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 Christianity Etc › Re: Agency Of Evil Spirits by Eviana(op): 2:09pm On Jul 11, 2020 |
Conclusion Those possessed with devils are usually represented as being in a condition of great suffering; yet there were exceptions to this rule. For the sake of obtaining supernatural power, some welcomed the satanic influence. These of course had no conflict with the demons. Of this class were those who possessed the spirit of divination,—Simon Magus, Elymas the sorcerer, and the damsel who followed Paul and Silas at Philippi. {GC 516.1} None are in greater danger from the influence of evil spirits than those who, notwithstanding the direct and ample testimony of the Scriptures, deny the existence and agency of the devil and his angels. So long as we are ignorant of their wiles, they have almost inconceivable advantage; many give heed to their suggestions while they suppose themselves to be following the dictates of their own wisdom. This is why, as we approach the close of time, when Satan is to work with greatest power to deceive and destroy, he spreads everywhere the belief that he does not exist. It is his policy to conceal himself and his manner of working. {GC 516.2} The Great Controversy Chapter 31 Agency of Evil Spirits E.G. White 1 Like 1 Share |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Agency Of Evil Spirits by Eviana(op): 2:07pm On Jul 11, 2020 |
Part 6 But the purposes of Christ were not thwarted. He allowed the evil spirits to destroy the herd of swine as a rebuke to those Jews who were raising these unclean beasts for the sake of gain. Had not Christ restrained the demons, they would have plunged into the sea, not only the swine, but also their keepers and owners. The preservation of both the keepers and the owners was due alone to His power, mercifully exercised for their deliverance. Furthermore, this event was permitted to take place that the disciples might witness the cruel power of Satan upon both man and beast. The Saviour desired His followers to have a knowledge of the foe whom they were to meet, that they might not be deceived and overcome by his devices. It was also His will that the people of that region should behold His power to break the bondage of Satan and release his captives. And though Jesus Himself departed, the men so marvelously delivered, remained to declare the mercy of their Benefactor. {GC 515.1} Other instances of a similar nature are recorded in the Scriptures. The daughter of the Syrophoenician woman was grievously vexed with a devil, whom Jesus cast out by His word. (Mark 7:26-30). "One possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb" (Matthew 12:22); a youth who had a dumb spirit, that ofttimes "cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him" (Mark 9:17-27); the maniac who, tormented by "a spirit of an unclean devil" (Luke 4:33-36), disturbed the Sabbath quiet of the synagogue at Capernaum—all were [516] healed by the compassionate Saviour. In nearly every instance, Christ addressed the demon as an intelligent entity, commanding him to come out of his victim and to torment him no more. The worshipers at Capernaum, beholding His mighty power, "were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power He commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out." Luke 4:36. {GC 515.2} |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Agency Of Evil Spirits by Eviana(op): 2:04pm On Jul 11, 2020 |
Part 5 At the command of Jesus the evil spirits departed from their victims, leaving them calmly sitting at the Saviour's feet, subdued, intelligent, and gentle. But the demons were [515] permitted to sweep a herd of swine into the sea; and to the dwellers of Gadara the loss of these outweighed the blessings which Christ had bestowed, and the divine Healer was entreated to depart. This was the result which Satan designed to secure. By casting the blame of their loss upon Jesus, he aroused the selfish fears of the people and prevented them from listening to His words. Satan is constantly accusing Christians as the cause of loss, misfortune, and suffering, instead of allowing the reproach to fall where it belongs—upon himself and his agents. {GC 514.3} 1 Like |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Agency Of Evil Spirits by Eviana(op): 2:02pm On Jul 11, 2020 |
Part 4 The fact that men have been possessed with demons, is clearly stated in the New Testament. The persons thus afflicted were not merely suffering with disease from natural causes. Christ had perfect understanding of that with which He was dealing, and He recognized the direct presence and agency of evil spirits. {GC 514.1} A striking example of their number, power, and malignity, and also of the power and mercy of Christ, is given in the Scripture account of the healing of the demoniacs at Gadara. Those wretched maniacs, spurning all restraint, writhing, foaming, raging, were filling the air with their cries, doing violence to themselves, and endangering all who should approach them. Their bleeding and disfigured bodies and distracted minds presented a spectacle well pleasing to the prince of darkness. One of the demons controlling the sufferers declared: "My name is Legion: for we are many." Mark 5:9. In the Roman army a legion consisted of from three to five thousand men. Satan's hosts also are marshaled in companies, and the single company to which these demons belonged numbered no less than a legion. {GC 514.2} |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Agency Of Evil Spirits by Eviana(op): 2:01pm On Jul 11, 2020 |
Part 3 Thus God's people, exposed to the deceptive power and unsleeping malice of the prince of darkness, and in conflict with all the forces of evil, are assured of the unceasing guardianship of heavenly angels. Nor is such assurance given without need. If God has granted to His children promise of grace and protection, it is because there are mighty agencies of evil to be met—agencies numerous, determined, and untiring, of whose malignity and power none can safely be ignorant or unheeding. {GC 513.1} Evil spirits, in the beginning created sinless, were equal in nature, power, and glory with the holy beings that are now God's messengers. But fallen through sin, they are leagued together for the dishonor of God and the destruction of men. United with Satan in his rebellion, and with him cast out from heaven, they have, through all succeeding ages, co-operated with him in his warfare against the divine authority. We are told in Scripture of their confederacy and government, of their various orders, of their intelligence and subtlety, and of their malicious designs against the peace and happiness of men. {GC 513.2} Old Testament history presents occasional mention of their existence and agency; but it was during the time when Christ was upon the earth that evil spirits manifested their power in the most striking manner. Christ had come to enter [514] upon the plan devised for man's redemption, and Satan determined to assert his right to control the world. He had succeeded in establishing idolatry in every part of the earth except the land of Palestine. To the only land that had not fully yielded to the tempter's sway, Christ came to shed upon the people the light of heaven. Here two rival powers claimed supremacy. Jesus was stretching out His arms of love, inviting all who would to find pardon and peace in Him. The hosts of darkness saw that they did not possess unlimited control, and they understood that if Christ's mission should be successful, their rule was soon to end. Satan raged like a chained lion and defiantly exhibited his power over the bodies as well as the souls of men. {GC 513.3} |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Agency Of Evil Spirits by Eviana(op): 1:59pm On Jul 11, 2020 |
Part 2 Angels are sent on missions of mercy to the children of God. To Abraham, with promises of blessing; to the gates of Sodom, to rescue righteous Lot from its fiery doom; to Elijah, as he was about to perish from weariness and hunger in the desert; to Elisha, with chariots and horses of fire surrounding the little town where he was shut in by his foes; to Daniel, while seeking divine wisdom in the court of a heathen king, or abandoned to become the lions' prey; to Peter, doomed to death in Herod's dungeon; to the prisoners at Philippi; to Paul and his companions in the night of tempest on the sea; to open the mind of Cornelius to receive the gospel; to dispatch Peter with the message of salvation to the Gentile stranger—thus holy angels have, in all ages, ministered to God's people. {GC 512.1} A guardian angel is appointed to every follower of Christ. These heavenly watchers shield the righteous from the power [513] of the wicked one. This Satan himself recognized when he said: "Doth Job fear God for nought? Hast not Thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side?" Job 1:9, 10. The agency by which God protects His people is presented in the words of the psalmist: "The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them." Psalm 34:7. Said the Saviour, speaking of those that believe in Him: "Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father." Matthew 18:10. The angels appointed to minister to the children of God have at all times access to His presence. {GC 512.2} |
| Christianity Etc › Agency Of Evil Spirits by Eviana(op): 1:57pm On Jul 11, 2020 |
Not my original works Please be blessed and informed that the battle is spiritual (not carnal). Ephesians 6:10-18 KJV Part 1 The connection of the visible with the invisible world, the ministration of angels of God, and the agency of evil spirits, are plainly revealed in the Scriptures, and inseparably interwoven with human history. There is a growing tendency to disbelief in the existence of evil spirits, while the holy angels that "minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation" (Hebrews 1:14) are regarded by many as spirits of the dead. But the Scriptures not only teach the existence of angels, both good and evil, but present unquestionable proof that these are not disembodied spirits of dead men. {GC 511.1} Before the creation of man, angels were in existence; for when the foundations of the earth were laid, "the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy." Job 38:7. After the fall of man, angels were sent to guard the tree of life, and this before a human being had died. Angels are in nature superior to men, for the psalmist says that man was made "a little lower than the angels." Psalm 8:5. {GC 511.2} We are informed in Scripture as to the number, and the power and glory, of the heavenly beings, of their connection with the government of God, and also of their relation to the work of redemption. "The Lord hath prepared His throne in the heavens; and His kingdom ruleth over all." And, says the prophet, "I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne." In the presence chamber of the King of kings [512] they wait—"angels, that excel in strength," "ministers of His, that do His pleasure," "hearkening unto the voice of His word." Psalm 103:19-21; Revelation 5:11. Ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands, were the heavenly messengers beheld by the prophet Daniel. The apostle Paul declared them "an innumerable company." Daniel 7:10; Hebrews 12:22. As God's messengers they go forth, like "the appearance of a flash of lightning," (Ezekiel 1:14), so dazzling their glory, and so swift their flight. The angel that appeared at the Saviour's tomb, his countenance "like lightning, and his raiment white as snow," caused the keepers for fear of him to quake, and they "became as dead men." Matthew 28:3, 4. When Sennacherib, the haughty Assyrian, reproached and blasphemed God, and threatened Israel with destruction, "it came to pass that night, that the angel of the Lord went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand." There were "cut off all the mighty men of valor, and the leaders and captains," from the army of Sennacherib. "So he returned with shame of face to his own land." 2 Kings 19:35; 2 Chronicles 32:21. {GC 511.3} 2 Likes |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 11:55am On Jul 10, 2020*. Modified: 11:10pm On Jul 10, 2020 |
Galatians 5: 22-23 (KJV) 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. One of the most defining characteristics of a follower of Christ. The inward and outward manifestation of a transformed heart..... Mercy..... God's character, His essence, His very being...the example set forth by Paul (one of the most passionate soldiers for the Lord) and who arguably had every right to say what defines a child of God. A man who was transformed 360 degrees from who he "used to be" to who he finally became. How does one consistently manifest the Fruit of the Spirit in a tough, challenging, increasingly evil world? In a society where evil is now called "good" and good is now called "evil". In a society that is directly, emphatically and blatantly against the Lord Jesus Christ? So we, as professors of Christ, MUST love the unlovable? Do good to those who consistently use, abuse and mistreat us? Practice patience to someone who shows "0" signs of repentance? Don't exact vengeance on a person who has wronged you falsely and spoken evil on your character? Temper one's words...by not saying what could further be said but will not be said in reply to someone's words? How about the huge, and difficult spirit of true forgiveness, even if one isn't necessarily wrong? You mean we who profess Christ must do those things? I say, 1000 percent, unequivacably, "YES"! The motivating factor behind all of the Fruit of the Spirit is love.... The only way one can have that agape, God-type of love, is to be surrendered to Him. The Holy Spirit MUST be the indwelling spirit in us, in order to sincerely express the fruit. What we see in Galatians is exactly the opposite of what the world teaches we should do. Here we have two contrasts: good vs evil....no in-between. This is where the battle lies for the Christian: obeying the Spirit or fighting against it. Either the Holy Spirit is gonna dwell in us or the enemy's spirit will have dominion. We cannot have both. The world does notice a difference, whether it outwardly acknowledges it or not. This means a daily surrender, a daily renewal of the heart and mind. A "wrestling in prayer" sort of situation...meaning an outcome of victory over the flesh...character flaws that need to be buried or erased. Followers of Christ, it is crucial that the world sees a marked contrast between who belongs to "it" and who belongs to "Jesus". The lines are being drawn....and there will soon be no fence straddlers...no safely sitting in the middle. Christ' disciples are known by their love for one another (John 13:35 KJV). However, that love must spread across to ALL...even those who are scorners, mockers, haters of God, racists, boastful, liars, proud, wicked, tribalists etc.,..basically the people who upset our spirits because God's spirit does not live in them. Let us not be deceived. This can even include those who claim God and are regular church members or clergy. We must be in a constant state of self-introspection about where we stand in the Lord...and know that it is He who knows the thoughts and intents of our hearts (1 Samuel 16:7 KJV). It not so much what we "know", but moreso how we "live". Let me add this: Notice where Paul says in the last part of Gal 5:23, "against such there is no law." Think about why he said that. When we live peacably among men and treat each other based on love (thereby displaying the Fruit of the Spirit) there would be no need to have a law. Laws show us what is right as opposed to what is wrong. Which means that the the "works of the flesh" cause us to produce evil or cause negative results which hurt or damage others. Therefore, causing punishment to occur which further damages society. I am reminded about the "love" chapter in Corinthians. 1 Corinthians 13:3-10 (KJV) [b]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. 2 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. 3 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. 4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. The wonderful thing about the Lord is that He desires to reconnect with His creation for eternity...live and interact with us pre-sin. He has already paid the price, through His blood to redeem us. He waits for us to accept His gift, allow Him to transform us and make us ready to see Him soon. The love for Him will transform into love for a dying world, to tell them why we think and behave the way we do (The Fruit of the Spirit). Let us be daily surrendering our wills to the Lord and represent His spirit to a world desperately in need of it. Be blessed... |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 1:08pm On Jul 09, 2020*. Modified: 2:53pm On Jul 09, 2020 |
I had almost made beautiful comments about your earlier post before this one. And the only word I am picking here is debate. The boy came in and started debating and I stopped the useless debate. Well, if you choose to write only to Christians, it is ok. The only reason I came on board was to ask more questions, but I see it again and again that nairaland is not the platform. I might be tempted to write more cos I am so enticed to truths. So, I will just delete this account and give up that I cannot find meaningful answers here.Forgness, You have confirmed who you are now. If there is a shred of honesty in you, you would tell it the right way here. But, unfortunately, you will not. I have not contacted you in any form or shape in over 5 1/2 months......and you know that. You are presenting a false narrative again, which leads me to believe that your motives and intentions were impure. The last words with you were my final words as I wished you the best with your life. I even sent you the Amazing Facts website to check out end-time topics such as the great tribulation, the 1,000 years and more. I even suggested you hook up with some guys of my denomination there in Nigeria to know more about what I believe. The only thing that I later became interested in (after chatting with you initially about another topic) was leading you to Christ, knowing that although you "claimed to be a Christian", it is overwhelmingly glaring that you are not. Other circumstances got in the way and caused major problems..still not solved to this day. However, I let it all go and placed it in God's hands. My concern (after all of that) was making sure that peace reigned among us...regardless of whatever situations occured in the past on this site. So yes, there were huge gaps in between the times I contacted you. The conversations always started out good, but then ended on a terrible note. So the Holy Spirit (as I have been writing about), always convicted me to make peace with you and forgive. Just so you know, I also did that with others. However, the last time I contacted you was strictly about making peace, and ending with Jesus. You also contacted me many times. It was you who created this new moniker, came onto my other thread and started attacking me. I even invited you to comment on this thread because I thought you were sincere. I stated that even here on this thread...no bitterness, no malice, no unforgiveness towards you or anybody on this site. I am very content with who's in my life and told you that awhile ago. I am not looking for a man to mold or any special friend. I was very clear and you acknowledged that. I have not spoken privately (hence the reason for my personal text) with anyone on here for a long time.....which I discreetly tried to write earlier to you on this thread as to the reason why I wasn't gonna answer your "pm" here on the site that you sent about a week ago. Actually since I created this moniker, I have only spoken to (1) person from the past (offline) whose contact I already had. I haven't spoken to him now for about the same amount of time as you....and I have no issue with him. Seriously, my heart bleeds for you because you know I have exhausted myself in trying to explain my love for Jesus Christ (privately and publicly) and offering you the hope that I have. My summation now, however, is that you do not want Jesus..the only one you truly need. As I told Mr. Reed on my other thread, it is not my responsibility to prove everything about my faith so that (once or "IF" you are completely satisfied) only then will you accept Jesus. I can only "plant the seed". If you look for doubts, you will surely find them. Christianity is a religion of FAITH. You must believe that He is, even without seeing. However, the Lord is more than willing to have you "try" Him. If you want to try the Lord, then YOU have to make the step. If you do not want the Lord, then live your life and do not try to deter others from serving Him. I have tremedously slowed down my time and interactions on Nairaland, which I never thought I would finally do. I bother no one on the site. I, now, only write on my created threads...to a specific group, but welcome others of other "faiths". I read about the problems of Nigeria (which are overwhelming), but as said many times before, continue lifting her up daily. My walk with Christ is the most important thing in this life....it is not a joke nor am I taking it lightly. I am sorry that I wasn't a positive influence on you overall. Will still keep you lifted. Yes, I will definitely meet someone from Nairaland in the Kingdom of God one day....that I am 1000 percent sure of. P.S. Folks, I am sorry for once again having my thread derailed to a certain extent. Under my former moniker, this type of thing happened. The circumstances were a little different then. However, what happened here is not a movie script or play...at least not on my end. This is real life. An attack on "who" and "what" I wrote is what happened. I am who I am...flaws and all...still a work in progress....and one who honors the Lord Jesus Christ as my redeemer. I decided to be transparent to some extent, complete with honesty & sincerity. My mistake is replying to coments, when I probably should be "silent". I have to remember that (Ephesians 6:10-18) KJV is vey real. I am humbly asking serious male prayer warriors to lift up Forgness daily....specifically and so that he can meet Jesus and let Him transform him. God bless you all.... Fruit of the Spirit post still coming. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 2:23am On Jul 09, 2020 |
Eviana: |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 2:23am On Jul 09, 2020 |
Kobojunkie:Just know that I don't pray any "by fire by force" prayer nor am I capable of forcing the Lord to do anything in your life. I pray specific prayers for each person....and from what I can see by a lot of what you have posted (had to stop reading your posts though), I know exactly what to pray. Folks, I am not a "bot". I am a real live human.....and he/she knows it. You and Forgness, please and kindly handle your conversation/contrived debate on someone else's thread because you two have become a distraction. I know you both have issues with what I have written, but I can make "0" apologies on truth. I am writing to followers of Christ and to others of different religions, you are "welcome" to read if you are interested. Praying for you guys sincerely...blessings to both of you. Going back to "bot" mode until I write my "Fruit of the Spirit" post. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 1:41am On Jul 09, 2020*. Modified: 11:22pm On Jul 10, 2020 |
Praying for you too Kobojunkie.....you are newly added to my list and I am sincerely telling you this. Okay, back to the topic. Galatians 5:19-21 (KJV) 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like : of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. As the above scripture passage has stated, the "works of the flesh" are the opposite of the fruit of the spirit (which is coming on another post....soon enough). The works of the flesh come from the father of lies: satan....the enemy....the accuser....the destroyer....the manifestation of evil incarnate. Those that sincerely follow Christ--those that believe Jesus was born of a woman, lived, died and rose again-- and has the power to forgive sins and cleanse from ALL unrighteousness--cannot be ruled by the works and/or lust of the flesh. The "works of the flesh" are expected by those who deny Christ' deity. That is because the Holy Spirit does NOT abide in them. So that is normal behaviour. However, when a child of God partakes in the works of the flesh, somewhere in his/her walk is a disconnect, disobedience or a partial surrender to the Lord. If we, Christians are honest with ourselves, we have ALL come up short or fallen in one or more of the areas listed. We all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23) KJV at some point in our lives. As I have always said, what one does when he/she has fallen, is the crucial point. First, one has to believe that Jesus can forgive and cleanse a confessed sinner from sin. This is where the Holy Spirit comes into play. He gently rebukes, guides, warns, etc. when a child of God gets tempted to choose the wrong thing, be it in thoughts, words, or actions. This is how one knows the Holy Spirit is working in one's life. When tempted and choosing not to give in to the temptation and live in regret for the moment...only to have to confess that bad choice or actual sin later. Or when tempted to retaliate to words spoken or misspoken about various things from various people etc., When continually provoked for no valid reason, but you choose to sincerely pray for the person(s) rather than exact vengeance because you know the person is bound...under the other spirit. So many instances where the Holy Spirit impresses the mind to not only do good to those who are kind, but to those who despitefully use & abuse you..perhaps not having good intentions. I know the power of the Holy Spirit is real in my life personally, because my thoughts and actions are changing daily. Sanctification is a daily process... The Holy Spirit truly living in a person testifies to the power of a living Savior who desires to transform lives from sinners to saints...to change thoughts and habits and to break the stronghold of sin in a person's life. Cooperation has to come from the person, however, and without force from the Lord. Jesus is love and is waiting with open arms to the sincere truth seeker. P.S. /Updated Modification I dug deep, and found my post that spoke about my finding the Lord or shall I say accepting His offer to surrender to Him. It reads "Nobody", cause I deactivated, but it is my former moniker with an "M"... I copied the link to my exact words to a N.L. atheist member, which actually the thread was dominated by professed atheists (the entire thread can be found by typing in the title).They are the people who I have arguably chatted with the most or close to it on this site since the end of 2016...so I do not discriminate although my beliefs are fundamentally important to me. My words have never changed regarding the Lord..not then and not now. Hopefully, what I wrote back at the beginning of 2019 will be an encouragement for a person(s). https://www.nairaland.com/4957650/christians-nairaland-what-youre-wrong#74719884 1 Like |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 12:48am On Jul 07, 2020 |
The Holy Spirit is to the follower of Christ what oxygen and nitrogen are to air: INSEPARABLE. You cannot have one without the other. The Holy Spirit, as Jesus stated in (John14:16-18 KJV) below, is the Comforter who would only come after Jesus died and ascended to Heaven. 16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. 18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. While so many scriptures speak about the extreme importance of having the Holy Spirit guide, teach, rebuke and comfort etc., I have only chosen the above verses. I think that Jesus spoke eloquently and succintly about the role of the third member of the Godhead. How important is the Holy Spirit? Enough so that when asked by the prophet Elijah what he wanted, Elisha stated the following: 2 Kings 2:9-15 KJV 9 And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me. 10 And he said, Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so. 11 And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. 12 And Elisha saw it, and he cried, My father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof. And he saw him no more: and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent them in two pieces. 13 He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan; 14 And he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said, Where is the Lord God of Elijah? and when he also had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither: and Elisha went over. 15 And when the sons of the prophets which were to view at Jericho saw him, they said, The spirit of Elijah doth rest on Elisha. And they came to meet him, and bowed themselves to the ground before him. Elisha asks for a double portion of the prophet Elijah's spirit. Now one may wonder about that statement. However, if one understands that thespirit that controled Elijah was the Holy Spirit, then can one see why it was so important for Elisha, Elijah's mentee, to ask for the spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who abides in the sincere follower of Christ' life that enables him/her to manifest the Fruit of the Spirit . I have never heard the Holy Spirit speak to me audibly... However, He speaks to me through the Word, through nature, through the still, small inner voice... The Holy Spirit guides the sincere seeker into all truth. Now as humans, and since we all have free-will, oftentimes we ignore that still, small voice and choose what pleases us...as I did at the store. However, the Holy Spirit gently rebukes and reminds the sincere follower of the mistake made...and then repentance needs to take place. If you are claiming Christ as your Savior and yet without the Holy Spirit guiding you, then you are deceived and need to pray to God the Father for the Spirit to engulf you. The manifestation of the Holy Spirit in one's life will come in the form of the Fruit of the Spirit which I will write about in the next post... Be blessed 1 Like |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 12:25am On Jul 02, 2020 |
Forgness, Forgive me for the late reply. I have been tied up with commitments elsewhere. Never thought I would not be on Nairaland as much anymore....even as a member! Anyhow, I will come back and answer all of your question(s) soon enough. If you don't mind, I'd like to answer them here. Not to offend you, and it probably would be easier to speak with you privately, but I feel more comfortable here for the time being...hence my personal text. Yes, no malice or bitterness. You are free to post on here and so is anyone else. However, I don't like arguments that become destructive and endless debates about the Word. I tend to get quiet or leave the discussion. So when I sense that happening, I'm through. I also have one more post that I still have to write on this thread. Anyone reading through this thread, please bear with me, I haven't forgotten. It's coming. Blessings to all |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 3:30am On Jun 29, 2020*. Modified: 11:48am On Jun 29, 2020 |
About one and a half weeks ago, I was in the grocery store in the produce section taking my time looking at the produce. Through my peripheal view, I could see an older gentleman of another race standing there staring in front of him...about 5 feet away from me. I thought he was looking at the produce in front of him trying to make a decision. However, it turned out that he was waiting for me to move! He never uttered a word or even looked in my direction. Here I was not even having a clue that I was delaying him! It wasn't until I moved that I saw him go directly to where I had been. Now you know I was perplexed as to why he couldn't just say, "Excuse me ma'am. I would like to get some items right where you are standing if you don't mind?" How hard would that have been? I would have gladly moved out of the way. Then I started going through a million reasons why he didn't say a word. Was it because of the racial tension going on across the U.S.? Wa he afraid to say something to me, a black woman, because of the riots going on? Was it because of the pandemic? Was he socially distancing himself? What was it? Well I never found out. I only got annoyed and a little hot and mumbled under my breath as I walked away. The rest of my trip was ruined as I became fixated about the elderly man's behaviour. Do you know that the Holy Spirit rebuked me that night when prayer time came? Simply because I knew I was wrong for how I thought about that man in my heart.... He never heard me say anything, but in my heart I was angry and "wanted" to confront him. Do you know that the ironic thing was, that I kept running into him throughout the rest of my time in the store? Perhaps those were my opportunities to "right the wrong" I had already thought secretly in my heart. However, I didn't. It was an opportunity to show the love of Christ to someone that day who might have needed it. I knew better, but didn't do better, because neither my heart nor my spirit were clean. I can so relate to the words of David when he cried in (Psalm 51:10-12) for God to give him a clean heart, a right spirit and to not take the Holy Spirit away from him. See the Holy Spirit is the life force of a believer's spiritual journey. Without the Comforter, we cannot have the spirit of God (Phillipians 2:13). Our hearts must be transformed. We must allow the Holy Spirit to have His way in our lives...and it must be evident in our relations with fellow human beings...IN SPITE OF how they may behave (John 13:35). Sincere love for God and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit are the only fuel that can transform the heart. I am reminded of (Psalm 139: 23-24) so that my next encounter will be a different story. 4 Likes 1 Share |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 2:50am On Jun 29, 2020 |
Forgness, Thank you for your reply. You kinda remind me of an old acquaintance who has the "gift of gab". He is quite a talker....on a variety of subjects. Quite knowledgeable in many areas. Anyway, I really hope he's doing ok during this pandemic. I now pray for him daily....specific prayers. Anyhow, I will definitely pray for those specific things you listed in addition to what I have already been praying for, for Nigeria....since around March/April when I felt compelled to. I am praying for "5" specific people on this site (3 of whom definitely know because I have told them in one way or another). The other two do NOT know and that is okay, but I am compelled to do so. I also have a general Nairaland religion room list (which includes some of the people whom I have exchanged words with) & then Nigeria as a whole. Lots of prayers going up for you all daily. I appreciate your apology and also offer my apology to all whom I have offended here on this section. I must speak the truth, but I do not mean to be hurtful. It's always best to be at peace with all if possible. So I am telling you that I hold "0" grudges...no bitterness, malice or unforgiveness. Agape Peace unto you.... 1 Like |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 9:54pm On Jun 20, 2020*. Modified: 12:36pm On Aug 25, 2021 |
All the while Jesus was at Jerusalem during the feast He was shadowed by spies. Day after day new schemes to silence Him were tried. The priests and rulers were watching to entrap Him. They were planning to stop Him by violence. But this was not all. They wanted to humble this Galilean rabbi before the people. On the first day of His presence at the feast, the rulers had come to Him, demanding by what authority He taught. They wished to divert attention from Him to the question of His right to teach, and thus to their own importance and authority. "My teaching is not Mine," said Jesus, "but His that sent Me. If any man willeth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching, whether it be of God, or whether I speak from Myself." John 7:16, 17, R. V. The question of these cavilers Jesus met, not by answering the cavil, but by opening up truth vital to the salvation of the soul. The perception and appreciation of truth, He said, depends less upon the mind than upon the heart. Truth must be received into the soul; it claims the homage of the will. If truth could be submitted to the reason alone, pride would be no hindrance in the way of its reception. But it is to be received through the work of grace in the heart; and its reception depends upon the renunciation of every sin that the Spirit of God reveals. Man's advantages for obtaining a knowledge of the truth, however great these may be, will prove of no benefit to him unless the heart is open to receive [456] the truth, and there is a conscientious surrender of every habit and practice that is opposed to its principles. To those who thus yield themselves to God, having an honest desire to know and to do His will, the truth is revealed as the power of God for their salvation. These will be able to distinguish between him who speaks for God, and him who speaks merely from himself. The Pharisees had not put their will on the side of God's will. They were not seeking to know the truth, but to find some excuse for evading it; Christ showed that this was why they did not understand His teaching ...Those who are forward in accusing others, and zealous in bringing them to justice, are often in their own lives more guilty than they. Men hate the sinner, while they love the sin. Christ hates the sin, but loves the sinner. This will be the spirit of all who follow Him. The Desire of Ages Chapter 50- "Among Snares" E.G. White |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 7:32pm On Jun 19, 2020*. Modified: 2:30am On Jun 29, 2020 |
Psalm 51 : 10 - 12 (KJV) 10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. 11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. 12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Galatians 5:18-23 (KJV) 18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law The above two passages are powerful, powerful portions of the Bible written by two of the most influential "foot" soldiers and mighty men of God: King David and the Apostle Paul. As the world continues to be shaken from its foundation...so to speak....through the successive chaos and endless tragedies, I am reminded about the Lord's precise prophesies and my need to surrender all to Him. These are extremely serious and solemn times that we are living in..and the only thing that matters is what we do for Christ...how we allow Him to transform us, mold us and prepare us for eternity. I originally thought that I was just gonna write about the tragic event that occurred in the U.S. around 3 weeks ago and just leave it at that. However, I am led to address Christians and the utmost need for us to have the Holy Spirit place in us the Fruit of the Spirit. It is not a choice. It is a mandate! Those that belong to Christ MUST have the spirit of God in them. I was rebuked by the Holy Spirit earlier this week after a seemingly small situation occurred in the grocery store. I will explain it on my next post. However, I was reminded by a church brother of mine (after relaying an event to him) to not let ANYTHING or ANYONE take my focus off of Christ and what He is doing in my life as I am obedient to Him. I will take (Psalm 51:10-12) and (Galatians 5:18-23) and write about them separately. They deserve a post a piece. MODIFIED Thank you, Dtruthspeaker, for recording my original comment addressed to two guys from my other thread. There was not even a hint of anger or offense in my reply here, HOWEVER, I think I need to be wise about some approaches and just address the scriptural texts..as I originally stated..cause I see now what the motive was for one of them. Sincerely praying for you guys Forgness & LordReed....as I have also been praying for Nigeria daily the last 3-4 months. Nigeria (as a whole) was even addressed in a post I did around February or so...some months back. May you both surrender and have the peace of Christ. To those reading, my (2) posts will be coming soon enough...as promised. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 11:34am On Jun 11, 2020 |
[quote author=E.viana post=90535745]Part 18 CONCLUSION The people of Israel were at this time loyal to God; and so long as they continued in obedience to His law, no power in earth or hell could prevail against them. But the curse which Balaam had not been permitted to pronounce against [530] God's people, he finally succeeded in bringing upon them by seducing them into sin. When they transgressed God's commandments, then they separated themselves from Him, and they were left to feel the power of the destroyer. Satan is well aware that the weakest soul who abides in Christ is more than a match for the hosts of darkness, and that, should he reveal himself openly, he would be met and resisted. Therefore he seeks to draw away the soldiers of the cross from their strong fortification, while he lies in ambush with his forces, ready to destroy all who venture upon his ground. Only in humble reliance upon God, and obedience to all His commandments, can we be secure. No man is safe for a day or an hour without prayer. Especially should we entreat the Lord for wisdom to understand His word. Here are revealed the wiles of the tempter and the means by which he may be successfully resisted. Satan is an expert in quoting Scripture, placing his own interpretation upon passages, by which he hopes to cause us to stumble. We should study the Bible with humility of heart, never losing sight of our dependence upon God. While we must constantly guard against the devices of Satan, we should pray in faith continually: "Lead us not into temptation." The Great Controvery Chapter 32 E.G. White[/quote] |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 11:33am On Jun 11, 2020 |
LordReed:Sir, This will be my last reply to you on this because this is becoming a distraction & unfruitful. Please let me make myself very clear. You may not be worshiping satan (in your mind). I do not know your definition of "worship". However, you have made it very plain that you hate the God of Abraham, Isaac & Israel. You do....frame it whichever way you'd like. There are only (2) choices: God or satan. You are either on one side or the other...point blank period. What you (and many others) have done here on Nairaland religion section for a specific religious group...represents the work of the enemy. You can insult and castigate me until you leave this planet but that is the truth. What I have said, based on many threads of yours that I have read over my almost "4' year stay on this site, says that you are bound by satan. I cannot make any choice for you. I am hoping that you will choose life, that's all. I have compassion for you particularly based on a conversation with you about 1 and 1/2 years ago. It's quite clear that you are deeply hurt. However, I don't speak for every Christian because as you can see, some of us vary on many different ideologies. I speak plainly from the Bible..the words that I have read. I am not accusing you of anything falsely. Lord knows I understand the results of slander/false accusations all too well. This is about your soul....God is trying to reach you...just as He did for me. He is no respector of persons. If you reject Him enough times though, He will finally leave you alone. He does not force. You are grieving His spirit....meaning continually pushing Him away. I implore you to stop expecting followers of Christ to do for you, what only the Lord, Himself, can do. We are not your savior. We are mere fallible, humans persevering on this Christian journey (in this challenging world..looking towards our author and finisher Christ because we have chosen to believe by faith. We have an expectation... The difference between "us" and "you" is that we have accepted Him. He's calling you now. My prayer for you continues... May you surrender and have final peace. 1 Like |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 12:26am On Jun 11, 2020 |
LordReed, I wasn't calling you the enemy. I was speaking in general about the confusion that has occured on the thread and who's behind it....hence Ephesians 6. However, you are allowing the enemy to use you and keep you bound. I must speak the truth to you. Sir, if I thought you were a lost cause, I would've never told you about praying. It's just that you won't seek the Lord for yourself...you won't accept anything that goes opposite to your own thoughts. You are stuck & your heart has hardened tremendously. You, sir, don't have forever & ever to make a choice. You need to go to a private, quiet place and seek the Lord (humbly as a child)..It is HE who will answer you. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 12:02am On Jun 11, 2020 |
Part 18 CONCLUSION The people of Israel were at this time loyal to God; and so long as they continued in obedience to His law, no power in earth or hell could prevail against them. But the curse which Balaam had not been permitted to pronounce against [530] God's people, he finally succeeded in bringing upon them by seducing them into sin. When they transgressed God's commandments, then they separated themselves from Him, and they were left to feel the power of the destroyer. Satan is well aware that the weakest soul who abides in Christ is more than a match for the hosts of darkness, and that, should he reveal himself openly, he would be met and resisted. Therefore he seeks to draw away the soldiers of the cross from their strong fortification, while he lies in ambush with his forces, ready to destroy all who venture upon his ground. Only in humble reliance upon God, and obedience to all His commandments, can we be secure. No man is safe for a day or an hour without prayer. Especially should we entreat the Lord for wisdom to understand His word. Here are revealed the wiles of the tempter and the means by which he may be successfully resisted. Satan is an expert in quoting Scripture, placing his own interpretation upon passages, by which he hopes to cause us to stumble. We should study the Bible with humility of heart, never losing sight of our dependence upon God. While we must constantly guard against the devices of Satan, we should pray in faith continually: "Lead us not into temptation." The Great Controvery Chapter 32 E.G. White |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 12:01am On Jun 11, 2020*. Modified: 12:19am On Jun 11, 2020 |
Mercy.... Not the way I wanted the thread to go. I knew "he" was coming with guns-a-blazing, just didn't know "how" he was gonna strike. Ephesians 6:12 (KJV). On another note, I saw your question Sonmvayina, and sir you too are tighly wound in satan's grip. You are almost squeezed to death. I honestly can't read through the majority your posts because they are so filled with hatred, rage & venom. It's highly offensive to my spirit...not that Mr. Reed's is that much better...but.... I don't think you as well want the truth nor are you teachable. I didn't have a burden to pray for you as I do LordReed & 4 others, but you will be added to my general list of Nairaland folks on the religion section.... Finallydead, yes I can persevere for him, (regarding my specific prayer) however he has to make a choice (freewill)...who he is gonna worship. Right now, it's overwhelmingly satan. Perhaps that will be his final choice. I hope not, but neither "I' nor God can or want to control Him. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 12:54pm On Jun 08, 2020 |
Part 17 Neither wicked men nor devils can hinder the work of God, or shut out His presence from His people, if they will, with subdued, contrite hearts, confess and put away their sins, and in faith claim His promises. Every temptation, every opposing influence, whether open or secret, may be successfully resisted, "not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts." Zechariah 4:6. "The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers. . . . And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?" 1 Peter 3:12, 13. When Balaam, allured by the promise of rich rewards, practiced enchantments against Israel, and by sacrifices to the Lord sought to invoke a curse upon His people, the Spirit of God forbade the evil which he longed to pronounce, and Balaam was forced to exclaim: "How shall I curse, whom God hath not cursed? or how shall I defy, whom the Lord hath not defied?" "Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his!" When sacrifice had again been offered, the ungodly prophet declared: "Behold, I have received commandment to bless: and He hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it. He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, neither hath He seen perverseness in Israel: the Lord his God is with him, and the shout of a King is among them." "Surely there is no enchantment against Jacob, neither is there any divination against Israel: according to this time it shall be said of Jacob and of Israel, What hath God wrought!" Yet a third time altars were erected, and again Balaam essayed to secure a curse. But from the unwilling lips of the prophet, the Spirit of God declared the prosperity of His chosen, and rebuked the folly and malice of their foes: "Blessed is he that blesseth thee, and cursed is he that curseth thee." Numbers 23:8, 10, 20, 21, 23; 24:9. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 12:49pm On Jun 08, 2020 |
Finallydead, Yes, LordReed does ask some good questions. I'm not quite sure though, that any "satisfactory" answer will quench his doubts at this moment in time. Does he really want the truth? Will he accept it & surrender? I am gonna be really raw here..and not to hurt him, but to speak the truth. There is an enormous battle going on for his soul. Right now, the enemy has him tightly in his grip. LordReed's had ample evidence for some years now (through this section from some biblically-sound based guys), but he's been blinded because the answers don't please him or make sense to him. So he dismisses all of it. Hence, the reason why I am daily praying a specific prayer for him. I sense a mustard seed of hope for this man based on a few things that I've read. The Holy Spirit has to guide, teach & convict Him of the truth...if he allows Him to. My job is to plant the seed. 1 Like |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 12:23pm On Jun 07, 2020 |
Part 16 Satan can present a counterfeit so closely resembling the truth that it deceives those who are willing to be deceived, who desire to shun the self-denial and sacrifice demanded by the truth; but it is impossible for him to hold under his power one soul who honestly desires, at whatever cost, to know the truth. Christ is the truth and the "Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world." John 1:9. The Spirit of truth has been sent to guide men into all truth. And upon the authority of the Son of God it is declared: "Seek, and ye shall find." "If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine." Matthew 7:7; John 7:17. The followers of Christ know little of the plots which Satan and his hosts are forming against them. But He who sitteth in the heavens will overrule all these devices for the accomplishment of His deep designs. The Lord permits His people to be subjected to the fiery ordeal of temptation, not because He takes pleasure in their distress and affliction, but because this process is essential to their final victory. He could not, consistently with His own glory, shield them from temptation; for the very object of the trial is to prepare them to resist all the allurements of evil. [529] 1 Like |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 12:17pm On Jun 07, 2020 |
LordReed, I want to just put down the following quote --in the full context..which was paragraph "2" of this thread in Part "1"--so that other impressionable minds won't be confused. You understand, right? "When there is no special effort made to resist his power, when indifference prevails in the church and the world, Satan is not concerned; for he is in no danger of losing those whom he is leading captive at his will. But when the attention is called to eternal things, and souls are inquiring, "What must I do to be saved?" he is on the ground, seeking to match his power against the power of Christ and to counteract the influence of the Holy Spirit" I would suggest you read Luke 4:1-13 (KJV). It may be helpful to you. Also Parts 13-15 of this thread. By the way, I keep you (and 4 others specifically lifted daily to the Lord.....no joke). I want you to be saved sir.... Have a good day. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 2:08am On Jun 07, 2020 |
Part 15 While God has given ample evidence for faith, He will never remove all excuse for unbelief. All who look for hooks to hang their doubts upon will find them. And those who refuse to accept and obey God's word until every objection has been removed, and there is no longer an opportunity for doubt, will never come to the light. Distrust of God is the natural outgrowth of the unrenewed heart, which is at enmity with Him. But faith is inspired by the Holy Spirit, and it will flourish only as it is cherished. No man can become strong in faith without a determined effort. Unbelief strengthens as it is encouraged; and if men, instead of dwelling upon the evidences which God has given to sustain their faith, permit themselves to question and cavil, they will find their doubts constantly becoming more confirmed. But those who doubt God's promises and distrust the assurance of His grace are dishonoring Him; and their influence, instead of drawing others to Christ, tends to repel [528] them from Him. They are unproductive trees, that spread their dark branches far and wide, shutting away the sunlight from other plants, and causing them to droop and die under the chilling shadow. The lifework of these persons will appear as a never-ceasing witness against them. They are sowing seeds of doubt and skepticism that will yield an unfailing harvest. There is but one course for those to pursue who honestly desire to be freed from doubts. Instead of questioning and caviling concerning that which they do not understand, let them give heed to the light which already shines upon them, and they will receive greater light. Let them do every duty which has been made plain to their understanding, and they will be enabled to understand and perform those of which they are now in doubt. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 2:05am On Jun 07, 2020 |
Part 14 God has given in His word sufficient evidence of its divine character. The great truths which concern our redemption are clearly presented. By the aid of the Holy Spirit, which is promised to all who seek it in sincerity, every man may [527] understand these truths for himself. God has granted to men a strong foundation upon which to rest their faith. Yet the finite minds of men are inadequate fully to comprehend the plans and purposes of the Infinite One. We can never by searching find out God. We must not attempt to lift with presumptuous hand the curtain behind which He veils His majesty. The apostle exclaims: "How unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out!" Romans 11:33. We can so far comprehend His dealings with us, and the motives by which He is actuated, that we may discern boundless love and mercy united to infinite power. Our Father in heaven orders everything in wisdom and righteousness, and we are not to be dissatisfied and distrustful, but to bow in reverent submission. He will reveal to us as much of His purposes as it is for our good to know, and beyond that we must trust the Hand that is omnipotent, the Heart that is full of love. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 11:44am On Jun 05, 2020 |
Part 13 And this is the object which Satan seeks to accomplish. There is nothing that he desires more than to destroy confidence in God and in His word. Satan stands at the head of the great army of doubters, and he works to the utmost of his power to beguile souls into his ranks. It is becoming fashionable to doubt. There is a large class by whom the word of God is looked upon with distrust for the same reason as was its Author—because it reproves and condemns sin. Those who are unwilling to obey its requirements endeavor to overthrow its authority. They read the Bible, or listen to its teachings as presented from the sacred desk, merely to find fault with the Scriptures or with the sermon. Not a few become infidels in order to justify or excuse themselves in neglect of duty. Others adopt skeptical principles from pride and indolence. Too ease-loving to distinguish themselves by accomplishing anything worthy of honor, which requires effort and self-denial, they aim to secure a reputation for superior wisdom by criticizing the Bible. There is much which the finite mind, unenlightened by divine wisdom, is powerless to comprehend; and thus they find occasion to criticize. There are many who seem to feel that it is a virtue to stand on the side of unbelief, skepticism, and infidelity. But underneath an appearance of candor it will be found that such persons are actuated by self-confidence and pride. Many delight in finding something in the Scriptures to puzzle the minds of others. Some at first criticize and reason on the wrong side, from a mere love of controversy. They do not realize that they are thus entangling themselves in the snare of the fowler. But having openly expressed unbelief, they feel that they must maintain their position. Thus they unite with the ungodly and close to themselves the gates of Paradise. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 11:43am On Jun 05, 2020 |
Part 12 Innumerable are the erroneous doctrines and fanciful ideas that are obtaining among the churches of Christendom. It is impossible to estimate the evil results of removing one of the landmarks fixed by the word of God. Few who venture to do this stop with the rejection of a single truth. The majority continue to set aside one after another of the principles of truth, until they become actual infidels. The errors of popular theology have driven many a soul to skepticism who might otherwise have been a believer in the Scriptures. It is impossible for him to accept doctrines which outrage his sense of justice, mercy, and benevolence; and since these are represented as the teaching of the Bible, he refuses to receive it as the word of God. [526] |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 2:52pm On Jun 04, 2020 |
Part 11 Still another subtle and mischievous error is the fast-spreading belief that Satan has no existence as a personal being; that the name is used in Scripture merely to represent men's evil thoughts and desires. [525] The teaching so widely echoed from popular pulpits, that the second advent of Christ is His coming to each individual at death, is a device to divert the minds of men from His personal coming in the clouds of heaven. For years Satan has thus been saying, "Behold, He is in the secret chambers" (Matthew 24:23-26); and many souls have been lost by accepting this deception. Again, worldly wisdom teaches that prayer is not essential. Men of science claim that there can be no real answer to prayer; that this would be a violation of law, a miracle, and that miracles have no existence. The universe, say they, is governed by fixed laws, and God Himself does nothing contrary to these laws. Thus they represent God as bound by His own laws—as if the operation of divine laws could exclude divine freedom. Such teaching is opposed to the testimony of the Scriptures. Were not miracles wrought by Christ and His apostles? The same compassionate Saviour lives today, and He is as willing to listen to the prayer of faith as when He walked visibly among men. The natural cooperates with the supernatural. It is a part of God's plan to grant us, in answer to the prayer of faith, that which He would not bestow did we not thus ask. |
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