Shown: posts 1 to 24 of 24. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by rayww on July 23, 2004, at 11:45:50
To discover peace one first must understand the (origin of) war.
Some would say the war has always been between good and evil.
Next step would be to define evil, although evil is quite good at defining (and destroying) itself.
Third step would be to personally (as Jai has said) overcome evil within self.
True peace cannot be achieved on a world wide level until the Master of Peace returns and leads His battle in his own way. And what is His way?
He gives full warning of what is to come. He outlines it step by step, doing all He can to ensure we understand, even dies for us so that we might live again. He gives us chance after chance to be obedient to his eternal law. He has warned every generation since time began that there will come a time when it is too late. It behooves each generation to prepare for that day when he will return, and He will some day. At that day there will be world peace because there will be no more evil. Evil cannot abide His presence, and will die. Christ will reign personally upon the earth (which He created) for 1000 years, in perfect just government. The end of the world, is simply that--the end of the "world" of wickedness. The trees might burn, but the earth is gonna stay around for awhile. Those who live through to see that day will be those who have discovered the secret to peace is obedience to the commandments of God.
Life will go on, mingling between new life and the old (at death we will be changed and continue to live here in a changed state until the end of the 1000 years) Then, for reasons we do not fully understand, Satan will be loosed for a season to try those who had not been given the opportunity to prove themselves, and then after that, this earth will also die, and go on to receive it's own paradisicial glory.
This is only the tip of the iceburg. There is so much more to this story of world peace that has not even been told. Jai is right when he says it begins within ourselves. Peace is definately a state of mind, but it can also be a state of being for the whole earth if we help it along.
May we each do our little part today to help usher in world peace. God is maybe waiting for us to do our part first.
Posted by rayww on July 23, 2004, at 11:59:25
In reply to War and Peace, posted by rayww on July 23, 2004, at 11:45:50
I left out one significant detail (of many) that when Christ returns Satan, who has declared himself to be the God of this world, will be banished into outer darkness.
God is the author of peace. Satan is the destroyer of peace. Back to the origin of war, it began long ago even before the earth was created.
There is a lot of talk about religion (not on this particular board) but let me just say I am very grateful that I don't have to spend time wondering which sect is true or which doctrine is right. I have perfect trust in Jesus Christ and his living prophets, and the doctrine of my religion, which is http://lds.org/
I have eternal hope for everyone (our church is the only religion that offers that hope to all people, not just to our own sect). I feel it is wrong to exalt oneself and put down others for their belief.
Posted by simus on July 23, 2004, at 23:55:52
In reply to Re: War and Peace, posted by rayww on July 23, 2004, at 11:59:25
> our church is the only religion that offers that hope to all people, not just to our own sect
REALLY??? The ONLY one? WOW! So have you personally been to my church and judged for yourself that we DON'T offer hope to all people, or do you just take the word of the leaders of your sect on that one?
Posted by simus on July 24, 2004, at 0:27:26
In reply to War and Peace, posted by rayww on July 23, 2004, at 11:45:50
> Those who live through to see that day will be those who have discovered the secret to peace is obedience to the commandments of God.
For the record, if anyone cares, that is not what the Bible says about peace. I will present the Word of God and let it speak for itself.
Ephesians 2:
14 For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, 15having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, 16and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity. 17And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near. 18For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.
Posted by rayww on July 24, 2004, at 10:27:25
In reply to Re: War and Peace » rayww, posted by simus on July 24, 2004, at 0:27:26
Hello simus, haven't seen you post in a while. Please tell me more about your belief that offers hope to every soul. I see that what I said may have been false, and I am sorry. I am very glad to hear that other christian religions offer the same hope to everyone, regardless of their religion or status in life. I think it's wonderful. Sorry you took offense at what I said.
Posted by simus on July 24, 2004, at 12:13:30
In reply to Re: War and Peace » simus, posted by rayww on July 24, 2004, at 10:27:25
> Please tell me more about your belief that offers hope to every soul.
I am a Christian. As a Christian, I believe that the Bible is the Word of God and every word is true. The Bible is FULL of hope for everyone.
Romans 15:4 "For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope."
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
Matthew 18:14 "Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven that one of these little ones should perish."
The words of hope for all go on and on...As far as denominations and sects, I don't usually get involved in that. My church is non-denominational - everyone is welcome. There are thousands of non-denomination, Bible teaching Christian churches across America and around the world. I have visited many, and I know personally that they are wonderful. I have also visited many, many denominational churches. I have never, ever found one Christian church that said that their church is the ONLY way to heaven. There may be some out there, but I haven't personally experienced it.
By the way, if I ever, ever did hear it taught in a Christian church that their way was the only right way, and that you couldn't get to heaven through any other denomination, I would run away as fast as I could. That mindset is typical of the tactics of a cult. I know of a couple of organizations that do teach along those lines, but I don't consider them to be Christian anyway based on some other doctrines that are not Biblical. But I truly believe that most Christian churches are sincere and truly serve the Lord the best they are able.
Posted by rayww on July 24, 2004, at 14:11:40
In reply to Re: War and Peace » rayww, posted by simus on July 24, 2004, at 12:13:30
Nice post. Thank-you. Perhaps the main difference between the two categories you mentioned is that one believes in the whole Bible and the other one doesn't? The Bible is a testament of Jesus Christ, outlining His plan of love and happiness and salvation. He wants us to find joy and live joyfully eternally with Him. Those who choose otherwise will have many opportunities to "come unto Him" with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, ready to learn, absorb, obey.
http://scriptures.lds.org/query?words=contrite&scripturesearch_button=Search
Considering and respecting your belief, the first four references from Psalms to Isaiah are safe to read. These are beautiful, powerful, and to the point references from a search of the single word, "contrite". Consider me in, or on the side of those who believe the whole Bible. Thank-you.
Posted by Jai Narayan on July 25, 2004, at 9:29:33
In reply to Re: War and Peace » simus, posted by rayww on July 24, 2004, at 14:11:40
"Stillness is the altar of Spirit." Yogananda
The saints tell us that the soul loves to meditate, it is only the ego that gets in the way.
The ego likes to keep us bound in thoughts, worries and endless to do lists.
The soul’s natural state is freedom.
Meditation is the natural state of the soul to activate feelings of bliss and well-being. Meditation can give you a spiritual mini-vacation where you can experience calm, joy and oneness with all creation.
Each meditation session fosters good mental and physical health, clarity of thought and allows natural creativity to flow.
The fruits of meditation are the development of calmness, wisdom, joy and a feeling of unconditional love in our daily lives.have a nice Sunday
Jai Narayan
Posted by rayww on July 25, 2004, at 22:47:07
In reply to the need for peace is universal, posted by Jai Narayan on July 25, 2004, at 9:29:33
that was so nice, and it did bring essence of calm into my day. thank-you.
Posted by Dr. Bob on July 27, 2004, at 2:59:14
In reply to Re: War and Peace » simus, posted by rayww on July 24, 2004, at 14:11:40
> if I ever, ever did hear it taught in a Christian church that their way was the only right way ... I would run away as fast as I could. That mindset is typical of the tactics of a cult. I know of a couple of organizations that do teach along those lines, but I don't consider them to be Christian anyway based on some other doctrines that are not Biblical.
>
> simus> Perhaps the main difference between the two categories you mentioned is that one believes in the whole Bible and the other one doesn't?
>
> raywwPlease don't put others down for their beliefs. Could we not get into who to consider "Christian" and what to consider the "whole" Bible?
> I feel it is wrong to exalt oneself and put down others for their belief.
>
> raywwThis may be splitting a hair, but please don't put down others even if they put down others. When you post. What you believe is of course up to you. As far as I'm concerned.
Thanks,
Bob
Posted by Dena on July 27, 2004, at 7:56:42
In reply to Re: please be civil » simus » rayww, posted by Dr. Bob on July 27, 2004, at 2:59:14
Bob? You sure don't "sound" like yourself. Having been rebuked by you more than most here, I've come to recognize your "voice". I'm wondering if someone else is posting using your name?
Hmmm... is Bob on vacation, leaving his post to a "group of graduate students"?
Or maybe you were eating a snack while typing, and just "sound" different with a mouth full of food?
You just don't sound like Bob...
Shalom,
Dena
Posted by Jai Narayan on July 27, 2004, at 19:26:05
In reply to Re: please be civil » Dr. Bob, posted by Dena on July 27, 2004, at 7:56:42
Dena you crack me up.
I had a really good laugh.
Love having you back.
Posted by Dena on July 27, 2004, at 21:52:04
In reply to Re: please be civil, posted by Jai Narayan on July 27, 2004, at 19:26:05
> Dena you crack me up.
> I had a really good laugh.
> Love having you back.
'Tis my job to spread joy, one way or another!Thanks for the welcome-back-party!
Wheeeeeee!!!
Shalom, Dena
Posted by tabitha on July 28, 2004, at 0:24:50
In reply to Re: please be civil » Dr. Bob, posted by Dena on July 27, 2004, at 7:56:42
You're right Dena. It's a little off, especially that last part. The Dr Bob we know usually speaks in complete sentences, even when they're the briefest possible ones.
He just returned from a mysterious absence. Maybe he had some sort of life-altering experience. Or a more mundane possibility-- perhaps jet lag?
Posted by Dena on July 28, 2004, at 8:41:48
In reply to Re: please be civil » Dena, posted by tabitha on July 28, 2004, at 0:24:50
Hey Tabitha!
So nice to hear from you! Been a long time (what with all my exiles, you know).
Ironically, due to the past few subject lines, it looks as though I've been chastised again by Bob! (or whomever is watching over us, keeping us in line)
Shalom, Dena
Posted by tabitha on July 28, 2004, at 13:48:45
In reply to Re: please be civil » tabitha, posted by Dena on July 28, 2004, at 8:41:48
Well let's get that trigger word out of the subject line at least!
I still lurk here, and was glad to see your recent return. I don't post much though.
Posted by Dr. Bob on July 28, 2004, at 17:14:31
In reply to Re: please be civil » Dr. Bob, posted by Dena on July 27, 2004, at 7:56:42
> Bob? You sure don't "sound" like yourself. Having been rebuked by you more than most here, I've come to recognize your "voice". I'm wondering if someone else is posting using your name?
It was me. I wouldn't have other people post as me, there are enough questions about who's who already, plus I'm not sure what would be gained by that, anyway.
Bob
Posted by Jai Narayan on July 28, 2004, at 21:47:08
In reply to Re: wondering if someone else is posting, posted by Dr. Bob on July 28, 2004, at 17:14:31
Welcome Dr. B. I am so glad you are you and posting as you.
I got real confused by the posting while you were gone.
We came to expect anything.
welcome home to babble.
Posted by Dr. Bob on July 29, 2004, at 17:05:18
In reply to Dr Bob, posted by Jai Narayan on July 28, 2004, at 21:47:08
Posted by TofuEmmy on July 29, 2004, at 18:55:29
In reply to Re: wondering if someone else is posting, posted by Dr. Bob on July 28, 2004, at 17:14:31
> > Bob? You sure don't "sound" like yourself. Having been rebuked by you more than most here, I've come to recognize your "voice". I'm wondering if someone else is posting using your name?
>
Dena- Maybe it was cuz he posted it at 3am on the first day back to work after vacation? He was still wearing Burmuda shorts and picking pineapple from his teeth. :-)
Posted by Dena on July 29, 2004, at 20:26:56
In reply to wondering if someone else is posting Dena, posted by TofuEmmy on July 29, 2004, at 18:55:29
TofuEmmy, you're a hoot!
But I'd know that, just from your "name"!
Your Mama must have been eating fermented pineapples - LOL (no offense to the woman who gave you life!).
Nice to "meet" you!
Shalom, Dena
Posted by TofuEmmy on July 30, 2004, at 8:43:41
In reply to Re: wondering if someone else is posting Dena, posted by Dena on July 29, 2004, at 20:26:56
Oh thank you Dena! You literally made me laugh out loud this morning. Yes, my mom truly was an interesting character...although I think she was allergic to pineapple. I believe my problems may stem from her liberal ingestion of SPAM luncheon "meat".
Em
Posted by Dena on July 30, 2004, at 8:58:21
In reply to Re: wondering if someone else is posting Dena » Dena, posted by TofuEmmy on July 30, 2004, at 8:43:41
> Oh thank you Dena! You literally made me laugh out loud this morning. Yes, my mom truly was an interesting character...although I think she was allergic to pineapple. I believe my problems may stem from her liberal ingestion of SPAM luncheon "meat".
>
> EmEwwwwwww! I was in Hawaii this past sping (during Maui's worst rain in 50 years - we hung out in the hotel room!), and I saw the most amazing "local delicacy"... they took a slice of spam, topped it with sticky rice, and wrapped it up in a sheet of (nori) seaweed - like sushi with Spam!!!
No offense you Hawaiian natives, but yuck! Or am I missing out on a delicious epicurian delight? I may never find out (and I happen to LOVE both sticky rice and seaweed!).
Just can't go there.
Ok, if I was forced by some wicked people to have to choose between spam sushi and say, haggis, I'd probably take the spam sushi - but I'd waver! (and no offense to Scotts, either).
I hope to not receive hate mail from the Scotts and the Hawaiians - hey - I'm part Scottish and I love Hawaii! I don't blame you for the rain!
Oh, wait. This is supposed to be about faith!
Ok, Thank You, dear God that you made me who I am, Scottish (& English, German, Irish and French, too), and ask that You protect me today from those who would wish me to eat either mystery meat or stuff made from internal organs. Amen.
Shalom, Dena
P.S. I like tofu a lot, and have eaten it daily for breakfast for over ten years. But only the kind in those little hermetically-sealed, shelf-happy boxes, not the kind floating in water. Just thought you'd like to know!
Posted by Simus on July 30, 2004, at 12:11:21
In reply to Re: wondering if someone else is posting Dena » TofuEmmy, posted by Dena on July 30, 2004, at 8:58:21
Dena and T.E.,
Thanks for the laughs! You are both a hoot!
Simus
This is the end of the thread.
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