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The bible tells us love comes from God, but what type of love is true love. Is true love from God ? The true love God says is what needs in thr heart to find it ? Is his True love as a father, the love a women and men must have to find true love ? The love of a couple of men and women the love he wants us to love so we can love the univers like him or love like Jesus ? Love comes from him a father love's, a mother love's, and love of siblings is love and the bible verses says all love is his creation. What is your experience in true love ? What bible verse you found tell true love or other love God says in the bible. We will look at verses and find proverbs 31 the women God wants and psalms a place where true love is and verses.

In this morning’s weekly brothers breakfast fellowship, someone brought up the parable of the so-called “Prodigal Son” and we had real good fellowship around some of the meaning of this parable. I had a few realizations and things I’d not seen well before regarding this story, and I thought it would be good to jot these down and share with y-all. The conversation had basically started around how great a salvation we have been given in Christ, that His all-efficacious blood is constantly available to us, and how there is no condemnation whatsoever for us in Christ --> and this is what the prodigal father demonstrated. Several discussed what this means to us practically, that is: reject all condemnation, but say “yes” to the conviction and leading of the Spirit (which always leads us back to our Father). Accordingly, the definition of “prodigal” was brought up . . . this word has a definition of “wastefully extravagant” or “extreme.” Well each of the three characters in this story were actually prodigal: One son wasted his being and inheritance to an extreme; the father had extravagant love; the other son was extremely legal. The father lavished his love on the returning son, and in no way condemned him. In fact, to me, this is the biggest part of this story – that the father was over-the-top with his love and longing for his son, and to celebrate his return without a hint of penalty mentioned towards his son. Just try to grasp the depths of the love shown here, even though this son had dissipated his being in debauchery and squandered all his inheritance! My my my, such “wastefully extravagant” and incomprehensible love!!! But something else regarding this son came out too, which I hadn’t really seen well before. He was humble and crawled back to his father. He was guilty of so much, and he knew it. But he was destitute and hungry, and selfishly wanted to be back in his father’s influence so that he didn’t starve. But with all this he had one redeeming attribute – he was humble with his father. Of course, the father was just so overjoyed to have his son back that none of what he had done mattered . . . the father loved his son unconditionally regardless. And then there was the other son. He was the one who had been extremely faithful, stayed with the father and had behaved himself – he did what he thought was expected of him all those years. But he was furious that his brother, who had misbehaved in such an extreme way, would receive such extreme love from their father. In much self-centered pride he boastfully exclaimed, “Have I not been faithful all these years and did . . .!?” But the father wasn’t about to let that spoil the enjoyment of his other son returning and threw an extravagant feast for him. The Lord hates pride, but gives ear to the humble (regardless if the humble one has been living with swine). In this story there was one humble son and one full of pride. God resists the proud. May we always be humble before Him, realizing we are “but dust” and could never earn the price His love paid to redeem us. What a story of extremes, but the father’s extreme love wins the day!!! (One other thing I saw during the fellowship was this story is also an example of Israel and the gentile nations. Israel could say, “Lord have we not been faithful to You and done this and that to please You?” Meanwhile the gentiles were out there doing their pagan thing. But God loves us all, whether Jew or gentile. In Christ’s reconciling work, the two are made one --> one new man.)

Blessings Everyone.... In speaking with many who come from different denominations there are many questions New Believers or "Seekers" have and many of us suggest they begin in the Book of John, commonly referred to as the Love Letter.....I came across a pretty thorough and nicely written commentary that I thought might be a nice way to kick off a Bible Study of the Book of John.... Typically I'm happy to initiate and facilitate a Study but I always try to Encourage others to join in that our Babes may hear the witness of 2,3 and more - that they may Receive what we have in Christ Jesus- it begins with that Measure of Faith to the Glory of God Almighty It's a long read but imo,well done ...let us begin with John Chapter 1-Enjoy and be Bountifully Blessed! https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-1/ With love in Christ, Kwik

I guess I was a little too hard on the Beav. But I heard you may have fear of danger that is torturous. I am sorry, me too, I did (do) fear, but it was from my bloodline being tortured by the occult. So you either get fearful out in the world, or lazy socially when you are isolated. Lived on both sides of the coin, am in a more social atmosphere now, but it is cold.."The Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head." Matthew 8:20 And Jesus says to him, “The foxes have holes and the birds of the heaven have nests, but the Son of Man does not have a place where He may lay His head”.

Sometime back, I was travelling and someone booked our tickets through an Airline I hadn’t flown before. Turbulence scares me and so I fast and pray each time I travel and so this time too I decided to fast until we land back on ground. Soon after settling down into my seat and fastening my seat belt, I felt a strong nudge from the Lord ‘Don’t make fasting a formula. Don’t be so uptight. Just be free. I want you to enjoy the flight. Now just break your fast.’ Firstly, like I said, I always fast when I travel. Number Two, the chances of some good food being readily available on the Aircraft is not much as the Airlines usually do not have much of a choice on the short domestic flights, usually some nuts or instant noodles kind of stuff. Thirdly and most importantly, I don’t want any turbulence when I fly. Usually, this fear wouldn’t allow me to feel relaxed and enjoy my flight. God knows it. This time, He wanted me to deal with that fear. I thought fasting was a better way to deal with fear, but God’s thoughts and His ways are higher than ours. That thought from God to break the fast continued in my mind. Repeatedly. Soon, the cabin crew began serving food to the passengers and to my surprise one of them stopped by my seat and asked me what I would like to have as they are serving complimentary food to all passengers. Now that was a totally unexpected surprise. The Lord not only spoke to me to break my fast but made arrangements for food. No prizes for guessing what I did, I went right ahead and said yes to the food. I broke my fast 30 thousand feet or so above sea level. A few moments later, there was a sudden jolt as the aircraft shuddered violently and seemed to drop down with a sudden force. It was quite scary. For a minute I thought that message I heard might not have been from God and so I started praying with a bit of desperation and fear. The turbulence went on for a few minutes. A little later, it subsided and the flying was smooth again. The Pilot’s calming voice announced that that there was another aircraft that flew just some 1000 feet above our aircraft which caused the turbulence. He reassured that we are now safe and it’s all good. Well, we landed back safely and on schedule. I flew without fasting and enjoyed some really good complimentary food. It was all good. Above all, I faced my fear and overcame it as I trusted and obeyed the voice of the Holy Spirit. I learnt something that day. I learnt that Jesus is more powerful than any fear. Yes, Jesus said, this kind shall go by prayer and fasting and there will be times of fasting and praying but not if we depend on a solution based only on fasting. His Word, His Command, His Love and His Authority is beyond fasting or anything else that we can do. Fear comes to intimidate us. That fear is just an illusion. If you give in you get yourself trapped into that fear. Remember what the Word says, ‘Resist the devil and he will flee.’ No fear is bigger than Jesus! My message to everyone out there, especially all the singles is this, no matter how single your circumstances are making you feel, it’s just an illusion. God is Love and if you will believe in Him you will find Love. Don’t give in to the fear or anxiety of how alone you are. Our God knows exactly what you feel. He knows exactly where you are. He will send Love your way and when you find it treasure it. Remember, before being defeated, Goliath, the giant intimidated everyone including the King. Then, David came to the scene. Can you imagine how alone David must have felt with everyone around him talking negative and being fearful? Moreover, instead of support there was criticism from his own brothers. And then, the intimidating threat from the giant continued not knowing that there was now someone new on the scene, someone ready to take up the challenge to fight, someone with no military qualification or resources but full of the Spirit of God. One stone in faith and the intimidation as well as the fear fell as though it was just an illusion! Whoever you are that’s reading this, no matter what it is that seems to be intimidating you, today, this message is just for you. Trust the Spirit of God. He is trying to say something to you. Read the Word of God, pray and listen to His voice, He will speak to you and show you that the Fear and anxiety that is intimidating you right now is only an illusion and will disappear in His presence. Psalm 23 A psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley,[a] I will fear no evil, for you are with me;

There is a lot of debate surrounding ( Song of Solomon 2:7 ) as to whether the "Subject" which in this case is the speaker is the bride or the groom? why the "Direct Object" which are the "Daughters of Jerusalem" are addressed as Masculine Plural in The Old Testament Plural even though "Daughters of Jerusalem" is by and in itself feminine plural? whether the "Indirect Object" is the bride, groom or even just referring to the general affection of love? However, regardless of all the debatable aspects of ( Song of Solomon 2:7 ) mentioned at the top of this post, is One of the main overarching meanings of ( Song of Solomon 2:7 ) is that love is gentle & patient? What would it have meant to the ancient biblical readers at that time? ( To sort of elaborate, would the ( Song of Solomon 2:7 ) bible verse been a good reprimanding verse for ( 2 Samuel 13:11-14 ) Amnon who raped his half-sister Tamar (Genesis 34:1-5) Shechem who lay with Dinah by force

There is a lot of debate surrounding ( Song of Solomon 2:7 ) as to whether the "Subject" which in this case is the speaker is the bride or the groom? why the "Direct Object" which are the "Daughters of Jerusalem" are addressed as Masculine Plural in The Old Testament Plural even though "Daughters of Jerusalem" is by and in itself feminine plural? whether the "Indirect Object" is the bride, groom or even just referring to the general affection of love? However, regardless of all the debatable aspects of ( Song of Solomon 2:7 ) mentioned at the top of this post, is One of the main overarching meanings of ( Song of Solomon 2:7 ) is that love is gentle & patient? What would it have meant to the ancient biblical readers at that time? ( To sort of elaborate, would the ( Song of Solomon 2:7 ) bible verse been a good reprimanding verse for ( 2 Samuel 13:11-14 ) Amnon who raped his half-sister Tamar (Genesis 34:1-5) Shechem who lay with Dinah by force

JOHN 3:16 "For God so LOVED the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." KING JAMES VERSION (KJV)

IMHumbleO, Today there is too much debate over subjects that profit little......heresies, word origin, preferred translation rather than being led by the Spirit ! What did Jesus have to say about our position in him ? 25 But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. 26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; 27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. Matthew 20:25-28

Blessings Brothers & Sisters I just read a reply from one of our Brothers that just blew me away.Ill not say who,he can say it himself if he cares to because this thread is not about him,it's about an ultimate,unimaginable,unthinkable sacrifice.... His reply was this: "I wish all could be Saved - I'd give up my own Salvation if it would Save everyone." I was gobsmacked & immediately I replied " Wow,I'm not that selfless" Im really really overjoyed that that is not possible or an option so of course this Topic is just sharing my thoughts and wondering what y'all think? Personally,I can't imagine sacrificing my Eternity with the Lord for ANYONE- so what does that say about me?Oh,this life- I'd gladly lay down my temporal life to save someone else's ,even to save someone's temporal life- and like Jesus Said I'd probably do it for an enemy as well if it would Save them- but give up God's Grace & face outer darkness,gnashing of teeth and eternal damnation.....WOW,no! Thank God Jesus Did it- He Was Forsaken in my place,He Faced what I never have to face-being out of God's Presence ..I did not think any human being could do that,I could not,not willingly Anyway,anyone else?- am I alone with my selfish self here?I love Jesus ,I strive for Perfection and Desire to Represent Him BUT.....I just thought of Abraham,taking his own son up to the nountain- sheesh,that's nothing compared to be willing to sacrifice ones own Salvation .. Just me thinking out loud again In His Love& even more Grateful after thinking about all of this! Kwik

God let me kindly do this for myself as a homeless student as He was ushering things in for me this whole time. For this I am thankful. Thankful for this harsh, abrupt, rebranding of my soul. Had too. The weak, frail, masked things of this world I accepted could have got me killed. Would have There was no protection in them. I accepted His leadership in the wilderness, not my own. This in turn has lead to a dramatic increase of love & acceptance. And for that I am thankful 🌹♥️🔥✨😭!

I view (1 Corinthians 7:25-31 ) bible passage as a Warning for Christians to Not idolize and/or Not to worship the practice of looking for a Christian spouse. ( 1 Corinthians 7:25-31 ) 25 Now concerning virgins I have no command of the Lord, but I give an opinion as one who [a]by the mercy of the Lord is trustworthy. 26 I think then that this is good in view of the present distress, that it is good for a man [c]to remain as he is.27 Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be released. Are you released from a wife? Do not seek a wife. 28 But if you marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Yet such will have [d]trouble in this life, and I am trying to spare you. 29 But this I say, brethren, the time has been shortened, so that from now on those who have wives should be as though they had none; 30 and those who weep, as though they did not weep; and those who rejoice, as though they did not rejoice; and those who buy, as though they did not possess; 31 and those who use the world, as though they did not make full use of it; for the form of this world is passing away. However, I'm trying to reconcile ( 1 Corinthians 7:25-31 ) bible passage warning with the following biblical narratives -Jacob & Rachel's Love Story, and their ensuing Relatively Happy marriage -David & Michal's relationship, and their ensuing failed marriage Let's start off with Jacob & Rachel's Love Story. The (Genesis 29:9-12) bible passage seems to show Jacob letting his loving emotions for Rachel get the better of him by -being so eager to roll the stone from the mouth of the well so that Rachel's sheep can drink water -, and how he embraced Rachel by kissing her, and lifted his voice and wept -Furthermore, (Genesis 29:15-20) states that "Jacob served seven years for Rachel and they seemed to him but a few days because of his love for her" Essentially, what I'm trying to emphasize in listing out the aforementioned points is that Jacob seems to have gone against (1 Corinthians 7:25-31 ) bible passage Warning Against idolizing and/or worshipping the practice of looking for a spouse because Jacob let's his loving emotions for Rachel get the better of him. Moreover, despite Jacob's initial actions, he goes on to have a reasonably successful marriage with Rachel. Genesis 29:4-12 (NASB) 4 Jacob said to them, “My brothers, where are you from?” And they said, “We are from Haran.” 5 He said to them, “Do you know Laban the son of Nahor?” And they said, “We know him.” 6 And he said to them, “Is it well with him?” And they said, “It is well, and here is Rachel his daughter coming with the sheep.” 7 He said, “Behold, it is still high day; it is not time for the livestock to be gathered. Water the sheep, and go, pasture them.” 8 But they said, “We cannot, until all the flocks are gathered, and they roll the stone from the mouth of the well; then we water the sheep.” 9 While he was still speaking with them, Rachel came with her father’s sheep, for she was a shepherdess. 10 When Jacob saw Rachel the daughter of Laban his mother’s brother, and the sheep of Laban his mother’s brother, Jacob went up and rolled the stone from the mouth of the well and watered the flock of Laban his mother’s brother. 11 Then Jacob kissed Rachel, and lifted his voice and wept. 12 Jacob told Rachel that he was a [c]relative of her father and that he was Rebekah’s son, and she ran and told her father. Genesis 29:15-20 New American Standard Bible 1995 15 Then Laban said to Jacob, “Because you are my [a]relative, should you therefore serve me for nothing? Tell me, what shall your wages be?” 16 Now Laban had two daughters; the name of the older was Leah, and the name of the younger was Rachel. 17 And Leah’s eyes were weak, but Rachel was beautiful of form and face. 18 Now Jacob loved Rachel, so he said, “I will serve you seven years for your younger daughter Rachel.” 19 Laban said, “It is better that I give her to you than to give her to another man; stay with me.” 20 So Jacob served seven years for Rachel and they seemed to him but a few days because of his love for her. Now let's try to analyze David & Michal's relationship which ultimately led to a failed marriage. David initial actions seems to be more aligned to (1 Corinthians 7:25-31 ) bible passage Warning Against idolizing and/or worshipping the practice of looking for a spouse because David responds to the different marriage proposal by stating for following: -For Merab's marriage proposal, he says, (1 Samuel 18:18) But David said to Saul, “Who am I, and what is my life or my father’s family in Israel, that I should be the king’s son-in-law?” -And initially for Michal's marriage proposal, he says, (1 Samuel 18:23) ...But David said, “Is it trivial in your sight to become the king’s son-in-law, since I am a poor man and lightly esteemed?” I mentioned the aforementioned points about David because David is cautious about getting married to one of the king's daughters which seems wise & cautious, and therefore, seems to align with (1 Corinthians 7:25-31 ) bible passage. However, even though David is at first cautious about Michal's marriage proposal, he ultimately accepts Michal as a wife. But, it's sad & strange that despite David's cautiousness which could be seen as being wisefully thoughtful about Michal's proposal, their marriage is a failure because we can read about the breakdown in (2 Samuel 6:16-23) bible passage that shows Michal's spite for David's dancing leaping and dancing in order to celebrate the return of the ark of The Lord. Ultimately, Michal mocks David face-to-face, and then ends up having No children for the rest of her life. (1 Samuel 18:17-27) 17 Then Saul said to David, “Here is my older daughter Merab; I will give her to you as a wife, only be a valiant man for me and fight the Lord’s battles.” ....more scripture.............18 But David said to Saul, “Who am I, and what is my life or my father’s family in Israel, that I should be the king’s son-in-law?” 19 So it came about at the time when Merab, Saul’s daughter, should have been given to David, that she was given to Adriel the Meholathite for a wife. 20 Now Michal, Saul’s daughter, loved David. When they told Saul, the thing was agreeable [a]to him. ....more scripture.............Therefore Saul said to David, “For a second time you may be my son-in-law today.” 22 Then Saul commanded his servants, “Speak to David secretly, saying, ‘Behold, the king delights in you, and all his servants love you; now therefore, become the king’s son-in-law.’” 23 So Saul’s servants spoke these words to David. But David said, “Is it trivial in your sight to become the king’s son-in-law, since I am a poor man and lightly esteemed?” 24 The servants of Saul reported to him [c]according to these words which David spoke. 25 Saul then said, “Thus you shall say to David, ‘The king does not desire any dowry except a hundred foreskins of the Philistines, to take vengeance on the king’s enemies.’” Now Saul planned to make David fall by the hand of the Philistines. 26 When his servants told David these words, [d]it pleased David to become the king’s son-in-law. [e]Before the days had expired 27 David rose up and went, he and his men, and struck down two hundred men among the Philistines. Then David brought their foreskins, and they gave them in full number to the king, that he might become the king’s son-in-law. So Saul gave him Michal his daughter for a wife. 2 Samuel 6:16-23, New American Standard Bible (NASB) 16 Then it happened as the ark of the Lord came into the city of David that Michal the daughter of Saul looked out of the window and saw King David leaping and dancing before the Lord; and she despised him in her heart. 17 So they brought in the ark of the Lord and set it in its place inside the tent which David had pitched for it; and David offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the Lord. 18 When David had finished offering the burnt offering and the peace offering, he blessed the people in the name of the Lord of hosts. 19 Further, he distributed to all the people, to all the multitude of Israel, both to men and women, a cake of bread and one of dates and one of raisins to each one. Then all the people departed each to his house. 20 But when David returned to bless his household, Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David and said, “How the king of Israel distinguished himself today! He uncovered himself today in the eyes of his servants’ maids as one of the foolish ones shamelessly uncovers himself!” 21 So David said to Michal, “It was before the Lord, who chose me above your father and above all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the Lord, over Israel; therefore I will celebrate before the Lord. 22 I will be more lightly esteemed than this and will be humble in my own eyes, but with the maids of whom you have spoken, with them I will be distinguished.” 23 Michal the daughter of Saul had no child to the day of her death. To conclude, Jacob's love for Rachel leads to overemotional enthusiastic actions that suggest his emotions are getting the better of him. Jacob's actions seem to go Against the (1 Corinthians 7:25-31 ) warning. David's initial cautiousness seems to be a sign of being wisefully thoughtful, and in turn, seems to align with the (1 Corinthians 7:25-31 ) warning. Sadly, David's marriage to Michal fails. Could someone please try to give their opinions about the aforementioned intertextual scripture-interprets-scripture analysis?

Are You a Soldier? What does Scripture say about engaging in earthly warfare? In what sense is every Christian a soldier of Jesus Christ? Do you realize that we are involved in a great spiritual conflict every day? This study will discuss these and other relevant topics! The Christian is a soldier. He is a participant in a war of immense proportions. His entire life is involved in this conflict! The war will continue until Christ returns in victory over His foes. Scripture repeatedly refers to this lifelong spiritual battle we are waging against our spiritual, unseen enemy—Satan. Paul makes reference to this spiritual warfare when he writes, "Suffer hardship with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier" (2 Timothy 2:3-4). Notice that we are soldiers of Christ and not of Caesar or any other earthly ruler, whether he be president, king, or sovereign dictator. Because of this, Paul was able to call Epaphroditus and Archippus his "fellow-soldiers" (cf. Phil. 2:25; Phile. 2). Furthermore, we are so devoted to our responsibilities as the Lord’s soldiers and so intent on pleasing Him that we have neither the time nor the interest to become entangled in "the affairs of everyday life" (v. 4; cf. 1 Cor. 7:29-31). A Spiritual War We must realize that we are participating in spiritual warfare, not carnal or fleshly warfare. Paul specifically says, "Though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses" (2 Cor. 10:3-4). With spiritual weapons, we are actively "destroying" and "demolishing" everything that would oppose the knowledge of God (v. 5, NASB, NIV). With the spiritual "armor of God" we are enabled to "stand firm against the schemes of the devil" (Eph. 6:11) and resist his wicked advance in the world and in our lives (v. 13). Paul definitely says that our warfare is spiritual in nature: "Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places" (v. 12; cf. vv. 13-20; 1 Thess. 5:8). We fight unseen realities rather than national opponents. We believe in warfare, but ours is a spiritual war, far greater than the carnal wars fought to defend and advance the transitory and imperfect kingdoms of men. The "domain" and "glory" of "the kingdoms of the world" belong to Satan our adversary (Luke 4:5-6), but John the apostle, in vision, heard the announcement that "the kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of the Lord, and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever" (Rev. 11:15; cf. v. 17). The words of Christ bear like testimony: "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting, that I might not be delivered up to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm" (John 18:36). Jesus was king of truth (v. 37; cf. 14:6) and we who have received Him as truth fight a spiritual war, as spiritual soldiers, wearing spiritual armor, bearing spiritual weapons, in His spiritual kingdom! Christ is King of King and Lord of lords! Our Sovereign Commander will be victor over Satan, his angels, and the world (Rev. 17:14; 19:11-18). What should be the Christian’s attitude toward carnal or earthly warfare, in contrast to spiritual warfare? How should he view the military profession, the military industry, and production of instruments of war and bloodshed? These questions do have answers but they will only make sense if you, personally, know God the Father through Jesus Christ His Son. Only if you know the Prince of Peace will you be able to understand the way of peace that He brings to our hearts (John 16:33) and brings to His followers (Eph. 2:14-17). Paul the apostle wrote, "A natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised. But he who is spiritual appraises all things, yet he himself is appraised by no one" (1 Cor. 2:14-15). While certain facts of the Bible may be seen and acknowledged (including the truths which follow), the deeper import of them simply will not be perceived or embraced. With these thoughts in mind, the following considerations should help the sincere follower of Christ to decide what Scripture says about participating in earthly, carnal warfare. Questions that You Must Face (1) Would Jesus Christ, the "Prince of Peace," engage in armed warfare in support of an earthly kingdom on earth? (Isaiah 9:6; Luke 9:54-55; 23:33-34) The Christian is to be Christlike in his attitudes, words, and behavior. He should ask, "What would Jesus do?" as he makes decisions in life. Can you conceive of Jesus clothed in a military uniform, bearing arms, under an earthly commander, taking orders to kill enemies from another nation? "The one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked" (1 John 2:6). " Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps" (1 Peter 2:21b). (2) Is the Christian to love all people and do good to all people, including his enemies? Every Christian is to be characterized by love and goodwill toward others, including those who have made themselves his enemy. We are instructed how we should respond to others who hate us and harm us. Just as God is love (1 John 4:8, 16), so the Christian walks in the way of love and goodwill. Is it loving to destroy the enemy and his family? Is it good to maim, harm, and injure both our enemy and innocent people from our enemy’s country? "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you" (Luke 6:27-28; cf. vv. 32-36; Matt. 5:43-48). " May the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all men" (1 Thess. 3:12). " See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all men" (1 Thess. 5:15). (3) Would war cause Christian to fight against Christian if they were to fight for their respective nations? Christians are found in all the nations of the world (Matt. 28:19; Mark 16:15; Rev. 7:9; Col. 1:23). Instead of fighting against His brothers, the Christian is to love his brothers just as Christ loved him! He is to lay down his life for his brothers rather than harming them and killing them because they happen to live in another country. "A new commandments I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:34-35; cf. 15:12). " We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren" (1 John 3:16). See also: 1 Peter 1:22; 4:8; 1 John 3:10, 14-16; 4:7, 11-12, 20-21; 1 Thess. 4:9-10; Heb. 13:1. (4) Does war tend to brutalize and harden the participant? War definitely does cause the soldier to lose compassion, tenderness, kindness, and sympathy. Many men testify that they learned to hate, to injure, and even to kill others while learning to fulfill the duties required in the military. Men harden their conscience so they can carry out brutal acts of violence against other people. "Holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, gentleness and patience" (Col. 3:12; cf. vv. 13-15). " Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you" (Eph. 4:31-32). " Let your gentle spirit be known to all men" (Phil. 4:5). (5) Did Jesus refuse to become involved in the political and nationalistic issues of His day? Jesus maintained a neutrality in the kingdoms of the world for He represented a spiritual kingdom while dwelling on earth. Although nationalistic fervor was intense during the period in which He lived, Jesus did not become embroiled in this attitude. He even prophesied that his nation would soon be destroyed because of their sin (in AD 66-70; cf. Luke 19:43-44; 21:20-24; 23:27-31), but His followers should escape Jerusalem and not join the rebellious resistance force (Luke 21:21; cf. Matt. 24:15-22). His disciples maintained the same perspective of neutrality and partook of a heavenly citizenship where their ultimate loyalty belonged. The body of Christ itself was a spiritual nation, scattered as pilgrims in the midst of the corrupt nations of earth. "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting, that I might not be delivered up to the Jews; but as it is My kingdom is not of this realm" (John 18:36-37). " Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s; and to God the things that are God’s" (Matt. 22:21; cf. vv. 17-21; Mark 12:17; Luke 20:25). (Give to Caesar that which bears his image [the coin = taxes that are due], but give to God that which bears His image [man himself who bears the image of God].) " Our citizenship [commonwealth, homeland] is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ" (Phil. 3:20). " You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession" (1 Peter 2:9a; cf. Matt. 21:43). (6) Were the early Christians instructed to flee when persecuted or were they told to defend themselves? When confronted with armed resistance, the early followers of Jesus were to flee to another place rather than fight with earthly weapons. When the cruel and idolatrous Romans would come upon Jerusalem, believers were to flee rather than fight. "Whenever they persecute you in this city, flee to the next" (Matt. 1023a). " When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies . . . . Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains" (Luke 21:20-21; cf. Matt. 24:16; 13:14). See: 2 Cor. 11:32-33; Acts 9:23-25; 12:17; 14:6; 17:10; 20:3; 22:18-21; Matt. 12:14-15). (7) Is the spirit or attitude of Christ in harmony with the spirit of warfare? Indeed, the spirit and demeanor of the Lord Jesus is in complete contrast to the violent spirit of war. Nearly every characteristic that makes a good soldier (except order and discipline) is in conflict with the traits that make a worthy follower of Jesus. "Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; therefore be shrewd as serpents, and innocent as doves" (Matt. 10:16; cf. Luke 10:3). " [War is] a brutal, dirty, deadly affair" (General Thomas D. White). " I want every devilish, subtle device and every upper-handed operation possible to use against the Germans and Japs" (General William J. Donovan). " War is the trade of barbarians" (Napoleon). " The profession of a soldier is a damnable profession" (Sir John Sinclair). " War is nothing less than a temporary repeal of the principles of virtue" (Robert Hall). " God is forgotten in war; every principle of Christianity is trampled upon" (Sidney Smith). " War is antagonistic to Christianity for many reasons, but chiefly on account of the ugly passion it excites and the untold misery that it inflicts" (J.B. Remensnyder). " War is the concentration of all human crimes. Under its standard gather violence, malignity, rage, fraud, perfidy, rapacity, and lust. If it only slew men, it would do little. It turns man into a beast of prey" (Dr. Channing). " Its destructive effect upon the moral character of the nation that wages it is war’s final condemnation" (Walter Walsh). " Yes, war is hell, as General Sherman long ago told us; but he did not go on to tell us why. There is only one possible reason. Hell is not a geographical term; it is merely the expression of the spirit or condition of its inhabitants. War is hell because it transforms men into devils" (E.H. Crosby). (8) Is war a blatant violation of Christ’s "Golden" commandment and does it negate the principle of mercy or compassion? Do you want others to harm you or kill your loved ones? Then you must not destroy others or their loved ones. War does the opposite to the enemy nation as you would want that nation to do to yours. Instead of harming or killing our enemies, you must love, bless, and care for them. "Whatever you want others to do for you, do so for them" (Matt. 7:12). "Just as you want men to treat you, treat them in the same way" (Luke 6:31). " Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy" (Matt. 5:7; cf. James 2:13). (9) Do Christ’s servants fight fleshly battles for human state governments? Rather than fighting carnal battles, the Christian engages in spiritual warfare against spiritual enemies (evil demonic powers at work in the world, particularly in the lives of the unsaved). "We do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses" (2 Cor. 10:3b-4; cf. John 18:36-37). " Put your sword back into its place; for all those who take up the sword shall perish by the sword" (Matt. 26:52; cf. vv. 53-54; John 18:11). (Notice that Jesus here forbids a defensive sword for a just cause.) (10) What does Christ’s death on the cross demonstrate? When Jesus died on the cross for our sins, He manifested the epitome of nonresistant love. He laid down his life not only for his friends but also for His enemies. He offered Himself without retaliation, without reviling, and without bitterness. "Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps . . . while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously" (1 Peter 2:21, 23; cf. 3:9; 4:19; Matt. 26:53). " He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so He does not open His mouth" (Acts 8:32; cf. Isaiah 53:7). " I gave My back to those who strike Me, and My cheeks to those who pluck out the beard; I did not cover My face from humiliation and spitting" (Isaiah 50:6). (11) What does the Great Commission have to do with carnal warfare? When one engages in carnal warfare, he violates Christ’s parting commission to proclaim His good news to every creature on earth. Instead of sharing the glad message of redeeming love, war sends a message of bloodshed and death. We cannot tell the gospel of peace and love to one we have killed! "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation" (Mark 16:15). " Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations" (Matthew 28:19a). " Repentance for forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in His name to all the nations" (Luke 24:47; cf. Acts 1:8). (12) What is the result of killing an unsaved enemy? If one kills a lost or unsaved enemy in warfare, this will result in his eternal condemnation and will send him to an everlasting hell. Can I have part in this dreadful finality to his opportunity of responding to Christ for salvation? "It is appointed for men to die once, and after this comes judgment" (Hebrews 9:27). " The rich man . . . died and was buried. And in Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment" (Luke 16:22-23). " He who does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him" (John 3:36b). (13) Is the Christian to be peaceful and be a peacemaker? The believer definitely is to be characterized by a peaceful disposition and he is to seek peace with others and between others. He is to be a peace-maker and not a war-maker. "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God" (Matt. 5:9). " If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men" (Romans 12:18). " Pursue peace with all men" (Heb. 12:14a). (14) Should the Christian retaliate against his personal enemies? The disciple of Christ must not pay back evil for evil. Then how can he be used as a pawn of the earthly power to retaliate against national enemies? Retaliation is part of the very makeup of warfare. Personal ethics must not be abdicated in acquiescence to the state. "Never pay back evil for evil to anyone . . . . Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay, says the Lord.’ But if your enemy is hungry, feed him; and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals upon his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:17, 19-21). " Do not resist him who is evil; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also" (Matt. 5:39; cf. vv. 38-42; Luke 6:29-30). " You [wicked rich men] have condemned and put to death the righteous man; he does not resist you" (James 5:6; cf. 1 Peter 2:18-24; 1 Thess. 5:15; 1 Cor. 4:12). " Not returning evil for evil, or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead" (1 Peter 3:9a). (15) Should the Christian be used as an arm of the state in bearing the sword? The Christian is commanded to be subject to human civil government, but he is not instructed to participate in civil affairs nor bear the sword for the governmental powers. The believer must be absolutely submissive to the requirements of the civil authority (e.g., paying taxes, obtaining licenses, observing speed limits, etc.)—unless such submission violates the will of God (cf. Acts 4:19-20; 5:29). "Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore he who resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves" (Rom. 13:1-2; cf. vv. 3-7; contrast 12:41-21 with this). " Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities" (Titus 3:1a). " Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. . . . fear God, honor the king" (1 Peter 2:13-14, 17b; cf. Matt. 22:21). (16) Could the Christian pray to God to bless his participation in waging carnal war? Obviously a disciple of the Lord could not pray for the blessings of God to rest on his taking the life and destroying the property of his enemy. "If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us" (1 John 5:14b). " Pray for those who mistreat you" (Luke 6:28b). " Pray for those who persecute you" (Matt. 5:44b). " I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made in behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity" (1 Tim. 2:1-2; cf. vv. 3-4; Eph. 6:18). (17) Can the Christian wage a deadly, bloody, wicked war in the name of Christ his Lord? A believer really cannot participate in carnal warfare and do so by the authority of Christ, under His direction, according to His spirit of love, and as a follower of Him. "Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Col. 3:17a). (18) Is the Christian justified in doing wrong so that there might be a positive result? No, we must never do evil so that good may result. We must never do wrong in order to do right. We (Christians) must not wage carnal warfare (or prepare war materials, weapons, and munitions to support war) in order to overthrow an evil national ruler and secure earthly peace. (For instance, according to Christ, was killing hundreds of thousands of defenseless Germans or Japanese civilians justified in order to bring a more speedy end to the war? Or was rebelling against the British crown, thereby taking up arms, justified in order to secure political representation or obtain political liberty?) Paul said that some misguided people "slanderously reported" that he affirmed, "Let us do evil that good may come." His response was unequivocal: "Their condemnation is just" (Rom. 3:8). The doctrine that we are justified in doing wrong in order to bring good is false! We are never justified in doing evil to secure good. For the Christian, the means must be good as well as the end. (19) What does early church history demonstrate? History tells us that the early Christians refused to participate in warfare for one hundred years or longer after the days of the apostles. Some strong opposition continued for the next century, but a leavening influence had begun with some professing "Christians" in the military ranks. After the time of Augustine (AD 400-430), opposition, for the most part, ceased because of his "just war" doctrine. "No Christian ever thought of enlisting in the army after his conversion until the reign of Marcus Aurelius" around AD 173 (C.J. Cadoux). " It is quite clear that prior to about A.D. 174 it is impossible to speak of Christian soldiers" (Guy F. Hershberger). " Early second-century literature gives no direct evidence in regard to Christian participation in military service. The general statements which do occur imply a negative attitude. They reflect the Christian abhorrence of bloodshed and a general Christian affirmation about peace. . . . Only in the early 170’s do we find the first explicit evidence since apostolic times to the presence of [professing] Christians in the military service. . . . Finally Theodosius II in 416 decreed that only Christians could be in the army, for he wanted divine favor to rest with the armies of the Empire against the barbarian threat" (Everett Ferguson). " From the end of the New Testament period to the decade A.D. 170-180 there is no evidence whatever of Christians in the army" (Roland H. Bainton). " From about 174 A.D. on to the time of Constantine, about 313 A.D., there are indications that a few [professing] Christians were in the military service" (William Paul). " The period from A.D. 180 until the time of Constantine exhibits both in the East and West a number of more or less explicit condemnations of military service" (Bainton). (20) What did early church leaders actually write about warfare? There are too many quotations to include them all in this short treatment. As the above quotations reveal, the overwhelming testimony of the second and third centuries is that professing "Christians" opposed war and participation in warfare. Even after there is evidence that some professing "Christians" were found in the army by the latter second century, leaders continued to write of the peaceful nature of the way of Christ. Several of these quotations follow. "You shall not take evil counsel against your neighbor. You shall not hate any man" (Didache, ca. AD 115). " Do not seek to avenge yourselves on those who injure you. . . . And let us imitate the Lord, ‘who, when he was reviled, reviled not again’; when he was crucified, he answered not; ‘when he suffered, he threatened not’; but prayed for his enemies" (Ignatius, AD 110). " We who were full of war and murder of one another and all wickedness have each changed his warlike instruments—swords into plows and spears into agricultural implements" (Justin, AD 153). " I do not want to rule, I do not wish to be rich, I reject military command, I have hated fornication" (Tatian, ca. AD 170). " We have learned not only not to return blow for blow, nor to go to law with those who plunder and rob us, but to those who smite us on one side of the face to offer the other side also, and to those who take away our coat to give likewise our cloak" (Athenagoras, AD 180). " Since we consider that to see a man put to death is next to killing him, we have renounced such spectacles [gladiator contests]. How then can we, who do not look lest we be stained with guilt and defilement, commit murder?" (Athenagoras, AD 180). " How will a Christian war, indeed how will he serve even in peace without a sword, which the Lord has taken away? . . . The Lord, in disarming Peter, unbelted every soldier" (Tertullian, ca. AD 200). " A soldier of the government must be told not to execute men; if he should be ordered to do it, he shall not do it. He must be told not to take the military oath. If he will not agree, let him be rejected [from baptism]. A military governor or a magistrate of a city who wears the purple, either let him desist or let him be rejected. If a catechumen or a baptized Christian wishes to become a soldier, let him be cast out. For he has despised God" (Hippolytus, ca. AD 210-220). " We have come in accordance with the counsel of Jesus to cut down our warlike and arrogant swords of argument into ploughshares, and we convert into sickles the spears we formerly used in fighting. For we no longer take ‘sword against a nation,’ nor do we learn ‘any more to make war,’ having become sons of peace for the sake of Jesus, who is our leader" (Origen, ca. AD 250). " We fight better on behalf of the king. Indeed we do not fight at his side, even if he should command it, but we fight on his behalf, organizing our own army of piety through our petitions to God" (Origen, ca. AD 250). " Christians decline public offices not in order to escape these duties but in order to keep themselves for a more divine and necessary service in the church of God for the salvation of men" (Origen). " When God forbids us to kill, he not only prohibits us from open violence . . . but he warns us against the commission of those things which are esteemed lawful among men. Thus it will be neither lawful for a just man to engage in warfare" (Lactantius, early 300s). " If all without exception . . . would lend an ear for a little to his [Christ’s] salutary and peaceful rules . . . the whole world, having turned the use of steel into more peaceful occupations, would now be living in the most placed tranquility, and would unite in blessed harmony, maintaining inviolate the sanctity of treaties" (Arnobius, AD 310). Conclusion In view of these twenty weighty points against the Christian’s participation in warfare, we must determine to live nonconformed to the world. Paul wrote, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" (Romans 12:2). We must choose to walk the "narrow way" that leads to life even when that way is far different from the "broad way" that the vast majority choose to walk (Matt. 7:13-14). The narrow way is one of love, peace and kindness—not only to fellow-believers but also to one’s enemies. The broad way is one of selfishness, hatred, violence, hostility, retaliation, and brutality. Rather than participating in carnal warfare with carnal weapons for carnal objectives, the Christian is involved in a life and death spiritual war against Satan and his evil allies. This war involves spiritual armor and spiritual weapons. What side will you choose? Questions for Your Consideration Sources for Your Study Some of the following books and pamphlets are available at the present time while a few of them may no longer be in print. If you cannot locate them, please write for further information about their availability. (You may also ask your library to obtain them through inter-library loan.) While each of these publications has merit, we cannot endorse all of the contents. William Paul, A Christian View of Armed Warfare! (P.O. Box 30526, Seattle, WA 98103). Everett Ferguson, Early Christians Speak (ACU Press, Abilene Christian University, Abilene, TX 79699). H. Leo Boles, The New Testament Teaching on War (Gospel Advocate Company, 1006 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 37210). War: A Trilogy, Three Perspectives—One Biblical Position (Star Bible Publications, Inc., Fort Worth, Texas 76182). Handbook for Conscientious Objectors (Central Committee for Conscientious Objectors, 2208 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146). J. C. Wenger, Separated unto God (Christian Light Publications, P.O. Box 1212, Harrisonburg, VA 22801-1212). Guy Franklin Hershberger, War, Peace, and Nonresistance (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). John H. Yoder, What Would You Do? (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). David Lipscomb, Civil Government (Gospel Advocate Company, 1006 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 37210). John Driver, How Christians Made Peace with War (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). Duane Ruth-Heffelbower, The Christian and Jury Duty (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). Lois Barrett, The Way God Fights (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). John Horsch, The Principle of Nonresistance as Held by the Mennonite Church (Eastern Mennonite Publishing, Ephrata, PA). Bennie Lee Fudge, Can a Christian Kill for His Government? (C.E.I. Publishing Co., Athens, AL). Jean-Michel Hornus, It Is Not Lawful For Me to Fight (Herald Press, Scottdale, PA). Roland H. Bainton, Christian Attitudes Toward War and Peace (Abingdon Press, Nashville, TN). Joyce Miller, War-Torn Valley (Rod and Staff Publishers, P.O. Box 3, Hwy. 172, Crockett, KY 41413-0003). Aaron M. Shank, Studies in the Doctrine of Nonresistance (Rod and Staff Publishing, P.O. Box 3, Hwy. 172, Crockett, KY 41413-0003). Kniss, Why I Couldn’t Fight (Christian Light Publications, P.O. Box 1212, Harrisonburg, VA 22801). Lee M. Rogers, God and Government (Lee M. Rogers, Sheffield, AL). Richard Hollerma

I often think about what it means to be a loving Christian? Does it mean to be totally accepting, never correcting, never disagreeing, and never judging (an action - a person should never be judged) If you tell the truth without love it is not Godly But if you love without telling truth, is it also not Godly? The Bible tells that any action we do without love is wasted 1 Corinthians 13:1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. The bible also tells us not to compromise Revelation 3: 14 “And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: 15 “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither [kcold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. So when is it love, when is it judgment and when is it compromise Situation: We see someone in sin, a brother or sister in Christ or someone on the edge (there is no use in correcting the lost, they need to be saved). Do you: 1. Tell them that what they are doing is a sin and God has said such sins will keep you from seeing the kingdom of heaven* 2. Do you tell them that it is alright and that God forgives and do nothing? Telling them the bible doesn't mean what it says and that they have nothing to be concerned about. 3. Do nothing considering it is none of your business? (maybe pray for them) 4. Condemn them Which of these is love, which of these brings the person closer to the truth and repentance? Now I have always been the more direct kind of guy, taking the approach that its okay to step on a few toes to get the truth out. We can always pray for healing later. So I will always go for #1, with the love and wisdom of God moderating me But what is your take? * 1 Cor 6:9 Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, 10 nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. **2 Tim 4:1 I charge you [a]therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: 2 Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.

It could be anything, something you think would make you A better christian and commit yourself better to the lord ? friends can give you opinions and only one thing in your life that has that impact.

Hi I’ve been a Christian for over 7 months and the whole time I’ve had very strong emotions/ feeling of love and affection for God. Then like 2 weeks ago I went through a lot of stress and stuff and unwilful sin (bad blasphemous thoughts triggered by fear of unpardonable sin) I complained in my head a lot and even blamed God and got angry at him I think. I was like this for days. For over a week and maybe two, icr, I kept on complaining and thinking blaming thoughts about God and him not helping me and stuff ? I struggled with my relationship with God the whole time as a Christian. I’m not close to him and don’t really have a relationship with Jesus at all ? I feel like we don’t have long left here and it makes me worry for my family who need saved and .. It makes me feel scared condemned forced and pressured to pray to him all the time otherwise idk if I’ll ‘I’ll make it’ I’m scared of God and he scares me. It’s hard to pray when I don’t really feel anything (emotion towards him ) I also read that if you don’t love God you don’t get to be with him and that puts me under more pressure. I asked God for my feeling and emotion back the feelings of strong love for him. I care about the emotions I had (affection and adoration) Because I don’t feel them they get replaced with other emotions like anger fear numb .... I also found out God the father and Jesus and the Holy Spirit have different personalities. I get confused on who to pray to or focus on more. i struggled to feel affection for Jesus before but felt it for God the father and it concerned me. I feel distant and God almost feels like a stranger now ? I feel like we don’t have much time left and I feel like my relationship with God isn’t the best ? thanks for reading ?

I very recently witnessed a thread being closed, due to brothers in Christ accusing each other of dishonesty. The thing is that one of them carefully and accurately provided proof of the dishonesty; but the other made reckless and ill-founded accusations; and continued to do so, even after being called out about it. This manner of closing the thread made me angry (no names - it's the principle I'm interested in), since there was zero moral equivalence between the two posters, yet they were tarred with same brush; and the one who provided careful proof was singled out for a personal rebuke, by the one who closed the thread (I was not one of the two involved, although I had posted earlier in the thread). Gal. 2:11-18 (VW) 11 Now when Peter had come to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed; 12 for before certain men came from Jacob, he would eat with the Gentiles; but when they came, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing those who were of the circumcision. 13 And the rest of the Jews also played the hypocrite with him, so that even Barnabas was carried away with their hypocrisy. 14 But when I saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before them all, If you, being a Jew, live in the manner of Gentiles and not as the Jews, why do you compel Gentiles to Judaize? 15 We who are Jews by nature, and not sinners of the Gentiles, 16 knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the Law but through the faith of Jesus Christ, even we believe into Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the Law; for by the works of the Law no flesh shall be justified. 17 But if, while we seek to be justified in Christ, we ourselves also are found to be sinners, is Christ therefore a minister of sin? Let it not be. 18 For if I build again those things which I destroyed, I confirm myself as a transgressor. One Christian brother engages in hypocrisy and is rebuked, with carefully provided reasons, openly. Who deserved the rebuke, Peter (who engaged in hypocrisy) or Paul, who rightly and openly accused him of hypocrisy? The answer is obvious. We need to judge righteous judgment and distinguish between truth and lies, honesty and hypocrisy. It is the trouble-maker who deserves a rebuke, not the one who points out the sin.

Sorry4 this day 2my family +urs2 <3 yet mourn. I love you and your father. I miss you and your father. I will do no more than love, as is needed, wanted and accepted. I am sorry for this day to my family and yours to love yet mourn. God bless, heal and restore your heart in Jesus Christ's loving name.

Hi, my name is Michael and I had this dream not to long ago and it’s happened happened again. There is this girl in my dream I am always with and she is so nice and kind and beautiful but she is no one I have ever know or seen outside my dreams. Since this has been happening I fear that I have grown feelings for this imaginary person ( wierd ik ) but idk what to do. It seems when I wake up my heart aches when I realize she isn’t real. Is it possible God is sending me glimpses of my future and that he has a plan for me? I pray a lot to help find my soulmate and someone who cares about me. Could he be showing me my answered prayer? Or is this just stupid? I’d appreciate an honest answer, maybe some bible verses. Thank you

I dont know what to say. it's like people would rather drama then an honest miracle. I've seen heaps. I believe in you. I love you guys. Merry Christmas

How is everyone? Im brand new on this site...cant figure out how to reply to peoples comments yet haha... But ive always been a life long believer, got filled with Holy Spirit in a big way in 2015... Always have lived a more criminal type of lifestyle, after I got Immersed by the Holy Spirit, I went deep down, lost it all, home, family, dogs got killed, had a lengthy prison sentence hanging over my head, and even commited some serious acts of violence, stole to eat, and panhandled... it took all that chastising, to make me say, I will never go back to that lifestyle again... Now finally within the last 3 to 4 months ive FULLY gave into Being a Follower of the Word, Thank The Most High! Now I cld go on all day on How much truly awesome stuff happend that day I got filled with Holy spirit, I was by myself living in a camper doing a Study and was praying allowed, went inside talked to my mom, about a friend that had got shot and killed a day or 2 before, I said I didnt feel it was in His Cards to die like that,, at that moment pure silver appeared out of a card tattoo on my forearm, and I Immediately went into full spirit, and so did my mom, I heard only two things in my head, the sounds of Angels Laughter and a man Yelling HALLELUYAH! My mom, sisters, and dad all witnessed some kind of energy field that surrounded my Body, they said it looked like the kinda Mirage you see off hot black top, I never seen it and never cared to, what I actually felt... just stompped, what they was saying about it haha.. At the end of the Exp. Everyone in the house fell asleep mid day, and my family dont nap lol...but before I fell asleep, I seen a picture of me(in my mind) kinda busting thru the doors of a church, middle service, disrupting with a authority type thing. All that happend in 2015, Ive now recently been given back everything, and better than before! Praise The Most High. Now I didnt understand what that light vision meant at all, at that time,..but its been revealed to me over this last year, I got hit with tons of truths concerning the Bible and the Church as a whole. And I can say its most definitely gonna be "disruptive" to majority of The Church. That is IF they would like to get off the Industrial train(uncomfortable,not meant for human passengers,but you can still reach your destination) and get aboard The train He has Made for human passengers with a comfortable travel all the way home.. There is really alot of stuff within all this...but one I'd like to touch on first would be Keeping of The Sabbath, Its a very amazing and a sad thing, that very Few Followers actually try to keep the Sabbath, #1. Its our Law to do so, #2. Man, I clda really used that amazing self discipline my entire life,which is likea auto blessing that is tied to the Sabbath. Haha 3. The Father Himself sanctified it,made it Holy, and gave it to us as a Gift to his Followers, its a Holy rest he wants us to partake in with him, and its been basically forgotten within the Catholic and Christian churches. We know this is a important law were supposed to Keep, even when The Messiah was put in the tomb, no visitors came on Sabbath, bc the law and all laws did and still do to this day remain intact, only changes that was done to The Law was sacrificial and ceremonial, yes that means its still not lawful to eat pork, but were not supposed to condemn anyone about what they do or dont eat, your made perfect thru the Messiah, so what you eat isnt 0f great importance anymore, but it is still The Law to not eat any unclean beast, ive searched every scripture concerning the food ordeal lol imma hungry guy.. and its def. Still apart of the law, Just knowone is to be condemned about it, but make no mistake, its a GOOD thing to not even touch those unclean animals, but if you condemn som1 for eating pork or etc.. your good deed will be turned into a evil one... But Sabbath now thats a different story and its something we all should rejoice in together every week from Friday night to saturday night. And it should be taught to our children, and you should start working on Sundays and Stop working on Saturdays. The word Sabbath means Rest or to cease, Hebrews in new testament explains we should try our utemost to keep that sabbath. If anyone has any questions for me at all, id enjoy digging into all of this, my question would be how is it, all these life long followers are overlooking so much in the word? Another ex. Paul said I believe in Corinthians it was, that while a man is praying or prophsying, He is NOT to cover his head, and if he does cover his head he dishonors The Messiah, and that a woman IS supposed to cover her head while praying and prophsying and if she dosent, then she dishonors Man..says The head of the woman is man, the head of man is The Messiah and The Head of The Messiah is YHWH or The Father.. replaced with The false title the Lord in most versions.

Saint, Let me offer something that will really help a new Christian, and hopefully be a nice tune up for a pre-existing believer in Yeshua. So, if you want Light from God, then you have to get this revelation inside you, first, that im going to show you. This one..... You have to get this one....in the beginning of your walk with Christ... ..You absolutely must get this revelation of the Grace of God, or you will never be able to move deeper into the Light of the word of God as found in the New Testament. Questions ::: Have you ever wondered why there are a gazillion denominations, that all use a Bible, yet none of them agree? Have you ever wondered why there is no "unity" in the Body of Christ, no "same mind", within the worldwide world of all believers? Do you want to know why? Its because this verse posted next, is not known to most believers, and until it is known, and followed by ALL, there will never be any total unity between Christians in the world, on a forum, or between 2 Churches that are on the same STREET. The verse : Hebrews 13:9 : """"" Be not carried away with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with Grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein. """ This verse teaches and explains what happened to the Body Of Christ, regarding why you have a ridiculous number of denominations that all disagree regarding "church doctrine". Its simple..... you have to get the foundation LAID PROPERLY< before you can build the HOUSE correctly, so that there is harmony and unity between all Believers in Yeshua Now notice that this verse teaches that "diverse/strange doctrines, and meats", are all the same idea....... And the verse explains what will happen if your heart, (eyes of your understanding).. that receives the light of Revelation", ) is not FIRST ESTABLISHED with GRACE.. = (The understanding regarding God's freely given Righteousness.) What happens is that all who are not established within their Heart by GRACE, will be carried away, caught up, confused by, and lost inside of HERESY.... Which is "divers and STRANGE Doctrine/meats", and there as so many of these around. So many churches built upon them... Millions of Believers caught up in them.... And only because they were not grounded in GRACE, early in their Christian Beginnings. Now, i recognize that some of you are already yawning, as you are an expert in Grace, regarding understanding this central principal of the redemptive work of Jesus's sacrifice on the Cross, and THANK YOU JESUS< that many of you, long ago, "got the revelation". However, and for the benefit of those who didnt and have lived their entire born again lives, so far, trying to earn God's approval by self effort...(Legalism)..> Let me show you why you are already Approved By God, so that you can stop trying to become what you have already become, that God's Grace has already MADE YOU. As you read your bible, you will run across this phrase a lot. "made unto you", and this is a Key Phrase that will help you understand that everything that God has done for you, Thru the Blood of Jesus, has been "made unto you" when you were born again......That is to say... God has REMADE YOU TO BE. Got it? See, Salvation is to be Literally and Spiritually "made into" something BY GOD, that you were not before. Many NT Verses explain this as being "translated from darkness to Light". becoming a "child of the Light". "as Jesus is So are WE on this Earth", " heir with God"... "joint heir with Christ". "New CREATION in Christ", "bone of Jesus bones and flesh of Jesus's flesh"...and on and on. So, you have to see that you have become something by NEW BIRTH that you were not before you were born again, as this is the eternal effect of God's 'made unto you" CHANGE from "Lost" to "saved" , from Christ rejector to "Child of God", from "damned" to "Saint". Now, lets get an understanding of where you go to get what you need to know... You have to know where to look to find what you need to learn. You dont just flip open a New Testament and hope for the best, as that is a waste of time. So, this means we must go to where you find all the info, the doctrinal info, that God wants you to study. Read a paperback. Study a bible. Books are for entertainment. Bibles are for gaining God's Knowledge. The Bible is full of Light. Study is how you turn on the Light for Life. Its the "ON" switch. To do this, you run directly to Paul's epistles. And the reason? Its because Paul's pen, is the direct descendant of the doctrinal information that came straight from the mouth of Jesus The Christ. Paul is the only disciple and the only Apostle whom Jesus personally took aside for a long time, and instructed into him regarding the "first hand" information that rightly divides the Word. You dont get the ultra-fine doctrinal details from Jude, or James, or Mark, or Peter. You get your Bible Doctrine, your Church Doctrine, your lifelong Theolgy from Paul, who received it directly from the Lord, himself. So, what i teach, is what Paul would teach you. As this is what any true Teacher of the Word of God is going to tell you, and teach you. Now, here is a golden nugget for you. If you want to know exactly what Paul wants you to know, that Jesus taught Him, then of course you read all his epistles. Thats a no-brainer... But, and here is what your Pastor, Minister, Pope, and commentary never told you....If you want to know exactly what Paul is going to teach someone in person, a literal disciple of His, then you go and read Timothy 1 & 2, and Titus.. As they are both Paul's converts. So, just become one of Paul's converts, ideally, by reading what he taught Timothy and Titus., as well as what he teaches the Church at large, in his Epistles. As a matter of Fact, if you are called to Teach or Preach or Pastor, then you need to live inside Timothy and Titus and all of Paul's epistles for a while........like in, .......a lifetime. So what does Paul teach about Grace? Well, he teaches that Sin has separated us from God. And this is an eternal problem for each of us, that if not solved, will cause us to end up after we die, separated from God in Eternity. Currently, if you are not born again, you are separated from God by your sin. However, as compared to ending up in Hell then the Lake of Fire, being alive down here and separated from God, is not quit the same level of consequence. So, this problem that we are all born into, has been solved by God. And its Paul who, in the New Testament, teaches us best and most often about the wonderful love of God as expressed as The Grace of God. Salvation, Eternal Life, Redemption, Jesus dying on the Cross, are all an extension of the Love of God as reflected in the Grace of God. The central issue and subject of the New Testament, is RIGHTEOUSNESS. And the central issue between a human being and God is their lack of righteousness and how to get it. God is often accused, falsely, of "sending people to hell", But in fact, its a lack of Righteousness that is the reason that a person will not live eternally where God lives. Hell and Heaven are simply final destinations. They are Eternal choices that someone is going to make, by receiving or by rejecting Christ. One is the home for the Righteous and one is the place that maintains the unrighteous dead, until they meet their final destination. So, this issue of how to get righteousness, is only a problem that God can solve. Our New Testament says that we have all sinned and fallen short of God's righteousness. So, right there, ends any method or means of saving ourselves or keeping ourselves saved. You've noted that on a Christian Forum you always find a busload of heretics trying to make you believe that you are in control of your righteousness, and that you can earn it, and keep it...otherwise you LOSE IT The fact is, you have no Righteousness apart from Christ's because your sinning eliminated your righteousness long ago, and you can never have it again, unless someone gives you theirs. Enter, God. Enter, Jesus. Enter, The Cross. as all these have come to give you Righteousness. ALL this im writing is simply what Paul teaches. He is the Main NT teacher regarding the understanding of the Grace of God as the love of God given by God coming to this earth to meet all the requirements of the law and then die offering us HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS, for our sin. Jesus did more on the Cross then just suffer, bleed, and die. He literally became your SIN. 2nd Corinthians 5:21... and If you are born again, then your sin was lifted from you, erased for you, and in its place, you have received "The Righteousness of Christ". Salvation is Christ on a cross becoming your sin and bearing it, sacrificially, so that you will never be judged for it, in eternity. Being SAVED, means you are saved from being Judged in Eternity for your SIN...... Christ bore all your sin, by becoming your sin.... and you were given as a gift, His Righteousness. Maybe sometime you can think about this... God came down from heaven, to become your sin as well as your sin bearer and in doing so He became your Savior.. Jesus said. "Father if possible, let this cup pass from me".. And that cup, is God's wrath, his eternal judgment, poured out on HIMSELF on your behalf. And that my reader, is The Love of God as well as Amazing Grace. <B><

Is "Son of God" a really best Christian Movie of 2018? that describes the life of Jesus Christ according to The Bible and the principles of Christianity.

Hello all, I am here for advice. I have been dating my current boyfriend for about 16 months. We met a youth church event that his church was attending and my church was also attending. It all started great but then after he visited my church a few times things went a little downhill. My church is more conservative while his church is more "modern". My family wanted him to do the things and worship the way that is done at my church. He is not used to this and he doesn't necessarily agree. My family then began to disapprove and that's when the conflict started. I spoke to my family about how important he is to me and my feelings towards him but they have pretty much just shot me down. It makes me feel very sad because his family has been so kind to me and I was so welcomed at his church and they can't be welcoming to him. My boyfriend and I took a break to try and see if this was something that we both truly want. We have decided that we want to continue this relationship and grow but I am worried about my family. I don't want to go against them but I also dont feel like they are taking my feelings and relationships into consideration. They have told me to stop communicating with him because I am not allowed. I should also say that I am in my mid twenties and I don't agree that they should tell me who I am allowed to speak to who I am not. I need advice on how handle this situation with my parents and with my boyfriend.