Bible Discussion Thread

I'm very impressed with John the Baptist , with what he said to the Pharisee and others that in verse 12 . Is he not being judgemental? Oh yes he is ! But if we examine our selves first we can see clearly and judge right . John was the greatest of all the prophets according to Jesus . And we can see why . In this verse . Even the Jews considered him a prophet at that time . He was one powerful prophet . John reveals how severe Jesus will be in judgement in the future . In verse 12 . What's the point ? The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and should motivate anyone to get right with God , because even though God is love and mercy , judgement is severe and sure , if we settle for less than Gods way .

Bob, I fully agree with you. John was indeed judgemental but too often we apply a negative connotation to that word. He had every authority to proclaim what he did, even as his coming was according to prophecy ( Isa 40:3). Even in Islam, he is considered a prophet of God (his Islamic name is Yahiya). So his authority was Scripture-based & his words were truly from God as they had come to pass, as proof of his appointment ( Deut 18:22).

I wonder whether the failure of Christians to speak forth to the Church & the world is because of this 'fear of being judgemental' attitude? We may not be perfect (neither was J the B: Mt 3:14) & we have not been appointed by God to prophet-hood status, but don't we have the authority of God's Word, on which we stand? I realize that correct interpretation & application of the Word also comes to bear upon us, but I believe there is too little evidence of believers using their God-given authority & standing to warn/remind/judge errant folk in their folly. And those that might be energized to speak up, are very likely suppressed, so that their voice is not heard & the status quo of blissful ignorance & serenity is preserved. What will be the state of the Church when Christ comes for her? There'll be a few surprises, for sure.

Many times even in the present problems we are facing world wide (Covid-19), I wonder if we as believers finds it at all possible to take refuge in the words of God. For many years we read and preach about God's goodness and His ability to protect His people in these uncertain times, and I have seen so much fear among believers. My question is where is the Faith in God that we should be putting into practice in days such as these. We were fore warned that " Perilous times will come, this world is not our final destination. We are pilgrims, sojourners, that are passing through. Let us lift up our heads as The King Of Glory will soon return for His bride.

Thank you Donna B!