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 Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 2:49pm On Jun 04, 2020 |
Part 10 Another dangerous error is the doctrine that denies the deity of Christ, claiming that He had no existence before His advent to this world. This theory is received with favor by a large class who profess to believe the Bible; yet it directly contradicts the plainest statements of our Saviour concerning His relationship with the Father, His divine character, and His pre-existence. It cannot be entertained without the most unwarranted wresting of the Scriptures. It not only lowers man's conceptions of the work of redemption, but undermines faith in the Bible as a revelation from God. While this renders it the more dangerous, it makes it also harder to meet. If men reject the testimony of the inspired Scriptures concerning the deity of Christ, it is in vain to argue the point with them; for no argument, however conclusive, could convince them. "The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." 1 Corinthians 2:14. None who hold this error can have a true conception of the character or the mission of Christ, or of the great plan of God for man's redemption |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 2:48pm On Jun 04, 2020 |
Part 9 Among the most successful agencies of the great deceiver are the delusive teachings and lying wonders of spiritualism. Disguised as an angel of light, he spreads his nets where least suspected. If men would but study the Book of God with earnest prayer that they might understand it, they would not be left in darkness to receive false doctrines. But as they reject the truth they fall a prey to deception. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 12:30pm On Jun 03, 2020 |
Part 8 Those who are unwilling to accept the plain, cutting truths of the Bible are continually seeking for pleasing fables that will quiet the conscience. The less spiritual, self-denying, and humiliating the doctrines presented, the greater the favor with which they are received. These persons degrade the intellectual powers to serve their carnal desires. Too wise in their own conceit to search the Scriptures with contrition of soul and earnest prayer for divine guidance, they have no shield from delusion. Satan is ready to supply the heart's desire, and he palms off his deceptions in the place of truth. It was thus that the papacy gained its power over the minds of men; and by rejection of the truth because it involves a cross, Protestants are following the same path. All who neglect the word of God to study convenience and policy, that they may not be at variance with the world, will be left to receive damnable heresy for religious truth. Every conceivable form of error will be accepted by those who willfully reject the truth. He who looks with horror upon one deception will readily receive another. The apostle Paul, speaking of a class who "received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved," declares: "For this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they [524] all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness." 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12. With such a warning before us it behooves us to be on our guard as to what doctrines we receive |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 12:28pm On Jun 03, 2020 |
Part 7 Thus many err from the faith and are seduced by the devil. Men have endeavored to be wiser than their Creator; human philosophy has attempted to search out and explain mysteries which will never be revealed through the eternal ages. If men would but search and understand what God had made known of Himself and His purposes, they would obtain such a view of the glory, majesty, and power of Jehovah that [523] they would realize their own littleness and would be content with that which has been revealed for themselves and their children. It is a masterpiece of Satan's deceptions to keep the minds of men searching and conjecturing in regard to that which God has not made known and which He does not intend that we shall understand. It was thus that Lucifer lost his place in heaven. He became dissatisfied because all the secrets of God's purposes were not confided to him, and he entirely disregarded that which was revealed concerning his own work in the lofty position assigned him. By arousing the same discontent in the angels under his command, he caused their fall. Now he seeks to imbue the minds of men with the same spirit and to lead them also to disregard the direct commands of God. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 12:27pm On Jun 03, 2020 |
Part 6 To many, scientific research has become a curse. God has permitted a flood of light to be poured upon the world in discoveries in science and art; but even the greatest minds, if not guided by the word of God in their research, become bewildered in their attempts to investigate the relations of science and revelation. Human knowledge of both material and spiritual things is partial and imperfect; therefore many are unable to harmonize their views of science with Scripture statements. Many accept mere theories and speculations as scientific facts, and they think that God's word is to be tested by the teachings of "science falsely so called." 1 Timothy 6:20. The Creator and His works are beyond their comprehension; and because they cannot explain these by natural laws, Bible history is regarded as unreliable. Those who doubt the reliability of the records of the Old and New Testaments too often go a step further and doubt the existence of God and attribute infinite power to nature. Having let go their anchor, they are left to beat about upon the rocks of infidelity. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 12:26pm On Jun 03, 2020 |
CodeTemplar, Very correct. Thank you for your contribution. Blessings |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 9:07pm On Jun 02, 2020 |
Part 5 Whenever the study of the Scriptures is entered upon without a prayerful, humble, teachable spirit, the plainest and simplest as well as the most difficult passages will be wrested from their true meaning. The papal leaders select such portions of Scripture as best serve their purpose, interpret to suit themselves, and then present these to the people, while they deny them the privilege of studying the Bible and understanding its sacred truths for themselves. The whole Bible should be given to the people just as it reads. It would be better for them not to have Bible instruction at all than to have the teaching of the Scriptures thus grossly misrepresented. The Bible was designed to be a guide to all who wish to become acquainted with the will of their Maker. God gave to men the sure word of prophecy; angels and even Christ Himself came to make known to Daniel and John the things that must shortly come to pass. Those important matters that concern our salvation were not left involved in mystery. They were not revealed in such a way as to perplex and mislead the honest seeker after truth. Said the Lord by the prophet Habakkuk: "Write the vision, and make it plain, . . . that he may run that readeth it." Habakkuk 2:2. The word of God is plain to all who study it with a prayerful [522] heart. Every truly honest soul will come to the light of truth. "Light is sown for the righteous." Psalm 97:11. And no church can advance in holiness unless its members are earnestly seeking for truth as for hid treasure. By the cry, Liberality, men are blinded to the devices of their adversary, while he is all the time working steadily for the accomplishment of his object. As he succeeds in supplanting the Bible by human speculations, the law of God is set aside, and the churches are under the bondage of sin while they claim to be free |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 2:16pm On Jun 01, 2020 |
Part 4 In order to sustain erroneous doctrines or unchristian practices, some will seize upon passages of Scripture separated from the context, perhaps quoting half of a single verse as proving their point, when the remaining portion would show the meaning to be quite the opposite. With the cunning of the serpent they entrench themselves behind disconnected utterances construed to suit their carnal desires. Thus do many willfully pervert the word of God. Others, who have an active imagination, seize upon the figures and symbols of Holy Writ, interpret them to suit their fancy, with little regard to the testimony of Scripture as its own interpreter, and then they present their vagaries as the teachings of the Bible. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 2:13pm On Jun 01, 2020 |
Part 3 The great deceiver has many agents ready to present any and every kind of error to ensnare souls—heresies prepared to suit the varied tastes and capacities of those whom he would ruin. It is his plan to bring into the church insincere, unregenerate elements that will encourage doubt and unbelief, and hinder all who desire to see the work of God advance and to advance with it. Many who have no real faith in God or in His word assent to some principles of truth and pass as Christians, and thus they are enabled to introduce their errors as Scriptural doctrines. The position that it is of no consequence what men believe is one of Satan's most successful deceptions. He knows that the truth, received in the love of it, sanctifies the soul of the receiver; therefore he is constantly seeking to substitute false theories, fables, another gospel. From the beginning the servants of God have contended against false teachers, not merely as vicious men, but as inculcators of falsehoods that were fatal to the soul. Elijah, Jeremiah, Paul, firmly and fearlessly opposed those who were turning men from the word of God. That liberality which regards a correct religious faith as unimportant found no favor with these holy defenders of the truth. The vague and fanciful interpretations of Scripture, and the many conflicting theories concerning religious faith, that are found in the Christian world are the work of our great adversary to confuse minds so that they shall not discern the truth. And the discord and division which exist among the churches of Christendom are in a great measure due to the prevailing custom of wresting the Scriptures to support a favorite theory. Instead of carefully studying God's word with humility of heart to obtain a knowledge of His will, many seek only to discover something odd or original. [521] |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 2:10pm On Jun 01, 2020 |
Part 2 Again, Satan sees the Lord's servants burdened because of the spiritual darkness that enshrouds the people. He hears their earnest prayers for divine grace and power to break the spell of indifference, carelessness, and indolence. Then with renewed zeal he plies his arts. He tempts men to the indulgence of appetite or to some other form of self-gratification, and thus benumbs their sensibilities so that they fail to hear the very things which they most need to learn. Satan well knows that all whom he can lead to neglect prayer and the searching of the Scriptures, will be overcome by his attacks. Therefore he invents every possible device to engross the mind. There has ever been a class professing godliness, who, instead of following on to know the truth, make it their religion to seek some fault of character or error of faith in those with whom they do not agree. Such are Satan's right-hand helpers. Accusers of the brethren are not few, and they are always active when God is at work and His servants are rendering Him true homage. They will put a false coloring upon the words and acts of those who love and obey the truth. They will represent the most earnest, zealous, self-denying servants of Christ as deceived or deceivers. It is their work to misrepresent the motives of every true and noble deed, to circulate insinuations, and arouse suspicion in the minds of the inexperienced. In every conceivable manner they will seek to cause that which is pure and righteous to be regarded as foul and deceptive But none need be deceived concerning them. It may be readily seen whose children they are, whose example they follow, and whose work they do. "Ye shall know them by [520] their fruits." Matthew 7:16. Their course resembles that of Satan, the envenomed slanderer, "the accuser of our brethren." Revelation 12:10. |
| Christianity Etc › Snares Of Satan by Eviana(op): 2:04pm On Jun 01, 2020*. Modified: 12:32pm On Jun 03, 2020 |
Disclaimer: Not my Original Works This is not meant to "frighten, rather warn". Please be blessed as you read. Part 1 The great controversy between Christ and Satan, that has been carried forward for nearly six thousand years, is soon to close; and the wicked one redoubles his efforts to defeat the work of Christ in man's behalf and to fasten souls in his snares. To hold the people in darkness and impenitence till the Saviour's mediation is ended, and there is no longer a sacrifice for sin, is the object which he seeks to accomplish. 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. The Scriptures declare that upon one occasion, when the angels of God came to present themselves before the Lord, Satan came also among them (Job 1:6), not to bow before the Eternal King, but to further his own malicious designs against the righteous. With the same object he is in attendance when men assemble for the worship of God. Though hidden from sight, he is working with all diligence to control the minds of the worshipers. Like a skillful general he lays his plans beforehand. As he sees the messenger of God searching the Scriptures, he takes note of the subject to be [519] presented to the people. Then he employs all his cunning and shrewdness so to control circumstances that the message may not reach those whom he is deceiving on that very point. The one who most needs the warning will be urged into some business transaction which requires his presence, or will by some other means be prevented from hearing the words that might prove to him a savor of life unto life |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 3:22pm On May 31, 2020*. Modified: 8:04pm On May 31, 2020 |
Matthew 24:4-14 KJV 4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. 6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. 10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. 11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. 12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. 14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.[/i] Continuing my thoughts on a follower of Christ's response to sin during these end times, I would like to address some of the following scriptures in Matthew 24. While Christ is speaking to the disciples on what to expect towards the end of Earth's history, and how they & WE (future followers) also are to respond, He describes the characteristics of the majority of the world. Verses 7, 9, 10 and 12 especially show that the spirit of Christ is absent in the majority of people's lives. As the chaos and unrest continue now in many cities throughout the U.S., what the world is seeing is the love of Christ absent...what man is capable of doing when uncontrolled by the Holy Spirit. Scripture being fulfilled even more rapidly. While emotions range from sadness to anger (and rightfully so), that does not give an emotionally filled person the license to unleash fury and rage on innocent people. Sin does not justify more sin. Now innocent people's livelihoods (businesses) have been destroyed.. Innocent people of ALL races, nations, kindreds and tongues. Riots, looting, destruction, death, even more intense hatred, race-wars etc., are now the results. I condemn how the protests changed from peaceful to disorder and chaos. The whole purpose was destroyed by those acts of violence. Also anyone who promotes retaliation/vengeance (in the above manner) is also not exercising the spirit of God and is wrong. That is the spirit of Satan. To whom it may concern, it is easy to promote an alleged conviction in the comfort of one's home (and not on the front lines), while still having a job, and enjoying the financial rewards. Yet innocent people (and their families) now are left empty & devastated. What has been acomplished other than destruction? I used to like reading about "conspiracies" because I believed and still do some extent, that some things are not always as they appear. I believe in searching some things out...not always believing what one says just at face-value. There could actually be some truth to conspiracies...or hidden agendas. I do not doubt the possibilities. However, the agenda is the same regardless of the approaches used (Hegelian dialectic for example): Lives are lost, people are oppressed and devastation/destruction occurs. Most importantly, many are dying without Christ. The spiritual aspect of good vs. evil is what's the motivating factor behind what occurs on this Earth. Ephesians 6:12 (KJV) comes to mind. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. This is spiritual warfare being enacted by person's who are fully possessed by the spirit of satan and his minions. What happens in the physical always has spiritual implications behind it. Here's some food for thought: I wonder how many folks involved in the riots (the stealing, looting and burning part) profess Christ....perhaps justifying their part in the crisis by promoting retaliation? Followers of Christ, now is the time to examine ourselves to see if we be in the faith. Time to surrender, repent, obey and tell others about the One who can save to the uttermost. 2 Likes |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 11:26am On May 31, 2020 |
Part 11 Conclusion When the testing time shall come, those who have made God's word their rule of life will be revealed. In summer there is no noticeable difference between evergreens and other trees; but when the blasts of winter come, the evergreens remain unchanged, while other trees are stripped of their foliage. So the falsehearted professor may not now be distinguished from the real Christian, but the time is just upon us when the difference will be apparent. Let opposition arise, let bigotry and intolerance again bear sway, let persecution be kindled, and the halfhearted and hypocritical will waver and yield the faith; but the true Christian will stand firm as a rock, his faith stronger, his hope brighter, than in days of prosperity. Says the psalmist: "Thy testimonies are my meditation." "Through Thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way." Psalm 119:99, 104. "Happy is the man that findeth wisdom." "He shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit." Proverbs 3:13; Jeremiah 17:8. Chapter 37 The Great Controversy E.G. White |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 11:24am On May 31, 2020 |
Bejusttoall, Thank you for your contributions. Blessings to you... |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 12:12pm On May 29, 2020 |
Part 10 Many are deceived as to their true condition before God. They congratulate themselves upon the wrong acts which they do not commit, and forget to enumerate the good and noble deeds which God requires of them, but which they have neglected to perform. It is not enough that they are trees in the garden of God. They are to answer His expectation by bearing fruit. He holds them accountable for their failure to accomplish all the good which they could have done, through His grace strengthening them. In the books of heaven they are registered as cumberers of the ground. Yet the case of even this class is not utterly hopeless. With those who have slighted God's mercy and abused His grace, the heart of [602] long-suffering love yet pleads. "Wherefore He saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, . . . redeeming the time, because the days are evil." Ephesians 5:14-16 Conclusion Next..... |
| Christianity Etc › Signs Of The Times: My Thoughts by Eviana(op): 7:40pm On May 28, 2020*. Modified: 12:33pm On Jun 03, 2020 |
2 Timothy 3:1-5 (KJV) 1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away As the world nears its end, I am reminded of the above scripture verses. Unless one has been living in a remote village with no means of modern technology, the world has seen what transpired on Monday, May 25, 2020, as the horrific and heart-wrenching murder of 46- year old, father of two, George Floyd, occurred. While he may have been allegedly guilty of a particular crime, the U.S. Constitution states that there is a humane manner/process in which to reprimand a suspect. This apparently did not occur. I cannot even view the video personally, but the picture of that man dead with a knee still on his neck, after he pleaded for relief, is forever captured in my mind. How does one mentally and emotionally process this heinous crime? The city of Minneapolis is currently in a state of chaos and destruction, which surely has and will continue to result in more deaths. Anger, hatred, destruction, violence, rioting, vandalism, vengeance, sin begetting more sin and so forth. There will be no winners in this situation. Murders happen daily worldwide, yet this particular one has struck a nerve. Perhaps it was because the whole incident is on camera. Forever stamped digitally... Perhaps it was because the world saw a man--a human being-- pleading for his life, another human being showing absolutely "0" mercy, grace or compassion, and the eventual result of that decision...death. Mercy.... This world being so deeply entrenched in sin to the point that we no longer seem capable of good. Evil has tremendously surpassed good in this 21st century, not surprisingly. Surely foreign countries can relate to atrocities such as Mr. Floyd's tragedy. Nigeria, in particular, understands fully what unbridled passion (whether racial, tribal, religious or other etc.,) towards another human being can result in. So how does a professed follower of Christ, react to situations like these? Is it justifiable to exact vengeance on yet another inhumane atrocity committed against a person (by obviously guilty people which oftentimes and in many cases, seem to be fueled by other inbred ideologies/factors)? Honestly speaking, there is where the challenge and struggle lies. Following Christ, knowing what He has told His people to do in His Word when faced with undeserved inhumane practices....YET....still struggling. Matthew 5:44-48 (KJV) 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? 47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? 48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect The scripture passage above plainly tells us to pray sincerely for those who commit atrocities against others (such as pre-meditated murder--regardless of race, creed, culture or religion etc.,) to surrender to Christ. Even to the point of blessing them....which must require forgiveness. 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. Because at this moment, they are all on their way to Christ-less graves UNLESS they repent from their sins.... Jesus also died for evil men and women...who have the choice to surrender to Him. We have to look at and pray for wicked people as lost souls who neither know God nor have His spirit in them, but absolutely need it. We know in our hearts what Christ would do.....but the pain and raw emotions of injustice anywhere are real....very real. So much could be said... The only remedy to sin--in a sin ravaged world--is to surrender to the Lord Jesus Christ and allow Him to transform our hearts and minds (John 3:16-17 KJV). Prayers to the late Mr. Floyd's surviving family (especially children). 2 Likes 2 Shares |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 11:30am On May 28, 2020 |
Part 9 We are living in the most solemn period of this world's history. The destiny of earth's teeming multitudes is about to be decided. Our own future well-being and also the salvation of other souls depend upon the course which we now pursue. We need to be guided by the Spirit of truth. Every follower of Christ should earnestly inquire: "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?" We need to humble ourselves before the Lord, with fasting and prayer, and to meditate much upon His word, especially upon the scenes of the judgment. We should now seek a deep and living experience in the things of God. We have not a moment to lose. Events of vital importance are taking place around us; we are on Satan's enchanted ground. Sleep not, sentinels of God; the foe is lurking near, ready at any moment, should you become lax and drowsy, to spring upon you and make you his prey To Be Continued.... |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 10:16pm On May 27, 2020 |
Part 8 All who value their eternal interests should be on their guard against the inroads of skepticism. The very pillars of truth will be assailed. It is impossible to keep beyond the reach of the sarcasms and sophisms, the insidious and pestilent teachings, of modern infidelity. Satan adapts his temptations to all classes. He assails the illiterate with a jest or sneer, while he meets the educated with scientific objections and philosophical reasoning, alike calculated to excite distrust or contempt of the Scriptures. Even youth of little experience presume to insinuate doubts concerning the fundamental [601] principles of Christianity. And this youthful infidelity, shallow as it is, has its influence. Many are thus led to jest at the faith of their fathers and to do despite to the Spirit of grace. Hebrews 10:29. Many a life that promised to be an honor to God and a blessing to the world has been blighted by the foul breath of infidelity. All who trust to the boastful decisions of human reason and imagine that they can explain divine mysteries and arrive at truth unaided by the wisdom of God are entangled in the snare of Satan To Be Continued..... |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 10:15pm On May 27, 2020 |
Part 7 The Bible should never be studied without prayer. The Holy Spirit alone can cause us to feel the importance of those [600] things easy to be understood, or prevent us from wresting truths difficult of comprehension. It is the office of heavenly angels to prepare the heart so to comprehend God's word that we shall be charmed with its beauty, admonished by its warnings, or animated and strengthened by its promises. We should make the psalmist's petition our own: "Open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law." Psalm 119:18. Temptations often appear irresistible because, through neglect of prayer and the study of the Bible, the tempted one cannot readily remember God's promises and meet Satan with the Scripture weapons. But angels are round about those who are willing to be taught in divine things; and in the time of great necessity they will bring to their remembrance the very truths which are needed. Thus "when the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him." Isaiah 59:19. Jesus promised His disciples: "The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." John 14:26. But the teachings of Christ must previously have been stored in the mind in order for the Spirit of God to bring them to our remembrance in the time of peril. "Thy word have I hid in mine heart," said David, "that I might not sin against Thee." Psalm 119:11 |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 6:47pm On May 26, 2020 |
Part 6 We should exert all the powers of the mind in the study of the Scriptures and should task the understanding to comprehend, as far as mortals can, the deep things of God; yet we must not forget that the docility and submission of a child is the true spirit of the learner. Scriptural difficulties can never be mastered by the same methods that are employed in grappling with philosophical problems. We should not engage in the study of the Bible with that self-reliance with which so many enter the domains of science, but with a prayerful dependence upon God and a sincere desire to learn His will. We must come with a humble and teachable spirit to obtain knowledge from the great I AM. Otherwise, evil angels will so blind our minds and harden our hearts that we shall not be impressed by the truth. Many a portion of Scripture which learned men pronounce a mystery, or pass over as unimportant, is full of comfort and instruction to him who has been taught in the school of Christ. One reason why many theologians have no clearer understanding of God's word is, they close their eyes to truths which they do not wish to practice. As understanding of Bible truth depends not so much on the power of intellect brought to the search as on the singleness of purpose, the earnest longing after righteousness To Be Continued..... |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 6:46pm On May 26, 2020 |
Part 5 God has given us His word that we may become acquainted with its teachings and know for ourselves what He requires of us. When the lawyer came to Jesus with the inquiry, "What shall I do to inherit eternal life?" the Saviour referred him to the Scriptures, saying: "What is written in the law? how readest thou?" Ignorance will not excuse young or old, nor release them from the punishment due for the transgression of God's law; because there is in their hands a faithful presentation of that law and of its principles and claims. It is not enough to have good intentions; it is not enough to do what a man thinks is right or what the minister tells him is right. His soul's salvation is at stake, and he should search the Scriptures for himself. However strong may be his convictions, however confident he may be that the minister knows what is truth, this is not his foundation. He has a chart pointing out every waymark on the heavenward journey, and he ought not to guess at anything. It is the first and highest duty of every rational being to learn from the Scriptures what is truth, and then to walk in the light and encourage others to follow his example. We should day by day study the Bible diligently, weighing every thought and comparing scripture with scripture. With divine help we are to form our opinions for ourselves as we are to answer for ourselves before God. The truths most plainly revealed in the Bible have been involved in doubt and darkness by learned men, who, with a pretense of great wisdom, teach that the Scriptures have a mystical, a secret, spiritual meaning not apparent in the language employed. These men are false teachers. It was to [599] such a class that Jesus declared: "Ye know not the Scriptures, neither the power of God." Mark 12:24. The language of the Bible should be explained according to its obvious meaning, unless a symbol or figure is employed. Christ has given the promise: "If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine." John 7:17. If men would but take the Bible as it reads, if there were no false teachers to mislead and confuse their minds, a work would be accomplished that would make angels glad and that would bring into the fold of Christ thousands upon thousands who are now wandering in error. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 2:09am On May 26, 2020 |
Part 4 Notwithstanding the Bible is full of warnings against false teachers, many are ready thus to commit the keeping of their souls to the clergy. There are today thousands of professors of religion who can give no other reason for points of faith which they hold than that they were so instructed by their religious leaders. They pass by the Saviour's teachings almost [597] unnoticed, and place implicit confidence in the words of the ministers. But are ministers infallible? How can we trust our souls to their guidance unless we know from God's word that they are light bearers? A lack of moral courage to step aside from the beaten track of the world leads many to follow in the steps of learned men; and by their reluctance to investigate for themselves, they are becoming hopelessly fastened in the chains of error. They see that the truth for this time is plainly brought to view in the Bible; and they feel the power of the Holy Spirit attending its proclamation; yet they allow the opposition of the clergy to turn them from the light. Though reason and conscience are convinced, these deluded souls dare not think differently from the minister; and their individual judgment, their eternal interests, are sacrificed to the unbelief, the pride and prejudice, of another. Many are the ways by which Satan works through human influence to bind his captives. He secures multitudes to himself by attaching them by the silken cords of affection to those who are enemies of the cross of Christ. Whatever this attachment may be, parental, filial, conjugal, or social, the effect is the same; the opposers of truth exert their power to control the conscience, and the souls held under their sway have not sufficient courage or independence to obey their own convictions of duty. The truth and the glory of God are inseparable; it is impossible for us, with the Bible within our reach, to honor God by erroneous opinions. Many claim that it matters not what one believes, if his life is only right. But the life is molded by the faith. If light and truth is within our reach, and we neglect to improve the privilege of hearing and seeing it, we virtually reject it; we are choosing darkness rather than light. "There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." Proverbs 16:25. Ignorance is no excuse for error or sin, when there is every opportunity [598] to know the will of God. A man is traveling and comes to a place where there are several roads and a guideboard indicating where each one leads. If he disregards the guideboard, and takes whichever road seems to him to be right, he may be ever so sincere, but will in all probability find himself on the wrong road. To Be Continued.... |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 2:08am On May 26, 2020 |
Finallydead, No, I don't mind your additional info. I appreciate it and thank you. You have made valid points. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 1:17pm On May 25, 2020 |
Part 3 The spirit which actuated those priests and rulers is still manifested by many who make a high profession of piety. They refuse to examine the testimony of the Scriptures concerning the special truths for this time. They point to their own numbers, wealth, and popularity, and look with contempt upon the advocates of truth as few, poor, and unpopular, having a faith that separates them from the world. Christ foresaw that the undue assumption of authority indulged by the scribes and Pharisees would not cease with the dispersion of the Jews. He had a prophetic view of the work of exalting human authority to rule the conscience, which has been so terrible a curse to the church in all ages. And His fearful denunciations of the scribes and Pharisees, and His warnings to the people not to follow these blind leaders, were placed on record as an admonition to future generations. The Roman Church reserves to the clergy the right to interpret the Scriptures. On the ground that ecclesiastics alone are competent to explain God's word, it is withheld from the common people. [SEE APPENDIX NOTE FOR PAGE 340.] Though the Reformation gave the Scriptures to all, yet the selfsame principle which was maintained by Rome prevents multitudes in Protestant churches from searching the Bible for themselves. They are taught to accept its teachings as interpreted by the church; and there are thousands who dare receive nothing, however plainly revealed in Scripture, that is contrary to their creed or the established teaching of their church To be continued.... |
| Christianity Etc › Re: The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 1:15pm On May 25, 2020 |
Part 2 When God sends to men warnings so important that they are represented as proclaimed by holy angels flying in the midst of heaven, He requires every person endowed with reasoning powers to heed the message. The fearful judgments denounced against the worship of the beast and his image (Revelation 14:9-11), should lead all to a diligent study of the prophecies to learn what the mark of the beast is, and how they are to avoid receiving it. But the masses of the people turn away their ears from hearing the truth and are turned unto fables. The apostle Paul declared, looking down to the last days: "The time will come when they will not [595] endure sound doctrine." 2 Timothy 4:3. That time has fully come. The multitudes do not want Bible truth, because it interferes with the desires of the sinful, world-loving heart; and Satan supplies the deceptions which they love. But God will have a people upon the earth to maintain the Bible, and the Bible only, as the standard of all doctrines and the basis of all reforms. The opinions of learned men, the deductions of science, the creeds or decisions of ecclesiastical councils, as numerous and discordant as are the churches which they represent, the voice of the majority—not one nor all of these should be regarded as evidence for or against any point of religious faith. Before accepting any doctrine or precept, we should demand a plain "Thus saith the Lord" in its support. Satan is constantly endeavoring to attract attention to man in the place of God. He leads the people to look to bishops, to pastors, to professors of theology, as their guides, instead of searching the Scriptures to learn their duty for themselves. Then, by controlling the minds of these leaders, he can influence the multitudes according to his will. When Christ came to speak the words of life, the common people heard Him gladly; and many, even of the priests and rulers, believed on Him. But the chief of the priesthood and the leading men of the nation were determined to condemn and repudiate His teachings. Though they were baffled in all their efforts to find accusations against Him, though they could not but feel the influence of the divine power and wisdom attending His words, yet they incased themselves in prejudice; they rejected the clearest evidence of His Messiahship, lest they should be forced to become His disciples. These opponents of Jesus were men whom the people had been taught from infancy to reverence, to whose authority they had been accustomed implicitly to bow. "How is it," they asked, "that our rulers and learned scribes do not believe on Jesus? Would not these pious men receive Him if He were [596] the Christ?" It was the influence of such teachers that led the Jewish nation to reject their Redeemer |
| Christianity Etc › The Scriptures A Safeguard by Eviana(op): 1:13pm On May 25, 2020*. Modified: 1:28pm On Aug 12, 2021 |
Disclaimer: Not my original work May those who read be blessed. Part 1[b] None but those who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible will stand through the last great conflict[/b]. "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." Isaiah 8:20. The people of God are directed to the Scriptures as their safeguard against the influence of false teachers and the delusive power of spirits of darkness. Satan employs every possible device to prevent men from obtaining a knowledge of the Bible; for its plain utterances reveal his deceptions. At every revival of God's work the prince of evil is aroused to more intense activity; he is now putting forth his utmost efforts for a final struggle against Christ and His followers. The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures. By their testimony every statement and every miracle must be tested. Those who endeavor to obey all the commandments of God will be opposed and derided. They can stand only in God. In order to endure the trial before them, they must understand the will of God as revealed in His word; they can honor Him only as they have a right conception of His character, government, and purposes, and act in accordance with them. None but those who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible will stand through the last great [594] conflict. To every soul will come the searching test: Shall I obey God rather than men? The decisive hour is even now at hand. Are our feet planted on the rock of God's immutable word? Are we prepared to stand firm in defense of the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus? Before His crucifixion the Saviour explained to His disciples that He was to be put to death and to rise again from the tomb, and angels were present to impress His words on minds and hearts. But the disciples were looking for temporal deliverance from the Roman yoke, and they could not tolerate the thought that He in whom all their hopes centered should suffer an ignominious death. The words which they needed to remember were banished from their minds; and when the time of trial came, it found them unprepared. The death of Jesus as fully destroyed their hopes as if He had not forewarned them. So in the prophecies the future is opened before us as plainly as it was opened to the disciples by the words of Christ. The events connected with the close of probation and the work of preparation for the time of trouble, are clearly presented. But multitudes have no more understanding of these important truths than if they had never been revealed. Satan watches to catch away every impression that would make them wise unto salvation, and the time of trouble will find them unready. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: How To Know If You Are Proud by Eviana(f): 12:45pm On May 24, 2020 |
That 's quite a list there...wow! This hits all of us. As the poster said above, this particular sin is the one that we don't want to address, yet is arguably the most dangerous. If it got Lucifer dismissed from the Kingdom permanently, how much more seriously should we be asking the Holy Spirit to show us our true hearts and cleanse us from that sin that so easily stalls us...and separates us from enjoying the fulness of God. That "pride" issue is doubly dangerous because most cultures heavily promote it (in many forms)... It seems like a "rite of passage" for Nigerians from birth. Don't think I've known of a more proud group of people on the planet... It is almost seems as if it is a thing of shame NOT to be a continual walking billboard of pride. However, one's faith in Christ, should trump culture..in fact it must. If one professes Christ, then that pride has to go & be replaced with humility. Our need for the Holy Spirit to cultivate the Fruit of the Spirit in our lives, is so crucial. Pride can develop in anything (including spiritual situations such as scriptural interpretations, spiritual ggifts, ministry callings, denominational feelings of superiority etc., which means we must daily surrender to the Lord. 1 Like |
| Christianity Etc › Re: God's Grace, Law And Salvation. by Eviana(f): 11:47am On May 24, 2020 |
Infomaz: |
| Christianity Etc › Re: Who Is A Prophet? Are There Prophets In Our World Today? by Eviana(f): 11:28pm On May 20, 2020 |
This is a pretty well written piece. agwom: |
| Christianity Etc › Re: COVID 19: Would You Join Envangelism Team To An Isolation Center? by Eviana(f): 11:19pm On May 20, 2020 |
Kobojunkie:Yes...I totally believe they exist. Every single church in Nigeria CANNOT be corrupt/compromised. |
| Christianity Etc › Re: COVID 19: Would You Join Envangelism Team To An Isolation Center? by Eviana(f): 2:35pm On May 20, 2020 |
Kobojunkie:Nice example... When I use the word "remnant" in this context, I am just meaning that small portion of churches (of ALL denominations) who are trying to serve the Lord as best as they can...without fanfare & entertainment...just sincerely & simply. They aren't in the forefront, but as you referenced, the wheat & tares must grow until the time of harvest...when all will be revealed. I don't know the sincere churches' names, but they must exist because God's people are scattered all over the world. |
| Celebrities › Re: Meagan Good Called 'Ungodly' For Posing In Bikini. She Replies by Eviana(f): 1:37am On May 19, 2020 |
marimarempress:Devon Franklin, Meagan's husband is NOT nor has ever been an ordained pastor of the Seventh-day Adventist church. He has spoken at quite a few of the churches, but does NOT pastor any congregation. He is a Hollywood producer & director who speaks at many Sunday churches as well. He actively partners with and participates in events that include notables Oprah Winfrey and Bishop T.D. Jakes to name a few. He chose the Hollywood route a long time ago and chose a wife there. While I do believe that a certain responsibility lies on Meagan to not have posted such an intimate picture to the world, she is NOT a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Her husband grew up in the faith but subsequently chose to marry outside of his faith. So technically the blame should be on him and not her. She is a Hollywood actress and has been so since she was a child. What she did is normal in her world. She had been criticized (by many Christians of multiple denominations) for some years now due to their marriage and her lack of "conversion" so to speak. Yet he is the one who should bear the responsibility for her "image conversion".. He sees nothing wrong with it unfortunately. It is also unfair to make a person change who he/she is when you didn't meet him/her that way. However, only the Holy Spirit can make someone see his/her need to genuinely repent and be converted. 1 Like |
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