The Isrealites are his chosen ones from the chose land, so what does that mean for us here? I mean seriously that part just scares me to death. I know Jesus is a loving GOD, but he said the chosen ones in the bible and does that mean we are not? I have Irish, American Indian and a few other things in me no doubt, mostly Irish, but I am not a Herbrew or a true Jewish person as he would say, so does that mean I am not the chosen? Oh the bible, the great bible, so many questions.

Hi Sean, ((( Smiles )))

Who so ever will..
The Isrealites were chosen for what?
What did Jesus say.
You of little faith, why are you so afraid?
I am thirsty.
Follow Me!
Have you not read..
Seek and ye shall find.
Thats for you too Sean.

He says several times in the bible my chosen ones or they or thou as far as Israel goes!!!! Maaning that is his chosen land, then they will bless others afterwards after he picks his chosen ones. http://www.learnbible.net/topical/235.htm

This just caught my mind while reading up on it.

Revelations 22:17

And the Spirit and the bride say, Come!
And the (one) hearing, let him say, Come!
And the (one) thirsting, let him come;
and the (one) desireing,
let him take of the water of life freely

Meditate on that.
I am thirsty.
Follow Me!

Doesn't say anything about nationality there.
I wouldn't worry to much about it.
Who so ever will.
Think more on that.

I will read more on that and think more about it, just my first times studying bible verses, forgive me for I am new to this Jesus.... It just all confuses me right now.

Hi Sean, ((( Smiles )))

I understand..
It's a big book.
It takes alot of time to read and digest.
If you read alot that I have allready shared on this board..
Directly out of the Bible ect..
That will help some.
First you have to understand a few things better so you can understand alot more things later..
That's why Jesus spoke in Parables.
He wants a person to study it and through digesting it and studying it..
It should make more sense to you eventually.
It takes time.
Don't stress yourself out.
It'll just confuse you and make it harder on you.
It's alot to digest all at once so just continue reading.
It will come..

Take Care
Lynn

OH GOD I hope it comes because I am so confused right now, from Jesus saying I am not GOD and GOD is good and so on, that alone makes me confused beyond belief!! I am struggling right not find out what is true and what is not true. I am just in dissaray right now, forgive me God for I am stupid right now in this and not a holy man as of yet. I am trying hard, these are the end of times IMO, but then again only GOD Knows when the end is, he will come like a thief in the night it says, so who knows when that is? This all all a mystery to me right now, I am seriously struggling too hard and too fast to find truths now.

Hi Sean, ((( Smiles )))

Start with little steps at a time.
Read..
Come Alive Reaching Out & Celebrating God..
Don't overwhelm yourself.
Just soak it all in.
And enjoy.
Just take your time that will help.

The Bible talks about the first being last (Jews) and the last being first (Gentiles). Technically not being Jewish we are gentiles, but the Gospel is meant for all. We (LDS) believe we existed as spirit children in the pre-existence before with God and that those of us who made covenants there are of Israel. Many of us have literal roots that link us to Abraham. For instance, I am also Irish, native American (Cherokee), English, French, etc., but have been given a blessing which links me literally to the house of Israel through Ephraim (through Joseph). It basically means those who are through Abraham. I am "of Israel." Many Indians are of Mannasah. But anytime anyone accepts the Gospel even if not literally of Israel, they are "grafted" into the "tree." The Jews obviously have rejected Jesus the Christ but when He returns they will know He was and is their literal redeemer. They expected a Messiah who would come and save them in their condition quite literally (from bondage) but He saved us all from bondage from sin. When He returns, though, He will literally save them from physical destruction because they will be at the brink of it....

There is a lot of anti-Mormon hogwash which some of the members on here like to promote, but the Book of Mormon is actually a record of the Native Americans back to 600 BC. They came over from Jerusalem originally as a family. Jesus came to America and established His church here on the American continent before He ascended into Heaven (but after His resurrection). The people here experienced 300 years of peace but then went back to their warring ways. (The Incans, Mayans, Aztecs and on to the modern day Tribes that they eventually spread into).

Anyway - don't worry Sean. I have a feeling you are definitely "of Israel." Usually they are people who respond. His sheep hear His voice : )

Right Right, my old buddy came up to me yesterday who I did not know was into this bible stuff (Which is great), and says you know you are not the chosen right very low, I said I know I am not an israelite nor a real Jew and understand the Gentiles and so on, he said good it's in the bible. I know it is for all! I am not saying a real Jewish person is more holy than me or stands more of a chance, color or religion does not matter IMO, it's what is inside of you and if you really mean what you say and live for God or live the best you can and realize you are a sinner and nobody is perfect! Jeanie thanks alot, you are a good person.

BTW Pops on his side I am Irish, on my moms side her dad was American Indian or a good part of it, so thats most of my heritage right there (I know the 12 tribes had the American Indian in it correct? Meaning their equivilant). I am not saying I am closer to God because of it because I am not, but just wondering about my heritage. Whats funny IS GOD just came to me this summer, I did not come to him he seemed to rear thoughts and come into my life! I am not near all there yet, but I am starting to change, slowly but surely! Whats funny is he came to me, with the NWO stuff and the Chemtrails and so on like a warning to keep me safe and aware, I am very aware of evils now and so on (It is because of GOD!). No matter what color or what background you have I believe you can be of chosen, which is what I believe has happened to me (Although not Jewish or a REAL Jew as they said in the bible).

Jews are from the house (tribe) of Judah. The tribe I come through and many now in the latter days is Ephraim who was a son of Joseph if my memory serves me - connected that way at least. Anyone through the loins of the son's of Israel..... Manasah (sp?) is generally what the Indian's have proven to have come through from what we (Mormons) have witnessed at least. I suppose it would be the tribe we are predominant with. The Jews were given the gospel first, but obviously rejected it. (The first shall be last and the last shall be first). We were last....but now have it and they don't. (They made that choice by rejecting Jesus as the Christ). Anyway...its interesting, isn't it? But can be confusing.

1 Timothy 2:4 - God desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. [Note: This is the same "all men" for whom we should pray - v1.]

I just got this from the bible verses Jeanie, answers more questions of mine.

Yes it is very interesting but very confusing, almost contradictory if that makes any sense? I read about some guy telling Me edomites will all be slaves in heaven or some crap and then I read what I just put above in a bible verse and ask him what that means. It seems some twist it all around to fit their beliefs or make them right and then ignore the other verses because it does not fit their beliefs. I think some use verses as a way of racism or to prove their the ones and you are not, that or to fit their religious beliefs. The bible is so confusing as you would say, very tough to read and many things in there that will seem contradictory or just flat out mind boggling.

2 Thessalonians 2:14 - Men are called to glory by the gospel. To whom is this call extended?

Mark 16:15,16 - The gospel should be preached to every creature in the whole world. He who believes and is baptized shall be saved. [Matt. 28:19]

Acts 2:38,39 - The promise of remission and the gift of the Holy Spirit is for ALL, as many as God calls. But the call is sent to everyone in the world!

Yes it is very interesting but very confusing, almost contradictory if that makes any sense? I read about some guy telling Me edomites will all be slaves in heaven or some crap and then I read what I just put above in a bible verse and ask him what that means. It seems some twist it all around to fit their beliefs or make them right and then ignore the other verses because it does not fit their beliefs. I think some use verses as a way of racism or to prove their the ones and you are not, that or to fit their religious beliefs. The bible is so confusing as you would say, very tough to read and many things in there that will seem contradictory or just flat out mind boggling.

2 Thessalonians 2:14 - Men are called to glory by the gospel. To whom is this call extended?

Mark 16:15,16 - The gospel should be preached to every creature in the whole world. He who believes and is baptized shall be saved. [Matt. 28:19]

Acts 2:38,39 - The promise of remission and the gift of the Holy Spirit is for ALL, as many as God calls. But the call is sent to everyone in the world!
[/quote]

JEANIE: Sean, I had trouble figuring out what was right and how to interpret the scriptures. I found my answers through the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints when I was 15 and I haven't looked back. Russ on here thinks he has some information (which is not accurate) on our church, but if you happen to feel like looking into The Chruch of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints you can go to www.mormon.org. It is one of the fastest growing churches in the world. I feel strong about its truthfulness. At any rate - churches are good to go to to help you figure things out. You can find and settle on what you want and believe in. If truth matters - regardless of what Russ thinks, I would direct you to that website. If you ever want to have a private conversation about it pm me. You go to the user list and find me on there and then send a private message. I would be happy to answer any questions if I can help. This is important - probably the most important thing you will ever do!

[/quote](Jeanie)Sean, I had trouble figuring out what was right and how to interpret the scriptures. I found my answers through the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints when I was 15 and I haven't looked back. Russ on here thinks he has some information (which is not accurate) on our church, but if you happen to feel like looking into The Chruch of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints you can go to www.mormon.org. It is one of the fastest growing churches in the world. I feel strong about its truthfulness. At any rate - churches are good to go to to help you figure things out. You can find and settle on what you want and believe in. If truth matters - regardless of what Russ thinks, I would direct you to that website. If you ever want to have a private conversation about it pm me. You go to the user list and find me on there and then send a private message. I would be happy to answer any questions if I can help. This is important - probably the most important thing you will ever do! [/quote]



I am not really looking for a base religion right now or a church, I am just studying and finding GOD myself and trying to make things right. If you know me you would know I am really a individual who can be by himself alot and entertain myself and seriously don't need much else than that, even Isolate from friends and so on often as I am very independent on that end of things! I believe there is nothing wrong with not being one religion and finding God yourself and finding truths from within and asking God for answers and he gives them! I have found that to be very true in my regards, it almost seems I was made to be so different from others it's weird at times but I accept it, I am seriously on my own level IMO (If I can explain that to you). I think so much outside of the box and that got me into alot of truths and exposed alot in life, I really think ALOT and have a vivid mind. I feel what I really truly feel alot of times is truth as well, I think so strongly about things I just know it's right whether someone disputes it or it was written or not, I think so strongly at times I just know whats real and whats not! I have a knack for that stuff, that makes me what I am IMO. My mind is too vivid alot and it does me good and bad, it can get you into trouble with thinking and you overthink and confuse yourself or learn more than you bargained for. I know so much more than some that go to a church and so on just to say they do, I know alot more than them and I taught myself or read alot to get to the bottom of things. I can't really explain it Jeanie, peace.

Hello Sean!
It's very nice to have you 'aboard'. I really like your choice of the verse 28, in Galatians Chapter 3.

Sean, what the Apostle Paul was speaking of here in Galatians Chapter 3, Is that the Galatians were returning to legalism by the Law, which Moses gave in the Old Testament.

Paul is pointing out in verse 7 , "Know ye there that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham." (spiritually speaking) The key word here, Sean, is FAITH.

It goes on to explain to us in verses 11, "But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for The just shall live by FAITH. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree (Jesus did this in His crucification); That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles(non-Jews), through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through FAITH.(vv.13-14)

The next several verses speak of 'The Purpose of the Law'. No one can keep the law...it is insufficient. (v.22) But the scripture hath concluded all are under sin that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.

Sean, we needed the Law, (v.21).."for if there had been a law given which could have given life, ...righteousness should have been by the law. (v.22)But the scripture hath conclued all under sin that the promise by FAITH of Jesus Christ might be give to the them that believe. (v.23) ..before FAITH came we were kept under the law, shut up unto the FAITH which should afterwords be revealed...(24) it (the Law) was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by FAITH. (v.25) But after that FAITH is has come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.

(v.26)" For you are all the children of God by FAITH in Christ Jesus."

YOUR VERSE= verse 28) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. ...And if ye be Christ's then are you Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Sean, this is ALL SPIRITUAL. You will never be able to understand this in the natural. Ask the Holy Spirit (the third person of the trinity) to reveal your Bible reading to you, as you begin. You will be amazed at the NEW EYES you have, as the Gospel is unfolded before you.

Don't ever be scared of studying the Bible. We also read in 2 Timothy Chapter 1 verse 7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power and of love and of a sound mind."

Sean, you will also read in Holy Scripture that many will come to you in sheep clothing, but they are ravenous wolves. There are many FALSE TEACHERS out there. May I ask that you read the post I made earlier: "LATTER DAY SAINTS? Mormonism?"

I will be praying for you. I commend you on sharing your feelings, and prayerfully the Lord Jesus will 'open your spiritual eyes', to what the Spirit of God says to His church (people).
Blessings and Prayers, Abishag <><

Can it Abishag. I'm not the one with the holier than thou verbage. (Speaking of wolves in sheeps clothing). Sean is a big boy - but I'm not trying to convert anyone... That is up to them. You are a real irritant, though.

Jesus told us to be salt and salt can irritate as well as give flavour!

I think testing any faith by the holy book is wise. Regardless of what it is, who it is, where it's from - test the teachings. If they contradict and fail to match up, something is wrong and alarm bells ought to ring. This includes making sure each one of us is familiar with what Christ said, for there are plenty of preachers/laypeople who will tell you otherwise. This includes people within my own church and anywhere else. When you hear ANYBODY, I don't care who it is, preaching alternatively to Christ, especially on essential truths that may effect our salvation? WATCH OUT!

Another alarm bell is the deniance of Hell. This is a biggy. Jesus spoke more about Hell than He did Heaven. Yet we have many preachers (even in my own denomination), that either avoid the topic, or tell people "Jesus didn't really mean what He said" OR "He didn't mean it literally" because it just doesn't sound nice, therefore let's tell people what they want to hear and what we ourselves wish to hear also. Then it will make it all better and hopefully "go away". Unfortunately, not only does this not remove the reality, but it is a dangerous heresy. Those who preach such, will be accountable to God Himself. I'd say this is in a sense "scandalising others". God help anybody who adds or takes away from the word of God and fails to deliver the truth as Christ delivered it, instead of playing "edit or twister" games.

I've seen all kinds of avoidance tactics, water down tactics. I call it "marshmellow Christianity" the soft and sweet kind that tells people what they want to hear. Now what are the fruits of this ear tickling Christianity? Have a look around you and that should tell you what it's done. The truth causes conversions, because the Holy Spirit resides in truth. It is not human beings that cause it, nor their watering down of harsh truths.

It's the ostrich in the sand syndrome - "let's pretend Hell doesn't exists" and our liberal priests are the worst. Yet the faithful priests, tell it like it is. Straight from Christ and sadly they are often hated (just as Christ was hated for pointing out inconvenient truths). We we want is the raw deal, the raw truth told as Christ told it. Regardless of whether we want to know or not. Let's understand the raw reason for his raw suffering and death. To save sinners from eternal damnation. Do they simply cease to exist if they deny Him? Apparently not - wishful thinking. All people were born with an eternal soul. Where that soul resides eternally is another story.

Jesus could not have been clearer, or spelt out anymore than Christ spelt it out. So in case anybody is in any doubts? I will once again spell it out here: Now if you don't like it, then you wouldn't like Christ either!

Here is what I typed up in an older post on this forum and I really do not wish to type it up all over again:

What part of all the quotes Christ gave that was an undeniable and frightening testament to the reality of Hell and consequent eternal punishment/suffering could possibly have been missed or misunderstood??? Christ could not have been clearer, nor more insistent and detailed. In fact, Christ spoke more on Hell than Heaven! Why? Because what can be worse than than the loss of one's soul to an eternal hell? NOTHING can possibly be worse than that and God has given us the means to avoid it and does not cease to call souls to Himself! The choice is ours.

God created all mankind with an ETERNAL soul and where that eternal soul resides in the end, is very much part of salvation or the rejection of it. Hell exists, Hell is real, Hell is eternal. To reject God, to remain unrepetent to the end, is to reject everything that is of Him and Hell is the alternative - not "non existence". How can one possibly cease to exist when the soul itself is eternal? Yes, the bible speaks of the death of the soul, because without the life and light of the saving Christ, one is essentially spiritually "dead". But the soul goes on EXISTING.

Those who deny Hell's existence and reality, or misinterpret/misinform, must consequently be counted amongst the fools who say in their heart "There is no God who punishes their misdeeds". It would be undoubtedly convenient and highly agreeable to those who believe that this life is all there is, OR if there is any afterlife that there is no eternal consequence to their sins or rejection of salvation. They simply...cease to exist. I wish it were so!

Let me give an example of some quotes that are an undeniable testament to the unfortunate reality of Hell and the consequent eternal suffering for those that reject God and end up there. In case anybody is fooled or comforted by the "you just cease to exist" heresy, here's a wake up call.















"



































To doubt Hell and its realities, is to doubt the infallible word of God.

For if holy scripture tells us that - may it not also be said that

Surely quotes such as these are a sobering reminder that hell is real and should leave one in no doubt about what Christ meant and how much this reality has been repeated throughout the bible, so that one, is in actual fact, without excuse!!

The remedy is there free of charge. Christ did not die an atrocious death on the cross for nothing. He took punishment in place of us, that we may have means of reconciliation. Now, if people do not like this? They can indeed throw that offer back in His face, as many sadly do. But they will have nobody to blame but themselves.

Im sorry you have lost some stars Abishag! You've been a tireless faithful member of this forum continually presenting the word of God and giving hope through His word to many lurkers/members alike.

Just a note to you Jeanie. This is not a personal dig. My post was directed at anybody!

I am considering Abishag as a person and a Christian contributor here and I do not consider that her intent towards you as malicious, but rather out of sincere concern. I really believe that. She's given so much on here, that surely some praise ought to be given where it's due?

However, if you feel your faith has been misrepresented/maligned, even by the links to the websites given? Then it is good and only fair to present a link to a site that you feel perhaps presents it more faithfully. I have admittedly not studied your faith or gone into any of it deeply enough to state and I hardly think I'm in much position to judge, unless I know for certain.

If/when I'm willing/ready I may look into it a bit more. My view is, if anybody is making statements contrary/contradictory to Christ, whoever they are - yet claiming to believe and be Christian? Then I think any fellow Christian is in their rights to correct them. Since not doing so could well be a sin of ommission.....Often people do not correct for fear of being labelled judgemental etc. Yet, correction is what Christ did and told us to do likewise. Should we see our brother fall, or following a way that concerns us? Then we are within our rights, and certainly (hopefully) within God's love, enough to wish to encourage them onto the right road.

So it's not an easy position to be in. It does not mean we are always right about everything, but the intention may not be as bad as we think.

By their fruits you shall know them as we were told. And if a person states belief in Christ in His word, yet contradicts, twists, waters down, omits etc - then it is only right to speak up.

Hello Bex, Jeanie, Sean, and whoever reads this....

Let me first say, "Thank you, Jeanie!" You told me, "Can it Abishag....you are a real irritant,...!"

Seems those are the same things the Pharisees and Scribes said to my Lord Jesus. Hmmmmmm.....

May I point out,Jeanie, please- Jesus tells His true followers, "Blessed are you, when (wo)men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceediing glad: for great is your reward in heaven....."

Someone mentioned my 'losing stars'??, for heavens sake, I'm not on this earth for STARS, I'm here to give my Lord Jesus, glory, honor, and praise! Another person informed me that several people were 'banned' from the Creation/evolution forum....and that THEY went about removing stars from people's name??? ...how childish, indeed!

So, now, Jeanie since you are proud to be called a "Mormon", may I ask you a few questions?

The Holy Scriptures tell us in 1 Thessalonians Chapter 5 verses 21 and 22 "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil." Can you prove that committing adultery (against God's Word) is legitimate and not a sin, for the Mormon Church to endorse? Is that good? God forbid!

Also to 'abstain from every appearance of evil', what, pray tell, are you doing over on the Evolution/Creation forum by joining in with darkness? Is that the life of a Mormon?

I don't expect you to 'speak well of me', because I expose the TRUTH of God's word, and your 'Mormon belief' has added to and subtracted from God's Holy Word.

Bex has spoken straight from the Word of God in saying, "there is a Hell..." Jesus even spoke more about Hell than He did of heaven. WHY? To try to 'open the eyes of the blind, set the captives free, and save sinners from Hell!"

As Bex also stated, the Word says regarding CHRISTians, "You shall know them by their fruit." Matthew 12:33

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." (Gal. 5:22-23) While we are called to do good works, they don't in themselves produce fruit. Rather, the fruit of the Spirit initiates our service...be it a kind word, prayers for those we care for. AND EXPOSING error in the Christian life.

I have typed all of the above not for MY glory, but for the LORD'S GLORY. He alone is worthy...

Thank you, dear Bex, for also exposing the truth of God's Holy Word. May our Sovereign Lord Jesus bless you for that.
I know it is a lot of 'work' (for His kingdom) to sit down and do all of this typing. Great are your rewards in heaven, my friend Bex.


Jeanie, I DO NOT dislike you. I totally DISlike the Mormon Church and it's twisting of God's Holy and pure word.

Jesus told the truth about judgment. He warned people to "flee the wrath of God" (Matt 3:7). Yes, God is angry with the wicked. Jesus said, "Every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment" (Matt. 12:36). Every idle word, all your thoughts, all your words, everything you have ever done, will be at the judgment seat of Christ. And you (all of us), will be condemned by your own words.

Jesus told the truth about repentance. He said, "Unless you repent, you will perish". (Luke 13:3)

If I have said some UNtruth about your 'Mormon' belief, please do let me know.

Thank you for your time. Blessings,
Abishag <><

No, truly it doesn't matter Abishag. It is trivial afterall. However I still corrected it



You're welcome Abishag. I was able to copy and paste the quotes from elsewhere that somebody else had thankfully listed up. Again, these people on the net have done the job for me in that regard, or I'd be forever searching areas of the bible to try and find exactly what I wanted that addresses the topic. Not an easy task, unless a person is highly knowledgeable and well versed and can just about go straight to the areas of the bible in question and reel off quote and verse.

Don't ever be scared of studying the Bible. We also read in 2 Timothy Chapter 1 verse 7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power and of love and of a sound mind."


^^^^^^ Great verse, which proves to me more and more fear was manmade and added to things such as teachings to scare you instead of power and LOVE and a SOUND MIND. How many who so called studied the bible and felt pressure of their religions and so on growing up had POWER and sound mind? Some were judged as if it were GOD JUDGING them by people at the church or forecful parents and so on, thank the lord I didn't go through much of that and became a free man and am doing just what the Bible verse says above! It's a shame some can fight and argue over religions or push some beliefs on people and think they are right and so on, when infact someone who thinks he knows it all knows nothing, or not even the half! I love this bible verse right here, it might be my next signature.


BTW I am not calling anyone in here a slave to religion or talking to Jeanie, Ash or Bex in my post above, just some judgemental people in general I knew growing up or adults etc., they went about things the wrong way and that really make me think twice about what they were really doing with this religion stuff and twisting it around into some kind of judgemental fear thing.

Hello Sean,

You are very wise, in that you will TAKE GOD AT HIS WORD!

Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but through Me."

You are most kind also in that you are careful not to offend anyone. Yes and Amen!

"God has not given us a spirit of FEAR, but of POWER, and of LOVE, and of a SOUND MIND."

If we all would just stick to the Bible, as the Truth and not try cluttering it up with other doctrines, the whole world would be a better place. Also, the Bible actually interprets itself.

What I mean by that, Sean, is that if you have a King James Bible, or NIV, or NASB ? , you can get a very good Concordance and trace the very verse (or verses) that you wish to study.

We use the Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. Plus, dear Sean, one other helpful method is a reputable Bible Believing Commentary that clarifies each and every verse.

On this, we have used Matthew Henry's Commentary. (a fine Christian man inspired by the Holy Spirit) We are in search for another that is strictly Biblical and not man's interpretation. (as is the MORMAN'S BOOK). I must inform you of that, kind sir, because I do not want you to be mislead.

May our Sovereign Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ direct your every step to the Celestial Kingdom.

We read hundreds of times in the Bible..."Fear not..." The Lord certainly wouldn't put that in the Holy Scriptures unless He knew WE WOULD HAVE FEAR! Call on His Name, JESUS, "If the Son (Jesus) therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed." John 8:36
~~~~~~~~~~
Sincerely, I bless you,
Abishag <><

I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see.<><

Hi Sean,

Thanks for your response and input in this.

A certain kind of fear is not a bad thing, but rather the beginning of wisdom and spiritual growth. Depending on the kind of "fear" we are talking about:











Fear can be stated in different ways. One meaning could describe a form of cowardice or the wrong kind of fear, the other a necessary fear (awe/reverence).

Rather a fear of offending Him, because of His greatness, His Holiness and all that He has done for us is in fact the beginning of wisdom and further contemplation on perfecting our life and our walk with Him towards eternity. Since nothing defiled can enter Heaven! A fear of losing our soul to Hell and being eternally separated from Him is not bad, or wrong or foolish, but wise. Thankfully He took our place of punishment on the Cross that we would have means to reconcile. The message through the bible is repeated call for repentence of sin and to change our lives.

It is right of course to preach love and forgivness, but unfortunately the other side (God's justice) is often missed out - particularly in our times where it is not wanted, not popular (or politically correct). Yet, sadly it is needed more than ever before due to the increase in sin, indifference to God and lack of respect for His commandments and warnings on sin.

We do this often in 'fear' (the wrong kind) for offending people. Yet had we the right kind of fear, we would fear committing sin and offending our Lord moreso and would therefore preach some of the tougher parts of the gospel with courage in the Holy Spirit.

Christ spelt it out as it was but never without the other hand reaching out to forgive and lift us up out of our bondage in sin. Sincerely, sin is not liberation/freedom, but rather a form of slavery and Christ came to set us free.

It is not judgemental or mean to remind oneanother of our daily need to improve our spiritual walk, as we are all on a journey towards eternity and repentence and a sincere sorrow for sin and sincere means to amend and avoid repeating it in future, is all God asks of us. Since we are sinners and are prone to fall, His hand is there always to help pull us back out.

Let us not be luke warm in our faith, and fence sitters. How can we possibly proclaim to be Christian and expect others to take us seriously, when our example maybe little better than practical atheism? i.e. lip service, but living and remaining in sin. Being a living example becomes I think the greater cause for conversions of others, than simply by preaching. Since we become a vessel that Christ is able to work through! The Holy Spirit resides in truth. No human being, on their own, can do anything. But with God? Anything is possible. All of us are weak and suffer with tendencies to fall into sin and some of us have certain areas that we are more prone to falling in than others. Let us not lose focus on Christ and give up! But let us also not play games with His mercy!

Consider the following also:

Though it is not by OUR works that we are saved, but through Christ's sacrifice on the cross and our faith and acceptance of that sacrifice,the EVIDENCE of our conversion and love of God should be revealed in our actions. We become in a sense a new person in Christ. Serving others, as Christ told us to do. Part of this is the repentence and avoidance of sinful practises, which is evidence of our obedience and love of God, not wishing to offend Him, or lose our soul. Should we fall, we have the means to get back up thanks to Christ's sacrifice that covers all of time. When one truly repents and sincerely seeks to change their life, one cannot help but find themselves drawn to do good and love others. Christ becomes increasingly present inside a person and they become increasingly aware of his presence. Sin tends to darken and blind a person.





















Being human and being sinners, naturally we do not like to be told, much-less reminded by our wretchedness and sin, but without such reminders, our awareness is easily dulled by the temptations and delights of temporary worldliness, which in the end, will never bring us eternal happiness.

It was said:







The bible is not a smorgus board, to where we can decide to simply pick and choose what delights us and pretend the harsh realities and responsibilities do not exist or aren't really the word of God. As much as I wish certain things were also not a reality, my limited wishes won't hold much impact on the day of my personal judgement, let alone THE day of Judgement for all mankind.

All people, if they are serious about God and eternal life and take Him at his word? Must get serious about sin also. Since God takes sin so seriously, He gave Himself as a sacrifice in the most horrific suffering possible. All so we might turn from our sin and embrace His forgiveness and receive eternal life. Wow, what a payment! We will never be able to thank Him enough, or those that continued to warn us on our journey through life and many temptations

Nobody said our walk would be easy, since the road is narrow and few who are who follow it. Strewn with crosses, thorns and temptations often, but we only have to look at the Cross to understand and to have hope of the ressurrection! Focus on Christ and let Him be our example and our lead.

Hello Sean,

You are very wise, in that you will TAKE GOD AT HIS WORD!

Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but through Me."

You are most kind also in that you are careful not to offend anyone. Yes and Amen!

"God has not given us a spirit of FEAR, but of POWER, and of LOVE, and of a SOUND MIND."

If we all would just stick to the Bible, as the Truth and not try cluttering it up with other doctrines, the whole world would be a better place. Also, the Bible actually interprets itself.

What I mean by that, Sean, is that if you have a King James Bible, or NIV, or NASB ? , you can get a very good Concordance and trace the very verse (or verses) that you wish to study.

We use the Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible. Plus, dear Sean, one other helpful method is a reputable Bible Believing Commentary that clarifies each and every verse.

On this, we have used Matthew Henry's Commentary. (a fine Christian man inspired by the Holy Spirit) We are in search for another that is strictly Biblical and not man's interpretation. (as is the MORMAN'S BOOK). I must inform you of that, kind sir, because I do not want you to be mislead.

May our Sovereign Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ direct your every step to the Celestial Kingdom.

We read hundreds of times in the Bible..."Fear not..." The Lord certainly wouldn't put that in the Holy Scriptures unless He knew WE WOULD HAVE FEAR! Call on His Name, JESUS, "If the Son (Jesus) therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed." John 8:36
~~~~~~~~~~
Sincerely, I bless you,
Abishag <><

I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see.<><

LOL...Abishag....there are many who believe and KNOW that the Book of Mormon is also scripture which complements the Bible. Refer to Ezekial...
Ezek. 37: 16, 19
16 Moreover, thou son of man, take thee one astick, and bwrite upon it, For cJudah, and for the children of Israel his companions: then take another stick, and dwrite upon it, For eJoseph, the fstick of Ephraim, and for all the house of Israel his companions:
• • •
19 Say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I will take the stick of aJoseph, which is in the hand of Ephraim, and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, even with the stick of Judah, and make them one stick, and they shall be one in mine hand.

The stick of Judah is the Bible and the stick of Joseph, the Book of Mormon. They are to become one in thine hand...we study both. And the Book of Mormon serves to clarify great and precious truths lost from the Bible. We don't want you mislead, either : )

Hi !

Excuse the error above...

Jeanie, In discerning God's Word we know two very IMPORTANT things from many Bible believing Pastors and Theologians:

FIRST: We know that the Lord will never say anything that contradicts Scripture. For example, suppose a religious group claimed that extra-marital affairs were somehow acceptable in the Lord's sight. We would know immediately that this wasn't from God, as it directly contradicts Exodus 20:14. (The Mormon Church endorses and condones polygamy).

SECOND: We know that God won't add to or take away from the Bible. It is His complete reliable Word. Therefore, anyone claiming to have "more" scriptures or another Testament is a fraud. {The Book of Mormons IS A FRAUD} PERIOD!

There are many impostors on this earth. We must test every voice against Scripture, and ask God for the wisdom to discern His voice. Two of the Enemy's best weapons are distraction and deception. The LDS/Mormon Church is a CULT.

Thank you, Abishag <><

Allow me to please add a quick note regarding Jeanie's above notation....

Jeanie, There is NO SUCH thing as a stick of Judah being the Bible.... and The stick of Joseph being the Book of Mormons. ALL SCRIPTURE IS INSPIRED BY GOD....not Joseph Smith nor his successor Brigham Young.

In 2 Timothy 3:15b-17 "...the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through FAITH which is in Jesus Christ. All scripture is inspired by GOD and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work."

Chapter 4:2-3 "Preach the Word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction.

Chapter 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

The Bible speaks for itself, and interprets itself!

Thank you, Abishag <><

Hmmm, ((((( Smiles ))))



Abigail is right on about that subject.

Is that what the religion of the Mormons are about?
The Holy Bible is not good enough so we need to add extra things to it that aren't there?
That sends up warning signs for sure.
A religion with extra Bibical text they added to it is suspect and the Bible does speak for itself rather well now.

But yes, on the subject above.
It's true that certain things written in the Bible can be rather scarry as in God is trying to warn us about certain things to come.
Telling us of them in advance and choices we need to make before a Holy God.
And the truth is we are ALL guilty before a Holy God and in need of a savior. And the good news is that one has been provided for us and His name is Yeshua Messiah or Jesus Christ.
He shed His blood for all of us and we should be very grateful for that. What He sacrificed for us as God does not desire any man to perish with this pershing earth.
And only people who love God will be in heaven as no one will be there who doesn't want to be there.
God does not force people to be with Him forever or love him.
He gave us the freedom to choose in this life and I support that freedom of choice weither it's the right one or the wrong one but why would a person not want to be with Jesus?
But the Bible says that there will be people who make that choice for themselves and even will not repent on Judgement day.
They just don't want to be with God. They will get there wish. But without God there is no life. He sustains us. He's our being.
To be without God is like a lightbulb with the power turned off as He is our source of being.
How anyone could reject Him is just beyond belief to me?
But lots will.
And Jesus did make it very clear that there is a real hell (see Matthew 10:28), He explained something vitally significant in the parable of the wheat and the tares.
We see so much wickedness and evil doings today but at the end of this age God will dry all tears from our eyes and there will be no sickness pain or death.
And evil will not be a part of Gods world at that time as He is a Holy Loving God and wants only good for those who love Him.
Actually it's a good thing He will protect us and we will no longer suffer and no evil will harm us again.
Lots of people look forward to that day!
Thats the Good News! Right!