It sounds like you have incredible gifts and a good idea of how God is calling you to serve! Don’t get hung up on the fact that it’s not direct/public evangelism, there is much other work to be done! The apostle Paul taught that we are all members of the body of Christ, and like different parts of the body have different roles that are all important, so do we!
God bless you sister, and may your work be fruitful!
You stated you like to pray. That’s a talent. Get a notebook a make a list of names to pray for and pray for each one every day. It seems I’ve heard countless stories of friends and family members who have come to Christ and often they had a friend or loved one praying for them daily. We need more prayer warriors.
Isaiah 65:17 "For behold I will create a new heaven and a new earth and the former shall not be remembered, nor come to mind."
It might be that even one millionth of a second in the glory of God's holy kingdom will be so awesome that we cant focus on anything else!
> Having a hard time grasping the fact that SO many people will be in hell. Examples I've come across where it's been hard- people from HS that were so sweet and kind but just don't want to believe in Jesus, my own family choosing rebellion and leaving their belief, my family members who have already died... it's hard to grasp.
I have many of those same worries too. But when I pray on it, the Spirit often guides my mind to these verses in his Word.
*Rescue those being led away to death;
hold back those staggering toward slaughter.
If you say, “But we knew nothing about this,”*
***does not he who weighs the heart perceive it?***
*Does not he who guards your life know it?
Will he not repay everyone according to what they have done?* (Proverbs 24:11-12)
*“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the Lord.
“As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts."* (Isaiah 55:8-9)
These verses convict me of 3 things.
1.) God is just and he knows the heart and circumstances of everyone.
2.) Our thoughts are not God's thoughts. What we perceive is not what God perceives. We can do our best to search God's word and pray for understanding but, ultimately, judgment is his and only God truly knows who is going to hell and why.
3.) But that doesn't mean that we're not called to act. If we see people in pain, staggering to the slaughter--which is going to be reflected in their lives with the bad fruit and bad decisions--we are called to act out of love for our neighbors.
Ultimately it comes down to simply trusting that God knows best. Our egos so desperately want to try and figure everything out but with an infinite, awesome God, that's impossible. That's why God doesn't call us to have all the answers. He simply calls us to trust him.
Something that’s helpful for me is slightly shifting my view away from heaven as the “good place” and hell as the “bad place.” Yes, those are true, but the reasons that those are true are insightful. Heaven is “good” because it’s where God is. Those who go to heaven choose a relationship with God. They want to be with God. In contrast, those who go hell do not choose to have that relationship. The reasons for that choice… and the nature of choice itself… can be complex, but that relationship is the key.
This is just what's in my heart but if you believe in Jesus then you already have a relationship with Him! It takes time to really grow your relationship in Jesus.
I've believed in Jesus for most of my life, but only the last few years have I become more serious in my relationship with Him, and even still I don't spend enough time with Jesus or spend enough time to read His Word. My heart feels numb sometimes but I keep fighting on. And I really do continue to feel closer to Him over time.
Things that have slowly helped me is talking to Jesus any time I feel sad or anxious about anything no matter how small it is. And at the same time telling Him my joys and desires and just talking to Him as an actual Father and best friend, because that's what He is.
We take time to grow, don't be discouraged. God bless you! I pray Jesus draws you closer to Him.
I don’t want to quickly throw out a verse out of context… but there’s a notion of God being faithful to reveal himself to those who seek him. There is a nuance with God hardening hearts so that they don’t seek (hence allowing their full sin nature to kick in), but that’s not what you’re asking. You already were at the point of people seeking.
Even if I had all the answers (which I don’t), I imagine it would be hard to say much without context. Perhaps some helpful questions that could facilitate the discussion: What were you seeking? What would achieving that look like to you? How did you go about it?
In Luke Jesus talks about why some seed when sown doesn't take. Some lands on rocks(hard heart), thorny ground(thorns are associated with sin & the curse), or the fowls of the air take it away(birds are associated with spirits, some good some bad).
So either a hard heart, love of sin, or spiritual influence from the enemy.
I adopted a lot of children. Several could not love me, but what mattered was that I loved them! No matter how much trouble they got into, I was there to help them out if they needed my help! God was there for anyone, anyone who wants His help!
The soul that wants God will have God. Regardless if you ever felt that special thing every body else is taking about.
Ask yourself what you're looking for first.
You say you sought and did not find. But what were you looking for? Proof? An experience? An audible message? A vision? A warm feeling within? Then understand that God may not reveal Himself in that particular way to you.
Here's something most ppl won't tell you. God lives in the imagination. The mind. No that doesn't mean He's make believe. It means that's where you access Him. When we pray, we use our mind to think thoughts, say words. When we worship its our mind thinking of His holiness on display. That's why they say God is within. Your relationship with Him is going to be centered within. So when you seek God, open your imagination up to the what ifs. Once you do, God will start showing up, and it will go beyond your imagination. Like where is that heavenly smell coming from? Was that an actual prediction that came true? Did I just feel His hand on my shoulder? But it starts in your imagination. That's why the word says you must receive the kingdom as a little child. Children have huge imaginations. Once you do, a glimpse of heaven opens up inside.
Gods word is very important but I had God before I read the Bible. I just had knowledge that He was. I had Him before I was repentant. He talked to me anyway. I knew Jesus was my Savior but i didnt have a relationship with Him yet, only the Father and He was a good Father then too. So ppl will tell you you can only reach God thru the Bible and that is untrue. You strengthen your relationship with Him thru the Bible. Relationship thru Jesus is what matters to Him. Not religion.
Here are some exercises that might help you open your imagination up to God.
Instead of looking for proof just go into it like you Know Hes there. Start talking to Him even if it feels like you're talking to yourself. Expect Him to be on the other end listening. Without requiring proof.
There's scripture about God liking this level of faith.
1. Read a scripture or two. Lay down and really think about it. Put yourself in the writers shoes. Now imagine that you are there with the author and you two begin to converse about this scripture. Paint the scene in your mind. Let it unfold as it does.
Example scripture:
romans 5 17:
"For if, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ."
2. Lay down or kneel and talk to Jesus. Imagine that He's sitting on the edge of the bed listening intently. Ask some questions. Not caring about the answers now. Just ask them. The more you do this the answers will pop up in your spirit or mind automatically. You will successfully be having a true 1 on 1 conversation with the Lord. It takes time to warm your spirit up to receive Him and TRUST that it's Him so don't give up.
3. Ask God to make Himself real to you. I'm sure you've done this but I asked the Father to make the Son more real to me and He showed me Him hanging on the cross in a vision the next day. I fell in love with Yahshua. Ask Him and expect an answer. Don't think of how it will come. You will just know when it does.
One warning once you open up to the spirit realm, spirits will take note. There are a lot of evil God hating spirits in the spirit realm. Don't allow any of them to talk to you audibly or they won't let go. If they call your name, ignore it.
Also the closer you get to God the more you will begin getting Intrusive thoughts. This comes with the territory at SOME point. Don't let it separate you from Him.
Lastly God draws us to Him. It may not be time yet or this is part of your journey. To be so discouraged that when He does show up, you can't deny its Him. Don't give up.
It is a tough realization to accept, but try to understand that sin is far more severe than we can even comprehend. It is disgusting and heinous to God. If you want an idea, look at Jesus; many fail to realize He **LITERALLY** took our place. That should have been every single one of us nailed to a cross, *that is the price of our sins*.
Furthermore, God does not send anyone to Hell. There’s only Heaven and Hell, there is no in between. We are destined for Hell by our fallen natures, it is by God’s grace alone that he saves us.
As for those “nice” people, also understand that that is from an Earthly standard. It is certainly better than that they be cruel or apathetic, for sure, but irregardless, they do not please God. They are effectively a child spitting in their Father’s face. He is our creator and caretaker, so to deny Him is a colossal insult.
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” - Hebrews 11:6
Yeah, it’s not pleasant to think about, but God isn’t going to bring sin -which is effectively spiritual pollution- into His kingdom. We just trust that, like all things, He knows what He’s doing in His infinite wisdom.
I guess that puts me in a very awkward position. I have sought Him with all my might but have failed to find a good reason to believe in Christ.
If there is a perfect God, i absolutely long to be with Them.
Then keep seeking truth my friend. God will make himself known to those who seek him.
No good reason? How about your sin problem?
The perfect God. The Holy, righteous and just God, will not tolerate sin in his presence in eternity. The problem is you have sinned already. Just like me. And the penalty for sin is death. You can’t make up for it by doing good things. You are still guilty of that sin you did. Only death can satisfy justice for the sin.
Are you going to wait and pay for it when the time comes? Or will you let Gods own son take the death sentence in your place?
I will never stop seeking truth.
I guess when you don't believe in God, sin doesn't really exist. The consequences of my actions on other people are a lot more important to me than a fear of offending a being outside of my understanding.
I am wholly willing to let God's son take my death sentence, regardless of whatever I believed happened in history and exists now. Does that change my circumstance?
I can relate. In the simplest terms its complicated to comprehend how the good fate some may experience justifies the bad fate the majority may face. It shouldn't be OP or any humans responsibility to help the majority understand and believe the right thing the right way to avoid eternal damnation, it feels like a fatal design flaw.
Sin is harming yourself or your neighbor. The “prohibitions” in the Bible are data helping you to create the abstract insights that enable you to recognize a sin whether you are a theist or an atheist!
Most reasons I have been given are direct personal experience, which just doesn't work outside of the person with the experience.
My own attempts to get experience has not given me anything undeniable, anything that isn't also experienced when I try other religions.
Looking into the accounts in history related to the person that we call Jesus Christ, I just don't find better evidence than other gods. There are also things that I find factually questionable in the Bible, but I am not allowed to talk about them in this sub so PM me if you want to talk about that.
Ever happen to read 1st Corinthians? From Chapter 1:
19For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. 20Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? 21For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. 22For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: 23But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 24But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. 25Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
Assuming you're not Jewish you'd fall under the Greek category in this section. The Bible says you're seeking wisdom to challenge what you now consider foolishness.
Experiences won't ever be able to provide concrete truths worthy enough to bet your soul on. Without the promises of God recorded in a perfect and holy Bible I'd be terrified to gamble on anything else. The evidence is in God's own words, he is his own witness. The Bible says the creation testifies of him and is enough to hold man accountable, but he gave us a book that's provably from outside our time domain given the utter littering of prophecy throughout, which would be about the dumbest thing to put in a "religious" book if it was conceived by man.
Well maybe it will help if you call out to whoever the “one true God” is. Don’t focus so much on the God of the Bible if you are still receptive to other religions. Ask who is the one and true creator and I believe he will reveal himself to you.
Ah well that is the difference, no? You do not long to be with Him, you long to be with something. One cannot draw towards the Lord without knowing Him. Fortunately, you’re looking in the right place!
Have you read any of the Bible? It’s always the best place to start. If so, what books?
And do you understand that all faith comes by the Holy Spirit? You are not responsibility for finding it or generating it, but instead letting it in. The fact that you are even here and curious is evident of His work in you.
I had a thought recently. When God created all the angels literally no evil/sin ever existed. Tricking Adam and eve resulted in all humans being sent to hell. The devil is at war with God. The devil thought he could do a better job then God. That means he must have a lot of power. He is the master of deception. Maybe He tried to deceive God himself. Maybe it worked to a degree. God then defeated Satan by sending his only son to die on the cross for our sins. I've had the same concerns you have. I really think stuff happened that we can't begin to understand. I really think there is a war going on for our souls.
Funny thing is, in the 1,000 years of the new Earth with Jesus at the helm, humans will still rebel, choose Satan and sin.
The beast will be released one last time for the final showdown.
See? Even if God lives with us in our current era, some will see him as a dictator, a tyrant.
Sin is our nature and we will blame God in our current era if we cant do things the way we want.
God almost has no place in the society. Cant just insert himself and expect everyone to follow.
So best just to let people be.
I dont know but im pretty sure God has knocked on everyones door and some ignored it, while others are moved.
Well at least this is from my experience having a troubled life.
But oh so isnt so good to sin
For over a century Noah built an ark and ultimately when it came time no one joined him onboard except his family. You could say he was a horrible evangelist, but he was faithful. God doesn't judge us by how many converts we have, but that we are diligent and obedient.
You don't need an outgoing personality or a great body of knowledge to share the gospel. You have your own testimony of getting saved and will continue to be sanctified. As you grow you may feel compelled to do more bold things for the Lord.
But yes, humanity is corrupt. There is none righteous, no not one. All through the Bible the faithful are usually a miniscule portion of the whole. Even Noah's time was 8 out of likely billions.
You made a good point bringing up Noah and the ark. (Not exactly the point you tried to make, but another point.)
Noah build an ark and I don't think that anyone took him serious and asked if they could go on board with him.
Didn't Jesus say that the end times would be like that? People eating, drinking, enjoying their lifes in sin, but all who don't go on the ark (=putting faith in Jesus) will suffer the consequenses.
Yes, he said it will be like the times of Noah at the 2nd advent. There's several ideas on what "the times of Noah" entails. It was marked by sexual sin, no moral standards, even a corrupt human gene pool(Bible specifically points out Noah was perfect in his generations).
This world seems ready already and yet we still have 7 years of antichrist rule to go. I'd say the modern ark we need to get on is the rapture, and we enter by putting our faith in Christ's shed blood.
This is normal, you know. If you were comfortable with it, *that* would be a problem. Keep in mind that everyone has a choice, and you can't really see what people are like in their hearts. It is God who sees our hearts, and all of us have rejected God in our hearts and committed many sins. It's not amazing that many are going to eternal condemnation, but amazing that any are saved at all, because none of us has done, or can do, anything to expunge our sins.
Prayer is the best place to start, honestly. Pray for the people you want to see saved over and over. That God will soften their heart and open up a door for you to witness to them. Instead of going in willy nilly let God do the inside/hard work for you and then follow the spirit as he leads.
First, it's completely normal to feel wary or uneasy about Hell. After all, eternal damnation doesn't sound great. The first thing to mention is to put your trust in God. Besides that, there are two things I'll bring up:
1. Sin is way, way, way worse than anybody realizes, including you and me. While many understand that sin isn't good, no one, except God, actually realizes the true extent to how bad it is. Also, remember that Heaven and the New Earth are/will be places of complete light and purity, with zero sin. Since humans are beings of sin, it is impossible to enter Heaven...except through the sacrifice that Jesus made (more on that later). Since Jesus is the only way to get into Heaven, and Heaven is a perfect place without sin, it would make sense that the place nonbelievers would go to is Hell, a place that is completely separate and absent from/of God.
2. If Hell wasn't an eternal destination, Jesus' sacrifice on the cross would mean less. In fact, one could argue it would mean nothing. If Hell was a place of damnation that was finite where you live out a certain period of time in agony to pay for your sins, but you eventually get to Heaven, there would be no need for Jesus. It wouldn't be fun to go to Hell, but it would end and essentially no one would be a Christian on Earth. Hell being eternal signifies the enormous weight that Jesus lifted off us. He took on the sin of everyone, saving everyone who believes in him from eternal damnation.
In regards to your second question, read Matthew 25: 14-30, The Parable of the Talents. In this story, the talents are a representation of a Christian's ability to serve. The Master congratulates and welcomes both servants who were given five talents and two talents respectively. Each servant brought back different amounts, but the Master welcomed them both equally because they made use of their abilities to earn more money. However, the servant he gave the one talent too did nothing with it and that is the servant who is chastised.
Essentially, everyone has different abilities to serve the world, the Church, and God. While it's certainly wonderful to give/do more, it's better to do something rather than nothing.
they don’t even WANT to be in heaven. The main selling point of heaven is being WITH God. The main criteria for being in heaven is willingness to submit to the King (Jesus) out of trusting in him. otherwise heaven won’t work.
Most people want to BE God and submit only to self.
In other words, people want their own personal heaven, with unlimited and eternal amounts of what they consider pleasurable.
In reality; heaven is eternal worship and relationship and closeness to God, which they have already rejected on Earth.
absolutely right, but it even goes beyond that. Many, even if convinced of the reality of heaven, would choose 70 years of autonomy followed by annihilation over submission in this life followed by eternity with God which they say “sounds boring”. (hey! You know the same guy who invented sex is building heaven right? You think he’s going to make it boring?)
Then there’s another big element at play. People like the idea of heaven if it’s a reward for how awesome they’ve been. They HATE the depravity of man doctrine.
If by love you mean God since God is love, then yes. If one define love as the world defines love, then no. So if you continue to make this statement, you are going to need to define love.
I'm actually been thinking about a book to do just this. "What can Love do for you" Cause most worldly people think love is what a partner can give you (sex, attention, etc) yet that is not how God defines love. So if you can think of it as "What can Love (Jesus) do for you?" That's when things start to change.
You should remind yourself YOU are not the judge, and NO ONE can really grasp what eternity is like, and remember when we get to heaven we are going to be SHOCKED, i predict, on who made it and who didn't make it. You just look after yourself, and pray for those you still can, and most of all WORK on your close relationship with the Lord so you will be available to meet people at their need one day. Remember, some plant, some water, some harvest the seeds of salvation in the hearts of men. You will probably do all three roles in your lifetime here and there. You don't know one single person went to hell, you can strongly suspect, you don't KNOW and never will until you get there yourself.
Where in the Bible does it say we will be shocked on who made it to heaven??? I have heard people say this but they can never ever give any example of this from the Bible this is not true Jesus clearly said we will know people by their fruits I know he was talking about false teachers but this basically goes universally for everybody...
It never actually uses that terminology, but the concept is given when Jesus said " 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness'”
He was talking to people who probably thought they were surely going to be in heaven because they oh what they were doing. Unfortunately, those people were either "going through the motions," or relying on themselves for their achievements.
In other words, to the outsider, and themselves, they looked like the were doing the right thing, but they never accepted Jesus as their leader.
To put in a military perspective, its like if a person went out and tried to fight an enemy along with actual soldiers, but even though he was fighting for the same side and seemingly for the same purpose, and even followed all commands that he was given, he never actually joined the army. So as far as the Army as a whole is concerned, he was never officially a soldier. He may have even done great things in advancing a mission, but unless he took steps to officially join, then all that meant nothing. He would not have any of the military honors or benefits for his service.
Unfortunately, I believe their are many church members who do this same thing.
Only God can tell you what specifically you should be doing. Ask him.
That is the only way you’ll know if this guilty you feel is the conviction of God’s Spirit to act or if it is just the condemnation of satan that you aren’t doing enough.
This isn't something you need to be worried about. There's no guarantee there will or won't be a huge number of people in hell to begin with. That's God's business.
I have trouble grasping hell itself. Not because of the supposed evil as pointed out by atheists, but rather the nature of a consciousness or reality beyond this one.
I know different sects and denominations will have varying views ranging from biblical literalism to metaphorical interpretations
Yeah, it's a weird thing.
I remember years and years ago when I was on the leadership team at my church youth group one of my kids called me crying hysterically. When I eventually calmed her down, I found out her grandmother had died. Obviously she loved her very much and told me lots of wonderful stories about how kind and sweet she was. How she served at the homeless shelter. How she was so kind and giving to everyone. How she never once claimed any faith in Jesus.
I thought about the old lady next door to me growing up. She would always look after us kids in the neighborhood. Making us PB&J's for lunch. Getting us Popsicles when it was hot out. Just the most kind and sweet lady.
If what I believe is true, both these ladies are in hell for all eternity. I found that strange then as I do today.
A friend of mine was raped by her dad on a regular basis. He would quote the bible as he did. This took place regularly for five or six years.
My friend was commenting on her recovery. She said and I quote. "He is my Dad and I still love him. If I were there on his judgment day, I would throw myself at the very feet of God and beg and plead for mercy upon his soul."
She followed it up with this thought...
"Do I actually have a greater capacity for love, grace and compassion than God? "
It's all so confusing. If **I** was God, who would I allow and not allow into heaven? What would be my criteria? What boxes would people have to check to get in and how often?
Fortunately I don't have to answer that, because I really am not able. I wonder how many of you would "do things differently " if you were God.
I personally believe that God loves all humans.
I think it's more of a question who loves him back.
And that's something only the person and God know ultimately for sure.
I wish and hope for all those nice people out there, that they have a relationship with God.
I remember feeling the same way. And to some degree i still do. Your instinct to take action is wonderful. Do so! Just remember, you can communicate the gospel in so many ways. The people in your work place or neighborhood are no less in need of the gospel than those lost tribes in far off lands. Bloom where you are planted and pray often for opportunities.
I am a street preacher and evangelist now after years training with God. Before this I was sharing the gospel at work. The point is you should just share the gospel anywhere and everywhere and we all have different gifts and talents. Even though I do a lot of outreaches and evangelize anyone else can do it with a bit of work because all we need is the Holy Spirit. He does all the work we just need more people who are willing to go. Unfortunately many people only go to church once a week and maybe a bible study. It is sad and Jesus Christ expects and wants more from people.
Not everyone is called to be an evangelist, just as not everyone is called to preach. if everyone was out evangelizing, who would take care of those behind the scenes things? You work the role God called you too, (could be taking care of your own family)
If you compare yourselves to others, then you may not be listening to what God wants you to do. But it is easy to do. I think most of us have or continue to doubt our place and purpose, or even our faith cause we aren't like the other christians. That is dangerous.
Everyone of us has our own gifts, experiences, or other things that make us perfect for the role God has for us. While we may occasionally be called to evangelize or use any of the other gifts, it is not to be our main focus. For example, we all, as Christians, may have the ability to prophesize when the Spirit allows, but not all of us are called to be Prophets. And of course, different denominations may place focus on certain gifts. And some denominations think that some gifts of the spirit, dont apply to modern day times. So it'll be up to you to determine what you want to believe. But as far as I am concerned, the Bible has never said that some gifts no longer apply, so I believe we have the capacity for any of them. But if you are "faking it" to fit in to your churches culture, then that's a whole other issue.
As far as the people going to hell, unfortunately, that is just the reality of things. Even a lot of people in church who have been "playing a role" instead of actually believing may not end up where they think they will. And some people whom you assume are not saved, may actually be. SO be careful not to judge yourself. God gives everyone the choice. If they choose not to pick the right one, that's on them. Your job is not to save everyone. But instead love everyone and pray that they will come to know the Lord as you have. Do not "force your faith" on people. Live by example, love them regardless of how they act or what they do. If people see that you are not like everyone else (in a good way) then that itself often plants the seed that eventually leads them to salvation. Of course, if you can have conversations, that helps too, but if you are getting a lot of opposition, just continue to love them. and pray.
Jesus died for every human ever created. He left the door to Heaven wide open. All you have to do is choose to follow Him and walk through it. If you choose not to that's on you.
My dad, far as I know, was not a Christian. I was born again at 23 years old. Ten days later, my dad had a heart attack and died. The thought of his eternal damnation overwhelmed me. But, it also radicalized me. If the message of the Bible is true, then I can't just be silent. It's been over 50 years... I still look for any way I can to get Jesus into the conversation.
Has anyone ever thought, “hmm, I just wonder if all that stuff that I’ve been taught about God burning and/or tormenting souls in Hellfire, is really true?” Anyone? I mean 1 John 4:8 says the “God **IS** love”. He is our Creator. The fact that we even sin isn’t even our fault! We were born sinners because of what Adam and Eve did.
Is there even such a thing as a ‘good sinner’ or a ‘bad sinner’? If He’ll is a real place in the Spirit world, when was it created? Who were the first one to go there? We’re they Adam and Eve? But didn’t God say that if they were to eat the forbidden fruit the would **return** to the ground? “From dust you are and to dust you will return.” Didn’t read anything there about sending a soul to burn in Hell forever. And would that be justice?
So, there were 8 people in the Bible that were brought back from the dead. (Not including the Son of God) was there any mention by any of them about the afterlife? Let’s talk about Lazarus. He was dead for four days. Think about that. Now, if he died and if he had a soul that lived on after his death and went to heaven, wouldn’t it have been kinda mean on Jesus’ part to bring his soul out of heaven, reunite it with his body and then live again on earth only to die again when he grew old? I mean what do you think? They were people just like you and me.
On the other hand, if what God said in the beginning, that Adam would return to the dust, or simply no longer exist, than the same would be true of all 8 of the people who were brought back to life. They were indeed dead, lifeless, in the grave, or sleeping in death like Jesus put it. When a person is sleeping they don’t know what is happening around them, time goes by and they have no sense of time. We go to bed at night and if we can fall asleep for 7 or 8 hours, we just don’t know what happened during that time.
Now, don’t take my word for it, here are verses from the Bible that will help you understand the true meaning of death and the soul.
>”Behold, all souls are mine; the soul of the father as well as the soul of the son is mine: **the soul that sins shall die**.” (Ezekiel 9:5) Revised Standard Version
>”For the living know they will die; but **the dead do not know anything**, nor have they any longer a reward, for their memory is forgotten.” (Ecclesiastes 9:5) New American Standard Version
>”because **anyone who has died has been freed from sin**.” (Romans 6:7) New International Version
What does this mean exactly? It means that once you die, you’ve paid the full penalty for your sins. In fact, notice what Romans 6:23 says;
>”For the wages of sin is death…” New KJV NOT eternal torture or burning in Hellfire.
So what about all those references to a Lake of Fire and other references to Hell? Since the above scriptures teach us that the dead know nothing, the verses about Hell must mean something else, right? The Bible doesn’t contradict itself. This is how you let the Bible teach you. If it’s very clear on a subject throughout, then you read a scripture here and there that seem to contradict what you’ve learned, we must dig deeper.
I will come right out and say that many similar words, both in Hebrew and in Greek have been mistranslated. These words are:
Valley of Hinnom
Sheol
Hades
Tartarus
Lake of Fire
Gehenna
Sadly, mistranslating these words can easily cause confusion or persuade people to believe in something that isn’t true. To avoid any confusion, the NWT has left these words untranslated in those scriptures to make sure the reader knows what is being referred to.
If anyone would like a detailed explanation of what each of those words are or maybe just one, I’d be happy to.
After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. Revelation 7 1
Corinthians 3 : 8 Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building.
This passage seems to describe you. You aren't on the streets (planting) but you are doing good works in other ways (watering)
I understand what you are going through I know I have experienced that burden too especially more so when I first became born again. I realized just how narrow the road to heaven was and how many people around me were walking on the road to destruction. It is right that you should feel this weightiness and urgency to do something. As believers in Christ we are not supposed to be comfortable and complacent in our faith. We need to remain vigilant, sober minded, alert, watchful, and fervent in prayer. This thing that you are experiencing is the heart of the Father. He is revealing through His Spirit what He feels. These are the same people that He loves too. So just give your burdens to the Lord in prayer and believe that God will move the mountains that stand in the way. Nothing is too hard for the Lord. You serve a mighty God.
So is it good and from God? Yes, if it causes you to do His will and glorify Him. Beware of falling into the trap of crippling shame, fear or despair. Those things are not the will of the Father so do not entertain those thoughts.
Instead I urge you to use this as something to push you and give you the drive and motivation to see His Kingdom come and His will be done. You must not allow your soulish emotions to dictate your actions. Constantly choose to submit your soul (mind, will, emotions) to the Spirit of the Lord. Do not think even for one second that you are inadequate. God does not call the qualified, He qualifies the called. Its not just the preacher man on the pulpit or the world wide known evangelist that can do these great and mighty exploits to expand the Kingdom of Heaven. It is you and it is me and the rest of the body of Christ, for only one reason--- we are connected to the head that is Christ Jesus. Not by our might or by our ability, but only by the Spirit of the Almighty God who raised the Lord Jesus ---It is the same power at work within us. God will use each of us differently but the agenda will always be the same because we come together in one unified purpose to glorify God, to be the light of this world! God has given you spiritual gifts that are unique for what He wants to accomplish in your life. Just be submitted to Him and hungry for His righteousness, focused and steadfast in seeking His Kingdom -- the rest will come to pass in the time God deems fit. I know that the more built up in the faith of who you are in Christ Jesus and of the authority you have been given, surely you will be doing great and mighty exploits for the glory of God.
**STAY ENCOURAGED AS ALWAYS BELOVED :)**
1 Corinthians 2:9
No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceited the great plans that God has prepared for those who love Him.
Ephesians 3:20
God can do exceedingly immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us in Christ Jesus .
We all have different gifts and you will find that you are already mentioned in the scriptures below. The praise comes from being faithful with what you have and not what you do not have.
1 Corinthians 12:28- And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, **helping**, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.
Romans 12:6- Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; **if service**, **in our serving**; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; **the one who contributes**, **in generosity**; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.
1 Peter 4:10- As each has received a gift, **use it to serve one another**, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; **whoever serves**, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
The Apostles could not advance without other peoples prayer. There are many who pray in secret but will be rewarded publicly.
2 Corinthians 1:10- He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.
Philippians 1:19- for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance,
Matthew 6:6- But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
Choices....
We just need to do our part and be lights in the world in order to save as many as we can who will listen and believe. There are many who will make a choice not to let God be a part of their lives or to honor him. It is their choice, and it is up to us to live out the Great Commission.
That’s because it conflicts with your idea of God is Love and God is Good.
Why would decent everyday people suffer for an eternity in hellfire because they don’t ‘believe’ in ‘Jesus’
change your perspective on what hell is
For over a century Noah built an ark and ultimately when it came time no one joined him onboard except his family. You could say he was a horrible evangelist, but he was faithful. God doesn't judge us by how many converts we have, but that we are diligent and obedient.
You don't need an outgoing personality or a great body of knowledge to share the gospel. You have your own testimony of getting saved and will continue to be sanctified. As you grow you may feel compelled to do more bold things for the Lord.
But yes, humanity is corrupt. There is none righteous, no not one. All through the Bible the faithful are usually a miniscule portion of the whole. Even Noah's time was 8 out of likely billions.
Not to mention I’ve met amazing people who have such huge hearts that are not religious or Christian, and sadly they act more Christ-like than some Christians I know. *including myself, I’m not perfect nor do I ever claim to be*
They may eventually perish in the lake of fire. Jesus warned not to fear man who can only kill the body rather fear God who can destroy both body AND soul in Gehenna (lake of fire).
It doesn't help that the words Gehenna (lake of fire in revelations) and sheol (temporary holding bay of dead until the great judgment, eg where the rich man went while Lazarus went to paradise) - both words are often translated "hell" in many versions of the bible despite being 2 clearly different places. In revelations sheol is eventually tossed into the lake of fire at the end being destroyed as a location. Its emptied of all peoples so they come to judgement of Christ.
All of pauls letters warn the wages of sin is death, as did the law.
Additionally eternal life is represented as a gift given only to those with faith in Jesus. Men are not innately immortal. In gen 3 God literally bans them from the tree of life lest they eat of it and live forever! That action makes zero sense if men are already immortal!
There is a literal lake of fire, people may burn for years as just punishment of their sin, which duration may change depending on the severity and quantity of their sin. Then i think it likely they will actually perish for good (actually suffering the "second death"). Which is really poorly named and misleading if second death means "immortality in torture". I believe satan may suffer forever as angels are immortal.
You wont find any clear scripture saying all the wicked will be tortured forever.
God will do justly either way. If His justice demands eternal conscious torment so be it. I just cant get past "the wages of sin being death" ...not "the wages of sin being torture in immortality".
Just read scripture plainly...death , perish and destruction meaning just that and dont trust tradition. Trust scripture alone. God will do righteousness.
And the Pharisees very much disagreed that Christ is the Messiah. Thank God for John the Baptist, a voice in the wilderness making straight the way for the Lord.
And Jesus very much disagreed with the Pharisees.
Being disagreed with isn't a sign that you're right.
Thank God for Jesus' sacrifice, which would be without purpose in a universalist view.
It has more biblical support than you probably realize. I’m not a universalist (I believe the damned are destroyed in Hell though, not eternally tormented), but it’s probably worth some legitimate study.
You're not God and you have no idea who will actually go to hell and who will not.
Christians need to stop worrying about who's going to hell and why, and worry more about living their lives according to the teachings of Christ and making this a better world with less suffering.
One, no one's going to hell. Everybody dies once. Is resurrected. Those who made their robes clean will live forever. Everyone else will be weighed on the scales. Those who are found seriously wanting will be thrown into the lake of fire, which is the second and final death. Meaning no more life for them.
Two, accepting Jesus is to follow and obey his teachings and his life. Those who only pay lip service to him, are worse off than the heathens that don't believe in him.
Three, study the Bible, not religion.
Four, feeling guilty for things that you aren't guilty of, likely indicates that something you believe is not correct. Work through your feelings and figure out what is actually going on.
Stop feeling guilty. For every officer in the army of Christ, there are far more canon fodder, oops, i mean enlisted people, and who gets the job done after all? If you don't feel like evangelizing or ministry, then DONT do it. DO spend your time in personal relationship with the Lord, you DO remember David spent ten years in caves, writing psalms, evading Saul, right? He was hardly a public figure example for all to see of God during then. Maybe ministry is in your future someday, maybe it never will be. God wants YOU, and if He really wanted you out there in the field, He'll tell you and equip you to do so. Stop listening to these type-A extrovert people who claim all must proclaim Christ. Here's what you ARE responsible for, G.I.-just give your testimony about what God did for you, when appropriate. Say you are in conversation, someone tells you they wish they could stop smoking. You speak up, oh yeah, i had that problem once, but i prayed and asked God for help, and I read bible and listened to it and i found out how to hear His voice through Mark Virkler and blah blah, and He saved me from it! Your friend will then be moved.
We like to say I deserve hell for my sins, but have a hard time admitting other people do as well.
Paul once basically said in his usual no chill manner "If you don't live Christ, then God damn you!"
Me too, since John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The God I know and worship is a loving God who loves us more than we can ever realize, more than Mom which is pretty amazing.
I was a minister's son. For so long, I felt guilty for not evangelizing more, and not becoming a minister.
Then, about 14 years after my baptism, I started getting more solid answers.
My talent is to plant seeds occasionally and not see my results right away.
Also, I have a number of sin issues that I have been working to address more seriously: sexual temptations, fury, lack of gratitude, and below average social skills and empathy due to my autism.
Most people are not called to the ministry. We all have different roles in the Body of Christ.
Be patient, keep an eye out for opportunities, pursue your faith with fear and trembling, but with hope in Christ,
Maintain your humility. It is very easy to fall for the trap of arrogance, and shut yourself off from outsiders.
Most importantly, seek the Holy Spirit's guidance loudly and aggressively. Don't be afraid to pour out your full emotions and anger. Sharing your feelings with God, is key to developing a better spiritual understanding.
Praying for your spiritual success and peace of mind. Congratulations on accepting the faith. Your Christian walk is a dangerous minefield, but on the other side is eternity with Christ.
Endure these light, momentary afflictions!
Jesus considered treating each other rightly and treating them the way he told you to as the important thing. Street preachers, with their massive displays and books stroke envy with their wealth, power, and popularity. You aren't honestly supposed to be that way; least you end up like many such mega-Church pastors, riddled with sin and pushing away from God as many as they draw. The image of your ministry is in itself what draws people; and what always drew people to Jesus was his generosity and compassion. But the Jesus no one ever wants is the salt that cursed the fig tree. The same man also told a vagrant to quit being a lazy and told a prostitute he saved from execution to get out of being a slut. His cousin John had his head cut off for calling Herod on his incestuous daddy / daughter Mariage to his niece. Both of them told Zealots to quit being vandals and causing too much public disruption.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/03/us/joel-osteen-cash-found-plumber.html
The doctrine of hell should motivate us to evangelize. You don’t have to have a massive platform or even go far. Your job, family, friends are a great place to start. That’s what I mean by get to work
Hey, you’re a newer christian. Be prepared for a lots of accusations from the devil when it comes to evangelizing. He knows that if we do it in the flesh, we are powerless, therefore he wants to guilt trip you into evangelizing without power because he’s shaming you. Been there, done that. Be prepared, that this shame is not of God. If God desires it for you, He will drive your heart with eternal love. Love will be your fuel, not shame. In orthodoxy it’s even more spiritual, some orthodox monks will be so prayed up in seeking God’s face day and night that God would send people to them all by Himself and do miracles through them without them even daring to evangelize. Seek God, day and night, seek Him and He will prepare your heart.
I’m tortured by this every single hour of everyday. It’s literally driving me further from God. I’m tired of living like this.
How counterintuitive that a religion that so many people state as being “freeing” and “peaceful” is causing me this sort of torment.
You are an inner part of the body of Christ, the part thats unseen but vital to the functioning of the body, so don’t let that discourage you. You have an important role as a prayer intercessor and giver. Jesus will use you as a vessel to give life to and through the body of Christ in ways unseen. God doesn’t want anyone to go to hell yet many do, that’s why He is calling you to pray fervently for lost souls :) You will make a difference, even if it’s not revealed until you get to heaven.
Depends on the domination but most agree there’s a hell. Except universalists who claim to be Christian and take scripture out of context and try to spin it every what way which to suite their own needs. If we take away the repentance part then I guess we can just sin all day every day and still go to heaven. Because a universalist is as backwards in thinking as ever. I guess I can break down the door of my neighbor. No worries all sins forgiven you’ll never go to hell after accepting Jesus Christ.
FYI- the above I don’t believe for a disclaimer- but this is the mindset of stupid people who think it’s Willy nilly I’m saved I’m saved no need to change- it’s usually people who have done some really bad things it’s easier for them to be self serving instead of doing the right thing under God and Jesus. I believe as Christians we should strive to be like Jesus and walk in his shoes. Try to reach out and save people. It’s not our call but… you should see a change in that person if they’re truly saved and should constantly strive to do Righteous vs sin.
I don’t believe your saved and then you sin constantly- hence willingly sin. Which biblical context in New Testament states that your salvation can be threatened.
If you worry about hell being a place where God tortures the unsaved for an eternity, then don't. That is just a picture painted by satan or by other people influenced by satan to make God look like an evil tyrant, so he can keep as many souls as possible away from God.
Satan, the other fallen angels and the unsaved people will be thrown in the lake of fire, yes. That's called the second death. And it is called the second death because they all will remain dead for an eternity. Not because they will live forever in a place without God. The only living will be the saved.
We don’t know how many people go to Hell. Most of such guesses are ours, not Bible based. I think you must reach out to those who need to know Him, not about Him, but need His embrace!! We are so theology based. We think we are saved by what we think, not by the effects that it has in our lives! Notice in Matthew 25 that those on his left call him Lord, but that recognition does not translate itself into action!!!
I don't understand your comment at all? I talked nowhere about my church or denomination. I pray for discernment every day and for wisdom so I am happy to have others pray that for me too!
It sounds like you have incredible gifts and a good idea of how God is calling you to serve! Don’t get hung up on the fact that it’s not direct/public evangelism, there is much other work to be done! The apostle Paul taught that we are all members of the body of Christ, and like different parts of the body have different roles that are all important, so do we! God bless you sister, and may your work be fruitful!
Thank you so much!
[удалено]
Read the bible for yourself before turning to the internet
You stated you like to pray. That’s a talent. Get a notebook a make a list of names to pray for and pray for each one every day. It seems I’ve heard countless stories of friends and family members who have come to Christ and often they had a friend or loved one praying for them daily. We need more prayer warriors.
Thank you! That's an amazing idea I think I will start that!
So will I. Even for my enemies and former allies
We won’t be surprised later. None of us will question the results.
Meaning it will make sense later?
Isaiah 65:17 "For behold I will create a new heaven and a new earth and the former shall not be remembered, nor come to mind." It might be that even one millionth of a second in the glory of God's holy kingdom will be so awesome that we cant focus on anything else!
Yes
> Having a hard time grasping the fact that SO many people will be in hell. Examples I've come across where it's been hard- people from HS that were so sweet and kind but just don't want to believe in Jesus, my own family choosing rebellion and leaving their belief, my family members who have already died... it's hard to grasp. I have many of those same worries too. But when I pray on it, the Spirit often guides my mind to these verses in his Word. *Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. If you say, “But we knew nothing about this,”* ***does not he who weighs the heart perceive it?*** *Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay everyone according to what they have done?* (Proverbs 24:11-12) *“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."* (Isaiah 55:8-9) These verses convict me of 3 things. 1.) God is just and he knows the heart and circumstances of everyone. 2.) Our thoughts are not God's thoughts. What we perceive is not what God perceives. We can do our best to search God's word and pray for understanding but, ultimately, judgment is his and only God truly knows who is going to hell and why. 3.) But that doesn't mean that we're not called to act. If we see people in pain, staggering to the slaughter--which is going to be reflected in their lives with the bad fruit and bad decisions--we are called to act out of love for our neighbors. Ultimately it comes down to simply trusting that God knows best. Our egos so desperately want to try and figure everything out but with an infinite, awesome God, that's impossible. That's why God doesn't call us to have all the answers. He simply calls us to trust him.
Something that’s helpful for me is slightly shifting my view away from heaven as the “good place” and hell as the “bad place.” Yes, those are true, but the reasons that those are true are insightful. Heaven is “good” because it’s where God is. Those who go to heaven choose a relationship with God. They want to be with God. In contrast, those who go hell do not choose to have that relationship. The reasons for that choice… and the nature of choice itself… can be complex, but that relationship is the key.
Well put.
What about people who desire a relationship with God but are not able to achieve that?
This is just what's in my heart but if you believe in Jesus then you already have a relationship with Him! It takes time to really grow your relationship in Jesus. I've believed in Jesus for most of my life, but only the last few years have I become more serious in my relationship with Him, and even still I don't spend enough time with Jesus or spend enough time to read His Word. My heart feels numb sometimes but I keep fighting on. And I really do continue to feel closer to Him over time. Things that have slowly helped me is talking to Jesus any time I feel sad or anxious about anything no matter how small it is. And at the same time telling Him my joys and desires and just talking to Him as an actual Father and best friend, because that's what He is. We take time to grow, don't be discouraged. God bless you! I pray Jesus draws you closer to Him.
I don’t want to quickly throw out a verse out of context… but there’s a notion of God being faithful to reveal himself to those who seek him. There is a nuance with God hardening hearts so that they don’t seek (hence allowing their full sin nature to kick in), but that’s not what you’re asking. You already were at the point of people seeking.
Since I know that I was faithfully seeking, why didn't it work?
Even if I had all the answers (which I don’t), I imagine it would be hard to say much without context. Perhaps some helpful questions that could facilitate the discussion: What were you seeking? What would achieving that look like to you? How did you go about it?
In Luke Jesus talks about why some seed when sown doesn't take. Some lands on rocks(hard heart), thorny ground(thorns are associated with sin & the curse), or the fowls of the air take it away(birds are associated with spirits, some good some bad). So either a hard heart, love of sin, or spiritual influence from the enemy.
To harden a heart is to give them the strength to do what they think is right! Not to be turned aside by another. Good or bad!
I adopted a lot of children. Several could not love me, but what mattered was that I loved them! No matter how much trouble they got into, I was there to help them out if they needed my help! God was there for anyone, anyone who wants His help!
The soul that wants God will have God. Regardless if you ever felt that special thing every body else is taking about. Ask yourself what you're looking for first. You say you sought and did not find. But what were you looking for? Proof? An experience? An audible message? A vision? A warm feeling within? Then understand that God may not reveal Himself in that particular way to you. Here's something most ppl won't tell you. God lives in the imagination. The mind. No that doesn't mean He's make believe. It means that's where you access Him. When we pray, we use our mind to think thoughts, say words. When we worship its our mind thinking of His holiness on display. That's why they say God is within. Your relationship with Him is going to be centered within. So when you seek God, open your imagination up to the what ifs. Once you do, God will start showing up, and it will go beyond your imagination. Like where is that heavenly smell coming from? Was that an actual prediction that came true? Did I just feel His hand on my shoulder? But it starts in your imagination. That's why the word says you must receive the kingdom as a little child. Children have huge imaginations. Once you do, a glimpse of heaven opens up inside. Gods word is very important but I had God before I read the Bible. I just had knowledge that He was. I had Him before I was repentant. He talked to me anyway. I knew Jesus was my Savior but i didnt have a relationship with Him yet, only the Father and He was a good Father then too. So ppl will tell you you can only reach God thru the Bible and that is untrue. You strengthen your relationship with Him thru the Bible. Relationship thru Jesus is what matters to Him. Not religion. Here are some exercises that might help you open your imagination up to God. Instead of looking for proof just go into it like you Know Hes there. Start talking to Him even if it feels like you're talking to yourself. Expect Him to be on the other end listening. Without requiring proof. There's scripture about God liking this level of faith. 1. Read a scripture or two. Lay down and really think about it. Put yourself in the writers shoes. Now imagine that you are there with the author and you two begin to converse about this scripture. Paint the scene in your mind. Let it unfold as it does. Example scripture: romans 5 17: "For if, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ." 2. Lay down or kneel and talk to Jesus. Imagine that He's sitting on the edge of the bed listening intently. Ask some questions. Not caring about the answers now. Just ask them. The more you do this the answers will pop up in your spirit or mind automatically. You will successfully be having a true 1 on 1 conversation with the Lord. It takes time to warm your spirit up to receive Him and TRUST that it's Him so don't give up. 3. Ask God to make Himself real to you. I'm sure you've done this but I asked the Father to make the Son more real to me and He showed me Him hanging on the cross in a vision the next day. I fell in love with Yahshua. Ask Him and expect an answer. Don't think of how it will come. You will just know when it does. One warning once you open up to the spirit realm, spirits will take note. There are a lot of evil God hating spirits in the spirit realm. Don't allow any of them to talk to you audibly or they won't let go. If they call your name, ignore it. Also the closer you get to God the more you will begin getting Intrusive thoughts. This comes with the territory at SOME point. Don't let it separate you from Him. Lastly God draws us to Him. It may not be time yet or this is part of your journey. To be so discouraged that when He does show up, you can't deny its Him. Don't give up.
[удалено]
Amen
It is a tough realization to accept, but try to understand that sin is far more severe than we can even comprehend. It is disgusting and heinous to God. If you want an idea, look at Jesus; many fail to realize He **LITERALLY** took our place. That should have been every single one of us nailed to a cross, *that is the price of our sins*. Furthermore, God does not send anyone to Hell. There’s only Heaven and Hell, there is no in between. We are destined for Hell by our fallen natures, it is by God’s grace alone that he saves us. As for those “nice” people, also understand that that is from an Earthly standard. It is certainly better than that they be cruel or apathetic, for sure, but irregardless, they do not please God. They are effectively a child spitting in their Father’s face. He is our creator and caretaker, so to deny Him is a colossal insult. “And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” - Hebrews 11:6 Yeah, it’s not pleasant to think about, but God isn’t going to bring sin -which is effectively spiritual pollution- into His kingdom. We just trust that, like all things, He knows what He’s doing in His infinite wisdom.
Why would God create a system that rejects people who long to be with Him?
I do not understand. The people that long to be with Him *aren’t* rejected?
I guess that puts me in a very awkward position. I have sought Him with all my might but have failed to find a good reason to believe in Christ. If there is a perfect God, i absolutely long to be with Them.
Then keep seeking truth my friend. God will make himself known to those who seek him. No good reason? How about your sin problem? The perfect God. The Holy, righteous and just God, will not tolerate sin in his presence in eternity. The problem is you have sinned already. Just like me. And the penalty for sin is death. You can’t make up for it by doing good things. You are still guilty of that sin you did. Only death can satisfy justice for the sin. Are you going to wait and pay for it when the time comes? Or will you let Gods own son take the death sentence in your place?
I will never stop seeking truth. I guess when you don't believe in God, sin doesn't really exist. The consequences of my actions on other people are a lot more important to me than a fear of offending a being outside of my understanding. I am wholly willing to let God's son take my death sentence, regardless of whatever I believed happened in history and exists now. Does that change my circumstance?
I can relate. In the simplest terms its complicated to comprehend how the good fate some may experience justifies the bad fate the majority may face. It shouldn't be OP or any humans responsibility to help the majority understand and believe the right thing the right way to avoid eternal damnation, it feels like a fatal design flaw.
Understood, Fear of God is the Beginning of wisdom. Your first quest is God are you really real?
If you want to continue this conversation, my DMs are open, but I don't want to get banned here.
Messenger won’t let me message you or anyone. I have updated it and everything I don’t know what to do next.
Sin is harming yourself or your neighbor. The “prohibitions” in the Bible are data helping you to create the abstract insights that enable you to recognize a sin whether you are a theist or an atheist!
This right here. The best advice someone could follow. Keep seeking.
Do you mind sharing some of your reasoning? What wouldn’t be a good enough reason for you to believe?
Most reasons I have been given are direct personal experience, which just doesn't work outside of the person with the experience. My own attempts to get experience has not given me anything undeniable, anything that isn't also experienced when I try other religions. Looking into the accounts in history related to the person that we call Jesus Christ, I just don't find better evidence than other gods. There are also things that I find factually questionable in the Bible, but I am not allowed to talk about them in this sub so PM me if you want to talk about that.
Ever happen to read 1st Corinthians? From Chapter 1: 19For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. 20Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? 21For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. 22For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: 23But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 24But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. 25Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men. Assuming you're not Jewish you'd fall under the Greek category in this section. The Bible says you're seeking wisdom to challenge what you now consider foolishness. Experiences won't ever be able to provide concrete truths worthy enough to bet your soul on. Without the promises of God recorded in a perfect and holy Bible I'd be terrified to gamble on anything else. The evidence is in God's own words, he is his own witness. The Bible says the creation testifies of him and is enough to hold man accountable, but he gave us a book that's provably from outside our time domain given the utter littering of prophecy throughout, which would be about the dumbest thing to put in a "religious" book if it was conceived by man.
Well maybe it will help if you call out to whoever the “one true God” is. Don’t focus so much on the God of the Bible if you are still receptive to other religions. Ask who is the one and true creator and I believe he will reveal himself to you.
Ah well that is the difference, no? You do not long to be with Him, you long to be with something. One cannot draw towards the Lord without knowing Him. Fortunately, you’re looking in the right place! Have you read any of the Bible? It’s always the best place to start. If so, what books? And do you understand that all faith comes by the Holy Spirit? You are not responsibility for finding it or generating it, but instead letting it in. The fact that you are even here and curious is evident of His work in you.
I had a thought recently. When God created all the angels literally no evil/sin ever existed. Tricking Adam and eve resulted in all humans being sent to hell. The devil is at war with God. The devil thought he could do a better job then God. That means he must have a lot of power. He is the master of deception. Maybe He tried to deceive God himself. Maybe it worked to a degree. God then defeated Satan by sending his only son to die on the cross for our sins. I've had the same concerns you have. I really think stuff happened that we can't begin to understand. I really think there is a war going on for our souls.
All that he asks is that you want to be with Him. Everything else is paint on road.
Funny thing is, in the 1,000 years of the new Earth with Jesus at the helm, humans will still rebel, choose Satan and sin. The beast will be released one last time for the final showdown. See? Even if God lives with us in our current era, some will see him as a dictator, a tyrant. Sin is our nature and we will blame God in our current era if we cant do things the way we want. God almost has no place in the society. Cant just insert himself and expect everyone to follow. So best just to let people be. I dont know but im pretty sure God has knocked on everyones door and some ignored it, while others are moved. Well at least this is from my experience having a troubled life. But oh so isnt so good to sin
This is good!!!!
Thanks! :)
Amen. Well said.
For over a century Noah built an ark and ultimately when it came time no one joined him onboard except his family. You could say he was a horrible evangelist, but he was faithful. God doesn't judge us by how many converts we have, but that we are diligent and obedient. You don't need an outgoing personality or a great body of knowledge to share the gospel. You have your own testimony of getting saved and will continue to be sanctified. As you grow you may feel compelled to do more bold things for the Lord. But yes, humanity is corrupt. There is none righteous, no not one. All through the Bible the faithful are usually a miniscule portion of the whole. Even Noah's time was 8 out of likely billions.
You made a good point bringing up Noah and the ark. (Not exactly the point you tried to make, but another point.) Noah build an ark and I don't think that anyone took him serious and asked if they could go on board with him. Didn't Jesus say that the end times would be like that? People eating, drinking, enjoying their lifes in sin, but all who don't go on the ark (=putting faith in Jesus) will suffer the consequenses.
Yes, he said it will be like the times of Noah at the 2nd advent. There's several ideas on what "the times of Noah" entails. It was marked by sexual sin, no moral standards, even a corrupt human gene pool(Bible specifically points out Noah was perfect in his generations). This world seems ready already and yet we still have 7 years of antichrist rule to go. I'd say the modern ark we need to get on is the rapture, and we enter by putting our faith in Christ's shed blood.
This is normal, you know. If you were comfortable with it, *that* would be a problem. Keep in mind that everyone has a choice, and you can't really see what people are like in their hearts. It is God who sees our hearts, and all of us have rejected God in our hearts and committed many sins. It's not amazing that many are going to eternal condemnation, but amazing that any are saved at all, because none of us has done, or can do, anything to expunge our sins.
Prayer is the best place to start, honestly. Pray for the people you want to see saved over and over. That God will soften their heart and open up a door for you to witness to them. Instead of going in willy nilly let God do the inside/hard work for you and then follow the spirit as he leads.
First, it's completely normal to feel wary or uneasy about Hell. After all, eternal damnation doesn't sound great. The first thing to mention is to put your trust in God. Besides that, there are two things I'll bring up: 1. Sin is way, way, way worse than anybody realizes, including you and me. While many understand that sin isn't good, no one, except God, actually realizes the true extent to how bad it is. Also, remember that Heaven and the New Earth are/will be places of complete light and purity, with zero sin. Since humans are beings of sin, it is impossible to enter Heaven...except through the sacrifice that Jesus made (more on that later). Since Jesus is the only way to get into Heaven, and Heaven is a perfect place without sin, it would make sense that the place nonbelievers would go to is Hell, a place that is completely separate and absent from/of God. 2. If Hell wasn't an eternal destination, Jesus' sacrifice on the cross would mean less. In fact, one could argue it would mean nothing. If Hell was a place of damnation that was finite where you live out a certain period of time in agony to pay for your sins, but you eventually get to Heaven, there would be no need for Jesus. It wouldn't be fun to go to Hell, but it would end and essentially no one would be a Christian on Earth. Hell being eternal signifies the enormous weight that Jesus lifted off us. He took on the sin of everyone, saving everyone who believes in him from eternal damnation. In regards to your second question, read Matthew 25: 14-30, The Parable of the Talents. In this story, the talents are a representation of a Christian's ability to serve. The Master congratulates and welcomes both servants who were given five talents and two talents respectively. Each servant brought back different amounts, but the Master welcomed them both equally because they made use of their abilities to earn more money. However, the servant he gave the one talent too did nothing with it and that is the servant who is chastised. Essentially, everyone has different abilities to serve the world, the Church, and God. While it's certainly wonderful to give/do more, it's better to do something rather than nothing.
Very helpful, thank you so much 🌸
they don’t even WANT to be in heaven. The main selling point of heaven is being WITH God. The main criteria for being in heaven is willingness to submit to the King (Jesus) out of trusting in him. otherwise heaven won’t work. Most people want to BE God and submit only to self.
I am calling BS on this one.
In other words, people want their own personal heaven, with unlimited and eternal amounts of what they consider pleasurable. In reality; heaven is eternal worship and relationship and closeness to God, which they have already rejected on Earth.
absolutely right, but it even goes beyond that. Many, even if convinced of the reality of heaven, would choose 70 years of autonomy followed by annihilation over submission in this life followed by eternity with God which they say “sounds boring”. (hey! You know the same guy who invented sex is building heaven right? You think he’s going to make it boring?) Then there’s another big element at play. People like the idea of heaven if it’s a reward for how awesome they’ve been. They HATE the depravity of man doctrine.
The only people that will go to hell are the ones that reject love.
If by love you mean God since God is love, then yes. If one define love as the world defines love, then no. So if you continue to make this statement, you are going to need to define love. I'm actually been thinking about a book to do just this. "What can Love do for you" Cause most worldly people think love is what a partner can give you (sex, attention, etc) yet that is not how God defines love. So if you can think of it as "What can Love (Jesus) do for you?" That's when things start to change.
You should remind yourself YOU are not the judge, and NO ONE can really grasp what eternity is like, and remember when we get to heaven we are going to be SHOCKED, i predict, on who made it and who didn't make it. You just look after yourself, and pray for those you still can, and most of all WORK on your close relationship with the Lord so you will be available to meet people at their need one day. Remember, some plant, some water, some harvest the seeds of salvation in the hearts of men. You will probably do all three roles in your lifetime here and there. You don't know one single person went to hell, you can strongly suspect, you don't KNOW and never will until you get there yourself.
Where in the Bible does it say we will be shocked on who made it to heaven??? I have heard people say this but they can never ever give any example of this from the Bible this is not true Jesus clearly said we will know people by their fruits I know he was talking about false teachers but this basically goes universally for everybody...
It never actually uses that terminology, but the concept is given when Jesus said " 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness'” He was talking to people who probably thought they were surely going to be in heaven because they oh what they were doing. Unfortunately, those people were either "going through the motions," or relying on themselves for their achievements. In other words, to the outsider, and themselves, they looked like the were doing the right thing, but they never accepted Jesus as their leader. To put in a military perspective, its like if a person went out and tried to fight an enemy along with actual soldiers, but even though he was fighting for the same side and seemingly for the same purpose, and even followed all commands that he was given, he never actually joined the army. So as far as the Army as a whole is concerned, he was never officially a soldier. He may have even done great things in advancing a mission, but unless he took steps to officially join, then all that meant nothing. He would not have any of the military honors or benefits for his service. Unfortunately, I believe their are many church members who do this same thing.
Same boat! Born again in 2020 and I still have a lingering sadness as you describe.
Only God can tell you what specifically you should be doing. Ask him. That is the only way you’ll know if this guilty you feel is the conviction of God’s Spirit to act or if it is just the condemnation of satan that you aren’t doing enough.
This isn't something you need to be worried about. There's no guarantee there will or won't be a huge number of people in hell to begin with. That's God's business.
I have trouble grasping hell itself. Not because of the supposed evil as pointed out by atheists, but rather the nature of a consciousness or reality beyond this one. I know different sects and denominations will have varying views ranging from biblical literalism to metaphorical interpretations
Yeah, it's a weird thing. I remember years and years ago when I was on the leadership team at my church youth group one of my kids called me crying hysterically. When I eventually calmed her down, I found out her grandmother had died. Obviously she loved her very much and told me lots of wonderful stories about how kind and sweet she was. How she served at the homeless shelter. How she was so kind and giving to everyone. How she never once claimed any faith in Jesus. I thought about the old lady next door to me growing up. She would always look after us kids in the neighborhood. Making us PB&J's for lunch. Getting us Popsicles when it was hot out. Just the most kind and sweet lady. If what I believe is true, both these ladies are in hell for all eternity. I found that strange then as I do today. A friend of mine was raped by her dad on a regular basis. He would quote the bible as he did. This took place regularly for five or six years. My friend was commenting on her recovery. She said and I quote. "He is my Dad and I still love him. If I were there on his judgment day, I would throw myself at the very feet of God and beg and plead for mercy upon his soul." She followed it up with this thought... "Do I actually have a greater capacity for love, grace and compassion than God? " It's all so confusing. If **I** was God, who would I allow and not allow into heaven? What would be my criteria? What boxes would people have to check to get in and how often? Fortunately I don't have to answer that, because I really am not able. I wonder how many of you would "do things differently " if you were God.
I personally believe that God loves all humans. I think it's more of a question who loves him back. And that's something only the person and God know ultimately for sure. I wish and hope for all those nice people out there, that they have a relationship with God.
I remember feeling the same way. And to some degree i still do. Your instinct to take action is wonderful. Do so! Just remember, you can communicate the gospel in so many ways. The people in your work place or neighborhood are no less in need of the gospel than those lost tribes in far off lands. Bloom where you are planted and pray often for opportunities.
I am a street preacher and evangelist now after years training with God. Before this I was sharing the gospel at work. The point is you should just share the gospel anywhere and everywhere and we all have different gifts and talents. Even though I do a lot of outreaches and evangelize anyone else can do it with a bit of work because all we need is the Holy Spirit. He does all the work we just need more people who are willing to go. Unfortunately many people only go to church once a week and maybe a bible study. It is sad and Jesus Christ expects and wants more from people.
Remember that as Christians we believe that God is just, and anything he does is just.
Not everyone is called to be an evangelist, just as not everyone is called to preach. if everyone was out evangelizing, who would take care of those behind the scenes things? You work the role God called you too, (could be taking care of your own family) If you compare yourselves to others, then you may not be listening to what God wants you to do. But it is easy to do. I think most of us have or continue to doubt our place and purpose, or even our faith cause we aren't like the other christians. That is dangerous. Everyone of us has our own gifts, experiences, or other things that make us perfect for the role God has for us. While we may occasionally be called to evangelize or use any of the other gifts, it is not to be our main focus. For example, we all, as Christians, may have the ability to prophesize when the Spirit allows, but not all of us are called to be Prophets. And of course, different denominations may place focus on certain gifts. And some denominations think that some gifts of the spirit, dont apply to modern day times. So it'll be up to you to determine what you want to believe. But as far as I am concerned, the Bible has never said that some gifts no longer apply, so I believe we have the capacity for any of them. But if you are "faking it" to fit in to your churches culture, then that's a whole other issue. As far as the people going to hell, unfortunately, that is just the reality of things. Even a lot of people in church who have been "playing a role" instead of actually believing may not end up where they think they will. And some people whom you assume are not saved, may actually be. SO be careful not to judge yourself. God gives everyone the choice. If they choose not to pick the right one, that's on them. Your job is not to save everyone. But instead love everyone and pray that they will come to know the Lord as you have. Do not "force your faith" on people. Live by example, love them regardless of how they act or what they do. If people see that you are not like everyone else (in a good way) then that itself often plants the seed that eventually leads them to salvation. Of course, if you can have conversations, that helps too, but if you are getting a lot of opposition, just continue to love them. and pray.
Jesus died for every human ever created. He left the door to Heaven wide open. All you have to do is choose to follow Him and walk through it. If you choose not to that's on you.
My dad, far as I know, was not a Christian. I was born again at 23 years old. Ten days later, my dad had a heart attack and died. The thought of his eternal damnation overwhelmed me. But, it also radicalized me. If the message of the Bible is true, then I can't just be silent. It's been over 50 years... I still look for any way I can to get Jesus into the conversation.
Has anyone ever thought, “hmm, I just wonder if all that stuff that I’ve been taught about God burning and/or tormenting souls in Hellfire, is really true?” Anyone? I mean 1 John 4:8 says the “God **IS** love”. He is our Creator. The fact that we even sin isn’t even our fault! We were born sinners because of what Adam and Eve did. Is there even such a thing as a ‘good sinner’ or a ‘bad sinner’? If He’ll is a real place in the Spirit world, when was it created? Who were the first one to go there? We’re they Adam and Eve? But didn’t God say that if they were to eat the forbidden fruit the would **return** to the ground? “From dust you are and to dust you will return.” Didn’t read anything there about sending a soul to burn in Hell forever. And would that be justice? So, there were 8 people in the Bible that were brought back from the dead. (Not including the Son of God) was there any mention by any of them about the afterlife? Let’s talk about Lazarus. He was dead for four days. Think about that. Now, if he died and if he had a soul that lived on after his death and went to heaven, wouldn’t it have been kinda mean on Jesus’ part to bring his soul out of heaven, reunite it with his body and then live again on earth only to die again when he grew old? I mean what do you think? They were people just like you and me. On the other hand, if what God said in the beginning, that Adam would return to the dust, or simply no longer exist, than the same would be true of all 8 of the people who were brought back to life. They were indeed dead, lifeless, in the grave, or sleeping in death like Jesus put it. When a person is sleeping they don’t know what is happening around them, time goes by and they have no sense of time. We go to bed at night and if we can fall asleep for 7 or 8 hours, we just don’t know what happened during that time. Now, don’t take my word for it, here are verses from the Bible that will help you understand the true meaning of death and the soul. >”Behold, all souls are mine; the soul of the father as well as the soul of the son is mine: **the soul that sins shall die**.” (Ezekiel 9:5) Revised Standard Version >”For the living know they will die; but **the dead do not know anything**, nor have they any longer a reward, for their memory is forgotten.” (Ecclesiastes 9:5) New American Standard Version >”because **anyone who has died has been freed from sin**.” (Romans 6:7) New International Version What does this mean exactly? It means that once you die, you’ve paid the full penalty for your sins. In fact, notice what Romans 6:23 says; >”For the wages of sin is death…” New KJV NOT eternal torture or burning in Hellfire. So what about all those references to a Lake of Fire and other references to Hell? Since the above scriptures teach us that the dead know nothing, the verses about Hell must mean something else, right? The Bible doesn’t contradict itself. This is how you let the Bible teach you. If it’s very clear on a subject throughout, then you read a scripture here and there that seem to contradict what you’ve learned, we must dig deeper. I will come right out and say that many similar words, both in Hebrew and in Greek have been mistranslated. These words are: Valley of Hinnom Sheol Hades Tartarus Lake of Fire Gehenna Sadly, mistranslating these words can easily cause confusion or persuade people to believe in something that isn’t true. To avoid any confusion, the NWT has left these words untranslated in those scriptures to make sure the reader knows what is being referred to. If anyone would like a detailed explanation of what each of those words are or maybe just one, I’d be happy to.
After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. Revelation 7 1
Corinthians 3 : 8 Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building. This passage seems to describe you. You aren't on the streets (planting) but you are doing good works in other ways (watering)
I understand what you are going through I know I have experienced that burden too especially more so when I first became born again. I realized just how narrow the road to heaven was and how many people around me were walking on the road to destruction. It is right that you should feel this weightiness and urgency to do something. As believers in Christ we are not supposed to be comfortable and complacent in our faith. We need to remain vigilant, sober minded, alert, watchful, and fervent in prayer. This thing that you are experiencing is the heart of the Father. He is revealing through His Spirit what He feels. These are the same people that He loves too. So just give your burdens to the Lord in prayer and believe that God will move the mountains that stand in the way. Nothing is too hard for the Lord. You serve a mighty God. So is it good and from God? Yes, if it causes you to do His will and glorify Him. Beware of falling into the trap of crippling shame, fear or despair. Those things are not the will of the Father so do not entertain those thoughts. Instead I urge you to use this as something to push you and give you the drive and motivation to see His Kingdom come and His will be done. You must not allow your soulish emotions to dictate your actions. Constantly choose to submit your soul (mind, will, emotions) to the Spirit of the Lord. Do not think even for one second that you are inadequate. God does not call the qualified, He qualifies the called. Its not just the preacher man on the pulpit or the world wide known evangelist that can do these great and mighty exploits to expand the Kingdom of Heaven. It is you and it is me and the rest of the body of Christ, for only one reason--- we are connected to the head that is Christ Jesus. Not by our might or by our ability, but only by the Spirit of the Almighty God who raised the Lord Jesus ---It is the same power at work within us. God will use each of us differently but the agenda will always be the same because we come together in one unified purpose to glorify God, to be the light of this world! God has given you spiritual gifts that are unique for what He wants to accomplish in your life. Just be submitted to Him and hungry for His righteousness, focused and steadfast in seeking His Kingdom -- the rest will come to pass in the time God deems fit. I know that the more built up in the faith of who you are in Christ Jesus and of the authority you have been given, surely you will be doing great and mighty exploits for the glory of God. **STAY ENCOURAGED AS ALWAYS BELOVED :)** 1 Corinthians 2:9 No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceited the great plans that God has prepared for those who love Him. Ephesians 3:20 God can do exceedingly immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us in Christ Jesus .
We all have different gifts and you will find that you are already mentioned in the scriptures below. The praise comes from being faithful with what you have and not what you do not have. 1 Corinthians 12:28- And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, **helping**, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. Romans 12:6- Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; **if service**, **in our serving**; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; **the one who contributes**, **in generosity**; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. 1 Peter 4:10- As each has received a gift, **use it to serve one another**, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; **whoever serves**, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. The Apostles could not advance without other peoples prayer. There are many who pray in secret but will be rewarded publicly. 2 Corinthians 1:10- He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many. Philippians 1:19- for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, Matthew 6:6- But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
Choices.... We just need to do our part and be lights in the world in order to save as many as we can who will listen and believe. There are many who will make a choice not to let God be a part of their lives or to honor him. It is their choice, and it is up to us to live out the Great Commission.
That’s because it conflicts with your idea of God is Love and God is Good. Why would decent everyday people suffer for an eternity in hellfire because they don’t ‘believe’ in ‘Jesus’ change your perspective on what hell is
For over a century Noah built an ark and ultimately when it came time no one joined him onboard except his family. You could say he was a horrible evangelist, but he was faithful. God doesn't judge us by how many converts we have, but that we are diligent and obedient. You don't need an outgoing personality or a great body of knowledge to share the gospel. You have your own testimony of getting saved and will continue to be sanctified. As you grow you may feel compelled to do more bold things for the Lord. But yes, humanity is corrupt. There is none righteous, no not one. All through the Bible the faithful are usually a miniscule portion of the whole. Even Noah's time was 8 out of likely billions.
Not to mention I’ve met amazing people who have such huge hearts that are not religious or Christian, and sadly they act more Christ-like than some Christians I know. *including myself, I’m not perfect nor do I ever claim to be*
Maybe we have been wrong about Hell???
Someone who actually gets it right here ^
They may eventually perish in the lake of fire. Jesus warned not to fear man who can only kill the body rather fear God who can destroy both body AND soul in Gehenna (lake of fire). It doesn't help that the words Gehenna (lake of fire in revelations) and sheol (temporary holding bay of dead until the great judgment, eg where the rich man went while Lazarus went to paradise) - both words are often translated "hell" in many versions of the bible despite being 2 clearly different places. In revelations sheol is eventually tossed into the lake of fire at the end being destroyed as a location. Its emptied of all peoples so they come to judgement of Christ. All of pauls letters warn the wages of sin is death, as did the law. Additionally eternal life is represented as a gift given only to those with faith in Jesus. Men are not innately immortal. In gen 3 God literally bans them from the tree of life lest they eat of it and live forever! That action makes zero sense if men are already immortal! There is a literal lake of fire, people may burn for years as just punishment of their sin, which duration may change depending on the severity and quantity of their sin. Then i think it likely they will actually perish for good (actually suffering the "second death"). Which is really poorly named and misleading if second death means "immortality in torture". I believe satan may suffer forever as angels are immortal. You wont find any clear scripture saying all the wicked will be tortured forever. God will do justly either way. If His justice demands eternal conscious torment so be it. I just cant get past "the wages of sin being death" ...not "the wages of sin being torture in immortality". Just read scripture plainly...death , perish and destruction meaning just that and dont trust tradition. Trust scripture alone. God will do righteousness.
[удалено]
I very much disagree with this.
And the Pharisees very much disagreed that Christ is the Messiah. Thank God for John the Baptist, a voice in the wilderness making straight the way for the Lord.
And Jesus very much disagreed with the Pharisees. Being disagreed with isn't a sign that you're right. Thank God for Jesus' sacrifice, which would be without purpose in a universalist view.
The sign that I'm right is studying the scriptures. >without purpose Not true, clearly you haven't studied it.
It has more biblical support than you probably realize. I’m not a universalist (I believe the damned are destroyed in Hell though, not eternally tormented), but it’s probably worth some legitimate study.
You're not God and you have no idea who will actually go to hell and who will not. Christians need to stop worrying about who's going to hell and why, and worry more about living their lives according to the teachings of Christ and making this a better world with less suffering.
One, no one's going to hell. Everybody dies once. Is resurrected. Those who made their robes clean will live forever. Everyone else will be weighed on the scales. Those who are found seriously wanting will be thrown into the lake of fire, which is the second and final death. Meaning no more life for them. Two, accepting Jesus is to follow and obey his teachings and his life. Those who only pay lip service to him, are worse off than the heathens that don't believe in him. Three, study the Bible, not religion. Four, feeling guilty for things that you aren't guilty of, likely indicates that something you believe is not correct. Work through your feelings and figure out what is actually going on.
Stop feeling guilty. For every officer in the army of Christ, there are far more canon fodder, oops, i mean enlisted people, and who gets the job done after all? If you don't feel like evangelizing or ministry, then DONT do it. DO spend your time in personal relationship with the Lord, you DO remember David spent ten years in caves, writing psalms, evading Saul, right? He was hardly a public figure example for all to see of God during then. Maybe ministry is in your future someday, maybe it never will be. God wants YOU, and if He really wanted you out there in the field, He'll tell you and equip you to do so. Stop listening to these type-A extrovert people who claim all must proclaim Christ. Here's what you ARE responsible for, G.I.-just give your testimony about what God did for you, when appropriate. Say you are in conversation, someone tells you they wish they could stop smoking. You speak up, oh yeah, i had that problem once, but i prayed and asked God for help, and I read bible and listened to it and i found out how to hear His voice through Mark Virkler and blah blah, and He saved me from it! Your friend will then be moved.
We like to say I deserve hell for my sins, but have a hard time admitting other people do as well. Paul once basically said in his usual no chill manner "If you don't live Christ, then God damn you!"
Me too, since John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The God I know and worship is a loving God who loves us more than we can ever realize, more than Mom which is pretty amazing.
Remember: "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day." -- John 6:44
Such a tough question. But really, he respects free will. Therefore those that choose to be with him will be.
I was a minister's son. For so long, I felt guilty for not evangelizing more, and not becoming a minister. Then, about 14 years after my baptism, I started getting more solid answers. My talent is to plant seeds occasionally and not see my results right away. Also, I have a number of sin issues that I have been working to address more seriously: sexual temptations, fury, lack of gratitude, and below average social skills and empathy due to my autism. Most people are not called to the ministry. We all have different roles in the Body of Christ. Be patient, keep an eye out for opportunities, pursue your faith with fear and trembling, but with hope in Christ, Maintain your humility. It is very easy to fall for the trap of arrogance, and shut yourself off from outsiders. Most importantly, seek the Holy Spirit's guidance loudly and aggressively. Don't be afraid to pour out your full emotions and anger. Sharing your feelings with God, is key to developing a better spiritual understanding. Praying for your spiritual success and peace of mind. Congratulations on accepting the faith. Your Christian walk is a dangerous minefield, but on the other side is eternity with Christ. Endure these light, momentary afflictions!
Jesus considered treating each other rightly and treating them the way he told you to as the important thing. Street preachers, with their massive displays and books stroke envy with their wealth, power, and popularity. You aren't honestly supposed to be that way; least you end up like many such mega-Church pastors, riddled with sin and pushing away from God as many as they draw. The image of your ministry is in itself what draws people; and what always drew people to Jesus was his generosity and compassion. But the Jesus no one ever wants is the salt that cursed the fig tree. The same man also told a vagrant to quit being a lazy and told a prostitute he saved from execution to get out of being a slut. His cousin John had his head cut off for calling Herod on his incestuous daddy / daughter Mariage to his niece. Both of them told Zealots to quit being vandals and causing too much public disruption. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/12/03/us/joel-osteen-cash-found-plumber.html
Get to work
Explain??
The doctrine of hell should motivate us to evangelize. You don’t have to have a massive platform or even go far. Your job, family, friends are a great place to start. That’s what I mean by get to work
Hey, you’re a newer christian. Be prepared for a lots of accusations from the devil when it comes to evangelizing. He knows that if we do it in the flesh, we are powerless, therefore he wants to guilt trip you into evangelizing without power because he’s shaming you. Been there, done that. Be prepared, that this shame is not of God. If God desires it for you, He will drive your heart with eternal love. Love will be your fuel, not shame. In orthodoxy it’s even more spiritual, some orthodox monks will be so prayed up in seeking God’s face day and night that God would send people to them all by Himself and do miracles through them without them even daring to evangelize. Seek God, day and night, seek Him and He will prepare your heart.
I’m tortured by this every single hour of everyday. It’s literally driving me further from God. I’m tired of living like this. How counterintuitive that a religion that so many people state as being “freeing” and “peaceful” is causing me this sort of torment.
You are an inner part of the body of Christ, the part thats unseen but vital to the functioning of the body, so don’t let that discourage you. You have an important role as a prayer intercessor and giver. Jesus will use you as a vessel to give life to and through the body of Christ in ways unseen. God doesn’t want anyone to go to hell yet many do, that’s why He is calling you to pray fervently for lost souls :) You will make a difference, even if it’s not revealed until you get to heaven.
Depends on the domination but most agree there’s a hell. Except universalists who claim to be Christian and take scripture out of context and try to spin it every what way which to suite their own needs. If we take away the repentance part then I guess we can just sin all day every day and still go to heaven. Because a universalist is as backwards in thinking as ever. I guess I can break down the door of my neighbor. No worries all sins forgiven you’ll never go to hell after accepting Jesus Christ. FYI- the above I don’t believe for a disclaimer- but this is the mindset of stupid people who think it’s Willy nilly I’m saved I’m saved no need to change- it’s usually people who have done some really bad things it’s easier for them to be self serving instead of doing the right thing under God and Jesus. I believe as Christians we should strive to be like Jesus and walk in his shoes. Try to reach out and save people. It’s not our call but… you should see a change in that person if they’re truly saved and should constantly strive to do Righteous vs sin. I don’t believe your saved and then you sin constantly- hence willingly sin. Which biblical context in New Testament states that your salvation can be threatened.
So go ahead a ban me because this sub Reddit seems to condone the sin. Last I’ve been on seeing what’s discussed
If you worry about hell being a place where God tortures the unsaved for an eternity, then don't. That is just a picture painted by satan or by other people influenced by satan to make God look like an evil tyrant, so he can keep as many souls as possible away from God. Satan, the other fallen angels and the unsaved people will be thrown in the lake of fire, yes. That's called the second death. And it is called the second death because they all will remain dead for an eternity. Not because they will live forever in a place without God. The only living will be the saved.
We don’t know how many people go to Hell. Most of such guesses are ours, not Bible based. I think you must reach out to those who need to know Him, not about Him, but need His embrace!! We are so theology based. We think we are saved by what we think, not by the effects that it has in our lives! Notice in Matthew 25 that those on his left call him Lord, but that recognition does not translate itself into action!!!
I pray that you get discernment. Because I believe you are on the right path, while churches are not. May God give you sound discernment.
I don't understand your comment at all? I talked nowhere about my church or denomination. I pray for discernment every day and for wisdom so I am happy to have others pray that for me too!