seraphimbride

Hello there M Queen I wanted to share with you that I have not been a part of organized religion for 24 years. I attended churchs services mainly on holidays. Recently, I have returned. The reason I left was mostly because of the misguidance, or lack of the Holy Spirit, of spiritual leaders. I experienced alot of judgemental attitudes towards Christians and non-Christians. Where was the love of a perfect example such as Jesus and his apostles? I saw alot of leaders who, though I think they're intentions were good, preached alot about the vengence and judgements God will make on man. There was hardly enough talk about the unfathomable love and unending Mercy, about forgiveness, and love of neighbor. I saw and still see alot of condemnation of others, groups such as people who have abortions, or homosexuals. I totally belive that God will judge us on Judgement Day,as we have judged others. That really bothers me. No, I dont believe in abortions, nor am I a homosexual, but who am I to judge a man? I came from dirt, and so did they. Too many people are too busy condeming others and their choices and lifestyles, supposedly out of a duty to save souls, or relay the message of the Good Book. I dont even judge the judges. I feel sorry for them b/c I think judging others puts up obstacles in their lives to receive abundant graces our Lord want to bestow on them; obstacles that restrict the flow of the Holy Spirit, when His greatest desire is to flow freely through us. We are our own worst enemy, not others. It is harder to live by the Scriptures than to preach them. It is easier to memorize them, than to live the lessons they teach. I think that spiritual leaders should have a clear calling from God, and too many do not. Good intentions are not enough to lead the flock. Good Shepards are few and far between. I think that religion has come to be, and has been for a long time, something it was never meant to be. When Jesus walked the Earth, it was as an example of how we should live; and his aposltles carried on through him. After that, alll was lost. The impression did not last. Too soon was the way he lived his life forgotten. What remained with us, are his works, and they are not enough. Religion became twisted by man into a political being, for the most part. I also think that the church should be simple, not magnificent amphitheaters, with throne-like chairs for the ministers. There's just no humility in it. And there has to be humility. If there's no humility, the preacher becomes misguided. Materialism can be a problem with some churches. It is often justified by giving thanks and praise for the wonderful blessings God has bestowed on the ministry to preach his word in such a fine place. It seems that God would be more pleased to feed the poor, or aid the sick. I envy monastaries and convents who are truly committed to live as Jesus lived. Are there any? We talk too much. How will we ever hear God ? Don't get me wrong. I'm not bashing people in any way. I just dont think the true leadership is there. Where is this man called Jesus? He's in the Sciptures, but he's not in our lives. He's not the man next door, or the one who brings your mail, or even the one sitting next to you in church. People would be drawn to a man like Jesus, not because of miracles, but because of the profound peace he radiates; a peace that only comes from knowing God. Can you imagine the people that would be drawn to a man like that, today? Everyone would want to know how he could speak with a homosexual, or not condem a man that condems him? One more thing, Scripture wars. Who has the right interperetation? "I can out quote you anyday!"Who are we to preach at each other? I beleive the Scriptures were intended to speak to us individually, as a reader; so that the Holy Spirit can apply something in them that relates to things going on with us, individually. They were meant to enlighten us, and provide guidance in our lives on Earth. I do think Scriptures are wonderful for leaders to preach to us about, not at us, in a condeming or judging way. I think they were made for us to learn how to live good lives, pleasing to God. They were not meant to be used against us, or to insight fear, guilt, and shame. That does not bring people closer to God. Yes, he judges, but he forgives a remorseful heart. And vengence is always his, not ours. Some Christains feel it is their responsibility to enlighten the wrong-doers, but is their calling trulyfrom God to do this? They must ask themselves. No, we dont always do things that are pleasing in his sight, but he loves us anyway. It's all about love, nothing else. I often dream of a day, or a time, when I will meet a leader, or an ordinary man, who truly folows the footsteps of Jesus. Someone full of love and compassion. Someone who lives their life exemplifying a pure nature; someone who does not know how to worry because their faith is so strong; someone who feels only compassion for others; someone with no ulterior motive, but to love but to love but to love I know. It's just a dream... All love and peace to you Best wishes on your book

Hi Tess. Your message helps alot. I know that I need to look to god for answers, but sometimes I feel he may send me guidance, through others. And you have given me some guidance and little clearer understanding. Much appreciation. P.S. I wasnt joking about the *bump* thing. What does that mean????

Hi Dad Ernie. You wrote: These are some of the characteristics of the "glorified body". So no, we will not come "full circle". With Adam it was a physical existence, unglorified. Our new bodies will be in temples created by God that will glow with His Glory. This gives me a different view and is very helpful. It makes perfect sense. Thanks

Hebrew beauty, Bravo! Well-said! A response made in love!! Thank you

Grace to you Mattthitjah, Using the quote, ..."let him be acursed" Let God curse him. We are not to judge others. It is for God to judge. Do you agree? Where is the Christain love for our brothers? are our brothers only CHristians, or all of God's children???

WOJ, Seems like you've answered your own question!! The word "cult" tends to have a negative connotation, and a serious label attached to it. Personally, I feel it should be used with careful consideration. I dont think that every religion who does not believe in what a Christian believes, is necessarily, a cult. According to your own definition of the cult, JW does not fit it.

Please pre-forgive my ignorance. I'm rather new to studying the Bible. Actually, I'm not even at a point of study. I'm just trying to get more familiar with it and grasp some meaning from it. I have a view that formed in my mind and i'm not sure where it came from. Would it be correct in some sense to say that the events that take place in Revelations will bring man back to God's original intention for man, (before the fall) and that it is what the entire bible leads up to; that man will come full-circle and will once again be sin-free, when Jesus establishes his rule of heaven on earth. The ones who are chosen as his bridegrooms will inherit what Adam had before the fall, i.e. God's original intent---for man to live in love for his neighbor, so that there would be no sin--all man living only to give glory to HIS Creator? (as of course, it should be, today) NOTE: In no way am I saying that I know whaT God's original intent for creating man was, and for the record, neither do you. Man can only speculate and wander unless God chooses to reveal himself to someone. We can all learn form the Bible and it can be used as an excellent example as how to lead our lives-but no one really knows what God intends--any way, I've strayed. Full-cirle? It's no coincidence, I'm sure, that a circle represents eternity!!

Tess, Forgive my ignorance, but I've seen this posted before. "bump" Can you translate. I have no idea what that means! THX

I totally agree with you Kittylover re: the put-downs. They are not necessary to get a point through, and lower the moral integrity of this site. This is not to be intended with judgement. We are all sinners. This is a Christian forum. We dont have to agree, but I wish we could all agree to respect other people and their opinions. It seems the Christian way to communicate. Dont u think? REMEMBER: WE ARE ALL TALKING TO CHILDREN OF GOD!! aLL PEACE aLL LOVE

Apothanein kerdos, I have a question for you regarding "good" and "very good" pertaining to creation in Genesis. I was wondering if the problem with this was translation into English, and you clarify that for me. My question is how do you know when to take something literally in the gospel, or if what you're reading is less than what the English translation can provide? Interested in your remarks. Pre-thanks!

I think the article is useful in prompting one to question the true intention of the debaters, when debating. There is often a sense that the ultimate goal of a debater is to be right, and to put down opinions that are not agreeable to a debater. I think this is often inspired by pride, and not pleasing to God. I also see debaters here who are full of humility in their words, and the way they are presented. I think if one chooses to debate, it should come from the intensions and conscience of humility and grace, and not righteousness. Debate is not inevitable, individually, but a choice to engage. The question is, "Is the debater coming from an attitude of love and general compassion for the one he is debating?" It does not have to cause division. just my opinion

You know, some poeple are born with this ability. It comes as natural as not seeing them, for most of us. Just like some people are born seeing spirits or ghosts; some are born psychic. These things are mostly affiliated with the occult. Some poeple believe thises things can be developed, which I think that if God wished to bless us with a certain trait, it would come natural. I dont see what good purpose seeing auras could serve, except maybe promote fear of the unknown. Just my opinion.

Troyboy!!! I find that when you have a developed, close, personal relationship with God, you find that no matter where you are or what you're doing, God is with you, beside, inside you, 24-7. You can't escape him if you tried!! Get in the habit of praying, daily, developing a close relationship with Him, and before you know it He'll be like a Siamese Twin atached to you forever if you let him!!

Dear Rick, Thanks for your comments. I just wanted to tell you that I have a deep and personal relationship with god. I think what he wants to reveal to me is that in my depths of my soul I feel he is pleased with me. I also think that knowing that he is pleased with me, is telling me that its not important to find out if I am born again. I know he is pleased with me, and for right now, that's what matters to me, most. I pray not to be led astray, and he knows that all I want to do in every word, deed, thought, and intention, is to praise him and live a life that gives HIM glory. I never want to offend him, not so much in fear of HIS justice, but mostly because I would never want to cause HIM pain. Ever. I fail constantly, but my faith is so strong. It will never be broken. Thank you again and God bless u.

Dear Chrismark, WOW! thank you for putting so much into this concept. It never ceases to amaze me that the beautiful words of the Gospel are forever used as a stage for division and seperation among men. It seems God what have meant for it to be used for sharing committment to HIM. of course, I guess its easy for me to say. i cant quote scripture. its just beautiful when I read it. Everything has personal meaning for me, and it all gives glory to His Name. Sorry--i'm rambling What i wanted to tell you was that I came to desiring a deeper relationship with Christ after reading St. Faustina Kawaksi's diary of Divine Mercy. I hold such awe at the personal relationship and devotion she and other saints have had with Jesus. I crave that with my soul. I am forever inspired. I would never receive HIM without being cleansed of my sins; that in itself would be offending to Jesus. Just wanted to share that with u. Thanks again and God bless you.

Crismarc, I did go to mass and I did receive the body of christ, and I felt like i had been waiting forever to receive Him. Now I receive every week. I never though I would look forward to receiving HIM like i do now. I cant wait! GOD IS AWESOME!!

Crismarc, i was baptized. so i guess i was "born again" without even trying? Confusing. Thanks

Candi, Thank you for your insight. Regarding "dead to sin": Do you mean that once you are born again, sin can no longer touch you? That we'er immune to sin?I hope not. Do you mean that we give up our lives and purposeful deeds of sin? Is till sin almost daily, but not with intent, and I always ask God to forgive my sins. I probably should'nt post them, but like, judging others--i find myself doing it, but mostly i dont realize i'm doing it at the time. At night, I reflect on my day, and that's usually when I remember some sin I know that God would not be pleased with, and I ask him to forgive me. He knows that I make daily efforts with things I have recurrent problems with. Please explain "dead to sin". Thank you again.

May God's will be done. Trust in him.

David-- Heeey-was that a wise crack? Whether it was or not, I couldnt stop laughin. If your puttin me down-shame on ya

Butero, I've stopped attending church services for years. I dont seem to fit into any particular denomination. I dont totally agree with any denomination, but I guess I dont have to to belong. I've recommitted to attending church services, again, after many years. I'm giving it another try. We'll see. I just want to praise God and try me best to give him glory. I dont believe that you have to belong to a certain church or denomination, but I wish I knew more people with the same goal in life. I dont mean to make organized religion sound so bad. I just dont know how much of it is truly for HIS glory. PS. Hey, if you wanna start a unified religion where every thought, word, and deed is only to praise God, I'd be interested!!

It's my view that organized religion is man-made. And thanks to man, we seem to interpret, overinterpret, conclude, judge, pre-judge, criticize, agree, disagree, divide, sub-divide, pick-apart, mutilate, disect, rejoice, retalliate, dictate, over every doctrine, Word, ritual, etc. Where's the love? Where's the grace? I cant quote scripture, but I know that Jesus says we must come to him like children, and I get a sense of what that means. It means simplicity. And that is hard to find in any form of organized religion. I'm currently reading a book called "Joshua" by Joseph F. Girzone. In it, the main character, Joshua, says that God never intended that religion become what it is today, regimented and legislative; and that he sent the apostles to guide and serve, not dictate and legislate.; that religion today is a tangible set of measurable religious observances, which is legalistic and superficial. Also, that these things can frustrate the work that God wants to create in each of us. He says that religious leaders work best by setting examples, to draw people to God by their own deep faith and by the beauty of their personal lives, not by instructing people into sterile external observance. He says that God's prime concern is for the people, not ther eligious structures. He says that God's law is not a code arbitrarily imposed on people to restrict their freedom unreasonably. It was intended as a guide to lead happy lives, but that some leaders have twisted the law into code that is irrelevant to man's nature and restricts the natural freedom people should enjoy. He further says that the word religion means to "bind up", and that's not what God intended. All God wants is for us to love him and each other, and in doing that, we find happiness.-------sounds simple but the toughest part to me is to love everyone like we love God--how wonderful that would be--to have a love like that for every human being--to love everyone as our own, father, daughter, child... I'm constantly working on it. I dont know if I've ever met anyone who imitated Christ in their lives to such a degree that I was drawn to them, spiritually. I wish we could all imitate the life of Christ--I think that's what he wants for us, and I think it is the way to true fulfillment and happiness.

Sorry, I dont know how to delete this post.

Candi, Thank you so much for taking the time to explain that to me. I think that's what I was trying to say when I said "we die to ourselves". You explain it much better. I acutally went to confession before Easter. It was the first time in 24 years. It's like I can feel God calling me to walk closer to him, and that's all I want to do. God bless and keep u

Dear rfw, That was eloquent. Is it possible to be considered being "born again" already. I already believe in everything you've stated, and I always ask God for forgiveness in any sin I may even have thought I committed, and I know he forgives me. He knows the love I have for him is indescribable. Does that mean I'm also "born again"?