Bible Discussion Thread

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The only problem here is that Richard may not even see your comment since you haven't attached it to his, or he may be otherwise occupied. So it would be incorrect to regard him as discourteous by not giving you a response. You will find that many here don't respond to answers given for various reasons; I wouldn't have the knowledge about them to judge them for it. With that said, I do agree with you that "corporate" is not the correct word to be used in this context of prayer. Maybe a synonym of it, such as 'collective, communal, or united' would be more appropriate.

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Yes, I do agree Charlie. Yet, I find that in any discussion on the Bible & spiritual matters, where the discussion seems to lead nowhere for various reasons, we must admit that even what we have been given in the Bible can sometimes be very limiting, even after doing a detailed examination of various applicable Scriptures. If this were not true, then we should all find full agreement on every matter that is brought up for discussion.

And the fact that we approach the Word with various perceptions of it, whether from pre-conceived beliefs & thoughts, coming to grips with texts that might be read or interpreted differently, or even having a picture of a biblical scenario set in our minds that must only be the correct one, then we are bound to get into robust (sometimes fruitless) discussion, tenaciously hanging on to what we believe is true. Yes, our faith & understanding might be challenged & we should be spiritually & mentally pliable enough to give it due consideration, but I think it's also true, that those of us who have spent much time engrossed in the Word are not very likely to be changed by another's presentation, unless the Spirit intervenes to bring that spark of Divine Light that shakes us out of our set minds. But then, when that new spiritual insight is given, which doesn't necessarily receive the conclusive support from the Word, should we expect anyone else to accept it? Maybe, some things need to be kept close to our chest, rather our hearts & leave the matter with God to do & complete His exacting faultless Work in each one of us.

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Dear Charlie,

You missed Richard's point markedly. He was referring to two or more gathered together to pray, knowing that when we pray in the name of Jesus, the Father answers our prayers ( John 14:13-14)

I think Charlie, you're referring to Richard's mention of 'corporate prayer' in his recent post. I can't speak for him, but when I have used this phrase, it meant that the Church (or a Bible Study group) comes together for prayer as a whole body (i.e. not an individual's private time with the Lord).