist, unpunished, unrewarded for your deeds. |
well said :)
I agree with you...
(even if you are not a Christian).
Cordially,
John
| From Madaboutyouxo (Q123. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:42 pm. Seeker) |
|
A priest (e.g., in Roman Catholicism) tends to be an intermediary between God and humans. Hence confession of sins to a priest; Mass by a priest; Exreme Unction by a Priest etc.
A Pastor (e.g., in Protestantism) is more of a shepherd, or a leader, who leads and guides the people in their search for God.
Cordially,
John
| From Wisdom (Q122. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:42 pm. Seeker) |
|
Your tongue (the words we speak).
Cordially,
John
| From Oxalaque (Q119. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
|
The books that were gathered together into the New Testament were written by disciples and apostles of Jesus Christ (who God led to write the New Testament books).
For instance, the following New Testament writers were:
1. Matthew (disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of Matthew)
2. Mark (disciple of Peter, who was a disciple of Simon Peter, a disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of Mark).
3. John (disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of John; 1,2,3 John, Revelation)
4. Paul (Apostle of Jesus; wrote Romans, 1,2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, 1,2 Thessalonians, 1,2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon)
5. Barnabas (follower of Jesus; wrote book of Hebrews)
6. James (apostle of Jesus; wrote book of James)
7. Peter (Disciple of Jesus; wrote 1,2 Peter)
The early followers of Jesus knew who were the disciples and apostles of Jesus Christ, and who were eyewitnesses of his resurrection.
Books by these disciples/ apostles and eyewitnesses were recognized by the early church as being authentic (and were gathered into the New Testament).
Cordially,
John
| From Orangeraspberries (Q114. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
I admire Jesus Christ. |
Cordially,
John
| From Ardi_95 (Q100. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
Allah created too much stories like peigamber Muhamed, or Yousuf Islam. Can someone tell me another story about any man that exist and his/her life was with ALLAH? please??? |
Recently I heard a story about a man who read the Quran and the references that the Quran made to Jesus Christ made him curious about Jesus ... so he obtained a New Testament and read the gospels to learn about Jesus, and he ended up committing his life to Jesus Christ.
See http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/testimony/...
for instance for life stories of people who have come to Christ from Islam and from other world-views.
Cordially,
John
| From Waltgarcia (Q99. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
|
Kind of a murder mystery -- which then weaves in claims that Jesus was married to Mary Magdalene and they had a daughter who became the mom of a royal family in Europe...
These claims are mistaken.
Cordially,
John
| From Sweetheart25 (Q96. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
Please use scriptures to back your anwsers on why you believe such things. |
Mormonism believes in the existence of millions of Gods. The God of this earth (Elohim) was once a man who evolved into God by obedience to the Mormon Gospel. Salvation is through obedience to the Mormon church and Mormon gospel.
See http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/lds/lds.html
for more detail.
Cordially,
John
| From Vqmstr (Q95. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
|
The two faiths are very similar (apart from a difference in terms of the position of Mary).
I know of Roman Catholics who have converted to EOC and vice versa, but do not know the numbers.
Cordially,
John
| From Loony_liz (Q94. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
|
The Apocalypse is in large part a consequence of Human Sin (and rebellion against God)...
Cordially,
John
| From Mamar (Q93. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
are we evil? although out the history "human” has killed, burned, slaughtered other humans and we are still doing it. Killing, and making other people suffer is an undeniable big part of "US”. can we truly set aside racism, and difference in believes and religious believes? |
The Bible teaches that humans (no matter what race or time or culture) are inclined towards self-centeredness and selfishness ... these self-orientations are called Sin in the Bible... and these self-orientations cause suffering and hurt to others.
I did not believe the Bible at first. But over time I have come to realize that its evaluation of human beings is correct (and that is why you see the evil we humans do today, and that is why you see that throughout history humans have killed burned and slaughtered other humans).
Cordially,
John
| From Zorro (Q92. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
God allowed satan to enter into Judas so that Judas would betray Jesus according to scriptures. Since God willed that, wouldn't it be right to allow Judas to enter Heaven seeing how Judas knew not what he was doing till after Jesus gave up His spirit on the cross? |
I dont think Judas entered Heaven.
Looks like he was sorry for having betrayed Jesus, but he did not turn to God in repentance (he killed himself instead).
Judas made the choice to betray Jesus of his own free will. Satan's involvement was after Judas decided to betray Jesus...
Cordially,
John
| From Copyeditor (Q89. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
Are we humans become SELFISH? |
Many people do lose their faith and peace of mind due to money.
Money itself is not evil. However money does have the power to corrupt us.
Cordially,
John
| From Cdog61 (Q88. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
Everyone has heard of things that make you go hmm so spill it? |
The Universe created itself...
Cordially,
John
| From Sinned (Q85. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
Is Jesus true to what He said he was? |
Jesus Christ can guarantee your acceptance into God's kingdom.
For more detail see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/godspurpose... and
http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/invitation.html
Cordially,
John
| From Ian_ejb2001 (Q83. Archived Tuesday, 13-Jun-2006, 9:24 pm. Seeker) |
|
I do (except for the Saints in the popular or Catholic sense).
Cordially,
John
| From Qu33nofh3artz093 (Q71. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 11:06 pm. Seeker) |
do they celebrate any holidays differently than other releigions like muslims? |
The two traditions that Jesus established for his followers are (a) Baptism -- to be immersed in water as a symbol of having chosen to follow Jesus, and (b) the Lord's supper -- where a token small amount of bread and grape-juice is consumed by the Christians in memory of Jesus death on the cross and his Resurrection.
In addition to these, some Christians celebrate Christmas (in honor of the birth of Christ) and Easter (in honor of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ).
Cordially,
John
| From Allencook25 (Q69. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 11:06 pm. Seeker) |
|
I'm a born again Christian, and think it is not wise to have sex before marriage... (increases the odds of breaking up your marriage in the future).
Cordially,
John
| From Noname (Q66. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 11:06 pm. Seeker) |
|
Because he viewed it as the most important book in the world (my guess).
Cordially,
John
| From Ptrlack (Q65. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 11:06 pm. Seeker) |
|
A small fraction of humans truly seek God. If I havent misunderstand your statement, I commend you for being such an individual.
Cordially,
John
| From Islam-qa (Q64. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 11:06 pm. Seeker) |
Meaning people will be resurrected and judged and then rewarded with hell or paradise. |
Yes I do believe in the day of Judgment.
Cordially,
John
| From Remag15 (Q62. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 11:06 pm. Seeker) |
I need an experienced Christian that I can instant message. My main problem with Christianity is that I have know idea why God won't prove Him(It)self to each of us personally. If everybody in the world was a Christian, and each claimed to have personally experienced God, but He never came to me, I STILL would have trouble. I find it so suspicious that God hasn't come to me personally, and I am curious as to why it would have to be this way. |
I would be happy to dialog with you. You can email me if you wish (through this website).
Cordially,
John
| From Zardofoz7765 (Q57. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Seeker) |
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Those that make fun of God do so because they do not know Him.
Once we experience the Love and the Kindness of the Christian God, our response is to love him (rather than try to make fun of Him).
Cordially,
John
| From Sec350 (Q54. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Seeker) |
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In regions where the people are committed Christians.
Cordially,
John
| From Madhavi (Q52. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Seeker) |
please give me an honest and straight forward reply that comes from heart and not really the mind. with your answer you can influence many..hence be true. |
Thank you for your question.
I believe in the Christian God. I used to be an Atheist but have grown convinced of the reality of the Christian God, in part due to intellectual evidence, in part due to experiential evidence (in my life).
I have had many many prayers answered in my life (after praying to the Christian God). These continue to convince me of the reality of Jesus Christ and his love for me.
I have grown convinced that there is evidence for the existence of God (as an intelligence that created our entire universe and created human beings). See http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence... for examples of such evidence.
And I have grown convinced that there is evidence for the truth of Jesus Christ. See http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.htm... for examples of such evidence.
Cordially,
John
| From Sharon (Q49. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Seeker) |
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For me, as a Christian, when I am emotionally hurt, I take it to God. I have memorized Philippians 4:6-7 in the New Testament. These verses are a promise from God for Peace of Mind when I turn to Him. I remind myself of these verses, recite them from memory, and pray for God to give me peace of mind as he has promised in those verses... And He does (every time).
Also I focus my mind on God, and pray for his Presence (in the name of Jesus Christ) and I recite the Lord's Prayer slowly (concentrating on each word, phrase, and meaning each word)... this helps take away the pain...
Also, I have memorized Psalm 23, and I do the same as above... I recite Psalm 23, while focusing my attention on God, and focusing on meaning each word I am saying...
And I pray for God to protect me and heal me of the pain.
These have all helped me in the past.
I pray that God will bless you with His presence and His Peace today.
Cordially,
John
| From Snakestersnake (Q48. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Seeker) |
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Thank you for your question.
The answer is no. A person who is raped will not go to hell for having had sex before they are married.
A person's salvation depends on whether they have truly committed their life to Jesus Christ or not.
A person who rejects Jesus Christ (and the gospel) will end up spending eternity away from God. That has nothing to do with whether they were raped or not.
Cordially,
John
| From Mark (Q47. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Seeker) |
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Jesus is God in human form.
Jesus always existed as God -- but, he voluntarily took an ‘inferior’ form, the form of a man, to effect our salvation.
See http://www.godsci.org/gs/sect/doc/deity2.html for more detail if you are interested.
Cordially,
John
| From Iloveskylerreese (Q43. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:30 pm. Seeker) |
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I like both giving and receiving -- not so much of material goods -- but rather of kindness and courtesy and the love of Christ... :)
Cordially,
John
| From Weezermcgilicutty (Q39. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Seeker) |
I have seen on the news that Mary Magdalene was not ever a prostitute. The Catholic church at some point began describing her that way for whatever reason. So I've heard. Is it in the bible? |
The Bible does not say specifically that Mary Magdalene was a prostitute.
There was a woman who was caught in adultery (who some think was Mary Magdalene).
Cordially,
John
| From Mexican (Q37. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Seeker) |
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I am assuming that the question is "What are you after in life"...
If that is so, my answer is:
To live in daily relationship with the Christian God. To make a reasonable living. To share the love of Christ with others.
Cordially,
John
| From Allencook25 (Q36. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Seeker) |
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No... I think more than 10% of American youth and young adults DO follow Jesus...
About 80% of the US population appear to view themselves as some form of Christian.
However not all of these 80% are true committed Christians (same with the youth).
Cordially,
John
| From Vstrelyuk (Q35. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Seeker) |
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Easter -- is a Christian celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ (described in the New Testament in the Bible).
Passover -- is a Jewish feast that celebrates the Angel of Death "passing over" the Jewish homes (protected by God) during the 10th plague against the Egyptian Pharoah who was holding the Jews as slaves in Egypt. This is described in the Old Testament in the book of Exodus in the Bible.
Jesus was Jewish. He celebrated the Passover with his disciples shortly before he died. He was crucified, died, and was buried in a tomb. On the third day he rose again (came back to life) and he was seen alive by more than 500 people, for a period of about 40 days, before he went up to Heaven.
Cordially,
John
| From Mcsit2002 (Q32. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Seeker) |
I listen a CD of Muslim teacher, as he advised to adopt Islamic way of Life.It impressed me, I stopped shaving, I started regular praying Namaz 5 time a day. Whats more else i do do becomea real true Muslim according to Quran and Sunnah, so that Allah Love me, and help me in world and bestow me Hevens hereafter. |
May you be blessed with Peace through the Prophet Isa (pbuh)
Please obtain a copy of the Injil and read it to see the life and message of the Prophet Isa (pbuh). He was blessed by God with the truth, and he can teach you through the Injil how to live your life today so that God will help you in the world and bestow life in Heaven hereafter upon you.
If you would like a copy of the Injil in Arabic, see http://www.arabicbible.com/bible/vandyke.html
Peace to you and your family.
Cordially,
John
| From Naynay (Q31. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Seeker) |
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I believe in God... I used to be an atheist but have grown convinced of the reality of the Christian God.
Why?
Because of the combination of intellectual evidence and experiential evidence in my life.
For examples of scientific & intellectual evidence for the existence of God, see: http://www.godsci.org/gs/godsci/evidence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Pacificwaves.rm (Q26. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Seeker) |
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As a Christian I depend on God to help me to forgive others. I pray to God and turn over the issue to Him, tell him that I am hurt by what the other person did, and I ask for God's help to help me to forgive the other person, and to move on past this issue.
This has helped me in the past.
When anger or hurt comes back, I repeat Philippians 4:6-7 (which is God's promise of Peace through Jesus Christ), and the Lord's prayer while focusing my mind on God. These help me to let go of the hurt and anger.
Cordially,
John
| From Parable (Q23. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Seeker) |
Good point... |
Good point...
There will be a time when we are all judged for the lives we have lived, and for our actions.
Cordially,
John
| From Anthony (Q22. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 4:10 pm. Seeker) |
Specifically, where do you get your news? |
http://news.yahoo.com/
And http://www.godsci.org/gs/culture/current...
for Current event blogs...
And http://www.scrappleface.com/ for satire on the news...
Cordially,
John
| From Annasday (Q11. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 3:37 pm. Seeker) |
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Good point :)
Yes, Jesus was Jewish.
It is interesting to note that most of disciples and apostles of Jesus Christ (who God led to write the New Testament books) were Jews as well.
For instance, the following New Testament writers were Jews:
1. Matthew (Jewish disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of Matthew)
2. Mark (disciple of Peter, who was a disciple of Simon Peter, a Jewish disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of Mark).
3. John (Jewish disciple of Jesus; wrote the gospel of John; 1,2,3 John, Revelation)
4. Paul (Jewish Apostle of Jesus; wrote Romans, 1,2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, 1,2 Thessalonians, 1,2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon)
5. Barnabas (Jewish follower of Jesus; wrote book of Hebrews)
6. James (Jewish apostle of Jesus; wrote book of James)
7. Peter (Jewish Disciple of Jesus; wrote 1,2 Peter)
If you are interested in more information about Jesus, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From O1an (Q10. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 3:37 pm. Seeker) |
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Jesus said this to Mary, his mother on earth.
And he was referring to His disciple John (who later wrote the gospel of John, and the letters 1,2,3 John and the book of Revelation).
If you are interested in more information about Jesus, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From Kbra121 (Q9. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 3:37 pm. Seeker) |
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The Bible teaches us that all humans are created in the image of God... as a result, all human beings are equal in the sight of God (and should be equal in the sight of human beings as well).
It is based on this Christian teaching (the equality of all races before God) that the Abolitionist movement (which worked against Slavery) was based... and it was on the basis of this Christian teaching that Slavery was ultimately stopped in much of the world.
Having said that... you will find good people and bad people among all races. And we are ALL sinners (in the sense that we rebel against God at various times) and so we ALL need a Savior (Jesus Christ) no matter what race we are.
If you are interested in more information about this, see http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/essence.html
Cordially,
John
| From Rvermalsj (Q7. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 3:37 pm. Seeker) |
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Come into relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
Stay in daily relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
For details of how to come into relationship with God, see
http://www.godsci.org/gs/new/invitation.html
Cordially,
John
| From Fubar_nougat (Q4. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 3:37 pm. Seeker) |
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Jesus Christ.
Yes he is alive today.
If you are interested in more info about Jesus Christ,
see http://www.godsci.org/gs/chri/jesus.html
Cordially,
John
| From Gloknick (Q3. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 3:37 pm. Seeker) |
What can I say as a comeback without acknowledging It? |
There is no shame in acknowledging that you are a virgin.
You can tell them that you intend to stay a virgin until you are married and this is pleasing to God (and you care more about what God thinks than what they think).
Cordially,
John
| From Vafa (Q2. Archived Monday, 12-Jun-2006, 3:37 pm. Seeker) |
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To be content with what I have, and with whatever situation I am in, while living in daily relationship with the God of the Universe (through Jesus Christ and what he did for me on the cross).
Cordially,
John