The Apostle Peter wrote in 1 Peter 3:20: "....the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water." And of course, Genesis 7:7 also states, "And Noah went in, and his sons, and his wife, and his sons' wives with him, into the ark, because of the waters of the flood."
Here, we get confirmation that only eight people were saved by entering the Ark - no mention of any children or slaves.
You mentioned the word "good", in reference to how God described His creation. Is not "good" a term containing numerous varying degrees? e.g., kind of good, pretty good, extremely near perfect good, and so on. Not so with the word "perfect". There are no degrees symbolized in "perfect". Something is either perfect or it is flawed; no in-betweens either. Respectfully and sincerely, I ask: does anyone understand how good God's creation is? Therefore, perfection, in my mind, is much easier to perceive correctly than "good". I agree with Richard that Adam and Eve were in a sinless state in an idyllic place. I associate "sinless state" with perfect, or holy, or a state of perfect love. We believe God is perfect AND eternal, don't we. So, if Adam and Eve were in a sinless state, they had to have been in an eternal, perfect, sinless state. This is because holiness and eternity are one, meaning, they can't be separated. Neither can God from His extension (creation).They are One. I don't have that ability, or power to usurp God, thus making Him fatherless.
I hope I haven't misconstrued anything you or anyone else has said, therefore, please correct me for doing so.
Hello Ricardo. We are not told about the years it took for the Ark's construction, but from what information we're given, we can make a rough guess. In Genesis 6:3, God declared His sorrow that mankind had become so evil that God's Spirit would no longer "strive" (in Hebrew, the sense of pleading & continual judgement) with mankind. So from that time, God had given man 120 years of existence before being wiped out. This extra time may be for man to come to his senses, repent & turn from his wicked ways, but certainly for Noah's witness & preaching of man's destruction ( 2 Peter 2:5) to them, as well as for the building of the ark in preparation for the saving of the righteous ones.
Those who have calculated Noah's age & the birth of his sons & their marriages, believe that it may have taken between 55 to 75 years (maybe even more), for the ark's construction, plus the gathering of the animals & their feed. We're not told of those involved in its construction: certainly Noah & his sons, but there also may be others: unbelieving men (craftsmen) yet needing to earn a living by assisting in this mysterious build. Special tools & expertise would be required for the cutting & shaping of the wood & other necessary parts of this vessel.
No mention is made of saving any fish/sea creatures, so I assume that they continued in their state in the sea, whereas all, but the specified land & flying animals that went into the Ark, perished.
I would put a pitch in here for those searching to consider (after of course checking the validity) of online arranged marriages for Christians. That is a way to assure that we get to know the families ahead of time; and people are matched up with the wisdom of the temperments that the parents deem worthy for their daughters. It also avoids some of the silly dating and other situations that can lead to temptation; as well as getting down to business. It also is a good way to maintain Christian fellowship long term with families.
At least I can say with some confidence that it is better than many other "online" sites where people can photo shop their faces; or "reinvent" themselves to create whatever fantasy another may have to suit their purposes; or to find some way after a time to rip them off financially; etc. We also don't get a good idea of how valid someone's faith is in that way. Not to say that it can't work but I would take up my arranged marriage suggestion first before randomly looking for love on dating sites...
Of course what is well known by counsellors is that no one can "make you happy" if you are miserable within. only the Lord Jesus is transformative in the inner man; He is our confidence; our portion and our cup. ( Psalm 16:15; 1 John 5:14; Hebrews 10:35-36). Joy is a spiritual fruit and of course our faith in the Lord must take priority over everything and everyone. Psalm 37:3-4 asks us to TRUST in the Lord (take delight in Him) and He will give us the desires of our heart.
To find a partner we must trust that they will come alongside us in a time fitting with His plans. It should involve a help mate that will build us up as we fulfill the ministry or vocation He has called us in. I would venture to say normally we don't have to search at all but if we do it should be more like Genesis 24:1-10 when Abraham sent his servant out to find someone of his people for Isaac.
Hmm, One Eighty, interesting comments you have made here. I'll wait for the remainder of your thoughts and reply then.
A month or so back the Admin posted that in order to post one needs to have an account. So, perhaps that was the issue. But glad it got figured out for you and you can contribute once again. Thanks and God bless this evening. going to bed early. Trying to shake a nasty respiratory virus that is putting me down pretty much this week. I would appreciate your prayers.
In considering what kind of wife a man should look for; of course we have Proverbs 31 as a guideline. There is nothing fancy there; although it appears such a woman would appear nicely; but modestly dressed. Her character would be one that is industrious (working to secure income as well as to make clothes to keep the family warm in winter. A noble character would be praised at the gate; as it were according to the end of the chapter. There is nothing there of the overromanticized emotional sort of behavior; oversexualized mannerisms or other such trifling nonsense. There is also nothing to appear as what is so often mocked as a "mousy" woman; who is constantly fearful or with trepidation. The concept; of course of Abraham's wife calling him "lord" (Not captitalized in 1 Peter 3:7) certainly wouldn't win any popularity contests today.
This type of woman commended in scripture would certainly interact with the rest of the extended family and as indicated with the community. It would be a sort of extension; or addition to all the blessings of the husband in exalting him as well as; of course building up her house with raising children (see Psalm 127:4). He who finds a wife finds a good thing and a blessing from the Lord ( Prov. 18:22). This is how it should be anyway.
Switching to the man; of course we have the admonition for men to sacrifice themselves for them as Christ does for the church ( Eph. 5:25 and following verses). The confidence in security of a man of character and strength of course has also been cheapened with this "free love" culture mentality. Manlihood has gone out the window; not to mention chastity being considered as a virtue. So we are largely left with wimpy wet noodles or men who are full of themselves living playboy type lifestyles.
Friendships which should be the obvious start or building blocks of relationships are rarely taken seriously for those worthy of marriage potential; it wold seem.
I'm glad to hear from you, as always. For some reason, I couldn't reply on this site for a couple months. I was beginning to think it was due to something I wrote. But then for whatever reason, I could. Yet, I was able to read the comments. I respect you for your steadfastness, and your obvious love for God. I noticed your post a week or so ago, welcoming me back; it did not go unnoticed. Thank you for your kindness.
Ok, so we do agree on some things. God is One, eternally. It's part of the reason I frequently use the term God Is. From what I've read from you, I think we agree on the trinity. Also, I don't believe God was ever created, which, in my mind, is another meaning the term God Is, expresses. It would be helpful if we understood each others idea of what creation is, more specifically as it pertains to the Father and His creation of His children. Simply, I perceive creation as a sharing or extension of the Creator's ONE Self. So, it would follow, to understand Who and What the Creators Is, is to understand the identity of His creation. So is God a body? I'm fairly certain I read in a recent post of yours that God does not have blood, and I would agree. So He's not a body. Yet, we already know this, as scripture truly says that God is Spirit and His worshippers must worship Him in Spirit and Truth; not a body and Truth. And of course, we also read that flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to Spirit. So, I must inquire, which are we? Our reality cannot be both, as one denies the other, being an effect from an opposing cause other than Spirit. The truth of one thing always makes the falsity of its opposite perfectly clear. Thus, the truth of Spirit always makes the falsity of the body perfectly clear.
When did you receive Christ? When were you born of His Spirit? That would be your answer. I don't believe anyone here can tell you when. That should be something that only you know the answer to.
This in my personal view on Isaiah Chapter 60 verse 22 means a little one shall become big or famous a thousand times and this can be possible if we have hope in the Lord our Saviour. With him everything is possible.
You have made a good post here which prompts many thoughts in me. Hopefully Richard will respond back soon.
I just wanted to speak to your inquiry concerning if God is creating something wouldn't it be perfect like Himself (not your direct quote).
My understanding that in creation, God was not recreating Himself, replicating Himself, or in any way crating anything like Himself in all of creation. For one, He cannot do that, as Go's Being is One and always One. Always has been and always will be. for all of eternity God has existed without being created as a unity of three Persons in One Being-One Lord and God overall. His divine essence, being, and perfection belongs only to Himself and cannot be "made" or given to any other being.
Secondly, Though what God created was certainly good, we are not told that it is perfect, because only God is perfect. so, then the question is, can a perfect God create a good but not perfect thing. I would say yes, and I say so due to His purpose for creating: to redeem a people for Himself to be glorified with the Son for all eternity. So, to accomplish this end, God created angels and mankind with the ability to turn from Him in disobedience and rebellion, so that He can then redeem mankind to a better end than this earthly life and to prove, by, saving humans but not angels, that He is sovereign in His actions, decisions, and wisdom over all things, even evil and the devil and those fallen angels. He gets the last word on all things and in the end, the judgment of sin, the devil, the fallen angels, and unrepentant sinners is perfectly just and glorifying to Him.
I believe I was a bible-based Christian throughout high school. Afterwards, I became mentally troubled and went off into the Catholic Church, even to confessing to a priest. Ever since I have been strongly opposed to Catholicism; it is the false church. The problem I'm having is when was I born again -- before going to the Catholic Church or after all of that happened?
Since you can only be born again once, when was I born again before or after?
I graduated in 2008 and may have been brainwashed.
Good Morning Richard, Thanks again for these posts on how we are to go on in our faith after conversion.
If those who are in the church family would live as we ought than our witness and example to those not of the faith would be so much stronger, convincing, effective, and without hypocrisy and our words, service, and love for one another will be genuine, sincere, outpouring, and impartial.
Today's church environment is much like how Jesus described the Laodicean church: comfy, well-fed, indulgent, fleshly, and unaware of the lack of truly essential aspects of the mission of the people of God. Certainly, there are those in areas of great poverty, oppression, persecution, and violence in the world. But, even with access to so much on the internet, most Christians in western churches sit back and enjoy the ride of ease and luxury compared to what our brethren are facing daily in other parts of our world.
Even with all of these "things" in our western modern churches, people are still hungry for more, and often not for what is good. They will seek after "spiritual" experiences which more and more are dipping into the practices of the occult and eastern religions and the New Age. People are seeking personal "relevancy" in their church "experience" rather than true reverence; positive messages rather than a call to holiness; thinking they can "capture" some for the kingdom by bringing worldliness into the church arena and worship.
But there are still many things being done in the church that are truly good and advance the gospel. We should focus on those things, herald those who serve humbly rather than "celebrity" adulation. We need to be decisive about presenting the essentials of the faith over and over and over again until those new to the church and those who have been there a long time know these things by heart in order to be able to easily speak out the reason for one's hope in Christ to any who ask. We need to be equipped to be able to minister outward
The subject of our heart and affections must be at the forefront here to our Gospel message. Matthew 6:24 takes one point about this in regard to money or God being our master. This certainly extends to other issues that ultimately begin with the state of our heart (or soul) and our relationship with the LIVING God. It is true scripturally that we cannot "lose our salvation" but we can certainly lose rewards; as Rev. 3:11 clearly states. These will have consequences at LEAST for the Millennial rule of Christ and those of us who are "kings and priests" at that time; perhaps eternal ramifications. Hebrews 11:6 states that we MUST believe He is a rewarder of those who "diligently seek Him." This perseverance also is something worthy of obtaining crowns ( 2 Tim. 4:2).
I am convinced that God is the one who does the persevering; but still evidence that He lives within us is producing fruit (which comes after time in the proper season) as well as believing until the end. John 11:26 states that "He who believes in me will never die". What many don't know is that is in the context of CONTINUING faith; not just at a time and place of confession.
IF He lives within us and has taken up residence and if we are "sealed with the Spirit" ( Eph. 4:20) then sanctification must be continuing throughout our lives as pilgrims on the earth. God has redeemed us; and we are saved but not all the wheat and tares are evident; we in the end will be PHYSICALLY saved from this body of death at glorification; which is the end of the journey. Our salvation therefore is for HIS glory. We are to praise His name; and not just when we are in church fellowship; and certainly not for show to see who can yell "AMEN" the loudest.
We must keep in mind those that walked away when Christ challenged them; as well as what happened between Palm Sunday and the Crucifixion. Those who truly believe WILL endure to the end; those who don't WILL FALL. Simple as that.
Further insights on the Gospel preached in truth and fullness
Continuing from my last post; the enemy will attempt to go after marriages and family as a main target. Staying neutral on the "escape clause" issue in order to retain standing here; I will state what I can scripturally...that adultery is no action necessitating a divorce but merely it is an option; and secondly one should be a Berean and study the "unescape" statements in the Gospel of Luke and Mark and the context(s) before drawing their own conclusion (as well as the one in Corinthians; etc).
Children; of course are another way that Satan is unleashing his fury especially in the US today. There is also pornography that statistically; apparently many even who have leadership positions in churches are ensnared in today; and of course much of this starts in youth. There is also drug abuse; suicide; and violence among teens as well as violent video games and fantasies leading to general anarchy in society. ( Psalm 11:3 if the foundations are gone how shall the righteous stand?).
ALL these things and more are reasons why warnings need to be given to "guard our hearts" ( Prov. 4:23).
3. The contention between the Spirit and flesh. I have talked to at least one person in recent years who said they don't sense any real struggle within them of a spiritual battle. I have to question their faith. ( Gal. 5:16-22). The war has been won; but the battles will continue; more or less until the end of the Age of Grace for the church; and to Armageddon for the final group of believers.
Such issues listed in these posts surely need to be given some attention for converts. God of course will discipline someone who is a true child of his a little more gently after a few days or weeks of faith than He will say a few years later. We need of course also to caution about leaving our "first love". Such was the fate of the Ephesian church ( Rev. 2:4). This is Agape love not the emotion at conversion.
2. 2 Corinthians 13:5. "Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith..." This verse should be a warning given after any profession of faith. Warnings need to be associated with that in regard to producing good fruit ( Gal. 5:22-23). We of course don't want to present a "hyper-grace" type message in any form that we are now free to sin since grace "abounds" as stated in Romans 5:20 and subsequent verses. Here are several things one should look for after a genuine salvation experience and are evidences of SANCTIFICATION; the next stage in the process leading to GLORIFICATION. Romans 8:17; however talks about part of the necessary process "provided we suffer for Him."... This is not to suggest that we are all going to be martyred; but it DOES assume that we are crucified with Christ ( Galatians 2:20) and our life is now in Him. This means a death to our PRIDE; which of course is based on a whole bunch of subpoints (materialism; self grorification; esteem; reputation; status; etc.)
There used to be a song by Amy Grant "you've got to count the cost if you want to be a believer." as one of the lyrics. I could say more here; but I will leave it at this: such advice is sorely needed today if someone seeks God; and we must live it out ourselves.
3. Warnings of specific things the enemy is likely to place in your path to make you fall. I don't know how I could write this without reference to a primary target Satan is going after; namely marriages and family. If such things as personal vows taken in God's name (such as a marriage Covenant) are NOT taken as being DEADLY serious; then we can certainly understand why the confessing church has about 50 percent divorce rate par with the rest of the "pagan" world. I cannot understand how a covenant with God where the specific vow "until death do us part" can be violated. I don't wish to be flagged for the debate here on the "escape clause" in 2 places in Matthew
In my previous post I started to get into discipleship; and how exhortation and rebuke as well as challenging statements by elders wasn't "politically correct" today; and consequently how the typical layperson isn't given a healthy environment for growth and to help build new disciples themselves. These are drifting into side issues here; nonetheless in terms of proper explanation of the message of salvation we cannot ignore those things left unsaid but observed by onlookers when they view how the Body of Christ interacts. Further details may be given on this subject in another post.
For the time being; I would like to point out that ANY discipleship today has been a weak follow up process in general since the time of the Billy Graham and other big crusades in the US in particular when it comes to altar calls and resulting mass "conversions" if that is truly what they are. I am careful here naming names; there are no specific issues therefore that I am emphasizing as to the mention of one of several well known evangelists on this post other than stating that in general follow up was usually a one time or short lived event. If we go to a couple years in the future these type of evangelistic outreaches tend to have only a small percent of these "converts" continuing to grow in their faith; if even remaining a confessing Christian at all.
Okay; to the meat of the issue. Here are several points I deem necessary when presenting someone with the Gospel in the fullest sense.
1. Explaining properly that all good gifts come from above ( James 1:17) and assuming a proper message related to our total helplessness and hopelessness apart from Christ; repentance; and calling on Christ to save us through verbal and as best as we can tell believing in the heart ( Romans 10:9). This first step; of course can't be deficient with a person somehow thinking they have any way they can save themselves.
Bless the Lord; o my soul and forget none of His benefits ( Psalm 103:2). In preaching to the lost world; we certainly need to declare the victory over sin; and God's love ( John 3:16). We are translated from death to life in His Dear Son ( Colossians 1:13).
In fact God IS love ( 1 John 4:8).
In the backdrop of the news of the "exceeding great glory" awaiting us; ( 2 Peter 1:4) we also have 2 Corinthians 4:17 which mentions our "light afflictions" before glorification. Paul himself was told how much "he would suffer for the Kingdom of God's sake" ( Acts 9:16). Peter was instructed of similar things when the Lord asked him if he loved Him 3 times in John 21:15-16.
Such messages are rarely given today.
There are several problems preventing these truths to be given in exhortation. First of all; if we don't see some sort of persecution being suffered as is promised toward ALL who are Godly in Christ Jesus as their fate ( 2 Timothy 3:2) then we are not given any example to emulate and therefore live with unrealistic expectations as to how comfortable our lives will be once we live out our faith. Of course; with anything else the fact of the matter exists that the "fear of the Lord is the beginning of understanding." ( Prov. 1:7; 9:10; Psalm 111:10 and many other passages). It follows that reverence; awe; and respect result from such an understanding as well as the discipline to be as a hardened soldier not concerned with "civilian affairs" ( 2 Timothy 2:4).
I have stated in other places how exhortation and rebuke is; in such a permissive society not considered proper etiquette. That feeds into my next point; that we aren't seeing what is Biblical discipleship in WEEDING out those tares that are there to spread false doctrines and cause dissention as well as giving challenges as "iron sharpens iron" ( Prov. 27:17). This is a problem with church elders and other leaders and of course laypersons follow their lead.
Alex1939...Gi-Gi thanks for the inquiry of my family...I have 3 girls and 3 boys...14 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren...They have all been with me on my trips to India back in the 60's cept the 2 youngest....Preaching the gospel of Christ in you the hope of glory...Been to India 3 times preaching the Gospel...As an ex Pentacostal non Demoninational Preacher...But I gave up on all that when i received the revelation of the manchild the H.G. That is gonna be born in all of humanity...That New Covenant in the blood of Jesus ...Now I AM trying to turn the hearts of the Fathers to the Children ( Jesus Children) the H.G. the Children of PROMISE...An ISRAEL OF GOD...As Jesus said that which is born of the spirit tis spirit...thats the H.G. that is gonna be born in us via his good seed the words of that New Covenant...The Children of Promise that are the gifts of God...The H.G...I was also a missionary with Jack REED who wrote the book "We walk by faith and not by sight"...What a missionary he was...He went to over 67 countries... He just died this last yr. in Oct....But now i'm too old to go to any foreign Countries...And i believe with all my heart that my own country AMERICA needs missionaries more so then any other country...ok gbu Gi-Gi...I will pray for all of your Children Gi-Gi in the name of Jesus but also in the name of the babes and sucklings which are spirits That Israel of God that is gonna be born in us....Our new heart and new spirit....The Children of PROMISE....Unless ya receive the Kingdom of God as a lil Child your will in no wise enter there in...When they argued amongst them selves which was the greatest Jesus set a Child in their midst...He wants to set a Child in our hearts which is the H.G. That Child of Promise...The Kingdom....plz note the Kingdom does not come till the woman births the manchild...Which is the H.G. The spirit of truth that is gona reprove this whole world of sin and judgement etc...He is gonna rule this whole world...
And God said unto Noah, the end of all flesh has come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth. Make thee an Ark of gopher wood, rooms shalt thou make in the Ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch. My question and comments are how many years did Noah build the Ark? If he has carpenters and workers to build the Ark? If God destroys all mankind and living creatures or livestock? How about all the fish of the sea will die also, since fish leave and breath in the water. Kindly please explain further deeper and send us my email address account to be understood clearly.
On a self-same day entered Noah, and Shem, and Ham, and Japheth, the three (3) Sons of Noah, and Noah's wife, and the three wives of his Sons with them, into the ark; My question and comments are did not mentioned the children of his three Sons Shem, and Ham, and Japheth and also, their slave's and Noah's wife slave's did not mention also to entered Ark. It's possible there have children of his three sons for Noah's grandchildren and also a slave to enter Ark. Please kindly deeper explanation to send us my email account address. We will be waiting for your response.
It is a natural incline to show our good deeds towards other people so that we appear "good" in the eyes of men. Our fleshly nature wants other people to publicly praise us and recognize our heroism and bravery to rescue other fellows when they are in times of need.
However, Jesus took a different approach here to teach us that what matters is not what men see or think, but it is what God thinks. This should bring us to re-examine the very intent of our heart when we do certain things.
Let us do things, not to be seen or praised by men but rather to be approved by God.
Beloved Linda on Genesis 3 all is clean the Lord has cleansed all. Here in Acts 11:1-18
If we change God's word one small sentence and do not get light on the word with the Holy Spirit. Will everything we create becomes confusion. You see today, many issues come up about food. Which is not Divine at all. The apostles did not understand this either when they made a new rule here: The meeting of the Apostles in Jerusalem Acts 15:6-21
Stay close to the word og God, Jesus is there, love u in Christ. Merry Christmas eat all food in Jesus holy name, Amen
All fear/hate is ultimately reducible to the basic misperception we have the ability to usurp the power of God. To do the impossible would indeed be fearful. The belief the impossible has been accomplished, is. Thus, we are afraid of Love, unworthy of it, deserving our just eternal punishment. Is not God's Son perfect? Yes, or He cannot be God's Son. Likewise, God's creation, including you, is perfect, or you cannot be His creation (Son). Perfection IS unalterable!
Can anyone explain why God looked among all He created (animals and such) and obviously appears surprised He couldn't find a suitable mate/helper. Certainly, in His foreknowledge and omniscience He wouldn't be looking among something He intended not to create as a perfect mate, and then realize there was none. I'm sure there's a simple explanation.
Also, I think most agree the Garden was an idyllic place, and the two occupants were as they were created, in a sinless state. Yet, I must inquire, is an idyllic setting in an idyllic place idyllic, with the devil roaming about, tempting God's perfect creation to sin? And a tree smack in the center that would play a part in the horrible demise mankind would suffer.
Again, I enjoy your comments, always anticipating something informative and challenging.
I enjoyed reading your thought provoking post on the "knowledge of good and evil". The creation account is in some ways ambiguous to me, thus, in the search for truth, I must ask questions that perhaps are elementary or absurd to others. There's information in this account establishing much of the Creator's Mindset.
One primary challenge I have is regarding whether something (God) in a state of eternal holiness can or would create something unholy; and/or something holy that can change into an unholy creation. In the same manner, I highly doubt an unholy entity (Satan) could or would produce that which is holy; and/or something unholy that could become holy. Is it not logical that if anyone, or God, created something imperfect, we, and/or God, would be imperfect? Should not anything that comes from God be exactly like Him, where it concerns His characteristics; Who and What He is? In comparison, earthly parents pass to their children many of their traits, producing a likeness to their self. God is perfect and eternal; thus by DEFINITION, anything He creates would also have to be perfect and eternal. God is Truth, so whatever is true is eternal and cannot change or be changed. God is Spirit, and Spirit gives birth to Spirit; Spirit is unalterable because It is ALREADY perfect. But, the mind can elect what it chooses to serve, the only limit put on its choice being, it cannot serve two masters: Faith in Spirit AND the body, Love AND fear, Holiness AND sin, Life AND death, God and Satan. Opposites.
Who can usurp the authority (power) of God? I'm concerned for myself I may be minimizing God's omnipotence by believing there's anything that can-including sin. To me, sin would only prove what God created Holy could not prevail against it, nor remain Itself before the power of sin. Sin is perceived as mightier than God, before which God Himself must bow and offer His creation to Its conqueror, Satan. Many consider this humility.
Here, we get confirmation that only eight people were saved by entering the Ark - no mention of any children or slaves.
Hi again,
You mentioned the word "good", in reference to how God described His creation. Is not "good" a term containing numerous varying degrees? e.g., kind of good, pretty good, extremely near perfect good, and so on. Not so with the word "perfect". There are no degrees symbolized in "perfect". Something is either perfect or it is flawed; no in-betweens either. Respectfully and sincerely, I ask: does anyone understand how good God's creation is? Therefore, perfection, in my mind, is much easier to perceive correctly than "good". I agree with Richard that Adam and Eve were in a sinless state in an idyllic place. I associate "sinless state" with perfect, or holy, or a state of perfect love. We believe God is perfect AND eternal, don't we. So, if Adam and Eve were in a sinless state, they had to have been in an eternal, perfect, sinless state. This is because holiness and eternity are one, meaning, they can't be separated. Neither can God from His extension (creation).They are One. I don't have that ability, or power to usurp God, thus making Him fatherless.
I hope I haven't misconstrued anything you or anyone else has said, therefore, please correct me for doing so.
Peace and blessings to you.
GOD IS
Those who have calculated Noah's age & the birth of his sons & their marriages, believe that it may have taken between 55 to 75 years (maybe even more), for the ark's construction, plus the gathering of the animals & their feed. We're not told of those involved in its construction: certainly Noah & his sons, but there also may be others: unbelieving men (craftsmen) yet needing to earn a living by assisting in this mysterious build. Special tools & expertise would be required for the cutting & shaping of the wood & other necessary parts of this vessel.
No mention is made of saving any fish/sea creatures, so I assume that they continued in their state in the sea, whereas all, but the specified land & flying animals that went into the Ark, perished.
I would put a pitch in here for those searching to consider (after of course checking the validity) of online arranged marriages for Christians. That is a way to assure that we get to know the families ahead of time; and people are matched up with the wisdom of the temperments that the parents deem worthy for their daughters. It also avoids some of the silly dating and other situations that can lead to temptation; as well as getting down to business. It also is a good way to maintain Christian fellowship long term with families.
At least I can say with some confidence that it is better than many other "online" sites where people can photo shop their faces; or "reinvent" themselves to create whatever fantasy another may have to suit their purposes; or to find some way after a time to rip them off financially; etc. We also don't get a good idea of how valid someone's faith is in that way. Not to say that it can't work but I would take up my arranged marriage suggestion first before randomly looking for love on dating sites...
Of course what is well known by counsellors is that no one can "make you happy" if you are miserable within. only the Lord Jesus is transformative in the inner man; He is our confidence; our portion and our cup. ( Psalm 16:15; 1 John 5:14; Hebrews 10:35-36). Joy is a spiritual fruit and of course our faith in the Lord must take priority over everything and everyone. Psalm 37:3-4 asks us to TRUST in the Lord (take delight in Him) and He will give us the desires of our heart.
To find a partner we must trust that they will come alongside us in a time fitting with His plans. It should involve a help mate that will build us up as we fulfill the ministry or vocation He has called us in. I would venture to say normally we don't have to search at all but if we do it should be more like Genesis 24:1-10 when Abraham sent his servant out to find someone of his people for Isaac.
A month or so back the Admin posted that in order to post one needs to have an account. So, perhaps that was the issue. But glad it got figured out for you and you can contribute once again. Thanks and God bless this evening. going to bed early. Trying to shake a nasty respiratory virus that is putting me down pretty much this week. I would appreciate your prayers.
In considering what kind of wife a man should look for; of course we have Proverbs 31 as a guideline. There is nothing fancy there; although it appears such a woman would appear nicely; but modestly dressed. Her character would be one that is industrious (working to secure income as well as to make clothes to keep the family warm in winter. A noble character would be praised at the gate; as it were according to the end of the chapter. There is nothing there of the overromanticized emotional sort of behavior; oversexualized mannerisms or other such trifling nonsense. There is also nothing to appear as what is so often mocked as a "mousy" woman; who is constantly fearful or with trepidation. The concept; of course of Abraham's wife calling him "lord" (Not captitalized in 1 Peter 3:7) certainly wouldn't win any popularity contests today.
This type of woman commended in scripture would certainly interact with the rest of the extended family and as indicated with the community. It would be a sort of extension; or addition to all the blessings of the husband in exalting him as well as; of course building up her house with raising children (see Psalm 127:4). He who finds a wife finds a good thing and a blessing from the Lord ( Prov. 18:22). This is how it should be anyway.
Switching to the man; of course we have the admonition for men to sacrifice themselves for them as Christ does for the church ( Eph. 5:25 and following verses). The confidence in security of a man of character and strength of course has also been cheapened with this "free love" culture mentality. Manlihood has gone out the window; not to mention chastity being considered as a virtue. So we are largely left with wimpy wet noodles or men who are full of themselves living playboy type lifestyles.
Friendships which should be the obvious start or building blocks of relationships are rarely taken seriously for those worthy of marriage potential; it wold seem.
I'm glad to hear from you, as always. For some reason, I couldn't reply on this site for a couple months. I was beginning to think it was due to something I wrote. But then for whatever reason, I could. Yet, I was able to read the comments. I respect you for your steadfastness, and your obvious love for God. I noticed your post a week or so ago, welcoming me back; it did not go unnoticed. Thank you for your kindness.
Ok, so we do agree on some things. God is One, eternally. It's part of the reason I frequently use the term God Is. From what I've read from you, I think we agree on the trinity. Also, I don't believe God was ever created, which, in my mind, is another meaning the term God Is, expresses. It would be helpful if we understood each others idea of what creation is, more specifically as it pertains to the Father and His creation of His children. Simply, I perceive creation as a sharing or extension of the Creator's ONE Self. So, it would follow, to understand Who and What the Creators Is, is to understand the identity of His creation. So is God a body? I'm fairly certain I read in a recent post of yours that God does not have blood, and I would agree. So He's not a body. Yet, we already know this, as scripture truly says that God is Spirit and His worshippers must worship Him in Spirit and Truth; not a body and Truth. And of course, we also read that flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to Spirit. So, I must inquire, which are we? Our reality cannot be both, as one denies the other, being an effect from an opposing cause other than Spirit. The truth of one thing always makes the falsity of its opposite perfectly clear. Thus, the truth of Spirit always makes the falsity of the body perfectly clear.
to be continued
When did you receive Christ? When were you born of His Spirit? That would be your answer. I don't believe anyone here can tell you when. That should be something that only you know the answer to.
Well spoken.
God bless you.
You have made a good post here which prompts many thoughts in me. Hopefully Richard will respond back soon.
I just wanted to speak to your inquiry concerning if God is creating something wouldn't it be perfect like Himself (not your direct quote).
My understanding that in creation, God was not recreating Himself, replicating Himself, or in any way crating anything like Himself in all of creation. For one, He cannot do that, as Go's Being is One and always One. Always has been and always will be. for all of eternity God has existed without being created as a unity of three Persons in One Being-One Lord and God overall. His divine essence, being, and perfection belongs only to Himself and cannot be "made" or given to any other being.
Secondly, Though what God created was certainly good, we are not told that it is perfect, because only God is perfect. so, then the question is, can a perfect God create a good but not perfect thing. I would say yes, and I say so due to His purpose for creating: to redeem a people for Himself to be glorified with the Son for all eternity. So, to accomplish this end, God created angels and mankind with the ability to turn from Him in disobedience and rebellion, so that He can then redeem mankind to a better end than this earthly life and to prove, by, saving humans but not angels, that He is sovereign in His actions, decisions, and wisdom over all things, even evil and the devil and those fallen angels. He gets the last word on all things and in the end, the judgment of sin, the devil, the fallen angels, and unrepentant sinners is perfectly just and glorifying to Him.
Since you can only be born again once, when was I born again before or after?
I graduated in 2008 and may have been brainwashed.
If those who are in the church family would live as we ought than our witness and example to those not of the faith would be so much stronger, convincing, effective, and without hypocrisy and our words, service, and love for one another will be genuine, sincere, outpouring, and impartial.
Today's church environment is much like how Jesus described the Laodicean church: comfy, well-fed, indulgent, fleshly, and unaware of the lack of truly essential aspects of the mission of the people of God. Certainly, there are those in areas of great poverty, oppression, persecution, and violence in the world. But, even with access to so much on the internet, most Christians in western churches sit back and enjoy the ride of ease and luxury compared to what our brethren are facing daily in other parts of our world.
Even with all of these "things" in our western modern churches, people are still hungry for more, and often not for what is good. They will seek after "spiritual" experiences which more and more are dipping into the practices of the occult and eastern religions and the New Age. People are seeking personal "relevancy" in their church "experience" rather than true reverence; positive messages rather than a call to holiness; thinking they can "capture" some for the kingdom by bringing worldliness into the church arena and worship.
But there are still many things being done in the church that are truly good and advance the gospel. We should focus on those things, herald those who serve humbly rather than "celebrity" adulation. We need to be decisive about presenting the essentials of the faith over and over and over again until those new to the church and those who have been there a long time know these things by heart in order to be able to easily speak out the reason for one's hope in Christ to any who ask. We need to be equipped to be able to minister outward
The subject of our heart and affections must be at the forefront here to our Gospel message. Matthew 6:24 takes one point about this in regard to money or God being our master. This certainly extends to other issues that ultimately begin with the state of our heart (or soul) and our relationship with the LIVING God. It is true scripturally that we cannot "lose our salvation" but we can certainly lose rewards; as Rev. 3:11 clearly states. These will have consequences at LEAST for the Millennial rule of Christ and those of us who are "kings and priests" at that time; perhaps eternal ramifications. Hebrews 11:6 states that we MUST believe He is a rewarder of those who "diligently seek Him." This perseverance also is something worthy of obtaining crowns ( 2 Tim. 4:2).
I am convinced that God is the one who does the persevering; but still evidence that He lives within us is producing fruit (which comes after time in the proper season) as well as believing until the end. John 11:26 states that "He who believes in me will never die". What many don't know is that is in the context of CONTINUING faith; not just at a time and place of confession.
IF He lives within us and has taken up residence and if we are "sealed with the Spirit" ( Eph. 4:20) then sanctification must be continuing throughout our lives as pilgrims on the earth. God has redeemed us; and we are saved but not all the wheat and tares are evident; we in the end will be PHYSICALLY saved from this body of death at glorification; which is the end of the journey. Our salvation therefore is for HIS glory. We are to praise His name; and not just when we are in church fellowship; and certainly not for show to see who can yell "AMEN" the loudest.
We must keep in mind those that walked away when Christ challenged them; as well as what happened between Palm Sunday and the Crucifixion. Those who truly believe WILL endure to the end; those who don't WILL FALL. Simple as that.
Continuing from my last post; the enemy will attempt to go after marriages and family as a main target. Staying neutral on the "escape clause" issue in order to retain standing here; I will state what I can scripturally...that adultery is no action necessitating a divorce but merely it is an option; and secondly one should be a Berean and study the "unescape" statements in the Gospel of Luke and Mark and the context(s) before drawing their own conclusion (as well as the one in Corinthians; etc).
Children; of course are another way that Satan is unleashing his fury especially in the US today. There is also pornography that statistically; apparently many even who have leadership positions in churches are ensnared in today; and of course much of this starts in youth. There is also drug abuse; suicide; and violence among teens as well as violent video games and fantasies leading to general anarchy in society. ( Psalm 11:3 if the foundations are gone how shall the righteous stand?).
ALL these things and more are reasons why warnings need to be given to "guard our hearts" ( Prov. 4:23).
3. The contention between the Spirit and flesh. I have talked to at least one person in recent years who said they don't sense any real struggle within them of a spiritual battle. I have to question their faith. ( Gal. 5:16-22). The war has been won; but the battles will continue; more or less until the end of the Age of Grace for the church; and to Armageddon for the final group of believers.
Such issues listed in these posts surely need to be given some attention for converts. God of course will discipline someone who is a true child of his a little more gently after a few days or weeks of faith than He will say a few years later. We need of course also to caution about leaving our "first love". Such was the fate of the Ephesian church ( Rev. 2:4). This is Agape love not the emotion at conversion.
2. 2 Corinthians 13:5. "Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith..." This verse should be a warning given after any profession of faith. Warnings need to be associated with that in regard to producing good fruit ( Gal. 5:22-23). We of course don't want to present a "hyper-grace" type message in any form that we are now free to sin since grace "abounds" as stated in Romans 5:20 and subsequent verses. Here are several things one should look for after a genuine salvation experience and are evidences of SANCTIFICATION; the next stage in the process leading to GLORIFICATION. Romans 8:17; however talks about part of the necessary process "provided we suffer for Him."... This is not to suggest that we are all going to be martyred; but it DOES assume that we are crucified with Christ ( Galatians 2:20) and our life is now in Him. This means a death to our PRIDE; which of course is based on a whole bunch of subpoints (materialism; self grorification; esteem; reputation; status; etc.)
There used to be a song by Amy Grant "you've got to count the cost if you want to be a believer." as one of the lyrics. I could say more here; but I will leave it at this: such advice is sorely needed today if someone seeks God; and we must live it out ourselves.
3. Warnings of specific things the enemy is likely to place in your path to make you fall. I don't know how I could write this without reference to a primary target Satan is going after; namely marriages and family. If such things as personal vows taken in God's name (such as a marriage Covenant) are NOT taken as being DEADLY serious; then we can certainly understand why the confessing church has about 50 percent divorce rate par with the rest of the "pagan" world. I cannot understand how a covenant with God where the specific vow "until death do us part" can be violated. I don't wish to be flagged for the debate here on the "escape clause" in 2 places in Matthew
In my previous post I started to get into discipleship; and how exhortation and rebuke as well as challenging statements by elders wasn't "politically correct" today; and consequently how the typical layperson isn't given a healthy environment for growth and to help build new disciples themselves. These are drifting into side issues here; nonetheless in terms of proper explanation of the message of salvation we cannot ignore those things left unsaid but observed by onlookers when they view how the Body of Christ interacts. Further details may be given on this subject in another post.
For the time being; I would like to point out that ANY discipleship today has been a weak follow up process in general since the time of the Billy Graham and other big crusades in the US in particular when it comes to altar calls and resulting mass "conversions" if that is truly what they are. I am careful here naming names; there are no specific issues therefore that I am emphasizing as to the mention of one of several well known evangelists on this post other than stating that in general follow up was usually a one time or short lived event. If we go to a couple years in the future these type of evangelistic outreaches tend to have only a small percent of these "converts" continuing to grow in their faith; if even remaining a confessing Christian at all.
Okay; to the meat of the issue. Here are several points I deem necessary when presenting someone with the Gospel in the fullest sense.
1. Explaining properly that all good gifts come from above ( James 1:17) and assuming a proper message related to our total helplessness and hopelessness apart from Christ; repentance; and calling on Christ to save us through verbal and as best as we can tell believing in the heart ( Romans 10:9). This first step; of course can't be deficient with a person somehow thinking they have any way they can save themselves.
Bless the Lord; o my soul and forget none of His benefits ( Psalm 103:2). In preaching to the lost world; we certainly need to declare the victory over sin; and God's love ( John 3:16). We are translated from death to life in His Dear Son ( Colossians 1:13).
In fact God IS love ( 1 John 4:8).
In the backdrop of the news of the "exceeding great glory" awaiting us; ( 2 Peter 1:4) we also have 2 Corinthians 4:17 which mentions our "light afflictions" before glorification. Paul himself was told how much "he would suffer for the Kingdom of God's sake" ( Acts 9:16). Peter was instructed of similar things when the Lord asked him if he loved Him 3 times in John 21:15-16.
Such messages are rarely given today.
There are several problems preventing these truths to be given in exhortation. First of all; if we don't see some sort of persecution being suffered as is promised toward ALL who are Godly in Christ Jesus as their fate ( 2 Timothy 3:2) then we are not given any example to emulate and therefore live with unrealistic expectations as to how comfortable our lives will be once we live out our faith. Of course; with anything else the fact of the matter exists that the "fear of the Lord is the beginning of understanding." ( Prov. 1:7; 9:10; Psalm 111:10 and many other passages). It follows that reverence; awe; and respect result from such an understanding as well as the discipline to be as a hardened soldier not concerned with "civilian affairs" ( 2 Timothy 2:4).
I have stated in other places how exhortation and rebuke is; in such a permissive society not considered proper etiquette. That feeds into my next point; that we aren't seeing what is Biblical discipleship in WEEDING out those tares that are there to spread false doctrines and cause dissention as well as giving challenges as "iron sharpens iron" ( Prov. 27:17). This is a problem with church elders and other leaders and of course laypersons follow their lead.
However, Jesus took a different approach here to teach us that what matters is not what men see or think, but it is what God thinks. This should bring us to re-examine the very intent of our heart when we do certain things.
Let us do things, not to be seen or praised by men but rather to be approved by God.
If we change God's word one small sentence and do not get light on the word with the Holy Spirit. Will everything we create becomes confusion. You see today, many issues come up about food. Which is not Divine at all. The apostles did not understand this either when they made a new rule here: The meeting of the Apostles in Jerusalem Acts 15:6-21
Stay close to the word og God, Jesus is there, love u in Christ. Merry Christmas eat all food in Jesus holy name, Amen
Keep bringing us your good words.
Good night for today. Talk tomorrow.
Acts 1:11"...this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all on this platform.
The LORD bless you and keep you. The LORD make HIS face to shine upon you and be gracious to you.
Though it may seem bleak and overpowering, the LORD promised us peace in and through the name of HIS SON, the LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Romans 10: 9-12; 2 Peter 3:9; 1 Timothy 2:1-3; Colossians 3: 1-2
December 27, 2022
Hi Richard,
All fear/hate is ultimately reducible to the basic misperception we have the ability to usurp the power of God. To do the impossible would indeed be fearful. The belief the impossible has been accomplished, is. Thus, we are afraid of Love, unworthy of it, deserving our just eternal punishment. Is not God's Son perfect? Yes, or He cannot be God's Son. Likewise, God's creation, including you, is perfect, or you cannot be His creation (Son). Perfection IS unalterable!
Can anyone explain why God looked among all He created (animals and such) and obviously appears surprised He couldn't find a suitable mate/helper. Certainly, in His foreknowledge and omniscience He wouldn't be looking among something He intended not to create as a perfect mate, and then realize there was none. I'm sure there's a simple explanation.
Also, I think most agree the Garden was an idyllic place, and the two occupants were as they were created, in a sinless state. Yet, I must inquire, is an idyllic setting in an idyllic place idyllic, with the devil roaming about, tempting God's perfect creation to sin? And a tree smack in the center that would play a part in the horrible demise mankind would suffer.
Again, I enjoy your comments, always anticipating something informative and challenging.
Peace
God Is
I enjoyed reading your thought provoking post on the "knowledge of good and evil". The creation account is in some ways ambiguous to me, thus, in the search for truth, I must ask questions that perhaps are elementary or absurd to others. There's information in this account establishing much of the Creator's Mindset.
One primary challenge I have is regarding whether something (God) in a state of eternal holiness can or would create something unholy; and/or something holy that can change into an unholy creation. In the same manner, I highly doubt an unholy entity (Satan) could or would produce that which is holy; and/or something unholy that could become holy. Is it not logical that if anyone, or God, created something imperfect, we, and/or God, would be imperfect? Should not anything that comes from God be exactly like Him, where it concerns His characteristics; Who and What He is? In comparison, earthly parents pass to their children many of their traits, producing a likeness to their self. God is perfect and eternal; thus by DEFINITION, anything He creates would also have to be perfect and eternal. God is Truth, so whatever is true is eternal and cannot change or be changed. God is Spirit, and Spirit gives birth to Spirit; Spirit is unalterable because It is ALREADY perfect. But, the mind can elect what it chooses to serve, the only limit put on its choice being, it cannot serve two masters: Faith in Spirit AND the body, Love AND fear, Holiness AND sin, Life AND death, God and Satan. Opposites.
Who can usurp the authority (power) of God? I'm concerned for myself I may be minimizing God's omnipotence by believing there's anything that can-including sin. To me, sin would only prove what God created Holy could not prevail against it, nor remain Itself before the power of sin. Sin is perceived as mightier than God, before which God Himself must bow and offer His creation to Its conqueror, Satan. Many consider this humility.
to be continued