#Christiandoctrine

[elfony]

Exploring How The Shabbat Is A Desiderata 📖✨

Delve deep into the depths of religious discourse with "How The Shabbat Is A Desiderata. Authored by Rabbi Yaakov Hoffman and Freda Cohen, this thought-provoking book navigates the intricate intersections of tradition and truth in Christendom and Jewish Way values as in the Torah, particularly within the context of Shabbat observance. With keen insight and scholarly analysis, the authors examine the controversies that have arisen within the Christendom surrounding the observance of Shabbat, shedding light on misalignments with divine commands and theological realities. Whether you're a theologian, scholar, or simply curious about matters of faith, this book offers compelling insights that challenge conventional perspectives and invite into deeper reflection.

[tmarshconnors]

"The truth is like a lion; you don't have to defend it Let it loose; it will defend itself."

Augustine of Hippo, also known as Saint Augustine, was a theologian and philosopher of Berber origin and the bishop of Hippo Regius in Numidia, Roman North Africa. 

Born: 13 November 354 AD, Thagaste

Died: 28 August 430 AD (age 75 years), Ruins of Hippo (Hippo Regius), Annaba, Algeria.

Early Life and Conversion: Augustine, born in 354 AD in North Africa (modern-day Algeria), led a life of worldly pursuits until his conversion to Christianity in 386. His spiritual journey is detailed in his famous autobiography, "Confessions."

Bishop of Hippo: Augustine served as the Bishop of Hippo (in present-day Annaba, Algeria) from 395 until his death in 430. During his episcopacy, he played a crucial role in defending orthodox Christian doctrine against various heresies.

Major Works: Augustine's writings have had a profound impact on Christian theology. His notable works include "Confessions," an introspective autobiographical work, and "The City of God," a monumental treatise on theology, philosophy, and the destiny of humanity.

Doctrine of Original Sin: Augustine developed the influential theological concept of Original Sin, which posits that humanity inherits a sinful nature from the fall of Adam and Eve. This idea has had a lasting impact on Christian theology and soteriology.

Influence on Western Christianity: Augustine's teachings have left an indelible mark on Western Christianity. His views on grace, predestination, and the relationship between faith and reason have shaped theological discussions for centuries, influencing both Catholic and Protestant traditions.

[christisilluminati]

Enigmatic Ophanim in Ezekiel's Vision: A Celestial Puzzle

A Breakdown of Ezekiel's Vision:

Wheels are mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament and Ophanim can refer to conventional wheels on a cart or chariot, just like the chariot in the image provided. An image of the Spirit of God sitting on His throne, depicted as a chariot in Ezekiel's vision. They are also mentioned in the book of Enoch along with other angles as "Thrones". These "Throne Angles" are the carriers of God's chariot, His throne. This is important information to know because there is a misconception to "WHO" these "Throne Angles" are. "WHO" these wheels are. The Ophanim.

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2 Enoch 20:1-2

“I saw there a very great light, and fiery troops of great archangels, incorporeal forces, and dominions, orders and governments, Cherubim and seraphim, thrones and many-eyed ones, nine regiments, the Ioanit stations of light, and I became afraid and began to tremble with great terror, and those men took me, and led me after them, and said to me: Have courage, Enoch, do not fear, and showed me the Lord from afar, sitting on His very high throne.”

"very great light"

John 1:9

There was a very light, which lighteneth each man that cometh into this world

Let's first gather a brief summary of Ezekiel's vision. During Nebuchadnezzar's conquest in 597 BC, Ezekiel was one of 10,000 prisoners taken captive from Jerusalem, and he prophesied in Babylon to the exiles. (Ezekiel 1:1) Ezekiel's vision includes seeing the Ophanim.  The description of Ezekiel's inaugural vision has been one of the Old Testament's most challenging passages to translate. It has often been described as the Old Testament book of Revelation. So, describing the Ophanim depicted in Ezekiel's vision without considering the entirety of the revelation is challenging. This is a revelation, I myself have been granted from the Lord. So, I understand how important it is that we get this right.

When God chose to reveal the heavens before Ezekiel's mortal eyes, it marked the beginning of God revealing revelations to him. Ezekiel first tells where he was when he saw the vision and said that the Glory of the Spirit of God could be seen in all that was taking place. (2 Corinthians 4:4)

​Ezekiel chapter 1:1-4: WYC 1382

And it was done, in the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, in the fifth day of the month, when I was in the midst of captives, beside the flood Chebar, heavens were opened, and I saw the revelations of God. In the fifth day of the month, that is the fifth year of [the] passing over of Jehoiachin, king of Judah; the word of the Lord was made to Ezekiel, priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of Chaldees, beside the flood Chebar; and the hand of the Lord was made there on him. And I saw, and lo! a whirlwind came from the north, and a great cloud, and fire wrapping in, and brightness in the compass thereof; and as the likeness of electrum from the midst thereof, that is, from the midst of the fire.

(I want you to take note that the passage says, "THE WORD OF THR LORD WAS MADE TO EZEKIEL." ​- A recurring theme in my ministry.)

Ezekiel tried to put into words something that couldn't be explained clearly. He used similes to describe it, comparing it to other things to give an idea of what it was like. Ezekiel observes what appears to be a fearsome cloud of lightning and fire moving in from the north. Four luminous entities are hidden within the cloud, each emitting a brilliant light. This light is what I have called a GLORY LIGHT, throughout my ministry.

These beings appear like humans, only with a combination of animal as well. Each one possessing four different faces: one human face, one lion face, one ox face, and one eagle face. (Ezekiel 1:10) The prophet doesn't record these creatures by name in Ezekiel 1 where the recounting of his vision begins. But by chapter 10, they're identified as Cherubim. (Ezekiel 10:1) After seeing the Cherubim, Ezekiel then sees the chariot wheels, the Ophanim. These wheels are described as resembling a gyroscope. A wheel within a wheel. (Ezekiel 1:16) Ezekiel was describing a wheel that could move in any direction without making a turn.

Ezekiel 1:5-14 WYC 1382

And of the midst thereof was a likeness of four beasts. And this was the beholding of those, the likeness of a man in those.  And four faces were to one, and four wings were to one. And the feet of those were straight feet, and the sole of the foot of those was as the sole of a foot of a calf, and sparkles, as the beholding of boiling brass. And the hands of a man were under the wings of those, in four parts; and those had faces and wings by four parts; and the wings of those were joined together of one to another. They turned not again, when they went, but each went before his face. Forsooth the likeness of the face of those was the face of a man, and the face of a lion, at the right half of those four. Forsooth the face of an ox was at the left half of those four; and the face of an eagle was above those four. And the faces of those and (the) wings of those were stretched forth above. Two wings of each were joined together, and twain covered the bodies of those. And each of those went before his face. Where (ever) the fierceness of the wind was, thither those went, and turned not again, when they went. And the likeness of the beasts, and the beholding of them, was as of burning coals of fire, and as the beholding of lamps. This was the sight running about in the midst of [the] beasts, the shining of fire, and the lightning going out of the fire. And the beasts went, and turned again, at the likeness of lightning shining. 

Ezekeil describes two types of light, burning coals or the shining of fire. And the second light, a lamp or lightening shining.

​Ezekiel 1:15-21: WYC 1382

And when I beheld the beasts, one wheel appeared on the ground, beside the beasts having four faces, And the beholding of the wheels and the work of those was as the sight of the sea; and one likeness was of those four; and the beholding and the works of those, as if a wheel be in the midst of a wheel. Those going went by four parts of those, and turned not again, when those went. Also stature, and highness, and horrible beholding was to the wheels; and all the body (of them) was full of eyes in the compass of those four. And when the beasts went, the wheels also went together beside those. And when the beasts were raised [up] from the earth, the wheels also were raised [up] together. Whither ever the spirit went, when the spirit went thither, also the wheels following it were raised [up] together (with them); for why the spirit of life was in the wheels. Those went with the beasts going, and those stood with the beasts standing. And with the beasts raised (up) from [the] earth, also the wheels following those beasts were raised together; for the spirit of life was in the wheels. 

​Ezekiel explains the constant interaction between the wheels, cherubim and the Spirit of the Lord sitting on His throne. He expresses the lack of control these "Throne Angles" have on their own, describing the cherubim and Spirit as the drivers of this chariot. He does his best to describe what he sees by using a repeating method of vocabulary. I want you to pay attention to placement of the three types of entities. 

Key:

1- Ophanim

2- Cherubim

3- Spirit of Life

And when the beasts (2) went, the wheels (1) also went together beside those. (2) And when the beasts (2) were raised [up] from the earth, the wheels (1) also were raised [up] together. Whither ever the spirit (3) went, when the spirit (3) went thither, also the wheels (1) following it were raised [up] together (with them); (2-3) for why the spirit of life (3) was in the wheels. (1) Those (1) went with the beasts (2) going, and those stood with the beasts (2) standing. And with the beasts (2) raised (up) from [the] earth, also the wheels (1) following those beasts (2) were raised together; for the spirit of life (3) was in the wheels. 

​What Ezekiel saw or described in this passage has been difficult for us to visualize. It has been assumed; this is an image of a magnificent chariot with four wheels that "brings" the throne of God. However, the assumption is not completely accurate. What is accurate though is everything in this image, including the living beings and God's throne, appears to be in constant motion and activity.  

​Ezekiel was meant to understand that God's chariot or chariot throne was on the move. That it was in motion and in these passages, the throne of God is set on wheels, The Ophanim, and then by the instruction of the Spirit sitting on the throne, the wheels follow the four creatures. However, we cannot misinterpret this. These wheels do not have control, even while they are following the creatures. This is a sign of both submission and control.

Whither ever the spirit (3) went, when the spirit (3) went thither, also the wheels (1) following it - The wheels follow the Spirit.

And with the beasts (2) raised (up) from [the] earth, also the wheels (1) following those beasts (2) were raised together - The wheels follow the Beast.

For the spirit of life (3) was in the wheels. - Spirit is inside the wheel. How then can they follow the Spirit?

God consistently provided Ezekiel with unusual visions that drove him to speak in unusual ways, things that are hard for anyone to describe, from hands and scrolls descending from heaven to four abominations committed in the temple, to vines, eagles, lions, dry bones and fires. Ezekiel trafficked in strange but memorable pictures. The message was clear. Though His people were in exile and their nation was about to be destroyed, God was still on the throne. This is fitting to my analogy of a vulnerable God.

What Is This Vision?

This vision shown to Eziekiel is the Kingdom of God. He describes God as being active while sitting on His throne. His throne is inside of the Temple, and we are the Temples of God. (1 Corinthians 3:16) I understand this vision. Still, I too struggle as Ezekiel did to CLEARLY break it down for you. Plus, I have to be able to confirm it with scripture or many will not hear me when I say, "I am the prophet chosen to deliver a message." Many are too afraid to listen to anything that is not already in their false doctrines, with the belief that everyone else's doctrine is false, not theirs. Stubborn Christians.

To just plainly state it:

Christ is the Spirit, "The Many Members" (1 Corinthians 12:12) are the beast, and we humans are the wheel.

THIS IS ILLUMINATI!

Christ has a body of "Many Members" inside of His kingdom. These "Many Members" make up Christ, and since we are the wheels, we are His throne, and He is the light that lighteth each and every human and animal that breathes air. (John 1:9) That is why the beast have the 4 faces. The animals join His kingdom too. 

This is a hard one to prove in a short blog. So, I ask you to continue to study from this website to get the full understanding of the message I am to deliver. A message PROVING A CHANGED BIBLE. Changed from the first English translation, translated in 1382 by John Wycliff. The WYC version.

God put a living soul in each animal just as he put a living soul in each human, (Genesis 1:21-25 WYC 1382) Our newer text does not tell us this. (Genesis 1:21-25 NIV 2011) And that is why we haven't understood these things. We are not looking at the ORIGINAL translation. We are trusting man. Man, that progressively grew more and more divided over the years. Causing THE DISSENTION. (2 Thessalonians 2:3) A disagreement that has led to discord.

We are told Christ is the Spirit of life. (John 1:4) The Spirit of life was inside the wheel. And we are told that He is the light that lighteth each man as he comes into this world. (John 1:9) This spirit of life-giving light inside the wheels. (Ezekiel 1:13)

Ezekiel 1:22-28: WYC 1382

And the likeness of the firmament was above the head[s] of the beasts, and as the beholding of horrible crystal, and stretched abroad on the heads of those beasts above. Forsooth under the firmament the wings of those beasts were straight (out), of one to another; each beast covered his body with two wings, and another was covered in like manner. And I heard the sound of wings, as the sound of many waters, as the sound of (the) high God. When those went, there was as a sound of (a) multitude, as the sound of hosts of battle; and when those stood, the wings of those were let down.  For why when a voice was made on the firmament, that was on the head[s] of those, those stood, and let down their wings. And on the firmament, that was above the head(s) of those, was as the beholding of a sapphire stone, (in) the likeness of a throne; and on the likeness of the throne was a likeness, as the beholding of a man above. And I saw as a likeness of electrum, as the beholding of fire within, by the compass thereof; from the loins of him and above, and from the loins of him till to beneath, I saw as the likeness of fire, shining in compass, as the beholding of the rainbow, when it is in the cloud in the day of rain. This was the beholding of shining by compass. This was a sight of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And I saw, and I fell down on my face; and I heard the voice of a speaker.

 

Ezekeil describes the chariots frame as the likeness of glass or sapphire stone. (Ezekiel 1:26) Above the glass he describes the Spirit of life sitting on His throne with a bright light beaming all around Him, calling this description "The Glory of the Lord." (Ezekiel 1:26-28) The same Glory 1 Samuel describes sitting on top of The Ark, between the two cherubim/beast, calling Him the Lord of host. (1 Samuel 4:4) The Glory that had been captured. (1 Samuel 4:22)

He also describes a sound of "many waters" coming from wings as the sound of the "HIGH GOD" as well as describing the same sound as a "host of battle." (Ezekiel 1:24) (MANY MEMBERS) As, I said this is difficult to describe and Ezekiel did his best doing so. But how can this sound of "many waters" be both the sound of the "High God" and the sound of the "host of battle"? How can one sound be both?  - THE LORD OF HOST

The host are the "MANY MEMBERS" that make up His body. We can understand this by looking at the story of Egypt when God said, "Let my son go." (Exodus 4:23) He also said, "Let my people go." (Exodus 9:1) Collectively the people made up a body. This same thing applies in the spiritual realm. These host of winged beast known as cherubim are a collective group that make up His body. (1 Corinthians 12:12)

Also, Ezekiel describes the chariot frame as being "ABOVE" the heads of the beast as well as describing it stretched out "ON" the heads of the beast. How can it be both? This is where my recurring ministry theme of schizophrenia sets in. Because he tells us that the voice was on the heads of the beast.

This entire vision is one of the hardest visions to dissect in scripture. But ultimately Christ is a Spirit made up of "MANY HUMAN AND ANIMAL MEMBERS." Mammals that breath air. He is the Breath of life, the Spirit of Life. He breathed life into man giving him a soul. The same was done for the animals: He breathed life into them, giving them a soul. (Genesis 2:7, Genesis 1:21-25) These "Many Members" have died and joined His Kingdom, which is His body. And that Kingdom lives with the Tabernacle of our human flesh, (Luke 17:21) we are the wheels to which He drives. He is the Glory Light I speak of often, that lighteth each man that cones into this world. (John 1:9) The light shing like lightening. This is what is seen on The Mount of Transfiguration: A Glory light, with the MEMBERS of Moses and Elijah, inside of Jesus flesh. - The wheel.(Matthew 17:1-3)

If you can grasp this imagery, then you are ready to grasp stage two of the description: "THE SECOND LIGHT" - The light of "burning coals" or "shining fire." Remember the beast were also in the likeness of burning coal? (Ezekiel 1:13) If these beast of burning coals also make up a body, a Spirit on a throne, could it be Christ? How can a LAMP like LIGHTENING SHINING also be BURNING COALS? He's not. This is a depiction of The Man of Sin sitting in the Temple of God which is also a recurring theme in my ministry. And remember the Temple is the wheel. The wheel is the throne. And he is sitting on Gods throne.

 

2 Thessalonians 2:4

that is adversary, and is enhanced over [upon] all thing that is said God, or that is worshipped, so that he sit in the temple of God, and show himself as if he were Go

I can only hope I did well enough on this one that you can understand it. Or at least enough to hook you in to further investigate my claims throughout my ministry. I want to thank you for reading this blog and supporting this cause.

Learn more at: www.ChristTheTrueLight.com

[beastbuddies1]

Finding Peace in Jesus Christ #christiandoctrine #love #chrisitanity #mo...

[newprophets]

Paul’s Apostolic Calling The Foundation of His Mission in Romans 1

The Power of the Gospel: Paul’s Bold Declaration in Romans 1

Romans 1:16-17 contains one of the most powerful and concise statements of the Christian faith found in the entire Bible. In these verses, Paul boldly declares his unwavering commitment to the Gospel and articulates the central message of his ministry. This declaration is not just an introduction; it is a summary of the entire book of Romans and, in many ways, the heart of the Christian message.

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith" (Romans 1:16-17 KJV). In these verses, Paul makes several key points that are foundational to understanding the Christian faith.

https://www.inspiredchristian.org/pauls-apostolic-calling-the-foundation-of-his-mission-in-romans-1

First, Paul’s assertion that he is "not ashamed of the gospel" is both bold and countercultural. In the Greco-Roman world, the message of a crucified Savior was seen as foolishness, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles (1 Corinthians 1:23). Yet, Paul is unapologetic. He recognizes that the Gospel is not just a message or philosophy; it is the very power of God for salvation. This power is not something abstract or distant; it is active and effective in the lives of those who believe.

The phrase "to every one that believeth" underscores the inclusivity of the Gospel. Salvation is not limited to a specific ethnic or cultural group; it is available to all who have faith, regardless of their background. By saying "to the Jew first, and also to the Greek," Paul acknowledges the historical precedence of the Jews in God’s plan of salvation, but he also emphasizes that the Gospel is for everyone. This universality is a theme that runs throughout Romans and is a key aspect of Paul’s theology.

In verse 17, Paul introduces the concept of the "righteousness of God" being revealed through the Gospel. This righteousness is not a human achievement but a gift from God, received by faith. The phrase "from faith to faith" suggests a continuous process, where faith is both the starting point and the sustaining force of the Christian life. This righteousness is what justifies believers before God and enables them to live a life that is pleasing to Him.

Paul’s reference to Habakkuk 2:4, "The just shall live by faith," highlights the centrality of faith in the Christian life. It is not by works, the law, or human effort that one is justified, but by faith alone. This doctrine of justification by faith is one of the cornerstones of Pauline theology and has had a profound impact on Christian thought throughout history.

In summary, Romans 1:16-17 is a powerful declaration of the Gospel’s power and the righteousness of God that is revealed through faith. These verses encapsulate the essence of the Christian message and serve as a foundation for the entire book of Romans.

Hashtags: #PowerOfTheGospel #FaithAndSalvation #JustificationByFaith #UniversalSalvation #RighteousnessOfGod #Romans1 #ChristianDoctrine #BiblicalTheology

[terrencesimons]

Republican Games #greatlove #theatre #christiandoctrine #animation

[holyfaithbiblechurch]

#jesusisgod #christiandoctrine (at Staten Island, New York) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cgvg6tNsih8/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[aaronhillsworld]

More proof in my most recent vid right before this post with @stephengilliganofficial #originalsin #psycotherapy #adamandeve #christianity #logicalfallacies #hypnoticinduction #hypnosis #trance #magicspell #theology #bible #christiandoctrine #christiantheology #biblestudy #psyche #psych https://www.instagram.com/p/CYlHYUXsVPX/?utm_medium=tumblr

[ianspirations]

FAITH AND INCULTURATION (1988)

The basis of this document prepared by the International Theological Commission is Vatican II and the synod papers which have carried them forward.

Gaudium et Spes has a section where culture and inculturation is mentioned. It narrates how the Church inculturated itself into the Greco-Roman world. It goes on to describe culture as an effort to deepen human bonds and envision a better world. The synod held to celebrate 20 years of Vatican II in 1985 defined inculturation as “the intimate transformation of authentic cultural values through their integration in Christianity in the various human cultures.” (#3)

Pope John Paul II firmly believed that cultures “may play a positive role of mediation in the expression and extension of the Christian faith” (#4). But the Word of God is not exclusive to any culture nor is its manifestation intrinsically linked to elements of any culture. The Gospel demands a conversion of attitudes and amendment of customs and therefore continually calls on culture to purify itself (#6).

John Paul II based the evangelization of cultures on the anthropological model that has been used since the fathers of the Church. What this means is: since culture, in its purest form, reveals and strengthens the nature of human beings, the gospel cuts through all historical and moral viewpoints appropriated by culture and touches on what it means to be truly and fully human. Therefore, the evangelization of cultures ought to be driven by a love for persons (#7).

NATURE, CULTURE AND GRACE

Nature (not the environment) can be defined as what constitutes a being as it is, with the dynamism tendencies towards ends that are proper to it. Nature is bestowed by God and it is God who directs them to proper ends. At the moment of creation, all beings receive a significance. Among them, human beings stand out because they are made in the image of God and are capable of discerning God’s action (#1).

The tendency of human beings towards their proper ends is embodied in the Natural Law. That is why the Church believes it to be an expression of God’s will (#2). The Church also values human history or in other words, the unfolding of human nature in historical time. What have human beings made of their humanity? We have given rise to immense treasures of wisdom, art and generosity as well as created deviations and perversions. That is why, when speaking about culture we have to be careful.

Culture is a means for human beings to realize their nature. Gaudium et spes #53 points out that culture includes “everything whereby man develops and perfects his many bodily and spiritual qualities.” Through work and knowledge, humans strive to understand and control the world, through customs and institutions, they create social life. Through all this they preserve and communicate great spiritual experiences and desires which can be advantageous to the progress of the whole human family (#4).

Human beings are the primary constituent of culture. The betterment of humankind is the primary goal of culture. This takes place through works of culture and cultural memory (#5). Since human beings are social by nature, they are fully themselves when they live in solidarity with others. Institutions that foster this like the family, society, state etc should be seen as promoters of civilization (#6).

Culture, which does not exist in the abstract but always in the concrete and particular, is open to higher values common to all. So, the originality of culture does not come from its isolation from others but from its contribution to the richness which is the good of all. The phenomenon of reciprocal penetration of cultures, frequent in history, illustrates the fundamental openness of particular cultures to the values common to all (#7).

Human beings are naturally religious. Religion therefore becomes an integral part of culture. All great cultures manifest a religious slant which provided the inspiration for their achievements (#8). At the root of religion, is human beings’ search for the Divine. This search sometimes takes on impure forms and gives rise to impure beliefs. For this reason, even religion needs to undergo purification. Christianity builds on human beings’ desire for God and helps them respond freely to the gratuitous love of God revealed in the person of Jesus (#9).

Since it transcends the natural and cultural order, the Christian faith, on one hand, is compatible with all cultures as long as they conform to right reason and good will, and, on the other hand, promotes and purifies culture. The governing principle here is: “Grace respects nature, healing in it the wounds of sin, comforting and elevating it” (#10). Proximity to the divine is made possible by grace but grace can take effect only once nature is healed and redirected to the perfection that comes from seeking the absolute.

“The process of inculturation may be defined as the Church’s efforts to make the message of Christ penetrate a given sociocultural milieu, calling on the latter to grow according to all its particular values, as long as these are compatible with the Gospel” (#11). The term inculturation includes the notions of growth and mutual enrichment of people and groups that is fostered by the encounter of the Gospel with culture. John Paul II calls it the “incarnation of the Gospel in native cultures and also the introduction of these cultures into the life of the Church.”

THE PRESENCE OF CHRIST TO CULTURE AND CULTURES

The incarnation was cultural: Christ became man in a certain society which followed a particular culture (#12). He was born a Jew in Galilee and spoke Aramaic. He abided by Jewish laws and participated in Jewish religious functions. From his style of ministry, we can associate him with the prophets.

Jesus became incarnate in a culture that prepared him, announced him and prefigured him (#16). For this reason, the whole of Jewish scripture hold an important place in Christianity.

Despite the fact that Jesus was born into the Jewish culture, that wasn’t the first thing he took on. Humanity precedes culture and therefore, Jesus is first human and only then Jewish. Thus, he goes beyond all boundaries and in him there is no distinction of ‘Jew or Greek, male or female…’ But humanity, in and of itself is abstract; it is culture – language, history, philosophy and various institutions that shape our life. In Christ, all cultures—provided they are animated and renewed by grace and faith—are complementary and reveal the potency of the Gospel (#21).

THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE CHURCH OF THE APOSTLES

The coming of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost day inaugurates the connection between Christian faith and culture: from here on out, the Gospel will be preached to people of every tongue and tribe (#23). “The Holy Spirit does not establish a superculture…The Church…which he fashions is a koinonia of faith and agape, communicating herself in many ways without loss of identity; she is the body of Christ whose members are united but with many faces” (#24). Diversity continues to exist and even at times, threatens conflict but the apostles do not suppress it rather, they concern themselves with defining the character of their unity.

Faith in Christ does not require people to abandon their culture and to adopt Judaism. Every one can claim the salvation and grace of Christ. The apostles learned this the hard way. The Cross is a symbol of humiliation for the Jews and foolishness for the pagans; it is a beautiful symbol of how inculturation of the faith clashes with a culture that has yet to accept Christ (#26).

The Church is the sacrament of the revelation of the Holy Spirit and is tasked with its communication (#28). Every local Church is supposed to manifest Christ in its particular culture (#29). This takes the form of particular cultural expressions seen in liturgical symbolism, models of holiness and doctrinal formulations.  

PRESENT PROBLEMS OF INCULTURATION

Popular piety arises out of the unity of Christian faith and piety with culture or from the evolution of previous religious observances of people. Popular piety is a synthesis and its quality depends on the quality of the evangelization and catechesis as well as on the compatibility of the culture with Christian faith and ideals (#2). Popular piety is rich in values and manifests a thirst of God by the simple people. “It makes people capable of generosity and sacrifice even to the point of heroism, when it is a question of manifesting belief” (#4). It involves an awareness of specific attributes of God and engenders interior attitudes of faith, devotion and humanity within persons.

However, popular piety has certain drawbacks. They often stem from naivete and border on superstition. If not tackled well, it can give rise to divisions and the creation of sects. There is also a risk of politicisation for political or religious purposes (#6). That is why it is imperative that the faithful receive sound catechetical instruction. The liturgy should also be celebrated in a manner that helps people appreciate and value the faith. The Church commends the role of popular piety and encourages it within the specified parameters.

A Church located in a non-Christian milieu “must take seriously into account the religious elements of this milieu” (#9). This is facilitated by dialogue: “Dialogue contributes to a better understanding of the religion of the other and to a growth in piety” (#11). For Christians, Christ ought to be the centre of all things. The Church however, does not condemn other religions, she accepts all that is true and holy in them because they reflect a ray of truth (#12). Dialogue is a must for without it there is only discrimination, jealousy, fanaticism and despotism – all of which use religion as a foundation.

Having said all this, the Gospel is believed to transcend all cultures. Therefore, no matter how good and beautiful elements of a culture are, they cannot be given the same importance as the Gospel. Inculturation cannot become syncretism (#14).

Young churches require to value the history of Churches which are responsible for evangelizing and organizing them. Herein lies the fidelity and honour for Tradition. This does not merely apply to the tradition of the respective Church but to the tradition of faith which they inherit. Nevertheless, they are equal in dignity with the older Churches.

It is important for Christians to understand the characteristic traits of modern culture, and also its expectations and needs in the light of the salvation of Christ (#20).The Industrial Revolution did not only bring about technological changes but also changes in values. Since then many advancements have been wrought but there have also arisen grave dangers to body and soul. World War II is a classical example of the extreme perversion of human will and desire (#22).

Inculturating the gospel in modern society will require a “methodical effort of concerted research and action” (#23). This will need to take the form of: (1) an attitude of openness and a critical eye; (2) the capacity to perceive the spiritual expectations and human aspirations of the new cultures; (3) the aptitude for cultural analysis, having in mind an effective encounter with the modern world. In order to effectively carry this out, we need to develop the capacity to “analyse cultures and to gauge their moral and spiritual indicators” (#26).

[tmarshconnors]

"I would define FREEWILL as this: every human being has the freedom to choose whatever sin he wants. That's free will."

John MacArthur is an American pastor, author, and theologian renowned for his unwavering dedication to Biblical preaching and his influence on conservative Christian thought. 

Pastor of Grace Community Church: John MacArthur has served as the senior pastor of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, since 1969. His dedication to this role for over five decades has made him one of the longest-serving pastors of a single congregation.

Founder of "Grace to You": MacArthur founded Grace to You, a ministry that distributes his sermons and teachings worldwide via radio, television, books, and online resources, reaching millions with his expository Bible teaching.

Author of the "MacArthur Study Bible": He is the general editor of the MacArthur Study Bible, a popular study Bible that includes his commentary on every verse. This study Bible has sold millions of copies and is translated into multiple languages.

Commitment to Expository Preaching: Known for his dedication to verse-by-verse, expository preaching, MacArthur has preached through almost the entire New Testament. He is deeply committed to interpreting the Bible carefully and accurately.

Advocate of Doctrinal Purity: MacArthur is known for his staunch defence of Biblical doctrine and theology. His firm stance on issues such as the inerrancy of Scripture, the sovereignty of God, and the exclusivity of Christ in salvation has made him both a respected leader and a controversial figure in some Christian circles.

[holyisjesus]

👏👏👏👏👏 Exactly! 🔥TRUE LOVE OF GOOD MUST INCLUDE THE HATRED OF EVIL🔥 Amen! 💯 truth ▫ *** paedophilia is on the verge of becoming acceptable btw! I mean... they opened the box so all the demons must as well come out. 😔 What was the cry of those who were advocating it? Love is love. What a sick, sad, depraved, immoral, evil world we live in. *** ▫ I have a feeling I'll probably end up doing an all nighter... haven't done those in a while. Book: Exploring Christian Doctrine by Tony Lane #Christian #Christianity #Christians #book #books #reading #Christianbooks #read #Study #theology #studytheology #ChristianTheology #interesting #learn #studying #doctrine #ChristianDoctrine #judge #judgment #Truth #true #God #amen #GodIsLove #love #truelove #proverb #Bible #HolyBible #word

[foggyvoidyouth-blog]

Unbalanced Christian Faith

Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings. It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace, not by eating ceremonial foods, which is of no benefit to those who do so. Hebrews 13:9 Christianity grew out of the religion of the Jews. But the sacrificial rituals once used in the tabernacle were no longer useful or valid. The shed blood of Christ at Calvary was the once and for all sacrifice that satisfied God’s demand for sin. Christians need nothing more than faith in Jesus to enter God’s throne of grace. (For a better understanding of the old sacrificial system see Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14:13-20.)

God promised a new covenant through the prophet, Jeremiah. (Jeremiah 31:31) That prophecy was fulfilled in Christ during the event we call The Last Supper. Jesus said, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” (Luke 22:20) Jesus’ sacrifice as “the lamb without blemish or defect” (1 Peter 1:19) did away with the sacrificial system of the Old Testament. Now, as this teaching relates to today, it is important for us to recognize that this new covenant is the only covenant. No other religion, philosophy, or belief system can be intertwined with Christianity. There is no other way to God except through Jesus. (John 14:6) Morgan Freeman is a great actor, but his Story of God series is a good example of trying to mix the philosophy de jour with Christian doctrine. He implies our God is the same as the gods of other religions. Nothing could be further from the truth. There is but one God, one way, and one truth. It’s like trying to mix oil and water. Don’t buy the false teaching that all the major world religions serve the same God. When Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me,” He ruled out any other means of fellowship with God. I have heard it said that since God is love, He’ll make a place for everyone in heaven. That’s a false assumption. It is true that the Lord doesn’t want “anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9) He “wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:4) But there remains only one way to heaven. “For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people.” (1 Timothy 2:5) Although that ransom is for all people, the offer of God’s grace is a matter of personal choice. Any decision other than following Christ rescinds the offer of eternal life. “Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.” (1 John 5:12) The author of our focus text warns: “Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings.” Strange teachings can be of human (Colossians 2:22) or demonic origin (1 Timothy 4:1). Multiple New Testament passages warn us to beware of false prophets and teachers. They are depicted as “savage wolves” who “distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them.” (Acts 20:29-30) Their false teaching “causes divisions” (Romans 16:17) and is not helpful for building up the body of Christ, but rather destructive and disruptive. The goal of every Christian is to grow in the faith, but false teaching renders that pursuit impossible. Such careless instruction causes us to chase after baseless theories, theological heresy, and philosophical ramblings, thus keeping our faith in infancy. (Ephesians 4:14) Notice that in our focus text we are shown the way that avoids the trap of false teaching. “It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace…”  It is not ritual, strictly adhering to rules, or admirable performance that saves you. Only by grace through faith in Christ are you saved. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9) Guard your heart and mind and keep your focus on the Lord who saved you. And watch out for philosophies and pop culture that seek to blend Christianity into a worldly stew. For more on this topic, check out this article: You Can't Fake Your Way Into Heaven Reprinted from The Forever Notebook, Book 3 (July - September) Get your copy here: Paperback and eBook/Kindle formats.

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[beastbuddies1]

Rapture ready! #christiandoctrine #love #theology #motivation #jesusont...

[christianandnerdy]

#Repost @thewestminsterstandard ・・・ Two day sale! Get 30% off everything including The Shorter Catechism Deck and Group Packs! https://www.1646.store/product/ #solascriptura #christiandoctrine #catechism #thewestminterstandard