Religion & Spirituality - 17 September 2007

Usually, when I decide I believe in something, I get one source: let's say an english Bible. And then find other sources to see if I got it right the first time.

I once stepped on this statement: "it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle... ". I found that statement obscure, though I understood the basic meaning.

I think I understood the philosophy behind it when I then heard the expression : "a snowball's chance in hell".

Some years later, I was still wondering "why a camel?" and came accross this person who told me something very interesting.

You see, the Bible I was reading was in english. It had been translated from new Latin, which was translated from old Latin. And that Bible came from an hebrew text, also translated from ancient hebrew, based on oral tales.

That person made the following comment: in ancient hebrew, they used the same word for "camel" and "rope", because rope was made of camel's hair.

2007-09-17 13:22:30 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous

"I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd." (John 10:16, NIV)

Will the constituents of the "one flock" all reside on the New Earth?

2007-09-17 13:18:06 · 32 answers · asked by Kidd! 6

2007-09-17 13:18:06 · 14 answers · asked by Anonymous

Is the following a correct summation of LDS doctrine?

Atonement
"Jesus paid for all our sins when He suffered in the Garden of Gethsemane," (Laurel Rohlfing, “Sharing Time: The Atonement,” Friend, Mar. 1989, 39.)
"We accept Christ's atonement by repenting of our sins, being baptized, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and obeying all of the commandments," (Gospel Principles, Corporation of the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1979, pg. 68.)
Baptism
Baptism for the dead, (Doctrines of Salvation, Vol. II, p. 141.) This is a practice of baptizing each other in place of non-Mormons who are now dead. Their belief is that in the afterlife, the "newly baptized" person will be able to enter into a higher level of Mormon heaven.
Bible
"We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly. . ." 8th Article of Faith of the Mormon Church.
"Wherefore, thou seest that after the book hath gone forth through the hands of the great and abominable church, that there are many plain and precious things taken away from the book, which is the book of the Lamb of God." (1 Nephi 13:28).
Book of Mormon
The book of Mormon is more correct than the Bible, (History of the Church, 4:461.)

2007-09-17 13:15:43 · 13 answers · asked by polyman77 1

A day in Jesus' time?? what would Jesus do when he was little like ages 5-11.

2007-09-17 13:15:05 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous

Didn't "scientists" used to think phrenology was based on scientific evidence? So why is it some people won't allow Christianity to still affirm the sacred nature and authority of scripture, without accepting all the same assumptions as people who lived 2000 years ago?

2007-09-17 13:13:02 · 10 answers · asked by keri gee 6

I know He spoke all things into existence through Jesus Christ but I'm speaking about material wise here. What did he use to create the universe? Was everything made out of himself? Or out of nothingness? Thoughts.

2007-09-17 13:12:04 · 17 answers · asked by Anonymous

go to goarch.org

2007-09-17 13:12:04 · 9 answers · asked by Evdokia Ioanna Christakos 2

Ever been in the presence of God and could not stop laughing or crying?

Personally, I have had both experiences and they both are cool. Rather healing I might add.

2007-09-17 13:08:34 · 56 answers · asked by A Voice 5

2007-09-17 13:07:35 · 10 answers · asked by Lex Fok B.M.F. 3

...You all keep saying things like "Evolution has mountains of proof"/"Evolution is based on facts"blah blah blah blah....
OK--So where is the proof for:millions and billions of years old?(dating methods are NOT accurate--nice try),where is the proof we evolved from another animal?Evolution is NOT science.it is science fiction!!!!
http://www.cseblogs.com

2007-09-17 13:07:30 · 15 answers · asked by Anonymous

with your fundamentalism?

2007-09-17 13:07:14 · 14 answers · asked by The Asker 4

2007-09-17 13:07:05 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous

1. Some guy made it all
2. There was nothing and it blew up and made everything
3. Somthing stupider
4. who cares

2007-09-17 13:06:48 · 19 answers · asked by ? 5

2007-09-17 13:05:04 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous

True religion is knowing what ? and what ?

What are the best two different words of Spiritual Relationships to fill in the two blanks in this important sentence ? This is the Living Good News (Gospel) OF JESUS CHRIST here fully in Spirit !! (John 16:7-16)

If any here answer this, as I am given to know in Spirit and in Truth, you, Dear Reader, will be added here as a kindred-soul or kindred-mind (or both) Contact -Friend of mine.

Peace and progress !

Earlier, I posted this with four blanks to fill in; and nobody got it right. This new question is twice as easy ! :))

2007-09-17 13:02:44 · 22 answers · asked by ? 5

2007-09-17 13:01:33 · 28 answers · asked by Anonymous

people who always do what they think is right and hold out hope that there might be a god? is the church REALLY requisite for salvation?

2007-09-17 13:01:30 · 15 answers · asked by Anonymous

First of all, this is not meant to be racist in ANY way, I SWEAR !!! I'm about half Native American, part Scottish & part French, so if I was racist, I'd have to hate myself !

It seems to me that Native Americans and African Americans are similar, in that a big part of their native cultures and beliefs involve music & dancing. Cermonies, holidays, etc.

So my question is, just about anyone can name a famous African American singer, dancer, or actor, but there are relatively few Native American singers or dancers that are well known outside of their communities. I'm curious, why ?

Is it because Native Americans condsider these things sacred & don't care to share them with the outside world ? Would they consider that "selling out" ?

I really would like to know. Obviously, I'm mainly looking for answers from Native Americans.

2007-09-17 12:59:13 · 12 answers · asked by Anonymous

Some persons who feel there is good in all religions consider it narrow-minded to believe that God would not accept most people no matter what their religion. But Jesus, who knew and reflected his Father’s thinking, took a different view. (John 1:18; 8:28, 29) None of us would reasonably charge the Son of God with being narrow-minded. Consider what he said in the Sermon on the Mount:
“Go in through the narrow gate; because broad and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are the ones going in through it; whereas narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are the ones finding it.”—Matthew 7:13, 14.
4 What does it take to be on that narrow road and have God’s approval? Some, in line with the modern liberal or ecumenical spirit, would answer, ‘Just do good and avoid hurting others,’ or, ‘All you need is to accept Jesus as your Lord.’ But Jesus said that much more is necessary:
“Not everyone saying to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter into the kingdom of the heavens, but the one DOING THE WILL OF MY FATHER who is in the heavens will. Many will say to me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not . . . perform many powerful works in your name?’ And yet then I will confess to them: I never knew you! Get away from me, you workers of lawlessness.”—Matthew 7:21-23.
5 It is true that Jesus counseled against judging the inconsequential faults of others. (Matthew 7:3-5; Romans 14:1-4) But on the vital matter of religion, he exemplified the need to adhere to the Bible, and to do the will of the Father. Jesus condemned practices and teachings that conflicted with God’s Word. Why? Because he knew that religion is used by the Devil to ensnare people. (2 Corinthians 4:4) Satan’s stock in trade is falsehood, but presented in a way that makes it appealing. (Genesis 3:4, 5; 1 Timothy 4:1-3) Even among professing Christians there are religious leaders who serve the desires of the Devil. (2 Corinthians 11:13-15) Their teachings misrepresent the loving and generous ways of God. Is it any wonder, then, that Jesus exposed religious leaders whose teachings were contrary to the Scriptures?—Matthew 15:1-20; 23:1-38.
6 Many persons have, as it were, inherited their religion. Others just go along with the majority around them. But even if this is with sincerity, it can put a person on the ‘broad road leading to destruction.’ (John 16:2; Proverbs 16:25) The apostle Paul (also named Saul) had been zealous in his religion even to the point of persecuting Christians. Yet to be acceptable to God, he had to convert to a new way of worship. (1 Timothy 1:12-16; Acts 8:1-3; 9:1, 2) Later, he was inspired to write that some very religious persons then had “a zeal for God; but not according to accurate knowledge.” (Romans 10:2) Do you have an accurate knowledge of the will of God set out in the Bible? Are you acting accordingly?
7 Do not take this lightly, perhaps feeling that if you are not quite on the right path God will understand without your having to make any changes. The Scriptures state that God’s will is for people to “come to an accurate knowledge of truth,” and then to live in harmony with it. (1 Timothy 2:3, 4; James 4:17) God foretold that in the “last days” many persons would ‘have a form of godly devotion but prove false to its power.’ He commanded: “From these turn away.”—2 Timothy 3:1-5.
HOW CAN YOU KNOW?
8 Although worship that pleases God must accord with “accurate knowledge,” examination reveals that most churches teach doctrines that conflict with the Bible. (Romans 10:2) For example, they hold to the unscriptural doctrine that man has an immortal soul. (Ezekiel 18:4, 20; see page 115.) ‘Is that teaching so bad?’ some may wonder. Do not forget that Satan’s first lie was that sin would not bring death. (Genesis 3:1-4) While death is now unavoidable, the teaching that man has an immortal soul tends to further Satan’s lie. It has led millions of persons into fearful dealings with demons who pose as the souls of the dead. And the doctrine makes the Bible truth about a coming resurrection of the dead meaningless.—Acts 24:15.
9 Conduct is also involved, for many religions accept or encourage holidays and customs based on belief in immortality of the soul. Halloween, All Souls’ Day and others are holidays of that sort, blending in practices drawn from non-Christian religions.
10 The mixing of non-Christian and supposed Christian religion extends to other holidays, such as Christmas. God directed Christians to commemorate Jesus’ death, not his birth. (1 Corinthians 11:24-26) And the Bible shows that Jesus was not born in December, which is a cold rainy season in Israel. (Luke 2:8-11) You can check almost any encyclopedia and see that December 25 was chosen because it was already a Roman holiday. Sir James Frazer observes:
“Taken altogether, the coincidences of [Christmas and Easter] with the heathen festivals are too close and too numerous to be accidental. . . . [Clerics] perceived that if Christianity was to conquer the world it could do so only by relaxing the too rigid principles of its Founder, by widening a little the narrow gate which leads to salvation.”—The Golden Bough.
11 After he learns the facts, what person who sincerely loves God would continue to accept beliefs and practices based on a compromise with pagan worship? To some persons these teachings or practices may seem like little things. But the Bible clearly says: “A little leaven ferments the whole lump.”—Galatians 5:9.
WAR AND MORALS
12 Jesus Christ set out another aid in identifying religion that is acceptable to God when he told his disciples: “By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves.” (John 13:34, 35) Most churches talk about showing love, but do they really urge showing the kind of love that Jesus did?
13 We have already seen that Christians in early centuries lived in line with the prophetic description at Isaiah 2:4. They ‘beat their swords into plowshares and would not lift up sword against each other nor learn war anymore.’ (See pages 166, 167.) What position have the churches and their clergy taken? Many men know from personal experience that the churches have approved of and blessed warfare—Catholics killing Catholics, Protestants killing Protestants. This certainly was not following the pattern Jesus set. Interestingly, it was the Jewish religious leaders who, claiming that national interests were at stake, approved of killing Jesus.—John 11:47-50; 15:17-19; 18:36.
14 As a further aid in determining whether a religious group has God’s approval, consider whether it upholds his moral standards rather than simply overlooking wrongdoing. Jesus tried to help sin-laden persons, including drunkards and harlots. His disciples were to do the same. (Matthew 9:10-13; 21:31, 32; Luke 7:36-48; 15:1-32) And if a person who had already become a Christian sinned, other Christians could help him, trying to restore him to God’s favor and to spiritual strength. (Galatians 6:1; James 5:13-16) But what if a person unrepentantly practiced sin?
15 That was true of a man in Corinth. Paul wrote:
“Quit mixing in company with anyone called a brother that is a fornicator or a greedy person or an idolater or a reviler or a drunkard or an extortioner, not even eating with such a man. . . . ‘Remove the wicked man from among yourselves.’”—1 Corinthians 5:11-13.
God’s Witnesses follow God’s directions in this. If a gross sinner refuses to accept help and will not abandon his immoral way, such a person must be expelled or disfellowshiped from the congregation. Perhaps this will shock him to his senses. Yet, whether that happens or not, this course serves to protect the sincere members of the congregation who, though themselves imperfect, are striving to uphold God’s standards.—1 Corinthians 5:1-8; 2 John 9-11.
16 However, you may know of churchgoers who openly practice sin, perhaps even receiving special honors in their church because of their wealth or prominence. By refusing to follow God’s command to disfellowship unrepentant sinners, the churches cause others to think they might as well sin too. (Ecclesiastes 8:11; 1 Corinthians 15:33) God cannot approve of those who produce such fruitage.—Matthew 7:15-20; Revelation 18:4-8.
STAYING ON THE ROAD TO LIFE
17 Once you find the “road leading off into life,” you need to keep on studying the Bible in order to stay on it. Try to read the Bible each day; form a longing for it. (1 Peter 2:2, 3; Matthew 4:4) It will equip you for “every good work.”—2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
18 Those good works include living by God’s moral standards, as well as being kind and helpful to others, especially those related to us in the faith. (James 1:27; Galatians 6:9, 10) That is how Jesus was. Besides setting a fine moral example, he healed the sick, fed the hungry and comforted the distressed. He especially taught and strengthened his disciples. Though we cannot copy his miracles, we can, as we are able, give practical aid to others, which may move some to glorify God.—1 Peter 2:12.
19 But Jesus’ good works involved more. He knew that the best work done for others was helping them to know what worship is acceptable to God and instructing them about God’s Kingdom purposes. This could help them to attain the goal of everlasting life in happiness.—Luke 4:18-21.
20 Christians today should likewise strive to be witnesses for God. They can witness by their fine conduct, which includes helping others and keeping themselves “without spot from the world.” (Isaiah 43:10-12; James 1:27; Titus 2:14) Also, they can take the “good news” right to the homes of persons, persevering in this work until God says that it is done. (Luke 10:1-9) Do you not want to help your neighbors, including your family, to learn about worship that God accepts? Then you, too, should share in the public expression of your faith; doing so can help others to find the road to life.—Romans 10:10-15.

2007-09-17 12:59:04 · 6 answers · asked by Keith 2

I thought over a day over what my Uncle had said about some stuff.
And.
There really isn't proof of god its more a matter of faith and love and trust and if your willing to take those steps to your religion choice. Just religions argue cause, they all want to be RIGHT and "prove something."
Evolution I believe has no proof you can't prove that the big bang happened and many other things they have theories on you can't prove you'd have to be back in time.


Although all that I am a Catholic still and a faithful one but, you can't really prove god exist all we have is historical text and artifacts.
Evolution I believe you can't prove that much of a deal.

Plus,
Interestingly.
We could possibly be from monkeys,.
God supposedly made humans on the 6th day.
And Monkey and other animals were made before.

2007-09-17 12:57:09 · 30 answers · asked by London qirl . 5

2007-09-17 12:56:56 · 21 answers · asked by sjhencye 1

2007-09-17 12:56:26 · 51 answers · asked by Anonymous

2007-09-17 12:55:48 · 16 answers · asked by Patrick the Carpathian, CaFO 7

First, i'd like to say this is supposed to be a heated debate, because fighting ist'n what I am looking for. I have heard so many stories about Joseph Smith and my religeon(LDS), that Joseph would have to be over 1,000 years old to do everything that everyone said he did. Oh, and just to clear up mormons as we are usually called do not practice polygamy anymore. There's guy who lead away a small group of people and they did that, but they don't stand for our church. I ask my question because everyone always flames about lds people. I personally think that the only way to find out what really happened is research, but you can't always trust what you find. Yes, research about the lds chruch would include reaing the book of mormon. It's a good book, and it's not like you could get hurt from reading it. Once you've made your decision please don't get mad at people because of theirs. I myself respect other religeons, and hope that everyone will respect mine. This is not to make people mad.

2007-09-17 12:54:44 · 24 answers · asked by little_bude 2

I was told that Islam and Muslims treat their women with respect but having lived in the area for a while I was shocked, single women are not permitted to go outside unless they are with a family member and they must be covered up, one woman told me women are treated worse than animals.

I was taking the girls for a walk and I had a dress on, not short, and I was spat on and called horrible names and a man told me to get off the street or I will be arrested for exposing my arms and legs, I was shocked, I never went out again, I was to scared. I saw lots more but don't like talking about it, it is too upsetting

I am glad women are not treated like that in Australia.Why are women treated like this there, Are they not Gods children as well, shouldn't they be treated with a bit more respect?

2007-09-17 12:52:32 · 7 answers · asked by TigerLily 4

what do you guys think of other christians who preach or try to enforce their beliefs onto others. like today this guy who was at the college I go to who was saying that all jews, hebrews, jws, gays, mouthy women, etc are going to hell. And I mean like he really went at it and people asked questions but he couldnt answer them and yet kept insisting that every other religion is false.

So yeah, what do you guys think of people like this who enforce, not offer but enforce(or try to anyway) onto others.

2007-09-17 12:51:26 · 17 answers · asked by Anonymous

Dear God:
I know that I'm a sinner. I deserve Hell. But You sent Jesus to die for my sins. I believe that He died and rose again. I ask you now to forgive my sins, once an for all. I now receive Jesus Christ as my Lord and Personal Saviour. Please come into my heart and save me, Help me to know I am saved and live for You, the rest of my life. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

2007-09-17 12:51:03 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous

If Jesus was "a" god, how many gods are there?
Doesn't translating this passage "the word was a god" instead of "the word was God" violate the principal that Yahweh (Jehovah) is the only God?

2007-09-17 12:49:47 · 20 answers · asked by Graham 5

i humped a virgin mary today. dont ask why i was bored and really hyper does that make me a sinner? lmfaoo imnot godly or anything but its not as tho i dont belive in him i belive in god and stuff i just dont belive in religons telling you how to worship him

but anyway does doing that make me a sinner?

2007-09-17 12:49:36 · 22 answers · asked by Caitlin 1