Bible Discussion Thread

Conclusion on a Mission Statement and Vision

In terms of my quote of Malachi; I am praying that children can come to faith and bring their parents to salvation as well as vice versa. Serious efforts at children's prayer groups could bring that about. Also children's ministry that uses music with scripture memory is good. I sense there has to be a balance between presenting a content suitable for children and yet not underestimating their ability to understand spiritual things. We should certainly not be what retards them from growth; but so many distractions from entertainment make that a challenge today. Parents of course need to make clear that they FEAR the Lord and are in AWE of His mighty power. In line with that message there needs to be a relationship between husband and wife that shows attitudes scripture mandates such as 1 Peter 3 and verses in Ephesians so that their roles are clear and discipline can be swift and firm; yet loving. Kids need to emulate what they see and if the parents are disingenuous then if the kids do find the Lord it often is after a long period of rebellion. Many who know what they are talking about will attest to the fact that a lack of discipline brings fear and insecurity; sometimes even more than those in less than idyllic home situations. Cross generational outreach for one and two generations each have a valuable benefit and a healty church helps to facilitate such interactions.

Outreach is commendable; however there always should be caution that other organizations aren't preaching false doctrine and of course are financially sound. I would say that benevolence is best when it can be among individuals when a need arises.

A friend of mine who has recently lost his job and whose tires were blown out Sunday has been faithful coming to church; and I have helped him out. Without the Pastor and others helping as well it wouldn't have been enough. Thankfully they were there for him this past Sunday.

Reply to Richard Priday

Your words on this site are so helpful for me. You put into words some thoughts I have but have never heard them discussed.

It also causes me to check myself. I can be narrow-minded at times. ( Not intentionally)

Like when a group chose the rainbow as their color. I said,

"Oh my Lord! They taking God's token of the covenant between him and Noah , ("God's people right?), to represent one Group of

People." This is is so wrong."

Well, I read Genesis 9:16 again!

and got a different understanding.

The scripture clearly says,

" And the bow shall be in the cloud. I shall look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting Covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh

upon the earth."

"all flesh" and it never said anything about "God's people."

Again in verse 17:

It was important enough to say it twice.

Was I surprised!!!

Keep up the good work.

You also offer thoughts on how churches can, "check themselves" to make sure they have the clear mission of the Church as a place that prepares us for ministry.

You mentioned a truthful relationship between parents and children.

And that Worship is to be more important than the "House" we worship in. Amen!

I look forward to reading your writing.

I probably have mentioned before the elemental aspect of a covenant in regard to Adam and Eve which also holds for all mankind.

Because of Melchizedek apparently there was a historical prescident for true worship among some outside of Israel in ancient days as well. that brings up the idea that with Adam's progeny (from Seth on forward); it is likely that the descendants that became the first patriarchs when man spread to different areas of the earth meant that at the formation of each country there was some elemental truth from scripture; we find this in the symbolism in the Chinese language; as well as other cultures that believe there is a god greater than everytehing even if they don't know who it is. A similar tale of course is a common thread with the flood stories throughout the world; which proves the validity of the flood (Gilgamesh epic and Chinese language symbols once again).

Since God created all men; then of course they have a conscience albeit sometimes seared beyond redemption. God did promise no destruction by a flood for the earth but this earth will be destroyed by fire. What is the driving force behind sin is man's sin NATURE as well as the demons that control the world system in regard to the world; flesh and the Devil or lust of the eyes; pride of life; etc. That's why I say there is more hope for someone who actually desires to worship the Devil than someone who claims to be a "spiritual person" by any other means besides the true Christian faith. People say they aren't really that bad; and so called "white" magic isn't really that bad; or all the humanistic vibes of the New Age. The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom and therefore by default the fear of hell brings men to consider their ways and often repent.

This brings more responsibility for those who have heard the truth and rejected it; whether it be the cities Christ said were to be punished worse than Sodom or those who have violated their vows to follow Christ.