I'm 17 years old and in my life I've saved one of my friends from committing suicide, saved my 3 year old neighbor from getting hit by a car, and saved my mom one night when she went into a full code (No heart beat, no breathing). That's three lives I have saved at 17 years of age. Despite that, there are still people who think, simply because I don't believe in god, that I am going to hell.. I don't believe that. I believe that it is better to be a good person because you WANT to be..
@SlyKatieIsSly I'm a Christian and it is NOT ok to tell people they're going to hell, so I just wanted to apologize to you on behalf of my less polished brethren. As a Christian it can be hard sometimes to share the Good News with other people without sounding condemnatory. One of the Great things about God is that He gives everyone complete freedom to choose between life or death, and it's not anyones place to choose for you.
@SlyKatieIsSly What those certain people should have told you is this: Humanity chose a long time ago to sin. God is not responsible for the mess the world is in right now, we are. As a result of that choice, every generation after was born into sin, hence, every single one of us are sinners. We can't do anything about being sinful, we can be better in some areas and worse in others, but never sin-free. Because of this, we need a savior to cover our sin, and that savior is Jesus.
@SlyKatieIsSly Jesus told us that if we don't believe in Him as our savior and accept His covering of our sin, we can't be made eternal. Not as punishment, but because something sinful can't be eternal. Anyway, theres a lot more to say and I thought I'd be able to put all this in one comment but apparently not...I'll stop here. I don't know you but I care for you as a person and I hope you at least choose to learn a little more about what I was saying. It's at least worth a look.
@EternalAngel7 First of all, THANK YOU for being so decent about this, that means a lot. Maybe I will look more into it, I am only 17 so, you know, I still have a lot of time to make mistakes and to grow as a person and such. :) Thank you again for being so nice about this.
I don't go to church as I find it hard to find an honest Bible believing church. I belive in Jesus with every fiber of my being. I love Him whole heartedly. I think fellowship is a good thing,so the idea of church is good in terms of fellowship with other believers. I get more however from a small Bible study in a home or even outside in a park. The truth is, JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY. You don't have to belong to a church.
@TheJrine73 And yet, the concept of "Jesus" (in his modern form) only exists because of Christianity. You know...those people who went on to build churches for themselves.
And let's not forget that the Christians took Jesus' attributes from the Egyptian mythological character of Horus.
So that's TWO ways in which you're directly contradicting yourself. Also two reasons why your religious beliefs are nonsensical.
religion is a enemy of jesus? who introduced you to Jesus in the first place?. Maby its just your religion but there are Religions out there that do opposite to what your saying infact they would watch this and not be offended but instead just love you and have nothing to say to because to them your a brother in christ. the lowest of the low are who these religions are targeting to help. whats the use of us being on earth anyway?
I do not agree with his logic on religion. Your judging religion as a whole group? arent we individuals. in the end God doesnt judge you in groups he'll judge you as individuals. Judging in the first place is a sin. and you say Religion judges and you dont? are you perfect to make such a bold statement?are all religious people going to hell? in the bible it says the foolish think they know everything. the wise still have much to learn in proverbs. be humble.
@dfjbvkfd i beleive that the religion most people think of when they think christian is the one he's talking about and well I think he's saying that jesus\ wasn't religiouns by the standards of ouor 'christian and chatholic churche; and he definitley wasn't religious by anyyy other religions standards. so I'd allmost say you kind of missed the point but at the same time not. I don't know sorry :/
@SeedsOfHatred@SeedsOfHatred Lmao . my Logic? I have no Logic. The Bible is the only logic. Everything i said was bible based. What he saying is what "he" thinks. He judged people in Groups. But in the End your group doesnt take you to heaven. I know nothing. I just follow orders and those orders are from a higher being Sent through a bible. lol by the way i did not judge him. If someone taught something about christ wrong is it okay if it contradicts the bible? .
@D3VYN131 The headset mic stopped working early in the sermon. If you watch the whole sermon you see that happen. It isn't easy to just take it off since the wire runs down the back of his shirt or jacket, so he picked up a hand held.
Isaiah 9:6-7 For unto us a child is born,unto us a son is given:and the government shall be upon his shoulder:and his name shall be called Wonderful,Counsellor,The mighty God,The everlasting Father,The Prince of Peace.Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end,upon the throne of David,and upon his kingdom,to order it,and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever.The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
Sin is as old as humanity and existed before religion. All religions has it's roots in paganism, nominal christianity is no exception. But I disagree that Jesus has enemies, Jesus destroyed sin and his enemies on the cross, took death captive and holds the keys, threw off the chains and rose from the grave. Jesus has no enemies, But it would be more correct to say that Sin is the enemy of the Army of God the Bride of Christ. Saying Jesus has enemies, inSINuates the Cross failed
Wait...so now when a religious person sins it's considered their religion. This guy is isn't think about what he is saying, sin is sin no matter who does it. When you keep track of all you good deeds, or think your better than someone, or boast of being a great person there are all sins no matter who is doing them. All religion is, is a guild to being a good person how could that be an enemy of Jesus?
@HannaTheMovieFTW No, no, no, slow down horsie! Lol. When you are practicing routines in order to get into heaven, this is not what Jesus wanted us to do. He often scolded the Pharisees for this. Pharisees often thought they were holier than thou because the often tithed a lot of money, followed all of the traditions and religious activities. And lastly, they wanted others to see how "religious" they appeared. That's what Jesus spoke against. Enemy #1 of Jesus.
@HannaTheMovieFTW Enemy #2 was sin. When we sin, Jesus grieves because we have stepped away from him during our moment of sin. When we sin, it means that we have submitted to the enemy (Satan). When we flee from this sin, turn from it, it causes the Enemy to flee himself. We can only do this turning from sin when go to Jesus for help to avoid it. But we are not permanently and spiritually etched by that sin. When the focus is off sin and on how much we do, then it's futile.
@cartoune Except, some of the canonized documents are probably not credible (see the debate surrounding the undisputed letters of Paul). The truth is we have better data and methodology available to us today than the men who canonized the NT did. I'm not putting them down, just saying they didn't have our tools.
@StormTrek Hmm interesting. Can u send a link to some of the documentation?
I'm not going to say anything to either side, as I'm not in the know in this here scenario, but the Bible's been under fire since it was canonized. There's been attacks of historical references in it that there was no evidence of, only to have solid affirmative evidence unearthed later. Others claimed that there were numerous assertions in the Bible that were incompatible with other assertions, only to be proved
wrong. Keep in mind every scholar in history is on the very modern paramount of technology and methodology. I'm not saying that that makes this debate about Paul's letters wrong, I'm just saying, the fact that there's debate doesn't make them right either. This isn't the first time there are astounding finds that could challenge the validity of the Scriptures, and not the first time they were proven wrong.
Also, in order to compete with the enormous amount of internal and
@cartoune You can google the phrase "undisputed letters of Paul". But for a better overall survey of the NT and the gospels, you can try iTunesU. Take a look at Dale Martin's series in the Open Yale courses. Though, you won't enjoy Sunday services as much if you watch it. Not because you'll think Christianity is false, but because you'll be annoyed at your pastor for constantly feeding everyone baby food.
or personally. Nor, any modern events that you weren't there for personally. Or any scientific findings that you haven't personally demonstrated yourself.
And if that's the case, then you have no reason to believe yourself, as you can't personally demonstrate the Jesus didn't walk on water or rise from the dead.
Ad Ignoratium cuts both ways. The fact that you can't prove in entirety that God didn't perform supernatural events is not testimony to his existence, true. The fact that you can't prove God did perform supernatural events, likewise, is not testimony to his non-existence.
Furthermore, the fact that the crux of the matter for you is your claim that people only have faith in the accounts of other people just translates that you built your foundation on faulty
can anyone really use logic to understand God and all his wisdom? I think the only way to assume anything or believe anything is to pray and ask in faith if anything is true, so if you pray and ask in faith with an open heart if something is true, it will be given unto you and the holy spirit will teach you beyond reasoning, I can testify of that and of gods power and how he speaks to us, I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is a true church and I ask you only seek and pray
unfortunately religion is and has been used as a way to fuel propaganda condemning other peoples systems of belief. just keep it to yourself. if you want to be nice to people and be a good samaritan, do so; let people learn what you believe through actions, not empty words. many "christians" (and other religions) i have met have turned out to act completely opposite of what is prescribed by their "religion". people tend to "believe" for convenience rather than actually believing.
@theadambudd I think your comment is right in line with what Mr. Driscol is saying here. Actions speak louder than words. Empty religion that has an internal belief that does not show consistency in action is hypocritical and Driscol seems to be saying that this is Jesus' enemy. Gotta agree with you there.
The Jews didn't kill Jesus because of their religion. Jews thought they were right with God simply because they were born to Jewish mothers (a matter of ethnicity). Therefore, they wouldn't be offended if Jesus taught salvation came through grace. In addition, they had a completely different concept of salvation than what is taught in Christian churches. Salvation, for them, was political; a Jewish kingdom rather than Roman occupation.
Jesus condemned and emotionally hurt them... thats part of repentence realizing your an undeserving sinner and how bad that sin is and the by the Grace of God He'll open your heart and save you....
God hates sin yes, but Christianity IS a religion (the only TRUE religion) stop dogging on it, what's wrong is that the people ONLY have a religion and not Christ is wrong!!! You really need to read James 1:26-27... James explains it there... don't take it out of context
@DudeBurnsRed Why do Christians use this bumper sticker slogan? Your *religion* is about going to heaven because you think you are "saved' through adoption. Jews think they are going to an afterlife paradise because they think they are the children of God. If Christianity isn't a religion because it's relationship based then neither is Judaism.
@DudeBurnsRed did you read James 1:26-27? It is completely unbiblical to say that Christianity is not a religion, please show me Scripture that says that... the real difference that sets us apart is that we have Christ, a relationship with Christ, religion is fine, that's not the problem its like how James says in the verses above that it must be pure and undefiled and you cant have a religion that deceives the heart, which is every religion in the world besides Christianity.
@DudeBurnsRed Christianity meets every criteria for what defines a religion. You worship a deity that you believe created the universe. You have a holy book, doctrine and moral codes. You have ceremonies and rituals. If you look up the word "Religion" in the dictionary, "Christianity" is even given as an example. It is a religion. To say otherwise is simply denying basic facts and disingenuous. Say what you will about what Christianity means to you, it is still ALSO very much a religion.
@brainfoodlunch You're taking things out of their context. ''Religion'' here means blindly following religious institutions instead of personally developing your relation with Jesus Christ (well that's what I understood). Of course Christianity meets every criteria for what defines a religion. But in order to be in relationship with Jesus you must consider it as much more than that. That's what I mean.
@DudeBurnsRed "You're taking things out of their context"
No, I'm not. I'm using accepted definitions. If Christianity happens to mean more to you on a personal level fine, just don't make false statements as well. You said Christianity is not a religion when it quite clearly is. Why didn't you just say "Christainity isn't JUST a religion, it is ALSO a relationship." See how that actually makes sense?
@brainfoodlunch Bros, I think you guys are both right. Technically speaking, chrisitianity is a religion because we believe in a supernatural power. However, the way Mark uses it here puts a stereotypical context over the word, making it mean overzealous religious hypocrite.
@IDoWhatIWantTV I didn't say DudeBurnsRed was wrong, just that he's not saying what he means and in doing so made what was very much a false statement.
@brainfoodlunch But I wouldn't use the dictionnary for definitions, I,d rather build my own, I learned that in college. And one-definition words can have different meanings depending of their context, which is the case here.
@DudeBurnsRed "I wouldn't use the dictionary for definitions"
But that's what it's for. I don't know where you went to school but you can't just "build your own" definitions for words. Words have accepted meanings for a very good reason, so we can communicate efficiently. Yes, words can have multiple meanings but these will always be listed as alternate definitions or synonyms in the dictionary. "A relationship" is not mentioned in any dictionary definition of "religion."
@brainfoodlunch Sorry you are wrong here. Not every meaning of a word is listed in the dictionary. And you actually can build your own definitions. I'll tell you why I wouldn't use only the dictionary for definitions: because they can be wrong. In dictionaries before 1972 (I think it was that year I'm not sure), it said women were inferior to men.
@DudeBurnsRed "Not every meaning of a word is listed..."
Show me another example then, using a current edition dictionary.
"said women were inferior to men"
That's a good reason for not using outdated dictionaries, not much else. Definitions of words do evolve, but it is on a societal level, not individual. These changes or adaptations are then reflected in updated dict's.
@brainfoodlunch I won't read the entire dictionnary to find you examples, I don't have that much time to waste LOL. It seems like everyone else here is getting what I and Pastor Mark are saying, so I don't think my (contextual) definition of ''religion'' is really wrong.
@DudeBurnsRed You don't have to read the whole dictionary, it would only take one example to prove your point. Otherwise, you are engaging in special pleading, which is a logical fallacy and not a valid argument.
Calling a tail a leg does not make the name fit. Especially when there are already plenty of words that do a much better job of describing your contextual definition of "religion". Why not just avoid such obfuscation altogether?
@DudeBurnsRed "I,d rather build my own, I learned that in college.” --> If it was a Good collage then they would have also pointed out that you have to give the definition because of the potential for misinterpretation due to multiple meanings. Of course, just because you can build your own, doesn’t mean its going to be good or effective.
When a Christian Pastor says that Jesus’ enemy is religion and does not explain what he means by that term. People are going to think he’s a moron.
Still pushy, i never mentioned the word religion. Please mind your own beliefs and save your breathe. I rather die praying to Mother Mary and Jesus, its my choice. So save it.
@IshtarLoveGoddest salvation is in christ alone ...not religion. Its not about which religion is right because Jesus made it very clear. I am the way the truth and the life no man comes to the father but through me. John 14:6. So in other words no man can be reconciled to God (father) without going through Jesus(the son).
I'm still struggling with this question. I think I tend to be more religious but in my book that's also a sin. What is my problem is this: they say that it's all about Jesus but there are so many people who, at least it seems to me to be so, put a lot of relevance on what we do. Yes, we do things in faith and to the Glory of God but I'm really confused about some things. :/
Jesus is the only way, of course. He did everything. :)
I don't want to sound harsh but Mary cannot hear you. Ever since Mary has been in the presence of God, she has known only the glories of His presence. She doesn't know anything about you or anybody else, neither does any saint. The only one who hears prayers is God.
@IshtarLoveGoddest I believe Mr @scabw 's intention is to change your belief about Mary not hearing you. Hope you realize that she is a servant, just like you and me. He is exactly right! The only one who hears prayers is God! Not Mary, Joseph or any saint. :)
Doesn't James use the term 'religion' in a term that isn't derogatory? I understand the spirit of his comments and comments of dozens of other teachers on 'relationship versus religion.' Religion in the strictest sense of the word simply means a system of belief and rituals based on a holy book of some sort. So yes, Christianity is a religion but it's a true religion. It is also a relationship that's based on covenant.
@jalampia33 Christians can twist the Bible to say anything they want it to. In some places it says Jesus judges no one (John 8:15) while in other places it says Jesus is authorized to judge (John 5:27). Ever heard of the judgment seat of Christ? The Bible is full of contradictions. You just choose whatever suits your mood.
@derhammerman jesus is god, he has every right to not only judge but to destroy. god should have killed us all because we're sinners and the penalty of sin in death, so he would have also had authority to judge, but he loved the world so unconditionally he died for it, and would never judge his followers but with grace forgive them. thats the gospel an relationship hes talking about in the video
@jalampia33 Great! Then you disagree with Pastor Mark. He said Jesus doesn't judge. This demonstrates that Christians read whatever they want in the Bible. It's a contradiction.
@derhammerman Jesus did in fact judge. After he saved the woman from being stoned, his last words to her (which people seem to overlook) was, "go and sin no more." Jesus judged the Pharisees and the like all the time.
@derhammerman No, you are demonstrating that your attempt to grab a single line or quote from Scripture and make it stand alone, simply fails. That's like reading one sentence from a newspaper article and thinking that you understand the full message. Ludicrous.
@derhammerman No, at that time Jesus wasn't there to judge. John 5:27 is about judgement day, when we'll all stand before God. So Jesus WILL judge, but while on the Earth He wasn't there to judge
@derhammerman The judgment of the old testament: you sin, you’re judged with death. Part of God’s redemptive plan was to create a chosen people to bring about a new judgment through Christ. The OT speaks about the strengthening of God’s people to bring about JC, who is God and has a new judgment for Jew and non-Jew to be God’s. JC’s judgment: you sin and your sin is transferred to Him on the cross and you have eternal life. This is the judgment, in 5:27. Not condemnation, but redemption.
@songsofscarlet Yes, yes. I'm quite familiar with the clever word play used by Christians to tie it all together. 1) How do you know that the humans who wrote the books that helped you come up with this are accurate? 2) How can a human know the mind of a deity? 3) How is "sin" transferred? If god is so awesome, this convoluted method wouldn't be necessary. 4) Since you have insight into the mind of your god, why is all of this necessary? Tell me what he tells you in your head.
@derhammerman Now this is becoming an issue of respect. I am a Christian, but I will not be spoken to as if I am a child or that I am in some way sub-human because of my beliefs. When you can blog respectfully you will deserve an honest and concise response. Otherwise I think i'd be wasting my time engaging in this type of behavior.
@songsofscarlet Give me a break. You can't respond with a solid argument, so you complain about being mistreated. Nice way out. Feel free to email me directly if you don't like being called out.
@derhammerman NO you are a bully, there is more to life than blogging on youtube. If I do so, it is only to people who do not attack, but engage in the conversation. The discussion aside, you have serious issues especially when I see the immediacy of your disrespect to the people on this blog. Jesus may not give you life, but you need to get some sort of life because this is just sad seeing someone this interested in annoying everyone. Enjoy hiding behind your computer screen.
@songsofscarlet That's not wholly true. Sin led to captivity and loss of Jewish autonomy as well. In addition, the Christ was not synonymous with God. A Christ is an anointed one, a king. In addition, not all Jews believed in eternal life, just take a look at the Sadducees. The Jews who did believe in eternal life (Pharisees, for example) thought they received it simply because they were ethnically Jewish.
@derhammerman wrong.. Christianity is not a religion because it does not involve humanity’s attempt to reach God, but rather God’s attempt to reach humanity. Christianity is centered on a personal relationship between a creator God and His human creation. check your inbox read this article learn and be blessed. There is Christianity which is relationship and following Jesus and then there is religion. There is no salvation in religion only in Jesus
@JIX9ISLER1986 Classic response. I love it. I used to use that response when I was a minister. It's meaningless. The accepted definition for religion has nothing to do with "man reaching to god" or vice versa. It is a system of beliefs and precepts. That makes it a religion. You're trying to twist as all Christians do.
@jujumediazone Aren't you adorable? A brainwashed little Christian. I was a Southern Baptist minister once so I understand completely what it means to be a "follower of Christ"...then I woke up and realized it's made-up.
@senk3i Interesting. You can read the mind of a deity? You know everything in his head? Wow. You get everything from a book written by men. The rest is in your head. That's a mental problem.
@derhammerman "S B minister" -- uh, in a stage play, or what? What particulars helped you "realize" that it's "made up"? That all of the apostles were willing to die for Jesus and all of them did except John? If all it takes is just waking up, why do you feel a need to write about it? Hoping there might be some income in being a Bart Ehrmann groupie?
@wirlingD So if a person dies for their faith, the religion is TRUE? Wow. You just enlightened me. That makes Islam true, too. Now I'm confused. Explain, please. Also, who's Ehrman?
@wirlingD Also, child, I stated to reject Christianity because I actually studied it in the original languages and looked at the origin of Scripture while studying to be a minister. I learned under a devout Evangelical scholar. My decision was based on reason not being a "groupie". You don't understand this because your beliefs are tied to cult of personality rather than facts.
@StormTrek First sane question yet. I can go into a long explanation, but here's the simple version. The Bible is written by humans that cannot know the mind of a deity. There is NOTHING to validate or verify what they have to say about the supernatural. It's all based on FAITH in the WORDS OF HUMANS and nothing more.
@derhammerman That's all true. Well, at least it's true in the way I think you are thinking. However, in a strictly historical sense, there were Jews who believed certain things who started believing other things then told us why they changed their minds. Therefore, Christianity seems to be less knowledge based than event based. The apostles were trying to reconcile their Jewishness with their observations.
@StormTrek We can't speak in generalities about Christianity. It all depends on whose particular brand of Christianity. There ARE those who base it on personal events in their lives or in events as told by others. There are those who base it on feelings. There are those who base it on knowledge. Fact is supernatural events cannot be verified and that's the crux for me.
@derhammerman Not only are there no verifiable supernatural events, further, supernatural claims are commonly proved false. Nevertheless, something keeps the laws of nature woking consistently over time -- otherwise scientific methodology would be a bust. In that strict sense, we can say the supernatural does exist.
@StormTrek No offense, but that's argumentum ad ignorantiam--a fallacy. You're essentially saying "I don't know therefore supernatural." That's NOT an argument FOR something.
@derhammerman I'm not sure I can agree with you on this one. We know the laws of nature are consistent over time as well as we can possibly know anything. The laws of nature are no more physical than the laws of mathematics. Therefore, to affirm that the non-physical exists and has a real effect on the physical is not an argument from ignorance.
@derhammerman These kinds of responses are a little dated my friend. Don't you know, it all depends on who's doing your "brainwashing." Come on, you sound like a seventh grader. You need a better 'current' argument than that my friend.
@jujumediazone Actually, I don't know what we're arguing about. This post has to do with whether Christianity is a religion or not. I demonstrated it is. So, if you have something you'd like me to answer ask a question.
@derhammerman this is the oldest post i have seen so far. in your replies to me so far, you have named no particulars as I asked. a generalization is no arguement. "waking up" and "realizing" don't help me with particulars to understand what your reasons are. I also jumped through the hoops of biblical languages. There are some jumped over distinctions in your responses to me. One is between belief and faith.
@derhammerman Everyone believes something. Some things we believe are true and some are false. _Faith_ is a gift of God, which focuses on things Jesus did and who Jesus is, allowing one to believe things about God's interaction with people, namely that Jesus was indeed the God-Man and that He died in our place for our sins on the cross and rose from the dead to put a seal of authenticity on His work. There were lots of witnesses to this. Their willingness to die is significant,
@derhammerman the significance is not that they believed and were "martyred" against the evidence, but their confidence in what they had experienced and seen was so compelling that they would rather die than deny the work of God (1 John 1).
@derhammerman i'm a 58 yr. old and not at all brainwashed. According to scripture if you "completely" understood being a follower of Christ, you still would be. But it isn't just a matter of understanding. That's something Finney got really wrong and which radically contaminated "evangelism" and much of the English-speaking "Christian" scene over the course of the last near 200 yrs. It's not about you. It's about God.
I'm 17 years old and in my life I've saved one of my friends from committing suicide, saved my 3 year old neighbor from getting hit by a car, and saved my mom one night when she went into a full code (No heart beat, no breathing). That's three lives I have saved at 17 years of age. Despite that, there are still people who think, simply because I don't believe in god, that I am going to hell.. I don't believe that. I believe that it is better to be a good person because you WANT to be..
SlyKatieIsSly 1 month ago
@SlyKatieIsSly I'm a Christian and it is NOT ok to tell people they're going to hell, so I just wanted to apologize to you on behalf of my less polished brethren. As a Christian it can be hard sometimes to share the Good News with other people without sounding condemnatory. One of the Great things about God is that He gives everyone complete freedom to choose between life or death, and it's not anyones place to choose for you.
EternalAngel7 1 week ago
@SlyKatieIsSly What those certain people should have told you is this: Humanity chose a long time ago to sin. God is not responsible for the mess the world is in right now, we are. As a result of that choice, every generation after was born into sin, hence, every single one of us are sinners. We can't do anything about being sinful, we can be better in some areas and worse in others, but never sin-free. Because of this, we need a savior to cover our sin, and that savior is Jesus.
EternalAngel7 1 week ago
@SlyKatieIsSly Jesus told us that if we don't believe in Him as our savior and accept His covering of our sin, we can't be made eternal. Not as punishment, but because something sinful can't be eternal. Anyway, theres a lot more to say and I thought I'd be able to put all this in one comment but apparently not...I'll stop here. I don't know you but I care for you as a person and I hope you at least choose to learn a little more about what I was saying. It's at least worth a look.
EternalAngel7 1 week ago
@EternalAngel7 First of all, THANK YOU for being so decent about this, that means a lot. Maybe I will look more into it, I am only 17 so, you know, I still have a lot of time to make mistakes and to grow as a person and such. :) Thank you again for being so nice about this.
SlyKatieIsSly 1 week ago
I don't go to church as I find it hard to find an honest Bible believing church. I belive in Jesus with every fiber of my being. I love Him whole heartedly. I think fellowship is a good thing,so the idea of church is good in terms of fellowship with other believers. I get more however from a small Bible study in a home or even outside in a park. The truth is, JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY. You don't have to belong to a church.
TheJrine73 1 month ago
@TheJrine73 Church doesn't automatically mean "RELIGION" though. We should gather among other believers to glorify His name and what He has done!
EPTechCompany 1 month ago
@TheJrine73 And yet, the concept of "Jesus" (in his modern form) only exists because of Christianity. You know...those people who went on to build churches for themselves.
And let's not forget that the Christians took Jesus' attributes from the Egyptian mythological character of Horus.
So that's TWO ways in which you're directly contradicting yourself. Also two reasons why your religious beliefs are nonsensical.
Certainly something to think about.
SeedsOfHatred 4 weeks ago
religion is a enemy of jesus? who introduced you to Jesus in the first place?. Maby its just your religion but there are Religions out there that do opposite to what your saying infact they would watch this and not be offended but instead just love you and have nothing to say to because to them your a brother in christ. the lowest of the low are who these religions are targeting to help. whats the use of us being on earth anyway?
dfjbvkfd 1 month ago
I do not agree with his logic on religion. Your judging religion as a whole group? arent we individuals. in the end God doesnt judge you in groups he'll judge you as individuals. Judging in the first place is a sin. and you say Religion judges and you dont? are you perfect to make such a bold statement?are all religious people going to hell? in the bible it says the foolish think they know everything. the wise still have much to learn in proverbs. be humble.
dfjbvkfd 1 month ago
@dfjbvkfd i beleive that the religion most people think of when they think christian is the one he's talking about and well I think he's saying that jesus\ wasn't religiouns by the standards of ouor 'christian and chatholic churche; and he definitley wasn't religious by anyyy other religions standards. so I'd allmost say you kind of missed the point but at the same time not. I don't know sorry :/
littlelilisayuri 1 month ago
@dfjbvkfd You're judging him to be illogical and incorrect.
By your own logic, you have just sinned.
"in the bible it says the foolish think they know everything"
Charles Manson said something similar about traditional society while he was brianwashing HIS followers as well.
SeedsOfHatred 4 weeks ago
@SeedsOfHatred @SeedsOfHatred Lmao . my Logic? I have no Logic. The Bible is the only logic. Everything i said was bible based. What he saying is what "he" thinks. He judged people in Groups. But in the End your group doesnt take you to heaven. I know nothing. I just follow orders and those orders are from a higher being Sent through a bible. lol by the way i did not judge him. If someone taught something about christ wrong is it okay if it contradicts the bible? .
dfjbvkfd 2 weeks ago
Why does he have two microphones?
D3VYN131 1 month ago
@D3VYN131 I think one is for the speakers and the other is for the camera
rwleif 1 month ago
@D3VYN131 The headset mic stopped working early in the sermon. If you watch the whole sermon you see that happen. It isn't easy to just take it off since the wire runs down the back of his shirt or jacket, so he picked up a hand held.
jroy777 1 month ago
Isaiah 9:6-7 For unto us a child is born,unto us a son is given:and the government shall be upon his shoulder:and his name shall be called Wonderful,Counsellor,The mighty God,The everlasting Father,The Prince of Peace.Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end,upon the throne of David,and upon his kingdom,to order it,and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever.The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
road2apples 2 months ago
Sin is as old as humanity and existed before religion. All religions has it's roots in paganism, nominal christianity is no exception. But I disagree that Jesus has enemies, Jesus destroyed sin and his enemies on the cross, took death captive and holds the keys, threw off the chains and rose from the grave. Jesus has no enemies, But it would be more correct to say that Sin is the enemy of the Army of God the Bride of Christ. Saying Jesus has enemies, inSINuates the Cross failed
noelpattern 2 months ago
This guy is the biggest idiot I`ve ever come across.
Please read my previous comment explaining why.
HannaTheMovieFTW 2 months ago
Wait...so now when a religious person sins it's considered their religion. This guy is isn't think about what he is saying, sin is sin no matter who does it. When you keep track of all you good deeds, or think your better than someone, or boast of being a great person there are all sins no matter who is doing them. All religion is, is a guild to being a good person how could that be an enemy of Jesus?
HannaTheMovieFTW 2 months ago
@HannaTheMovieFTW No, no, no, slow down horsie! Lol. When you are practicing routines in order to get into heaven, this is not what Jesus wanted us to do. He often scolded the Pharisees for this. Pharisees often thought they were holier than thou because the often tithed a lot of money, followed all of the traditions and religious activities. And lastly, they wanted others to see how "religious" they appeared. That's what Jesus spoke against. Enemy #1 of Jesus.
jujumediazone 2 months ago
@HannaTheMovieFTW Enemy #2 was sin. When we sin, Jesus grieves because we have stepped away from him during our moment of sin. When we sin, it means that we have submitted to the enemy (Satan). When we flee from this sin, turn from it, it causes the Enemy to flee himself. We can only do this turning from sin when go to Jesus for help to avoid it. But we are not permanently and spiritually etched by that sin. When the focus is off sin and on how much we do, then it's futile.
jujumediazone 2 months ago
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HannaTheMovieFTW 2 months ago
very eye-openining
Smiilez03 2 months ago
it's funny that he says sin and religion yet he's a calvinist.
dutchmcgee101 2 months ago
Westboro Baptist Church needs to hear this
0311cowboy 2 months ago
AMEN
vikakond 2 months ago
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StormTrek 2 months ago
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StormTrek 2 months ago
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StormTrek 2 months ago
@cartoune Except, some of the canonized documents are probably not credible (see the debate surrounding the undisputed letters of Paul). The truth is we have better data and methodology available to us today than the men who canonized the NT did. I'm not putting them down, just saying they didn't have our tools.
StormTrek 2 months ago
@StormTrek Hmm interesting. Can u send a link to some of the documentation?
I'm not going to say anything to either side, as I'm not in the know in this here scenario, but the Bible's been under fire since it was canonized. There's been attacks of historical references in it that there was no evidence of, only to have solid affirmative evidence unearthed later. Others claimed that there were numerous assertions in the Bible that were incompatible with other assertions, only to be proved
cartoune 2 months ago
@StormTrek
wrong. Keep in mind every scholar in history is on the very modern paramount of technology and methodology. I'm not saying that that makes this debate about Paul's letters wrong, I'm just saying, the fact that there's debate doesn't make them right either. This isn't the first time there are astounding finds that could challenge the validity of the Scriptures, and not the first time they were proven wrong.
Also, in order to compete with the enormous amount of internal and
cartoune 2 months ago
@StormTrek external reaffirmation that the Bible has, the people who challenge the validity of the Bible will need a LOT more evidence.
Also, the fundamentals of Christianity are addressed in the Gospels, not Paul's letters.
cartoune 2 months ago
@cartoune You can google the phrase "undisputed letters of Paul". But for a better overall survey of the NT and the gospels, you can try iTunesU. Take a look at Dale Martin's series in the Open Yale courses. Though, you won't enjoy Sunday services as much if you watch it. Not because you'll think Christianity is false, but because you'll be annoyed at your pastor for constantly feeding everyone baby food.
StormTrek 2 months ago
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@derhammerman
or personally. Nor, any modern events that you weren't there for personally. Or any scientific findings that you haven't personally demonstrated yourself.
And if that's the case, then you have no reason to believe yourself, as you can't personally demonstrate the Jesus didn't walk on water or rise from the dead.
cartoune 2 months ago
@derhammerman
Ad Ignoratium cuts both ways. The fact that you can't prove in entirety that God didn't perform supernatural events is not testimony to his existence, true. The fact that you can't prove God did perform supernatural events, likewise, is not testimony to his non-existence.
Furthermore, the fact that the crux of the matter for you is your claim that people only have faith in the accounts of other people just translates that you built your foundation on faulty
cartoune 2 months ago
can anyone really use logic to understand God and all his wisdom? I think the only way to assume anything or believe anything is to pray and ask in faith if anything is true, so if you pray and ask in faith with an open heart if something is true, it will be given unto you and the holy spirit will teach you beyond reasoning, I can testify of that and of gods power and how he speaks to us, I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is a true church and I ask you only seek and pray
Natetuft 2 months ago
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unfortunately religion is and has been used as a way to fuel propaganda condemning other peoples systems of belief. just keep it to yourself. if you want to be nice to people and be a good samaritan, do so; let people learn what you believe through actions, not empty words. many "christians" (and other religions) i have met have turned out to act completely opposite of what is prescribed by their "religion". people tend to "believe" for convenience rather than actually believing.
theadambudd 2 months ago
@theadambudd I think your comment is right in line with what Mr. Driscol is saying here. Actions speak louder than words. Empty religion that has an internal belief that does not show consistency in action is hypocritical and Driscol seems to be saying that this is Jesus' enemy. Gotta agree with you there.
fireballharry 2 months ago
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theadambudd 2 months ago
The Jews didn't kill Jesus because of their religion. Jews thought they were right with God simply because they were born to Jewish mothers (a matter of ethnicity). Therefore, they wouldn't be offended if Jesus taught salvation came through grace. In addition, they had a completely different concept of salvation than what is taught in Christian churches. Salvation, for them, was political; a Jewish kingdom rather than Roman occupation.
StormTrek 2 months ago
@JollyGreenGiantCock +1 to you being stupid
senk3i 2 months ago
quit fighting cuz Christ loves all of us!
jalampia33 2 months ago
Jesus condemned and emotionally hurt them... thats part of repentence realizing your an undeserving sinner and how bad that sin is and the by the Grace of God He'll open your heart and save you....
andresgquezada 2 months ago
God hates sin yes, but Christianity IS a religion (the only TRUE religion) stop dogging on it, what's wrong is that the people ONLY have a religion and not Christ is wrong!!! You really need to read James 1:26-27... James explains it there... don't take it out of context
andresgquezada 2 months ago
@andresgquezada Christianity isn't a religion, it's a relationship.
DudeBurnsRed 2 months ago 9
@DudeBurnsRed Why do Christians use this bumper sticker slogan? Your *religion* is about going to heaven because you think you are "saved' through adoption. Jews think they are going to an afterlife paradise because they think they are the children of God. If Christianity isn't a religion because it's relationship based then neither is Judaism.
StormTrek 2 months ago
@DudeBurnsRed did you read James 1:26-27? It is completely unbiblical to say that Christianity is not a religion, please show me Scripture that says that... the real difference that sets us apart is that we have Christ, a relationship with Christ, religion is fine, that's not the problem its like how James says in the verses above that it must be pure and undefiled and you cant have a religion that deceives the heart, which is every religion in the world besides Christianity.
andresgquezada 2 months ago
@DudeBurnsRed Christianity meets every criteria for what defines a religion. You worship a deity that you believe created the universe. You have a holy book, doctrine and moral codes. You have ceremonies and rituals. If you look up the word "Religion" in the dictionary, "Christianity" is even given as an example. It is a religion. To say otherwise is simply denying basic facts and disingenuous. Say what you will about what Christianity means to you, it is still ALSO very much a religion.
brainfoodlunch 2 months ago
@brainfoodlunch You're taking things out of their context. ''Religion'' here means blindly following religious institutions instead of personally developing your relation with Jesus Christ (well that's what I understood). Of course Christianity meets every criteria for what defines a religion. But in order to be in relationship with Jesus you must consider it as much more than that. That's what I mean.
DudeBurnsRed 2 months ago
@DudeBurnsRed "You're taking things out of their context"
No, I'm not. I'm using accepted definitions. If Christianity happens to mean more to you on a personal level fine, just don't make false statements as well. You said Christianity is not a religion when it quite clearly is. Why didn't you just say "Christainity isn't JUST a religion, it is ALSO a relationship." See how that actually makes sense?
brainfoodlunch 2 months ago
@brainfoodlunch Bros, I think you guys are both right. Technically speaking, chrisitianity is a religion because we believe in a supernatural power. However, the way Mark uses it here puts a stereotypical context over the word, making it mean overzealous religious hypocrite.
IDoWhatIWantTV 2 months ago
@IDoWhatIWantTV I didn't say DudeBurnsRed was wrong, just that he's not saying what he means and in doing so made what was very much a false statement.
brainfoodlunch 2 months ago
@brainfoodlunch *actually I should say "he DIDN'T say what he meant" since he has now explained the comment.
brainfoodlunch 2 months ago
@brainfoodlunch Yeah, maybe I should say it like that, you're right.
DudeBurnsRed 2 months ago
@brainfoodlunch But I wouldn't use the dictionnary for definitions, I,d rather build my own, I learned that in college. And one-definition words can have different meanings depending of their context, which is the case here.
DudeBurnsRed 2 months ago
@DudeBurnsRed "I wouldn't use the dictionary for definitions"
But that's what it's for. I don't know where you went to school but you can't just "build your own" definitions for words. Words have accepted meanings for a very good reason, so we can communicate efficiently. Yes, words can have multiple meanings but these will always be listed as alternate definitions or synonyms in the dictionary. "A relationship" is not mentioned in any dictionary definition of "religion."
brainfoodlunch 2 months ago
@brainfoodlunch Sorry you are wrong here. Not every meaning of a word is listed in the dictionary. And you actually can build your own definitions. I'll tell you why I wouldn't use only the dictionary for definitions: because they can be wrong. In dictionaries before 1972 (I think it was that year I'm not sure), it said women were inferior to men.
DudeBurnsRed 2 months ago
@DudeBurnsRed "Not every meaning of a word is listed..."
Show me another example then, using a current edition dictionary.
"said women were inferior to men"
That's a good reason for not using outdated dictionaries, not much else. Definitions of words do evolve, but it is on a societal level, not individual. These changes or adaptations are then reflected in updated dict's.
brainfoodlunch 2 months ago
@brainfoodlunch I won't read the entire dictionnary to find you examples, I don't have that much time to waste LOL. It seems like everyone else here is getting what I and Pastor Mark are saying, so I don't think my (contextual) definition of ''religion'' is really wrong.
DudeBurnsRed 2 months ago
@DudeBurnsRed You don't have to read the whole dictionary, it would only take one example to prove your point. Otherwise, you are engaging in special pleading, which is a logical fallacy and not a valid argument.
Calling a tail a leg does not make the name fit. Especially when there are already plenty of words that do a much better job of describing your contextual definition of "religion". Why not just avoid such obfuscation altogether?
btw, dictionary only has one N
brainfoodlunch 2 months ago
@DudeBurnsRed "I,d rather build my own, I learned that in college.” --> If it was a Good collage then they would have also pointed out that you have to give the definition because of the potential for misinterpretation due to multiple meanings. Of course, just because you can build your own, doesn’t mean its going to be good or effective.
When a Christian Pastor says that Jesus’ enemy is religion and does not explain what he means by that term. People are going to think he’s a moron.
BaneOfAzrael 2 months ago
@andresgquezada Jesus makes fun of guys like you on the bible, Its the only way to deal with Religious people. Pure Jesus comedy
Kintizen 2 months ago
it's my sin that lead JESUS to willingly die on the cross... thou it was the Religious who nailed HIM there!
slightlystrombeck 2 months ago
Still pushy, i never mentioned the word religion. Please mind your own beliefs and save your breathe. I rather die praying to Mother Mary and Jesus, its my choice. So save it.
IshtarLoveGoddest 2 months ago
I am out of here, you guys are too pushy and attacking, just mind your own, and respect one another's beliefs.
IshtarLoveGoddest 2 months ago
@IshtarLoveGoddest salvation is in christ alone ...not religion. Its not about which religion is right because Jesus made it very clear. I am the way the truth and the life no man comes to the father but through me. John 14:6. So in other words no man can be reconciled to God (father) without going through Jesus(the son).
JIX9ISLER1986 2 months ago
@JIX9ISLER1986 I agree with your comment to IshtarLoveGoddest
RavenclawRedhead 2 months ago
@IshtarLoveGoddest we don't mean to disrespect you at all :) but hopefully you understand what we were saying! :D pentecostal Christian here :D
piccicacca 2 months ago
@piccicacca can you please drop it, i do understand you, but I dont have to follow your thinking and beliefs. So again show some respect.
IshtarLoveGoddest 2 months ago
I'm still struggling with this question. I think I tend to be more religious but in my book that's also a sin. What is my problem is this: they say that it's all about Jesus but there are so many people who, at least it seems to me to be so, put a lot of relevance on what we do. Yes, we do things in faith and to the Glory of God but I'm really confused about some things. :/
Jesus is the only way, of course. He did everything. :)
BritneyAddicted4EVA 2 months ago
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IshtarLoveGoddest 2 months ago
@IshtarLoveGoddest
I don't want to sound harsh but Mary cannot hear you. Ever since Mary has been in the presence of God, she has known only the glories of His presence. She doesn't know anything about you or anybody else, neither does any saint. The only one who hears prayers is God.
scabw 2 months ago 6
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IshtarLoveGoddest 2 months ago
@IshtarLoveGoddest I believe Mr @scabw 's intention is to change your belief about Mary not hearing you. Hope you realize that she is a servant, just like you and me. He is exactly right! The only one who hears prayers is God! Not Mary, Joseph or any saint. :)
piccicacca 2 months ago
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IshtarLoveGoddest 2 months ago
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IshtarLoveGoddest 2 months ago
Doesn't James use the term 'religion' in a term that isn't derogatory? I understand the spirit of his comments and comments of dozens of other teachers on 'relationship versus religion.' Religion in the strictest sense of the word simply means a system of belief and rituals based on a holy book of some sort. So yes, Christianity is a religion but it's a true religion. It is also a relationship that's based on covenant.
WarriorProphet1 2 months ago
That's funny, because Christianity is a religion. Jesus judges people so it's a religion.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman but jesus never did that. and through him u can have a relationship wiht god through chirst
jalampia33 2 months ago
@jalampia33 Christians can twist the Bible to say anything they want it to. In some places it says Jesus judges no one (John 8:15) while in other places it says Jesus is authorized to judge (John 5:27). Ever heard of the judgment seat of Christ? The Bible is full of contradictions. You just choose whatever suits your mood.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman jesus is god, he has every right to not only judge but to destroy. god should have killed us all because we're sinners and the penalty of sin in death, so he would have also had authority to judge, but he loved the world so unconditionally he died for it, and would never judge his followers but with grace forgive them. thats the gospel an relationship hes talking about in the video
jalampia33 2 months ago
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derhammerman 2 months ago
@jalampia33 Great! Then you disagree with Pastor Mark. He said Jesus doesn't judge. This demonstrates that Christians read whatever they want in the Bible. It's a contradiction.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman Jesus did in fact judge. After he saved the woman from being stoned, his last words to her (which people seem to overlook) was, "go and sin no more." Jesus judged the Pharisees and the like all the time.
jujumediazone 2 months ago
@derhammerman You've taken John 8:15 way out of context there
Knoxie00 2 months ago
@Knoxie00 So Jesus DOES judge? Pastor Mark is wrong? You're demonstrating the ridiculous contradictions in the Bible.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman Jesus is the judge... derp
bretlynn 2 months ago
@bretlynn And that's correct and we are to live our lives as Jesus did, helping guide people with truth so that they might be saved.
jujumediazone 2 months ago
@derhammerman No, you are demonstrating that your attempt to grab a single line or quote from Scripture and make it stand alone, simply fails. That's like reading one sentence from a newspaper article and thinking that you understand the full message. Ludicrous.
jujumediazone 2 months ago
@derhammerman No, at that time Jesus wasn't there to judge. John 5:27 is about judgement day, when we'll all stand before God. So Jesus WILL judge, but while on the Earth He wasn't there to judge
Knoxie00 2 months ago
@derhammerman The judgment of the old testament: you sin, you’re judged with death. Part of God’s redemptive plan was to create a chosen people to bring about a new judgment through Christ. The OT speaks about the strengthening of God’s people to bring about JC, who is God and has a new judgment for Jew and non-Jew to be God’s. JC’s judgment: you sin and your sin is transferred to Him on the cross and you have eternal life. This is the judgment, in 5:27. Not condemnation, but redemption.
songsofscarlet 2 months ago
@songsofscarlet Yes, yes. I'm quite familiar with the clever word play used by Christians to tie it all together. 1) How do you know that the humans who wrote the books that helped you come up with this are accurate? 2) How can a human know the mind of a deity? 3) How is "sin" transferred? If god is so awesome, this convoluted method wouldn't be necessary. 4) Since you have insight into the mind of your god, why is all of this necessary? Tell me what he tells you in your head.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman Now this is becoming an issue of respect. I am a Christian, but I will not be spoken to as if I am a child or that I am in some way sub-human because of my beliefs. When you can blog respectfully you will deserve an honest and concise response. Otherwise I think i'd be wasting my time engaging in this type of behavior.
songsofscarlet 2 months ago
@songsofscarlet Give me a break. You can't respond with a solid argument, so you complain about being mistreated. Nice way out. Feel free to email me directly if you don't like being called out.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman NO you are a bully, there is more to life than blogging on youtube. If I do so, it is only to people who do not attack, but engage in the conversation. The discussion aside, you have serious issues especially when I see the immediacy of your disrespect to the people on this blog. Jesus may not give you life, but you need to get some sort of life because this is just sad seeing someone this interested in annoying everyone. Enjoy hiding behind your computer screen.
songsofscarlet 2 months ago
@songsofscarlet That's not wholly true. Sin led to captivity and loss of Jewish autonomy as well. In addition, the Christ was not synonymous with God. A Christ is an anointed one, a king. In addition, not all Jews believed in eternal life, just take a look at the Sadducees. The Jews who did believe in eternal life (Pharisees, for example) thought they received it simply because they were ethnically Jewish.
StormTrek 2 months ago
@derhammerman wrong.. Christianity is not a religion because it does not involve humanity’s attempt to reach God, but rather God’s attempt to reach humanity. Christianity is centered on a personal relationship between a creator God and His human creation. check your inbox read this article learn and be blessed. There is Christianity which is relationship and following Jesus and then there is religion. There is no salvation in religion only in Jesus
JIX9ISLER1986 2 months ago
@JIX9ISLER1986 Classic response. I love it. I used to use that response when I was a minister. It's meaningless. The accepted definition for religion has nothing to do with "man reaching to god" or vice versa. It is a system of beliefs and precepts. That makes it a religion. You're trying to twist as all Christians do.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman nope i dont twist anything i have faith not religion
JIX9ISLER1986 2 months ago
@derhammerman You apparently do not understand being a believer and follower of Jesus.
jujumediazone 2 months ago
@jujumediazone Aren't you adorable? A brainwashed little Christian. I was a Southern Baptist minister once so I understand completely what it means to be a "follower of Christ"...then I woke up and realized it's made-up.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman haha, or so you think you understand completely not-so-adorable-little-goat
senk3i 2 months ago
@senk3i Interesting. You can read the mind of a deity? You know everything in his head? Wow. You get everything from a book written by men. The rest is in your head. That's a mental problem.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman "S B minister" -- uh, in a stage play, or what? What particulars helped you "realize" that it's "made up"? That all of the apostles were willing to die for Jesus and all of them did except John? If all it takes is just waking up, why do you feel a need to write about it? Hoping there might be some income in being a Bart Ehrmann groupie?
wirlingD 2 months ago
@wirlingD So if a person dies for their faith, the religion is TRUE? Wow. You just enlightened me. That makes Islam true, too. Now I'm confused. Explain, please. Also, who's Ehrman?
derhammerman 2 months ago
@wirlingD Also, child, I stated to reject Christianity because I actually studied it in the original languages and looked at the origin of Scripture while studying to be a minister. I learned under a devout Evangelical scholar. My decision was based on reason not being a "groupie". You don't understand this because your beliefs are tied to cult of personality rather than facts.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman What's the reason you reject Christianity?
StormTrek 2 months ago
@StormTrek First sane question yet. I can go into a long explanation, but here's the simple version. The Bible is written by humans that cannot know the mind of a deity. There is NOTHING to validate or verify what they have to say about the supernatural. It's all based on FAITH in the WORDS OF HUMANS and nothing more.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman every religion is based on faith, that's the very nature of the beast. it's not just christianity that is in that situation.
theadambudd 2 months ago
@derhammerman That's all true. Well, at least it's true in the way I think you are thinking. However, in a strictly historical sense, there were Jews who believed certain things who started believing other things then told us why they changed their minds. Therefore, Christianity seems to be less knowledge based than event based. The apostles were trying to reconcile their Jewishness with their observations.
StormTrek 2 months ago
@StormTrek We can't speak in generalities about Christianity. It all depends on whose particular brand of Christianity. There ARE those who base it on personal events in their lives or in events as told by others. There are those who base it on feelings. There are those who base it on knowledge. Fact is supernatural events cannot be verified and that's the crux for me.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman Not only are there no verifiable supernatural events, further, supernatural claims are commonly proved false. Nevertheless, something keeps the laws of nature woking consistently over time -- otherwise scientific methodology would be a bust. In that strict sense, we can say the supernatural does exist.
StormTrek 2 months ago
@StormTrek No offense, but that's argumentum ad ignorantiam--a fallacy. You're essentially saying "I don't know therefore supernatural." That's NOT an argument FOR something.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman I'm not sure I can agree with you on this one. We know the laws of nature are consistent over time as well as we can possibly know anything. The laws of nature are no more physical than the laws of mathematics. Therefore, to affirm that the non-physical exists and has a real effect on the physical is not an argument from ignorance.
StormTrek 2 months ago
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cartoune 2 months ago
@derhammerman These kinds of responses are a little dated my friend. Don't you know, it all depends on who's doing your "brainwashing." Come on, you sound like a seventh grader. You need a better 'current' argument than that my friend.
jujumediazone 2 months ago
@jujumediazone Actually, I don't know what we're arguing about. This post has to do with whether Christianity is a religion or not. I demonstrated it is. So, if you have something you'd like me to answer ask a question.
derhammerman 2 months ago
@derhammerman this is the oldest post i have seen so far. in your replies to me so far, you have named no particulars as I asked. a generalization is no arguement. "waking up" and "realizing" don't help me with particulars to understand what your reasons are. I also jumped through the hoops of biblical languages. There are some jumped over distinctions in your responses to me. One is between belief and faith.
wirlingD 2 months ago
@derhammerman Everyone believes something. Some things we believe are true and some are false. _Faith_ is a gift of God, which focuses on things Jesus did and who Jesus is, allowing one to believe things about God's interaction with people, namely that Jesus was indeed the God-Man and that He died in our place for our sins on the cross and rose from the dead to put a seal of authenticity on His work. There were lots of witnesses to this. Their willingness to die is significant,
wirlingD 2 months ago
@derhammerman the significance is not that they believed and were "martyred" against the evidence, but their confidence in what they had experienced and seen was so compelling that they would rather die than deny the work of God (1 John 1).
wirlingD 2 months ago
@derhammerman i'm a 58 yr. old and not at all brainwashed. According to scripture if you "completely" understood being a follower of Christ, you still would be. But it isn't just a matter of understanding. That's something Finney got really wrong and which radically contaminated "evangelism" and much of the English-speaking "Christian" scene over the course of the last near 200 yrs. It's not about you. It's about God.
wirlingD 2 months ago
Second the best, dude. @themoshman1
Gzusfreakk 2 months ago
first
THEMOSHMAN1 2 months ago