The Wags

how do you interpret these scriptures?

"What shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith; but Israel, who pursued a law of righteousness (works), has not attained it.

Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone.

As it is written:

"See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall, (works)

and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame."

Romans 9:30-33

For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. Romans 10:10

really --- all of Romans, which discusses salvation through faith.

like Romans 4:4-6, 16

I know that the belief of works and faith comes from James, but in study and context I found it is considered one of the most misunderstood gospels in the Bible. and there are a few sentences that talk about it in Mark and Ephesians.

But to see it as both are needed for salvation makes the bible contradictory. As well as, Christs reasons for dying on the Cross.

notice that its is written to the twelve tribes of Israel, who were scattered at that time. A cohesion of Jewish believers were needed, because of the separation, in order to spread God's goodness. And James refers to the new birth given to us...which in the greek translation is referring to being born again...which happens through faith and acceptance of Christ. 1:18, and our first fruits is being guided by the holy spirit in doing what God wills us to do, and in this, James sets the whole tone of the chapter. We do this because we love our God, not because we need to further fulfill salvation.

"Put in its simplest terms, it’s a cause and effect relationship. Faith is the cause of our salvation and good works are the effect. Put another way, faith precedes salvation and good works follow it.

Of course God created us in Christ for good works. Not so we could save ourselves, but so we could bring glory to Him after He saved us. Over and over the New Testament makes it clear. We’re saved because of what we believe, not because of how we behave."

GraceThruFaith.

I just thought i share with this particular perspective and hope you can share yours, to gain better understanding and to help us become united under Christ. I think we are to understand all of the Bible through what Jesus says (it should line up):

Jesus said that the only work God requires of us is to believe in the One He sent (John 6:28-29)

you have the choice of accepting God's love, protection, and provision ---and knowing him. Or to be tricked by the serpent, believing that you know more or better?

God told us which one leads to life and which leads to destruction.

Adam and Eve chose wrong, will you too?

Whether you believe it as literal or allegory...there is a spiritual lesson for everyone.

dont you think the Jews would be the ones?

Even though they didnt accept him as their messiah, the dont contest his existence or his miracles (only saying they were from the devil).

yet he is mentioned in the Tanakh. (one of the Jewish books of the ot)

Listen, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but will be changed--

In a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. for the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.

i recently began studying this, but would like to see what others believe on this in comparison to what i have been learning.

Of course, this means people who believe in Jesus.

Thanks.

just curious, but what happen to the plates given to Joseph Smith? Are they considered Holy?

and what do you think contributed to it?

its been proved.

I saw a show on animal planet that said...domestic dogs are not using their instincts like they use to and they are going dormant.

Do you think the same can be said about spirituality? That its an instinct ---all civilizations sought out a higher being then them, and not just in fear, but in awe. (native americans)

and if its an instinct, then there is a need for it. And for those with stronger instincts in spirituality use it and believe?

God said he planted a seed in all of us to seek Him and the truth. Sounds like an instinct to me. what do you think believers?

Would you oppress or mock their beliefs?

what are your thoughts on this?

every time we believers get a thumbs down from the atheists?

I do..lol

or that they are not self-righteous anymore or less then believers?

i want the "forcing" details. please share. It could be a learning experience for those with beliefs but dont realize that is what they are doing.

mature answers would be appreciated.

When Jesus was refused at a town, he moved on, wiping dust off his feet. (which is like the expression, wiping our hands clean). I know He said to preach to all nations. But does it say anything about convincing the nonbeliever? if so where?

I know Jesus told the apostles that if peace was not returned to them when they went to towns to teach the gospel, they were to leave, keeping their peace with them.

just list a few things that come from your heart.

"As long as you approach God purely on an intellectual level, God can be no bigger then your mind." Bishop T.D. Jakes

This can be seen in hospice and elderly homes, by care takers and nurses.

(in case your not familiar: its often reported on animal planet shows or the news...an animal that resides for morale in the elderly home, will bark or often sleep with that person the day/night of their death)

what do they see or sense?

Can this be explained anywhere in the Bible or Science?

is teaching them to worship a false idol?

i mean they write letters, wishing for things. they leave cookies and milk (sacrifices?) And not to mention all the paraphernalia.

and what does it do to their minds when they find out he isnt real, but we want them to believe that God is....

any thoughts?

Sensitivity to relationships, people's feelings, feeling moved by a painting, music, or nature?

What moves you in a positive emotional way?