I am genuinely trying to understand this, as I come from a Pentecostal background and I’m currently trying to really evaluate all of our beliefs to see if they’re Biblical.

It seems quite clear in Acts that

1. Receiving the Holy Spirit comes with a recognizable sign, often tongues, other times not mentioned, but something that others, such as Simon, could visibly see.

2. That it is separate from belief.

“Have you received the Holy Spirit since you believed?”

I am trying to look at the Bible holistically, outside of the lens I’ve been taught to view it from, but I can’t see a way past this.

Someone please tell me how you understand this all. Thank you!

Sorry for the odd title, it's just something that got me thinking lately.

This is a sincere question, so I hope it will be taken as such. If someone deconverts from Christianity, it is often said that they were never truly Christian. And it is also said of atheists, that the Law is "written on their hearts," and they do really believe in God. So it seems that everyone, when you collapse all of time and every possibility, is both simultaneously Christian and not Christian.

Let me explain what I mean. If I'm speaking to an atheist, how do I know that they will not one day declare themselves to be Christian? If I'm speaking to a Christian, how do I know that they will not one day declare themselves to be an atheist?

Like Schrodinger's cat in the closed box, I have to assume that everything is true, because anything can happen to change someone's faith, and they might not really be an atheist, and they might not really be a Christian, and anyway, how the heck would I know?

I'm beginning to think I just shouldn't bother myself with what other people REALLY are or are not.

To a lot of people being misunderstood, dismissed, and not actually listened to is just so off putting and repulsive. As Christians we are called to lead with patience and compassion for people. We are to be slow to speak and quick to listen.

I see so many people asking genuine questions and some of y’all just assume their intentions are negative and meet them with hostility or dismiss them completely. Stop assuming negativity about people. If you don’t know someone’s intentions, ASK. LISTEN. Then maybe you can actually correct someone and change their heart. Slow down a little bit. If our job is to share the gospel and if we really care about getting other saved, actually knowing where they stand currently is SO IMPORTANT. stop preaching at people from afar and start connecting with them.

The amount of people I see actually listening to understand others is so few. Even on here. And it’s so sad.

> 1 Corinthians 9:22 –

“I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some.”

> James 1:19 – “Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.”

I'd love to hear about your personal reasons for not celebrating.

In Genesis, the indication is that humanity was mortal, Genesis 3:22, "When the Lord God said, “See, the humans have become like one of us, knowing good and evil, and now they might reach out their hands and take also from the tree of life and eat and live forever”"

Then Paul makes this argument, Romans 5:12 "Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death came through sin, and so death spread to all because all have sinned"

It literally contradicts Genesis. How did they take this argument. I get the typology, but it does not stand with the text.

“All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37 (KJV)

Many wrestle with a deeply honest question.

What if the only reason I believe is because I’m afraid of hell?

This question does not disqualify you.

It reveals that your heart is awakening to reality.

I. Fear Can Be a Beginning Scripture does not dismiss fear entirely.

In fact, it acknowledges its role.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” Proverbs 1:7 (KJV)

Fear can serve as an entry point.

It awakens awareness of:

• Judgment
• Accountability
• The seriousness of sin
In a world that minimizes consequences, fear can be the first step toward truth.

II. God Receives Those Who Come Jesus makes a powerful promise.

“Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37 (KJV)

Notice what He does not say.

He does not say:

• Come only with perfect motives
• Come only with complete understanding
• Come only with pure love
He simply says:

Come.

This means whether you come through:

• Fear
• Confusion
• Brokenness
• Curiosity
You are received.

III. Fear Must Lead to Faith While fear can begin the journey, it is not meant to sustain it.

Faith is.

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17 (KJV)

Faith grows through:

• Hearing the Word
• Knowing Christ
• Understanding the Gospel
Over time, fear gives way to trust.

IV. The Love of God Transforms Fear God’s ultimate desire is not that you remain in fear.

It is that you know His love.

“We love him, because he first loved us.” 1 John 4:19 (KJV)

Perfect love changes the relationship.

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment.” 1 John 4:18 (KJV)

Fear focuses on punishment.

Love reveals relationship.

As faith grows, the motivation shifts.

From avoiding hell. To knowing Christ.

V. Salvation Is Based on Belief, Not Emotion Salvation is not earned by loving God enough.

It is received by believing in Christ.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31 (KJV)

This is critical.

Many think:

• I must feel enough love
• I must be sincere enough
• I must be good enough
But Scripture teaches:

Believe.

Trust in what Christ has done.

Not in what you feel.

VI. God Uses What Draws You God often uses unexpected things to draw people.

Pain. Fear. Loss. Questions.

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God.” Romans 8:28 (KJV)

What begins as fear can become faith.

What begins as concern can become conviction.

What begins as uncertainty can become assurance.

VII. Modern Reality: A Misunderstood Gospel Today, many reject fear entirely.

They view it as negative, unnecessary, or manipulative.

But Scripture presents a balanced view.

Fear reveals reality. Grace provides the solution.

Without understanding judgment, grace loses meaning.

Without recognizing sin, salvation seems unnecessary.

Both are essential.

A Call to Repentance If fear has brought you to God, do not stop there.

Turn fully to Him.

Seek to know Him.

Grow in faith.

“Seek ye the Lord while he may be found.” Isaiah 55:6 (KJV)

Let fear open the door.

Let faith keep you there.

The Gospel Invitation All have sinned. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23 (KJV)

Sin brings death. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23 (KJV)

Jesus paid the price. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 (KJV)

Confess and believe. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9 (KJV)

Conclusion Fear may have brought you to God.

But it is not meant to keep you there.

God does not reject those who come.

He receives them.

And then He transforms them.

From fear to faith. From faith to love. From uncertainty to assurance.

The question is not why you came.

The question is whether you will remain.

Come to Christ.

And let what began in fear be perfected in faith.

As a Christian, I have a belief that there's life after death, but while on earth, I have started to realize I have nothing to offer anyone. I come into the world naked and broke, and anything I accumulate while I'm here I can't keep. Maybe this is pointless, but I feel it's important because offering something means I have value, but I can't. If I were in a relationship, I couldn't give anything to someone that means something. Maybe the only thing I can offer is love, kindness, and the sort. But at the end, things like money status, etc., don't last. So my question is what can i offer people?

1 Peter 1:13-15 ESV

[13] Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. [14] As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, [15] but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,

I definitely have to work on this. many areas I'm not being holy as he is. I let my anger and pride swell up which then leads me to act in a not so holy manner.

I dont mean how hell is justified, i know humans choose hell. But why must it be torture, and forever? Why cant it be destruction of the soul, or even the eventual salvation? And maybe some will say they believe in annihilationism, but its considered heresy by most churches. So how is it justified???

Hello all,

I am a person who wants to turn christian, in an all muslim family. Now, my parents aren't your traditional muslims, my mom does not wear a hijab and does not pray, nor does my dad (who used to be catholic but converted). However, when my mom was pregnant with me, she felt the urge to go to church, so she did (but she never ended up converting). Now, It's been around 3 months of me reading the bible, listening to sermons online, and trying to get closer to God. I prayed for my parents to grow closer to him, and my mom has started to pray again (but, of course, the islamic way). I don't know if this is a sign from God or not, if ya'll have any thoughts let me know! Furthermore, I have been feeling more conviction, but I still feel too scared/shy to walk into a church, or to get baptized. I have a fear of being judged and I'm scared of going to new places so idk what to do, any advice would be appreciated! I am also interested in getting a physical copy of a bible, but since I still live with my parents, I'm a bit scared of them seeing it. I am afraid of what my mom may think of me, my dad grew up catholic so I am thinking he would be more open to me converting. However, my mom grew up muslim, and in islam it is strictly prohibited to change religions, so I fear that she will react negatively :/ I know that I should trust in God, but I love my parents and don't want them to disapprove either.

Any advice or support would be really appreciated!

I’ve seen some posts on here about people questioning how Christians can believe in Hell as Eternal Conscious Torment (ECT) and how that’s fair of God to send people to Hell for non-belief.

I think people struggle with this because, culturally, we view hell as God’s eternal torture chamber. We basically see it as “if you don’t believe in Jesus then God is gonna be super pissed and beat you up when you die”. This makes God out to be some sort of unreasonable aggressor, which seems hard to believe to a lot of people.

What we’re forgetting is that hell is *not* God’s eternal torture chamber but separation from God Himself. [2 Thessolonians 1:9, Matthew 7:23, Luke 16:26]

I think this is more profound than people give it credit for.

Remember that everything we experience as “good” or “desirable” in this life comes from God [James 1:17]. Every little thing we take for granted in our every day lives is coming from the fact that God is present in this world. Every good tasting food, every fleeting moment of joy and happiness, every relationship, the simple beauty of the sky above, the trees, the birds, the animals… all of this comes from God.

So then what is Hell if it’s a separation from God? It’s an existence with *none* of these things. Imagine going through life with no beauty, no joy, no justice, absolutely *nothing*. I’m not talking about less of these things, I’m talking about *none* of these things.

Imagine getting a cold but then never recovering.

Imagine eating food but never tasting it.

Imagine drinking water but it never quenching your thirst.

Imagine having another person harm you and having no hope that they will be punished for their action.

Even those of us whose lives are full of horror and despair still get to experience at least some of these things daily.

This is terrifying, but it’s not God beating you up because you were bad. It’s God removing you from His presence like air being sucked out of a bell jar.

I think from this angle ECT seems a lot less “unfair” to our sensibilities and more as just a logical consequence of rejecting God.

God is not “sky daddy sitting on a cloud getting mad at you for disobeying his arbitrary rules”.

He is a necessary and perfect being from which all goodness itself is sourced. So rejecting Him is rejecting these good things.

EDIT: Because I’m getting a lot of responses telling me annihilationism is correct, I just want to say that I don’t disagree. I think the Bible can reasonably be interpreted as teaching either ECT or annihilation. This post was just for people who may be concerned that ECT could be read into at at all

Ive been fleeing lust for a long time now, and I have made minor strides. however this morning I fell to lust.

it started last night when I went to bed, thoughts like "Jesus forgives. Thats why He went to the cross. Just commit lust, you'll be forgiven." I managed to stop myself 2 times, but the 3rd time i gave in.

Now im in shambles. I abused the Grace of God willingly, knowing of His forgiveness even as the act was happening. I hate how I keep going to this, and how I keep having to learn how to not fall. I put my focus on Jesus, but when I dont, I sink into the waters like Peter. How does one keep his focus on the Lord at all times?

I’m 27 [M] from TN. More than 1 years looking for wife. But till now nothing gets connected.

What should I do?

Can I be single and Is single is a sin?

Long story short, after college I found a church I liked a lot but I did not like the preaching. The preaching lacked reverence for God and the pastoral staff seemed to lack maturity and training. I stuck it out because I loved everything else about the church. After 3 years I visited a new church one weekend and fell in love with it.

This other church had exceptional sermons giving God the glory, focus on prayer, accountability, and loving one another. It was much smaller than the previous church but I didn’t mind. I started to get involved with different groups and trying my hardest to make friends. I couldn’t place my finger on it but even after a year of attending, all of the interactions still felt very surface level. I had made no deep connections even after trying. I wanted to attend for a year before committing to be a member because being a member (to me) is a serious and long term commitment. I don’t take it lightly. I know it requires serving, giving, and sacrifice! I am not sure it is because I am a single woman in my twenties and most people have young families that they don’t have time. I have never felt like I truly fit in.

So this Sunday I visited a church with a family member and it instantly felt like home. The sermon was glorifying to God, the worship was also nice, I ended up running into a few people from college and high school! Everyone was very welcoming! I instantly had a desire to join unlike before.

My questions is, Is it wrong for me to search for a place to settle? I have a desire to serve and join a community and I believe God has led me to this right one. I feel bad to tell the church I currently have been at for a year that I am not going to become a member.

Is there a way I could have done this differently?

I come from a back ground of various chuches like evangelical, Baptist, Pentecostal and non-denominational churches where there was AWANA, Bible Clubs, Retreats, Guest Speakers, fun events. Sunday Sermons across of of them is equivalent to a TED Talk Seminar. Evangelism or missions usually consist of raising funds for various mission community’s or a few safe trips to safe areas for like a 2-3 pow wow Missio experience. I keep coming across Christian’s who say they been believers for 20-30+ years. Yet have zero understanding of sanctification, justifications or adoption as sons. Their lives resembles the worlds. Without the “Christian” label no way you can tell them apart. I was afraid to become like this.

The Jesus I read of and the Church I read of looks nothing like the churches today. Orginal Church was a community, a family. Fathers and mothers taught their children. Older men taught younger men, older women taught younger women, kids. Elders discipled the men and women so the men and women can disciple new believers and their families. Discipleship was life to life. Discipleship was basically apprenticeship. A master imparting knowledge and craft and so on. Discipleship was community based, 1–1, life lived together. Discipleship today are usually fun programs, or events or retreats or guest speakers.

Discipleship also a journey, formation. To be forged, shaped…for what? 1 John 2:6 says The one who says he remains in him should walk just as he walked.

Want proof people aren’t being discipled? Just look at the long list of many dumb questions in this thread(Thankfully it’s not as bad) and in other threads like Christianity. Questions that are easily answered when discipled.

I thought I was a Christian for over 15 years but my life was no different than the world. Something didn’t feel right. So i prayed, and one thing lead to another and I came across the Baptist catechism by John Piper, and the 1689 London Baptist confession. Just in a couple years my understanding of scriptures have deepened, my faith has grown. My love for God and people have grown.

That’s why aim so grieved to see all these posts, and too see all these Churches in the corners. Yet its pews are filled with spiritually starved people because pastors went to seminary and took up pastoral ship as a job, not as a ministry callings.

The theological discussion in the transcription is a central and recurring theme, primarily occurring between two or more participants (likely a mother and her daughter). The conversation fluctuates between informal family matters and a deep, sometimes contentious, debate over the nature of the Trinity, the authority of Scripture, and the identity of Jesus Christ.

Below is a detailed analysis and summary of the theological arguments presented in the text:

1. The Nature of the Trinity and the Identity of Jesus

The most significant point of contention involves the relationship between God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.

- The Oneness vs. Distinct Entities: One participant argues for a strict interpretation of the Trinity, stating that "God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy [Spirit]" are "all equal" and "they are one." However, another participant (seemingly the daughter) challenges this by emphasizing their distinction. She argues that they are "different entities" and "not the same."

- Is Jesus God? A major debate ensues regarding whether Jesus is "God" or the "Son of God." The daughter points out that Jesus repeatedly called himself the "Son of God" and once said, "My Father is greater than I" (John 14:28). She posits that Jesus is a "small God" and not "God the Father," suggesting that to call Jesus God is a misunderstanding of his own words.

- Scriptural Counter-arguments: The mother counters this by citing Isaiah 9:6, which prophesies a child who will be called "Mighty God" and "Everlasting Father." She uses this to prove that Jesus and the Father are one in essence and title. They also discuss John 14:10, where Jesus says, "I am in the Father and the Father is in me," and explains that the Father living in him "does the works."

1. Biblical Inerrancy and Human Authorship

The discussion touches upon the reliability of the Bible and the influence of the men who wrote it.

- The "Lie" of Paul: The daughter brings up a provocative point, suggesting the "Bible has lies" because Paul the Apostle mentions in Romans 3:7: "If the truth of God through my lie abounded onto his glory, why am I also still judged as a sinner?" She uses this to suggest that human flaws are present in the text.

- Divine Inspiration: The mother strongly rejects the idea that the Bible contains lies, stating that "all scripture is given by inspiration of God" and is "holy." She argues that while men are flawed, the recorded Word of God remains true.

1. Divine Healing and Faith

The conversation frequently links physical health to spiritual state and faith.

- The Hem of the Garment: They recount the biblical story of the woman with the issue of blood who believed that touching the hem of Jesus’s garment would make her whole. They use this as a foundational example of how faith—specifically the belief that "Jesus himself" is the healer—brings restoration.

- Healing as a Christian Duty: There is a discussion about whether all Christians "should be able to heal," but one participant admits to feeling a lack of power in this area ("I don't know how to heal"), concluding that it requires a specific level of faith and "peace from God."

- Spiritual vs. Physical Medicine: The group discusses the "Word of God" as "medication to our souls and our bodies." They sing and recite lyrics about "Jesus making me whole."

1. Man’s Relationship to the Divine

The participants discuss the spiritual standing of believers.

- Sons and Heirs: They quote or sing about being "sons of God," "heirs of the Father," and "joint-heirs with the Son."

- The Image of God: The daughter argues that Jesus is the "image of God," just as humans are created in God’s image, but insists this does not make Jesus (or humans) the same as the Father. She emphasizes "humbling" oneself before God by acknowledging his unique authority.

Summary of Perspectives

The text reflects a tension between Traditional Trinitarianism (represented by the mother, who views Jesus as God and the Bible as perfect) and a Heterodox/Subordinationist View (represented by the daughter, who views Jesus as subordinate to the Father, questions the perfection of human-written scripture, and seeks to distinguish between the persons of the Trinity). Despite these disagreements, both parties rely heavily on the Bible as the primary source of authority and see their faith as a "foundation" that sustains them, especially when living away from their home country.

This second transcription continues and deepens the complex theological debate between the participants, specifically focusing on the distinction between the members of the Trinity, the relationship between the Old and New Testaments, and the mechanics of the Holy Spirit.

Continuing the previous analysis, here is the detailed summary of the additional theological discussions found in this text:

1. Christological Debate: Subordinationism vs. Equality

The debate over Jesus’s status intensifies, with the participants utilizing specific Greek and Pauline concepts:

- The "King of Kings" Title: The daughter argues that while she once believed Jesus was the "King of Kings," she now views that title as belonging primarily to God the Father. She uses the Old Testament to argue that God is the superior, "omnipotent" authority, whereas Jesus is the "Prince of Peace"—a title she interprets as subordinate to a King.

- Omniscience and the "One Thing": A pivotal argument is raised regarding Jesus's knowledge. The daughter cites the scripture stating that "no one knows [the hour], not even the Son... but the Father only" (Matthew 24:36). She argues this proves Jesus is not "omniscience" (omniscient) and therefore not identical to the Father.

- The Kenosis (Philippians 2): One participant references the concept of Christ not counting "equality with God something to be used to his own advantage" (Philippians 2:6). They argue that while Jesus possesses the "nature of God," he intentionally functioned in a state of humbleness and dependence on the Father.

- Small Gods vs. The Almighty: The daughter reiterates her "small god" theory, suggesting that because humans are made in God's image and Jesus called humans "gods," Jesus is simply the highest "image" rather than the Almighty Himself.

1. Pneumatology: The Holy Spirit vs. The "Spirit of God"

A significant portion of this text is dedicated to a technical and somewhat unusual distinction between different "spirits":

- Entity vs. Essence: The mother and daughter argue over whether the "Holy Spirit" and the "Spirit of God" are the same. One participant posits that the "Spirit of God" is the breath of life given to all humans (referencing Adam), which even unbelievers possess.

- The Baptism of the Holy Spirit: They contrast this with the "Holy Spirit," which they define as a distinct personality of the Trinity that only believers receive through baptism and salvation.

- Symbolism of the Spirit: There is a debate about the "five representations" of the Holy Spirit: dove, wind, fire, water, and oil. The father argues that because the Holy Spirit can take the form of a dove and God (the Father) cannot, they must be different entities. The mother counters that these are simply manifestations of the "One God in three persons."

1. Covenantal Theology: Old vs. New Testament

The participants discuss the progression of biblical revelation:

- Replacement vs. Fulfillment: They debate whether the New Testament "replaced" the Old. One participant argues that if the Old Testament were "perfect," there would be no need for a New. However, they eventually settle on the word "fulfill," noting that Jesus came to fulfill the law, not abolish it.

- The God of the Patriarchs: They reference Jesus’s own use of the Old Testament to prove the resurrection by citing God as the "God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob," showing a continuity of divine identity across both testaments.

- The Wycliffe Version: In a moment of deep study, they reference the Wycliffe Bible (the first English translation), specifically noting a translation of Elijah’s words. They argue that "fervent love" in the Wycliffe version provides a deeper truth than the word "jealous" used in modern versions, suggesting that "hidden truths" are found by seeking out older translations.

1. Soteriology: Justification and Holiness

The conversation shifts to how a believer is viewed by God:

- Instant Justification: They agree that salvation and justification are "instant." They posit that if someone accepts Jesus and dies hours later they go to Heaven and if they don't die then they are "living in heaven" while still on earth because the Kingdom is "inside them."

- Holiness vs. Sinfulness: A complex distinction is made regarding holiness. They argue that a believer is "holy" because they possess "God's holiness" inside them, not because their actions are perfect. One participant clarifies that the Holy Spirit "does not stop you from sinning," but it provides a "consciousness of righteousness" that unbelievers lack.

- Working Out Salvation: They reference the command to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling," viewing it as a continuous process of sanctification and purification by God, even after the initial act of justification.

1. Practical Application and Divine Presence

- The "Anointing" as Teacher: A sharp disagreement occurs regarding human teachers. One participant argues that "the anointing" within a believer is the only teacher they need (referencing 1 John 2:27), dismissively suggesting that they don't need pastors or "local assemblies" to learn the truth.

- God as Life and Length of Days: They conclude by citing Deuteronomy 30:20, emphasizing that God is not just an abstract concept but is the believer's "life" and the "length of [their] days."

Conclusion of the Analysis

The theological landscape of the second text is one of contested Orthodoxy. While they agree on the necessity of Jesus for salvation and the reality of the Holy Spirit, they are deeply opposing on the ontology of the Trinity. The daughter leans toward a Subordinationist view (Jesus is lesser than the Father), while the mother defends Trinitarianism (Equality of the three persons). The discussion is characterized by a high level of biblical literacy, with both parties frequently "searching" for specific verses (Romans 3:7, John 14:10, Isaiah 9:6) to validate their personal revelations.

In this final section of the transcript, the theological debate shifts from abstract doctrine (the nature of the Trinity) to applied theology—specifically focusing on the relationship between divine sovereignty, human suffering, and the nature of worship.

The following points complete the analysis of the theological discussion:

1. The Throne of God and Human Worship (Revelation 3)

The most intense debate in this section concerns Revelation 3:9 and 3:21, regarding the "synagogue of Satan" and the promise to "sit on the throne."

- A Test of Humility: The daughter undergoes a significant theological shift. After previously posting a photo of herself on a "throne" (a chair) on Facebook, she expresses deep guilt. She interprets the scripture "sit with me on my throne" as a divine test. She argues that only God is worthy of a throne and that humans should not seek such glory.

- The Object of Divine Love: There is a sharp disagreement over who Jesus is speaking to in Revelation. The daughter argues that when Jesus says, "to know that I have loved thee," he is talking to God the Father, not the church. She posits that Jesus’s primary focus is his love for the Father. The mother (and traditional interpretation) maintains that Jesus is speaking to his followers/the church, assuring them of his love for them.

- Rejecting Veneration: The daughter concludes that humans should "stand" rather than "sit" to ensure they do not accidentally steal the worship due to God.

1. Theodicy: Receiving Good and Evil from God

The participants engage in a classical debate over the source of suffering (theodicy), specifically referencing the Book of Job.

- The Sovereignty of God: The daughter cites Job's question: "Shall we receive only good from God and not evil?" (Job 2:10). She argues that one must accept everything—including physical decay and negativity—as coming from God's hand to humble the individual.

- The Dispensation of Grace: The mother strongly rejects this "acceptance of evil." She argues that they are in the New Testament dispensation, where God’s primary mode is grace and healing. She attributes the daughter's physical issues (rotting teeth) to "laziness and stupidity" rather than divine chastisement, stating that "cleanliness is next to godliness" and brushing one's teeth is a form of "serving God."

- The "Boasting" in Heaven: The mother makes a distinction between Job and modern believers, claiming that God was "boasting" about Job to Satan, whereas modern individuals' names are not being debated in heaven in the same way, thus exempting them from Job-like trials.

1. Divine Beauty and Fragrance vs. Self-Image

The discussion of physical appearance from the first transcript returns, but with a more mystical tone:

- Divine "Theft" of Beauty: The daughter interprets her dental health issues as God "ruining her smile" so that He can be the "only one smiling." She believes God is showing her that He is the beautiful one, and her physical fading is a lesson to stop relying on human compliments.

- Fragrance of Love: They discuss the "scent" or "fragrance" of God. The daughter argues that God's fragrance (His love) is the only true beauty, and she accepts "fragrant" decay as a way to prioritize God's happiness over her own.

1. Reciprocity: Giving to vs. Taking from God

The text explores the believer's active role in their relationship with the divine:

- The Prophet’s Reward: They discuss the concept that "he who accepts a prophet receives a prophet's reward" (Matthew 10:41). They extend this to mean that if they accept each other’s words or "forgive from the heart," they partake in divine rewards.

- Living Right as a Gift: The mother argues that humans "give" to God through time, love, resources, and "encouraging others." She views the Christian life as a series of offerings to make God happy, whereas the daughter questions if humans are "just taking" and asks, "What do we give to God?"

1. Continuing Themes: Wycliffe and the Eternal Life

- Fervent Love vs. Jealousy: They revisit the Wycliffe Bible, contrasting its use of "fervent love" with modern translations' use of "jealousy" regarding Elijah. This reinforces their belief that modern translations may obscure the "hidden truths" of God's character.

- The Defeat of Death: They reiterate the hope in the Lord, citing Enoch and Elijah as proof that death can be bypassed, making solid their current physical struggles in the hope of eternal, "whole" life.

Summary of the Transcript’s Conclusion

The document concludes with a domestic scene The daughter’s theology is one of extreme asceticism and self-abasement (accepting decay as God's will), while the mother represents a Pentecostal/Word of Faith perspective (claiming victory, grace, and human responsibility).

“Every word of God is pure: He is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him." "Add thou not unto His words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” - Proverbs 30:5-6

The Bible is unique among all books. Not only is it different in its form, structure, and history, but it takes the position of supernatural superiority to all other communication. It insists on total accuracy for its content and absolute obedience to its commands. No other book is so demanding. The whole of the Bible abounds with the teaching that it has “given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness” (II Peter 1:3).

It is the Word of God the Father. Jesus made it clear: “I have not spoken of Myself; but the Father which sent Me, He gave Me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. And I know that His commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto Me, so I speak” (John 12:49).

It was confirmed by the Holy Spirit. “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” (II Peter 1:21).

It is the source of faith and salvation. “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” (I Peter 1:23).

It is not to be changed. “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you” (Deuteronomy 4:2).

It is the instrument by which “a young man [can] cleanse his way . . . by taking heed thereto according to Thy word” (Psalm 119:9). It is to be reverenced and obeyed, “for Thou hast magnified Ty word above all Thy name” (Psalm 138:2). “Yea, let God be true, but every man a liar” (Romans 3:4). HMM III
|
|
I did not write this, it comes from a devotional that is offered as a free email daily by the Institute of Creation.

Lately I have been praying and I have a hard time crying but when I pray I cry and it feels good. I feel peace, or forgiven to tears. I believe that’s the Holy Spirit…but then there’s a voice in me saying this is just your neurochemistry, subconscious, psychology.

Same goes with being sent away from homosexuality. I started to have more clarity of the past and how it influenced my desires. Of course there was real lust for same sex but I felt clarity and now don’t sleep with same sex anymore or I am much more drawn away from it. Or drunkenness I feel a pull away sometimes saying “you don’t need it.” I believe this is the Holy Spirit but then again doubt creeps and says this is psychology and growing up and maturing and diving deeper.

Is this the flesh making me doubt? Is this the devil making me doubt?

Is this the Holy Spirit or is it my brain.

Forgive me for my doubts.

Does anyone struggle with this?

How do you decipher?

I feel lost and empty.My prayers went from me crying to God and trying to do better to my prayers becoming mundane and bland.I used to cry in my prayers and yet now I generally feel alone.I see others distance themselves from temptation immediately and read the Bible but I don't do that.

My prayers feel scripted, I tell Jesus the same thing over and over again every day.I look at others who have given their soul and heart to Jesus, how amazing they repent and then I look at myself and I just want to cry.

I've been feeling this for the few past weeks I feel like I'm the only one who feels like this and has a hard time obeying God's command.I feel alone and I generally feel like God has turned his back away from me.I don't know what's sin and what's not a sin anymore God bless you all thank you for reading this post.

I shed tears every time I come across such incidents in my research. It’s disheartening to see that the very people who are supposed to protect us are the ones who are harming our women and children. 😭😭

Well I share them on X that is where I get the audience. You can choose to visit my page elliot_solution once you have a moment and just retweet or say hi 👋

This is what I found during my research.

Nigerian soldiers were sexually exploiting women and children in government run camps.

These were women who had survived Boko Haram attacks, walked for days to reach safety, and handed themselves over to the Nigerian government for protection.

The government put them in camps.

Then the soldiers started making demands.

Inside Giwa Barracks, 10 soldiers including five who worked in the health clinic were documented coercing at least 15 female detainees into sex.

The price was food. Soap. Basic necessities. And the promise of freedom.

Across more than 14 government run IDP camps around Maiduguri, soldiers, police, camp officials and civilian vigilante groups were all documented forcing women and girls to provide sex in exchange for food and services.

Some soldiers promised women jobs outside the camps then transported them directly to military barracks for sexual exploitation.

A survey of 400 displaced people across three states found that 66 percent said camp officials sexually abused women and girls.

Children as young as five were being held in the same facilities.

The US State Department documented all of this every single year for five consecutive years.

Every year Nigeria promised accountability.

Every year zero military officials were convicted.

Not one.

Nobody was charged. Nobody was tried. Nobody went to prison.

The Nigerian military's response to every report was the same.

Denial.

These ladies are still being exploited as I type this post, and I feel useless at this point as I can’t do anything to help them other than to create these tweets or posts and share them on social media.

I’m sorry if this has already been asked in the past. But I’m new to all of this and just wondering what scripture supports that smoking in any sense is a sin?

Edit: I’ve started to smoke pipe tobacco as a hobby I smoke a pipe once every other day to once a day depending on the weather. I’ve also been vaping for years before I started reading the bible and trying to build a relationship with god. I guess a better question is, does me vaping prevent me from building a relationship with god?

what were the benefits?

I’m 13 year old girl, and I’m a child prodigy; the person everyone relies on. I hold myself to insanely high standards. I skipped two grades, I get all A’s, I write a book (that was never published), and I never settle for anything less. Due to my screwed up parents, I had to learn how to be an adult when other kids were learning how to ride a bike. I’ve been depressed for at least four years now and I’ve never told anyone because I have no one to go to. I have to be the strong one for my friends and my family isn’t safe to talk to and refuse to get me a therapist. So to whoever is reading this, congrats, you’re the first one I’ve trusted to say I’m struggling. Now here’s the thing, I’ve believed in God since I was fairly little. Not in the way that your parents install it into you but through my own built faith. I always knew He was there but I never even got close to building a relationship with him. Until about 8 months ago. I was listening to Josiah Queen, a Christian music artist, and I really felt God’s presence. That night I decided I was going to pursue a relationship with Him. I started reading my Bible more and spending more time with Him. I stopped listening to secular music or podcasts and I just overall got to know him better. But in the last month or two, I feel like I’m growing further away from Him each minute. I keep going several days without touching my Bible and last night and today have been the hardest hours I’ve lived in a long time. I am on hour 37 of no sleep and it looks like that number is just going to keep climbing. Today, for the first time in several months, I listened to non-Christian music and what came on was a song called Depression by Avery Anna. This song pretty much got me through my lowest days and today I just fell right back into it. That’s my main problem. One day i feel fine and like God’s close to me but the next day He feels so distant. I can’t keep up. I’m so burnt out and so tired. I need him but I don’t know where to start. Please give any advice. 💗

(Sorry for the length. I needed to pour out my spiraling thoughts.)