If I don't study the Word, how do I come to understand it? Do we blindly follow a "preacher", believing he has interpreted it correctly? Are we not to study the Word to learn of Him?
Psalm 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. Joshua 1:8 "This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success. Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.
2 Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. Acts 17:11 Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so. 2 Peter 3:18 But grow in the grace and KNOWLEDGE of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.
How do we "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" without studying Him through His Word. He says He IS the Word. John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Many today mock those of us that study His Word because they do not understand John 1:1.
My point being that all true Bible study does study and meditate upon the Word and also implements that which we have learned. Without obedience to the Word Bible study is no different than a talk show.
I believe "go" was part of Christs commands, lifting ourselves from our studies and applying them to our lives. Placing at least your heart in this position of desiring to be used, God will challenge you to then apply his promises to the task. Daily I must be reminded to, "put my hand to the plow" because the comfort of the couch also calls me.
I do not take my relationship with the Lord lightly. If He didn't allow for Preachers to lead His flock, then we would not have 2Timothy and Titus in the New Testament.
Just because the walled church has scarred us does not mean that we should not have Pastors/Preachers. Especially women. We are Not, I repeat Not to preach to men.
1 Corinthians 14:34 Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law.
No one in the Lord should follow anyone blindly except for Jesus.
I get it that women in the walled church don't know their place because they are not taught it, but I am very disappointed that women who have come out don't seem to know what the Word of God says about what our role is and our place. Just don't get it. Where does it say in this post that you are not to study the Word on your own? It is a play on words, and that is all.
Get a bit tired of the constant negative posts. This post was cute and light hearted. Being in the Faith doesn't mean you cannot laugh, and be light hearted about things.
As I posted earlier today, thanks for the smile this post gave me today especially since I am not feeling so great. To God be the Glory.
Pastor, if I may ask, does being a Christian mean that I can not smile or enjoy something? I know the time is short, but some seem to have no joy at all. Some days I have little if any joy, but most of the time I do. Does this mean I am not saved?
Ecclesiastes 3:4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
Why does being a member of the body of Christ mean we have to be so stern or stone like. Love has joy, or have we forgotten that?
It was a play on words and a blessing, it was not meant to provoke a serious response. Correct me if I am wrong.
Psalm 16:3 But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight.
Psalm 37:11 But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.
Psalm 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.
Psalm 119:16 I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.
Romans 7:22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
So, as women, we are not to question the Pastor on what he is teaching, Cherie? I do not consider this an assembly of all believers sitting under the Pastor. This is an open forum unless brother Rick changes it.
Whether it is a forum or an assembly, he is still a Pastor and as I have said before, Scripture says we are to respect their leadership. He will answer for what he posts because God has made him a Pastor.
Do I consider this a church of some sort, yes. It is a Pastor teaching us the Word of God. Is it wrong to ask questions? No. Is it wrong for us, especially women to question him, meaning his teaching? Yes. Right now there is a respect of persons. In the Kingdom there will not be, but for now there is and God's Word is clear on our role as a woman in the body of Christ.
I am sure Pastor doesn't need defending, but I am standing on the Word of God as a woman and a fellow servant. Also, what I was saying in the first place is this post was a lighthearted play on words and you come along and say what you did. I don't understand why? What did he say that prompted you to write what you wrote? Like I mentioned in other responses to you, you seem like you have something to prove and I don't understand why. I am not seeing in this post what you are seeing to make you come out swinging. I am sure you know the Bible way more than me, but with all that knowledge you seem so negative. Where is your joy dear sister? Your comment took the post completely out of context. Bible study on legs......people not class rooms....get it? It was a play on words, not an edict on studying the Word. Your comment took an innocent tongue in cheek post and put a negative on it. It made me smile, why not you? Where does it say or infer that you shouldn't study the Word? And in no way did it state you're to blindly follow anyone. We will all stand before the Judgment seat of Christ. Out of a simple sentence, you got all that?
I don't understand why studying God's Word, and being a follower of Jesus has to be so serious and complicated. The love of God is simple, and gentle, and wonderful. I don't need the Greek word for terms in the Bible to know what He has done for me, that He loves me, and that He set before me a gift like no other gift ever.
Can't we stop this defensive posture and just love one another? Master, interpret, study, understand; God's Word says the Holy Spirit teaches us, so rely upon Him if you feel Pastor is in error, but don't challenge him like you did, it is not right. Just not right. If we rely upon the Spirit to lead us in Truth and the Word, there is no need to always be on alert. He brought you out of the apostate church didn't he? Then He will keep you to Himself and lead you again, and again.
I don't know you, but you said you are a follower of Jesus. His burden is light, your fellow sister in Christ loves you, and there is a Pastor here who is a rare find indeed. Thank God and Praise Him that there still is a Pastor preaching the true Word of God, not the fancy and false edited version we all have been exposed to.
From some of the posts I have seen here recently I am saddened to see so much rhetoric and meanness to last me a lifetime. I thought I left this kind of stuff when I left the church.
To sum it up, I think you overreacted, and I think it was unnecessary.
Whether or not each of us realizes it, our comments to posts affects those who read it. I try to keep that in mind when I respond to a post. Your post took away the smile God gave me through this one simple sentence. I hope I don't do that to others, and if I do, please let me know so I can repent.
Praying for all who are here. And yes, love you all.
I would like to add that for me, the 'classroom' has been a wide variety of venues. It has been in virtually every room of whatever house I am living in, the interior of every vehicle, whether car, truck, train, airplane, at whatever job, or recreation facility. You see, I carry God's Word with me in the form of tracts, or pieces of paper that I scribble Scriptures on. It is a habit that is developed out of a hunger for His Word which is a light, a lamp to my feet (Psalm 119:105). I want to "... be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh me a reason for the hope that is in me with meekness and fear" 1 Peter 3:15. Robert
You're taking my response as a personal attack. It was not meant as such. You say of Rick "God has made him a Pastor". Really? How do you know this?
As for me seeming "to be so negative"....Not so, Cherie. Discernment is not negative but to be commended. I'm saddened by most professing believers not promoting the study of His Word, instead frown on it's importance and sustenance for the believer.
Gal 5:22 "Joy" is fruit of His Spirit. A believer born again of His Spirit has all the Joy they could ever want/need/expect. It is His joy filling me, not joy my flesh conjures up at will.
You say to "just love one another". This is the false church's theology. You say "there is no need to always be on alert". Every book of the Bible says contrary to your statement here. There are wolves prowling around us constantly to seek and devour whom they will. I am to be on the alert always and warn my brothers/sisters of the wolf. If they choose not to accept the warning then perhaps they are not truly one of His sheep. John 10:4,5,27
I am saddened that you take my posts as "rhetoric" and "meanness". That is your choice. I have no control over how you receive an attempt at correction. You seem to always be quick to correct but are unwilling to accept correction yourself. You are quick to defend yourself but not God's Word.
Wow! You have really taken everything I said out of context, but that is okay, not going to argue with you. I can see there is no reasoning with you.
All I can ask how did you get all this:
"If I don't study the Word, how do I come to understand it? Do we blindly follow a "preacher", believing he has interpreted it correctly? Are we not to study the Word to learn of Him?"
From this: " Bible study is more substantive on legs than in classrooms."
How do you know how I am taking your post? I never said attack, I said negative. How do I know that God made Pastor Rick a Pastor? Because he said so and his Bio says so. Why should I not believe that? I use discernment not to be negative, but to know right from wrong. Yes, joy is from the Lord, where is yours? And I don't care what the false church says about love, I am talking about the Love of Jesus for the brethren. You know, meet the brethren with an Holy kiss? Just because the false church used this Biblical concept incorrectly doesn't mean it is to be ignored.
Your posts are negative, and I fail to understand why. You said your post was an attempt to correct. What did you see in the post that needed correction? Also, you seem to have a disagreement about positions of the men of the body of Christ, why? Or is the Gospel where it speaks of the women of the body of Christ just to be done away with?
I think you are too ready to correct. Too quick to jump in with what you think is correction and that is negative. By all means we need to use discernment, but when it is due, not just to have something to say. I have no ego, and I am the first one to beg for correction because I want to please the Lord and edify my brothers and sisters in Christ, but if we don't love one another as Christ commanded, than we have no right to correct each other. I believe the Word says correct with all meekness.
Please show me where in the post that required you to comment as you did. If I am wrong I will absolutely ask for your forgiveness, no problem with that. And yes, your comments can take on a mean tone whether you know it or not. Or perhaps you didn't understand the post?
You can walk around always on alert, but I will walk around with the Lord at my side. He is my hiding place, and when the roaring lion comes along, I will be able to seek covering from Him. Not that I should not be aware, but I am not going to be weary about it. How can you glory in the joy of the Lord is one is always weary. Moderation in all things. Discernment, correction, etc. with Love.
1 Corinthians 13
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing (charity in this context means love)
Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Maybe we should take this to court and let the unbelievers to decide? This reminds me of The aristocrats movie where the cat goes PSSSFFFT, PSSSFFFT, PSSSFFFT. LOL
Many times people have questions/comment which we should take time with them. Others are best to not waste precious time with. The Lord must open eyes as only He is capable of doing.
Here may be a good time for all of us to learn something. My track record of success has been varied. But when we begin to feel some emotion in a discussion, especially when it is a negative or confrontational emotion, it is always best to step back and let it go. I have yet to see anyone change their views during an exchange. Only the Spirit can do that. But dialogue is good if we keep a watch over our words. Again, if you feel something welling up inside, or if you feel someone else responds with hightened emotion, let the Spirit guide you. You may well please God by your retreat. :)
How interesting these numerous comments are. When I read the sentence, I thought that Pastor Rick meant that what we study in the classroom gains true substance when we apply it in real life. I've always had a habit of interpreting a person's words in the most positive light.
Over the years I have gotten my feelings hurt as well. I quickly learned not to go too deep in discussions especially when it seems the emotions are beginning to run a little high. Sometimes it takes a good night's sleep to let it go. Many times when we do not have to share face to face it is easier to become somewhat unpleasant or misunderstood. And when we really do not know each other it is also easier to disregard each other's feelings. Humility must be a mainstay of our attitude and speech, especially when we truly believe we are right.
Cherie, I will apologize to you on this thread as this is where I made my remark. Please forgive me as I am still in the flesh and will say things that are fleshy. We all received and welcomed you when you started posting and sharing your difficulties. After you started posting, you began correcting others, saying in one comment in a particular post, 'Sorry if it offended anyone but you (Cherie) were going by what the Word said.'(paraphrasing) Studies were shared with you that you were not interested in because of the URL. In another comment made by you, that you didn't need to know the Greek word. It was to me Cherie an attitude of, 'I know scripture and I don't need any correction unless it done by Pastor Rick.' It has been said by Pastor Rick himself that he does not know it all. It seemed to me when someone corrects you and gives you scripture, you get very defensive.We all can learn from one another. Why are you commenting in and under another subject, saying that Shannon and myself are mean and that you are not going to post anymore? Instead of speaking with us directly, why post under a different subject? Are you looking for sympathy from others? This is fleshy as well Cherie. Cherie, My desire for you is to grow in the Grace and the knowledge of Our Lord Christ.
I believe in the spirit of reconciliation. This is at the core of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. I pray that all will be recvonciled to each other. A blog comment thread should never bring ugliness, and all of us need to be sensitive to our words.
Many times our flesh wants to be hurt and offended and play "the victim" because of the potential attention it will receive. The flesh always needs/desires petting. This is a battle we all face, me included, as we all are still living in this flesh. Many claiming the "gift" of mercy run to comfort the hurting ones. Sometimes the hurt may be the Holy Spirit chastening us.
James 1:2-4 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
It sometimes is best to not get in the Father's way and let His will be done. Perhaps the person will learn from the lessons He is teaching them. This is my prayer for myself always.
Hebrews 6:1-3 (vs 3) And this we will do, if God permits.
We don't see any example in God's Word of anyone who is a follower of The Way running away from Truth, being offended by another of The Way who confronts their wrong beliefs, as they may be doing damage to the rest of the Church by inadvertently promoting false teachings. We find that instead, when confronted with Truth, they were blessed by the correction, thankful for true edification. Paul many times was not gentle, in his approach, but very firm. Galatians and the letters to the Corinthians are great examples of this.
When I read Rick's title, I thought he meant that we must be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, who deceive themselves. That we are epistles to be read by all men. That the Lord did not reveal His Word so we could have programs and classes and sell books, but in order to redeem us and live Christ's life through us. That mentoring and discipling others in obeying the Word can be more valuable than puffing up their minds with knowledge--"to your faith add VIRTUE, and to your virtue knowledge..." That is not meaning that we do not study, but study alone is dead. Victoria
The more we are in the Word, the more we will be transformed by the renewing of our minds. To know Him is to be in His Word. I agree there are many programs in churches in how to be a better christian, how to pray in 28 days :(, etc. and applying techniques of making God do what we would want, etc.Studying His word is changing us in how we think and lining up with Him and His will. It takes many years of studying to become a Pastor and not only learning of Him but experiencing Him through the difficult trials and testing of the faith in believers.Now if it takes the men years of studying the Word then we as women should be studying His word as well to test what is being taught in the pulpits today and is it lining up with His word. Yes, we are living epistles, what we learn in His Word IS changing us and He is pruning us.
Oh, what grace would be on display to a dying world if followers of Jesus held up the OT wisdom of the "iron sharpens iron..." concept against the light of the NT wisdom of His humility described by Paul in Phil. 2.
"We don't see any example in God's Word of anyone who is a follower of The Way running away from Truth, being offended by another of The Way who confronts their wrong beliefs,...."
One does have to wonder, though, what was going on between the 2 women, Euodia and Syntyche, Paul mentions in Phil. 4.
Want to share this as it might help us understand what is a doer of the Word from Pastor Bill Klein Explanation of a doer of the Word: James teaches that what he meant by that is the application of what the Word of God says about ourselves that we are sinners and in need of Christ. James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. James 1:23-25 is the explanation
James 1:23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: James 1:24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
False teaching will always use the Word of God to motivate people to do things. Jesus said to be His disciple, one must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Him. Isaiah 64:6 states that our best works are as filthy rags in His sight.
A human being can only produce human things (including effort) A human being cannot produce spiritual things. Only the Spirit of God can produce the spiritual things of God (John 3:6)
People can be involved in a "works" system of teaching and not grace produced by the Lord.
Yes, just as in the parable of the Sower, only ONE of the four types of hearts (soils) receives the Lord and this ONE is a doer of the Word as the person recognizes their need of Christ and receives His Spirit.
When the people asked Jesus,"What shall we do that we might work the works of God?" Jesus answered and said unto them, "This is the work of GOD, that you BELIEVE ON HIM WHOM HE HATH SENT." John 6:28,29.
Acts 16:31; John 3:36,6:47; Romans 10:9-13; 1 John 5:5-13.
I would urge anyone who attends a denomination which uses MANIPULATION or INTIMIDATION for the purposes of DOMINATION, to run away as fast as you can!
Read the Word! Study! When God saves us he gives us LIBERTY! But many religious people want to control you. Read Galatians 2:4,5 to get an idea what people under the law try to impose on those set free by the GRACE of God. Robert
ReplyDelete=D
Thanks for the smile on this cold morning. Praise the Lord and Glory to the Living God.
Cherie c.
If I don't study the Word, how do I come to understand it?
ReplyDeleteDo we blindly follow a "preacher", believing he has interpreted it correctly?
Are we not to study the Word to learn of Him?
Psalm 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night.
Joshua 1:8 "This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success.
Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.
2 Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.
Acts 17:11 Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.
2 Peter 3:18
But grow in the grace and KNOWLEDGE of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.
How do we "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" without studying Him through His Word. He says He IS the Word.
John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Many today mock those of us that study His Word because they do not understand John 1:1.
Shannon
My point being that all true Bible study does study and meditate upon the Word and also implements that which we have learned. Without obedience to the Word Bible study is no different than a talk show.
ReplyDeleteI believe "go" was part of Christs commands, lifting ourselves from our studies and applying them to our lives. Placing at least your heart in this position of desiring to be used, God will challenge you to then apply his promises to the task. Daily I must be reminded to, "put my hand to the plow" because the comfort of the couch also calls me.
ReplyDeleteYes, Chris, good word. Faith without works must be correction for us all.
ReplyDeleteI do not take my relationship with the Lord lightly. If He didn't allow for Preachers to lead His flock, then we would not have 2Timothy and Titus in the New Testament.
ReplyDeleteJust because the walled church has scarred us does not mean that we should not have Pastors/Preachers. Especially women. We are Not, I repeat Not to preach to men.
1 Corinthians 14:34
Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law.
No one in the Lord should follow anyone blindly except for Jesus.
I get it that women in the walled church don't know their place because they are not taught it, but I am very disappointed that women who have come out don't seem to know what the Word of God says about what our role is and our place. Just don't get it. Where does it say in this post that you are not to study the Word on your own? It is a play on words, and that is all.
Get a bit tired of the constant negative posts. This post was cute and light hearted. Being in the Faith doesn't mean you cannot laugh, and be light hearted about things.
As I posted earlier today, thanks for the smile this post gave me today especially since I am not feeling so great. To God be the Glory.
Pastor, if I may ask, does being a Christian mean that I can not smile or enjoy something? I know the time is short, but some seem to have no joy at all. Some days I have little if any joy, but most of the time I do. Does this mean I am not saved?
Ecclesiastes 3:4
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
Why does being a member of the body of Christ mean we have to be so stern or stone like. Love has joy, or have we forgotten that?
It was a play on words and a blessing, it was not meant to provoke a serious response. Correct me if I am wrong.
Psalm 16:3
But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight.
Psalm 37:11
But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.
Psalm 37:23
The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.
Psalm 119:16
I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.
Romans 7:22
For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
Cherie c.
So, as women, we are not to question the Pastor on what he is teaching, Cherie? I do not consider this an assembly of all believers sitting under the Pastor. This is an open forum unless brother Rick changes it.
ReplyDeleteShannon
If you don't have Bible Study in the classroom, you don't have a leg to stand on.
ReplyDeleteRobert
II Timothy 2:15
Good one, Rick. :)
ReplyDeleteWhether it is a forum or an assembly, he is still a Pastor and as I have said before, Scripture says we are to respect their leadership. He will answer for what he posts because God has made him a Pastor.
ReplyDeleteDo I consider this a church of some sort, yes. It is a Pastor teaching us the Word of God. Is it wrong to ask questions? No. Is it wrong for us, especially women to question him, meaning his teaching? Yes. Right now there is a respect of persons. In the Kingdom there will not be, but for now there is and God's Word is clear on our role as a woman in the body of Christ.
I am sure Pastor doesn't need defending, but I am standing on the Word of God as a woman and a fellow servant. Also, what I was saying in the first place is this post was a lighthearted play on words and you come along and say what you did. I don't understand why? What did he say that prompted you to write what you wrote? Like I mentioned in other responses to you, you seem like you have something to prove and I don't understand why. I am not seeing in this post what you are seeing to make you come out swinging. I am sure you know the Bible way more than me, but with all that knowledge you seem so negative. Where is your joy dear sister? Your comment took the post completely out of context. Bible study on legs......people not class rooms....get it? It was a play on words, not an edict on studying the Word. Your comment took an innocent tongue in cheek post and put a negative on it. It made me smile, why not you? Where does it say or infer that you shouldn't study the Word? And in no way did it state you're to blindly follow anyone. We will all stand before the Judgment seat of Christ. Out of a simple sentence, you got all that?
I don't understand why studying God's Word, and being a follower of Jesus has to be so serious and complicated. The love of God is simple, and gentle, and wonderful. I don't need the Greek word for terms in the Bible to know what He has done for me, that He loves me, and that He set before me a gift like no other gift ever.
Can't we stop this defensive posture and just love one another?
Master, interpret, study, understand; God's Word says the Holy Spirit teaches us, so rely upon Him if you feel Pastor is in error, but don't challenge him like you did, it is not right. Just not right. If we rely upon the Spirit to lead us in Truth and the Word, there is no need to always be on alert. He brought you out of the apostate church didn't he? Then He will keep you to Himself and lead you again, and again.
I don't know you, but you said you are a follower of Jesus. His burden is light, your fellow sister in Christ loves you, and there is a Pastor here who is a rare find indeed. Thank God and Praise Him that there still is a Pastor preaching the true Word of God, not the fancy and false edited version we all have been exposed to.
From some of the posts I have seen here recently I am saddened to see so much rhetoric and meanness to last me a lifetime. I thought I left this kind of stuff when I left the church.
To sum it up, I think you overreacted, and I think it was unnecessary.
Whether or not each of us realizes it, our comments to posts affects those who read it. I try to keep that in mind when I respond to a post. Your post took away the smile God gave me through this one simple sentence. I hope I don't do that to others, and if I do, please let me know so I can repent.
Praying for all who are here. And yes, love you all.
Cherie c.
your sister in Christ
Cherie c.
Good one, Robert!
ReplyDeleteI would like to add that for me, the 'classroom' has been a wide variety of venues. It has been in virtually every room of whatever house I am living in, the interior of every vehicle, whether car, truck, train, airplane, at whatever job, or recreation facility. You see, I carry God's Word with me in the form of tracts, or pieces of paper that I scribble Scriptures on. It is a habit that is developed out of a hunger for His Word which is a light, a lamp to my feet (Psalm 119:105). I want to "... be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh me a reason for the hope that is in me with meekness and fear" 1 Peter 3:15.
ReplyDeleteRobert
Cherie,
ReplyDeleteYou're taking my response as a personal attack. It was not meant as such.
You say of Rick "God has made him a Pastor". Really? How do you know this?
As for me seeming "to be so negative"....Not so, Cherie. Discernment is not negative but to be commended. I'm saddened by most professing believers not promoting the study of His Word, instead frown on it's importance and sustenance for the believer.
Gal 5:22 "Joy" is fruit of His Spirit. A believer born again of His Spirit has all the Joy they could ever want/need/expect. It is His joy filling me, not joy my flesh conjures up at will.
You say to "just love one another". This is the false church's theology.
You say "there is no need to always be on alert". Every book of the Bible says contrary to your statement here. There are wolves prowling around us constantly to seek and devour whom they will. I am to be on the alert always and warn my brothers/sisters of the wolf. If they choose not to accept the warning then perhaps they are not truly one of His sheep. John 10:4,5,27
I am saddened that you take my posts as "rhetoric" and "meanness". That is your choice. I have no control over how you receive an attempt at correction. You seem to always be quick to correct but are unwilling to accept correction yourself.
You are quick to defend yourself but not God's Word.
Shannon
Wow! You have really taken everything I said out of context, but that is okay, not going to argue with you. I can see there is no reasoning with you.
ReplyDeleteAll I can ask how did you get all this:
"If I don't study the Word, how do I come to understand it?
Do we blindly follow a "preacher", believing he has interpreted it correctly?
Are we not to study the Word to learn of Him?"
From this: " Bible study is more substantive on legs than in classrooms."
How do you know how I am taking your post? I never said attack, I said negative. How do I know that God made Pastor Rick a Pastor? Because he said so and his Bio says so. Why should I not believe that? I use discernment not to be negative, but to know right from wrong. Yes, joy is from the Lord, where is yours? And I don't care what the false church says about love, I am talking about the Love of Jesus for the brethren. You know, meet the brethren with an Holy kiss? Just because the false church used this Biblical concept incorrectly doesn't mean it is to be ignored.
Your posts are negative, and I fail to understand why. You said your post was an attempt to correct. What did you see in the post that needed correction? Also, you seem to have a disagreement about positions of the men of the body of Christ, why? Or is the Gospel where it speaks of the women of the body of Christ just to be done away with?
I think you are too ready to correct. Too quick to jump in with what you think is correction and that is negative. By all means we need to use discernment, but when it is due, not just to have something to say. I have no ego, and I am the first one to beg for correction because I want to please the Lord and edify my brothers and sisters in Christ, but if we don't love one another as Christ commanded, than we have no right to correct each other. I believe the Word says correct with all meekness.
Please show me where in the post that required you to comment as you did. If I am wrong I will absolutely ask for your forgiveness, no problem with that. And yes, your comments can take on a mean tone whether you know it or not. Or perhaps you didn't understand the post?
You can walk around always on alert, but I will walk around with the Lord at my side. He is my hiding place, and when the roaring lion comes along, I will be able to seek covering from Him. Not that I should not be aware, but I am not going to be weary about it. How can you glory in the joy of the Lord is one is always weary. Moderation in all things. Discernment, correction, etc. with Love.
1 Corinthians 13
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing (charity in this context means love)
Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
your sister in Christ Jesus
Cherie c.
Maybe we should take this to court and let the unbelievers to decide?
ReplyDeleteThis reminds me of The aristocrats movie where the cat goes PSSSFFFT, PSSSFFFT, PSSSFFFT. LOL
Oh my!!
ReplyDeleteVery good sister Kelli :)
Moving along......
Shannon
Many times people have questions/comment which we should take time with them. Others are best to not waste precious time with. The Lord must open eyes as only He is capable of doing.
My sentence of "Others are best to not waste precious time with" was unnecessary and uncalled for. Please accept my apology for this statement.
ReplyDeleteThese exchanges are not edifying for the Body at all.
Shannon
Here may be a good time for all of us to learn something. My track record of success has been varied. But when we begin to feel some emotion in a discussion, especially when it is a negative or confrontational emotion, it is always best to step back and let it go.
ReplyDeleteI have yet to see anyone change their views during an exchange. Only the Spirit can do that. But dialogue is good if we keep a watch over our words. Again, if you feel something welling up inside, or if you feel someone else responds with hightened emotion, let the Spirit guide you. You may well please God by your retreat. :)
How interesting these numerous comments are. When I read the sentence, I thought that Pastor Rick meant that what we study in the classroom gains true substance when we apply it in real life. I've always had a habit of interpreting a person's words in the most positive light.
ReplyDeleteExactly. :)
ReplyDeleteOver the years I have gotten my feelings hurt as well. I quickly learned not to go too deep in discussions especially when it seems the emotions are beginning to run a little high. Sometimes it takes a good night's sleep to let it go.
ReplyDeleteMany times when we do not have to share face to face it is easier to become somewhat unpleasant or misunderstood. And when we really do not know each other it is also easier to disregard each other's feelings.
Humility must be a mainstay of our attitude and speech, especially when we truly believe we are right.
Cherie,
ReplyDeleteI will apologize to you on this thread as this is where I made my remark. Please forgive me as I am still in the flesh and will say things that are fleshy.
We all received and welcomed you when you started posting and sharing your difficulties. After you started posting, you began correcting others, saying in one comment in a particular post, 'Sorry if it offended anyone but you (Cherie) were going by what the Word said.'(paraphrasing)
Studies were shared with you that you were not interested in because of the URL. In another comment made by you, that you didn't need to know the Greek word. It was to me Cherie an attitude of, 'I know scripture and I don't need any correction unless it done by Pastor Rick.' It has been said by Pastor Rick himself that he does not know it all. It seemed to me when someone corrects you and gives you scripture, you get very defensive.We all can learn from one another.
Why are you commenting in and under another subject, saying that Shannon and myself are mean and that you are not going to post anymore? Instead of speaking with us directly, why post under a different subject? Are you looking for sympathy from others? This is fleshy as well Cherie.
Cherie,
My desire for you is to grow in the Grace and the knowledge of Our Lord Christ.
I believe in the spirit of reconciliation. This is at the core of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. I pray that all will be recvonciled to each other. A blog comment thread should never bring ugliness, and all of us need to be sensitive to our words.
ReplyDeleteMany times our flesh wants to be hurt and offended and play "the victim" because of the potential attention it will receive. The flesh always needs/desires petting. This is a battle we all face, me included, as we all are still living in this flesh. Many claiming the "gift" of mercy run to comfort the hurting ones. Sometimes the hurt may be the Holy Spirit chastening us.
ReplyDeleteJames 1:2-4 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
It sometimes is best to not get in the Father's way and let His will be done. Perhaps the person will learn from the lessons He is teaching them. This is my prayer for myself always.
Hebrews 6:1-3 (vs 3) And this we will do, if God permits.
We don't see any example in God's Word of anyone who is a follower of The Way running away from Truth, being offended by another of The Way who confronts their wrong beliefs, as they may be doing damage to the rest of the Church by inadvertently promoting false teachings. We find that instead, when confronted with Truth, they were blessed by the correction, thankful for true edification.
Paul many times was not gentle, in his approach, but very firm. Galatians and the letters to the Corinthians are great examples of this.
Shannon
When I read Rick's title, I thought he meant that we must be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, who deceive themselves. That we are epistles to be read by all men. That the Lord did not reveal His Word so we could have programs and classes and sell books, but in order to redeem us and live Christ's life through us. That mentoring and discipling others in obeying the Word can be more valuable than puffing up their minds with knowledge--"to your faith add VIRTUE, and to your virtue knowledge..."
ReplyDeleteThat is not meaning that we do not study, but study alone is dead.
Victoria
The more we are in the Word, the more we will be transformed by the renewing of our minds.
ReplyDeleteTo know Him is to be in His Word.
I agree there are many programs in churches in how to be a better christian, how to pray in 28 days :(, etc. and applying techniques of making God do what we would want, etc.Studying His word is changing us in how we think and lining up with Him and His will. It takes many years of studying to become a Pastor and not only learning of Him but experiencing Him through the difficult trials and testing of the faith in believers.Now if it takes the men years of studying the Word then we as women should be studying His word as well to test what is being taught in the pulpits today and is it lining up with His word.
Yes, we are living epistles, what we learn in His Word IS changing us and He is pruning us.
Oh, what grace would be on display to a dying world if followers of Jesus held up the OT wisdom of the "iron sharpens iron..." concept against the light of the NT wisdom of His humility described by Paul in Phil. 2.
ReplyDeleteGood points Kelli.
ReplyDelete"To know Him is to be in His Word".
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of KNOWLEDGE: but fools despise wisdom and instruction" Proverbs 1:7.
Shannon, you posted numerous Scriptures where we are admonished to STUDY His Word. Very good!
Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commandments".
Robert
Shannon said:
ReplyDelete"We don't see any example in God's Word of anyone who is a follower of The Way running away from Truth, being offended by another of The Way who confronts their wrong beliefs,...."
One does have to wonder, though, what was going on between the 2 women, Euodia and Syntyche, Paul mentions in Phil. 4.
Want to share this as it might help us understand what is a doer of the Word from Pastor Bill Klein
ReplyDeleteExplanation of a doer of the Word:
James teaches that what he meant by that is the application of what the Word of God says about ourselves that we are sinners and in need of Christ.
James 1:22
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
James 1:23-25 is the
explanation
James 1:23
For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
James 1:24
For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
False teaching will always use the Word of God to motivate people to do things.
Jesus said to be His disciple, one must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Him.
Isaiah 64:6 states that our best works are as filthy rags in His sight.
A human being can only produce human things (including effort)
A human being cannot produce spiritual things.
Only the Spirit of God can produce the spiritual things of God (John 3:6)
People can be involved in a "works" system of teaching
and not grace produced by the Lord.
This means that when a person hears the Word and receives the LORD, this person is a doer of the Word.
ReplyDeleteShannon
Yes, just as in the parable of the Sower, only ONE of the four types of hearts (soils) receives the Lord and this ONE is a doer of the Word as the person recognizes their need of Christ and receives His Spirit.
ReplyDeleteThat is rightly dividing the Word Kelli.
ReplyDeleteWhen the people asked Jesus,"What shall we do that we might work the works of God?" Jesus answered and said unto them, "This is the work of GOD, that you BELIEVE ON HIM WHOM HE HATH SENT." John 6:28,29.
Acts 16:31; John 3:36,6:47; Romans 10:9-13; 1 John 5:5-13.
I would urge anyone who attends a denomination which uses MANIPULATION or INTIMIDATION for the purposes of DOMINATION, to run away as fast as you can!
Read the Word! Study! When God saves us he gives us LIBERTY! But many religious people want to control you. Read Galatians 2:4,5 to get an idea what people under the law try to impose on those set free by the GRACE of God.
Robert
Yes agree with you Robert and yes, be careful as you run and do not exceed the speed limit.
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ReplyDelete