Bible Discussion Thread

Please pray for mine and all my families salvation. I am the only Christian amongst my family and friends, and I go to church, but unsure if I'm saved because I haven't been baptised yet. I don't even know if any of my prayers are even being answered or whether I'm doing good enough on my Christian walk. I have managed to resist the devil with some of my sins (Praise God !!!), but I struggle with other sins. Is this normal ? I have also tried to evangelise to friends and family members, but feel like I'm getting through to anyone. I believe that we can do all things through Christ, I'm just not sure whether Christ is in me because I'm still struggling with some sins. I've tried to talk to my pastor about my concerns, but all he says is keep looking up, which it not very helpful and I'm beginning to wonder whether Christ is actually in him ? I thought that he would be able to at least give me some reassurance. I also get similar responses from other church members when I ask questions about the bible or my concerns. I sometimes feel like I'm talking double dutch because I thought that we were suppose to be Christ like, yet all of the adult members have been Christians for 10 plus years, yet none of them seem to be able to give me any helpful advice. I believe that the gifts of the holy spirit are for everyone, yet everyone else at church believes that the gifts of the holy spirit were only for the 12 disciples ? And the pastor even said that tongues was only for the disciples to preach in different countries, Yet there are many people at my old church that speak in tongues and get their prayers answered. I actually wonder sometimes whether I'm on crazy pills or whether any of the people at my church are actually saved, because they all seem like robots at times and put the pastors on pedestals like they're some sort of God's which I find very disturbing !!! I'm even wondering whether to stop going to church and just try and go it alone ? Thanks in advance x

Claire,

I am 72-years old and I can tell you from the word of God that none of us is good. That is why Jesus came. Please believe me when I say that God hears every pray you pray and the most important thing he wants with you is fellowship. How many people do you know have seen a burning bush? Maybe those who are looking up, should look down. I came from a family of 10 and a very Godly home. Even the best of Christians struggle with the same things. Just remember God may not answer your prayers immediately. He is working out what is best for you and all involved, but rest assured, he will answer your prayers. Sometimes I feel God in my spirit and sometimes I don't. That doesn't mean that he has forsaken me. I read from the KJV. You keep doing what you are doing. God knows your heart and we all sin, but God is faithful and just to forgive us if we confess the sin AND the sweetest thing is that he remembers it no more. If you are attending a church that does not preach TRUTH (by that I mean that it does not line up with the scriptures) RUN RUN RUN. They are a cult and you do not need to be there. I hope this helps you and I pray that God will open your heart and mind to his truth.

Hi Drama,

Thank you for your reply. It says in 1 Corinthians 6:9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind. I know God/Jesus wants fellowship with us, Christians struggle & God works all things for good. When you say that you feel God in my spirit, Is it like a voice coming from within your chest ? I experienced that once, but when I told my pastor & he told me to just ignore it & now I feel like I'm going crazy. I know God knows our heart & if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins & cleanse us from all unrighteousness, but Psalms 66:18 says - If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear [me] and Isaiah 59:2 says - But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid [his] face from you, that he will not hear. I am struggling with unforgiveness, so I don't think that God hears me. The church I go to all read the KJV Bible, but I don't always agree with the pastors interpretation of it & they don't believe that the spiritual gifts are for everyone & say that they were only for the disciples & that if we all have the gifts then we should all be able to walk on water & heal the sick. Mark 16.17-18 says - And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Nobody speaks in tongues at this church, but a lot did at my old church.

Thank you for your words of comfort & encouragement. P.s does anyone ever feel their body vibrating ? I've felt this a few times, but can't find a reasonable explanation for it. I feel like I'm on crazy pills sometimes.

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

Hi Claire,

I don't know if you saw my other post to you that I wrote. From what I've read here, from you, I would believe you have already received the Holy Spirit.

First) You stating you have heard a voice from inside you. One thing I am going to tell you for your protection and for your good. God began speaking to me, after giving myself to Christ, and I have never heard voices in my entire life before this. Be careful because satan can speak to you also and may try to imitate the Lord. Trying to make you think it is ok to keep on sinning. Do not worry. You may have to go through some testing but it is for your own good and will make you stronger. God knows everything that is going on. One way you can differ the Lord's voice, not by sound, is by what is being said. God loves you and only wants you to do good things. One tactic satan used was when I would tell the Lord how much I loved Him a voice would say "you don't love me". This broke my heart as I thought this was our Father saying this back to me. But after learning from the Holy Spirit, through experience, this was the voice of satan. I now cast satan out if I ever hear anything I didn't feel that is from my Father or with love in it. And God hears you all the time no matter what. He knows every word out of your mouth, every thing you hear and every thought in your head always. The further you are from Him will discern how close He is with you. The closer you draw to Him, through Christ, the closer He will be to you.

Second) You saying you feel vibrations in your body. This is something else that tells me a person has the Holy Spirit in them. Of coarse I can't say everyone with the Holy Spirit has this. Usually after I pray, hearing praise music, watching certain things of the Lord, or talking with anyone about Jesus Christ, usually other believers, feeling tingling that will flow through my whole body. The stronger it is the happier the Holy Spirit is inside me.

God Bless you sister.

Hi Richard in Christ,

Thank you for your reply. I don't remember seeing any post in my email 'From what I've read here, from you, I would believe you have already received the Holy Spirit', I don't seem to be getting all the post to my email for some reason & I even got an email from myself in reply to Chris the other day about my dad having an affair, so I don't know what happened there. I have wrote other post on here & had no replies at all ?

The voice inside me sounded like a warning, It said either Nazi camp or Nazi Germany & then it said either Haxley or Huxley drive or avenue or something similar & for a split second I saw a street sign saying the same thing then woke up (I googled these things and found nothing interesting), but before I heard the voice inside me, A voice woke me up saying 'Claire',1st time it sounded like my dad, 2nd time was an unknown male voice saying 'Claire' & 3rd time was like the 2nd voice saying 'Claire', these voices were weeks or even months apart & I ignored them out of fear. I have never heard voices before & I haven't heard them since. the Bible says Resist the devil, and he will flee from you, so I presume the voices were from him.

When you say The Holy Spirit taught you that it was satan, how does the Holy Spirit teach you, do you hear a voice or does he bring a scripture to mind or something ?

I first felt the vibrations around the first weeks of the Covid 19 lockdown, I can't remember if I was fasting or not, but since then I feel them more frequently. I think it's when I'm doing Bible related things when it happens though & I feel encouraged that this happens to other people out there too & that I'm not going crazy. I don't think I mentioned this experience to the pastors at church because I felt mocked about other experiences I've told them about. Thank you for all your words of encouragement.

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

Hello Claire,

No problem. I only hope to help you as the others here do also. The other post I made to you wasn't a reply so that's probably why you didn't get an e-mail for it. Sorry. The posts just get so small after a while I just made a post with your name on it. It's on the fourth page right now maybe on the fifth by the time you may get to look.

To answer your question about when I stated "the Holy Spirit taught me". I guess I can say the Lord uses many different ways to teach us. Some people, even myself, would have thought that the Lord would have told me satan was telling me to keep on doing things like drugs, and other things. It actually seemed as though after a certain amount of time things just changed inside of me on their own. The Holy Spirit just began guiding me the right way even though a voice was telling me "it was ok". One night after I did something the Lord said "do you really think I'm ok with you doing that?" I was confused and said "but you said it was ok." The same statement was said a second time and that was it. I got on my knees and prayed I was sorry but I was still confused. Other things happened and it just became clear that the voice I was hearing that was telling me "it was ok" to do certain things was not our Father. As now I understand the reason He didn't tell me, right away, is because after going through those things it made me stronger.

Just keep your faith and trust in the Lord and He will do what's best for you as he knows everything. Keep praying to Him. Ask Him for any help you need with anything. To guide you to the truth. He hears you always.

God Bless you sister.

Hi Richard in Christ,

I know I shouldn't be sinning anymore & I do my best not to sin wilfully. It's funny you should say that it seems as though after a certain amount of time things just changed inside you. I feel like that's what is happening to me.

I believe The Holy Spirit is guiding me & I know it's not ok to sin. I'm more aware of my sin now & listen/sing Christian songs or pray when I become aware of it. I have never experienced the Lord speaking to me, but I think that He'd do the same with me if there's something that I was unaware of. I believe that God will reveal these things to me at the right time. Like our younger pastor said, if God revealed all my sin to me at once I wouldn't be able to cope with it. I also believe that going through these things makes us stronger (& wiser too.)

I do pray that God will help me with certain things. I know that He's helping me because I know I couldn't have done things on my own. Thank you for all your encouragement & support.

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

No matter how hard we try we can never stop sinning even as Christians we still have our old nature to deal with but with Christ's help we can overcome sin.

Hi Emily,

Thank you for your reply & your words of encouragement.

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.

40And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also?

41Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.

2But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.

3To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.

4And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.

5And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.

6This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.

7Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.

8All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.

9I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.

10The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

11I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

12But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.

13The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.

14I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.

15As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.

Hi Lionjudah,

Thank you for the scriptures. I only really go to church because I don't know any other Christians out of church, and I still need to be baptised. I feel like I need to have some time away from church, and just spend more time reading my bible and praying, but then my pastor reminds me about ( Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.) I really don't know what to do for the best. I keep asking myself why I keep going back because I know that God hates discord among the brethren, and I feel like I'm causing discord by questioning some of their doctrine. A few weeks ago after the service, I said to one of the women there that I didn't think that it was a good idea for them all to put the pastors on pedestals, and that I thought that the bible study should be in a group when we read passages from the bible and then we discuss them like we did at my old church, but at this church we just listen to one of the pastors preach and then tell us his opinion and expected just to except it without questioning it. As you can imagine, this didn't go down to well and everyone just looked at me. I just turned to them and said look at everyone earwigging and then everyone cleared the room and the younger pastor said that them kind of bible studies cause error and discord and that's why they do it that way. I'm not convinced though. Me and one of the other women that started a few weeks ago have decided we should look for another church once the Covid 19 pandemic settles down and the other churches open again.

Kind Regards

Claire

But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. Claire u & that women can be the church two or three gathered in Jesus name Jesus said he will be in the midst teaching u.

Hi Claire, totally understand u. But church is a building not a bodyofchrist(PEOPLE) True believers that worship in truth & spirit, Church(MAN DOCTRINE'S) is a numbers game. always has been always will. Untill jah will be done. O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged. Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels. Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what partAnd what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

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Hi Claire, I pray u recieve Jesus as your husband. I pray u have the strength to keep walking in the spirit & that your feet stand ferm on the rock. Jah bless..

Claire, I've been following your comments & I agree that this can be a disheartening frustrating experience when you hear preaching that doesn't conform to God's Word or from peoples' negative comments about Bible study groups, etc. No Church will be perfect as they are made up of imperfect people like you & me. There always has to be some leeway given to Church practice & teaching, but if your spirit is troubled by it, then leaving that group is necessary.

It's a little like the upcoming U.S. elections: Christians supporting both sides will find rights & wrongs in all the parties, but a vote needs to be given to the one they judge best. The other option would be to vote for a minor party (e.g. a Christian/family-based one) which might conform more to one's beliefs & expectations, though realizing that that party will never bring forward the next President. Then the other option is not to vote at all, as all parties to some extent violate the requirements of God. So where does this leave the voter or, similarly, what does the believer do with Churches that don't conform to the Scriptures? If things appear hopeless, then abstain from attending Church until you're able to find another; just as one could do in the political arena. But never neglect your personal time of Bible reading & prayer.

Bible studies at a Home Group or in Church are important for the more intensive study of the Word but also for enjoying fellowship with one another. As well, one gets support, prayer & counsel when it may be easier to share intimately with those you're close to. Yet, without a mature leader overseeing the Study, these meetings can become breeding grounds for error, for which your Pastor fears. What other Fellowships are in your area/City? You may need to attend a few to decide.

Hi Chris,

Thank you for your words of encouragement. I know that no church is perfect. I left my old church because most people read different bible's and I had concerns about a few things, but when I told my pastor, he just fobbed me off. A couple of my friends from that church had similar experiences with him too. One of them now goes to another church, but the other one is still there. I told the pastor about a guy called Doc Marquis that was raised in an Illuminati family, but became a Christian in 1979 and dedicated his life to expose the truth about "America's Occult Holidays", like Christmas, Easter, Halloween, but he just said that I shouldn't believe everything that I listen to online, and to not to share this info with anyone at church because everyone celebrates them holidays and that they would be offended by it. I had similar experiences when I told him about a guy called Adam Johnson who made a DVD called "King James ? Or 400 Counterfeits ?" but he fobbed me off on this too. I tried to inform him about a few other things too, but then gave up and joined the church that I'm at now. Everyone reads the KJV bible there, so that gave me a bit of peace, but they still celebrate the holidays which concerns me. I have told the pastors there too but they just fob me off too, and told me not to share this info.

I know what you mean about the bible study needing someone mature in the faith because me and the new woman tried to do our own bible study, but she doesn't know the bible that well, so every time I told her scriptures from the bible, if she didn't agree with it, she would get angry with me. I try to keep my distance from her now because I feel like she's affecting my progress and my well being, and I have enough trouble with this with my mum and my daughter at home being non Christians.

God bless you and your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

In the first chapters of Book of Acts, the Christians we're having Church in each other's homes.

Anyone can have a Bible Study in their home. You don't need a diploma. I've had many a bible study with a spaghetti dinner! Everyone gets blessed. We would discuss just like we do here. Pass around a sheet of paper so they can write what they'd like to study the next week.

It does not hurt the children to see adults cracking open the Bible and be excited about reading the Bible. Or praying for each other's Needs.

:). People will come if they know they're going to get spaghetti. I get happy just reading of that book of Acts Fellowshipping.

I had young, old, male, female; someone brought a guitar some nights. Don't let others insecurities stop your joy in the Lord Jesus.

Mishael

Hi Book of Acts in your Home,

Thank you for your reply. I tried to do a Bible Study at home a few times with our newest member at church, but it was a disaster. If she disagreed with it she would get aggressive and say that's your opinion. I told her it was scripture, but it didn't make a difference. I haven't invited her since. I try to avoid drama because it causes me anxiety. I tend to spend most of my time on my own nowadays, as I have been single for the last 13 years. I would be most grateful if anyone reading this thread could pray for me to meet my future husband (Lord willing of course !!!) because I've just turned 44 & never been married, & my Daughter is 20 on the 12th Oct, so I doubt she will be living here much longer. It would also be nice to have some emotional support & someone to pray for me instead of feeling lonely & struggling with my faith on my own.

My Daughter & my Mum do see me reading my bible and hear me listening to Christian songs, but I usually do it in my bedroom out of their way because it causes conflict, especially when my Mum's here. I usually do my prayers in the morning and before I go to bed in secret like the Bible says, but I also pray with my daughter when my mum's gone home for my nephew. He has an autoimmune disorder because of a bone marrow transplant that he had when he had leukemia. Any prayers for him would be greatly appreciated. .

I feel happy reading the scriptures, fellowshipping on here, & reading things on Christian websites like 'The Way Prepared Scriptures Study Review'. I'm trying to be a bit more Godly & a bit less worldly day by day because I know that it's impossible for me to do it over night. I just have to keep reminding myself to resist the Devil & he will flee from me & keep moving forward.

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

Dear Claire's daughter,

Have a very happy birthday!

Hi Amelia,

Thank you for wishing my daughter 'A very happy birthday'. I told her what you said, she said thank you.

God bless you & your family.

Kind regards

Claire

Being Alone and Isolated

Satans best tool against anybody, saved or unsaved, is ISOLATION. You are vulnerable because of it.

The Humility of Jesus is shown in how he cared for people who came to Him for help. It was spiritual and practical.

There are many, many ministries who could use an extra pair of hands, and a friendly smile.

You aren't going to have a husband ring the doorbell. You need to make some calls; call your church for advise. Be VISABLE. Try to break out of solitude, doing one of these following ministries:

Feeding ministries (packing or distributing

Benevolence (Clothing,toys,shoes)

Collecting coats for Kids

Helping with blue or brown Santa

Writing out Holiday greeting cards for shut-in's or elderly

Your local civic organizations (paint scenery for Christmas plays, find costumes, etc

Help Habitat for Humanity

A Christian man may be out in the midst of all that: being his kind and caring self. As long as you're isolated you will not be in range of meeting. (Mission accomplished by Satans crummy helpers.) Conversation in public only.

If your church doesn't do these kind of things; find a church with a big singles ministry. No rule says you can't visit other singles ministries and attend your regular church.

John 10:10

"The thief (satan) cometh not, but for to steal (your joy and peace), and to kill (your faith that God loves you), and to destroy (you! Piece by piece). I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (Jesus)."

You have to fight back like a warrior, Ephesians 6.

Amos 3:3

Can two walk together, except they be agreed? {Pray to receive a life partner, or spouse.}. This doesn't work unless you feed your faith. Have an inner attitude of praise and worship towards God. Participate in life outside of your house.

Refuse violently when demons of doubt come to shred your faith. Eph.6

You need to print this out or copy. Tape it to the back of your closet door.

Hi Advise to Single Christian MinistersMishael

I believe that being alone and isolated is Satan's best tool against us, because I suffered from depression & anxiety for about 30 years until it got to the point where I didn't want to wake up & I prayed in my heart for God to give me some peace & within a few mins I felt peace. (Praise God !!!)

I will do some research & see if anyone knows of any of these types of things going on anywhere because I don't know of any church in my area that do anything like this. I told my pastor a few weeks ago about this guy that sits outside Aldi pretending to be homeless. He always has different clothes, shoes, & coats on & I've seen him with at least four different sleeping bags too. He's better dressed than me sometimes. Anyway, long story short my pastor said that someone asked him for money once & he told them that if they listened to the gospel for a few mins then he would give him some money & that the guy just walked off. He went on to say that if we don't work we shouldn't eat. I was very offended by this because I haven't been able to hold a job down for more than a few weeks here & there for over 20 years, due to suffering from depression & anxiety which led me to being on benefits most of my life. (Praise God that I no longer suffer from depression & anxiety !!!) but I am yet to find employment as I have only just ended my recovery period when the Covid 19 pandemic came along.

Thanks you for your advice, the scriptures, & your words of encouragement.

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

Hi Claire, thank you for your reply - I see you're very busy answering others as well, so hopefully what you learn here & the fellowship we can enjoy together 'online' would give you some comfort & help.

I've been following this thread & I understand your desire for correctness in all aspects of belief & practise of the Church. That is truly commendable as there are too many 'fence sitters' who are either unconcerned or uncommitted in what they believe or aspire to - a case of "I am born again, going to Heaven, so I'll just tag along with the Church crowd". This is easy to do so as to receive acceptance by others & to experience that 'comfortable' fit within the Church scene. But you're hungry for Truth from the Word & want to practise what the Bible says & not what you are told or from 'Christian' traditions.

From my 41 years of walking with the Lord, I've yet to find a Fellowship that 'ticks all my boxes'. I don't believe it exists as there are too many variables in the Teachings & within the Body of Christ. Not that that should discourage you to give up altogether like those 'fence sitters', but I believe we can still maintain our 'strong & clear' beliefs, yet also enjoy worshipping together with the saints. However, if biblical teaching is defective, then that would be cause for concern & for my leaving.

I too, don't observe any 'Christian festivals' & those whom I know, also know & accept my beliefs. I might still enjoy a lunch on Dec 25th with unsaved friends, but use the occasion to share something from the Word about Jesus. I don't think the Lord holds us as sinners for allowing certain things, rather that we use such occasions for His Glory. And then you have your Mum & daughter to consider during such occasions.

I think that it's important for you to ultimately get into fellowship with other believers, even a home Church, as going it alone has many down-sides & we would hate to hear that you have weakened in your faith & love for the Lord.

Hi Chris,

Thank you for your reply. Yes, Everyone is being really helpful & encouraging. I am enjoying the "online" fellowship & the comfort & help that is being provided by my brothers & sisters in Christ.

Most of the people In the two main churches that I have been to seem to be happy just plodding along and taking everything that the pastors say as gospel. I think they think that because they have been baptised, believe that Jesus died for our sins, & they turn up for church on Sunday that this is enough to them into Heaven. Others might experience that 'comfortable' fit within the Church. But I didn't really feel that at any of the churches that I have been to. I have always felt like I didn't fit in anywhere even from a very young age, and yes I am hungry for Truth from the Word & want to practise what the Bible says & I don't just want to plod on in vain & on the day of judgement be stuck with a

I don't believe a perfect church exists, but I do believe we can still maintain our beliefs, yet also enjoy worshipping together, be it online or elsewhere. I haven't been to church this morning because I feel like I learn more & have a better understanding by reading the bible myself & listening to independent views online, but after reading your reply about it being important for me to fellowship with other believers, I have decided to go to the evening service tonight.

I don't think it's good for me to spend too much time with non believers because it causes me anxiety to be around them too long. I think it's best I just pray for them because my relationship with them is rocky already and has been since I was a teenager.

I came across a site last night called 'The Way Prepared Scriptures Study Review' one of the topics was 'Our Greatest Hindrance: The Doctrines and Commandments of Men' I found it helpful, and was wondering if anyone on here is familiar with the site ?

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

Thanks for your reply, Claire, & I'm sure there are many who are lifting you up before the Lord including about your place of worship, the people there & your family situation. The Lord hears you & as you keep your heart & mind affixed upon Him & express full faith in spite of your circumstances, you will find the Lord opening up the way before you.

Faith is what moves the Hand of God. Mark 9:23, 24: "Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief."

I took a cursory look at the "The Way Prepared" site, particularly on 'Our Greatest Hindrance' & 'Ten Commandments' & though they gave a thorough dealing with the subjects, I had some serious misgivings with their teaching as they don't conform entirely to what I understand are scriptural Truths.

Just one more point on The Church. I picked up on this conversation you were having. To state, that 'Church' in the Bible always points to 'a group of people, a congregation, a gathering for religious purposes'. The Greek word is 'ekklesia'. It never speaks of a building - the Church is a living organism: the Body of Christ: 1 Corinthians 12:27, "Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." And verse 28, describes some of the appointments & functions within this Body, the Church. However, it wouldn't be wrong to say that 'we're off to Church today' as applying to a building/location but the meaning is essentially to the Body of believers. Every blessing to you as you wait on the Lord.

Hi Chris,

Thanks for your reply, the scriptures, your words of encouragement & for checking out that site "The Way Prepared" for me. Could you please be a bit more specific about your concerns with their teaching as I'm struggling myself to understand the scriptures & with me being a fairly new Christian, it's hard for me to know what's true and what's false.

Thank you for your sharing your knowledge regarding the church & the body of Christ. I, do say that I'm off to church meaning a building/location, but I know now that it's really the Body of believers.

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

Hi Claire, I think I misunderstood Ss' reply to you concerning the Church. Re-reading it shows that Ss also believed that the Church is the body of believers & not a building. Apologies.

Re: The Way Prepared. At their subject, 'Our Greatest Hindrance', the major part of that was highlighting that the Sabbath Day should still be the day that believers meet for worship. I'm unsure where you stand on this matter, but I think you are happy to go to your Fellowship on a Sunday or do you insist it be a Saturday?

The other subject I looked at on that Site, was 'What are the Ten Commandments'. In the most part, the instruction was correct, though with the emphasis to keep the Commandments as a duty in the Christian walk was not properly addressed & balanced. The material failed to take in, to whom the Commandments were specifically given, why they were given, & the Apostle Paul's discourses on the cessation of the commandments upon the advent of the New Covenant through Jesus' Blood. We can indeed be taught about God's requirements for Holy living from the commandments & other instructions to us, but to rest on them for our salvation & entrance to the New Jerusalem, I find erroneous. I can't go into detail here about this as it would require many pages, though, if you search on this Site, you might see some of the discussions we've had on it - both for & against.

Hi Chris,

Thanks for your reply. No worries about the mix up about the church being the believers & not a building.

Regarding The Way Prepared. 'Our Greatest Hindrance'. I'm just searching for the truth as to which day is the true Sabbath Day, so that I don't continue to break any of the ten commandments. I don't really enjoy going to church at all personally. I'm not a fan of hymns & prefer Christian songs, Everyone uses vain repetitions in their long prayers. (I do this myself at home because I'm unsure of the right way to pray ?) Are we suppose to just say the Lord's prayer because God knows our hearts & what we need before we even ask ? Our bible study consists on one of the pastors reading about 5 verses from the new or old testament & then them giving their opinion for about 30 mins & we're just expected to take it as gospel & not question it. (the main pastor loves to go round shaking people's hands after the service looking for complements on the sermon) I rarely agree & make a sharp exit were possible, so I don't feel obliged to shake his hand. I know that women aren't suppose to speak in church & are supposed to ask our husbands about things, but seeing that I'm not married, this isn't an option for me. Another thing that bothers me is whether I'm doing the right thing going to church ? I'm the only Christian among my friends & family, so if I don't go to church I'm feel I'm more likely to go backwards on my walk, rather than move forwards. Is fellowship with people online enough for me to grow in the faith ? I honestly don't know.

Regarding 'What are the Ten Commandments'. I haven't read the article. I think we should follow the ten commandments & the new commandments that Jesus gave us. I don't think we can get to heaven just by following the commandments or just trusting in the blood of Jesus. I think we need to do both.

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

Page 3.

The matter you wrote about: "I don't think we can get to heaven just by following the commandments or just trusting in the blood of Jesus. I think we need to do both", might be a simple reasonable understanding for our Christian walk, but theologically speaking, incorrect. The Laws of God are very important but when considered in the light of the New Covenant of Grace, they are no more considered as the Jews do, by which they measure their relationship to God. But those laws are now written upon our hearts, & many more directions of the Spirit to us, that give not only a larger number of precepts to obey, but also the power to know them & do them to God's Glory. The old Law only showed us our sin & brought death - the Law of the Spirit enables us to fully obey God above & beyond the limitations of the old Law. This was very brief that I've written. I would rather direct you to: spurgeon dot org and then search His Library, Sermons, and the topic: The Law written on the heart. C.H. Spurgeon was a great English preacher & he gave this sermon in October 1882, so his expressions are a little 'old' & message lengthy - but stay with it if you can - much can be learned from him as well.

Blessings to you.

Hi Chris,

I have just read the sermon 'The law written in the heart' by C.H Spurgeon as you suggested. Correct me if I'm wrong, but how I read it, is that I need to be baptised physically by water & cleansed spiritually by the blood of Jesus for my sins to be washed away & then the Holy Spirit will continue to make me perfect until I die & go to heaven. The problem I'm having is that my pastor says that I need to be born again before I get baptised ? How do I know who's interpretation is right ? Mine or theirs ? I feel like I have had a change of heart over some things, yet I'm still struggling with other things like unforgiveness towards my dad's girlfriend & their daughter. I have repented over this, but weeping over it & still feel resentment towards them & don't know how to get past this. Does it mean that I have to weep & morn over the situation for me to be feel any different about them ? Because if this is the case then I wouldn't even know where to start. I want to forgive them, but I can't really say that I would want to play happy families with them any time soon. I just feel like I will never be able to forward at this stage.

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

Page 2.

Holding resentments & grudges can be quite a stumbling block in a believers' life of victory. It can only be the Spirit's Work that will help you & heal you in this matter. Have your Dad's girlfriend & daughter hurt you in some way, or is it just their relationship that has brought your resenting them? If they have hurt you, the first step to healing is to let them know your pain & to clearly tell them that because of Christ's love in you, you forgive them for what they've done to you. Then bring the matter to the Lord & allow His Spirit to cleanse you & to work in you to truly forgive them & accept them. To play 'happy families' when you have anger in your heart is hypocrisy & detrimental to you & they too will see it. But if anger lingers in you, you cannot move forward spiritually as it will always be an impenetrable wall in your relationship with God.

All this takes time, even by being incommunicado with them for a while, till you accept them & see them as how God sees them: in love & mercy as to those who are without God's love & hope for eternal life. Remember that any unconfessed or harboured sin will always be an impediment in a believer's life; the Christian adage: "always keep short accounts with God" should be uppermost in our minds.

Hi Chris,

My dad had an affair & left when I was about 9. Shortly after, I was having my photo taken with the creepy landlord at a xmas party & either accidently or on purpose touched the side of my bust which mortified me. I ran into the toilets crying & told my cousin & she told my dad's g/f. My dad's g/f told me to not tell my dad & spoil the party because my dad would beat him up & end up in prison. (This taught me to not trust people when bad things happened because they wouldn't believe me & I didn't matter.) I went on to be sexually, emotionally, physically & mentally abused in my teens & early 20's by a number of different people & never told anyone.

I moved in with my dad & his g/f when I was 11. My dad's g/f never made me feel welcome, only spoke to me when she had to or for show in front of my dad. I moved out when I was 16 because I had a row with his g/f because their daughter kept going in my room & ruining my things, but she never seemed to ruin any of theirs ? Anyway, I ended up swearing at his g/f & slammed the door in her face (not literally). Because my dad's g/f never makes me feel welcome, I now have a rocky relationship with my dad & only see him briefly on his b/day, father's day or xmas to give him his things & I also feel obliged to buy her xmas & b/day things to keep the peace. I try to take them when she's at work because she still makes me feel unwelcome. This has gone on for over 30 years, so unfortunately I can't just say how I feel because on the odd occasion when she triggers me with her degrading comments & I have spoke up, my dad takes her side & makes me feel like the bad guy, so I don't want to completely destroy my relationship with him by me dragging the last 30 odd years up with no witness to back me up & make myself look like a trouble maker. I want to forgive them & have asked God to forgive me & them, but I still feel hurt.

God bless you & your family

Kind Regards

Claire



God bless you & your fa

Page 1.

Hi again Claire. Thank you for reading that lengthy sermon - it was heavy going. I had to re-read it quickly to find the portion I think you're referring to. The part that seemed significant is:

"God cannot write his law in our inward parts till with water and with blood he has purged us. Tables on which the Lord shall write must be clean, therefore the heart on which God is to engrave his law must be a cleansed heart; and it is a great joy to perceive that from the person of our Lord heart-cleansing blood and water flowed, so that the provision is equal to the necessity. Blessed be the name of our gracious God, he knows how to erase the evil and to cleanse the soul through his Holy Spirit's applying the work of Jesus to us."

If this is the portion, then I don't believe Spurgeon is referring to water baptism or the requirement to be baptised first & then born again - that would be totally erroneous. His mentioning "water & blood" is his direct reference to 1 John 5:6, 7: "This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth. For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one."

There have been several interpretations of this "by water & blood". I feel it indicates Jesus' physical birth (water) & He speaks of this in John 3:5 & then the "blood": of His Sacrifice. Or, Spurgeon could even be recalling the water & blood that issued out of the Lord whilst on the Cross ( John 19:34). We're unclear but it wasn't anything to do with water baptism which can only be taken after first being born again by faith in Jesus's Sacrifice & the indwelling & renewal of the Holy Spirit.

Page 1.

Hi again Chris,

Thank you for your continued support & advice. Yes, that was the verse I was referring to, So if we have to be born again first, then how would we know when we've born again ?

I have a couple of testimonies, but my younger pastor says that they are not sufficient for being baptised, So at this point I'm unsure what he wants from me.

1st testimony

I had depression & anxiety & it got to the point were I didn't want to wake up anymore. This night I woke up from a nightmare sobbing & asked God to give me peace & within a couple of mins I felt peace & contentment & was able to go back to sleep. (Praise God !!!)

2nd testimony

I was in a carpet shop with my mum for the 2nd time as we had been a few weeks earlier. Before we went in I said to my mum, I'm not going to mention the price that he gave me last time & see what price he says this time because I thought it was expensive last time, so tried another shop which was more expensive. Last time the carpet that I wanted was 10 per sq meter. The guy asked me if he had given me price last time & I said no. Then my mum turned round & said yes !!! (Did my mum honestly just say that & make me look & feel like a complete idiot !!!) I immediately felt condemned for lying & couldn't wait to get out of the shop, so that I could repent & ask for God's forgiveness, but I had to endure this shame for longer whilst he looked at the price & said this is not right. He said that he had made a mistake & that the carpet was 12 per sq meter. I just felt like he was just trying to take advantage me, so I said I'd let him know. I wasn't able to repent for a few hours later because my mum came back to mine for her tea as usual, but I finally repented & felt relieved. (Praise God !!!) I have just had my carpets fitted by another shop for 5 per sq meter, so I didn't have to go back to that other shop. (Praise God !!!) God is good !!!

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire

Claire, since I'm sending you comments on a new thread, I have to wait for that to be approved before I can attach my other page(s). So, you'll see all of it tomorrow.

Hi Claire. This thread is getting too long & narrow for us to read properly. So I'll start a new one - you'll have to look for it.

Hi Chris,

No worries

Kind Regards

Claire

Claire,

The Bible says that you need to see yourself as a sinner first. Then once you see yourself as a sinner, you pray and ask God to forgive you of ALL your sins. After that, you get baptized. The Holy Spirit will not make you perfect until you go to Heaven, but will be with you all along the way till you die. Many people believe that you have to be a good person in order to get into Heaven but that is not the way it goes. "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6 :23. I would encourage you that if you are looking for more Bible verses on How to be saved, look at the KJV Bible and look in either John, or Romans. Let me know if you have any questions on here.

Sara J.

Hi Sara

Thank you for your reply. I do see myself as a sinner & I do pray & ask God to forgive me daily for ALL my sins, yet I'm still waiting for my pastor to allow me to be baptised !!! I know that The Holy Spirit will not make me perfect until I go to Heaven, but will be with me until I die. I use to believe that I had to be a good person in order to get into Heaven too, but I know different now. I have already looked at the verses on how to be saved, death & salvation, deliverance & many more, but I will read the scriptures they you suggested in John & Romans also & let you know if you have any questions.

Thank you for all your help & encouragement.

God bless you & your family.

Kind Regards

Claire