Maybe None of Us Understand God
How can anyone know about something that is purported to exist but has never been seen or shown to exist?
It's like saying we really don't know anything about unicorns or leprechauns.
Sure, they run free in my backyard even though I can't see them, so I just don't know anything about them.
But, how would you know that if you can't see or hear him? It would appear that a god sitting in a chair with a beer and stogie is exactly the same as an empty chair and exactly the same as unicorns and leprechauns running free in my backyard.
Exactly.
So, how could you even suggest a god is sitting there in that chair if you just don't know?
Wouldn't that same reasoning apply to unicorns and leprechauns or is there some difference here you'd like to share?
oli:
Santa is an "ascetic" christian!...and he dresses funny, kinda like the pope 'cept Santa's fav color is red.
The dif between Santa and the pope is that Santa gives everything away.
The pope is a "hoarder" of anything of value and he only gives away "pocket change"(if ya beg for it.)
That's my take on it...:
I still don't understand what it is we're supposed to understand. God? what the hell is this god thing?
Qwark
sad if we need to understand god. Whatever your belief, just let it be
:Hi my sister in Christ
W.O.C
Wouldn't it be great if people decided to search for God based on Gods instructions, and not based on mans understanding (lots of head knowledge- and little faith).
He is as close as a humble prayer, and hides not from a sincere heart.
I find so many want evidence,proof,much like the world demands proof of Osama's death,yet even when Jesus walked among men ,they were not convinced.
That being said ,I understand why Christians are not believed by some, ridiculed by others, it is nothing new-
Still His voice calls and His Spirit is felt all these years later.The same God who said:
I have pursued you with an everlasting love-yes to the ends of the world
But my heart (like yours) rejoices in the one seeker who perhaps emails or leaves a message saying thank-you.Hi my sister in Christ
Yes that would be great. I love to walk by faith and to be humble to God's instructions. I am agreeing with your beautifully-written post. Christians do not need to show unbelievers proof. The evidence is revealed by God's spirit when we seek him .
Yes opinion
The fact is I know that God has made a difference in my life.
I know how I was before ,and I know how I am know.
My life and my mind was changed for the better.
We should let all the starving children in the world know that your god provides for you, I'm sure they'll be so happy for you as they lay down their lives for your happiness.
Yes, just like unicorns and leprechauns, Dave.
Yes Dave, we can "see" the atmosphere and know exactly what it is made up of and understand that it moves thus creating 'wind.'
Sorry, but nature does not reveal gods, it reveals only itself and the evolutionary evidence of its origins.That is merely your personal belief, Dave. It is entirely an irrelevant statement in light of the many religions who say exactly the same thing about their gods, hence we must use the term gods.
Again, that is just your personal belief which has nothing to do with reality, Dave. Entirely irrelevant.And yet, I study and observe reality as my work.
You contradict yourself, Dave. If that were true, what made you come to choose a particular god amongst all the other gods which you say are the same?
I have every right to attack your beliefs, Dave. Deal with it.Your logic doesn't follow at all, however I'm not surprised.
Talking math and geography are two different topics, talking religion is one. Do you see your flaw now?
So, now you use the example of talking math with math. Notice how your posts make no sense at all?
Yes, we've been down that road before. I understand believers assume we are attacking the person when we attack the beliefs. You may want to take a course on debating to understand the differences.
You sure like to make up stuff a lot.
Yes, I understand Dave believes. Thanks.
If you believed that, you wouldn't be a born again Christian.
You have also made many statements contrary to that effect. I can point them out to you each time you make them.
That came out of no where?
Just appeared like magic
And you say the Christians believe in fairytales
- leapfrog with a unicorn!
That's interesting if you take God out of the equation. Death, to the christian is entirely in Gods hands. People die and recover, but why? because of their doggie? their good jobs? their wonderful personalities.... what power do these attributions really have? Oh i had cancer but because of my wonderful lifestyle and pal, Rover here, i am recovered.
If this were the case then nobody would die unless a car hit em. You're scenario also leaves out those who are heavily medicated and those unaware of their surroundings, comatose and zomboid and those in Intensive Care Wards.
This is what i call, "scraping the bottom of the barrel fallacy".
In case you did not realize this you have used the substitution fallacy, the healing power of a good life for the knowledge and power of God.No, its people trusting in what their God says. I often have wondered how a person would find a bit of mold in a peetree dish and decide to see if that mold has any medicinal benefits. Or that a key on a kite string would lead to electricity. Why did the hula hoop catch on? lol, i jest
We don't use ill-understood statistics to prove things we want to be true, we trust in God always. I can't second guess Gods intents, i have no better wisdom or greater insight. I cannot change tomorrow to suit my designs. The great thing about faith is, when used, it never fails. I can well imagine that people who trust in God to heal them will get better and often i perceive this is the lesson that God approves of. We think cancer is sooo bad, but cancer at any stage can be cured by a word from God, its not a big deal to God while he checks the results of the "trial". Sometimes people need to slow down, hospitals are a good slow down time of closeness. This parallels what i said before about affliction bringing people closer to God or too God.
Its all about being saved. Its all about relationship with God.
Well, my first year was hell (metaphorically speaking). As one who enjoyed quite a few sins and lead a self ruled life, God had work to do. I found smoking cigs and pot just fell away. Never had a problem with drinkin but found when mixed with females, it had its purpose. I should have gotten married before i threw my sex life out the window
So I've never felt so lonely and bored (at times). I have always been on the go and cannot seem to sit still for long periods of time, waiting on the Lord is fidgety stuff but enlightening. Guess i'm kind of a hyper guy.
Now that much of the cleaning up work is completed in me, i am calmer now, happier, and can deal with the 'gift of singleness'. The journey has been tremendously hard and not without many astonishments and arggghs.
I don't have a lot to do with 'Egypt' and have had much time to spend in the word and with God.
Zeal sounds like a nice ribbon around the package, but payin dues.. you bet. Its hard to let go of 50 yrs of self. I wish i had done this from childhood. God, through it all has been more than wonderful.
I agree that we do not need a Church to receive Gods grace ,but it is in our interests to meet with fellow believers for edifying and fellowship. Much in the same way people with other people over a common interest.
That being said , I don't go along with all the trappings and traditionally man made rituals of many of the mainstream churches.
(Some religions are so heavenly minded ,they are of no earthly use-and God abhored the self rightous lording it over anyone.
The simplest faith and child like heart is more precious to God.
- Twenty One Daysposted 12 years ago
0 - Twenty One Daysposted 12 years ago0
That sums it up pretty well pay2.
Curious to know if you are a "failed" religionist like myself?If believers lobby to get creationism taught in school or attempt to stop evolution from being taught in school, they are forcing that upon society and wasting everyone's time.
So, there are those who are indeed taking the time to make sure they don't "let it happen".___________________
Oh, I've never done that and didn't know others did.
Evolution is certainly a fact. Anyone denying it is kind of...well you know.
Hugs and kisses
Yes, just like gods are inventions of men. Funny how you can't understand one invisible entity has just as much validity as another.
Nonsense. Your examples are fallacious. You are comparing two different things in reality that are completely unrelated. Your god, santa and the tooth fairy are all related; invisible entities.
I apologise ,you don't all protest ,that was a sweeping statement-sorry.
Many do in this forum however.
My point was ,why protest ,if in someones opinion it doesnt exist?
For example ,my neighbour thinks the purple elephants he prays too will give him peace and joy.
Do I worry myself about it??( believing purple elephants don't exist) -No!
Why dont I worry ?
Because what I dont believe exists ,cant ever hurt me!
- Thor or Zeus? Which one?
Funny how believers forget so quickly and easily when it suits them.
Religions continue to do everything in their power to destroy mankind. Not protesting enough, actually.
Once again, you continue to forget about all the other religions in the world and only focus on your own personal religion, which you can't even find agreement with other believers.
It's hilarious to observe you butting heads with other Christians and then complain about prayers being removed from schools.
Sometimes that theory is correct.
I can only speak for myself and dont see much point in generalising.
I dont love God because Im afraid of him or my future.
I love Him because He is ALL goodG'mornin' Eagle:
Can you define, for me, this "god thing" you speak of, in a form other than opinion?
If you can't, opinions are still only worth about a "dime-a-dozen," so, respectfully, don't bother to respond.
I'll accept your "silence" as the "fact" that you can only offer an opinion.
Have a great Tuesday.:
QwarkQwark it is not up to you to tell me when to speak or even how to think.
Surely you are not trying to dictate.
Thats fine if you file my comments under opinion,but the fact is Im convinced ,and thats enough for now
I could also provide a long list of instances where I know God has manifested to me ,but what would be the point.
Those things are for edification (building up) not for tearing down.
I am equally sure you do not always speak fact Qwark ,but thats ok with me. Takes many trees to make a forest
The power of God is for all who seek Him with an open mind and an open heart.
But seriously ,do you want to find Him?
Lets assume you don't-then you wont find Him ,simple as that really.
To Your Best Life Qwark.
Ekiwi- : Eagle:
My goodness!
I don't think you read my comment with understanding.
Of course It "...is not up to you (me) to tell me when to speak or even how to think."
All I said was that if you could only offer an opinion, you need not provide an answer.
That's "dictating?" I think not.
Now, you made this comment which I think you didn't consider the meaning of before you posted it. Here it is:
"I could also provide a long list of instances where I know God has manifested to me...."
To "know" is to perceive (to become aware of something through the senses) exactly/totally.
If you could "KNOW" this god thing, you would be unique in that you would be capable of "knowing" that which cannot be known.
If you "KNEW" this "god thing," there'd be no reason you could only define it in the form of an opinion. You'd be able to define "it" and base your definition of "it" on "fact." You aren't able to do that.
You are correct when you say the I don't always speak, using fact.
In the case of you not "KNOWING" this god thing, I can post that as "fact" and you "KNOW" I'm right (that is if you speak and understand English.)
Do I want to find "Him?"
Who/what is "Him?"
Once you can define "Him" to me in a form other than your opinion and "it" becomes factual, sure! I'm always open to meeting reality square-in-the-face!
Pls Eagle, introduce me to the "reality" of "it."
Qwark:- : Eagle:
You needn't have answered.
Didn't I say that if all ya have is an opinion to offer me, don't bother?
Of course I did and for goodness sakes, that "Opinion" is nauseously trite.
Oh well, I guess, like you, I'll never KNOW "Him.":
QwarkHello Druid:
Why are you offering another opinion Druid?
Your words.
"...the perfection of creation."
Perfect creation? That concept is far beyond my ability to consider.
Maybe I'm just not keeping up, but my impression has always been that "perfection" cannot be attained. Where did I get lost?
About "blowing up a chicken ranch?" I dunno I guess I'm just too logical to conceive of it and the possibility of the "Colonel Sanders" concept.
Golly! I guess I'm just an old lost soul spinning in a whirlpool of living, human idiocy.
DNA?DNA?...."god thing?" whew! I'm slowing down! you get the connection and I don't.
How the hell did you get here from "another planet?"
Damn! I'm losing it!:
Qwark
Perhaps I didnt post just for your eyes only Qwark
I am sure their are more curious minds out there too!- : Eagle:
I hope the curious are also logical.
Logic and religion are at opposite ends of the "reality" continuum.
One day there may be an educated human population that, in toto, can live peacefully and in concert without a need for "fairytale" gods.
Gods which were created by human immaturity and naivety.
You and I won't be here so we have to cross our fingers and toes and "hope" that one day man may evolve to become a successful form of life.
There's nothing else we can do!
Que sara, sara! (spelling?)
Qwark
- Deborah Sextonposted 12 years ago0
__________
Thank you
I appreciate it very much
- Twenty One Daysposted 12 years ago0
mmm,
I am under the guise that Spirit, which is the essence of Creator, is our spirit -- and that the power/knowledge is filtered through the mind (the tool; the mechanic) into the body.
It is all light.
Project, Absorb/Magnetic, Reflect
Positive, Neutral, Negate(Negative)
Proton, Neutron, Electron
Spiritual, Brain/Neurological, Physic/Physical
Rhema, Imrah, Logos
∴ R = e³nWeeeelll...
Kinda
Jesus is the light -Spirit the power (electric) to 'see' that light ( my anaology) lolWell,
Like I've said many times, and listed here to show, human beings are unified Light. What Immanu El [Jesus, Y`shua] proved, was just that.
( Can't give too much away here, as the book will outline the fullness of it.
James.
- Deborah Sextonposted 12 years ago0
- Deborah Sextonposted 12 years ago0
- Deborah Sextonposted 12 years ago0
Perfect love is not conditional. All religious "love" is conditional, therefore it is not love in any shape or form.
No comments? I wish I could say I am surprised.
Why don't you address the post instead of circumnavigating it?
It was a monster wasn't it?
They all are, which is why we never get anything more logical than Goddunit in reply to logic.And, when the monster is religion, what do we do, then?
It is not a 'way of thinking' - it is indoctrination, and yes, people do give up their indoctrinations and begin thinking.
Religions incite good people to commit violent acts in the name of their gods. They will kill and die for their beliefs. There have been many such claims right here on these forums.
- Deborah Sextonposted 12 years ago0
- finally Shane, you found a reasonable contradiction, a real one in fact! Ku-hoodi-o's my man.
- Deborah Sextonposted 12 years ago0
- Twenty One Daysposted 12 years ago0
Shane, my neighbors downstairs, in the houses to both my left and right would be out-n-out offended to be called Jews, and they are ALL right off the boat from Israel. All their wives, kids, grand kids are Israeli and so are their ancestors, the Nation of Israel, not the Nationality of Jews.
James
ps, if being Jewish is a nationality, than I suppose we can say Catholicism, Presbyterian and Greek Orthodox are Nationalities too. Even better, as I joke with my Israeli friends, we should have a BBQ and invite all the Hebrew Nationals - Deborah Sextonposted 12 years ago0
- Deborah Sextonposted 12 years ago0
What beautiful quotes!
And why am I not surprised that you were able to clear up the sports-related question?
Interesting about that rabbi's definition. Presumably if you follow the mitzvot, you would raise your child Jewishly and well enough so that they would understand that they would do the same.
In a related matter, Israel accepts anyone who had at least a Jewish grandparent for the purposes of immigration under the Law of Return, and this was ironically Hitler's definition. And it makes sense, too, when you consider that Israel was supposed to be a refuge for the world's Jews.
- Digsposted 12 years ago0
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