Obtaining God's Forgiveness

[PJM]

I would expect nothing less!

He who has nothing left to learn, is truly ignorant. Paul says “now we see in a mirror dimly, now we know in part; when the perfect has come we will know fully, even as we are fully known…”

AMEN my freind,

Blessings and peace!

Patrick

 

[PJM]

Well, in the parable of Matt22:2-14, it was a custom that a king would provide clean clothes for the wedding feast. Although not directly stated that “he refused the king’s clean clothes”, it is implied, and does reflect Isaiah61:10 “He has clothed me with His righteousness”. The opposite of that is Isaiah64:6, “And all our righteous deeds are like a filthy garment…” The conspicuous Hebrew words for “filthy garment” are a whole lot worse than the English purports.

I think you are more right than you realize; in that verse, “few are those who heurisko” — find by seeking.

…so much for Calvinists’ insisting that Rom3 teaching “NO ONE CAN seek”…

“Justified” is being declared righteous, “sanctification” is being made righteous. As Rom4:3 says (citing Gen15:6) — “Abraham believed, and it was reckoned as righteousness.”

Interesting. Wild that I was raised “Presbyterian” (a Calvinistic church), where they did infant baptism.

…yes it was done to me too…

Thanks Brother,

Continued Blessings

Patrick

 

[Gadgeteer]

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…at this time all I can do is



…thank you for the laugh!

My pleasure. In the mood for another Catholic joke?

(WARNING – PROTESTANT TELLING CATHOLIC JOKES ON A CATHOLIC BOARD…)

On vacation last summer, I stopped in for lunch at a monastery known for their cuisine. It was the best fish and chips I had ever tasted!

I called a robed fellow over:

“This is delicious! Are you the FISH FRIAR???”

He grinned and said, "Why nooOOoo, I’m the CHIP MONK!!!"

…it reminded me of a local gossiper who confided, ‘…this is between you and me…’

…so I replied, ‘yeah, I never speak about other people…’ and came back with ‘…what can you tell me about…’

Your gossiper asked “what can you tell me about (so-n-so)”?

There’s a joke about three businessmen having lunch…

Sometimes people are as thick as those skids being portrayed in shows and commercials…

Yes; a certain drive-in hamburger joint has been running commercials obviously catering to those who have achieved two-digit IQ’s.
…barely…

 

[Gadgeteer]

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…I’m not sure about that one… how long does it take the Holy Spirit to search man’s heart and mind? … a zillionth of a nanosecond?

I think we’re pretty well known. I read somewhere (coughJer1:5cough) — that He knew us before we were formed in our mother’s womb.

(Useful verse for abortionists!)

BTW, about what you said “The Spirit searching man’s heart and mind” – RT’s claim Jer17:9 says we’re too wicked to turn to God (therefore He has to zap-us-believing FIRST). But verse 10 says that in spite of our deceitful wicked hearts, God does respond to us, giving to each according to our ways…

(…funny thought occurred to me, “giving to each according to our weighs”?)

…still, I’m almost sure there will be those who will complaint that the line is slow.

Rom2:16 God will judge the secrets of men’s hearts. That appears to be publicly – so they won’t want it to go fast, but if they’d have THOUGHT of that, surely they wouldn’t have had such dirty secrets…

 

[jcrichton]

Your gossiper asked “what can you tell me about (so-n-so)”?

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…the thing is that gossipers are so into their “skill” that they do not even think that what they do is gossip; a reasonable person, at hearing me state that I do not speak about other people, would refrain from asking about the load-down on someone else; then there are the ones who can’t keep a secret… they try so hard to get you to bite–it bothers them that you are not interested in the lives of others…

There’s a joke about three businessmen having lunch…

…yep, that’s the primary hook!

…and if you don’t bite, they usually up the ante with what they believe would concern you… so they are forever looking to find out things about other people.

Yes; a certain drive-in hamburger joint has been running commercials obviously catering to those who have achieved two-digit IQ’s.

…barely…

Wait, what? …you have to “achieve?” :bigyikes::bigyikes::bigyikes:

No wonder my IQ is still at zero! :doh2:

Maran atha!

Angel

 

[jcrichton]

I think we’re pretty well known. I read somewhere (coughJer1:5cough) — that He knew us before we were formed in our mother’s womb.

Hi,
Gadgeteer!

…never experienced it before… quite creative (the cough bit)!

(Useful verse for abortionists!)

I have attempted to share this with “Catholics” and other “Christians” that swear by the law of the land and the pseudo scientific findings (life begins at birth or when a doctor states so and the gender fluidity farce). Yet, as I’ve noted there’s none so blind and deaf than he/she that does not wish to see and hear the Truth.

BTW, about what you said “The Spirit searching man’s heart and mind” – RT’s claim Jer17:9 says we’re too wicked

to turn to God (therefore He has to zap-us-believing FIRST). But verse 10 says that in spite of our deceitful wicked hearts, God does respond to us, giving to each according to our ways…
They seem as astute as the Jehovah Witnesses… they zero in on a particular verse which they believe support their construct and complete ignore the passages around it–specially when they happen to qualify the misconstrued verse: 'who can search the heart? (What person can Know man’s heart) only the man/woman him/herself and God Who searches the depths of everything!:

11 After all, the depths of a man can only be known by his own spirit, not by any other man, and in the same way the depths of God can only be known by the Spirit of God.

(1 Corinthians 2:11)

12 The word of God is something alive and active: it cuts like any double-edged sword but more finely: it can slip through the place where the soul is divided from the spirit, or joints from the marrow; it can judge the secret emotions and thoughts. 13 No created thing can hide from him; everything is uncovered and open to the eyes of the one to whom we must give account of ourselves. (Hebrews 4:12-13)

(…funny thought occurred to me, “giving to each according to our weighs”?)

This would inevitable bring us to the Writing on the wall:

‘…you have been weigh, you have been measured, you have been found wanting.’ (Daniel 5:24-27–paraphrased)

Rom2:16 God will judge the secrets of men’s hearts. That appears to be publicly

– so they won’t want it to go fast, but if they’d have THOUGHT of that, surely they wouldn’t have had such dirty secrets…


Though I have not really delved into this… I do not see God exposing our faults at Judgment or any other time; rather, what I understand is that while we might fool most people and even ourselves we cannot fool God since He is able to search our inner most being.

I consider this exposure as that of Ephesians 5:11-17:

11 having nothing to do with the futile works of darkness but exposing them by contrast. 12 The things which are done in secret are things that ashamed even to speak of; 13 but anything exposed by the light will be illuminated 14 and anything illuminated turns into light. That is why it is said: Wake up from your sleep, rise from the dead, Christ will shine on you. 15 So be very careful about the sort of lives you lead, like intelligent and not like senseless people. 16 This may be a wicked age, but you redeem it. 17 And do not be thoughtless but recognise what is the will of the Lord.

Consider also:

18 ‘Come now, let us talk this over, says Yahweh. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.

(Isaiah 1:18)

12 since I will forgive their iniquities and never call their sins to mind. (Hebrews 8:12)
Maran atha!

Angel

 

[Gadgeteer]

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…the thing is that gossipers are so into their “skill” that they do not even think that what they do is gossip; a reasonable person, at hearing me state that I do not speak about other people, would refrain from asking about the load-down on someone else; then there are the ones who can’t keep a secret… they try so hard to get you to bite–it bothers them that you are not interested in the lives of others…

Gossip is really an expression of insecurity in the gossiper; weak people elevate themselves by putting others down. Both “belittling someone” (shifting focus from themselves), and raising their own value by offering something they think others will appreciate…

There’s a joke about three businessmen having lunch…

…yep, that’s the primary hook!

You didn’t like my joke…

Okay, three businessmen having lunch, as they had often done. But this time was quiet and strained. The second asked, “What’s wrong with you guys? You’re so quiet!”

The first one said, “Well, you both are really my best friends–and there is something that’s troubling me terribly. I’ve embezzled fifteen thousand dollars and I’M GOING TO JAIL!”

The other two asked, “Can you put it back?” (“I think so!”) “Well, put it back immediately; if they find out, you won’t get prosecuted or jailed!”

“Thank you guys, you are the best!”

Another strained silence ensued; then the second man looked up and said, “You both are good friends, and I do have something bothering me.” (“What is it?”) Well, I’ve been having an affair and my wife is going to divorce me and I’ll be ruined! What should I do?!"

The other two agreed that he should stop the affair, never see the other woman again, but don’t tell his wife; it’s his problem, don’t make it hers.

“You two are the best, I’m glad we’re friends!”

The three sat quietly, the first two glancing at each other then at the third. Finally the third friend said: “Okay, I do have a problem.” (“What is it? Tell us, maybe we can help!”)

“Well, the thing is…” (“Go on, get it off your chest!”)
"I have to be…
…the town’s biggest GOSSIP, and I can’t wait to get out of here!!!"

…and if you don’t bite, they usually up the ante with what they believe would concern you… so they are forever looking to find out things about other people.

That’s right; “compensatory” to make up for self feelings of inadequacy (leaning back into my best arm-chair-psychiatry pose…)

Wait, what? …you have to “achieve?”

No wonder my IQ is still at zero! :doh2:

I don’t believe that for a second!

 

[Gadgeteer]

Hi,
Gadgeteer!

…never experienced it before… quite creative (the cough bit)!

It’s an old schtick…
I saw it in “The Legend of Johnny Lingo” – good movie. Although, I think the original story was based in Africa, not Polynesia; “My Five Cow Wife”…

I have attempted to share this with “Catholics” and other “Christians” that swear by the law of the land and the pseudo scientific findings (life begins at birth or when a doctor states so and the gender fluidity farce). Yet, as I’ve noted there’s none so blind and deaf than he/she that does not wish to see and hear the Truth.

That’s right. Don’t dare interfere in their sin. But the reality of God should scare everyone down to the marrow of our bones… (Pursuing Him and His righteousness avoids that fear…)

They seem as astute as the Jehovah Witnesses… they zero in on a particular verse which they believe support their construct and complete ignore the passages around it–specially when they happen to qualify the misconstrued verse: 'who can search the heart? (What person can Know man’s heart) only the man/woman him/herself and God Who searches the depths of everything!

If you know enough verses, you can hold them up to the person; and all they can say is, “Uhhhh…”

As did the two JW guys I talked to in front of the house. But I didn’t know about Watchtower’s spray-painting Rev22:16 “different subject”. It would have been so much more effective to tell them about the spray-painting, and show how verse 20 completely and indisputably ruins the “subject-change” claim. Obviously they just ran back to their Kingdom Hall and found out “Oh, it’s a subject change; he was wrong.” No, he wasn’t — and neither was John…

…next time I’ll really be ready!

This would inevitable bring us to the Writing on the wall:

‘…you have been weighed, you have been measured, you have been found wanting.’ (Daniel 5:24-27–paraphrased)

Nicely done! Musta been really unnerving seeing a disembodied hand writing on the wall…

Though I have not really delved into this… I do not see God exposing our faults at Judgment or any other time; rather, what I understand is that while we might fool most people and even ourselves we cannot fool God since He is able to search our inner most being.

We who belong to Jesus have passed from death into life, and shall not come into judgment (condemnation)…

I consider this exposure as that of Ephesians 5:11-17:

Good quote, that’s what I was thinking. I think exposing men’s sin is the obvious prosecution. The disgraceful things done in secret, will be exposed by the light…

Consider also:

Again, nice quote.

The thing about “judgment” – Paul says that we who are in Jesus (if we are!), then we are new creations; the old is passed away, all has become new. If we are new men and women, then we cannot be held accountable for what the old sinful person did. We who abide in Christ, who WALK as to “lay aside the old sinful self and put on the new godly person”, have (already!) passed from death into life and shall not come into judgment/condemnation (Jn5:24).

That’s the answer to passages like Jn12:25-31; where Jesus says “blasphemy against the Holy Spirit shall never be forgiven, not in this age or the age to come!”

To me, it seems implied “if-they-continue”. All sins can be forgiven; if we are new creations who cannot be held accountable for what the old man did, then yes even “blasphemy-against-the-Spirit” must be forgivable. Not so much that it is forgiven, but that he who committed the crime has died, the new man does not bear the old man’s guilt.

Yes, that’s opinion; but what else would make everything fit?

 

[jcrichton]

Gossip is really an expression of insecurity in the gossiper; weak people elevate themselves by putting others down. Both “belittling someone” (shifting focus from themselves), and raising their own value by offering something they think others will appreciate…

That’s right; “compensatory” to make up for self feelings of inadequacy (leaning back into my best arm-chair-psychiatry pose…)

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…what I’ve learned is that it is not dependent upon the person’s educational level; you would think that people who have had the advantages of a college education would have long outgrown such basic failings; not so; it goes to the root matter: “self-esteem.”

You didn’t like my joke…
Okay, three businessmen having lunch, as they had often done. But this time was quiet and strained. The second asked, “What’s wrong with you guys? You’re so quiet!”

The first one said, “Well, you both are really my best friends–and there is something that’s troubling me terribly. I’ve embezzled fifteen thousand dollars and I’M GOING TO JAIL!”

The other two asked, “Can you put it back?” (“I think so!”) “Well, put it back immediately; if they find out, you won’t get prosecuted or jailed!”

“Thank you guys, you are the best!”

Another strained silence ensued; then the second man looked up and said, "You both are

good friends, and I do have something bothering me." (“What is it?”) Well, I’ve been having an affair and my wife is going to divorce me and I’ll be ruined! What should I do?!"

The other two agreed that he should stop the affair, never see the other woman again, but don’t tell his wife; it’s his problem, don’t make it hers.

“You two are the best, I’m glad we’re friends!”

The three sat quietly, the first two glancing at each other then at the third. Finally the third friend said: “Okay, I do have a problem.” (“What is it? Tell us, maybe we can help!”)

“Well, the thing is…” (“Go on, get it off your chest!”)
"I have to be…
…the town’s biggest GOSSIP, and I can’t wait to get out of here!!!"
Well, some jokes don’t work well unless they are presented orally (body language, timing, and orchestrated silences and exaggerations…); but I got the gist of it.

…the one above… it should have had a twist or two (the affair could have been with the wife of one of the two “best friends;” the punchline could have been improved with something like: ‘…here; the new guys invited me to the pub across from my office!’

(…like you I’m sort o’ a tinkerer.)

I don’t believe that for a second!

It seemed quite a natural set up… so I could not refrain from taking a dip!

Maran atha!

Angel

 

[jcrichton]

It’s an old schtick…
I saw it in “The Legend of Johnny Lingo” – good movie. Although, I think the original story was based in Africa, not Polynesia; “My Five Cow Wife”…

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…no I meant the use of it in print (text); I’ve experienced it in middle/high school; yet, it struck me as quiet creative seeing it employed through text… I thought “kudos, Gadgeteer!”

That’s right. Don’t dare

interfere in their sin. But the reality of God should scare everyone down to the marrow of our bones… (Pursuing Him and His righteousness avoids that fear…)
They do not want to own up to their end of the bargain (St. John 3:19); so instead they labor to compromise God’s Justice, Mercy, and Love–‘since God is Love all dogs must be allowed in Heaven.’

If you know enough verses, you can hold them up to the person; and all they can say is, “Uhhhh…”

As did the two JW guys I talked to in front of the house. But I didn’t know about Watchtower’s spray-painting Rev22:16 “different subject”. It would have been so much more effective to tell

them about the spray-painting, and show how verse 20 completely and indisputably ruins the “subject-change” claim. Obviously they just ran back to their Kingdom Hall and found out “Oh, it’s a subject change; he was wrong.” No, he wasn’t — and neither was John…

…next time I’ll really be ready!

Don’t be surprise if next time they came back with an “elder” and/or a person who "used to be from your denominational background; at one time they came at me with: a) an elder, b) ex-Catholic, and c) ‘from your native country;’ they thought they really had me that time (3:1); needless to say, the arm twisting didn’t work!

We who belong to Jesus have passed from death into life, and shall not come into judgment (condemnation)…

Good quote, that’s what I was thinking. I think exposing men’s sin is the obvious prosecution. The disgraceful things done in secret, will be exposed by the light…

The thing about “judgment” – Paul says that we who are in Jesus (if we are!), then we are new creations; the old is passed away, all has become new. If we are new men and women, then we cannot be held accountable for what the old sinful person did.

We who abide in Christ, who WALK as to “lay aside the old sinful self and put on the new godly person”, have (already!) passed from death into life and shall not come into judgment/condemnation (Jn5:24).

That’s the answer to passages like Jn12:25-31; where Jesus says “blasphemy against the Holy Spirit shall never be forgiven, not in this age or the age to come!”

To me, it seems implied “if-they-continue”. All sins can be forgiven; if we are new creations who cannot be held accountable for what the old man did, then yes even “blasphemy-against-the-Spirit” must be forgivable. Not so much that it is forgiven, but that he who committed the crime has died, the new man does not bear the old man’s guilt.

Yes, that’s opinion; but what else would make everything fit?

Catholic Understanding is that Baptism regenerates us (makes us into new creatures); hence, Original Sin and personal sins prior to the Sacrament of Baptism are razed/wiped out. Man Gains God’s Grace. However the Call is to Be Holy; so we must remain in the state of Grace… yet, it is impossible for man to free himself from sin (1 St. John 1:8, 10); so we must regain God’s Grace by seeking the Sacrament of Confession (1 St. John 1:9).

I’m not sure if the Church has made an actual pronouncement on what the “unforgivable sin” (blasphemy against the Holy Spirit) is; my understanding is that this “unforgivable sin” is the rejection of the Holy Spirit. It is the reason why an apostate cannot be returned to the Faith through re-Baptism or re-Conversion or re-Instruction; he/she has rejected the Revealed Truth; Grace (return to the Fold) can only be regained if the apostate rescinds his/her apostasy.

So all three (apostate, Believer who refuses to Confess his/her sin, unBeliever) are united in the rejection of the Holy Spirit and will share the wages of the unforgivable sin: no forgiveness on this life nor the next.

Maran atha!

Angel

 

[Gadgeteer]

…it struck me as quiet creative seeing it employed through text… I thought “kudos, Gadgeteer!”

They do not want to own up to their end of the bargain (St. John 3:19); so instead they labor to compromise God’s Justice, Mercy, and Love–‘since God is Love all dogs must be allowed in Heaven.’

Interesting; since in Scripture dogs are not compatible with eternity. (Rev22:15, 2Pet2:20-21…)

Don’t be surprised if next time they came back with an “elder” and/or a person who "used to be from your denominational background; at one time they came at me with: a) an elder, b) ex-Catholic, and c) ‘from your native country;’ they thought they really had me that time (3:1); needless to say, the arm twisting didn’t work!

I love it when elders show! Usually two people knock; one “green”, the other more “elder”…

Really, going door-to-door is admirable; if only they weren’t teaching “deception”…

Catholic Understanding is that Baptism regenerates us (makes us into new creatures); hence, Original Sin and personal sins prior to the Sacrament of Baptism are razed/wiped out. Man Gains God’s Grace. However the Call is to Be Holy; so we must remain in the state of Grace… yet, it is impossible for man to free himself from sin (1 St. John 1:8, 10); so we must regain God’s Grace by seeking the Sacrament of Confession (1 St. John 1:9).

While we have the flesh, we are weak against sin. While there is no such thing as “a sinless Christian”, our heart is to abide in Jesus and in repentance and NOT in sin, therefore we “sin less” (much less!) than unbelievers.

I’m not sure if the Church has made an actual pronouncement on what the “unforgivable sin” (blasphemy against the Holy Spirit) is;

Jesus said it was the accusation of “Him casting out demons by the prince of demons” (satan), which was in essence calling the Spirit, “evil”. Or “satan”.

my understanding is that this “unforgivable sin” is the rejection of the Holy Spirit. It is the reason why an apostate cannot be returned to the Faith through re-Baptism or re-Conversion or re-Instruction; he/she has rejected the Revealed Truth; Grace (return to the Fold) can only be regained if the apostate rescinds his/her apostasy.

One of the most fundamental things in Scripture is that “in sin”, is absolutely the exact same position as “disbelieving”.

So all three (apostate, Believer who refuses to Confess his/her sin, unBeliever) are united in the rejection of the Holy Spirit and will share the wages of the unforgivable sin: no forgiveness on this life nor the next.

Agreed. We are either in Christ, or in sin; there is no middle-ground.

 

[jcrichton]

Interesting; since in Scripture dogs are not compatible with eternity. (Rev22:15, 2Pet2:20-21…)

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…my reference was to hollowood’s spirituality–ever noticed how evil is the champion of good or how irresponsible behavior is rewarded… this has also filtered into the pseudo spirituality of mental health: own only what you want and reject everything else; so why not teach children that ‘all dogs go to heaven?’

It’s the same agenda that produces unrighteousness and irresponsibility in the commercials and other programs… ‘just do you; after all, all dogs go to heaven.’

I love

it when elders show! Usually two people knock; one “green”, the other more “elder”…
…yeah, they have several “elder” levels; I was once graced with the visit of a upper “elder;” he quickly determined that I was not a candidate! :crying::crying::crying:

Really, going door-to-door is admirable; if only they weren’t teaching “deception”…

That’s why Jesus made note of how astute the children of the world are–they move with purpose and they are actively resourceful–if only the Children of Light would emulate the wisdom of the world’s united front and enterprise.

While we have the flesh, we are weak against sin. While there is no such thing as “a sinless Christian”, our heart is to abide in Jesus and in repentance and NOT in sin

, therefore we “sin less” (much less!) than unbelievers.
…and, for the most part, we own up to our sins and Confess and reject them.

Jesus said it was the accusation of "Him casting out demons by the prince

of demons" (satan), which was in essence calling the Spirit, “evil”. Or “satan”.
Understood; yet, I think that it goes beyond that; not many of us have/will face demonic possession; but all of us face the choice of choosing self or choosing God; it is the Holy Spirit Who engages us when God Calls!

Rejection of the Holy Spirit keeps us from humbly seeking and obeying God.

Maran atha!

Angel

 

[Gadgeteer]

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…my reference was to hollowood’s spirituality–ever noticed how evil is the champion of good or how irresponsible behavior is rewarded… this has also filtered into the pseudo spirituality of mental health: own only what you want and reject everything else; so why not teach children that ‘all dogs go to heaven?’

(I love how you say “hollowood”!)

Next you’ll probably be saying “Cursed is he who calls evil good, and good evil”!

It’s the same agenda that produces unrighteousness and irresponsibility in the commercials and other programs… ‘just do you; after all, all dogs go to heaven.’

But in the actual movie, all dogs did not go to (dog) heaven. Only those who were good dogs.

…yeah, they have several “elder” levels; I was once graced with the visit of a upper “elder;” he quickly determined that I was not a candidate!

They literally run away when encountering someone who not only knows SCRIPTURE, but also knows what Watchtower has corrupted…

That’s why it’s useful to “trap” them.

(“You carry that Bible around with you. Do you believe it?”) They have to say “yes”.
(“Do you follow it?”) Again they have to say “yes”.
(“May I show you something in there that I think you’ve never seen?”)

And they have committed themselves, they can’t run away. Do you remember how they abuse John10:33 (changing “You make yourself out to be God”, into “You make yourself a god”)? But then they footnote the passage with Jn5:18 (correctly!), ruining their rewrite!

That’s why Jesus made note of how astute the children of the world are–they move with purpose and they are actively resourceful–if only the Children of Light would emulate the wisdom of the world’s united front and enterprise.

There are different callings; some of us are not called to go door-to-door. But still, more quote-unquote “Christians”, should.

Why isn’t it real to many of us who call ourselves “Christian”?

…and, for the most part, we own up to our sins and Confess and reject them.

Yes. More than that, we walk in repentance. It’s not a great “Game-Show” — buzzzz oh too late you FORGOT a sin, you get the zonk!

Understood; yet, I think that it goes beyond that; not many of us have/will face demonic possession;

The Pharisees were just trying to save face. I’m reminded of a great example of hypocrisy from Matt21:

When He entered the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to Him while He was teaching, and said, “By what authority are You doing these things, and who gave You this authority?”
Jesus said to them, "I will also ask you one thing, which if you tell Me, I will also tell you by what authority I do these things.
“The baptism of John was from what source, from heaven or from men?” And they began reasoning among themselves, saying, "If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’
“But if we say, ‘From men,’ we fear the people; for they all regard John as a prophet.”
And answering Jesus, they said, “We do not know.” He also said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

but all of us face the choice of choosing self or choosing God; it is the Holy Spirit Who engages us when God Calls!

Yes. And – can you please explain what you mean by “Spirit engages us when God calls”? Where in that does a person receive the Spirit?

Rejection of the Holy Spirit keeps us from humbly seeking and obeying God.

Right; it’s all a decision – do we love and pursue sin, or do we love and pursue righteousness and God?

That’s the whole issue…

 

[jcrichton]

(I love how you say “hollowood”!)

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…yeah, not everyone gets it; I am speaking to the false and empty spirituality that the entertainment industry has been proclaiming and which society and many “Christians” have been lapping up!

Next you’ll probably be saying “Cursed is he who calls evil good, and good evil”!

But in the actual movie, all dogs did not

go to (dog) heaven. Only those who were good dogs.
But that’s exactly what is being projected–“cursed” being exchanged with blessed.

Though I have not seen either movie (I understand they have 1 and 2 now); what people usually take is the premise (as in promise) of the title; it used to be that pets were animals that you brought home to fulfill several purposes… lately they have been elevated to humans or even above humans; children are concerned not with getting to Heaven but with their “pets” getting to Heaven–not a displacement theory.

They literally run away when encountering someone who not only knows SCRIPTURE, but also knows what Watchtower has corrupted…

That’s why it’s useful to “trap” them.

("You carry that Bible around with you. Do you believe

it?") They have to say “yes”.
(“Do you follow it?”) Again they have to say “yes”.
(“May I show you something in there that I think you’ve never seen?”)

And they have committed themselves, they can’t run away. Do you remember how they abuse John10:33 (changing “You make yourself out to be God”, into “You make yourself a god”)? But then they footnote the passage with Jn5:18 (correctly!), ruining their rewrite!
Here’s what I’ve learned; those who usually go out, they must make a monthly quota; and before they are sent out they are inoculated against instructed and practicing Christians–they are to not accept any materials, not to depart from their choreographed “study,” and reject everything put forth by non-Visible church of God agents as their Scriptural versions are corrupted and compromise as well as all historical data (‘cause the Church controls everything, you know’); so it is difficult to get them to go past the “plastic” and confused expression: huh?

But we must give response to the reason of our Hope and pray that the Holy Spirit Convicts them of the Truth!

There are different callings; some of us are not called to go door-to-door. But still, more quote-unquote “Christians”, should.

Why isn’t it real to many of us who call ourselves “Christian”?

I think it goes to the development of the Church; when there was a thirst for God it was easy to simply “build it” as they would come; yet, society changes… so we must adapt; adaption does not mean throw out the baby with the bathwater; it means that sometimes the baby may be bathed through different means.

The Pharisees were just trying to save face. I’m reminded of a great example of hypocrisy from Matt21:

The beauty is that God traps man in his own “wisdom!”

Yes. And – can you please explain what you mean by “Spirit engages us when God calls”? Where in that does a person receive the Spirit?

In the book of Wisdom it is Revealed that it is the Holy Spirit that enacts:

7 For the spirit of the Lord hath filled the whole world: and that, which containeth all things, hath knowledge of the voice.

(Wisdom 1:5-9)

10 These are the very things that God has revealed to us through the Spirit, for the Spirit reaches the depths of everything, even the depths of God. (1 Corinthians 2:10)
So when God Calls it is through the Holy Spirit. This relationship seems complex because God is God and we have become accustomed to find/see the Holy Spirit working in the Believers… so it is easy to ignore that Searching of the Holy Spirit does not require indwelling of the Holy Spirit:

11 The Spirit of Christ which was in them foretold the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would come after them, and they tried to find out at what time and in what circumstances all this was to be expected.

20 At the same time, we must be most careful to remember that the interpretation of scriptural prophecy is never a matter for the individual. 21 Why? Because no prophecy ever came from man’s initiative. When men spoke for God it was the Holy Spirit that moved them.

(1 St. Peter 1:11; 2 St. Peter 1:20-21)
Consider what is Revealed of God’s Call:

6 Jesus said: ‘I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one can come to the Father except through me.

44 ‘No one can come to me unless he is drawn by the Father who sent me, and I will raise him up at the last day.

(St. John 14:6; 6:44)
From these two passages it is clear that no one has Access to God… could there be a missing element?:

45 It is written in the prophets: They will all be taught by God, and to hear the teaching of the Father, and learn from it, is to come to me.

(St. John 6:45)
So it is the Holy Spirit, the Lord Giver of Life, Who Instructs us to Listen to the Father, Who Leads us to Jesus, Who Gives us the ability to Become Children of God and Allows the Indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Maran atha!

Angel

 

[Gadgeteer]

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…yeah, not everyone gets it; I am speaking to the false and empty spirituality that the entertainment industry has been proclaiming and which society and many “Christians” have been lapping up!

It gets back to the “pregnant woman” argument; inasmuch as a woman cannot be partly pregnant (she either is, or she is not) — we also either belong to Jesus, or not…

But that’s exactly what is being projected–“cursed” being exchanged with blessed.

Yup. One cannot defend against evil, if evil succeeds in passing itself off as good.

Though I have not seen either movie (I understand they have 1 and 2 now); what people usually take is the premise (as in promise) of the title; it used to be that pets were animals that you brought home to fulfill several purposes… lately they have been elevated to humans or even above humans; children are concerned not with getting to Heaven but with their “pets” getting to Heaven–not a displacement theory.

I think children can come to terms with pets, and Human salvation. Have you ever heard the discussion about “telling kids about Santa (who is myth), and Jesus (who is real)”?

Here’s what I’ve learned; those who usually go out, they must make a monthly quota; and before they are sent out they are inoculated against instructed and practicing Christians–they are to not accept any materials, not to depart from their choreographed “study,” and reject everything put forth by non-Visible church of God agents as their Scriptural versions are corrupted and compromise as well as all historical data (‘cause the Church controls everything, you know’); so it is difficult to get them to go past the “plastic” and confused expression:

That’s why it’s so useful to just take their own book and start showing them things! Then they can’t dismiss it as “foreign/corrupt”!

I’m looking at Rev22:20 in the “New World Translation” (© '84) and it’s clearly JESUS who is coming; no way to keep “not-Jesus” in verse 12, and therefore it’s still Jesus in verse 13 “Alpha and Omega”. And therefore Jesus is JEHOVAH, Rev1:8!

The only possible response by JW’s, is “aw nuts.”

But we must give response to the reason of our Hope and pray that the Holy Spirit Convicts them of the Truth!

Well and good; yet – “persuasion” is replete in Scripture. See the previous paragraph – such persuasion is absolute and irrefutable!

I think it goes to the development of the Church; when there was a thirst for God it was easy to simply “build it” as they would come; yet, society changes… so we must adapt; adaption does not mean throw out the baby with the bathwater; it means that sometimes the baby may be bathed through different means.

Local churches televise their services; you can see the sanctuaries getting more and more empty. I long for a revival like over a hundred years ago, so profound the horses could not be controlled. Seems everyone stopped CURSING — and the horses said, “HUH?”

The beauty is that God traps man in his own “wisdom!”

Jesus’ IQ was considerable; like in Jn10:34-35 — Jesus was running circles around them, intellectually!

In the book of Wisdom it is Revealed that it is the Holy Spirit that enacts:

So when God Calls it is through the Holy Spirit. This relationship seems complex because God is God and we have become accustomed to find/see the Holy Spirit working in the Believers… so it is easy to ignore that Searching of the Holy Spirit does not require indwelling of the Holy Spirit:

The deeper spiritual understandings are taught by the received Spirit, 2Cor11:12-13.

Consider what is Revealed of God’s Call: (citation St. John 14:6; 6:44)

Those verses (and others like Matt11:27 “no one knows the Father except those to whom the Son wills to reveal Him”), do not deny “God calls all men to Himself”. See Jn12:32, Acts17:30, 1Tim2:4, Rom11:32 etc). Those verses are used by Reformed people, they perceive an exclusive call, not understanding “all are called”, see Rom5:18-19!

From these two passages it is clear that no one has Access to God…

I disagree; we all have access to God, because “Jesus has entered within the veil as a forerunner for us” (Heb6), and “to see Jesus is to see the Father” (Jn14).

could there be a missing element?:

Note that in Jn6:45 all are TAUGHT, but only those who LEARN come to God. See Jn5:39-47, they study Scripture but are UNWILLING to learn! (And that because they seek their own glory rather than God’s!)

So it is the Holy Spirit, the Lord Giver of Life, Who Instructs us to Listen to the Father, Who Leads us to Jesus, Who Gives us the ability to Become Children of God and Allows the Indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

True. And yet, we must be clear that “all men are led to the door and given sufficient ability to enter in”.

That’s the biggest offense of Reformed Theology; if not all men are led to the door, then God is a fraud hypocrite and false-judge.

…He’s not!

 

[jcrichton]

Yup. One cannot defend against evil, if evil succeeds in passing itself off as good.

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…which brings us to St. John 15:1-10–only by abiding in Christ would we refrain from abiding or being duped by evil. But as the sheep in the Father’s Hand, we have the freewill to disown Jesus and follow man’s machinations.

I think children can come to terms with pets, and Human salvation. Have you ever heard the discussion about “telling kids about Santa (who is myth), and Jesus (who is real)”?

No, what I meant was that, way back when you would hear children being concerned with going to Heaven; now you hear children asking about their pets going to Heaven… there’s a displacement of values, of goals; part of it is exactly what you’ve noted: the teaching children receive… Santa (though modeled on a Catholic Bishop), yes; witchcraft and magic, yes; the occult, yes; Christ, big NO NO!

That’s why it’s so useful to just take their own book

and start showing them things! Then they can’t dismiss it as “foreign/corrupt”!

I’m looking at Rev22:20 in the “New World Translation” (© '84) and it’s clearly JESUS who is coming; no way to keep “not-Jesus” in verse 12, and therefore it’s still Jesus in verse 13 “Alpha and Omega”. And therefore Jesus is JEHOVAH, Rev1:8!

The only possible response by JW’s, is “aw nuts.”

Well and good; yet – “persuasion” is replete in Scripture. See the previous paragraph – such persuasion is absolute and irrefutable!
Yes, that’s why I get the upper “elder” treatments; but the problem remains… it is as if they’ve been brainwashed… and their gray matter lubricated so that nothing new can stick to it and seep into the system. After everything is said and done, only prayer can penetrate the armor!

Jesus’ IQ was considerable; like in Jn10:34-35 — Jesus was running circles around them, intellectually!

…yes, but what I find interesting is that God does not overpower man with “science” but gives man enough rope…

The deeper spiritual understandings are taught by the received Spirit, 2Cor11:12-13.

Those verses (and others like Matt11:27 “no one knows the Father except those to whom the Son wills to reveal Him”), do not deny "God calls all men

to Himself". See Jn12:32, Acts17:30, 1Tim2:4, Rom11:32 etc). Those verses are used by Reformed people, they perceive an exclusive call, not understanding “all are called”, see Rom5:18-19!

I disagree; we all have access to God, because “Jesus has entered within the veil as a forerunner for us” (Heb6), and “to see Jesus is to see the Father” (Jn14).

Note that in Jn6:45 all are TAUGHT, but only those who LEARN come to God. See Jn5:39-47, they study Scripture but are UNWILLING to learn! (And that because they seek their own glory rather than God’s!)

True. And yet, we must be clear that “all men are led to the door and given sufficient ability to enter in”.

That’s the biggest offense of Reformed Theology; if not all men are led to the door, then God is a fraud hypocrite and false-judge.

…He’s not!
…for my explanation to work it cannot be taken apart… I am not suggesting some *predestinational *thought; I am trying to demonstrate what I see from Revealed Scriptures: a) the Son cannot be Accessed but through the Father, yet, b) the Father cannot be Accessed but through the Son.

If we take the Word of God at its value it seems that there’s no access to God; yet, Scripture also Reveal that man is Taught by God, the Father, so that he can go to God, the Son.

This happens through the Holy Spirit, Who Searches and Instructs man.

As man allows God’s Call (invitation/instruction) to reach him and as he responds favorably, he is led to Jesus–the term “man” is inclusive of human kind (all of humanity).

Indwelling of the Holy Spirit does not happen until man submit to Jesus Christ’s Lordship and Fellowship–again, “man” being all of humanity (St. John 1:11-13; 3:16-17).

Maran atha!

Angel

 

[Gadgeteer]

Hi, Gadgeteer!

One cannot defend against evil, if evil succeeds in passing itself off as good.

…which brings us to St. John 15:1-10–only by abiding in Christ would we refrain from abiding or being duped by evil. But as the sheep in the Father’s Hand, we have the freewill to disown Jesus and follow man’s machinations.

Yes—but—RT’s (and ES’s) think we ourselves cannot snatch ourselves from His hand! Not what it says; no ONE can harpazo-force us from His hands. We can leave because of unbelief. Perhaps the strongest passage is Rom11:18-23; it is conceited to think we cannot be cut off for unbelief, God’s kindness is on us if we continue in faith, else we too will be cut off!

No, what I meant was that, way back when you would hear children being concerned with going to Heaven; now you hear children asking about their pets going to Heaven… there’s a displacement of values, of goals; part of it is exactly what you’ve noted: the teaching children receive… Santa (though modeled on a Catholic Bishop), yes; witchcraft and magic, yes; the occult, yes; Christ, big NO NO!

I was more commenting on how parents should teach children about Santa, AND Jesus, and then explain how one is a “myth” and the other is real. Not allowing a child to enjoy the innocence of Santa Claus seems harsh; but we must be careful how real we make him, while also teaching the absolute reality of Jesus. Both are …supernatural… How do we explain why we taught both stories, and why one continues to be real?

Yes, that’s why I get the upper “elder” treatments; but the problem remains… it is as if they’ve been brainwashed… and their gray matter lubricated so that nothing new can stick to it and seep into the system. After everything is said and done, only prayer can penetrate the armor!

What you just said is profound. It’s easy to get so caught up in the “physical world”, that we can be remiss to the spiritual. Those who are recruited into cults like Jehovah’s Witnesses are victims of convincing persuasion; therefore we must be more convincing with Scripture to correct them. But we must never forget “we battle not against flesh and blood, but against spirits…” Yes, prayer is critical, and must not be forgotten!

The verses I cited previous post are solid and inarguable; they have no defense. But to overcome the brainwashing (also, the extortion – threats of “excommunication” if they buck the JW doctrine) — there must be a procedure:

1. You carry that Bible around with you. Do you follow it?
2. Do you believe it?
3. May I show you a couple verses IN your copy, that I think you may not have read?

Non-confrontational and non-condemning; yet pinning them to their convictions, if they do NOT allow us to read from their own copy then they consciously deny their own credibility. We have to “back them into a corner”, without threats or hostility. Their own copy becomes the persuasion back to the real Jesus and away from the cult! To reject what we then show them from their own copy is for them to deny what they claim as their very foundation! They have no defense.

…yes, but what I find interesting is that God does not overpower man with “science” but gives man enough rope…

Science is not at odds with Jesus’ gospel. In my book the forward addresses “science” — ask a godless scientist how it began, and he quickly has to admit he has no idea, he just has FAITH that it did. “Faith”, is religion. It’s nothing else.

…for my explanation to work it cannot be taken apart… I am not suggesting some *predestinational *thought; I am trying to demonstrate what I see from Revealed Scriptures: a) the Son cannot be Accessed but through the Father, yet, b) the Father cannot be Accessed but through the Son.

If we take the Word of God at its value it seems that there’s no access to God; yet, Scripture also Reveal that man is Taught by God, the Father, so that he can go to God, the Son.

This happens through the Holy Spirit, Who Searches and Instructs man.

In all of that, it only works if Jesus is fully God just as the Father is, and if learning is something we choose (or not). What did you think about my citation of Jn5:39-47?

As man allows God’s Call (invitation/instruction) to reach him and as he responds favorably, he is led to Jesus–the term “man” is inclusive of human kind (all of humanity).

Indwelling of the Holy Spirit does not happen until man submit to Jesus Christ’s Lordship and Fellowship–again, “man” being all of humanity (St. John 1:11-13; 3:16-17).

Agreed — Scripture teaches that idea consistently and often.

 

[jcrichton]

yes—but—rt’s (and es’s) think we ourselves cannot snatch ourselves from his hand! Not what it says; no one can harpazo-force us from his hands. We can leave because of unbelief. Perhaps the strongest passage is rom11:18-23; it is conceited to think we cannot be cut off for unbelief, god’s kindness is on us if we continue in faith, else we too will be cut off!

Hi, Gadgeteer!

Sadly they cannot see the warning; it is better to self inoculate than to suffer the reality that man can turn from god–this cannot be acceptable because if spoils the predestination and double predestination tenets; these forces the issue into the foreground: Salvation is God’s Gift, yet, man has to collaborate with God (St. John 15:1-10).

what you just said is profound. It’s easy to get so caught up in the “physical world”, that we can be remiss to the spiritual. Those who are recruited into cults like jehovah’s witnesses are victims of convincing persuasion; therefore we must be more

convincing with scripture to correct them. But we must never forget “we battle not against flesh and blood, but against spirits…” yes, prayer is critical, and must not be forgotten!

The verses i cited previous post are solid and inarguable; they have no defense. But to overcome the brainwashing (also, the extortion – threats of “excommunication” if they buck the jw doctrine) — there must be a procedure:

1. You carry that bible around with you. Do you follow it?
2. Do you believe it?
3. May i show you a couple verses in your copy, that i think you may not have read?

non-confrontational and non-condemning; yet pinning them to their convictions, if they do not allow us to read from their own copy then they consciously deny their own credibility. We have to “back them into a corner”, without threats or hostility. Their own copy becomes the persuasion back to the real jesus and away from the cult! To reject what we then show them from their own copy is for them to deny what they claim as their very foundation! They have no defense.
I think that this is where the Church has become ineffectual (at least in the US); people do not feel welcomed… and those entities that embrace them and make them feel “wanted” gain the numbers… sadly, because they are not true to the Faith (Jesus) they end up misusing the “safety and security” as tool for subjugation and coercion.

Fear of being alone/not belonging can often trump even the Word of God–remember they are inoculated against any teachings not of their sect.

If only Christendom would Listen to Christ’s Command, ‘Love one another so that the world may Know that the Father has Sent Me!’

In all of that, it only works if Jesus is fully God just as the Father is,

and if learning is something we choose (or not). What did you think about my citation of jn5:39-47?
This is Jesus making an “in your face” check–how it is that some do not understand that Jesus is God, that it is He Who has the Word of Life, that the whole of Judaism has Jesus as the God that Saves (even and in spite that Israel did not understand this), is beyond me.

If Jehovah Witnesses would simply sit down and study this passage and insert their denominational name in verse 39:

39 You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me,
The would understand that Jesus is Speaking to them: ‘You, Jehovah Witnesses…’

…and they would see that they are missing the Truth because Jesus is telling them that:

40 yet you refuse to come to me to have life.
If only they would be willing to allow the Holy Spirit to Enlighten them they would truly study the Word of God in an effort to discern the Truth:

25 Jesus said to her: I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, although he be dead, shall live: 26 And every one that liveth, and believeth in me, shall not die for ever. Believest thou this?

(St. John 11:25-26)
Maran atha!

Angel

 

[Gadgeteer]

Hi, Gadgeteer!

:tiphat:

Sadly they cannot see the warning; it is better to self inoculate than to suffer the reality that man can turn from god–this cannot be acceptable because if spoils the predestination and double predestination tenets; these force the issue into the foreground: Salvation is God’s Gift, yet, man has to collaborate with God (St. John 15:1-10).

Without that cooperation, God becomes a wicked, unjust tyrant. He would be ordaining BOTH righteousness, and wickedness. And of the “ordained righteous” – He would also be ordaining them to be wicked for so long before they believe and be saved.

No, Paul said we “were children of wrath (Hell!), the same as the rest” — a few favorites ALWAYS predestined, were NEVER the same as the rest. What part of that is difficult for them to understand? (Eph2:3!)

I think that this is where the Church has become ineffectual (at least in the US); people do not feel welcomed… and those entities that embrace them and make them feel “wanted” gain the numbers… sadly, because they are not true to the Faith (Jesus) they end up misusing the “safety and security” as tool for subjugation and coercion.

Yes, they do. It clearly is an “approach” to promise warmth and close relationships to entice them in; I wonder why it isn’t obvious even to senior members that such trickery is obviously suspect? http://www.clicksmilies.com/s1106/fragend/confused-smiley-007.gif

Fear of being alone/not belonging can often trump even the Word of God–remember they are inoculated against any teachings not of their sect.

Here is the value of using their own copy — you start showing them contradictions in the ACTUAL “Watchtower New World Translation”, and they can’t just dismiss you!

If only Christendom would Listen to Christ’s Command, ‘Love one another so that the world may Know that the Father has Sent Me!’

I think it’s a “catch-22” — the only way we can love others, is if we have the true God’s love in us. It’s up to us to overcome their hardenedness (because of never experiencing true love) — for it is true love of God flowing through us, that wins hearts.

This is Jesus making an “in your face” check–how it is that some do not understand that Jesus is God, that it is He Who has the Word of Life, that the whole of Judaism has Jesus as the God that Saves (even and in spite that Israel did not understand this), is beyond me.

It’s simple, and sinister. Jesus said “He who is not with Me is against Me”; JW’s do not serve the real Jesus, therefore they unknowingly are serving lucifer. And the biggest lies he promotes are “Jesus-isn’t-God”, “salvation-is-by-works”, and “if-you’re-good-you’ll-make-it”…

If Jehovah Witnesses would simply sit down and study this passage and insert their denominational name in verse 39:

39 You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me,
The would understand that Jesus is Speaking to them: ‘You, Jehovah Witnesses…’

That takes a prior understanding to make it work. For “prior-understanding” – start them off with Rev1:8, and then 22:12-16 — proving Jesus is God because of no subject change in ch22, see verse 20! JESUS is coming to judge us, JESUS is the Alpha and Omega, JESUS has sent His angel to declare these things. The Alpha and Omega is Jehovah-Almighty, and (Rev21:6) Jesus the Alpha and Omega gives the water of live (Jn4:14).

BTW, I was just telling someone yesterday about the NWT contradiction – Jn10:33 they change to “…you make yourself out to be a god” (little “g”, not making Himself out to be THE God). But there is the footnote to Jn5:18, “you make yourself equal with God” (THE God). They get the footnote right, which contradicts their change from “make-yourself-out-to-be-God”, into “make-yourself-out-to-be-a-god”.

…and they would see that they are missing the Truth because Jesus is telling them that:

40 yet you refuse to come to me to have life.
If only they would be willing to allow the Holy Spirit to Enlighten them they would truly study the Word of God in an effort to discern the Truth:

I love that passage (Jn5:39-47), well done. It’s the counter for Jn6:45 “he who studies AND LEARNS comes to God”, while previous chapter they study but WILL NOT come to God to have life.

Anyone can study; but each chooses to learn or not…

 

[jcrichton]

Without that cooperation, God becomes a wicked, unjust tyrant. He would be ordaining BOTH righteousness, and wickedness. And of the “ordained righteous” – He would also be ordaining them to be wicked for so long before they believe and be saved.

No, Paul said we “were children of wrath (Hell!), the same as the rest” — a few favorites ALWAYS predestined, were NEVER the same as the rest. What part of that is difficult for them to understand? (Eph2:3!)

Hi, Gadgeteer!

…it’s that Roman-Greco god’s thing… they do evil and create evil at whim.

…which laughs at Jesus face:

7 In the same way, I tell you, there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one repentant sinner than over ninety-nine virtuous men who have no need of repentance.

(St. Luke 15:7)
…if it’s all status quo, how ignoramus does that make Jesus–celebrating, in Heaven, what cannot be?

Yes, they do. It clearly is an “approach” to promise warmth and close relationships to entice them in; I wonder why it isn’t obvious even to senior members that such trickery is obviously suspect?

http://www.clicksmilies.com/s1106/fragend/confused-smiley-007.gif

Here is the value of using their own copy — you start showing them contradictions in the ACTUAL “Watchtower New World Translation”, and they can’t just dismiss you!
…ego plays a part in this… it’s the old “I’m right; you’re wrong; do not attempt to confuse me with facts!”

It’s simple, and sinister. Jesus said “He who is not with Me is against Me”; JW’s do not serve the real Jesus, therefore they unknowingly are serving lucifer. And the biggest lies he promotes are “Jesus-isn’t-God”, “salvation-is-by-works”, and “if-you’re-good-you’ll-make-it”…

I never knew that they held “salvation through works.”

That takes a prior understanding to make it work. For “prior-understanding” – start them off with Rev1:8, and then 22:12-16 — proving Jesus is God because of no subject change

in ch22, see verse 20! JESUS is coming to judge us, JESUS is the Alpha and Omega, JESUS has sent His angel to declare these things. The Alpha and Omega is Jehovah-Almighty, and (Rev21:6) Jesus the Alpha and Omega gives the water of live (Jn4:14).

BTW, I was just telling someone yesterday about the NWT contradiction – Jn10:33 they change to “…you make yourself out to be a god” (little “g”, not making Himself out to be THE God). But there is the footnote to Jn5:18, “you make yourself equal with God” (THE God). They get the footnote right, which contradicts their change from “make-yourself-out-to-be-God”, into “make-yourself-out-to-be-a-god”.
This is why snapshot Scriptural exegesis doesn’t work; we must take all of Scriptures into account… and we must consider the context as well… did Judaism believe that idol gods were anything? Why would they attempt to kill Christ because He would equate Himself with a god? Judaism is monotheistic… this means that the Jews that wanted to stone Jesus thought the He was Equating Himself to the One True Living God! It takes ignorance and contortionism (and perhaps a hidden evil) to make the Word of God speak nonsense!

I love that passage (Jn5:39-47), well done. It’s the counter for Jn6:45 “he who studies AND LEARNS comes to God”, while previous chapter they study but WILL NOT come to God to have life.

Anyone can study; but each chooses to learn or not…

Yes! There’s so much in these verses… Jesus is chastising Israel for not Believing the Word of God; in essence, Jesus is accusing them of not Knowing God! …and while He agrees that we can find a source of Life in Scriptures, He adamantly insists that He is the Source of Life to which Scriptures are pointing towards… it is not enough to search/study Scriptures; we must, humbly, allow the Holy Spirit to Guide us to the Truth: Jesus!

Maran atha!

Angel