God Is Not A Teddy Bear.

[Brimstone_Angel]

It astonishes me sometimes how both the spiritually educated and those who THINK they know something about God are so disillusioned. How they want to point out JUST the good side of God. They want to only look at His pleasent side and talk about His grace and mercy.

 

WELL "LET HE THAT HAS AN EAR LISTEN."

 

God is ALL these great things we imagine and hear about, but He is also a being of justice, punishment, and emotion. He IS a god that is jealous when not given credit or when others put other things ahead of Him. He IS a hater of ALL that is evil/sinful and is a destroyer of such things. He HAS NOT forgotten the 10 commandments or the Laws of Moses. He has destroyed cities for their wickedness. He has flooded the world in order to try and clean it of its sinful inhabitants. And to be honest, if we read Revelations and believe, I would think a flood would be much more preferable than what God has in stored.

 

God is not gentle on sin and does not expect us to be. We are called to call it what it is. Confront it where it lives. And to tell others to turn away from it. If they don't wish to listen we are to let them be and move on. And leave their fates into God's hands.

 

God is not always a teddy bear and we need to wake up and realized that the consequences of our sins are going to be paid in full, if not here, in judgment if not forgiven. And there IS a Hell in which all the terrible things will be placed and set to burn forever.

[IrishCarBomb]

It's presumptuous to claim to know almost anything about God. The farthest you can get is claiming an unshakable faith. This is a long ways from knowing though.

 

You may have an incredible belief in your view of what God is, but it cannot be known. I have no doubt that you strongly feel these positions about God, but you fall victim to the same people you criticize: you claim to know something that cannot be known.

[Ocean-Blue]

It's presumptuous to claim to know almost anything about God. The farthest you can get is claiming an unshakable faith. This is a long ways from knowing though.

 

You may have an incredible belief in your view of what God is, but it cannot be known. I have no doubt that you strongly feel these positions about God, but you fall victim to the same people you criticize: you claim to know something that cannot be known.

 

Amen to that, Irish.

[Brimstone_Angel]

It is known. At least according to the Bible I read and from my belief in those words. If you want to know how much God loves you, you read the Bible and look at the world around you. You want to know if God is angry, you do the same. You want to know what is giong to become of the world, again its all in Revelations. If you want to know how God deals with sin, look at the suffering of the people and read the Bible.

 

Now this is only IF you read, understand, and believe in the words that are written therein. Now what someone else believes is on them. But, I can only speak on that which I believe. And how did I gain my belief? From hearing. Hearing with my ears when scholars and those more experienced than I speak to me, with my heart through my communications with God, and from reading his word.

 

So, what I spoke about from here, you CAN and will find in the Bible.

[Ocean-Blue]

So are you saying that those who experience some kind of misfortune are being punished by God? That they deserve it?

 

Also, are you saying that God is committing a sin? Isn't envy/jealousy a deadly sin? A mortal sin?

[IrishCarBomb]

God is the infinite. Man is arrogant when we claim to know anything of God's intentions or "feelings".

 

Most people could never understand the theories of Stephen Hawking, who is just a really smart man. What reason do you think that man will ever, or is even capable of, ever understanding or knowing anything about God. People have trouble with calculus, I doubt the infinite supereme being of the universe is within our grasp.

 

You may form your beliefs on the Bible as you like, but you are lying to yourself when you claim it is knowledge.

[Trialbyfire]

The dictates of organized religion have nothing to do with God and everything to do with what Church doctrine dictates to the masses. With this in mind, follow where you can/must/want to. Beyond that, everyone needs to define themselves.

[Brimstone_Angel]

So are you saying that those who experience some kind of misfortune are being punished by God? That they deserve it?

 

Sometimes, yes. Sometimes, no. You would have to take each situation at a time. For example, another person dying from the negligence of another is not deserved, but is the cost of someone else's stupidity. Someone getting hurt or killed because they are messing around with someone else's spouse, is getting what they deserve.

 

Also, are you saying that God is committing a sin? Isn't envy/jealousy a deadly sin? A mortal sin?

 

No God is not committing a sin. He deserves our worship and loyalty for he is our creator. Think of it like this... If you are/were a parent, how would you like all the love and admiration and loyalty and other stuff that a parent receives from a child to go to another person? How would you like your son or daughter to ignore you and to hug and kiss and tell someone else they love them? And gave them all the admiration and respect to that other person than you. How would you feel? What would you do?

 

Now the envy/jealousy God is talking about, is the one that comes from not getting what is deserved unto you. For example, being envious of someone for their riches or boyfriend/girlfriend, or someone else's earned accolades. The feeling of not having what does not belong to you. This sin of envy/jealousy can lead to other damning emotions and sometimes acts. I.E. a man who is jealous because his best friend is dating a gorgeous, loving, woman decides he is going to try and seduce this woman away from him. He tries every trick in the book to get this woman. Why? Because his being envious of his friend, now leads to lying, cheating, and betrayal.

 

So, there is a big difference about the two jealousies?

 

And the second jealousy I am talking about IS a sin. There is no such thing as mortal sin. All sin has the curse of death on it.

[Ocean-Blue]

Sometimes, yes. Sometimes, no. You would have to take each situation at a time. For example, another person dying from the negligence of another is not deserved, but is the cost of someone else's stupidity. Someone getting hurt or killed because they are messing around with someone else's spouse, is getting what they deserve.

 

 

 

No God is not committing a sin. He deserves our worship and loyalty for he is our creator. Think of it like this... If you are/were a parent, how would you like all the love and admiration and loyalty and other stuff that a parent receives from a child to go to another person? How would you like your son or daughter to ignore you and to hug and kiss and tell someone else they love them? And gave them all the admiration and respect to that other person than you. How would you feel? What would you do?

 

Now the envy/jealousy God is talking about, is the one that comes from not getting what is deserved unto you. For example, being envious of someone for their riches or boyfriend/girlfriend, or someone else's earned accolades. The feeling of not having what does not belong to you. This sin of envy/jealousy can lead to other damning emotions and sometimes acts. I.E. a man who is jealous because his best friend is dating a gorgeous, loving, woman decides he is going to try and seduce this woman away from him. He tries every trick in the book to get this woman. Why? Because his being envious of his friend, now leads to lying, cheating, and betrayal.

 

So, there is a big difference about the two jealousies?

 

And the second jealousy I am talking about IS a sin. There is no such thing as mortal sin. All sin has the curse of death on it.

 

So you're saying it's alright for God to become jealous if we believe something else? Or another version of God (i.e. non Christian)? How is that different from a lover being jealous that his former love now loves another?

 

I've read the bible, and found it to be disillusioning and very alienating. It was not my cup of tea. I tried to get it, tried to sink my teeth into it, but i failed miserably. It wasn't for me.

 

I still believe in God. Just not your version. Does that make me a sinner, destined for the bowels of hell?

[Brimstone_Angel]

God is the infinite. Man is arrogant when we claim to know anything of God's intentions or "feelings".

 

Most people could never understand the theories of Stephen Hawking, who is just a really smart man. What reason do you think that man will ever, or is even capable of, ever understanding or knowing anything about God. People have trouble with calculus, I doubt the infinite supereme being of the universe is within our grasp.

 

You may form your beliefs on the Bible as you like, but you are lying to yourself when you claim it is knowledge.

 

Actually God is easy to understand.

 

1. Love Him with all our hearts, all our minds, and all our souls.

2. Love each other as He loves us/and we love our selves.

 

It is that simple. If we love God, then we will do what is prescribed in His word. Keeping the Sabbath holy. Not lying, cheating, stealing, etc. to/from Him. And in our love for Him, because He first loved us, we extend that love to the world around us. We take care of our neighbors (which is everyone in the world), we don't hunt more than we need in order to keep the environment in balance, and all the other things that we know we should not do because it harms others.

 

Understanding God is not hard at all. But, it is when we go outside there and have to face the damage it does to ourselves, others, and the world around us that makes understanding Him hard. It took me a long time to cope with the fact God had whole villiages destroyed in order to make the homeland for the Israelites. Why? Because I only wanted to see God for the loving merciful being He is. I had to understand that because these people worshipped other gods, performed unclean acts, and other deeds that were of an ungodly nature, did he want them from the land so that they would not corrupt His people. But, know I see sin for the destructive thing it is, I can understand why He had done what He had done.

[sb129]

It's presumptuous to claim to know almost anything about God. The farthest you can get is claiming an unshakable faith. This is a long ways from knowing though.

 

You may have an incredible belief in your view of what God is, but it cannot be known. I have no doubt that you strongly feel these positions about God, but you fall victim to the same people you criticize: you claim to know something that cannot be known.

 

Absolutely.

 

BrimstoneAngel, your hypocrisy is amusing to say the least.

 

I really can't be bothered getting embroiled in another one of these discussions, but BA, what actually is the purpose of this thread?

 

Are you here to smugly inform us of some insider knowledge on how to get into gods good books?

 

Are you not satisfied that you are living your life as a good person therefore maximising your chances of getting into heaven (if it exists), and be happy to leave it at that?

[Ocean-Blue]

Absolutely.

 

BrimstoneAngel, your hypocrisy is amusing to say the least.

 

I really can't be bothered getting embroiled in another one of these discussions, but BA, what actually is the purpose of this thread?

 

Are you here to smugly inform us of some insider knowledge on how to get into gods good books?

 

Are you not satisfied that you are living your life as a good person therefore maximising your chances of getting into heaven (if it exists), and be happy to leave it at that?

 

I think BA is trying to save us. Sincerely.

 

Perhaps that's not such a bad thing?

[Brimstone_Angel]

So you're saying it's alright for God to become jealous if we believe something else? Or another version of God (i.e. non Christian)? How is that different from a lover being jealous that his former love now loves another?

 

I've read the bible, and found it to be disillusioning and very alienating. It was not my cup of tea. I tried to get it, tried to sink my teeth into it, but i failed miserably. It wasn't for me.

 

I still believe in God. Just not your version. Does that make me a sinner, destined for the bowels of hell?

 

Yes it is. Now you don't have to be called a Christian to believe and obey God. And that is the biggest mistake too many people make. Don't get wrapped around what you are called. If you really read the Bible, there was never a mention of the word "Christian" in it. It is just a term we as people have come up with. All you have to do is believe, measure your actions and beliefs against solid words, and you will know if you are doing what is right.

 

I am not trapped by a name. I can be called Christian or Child of God or son of the most high one, or what have you. It is not the name that makes me who I am. It is my thoughts, actions, and words that prove if I am of God or the Devil.

 

And a little history lesson. The term Christian comes from the Romans who used it to mock and ridicule the followers of Christ. Think of it like the "n" word for African or those of African heritage or derogatory name people use to degrade others. What we Christians have done is take the name and made it a badge of honor to show that no one has power over us but Christ and God.

 

And the difference is this...

None. The reactions are the same. Most of the time, God lets us go about our business and do whatever we want. But, He feels little compunction to lend a hand when we call on Him. Or if we die without coming back, we are lost. He has warned us about what our other gods bring us. So, we choose them, we suffer the consequences. Think of it like this... Most men and women would not probably lend an ex a hand about another love (especially if that person turns out to be a louse). I know unless my ex said their life was in danger, I would not help out. They chose who they chose, let them be happy with them. Now depending on how they approach, I might take them back, because they may be worth giving another chance to. God is no different.

 

It is easy to understand the things of the spirit if you can understand things of the flesh.

[sb129]

OK Fair enough. Well seeing as I am OK with being un-saved, I won't read any more of the thread.

[Brimstone_Angel]

Absolutely.

 

BrimstoneAngel, your hypocrisy is amusing to say the least.

 

I really can't be bothered getting embroiled in another one of these discussions, but BA, what actually is the purpose of this thread?

 

Are you here to smugly inform us of some insider knowledge on how to get into gods good books?

 

Are you not satisfied that you are living your life as a good person therefore maximising your chances of getting into heaven (if it exists), and be happy to leave it at that?

 

You did not need to be here SB. You did not have to comment. But yet you did.

 

If being honest and open and trying to explain things is being smug... Then, could we say the same thing for anyone who tries to inform us about something?

 

I am not good. I am human just like you. I have my sins and downfalls I must contend with.

 

Now tell me, what kind of person is satisfied with keeping joyous things to themselves? How many husband and wives keep their marriage hidden from the notice of others? How many people who are happy about their birthday say nothing to anyone? Or a person who just got an award?

 

Or even better, the Bible says I am to go to the uttermost parts of the Earth to spread the good news. To share the light, not keep it hidden. Now it is up to the readers or listeners to do with it as they will.

 

No one has to accept what I said. But I am not by decree am suppose to keep away from people just because they don't want to hear it. But, what I will do for you is this. Since you don't desire to hear, I will not bother speaking again onto you. And you are at liberty to not read any thing I post.

[disgracian]

Haven't we had enough of these types of threads lately? Correct me if I'm wrong, but a forum is a place meant for discussion, not for getting on one's soapbox for a bout of completely unoriginal preaching.

 

Cheers,

D.

[Ocean-Blue]

Haven't we had enough of these types of threads lately? Correct me if I'm wrong, but a forum is a place meant for discussion, not for getting on one's soapbox for a bout of completely unoriginal preaching.

 

Cheers,

D.

 

How come you come down so hard on this stuff?

 

I don't think the OP was preaching at all. His ideas are his own, not mine...but shouldn't he be allowed to express whatever he feels?

[Geishawhelk]

Haven't we had enough of these types of threads lately? Correct me if I'm wrong, but a forum is a place meant for discussion, not for getting on one's soapbox for a bout of completely unoriginal preaching.

 

Cheers,

D.

 

Yes, I see your point, but remember it's part of the Christian ethos and directive to proselytise and to spread the word. Christians are not only in the habit of doing this, it's positively encouraged.

I fully appreciate it can be irritating, abnd that it may not sit well with you, but I would advise not 'rising to the bait'. If it goes against your grain, avoid the thread.

They all die off and fade into the ether in the end anyway.

"Whatever you put energy into, will grow."

 

You'll notice I have hitherto avoided this thread.....

 

Take care, D.....

[Brimstone_Angel]

Except for uncovering the mysteries of life, their is nothing new under the sun. And preaching is a once sided thing. This was a discussion. I stated a point, people made comments, and I answered back. That makes this a discussion. I supported my thoughts with relative reference. This make it a debate.

 

D, like Geisha said, and unsuccessful did, was avoid the subject all together. I already know your negative feelings on the subject, because I have followed some of your comments in other arenas. Usually people who don't like something avoid it.

 

 

There are two types of people who pursue people others like this... Those who are adversaries wanting to put a stop to it or those who secretly want to know but are too afraid to say so.

[Geishawhelk]

I would say he errs more to the former.

I know he's exhausted all his possibilities with the latter......

[Eve]

It astonishes me sometimes how both the spiritually educated and those who THINK they know something about God are so disillusioned. How they want to point out JUST the good side of God. They want to only look at His pleasent side and talk about His grace and mercy.

 

Maybe you are still on a journey yourself?

 

My aim as a Christian who has a personal and living faith in Our Lord is to be relevant and outgrow my limitations (or learn to live with them) without inflicting myself onto others. Also, I have come to the conclusion that those who came to Christ 'recognised Him' in one way or another and so if I am to be relevant then I must also be 'recognisable' to others. Hence, telling people they are going to get a kicking from God usually doesnt work..

 

.. Anyhow, The Bible Quote below says everything I want to say.. Essentially I do not think that we should be emphasizing the repentance thing over and over.. There is a maturity to be sought... a seed to grow which is the ultimate characteristic and evidence of faith. Evidence which turns thoughts and hearts towards God, which is what really matters. Once on such a path it is more about trusting Our Lord to help rather than focusing on the second death. In essence, I do believe that ultimately there shall be a death of various paths which we as a human race have tread upon but I can only participate in the pangs of the death which we are warned about. Thus I am still a free agent. I cannot worship God so that I do not die, nor scold others to warn them. Instead, God helps me to fully be me within good and dire situations.

 

Hebrews 6:1

 

Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God,

[Brimstone_Angel]

That scripture refers to those who are in the word and who have an understanding. They should not be stuck on the fundamentals of the teachings, but living an life of enlightenment and love according to the rewards of his or her life. Similar to the scripture of getting the learned people off of the milk and eating the meat of the word.

 

But, we all start of as children and need to be taught the fundamentals. You can't expect a child to be able to do multiplication without first understanding simple adding. You don't give a baby a stake, but a liquid formula or breast milk. And there are many of learned people who are stuck on the Similac of the word. Either because the are too afraid to move on or they are having a digestive problem some where. So, sometimes we do need to stick with the foundation with some people or give them a good shake. This is illustrated in various stories throughout the Old and New Testaments.

 

There is a time for everything under the sun. There is a time to be gentle as a Spring breeze or as torrential as a Summer hurricane. There is a time to speak and there is a time to let things be.

[Eve]

That scripture refers to those who are in the word and who have an understanding. They should not be stuck on the fundamentals of the teachings, but living an life of enlightenment and love according to the rewards of his or her life. Similar to the scripture of getting the learned people off of the milk and eating the meat of the word.

 

Precisely! The most important factor for me is that I take the whole 'removing the smote from your eye before trying to remove the smote in your brothers eye' thing very literally. So much that I would rather struggle with God in prayer than diss people. Anyhow, I have come to the conclusion that the initial motions of faith are based on a lack of comprehension towards others in order to put God first. I think that this challenge is a doorway which if entered draws a person towards Gods true heart.

 

Which is what you went on to say in your own way..

 

Anyhow, I have come to the conclusion that God already knows who will listen and who will not so I dont worry about it all anymore.

 

Eve xx

[theBrokenMuse]

No one has to accept what I said. But I am not by decree am suppose to keep away from people just because they don't want to hear it.

Actually, didn't Jesus say to shake the dust off your sandals and move on?

[theBrokenMuse]

It astonishes me sometimes how both the spiritually educated and those who THINK they know something about God are so disillusioned.

You only THINK you know something about God yourself so join the club. A collection of ancient texts written by men that claimed to be inspired by a God is hardly concrete evidence for the claim of absolute knowledge of God. Even if that book were proven to be true, you would then have to demonstrate beyond any reasonable doubt that people with any other interpretation of the Bible are wrong and you know the one 'true' interpretation of the Bible. Until then all you have is an opinion like everyone else.