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I woke in the wee hours with this old hymn on my mind. On a hill far away, stood an old rugged Cross The emblem of suff'ring and shame And I love that old Cross where the dearest and best For a world of lost sinners was slain So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross Till my trophies at last I lay down I will cling to the old rugged Cross And exchange it some day for a crown Oh, that old rugged Cross so despised by the world Has a wondrous attraction for me For the dear Lamb of God, left his Glory above To bear it to dark Calvary So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross Till my trophies at last I lay down I will cling to the old rugged Cross And exchange it some day for a crown In the old rugged Cross, stain'd with blood so divine A wondrous beauty I see For the dear Lamb of God, left his Glory above To pardon and sanctify me So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross Till my trophies at last I lay down I will cling to the old rugged Cross And exchange it some day for a crown To the old rugged Cross, I will ever be true Its shame and reproach gladly bear Then He'll call me some day to my home far away Where his glory forever I'll share So I'll cherish the old rugged Cross Till my trophies at last I lay down I will cling to the old rugged Cross And exchange it some day for a crown

A brother stood up at our gathering this morning and said: "The Christian life is not hard, brothers and sisters, it is impossible!" His point was, there is only One who did it, and only One who is still able to live the Christian life. If we think it is hard, it shows we're trying to live it from the wrong source - our own self effort. Nobody, apart from Christ in us, is able to live it. Therefore, we must learn to live by a new source, our spirit, which is joined to His Spirit! (1 Cor 6:17) Three supporting verses come to mind (there are many more): "Apart from Me you can do nothing." "My yoke is easy and my burden light." "What is impossible with men is possible with God." John 15:5, Matt 11:30, Luke 8:27

I've become more aware that various ones would like to dismiss Paul the apostle and discredit his writings. Paul is the most prolific writer of the New Testament if number of epistles are counted (Luke actually writes more by volume via gospel of Luke and Acts). By far, Paul addresses more topics and issues than any other writer of the NT. And all those topics he covers brings him under fire, as he touches a lot of nerves, including: >Drunkenness >Homosexuality >Husband/Wife relations >Men & woman's roles >Other sexual moralities >Not stumbling others with certain practices, etc. And Paul also conveys some of the highest vision (which some also object to): >The ekklesia as the body of Christ (this is unique to Paul) >Flesh vs. spirit >Freedom in Christ vs legalism >Indwelling Christ Bottom-line to me is the Lord has used Paul's writings to speak to me for decades, therefore I have no doubt he is a legitimate apostle (plus Peter confirms in 2 Pet 3:15-16), speaking some very high vision, but also a multitude of practical things in our pursuit of Christ. Are there other reasons Paul is disparaged by some that I've not listed? What are your thought on this?

I join you in that. As for myself, the Lord is with me always so I'm never alone. It isn't a burden by any means. He has given me a memorial so that I can remember how He came to me when all hope was lost, and I wrongly believed that He despised me having been silent for so many years. I think of that day and I tremble at the memory of how close I came to the end of this flesh; not the prospect of the end of flesh and blood but rather, the end of my time on earth without the Lord. He came to me and lifted me up, healing body and mind and restoring me. What is the memorial of that day? My right hand. It was broken when I fell and so one of the knuckles on that hand is absent. This is so I can remember and say, "The Lord delivered me with a mighty hand, for my own was broken!" I could say that I lost everything except for the life in this body that is perishing, and it would be true only in this sense: I have no family (they rejected me). I have no wife and no children. I lost all of my possessions many times over, I lost whatever money I had, and I had no place to rest my head. I don't own any property... But the Lord has given me everything. He has given me Himself and the promise that when He gathers me to Himself, I will never depart. I will dwell in His presence forever. Truly, my joy knows no bounds!

Pauls letters spend a lot of time showing the early churches what they were doing wrong. Some churches, who don't listen to his teachings, are still doing it wrong and that is why I think it's important.

This weekend a brother was sharing in First Corinthians. This morning (from a handout he gave) I saw the verse reference in 1 Corinthians 1:9: “You were called into fellowship* with His Son.” In chewing on this a bit, I started to get an appreciation for what this remarkable fellowship really is and includes. We have been brought into an astounding partnership and royal communication with the Father and with His Son . . . and with each other! What is this fellowship? We can think of it as an amazing and exclusive privilege (but also open to all who believe). Think of the grandest fellowship men come up with and multiply that by a kazillion, and we still won’t have what our Savior has brought us into! When we get togethers with others in this fellowship, we are able to enter into the highest communication in the universe! This has been freely given to us with all the privileges bestowed (as royalty and sons) and are fully ours. There is no higher fellowship and what a noble exchange now transpires between us! All we need to do is appreciate that His blood covers us and simply enter into the enjoyment and interaction afforded us in this fellowship. “And truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son.” (see 1st John 1) This is a corporate and highly interactive thing we are privileged now to be part of. All that is contained in this exceptionally wonderful fellowship is ours . . . and ours to share, enjoy and communicate all the glorious particulars with others in this fellowship! Thank you Lord for bringing us into this beyond amazing fellowship – help us appreciate and participate in what you’ve given us as members of your body!!! * Fellowship – Greek “koinonia” meaning partnership, contributory help, participation, sharing in, communion, a fellowship in spirit

Church attendance is not an indicator of fruit. I understand that church attendance matters where religion is concerned, but the Body of Christ is found everywhere in the world. We are the temple of the Holy Spirit, not a structure built by men; the Lord does not dwell in structures made by man nor is He served by human hands (Acts 17:25).

Isa 32:17-18 And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever. (18) And my people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places; Some Christians in the Lord's body experience seasons of solitude, especially with the passing of loved ones, but for some solitude has been a life-long, unchanging paradigm for them to come to terms with, as if it is a special gift from which ministry can proceed. 1Co 12:18 But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. Solitude is often paired with loneliness, but aloneness is also often held to be distinct from loneliness. I enjoy my own company, and manage quite well on my own for a few days when my dear wife is away, but I have to empathise with those who actually live alone, and don't embrace solitude as a gift.

"Solitude, often misunderstood as simply being alone, is a state of being alone without loneliness or isolation. It's a positive and desirable experience that allows for introspection, creativity, and personal growth. Being alone is not necessarily synonymous with loneliness, which is a sense of isolation even when surrounded by others." Being an old fart, I enjoy time alone. The outside world has become too noisy for me, too crowded to feel at peace. I do enjoy our meeting together with our church body, families and old friends as we just returned home from. Every day I often end up in my shop eventually by myself. Quiet with special easy listening instrumentals playing. A favorite may come on and trigger memories. Good stuff most often. This causes a great thankfulness, gratitude and eventually giving praise to God. God is with me and ain't going to leave. I talk, he listens, and with the word hid within, me replies. I know I am blessed beyond measure and try to get that emotion understood by our 'Father.' Why does He give me so much favor, a sinner like me? God is merciful. God is good, and so be it. Thanks Michael

Birds and Animals · During one tense bullfight, matador Alvaro Munero did the unthinkable. As the crowd cheered, wanting the next dramatic move, he abruptly stepped away from the bull, walked to the edge of the arena, and sat down. The roaring crowd fell into stunned silence. In a post-interview that came from his heart, Alvaro shared this life-altering moment that led to his decision: "In one moment I forgot the existence of the horns. All I could see was his eyes, standing there, not with rage but with something much deeper-innocence. He was not attacking me; he was just looking at me, pleading wordlessly for his life. That is when it came into my mind that this isn't an animal I am fighting; this is a living thing that wanted to live as much as I did.". His eyes had that purity that only animals possess, and in them, I saw that undeniable truth. I felt an overwhelming surge of guilt; it was as if I had become the most heartless creature alive. I couldn't continue. I dropped my sword, left the arena, and made a promise to myself: I would no longer fight bulls; I would fight against a world which makes a game out of the torture of others for amusement. The story of Alvaro Munero is a rare, powerful look into the transformative force of compassion, even in the most unlikely of places. It is a reminder that one moment of connection can change a life, inspire a new purpose.__https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/te2/1/16/270d.png

I agree with those who consider Paul's writings to be indispensable to Christian Life and Service.

I had those thoughts myself my first time through the Bible. Was his contribution needed? Jesus said everything he needed to say. He made things very clear, then Paul was all about the church which is corrupted by man. The church that has veered away from what the Bible originally taught. What I keep going back to is I don't believe God would allow that deception in the Bible. He couldn't possibly allow people to trust in Paul if he was going against God. Then there were all of the sacrifices Paul made to spread the Gospel. Being beaten, jailed, shipwrecked. I don't doubt it anymore.

I think the notion is foolishness and that is mild. Its plain that God made sure the Church has exactly what we need in the canon.

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” ~ John 11:25-26 Eternity Hinges on One Question, Have You Answered It? In John 11:25–26, Jesus confronts us with a question that every person must face, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” These words were spoken to Martha just before Jesus raised her brother Lazarus from the grave, but they weren’t meant only for her. This question still echoes today, direct, urgent, and eternal. Jesus didn’t say I can give resurrection or I know the way to life, He said I am the resurrection and the life. This isn’t a metaphor, it’s a claim of divine authority and power. It means that all hope of eternal life, all assurance beyond the grave, all victory over death itself rests entirely in Him. There is no other source, no alternative path. As Jesus said elsewhere, “No man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). Martha had a general belief that the dead would rise “at the last day,” as taught in the Scriptures (John 5:28–29), but Jesus wasn’t satisfied with a vague religious idea. He brought her to a moment of personal decision, to trust in Him now. Eternal life isn’t just a future hope, it’s a present reality for those who believe. Jesus doesn’t just promise resurrection on the last day, He gives life today to the spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1, 5). He gives peace, purpose, and the indwelling Holy Spirit to all who believe. And that’s why His question matters so much, “Do you believe this?” Not, Do you go to church? Not, Are you a good person? Not even, Do you believe in God? The issue is Jesus Himself. Do you believe that He is the resurrection and the life? Have you trusted Him alone to save you from sin and death? This isn’t a question you can afford to ignore or push off. Hebrews 9:27 says, “It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” There are no second chances after death. Either you believe in Christ now and receive eternal life, or you face eternal separation from God. As Jesus also warned, “If ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins” (John 8:24). The question is simple, and eternal. Jesus asks you today, “Do you believe this?” Your answer is not just a response to a Bible verse. It’s the dividing line between life and death, between hope and judgment, between heaven and hell. Answer it with faith in the One who conquered the grave and offers you life that never ends. If you’re unsure or just beginning to seek, don’t delay. Open the Bible, read the Gospel of John, and ask God to show you the truth. He promises, “He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life” (John 5:24). The offer stands, but time is short. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and live.

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Christianity is strong here. The churches in South Africa are very active. In my town alone, there are around 30 churches representing several denominations, including Dutch Reformed, Lutheran, etc. Not only does active evangelism happen, but I know a few churches in South Africa that actively send out mission teams to other parts of Africa and the rest of the world. One church has sent mission teams to places like China, Syria, and Pakistan.

The Calico cat is blind but she gets along just fine teasing her housemates. They are all rescues living in Istanbul with Onur of Adorable Paws rescue. He adopts disabled cats and feeds hundreds of stray cats and dogs. @Henry_iain @kwikphilly @other one @ladypeartree @JohnD

There are several factors that bear upon this subject. For example, is eternity the end of time or time unending? Compounding this is the KJV translation of aionis as eternal is not as accurate as using "age lasting". The idea of conscious eternal torment has several points against it. 1. If we do not now have eternal life, but the gift of God is eternal life, why would this be given to unsaved people. How then could they be in hell forever without eternal life? 2. The unsaved are referred to a "perishing" and being destroyed. 3. Infinite conscious torment sounds unjust. 4. The effect of annihilation may be eternal but the consciousness may not be. 5. We are told that God is merciful and just. Conscious eternal torment sounds like neither. 6. The idea of conscious eternal torment may have entered Christian thinking through Augustine who may have been influenced by his Neo Platonist exposure. One might sound like he is defending God by amplifying hell. But one has to ask ih God is truly honored through misrepresentation.

Not all who leave a "church" have left the "church". Many view "church" as a building and the pastor that preaches sermons in it. Others view "church" as corporate entity with a headquarters and satellite offices, with by-laws and standing orders, rules and regulations for members only, etc. Neither of the foregoing is the church, the ekklessia, the body of believers called out from the world into the body of Christ. Many so-called "churches" have become cults, and many more are cult-like, hanging onto the teachings of so-called "pastors" that don't teach the pure word of the Bible, but teach and preach to the current culture and teach and preach so as not to violate the 501(c)(3) tax exempt status they hold so near and dear to their hearts. No one that is part of the body of Christ, the true ekklesia, has left the body of Christ, because all that are in the body of Christ are sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, and no one can pluck them out of God's hand. They may have left a 501(c)(3) entity that pretends to be representing God and pretends to be teaching and preaching God's word, but they have not left the ekklesia body of Christ. Peace

"what if falling church numbers is a good thing?" Well that is a matter of perspective...@Ghostdog...most won't even realize it and few actually care, for reasons they believe are just. Some do it to escape the pure foolery that their church has become as it tries to attain relevance in their culture. Other's...those who are looking for the "Body of Christ" and they will find it...they must leave...they are being "called out." A large portion of "Christianity" as a whole...referencing the entire "denominational empire"...sees this as something that happens to "the others"...the heretics, rebellious, unbelieving...largely after "they" are "gone?" Perhaps an accurate definition of "church" may be in order here? On top of that...Paul made it prophetically clear that some element of this "must" happen...so it will happen...and it is happening and will continue yet for a while. I am referencing the "falling away"...the "departure." For some...it will be like the Jews who departed from the law and Moses...which had become "anáthema"...and came to Yahshua Christ. "Now we request you, brethren, with regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, that you not be quickly shaken from your composure or be disturbed either by a spirit or a message or a letter as if from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. Let no one in any way deceive you, for it will not come unless the apostasy comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, displaying himself as being God. Do you not remember that while I was still with you, I was telling you these things?" 2nd Thessalonians 2:1-5 NASB This could be an eye opening discussion? Tatwo...:)

Col 2:13-15 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, (14) by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. (15) He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. This is an example of metaphor in language. In Colossians 2:14, Paul uses vivid imagery to describe how Christ's sacrifice removed the legal demands that were against humanity. The phrase "nailing it to the cross" metaphorically represents the cancellation of the debt of sin and the removal of the written code that condemned people. This type of figurative language is common in biblical texts, where abstract theological concepts are conveyed through concrete imagery. The idea of a "certificate of debt" being nailed to the cross emphasizes the completeness of Christ's redemptive work, showing that the charges against believers were fully dealt with through His crucifixion.

I'm similarly fond of solitude and can quite easily spend weeks or even months without human contact. I try not to slip into that, though. I feel a similar relationship with what some would call depression. But it's often been a source for compassion and insight, and much like Paul's thorn I think it's served a purpose. I wouldn't change it.

I'm going to be blunt. Sitting on the fence is just fine with Satan: he owns the fence. You are either in Christ or you're not. Having said that, understand that if you are in Christ, the moment you were born again in Christ you were justified, you were adopted into the family of God, and you were and are being sanctified. Sanctification is another way of saying that you are set apart from the world, that God has begun a work in you, and He has promised to complete the work He began in you. Sanctification is a process, a lifelong process that begins when you first believed and were born again in Christ, and sanctification is fully realized when we are glorified with Christ. If you are in Christ, God's Sanctification of you is His plan for you; trust God's plan, because God's plan is greater than all the plans that you and all the planners in the world could ever come up with; God's plan is greater. Peace

I have known some brothers and sisters in the Lord who have lost spouses to death or divorce. Its tough for them. Regarding solitude, I think its beneficial when its time alone with God. Special times of fellowship. But If its just me . . . then I never can get away from me . . . I tell the same old stale jokes that are really not funny . . . have the same old complaints, and really don't like me to the point that I would choose myself as a friend. Just saying . . . .

Brief...lol. @ladypeartree @other one @Henry_iain

We who are in Christ sojourn on this earth and are subject to many things both in the world and within our own flesh and minds. I offer two analogies that have been helpful to myself during my walk and I hope and pray may be of help to others of my family in Christ. I think in terms of two analogies, neither of which are perfect, but have been of some help to me over the years. 1. A tree 2. The land When God made us Alive 'In Christ' the source of our life changed from the earthly to the heavenly. He essentially and in a very real way severed us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into His Kingdom. We being like a tree have been uprooted and turned upside down with our roots now in the heavens where we draw all of our strength and blessings. However, the branches are still in this earthly realm and subject to much of what this realm exudes. Our branches are always catching flying things that wish to land there and affect our thinking and yank on our flesh. We have this Treasure in earthen vessels. Through His word (scriptures) rhema and our brethren, we learn to shew away those birds. God will touch something in us and we respond with a "yes Lord", thus agreeing with Him and through this ongoing process are 'changed into His likeness'. 2Corinthians 3:18 And we all, with unveiled faces, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another, just as from the Lord, who is the Spirit. This is all the Lord's doing. It is only because of 'New Life' that we are able to say 'Yes Lord'. The other is the 'Land' and I will attempt to connect this aspect of our ongoing sanctification. When the Israelites were entering the Land as the Lord had ordained and commanded the inhabitants were driven out or not, the Lord was establishing His Kingdom on earth. A place set aside for His purpose and for our learning. I see the Land as a metaphor for our ongoing sanctification. When He touches something in us that is not of Him, and we say 'yes Lord' and thus give our loyalty to Him rather than the flesh and the earth, He reigns there. His Kingdom is in a very real way established in us. Philippians 2:13 for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. It is needful and healthy to remember that it is all His Working in us. Jesus said, "you can do nothing without me". "No thing". Not some things, or things of a category or another! No thing. This is the sense and realization as He works in us; to know deep within our being that we need Him to walk, talk, breathe and think. Thus we grow toward that place where He is Lord. We decrease as He increases. Our roots are 'In Him'.

Here a blog post from christianpioneer.com that describes how struggles can be beneficial. Beneficial Adversity There was an image circulated via email a few days ago with four pictures. The first showed the men on Iwo Jima raising the US flag in WWII. It was titled, “Hard times make strong men”. The next image was of a man working on his car in the 1950s. It was titled, “Strong men make good times”. The third image was of people partying in the 1980s. It was titled, “Good times make weak men”. The last picture was of abandoned houses in Detroit that looked like a demilitarized zone. It was titled, “Weak men make hard times”. I once worked with a man (a non-custodial parent) who said one of the saddest things I have ever heard, he said, “The laziest person I have ever seen is my son. He never gets up from a video game except to go to the refrigerator.” It is not uncommon for the older generation to comment on the flaws they see in the younger generation. However, this does not automatically mean that these observations are invalid. By creating a social environment for our children of unending entertainment, subsidized indolence, unrestrained consumerism, offense at every slight (real or imagined), and the cultivation of a critical spirit to contend with that of a movie, restaurant or theater critic, we may have produced a generation of perpetual adolescents with weak character. This may have been done with good intentions, but the result indicates that it might be legitimately called child abuse. A generation or two ago a wayward child could have been sent to the military where exposure to an adverse environment might have helped him develop the strength of character he was missing. Unfortunately, the military environment has been modified as to not inflict such character improving difficulty. In addition, the military no longer desires to accept those in need of correction. The bible tells us that the Lord “chastens” those he loves. Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, wrestling against sin. And ye have quite forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when reproved by him; for whom the Lord loves he chastens, and scourges every son whom he receives. Hebrews 12:4-6 There is a saying that the best education in the world comes from the school of hard knocks, the problem is that the tuition is so high. For Christians, we have the option to surrender ourselves to the Lord’s leading in humility and sincerity so that we might avoid the more harsh chastening the Lord might use to get our attention such as getting laid off, finding ourselves in the midst of divorce, or struggling with addiction when we should have already been seeking his leading. Satan is almost finished using Christians to advance the plan of global collectivism he has been advancing for centuries. As a result, Christians should expect to face increasing hostility and persecution. In addition to finally getting Christians to curtail their love affair with the world, we might find that increasing hostility improves our character by seeking after and clinging to Jesus. This might result in a more clear testimony as Peter tells those about to undergo persecution; But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: 1 Peter 3:15

These are strange times when some that claim to be Christians would try to pick apart the Word of God. All of the Word of God is written for our benefit.

I see Paul's writings as having some of the best explanations of this new life of Christ in us, our "treasure in earthen vessels." And he is the only who speaks of Christ and the church in such a way as is revealed in books like Ephesians, Colossians, Philippians and Galatians. The union of Christ within us, and the manifestation of Him through us, is something Paul really zeros in on - both on the spiritual and on the practical sides. If we had to, I think could get by without Peter or John's writings (I would certainly miss those though!). But if Paul's epistles were removed I think there would be a huge part missing, concerning the revelation of what Christ is doing in and through us!

Hi @Excalibur Here on Worthy Christian Forums there is room for some degree of emotive discussion on a variety of topics, but as WilliamL has rightly pointed out, (unless quoting Scripture), it is necessary to address the validity of arguments based on their content without bias as to their exponents. There are several passages in the Bible that mention the Antichrist and indicate that the spirit of the Antichrist is already present in the world. Here are a few key verses: 1 John 2:18 – "Children, it is the last hour; and just as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have appeared. This is how we know it is the last hour." 1 John 4:3 – "Every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world." 2 John 1:7 – "For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the Antichrist." These verses suggest that the Antichrist is not just a singular future figure but that there are many who embody the spirit of deception and opposition to Christ. The cumulative effect of this is depicted in Revelation 13, and foretold in 2 Thessalonians 2.

Concerning Jesus, He wasn't promoting eating unclean animals. The scribes were questioning Jesus' disciples about eating with ceremonially unwashed hands. If Jesus would have declared unclean animals were good to eat, the scribes would have had a legit complaint concerning the Law. Remember Peter's vision? Peter said he never ate anything unclean. So if the disciples were eating unclean food during the time the scribes were questioning Jesus, that would have been a lie. So Jesus didn't declare all animals were clean to eat. In the beginning, our food was the fruits and herbs of the field. Things produced out of the ground. When the perfect creation is restored, I imagine that will be our food again, to enjoy.

I would say, first of all check with Scripture. If any of the options go against God's will as revealed there, then they're off limits. It can be harder when all your choices are equally "Christian" - like where to live. Prayer is vital. Sometimes God has a clear plan for you to follow, in which case He will make to known to you. But sometimes He seems not to mind. The counsel of other Christians can be helpful - but they may have their own agenda. 7 years ago, after I retired, we decided to move from England to Wales, but had no particular place in mind. We sold our house in just 2 days, which was encouraging, but finding a house in Wales turned out to be much harder. God gave us no direction. So we just put in an offer for a house we liked, and if we didn't get it we kept on looking. On the third attempt we succeeded. So I assume that this is where God wants us to be - and certainly a lot of things have "worked out" neatly since we moved here.

Some news I've seen lately that is promising: Around 2,000 people were baptized in Jacksonville in the Atlantic Ocean the other week. There is also a 22% increase in the sale of Bibles since October of 2024. Many are younger first-time buyers. I also notice so many more famous and powerful people talking about being Christian. Even Joe Rogan has made some recent comments about Jesus. He used to be more of a higher power kind of guy. Things have changed quite a bit since January, and I think towards God. At least in the USA.

Interesting way to see things. I imagine looking at end times is a lot like looking at the weather. We watch it because we don’t know whether we need an umbrella or not. In this case, our umbrella is Jesus and a relationship with Him. If we make a projection based on what we think we know and it proves to be incorrect, it does more harm than not saying anything. Since I’m a YouTuber and frequently go there, I can tell you the place is loaded with people claiming prophetic gifts making claims or regurgitating the Bible trying to make it look like they had a revelation when it’s a thing we all can know. Prophecy for some Christians is a hobby and they enjoy trying to determine close timelines. I am of the opinion that God isn’t ready until he’s ready. We’ve been in the last days for 2000 years. I believe most will agree we are in the birth pangs but it could either be a long or a short birth. God just wants me busy doing His work.

Welcome to Worthy I'm curious and hoping I don't sound sarcastic because it is not my intention.... Do you believe you have spoken to the majority of baby Christians? Or perhaps you're just saying that in your own experience & hearing what you've heard from babes in Christ it seems to you the mostly share a commonality? I only ask because of the hundreds if not a thousand young Christians that I've heard,new to the Faith ,I have not found this to be true or a problem What I have seen is many " Babes" do not Understand how important it is to try the spirits and every " feeling" or happenstance is a Move of Holy Spirit.. So I do hear " God Said" or "God Told me" or " I had a Revelation" very often out of the mouths of babes..... What really matters to God is our heart, having a personal relationship with Him in Christ Jesus..... in relationship we receive the wisdom to walk in His Will & His Ways and lead others to the foot of the Cross,that they too can have an intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father,Son & Holy Spirit With love in Christ,Kwik

Hi @Mario Gallegos What studies have been done to substantiate this being something "the majority of baby Christians do"?. Your statement touches on an interesting theological and philosophical point—how personal revelations can evolve into structured doctrines and, eventually, organized religions. In terms of logical fallacies, the statement could be examined for generalizations. Here are a couple of possible concerns: Hasty Generalization – The phrase "the majority of baby Christians" assumes that this pattern is widespread without providing specific evidence. While it may happen, it doesn't necessarily apply to everyone. Causal Fallacy – The claim suggests a direct cause-and-effect relationship: revelation leads to doctrine, which leads to religion. While these elements can be connected, the process is often more complex, with cultural, historical, and interpretive factors influencing religious development.

We often forget such fundamental truths in the hectic nature of day to day lives. Relative of course. But even when we are not focused on these truths each of us are sustained…we are kept safe in Christ. Even those seasons when it seems He is far away. I have been thinking a lot lately about the Reality of the Great Shepherd. Psalm 23 is an oldie but oh so relevant. Praise His Name.

Great question that gets to the heart of the matter. His 'eternal purpose' is realized . God gets a Family after his 'kind'. This is hard to fathom but true. The Law of 'kinds' is immutable. We are gifted with His Nature through Christ. "By bringing many sons to Glory". Hebrews 2:10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

I know that there is a thread now with members discussing how much that they enjoy the show. And I am NOT intending in bashing the show or telling folks not to watch it. It's probably very entertaining. I just want to let you know some things that you may not be aware of. And if you do watch the show, you may feel led to pray for some things. [1] The show is, in part, funded by the Mormon church, The Latter Day Saints. At the end of the credits each episode, this acknowledgement is made. The creator of the show has stated that he sees no difference between Mormons and Christians. [2] At least one line from the character who plays Jesus is from the book of Mormon and not found in the Bible. When asked about it, the producer said, "It was a cool line." [3] It is "based" on the life of Christ, but not all the actors in the show are Christians. Represented in the show are at least one atheist, Jews, Hindi, Catholics, evangelicals, and some just "don't know". The makers of the show said they just wanted the best actors for the job. I get that. You want to make a good show. [4] They keep a Pride Flag on set. The creator defended it by saying that they are willing to work with anyone who will help make the show a great show. [5] The music? It's done by two men. One of them is Dan Haseltine of the Christian band, Jars of Clay. Very popular in the Christian music field. He believes that homosexuality is not a sin. He has publicly stated that it doesn't matter what the Bible says - all that matters is how you feel. My point is NOT to tell you not to watch. My point is just to be on guard with ANY film or tv show that professes to be teaching you about Christ. My point is that God gave us the messages and stories of Jesus in the Bible. He could have sent Jesus to Earth very early on when there were just stone carvings. He could have sent Jesus when people were using cell phones and computers. God sent Christ at a time when books were being written. THE book, the Bible, is where we should get our understanding of Jesus Christ. All I'm saying is READ THE BOOK FIRST and then you will have enough discernment to know if something is truthful or not. I used to tell my students - "Never EVER take your history, science, or Bible from a movie or TV show. Facts have been altered to entertain." Watch the show in peace, but watch it based your knowledge of what is actually in the Bible.

Without the power of Christ living through us (Holy Spirit) it really is impossible to live a Christian Life.

All quiet down my street. Really beautiful and peaceful at times. Sun shining, cats being curious or just lazing. Lawns and gardens looking nice. . . and no-one has taken the mark of the beast. I'm giving it a while longer until the apocalypse comes to its climax

The whole Bible points to sin and the need for reconciliation. The central message of the Bible in both the NT and OT points to God, through His Son Jesus Christ, and the need for a kinsman redeemer. The Law and the sacrificial system could save no one. 1 John 4:10 (KJV) Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. If my memory serves, God is named in every book of the Bible, except Esther. Esther in type points to the Kinsmen Redeemer, the central message.

Yes. This is a very encouraging thing. It's as if everything will turn back to the way it was before sin. And I'd be happy that God is merciful to me and I see this new earth, we will all come to the knowledge of the truth, so there will be no doctrinal division amongst brethren. What will we do at that point? ( A hearty LOL).

Not that much, only about a dozen times. Daily...... Yes, to whom much is given, much is required. I'm blessed beyond measure, to God the Glory.. If I focus on the problems, they usually get worse. (In my mind at least) If I see (faith) it could have been worse, and how blessed I actually am, I receive a grateful peace, thankfulness. "Then I saw a man with no feet".... We're in the army of God. Boot camp, till graduation, as the day approaches. It's supposed to be tough. And I thought Marine Corps boot camp was tough....(God wants a few good women/men) Thanks Michael...

The apostle Paul was unique: Paul compared himself to other apostles in various ways, often emphasizing his unique position and experiences. He defended his apostleship through the miracles he performed, which were considered signs of apostolic ministry. He referred to himself as "one born at the wrong time," suggesting an abnormal manner of becoming an apostle, which he saw as proof of his apostleship. 1 Corinthians 15:8 (KJV) And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. He included himself among a wider group of apostles beyond the Twelve, mentioning his experience of seeing the risen Christ after the ascension. I believe Paul was personally mentored by Jesus Himself at or around Mount Sinai (Jebal Musa) for three years. Nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went immediately into Arabia and later returned to Damascus. We assume this sojourn in Arabia, lasting as long as three years (1:18), probably started shortly after Paul’s conversion in about the year A.D. 32 (Jesus was crucified and raised from the dead at about the year A.D. 30, and a number of events occurred in the early Christian church between that time and Paul’s conversion).[1] Galatians 1:17-18 (KJV) Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. 18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. Paul was the only one given the honor and privilege to reveal essential mysteries about the church, the Rapture, and the Resurrection. Paul’s writings have been obfuscated by the father of lies through other religions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam (72 virgins, other ways to heaven, etc.). Today, humanity has an aversion and hatred of absolutes, and where our morals and values originate. The mantra and character today are that we are our own gods. The earth dwellers today choose darkness over truth. Paul was given to the Gentiles. Galatians 2:7-8 (KJV) But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter; 8 (For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) [1] W. Harold Mare, New Testament Background Commentary: A New Dictionary of Words, Phrases and Situations in Bible Order (Ross-shire, UK: Mentor, 2004), 291.

Amen! "We have this treasure in an earthen vessel". This is a remarkable thing to study on.

because some have to start over ,to rethink why ,what ,how . does not mean every one has gotten it wrong "because some have to start over ,to rethink why ,what ,how ." Yes, every born again believer had to repent in their thinking, change their thinking. This changed thinking comes from hearing the truth, the word of God, and if you have ears to hear, this truth, light, chases out darkness, un truth, and the light reveals enough truth that FAITH comes, (By hearing the word! ) Salvation is by grace through faith! Jesus says, “I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:32) Repent; Strongs concordance; metanoia: Repentance Meaning: repentance, a change of mind, change in the inner man. A change in your thinking. ("some have to start over ,to rethink" ) Changed thinking produces changed actions. (enabled now by God living within)

Pray, and wait for God to discipline them. Heb 12:1-6 Therefore since we also are surrounded with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily besets us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, (2) looking to Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right of the throne of God. (3) For consider Him who endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest you be weary and faint in your minds. (4) You have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin. (5) And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons, "My son, despise not the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when you are rebuked by Him; (6) for whom the Lord loves He chastens, and He scourges every son whom He receives."

I dreamt I was in a workshop, sitting on some stairs to an office, tasked with choosing a font. In the dream I heard the word Bremen super loud and clear, so much so that I woke up. I had no idea what that meant but it lodged in my mind as being prophetic. Some time later I found myself in the exact scene from the dream. It was actually a signwriter's place of work and he gave me a catalogue of fonts to look at and choose from for the signwriting I wanted done on my blue truck. When I came across a style of font called Bremen I had a serious déjà vus moment, and called out my choice in a loud, decisive voice. There was no spacetime anomaly as a result, but certainly a foreknowledge-predestination ambiance.

Hey. Thanks for asking me. I hope I can help. From the moment this situation started reaching the international news, I've been hesitant and have stayed away from discussing it here. I am distinctly aware that my point of view won't be popular here. So I'm only answering with my best knowledge and according to what I believe. I don't really want to talk about the political/ideological points. I'm not going to discuss the political philosophy behind this in detail. Here is what I will say: The crime situation in South Africa is deplorable. And I do admit that farmers in many areas are in danger. There have been horrific cases. They could use better security. The ANC, especially since the time Zuma came into power, has been the big problem in South Africa. They deliberately keep racial tension going because this gives them excuses for bad decisions. They are not interested in running the country properly. They have, through negligence, incompetence and corruption, destroyed everything that was working well. They are as corrupt as they come. So they need to be removed as soon as possible. I believe the tide is turning, slowly but surely. There are also lots of positive things happening in this country. One positive point is that the ANC and others like them are losing support, even among their traditional power base. They might eventually lose enough support to lose power completely. They lose power, there are opposition parties that could really make a difference. Where I live, we still feel quite safe and everything is working quite well.