Alive

Cool…I thought it good to see a brother express his thoughts on those verses.

What do you understand about these words?

The Lord, via Paul, did a thorough job dealing with this stuff writing to Corinth. I think these issues are dealt with at a local personal level as the Lord leads…developing any rigid system is a mistake.

On my biker forum, there are several catholics who attend regularly and speak of these things. I never address it. I speak of Christ as Lord and Savior and quote scripture. I hope and pray for fruit. I did speak against popery once and it did not help.

Hmmmm? I think it less than praise worthy to overly condemn Rome, for the danger of unneeded offense, as our brother of the Vine expressed. Bible students know the issues. I have noticed that many catholic associations and groups have changed some of where emphasis is placed and that is good. Regarding bible study and focus on Christ. It reminds me of back in the 70’s during the charasmatic days, when I knew many catholics converting…even among monks. There was true fellowship with many folks even with differing doctrines. Such can be the case when the Spirit is doing a work and Christ is front and center. Honestly, I miss the simplicity of the days and a young man who was less educated, but knew the Word and knew his Lord as a calf sprung from the stall. There is a sermon in there. :-)

I can see how most forum discussions give that impression, but there are many serious folks here focused on heavenly things. Its just that the meat of the word does not get the drama.

Its an interesting thing, but although my mom was excomminicated for divorce (dad left when I was 4), she made sure I was involved. First communion, confirmation, catechism, alter boy practice, the confessional, etc. I do not recall any clarity about Christ as Savior and the need. Much attention was given to Mary. I did learn the law and the concept of repentance. Those things were instrumental to who I was becoming and indeed affected my choices and behavior when a boy. The rituals, such as ash wednesday, produced a certain sense of awe and respect. Thus, as has always been the case, those sorts of ‘religious’ things appeal to flesh, but have no eternal value. And yet, My Savior used them in some way.

The priest dips his thumb in ashes and forms a cross smudge on the forehead.

Amen! These issues are why it is vital that we fully understand the work of the cross, resurrection and ascension and our inclusion in those events. Salvation is Relocation. that foundation prevents many errors.

He walked with Adam in the Garden. Now He is Lord, God, King, Savior and brother.

Yup and Amen. This is a good opportunity to express this; this is why when a member gets a little heavy, its good to gently mention it in public (at times) or in a friendly PM. SOme folks are just used to a different way and aren't fully aware of the TOS and its intent...being for the good of all. So that all who come here can have a good experience.

Amen sister. This is a good word.

You nailed it when you spoke of origin. Its all about ontology. Everything is. Its a very simple concept and expressed thoroughly in all of Creation. Kind…being and what animates any creature. The key is understanding how that word ‘spirit’ is used from chapter 1 onward. Salvation is Relocation and the real result. God chooses and God does. Creatures are His Clay until He Acts to Change.

I have owned guns since a child. I have often tried to place myself in a (mentally) in a position where when carrying would shoot a person to protect myself. Not sure what I could do. Its another matter to protect someone else. I am thankful, the Lord has not put me in that position.

Perhaps its simply symbolic not for something, but rather the lack of something. Hint.