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Faith

Faith is a concept that has been debated and pondered upon for centuries. Some believe that faith is something that can be cultivated through sheer willpower and intention, while others argue that faith is a gift that is bestowed upon us by a higher power. In my opinion, faith falls into the latter category. It is not something that we can create or develop on our own; rather, it is a force that is beyond our control. The idea of faith as a gift is a comforting one. It suggests that we are not alone in our journey through life, but rather, we are guided and supported by a force greater than ourselves. This force, whatever you may call it – God, the universe, fate – is the source of our faith. It is the wellspring from which our belief and trust in something greater than ourselves flows. But what exactly is faith? Is it blind trust in the unknown, or is it a deep-rooted conviction that all will be well in the end? I believe that faith is a combination of both. It is the willingness to l...

The Old Testament

Physical Symbols of Spiritual Realities In the Old Testament, physical elements such as the Tabernacle, sacrifices, and offerings serve as symbolic representations of deeper spiritual truths, conveying profound connections between the divine and the human. SYMBOLISM & ALLEGORY The Old Testament, revered in both Christianity and Judaism, abounds with symbolism and allegory. Among its profound features is the frequent use of physical elements to convey spiritual truths. This recurring theme is evident in the construction of the Tabernacle and Temple, the practice of sacrifices and offerings, the observance of festivals and Sabbaths, and the journey to the Promised Land. These physical entities serve as "shadows" pointing to deeper spiritual realities. The Tabernacle and Temple: Representing God's Presence The Tabernacle and Temple, key structures in the Old Testament, symbolize a profound spiritual reality, serving as the dwelling place of God. Hebrews 8:5 d...

FAITH SET US FREE FROM .... Alienation from God

Alienation From God Alienation from God refers to the state of being separated or estranged from God. It is a condition that all people experience as a result of sin. This alienation is a consequence of our rebellion against God's perfect and righteous standards. Because God is holy and sinless, any sin or wrongdoing creates a separation between Him and us. In the beginning, humanity enjoyed a close and intimate relationship with God. However, when our first parents ,  Adam and Eve, chose to disobey God in the Garden of Eden, sin entered the world, corrupting the nature of humanity. As a result, we are born into a fallen and sinful state, cut off from God's presence. This alienation affects various aspects of our lives.  - Spiritually, it means that our sin separates us from God's holiness and glory.  - Relationally, it disrupts our communion with God as well as our relationships with others. - Emotionally, it leads to a sense of emptiness and longing for something greate...

FAITH SET US FREE FROM .... Death

The teachings of the Bible place significant emphasis on the power of faith as the conduit to eternal life, rescuing individuals from the profound depths of spiritual death. The Apostle Paul, a key figure in the New Testament, has extensively explored the nexus between faith and salvation. He proclaims in Ephesians 2:8-9, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." Here, Paul underlines that faith is the vehicle through which believers accept the divine gift of salvation, which cannot be earned through personal efforts or deeds. Therefore, faith serves as the pivotal element to secure eternal life and salvation from the spiritual death that arises from sin. Paul's epistle to the Romans offers a deep understanding of the role faith plays in salvation. In Romans 3:22-24, he states, "This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. Ther...

FAITH SET US FREE FROM .... SIN

SIN DIVIDES HUMANITY In the realm of scriptures, particularly in the words of Paul, sin is portrayed as a widespread issue that causes a divide between humanity and God, resulting in various repercussions. This academic discussion delves into Paul's teachings on sin, highlighting the universal aspect of sin, the transformative potency of Christ's sacrifice, and the profound impact of faith in Him. Universality of Sin: Paul underscores that every individual, without exception, has committed sins and falls short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). This realization emphasizes the inherent human susceptibility to sin, which creates a rift between us and God, disrupting our connection with Him. Consequences of Sin: According to Paul, sin leads to spiritual death and enslavement (Romans 6:23). It brings about a state of revolt and fracture, distancing us from the loving bond with God that we were designed to enjoy. The detrimental repercussions of sin manifest in our thoug...

SET FREE FROM LAW

In the writings of the Apostle Paul, he expounds upon the concept of liberation from the law through unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. Paul's arguments center around the notion that salvation cannot be achieved through adherence to the law, but rather by placing trust in Christ alone. He firmly asserts that no person can attain justification by strictly adhering to the law because all individuals fall short of God's impeccable standards (Romans 3:23). Paul elucidates that Christ's crucifixion fulfilled the righteous requisites of the law, offering redemption and forgiveness to those who wholeheartedly believe in him (Romans 3:24-26). Through faith in Jesus, believers are justified, or declared righteous, independent of their adherence to the law (Romans 3:28). Consequently, they are no longer under the condemnation of the law but are reconciled with God and possess the assurance of eternal life. Paul analogizes the law to a guardian or tutor that served as a temporary guide...

FAITH SET US FREE FROM ....

Before Faith came - and Faith is Christ - we were shackled by sin , imprisoned by the law , confined, and awaiting the revelation of the Faith that would set us free. Set Us Free From What? Before the coming of Christ, humanity was shackled by the enslavement of sin, imprisoned by the demands of the law, and separated from God.  The power of sin held us captive, leading us to live lives in disobedience and separated from God's perfect will. However, through the revelation of faith in Christ, we are set free from these chains. Faith in Christ is not merely believing in His existence, but it is a complete trust and reliance on Him for salvation. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Christ has paid the penalty for our sins and offers us forgiveness and reconciliation with God. Sin:  Romans 6:23: "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." The Power and Enslavement of Sin: Sin is the state of separati...

The Spiritual and the Physical: Understanding the True Essence

The distinction between the spiritual and the physical realms is of paramount importance in comprehending the profound truths of life.  The Old Testament, often regarded as a mere shadow of the spiritual reality, offers a glimpse into the deeper spiritual truths that find their fulfillment in Christ. This article explores the concept of the spiritual as the true essence, while the physical is considered temporal and transient. The Shadow of the True Spiritual Truth The Old Testament is often described as a shadow, representing the physical realm, pointing towards the spiritual reality that would be revealed in Christ. It serves as a precursor, an outline of the things to come. As Hebrews 10:1 states, "These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ." This verse emphasizes that the true substance lies in the spiritual aspect, embodied in Christ. The Temporal Nature of the Old Covenant The Old Covenant, being physical and material, is inherently te...

God's Transforming Grace: Finding True Freedom Through Faith in Christ Alone

What does it truly mean to have faith that resides in Christ? Beyond surface level understandings, true faith is deeply rooted in the essence of Jesus Christ himself. It is not a faith we conjure from within, but one established through Christ alone. This comprehensive exploration examines how suffering can draw us into a profound reliance on God's promises, shaping our perspectives and extracting us from selfish desires to understand life's deeper purpose.  The Origins and Progression of Faith Faith's Foundation Lies Within Christ  Faith does not originate from our own decision making, but is a gift sustained by Christ. Our hope extends beyond earthly concerns to the eternal realm where Christ dwells. Therefore, faith exists entirely within him as both its source and anchor. Through trials, we learn to seek God's agenda - not just for ourselves, but for creation's ultimate design. True freedom arises when we transcend selfishness to this higher reality.  Finding St...

Through the Veil: Photography Confronts the Limits of Sensory Perception

We live in a reality far richer than our senses can perceive alone. Photographer Stacey Smith spent two years scientifically testing the boundaries of consciousness through photography. Her meticulous experiments uncovered undeniable evidence that unseen realms penetrate our material world from deeper dimensions.  Why Photography Seemed the Answer An Empiricist Investigates Anomalous Experiences   As strange shadows crept into Stacey's peripheral vision, skepticism drove her to investigate methodically. Reasoning photography could reveal truths invisible, she set out documenting every perception. By boosting photos' sensitivity, ethereal forms emerged where assumptions dismissed anomalies. Controlling Conditions to Rule Out Delusions Rigorous Logic X-rays Subjective Sensations Stacey applied heightened empiricism, controlling variables in low light at home. Only experiencing and photographing sensations plus visual clues qualified. Digital adjustments amplified hidden asp...

T.U.L.I.P. - Understanding the Five Points of Calvinism

Total Depravity The Reality of Original Sin and Radical Corruption The concept of Total Depravity emphasizes the fallen nature of humanity due to Adam's sin. Scriptures from 1 Corinthians, Romans, and Isaiah reveal the universal impact of sin on all individuals. It highlights our inability to accept spiritual truths without the work of the Holy Spirit and the insufficiency of our own righteous deeds. Unconditional Election Sovereign Election and God's Divine Plan Unconditional Election affirms God's sovereign choice to save individuals according to His own will. Bible verses from Mark, Ephesians, Revelation, and Corinthians underscore God's predestining and choosing of His people before the foundation of the world. It emphasizes God's purpose and grace in calling and adopting believers, underscoring that salvation is not based on human effort but on God's sovereign plan. Limited Atonement Definite Redemption and the Efficacy of Christ's Work Limited Atonemen...

The Sovereignty of God: Lessons from King Nebuchadnezzar

In the story of King Nebuchadnezzar, we witness a powerful demonstration of God's sovereignty over all of history, including the choices and actions of human beings.  God's Will Over Free Will Despite Nebuchadnezzar's attempts to use his free will to avoid a certain situation, God's plans prevailed, ultimately bringing glory to Himself and teaching the king a profound lesson about His power and control.  This biblical account serves as a reminder that God is in complete control, and nothing escapes His authority, whether it be the affairs of men or the vastness of the universe. Embracing God's Sovereignty in Ephesians In the Book of Ephesians, we are reminded of the profound truth of God's sovereignty and His remarkable capacity to orchestrate every aspect of our lives according to the purpose of His will. It is He who orchestrates events, predestines, and chooses according to His divine plan. As believers, our inheritance and hope in Christ are deeply rooted in...

What Does To Be Called By Christ Mean?

8:30  “Called” – v 28;  1:6 . This means called to Christ so that they come and believe in Him. For an understanding of what God’s call means study the following references –  11:29 ;  Gal 1:6 ;  2 Thess 2:14 ;  1 Cor 1:9 ,  24 ;  Gal 5:13 ;  Col 3:15 ;  1 Tim 6:12 ;  1 Pet 2:9 ,  20 ,  21 ;  3:9 ;  Jude 1 ;  2 Tim 1:9 ;  Heb 3:1 . All believers should make sure God has called them –  2 Pet 1:10-11 . Believers can know that God has chosen them, called them, and justified them, and they should know these things.  God's call to believers. In the text, around 8:30, we encounter the term "called" in relation to believers. This term signifies God's invitation for us to come to Christ and believe in Him. It's a fundamental part of our faith journey that deserves our attention. To understand God's call better, let's explore a few references: 11:29, Galatians 1:6, 2 Thessalonians 2:14, 1 Corinthians 1...

Truth Defined

What truths are, and what makes them true? Truth: the quality or state of being in accordance with fact or reality; the actuality or correctness of something. Truth is the absence of falsehood or deception, representing an accurate reflection or portrayal of the way things are. It is a fundamental concept that encompasses honesty, sincerity, and reliability in conveying information or representing the state of affairs. Truth serves as a foundation for knowledge, understanding, and the pursuit of objective reality. Truths are basic ideas that reflect being aligned with real facts or the reality of a certain subject. They represent understanding things accurately and showing them as they are. Truth comes from being honest and reliable, without lies or trickery. Truths are not personal or random but are based on real things, supported by proof, logic, and good sense. To understand what makes truths true, we look at two things: coherence and correspondence. Coherence means that ideas fit t...

The Paradox of God's Sovereignty

 Understanding His Use of Sin for His Glory The concept of God using sin for His own glory is a perplexing and challenging idea to grasp. As believers, we are called to wrestle with this truth and seek a deeper understanding of God's sovereignty and His ultimate purposes. The Bible unequivocally declares that all things are from God, through Him, and to Him, emphasizing His unrivaled power and authority over all creation. In Romans 11:36, we are reminded that all glory should be given to God. This includes the acknowledgment that even in the midst of sin, God can demonstrate the perfection of His attributes. This concept stretches our human comprehension, as we struggle to reconcile the idea of a righteous God using sin for His glory. Isaiah 45:7 sheds light on this paradoxical concept by revealing that God is the one who forms light and creates darkness, causes well-being, and creates calamity. It is essential to recognize that God is not merely passive in allowing darkness and ca...

Embracing the Divine Order

Finding Purpose in God's Sovereignty In our journey of faith, it is essential to grapple with the profound concept of God's sovereignty and the belief that everything that happens is part of His divine plan. It requires us to confront the question of whether we truly trust in an ordered God, who has all things under His control. When we acknowledge God's sovereignty, we recognize that He is the ultimate orchestrator of events and circumstances in our lives and in the world around us. This acknowledgment invites us to embrace the idea that everything that happens is purposeful and serves a greater divine plan. At times, it can be challenging to fully embrace this concept. We may struggle with understanding how certain events fit into God's purpose or how they align with our own desires and expectations. Doubts and questions may arise, testing the depth of our faith. Yet, it is precisely in these moments of uncertainty that our faith is refined and strengthened. Trusting ...

Building Our Faith on the Solid Foundation of God's Promises

In our journey of faith, we find solace and strength in the unwavering presence of God. His grace and love become our refuge, offering comfort in times of trial and tribulation. As we navigate life's challenges, it is crucial to anchor our faith on the solid foundation of His Word. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of trusting in God's faithfulness, understanding that His promises never fail and His unwavering presence is our source of hope. Embracing God's Faithfulness God's faithfulness forms the bedrock of our spiritual journey. We can place our trust in Him, knowing that He remains true to His Word. When the storms of life threaten to overwhelm us, His faithfulness stands firm, providing a steadfast anchor for our souls. Despite the uncertainties that surround us, we can find assurance in the unchanging nature of God's promises. His faithfulness endures through all seasons, offering us unwavering support and guidance. Finding Refuge in His Gra...

Understanding the Divine: Embracing Humility and Awe

Understanding Our Limitations: The Perils of Restricting God's Actions It's astonishing and concerning how often people try to limit God's actions based on their personal moral compass, thinking they know His will and intentions intimately. We need to remember that our human morality is shaped by our limited perspective and is insufficient to control the divine. Let's humbly acknowledge this truth and stop trying to impose our flawed understanding on the mysteries beyond our grasp. Embracing Humility and Awe in the Presence of God's Incomprehensible Ways God has made it unmistakably clear that His methods are not in alignment with ours. It is incumbent upon us to approach the inquiry of His supreme authority with profound humility and profound reverence, instead of presuming that we possess the ability to fully grasp His motives or anticipate His courses of action. The magnitude of His wisdom and the depth of His ways far exceed the limits of our human understanding...

1 Enoch Chapter 8 1-8

Occultic 1 Enoch Chapter 8 1-8  *QUESTION:  Are the scientific, medical, Psychological, and other teachings dealing with  intellectual and practical work involving the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical & Quantum that's  structuring society is really the Ancient Knowledge and Wisdom of the Fallen Angelic Beings?  MY ANSWER:  Yes. This Knowledge has driven humans to run into a grave spiritual crisis; we have become like "supposed" gods, the gods in which YHWH abhorred & mocked.  The comfort for believers is that The Almighty God foreordained it all to come about, for a purpose larger than human comprehension. This Occult Knowledge that we have now, we use daily and label it as something other than what it truly is, Occult teachings.  The most elementary Physics & NeuroBiology and many others are directly Occultic. Psychology is New Age Occultism with a heavy atheistic leaning, Geometry is Occultic in its p...

Celebrating the Summer Solstice: Unveiling the Early Christian Perspectives

The early Christians, in their rich tapestry of traditions and beliefs, commemorated various significant events throughout the year.  While the celebration of Christmas and Easter is widely known, it may come as a surprise that some early Christian communities also acknowledged the summer solstice.  In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind the early Christian celebration of the summer solstice and delve into its significance within their faith. Acknowledging God's Creation: One of the core beliefs in early Christianity was the recognition of God as the creator of the universe. The summer solstice, marking the longest day of the year and the height of the sun's power, served as a reminder of God's role in establishing the order and balance of nature. It was an occasion to honor and appreciate the majesty of creation. Symbolism of Light: In Christian symbolism, light often represents the divine presence, truth, and enlightenment. The summer solstice, with its abu...