Ahso!;1502928 wrote: You know that famous bass riff on the O'jays' tune For The Love Of Money? Anthony Jackson wrote that riff.
I did not know that; oh great bass line man , I love it! Oh yeah I dig him.
Is God Real?
Is God Real?
Mickiel;1502933 wrote: I did not know that; oh great bass line man , I love it! Oh yeah I dig him.Jackson also invented the Contrabass (six string)guitar.
“Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities,
Voltaire
I have only one thing to do and that's
Be the wave that I am and then
Sink back into the ocean
Fiona Apple
Voltaire
I have only one thing to do and that's
Be the wave that I am and then
Sink back into the ocean
Fiona Apple
Is God Real?
See what happens when you get out in the world? You find Anthony Jackson making more of that great music.
“Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities,
Voltaire
I have only one thing to do and that's
Be the wave that I am and then
Sink back into the ocean
Fiona Apple
Voltaire
I have only one thing to do and that's
Be the wave that I am and then
Sink back into the ocean
Fiona Apple
Is God Real?
Ahso!;1502935 wrote: See what happens when you get out in the world? You find Anthony Jackson making more of that great music.
My interest in music is deep and long lasting ; my interest in God is much deeper, my thoughts of him is like music in my mind, wondering if he is real. I look at humanity and history and music , and I think it has to be more to this ; we just don't live and die and that's it ; there must be more meaning; another powerful agenda for our lives. And if God is real ,then he is offering that new life , and I think will freely give it to every human that has ever lived. So I understand that I will die, and that may come sooner in my life than I expected. So I don't mind investing my thoughts in that, playing that music of him being real in my mind.
My interest in music is deep and long lasting ; my interest in God is much deeper, my thoughts of him is like music in my mind, wondering if he is real. I look at humanity and history and music , and I think it has to be more to this ; we just don't live and die and that's it ; there must be more meaning; another powerful agenda for our lives. And if God is real ,then he is offering that new life , and I think will freely give it to every human that has ever lived. So I understand that I will die, and that may come sooner in my life than I expected. So I don't mind investing my thoughts in that, playing that music of him being real in my mind.
Is God Real?
Mickiel;1502964 wrote: My interest in music is deep and long lasting ; my interest in God is much deeper, my thoughts of him is like music in my mind, wondering if he is real. I look at humanity and history and music , and I think it has to be more to this ; we just don't live and die and that's it ; there must be more meaning; another powerful agenda for our lives. And if God is real ,then he is offering that new life , and I think will freely give it to every human that has ever lived. So I understand that I will die, and that may come sooner in my life than I expected. So I don't mind investing my thoughts in that, playing that music of him being real in my mind.That's about as well put as I ever seen it typed out, Mickiel.
The only question I might have regarding what you've said is whether or not you're seeking your answers with an open mind, or insisting that you must be correct even in the face of mounting evidence to the contrary.?
That's always the most difficult part. It's very hard to come to the understanding that we really aren't as important as we imagine ourselves to be.
But reading your post tells me that you'll get it right eventually. You appear to be like me in that you don't quit searching until you're sure.
The only question I might have regarding what you've said is whether or not you're seeking your answers with an open mind, or insisting that you must be correct even in the face of mounting evidence to the contrary.?
That's always the most difficult part. It's very hard to come to the understanding that we really aren't as important as we imagine ourselves to be.
But reading your post tells me that you'll get it right eventually. You appear to be like me in that you don't quit searching until you're sure.
“Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities,
Voltaire
I have only one thing to do and that's
Be the wave that I am and then
Sink back into the ocean
Fiona Apple
Voltaire
I have only one thing to do and that's
Be the wave that I am and then
Sink back into the ocean
Fiona Apple
Is God Real?
Ahso!;1502981 wrote: That's about as well put as I ever seen it typed out, Mickiel.
The only question I might have regarding what you've said is whether or not you're seeking your answers with an open mind, or insisting that you must be correct even in the face of mounting evidence to the contrary.?
That's always the most difficult part. It's very hard to come to the understanding that we really aren't as important as we imagine ourselves to be.
But reading your post tells me that you'll get it right eventually. You appear to be like me in that you don't quit searching until you're sure.
Thank you very much. I do try to have an open mind in my search. From all that I have observed , from everything in life and history ; my present conscious conclusion is that life could have only evolved from life; I just can't get to those who see life evolving on its own
The only question I might have regarding what you've said is whether or not you're seeking your answers with an open mind, or insisting that you must be correct even in the face of mounting evidence to the contrary.?
That's always the most difficult part. It's very hard to come to the understanding that we really aren't as important as we imagine ourselves to be.
But reading your post tells me that you'll get it right eventually. You appear to be like me in that you don't quit searching until you're sure.
Thank you very much. I do try to have an open mind in my search. From all that I have observed , from everything in life and history ; my present conscious conclusion is that life could have only evolved from life; I just can't get to those who see life evolving on its own
Is God Real?
Mickiel;1502990 wrote: Thank you very much. I do try to have an open mind in my search. From all that I have observed , from everything in life and history ; my present conscious conclusion is that life could have only evolved from life; I just can't get to those who see life evolving on its ownLife does evolve from life. Who disputes that?
“Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities,
Voltaire
I have only one thing to do and that's
Be the wave that I am and then
Sink back into the ocean
Fiona Apple
Voltaire
I have only one thing to do and that's
Be the wave that I am and then
Sink back into the ocean
Fiona Apple
Is God Real?
Ahso!;1502993 wrote: Life does evolve from life. Who disputes that?
Actually, I should say that the people who do dispute that are mostly religious. Religious people claim the life form know as God didn't come from another life form, and that He just pooffed into existence somehow.
Actually, I should say that the people who do dispute that are mostly religious. Religious people claim the life form know as God didn't come from another life form, and that He just pooffed into existence somehow.
“Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities,
Voltaire
I have only one thing to do and that's
Be the wave that I am and then
Sink back into the ocean
Fiona Apple
Voltaire
I have only one thing to do and that's
Be the wave that I am and then
Sink back into the ocean
Fiona Apple
Is God Real?
Ahso!;1502996 wrote: Actually, I should say that the people who do dispute that are mostly religious. Religious people claim the life form know as God didn't come from another life form, and that He just pooffed into existence somehow.
I don't know God, but in my view he created parts of himself; how he did that, how he exist ,I don't know. I just don't know where God came from; I cannot explain how he exist.
I don't know God, but in my view he created parts of himself; how he did that, how he exist ,I don't know. I just don't know where God came from; I cannot explain how he exist.
Is God Real?
God to me and millions of others is an experiential reality. I cannot say that God exists but to me God is a spirit and I have experienced that.
An interesting question though is "What is meant by Spirit" I do not want others to necessarily believe as I do. We must each follow our own path. Spirit??????????
An interesting question though is "What is meant by Spirit" I do not want others to necessarily believe as I do. We must each follow our own path. Spirit??????????
Is God Real?
Ted;1503632 wrote: God to me and millions of others is an experiential reality. I cannot say that God exists but to me God is a spirit and I have experienced that.
An interesting question though is "What is meant by Spirit" I do not want others to necessarily believe as I do. We must each follow our own path. Spirit??????????
Let me say this for those it may help; what is Spirit?
Spirit is "The Other." The other presence in your consciousness. The other way of thinking, which is not your way. That other thought in your mind that is not your thought. The power other than your own. To the artist , its that inspiration that comes inside of them and motivates thought when they are empty. To the writer, its that thing that takes residence inside your consciousness that produces words for you when you have none. And what people seem not to understand or accept, to the Theist , its that other consciousness which enters and opens you to things you could not open yourself to; and produces thinking and understanding that other wise was not there before. Access to the other world. Education is learning "Other knowledge" that you did not have.
Spirit is the other ; its the other way of thinking. Its in the other room, and in my view, that room is not crowded.
An interesting question though is "What is meant by Spirit" I do not want others to necessarily believe as I do. We must each follow our own path. Spirit??????????
Let me say this for those it may help; what is Spirit?
Spirit is "The Other." The other presence in your consciousness. The other way of thinking, which is not your way. That other thought in your mind that is not your thought. The power other than your own. To the artist , its that inspiration that comes inside of them and motivates thought when they are empty. To the writer, its that thing that takes residence inside your consciousness that produces words for you when you have none. And what people seem not to understand or accept, to the Theist , its that other consciousness which enters and opens you to things you could not open yourself to; and produces thinking and understanding that other wise was not there before. Access to the other world. Education is learning "Other knowledge" that you did not have.
Spirit is the other ; its the other way of thinking. Its in the other room, and in my view, that room is not crowded.
Is God Real?
In the Spiritual sense - being merely a matter of the conciousness & a course of life - a way of thinking, I can quite accept that. It's the physical existence that I deny.
Is God Real?
FourPart;1503640 wrote: In the Spiritual sense - being merely a matter of the conciousness & a course of life - a way of thinking, I can quite accept that. It's the physical existence that I deny.
God does not physically exist. And I would disagree with any theist who taught that.
God does not physically exist. And I would disagree with any theist who taught that.
Is God Real?
I don't know if I will ever personally talk with God or not, but it would be an honor to speak with any of his assistants; I sure have a lot of questions. One of which is I sure wonder what God thinks about me?
I sure hope God is real, because if life was unplanned and the result of happenstance incredible luck, I would be shocked indeed! I mean I would shake my head and walk away. My death bed would be even more sour.
I sure hope God is real, because if life was unplanned and the result of happenstance incredible luck, I would be shocked indeed! I mean I would shake my head and walk away. My death bed would be even more sour.
Is God Real?
Now if we are to live in eternity, I am sure we all must be prepared; I mean we can't shift those kinds of gears; going from finite to infinite. We will need to be introduced to God's world! The more I think about it , were going to always be alive, so I think its reasonable to assume that each of us will get a chance to speak with God.
We will have the time ; I wonder if it will be allowed??
Or to actually speak with Jesus? All the questions we bounced off each other , to get the chance to actually Ask God himself things.
Wow.
We will have the time ; I wonder if it will be allowed??
Or to actually speak with Jesus? All the questions we bounced off each other , to get the chance to actually Ask God himself things.
Wow.
Is God Real?
You'll be hearing voices in your head soon. Or is that happening already?
Any connection between your reality and mine is purely coincidental.
Is God Real?
We do hear of people who say that a person is dead but his spirit lives on.. I cannot define spirit, though dictionaries try. The spirit of Jesus lived on after his death and thus the resurrection. The spirit of Jesus continues to live on in many millions. When I see some of the things he advocated I can most surely agree: feed the hungry, care for the sick, love your neighbour , clothe the naked etc.. His message was to live in community in one way or another and be at peace with all. A lot to strive for.. All of the great faiths began on the two principles of Justice and compassion. Karen Armstrong. I see lots of folks alive today who are trying their best to follow those principles. Unfortunately far to many have twisted and screwed up his message. In fact if the historical Jesus could come back he would be appalled at what has been done in his name. The historical Jesus was not God but he always spoke of God as other.
Is God Real?
I've had enough of THIS life & look forward with anticipation to the day it finishes. The idea of having to go on to do it all over again for the rest of eternity is NOT one I relish.
Is God Real?
I personally cannot comment on "life after death". Such a concept is beyond human thinking as is trying to define that great mystery in physical existence. It is a future hope of many.
Is God Real?
Fuzzy;1503973 wrote: You'll be hearing voices in your head soon. Or is that happening already?
I only see and hear what all humans hear, nothing. I am tired of the nothing, and look forward to the next level. The level of God.
I only see and hear what all humans hear, nothing. I am tired of the nothing, and look forward to the next level. The level of God.
Is God Real?
Ted;1504079 wrote: I personally cannot comment on "life after death". Such a concept is beyond human thinking as is trying to define that great mystery in physical existence. It is a future hope of many.
It is beyond my thinking , but not my far reaching consciousness; I can enter into my conscious imagination, and fueled and guided by my little knowledge of the word of God , and off I go! My hope builds a real body of evidence.
It is beyond my thinking , but not my far reaching consciousness; I can enter into my conscious imagination, and fueled and guided by my little knowledge of the word of God , and off I go! My hope builds a real body of evidence.
Is God Real?
Mickiel;1504340 wrote: It is beyond my thinking , but not my far reaching consciousness; I can enter into my conscious imagination, and fueled and guided by my little knowledge of the word of God , and off I go! My hope builds a real body of evidence.
The home of the soul is the Open Road.
- DH Lawrence
- DH Lawrence
Is God Real?
LarsMac;1504346 wrote:
I cannot show a harden mind God , or an intelligent Atheistic mind ; that is beyond me ; far past my talents and abilities. I cannot show God to many people . But there are some minds I can reach and show God to. Simple humble uneducated , unpopular minds; those minds that the world does not honor. I can take such a person right outside and show them a simple bird flying, and we both can enjoy seeing God together.
I cannot show a harden mind God , or an intelligent Atheistic mind ; that is beyond me ; far past my talents and abilities. I cannot show God to many people . But there are some minds I can reach and show God to. Simple humble uneducated , unpopular minds; those minds that the world does not honor. I can take such a person right outside and show them a simple bird flying, and we both can enjoy seeing God together.
Is God Real?
FourPart;1504071 wrote: I've had enough of THIS life & look forward with anticipation to the day it finishes. The idea of having to go on to do it all over again for the rest of eternity is NOT one I relish.
I too have had my fill of this life , but I think quite different for the future; I look forward to the day of God; the time of God's revealing himself and beginning his rightful rein and rule of all things. The time when death and sorrow and pain will be eliminated by God , and he himself will open up humanity to his eternity. His ways and means will be ushered into our consciousness. Jesus , our Lord and King will be there in his fullness. God will shift the gears of reality and give eternal life and mercy to everyone who ever existed. Then we will know an entirely new life, which the bibles calls a " New Birth."
The idea of going through the foolishness of this life in eternity , is a totally false concept; we will never again experience sin and its evil. That is ours to experience now; the reason why a person is tired of life , is BECAUSE of sin! Because it robs and drains life of its true intent! And that is a lesson we get to learn freely now. There will be no more of that mess in Gods eternity.
He only has our happiness in his awesome mind. We will be in his most capable hands.
I too have had my fill of this life , but I think quite different for the future; I look forward to the day of God; the time of God's revealing himself and beginning his rightful rein and rule of all things. The time when death and sorrow and pain will be eliminated by God , and he himself will open up humanity to his eternity. His ways and means will be ushered into our consciousness. Jesus , our Lord and King will be there in his fullness. God will shift the gears of reality and give eternal life and mercy to everyone who ever existed. Then we will know an entirely new life, which the bibles calls a " New Birth."
The idea of going through the foolishness of this life in eternity , is a totally false concept; we will never again experience sin and its evil. That is ours to experience now; the reason why a person is tired of life , is BECAUSE of sin! Because it robs and drains life of its true intent! And that is a lesson we get to learn freely now. There will be no more of that mess in Gods eternity.
He only has our happiness in his awesome mind. We will be in his most capable hands.
Is God Real?
It is amazing that some think they can define God and know exactly what will happen. I canot follow that line. Two issues need to be sworked on. The Bible as the "Word of God" and the meaning of the word "sin"..
Is God Real?
Ted;1504452 wrote: It is amazing that some think they can define God and know exactly what will happen. I canot follow that line. Two issues need to be sworked on. The Bible as the "Word of God" and the meaning of the word "sin"..
I don't think God can be rightly defined, but I enjoy " Some" of the efforts I read. Their all guesses. And I think we have thousands of " Biblical Issues" we need to work on , as far as our interpretation of them.
But I just kind of like seeing were " Trying."
I don't think God can be rightly defined, but I enjoy " Some" of the efforts I read. Their all guesses. And I think we have thousands of " Biblical Issues" we need to work on , as far as our interpretation of them.
But I just kind of like seeing were " Trying."
Is God Real?
To paraphrase the Rev Dr. Rabbi Robert Daum, of the Vancouver school of theology the Bible is not to be read as if It has one correct interpretations. All interpretations are valid. The next point is that the Bible has to be read in light of our advancing knowledge and understanding. To read it literally is a gentile heresy. J. S. Spong. I agree with Bishop Spong's comments. This does not answer to my two questions about the Bible as the "Word of God" or what is sin?.
Is God Real?
Ted;1504502 wrote: To paraphrase the Rev Dr. Rabbi Robert Daum, of the Vancouver school of theology the Bible is not to be read as if It has one correct interpretations. All interpretations are valid. The next point is that the Bible has to be read in light of our advancing knowledge and understanding. To read it literally is a gentile heresy. J. S. Spong. I agree with Bishop Spong's comments. This does not answer to my two questions about the Bible as the "Word of God" or what is sin?.
Let us know the answers you get.
Let us know the answers you get.
Is God Real?
All of the Religious Zealots tell us about what God is, what Heaven is, what Hell is, what Sin is, what is Right, what is Wrong, yet none of them can produce any valid evidence to their claims, apart from a single book full of contradictions, which was written by more of their kind. We are told what is in this wonderful afterlife, which in itself presupposes the very existence of an afterlife - something which can never be proved, therefore the nature of such an afterlife also cannot be proved. It is claimed to be a reward. What if someone doesn't desire such a reward? The imposition of such an eternal existence would be a punishment. I hate the whole concept of a God. I can't imagine anything worse than being made to exist for eternity with one.
Is God Real?
FourPart;1504529 wrote: All of the Religious Zealots tell us about what God is, what Heaven is, what Hell is, what Sin is, what is Right, what is Wrong, yet none of them can produce any valid evidence to their claims, apart from a single book full of contradictions, which was written by more of their kind. We are told what is in this wonderful afterlife, which in itself presupposes the very existence of an afterlife - something which can never be proved, therefore the nature of such an afterlife also cannot be proved. It is claimed to be a reward. What if someone doesn't desire such a reward? The imposition of such an eternal existence would be a punishment. I hate the whole concept of a God. I can't imagine anything worse than being made to exist for eternity with one.
If I want to love a woman, I don't need to convince you why
If I want to love a country, I don't care if you do or not
If I want to believe in a principal , I could care less if you do
If I decide to walk in a certain direction, I hold no need to prove to you that I should
If I decide to believe in a God ,man I don't care if you do or not. I have absolutely no need to prove him to you.
You have your truths , they are for you
I have my truths , they are for me
Peace on your journey.
If I want to love a woman, I don't need to convince you why
If I want to love a country, I don't care if you do or not
If I want to believe in a principal , I could care less if you do
If I decide to walk in a certain direction, I hold no need to prove to you that I should
If I decide to believe in a God ,man I don't care if you do or not. I have absolutely no need to prove him to you.
You have your truths , they are for you
I have my truths , they are for me
Peace on your journey.
Is God Real?
Mickiel;1504562 wrote: If I want to love a woman, I don't need to convince you why
If I want to love a country, I don't care if you do or not
If I want to believe in a principal , I could care less if you do
If I decide to walk in a certain direction, I hold no need to prove to you that I should
If I decide to believe in a God ,man I don't care if you do or not. I have absolutely no need to prove him to you.
You have your truths , they are for you
I have my truths , they are for me
Peace on your journey.
The concept of living in peace for eternity , is the thrill of my imagination. The idea of living for an eternity with there never being war , hate , killing or death , is the ultimate desire of my belief ; it will be incredible. Living forever without ever getting sick, is most acceptable to me. Its something I surely want with no second thoughts what so ever. To be alive for eternity and to always learn for eternity , is an incredible joy to consider, because I like learning.
To always be in a happy state of being , I think would be a gift too incredible to even imagine , because I have been sad so much. To always be healthy would take me some time getting used to , because I have known nothing but pain and suffering all my life. To even just imagine in my consciousness that I could always exist and never have to fight with anyone; I mean now I can't get to it , because I am a fighter.
And I don't blame anyone for doubting that such an existence is even possible , because I am a creature of doubt any way.
To live in a place where all knowledge is instantly provided , where all proof would be there for you to examine , would indeed challenge my dispositions , because I could not always find proof. I would be spoiled ; not even know how to handle that. To be ready to argue , when no argument is needed.
Oh yes , humanity will definitely need time to adjust to such an existence. I can't hardly believe that I will never lust after a woman again, because I have done it for a life time in my human existence. So I'm going to need time. To think I will never be racist again is hard to believe , because its all I have ever known.
All the mysteries that have ever perplexed me, will be opened tome ; and that is frightening to me because I am so used to having things kept from me , so used to not trusting things. So used to people lying to me ; so used to deception being the order of the day. To live in a world of complete honesty and truthfulness -- oh please , I can't even fit it into my conscious acceptance of reality.
Is God's eternity easy to believe and accept ; no it is not, not by far. You can't ask a reasonable human to easily believe this. The reaction of Atheist is understandable ; the reaction of Agnostics is something I can relate to ; and the way many Theist have distorted this truth and messed it up, I understand that as well.
I don't understand limited life , so I know I don't understand unlimited life. I don't rightly understand how and why alcohol had the effect on me that it did when I used to drink it. It has gotten me into more trouble than anything in life. I only stopped drinking it because it started making me sick. But I can't think of anything physical that gave me more joy than a drink ; a 6 pack of brew gave me more joy than a woman.
I don't care who drinks beer or not ; I don't care what religious group claims we should drink or not ; I don't care who believes beer exist or not ; I don't care if beer is good for your health or not. I could care less what an Atheist or Theist has to say about me and beer ; for a time beer was for me and I enjoyed it. I did it and it helped me to exist in this life.
God is something I did, and it helped me to exist in this life. It gave me a target to shoot at. It filled in some blanks inside my immensely curious consciousness. It gave me more. It gave me more answers, more reasons to live. It gave me more than Atheist gave me. It gave me more than women and beer gave me. An although this may pain some Atheist to read, it was my thing; it was the needle in the haystack of "My"life; My life; I mean it was "For me", if you understand what I am saying.
At the time ,at this juncture , here in 2016 , the way my head is , the way my consciousness is and has been shaped; the way things turned out for me,( not speaking of or for you, but me),
Believing in God is just for me. I have no right to tell you what is for you at this time
but for me , there is no other way. This is how it is.
If I want to love a country, I don't care if you do or not
If I want to believe in a principal , I could care less if you do
If I decide to walk in a certain direction, I hold no need to prove to you that I should
If I decide to believe in a God ,man I don't care if you do or not. I have absolutely no need to prove him to you.
You have your truths , they are for you
I have my truths , they are for me
Peace on your journey.
The concept of living in peace for eternity , is the thrill of my imagination. The idea of living for an eternity with there never being war , hate , killing or death , is the ultimate desire of my belief ; it will be incredible. Living forever without ever getting sick, is most acceptable to me. Its something I surely want with no second thoughts what so ever. To be alive for eternity and to always learn for eternity , is an incredible joy to consider, because I like learning.
To always be in a happy state of being , I think would be a gift too incredible to even imagine , because I have been sad so much. To always be healthy would take me some time getting used to , because I have known nothing but pain and suffering all my life. To even just imagine in my consciousness that I could always exist and never have to fight with anyone; I mean now I can't get to it , because I am a fighter.
And I don't blame anyone for doubting that such an existence is even possible , because I am a creature of doubt any way.
To live in a place where all knowledge is instantly provided , where all proof would be there for you to examine , would indeed challenge my dispositions , because I could not always find proof. I would be spoiled ; not even know how to handle that. To be ready to argue , when no argument is needed.
Oh yes , humanity will definitely need time to adjust to such an existence. I can't hardly believe that I will never lust after a woman again, because I have done it for a life time in my human existence. So I'm going to need time. To think I will never be racist again is hard to believe , because its all I have ever known.
All the mysteries that have ever perplexed me, will be opened tome ; and that is frightening to me because I am so used to having things kept from me , so used to not trusting things. So used to people lying to me ; so used to deception being the order of the day. To live in a world of complete honesty and truthfulness -- oh please , I can't even fit it into my conscious acceptance of reality.
Is God's eternity easy to believe and accept ; no it is not, not by far. You can't ask a reasonable human to easily believe this. The reaction of Atheist is understandable ; the reaction of Agnostics is something I can relate to ; and the way many Theist have distorted this truth and messed it up, I understand that as well.
I don't understand limited life , so I know I don't understand unlimited life. I don't rightly understand how and why alcohol had the effect on me that it did when I used to drink it. It has gotten me into more trouble than anything in life. I only stopped drinking it because it started making me sick. But I can't think of anything physical that gave me more joy than a drink ; a 6 pack of brew gave me more joy than a woman.
I don't care who drinks beer or not ; I don't care what religious group claims we should drink or not ; I don't care who believes beer exist or not ; I don't care if beer is good for your health or not. I could care less what an Atheist or Theist has to say about me and beer ; for a time beer was for me and I enjoyed it. I did it and it helped me to exist in this life.
God is something I did, and it helped me to exist in this life. It gave me a target to shoot at. It filled in some blanks inside my immensely curious consciousness. It gave me more. It gave me more answers, more reasons to live. It gave me more than Atheist gave me. It gave me more than women and beer gave me. An although this may pain some Atheist to read, it was my thing; it was the needle in the haystack of "My"life; My life; I mean it was "For me", if you understand what I am saying.
At the time ,at this juncture , here in 2016 , the way my head is , the way my consciousness is and has been shaped; the way things turned out for me,( not speaking of or for you, but me),
Believing in God is just for me. I have no right to tell you what is for you at this time
but for me , there is no other way. This is how it is.
Is God Real?
FourPart;1504529 wrote:
I hate the whole concept of a God. I can't imagine anything worse than being made to exist for eternity with one.
In my view of what little I have learned about God, and even with this I admit to speculation because its hard to comprehend God; well its hard for me. But God has already made plans for all of humanity. The bible reveals he made those plans even before he made humanity. So the bible terms that "Pre destination." God created humanity without needing any imput from humanity, and when he returns to earth ,the bible shows he will not ask for imput from humanity.
As we can see from Four parts words above , we humans have all kinds of views concerning God. The bible basically reveals that God is of one mind where our future existence is concerned; Job 23:13,he has already made his mind up and is not concerned with how any of us feel about this, as far as trying to change his mind is concerned. We have nothing to do with our future , its a done deal. God does not care who disagrees with him, in his mind ,he knows better than any of us. And he knows no power exist to challenge him. So all the power and hate of men , will make absolutely no difference. The Love and power of God has already determined the future of humanity.
The rule of men will end, the hate of men will end , the uncertainty of our future will end ; the rule of God will "Outwardly begin", because God has been ruling all this time anyway.
Fortunately for us , the meddling of men will be eliminated. Men will have stuck their negative selfish heads into this life business for the last time.
I hate the whole concept of a God. I can't imagine anything worse than being made to exist for eternity with one.
In my view of what little I have learned about God, and even with this I admit to speculation because its hard to comprehend God; well its hard for me. But God has already made plans for all of humanity. The bible reveals he made those plans even before he made humanity. So the bible terms that "Pre destination." God created humanity without needing any imput from humanity, and when he returns to earth ,the bible shows he will not ask for imput from humanity.
As we can see from Four parts words above , we humans have all kinds of views concerning God. The bible basically reveals that God is of one mind where our future existence is concerned; Job 23:13,he has already made his mind up and is not concerned with how any of us feel about this, as far as trying to change his mind is concerned. We have nothing to do with our future , its a done deal. God does not care who disagrees with him, in his mind ,he knows better than any of us. And he knows no power exist to challenge him. So all the power and hate of men , will make absolutely no difference. The Love and power of God has already determined the future of humanity.
The rule of men will end, the hate of men will end , the uncertainty of our future will end ; the rule of God will "Outwardly begin", because God has been ruling all this time anyway.
Fortunately for us , the meddling of men will be eliminated. Men will have stuck their negative selfish heads into this life business for the last time.
Is God Real?
The impressive thing to me about Revelation 21:4 is something God himself will do; it says God will wipe away all tears from their eyes. Many of us will be crying from all the pain we have gone through; crying because we are in shock because we were dead and now were alive again- which is enough to make anyone cry and be in shock! Crying because we are finally seeing God and Jesus for ourselves. Now , the impressive thing about this verse, God will show his personal concern for us all and dry our tears , but then it says ," And there shall be no more "! It says no more death , sorrow , crying or pain. God says " No More!"
God is going to put and end to many things! It won't be any more of all the things God hates!
This means those things were created to be temporary existence! Not us , we were created to live forever with God! But evil , sin , the devil and his demons , all these things were created to bring tears to our eyes , to put suffering into our lives! But only for a time , and then no more!
Things of temporary existence , brought into existence , to help develop our existence!
God is going to put and end to many things! It won't be any more of all the things God hates!
This means those things were created to be temporary existence! Not us , we were created to live forever with God! But evil , sin , the devil and his demons , all these things were created to bring tears to our eyes , to put suffering into our lives! But only for a time , and then no more!
Things of temporary existence , brought into existence , to help develop our existence!
Is God Real?
If God is a God of love why in hell did he allow the atrocities of the past. Why cause people to suffer? Predestination says that some will go to heaven and the rest to eternal damnation. This means we are all preddestined to a particular end. No point to trying to change anything because God has already made up His mind.
If that kind of God lives he should be dead and do his humanity a great favour.
I believve in God but not that God.. I find it impossible He to believe in that kind of God.l He would be a monster.
If that kind of God lives he should be dead and do his humanity a great favour.
I believve in God but not that God.. I find it impossible He to believe in that kind of God.l He would be a monster.
Is God Real?
Ted;1504821 wrote: If God is a God of love why in hell did he allow the atrocities of the past. Why cause people to suffer? Predestination says that some will go to heaven and the rest to eternal damnation. This means we are all preddestined to a particular end. No point to trying to change anything because God has already made up His mind.
If that kind of God lives he should be dead and do his humanity a great favour.
I believve in God but not that God.. I find it impossible He to believe in that kind of God.l He would be a monster.
There is no such thing as eternal damnation, you have been misinformed. And I believe in predestination; I believe God has predestined everyone to freely live with him in his eternity of love , peace , joy and utopian paradise. I also believe God predestined that we all live in flesh as humans and suffer and then die. God did not " Allow the atrocities", he caused them by creating the atmosphere for evil ;yes by creating evil itself. Isaiah 45:7,"I form the light, and create darkness ;I make peace and create evil; I the Lord do all these things."
Why God did this , is for the benefit of humanity , as far as our eternal life consciousness is involved ; he wanted us to both experience evil, and be aware of its many atrocities. Also our experience with evil will build things inside of us, our experience with "Good" will build things inside of us ; and the battle between those two are actually laying the foundation of fundamental knowledge and learning that God wanted us to have as an eternal lesson; and the suffering is also doing things to humanity that will benefit us for eternity , things I just do not understand or cannot explain.
But yes , God has made his mind up and there is absolutely no point in trying to change his mind. In Job 23:13 it states that God is in one mind and nothing can change him , what he has decided to do , that he does! God has done , is doing and will do all that pleases him. He is not asking for our opinions , he is not concerned with how we feel about what he is doing , and he knows no power exist to stop him. And I think we are most fortunate of this whole thing , because the complete well being of all humanity is really what God's heart and will is.
I trust God better than I do humans. I think we are in very good and powerful hands. I would take being in Gods hands over being in human hands any day!
If that kind of God lives he should be dead and do his humanity a great favour.
I believve in God but not that God.. I find it impossible He to believe in that kind of God.l He would be a monster.
There is no such thing as eternal damnation, you have been misinformed. And I believe in predestination; I believe God has predestined everyone to freely live with him in his eternity of love , peace , joy and utopian paradise. I also believe God predestined that we all live in flesh as humans and suffer and then die. God did not " Allow the atrocities", he caused them by creating the atmosphere for evil ;yes by creating evil itself. Isaiah 45:7,"I form the light, and create darkness ;I make peace and create evil; I the Lord do all these things."
Why God did this , is for the benefit of humanity , as far as our eternal life consciousness is involved ; he wanted us to both experience evil, and be aware of its many atrocities. Also our experience with evil will build things inside of us, our experience with "Good" will build things inside of us ; and the battle between those two are actually laying the foundation of fundamental knowledge and learning that God wanted us to have as an eternal lesson; and the suffering is also doing things to humanity that will benefit us for eternity , things I just do not understand or cannot explain.
But yes , God has made his mind up and there is absolutely no point in trying to change his mind. In Job 23:13 it states that God is in one mind and nothing can change him , what he has decided to do , that he does! God has done , is doing and will do all that pleases him. He is not asking for our opinions , he is not concerned with how we feel about what he is doing , and he knows no power exist to stop him. And I think we are most fortunate of this whole thing , because the complete well being of all humanity is really what God's heart and will is.
I trust God better than I do humans. I think we are in very good and powerful hands. I would take being in Gods hands over being in human hands any day!
Is God Real?
Mickiel with all due respect I simpoly do not agree but you aree entitled to your opinion. I do not believe in that kind of God. That kind of God should be dead. I do not know anything of an after life though that is the hope of most Christians and others. It is "hope". It is not a guarantee.
Is God Real?
Ted;1504919 wrote: Mickiel with all due respect I simpoly do not agree but you aree entitled to your opinion. I do not believe in that kind of God. That kind of God should be dead. I do not know anything of an after life though that is the hope of most Christians and others. It is "hope". It is not a guarantee.
Well thank you for your respect, I respect your views as well. Now my views about God may well be wrong, I am not a "know it all", and I hope I don't project that image. I know and understand that I can be wrong about anything. I am pleased that we have so much knowledge and information available to us. I don't take life for granted, and I don't take my ignorance for granted. I have studied life for over 50 years, and much of the differing information about God.
Hope is not a type of guarantee that you would need to believe in God , but for me its an expectation of biblical fulfillments yes ; it is my desire for the future, its what I expect from God , yes. Hope is not a guarantee that satisfies everyone 's doubt, to some hope is no more than a wish. To the serious Theist hope is trust , its a firm reliance on the integrity, ability and character of God , not yourself. Yes ,you are placing your confidence in him. Now I can choose to place my confidence in science , in other people , in only what I can physically see, but I choose to put my trust in an unseen God ;now that can be called a faith.
Now with me ,I don't have a lot of faith, my hope and trust are nothing to brag about ; I am just an ordinary man. But what ever I have , at whatever levels they are , I see it God's way. I can't get to those other ways.
So I return your respect and hope the best for you in life. I ,like you , simply cannot agree with your opinions.
Peace.
Well thank you for your respect, I respect your views as well. Now my views about God may well be wrong, I am not a "know it all", and I hope I don't project that image. I know and understand that I can be wrong about anything. I am pleased that we have so much knowledge and information available to us. I don't take life for granted, and I don't take my ignorance for granted. I have studied life for over 50 years, and much of the differing information about God.
Hope is not a type of guarantee that you would need to believe in God , but for me its an expectation of biblical fulfillments yes ; it is my desire for the future, its what I expect from God , yes. Hope is not a guarantee that satisfies everyone 's doubt, to some hope is no more than a wish. To the serious Theist hope is trust , its a firm reliance on the integrity, ability and character of God , not yourself. Yes ,you are placing your confidence in him. Now I can choose to place my confidence in science , in other people , in only what I can physically see, but I choose to put my trust in an unseen God ;now that can be called a faith.
Now with me ,I don't have a lot of faith, my hope and trust are nothing to brag about ; I am just an ordinary man. But what ever I have , at whatever levels they are , I see it God's way. I can't get to those other ways.
So I return your respect and hope the best for you in life. I ,like you , simply cannot agree with your opinions.
Peace.
Is God Real?
As time goes on ,I personally wonder will it become easier to determine if God is real , or harder?
I really don't know, and I can't judge by the biblical information provided.
I think science and archaeology could discover eye opening things that could help. I think with science , its academic that they will discover more things that tend to prove God ; I mean think of it : science is learning -big time learning! They are searching and searching for information and we could say will be a " Truth." That is why I say its academic.
It would not be a fools bet!
I really don't know, and I can't judge by the biblical information provided.
I think science and archaeology could discover eye opening things that could help. I think with science , its academic that they will discover more things that tend to prove God ; I mean think of it : science is learning -big time learning! They are searching and searching for information and we could say will be a " Truth." That is why I say its academic.
It would not be a fools bet!
Is God Real?
Archaeology has shownthat the Bible in its totality does not support the theory of a book of History. "The Bible Unearthed" By Finkelstein and Silbermann.
Is God Real?
Ted;1505243 wrote: Archaeology has shownthat the Bible in its totality does not support the theory of a book of History. "The Bible Unearthed" By Finkelstein and Silbermann.
Here's another book;
Historical Biblical Archaeology and the Future: The New Pragmatism | American Journal of Archaeology
And I can list a book for every book you list. Its out there. I know ' there's another side out there that disagrees with me and they have material ; do you know that?
Its two agendas Two possibilities ; two roads to travel. I did not pick one , I inherited one. I had to figure out why this destiny , and if it was true. The negative side kept my hopes on the positive side. The reality of life , kept me from the theory of the gamble of life ; life existing because of random chance.
Here's another book;
Historical Biblical Archaeology and the Future: The New Pragmatism | American Journal of Archaeology
And I can list a book for every book you list. Its out there. I know ' there's another side out there that disagrees with me and they have material ; do you know that?
Its two agendas Two possibilities ; two roads to travel. I did not pick one , I inherited one. I had to figure out why this destiny , and if it was true. The negative side kept my hopes on the positive side. The reality of life , kept me from the theory of the gamble of life ; life existing because of random chance.
Is God Real?
Personally I like the work of the scholars and the "Biblcal Srchaeology Review.. The Archaeology does not support the Bible at least according to the archaeologists that I know.
Is God Real?
Ted;1505283 wrote: Personally I like the work of the scholars and the "Biblcal Srchaeology Review.. The Archaeology does not support the Bible at least according to the archaeologists that I know.
How about asking the one's you know about these 50 people;
50 People in the Bible Confirmed Archaeologically - Biblical Archaeology Society
How about asking the one's you know about these 50 people;
50 People in the Bible Confirmed Archaeologically - Biblical Archaeology Society
Is God Real?
I trust the archaeologists who do not have a vested interest in the outcome. They simply want the truth. Some archaeologists go in with preconceived answers and try to make the "evidence" support their point of view It is well known in logic that a person cannot affirm themself the same holds true for the Bible just becaause the Bible says something does not make it true at least if you are taking a literal reading of it.
Is God Real?
Ted;1505332 wrote: I trust the archaeologists who do not have a vested interest in the outcome. They simply want the truth. Some archaeologists go in with preconceived answers and try to make the "evidence" support their point of view It is well known in logic that a person cannot affirm themself the same holds true for the Bible just becaause the Bible says something does not make it true at least if you are taking a literal reading of it.
As I requested, explain to me how these confirmed biblical people have been confirmed by archaeology?
50 People in the Bible Confirmed Archaeologically - Biblical Archaeology Society
As I requested, explain to me how these confirmed biblical people have been confirmed by archaeology?
50 People in the Bible Confirmed Archaeologically - Biblical Archaeology Society
Is God Real?
The Bible is an interpretation of an interpretation built on ancient mythology. Read as such it is a powerful book but it is not the "Word of God" that belongs to the risen one and him only. Try reading some books not writing by those with vested interests in making the Bible say what they want. Folks have even created God in their own image.
Is God Real?
Ted;1505412 wrote: The Bible is an interpretation of an interpretation built on ancient mythology. Read as such it is a powerful book but it is not the "Word of God" that belongs to the risen one and him only. Try reading some books not writing by those with vested interests in making the Bible say what they want. Folks have even created God in their own image.
The bible is a bit more than you see ;
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Historicity_of_the_Bible
Its got some real history.
The bible is a bit more than you see ;
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Historicity_of_the_Bible
Its got some real history.
Is God Real?
Theree is precious little history in the Bible. It was written to be the church liturgy. If the historical Jesus were to return he would be appalled at what we have done to his name. I should add that having been raised in a fundamentalist church I fully expected to be told I'[m not a Christian. That is very typical. Those who live in feear don't want to face the truth. My trust is not in a minister or a preacher or a book but is God It/her/him
I guess if things don't work out according to the Bible they are going to sue God in a court of Law.
I guess if things don't work out according to the Bible they are going to sue God in a court of Law.
Is God Real?
Ted;1505426 wrote:
I guess if things don't work out according to the Bible they are going to sue God in a court of Law.
Yea Ted , the case is tomorrow.
I guess if things don't work out according to the Bible they are going to sue God in a court of Law.
Yea Ted , the case is tomorrow.
Is God Real?
According to Finkelstein and Silberman and a host of other archaeologists David existed but his kingdom was much smaller than the Bible would lead one to believe. The exodus as it is written did no happen. There is not one shred of evidence to indicte that it did. The ten commandments havve been found to predate the Jewish nation They have been found in Egypt and in the land of the Hitites. I have read a good deal of the fundamentalist nonsense and found it erroneous. John the Baptist was thought of as Elijah come to announce the way. Jesus was seen as the new Moses and thus the story of the "Sermon on the Mount" which is of course mythology. This is not to deny the existence of Jesus but to show that he was a human being.I find it hard to believe that anyone would take the Bible literally. That is not how the universe works.
Is God Real?
Ted , why do you think this thread has gotten any attention?