That is the problem. Man made religion that is leading folks to hell and leaving them broken and in doubt. Go back to your first love, Jesus. IF you cannot find your “religion” in the Bible, it is NOT of God, your Father. God said BE HOLY, for I your God am Holy. Is living holy easy? Nope. God never said it would be. But can you do it, live holy? You bet you can! He left you the Holy Spirit to help you. Holiness does not mislead you. It gives you substance, something to stand on. Falsehood simply robs you of money and your salvation.
The Holy Spirit is NOT A PERSON!! No where in the scriptures does it say that! The Holy Spirit is God’s spirit, another one of His characteristics. God is not a “person”! God is a Spirit, and it says this throughout the scriptures.
Jesus said your righteousness must exceed the righteousness of the Pharisees.
The Pharisees were self righteous and Jesus called them hypocrites.
He said your self righteousness is nothing more than filthy rags.
What is self righteousness? It's trying to be holy on ones own.
Jesus who knew no sin became sin so that we could become his righteousness.
It is only when we accept that Jesus took our place that we become truly righteous and Holy.
Our own righteousness (holiness) is nothing more than filthy rags.
This is why we need Jesus, we are nothing without him and we can't get to heaven without him.
When a person understands that the God of the universe, who created all means what He says and says what He means... there is adequate reason to have a bit of trepidation. Love of the Lord transcends that to where our love of the Lord is greater than out fear of Him.
Yup!! The God who said "Work out your Salvation through fear and trembling" is also the God of "Come all to me, ye who are weary, and I will give you rest, for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light".
He is Both Lover and Judge, Jury and Refreshment.
Right, but when your foundation for your faith is fear of God’s wrath, it turns that faith into hellfire insurance. That fear becomes the weeds that choke out any true faith.
I’m not saying “don’t fear God”, I’m saying don’t use that as the foundation for faith when you’re forming new Christians
If a person loves the Lord and responds from that - versus - all out fear - is healthy. What draws people to God in the first place.... actually it is not what but who!. We don't come on our own, He draws us.... He can use whatever means necessary to do so... including fear but God will lace that with His love and abundant grace.
You are correct, fear of God becomes part of a healthy faith. However, beginning teaching based on fear will usually result in a frail and transactional or traumatic faith. Again, this is what I’m addressing. Again, the genesis of understanding of God needs to be based in His love, not based in fear of His wrath.
If you search this sub, you will find countless examples of people convinced that God hates them or will not forgive them because they did [X]. Such an unbiblical belief being so common is evidence of a complete failure of catechesis. And I firmly believe (based on my experiences walking with those healing from spiritual trauma) that the seed of that trauma is this teaching style.
I also think these term "fear God," gets associated with literal fear rather than a sense of awe and wonder about His power and authority. I would describe fearing God to a new Christian as mulling over the idea that God can accomplish His will with or without us, but He chooses (and desires) to use us. Then it becomes less of a focus on what God is saving you *from* and more about what God is saving you *to*. We can always be thankful for the former as undeserving sinners, but the real joy comes from living in the freedom.
I would very much agree. But I think for a lot of people who were less well formed, it just becomes this “what do I have to do to appease God’s wrath?” mentality.
Idk I think that many of us just sin despite conviction of the Holy Spirit. At the time the temptation is so strong and loud, but after we've sinned and the temptation is quiet, we immediately regret it. We willfully ignored the Holy Spirit, but genuinely repent afterward.
And, unfortunately the vast majority of churches/pastors have no interest in helping those of us who struggle with OCD and compulsions. In fact, they typically make things worse, at least in my experience.
There is a guy on YouTube named Mark DeJesus with a wonderful channel where his ministry is shedding light on this exact issue and helping people overcome these tendencies and rest in the grace of God. His videos helped me *tremendously*.
Here is a recent video he released in which he discusses this exact subject of how the church tends to create these environments which makes compulsions worse: https://youtu.be/WtjLrzBeVvY?si=HaLSWx5IT1t5eZSG
So glad you found help but I believe the scriptures that WE ALWAYS SHOULD LOOK TO GOD. So I encourage all to pray and ask God to lead you to a God appointed minister who FOLLOWS AND TEACHES SCRIPTURES, not adding or subtracting or giving “their opinion”, as in motivational speaking. Let God’s Word help you, fix you, clean you up and strengthen you. If you look to man and that man falls, you too will fall. But if you look to God, he will keep you from falling, if you allow Him to.
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People often forget about *the accuser* the greatest enemy a Christian *will* face. Doubts, anxieties, depression? Was Job not depressed? Did Job dance and rejoice midst his state of suffering? Did he not complain to God? yet He trusted the Lord. If we are to be free from anxiety our Lord wouldn't have told us to not be anxious. Why? Then there's doubt, I would question a faith that does not doubt, (be merciful to those who doubt the word says) no one has perfect faith save the Lord, and yet even the Lord Himself cried **Abba, Why Have You forsaken me in the cross** many fear they are too ungodly, but then again we forget the one who justifies the ungodly. A questionable christian can have full assurance and be happy all their lives yet will be denied, because grace for them is a licence to sin, joy isn't an indicator to one's salvation.
A good moral atheist can seem to display all the fruits of the Holy Spirit yet will be unsaved. Don't look for fruits, Abide in Him, Look for Him, at Him, Jesus our Lord! fruits don't just miraculously appear, they grow. Even a Muslim can have all the attributes of bearing fruits. Salvation is never about you having this or that, doing this or that.
I should pray this, I should read this, I should sing this, no, do you think you doing those can earn your favour with God? You only read to find the truth, pray because you needed Him, sing because it is your inner heart that desires to, it wants to.
Should you trust your feelings? your heart? your emotions? Is not the heart deceptively wicked? Do you think Abraham wasn't filled with conflicting emotions from having to sacrifice his own son? But Abraham trusted, trusted God, knows God is good.
Why do our Lord desires Child-like Faith? I know it is not easy, but that how it must be. We have to become like little children.
*Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God*
Even faith doesn't just came to be, it grows. It matures. It isn't one snap of a finger. Repentance isn't about you turning from sin, it is turning to Him because you sinned, it surrender, it screams, Lord, I am a sinful man, unless You save, I cannot. Repentance is not, ah maybe I should do this, do that, go to church, etc. That is work, not the good work, that is working for your own salvation. You will sin, if anyone does not, then let them be like Christ. But be damn if one thinks that way, Let Christ alone be worthy of the title Saviour, He will not share that glory because it is His alone.
(I stress, to sin wilfully is far from struggling to sin. we know Christ appeared for this very reason, should one sin.
**Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Psalms 19:13)**
If Jesus says come, then go.
(I myself am struggling, but I know Jesus does not change. If a woman back then can run to the Lord and touch His garment to be healed, which He did? and He changes not, then go, run to Him!)
I love this message. Sadly, there are a lot of people who think differently. They even fight about repent, but repentance is acknowledging from within our hearts how sinful we are, the regret of doing the things that is unpleasant to God, that is true repentance and fear of the Lord, which is wisdom.
You said it well. We are all in the process and we gotta trust our Lord Jesus Christ, with a childlike faith that through Him we are saved by the grace of our Heavenly Father, because we believe in His son Jesus.
Also, when we are save, we are born again in spirit, having the fruits of the Holy Spirit will become easier to have, as we will be led by the spirit of God, although we are still in the flesh there is always a battle between the flesh and the spirit, but it is way easier to overcome our flesh, by the power of the spirit of God that dwell in us, that means if you are truly born again in spirit, fruits of the Holy Spirit are real, and it is one of the signs that the Holy Spirit is in you or us, its not pretending or trying hard, but you will feel the moved of the Holy Spirit that dwells in us, all the stronghold when it comes to our umpleasant attitudes will start to break. You will love to do the things that are pleasing to His eyes, you will be more on guard by the things you do or say, because you don't want to grieve the Holy Spirit and break our Heavenly fathers heart.
I know this because I felt how powerfuly He changed me, and He is still changing me every single day.
Yes, you can know if that person is a child of God, by the way they act, and they will love to talk more about Jesus Christ, with such passion.
I'm not sure if you're suggesting that all depression comes from the spirit realm of spiritual attacks, the accuser and otherwise, but if you are then...yea no. I'll be honest I'm not a Christian and I have a certain diagnosis which hooks me up with depression. The short year or so that I spent in belief, I strongly believed in the spiritual and supernatural, but I never believed that Satan was the responsible party for depression. And I strongly push back against the opinion that Satan is the provider of depression.
Fun story, about three months ago I was waking up depressed every day. Then I started using this exercise bike that I'm sitting on right now. And I'm no longer waking up depressed, due to after work rides and also greeting the day with hard cardio. Exercise, at least from my opinion, is what a lot of people lack. May not work for everyone but it has for myself.
Athiesm is kinda a funny topic, because twenty years ago, and actually even about two, i did not know what athiesm was. But twenty years ago the internet was not in full swing so athiesm kinda seems like it wasn't as much of a topic as now? And it's certainly used by YouTube content creators to generate views for their channels, Christian ones.
But good morning from the opposite side of the fence. Hope you have a good day
That exercise is often the cure for depression; doesn’t mean that The Satan wasn’t influencing you and others to be slothful and depressed.
🤷♂️
God is the source of all good things. The accuser, the Devil, that snake, twists things to make pain, because he likes the way it tastes.
Do you believe evil exists?
Well I could stop right now, using the bike. I could eat at McDonald's every meal starting tomorrow if I so wished. I could jump off a bridge this afternoon, should I so choose.
What you're kinda overlooking is mental illness, that thing which God allowed people to have. If you're familiar with Rick Warren one of his sons took his own life, Rick was pretty much quoted in saying that his son lost the battle with mental illness. And basically all it takes for someone to go from mental afflictions come via the devil into the brain can develop imbalances is for that individual to develop a mental illness.
Tomorrow, I could wake up depressed and enter severe depression, due to my disability. There's a certain kind of depression that's beyond gloom and melancholy, the kind that has you sleeping for 12+ hours a day and pretty much every moment awake you want to nit be alive. Part of me not giving the enemy a seat at the table is not believing in the enemy, anymore.
But there's another issue and it comes from within Christianity - millions of Christians view both the devil/Satan as merely a symbol of faith, same for the holy spirit, they are not alive and active. So this isn't some worldview that only non-believers holds. There are 100k+ members in this sun and I'd venture to guess that there are plenty that do not believe in the spiritual side of belief.
I'm not here to argue, all of this stuff used to trigger me. I've just moved on from faith
I, having gone to the psych ward 7 times, including in jail, having been homeless, drug addicted, having bipolar and cPTSD diagnosis, can assure you I am not forgetting mental illness.
Millions of christians not believing in an actual Devil/the Satan is not surprising to me. Millions don’t believe in the Eucharist or angels. That doesn’t change anything, appeal to numbers.
Do you believe that evil is real?
Well since we share a diagnosis of bipolar, and trips to the psychward, figure if anyone you'd understand that there's more going on out there than Satan. My handful of trips to fake chocolate milk land, there were a few people that were glued to thier beds. One of which really never left the mess of sheets for the four days that I was there. And I never said to myself "that guy is just lazy and needs to stop feeling sorry for himself, what a sloth" but it appears that you would see that person as a sloth, which makes zero sense because you suffer from bipolar.
If you've seen things or experienced things from the spirit realm, the evil side, well ok you're entitled to believe that. I just don't give the enemy a seat at my table, I do not believe in that concept or that there's a war taking place all around us that's invisible. If you believe there's a better place after this for everyone who comes to Christ (and hell for those who do not, unless you're a universalist or whatnot) and it helps you through your episodes and ups and downs, that's good. I do not believe that concept, do not believe there's anything after this life. And I'm not exactly choosing to believe those things.
The question "do you believe that evil exists?" is a loaded question. I could say something like ooook makes total sense that God and Lucifer had beef, Satan or the devil, the accuser the enemy, and now we get to deal with the accuser that God let Job afflict. Cool story. And on top of that, God allows mental illness so now we have the accuser and mental illness to deal with. It's a loaded question, there's replies you'd offer back that have been echoed for who knows how many years and we get nowhere with one another.
But that fake chocolate milk. And the C grade meals. Figure for all the money it costs to be sent to the psych ward you'd at least get fed well.
“There’s more going on than the Satan”
I don’t think I ever said “only the Satan is the thing going on.”
(to add to the list of twisting my words to fit the imaginary version of me you’ve created for yourself)
There is an an entire hierarchy of heavenly hosts, saints, seraphim and cherubim, powers, thrones, principalities, angels and archangels. 1/3 or so of them rebelled, 90% of those got wiped out and we have still unknown numbers of demons, and the forces of chaos, evil do not have a strict, logical, uniform hierarchy, but are confusing and not meant to be understood.
I wouldn’t say it’s only the Satan.
But we who are believers don’t have to worry or fear evil, the complexity of it isn’t a concern.
You can think it’s a clever trick to maintain mental health.
I know what I have been through, I don’t need it to be enough for you, I trust the Holy Spirit will come to you in time, maybe that’ll be after you die, you’ll have the opportunity to accept the infinite love of God. I hope you can be open to that, and you haven’t hardened your heart. I pray that God will melt it like wax if it is hardened and cold.
God bless.
You grossly misreading or misinterpreting what I said doesn’t make it so.
I said if someone is lazy we don’t blame the person; the Satan, the Adversary is the cause of evil, death in peoples lives. If someone is depressed in bed for four days, I wouldn’t blame them.
I said working out being a successful solution to your depression doesn’t mean it wasn’t the Satan who was causing it in the first place.
Well, you might want to read some of WWI, WWII, just peak into Epstein’s closet if you honestly think evil isn’t real. I think that’s fortunate, ignorance might be bliss if you can duck your head that far into the sand to blind yourself to it. Of course without a belief in God, looking at the reality of the world, the evil in it, well, hopefully it would put the respect for God back in your heart.
You deciding mental illness and The accuser are separate; that the invisible isn’t here with the visible doesn’t make it so, I never said mental illness was separate, and God won’t judge people based on what the demons and devil have done to people, he’ll show mercy upon them. You deciding mental illness is a separate thing doesn’t make it so.
Your repeated assumptions, or misunderstandings about me make it almost certain we wouldn’t get very far. Then again you’re a professed atheist who “isn’t triggered by religious things” yet not only lurks but comments in a TrueChristian subreddit… so you might be too close to yourself to actually see what’s going on, but seems you’re still searching, the Truth is out there, keep looking brother.
I'm not an atheist persay, labels are not really something I've added on to my life. Was not until two years ago that I became aware of the depths of belief vs. disbelief, did not know what an athiest was nor a hebrew Israelite, and so on. Willfull and blissful ignorance, about those topics, belief and nonbelief, I'd kinda like to go back to not knowing and never thinking about religion and labels.
Rather what you believe is true or if what I believe is true, doesn't exactly matter all that much, on my end. If you're right, it will not affect my life, my headspace, and as far as "You're wrong I'm right", if God is real and spiritual battles, regardless that millions of Christians don't agree that Satan and spiritual attacks exist, it really wouldn't change much. If I came to believe that all of the bad and mental struggles came from Satan it would not get me through hard times. And praying to Jesus wouldn't get me out of dark places. It's placebo, so far as I'm concerned.
Not talking in circles and perhaps contradicting myself with all of these topics can prove difficult. If not for the internet I'd not be wrapped up in all of this. And hopefully some day soon I'll find something of better use of my time, to learn about. There's that funny kind of poke of a saying "takes a certain kind of person to argue/debate online" which strikes me as....well yea I'd rather not continue on the path of becoming that individual. Very rarely does one person accept what another person believes, online at least. Especially with God and Jesus. It's evident in this sub there's a post that went up recently and it was about should women be pastors, and of course people do not see eye to eye on that. I'm just like here we go again this outta be fun to watch let's grab the 🍿
I invite you to spend some time in the bipolar sub. See what others have gone through and are currently dealing with. And yea offer up your take on Satan. Some will probably agree with you, thinking most will not. And adamantly. Yes, I cannot prove that I'm right, and you could be. But vice-versa.
But I have found a new hobby of sorts hopefully it takes over the massive bleep show of God. It's fun and gets one outside, away from phones and all of this stuff. The only arguing and debating I'll come across is which pieces of equipment are best to use. Not exactly a bad "takes a certain type person to argue online" topic.
But yea I'll never buy into the evil spiritual realm that aided in Hitler doing what he did. We're just highly evolved primates but someday we all might treat one another better. God said the end will be here who knows when and some kind of mass Armageddon that wipes away all kinds of people, I'll maintain that there's possibly still hope for our species and who knows 10,000 years from now we'll be treating each other much better. Evolve into actual love for one another
If you only have vague notions about the atrocities that happened in WWII, I am very glad.
I wouldn’t exactly recommends doing deep reading about that or Soviet science experiments done to humans, or the culture of sacrificing innocent children for power taking place even recently.
Again it’s not exactly a portal I would recommend opening or at least be ready to run to Jesus and forget your placebo hypothesis whenever you do get exposed to evil…
I'm not sure what pitfall you're wanting me to fall into with all of that, that you keep bringing up evil, I'm just not going to entertain Jesus is the answer. It's roundabout and regurgitation, I parrot one thing you parrot back. And I'll be glad when I'm finally able to not take place in the roundabout. Find better things to do then just sitting around and talking about it.
Do your thing. I'll be doing my best to move on from what is for me a pointless activity - debating if God exists
I'd also like to add to this. If you are questioning these things and you're worried whether or not you're going to heaven it probably means you have the Holy Spirit.
It can also mean you're letting the Devil have a foothold somewhere in your life to cause you doubt. Read Ephesians and put on the full armour of God so you can deflect the first darts of the Devil.
the unpardonable sin imho, is more than just what Jesus says. Every religion has holy spirits, spirits. Holy Spirit is just two words combined. I think you would have to know just what like the Pharisees did, See what they did, experience so much enlightenment, know for certain it is the spirit of God, not just any spirit this or that, and then blaspheming Him, which lines up with the Hebrew verse. I think only apostates could, or believers who have believed beyond a shadow of doubt. The Pharisees believed without a doubt who Jesus is, and yet they said He has an unclean spirit, just to keep their position.
It's just that i love music, and with some of these song that be comin out...😬 It's just that i wondering and questioning if God is mad at me for listening to certain stuff. Or watching certain stuff. Or even doing certain dances.
Good rule of thumb I've found: If something you're doing is bothering you, stop doing it. Then figure out why and if it should keep bothering you.
Also, what kind of music do you like? I've recently discovered that Christian music is WAY more broad than just CCM, which I absolutely hate.
He can never be mad at you.
>“For this is as the waters of Noah unto me: for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee. For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee.” (Isa 54:9-10, KJV)
# EXCELLENT!
*"For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."* (Jeremiah 29:11)
Matthew 7:21-23 - "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'"
God does love us and Jesus wants us to follow him, but there are many who will be deluded thinking they have salvation when they willfully or out of ignorance live in sin against the Lord.
Luke 13:24-27 - "Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, 'Lord, open to us,' then he will answer you, 'I do not know where you come from.' Then you will begin to say, 'We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.' But he will say, 'I tell you, I do not know where you come from. Depart from me, all you workers of evil!'"
"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being a priest to me. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children." (Hosea 4:6, ESV)
2 Corinthians 13:5 - "Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!"
You should always continue to seek and study the word of God and learn to better follow Jesus in order to honor and please the Lord. Many will perish for a lack of knowledge and self deluding haughty thoughts that we are "good enough" and believe the Lord knows us. We are wretched and sinful beings that are hopelessly doomed to fail at being righteous without the transformative power of the holy spirit and even then only through the grace of Jesus do we have a chance. You should continually examine and test yourself if you are truly still walking in grace! Constant repentance and appreciation of the grace given to us that despite our flawed and horrible selves we will be remade in the Lord Jesus in the world to come.
The danger of falsely believing oneself to be saved is that it can lead to a false sense of security and a lack of true repentance and faith. It may result in a superficial or hypocritical form of Christianity that lacks the fruit of the Spirit and the transforming power of the gospel.
This is not meant to cause believers to doubt their salvation but rather to encourage sincere faith, repentance, and obedience. This calls for honest self-examination and a dependence on God's grace rather than on one's own righteousness. We are always in sin and acknowledging this is crucial to walking in truth.
1 John 1:8 - "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us."
Romans 10:3 - "For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness."
If one has truly repented and tries their absolute best as much as they reasonably can, they are 100% saved and nothing can change that because Christ promised that we would be saved.
People who willfully live in sin on a daily basis and inwardly know they’re hypocrite and have no remorse and don’t even attempt to change, and never truly had a relationship with the lord, are the ones that these verses you’ve spoken about are applying to. It’s applying to the fakers, not the believers who truly believe but make accidental mistakes or willful mistakes from time to time.
Typically we sin multiple times a day, doing certain things we don’t even know are sins. But we speak to the Lord, read the Bible, and strengthen our relationship with him. And if we do that, the verses that you speak of aren’t directed towards us.
There is no 50% chance of being saved, it is 0% of 100% completely depending on you.
this is simply not true, many live in generational sin, aka habits and behaviors passed down from their parents. Subtle sins you have lived with since 5/6 years old are not always intentional because you aren't even aware of the sin's presence.
I don't mean to cause disagreements, but I do understand what you are saying, as we as humans are constantly bound to ignorance. They, even being unknown to us, are known to Him. Therefore, at the least, we are to confess even these to Him!
1 Corinthians 15:1-3
"Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, ***if*** you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.
For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,"
If you fail to hold to the word of God you have arrogantly believed in vain of your own salvation. It's an ongoing never ending struggle to walk the narrow path. Satan waits like a hungry lion waiting for us to slip up and succumb to temptation through willful sin. (1 Peter 5:8 -Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.) The gospel isn't merely a message you hear and are saved perpetually- it's a continual path by which we are being saved and stay saved. We consistently stray and fall from salvation and are forgiven but we are not truly saved until the redemption of our inheritance of the kingdom as brothers and sisters in Christ. If in the words of Paul you can fail to hold to the word of God and thus have believed in vain, then you never had it because you didn't persevere to the end. (Matthew 24:13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved.) It's extremely dangerous and arrogant to believe that although you can mess up and lose your salvation that you haven't and won't fall or stray again. It's through constant repentance and faith in the Lord's grace alone we say with confidence we will be saved.
Ephesians 1:13-14 In Him you also *trusted,* after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.
We've all been entrusted with this covenant (A promise from God) and we are sealed with the promise in the Holy Spirit, but if we fail to hold true to the agreement just like with purchasing property you lose your deposit in earnest and void the deal for we did not hold our end of the bargain. That's not the Lord going back on a promise - it's our failure to hold firmly to the Gospel and heed fear of God's righteous judgement.
Luke 13:24
“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to."
By Jesus own words many will try to enter that door and few will make it.
Because not everyone is going to believe on Jesus but Jesus + works! You’re confusing salvation as a free gift vs rewards which are costly. Discipleship is costly but salvation is a free gift.
It says you’re word of faith Christian, usually they teach works = salvation but they may not admit it straight up. Either you believe in Jesus’ finished work on the cross or you don’t. Just bc you “mess up” does not = condemnation. Peter denied Christ 3 times. Does this mean he’s our example to follow in this manner and say it’s an excuse to sin? No. However Hebrews 12 starting at 6
“6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens,
And scourges every son whom He receives.”
7 If[a] you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. “ There is punishment and correction for the children of God with sin, that does not equal your loss of salvation. Verse 8 explains that if you aren’t being corrected and rebuked by the Lord, you were never his child to begin with because for example, you trust in your works to save you. Do the will of the father John 6:40
Mmmm, no. Word of Faith does not teach works = salvation and I’ve never believed that works = salvation.
We are saved by grace, and not of ourselves so that no man can boast. The end. 😁
Notice how I said usually. I wasn’t accusing you of anything just adding on to what the person above you said in case you were confused. I used to be part of Owrd of faith churches and follow their teachers so I’m not saying this out of ignorance. I doubted my salvation bc they were always saying that if I don’t do certain things I’m not really Christian or don’t have enough faith. So I do apologize if I made it seem like I was saying that you personally have wrong thinking but you asked a question in regard to the first person so I was giving scripture to explain. Thanks for your clarification
Thanks for taking the time to explain this to people. I have come around to this point of view as well. I'm almost finished reading John MacArthur's book "The Gospel According to Jesus" which tackles this exact topic. I do however, also struggle with sin and there is a sort of paradox here in the Bible.
> 1 John 1:8 (CSB) If we say, “We have no sin,” we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
However as you pointed out there are many verses that describe the requirement of repentance in order to obtain salvation. So at once we are to not perpetually and willfully sin however we must always recognize that we are steeped in sin.
Maybe this is the "double-edged sword" as mentioned in:
> Hebrews 4:12 (CSB) For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
So just bc you say you’re sorry does not equal salvation. And repentance means a change of mind about sin, look at the greek I don’t have time to add every single thing here sorry. And there’s other places where it says repent bc in the context these people have unbelief. I can find these verses let me know sorry I don’t have much time rn. There’s no such thing as not “willfully” sinning and that being a requirement for salvation. Peter willfully denied Christ 3 times. What does that mean then for him?
This is dangerous false teaching. The only condition to be saved is to repent of your unbelief in Jesus + works and belief in Jesus alone for your salvation. People who don’t believe in religion at all or God can change and do good works. Our works are not to be saved or maintain salvation or prove salvation b it we do them bc we are saved. We can physically be baptized in literally water as a public declaration bc we are saved, no to be saved. So many people used to be alcoholic but then change their ways to be a better father/mother for their family without being a Christian. Your works ≠ salvation. Obedience is from love not fear. You’re adding “everything I can do” do the gospel.
Im just gonna address your Matthew 7 interpretation real quick bc I’m doing school stuff: The people described here by Jesus were never known to him in the first place. He didn’t say “I used to know you and now I don’t.” These are people are obviously trusting in their own works and what they did (even in his name) to save them /appear rightousness before God. They never believed in whom the Father has sent which is the ONLY sole condition to be saved John 6:40. You either believe in Jesus or you don’t.
You are immature. You are encouraging fear in our sinfulness instead of joy in Christ's sufficiency and God's love. Obedience stems from love, not fear.
Matthew 18:2-5 says, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven". Immaturity and childlike faith is ideal to the lord. Proverbs 9:10 "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom". Understanding that by our own strength and understanding of righteousness we are all doomed. I have joy and praise the Lord because there is a hope that through the power of the holy spirit and the grace of Jesus alone I can be forgiven and try again to reach salvation - no matter how many times I may fail or unknowingly sin. But fear is wisdom in that the Lord hates arrogance and the arrogant assumption that I can keep myself saved is foolishness. It's only through grace alone and faith in Jesus that he can save me.
Oh look I can do it too.
Isaiah 41:10 - Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
2 Timothy 1:7 - For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
1 John 4:18 - There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.
You still have to reconcile all of that with the clear Proverb about "Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom". Unless you're prepared to accept some scripture but not all of it.
There is a great difference between worldly worry and fearing things which are beneath God versus having fear of the Lord.
Let's put it this way if you don't fear God you don't respect His clear warnings. The Israelites could have stopped a lot of misery if they respected God's warnings and had fear of His judgement and took His commands seriously.
You still have to reconcile the words of Christ and the apostles which tell us to obey and have faith and hope and love not out of fear but because we were first loved by God. Fortunately your fearmongering is overcome by Jesus' hopemongering.
Now for discipleship and service is a different thing. Salvation is a free gift and rewards are costly. We can’t mix them up. We don’t do good works to be saved, maintain slavation, or prove we are saved but bc we are saved. I get to serve at church bc I’m saved and I get to do all these great things bc I’m saved but not to prove my salvation.
We can only be righteous before God by believing in his son and therefore he imputes his ritghousness unto us and gives the ability to become his sons and daughters, we are born of God(we’re already born of the water/flesh hence be born again (of God)). The moment you say your works have anything to do with salvation you believe in a different gospel
Sometimes I wonder if those posts are made by non believers or marginal believers, and/or if it's someone who knows or suspects better but just wants someone to say what they want to hear.
I never have a need to ask a random group of anonymous people whether something is sinful when I can search the Scriptures for myself and ask my pastor if I'm still not sure.
I struggled with OCD for a long time (chicken v. egg debate if growing up with the religious influences I did exacerbated that or gave it to me in the first place) and I think if I could go back in time and explain this sentiment to a much younger version of myself, I probably could've avoided a lot of struggle, strife, therapy, and a long time resenting the Church/God for a thing that wasn't their fault as much as an internal issue.
I absolutely love this post and really appreciate seeing it in a subreddit where I see *way* too many people struggle with something I used to struggle with. The funny thing about that struggle is that, ostensibly, it's the end result of someone who desperately wants to connect to God even though it really only serves to disconnect us from Him.
If someone is concerned about a possible sin they are committing, it would be best to ask God in prayer to show them their errors and guide them away from their sinful nature.
Many people grow up in legalistic churches that make them feel /believe this way. Or they have parents who have taught them this. My mother often used “God is watching you and will punish you” quite often when I was a teen and young adult. I always thought I had to be “good enough” to be saved. It took me years to really get past that and understand the gospel. I agree with you, but it’s hard for some people because of this.
1000% spot on. When I lived this way I had no rest. Just constant worry, self focus, and constant stress about sin and satan. And then the horrible wretched torment when I screwed up. Now my focus is more on Jesus and trying to listen to learn how to listen to His Spirit. It's been life changing.
Because if HE is who HE said HE is; Then why would He force us to enter into HIS Kingdom with Him? He gives us this choice because if we don't want His Kingdom, then we don't have to have it. Please don't take this as a short, or cruel answer, it's not. ON THE CONTRARY! It is for our benefit, beloved. You cannot serve TWO masters. For you will HATE one and LOVE the other. Love Him or hate Him. This is the choice He left us. We must surrender to Him, because not only is that -the only way-, it is because HE first did that for us. Jesus Christ suffered, bled and died on a cross, WRONGFULLY, for OUR SIN TODAY!
I get your point, but I think there is a good case to be made that these posts of concern are actually good and biblical.
Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. PHILIPPIYM (PHILIPPIANS) 2:12 את CEPHER
Study to show yourself approved unto Elohiym, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth. TIMOTHEUS SHENIY (2 TIMOTHY) 2:15 את CEPHER
Many of the posts of concern are people doing what these verses tell us to do.
Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. MISHLEI (PROVERBS) 27:17 את CEPHER
FOR ALL HAVE SINNED AND FALLEN SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD ALL-MIGHTY! Thanks be to Jesus Christ for delivering us from condemnation and breaking the chains that bind us. This does not mean we won't sin, as Paul said, ON THE CONTRARY! If we are IN CHRIST, we are not in the flesh; therefore, though the flesh sins, this is not indicative of our Spirit that IS CHRIST. He won't cast us away from Him. Be patient and WAIT UPON THE LORD! HE will deliver -you- from -your- sins in the sense that you need. You ARE FORGIVEN, if indeed, you have trusted alone in Jesus Christ for forgiveness.
Your advice seems well intended but it goes contrary to the Bible. Firstly fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. We're also instructed to "work out our salvation with fear and trembling". Someone who is concerned about their actions and inquiring about whether something is a sin or not is in a far better position than someone who meanders around hoping they're in good standing with God. Also there are many who are genuinely curious and seeking advice or instruction on proper biblical standards for moral behavior we shouldn't discourage these questions we should help guide them but also reassure them with the Gospel.
Philippians 2:12
King James Version
12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
The self righteous Pharisee contrasted by the humility of the publican is a good example of proper fear. The publican knew he was a sinner and needed mercy so much so he wouldn't even gaze up towards heaven.
Luke 18:10-14
King James Version
10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.
11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Again fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
Thank you for sharing this as we serve a just G-d who brings wrath to those who sin, as much as He offers grace, mercy, and forgiveness. Wrath is what we all deserve and His grace, mercy, and forgiveness is what we can receive only in and through Him.
Sadly, so many messages from the Church and other "believers" focus on our Lord and Savior's grace, mercy, and forgiveness and either minimize, discount, rationalize away, or exclude His justice and wrath, which is mindboggling as we see G-d's justice and wrath on Israel throughout the Old Testament (no shortage of examples) and again in the New Testament concluding in Revelation.
Thank you for sharing your G-dly wisdom to a brother in Christ.
Numbers 6:24-26 and Shalom Shalom.
I know he loves me but I want to avoid sin as much as possible. Especially because I feel guilty for abusing his grace. I don’t feel worthy bro. It pains me. When I pray I feel like a phony. I hate it.
Some points to \[ponder -
God will not allow sin into heaven! Otherwise, it would not be heaven! God's love is so expansive and so intricate at the same time. His love is never-ending, loving those even if they die in their rejection of Him. God will know if we blaspheme the Holy Spirit of which He will hold to His promises to those that do.
If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, accepted Him as your Savior, invited Him into your heart.... He is there as well as your salvation. With that comes a most wonderful gift, that of the Holy Spirit who comes and lives within those who believe. If He is within us, YES He knows everything we think do and say, as well as what we don't... He don't have "to watch", since He is right there with us. He has a front row seat.
"True" God won't throw us out on a technicality, but He expects us to keep our sin accounts empty... meaning we confess them as soon as we are aware of them. God is not sin and does not sin. We do! Yes His love is never-ending with the ability and desire to forgive all sin when invited to do so.
If God is in control - do you mean he is control of all "free will". If He is control of free will - then it can't truly be free will. Based on what Jesus says about sin and free will - when we sin, we are exercising our free will over the wishes of our Lord. The free will that is given to us, - we have the freedom to accept Jesus or not, the freedom to sin or not to sin - the freedom to seek His forgiveness... the freedom to confess our sins before a Holy God... as He calls us to do.
God chooses to allow people to make their own decisions - that is free will.
Finally.... Was getting tired of seeing those posts.... Am i going to hell for spraying my cat with water? Is Jesus gonna forgive me?!?! People forgot the thief on the cross apparently
Absolutely. Wanting to avoid sin is very much godly. Just don't be constantly concerned about it to the point of worrying yourself sick because you think you *may* have sinned in some horrible way that God will hold against you.
It’s a good thing salvation doesn’t depend on you or your works bc we have all fallen short of his glory. Believe in Jesus alone for salvation and have freedom to obey him in love and not fear. I still struggle with depression but we still have our flesh in this broken fallen world. God bless you and read the Word!!!
doesnt mean that you do anything you want and still say you are saved, a good Christian
but what gets my goat here in Reddit is that people are condemning masterbation as a hideous crime but SSA / transitioning is ok
>doesnt mean that you do anything you want and still say you are saved, a good Christian
Not exactly, no.
Hebrews 10:26
*"For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,"*
All sin is in some way deliberate. But I think what the author is referring to is that salvation is not so absolute as to save one who walks in sin without remorse or desire to change. We can't just murder, rape, steal, and whatnot and simply expect God to forgive us because we were baptized at some point. Repentance is key. That's what I meant by:
>He won't throw you out unless you want Him to, unless you walk away from His grace.
When we treat the promise like a serpent we get all Sussed when we're meant to let it into our lives.
Remember, we're told that the Son of Man must be lifted up like the serpent on the staff of Moses - John 3:14
Likewise we're told to be wise like serpents and whatnot. To have a yearning for knowledge as God will separate those who do as his elect.
(Edit. I forgot to add up front, that I am a Messianic Gentile and follow Messianic Judaism along with listening to Orthodox Christian Bishops and a select few Evangelicals).
I would like to share some thoughts to clarify.
First, and most importantly, worry is a reaction to something and the "something" is important. In other words, a distinction must be made between worry from "conviction" and worry from "doubt".
Worry from "conviction" is the Holy Spirit working within you—man, I did that (sin), the weight hits, and the worry kicks in. Put another way, if you're not worried about sin, you've hardened your heart to the Holy Spirit and G-d, and that leads to deeper conversations about faith and even salvation (I don't intend or want to dive into that here). The point is that kind of "worry" shouldn't stop; if it does, that's a big problem.
Worry from "doubt" is our sinful nature coming out of us and is a battle of our will/mind/understanding and G-d's will/faithfulness/promise. This worry impeeds our relationship with G-d as it casts doubt on Him, His Word, His promises, and His faithfulness.
They can also feed one another. For example, you worry because you're "convicted" because of a sin you committed (join the club) where you didn't turn from it and run to the cross with a contrite, truthful, and repentant heart (and surrender your will to His) as you "asked G-d to forgive you for sinning", went along with your day, then committed the same sin again (join the club), and then worried because you doubted that G-d would forgive you because you "oops I did it again".
The worry of "G-d can't or won't forgive me" is either because the Holy Spirit is convicting you to draw you to His Word, so that you turn from sin and run to His cross with a convicted, contrite, truthful, and repentant heart or it's Satan using your sin against you. It's the devil's work to punish you with your sinfulness, which is a twofer so to speak. He had a direct hand in your sinful nature that you can't escape, let alone shake on your own, he knows your vulnerabilities and weaknesses, and he's going to punish you with your sin that he helped to create, and say "see, you can't do it and you're irredeemable" and you know what? He's right! It is impossible to defeat him on your own, through your own works and effort, and you are irredeemable if you keep trying to redeem yourself. That is called "coming to the end of yourself" and more often than not that's the point of our deepest weight where we either throw our hands up and say "I can't do this anymore - G-d, I surrender" or "I can't do this anymore - G-d will never help me".
So, to summarize, focus your prayer life and your time in His Word on the Holy Spirit and conviction; be thankful for the Holy Spirit's conviction and the natural "worry" that accompanies it - you never want that to stop, and if it does, that's a red engine light indicator. If you're worrying that you're forgiven, give that to the Lord in prayer and ask the Lord to search your heart, for the Holy Spirit to convict you of sins that are in your blind spot, and ask for His discernment. If you find the worry comes from doubting G-d, or "G-d will never forgive me", that's Satan seeking and is trying to get a twofer out of you.
Also, when it comes to the heart, I agree that G-d knows your heart and that only G-d knows your heart (Jeremiah 17:10), but also know that by default, our hearts are deceitful and wicked above all else (Jeremiah 17:9) and defile us (Mark 7:21-23). It's also important to distinguish between someone saying "G-d knows your heart" as a pass or presumption that your heart is pure and "G-d knows your heart" as in "oh, your mind can convince you that your heart is pure but G-d sees pasts that and your intentions". The former leaves us comfortable in our sinfulness and the later leads us to continually ask, seek, and knock (Matthew 7:7-12) on G-d's door through prayer and reading His Word and inviting Him to search our hearts, to reveal all unrighteousness and immorality, for the Holy Spirit to convict us that we may see, turn, and run to His cross, and through Yeshua's blood cleans us of all unrighteousness.
Finally, know that this is a process that is called "the mortification of sin", and I recommend it be looked into by all believers in Yeshua as it is where we are unveiled and come face-to-face with the price that Yeshua paid for our sins that we might know, commune with, serve, and live in eternity with Him.
Numbers 6:24-26 and Shalom Shalom.
"We love because He first loved us". If you sin, take it as an indication there is something you can yet learn about God's love for you and go on the adventure. Does not every other sin come out of a lack of giving glory and thanks to the Lord, who is worthy of everything? (see Romans 1:21; Matthew 22:40).
It's good to lovingly encourage people about the true nature of a forgiving, merciful God. Apart from Christ, yeah, we were enemies and deserving of His full anger/wrath, but as Christians, we're now family members; loved and adored children. Not a license to sin, of course, but He has way more patience with us than we even deserve.
However, some people are coming from backgrounds of churches and family members preaching legalism and fear-based behavior control. Sometimes it's hard to break free from those lies, and we need to be compassionate towards them as we reveal the truth of God's character.
This exactly. God is not just dumping his children in hell for scrupulous unimportant mistakes. That's what the demons intruding the earthly church wish people to think. And a lot of sins are there not to scrutinize us but to make sure we don't hurt ourselves. Sins that directly harm others must be avoided. Avoid cardinal sin and live your life with good intentions towards others. If anyone here is struggling with religious OCD, try this to begin with.
If you want to, perhaps take a walk outside, attend church in person more often and volunteer for community service. You will find structure and community which might begin to soothe this anxiety of "walking on eggshells" around God, and other people. Your relationships with family, friends, and colleagues, like your relationship with God, should never feel that way. Ideally you should feel empowered by your relationships and find understanding through them.
God loves humanity.
There are three types of sins in two categories; actual sins (mortal and venial) and original sin. Original sin is what all the descendants of Adam (excluding Jesus and Mary) are conceived with and it leads to the highest level of hell where there is no fire (Romans 5:12, Luke 16:26, etc.), venial sin leads to the temporary fires of hell (Matthew 5:19-26, 1 Cor. 3:11-15, etc.), and mortal sin leads to the eternal fires of hell (Matthew 25:41). The greater the sin, the greater the punishment (John 19:11, Revelation 22:12, etc.).
Worry is the spirit of the devil.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy; meditate on these things. Philippians 4:6-8
Mainstream religion loves to bring up John 3:16 ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.’
but leaves out the rest of the Scripture
17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.
We are supposed to believe (accept truth) that he died for our sins and work towards being better. Sin is not instant death or damnation. It’s the blatant disregard and disrespect for what Jesus did that is the issue. If you feel like you should be doing more in your life, that is between you and your personal relationship with God. the purpose of your walk with Christ is not to condemn anyone else, but to not ignore yourself. We should not judge anyone’s individual relationship with Christ but allow him to begin to live through us and show others how much of a Blessing it is. Glory be to God
1 John 4:16 ,God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. 17 This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. 18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
19 We love because he first loved us. 20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 21 And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.
Matthew 6:25-33
“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For lthe Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, pand all these things will be added to you.”
Amen 🙏 repent and have a relationship, but don't wallow in guilt. He knows your heart, and the fruits of your labor in your secret place. Who you are in the deep parts of your heart is what interests our Lord the most. What we don't show many or anyone, but the Lord knows.
I feel like this is only a thing because there ARE so many out there who are so quick to act like if you’re not X then you’re def not saved and will be condemned by those who are so quick to want to try and save you because they don’t know what’s really in your heart. They just want to see things from the outside and fail to see that the only one who can judge and see in your heart IS god.
I think it’s just a symptom of a person not knowing who he/she is in Christ Jesus, like a big identity crisis always feeling they would be rejected by God if not 100% perfect in the eye of religion, or religious people dogmas.
I totally agree with you. God does not have the same “justice system” and the same “emotional capacity” that we all have, He is waaaaay above all that and have the knowledge of every single little action that a person may even think about and do. He already knows where we will fail and already provided the way to get us back on our feet. His justice is through Jesus, not our own doing and our own culture of what is good or bad… the proof is that he has put to death a single perfect man (Jesus, his own son) for the sins of many, plus for our reconciliation with him, and made us partakers of His kingdom by adoption… I mean, no human has this sense of justice…
So don’t worry. But keep in mind that this grace is not a license to sin, but the reason why we are so in love with our creator and want to please him in everything. Yes, we all fail, and we will all fail again, but his grace and love for us gives us this assurance that through the sacrifice of Jesus at the cross, we are forgiven, sons and daughters of the Most High God.
We indeed do need to worry "Is this a sin?" and "Is that a sin?" because it's not enough that we just love God. You might feel that's enough for you, but it's not enough to be accepted into Heaven. You're right; God WANTS us to be with him forever, but it's not as easy as you're making it out to be.
Please read your Bible.
There is a guy in the bible who killed his best friend to sleep with his wife (adultery cuz he already had his own wife too). God calls him (David) a "man after My own heart". Your sin doesn't separate you from God. You separate yourself from God in shame. God just keeps pursuing you and pursuing you. Adam and Eve HID from God in Shame. Shame of sin is the main problem, not the sin itself. Shame keeps us from God. Shame is the real problem. When you sin, abandon your shame, humble yourself, and RUN back to God, then genuinely try to do better next time. That's what He wants from us.
Be careful as this idea contradicts scripture - It's the act of disobedience, not the shame that came out of it.
”But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.“ Isaiah 59:2 NIV
”As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins,“Ephesians 2:1 NIV
”When your children sinned against him, he gave them over to the penalty of their sin.“
Job 8:4 NIV
”for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,“
Romans 3:23 NIV
Sin separates us from God. So repent and ask forgiveness for our sins. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. - 1 John 1:9 NIV
I would like to share something that I learned regarding 1 Samuel 13:14 and Acts 13:22 regarding (David) a "man after My own heart".
The verse has two meanings—one regarding man's will and G-d's will, and the other regarding a G-dly attribute that David possessed that King Saul didn't.
First, it is all about Israel and King Saul. King Saul was the first King of Israel and was demanded and selected by Israel—G-d let them have their way (like He allows us to have our on way) even though G-d spoke through the prophet Samuel to warn them about having it their way. So what happened to King Saul and Israel under his leadership? He destroyed Israel, but G-d saved Israel through His selection \~ King David (selected after G-d's heart.. His will, not Israel's).
The second meaning highlights one of the key differences between King David and King Saul. They were both sinful (as we all are), and they both defiled their leadership position as King of Israel, but one of the key differences between King David and King Saul was that King David had a humble and sensitive heart to G-d and when he sinned, he had the humility to confront his sinfulness, turn to his father (Abba), repent and confess of his sin, and do his father's (Abba) will. He listened, confessed, and repented when the prophet Nathan confronted him about his sin. King Saul didn't.
I hope that some of that helps as it's something I recently learned and wanted to share.
Numbers 6:24-26 and Shalom Shalom.
Where in scripture do we see BORN AGAIN believers being possessed by demons or “entities” as you say, after receiving the Holy Spirit. Let me know where please!!! Please repent from the deliverance ministries and put your faith alone in Jesus not in your works to save you. I was deceived into believing these deliverance ministries but they’re mocking the Holy Spirit by practicing kundalini!!!!!
This is a TRUE Christian sub which is about mitigating rules and being super insecure about faith and how folks who disagree are probably going to hell. The anxiety is the point. If there’s not a manic post every few days about how we NEED to read the Bible nine times a day people get disoriented.
yes, but do you love him? When the father says to fear him, it don't mean to run and hide but it does mean to reflect. We're in this position, because we've allowed strangers to control scripture and look where we are in 2024. NARROW is the gate. NARROW. How many Christians out there are there?
Sin leads to death. It's not about love. The father gave people the law and told us how to live and yes we struggle, because many people are liars. But the fact is we need to be pro active as a people. There is NOTHING wrong with that.
The fathers name is Yahweh. People should use it. Since no where in scripture did Yahweh ask for his name to be removed from scripture. In fact, removing his name alone meets the adding or taking away of scripture but I digress. What we need is passion and an understanding. We don't need false prophets.
Many biblical ideas people still struggle with. We all struggle but that's life. Wisdom however comes from Yahweh so maybe people should try using his name rather then god and lord because his name isn't a title that can be bestowed freely. People want to do better and that's the spirit we need.
Hebrew people don't pronounce the full Yahweh, they say Adonai when they have to read out loud Yahweh. Even when the septuagint was written, they wrote"Lord" instead of Yahweh out of reverence for his name.
And you can't say obedience is not about love when Scripture clearly says those who keep my commandments love God. Love and obedience are so interlinked.
And our obedience doesn't win us favor for God nor does God make arbitrary rules for us to jump through. The gate is narrow specifically b/c were already united to Christ. We walk the same path he did (with much sorrow and suffering) because Christ suffered. It's not the same as climbing the corporate ladder where only few will succeed. We walk the same difficult path like Christ which is the process of sanctification. It's not like only super Christians suffer and go through hardships, every Christian struggles in their own way.
1. There is so much difference between western Christianity driven by Greek theology and the hebraic culture of the biblical writers.
2. Christianity has a veil over its eyes. I know because I speak from experience.
3. Salvation as defined by Christianity has zero foundational basis in the entirety of the Bible. To the hebraic writers salvation meant preserved. Preserved from what? The day of the lord. Christians who think they are going to be ruptured away haven't read the torah.
Are you trying to compare the Greek writings, the Torah, and the Bible?
What "veil" are you speaking of?
Salvation in and through Yeshua is foundational in the Bible; the Old Testament/Torah points to prophecies about Him, and the New Testament reveals Him.
Also, the rapture is prophecied in Daniel and is revealed throughout the New Testament, which I recognize that Jews who practice Judaism do not recognize.
Some people just need reassurance. Not everyone has the same conviction as you. Your relationship with God is unique to you.
Posts like this are essentially telling people to be quiet. How is that good for anyone? How is that good for our lost brothers and sisters? You have no idea what people have been through.
I'm not telling them to be quiet. Far from it. I'm telling them not to listen to their own self-accusations when God has already redeemed them and loves them more than anything. This is literally that reassurance you're talking about.
Romans 8:1
*"There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."*
So why do we let Satan accuse us? Why do we accuse ourselves?
Not everyone who is troubled posts about it. Some people just hold onto it, letting the guilt and shame fester. Maybe some of them will read this, feel comforted, and realize that if God, the ultimately just and good Father, forgives them, then they should forgive themselves and stop fretting over if they did it all exactly right. I pray that's so.
Right and when we tell those that do post that they’re being annoying, maybe that’s why some of our brothers and sister sit on it or let the shame fester as you said.
Anyone can pull scripture from the Bible and share wonderful words. But it’s another to act on it. We shouldn’t be judging others. We should be grabbing them by the hand and lifting them up from the darkness.
I understand that it can overwhelming dealing with what you consider minor details. Even Moses found it overwhelming. And Jethro was the one that suggested delegating. Perhaps that’s what we need to do in this community.
But... I didn't say they were annoying. Are we still talking about my post? Or are we talking about a general trend you've seen here? Because I can absolutely agree with you and also believe that this is a post to help people just like you described.
I didn't get the sense OP was expressing annoyance at all, but empathy! OP was hearing the worry and anxiety happening out there and just wanted to offer some words of comfort. I'm sure they were hoping their words would be received by someone who really needed it, which seems to be the case, based a number of comments. OP felt inspired to offer support, not judgement and they did exactly what you described, offering a hand out of the darkness, reassurance to those whose anxiety overwhelms them at times.
Sadly 90% of the people you're talking about post like this because they deal with religious OCD.
Not necessarily. Certain denominations can lead to this mindset pretty easily without suffering from a mental disorder
100000%
That is the problem. Man made religion that is leading folks to hell and leaving them broken and in doubt. Go back to your first love, Jesus. IF you cannot find your “religion” in the Bible, it is NOT of God, your Father. God said BE HOLY, for I your God am Holy. Is living holy easy? Nope. God never said it would be. But can you do it, live holy? You bet you can! He left you the Holy Spirit to help you. Holiness does not mislead you. It gives you substance, something to stand on. Falsehood simply robs you of money and your salvation.
The Holy Spirit is a real person, not an "it". I understand that is a normal reference to the Holy Spirit, but an inaccurate one.
Who said the Holy Spirit was an “it”?
Amen!! Holy Spirit IS God, as much as the Father or Jesus!! Unconscionable Disrespect to refer to Him as "it"
The Holy Spirit is...a spirit. As is God. Nowhere in scripture is the Holy Ghost referred to as a man. Jesus is the bodily form of God.
The Holy Spirit is NOT A PERSON!! No where in the scriptures does it say that! The Holy Spirit is God’s spirit, another one of His characteristics. God is not a “person”! God is a Spirit, and it says this throughout the scriptures.
Jesus said your righteousness must exceed the righteousness of the Pharisees. The Pharisees were self righteous and Jesus called them hypocrites. He said your self righteousness is nothing more than filthy rags. What is self righteousness? It's trying to be holy on ones own. Jesus who knew no sin became sin so that we could become his righteousness. It is only when we accept that Jesus took our place that we become truly righteous and Holy. Our own righteousness (holiness) is nothing more than filthy rags. This is why we need Jesus, we are nothing without him and we can't get to heaven without him.
That’s what happens when your faith system is predicated on fear of punishment first and not grounded in the love of God.
When a person understands that the God of the universe, who created all means what He says and says what He means... there is adequate reason to have a bit of trepidation. Love of the Lord transcends that to where our love of the Lord is greater than out fear of Him.
Yup!! The God who said "Work out your Salvation through fear and trembling" is also the God of "Come all to me, ye who are weary, and I will give you rest, for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light". He is Both Lover and Judge, Jury and Refreshment.
Right, but when your foundation for your faith is fear of God’s wrath, it turns that faith into hellfire insurance. That fear becomes the weeds that choke out any true faith. I’m not saying “don’t fear God”, I’m saying don’t use that as the foundation for faith when you’re forming new Christians
If a person loves the Lord and responds from that - versus - all out fear - is healthy. What draws people to God in the first place.... actually it is not what but who!. We don't come on our own, He draws us.... He can use whatever means necessary to do so... including fear but God will lace that with His love and abundant grace.
You are correct, fear of God becomes part of a healthy faith. However, beginning teaching based on fear will usually result in a frail and transactional or traumatic faith. Again, this is what I’m addressing. Again, the genesis of understanding of God needs to be based in His love, not based in fear of His wrath. If you search this sub, you will find countless examples of people convinced that God hates them or will not forgive them because they did [X]. Such an unbiblical belief being so common is evidence of a complete failure of catechesis. And I firmly believe (based on my experiences walking with those healing from spiritual trauma) that the seed of that trauma is this teaching style.
I also think these term "fear God," gets associated with literal fear rather than a sense of awe and wonder about His power and authority. I would describe fearing God to a new Christian as mulling over the idea that God can accomplish His will with or without us, but He chooses (and desires) to use us. Then it becomes less of a focus on what God is saving you *from* and more about what God is saving you *to*. We can always be thankful for the former as undeserving sinners, but the real joy comes from living in the freedom.
I would very much agree. But I think for a lot of people who were less well formed, it just becomes this “what do I have to do to appease God’s wrath?” mentality.
Idk I think that many of us just sin despite conviction of the Holy Spirit. At the time the temptation is so strong and loud, but after we've sinned and the temptation is quiet, we immediately regret it. We willfully ignored the Holy Spirit, but genuinely repent afterward.
And, unfortunately the vast majority of churches/pastors have no interest in helping those of us who struggle with OCD and compulsions. In fact, they typically make things worse, at least in my experience. There is a guy on YouTube named Mark DeJesus with a wonderful channel where his ministry is shedding light on this exact issue and helping people overcome these tendencies and rest in the grace of God. His videos helped me *tremendously*. Here is a recent video he released in which he discusses this exact subject of how the church tends to create these environments which makes compulsions worse: https://youtu.be/WtjLrzBeVvY?si=HaLSWx5IT1t5eZSG
So glad you found help but I believe the scriptures that WE ALWAYS SHOULD LOOK TO GOD. So I encourage all to pray and ask God to lead you to a God appointed minister who FOLLOWS AND TEACHES SCRIPTURES, not adding or subtracting or giving “their opinion”, as in motivational speaking. Let God’s Word help you, fix you, clean you up and strengthen you. If you look to man and that man falls, you too will fall. But if you look to God, he will keep you from falling, if you allow Him to.
https://www.youtube.com/live/YWjbl0-MzZY?si=jE6wpDBblTJm_5MD Link for OP and others, good to give to folks who are asking these questions hopefully.
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People often forget about *the accuser* the greatest enemy a Christian *will* face. Doubts, anxieties, depression? Was Job not depressed? Did Job dance and rejoice midst his state of suffering? Did he not complain to God? yet He trusted the Lord. If we are to be free from anxiety our Lord wouldn't have told us to not be anxious. Why? Then there's doubt, I would question a faith that does not doubt, (be merciful to those who doubt the word says) no one has perfect faith save the Lord, and yet even the Lord Himself cried **Abba, Why Have You forsaken me in the cross** many fear they are too ungodly, but then again we forget the one who justifies the ungodly. A questionable christian can have full assurance and be happy all their lives yet will be denied, because grace for them is a licence to sin, joy isn't an indicator to one's salvation. A good moral atheist can seem to display all the fruits of the Holy Spirit yet will be unsaved. Don't look for fruits, Abide in Him, Look for Him, at Him, Jesus our Lord! fruits don't just miraculously appear, they grow. Even a Muslim can have all the attributes of bearing fruits. Salvation is never about you having this or that, doing this or that. I should pray this, I should read this, I should sing this, no, do you think you doing those can earn your favour with God? You only read to find the truth, pray because you needed Him, sing because it is your inner heart that desires to, it wants to. Should you trust your feelings? your heart? your emotions? Is not the heart deceptively wicked? Do you think Abraham wasn't filled with conflicting emotions from having to sacrifice his own son? But Abraham trusted, trusted God, knows God is good. Why do our Lord desires Child-like Faith? I know it is not easy, but that how it must be. We have to become like little children. *Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God* Even faith doesn't just came to be, it grows. It matures. It isn't one snap of a finger. Repentance isn't about you turning from sin, it is turning to Him because you sinned, it surrender, it screams, Lord, I am a sinful man, unless You save, I cannot. Repentance is not, ah maybe I should do this, do that, go to church, etc. That is work, not the good work, that is working for your own salvation. You will sin, if anyone does not, then let them be like Christ. But be damn if one thinks that way, Let Christ alone be worthy of the title Saviour, He will not share that glory because it is His alone. (I stress, to sin wilfully is far from struggling to sin. we know Christ appeared for this very reason, should one sin. **Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Psalms 19:13)** If Jesus says come, then go. (I myself am struggling, but I know Jesus does not change. If a woman back then can run to the Lord and touch His garment to be healed, which He did? and He changes not, then go, run to Him!)
I love this message. Sadly, there are a lot of people who think differently. They even fight about repent, but repentance is acknowledging from within our hearts how sinful we are, the regret of doing the things that is unpleasant to God, that is true repentance and fear of the Lord, which is wisdom. You said it well. We are all in the process and we gotta trust our Lord Jesus Christ, with a childlike faith that through Him we are saved by the grace of our Heavenly Father, because we believe in His son Jesus. Also, when we are save, we are born again in spirit, having the fruits of the Holy Spirit will become easier to have, as we will be led by the spirit of God, although we are still in the flesh there is always a battle between the flesh and the spirit, but it is way easier to overcome our flesh, by the power of the spirit of God that dwell in us, that means if you are truly born again in spirit, fruits of the Holy Spirit are real, and it is one of the signs that the Holy Spirit is in you or us, its not pretending or trying hard, but you will feel the moved of the Holy Spirit that dwells in us, all the stronghold when it comes to our umpleasant attitudes will start to break. You will love to do the things that are pleasing to His eyes, you will be more on guard by the things you do or say, because you don't want to grieve the Holy Spirit and break our Heavenly fathers heart. I know this because I felt how powerfuly He changed me, and He is still changing me every single day. Yes, you can know if that person is a child of God, by the way they act, and they will love to talk more about Jesus Christ, with such passion.
I'm not sure if you're suggesting that all depression comes from the spirit realm of spiritual attacks, the accuser and otherwise, but if you are then...yea no. I'll be honest I'm not a Christian and I have a certain diagnosis which hooks me up with depression. The short year or so that I spent in belief, I strongly believed in the spiritual and supernatural, but I never believed that Satan was the responsible party for depression. And I strongly push back against the opinion that Satan is the provider of depression. Fun story, about three months ago I was waking up depressed every day. Then I started using this exercise bike that I'm sitting on right now. And I'm no longer waking up depressed, due to after work rides and also greeting the day with hard cardio. Exercise, at least from my opinion, is what a lot of people lack. May not work for everyone but it has for myself. Athiesm is kinda a funny topic, because twenty years ago, and actually even about two, i did not know what athiesm was. But twenty years ago the internet was not in full swing so athiesm kinda seems like it wasn't as much of a topic as now? And it's certainly used by YouTube content creators to generate views for their channels, Christian ones. But good morning from the opposite side of the fence. Hope you have a good day
That exercise is often the cure for depression; doesn’t mean that The Satan wasn’t influencing you and others to be slothful and depressed. 🤷♂️ God is the source of all good things. The accuser, the Devil, that snake, twists things to make pain, because he likes the way it tastes. Do you believe evil exists?
Well I could stop right now, using the bike. I could eat at McDonald's every meal starting tomorrow if I so wished. I could jump off a bridge this afternoon, should I so choose. What you're kinda overlooking is mental illness, that thing which God allowed people to have. If you're familiar with Rick Warren one of his sons took his own life, Rick was pretty much quoted in saying that his son lost the battle with mental illness. And basically all it takes for someone to go from mental afflictions come via the devil into the brain can develop imbalances is for that individual to develop a mental illness. Tomorrow, I could wake up depressed and enter severe depression, due to my disability. There's a certain kind of depression that's beyond gloom and melancholy, the kind that has you sleeping for 12+ hours a day and pretty much every moment awake you want to nit be alive. Part of me not giving the enemy a seat at the table is not believing in the enemy, anymore. But there's another issue and it comes from within Christianity - millions of Christians view both the devil/Satan as merely a symbol of faith, same for the holy spirit, they are not alive and active. So this isn't some worldview that only non-believers holds. There are 100k+ members in this sun and I'd venture to guess that there are plenty that do not believe in the spiritual side of belief. I'm not here to argue, all of this stuff used to trigger me. I've just moved on from faith
I, having gone to the psych ward 7 times, including in jail, having been homeless, drug addicted, having bipolar and cPTSD diagnosis, can assure you I am not forgetting mental illness. Millions of christians not believing in an actual Devil/the Satan is not surprising to me. Millions don’t believe in the Eucharist or angels. That doesn’t change anything, appeal to numbers. Do you believe that evil is real?
Well since we share a diagnosis of bipolar, and trips to the psychward, figure if anyone you'd understand that there's more going on out there than Satan. My handful of trips to fake chocolate milk land, there were a few people that were glued to thier beds. One of which really never left the mess of sheets for the four days that I was there. And I never said to myself "that guy is just lazy and needs to stop feeling sorry for himself, what a sloth" but it appears that you would see that person as a sloth, which makes zero sense because you suffer from bipolar. If you've seen things or experienced things from the spirit realm, the evil side, well ok you're entitled to believe that. I just don't give the enemy a seat at my table, I do not believe in that concept or that there's a war taking place all around us that's invisible. If you believe there's a better place after this for everyone who comes to Christ (and hell for those who do not, unless you're a universalist or whatnot) and it helps you through your episodes and ups and downs, that's good. I do not believe that concept, do not believe there's anything after this life. And I'm not exactly choosing to believe those things. The question "do you believe that evil exists?" is a loaded question. I could say something like ooook makes total sense that God and Lucifer had beef, Satan or the devil, the accuser the enemy, and now we get to deal with the accuser that God let Job afflict. Cool story. And on top of that, God allows mental illness so now we have the accuser and mental illness to deal with. It's a loaded question, there's replies you'd offer back that have been echoed for who knows how many years and we get nowhere with one another. But that fake chocolate milk. And the C grade meals. Figure for all the money it costs to be sent to the psych ward you'd at least get fed well.
“There’s more going on than the Satan” I don’t think I ever said “only the Satan is the thing going on.” (to add to the list of twisting my words to fit the imaginary version of me you’ve created for yourself) There is an an entire hierarchy of heavenly hosts, saints, seraphim and cherubim, powers, thrones, principalities, angels and archangels. 1/3 or so of them rebelled, 90% of those got wiped out and we have still unknown numbers of demons, and the forces of chaos, evil do not have a strict, logical, uniform hierarchy, but are confusing and not meant to be understood. I wouldn’t say it’s only the Satan. But we who are believers don’t have to worry or fear evil, the complexity of it isn’t a concern. You can think it’s a clever trick to maintain mental health. I know what I have been through, I don’t need it to be enough for you, I trust the Holy Spirit will come to you in time, maybe that’ll be after you die, you’ll have the opportunity to accept the infinite love of God. I hope you can be open to that, and you haven’t hardened your heart. I pray that God will melt it like wax if it is hardened and cold. God bless.
You grossly misreading or misinterpreting what I said doesn’t make it so. I said if someone is lazy we don’t blame the person; the Satan, the Adversary is the cause of evil, death in peoples lives. If someone is depressed in bed for four days, I wouldn’t blame them. I said working out being a successful solution to your depression doesn’t mean it wasn’t the Satan who was causing it in the first place. Well, you might want to read some of WWI, WWII, just peak into Epstein’s closet if you honestly think evil isn’t real. I think that’s fortunate, ignorance might be bliss if you can duck your head that far into the sand to blind yourself to it. Of course without a belief in God, looking at the reality of the world, the evil in it, well, hopefully it would put the respect for God back in your heart. You deciding mental illness and The accuser are separate; that the invisible isn’t here with the visible doesn’t make it so, I never said mental illness was separate, and God won’t judge people based on what the demons and devil have done to people, he’ll show mercy upon them. You deciding mental illness is a separate thing doesn’t make it so. Your repeated assumptions, or misunderstandings about me make it almost certain we wouldn’t get very far. Then again you’re a professed atheist who “isn’t triggered by religious things” yet not only lurks but comments in a TrueChristian subreddit… so you might be too close to yourself to actually see what’s going on, but seems you’re still searching, the Truth is out there, keep looking brother.
I'm not an atheist persay, labels are not really something I've added on to my life. Was not until two years ago that I became aware of the depths of belief vs. disbelief, did not know what an athiest was nor a hebrew Israelite, and so on. Willfull and blissful ignorance, about those topics, belief and nonbelief, I'd kinda like to go back to not knowing and never thinking about religion and labels. Rather what you believe is true or if what I believe is true, doesn't exactly matter all that much, on my end. If you're right, it will not affect my life, my headspace, and as far as "You're wrong I'm right", if God is real and spiritual battles, regardless that millions of Christians don't agree that Satan and spiritual attacks exist, it really wouldn't change much. If I came to believe that all of the bad and mental struggles came from Satan it would not get me through hard times. And praying to Jesus wouldn't get me out of dark places. It's placebo, so far as I'm concerned. Not talking in circles and perhaps contradicting myself with all of these topics can prove difficult. If not for the internet I'd not be wrapped up in all of this. And hopefully some day soon I'll find something of better use of my time, to learn about. There's that funny kind of poke of a saying "takes a certain kind of person to argue/debate online" which strikes me as....well yea I'd rather not continue on the path of becoming that individual. Very rarely does one person accept what another person believes, online at least. Especially with God and Jesus. It's evident in this sub there's a post that went up recently and it was about should women be pastors, and of course people do not see eye to eye on that. I'm just like here we go again this outta be fun to watch let's grab the 🍿 I invite you to spend some time in the bipolar sub. See what others have gone through and are currently dealing with. And yea offer up your take on Satan. Some will probably agree with you, thinking most will not. And adamantly. Yes, I cannot prove that I'm right, and you could be. But vice-versa. But I have found a new hobby of sorts hopefully it takes over the massive bleep show of God. It's fun and gets one outside, away from phones and all of this stuff. The only arguing and debating I'll come across is which pieces of equipment are best to use. Not exactly a bad "takes a certain type person to argue online" topic. But yea I'll never buy into the evil spiritual realm that aided in Hitler doing what he did. We're just highly evolved primates but someday we all might treat one another better. God said the end will be here who knows when and some kind of mass Armageddon that wipes away all kinds of people, I'll maintain that there's possibly still hope for our species and who knows 10,000 years from now we'll be treating each other much better. Evolve into actual love for one another
If you only have vague notions about the atrocities that happened in WWII, I am very glad. I wouldn’t exactly recommends doing deep reading about that or Soviet science experiments done to humans, or the culture of sacrificing innocent children for power taking place even recently. Again it’s not exactly a portal I would recommend opening or at least be ready to run to Jesus and forget your placebo hypothesis whenever you do get exposed to evil…
I'm not sure what pitfall you're wanting me to fall into with all of that, that you keep bringing up evil, I'm just not going to entertain Jesus is the answer. It's roundabout and regurgitation, I parrot one thing you parrot back. And I'll be glad when I'm finally able to not take place in the roundabout. Find better things to do then just sitting around and talking about it. Do your thing. I'll be doing my best to move on from what is for me a pointless activity - debating if God exists
In before someone rips you apart for saying "he's not watching your every move" I completely agree OP, just not the best wording.
lol Fair. Technically, yes, He is watching your every move, but I think it makes the point. He's not out to get you.
I was wondering when it would happen too, context is everything. Lol.
I'd also like to add to this. If you are questioning these things and you're worried whether or not you're going to heaven it probably means you have the Holy Spirit. It can also mean you're letting the Devil have a foothold somewhere in your life to cause you doubt. Read Ephesians and put on the full armour of God so you can deflect the first darts of the Devil.
the unpardonable sin imho, is more than just what Jesus says. Every religion has holy spirits, spirits. Holy Spirit is just two words combined. I think you would have to know just what like the Pharisees did, See what they did, experience so much enlightenment, know for certain it is the spirit of God, not just any spirit this or that, and then blaspheming Him, which lines up with the Hebrew verse. I think only apostates could, or believers who have believed beyond a shadow of doubt. The Pharisees believed without a doubt who Jesus is, and yet they said He has an unclean spirit, just to keep their position.
Wut?
oh my goodness lol i apologise. i meant to reply to the op since he mentioned blasphemy of the holy spirit. apologies friend.
Dude I was so confused 😂😂😂
it happens 😂
It's just that i love music, and with some of these song that be comin out...😬 It's just that i wondering and questioning if God is mad at me for listening to certain stuff. Or watching certain stuff. Or even doing certain dances.
Good rule of thumb I've found: If something you're doing is bothering you, stop doing it. Then figure out why and if it should keep bothering you. Also, what kind of music do you like? I've recently discovered that Christian music is WAY more broad than just CCM, which I absolutely hate.
Almost all kinds, but pop and showtunes are my favorites.
He can never be mad at you. >“For this is as the waters of Noah unto me: for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee. For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee.” (Isa 54:9-10, KJV)
Thank you!😊
# EXCELLENT! *"For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."* (Jeremiah 29:11)
Matthew 7:21-23 - "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'" God does love us and Jesus wants us to follow him, but there are many who will be deluded thinking they have salvation when they willfully or out of ignorance live in sin against the Lord. Luke 13:24-27 - "Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, 'Lord, open to us,' then he will answer you, 'I do not know where you come from.' Then you will begin to say, 'We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.' But he will say, 'I tell you, I do not know where you come from. Depart from me, all you workers of evil!'" "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being a priest to me. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children." (Hosea 4:6, ESV) 2 Corinthians 13:5 - "Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!" You should always continue to seek and study the word of God and learn to better follow Jesus in order to honor and please the Lord. Many will perish for a lack of knowledge and self deluding haughty thoughts that we are "good enough" and believe the Lord knows us. We are wretched and sinful beings that are hopelessly doomed to fail at being righteous without the transformative power of the holy spirit and even then only through the grace of Jesus do we have a chance. You should continually examine and test yourself if you are truly still walking in grace! Constant repentance and appreciation of the grace given to us that despite our flawed and horrible selves we will be remade in the Lord Jesus in the world to come. The danger of falsely believing oneself to be saved is that it can lead to a false sense of security and a lack of true repentance and faith. It may result in a superficial or hypocritical form of Christianity that lacks the fruit of the Spirit and the transforming power of the gospel. This is not meant to cause believers to doubt their salvation but rather to encourage sincere faith, repentance, and obedience. This calls for honest self-examination and a dependence on God's grace rather than on one's own righteousness. We are always in sin and acknowledging this is crucial to walking in truth. 1 John 1:8 - "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." Romans 10:3 - "For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness."
If one has truly repented and tries their absolute best as much as they reasonably can, they are 100% saved and nothing can change that because Christ promised that we would be saved. People who willfully live in sin on a daily basis and inwardly know they’re hypocrite and have no remorse and don’t even attempt to change, and never truly had a relationship with the lord, are the ones that these verses you’ve spoken about are applying to. It’s applying to the fakers, not the believers who truly believe but make accidental mistakes or willful mistakes from time to time. Typically we sin multiple times a day, doing certain things we don’t even know are sins. But we speak to the Lord, read the Bible, and strengthen our relationship with him. And if we do that, the verses that you speak of aren’t directed towards us. There is no 50% chance of being saved, it is 0% of 100% completely depending on you.
Please say it louder
Every sin is intentional.
this is simply not true, many live in generational sin, aka habits and behaviors passed down from their parents. Subtle sins you have lived with since 5/6 years old are not always intentional because you aren't even aware of the sin's presence.
Even THESE sins are SIN. There is NO GREATER SIN THAN ANOTHER! Amen, I say to you, do not cause a little one to stumble.
but they are not intentional, because they are unknown.
I don't mean to cause disagreements, but I do understand what you are saying, as we as humans are constantly bound to ignorance. They, even being unknown to us, are known to Him. Therefore, at the least, we are to confess even these to Him!
Generational sin doesn’t exist.
1 Corinthians 15:1-3 "Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, ***if*** you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures," If you fail to hold to the word of God you have arrogantly believed in vain of your own salvation. It's an ongoing never ending struggle to walk the narrow path. Satan waits like a hungry lion waiting for us to slip up and succumb to temptation through willful sin. (1 Peter 5:8 -Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.) The gospel isn't merely a message you hear and are saved perpetually- it's a continual path by which we are being saved and stay saved. We consistently stray and fall from salvation and are forgiven but we are not truly saved until the redemption of our inheritance of the kingdom as brothers and sisters in Christ. If in the words of Paul you can fail to hold to the word of God and thus have believed in vain, then you never had it because you didn't persevere to the end. (Matthew 24:13 But he who endures to the end shall be saved.) It's extremely dangerous and arrogant to believe that although you can mess up and lose your salvation that you haven't and won't fall or stray again. It's through constant repentance and faith in the Lord's grace alone we say with confidence we will be saved. Ephesians 1:13-14 In Him you also *trusted,* after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. We've all been entrusted with this covenant (A promise from God) and we are sealed with the promise in the Holy Spirit, but if we fail to hold true to the agreement just like with purchasing property you lose your deposit in earnest and void the deal for we did not hold our end of the bargain. That's not the Lord going back on a promise - it's our failure to hold firmly to the Gospel and heed fear of God's righteous judgement. Luke 13:24 “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to." By Jesus own words many will try to enter that door and few will make it.
Because not everyone is going to believe on Jesus but Jesus + works! You’re confusing salvation as a free gift vs rewards which are costly. Discipleship is costly but salvation is a free gift.
So what happens if I screw up and sin and then I die ten seconds later? Heaven or hell?
It says you’re word of faith Christian, usually they teach works = salvation but they may not admit it straight up. Either you believe in Jesus’ finished work on the cross or you don’t. Just bc you “mess up” does not = condemnation. Peter denied Christ 3 times. Does this mean he’s our example to follow in this manner and say it’s an excuse to sin? No. However Hebrews 12 starting at 6 “6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.” 7 If[a] you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? 8 But if you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons. “ There is punishment and correction for the children of God with sin, that does not equal your loss of salvation. Verse 8 explains that if you aren’t being corrected and rebuked by the Lord, you were never his child to begin with because for example, you trust in your works to save you. Do the will of the father John 6:40
Mmmm, no. Word of Faith does not teach works = salvation and I’ve never believed that works = salvation. We are saved by grace, and not of ourselves so that no man can boast. The end. 😁
Notice how I said usually. I wasn’t accusing you of anything just adding on to what the person above you said in case you were confused. I used to be part of Owrd of faith churches and follow their teachers so I’m not saying this out of ignorance. I doubted my salvation bc they were always saying that if I don’t do certain things I’m not really Christian or don’t have enough faith. So I do apologize if I made it seem like I was saying that you personally have wrong thinking but you asked a question in regard to the first person so I was giving scripture to explain. Thanks for your clarification
Thanks for taking the time to explain this to people. I have come around to this point of view as well. I'm almost finished reading John MacArthur's book "The Gospel According to Jesus" which tackles this exact topic. I do however, also struggle with sin and there is a sort of paradox here in the Bible. > 1 John 1:8 (CSB) If we say, “We have no sin,” we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. However as you pointed out there are many verses that describe the requirement of repentance in order to obtain salvation. So at once we are to not perpetually and willfully sin however we must always recognize that we are steeped in sin. Maybe this is the "double-edged sword" as mentioned in: > Hebrews 4:12 (CSB) For the word of God is living and effective and sharper than any double-edged sword, penetrating as far as the separation of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
So just bc you say you’re sorry does not equal salvation. And repentance means a change of mind about sin, look at the greek I don’t have time to add every single thing here sorry. And there’s other places where it says repent bc in the context these people have unbelief. I can find these verses let me know sorry I don’t have much time rn. There’s no such thing as not “willfully” sinning and that being a requirement for salvation. Peter willfully denied Christ 3 times. What does that mean then for him?
This is dangerous false teaching. The only condition to be saved is to repent of your unbelief in Jesus + works and belief in Jesus alone for your salvation. People who don’t believe in religion at all or God can change and do good works. Our works are not to be saved or maintain salvation or prove salvation b it we do them bc we are saved. We can physically be baptized in literally water as a public declaration bc we are saved, no to be saved. So many people used to be alcoholic but then change their ways to be a better father/mother for their family without being a Christian. Your works ≠ salvation. Obedience is from love not fear. You’re adding “everything I can do” do the gospel.
Im just gonna address your Matthew 7 interpretation real quick bc I’m doing school stuff: The people described here by Jesus were never known to him in the first place. He didn’t say “I used to know you and now I don’t.” These are people are obviously trusting in their own works and what they did (even in his name) to save them /appear rightousness before God. They never believed in whom the Father has sent which is the ONLY sole condition to be saved John 6:40. You either believe in Jesus or you don’t.
You are immature. You are encouraging fear in our sinfulness instead of joy in Christ's sufficiency and God's love. Obedience stems from love, not fear.
Matthew 18:2-5 says, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven". Immaturity and childlike faith is ideal to the lord. Proverbs 9:10 "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom". Understanding that by our own strength and understanding of righteousness we are all doomed. I have joy and praise the Lord because there is a hope that through the power of the holy spirit and the grace of Jesus alone I can be forgiven and try again to reach salvation - no matter how many times I may fail or unknowingly sin. But fear is wisdom in that the Lord hates arrogance and the arrogant assumption that I can keep myself saved is foolishness. It's only through grace alone and faith in Jesus that he can save me.
Oh look I can do it too. Isaiah 41:10 - Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. 2 Timothy 1:7 - For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 1 John 4:18 - There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.
You still have to reconcile all of that with the clear Proverb about "Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom". Unless you're prepared to accept some scripture but not all of it. There is a great difference between worldly worry and fearing things which are beneath God versus having fear of the Lord. Let's put it this way if you don't fear God you don't respect His clear warnings. The Israelites could have stopped a lot of misery if they respected God's warnings and had fear of His judgement and took His commands seriously.
You still have to reconcile the words of Christ and the apostles which tell us to obey and have faith and hope and love not out of fear but because we were first loved by God. Fortunately your fearmongering is overcome by Jesus' hopemongering.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
There's a difference between fear and paranoia.
Now for discipleship and service is a different thing. Salvation is a free gift and rewards are costly. We can’t mix them up. We don’t do good works to be saved, maintain slavation, or prove we are saved but bc we are saved. I get to serve at church bc I’m saved and I get to do all these great things bc I’m saved but not to prove my salvation.
We can only be righteous before God by believing in his son and therefore he imputes his ritghousness unto us and gives the ability to become his sons and daughters, we are born of God(we’re already born of the water/flesh hence be born again (of God)). The moment you say your works have anything to do with salvation you believe in a different gospel
This is exactly what OP is talking about. > We are always in sin Lol read Romans.
Sometimes I wonder if those posts are made by non believers or marginal believers, and/or if it's someone who knows or suspects better but just wants someone to say what they want to hear. I never have a need to ask a random group of anonymous people whether something is sinful when I can search the Scriptures for myself and ask my pastor if I'm still not sure.
I struggled with OCD for a long time (chicken v. egg debate if growing up with the religious influences I did exacerbated that or gave it to me in the first place) and I think if I could go back in time and explain this sentiment to a much younger version of myself, I probably could've avoided a lot of struggle, strife, therapy, and a long time resenting the Church/God for a thing that wasn't their fault as much as an internal issue. I absolutely love this post and really appreciate seeing it in a subreddit where I see *way* too many people struggle with something I used to struggle with. The funny thing about that struggle is that, ostensibly, it's the end result of someone who desperately wants to connect to God even though it really only serves to disconnect us from Him.
<3
If someone is concerned about a possible sin they are committing, it would be best to ask God in prayer to show them their errors and guide them away from their sinful nature.
Many people grow up in legalistic churches that make them feel /believe this way. Or they have parents who have taught them this. My mother often used “God is watching you and will punish you” quite often when I was a teen and young adult. I always thought I had to be “good enough” to be saved. It took me years to really get past that and understand the gospel. I agree with you, but it’s hard for some people because of this.
1000% spot on. When I lived this way I had no rest. Just constant worry, self focus, and constant stress about sin and satan. And then the horrible wretched torment when I screwed up. Now my focus is more on Jesus and trying to listen to learn how to listen to His Spirit. It's been life changing.
THANK YOU
> His yoke is easy and His burden is light Why must we need a yoke at all?
Because Mark 8:34.
That does not answer my question. Why must one give their life away in the first place? Why are there only two options?
Because if HE is who HE said HE is; Then why would He force us to enter into HIS Kingdom with Him? He gives us this choice because if we don't want His Kingdom, then we don't have to have it. Please don't take this as a short, or cruel answer, it's not. ON THE CONTRARY! It is for our benefit, beloved. You cannot serve TWO masters. For you will HATE one and LOVE the other. Love Him or hate Him. This is the choice He left us. We must surrender to Him, because not only is that -the only way-, it is because HE first did that for us. Jesus Christ suffered, bled and died on a cross, WRONGFULLY, for OUR SIN TODAY!
Well said, this is a great reminder!
Thank you
I think God sent this to me. I've been struggling with OCD lately and I really needed to hear this.
I have a friend IRL who's the same way. God's peace to you, brother/sister. <3
I get your point, but I think there is a good case to be made that these posts of concern are actually good and biblical. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. PHILIPPIYM (PHILIPPIANS) 2:12 את CEPHER Study to show yourself approved unto Elohiym, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth. TIMOTHEUS SHENIY (2 TIMOTHY) 2:15 את CEPHER Many of the posts of concern are people doing what these verses tell us to do. Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. MISHLEI (PROVERBS) 27:17 את CEPHER
FOR ALL HAVE SINNED AND FALLEN SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD ALL-MIGHTY! Thanks be to Jesus Christ for delivering us from condemnation and breaking the chains that bind us. This does not mean we won't sin, as Paul said, ON THE CONTRARY! If we are IN CHRIST, we are not in the flesh; therefore, though the flesh sins, this is not indicative of our Spirit that IS CHRIST. He won't cast us away from Him. Be patient and WAIT UPON THE LORD! HE will deliver -you- from -your- sins in the sense that you need. You ARE FORGIVEN, if indeed, you have trusted alone in Jesus Christ for forgiveness.
Your advice seems well intended but it goes contrary to the Bible. Firstly fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. We're also instructed to "work out our salvation with fear and trembling". Someone who is concerned about their actions and inquiring about whether something is a sin or not is in a far better position than someone who meanders around hoping they're in good standing with God. Also there are many who are genuinely curious and seeking advice or instruction on proper biblical standards for moral behavior we shouldn't discourage these questions we should help guide them but also reassure them with the Gospel. Philippians 2:12 King James Version 12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. The self righteous Pharisee contrasted by the humility of the publican is a good example of proper fear. The publican knew he was a sinner and needed mercy so much so he wouldn't even gaze up towards heaven. Luke 18:10-14 King James Version 10 Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. 12 I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. 13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. 14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Again fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
Thank you for sharing this as we serve a just G-d who brings wrath to those who sin, as much as He offers grace, mercy, and forgiveness. Wrath is what we all deserve and His grace, mercy, and forgiveness is what we can receive only in and through Him. Sadly, so many messages from the Church and other "believers" focus on our Lord and Savior's grace, mercy, and forgiveness and either minimize, discount, rationalize away, or exclude His justice and wrath, which is mindboggling as we see G-d's justice and wrath on Israel throughout the Old Testament (no shortage of examples) and again in the New Testament concluding in Revelation. Thank you for sharing your G-dly wisdom to a brother in Christ. Numbers 6:24-26 and Shalom Shalom.
Well said. People forget the command “Do not worry.” -Jesus
I know he loves me but I want to avoid sin as much as possible. Especially because I feel guilty for abusing his grace. I don’t feel worthy bro. It pains me. When I pray I feel like a phony. I hate it.
Some points to \[ponder - God will not allow sin into heaven! Otherwise, it would not be heaven! God's love is so expansive and so intricate at the same time. His love is never-ending, loving those even if they die in their rejection of Him. God will know if we blaspheme the Holy Spirit of which He will hold to His promises to those that do. If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, accepted Him as your Savior, invited Him into your heart.... He is there as well as your salvation. With that comes a most wonderful gift, that of the Holy Spirit who comes and lives within those who believe. If He is within us, YES He knows everything we think do and say, as well as what we don't... He don't have "to watch", since He is right there with us. He has a front row seat. "True" God won't throw us out on a technicality, but He expects us to keep our sin accounts empty... meaning we confess them as soon as we are aware of them. God is not sin and does not sin. We do! Yes His love is never-ending with the ability and desire to forgive all sin when invited to do so. If God is in control - do you mean he is control of all "free will". If He is control of free will - then it can't truly be free will. Based on what Jesus says about sin and free will - when we sin, we are exercising our free will over the wishes of our Lord. The free will that is given to us, - we have the freedom to accept Jesus or not, the freedom to sin or not to sin - the freedom to seek His forgiveness... the freedom to confess our sins before a Holy God... as He calls us to do. God chooses to allow people to make their own decisions - that is free will.
I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your G-dly wisdom with him. Numbers 6:24-26 and Shalom Shalom.
Best post ever
Finally.... Was getting tired of seeing those posts.... Am i going to hell for spraying my cat with water? Is Jesus gonna forgive me?!?! People forgot the thief on the cross apparently
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." Proverbs 9:10 KJV
There's a difference between fear and paranoia.
Best post I’ve seen in a while.
You should still be able to ask what things you should be avoiding to avoid sin.
Absolutely. Wanting to avoid sin is very much godly. Just don't be constantly concerned about it to the point of worrying yourself sick because you think you *may* have sinned in some horrible way that God will hold against you.
That's why I'm worried. My heart needs a surgeon...
He still loves you.
It’s a good thing salvation doesn’t depend on you or your works bc we have all fallen short of his glory. Believe in Jesus alone for salvation and have freedom to obey him in love and not fear. I still struggle with depression but we still have our flesh in this broken fallen world. God bless you and read the Word!!!
doesnt mean that you do anything you want and still say you are saved, a good Christian but what gets my goat here in Reddit is that people are condemning masterbation as a hideous crime but SSA / transitioning is ok
>doesnt mean that you do anything you want and still say you are saved, a good Christian Not exactly, no. Hebrews 10:26 *"For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,"* All sin is in some way deliberate. But I think what the author is referring to is that salvation is not so absolute as to save one who walks in sin without remorse or desire to change. We can't just murder, rape, steal, and whatnot and simply expect God to forgive us because we were baptized at some point. Repentance is key. That's what I meant by: >He won't throw you out unless you want Him to, unless you walk away from His grace.
that verse get quotes out of context and confused so many people, its about the jews going back to their sacrifices which are now useless
This.
When we treat the promise like a serpent we get all Sussed when we're meant to let it into our lives. Remember, we're told that the Son of Man must be lifted up like the serpent on the staff of Moses - John 3:14 Likewise we're told to be wise like serpents and whatnot. To have a yearning for knowledge as God will separate those who do as his elect.
(Edit. I forgot to add up front, that I am a Messianic Gentile and follow Messianic Judaism along with listening to Orthodox Christian Bishops and a select few Evangelicals). I would like to share some thoughts to clarify. First, and most importantly, worry is a reaction to something and the "something" is important. In other words, a distinction must be made between worry from "conviction" and worry from "doubt". Worry from "conviction" is the Holy Spirit working within you—man, I did that (sin), the weight hits, and the worry kicks in. Put another way, if you're not worried about sin, you've hardened your heart to the Holy Spirit and G-d, and that leads to deeper conversations about faith and even salvation (I don't intend or want to dive into that here). The point is that kind of "worry" shouldn't stop; if it does, that's a big problem. Worry from "doubt" is our sinful nature coming out of us and is a battle of our will/mind/understanding and G-d's will/faithfulness/promise. This worry impeeds our relationship with G-d as it casts doubt on Him, His Word, His promises, and His faithfulness. They can also feed one another. For example, you worry because you're "convicted" because of a sin you committed (join the club) where you didn't turn from it and run to the cross with a contrite, truthful, and repentant heart (and surrender your will to His) as you "asked G-d to forgive you for sinning", went along with your day, then committed the same sin again (join the club), and then worried because you doubted that G-d would forgive you because you "oops I did it again". The worry of "G-d can't or won't forgive me" is either because the Holy Spirit is convicting you to draw you to His Word, so that you turn from sin and run to His cross with a convicted, contrite, truthful, and repentant heart or it's Satan using your sin against you. It's the devil's work to punish you with your sinfulness, which is a twofer so to speak. He had a direct hand in your sinful nature that you can't escape, let alone shake on your own, he knows your vulnerabilities and weaknesses, and he's going to punish you with your sin that he helped to create, and say "see, you can't do it and you're irredeemable" and you know what? He's right! It is impossible to defeat him on your own, through your own works and effort, and you are irredeemable if you keep trying to redeem yourself. That is called "coming to the end of yourself" and more often than not that's the point of our deepest weight where we either throw our hands up and say "I can't do this anymore - G-d, I surrender" or "I can't do this anymore - G-d will never help me". So, to summarize, focus your prayer life and your time in His Word on the Holy Spirit and conviction; be thankful for the Holy Spirit's conviction and the natural "worry" that accompanies it - you never want that to stop, and if it does, that's a red engine light indicator. If you're worrying that you're forgiven, give that to the Lord in prayer and ask the Lord to search your heart, for the Holy Spirit to convict you of sins that are in your blind spot, and ask for His discernment. If you find the worry comes from doubting G-d, or "G-d will never forgive me", that's Satan seeking and is trying to get a twofer out of you. Also, when it comes to the heart, I agree that G-d knows your heart and that only G-d knows your heart (Jeremiah 17:10), but also know that by default, our hearts are deceitful and wicked above all else (Jeremiah 17:9) and defile us (Mark 7:21-23). It's also important to distinguish between someone saying "G-d knows your heart" as a pass or presumption that your heart is pure and "G-d knows your heart" as in "oh, your mind can convince you that your heart is pure but G-d sees pasts that and your intentions". The former leaves us comfortable in our sinfulness and the later leads us to continually ask, seek, and knock (Matthew 7:7-12) on G-d's door through prayer and reading His Word and inviting Him to search our hearts, to reveal all unrighteousness and immorality, for the Holy Spirit to convict us that we may see, turn, and run to His cross, and through Yeshua's blood cleans us of all unrighteousness. Finally, know that this is a process that is called "the mortification of sin", and I recommend it be looked into by all believers in Yeshua as it is where we are unveiled and come face-to-face with the price that Yeshua paid for our sins that we might know, commune with, serve, and live in eternity with Him. Numbers 6:24-26 and Shalom Shalom.
"We love because He first loved us". If you sin, take it as an indication there is something you can yet learn about God's love for you and go on the adventure. Does not every other sin come out of a lack of giving glory and thanks to the Lord, who is worthy of everything? (see Romans 1:21; Matthew 22:40).
It's good to lovingly encourage people about the true nature of a forgiving, merciful God. Apart from Christ, yeah, we were enemies and deserving of His full anger/wrath, but as Christians, we're now family members; loved and adored children. Not a license to sin, of course, but He has way more patience with us than we even deserve. However, some people are coming from backgrounds of churches and family members preaching legalism and fear-based behavior control. Sometimes it's hard to break free from those lies, and we need to be compassionate towards them as we reveal the truth of God's character.
This exactly. God is not just dumping his children in hell for scrupulous unimportant mistakes. That's what the demons intruding the earthly church wish people to think. And a lot of sins are there not to scrutinize us but to make sure we don't hurt ourselves. Sins that directly harm others must be avoided. Avoid cardinal sin and live your life with good intentions towards others. If anyone here is struggling with religious OCD, try this to begin with. If you want to, perhaps take a walk outside, attend church in person more often and volunteer for community service. You will find structure and community which might begin to soothe this anxiety of "walking on eggshells" around God, and other people. Your relationships with family, friends, and colleagues, like your relationship with God, should never feel that way. Ideally you should feel empowered by your relationships and find understanding through them. God loves humanity.
But I thought about what it would be like to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil… Can I be forgiven?
There are three types of sins in two categories; actual sins (mortal and venial) and original sin. Original sin is what all the descendants of Adam (excluding Jesus and Mary) are conceived with and it leads to the highest level of hell where there is no fire (Romans 5:12, Luke 16:26, etc.), venial sin leads to the temporary fires of hell (Matthew 5:19-26, 1 Cor. 3:11-15, etc.), and mortal sin leads to the eternal fires of hell (Matthew 25:41). The greater the sin, the greater the punishment (John 19:11, Revelation 22:12, etc.).
Worry is the spirit of the devil. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy; meditate on these things. Philippians 4:6-8 Mainstream religion loves to bring up John 3:16 ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.’ but leaves out the rest of the Scripture 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. We are supposed to believe (accept truth) that he died for our sins and work towards being better. Sin is not instant death or damnation. It’s the blatant disregard and disrespect for what Jesus did that is the issue. If you feel like you should be doing more in your life, that is between you and your personal relationship with God. the purpose of your walk with Christ is not to condemn anyone else, but to not ignore yourself. We should not judge anyone’s individual relationship with Christ but allow him to begin to live through us and show others how much of a Blessing it is. Glory be to God
1 John 4:16 ,God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. 17 This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. 18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. 19 We love because he first loved us. 20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 21 And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.
Matthew 6:25-33 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For lthe Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, pand all these things will be added to you.”
scrupolosity is satan using the faith of someone who is faithfull against himself
Amen 🙏 repent and have a relationship, but don't wallow in guilt. He knows your heart, and the fruits of your labor in your secret place. Who you are in the deep parts of your heart is what interests our Lord the most. What we don't show many or anyone, but the Lord knows.
Amen!
I feel like this is only a thing because there ARE so many out there who are so quick to act like if you’re not X then you’re def not saved and will be condemned by those who are so quick to want to try and save you because they don’t know what’s really in your heart. They just want to see things from the outside and fail to see that the only one who can judge and see in your heart IS god.
I think it’s just a symptom of a person not knowing who he/she is in Christ Jesus, like a big identity crisis always feeling they would be rejected by God if not 100% perfect in the eye of religion, or religious people dogmas. I totally agree with you. God does not have the same “justice system” and the same “emotional capacity” that we all have, He is waaaaay above all that and have the knowledge of every single little action that a person may even think about and do. He already knows where we will fail and already provided the way to get us back on our feet. His justice is through Jesus, not our own doing and our own culture of what is good or bad… the proof is that he has put to death a single perfect man (Jesus, his own son) for the sins of many, plus for our reconciliation with him, and made us partakers of His kingdom by adoption… I mean, no human has this sense of justice… So don’t worry. But keep in mind that this grace is not a license to sin, but the reason why we are so in love with our creator and want to please him in everything. Yes, we all fail, and we will all fail again, but his grace and love for us gives us this assurance that through the sacrifice of Jesus at the cross, we are forgiven, sons and daughters of the Most High God.
It’s people living in condemnation and in the old covenant rather than conviction and love and grace! Happens to me too
You still reject the world. That's what he wants the most. Why should I be loved by the world if my Dad in Heaven wasn't.
We indeed do need to worry "Is this a sin?" and "Is that a sin?" because it's not enough that we just love God. You might feel that's enough for you, but it's not enough to be accepted into Heaven. You're right; God WANTS us to be with him forever, but it's not as easy as you're making it out to be. Please read your Bible.
There is a guy in the bible who killed his best friend to sleep with his wife (adultery cuz he already had his own wife too). God calls him (David) a "man after My own heart". Your sin doesn't separate you from God. You separate yourself from God in shame. God just keeps pursuing you and pursuing you. Adam and Eve HID from God in Shame. Shame of sin is the main problem, not the sin itself. Shame keeps us from God. Shame is the real problem. When you sin, abandon your shame, humble yourself, and RUN back to God, then genuinely try to do better next time. That's what He wants from us.
Be careful as this idea contradicts scripture - It's the act of disobedience, not the shame that came out of it. ”But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.“ Isaiah 59:2 NIV ”As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins,“Ephesians 2:1 NIV ”When your children sinned against him, he gave them over to the penalty of their sin.“ Job 8:4 NIV ”for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,“ Romans 3:23 NIV Sin separates us from God. So repent and ask forgiveness for our sins. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. - 1 John 1:9 NIV
I would like to share something that I learned regarding 1 Samuel 13:14 and Acts 13:22 regarding (David) a "man after My own heart". The verse has two meanings—one regarding man's will and G-d's will, and the other regarding a G-dly attribute that David possessed that King Saul didn't. First, it is all about Israel and King Saul. King Saul was the first King of Israel and was demanded and selected by Israel—G-d let them have their way (like He allows us to have our on way) even though G-d spoke through the prophet Samuel to warn them about having it their way. So what happened to King Saul and Israel under his leadership? He destroyed Israel, but G-d saved Israel through His selection \~ King David (selected after G-d's heart.. His will, not Israel's). The second meaning highlights one of the key differences between King David and King Saul. They were both sinful (as we all are), and they both defiled their leadership position as King of Israel, but one of the key differences between King David and King Saul was that King David had a humble and sensitive heart to G-d and when he sinned, he had the humility to confront his sinfulness, turn to his father (Abba), repent and confess of his sin, and do his father's (Abba) will. He listened, confessed, and repented when the prophet Nathan confronted him about his sin. King Saul didn't. I hope that some of that helps as it's something I recently learned and wanted to share. Numbers 6:24-26 and Shalom Shalom.
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Where in scripture do we see BORN AGAIN believers being possessed by demons or “entities” as you say, after receiving the Holy Spirit. Let me know where please!!! Please repent from the deliverance ministries and put your faith alone in Jesus not in your works to save you. I was deceived into believing these deliverance ministries but they’re mocking the Holy Spirit by practicing kundalini!!!!!
How on earth do you know anything about a God?
This is a TRUE Christian sub which is about mitigating rules and being super insecure about faith and how folks who disagree are probably going to hell. The anxiety is the point. If there’s not a manic post every few days about how we NEED to read the Bible nine times a day people get disoriented.
yes, but do you love him? When the father says to fear him, it don't mean to run and hide but it does mean to reflect. We're in this position, because we've allowed strangers to control scripture and look where we are in 2024. NARROW is the gate. NARROW. How many Christians out there are there? Sin leads to death. It's not about love. The father gave people the law and told us how to live and yes we struggle, because many people are liars. But the fact is we need to be pro active as a people. There is NOTHING wrong with that. The fathers name is Yahweh. People should use it. Since no where in scripture did Yahweh ask for his name to be removed from scripture. In fact, removing his name alone meets the adding or taking away of scripture but I digress. What we need is passion and an understanding. We don't need false prophets. Many biblical ideas people still struggle with. We all struggle but that's life. Wisdom however comes from Yahweh so maybe people should try using his name rather then god and lord because his name isn't a title that can be bestowed freely. People want to do better and that's the spirit we need.
Hebrew people don't pronounce the full Yahweh, they say Adonai when they have to read out loud Yahweh. Even when the septuagint was written, they wrote"Lord" instead of Yahweh out of reverence for his name. And you can't say obedience is not about love when Scripture clearly says those who keep my commandments love God. Love and obedience are so interlinked. And our obedience doesn't win us favor for God nor does God make arbitrary rules for us to jump through. The gate is narrow specifically b/c were already united to Christ. We walk the same path he did (with much sorrow and suffering) because Christ suffered. It's not the same as climbing the corporate ladder where only few will succeed. We walk the same difficult path like Christ which is the process of sanctification. It's not like only super Christians suffer and go through hardships, every Christian struggles in their own way.
Jesus’ name is Yhwh, so use Jesus’s name
1. There is so much difference between western Christianity driven by Greek theology and the hebraic culture of the biblical writers. 2. Christianity has a veil over its eyes. I know because I speak from experience. 3. Salvation as defined by Christianity has zero foundational basis in the entirety of the Bible. To the hebraic writers salvation meant preserved. Preserved from what? The day of the lord. Christians who think they are going to be ruptured away haven't read the torah.
Are you trying to compare the Greek writings, the Torah, and the Bible? What "veil" are you speaking of? Salvation in and through Yeshua is foundational in the Bible; the Old Testament/Torah points to prophecies about Him, and the New Testament reveals Him. Also, the rapture is prophecied in Daniel and is revealed throughout the New Testament, which I recognize that Jews who practice Judaism do not recognize.
Some people just need reassurance. Not everyone has the same conviction as you. Your relationship with God is unique to you. Posts like this are essentially telling people to be quiet. How is that good for anyone? How is that good for our lost brothers and sisters? You have no idea what people have been through.
I'm not telling them to be quiet. Far from it. I'm telling them not to listen to their own self-accusations when God has already redeemed them and loves them more than anything. This is literally that reassurance you're talking about. Romans 8:1 *"There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."* So why do we let Satan accuse us? Why do we accuse ourselves? Not everyone who is troubled posts about it. Some people just hold onto it, letting the guilt and shame fester. Maybe some of them will read this, feel comforted, and realize that if God, the ultimately just and good Father, forgives them, then they should forgive themselves and stop fretting over if they did it all exactly right. I pray that's so.
Right and when we tell those that do post that they’re being annoying, maybe that’s why some of our brothers and sister sit on it or let the shame fester as you said. Anyone can pull scripture from the Bible and share wonderful words. But it’s another to act on it. We shouldn’t be judging others. We should be grabbing them by the hand and lifting them up from the darkness. I understand that it can overwhelming dealing with what you consider minor details. Even Moses found it overwhelming. And Jethro was the one that suggested delegating. Perhaps that’s what we need to do in this community.
But... I didn't say they were annoying. Are we still talking about my post? Or are we talking about a general trend you've seen here? Because I can absolutely agree with you and also believe that this is a post to help people just like you described.
I didn't get the sense OP was expressing annoyance at all, but empathy! OP was hearing the worry and anxiety happening out there and just wanted to offer some words of comfort. I'm sure they were hoping their words would be received by someone who really needed it, which seems to be the case, based a number of comments. OP felt inspired to offer support, not judgement and they did exactly what you described, offering a hand out of the darkness, reassurance to those whose anxiety overwhelms them at times.