Why do you believe in God, Jesus, or an afterlife?

[Nowty V]

Ok,

 

I believe in God and an afterlife. I do not believe that Jesus is God's son.

 

 

Why is your spirituality, drawn from whatever source, anybody else's business?

 

Your spirituality is your own and one can experience these things in many ways. If your heart is in the right place, you pay your taxes and abide by the law surely you should be able to go about your business unmolested.

[joystickd]

False Image:  Is Not Really Jesus

[joystickd]

False Image:* Is Not Really Jesus

 

I will clarify I believe in God but the corrupt way that has taken hold in the world

[BC1980]

I will clarify I believe in God but the corrupt way that has taken hold in the world

 

Are you saying that you don't believe in the "corrupted' version of God? The problem is that we all have our interpretation of who/what God is/isn't. We all see through different lenses, so who is to say which version is corrupt or not corrupt? The way you understand God (or anything of that matter) changes with time. For example, the way I understood God as a child is not the way I understand God today. The way I understood God as a college student is different than the way I understand God today. I don't think any of those ways of understanding were corrupt or not corrupt, just different based on my life experiences at the time.

 

If you are talking about the way a certain religion, or a denomination/sect within a religion, promotes and defines God, that is a bit different. It's still rooted in individual understanding of God, but only one interpretation can win and become a part of the official religious creed, beliefs, tenets, ect.

 

Even when using textual arguments, that is all very open to interpretation. We can make an educated guess of what something probably means, but why should I think I am the authority? Why should anyone for that matter? For instance, in John 3:16, does Jesus speak of eternal life literally? Something to think about.

[BC1980]

False Image:* Is Not Really Jesus

 

I was thinking about this yesterday when my sister was talking about seeing the Renaissance paintings in the Louvre. All of the paintings with a white, cherubic baby Jesus.

[Hillary S.]

Hi,the truth is that I have been very bad in my life and have endured through faith , ways of seeing life and especially the positive energy has made me change as person.

Me would like to recommend a book that I read and has helped me a lot , sometimes humble and honest people share their wisdom with others , grateful to the author of this book everything, without it do not know what would have become of my life, god bless you,much encouragement to everybody

 

Christian Affirmations

[TheFinalWord]

Are you saying that you don't believe in the "corrupted' version of God? The problem is that we all have our interpretation of who/what God is/isn't. We all see through different lenses, so who is to say which version is corrupt or not corrupt? The way you understand God (or anything of that matter) changes with time. For example, the way I understood God as a child is not the way I understand God today. The way I understood God as a college student is different than the way I understand God today. I don't think any of those ways of understanding were corrupt or not corrupt, just different based on my life experiences at the time.

 

If you are talking about the way a certain religion, or a denomination/sect within a religion, promotes and defines God, that is a bit different. It's still rooted in individual understanding of God, but only one interpretation can win and become a part of the official religious creed, beliefs, tenets, ect.

 

Even when using textual arguments, that is all very open to interpretation. We can make an educated guess of what something probably means, but why should I think I am the authority? Why should anyone for that matter? For instance, in John 3:16, does Jesus speak of eternal life literally? Something to think about.

 

When it comes to determining appropriate interpretation, I personally believe in using the doctrine of Sola Scriptura. This doctrine states scripture is the supreme authority in all matters. Some backdrop for this approach is that Christ himself used it when he was questioned by the religious authorities and lawyers.

 

In that context you are correct that our understanding of God grows as we mature spiritually.

 

When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

 

However, as Paul states, we will never truly know God in this life. We will only get a glimpse, at best. Paul even states, that when he really reflects on God, it is not we that know him, it is that we are known of God. Really humbling IMHO.

 

But now that you know God—or rather are known by God—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable forces.

 

In the context of Sola Scriptura, you are right, neither you or I are the authority. Using this doctrine, the appropriate approach is that scripture interprets scripture. However, that is not always easy (even Peter said some of the Paul's teachings were hard to understand). This is the reason we must study to show ourselves approved (2 Tim. 2) . Paul said to test all things, and to hold fast to what is good. In the book of Acts, the Berean Jews were stated to be of noble character as they critiqued Paul's teachings against the scriptures to determine if what he was teachings was true.

Edited July 14, 2016 by TheFinalWord

[Weezy1973]

So I'd love to hear why you believe in God, Jesus, and/or an after life.

 

If you look at a map and the distribution of religious beliefs, you'll see that most people believe in the god / religion they do because of where they happened to be born.

[BC1980]

If you look at a map and the distribution of religious beliefs, you'll see that most people believe in the god / religion they do because of where they happened to be born.

 

Very true. Actually, my mom used to reiterate that fact to me when I was growing up. So the obvious conclusion would be that our religious beliefs are heavily influenced by our geographic location.

 

All religions seek to answers the same types of questions: what happens when we die? Why do bad things happen? What is the purpose of suffering? What is the meaning of life?

[BC1980]

In the context of Sola Scriptura, you are right, neither you or I are the authority. Using this doctrine, the appropriate approach is that scripture interprets scripture. However, that is not always easy (even Peter said some of the Paul's teachings were hard to understand). This is the reason we must study to show ourselves approved (2 Tim. 2) . Paul said to test all things, and to hold fast to what is good. In the book of Acts, the Berean Jews were stated to be of noble character as they critiqued Paul's teachings against the scriptures to determine if what he was teachings was true.

 

Scripture still must go through our interpretation. There is no way around that. We can only understand things through our POVs and our eyes. Maybe we are limited by that fact. Maybe not.

 

Save

[Weezy1973]

Very true. Actually, my mom used to reiterate that fact to me when I was growing up. So the obvious conclusion would be that our religious beliefs are heavily influenced by our geographic location.

 

All religions seek to answers the same types of questions: what happens when we die? Why do bad things happen? What is the purpose of suffering? What is the meaning of life?

 

Yes, those questions are universal. But the answers seem to be dependent on culture.

[Boomie]

Jesus Never Existed Says New Report That Finds No Mention Of Christ In 126 Historical Texts

[Gr8fuln2020]

It is difficult to believe in a god when the standard bearers of ANY religion are human beings easily corrupted and swayed.

[TheFinalWord]

Scripture still must go through our interpretation. There is no way around that. We can only understand things through our POVs and our eyes. Maybe we are limited by that fact. Maybe not.

 

Save

 

Yes, you are right that there is an inclination to interpret the scriptures according to our biases. There are multiple examples of corrupt individuals using the scriptures to achieve malicious ends. Christ said the Pharisees used the scriptures as a way to raise themselves above the people. Others used it to extort money.

 

Without getting into technical interpretation methods, I think a good starting point is to consider the scriptures like a mirror. I use it to examine my own heart, mind, and spirit.

 

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

[Cablebandit]

Yes, you are right that there is an inclination to interpret the scriptures according to our biases. There are multiple examples of corrupt individuals using the scriptures to achieve malicious ends. Christ said the Pharisees used the scriptures as a way to raise themselves above the people. Others used it to extort money.

 

Without getting into technical interpretation methods, I think a good starting point is to consider the scriptures like a mirror. I use it to examine my own heart, mind, and spirit.

 

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

 

Ezekial 23:20 There she lusted after her lovers, whose genitals were like those of donkeys and whose emission was like that of horses.

 

Is that God breathed?

[Gr8fuln2020]

Ezekial 23:20 There she lusted after her lovers, whose genitals were like those of donkeys and whose emission was like that of horses.

 

Is that God breathed?

 

Holy crap! That's a new one! Another reason why religion is crap...interpretation. Most bible "versions" replace the word genitals or members with "flesh." ...to confuse or conceal more from the sheep?!

[TheFinalWord]

Ezekial 23:20 There she lusted after her lovers, whose genitals were like those of donkeys and whose emission was like that of horses.

 

Is that God breathed?

 

Did you read the full passage or just copy and paste from an atheist website? I am curious if you understand what you are attempting to mock.

 

Very often, the prophets would compare the idolatrous actions of various cities/nations to those of prostitutes.

 

In this case, Jerusalem (Oholibah) and Samaria (Oholah), whom had pledged themselves to the Lord were engaging in idolatry and child sacrifice.

 

The Lord said to me: “Son of man, will you judge Oholah and Oholibah? Then confront them with their detestable practices, for they have committed adultery and blood is on their hands. They committed adultery with their idols; they even sacrificed their children, whom they bore to me, as food for them

Edited July 17, 2016 by TheFinalWord

[Cablebandit]

Did you read the full passage or just copy and paste from an atheist website? I am curious if you understand what you are attempting to mock.

 

Very often, the prophets would compare the idolatrous actions of various cities/nations to those of prostitutes.

 

In this case, Jerusalem (Oholibah) and Samaria (Oholah), whom had pledged themselves to the Lord were engaging in idolatry and child sacrifice.

 

The Lord said to me: “Son of man, will you judge Oholah and Oholibah? Then confront them with their detestable practices, for they have committed adultery and blood is on their hands. They committed adultery with their idols; they even sacrificed their children, whom they bore to me, as food for them

 

So your answer is YES that is god breathed. That's all I asked. Thanks!

[Moondaisy]

I was raised religious but quite a few years ago I began questioning religion (and also social norms).

Now I don't believe in any god,nor do I believe in an afterlife.

In my opinion,gods are man-made and religion is nothing but a political tool.

[Aniela]

I've always questioned God's existence, but, until recently, the answer never really mattered. I've dipped in and out of church. I've had periods where I didn't believe in God/Jesus, and I've had periods where I believed 100%. I've come to a point where I need something to hold onto, something to believe in, and I naturally looked to my faith to fill that hole. The only problem is that I have a difficult time believing in God and Christianity. It seems like faith matters a lot right now, but I'm coming up short on it. I've read books on apologetics, and those just don't work. I don't feel belief in my heart.

 

So I'd love to hear why you believe in God, Jesus, and/or an after life. Life seems pretty grim without at least one of those things. At least to me.

 

I'm not sure. I've been struggling with the same thing for a while now.

 

I know a woman who turned to religion after losing her fiance in an accident. I've been dealing with the biggest loss of my life, and am numb most of the time. I really don't care about most things, anymore, and the thought of an afterlife only offers small comfort when you're really missing someone, and wishing they were here. At least for me.

 

If there is a God, I've been angry at him/her/it - incredibly so - and am not thrilled that yet another aunt is now dying (unless she rallies again, which isn't expected to happen).

 

I don't believe in the bible. I never have.

[BC1980]

I'm not sure. I've been struggling with the same thing for a while now.

 

I know a woman who turned to religion after losing her fiance in an accident. I've been dealing with the biggest loss of my life, and am numb most of the time. I really don't care about most things, anymore, and the thought of an afterlife only offers small comfort when you're really missing someone, and wishing they were here. At least for me.

 

If there is a God, I've been angry at him/her/it - incredibly so - and am not thrilled that yet another aunt is now dying (unless she rallies again, which isn't expected to happen).

 

I don't believe in the bible. I never have.

 

I'm so sorry about your fiance. There was another thread that asked why some people get more religious after tragedy but some turn from religion after that time. There were some interesting insights. After my breakup that brought me here, I went through intense grief, and I actually become more religious as a way to cope. My ex's first wife died suddenly at a young age, and he became more religious as a way to cope. He was very entrenched in his beliefs in the afterlife and had very detailed beliefs about it. I think that was his way of coping, so he could go on with his life in some meaningful way. He would get offended if I even suggested something that was outside of what he believed because it was threat to the carefully constructed ideas he had come to believe. I didn't judge him for that because I knew he needed those beliefs to be able to continue living his life.

 

I don't know why people react differently. In the past year, I've become very skeptical that God exists, which coincides with the end to my grief over my relationship. So what does all of that mean? It does seem extremely preposterous that God exists, yet I still want it all to be true. I read something about belief in the supernatural that said we are hardwired to fill in the blanks when we don't understand something. And I think that really is the function of religion. Filling in those blanks. Attempting to provide answers to questions that science cannot give us. But as the centuries pass and science provides more answers, we have to reshape our religious beliefs to fit in with science.

 

Group think also plays a big role in it too. When I am going to church regularly and become more involved in it, my belief strengthens. When I stop going regularly, I become more skeptical. Still, I love to read the New Testament because the writers believe so deeply. I still hope it is all true.

[OneLov]

I would describe myself as a panenthesist. Just the other night, I was staring up in the night sky at the Milky Way. It was like being in church. We are made of carbon and other elements; we are made of stars. We are all part of the cosmos. One day, we will all return and finally experience the wonder that lies just beyond.

[BC1980]

I would describe myself as a panenthesist. Just the other night, I was staring up in the night sky at the Milky Way. It was like being in church. We are made of carbon and other elements; we are made of stars. We are all part of the cosmos. One day, we will all return and finally experience the wonder that lies just beyond.

 

Do you think we have a consciousness that lives after we die?

[OneLov]

Do you think we have a consciousness that lives after we die?

 

I believe we can't ever know until we experience it. I believe that is the wonder that lies beyond. We can't ever know or prove its existence.

 

But the bigger question is does it really matter? Let's say we didn't, what's so bad about that? There'd be nothing to worry about. Besides, why can't we just live like there's not one. I don't mean by evil or incredible selfish, but why can't we be satisfied with being happy today?

 

Don't worry when the rides going to end or if they're be another chance to take a spin; just accept we'll only ever know what this ride is like so enjoy each second. Nothing lasts forever; we all will have to say good-bye to those we love. Now is the time to build the bonds that will hopefully transcend space and time.

 

We don't own life; we're only tenants. Our matter and energy are part of the universe. Why can't we continue on after we've been evicted?

Edited August 13, 2016 by OneLov

[quankanne]

I wish I had written down his exact words, so I'll just have to paraphrase fellow journalist Roy Bragg's explanation for his belief: I can't explain why I believe, only that I do, and for me, it works, and I'm good with that.

 

in my own words, my faith has always been *mine* ... something innate from the get-go, poorly explained using words that cannot quite capture that relationship between me and The Big Guy. I just know it's mine, it's always been mine, and it will always be mine. And that just boggles my mind. And so I truly believe that I am his, and he is mine. Not because he's a protector or an excuse or whatever nay-sayers want to believe, but simply because it's something that cannot be taken away from me.

 

afterlife? definitely. Because how cool is the idea of spending the eternity grooving with a God who loves you so much that he gives himself to you?

 

In that regard most spirits within the Christian paradigm are that exactly, manmade though forms that escaped the collective conscious and exist autonomously. Very few of them are actual pre-existing entities, Archangel Michael is one.

 

Interesting. He's not manmade because he's an angel, just like Lucifer once was, and therefore has some pretty serious power against the devil ...

 

From Catholic Online

"Saint Michael the Archangel isn't a saint, but rather he is an angel, and the leader of all angels and of the army of God. This is what the title "Archangel" means, that he is above all the others in rank.

 

"St. Michael has four main responsibilities or offices, as we know from scripture and Christian tradition.

 

The first is to combat Satan.

The second is to escort the faithful to heaven at their hour of death.

The third is to be a champion of all Christians, and the Church itself.

And the fourth is to call men from life on Earth to their heavenly judgment."

 

I cannot remember the movie, but it was a story about demonic possession in which the only way the demon's hold could be broken is if the possessed person uttered St. Michael's name. Which of course, the demon completely fought, because it didn't want to lose its foothold. But when that person uttered the archangel's name, it was conquered. So yeah, I'd say St. Michael is a pretty fearsome enemy of Satan and that while they might not like him, they have a healthy respect for what he is capable of doing.