I suppose today's scripture from Joshua 24:18 is as good a place as any to tackle that subject. As for the entire Bible as we have it today; there is no verse in scripture mentioning all the written texts as a whole; probably because they weren't complete yet.
1 Corinthians 13:10 mentions things passing away when the partial is complete; or something to that affect. Revelation also has verses warning about not adding or subtracting which could mean adding to that book or all scripture. Since the written texts originally came from oratory (with the exception of the 10 Commandments originally penned by God Himself); God planned it out so that the scribes would count every LETTER of a scroll; and get rid of a copy to start again if it was even slightly off. 2 Timothy 3:16 explains that all scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching; reproof; etc.
I have discussed in older posts a summation of the Apocrypha as to truths of historic or moral truths that are borrowed from true scripture; which always states "thus saith the Lord" except for places like Ruth and Esther; or Song of Solomon. God's truths are absolute; as we see from the claims of Christ's divinity; and the laws in the 10 Commandments. The repetitive themes such as scriptures being repeated again in the New Testament to enhance their true meanings bring a cohesiveness to the Bible. We also have such admonitions as 1 John 4:2 stating what any "spirit" testifies about Christ having come in the flesh.
That would correlate with verses like Matthew 16:17 where it is clear that Christ's DIVINITY (as the "I am") can only be understood or revealed through the Spirit. I noticed that myself pre conversion it didn't enter my mind that Christ was God or part of the "Godhead". As our spirit testifies with "his Spirit"( Romans 8:16) that we are His children and His Word is truth the Lord will build our discernment of truth as we grow and mature in Him to know what is true (see also John 10:27).
Recently; I was given a survey by a pro life organization which asked me about various issues. I stated that all lives; whether born children; elderly or those in the womb should be valued. We clearly live in a suicidal culture where anything of value has been cheapened; and the value of a traditional marriage seems to have been removed as a serious concept. We face challenges from those who would terminate the life of the elderly with "assisted suicide" not just for unbearable pain but for those with various psychological issues. We see unborn life to be considered "parasites" by those in the trending values of society. No doubt the cheap thrills of drugs and the trivialization of the value of life through violent anime has blurred reality from fiction and allowed youth to have less restraint on taking another life to justify their "manifesto" or just in robbing someone of a few dollars.
In the scripture; we know that God has no pleasure in the death of the wicked ( Ezekiel 18:23). He judges according to His standards. Deutoronomy 30:19 encourages us to choose life and that benefits our descendants as well (loosely translated). It also gives a choice for cursings or blessings. Joshua 24:15 states to choose who you will serve and later in the verse states "as for me and my house we will serve the Lord."
More homes need this as their standard. Children clearly need care to a certain age; but there are times when unacceptable behavior and disrespect for authority may force the issue and they need to be removed until repentant. The fear of the Lord needs to be something along with respect that obviously is missing in many homes today. Proper firmness is needed and we need to show as parents that if we love God we obey His commandments. ( John 15:10; 1 John 2:3). Proper love means discipline; we cannot follow permissiveness as Proverbs 13:24 states; there are verses that say the soul is saved ( Prov. 19:18) with discipline.
It looks like the thread you addressed me on has been closed t further comment. So, I will respond with a new thread.
I am happy to bring Scriptures to this conversation. But before I do, please answer me yes or no: Are you Earl Bowman?
If you do not answer this question of mine with a yes or a no, then I will know that you are a deceiver.
As to your inquiry about Psalm 82:1-6 and Jesus' usage of this Psalm in John 10:35. The context of this verse in psalms is a reference to the judges of Israel that were appointed to make judgements for the people when they had a legal matter to bring forward to resolve.
God, in this Psalm is rebuking these judges (and any leader) because they judged sinfully. They favored those who oppressed and did wickedly and would not defend or uphold the cause of the widows, orphans, and poor, but instead made judgments against these who needed right judgements and mercy. God does not speak of them favorably in this psalm.
It does say that "ye are gods" and the meaning of this is not that they are truly gods, but those who sit in the place of the only true God when they pass their judgments. Therefore, the only True God expects them to judge with justice and righteouosness, but they did not. They judged sinfully, therefore, this iniquity proves that they are not truly gods.
The Bible speaks of gods as referring to those that pagans worship. Are these gods truly gods since Scripture calls them such?
Exodus 12:12 says that God will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. Are these gods real or idols/false gods?
Exodus 23:13 God says to not invoke the names of their (Israelites) other gods. Were these other gods truly gods or were they false gods/idols?
Joshua 24:14 God instructs Joshua to tell the Israelites to throw away the gods of their fathers. Were these gods truly gods or were they false gods/idols?
I could list many more Scriptures where God speaks of other gods, but it is clear they are not gods. Jer. 2:11 ...
Today; our Pastor described the Book of Leviticus in regard to the term "work" in relation to priests in the Temple and those working the fields. Apparently the Hebrew word is the same. Hence; we were also given insights on work as spelled out in the end of chapter 3 and beginning of chapter 4 of Colossians specific to the slave and Master roles. These verses were extrapolated to today's workers with themes such as "work heartily unto the Lord" from verses 23-24 of the 3rd chapter of Colossians.
The book of Philemon was also referenced with further insights differentiating slavery from then from today in some ways. I won't get into a long discussion there; just point out the relational distinctions that are eliminated when the slave in Philemon (Onesimus) is returned to his master after becoming a brother in Christ who the Apostle Paul said to be taken in once again in those terms.
A big point of the sermon is on what I will elaborate on today; namely that our "religious" duties are not only those done in formal church ministry; but the vocations of "laypersons" in the majority of congregations today (that haven't followed lazy trends in our society). For some reason men like to compartmentalize their lives into their church activities and secular ones as if God has some sort of different standard or viewpoint in evaluating our performance. It should be pretty clear that those who come to church an hour or two a week and go home and spend the rest of the time drinking; cussing; fighting and soaking up as much of the world as possible aren't exactly growing much good fruit in their lives; at best. On the other hand; the Proverbs 31 type of wife shows many virtues (since I can't post a link I will just say you can check online to see some of them). The fear of the Lord allows for the admonition of Joshua 24:15 to become evident to those around; as well as children trained in scripture and with Godly parents.
Hello Murlon. According to the narrative on Laban in Genesis 31, it appears that he did practise idolatry, even as Terah, Abraham & Nachor also did ( Joshua 24:2). They lived in Ur of the Chaldees (now modern Iraq). In spite of their idolatrous ways & ignorance of the true God, God did reveal Himself to Abraham & called him to serve Him alone & be the father of many nations.
As also with Laban, who continued to practise idolatry, but was now accepting of this God who he was hearing about from Abraham's servant (likely Eliezer of Damascus), in his earlier encounter with him concerning Isaac ( Genesis 24:50,51). Whether Laban ultimately rejected his gods for the true God, we cannot say as the Bible doesn't indicate that; but in spite of him using divination ( Genesis 30:27, KJV: "experience" = 'nachash', or signs, divination), he acknowledged that Abraham's God had blessed him. He might have even added an image of God to his other gods, but hopefully in time & by revelation, he would have rejected his false gods.
Syncretism in religion (i.e. merging together of different beliefs & practises), is never an acceptable thing, even as practised today amongst so-called Christians, because God requires a true worship of Him, and Him alone. Abraham, by God's Call & revelation of Himself to him, would have learned to reject any other god or form of worship & to serve the True & Living God. Thus he was greatly blessed.
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Jude 1:4 "For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ."
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him." James 1:12
"Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory." 2 Timothy 2:10
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
2 Corinthians 5:10 - For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
"And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." Matthew 10:22
"But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Matthew 24:13
"And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Mark 13:13 KJV
Yes, according to the Bible. It also depends on one's definition of "saved" and when this event occurs. Are people saved while still on earth instantly after they say their first prayer, at some point later, or are they saved after they are judged by God Himself? What does the Bible say...
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Matthew 24:13 "But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
1 Cor 9:24-27 "run the race" (not the race was already won.)
2 Peter 3:17
Luke 8:5-18
1 Timothy 4:1
2 Peter 2:20-22
Hebrews 3:12
Galatians 5:4
1 Corinthians 15:2-8
1 Corinthians 4:5
2 Corinthians 5:10 whether "good or bad". People are sorted at this time.
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
OSAS believers: "Ok, but a Christian would never do that."
Christians no longer have freewill to sin?" Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
"OSAS: But no one has ever done that."
Sadly, many Christians fall away. Look at "ex-Christian" on Reddit with 107,000 members. Very prominent pastors have denounced faith and later denied Jesus is Lord.
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
Hebrews 6:4-6
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
Please God hear and help Deb in the employment that You have given her. Please Holy Spirit continually guide her in her attitude, actions and words as she interacts with those she works with daily I ask in Jesus name!!
Please considering reflecting on Matthew 6:33, Joshua 24:15, Psalms 55:22-23, John 16:33.
Earl, you have a unique interpretation of the Bible.
Everything is God's Will, period. It's God's will to give man freewill. God is big and powerful enough to do this, even if people can't understand it and still want to deny it. God also is big and powerful enough to change His mind and let things play out, as the Bible says in Exodus 32:14, Genesis 18:32, and over a dozen other examples.
Maybe you believe you are a puppet or marionette 100% controlled by God. Did God force you to write this post beyond your will? Does God force you to eat at certain foods you dislike or do things you don't want to do throughout the day? Does he force you to take showers or use restrooms at random times when you don't want to? Are you a prisoner? If so, does this also mean you are perfect just like Jesus and don't sin? Have you ever lied to someone in your lifetime? If so, was that God forcing you to sin or was it 100% you? God doesn't cause anyone to sin ever.
None of the above applies to me as God blessed me with 100% freewill and I try very hard to use that for good and to serve the Lord. But like Paul who faced huge temptation and struggled, I wrestle with these daily choices and decisions and sometimes I make mistakes but repent and try hard to get back on track. Paul said to run the race, not to ignore the race and sit on the couch. Christianity is an active faith, not passive. Nearly every challenge in the Bible is for us to take action and make choices. Many are warnings about choosing good instead of evil.
Freewill that God gives man:
Psalms 119:108
Joshua 24:15
Philippians 1:22
Joshua 24:14-15
Matthew 25:25-30 - Jesus's parable of talents God condemned the lazy servant who choose poorly through fear. The Bible is filled with challenges of choosing to follow God instead of choosing to follow the world.
I find it unusual that you don't believe you have any freewill to make any decisions and are merely a puppet? Is that true? Have you prayed about this? God bless.
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
In the LAST TIME. It doesn't salvation is given on Earth.
1 Cor 9:24-27 "run the race", not the 'race was already won.'
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
HOPE to the END. It doesn't say NOW. Grace that IS TO BE brought. It doesn't say NOW.
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
CHOOSE. It's a daily decision. Freewill is not stripped away.
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Not all believers are saved and not all who claim to be followers.
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
SHALL NOT BE FORGIVEN. I read this and know what it says.
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
Believing alone isn't enough according to this verse.
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
This is a warning, it is clear, and I understand it. I don't want to test God.
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Jude 1:21 "KEEP YOURSELVES IN THE LOVE OF GOD, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life."
These verses are the Words of God.
I read, pray for understanding, and know in my heart what these verses say and mean. If another believer says "No, that's not the truth, believe ME instead" then that is a huge red flag of something that doesn't come from God. God bless.
Since I ran out of space I thought I'd add one more comment.
The #1 criticism often received is someone claims I don't believe in grace or that I believe we're saved by effort. That is a strawman argument and is untrue. The Bible says Christ followers will be saved by grace, not by works. That is not what is being contested.
Just because we will be saved by grace doesn't mean we should stop obeying Christ! It doesn't mean we should stop following Christ! The fruit of faith is works. A Christian is a Christ follower and if someone doesn't follow Christ they by definition are not even a Christian. And if not a Christian, that person should not expect the benefits of salvation. Matthew 7:21. Many will feel very entitled but will be shocked they aren't welcomed. This is the wake up call many need right now. Get right with the Lord today before its too late!
A Christ follower is action. Those who aren't actively following Christ are may not be Christ followers. And just because we're imperfect and fall down from time to time doesn't mean we're not Christians. This is very different from someone turning their backs on Jesus and following the pleasures of the world (satan). But Jesus said He would go after the lost sheep, not lost wolves! Many people assume they're followers because a pastor told them so, but are instead lost wolves expecting all the benefits of salvation for doing nothing. God bless.
People have freewill:
Psalms 25:12
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
Hello Okou, as you will likely get different answers on this subject, I will share my interpretation of the Bible.
Despite what others say, I don't believe anyone gets "saved" while on earth. I don't see that anywhere in the Bible and it seems to be a man-constructed belief. What I see in the Bible is that because of Jesus's sacrifice we have hope of salvation. What I see in the Bible is that our judgment is what will determine our salvation and not everyone will receive salvation. The Bible says we will all be judged on the same day. It says many will go to hell, and few to heaven. What I see in the Bible is that the outcome is contingent upon our choices and behavior. This reality should be absolutely terrifying to some people. Maybe that's what it will take for some people to start taking God seriously and start obeying and fearing Him. Matthew 10:28. Others who are being running the race and fighting the fight can take comfort and have assurance of future salvation. Currently, we have a lot of self-proclaimed Christians goofing off and enjoying having their cake and eating it too, by unconsciously following the world's values, not God, despite Romans 12:2. Matthew 7:21-23 already predicted how this will turn our for them.
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." Notice it doesn't say 'now' or while on 'earth'. It says salvation will be revealed in the last time. I interpret this as the end of time, at judgment day.
1 Cor 9:24-27 "run the race", not the 'race was already won.'
Lots of conditional statements throughout the Bible, depending on our behavior and choices. Notice the word "If" a lot...
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve". Notice this is a daily choice.
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
Jude 1:21 "KEEP YOURSELVES IN THE LOVE OF GOD, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life."
James 5:19-20 "BRETHREN, if any of YOU do ERR FROM THE TRUTH, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Corinthians 9:26-27 "I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so FIGHT I, not as one that beateth the air: But I KEEP UNDER MY BODY, and BRING IT INTO SUBJECTION: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a CASTAWAY."
Hebrews 10:29
"Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?"
This chapter is a continuation of the exhortations of the promises of cursing for turning away from God; and to a lesser extent of the volume of the text; the promise of blessings for obedience. There is always opportunity while one lives; even when disbursed to the "outer parts of heaven" (v. 4) for making things right with the Lord; and this indeed is his promise to Israel.
This passage contains the famous "free will" passage about choosing life (v. 19). It reminds us of Joshua's statement "as for me and my household; we shall serve the Lord ( Joshua 24:15). For the chosen nation; it is hard to separate the transgressions of individuals from eventual exile of both Judah and Israel. God; in His foreknowledge knew of course that all these rebellions would come to pass. Again; such preaching today certainly wouldn't be very popular. It is hard to say how much of today's calamities in society are due to sin and the curses on a nation; as the warning Christ had in His time about the tower of Siloam. ( Luke 13:1-5). However; it is clear that all of creation is groaning at present. The law can never save us; but these passages are talking about the 1st Commandment primarily; leading of course to all other sources of sin and rebellion if any other "gods" are venerated. This allows; for instance the fornications that idol worship invokes; the murder of the unborn warned about time and time again in scripture when children were "put through the fire" ( 2 Kings 23:10) and numerous other passages are examples of two other resulting transgressions against the Ten Commandments resulting from turning from the living God.
Again; verse 11 and the next couple verses show that there is sufficient words from the Lord to make clear how to be obedient; Deut. 29:29 in other words doesn't indicate that He is hiding this sort of vital information. We only truly BELIEVE these as well as ANY other scriptural admonitions if we have the Spirit of God.
And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE, we will serve the LORD.
I disagree with your interpretation of course. Do you have other Bible verses to support your idea, because it seems like cherrypicking a few to try to make them into something they don't mean. Do you have kids? Let's say you have a son and you interact in his life- does that automatically mean he has no choices at all? Does that mean he's a total puppet with total subjection to your will? Or do you agree that it's possible for your son to still have freewill while you participate in raising him and being in his life?
It sounds like you're assuming by these 2 verses that you cited that God is an all or nothing type thing. That he either must 100% control every aspect of your life so you are just a robot, or nothing at all. And I ask: why do you assume that? Just as a parent isn't a 100% or 0% interaction, why assume God is that way. Yes, He can work in your life, especially if you seek Him and pray, but under no circumstance does he rob you of the gift of freewill which he's already given you. I've actually never met anyone who believed in that before, so it's quite perplexing on how this idea even came about, because I don't see any Bible verses supporting it.
For instance: Joshua 24:15 - when it says for us to 'choose' this day whom you will serve, do you think it instead means
that God chose for you? Do you believe you have any choices at all in life? Like do you have a choice to respond to me? Do you get to choose what clothes to wear or what to eat for lunch? I have that choice and I chose to follow Jesus out of my own freewill, so do some people like you not have that freewill, or how do you explain that?
See post below from Spencer that says that Joshua was 40 when he was sent to spy out the land. This was in the first few years of travel. The Israelites wandered for 40 years after that. So, Yes, Joshua was a slave in Egypt.
perhaps we can draw estimates off of this passage.
Joshua 14:7. Forty years old was I when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadesh-barnea to espy out the land; and I brought him word again as it was in mine heart.
I a quick google, some say that he was 20 yrs, when he left Egypt, others say he was 40 yrs old. I am not aware of a Scripture verse that specifies his age during the wanderings, or when he spied out the land, or led the Israelites across the Jordan river.
If anyone knows, please, supply a source I can go to to discover more. Thanks.
I think that Joshua was a child in Egypt when the Israelites exited that land. You may google your question and get more information. I hope you come back and share what you have found out.
Hi Earl, thanks for sharing your opinion, but I don't believe any of that is true. It sounds like you're not considering many other verses but just honed in on only 2 verses and interpreted them in such a way to arrive at your desired outcome. I don't believe your personal definition of freewill vs choices. These are one of the same. Eve chose to eat the fruit, and wasn't just an actress in a play God wrote. The Bible doesn't contradict itself, but I believe some readers make false assumptions. I suspect maybe you're not open to my previous points brought up. Other verses already shared that clearly show we have freewill to choose James 1:13-16, Joshua 24:15, Galatians 5:13, etc. so God bless.
1 Corinthians 13:10 mentions things passing away when the partial is complete; or something to that affect. Revelation also has verses warning about not adding or subtracting which could mean adding to that book or all scripture. Since the written texts originally came from oratory (with the exception of the 10 Commandments originally penned by God Himself); God planned it out so that the scribes would count every LETTER of a scroll; and get rid of a copy to start again if it was even slightly off. 2 Timothy 3:16 explains that all scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching; reproof; etc.
I have discussed in older posts a summation of the Apocrypha as to truths of historic or moral truths that are borrowed from true scripture; which always states "thus saith the Lord" except for places like Ruth and Esther; or Song of Solomon. God's truths are absolute; as we see from the claims of Christ's divinity; and the laws in the 10 Commandments. The repetitive themes such as scriptures being repeated again in the New Testament to enhance their true meanings bring a cohesiveness to the Bible. We also have such admonitions as 1 John 4:2 stating what any "spirit" testifies about Christ having come in the flesh.
That would correlate with verses like Matthew 16:17 where it is clear that Christ's DIVINITY (as the "I am") can only be understood or revealed through the Spirit. I noticed that myself pre conversion it didn't enter my mind that Christ was God or part of the "Godhead". As our spirit testifies with "his Spirit"( Romans 8:16) that we are His children and His Word is truth the Lord will build our discernment of truth as we grow and mature in Him to know what is true (see also John 10:27).
Recently; I was given a survey by a pro life organization which asked me about various issues. I stated that all lives; whether born children; elderly or those in the womb should be valued. We clearly live in a suicidal culture where anything of value has been cheapened; and the value of a traditional marriage seems to have been removed as a serious concept. We face challenges from those who would terminate the life of the elderly with "assisted suicide" not just for unbearable pain but for those with various psychological issues. We see unborn life to be considered "parasites" by those in the trending values of society. No doubt the cheap thrills of drugs and the trivialization of the value of life through violent anime has blurred reality from fiction and allowed youth to have less restraint on taking another life to justify their "manifesto" or just in robbing someone of a few dollars.
In the scripture; we know that God has no pleasure in the death of the wicked ( Ezekiel 18:23). He judges according to His standards. Deutoronomy 30:19 encourages us to choose life and that benefits our descendants as well (loosely translated). It also gives a choice for cursings or blessings. Joshua 24:15 states to choose who you will serve and later in the verse states "as for me and my house we will serve the Lord."
More homes need this as their standard. Children clearly need care to a certain age; but there are times when unacceptable behavior and disrespect for authority may force the issue and they need to be removed until repentant. The fear of the Lord needs to be something along with respect that obviously is missing in many homes today. Proper firmness is needed and we need to show as parents that if we love God we obey His commandments. ( John 15:10; 1 John 2:3). Proper love means discipline; we cannot follow permissiveness as Proverbs 13:24 states; there are verses that say the soul is saved ( Prov. 19:18) with discipline.
It looks like the thread you addressed me on has been closed t further comment. So, I will respond with a new thread.
I am happy to bring Scriptures to this conversation. But before I do, please answer me yes or no: Are you Earl Bowman?
If you do not answer this question of mine with a yes or a no, then I will know that you are a deceiver.
As to your inquiry about Psalm 82:1-6 and Jesus' usage of this Psalm in John 10:35. The context of this verse in psalms is a reference to the judges of Israel that were appointed to make judgements for the people when they had a legal matter to bring forward to resolve.
God, in this Psalm is rebuking these judges (and any leader) because they judged sinfully. They favored those who oppressed and did wickedly and would not defend or uphold the cause of the widows, orphans, and poor, but instead made judgments against these who needed right judgements and mercy. God does not speak of them favorably in this psalm.
It does say that "ye are gods" and the meaning of this is not that they are truly gods, but those who sit in the place of the only true God when they pass their judgments. Therefore, the only True God expects them to judge with justice and righteouosness, but they did not. They judged sinfully, therefore, this iniquity proves that they are not truly gods.
The Bible speaks of gods as referring to those that pagans worship. Are these gods truly gods since Scripture calls them such?
Exodus 12:12 says that God will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. Are these gods real or idols/false gods?
Exodus 23:13 God says to not invoke the names of their (Israelites) other gods. Were these other gods truly gods or were they false gods/idols?
Joshua 24:14 God instructs Joshua to tell the Israelites to throw away the gods of their fathers. Were these gods truly gods or were they false gods/idols?
I could list many more Scriptures where God speaks of other gods, but it is clear they are not gods. Jer. 2:11 ...
Today; our Pastor described the Book of Leviticus in regard to the term "work" in relation to priests in the Temple and those working the fields. Apparently the Hebrew word is the same. Hence; we were also given insights on work as spelled out in the end of chapter 3 and beginning of chapter 4 of Colossians specific to the slave and Master roles. These verses were extrapolated to today's workers with themes such as "work heartily unto the Lord" from verses 23-24 of the 3rd chapter of Colossians.
The book of Philemon was also referenced with further insights differentiating slavery from then from today in some ways. I won't get into a long discussion there; just point out the relational distinctions that are eliminated when the slave in Philemon (Onesimus) is returned to his master after becoming a brother in Christ who the Apostle Paul said to be taken in once again in those terms.
A big point of the sermon is on what I will elaborate on today; namely that our "religious" duties are not only those done in formal church ministry; but the vocations of "laypersons" in the majority of congregations today (that haven't followed lazy trends in our society). For some reason men like to compartmentalize their lives into their church activities and secular ones as if God has some sort of different standard or viewpoint in evaluating our performance. It should be pretty clear that those who come to church an hour or two a week and go home and spend the rest of the time drinking; cussing; fighting and soaking up as much of the world as possible aren't exactly growing much good fruit in their lives; at best. On the other hand; the Proverbs 31 type of wife shows many virtues (since I can't post a link I will just say you can check online to see some of them). The fear of the Lord allows for the admonition of Joshua 24:15 to become evident to those around; as well as children trained in scripture and with Godly parents.
As also with Laban, who continued to practise idolatry, but was now accepting of this God who he was hearing about from Abraham's servant (likely Eliezer of Damascus), in his earlier encounter with him concerning Isaac ( Genesis 24:50,51). Whether Laban ultimately rejected his gods for the true God, we cannot say as the Bible doesn't indicate that; but in spite of him using divination ( Genesis 30:27, KJV: "experience" = 'nachash', or signs, divination), he acknowledged that Abraham's God had blessed him. He might have even added an image of God to his other gods, but hopefully in time & by revelation, he would have rejected his false gods.
Syncretism in religion (i.e. merging together of different beliefs & practises), is never an acceptable thing, even as practised today amongst so-called Christians, because God requires a true worship of Him, and Him alone. Abraham, by God's Call & revelation of Himself to him, would have learned to reject any other god or form of worship & to serve the True & Living God. Thus he was greatly blessed.
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Jude 1:4 "For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ."
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him." James 1:12
"Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory." 2 Timothy 2:10
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
2 Corinthians 5:10 - For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
"And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." Matthew 10:22
"But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Matthew 24:13
"And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Mark 13:13 KJV
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Matthew 24:13 "But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."
Hebrews 10:36 "For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise."
1 Cor 9:24-27 "run the race" (not the race was already won.)
2 Peter 3:17
Luke 8:5-18
1 Timothy 4:1
2 Peter 2:20-22
Hebrews 3:12
Galatians 5:4
1 Corinthians 15:2-8
1 Corinthians 4:5
2 Corinthians 5:10 whether "good or bad". People are sorted at this time.
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
OSAS believers: "Ok, but a Christian would never do that."
Christians no longer have freewill to sin?" Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
"OSAS: But no one has ever done that."
Sadly, many Christians fall away. Look at "ex-Christian" on Reddit with 107,000 members. Very prominent pastors have denounced faith and later denied Jesus is Lord.
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
Hebrews 6:4-6
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
Romans 11
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Matthew 12:31-32
Romans 14:12
God bless and pray for wisdom and truth.
Please considering reflecting on Matthew 6:33, Joshua 24:15, Psalms 55:22-23, John 16:33.
Everything is God's Will, period. It's God's will to give man freewill. God is big and powerful enough to do this, even if people can't understand it and still want to deny it. God also is big and powerful enough to change His mind and let things play out, as the Bible says in Exodus 32:14, Genesis 18:32, and over a dozen other examples.
Maybe you believe you are a puppet or marionette 100% controlled by God. Did God force you to write this post beyond your will? Does God force you to eat at certain foods you dislike or do things you don't want to do throughout the day? Does he force you to take showers or use restrooms at random times when you don't want to? Are you a prisoner? If so, does this also mean you are perfect just like Jesus and don't sin? Have you ever lied to someone in your lifetime? If so, was that God forcing you to sin or was it 100% you? God doesn't cause anyone to sin ever.
None of the above applies to me as God blessed me with 100% freewill and I try very hard to use that for good and to serve the Lord. But like Paul who faced huge temptation and struggled, I wrestle with these daily choices and decisions and sometimes I make mistakes but repent and try hard to get back on track. Paul said to run the race, not to ignore the race and sit on the couch. Christianity is an active faith, not passive. Nearly every challenge in the Bible is for us to take action and make choices. Many are warnings about choosing good instead of evil.
Freewill that God gives man:
Psalms 119:108
Joshua 24:15
Philippians 1:22
Joshua 24:14-15
Matthew 25:25-30 - Jesus's parable of talents God condemned the lazy servant who choose poorly through fear. The Bible is filled with challenges of choosing to follow God instead of choosing to follow the world.
I find it unusual that you don't believe you have any freewill to make any decisions and are merely a puppet? Is that true? Have you prayed about this? God bless.
ALL. All means all.
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
In the LAST TIME. It doesn't salvation is given on Earth.
1 Cor 9:24-27 "run the race", not the 'race was already won.'
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
HOPE to the END. It doesn't say NOW. Grace that IS TO BE brought. It doesn't say NOW.
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
CHOOSE. It's a daily decision. Freewill is not stripped away.
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Not all believers are saved and not all who claim to be followers.
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
SHALL NOT BE FORGIVEN. I read this and know what it says.
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
Believing alone isn't enough according to this verse.
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
This is a warning, it is clear, and I understand it. I don't want to test God.
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Jude 1:21 "KEEP YOURSELVES IN THE LOVE OF GOD, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life."
These verses are the Words of God.
I read, pray for understanding, and know in my heart what these verses say and mean. If another believer says "No, that's not the truth, believe ME instead" then that is a huge red flag of something that doesn't come from God. God bless.
The #1 criticism often received is someone claims I don't believe in grace or that I believe we're saved by effort. That is a strawman argument and is untrue. The Bible says Christ followers will be saved by grace, not by works. That is not what is being contested.
Just because we will be saved by grace doesn't mean we should stop obeying Christ! It doesn't mean we should stop following Christ! The fruit of faith is works. A Christian is a Christ follower and if someone doesn't follow Christ they by definition are not even a Christian. And if not a Christian, that person should not expect the benefits of salvation. Matthew 7:21. Many will feel very entitled but will be shocked they aren't welcomed. This is the wake up call many need right now. Get right with the Lord today before its too late!
A Christ follower is action. Those who aren't actively following Christ are may not be Christ followers. And just because we're imperfect and fall down from time to time doesn't mean we're not Christians. This is very different from someone turning their backs on Jesus and following the pleasures of the world (satan). But Jesus said He would go after the lost sheep, not lost wolves! Many people assume they're followers because a pastor told them so, but are instead lost wolves expecting all the benefits of salvation for doing nothing. God bless.
People have freewill:
Psalms 25:12
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
Psalm 119:30
Luke 16:13
Proverbs 3:31
Fear God:
Joshua 24:14
Psalms 25:12
Proverbs 1:29
Seek God:
Psalms 63:1
All will be judged:
2 Corinthians 5:10
Romans 2:16
John 12:48
Hebrews 9:27
Revelation 20:12
Despite what others say, I don't believe anyone gets "saved" while on earth. I don't see that anywhere in the Bible and it seems to be a man-constructed belief. What I see in the Bible is that because of Jesus's sacrifice we have hope of salvation. What I see in the Bible is that our judgment is what will determine our salvation and not everyone will receive salvation. The Bible says we will all be judged on the same day. It says many will go to hell, and few to heaven. What I see in the Bible is that the outcome is contingent upon our choices and behavior. This reality should be absolutely terrifying to some people. Maybe that's what it will take for some people to start taking God seriously and start obeying and fearing Him. Matthew 10:28. Others who are being running the race and fighting the fight can take comfort and have assurance of future salvation. Currently, we have a lot of self-proclaimed Christians goofing off and enjoying having their cake and eating it too, by unconsciously following the world's values, not God, despite Romans 12:2. Matthew 7:21-23 already predicted how this will turn our for them.
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." Notice it doesn't say 'now' or while on 'earth'. It says salvation will be revealed in the last time. I interpret this as the end of time, at judgment day.
1 Cor 9:24-27 "run the race", not the 'race was already won.'
Lots of conditional statements throughout the Bible, depending on our behavior and choices. Notice the word "If" a lot...
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve". Notice this is a daily choice.
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
Jude 1:21 "KEEP YOURSELVES IN THE LOVE OF GOD, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life."
James 5:19-20 "BRETHREN, if any of YOU do ERR FROM THE TRUTH, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Corinthians 9:26-27 "I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so FIGHT I, not as one that beateth the air: But I KEEP UNDER MY BODY, and BRING IT INTO SUBJECTION: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a CASTAWAY."
Hebrews 10:29
"Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?"
1 Cor 9:24-27 "run the race"
This passage contains the famous "free will" passage about choosing life (v. 19). It reminds us of Joshua's statement "as for me and my household; we shall serve the Lord ( Joshua 24:15). For the chosen nation; it is hard to separate the transgressions of individuals from eventual exile of both Judah and Israel. God; in His foreknowledge knew of course that all these rebellions would come to pass. Again; such preaching today certainly wouldn't be very popular. It is hard to say how much of today's calamities in society are due to sin and the curses on a nation; as the warning Christ had in His time about the tower of Siloam. ( Luke 13:1-5). However; it is clear that all of creation is groaning at present. The law can never save us; but these passages are talking about the 1st Commandment primarily; leading of course to all other sources of sin and rebellion if any other "gods" are venerated. This allows; for instance the fornications that idol worship invokes; the murder of the unborn warned about time and time again in scripture when children were "put through the fire" ( 2 Kings 23:10) and numerous other passages are examples of two other resulting transgressions against the Ten Commandments resulting from turning from the living God.
Again; verse 11 and the next couple verses show that there is sufficient words from the Lord to make clear how to be obedient; Deut. 29:29 in other words doesn't indicate that He is hiding this sort of vital information. We only truly BELIEVE these as well as ANY other scriptural admonitions if we have the Spirit of God.
And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but AS FOR ME AND MY HOUSE, we will serve the LORD.
other gods in defiance of His Word. This country is headed unfortunately in the same direction, even so called
churches and leaders are condoning lifestyles that are in absolute defiance of what the True God says not to be
partakers of. When the wicked rule the people perish. You cannot compromise on the word without paying the
consequences whether your an individual or nation. Jeremiah 2:13 Notice Godis talking to His people they have
Him the fountain of Living waters how because they have made their own beliefs and exalted them above IT IS
WRITTEN. We are at the point of Joshua 24:14-27 and christians need to get Honest in their actions and
lifestyles or Gods Hands are tied. God is no respecter of persons but conditions, He always backs up His Word
when carried out His Way. We need to pray for people to stop elevating vain imaginations above THE TRUTH
Romans 1.
I disagree with your interpretation of course. Do you have other Bible verses to support your idea, because it seems like cherrypicking a few to try to make them into something they don't mean. Do you have kids? Let's say you have a son and you interact in his life- does that automatically mean he has no choices at all? Does that mean he's a total puppet with total subjection to your will? Or do you agree that it's possible for your son to still have freewill while you participate in raising him and being in his life?
It sounds like you're assuming by these 2 verses that you cited that God is an all or nothing type thing. That he either must 100% control every aspect of your life so you are just a robot, or nothing at all. And I ask: why do you assume that? Just as a parent isn't a 100% or 0% interaction, why assume God is that way. Yes, He can work in your life, especially if you seek Him and pray, but under no circumstance does he rob you of the gift of freewill which he's already given you. I've actually never met anyone who believed in that before, so it's quite perplexing on how this idea even came about, because I don't see any Bible verses supporting it.
For instance: Joshua 24:15 - when it says for us to 'choose' this day whom you will serve, do you think it instead means
that God chose for you? Do you believe you have any choices at all in life? Like do you have a choice to respond to me? Do you get to choose what clothes to wear or what to eat for lunch? I have that choice and I chose to follow Jesus out of my own freewill, so do some people like you not have that freewill, or how do you explain that?
God bless...
God bless.
blessed.
perhaps we can draw estimates off of this passage.
Joshua 14:7. Forty years old was I when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadesh-barnea to espy out the land; and I brought him word again as it was in mine heart.
I a quick google, some say that he was 20 yrs, when he left Egypt, others say he was 40 yrs old. I am not aware of a Scripture verse that specifies his age during the wanderings, or when he spied out the land, or led the Israelites across the Jordan river.
If anyone knows, please, supply a source I can go to to discover more. Thanks.
Here's verses about it:
Link
Here's a previous discussion I found via advanced search and selecting discussions.
Link
More verses:
Matthew 12:32 "...but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come."
OSAS believers: "Ok, but a Christian would never do that"
"Christians no longer have freewill to sin? Is that true?"
Joshua 24:15 "choose you this day whom ye will serve"
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Hebrews 10:26 "For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,"
Hebrews 6:4-6
James 2:14-26 "...faith, if it hath not works, is dead..."
James 2:19 "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble."
1 Peter 1:13 "...hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;"
Romans 11
John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."
Matthew 12:31-32
Romans 14:12
1 Peter 1:5 - "...salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."
1 Cor 9:24-27 "run the race", not the 'race was already won.'
2 Peter 3:17
Luke 8:5-18
1 Timothy 4:1
2 Peter 2:20-22
Hebrews 3:12
Galatians 5:4
1 Corinthians 15:2-8
2 Peter 2:20-21