jesus4al
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Posts posted by jesus4al
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Q4. (2 Timothy 3:16) If Scripture is "breathed" by God, how can it help us draw close to God? Why do you think God's Spirit (pneuma, "breath, wind") so important in helping us understand Scripture?
May we become willing to 'listen' to The Holy Spirit reveal God's Word to us. Both Prayer and Meditation are avenues that God uses to reach us. If we avail ourselves of this opportunity daily we will be indeed 'Practising HIS Presence', and HE will help us understand all things.
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Q3. (2 Peter 1:20-21) How can a person be speaking and God be speaking, too? How does the image of a ship being moved by the wind help you understand this? (Greek pneuma means "spirit" and "wind.")
In my opinion, if this person is speaking in agreement with the words recorded in the Bible, then he has become a spokesman for God. The Holy Spirit , pneuma, wind, and also "Chi" is a force applied by God to the human psychi of a yielded soul.
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Q2. (2 Peter 1:19). In what ways do the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments act for you as "a light shining in a dark place"? What does the darkness represent? What does the light represent?
The Scriptures, both Old and New, act for me as TRUTH. This is what I have choosen to believe is 'The Truth'. This world and what is purported to be 'truth' by those who have choosen to live by it's standard, is going to end in hell. In a word "darkness" is represented by unbelief. To add some more: The seven deadly sins. The "Light" is The Word.
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Q1. (2 Peter 1:13-15) Why does our culture avoid talking about death? How is describing your earthly body as a "tent" freeing and motivating? What is the significance of Peter referring to his death as a "departure" or "exodus"?
My opinion is, unless you are in the business, like a mortician, or a clergyman, what would you gain by pursuing this topic? (death)
Describing your earthly body as a tent reduces its worth and also points to it's lack of permanence.
The significance of Peter's referring to death as "departure" could be at that point we are (spiritually) leaving this planet, our spirit is making an "exodus".
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Q4. (2 Peter 1:10) Why is Christian character an essential indicator of being saved or rescued by Christ? What Biblical assurance of salvation can you offer the fruitless, barren "believer"?
If our 'character' has the same qualifications as Christs 'character' then we likely are His: (have been purchased by Him) ie: peacefulness, integrity, forthrightness, obedience, lawfulness, willingness, honesty, openmendedness. These are some of the hallmarks of Christs character which we may emulate, if we have been purchased by Him. As to what assurance can be given a fruitless, barren "believer" ....!
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Q3. (2 Peter 1:7) Why do we imagine that "agape love" is easier than loving church members? If we avoid church because of our hurts at the hands of church members, can we mature fully in Christ? Why or why not?
Personally, I don't believe that loving God is easier than loving others. But, my definition of 'love' might be different than yours. Brotherly kindness, charity, and love; this is the subject. To 'avoid' trials and tribulations is not a Christ like attitude, to me.
I pray for a Christlike attitude for all of us, in The Family of God. Love ...Bro. Al
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Q2. (2 Peter 1:6) Why is a disciplined devotional life important to you? What happens when you forget or don't have time? What Christian disciplines do you employ to help you open your spirit to God's Spirit?
A disciplined devotional life is very important to me because otherwise I would try to do it in a 'catch as catch can' manner. 'Flying by the seat of my pants' approach. And, that is not what the God of my understanding has is mind when He uses the work "diligence" or disipline.
So early in the morning, just as the sun is rising, I ride my motorcycle to the Park, and commune with God while practising Tai'chi. The times are very few when I have not done this meditation, but it has happened. I have never forgotten to do it. There is always time to turn my thoughts to God.
You might say that Tai'chi is not a 'christian discipline' but I would quickly say that considering Christ and HIS Ways is what I'm practising. Call it what you will, it is the discipline that we are discussing, and repetition helps create discipline.
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Q1. (2 Peter 1:5-6) Which of these virtues so far has been the easiest for you to move into. Which has been the hardest for you? Why?
By God's Grace am I even hear now writing this. These questions cause me to consider The Lord's will, and getting out of my own thoughts into HIS thoughts is absolutely purifying and wonderful for me. Thank you family.
This is not absolute ... for God is not done with me yet, but I would say knowledge has been the easiest for me to move into. And, self control has been the hardest. As to why ... first , at a very young age I began learning. But, my learning was off track. I learned a lot of things that I then needed to unlearn. Anyway, I am more familiar with learning, than the other (mentioned up till now) attributes. Self control, I would say, has been the hardest. And, the reason has been similar: I had not been given an ultimatum, (by The Holy Spirit), regarding self control, until recently, well . . . err . . . the last 40 years or so. Now The Holy Spirit is definitely working in my life. And, HE is making Himself known; and His presence felt! Thank You Lord! In other words, I'm equating "easy" and "hard" with the amount of time I have been working on the attribute/defect.
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Q4. (2 Peter 1:4) How can strong desires erode our faith and corrupt our lives? What strong desires can build our faith? What does a strong desire for God have to do with the "knowledge" of God, or "knowing" God? How are God's promises and evil desires at odds with each other? How does one build and the other erode our faith?
Most of our brains can only think of one thing at a time ... so (think) put in what you will. Knowing this I start my day in The Word, and lately I have been ending it the same way. This has been successful in my case and I pray that it is for you also. Although it means a little work, and takes a little planning and forethought, it can be done ... with, or by, The Holy Spirit! God Bless You, my Family. Love ...Bro. Al
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Q2. (2 Peter 1:3) Meditate on this verse for a few minutes. It is a verse about provision. What is the scope and extent and boundaries of "everything we need for life and godliness"? What does "knowledge" or "knowing God" have to do with this promise?
My Bible says: "According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: "I take this to mean that we who are in The Family of God have been given EVERYTHING that is necessary to live an abundant life in The Spirit. We must get to 'know' God however. This doesn't mean that we are to know all truth, all at once. After inviting Him into our heart, HE abides with us; HE takes up residence with us and speaks to us through our conscience.
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Q3. (2 Peter 1:3) What does it mean for you personally to be called "by his own glory and goodness"? How does God's glory and awesome Presence affect you? How does his goodness and moral excellence affect you?
For me personally to be called "by His own glory and goodness" is thoroughly awesome. Words cannot express how I feel. But, to answer: "What does it mean?" It means everlasting life! The affect is that now I can practice HIS presence, whenever I choose; and I want to do that more often and to a greater extent.
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Q1. (2 Peter 1:1) What does "received a faith as precious as ours" mean in this verse? How does our faith compare to St. Peter's faith? Is our faith equal to his? Why or why not? How do you explain the discrepancy?
Jesus Christ is the original "righteous one". He alone is "right with God". We, contemporary "born again" believers have inherited Christ Jesus "righteousness". It is the same "righteousness" that Peter inherited, the same way we did. There is no "discrepancy".
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Q2. (5:8) What is it important to be aware of Satan's existence? What does this verse teach us about the devil? Why is this teaching important?
Because to do otherwise would benefit satan, the devil, and the powers of darkness ... whatever and wherever they are. This verse teaches that satan is alive, hungry, and angry. Love ...Bro. Al
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Q3. (5:8-9) What instructions does Peter give us to guide us in spiritual warfare? Extra credit: How are these instructions similar or different than Paul's instructions in Ephesians 6:10-17?
... "Resist the devil. Be sober. Be vigilant." Our enemy (the devil) is both sober and vigilant; but with a completely different purpose. And if we are any less sober and vigilant than he ... spells trouble.
Love ...Bro. Al
The instructions of Peter are less in depth; but are with the same intent: help the sheep to stay on the right path.
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Q4. (5:10-11) Which promises in verses 10 and 11 are most meaningful to you at this point in your life? Why? I am not worried or afraid because I know what I've believed: That the battle has been won by Jesus Christ, Son of God. That HE has purchased, us who believe, with HIS blood. We are not in bondage to the lie that : God' either does not exist, or is dead, or is just a fairy tale. To believe that The Bible is The Word of The Living God, and is inerrant ; was my choice! And I'm glad that I chose to Believe. That makes you and I Believers. Amen.
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Usually it is "Fear of not getting something that I want or loosing something that I've got". Whatever ... The answer to everything is Jesus Christ. Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. "Seek Him early". And on a "Daily Basis." "Be Humble" on your journey. These tips are not original, but I've found them to work; for me, and I pray they work for you.
Love ...Bro. Al
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I am now in my fourth year as elder in our; Non-denominational, Christ centered, Bible believing church. Eldership has been a very enjoyable and learning experience. After going to this church for a short time I was asked if I would like to become an Elder. An "overseer". My thought was: I'm not good enough --- and I definitely am afraid to talk in public --- but I accepted --- and have received way more than I have given. God has continued to Bless, and show HIS love toward me, by giving me this "Joyful Heart" group to interact with, love, pray, and learn from ... I appreciate you!
Love ... Bro. Al
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Q4. Why is a willingness to die, if need be, essential to healthy Christianity during persecution. What happens when we aren't willing to die, when we are afraid to "take up our cross daily" (Luke 9:23) and follow Jesus? What does this have to do with "commiting ourselves to a faithful Creator"?
My willingness to die for what I believe shows me that I am on the right road. Perhaps it will also mean something to someone else some day. To have conviction about something, and to not be 'wishey- washey' this is a gift from God!
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My opinion is that we had better practise dying to sin on a daily basis. This I cannot do in the flesh. But this My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be happy to enable me to do in The Spirit. Praise God.
Love ...Bro. Al
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Q2. (4:13) When you meditate on the idea of partaking of or being a sharer in Christ's sufferings, what perspective does it give you on whatever persecution you may experience?
The perspective is that Jesus Christ suffered for my sins and willingly gave Himself , and suffered mightyly that I might choose to live. The question is: Will I?
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Q1. (4:12) What's the danger of trying to avoid persecution and suffering for Christ? Have you ever been distracted by persecution from what you should have been doing? Have you ever observed this in other Christians?
The danger for me is: Disobedience! And forgetfulness, why am I feeling this way? Is it fear that is blocking me from the sunlight of The Spirit? Usually not . . . it is much more sinister than that! It is usually something that I don't want to lose, or something that I might not get. It's all selfish and self-centered.
God Richly Bless You. Love ...Bro. Al
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Q2. (4:3-4) Why do non-Christians try to get you to sin with them. Why are we tempted to do so? How can we resist this temptation?
Another reason, or two, that we all are tempted to sin: We are born with a sin nature. We sin by birth and by choice. It is more difficult to quit doing something that we've grown accustomed to doing, than to have never started it in the first place. Therefore, our memory works against us. A little different question would be: How and why would anyone want to quit sinning? I believe the answer is GOD! And HE has wisely introduced enough pain and suffering into the equation to get our attention. Jesus says: I am not willing to lose any ... that The Father has given me. God has not given everyone to Jesus, nor Jesus to everyone. Each of us has to make our own choice; but still Jesus is not willing to lose any!
How can we resist temptation? I can't, HE can, so let HIM. Quit fighting it. Practise the Presence of GOD. -
Q1. (4:1-2) When the scripture says "arm yourselves with the same attitude" as Christ had, how should this attitude help keep you from sin? What attitude are we talking about?
The helmet of 'Salvation' The Breastplate of 'Righteousness', Gird in the 'Truth', Shod in 'The Word', with The Shield of 'Faith', and the 'Sword' of The Spirit. These things will be necessary in our fight against Satan. It matters naught whether we say we are done with sinning. Without the able assistance of our Triunal God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; we will be defeated; not just once but over and over again!
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Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior! YOU died an agonizing death for my sins. 'My sins are when and where I miss the mark.' I'm not happy with this ... but, I am a sinner by birth and by choice. My gratious Lord has forgiven my sins; wiped the slate clean; separated my from my sin as far as the East is from the West. Would that I recognize YOUR great love, LORD, and act accordingly. Praise YOU ; and BLESS YOU, LORD JESUS!
Bro. Al
Q3. Psalm 63
in 2. Psalms: Thirsting for God
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Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things unseen. Heb 11:1 I was lost in sin. On June 12, 1972, by God's grace He brought me to AA and for the last 35 years I have been a free man. Thank you Lord.