Greetings,
I object very strongly to the way this topic has been introduced, phrased as it is in an combative and divisive terms. It is not calling God a liar to disagree with the once saved always doctrine. At worst, it is misunderstanding some of the more complex passages in the New Testament.
If we begin with humility, and respect for each other's views, we can aid each other in our conversations. Beginning with condemnation for all those with a different point of view is likely only to lead to a fight.
thank you for your input Hekuran
@Hekuran
I agree with your comments.
Perhaps the Member who began this thread feels very strongly about what he/she considers to be fact and is not exercised in the ability to present his/her topic in a way that is not combative and divisive?
However, nobody is forced to fight, it is a choice we make if we so wish to.
The more i consider the whole topic, the more i see that a general misunderstanding is made by applying a concept of 'saved' and 'salvation to Scripture that overlooks some basic expression in communication that we have through that same Scripture.
We all can probably admit to at least once jumping on the band wagon and going along with the standard interpretations and commonly accepted views of things Scriptural until someone, by God's grace, opens our eyes to see that the same Scriptures actually say something different. if we only slow down and be still enough to read the words in the way they are written, which involves not much more than we expect from primary school students when they read a book out loud.
What I do know is that the LORD is faithful and He saves, always, those who call upon His name in truth. Our perception gets clouded when we forget some examples He has given to us in Scripture. For example, Joseph who was thrown in a pit, sold as a slave, falsely accused and spent time in prison. Who got saved and when?
Likewise, many times the LORD gave His promise in and through prophecy to the children of Israel and how many times did it not appear to come to those in their lifetime?
Another thing I know is that the time is short, meaning the coming of the LORD draweth nigh and we should be doing whatever we can to build each other up and if we see a need to warn or are given a need to warn, to do so accordingly but as the LORD directs us, not according to our carnal minds. We should not build each other up on heresy and lies and worldly comforts and distortions of truth that tickle our ears nor for the praise of men but should do all things only as directed by the LORD. That is not a licence to make oneself a spokesman for God but it is a call to examine first ourselves before Him, with Whom we have to deal with and then, and only then, IF He gives an order, obey it, whether it be to warn others or to remain silent, who to warn and who to let go their ways.
Too many of us [people who use the name of Christ by applying it to our self's and lives] like to think we have the answers and have the God given call upon our lives to judge others and use His Scriptures to do so, all the while ignoring our own need before Him Who is Holy.
I haven't as yet watched the video on the first opening post here but I must say the chap in the picture looks very comfy in his chair there. Nice shirt too. Not much of a beard for some reason. maybe he has too much time on his hands? However, I have not yet seen it but I do agree with what you said regarding the manner in which the thread was presented.
thank you again for your input,
Bless you ....><>
