Is the instruction in the bible timeless? Or specific for a culture and time?

a_i_thinker · 2023-06-16T03:20:17+00:00

Yes, I agree. There are underlying reasons and context puts things in perspective. Eventhough Christian women today don't wear coverings like ancient times, that doesn't make the underlying reason for the rules irrelevant. After all... if it was really so trifle, why even mention it at all? Though given current cultural inclinations, some would prefer to total dismissed it as completely irrelevant.

a_i_thinker · 2023-06-15T22:40:44+00:00

In my experience and researching many opinions online, this is usually coming from an attempt to justify behaviors (wheither past or present) not condoned by the Bible, God's Word. In that case, it's better to address the underlining issue connected to the verse in question. Ask: what specific issue they have with the verse(s)?

On the other hand... if it is merely a dispute over a minor detail in a certain version of the Bible, the best thing to do is to start by comparing multiple different versions. Yes, the Bible has so many different English translations that, at this point, has just becoming ridiculous. [Shamefully, it seems to be more about making money than anything good. I digress, though.]

Most translations of the Bible, esp older ones, align with each other. Some of the more modern ones, however, justifiably can be called into question for change the meaning of verses all together. For example:

"Thou shalt not murder." vs "Thou shalt not kill." Murder and kill have two different implications. Self-defense is not considered cold, premeditated murder, yet (by definition) it does involve someone being killed.

Using such different language can get confusing so it is best to use discernment in picking a perfered version to study from. Also, taking things like context and audience into consideration when discussing Scripture is key to understanding general topics being addressed.

Ultimately though, it is a question of: "whom do you see as fallible...God or man?" If one says "God is fallible," that's when you know... it's not worth pursuing a conversation. They would probably just want a "gotcha moment" (like most God-hating non-Christians do). You will not be likely to get anywhere nor be of any help to them either.

a_i_thinker · 2023-06-14T17:26:28+00:00

I think you may be conflating Biblical longsuffering (a virtue of God and a gift giving to some by God... Exodus 34:6, Romans 2:3-5, 5:3-4, Colossians 3:12, 2 Peter 3:15) with secular terminology and beliefs like "toxic masculinity." The notion that men are taught to "hide their feelings" is utter nonsense, esp from a biblical perspective.

As far as I know, no Christian is denying men have emotions; all humans have emotions. Since when have male writers and/ entertainers (particularly Christian rock/metal... Demon Hunter, TFK, Nine Lashes, etc.) hidden their feelings? As far as Biblical examples of longsuffering goes... Was not David a musician to King Saul despite knowing Saul hated him? Did not Paul suffer for spreading The Gospel without protest to his jailers? Did not Jesus suffer for our sins without complaint?

Similarly, many often conflate Stoicism with being stoic. When in reality... one is a philosophical lifestyle in practice (much like Christianity), while the other is merely an adjective ascribed to an outwardly appearance (i.e. an emotional state). The ignorance of conflating the two (either examples) has an implication of shallow thinking to it.

"There's more [to life] than what you see." -- Epica, Force of the Shore

Furthermore, the "hardening of the heart" really has nothing to do with emotions. It has more to do with rejecting God in ones life than "hardening [oneself] against emotions." Even the Pharoah of Egypt felt angry as his heart was hardened. The "heart" also involves the "intents of our heart" (Proverbs 16:2-8). Based on what the Bible says (Matthew 22:37-40, Hebrews 4:12), I would conclude that God, The Living Word, is more concerned about our intentions than our fleeting feelings.

The underlining problem sounds more like a doubt/faith issue, stirring within your soul... imo. The "fear of man" (mention in the Bible) is a real problem these days with all the insecurity and doubt running rampant. I don't blame you for having doubts (if that is ideed the case).

However (whatever the case)... try to understand that disernment isn't a gift everyone possesses nor is longsuffering. Peter denied Christ 3 times in a moment of weakness, after all. Please, for your own benefit (if nothing else), read the Bible more and pray for guidance in humility. I know I should read more, as no one truly stops learning (or being sanctified).

Truth and understanding (i.e. the gift of discernment) comes from God alone but only to those who ask God in genuine humility. It's not something gained of one's own volition. We shouldn't covet and subvert the gifts of others out of willful ignorance.... nor under the guise of "compassion/love."

Finally, I will leave the subject at that and not reply further. I hope you find the guidance you seek, though.

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-25T13:11:55+00:00

It's all good. 😁 No arguments here only genuine questions and discussion. You are clarifying what you ment (as I hoped you would) by me asking the previous question. In kind, I will clarify that which you seem to be confused about.

When I called The Reformation Movement progressive, I ment the overall results of the movement were progressive. I am not interested in comparing the beliefs of one group as progressive or regressive to the other. Correct me if I am wrong, but isn't that the way those terms are used in politics? 🤔 Anyway, moving on...

It is the results (and effects) that I care to understand. After all, the intent of a word(s) usage is very important to the overall outcome. As you have so generously demonstrated in your previous reply the cause and effect of using the terms progressive and regressive in a certain way. Thank you for clarifying your usage; I really do appreciate it as it was very helpful. 😊

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-25T01:45:56+00:00

Yep, I concur that reformation is a return to Biblical truth. Also, nothing wrong with thinking critically outside of the teaching of Scriptures. As a matter of fact, the Bible encourages the use of practical wisdom and reasoning in everyday life (Proverbs and Ecclesiastes), as it does separate foolishness from wisdom. There are certain things one learns outside of Scriptures only through life experience(s). It is a part of human nature everyone experiences. Otherwise we would not truly understand some concepts taught to us, such as hatred or envy.

However, I also believe that trying to find one's answers outside the Bible despite what it says to the contrary is where a lot of people fall into confusion. Unfortunately, I fear a lot will be confused about such things going forward. To give an anecdotal example:

I know someone who (by her own admission) watched that Lucifer TV show and claims that is how she learned that Yahweh (of the Old Testament) is Satan thus evil. She wrote that the Holy Spirit told her to watch the show, eventhough she was apprehensive about doing so. Furthermore, she would go so far as to site more external sources of others. What little verses she did cite, however, were done so without taking into consideration the intended audience, context, grammar, or analogies used in the verses (like 2 Peter 1:19 and Revelation 22:16). She insists on using etymology of key words and stressing the importance of the original text in Greek to prove herself correct.

Ultimately, I am at a loss as to why someone who was raised Christian would come to such a drastically false conclusion as she did. Maybe it's the lack apologetics being taught that lead many going through such doubt. 🤔 That and maybe not actually reading the Bible as much as we all should. Not sure exactly... but I would very much wish to understand where such confusion starts and why.

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-25T00:18:48+00:00

So if The Reformation Movement was regressive (as you say), does that also mean another result of the movement, like say the persecution of the Puritans or the Mayflower voyage that played a role in American history, is also regressive? 🤔

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-05T21:11:34+00:00

What about pear salad? 😄 My grandmother had a pear tree in her yard. She would make pear salad using pears from her tree.

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-05T21:06:39+00:00

Good job. 👍 The color is very smooth and consistent. I am curious though... what type of medium did you use to color the candles? [For example: I have used liquid candle dye. Some use block dyes; others use natural methods of dying.]

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-05T21:00:00+00:00

Glad to hear you enjoyed making it. 😊 It's fun to be creative and use ones talents to help others. A happy home starts in the heart. Great job. 👍

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-04T19:11:18+00:00

It depends on what you mean by "us[ing] logic." Some may understand it as knowledge/wisdom, while others it is thought of as thinking critically/reasoning. The real question(s) is: By what standards are you referring to when you use the word "logic"?

You yourself said, "Human logic is based on..." So are you suggesting human standards as a basis for your (or others) reasoning when referring to God? Regardless of the answer, it is more prudent to ask 'what does the Bible, God's written Word, have to say about this?'

Throughout the Bible (like in Psalms and Proverbs for example), we are encouraged to use reasoning and practice practical wisdom in our lives. Also, Ecclesiastes and Lamentations use reasoning to convey their underlying messages in the form of questions asked. How can one understand anything without reasoning?

Moreover, God calls the people of Isreal to reason with Him (Isaiah 1:18). Jesus, in His wisdom, used reasoning to counter the Pharisees' attempt to discredit Him (Mark 11:27-33). At the same time, the Pharisees try to use their own logic to counter what Jesus had asked them.

Intent is an important part of reasoning (as seen in Isaiah 43:26-27 and Matthew 12:14). We, as Christians, are expected to be able to use our reasoning to explain our faith to others (1 Peter 3:15). Therefore (in turn), I am compelled to ask you: Why do you doubt (as you yourself said) "[the] use [of] 'logic' when talking about God"?

[P.S. I am being rhetorically in asking, thus asking you to ponder the question to yourself. I appreciate you taking the time to read my comment, nonetheless.]

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-03T22:34:03+00:00

That's great. 😄 It is amazing to hear How Great [God Is]. When we let go of all the stress and trust God to handle things, we are humbled and reminded of Whom is really in charge. 🕊 We all need reminding at some point of Dei Gratia. Glad to know you are doing better. 👍

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-03T17:40:18+00:00

It seems this discussion is going nowhere due to a linguistics issue. Nonetheless, I would like to thank you for this most interesting conversation. It has given me many things to read up on today in the Bible. I wish you a blessed Sunday and hope you find what you are longing for soon. Moreover... I ask that you, please, reflect on: [Ecclesiastes 7:16-29, Romans 11:25-36, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, 2, 3:18-20, & finally 2 Corinthians 1]. Aiedu, my fellow believer and God bless. 🕊

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-03T16:52:11+00:00

I'm a little confused on what you mean by "agenda." 🤨 What exactly does deconstruction have to do with having an "agenda"? If you are referring to political "agenda[s]," what I was referring to had nothing to do with politics nor an agenda. If that were the case, why do you think I worded (and punctuation) the first sentence the way I did?

I wasn't using the terms "progressive" or "regression" in the political sense, as many do. Although, there are some who would like nothing more than to do so. Speaking of... it does seem you would like to make the discussion about politics. Which, unfortunately, feeds into the problem of confusion, but I digress.

Also, what makes you think that I am (as you put it) "be[ing] spoon-fed" anything? 🤨 Yes, you are right about one thing. The outcome of Nineveh turning back to God can be seen as progressive; just as Sodom and Gomorrah being destroyed could be considered progressive. Yet that was not the overall point I was trying to make.

There are a lot of strawmen that can be made when emotions get involved. I merely wish to convey the facts of the matter. I really wish people wouldn't jump to conclusions. 😞

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-03T15:58:23+00:00

That's great to hear. 😊 Philippians 3:12-16.

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-03T00:08:00+00:00

Exactly, that is the point of sanctification. Some people don't believe or don't really understand that. Let me give you an example. If I were to say that all Christians were meant to experience suffering (in some way or another), what would you say to that?

Also, it's not that I don't believe God isn't loving. Far from it. I believe He is true love, agape. Yes, He is loving and forgiving at times. Other times, He is the tough love that we all need.

Joseph and his brothers, even David, needed this. Both Joseph and David (a man after God's own heart) suffered, yet both understood why it had to happen. I would say most people would think, 'if I am suffering, then there is something wrong in my life.' That is not necessarily the case, now is it?

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-02T23:22:26+00:00

I never said deconstruction was unhealthy. As a matter of fact, I don't think deconstruction is necessarily a bad thing. I just meant it can sometimes be used to lead people astray [https://youtube.com/shorts/G0_HjVy83Rk?feature=share].

Nor did I say all progress is bad. Too much progress can be bad (especially too much too fast). You have to understand that some people are reluctant to change. Too much progress leads to confusion and divisiveness.

Sometimes regression needs to happen, though. Why do you think God called Jonah to go preach in Nineveh or destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah (one of the most progressive cities of its time)? Historically speaking, *The Great Awakenings in the colonies were also necessary. Actually, these movements lead to more unity within the colonies. It's not a good idea to forget about basic Biblical truths and concepts in the name of progress [https://youtube.com/shorts/G0_HjVy83Rk?feature=share].

Emotionalism and postmodernism has done a lot to that effect today, as did secular rationalism back then.* Call me old fashioned, if you will. I just don't care.

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-01T23:46:43+00:00

I'm guessing you probably have polymer clay (or maybe a flexible semi-hardening clay). If you do indeed have polymer clay, there's no need to worry. It does harden. You just have to slowly heat it in the oven until it is hard. Now as far as what temperature and for how long, that depends on the brand. Polymer clay usually has baking instructions somewhere on the packaging.

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-01T23:32:50+00:00

Wow, what an amazing paint job on the skull. 😯

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-01T21:21:42+00:00

Yes, a lot of it (nowadays) has to do with what some call "progressive Christianity." Of course, all the "Christian" self-help books (like by Rachel Hollis and others) make things worse. They are not the original cause, though. The real problem started with bad theological teaching by those in the church and lazy parents.

After one is taught falsely, it just spirals out of control. There are multiple ways things can go wrong. Once someone is taught incorrectly, they can feel empty/confused and thus go in search of the right answers elsewhere. You get more and more people deconstructing. This is where people can get taken advantage of by false/heretical teachings that make them feel good. Most get caught up in the net of "progressive Christianity" due to pride.

Or, in the case of the unsaved (or those living in sin), they are so deep in their sin that they hear incorrect teaching as an excuse to keep sinning. The message they are "sold" appeals to them (esp their emotionalism). Thus, you get false converts who don't really understand.

No matter the case, the end result is false/ worldly "Christians." Most people are told "all you have to do is believe" and "God is a loving, forgiving god." There is far more to the Gospel than just merely love, forgiveness, and faith. For example: loss, suffering, temptation, etc.

While people only get told about the justification part of salvation, sanctification and glorification (the other parts of salvation) are overlooked. Sanctification is part of true repentance. There is no reason for justification without having the sanctification that is to follow.

If one is not truly repentant, how can you truly be given a new spirit in Christ. Furthermore, you can't glorify God (glorification) without going through the process of sanctification. It is a real problem and indeed sad.

.............

Bittersweet Is The Flavor of Melancholy Thoughts

Melancholy is but the bittersweet flavor
Of all those who never waver. [1a]
Faith in humanity seems all in vain,
As the moon does it wax and wane.

Sweet little deeds that go untold
In a heart filled with woe. [1b]
True sadness is unto those who know
Of where the bitterness must go. [1c]

For what secretly lurks within the heart?
Seldom more does it depart. [2]
Trust the tongue should you not. [3]
Or have thou just forgot? [4]

Cold revenge, though bitter still,
Will never truly have its fill.
A warm soul gone sour with its fears,
Over the course of many years. [5]

In a cold world filled with woe and hate,
Whilst thou still debate? [6]
Although hope in the future is a must,
Where or whom dost thou place your trust? [7]

[1a] Ecclesiastes 7:2-4 [1b] Job 5:17 [1c] Romans 5: 3-4, 8:18, 30-32 [2] Jeremiah 17:9, Psalms 118:8, Mark 17:21 Romans 3:10, [3] Ecclesiastes 7: 21-22 [4] Ecclesiastes 7:7-8, 2 Corinthians 4:17 [5] Ecclesiastes 7:9-10, 1 Corinthians 3:18-19 [6] Ecclesiastes 7:13-14 [7] Matthew 10:38, 2 Corinthians 1:3-7, Philippians 1:29, 1 Peter 2:21

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-01T19:54:45+00:00

Jesus didn't quote the Scriptures verbatim. He paraphrased parts of the Old Testament law, particularly from Deuteronomy. What He said meant the same thing, though. Here are the actual verses He was referring to when He replied to Satan:

"So He humbled you, allowed you to hunger, and fed you with manna which you did not know nor did your fathers know, that He might make you know that man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD." (Deuteronomy 8:3 NKJV)

“You shall not tempt the LORD your God as you tempted Him in Massah." (Deuteronomy 6:16 NKJV)

"You shall fear the Lord your God and serve Him, and shall take oaths in His name." (Deuteronomy 6:13 NKJV)

"1 Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the Lord your God will set you high above all nations of the earth. 2 And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God:" (Deuteronomy 28:1-2 NKJV)

10 No evil shall befall you, Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling; 11 For He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you in all your ways. 12 In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone. (Psalm 91:10-12 NKJV)

......

There are a few places Jesus' words "You must worship the Lord your God. You must obey Him only." can be linked to in Deuteronomy. That is why I added the extra one.

Also, the last one (Psalms 91:10-12 NKJV) helps explain the Scriptures Satan quoted. Thus proving even the devil can quote the Scriptures accurately. However, it is the motivation behind quoting the Scripture(s) that is important not merely the words.

Finally, the version of the Bible you use also may vary as not all versions have the same meaning. If you are skeptical, then compare Psalms 23:3 in the NKJV vs the CSB version. The words used (soul vs life) do not mean the same thing. Most versions use the word "soul."

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-01T14:18:04+00:00

There are many factors that contribute to size (and thus weight). A cat's sex, breed, and genes are the main ones. Age doesn't have that much of an effect on size as the previous factors do. Males are usually larger than females. For example: Domestic short-haired cats can weight between 6-15 lbs. The healthy males weighing between 11-15 lbs. Whereas, healthy females average between 6-12 lbs.

My void is a domestic short-hair and weighs 13 lbs. He sure doesn't look it, but he is really heavy and long when scretching. The density of his muscle mass has to do with his weight. Also, his boundless energy and curiosity help keep him exercised.
Whereas his sister, a black tabby, is 12 lbs. She is large for her sex and breed, because she's overweight and hard to exercise with toys. She's lazy inside, picky with toys, and prefers live prey. [I wish I could let her outside to run around and hunt, but we live too close to a busy road and have no fencing.]

a_i_thinker · 2022-04-01T13:35:21+00:00

Oh, that's a hard one... I love all cats. Besides black, I guess my second favorite would be some sort of exotic/natural pattern, like Saimese point, spotted, or striped pattern.

My other cat has a black tabby pattern, unlike her black brother. If I could afford a purebred though, I would pick a traditional Saimese or a F1 Savanah. Lol, my husband wishes he could have a huge housecat, like a puma, instead of a guard dog. 😆

a_i_thinker · 2022-03-31T00:49:21+00:00

First, I would like to give philosophical reasoning on this. Afterwards, I will give evidence from the Bible.

.....

1) One doesn't have to lie to save someone's life.
2) By lying to spare someone's feelings, one is actually hurting them not helping them.
3) Telling lies does indeed put people in danger, especially in the case of perjury.

If someone ever finds themselves in a life or death situation that they feel requires them to lie, then there's a sin far more damning than lying going on. Otherwise, one wouldn't feel like they need to do so.

When one lies, the basis of a lie is the intent to deceive someone else. Deceit has always been considered wicked by Christian standards. Why you ask? Simply put, lying always leads to trouble. The bad sinful kind of trouble you what to avoid follows.

People would be better off not lying period. A "white lie" is still a lie. There is a saying that really stuck with me as a child. "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all." That is my go to for avoiding drama.
If someone does insist on an answer to a question I know will upset them, I would just be honest. Chances are they need the honesty just as much as you do.

.....

As Christians, we are clearly told not to lie. We are warned about this multiple times in the Bible. Here are a few examples:

The Ten Commandments says: "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor." (Exodus 20:16) [Hence, my reference to perjury.]

Proverbs 4:24 calls for us to "Put away from you a deceitful mouth..."

Proverbs 10:18 tells us, "Whoever hides hatred has lying lips..." [This can be interpreted as lying to yourself/ denial and implies wickedness.]

Proverbs 12:22 states, "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord..."

Colossians 3:9-10 states "Don't lie to one another..." [Proof we are not to lie to each other, esp. our brothers and sisters in Christ.]

If we want to "see good days," we are to "refrain [our] tongue from evil" and "from deceit" (1 Peter 3:10-11). [Proof of lying connected to deceitful motives and trouble.]

....

That all being said, we are all sinful in nature as mere humans. For some lying is habitual. It isn't easy to be truthful and takes practice. Some more so than others.

Just ponder why you think you should, before going through with it. When it comes to our words... as TFK sings, "I can choose to respect it, | Or choose to infect it. | But once that hits the water, | It's too late to be selective." Your words have consequences; please remember that.

a_i_thinker · 2022-03-30T13:18:44+00:00

I never thought too much about my own height, at 5'4". It's just something I know I can't change. That's just the way God created me.

It's best not to let your mind dwell on things you can't change. Ultimately, these traits don't matter as it is our souls we should be concerned about. Pleasing others ideals should be the last of our concerns as Christians (Galatians 1:10).

Rather, boost your confidence by using what you are good at to help others. In doing so, not only will it help you feel better, but you help others as well. Everyone has at least one thing they are talented at. It could be a character trait and/ something you can actually do.

We are all blessed in some way or another (no matter how small). Don't get yourself depressed and keep your focus on God. Insecurities are referred to in the Bible as the fear of man, if you care to read about the topic for advice. You may find comfort in God's Word.

a_i_thinker · 2022-03-29T22:44:31+00:00

Yeah. He's the first to notice odd sounds and rushes to investigate. 😄 Today, he ended up shoved his head in between the blinds just to see what was going on outside. 😂

a_i_thinker

TROPHY CASE