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  1. Over the last few months before Jim had his surgery - in my grief now - I had forgotten. In Jim's prayers, that I heard, he often dwelled on his home in heaven and distinguished it from his home in heaven and his home on earth. To most people that may not mean anything, but for me, it told a lot. He had never really done that before a few months ago. Now that he is not waking up, the doctors have their reasons why. His brain is severely damaged by the stroke. If he did wake up it is likely that he wouldn’t be able to see, speak, feed himself, or breathe on his own. He has also developed an infection (Pneumonia) in his lungs. But I think there is an added reason - he doesn't want to wake up. He really has nothing to look forward to, he hated what the neuropathy was doing to him and it was getting worse, to the point that at some point he wouldn't have been able to do anything but sit in his chair and wait to die, which he felt he was already doing. I really think he was ready to go months ago, long before he knew about his heart problem. Even though he did have great hope that he would recover from his surgery and feel better and have more energy. I also feel he was torn between the desire to die and leaving me a widow. But there is also that he felt trapped in his body. So I have decided that I will let him die peacefully. I think he has a few more days before he has to have the stomach feeding portal installed. I have told them not to. It will also be at that time I will have them remove his ventilator so he can pass peacefully. There really is no hope he will recover, but even if there was - recover to what? To continue his neuropathy deterioration? I really think he doesn't want that, and is one reason he hasn't woke up. I am sorry, so very sorry. Not just for me, but for him, his family, and his close friends. I don't know the exact date they will do this, but it will happen soon. I will go and see him one last time tomorrow and say my goodbyes. I cannot bear to watch him die. This is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. But he would not want to live like this, and I am abiding by his wishes. Please know, my heart goes out to you. Linda, his wife
    12 points
  2. Here is the latest: "As I said last night I spoke with the Neurologist yesterday. The neurologist had another CT scan performed yesterday afternoon. The results show that he experienced several strokes to various areas of his brain during surgery. What the Doctor does not know yet is the extent of damage done to those areas of the brain. The neurologist cannot evaluate the brain damage until Jimmy wakes up from the coma. If he does wake up, then the Doctor will have a better idea of the extent of brain damage. I wish I could give more concrete answers but we just don’t know yet. The Doctors said his condition is very serious but we can only wait to see if he wakes up to know more. I won't be sending any more updates until we actually know more than this. Linda"
    9 points
  3. DaveW

    My daughter to PNG

    My daughter, Hannah-Rose is a registered nurse. She has left Perth this afternoon to fly to Brisbane and then on to Port Morseby, Papua New Guinea. She will be serving at Kunai health clinic. The clinic is an independent baptist missionary run clinic with the purpose of reaching the people of the Kotidanga region and beyond for the Lord. I would appreciate prayer for her travel and for her service for the Lord into the future. Regards, DaveW
    9 points
  4. I want to share some changes we've made to our software to keep our community safe. It's all about reporting content that might have nudity or explicit stuff in it. Here's the deal: If you come across anything that contains nudity, you can now report it as nudity. When only one member does that, the software will automatically hide that content from public view. Our Mods will then take the necessary steps for banning . This change is all about making sure our Online Baptist family-friendly and faith-centered environment stays that way. We really appreciate your help in keeping our site clean and suitable for everyone. Thanks for being a part of Online Baptist and helping us make it a place where we can all grow in our faith. If you have any questions or concerns about this update or anything else on our platform, feel free to let me know. Thank you to everyone who reported the latest member. This new tweek will remove the content even faster now. God Bless. It's sad that we even have to have this conversation. ?
    8 points
  5. Please pray for us. Selling or giving away practically everything (amazing how much 2 frugal people accumulate in 15 years after losing almost all in a hurricane and tornado). Giving "heirlooms" and such "family possessions" to my kids / grandkids. Looking for small motorhome for temp housing while on deputation for $6000 or less. (Target date for being on the field 31Dec19). Technologically challenged couple trying to put together presentation, etc. for deputation. Cracking down on seeking proficiency in Spanish for two old codgers. We are going on a "survey / fact-finding" trip 25Dec17-12Jan18. We are going to Nicaragua (missionary) probably beginning ministry in / near Jinotega or Boaco. The Lord has already provided me with a couple of national contacts (a paralegal who is familiar with Nicaragua visas and a Nicaraguan Independent Baptist pastor) and a gringo missionary in Matagalpa. The national pastor should be able to make me aware of existing solid Baptist churches that might be in an area that most gringos wouldn't know was there because of them being the result of the ministry of a Nica church instead of a US missionary. That should help avoid an unwitting waste of time and effort in an "already covered" area. If someone knows of some churches which have an annual missions conference that might be worth my while, please let me know. I've always stayed in my little corner, minding my own business and busy with the ministry the Lord had me in. As a result, most the people and contacts I knew are in Glory now. I know no one, no one knows me (which can be a blessing or a frustration).
    8 points
  6. I would like to ask for prayer from my OB family regarding my upcoming triple heart by-pass surgery. There is no firm date for this surgery, but it will happen soon. Last week the docs tried a procedure to put in stents, but it was unsuccessful, so a triple heart by-pass is needed. Please pray with and for me.
    7 points
  7. I will state this as well: Just because God does not qualify a person for the pastoral position does not mean they are "uneducated" or incapable of doing the job. God set it up where the pastor is a "husband of one wife" (1 Tim 3:2). God distinctly made males and females different, both physically and mentally. God chose pastors to be men, and I can't give birth because that's not how God made me. There are some ministries that God called people in our church to do that I probably can do better, but God did not call me for that ministry like He did them, and I'm okay with following God. The women in our church play a role just as important as mine in our church. I will not sit back and let people disrespect women and the roles that God has given them in our New Testament church.
    7 points
  8. DaveW

    Abortion supporters

    I rarely post now but this has me incensed. And as with the few other posts I have made over the last few years, I almost certainly will not respond here. I have here following discredited the misuse of these Bible passages, and unless there is biblical evidence against my statements there is no reason for me to respond. I will not be arguing about this. Gen 2:7 (7) And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. Eze 37:7-10 (7) So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone. (8) And when I beheld, lo, the sinews and the flesh came up upon them, and the skin covered them above: but there was no breath in them. (9) Then said he unto me, Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live. (10) So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army. Ecc 11:5 (5) As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all. Let’s look at this…… explanation…. Of this man’s opinions from an actual Biblical perspective. “Dr. Robert S. Morley (Here's my post without the examples of how Ecclesiastes 11:5 is translated in the ESV and NAB, which some might find displeasing. I've only used the KJV and have included Clarke and Benson as examples of how others interpret the KJV.)” First thing to note is that this man has been told to use KJV as it is this site’s rule to do so. He has been informed of this officially by at least one Mod, so this is a deliberate and knowing breach of forum rules, showing that he has no respect for the forum rules or the mods. “I believe early abortion is a solution for incest, rape, and other unwanted pregnancies that avoids "killing" human beings.” What you “believe” is irrelevant – what does the Bible actually say? And it is interesting that he not only uses the very rare situations of “incest, rape” but then extends it to the far more common “unwanted pregnancies”. These are his words, and as such he obviously believes in abortion for any reason. He includes the limiters of “incest, rape” to make it seem like he is reasonable, but he then removes the limits by making it “”other unwanted pregnancies” without limitation or definition. This is deceitful presentation. “The creation account of Genesis 2:7 and the reassembling of human life in Ezekiel 37:7-10 show a two stage process where the physical precedes the soul. They read as follows: "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul" (Gen. 2:7 KJV).” First instance is the original special creation of the first man, Adam, not the natural birth process. This is in no way a representation of “normal” pregnancy and birth. There is no womb mentioned, there is no conception mentioned, there is no pregnancy mentioned. This is not in any way a normal natural pregnancy, and as a result of it being unique and special in every way, this passage CAN NOT be used in the way that this man is using it. It is simply not relevant to the argument. “"So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone. And when I beheld, lo, the sinews and the flesh came up upon them, and the skin covered them above: but there was no breath in them. Then said he unto me, Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live. So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army" (Ezek. 37:7-10 KJV)” This also is in no way speaking of the natural and normal way of birth. This is a miraculous re-formation of people – if this man’s theory is correct then we also MUST accept that tehw ay a body is formed follows every aspect of this account. That means that a baby forms in this order – the bones first, then the sinews, then the flesh, and then the skin forms over it, and ONLY then the breath comes upon that child FROM THE FOUR WINDS……. Clearly this is not true, and therefore neither is his premise that the creation of a child is a two part formation. This account ahs NOTHING to do with the creation of a child in the womb. “Ecclesiastes 11:5 reads, "As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all" (KJV). Some commentries on this verse suggest the possibility of a two-phase process in human formation. For example, Clarke's commentry reads, "thou canst not tell . . . how their soul is united to their body, how it came to inform that body, or how the child was formed in the womb of its mother." The Benson Commentary of Ecclesiastes 11:5 interprets the KJV similarly. It reads, "As thou knowest not the way of the spirit — Of the soul of man, how it comes into the child in the womb; or how it is united with the body; or how, and whether it goes out of the body."” Ecc 11:5 (5) As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all. Where does this in any way indicate a “Two stage human formation” – if anything it indicates that the spirit is not a part of the physical formation of a person, but it doesn’t indicate in any way that such formation is done in two separate stages. This is in my opinion a deceitful misuse of this verse as there is simply nothing in it which indicates what is represented by this man. Even Benson in his commentary does not suggest what this man is suggesting. He talks of the soul of man but not of a separate timing of it being joined into the physical form of a baby. To suggest otherwise is twisting the commentators words, let alone the Bible itself. “If the biblical accounts that show two stages of human formation are a template for how human life develops, which some commentators of Ecclesiastes 11:5 suggest possible, then ensoulment occurs some time after conception. Consequently, a human zygote would not have a soul and would not yet be a human being.” But the Biblical accounts simply DO NOT show this. The first is an event of special creation, not even a pregnancy, the second is an account of special re-formation not normal birth and again not pregnancy, and the third makes note only of the spirit as being distinct from the physical, and nothing at all of the separate formation of these things or of the timing being separate in any way. There is nothing in these verses that indicate a separate “ensoulment” (not a biblical term by the way), and absolutely nothing that indicates that some sort of “ensoulment occurs some time after conception”. This is 100% this man's theory based apparently upon his ideas that he has imposed upon certain verses that CLEARLY don't say what he is telling us they say. Since these three passages are erroneously used, and they clearly do not say what this man suggests they say, his conclusion is obviously incorrect. A human Zygote – which I will note has everything that it needs to grow into a full and complete human being, including a protective environment provided by the Lord – as far as I can see has a soul as soon as it is created. There is no verse that this man has shown that would indicate otherwise. “Furthermore, “the 1 in 2 loss of zygotes, spontaneous abortions, and the human response to them, may corroborate that a gap exists between conception and personhood” (Preface – Abortion and the Bible: Can Pro-life and Pro-choice Both Be Right?).” This last phrase comes from a man who has no idea of what he is speaking. My wife and I have suffered 5 miscarriages, and to call them spontaneous abortions, whilst medically correct, shows that he has no compassion for those who have suffered such. The loss of a child through natural sin affected means is not the same as a deliberate act of ending a life, but it is still a devastating event in the life of a couple. So this one instance of a “human response to the loss of a zygote” disproves emphatically your last paragraph. You sir are not qualified to teach the Bible, and that is obvious by your travesty of the misuse of these three passages at least, and corroborated by your absolute lack of compassion for those who have suffered in this way. And in any case, if someone has no apparent response of loss and grief, that doesn't mean there is any gap between personhood and conception. People respond differently to different events, but a different response does not change the event.
    7 points
  9. The word Christian means "Christ like". The RC church is anything but Christ like. I even hesitate to call it a church.
    7 points
  10. The liberal central government in Canada is imposing additional gun control completely opposite to the will of many of the people. You know what happened the last time they tried to make a long gun registry? Everyone simply chose not to comply. ? So they finally scrapped it, cause it wasn't working. But now they're putting it in sideways by trying to require everyone to register when they sell or purchase a firearm. Don't copy Canada. Our government are idiots. Actually , cancel that. They're not idiots. They know exactly what they're doing to create an environment where they can exert total control over the populace. Covid gave them a marvellous excuse to start really enforcing socialist laws. Do you know that, as an unvaccinated citizen, I am not allowed to board a train or airplane in Canada? That I'm not allowed to work for the federal government, and a lot of other businesses too? But they're bringing in unvaccinated Ukrainians by the planeload, and the illegal border crossing at Roxham Road is still allowing in illegals from the US. For anyone reading this who might actually support gun control, just remember two things. Bad guys don't follow the laws. And no matter how you feel about guns, you should educate yourself with the historical truths of disarmed populations (quote borrowed).
    7 points
  11. As for me, there can be no argument that teaches that the Apostles were wrong. For if anyone says or believes this, they are basically saying that the Holy Spirit that inspired the Scripture is wrong also.
    7 points
  12. Don't worry, it won't. Test kits, whether they work or no, have zero influence on any adverse outcomes. If you're sick enough to need medical help, you'll know it. Please stop the fearmongering and senseless predictions of doom.
    7 points
  13. Jim_Alaska

    10% offering

    Many times it is difficult to understand another persons situation when you don't know all the facts. Therefore it is hard to make a valid suggestion about the situation. In this case I know where totoosart lives. He lives in a country where Christianity is not only banned, but the authorities actually seek out Christians and try to detect where and when they may be meeting. If the authorities find them or their meeting place there, can be life threatening consequences, in other words they could be arrested and even put to death. So this situation can have dire consequences for him if he is not extremely careful. Just owning a Bible or trying to give out Bibles can be dangerous.
    7 points
  14. Linda, my heart is so burdened and heavy for you. I'm so glad that you have our Lord Jesus, the Spirit--our great Comforter. I'm just over on the other side of Mt. Shasta from you, and it was our church that helped to put the roofing on yours just a short while back. One of the fellas that attends your church has a brother that goes to our church. I will share with our Pastor and ask for prayer for you and for the family and friends and your church. I'm lifting you up in much prayer.
    6 points
  15. I'd like to wish all of the Fathers here on OB a very blessed and happy Father's day. I was only a foster father way back when. But that was rewarding enough. Cherish your families, especially your children. They truly are a gift from God. Blessings. BT
    6 points
  16. Administration note: God gave us all a free will to believe what and who we believe. I trust everyone reading this will take the time and read what the Bible says rather than what man says. In the past man has got things wrong in the church (every denomination and non-denomination) when they listen mans opinions, but God's word never changes. Trust God's Word over man and you'll never be wrong. Beware of people that point you to more of what man says rather than God. That's what cults do. God is the one we are accountable to. Heb 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.
    6 points
  17. Without wanting to argue with this guy - there is no point arguing with a man such as this - I will point out a few things: After my initial post in this thread, where I stated that Bible truth is truth, He refused to acknowledge that the Bible has absolute truths but instead manoeuvred around the point to state that all sorts of groups believe what they follow is Bible truth. In doing so, he promotes the point of view that the Bible has no absolute truths, but only perceived truths. This aligns with his presented "bible studies", which are all about perception and "interpretation". Then after my second post he first states only his opinion (and the opinions of others) that Junia is a female name. He is relying on the convention in Greek that male names end in a consonant and female names end in a vowel. But this is the ONLY evidence that can be presented and it is not a 100% certainty. As displayed by for instance.... Aquila.... who is married to Priscilla. Act 18:2 (2) And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them. Apparently, because of the surrounding language Aquila is a man ("His wife"), but if we insist that the regular convention be 100% consistent then this couple would fit right into today's societal redefinitons. (He will probably use this in his next book as a proof of alternative lifestyles being promoted in the Bible). Further, he discards the word "kinsmen" as being generic and non-gendered, because it suits his argument, however the Bible uses two words, and these are clearly used according to whether only men are referred to or more generically, a group of people which could include women. Luk 2:44 (44) But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. Luk 21:16 (16) And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. The only use of "kinsman/men being in dispute being this one referring to Junia, which is only in dispute because people WANT Junia to be a female name, WITH NO EVIDENCE of such. He also admits that husband and wife are inherently masculine and inherently feminine but the sidesteps that entirely to force the verse to be irrelevant with a side argument which is not relevant to the discussion. In doing so, he makes the Word of God to none effect with humanistic reasonings, again emphasising the point that he has no regard to what the Word of God actually says. This man has constantly and consistently ignored what the Bible actually says in order to redefine, re-understand, reinterpret, and simply outright ignore what the Word of God actually says. He does this in every thread he has posted or participated in (as far as I can see), and he has come onto an Independent Baptist forum to make merchandise of the Lord (he promoted his books aggressively until he was told he was not allowed to do so here), and to try to sway anyone who comes looking for Bible truth away from Bible truth. Bible truth which he believes is entirely relative to who is reading it, as I pointed out in my first statements on this post. Finally, anyone who disagrees with him he proclaims to be dishonest, mean spirited, and not acting according to the directions of the Lord, or in a manner aligning with a "Good Christian character". To that I say only: Tit 3:9-11 (9) But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. (10) A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; (11) Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself. and: Rom 16:17-18 (17) Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. (18) For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. It is indeed Biblical to mark out men such as this man, who has posted foolish questions designed to sway people from the simplicity in Christ, and who has by his actions before he was stopped, shown that his purpose was to swell his own belly by the merchandising of his own thoughts as he promoted his own writings, the whole while twisting and ignoring the Word of God, claiming that it is not the Word of God as it is written. My advice to anyone reading OLB at this time, is that where you see this man's name on a post, you need to be aware that this man does not value the Word of God as the Word of God, he has no desire to reveal the truth of the Word of God, but only his own perceptions and interpretations of the Word of God, and the god that he follows is simply not the God of the Bible. And finally, none of this is an unfounded personal attack, as the facts that I state are clearly seen in his own posts and answers to other people's posts. I am not angry, other than to be offended at the blatant misuse, mirepresentation, and wresting of the Word of God, and disguised evil intent to draw people away from biblical truth. I am not attacking the man, but what the man has said and presented on this forum. It does however indicate the character of such a man and as such he will no doubt cry "ad hominin" to it.
    6 points
  18. The c*vid plandemic caused our nursing home ministry to come to a screeching halt. However, just recently we were able to schedule a monthly service at an assisted living center - where one of our members lives. The first service is tomorrow afternoon. It won't be until late afternoon, so that means staying all day...long day, for sure. But we are so thankful we are going to be able to begin ministering in this way once again.
    6 points
  19. Some "dress to impress;" others "dress to respect." The outward appearance may be similar for both, but the heart attitude is definitely different.
    6 points
  20. Over the years, I have sat in a pew listening to "sermons" by a few famous IFB pastors that made me feel extremely uncomfortable due to inappropriate stories or sayings. In my opinion, if a sermon is preached then it should be 100% Bible based, and any stories or illustrations should only be used if they align perfectly with the sermon. Any fetishes between a husband and wife should never be spoken of from behind a pulpit, again it's my opinion, but I believe when fetishes are spoken about like this from a pulpit, during a sermon, it's blasphemous. I am now extremely careful who I listen to and whose churches I visit during furlough.
    6 points
  21. 1Timothy115

    Liberals' Bane

    We've had them in IFB and IB churches to the sides and behind the pulpit. I have no problem with showing respect for the U.S. Flag and the Baptist Flag on the platform area. For that matter, as a retired Navy man I like it. Our new pastor had them both removed. I honor the Lord first and God's under shepherd of the local church second. For me the flag represents the authority God permitted within our Declaration and U.S. Constitution. I don't come into the sanctuary and give the flag a salute, either one of them. I don't worship nor give undo honor to our nation's flag. Honor to the flag is such a little thing and has never been a part of worship toward God in any church I've attended or been a member of.
    6 points
  22. Rebecca

    "Counseling"

    A pastor can give advice, or counsel, but I believe there is a limit in what he can or should do within the confines of a pastorate. I'm not a pastor, but I do work in ministry with ladies and children. Several years ago I was teaching a ladies Bible study when a lady privately asked for counsel. I quickly learned that what she needed was a doctor, and I was not and am not qualified to counsel someone with that level of needs. Unfortunately the situation ended sadly. This taught me to always be very careful with the advice I give and to understand when I am at my limit and the person needs professional help, not spiritual help. I would hope every pastor knows their limits and to know when to advise the person seek a medical professional.
    6 points
  23. One of our granddaughters, Esther, (the oldest child of our oldest son) was admitted to the burn unit in Wichita, KS on 15Sep20. Next month (Nov 2020) she will be 8 y.o. I took my wife to Dodge City to watch the other 3 children. Alisha (Esther's mother) is at the hospital with Esther. David (Esther's father) had to go back to work this week. Esther is burnt over 40% of her body, 60% of the right leg and 50% of the right arm are 3rd degree burns, the remainder is 2nd degree. When Esther gets back home (probably 2 or more weeks from now), our oldest daughter, Rebekah, (the one the Lord healed from Myeloid Leukemia after the doctors told here there was nothing else they could do for her) will go to Dodge City to handle in-home nursing for her (she's a CMA, CNA, Cardiotech and probably a few more things I don't remember). Rebekah started a GoFundMe to try to defray some of the costs beyond David's insurance. Here is the GoFundMe link https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-help-esther-with-her-hospital-stay?utm_source=facebook Updates are being placed on the GoFundMe page as they happen. Yes, the page list Rebekah as beneficiary - Rebekah needed to set things up quickly. David has his Venmo set up now, so the GFM monies can be transferred to him as needed. Thanks, I may not be able to update or respond to posts for a while - drove 25 miles to do this one. Thanks
    6 points
  24. So our son is getting married on June 10. We are beyond thrilled. His wife-to-be is a godly young woman, and had I tailored a wife for him, she is what I would have made. God is so good! Wouldn't mind some prayer that things all come together for the wedding. ?
    6 points
  25. I grew up in a Christian home and went to Bible college in Northern Indiana (not Hyles ? ) and have been in the ministry for 25 years. When some folks hear my background and disagree with my beliefs or doctrine, they say things like, "You just believe that because your dad/church/college told you that". It's crazy that some folks will never believe that we do study the Bible as well and come up with our own conclusions based on our study. I disagree with some Biblical things with my father and the Bible College I attended. These issues are not anything to separate over, but I'm also not going out there to prove them wrong or my prove superior intelligence ? I have noticed a few patterns with these types of people that tell me this type of stuff and it turns me off. 1) They are extremely proud and LOUD. 2) They are very arrogant and confrontational 3) Take one or two passages of Scripture and make a doctrine out of it 4) Conversions about doctrine go off on Rabbit trails and insults 4) They can never agree to disagree Come to think of it, I've been taught a whole bunch of junk as well in my life. I'm glad that can study the Bible out myself and come to my own conclusions. Proof that we don't teach everything we've been taught is that we've been taught so much in life that we would be all over the place with our beliefs and doctrine if we believed everything we have been taught. Hello, I'm Matt, and thank you for listening to my TED Talks.
    6 points
  26. Yesterday I posted this verse without any further comment. Now I wish to provide some further commentary. The idea that we should "disregard," "disrespect," or "depart from" the teaching of our youth simply because such a practice is a necessary part of "growing up" unto "real maturity" is NOT a Biblical idea. In fact, under inspiration of God the Holy Spirit the apostle Paul honored the instruction of Timothy's youth and directly instructed Timothy, not to "cast it away," but to CONTINUE in it. However, that instruction from the Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul to Timothy WAS founded upon some qualifications. Those qualifications were as follows: 1. The teaching of Timothy's youth was by the right teachers - "knowing of whom thou hast learned them." (By godly teachers who possessed unfeigned faith in and love for the Lord God and His Holy Word (see 2 Timothy 1:5 & Deuteronomy 6:4-6).) 2. The teaching of Timothy's youth was from the right source - "and that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures." (From the truth and wisdom of God's Holy Scriptures themselves, not man's doctrine, but God's Word.) 3. The teaching of Timothy's youth was of the right quality - "and hast been assured of . . . which are able to make thee wise." (Diligently grounded in the holy scriptures so as to develop Biblical conviction and godly wisdom in the heart (see Deuteronomy 6:7-9).) 4. The teaching of Timothy's youth was for the right purpose - "which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." (For the purpose of developing a faith-filled relationship in and with the Lord Jesus Christ, not just as an eternal escape from hell, but as a daily walk of fellowship.) In truth, this is just the type of teaching that the Lord our God has assigned for every parent to fulfill in the upbringing of their children. (See Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4; etc.) Indeed, this will be the objective of every godly parent throughout the upbringing of their children. Even so, to the extent that godly parents do fulfill this type of upbringing in the lives of their children, the Book of the Proverbs instructs young adults time and again NOT to forget or depart from that very teaching. Now, am I ignoring the reality that many parents and/or past authorities (even so-called "good" Christian parents or authorities) are not fulfilling this God-given responsibility according to the Biblical definition and qualification thereof? God forbid! I am quite well aware of this failure on the part of many. And it will be necessary at some point for adults to depart from the ungodly, unbiblical teaching of parents and past authorities (see Proverbs 19:27; 1 Timothy 6:3-5; etc.) and to develop convictions and behavior that conforms unto the actual truth and wisdom of God's Holy Word. However, this is NOT a "departure" simply to establish one's own "adult-independence." Rather, this is a departure specifically to move away from falsehood unto actual Biblical truth. Indeed, casting aside the teachings of our youth simply to demonstrate some form of "adult-independence" is NOT a sign of spiritual maturity, but actually a sign of spiritual immaturity. According to the Book of the Proverbs, it is NOT a sign of godly wisdom, but of ungodly foolishness. Furthermore, I am not ignoring the necessity for adults to study the truth and wisdom of God's Holy Word with diligence for themselves, so as to develop personally rooted convictions in God's Word, rather than simply to possess "authorities" rooted convictions from what others have taught. However, the Biblical teachings of parents and past authorities should not be "cast aside" in relation to this pursuit, but should serve as the foundation upon which to build this pursuit. Indeed, this pursuit of diligent study in the truth and wisdom of God's Holy Word should be a characteristic of our daily lives as the children of God continually unto the end the of our lives. (See Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:1-2; 2 Timothy 2:15; etc.)
    6 points
  27. I have NO problem with the "sinner's prayer" of faith in Christ asking him for his gift of eternal forgiveness and eternal salvation. Such most certainly IS a Biblical concept and practice. On the other hand, I DO have a problem with the philosophy and practice of "easy prayerism," wherein repeating a set of prayer-words is made equal to heart-faith in Christ. Such most certainly is a corruption of Biblical concepts and practices.
    6 points
  28. Good point. If you're sick enough to need hospital attention....GO. I don't care if the home test is negative, go to the hospital if you feel that is the best care for your survival. This fearmongering is getting out of control.
    6 points
  29. Shutting down this thread because it's going nowhere good fast. And is also possibly the most ridiculous thread topic I've seen in 15 years on this board.
    6 points
  30. This thread is a perfect example of what happens when a plethora of differing "authority" exists. Chaos, confusion, and arguing. God is not the author of chaos. We stand with the KJV, and we care not if people dismissively call us KJVO or KJVP or whatever. We are not hateful about it, so if someone chooses to be hateful about our stand, well, so be it. That's on them, not us. My husband preaches only from the KJV. We recommend only the KJV. And guess what? It's completely understandable. Because the HOLY SPIRIT is the one who teaches and reveals. We don't need "scholars" to tell us what God really meant to say. We are English speakers; we use the Book we believe God preserved for English speaking people.
    6 points
  31. This is a commandment for ALL Christians and should be taught to even the babes Christ. Pastor or not, the command is for Christians. Matt 5:44, 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;
    6 points
  32. Posting these types of articles as "proof" isn't really reliable information. Anyone with any theory can post a news link that will back them up. If I believe in evolution, I could post hundreds of news story's from scientists to back up my point. Also, there is zero proof that he would not have died if he approved vaccine mandates. Anyways. the main thing I see with this news article is that there is a HUGE difference in a vaccine mandate and the free will vaccine. Don't confuse the two. I am not against the vaccine one bit at all (even though it needs to be renamed because it's not a vaccine) Many in my family took it and it caused 0% argument or division. However, they/we are all against the forcible mandate on something that should be between our doctors and ourselves. We are each responsible (from God himself) for our own bodies and what we put in it. It is interesting that our government want to force this jab on people for their health, but does nothing about places like McDonalds which causes thousands of deaths from heart disease. *For the record I do not believe the government should stop people from where they eat. Just ironic how they pick what they want to control.
    6 points
  33. Just to clarify: Mary is not the mother of God. She is the mother of Jesus, of His human nature. I have heard various messages through the years about Mary's faith, about how the Lord used Mary, her as an example to us, her words "whatsoever He saith to you, do it"). She was only a virgin until after the birth of Jesus. She had at least 6 other children (four sons, and at least two daughters, because the passages say "sisters"). She certainly was a godly woman, a woman of faith. Of course, we should teach about her as much as any other Bible character - but not exalt her or focus on her more exclusively than anyone else (not saying you are trying to do that - just want to clarify, as I came from a nominal Catholic background).
    6 points
  34. It amazes me how many people think that the government is the one that gives us freedom. Freedom comes from our creator. If anyone feels that we have not lost any freedom, then they themselves are enslaved to the government.
    6 points
  35. So a gentleman came to church last Wednesday while still sick with C*vid. Saturday my son got sick and still is. By Monday another man in the church tested + for it (I don't know if that's what Josh has). Monday night I got sick, Tuesday my mom did, now Asher has a fever, and another man in the church is getting sick. Tonight my husband is at church alone. Because too many people are sick. Please pray for us.
    5 points
  36. Rebecca

    Jim Foley Update

    Linda, I understand completely the heart-wrenching decision you have made. My mom and I had to make this same decision for my father just a few years ago. My dad went by Alan on this site and often spoke favorably of Jim when we had in-depth discussions about topics and conversations from this site. I am sure my father and Jim will be rejoicing together that they finally get to meet each other in Heaven. I will continue to pray for you and your family as I know these days and the days to follow will be very difficult. May the Lord bring you peace during this time of decision-making and grief.
    5 points
  37. It seems that in the last 30 or so years our churches have taken on a whole new look and atmosphere. As these changes were being made to attract more people to church, more and more people are having a hard time finding a church to call home? Recently, I attended the Baptist Church that I grew up in. While growing up, this church was a very conservative church. Never would they have entertained the thought of having anything other than a piano or organ on the stage. Upon this visit, I noticed that everything has changed the last 30 years. No longer did the church look like a place of worship, but rather an entertainment center. Ironically, the crowds were smaller now than 30 years ago. So what happened to my church? As I reflect back, I now see some signs that was there that started the shift of entertainment rather than worship. What has divided the church? It seems that is almost always starts with music. Not many churches minds some guitars to help accomplay the music, but not too long ago ear plugs were being handed out as one enters the into some church sanctuaries. Some churches now open with a secular song, dim the lights, add in fog machines, and have an atmosphere that represents a local rock concert. All of this is to enhance repetitive choruses that will be sung over and over by church members that seem hypnotized. In an effort to attract unchurched people, the “Seeker Sensitive” movement suggested that churches should cater to the comforts of the “seeker”. Bill Hybels admitted that he came up with the term but later confessed it didn't work. Hybels states: “We made a mistake. What we should have done when people crossed the line of faith and become Christians, we should have started telling people and teaching people that they have to take responsibility to become ‘self feeders.’ We should have gotten people, taught people, how to read their bible between services, how to do the spiritual practices much more aggressively on their own.” The founder of the “Seeker Sensitive” movement now states that he should have taught people to read their Bibles and take responsibility for their own spiritual walk. This church that I grew up in, used to teach me how to read the Bible on my own. Acts 2:42 “And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.” When this music shift took place, Some churches catered to the older crowd with an early a.m. traditional service for those with gray heads. That trend began "the great divide" between generations. Preachers started preaching only about love and tolerance. Everything and everyone must be accepted. Sin must be accepted. People loved having their ears tickled. The goal was to leave church with that "feel good" feeling and have their self-esteem built up. Sound doctrine was being set aside and ignored. Issues like marriage, abortion, and hell apparently divide so the preaching ceased on those things, although rock music in the church apparently was not a dividing issue. Having said all of that, the gates of hell are trying like crazy to penetrate the church,change its message, change its purpose, and to distort the gospel. Matthew 16:18 “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” If anyone else has seen that music has changed your church, please let us know and comment below. What happened to your church?
    5 points
  38. Excellent! This guy does a good jobat that too.
    5 points
  39. In honor of all fathers, here are some dad jokes. If you have one reply here. Why don't skeletons fight each other? They don't have the guts! Did you hear about the restaurant on the moon? Great food, but no atmosphere! What did the grape say when it got stepped on? Nothing. It just let out a little wine! Why don't scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything! How do you organize a space party? You "planet"! Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field! What did the ocean say to the beach? Nothing, it just waved! How does a penguin build its house? Igloos it together! Why did the bicycle fall over? Because it was two-tired! How do you catch a squirrel? Climb a tree and act like a nut! I asked the librarian if she had any books on paranoia. She whispered, "They're right behind you!" What did one wall say to the other wall? "I'll meet you at the corner!" Did you hear about the mathematician who's afraid of negative numbers? He'll stop at nothing to avoid them! What's brown and sticky? A stick! Why don't oysters donate to charity? Because they are shellfish! I used to hate facial hair... But then it grew on me!
    5 points
  40. It's not my rule, it's how God set it up. The only way to support woman pastors is to quote more people than Scripture.
    5 points
  41. Four years ago today my little sister LeAnne went home to be with the Lord after a valiant, three year battle against breast cancer. During those three years she had so many wonderful opportunities to share the gospel with those around her, and many came to know the Lord. I miss my sister a lot. She was one of the three in my family that I had no problem talking to and spending time with. I know that I will see her again when I also go home. Praise the Lord for salvation, and for his unfailing goodness to us. BT
    5 points
  42. This is an independent Baptist Board. People may at times discuss other churches positively or negatively. This is fine, as long as the discussion is honest and kind (and no, kind doesn’t mean you can only say nice things). If members don’t like what is said about a particular group, they’re welcome not to read it or to leave. They may not tell others what to say or not to say. And for the last time, convention churches are not independent. Not the way that the IFB means it, anyways. Because, believe it or not, one doesn’t have to be part of something to make an assessment of it. Tony, you’re welcome to your own opinion of the SBC, but stop touting it as independent on this board when it is not by our definition. There’s something very undermining about the way you push that. I appreciate GloryLand choosing not to push your buttons, but this is your notice to not push this topic as well. (And please don’t PM me to complain. It gets old.)
    5 points
  43. The most controlled "no weapons" place in the U.S. is in prison -- 129 homicides in 2018 and multiple non-fatal shankings every year.
    5 points
  44. Yes, the only salvation Jesus gives is eternal life. ? John 10:27-29 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.
    5 points
  45. rancher824

    Hello again

    I was here years ago, but a busy life has kept me away. Decided to drop by and say hello. I searched and see several of the ones that were here have not been on for several years either. I doubt I will post much, as life is very busy, but I enjoy reading the posts. So to reintroduce myself. I was raised in a pastors home. Have live within an hour of the same place most of my life. When I was here before I wasn’t yet a father/ announced that we were expecting and received prayers when the pregnancy was going rough. And those prayers were graciously answered. Now I need more prayers as I am the father of a teenager ? and an 11 year old. It is crazy how fast life has been flying by.
    5 points
  46. Thank you for the video. The nurse sums up my experience with doctors in the last couple years. Covid is not killing as many as we're being told. Many could be saved.
    5 points
  47. We just heard that one of my hub's brothers had a mini stroke yesterday. He is home and sleeping right now. Thing is, with their Factor V gene situation, that makes it more dangerous for a brain bleed. All brothers except the younger one are on some kind of anti-coagulant to keep clots from forming. A sister-in-law fell and dislocated her knee. She and her hubs are wanting to come out in June for Josh's wedding. If you could add healing and travel plans to your prayer list, I'd appreciate it.
    5 points
  48. I'm doing much better. I still have a bout of pneumonia but I can move around without oxygen if I don't do anything too strenuous. The most disturbing thing I've learned about this whole ordeal is how the hospital and even my "trusted" doctor did not want to treat me with anything. They took the "vax or die" approach and even then my mother's doctor and hospital in Lynchburg, VA waited until the last minute to treat my thrice vaxxed mother. They were gonna let her die but my brother went in there with a very "unchristian behavior" and got them to treat her. She is now back home alive and kicking. My sister-in-law found a website out of Europe where she was able to order Ivermectin and hydroxchloriquine. I plan on doing the same.
    5 points
  49. No. This American government is not legitimate. These are not "vaccines", they are gene therapies. They are deceiving and being deceived, calling evil good and good evil. I spent about three weeks in the hospital this year because of it, my wife and children all had it. We have the anti-bodies and have no need for any kind of shot related to the Wuhan Flu. My father and sister got the shots, they are both now in the poorest health of their lives, both requiring surgery very soon. There's no need for anyone to take the gene therapies for a virus with a 99% survival rate. This whole charade defies common sense.
    5 points
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