I came here originally to learn how to treat transgenders and try to give a word of exhortation unto a few people that seemed to really be trying to reach out to God. There were a few openings but most were met with opposition from non-believers.
The thing that topped it all off was a seminary student joking about Noah having sex with his sons.
Some people search the scriptures to see the Lord glorified while others just search to justify sin and abomination.
Psalm 64:1-8
[1] Hear my voice, O God, in my prayer: preserve my life from fear of the enemy.
[2] Hide me from the secret counsel of the wicked; from the insurrection of the workers of iniquity:
[3] Who whet their tongue like a sword, and bend their bows to shoot their arrows, even bitter words:
[4] That they may shoot in secret at the perfect: suddenly do they shoot at him, and fear not.
[5] They encourage themselves in an evil matter: they commune of laying snares privily; they say, Who shall see them?
[6] They search out iniquities; they accomplish a diligent search: both the inward thought of every one of them, and the heart, is deep.
[7] But God shall shoot at them with an arrow; suddenly shall they be wounded.
[8] So they shall make their own tongue to fall upon themselves: all that see them shall flee away.
Too many are using the word to justify evil from their carnal teachings. The word is clear that one of the gifts of the Spirit is discernment of spirits. The Spirit of God rightly dividing the word of truth to tell the truth. No jokes. No foolishness.
The Lord said if any man follow me let him take up his cross daily and follow me. That cross means dying out to self and letting Christ increase as John the baptist said, He must increase and I must decrease.
Jesus said He that seeks to save his life in this world will lose it but he that is willing to give his life will keep it unto life eternal.
To say that the Lord is loving and requires no obedience is to call him a liar. That he is not. Those who study to justify sin and abomination not only do as written in Psalm 64:5 and 6 but also manifest the use of a carnal mind which the word says is enmity with God.
The word even says that Diotrephes loved to have the preeminence casting out those who walked with Christ and knew the truth. That can be seen today as multitudes are drawn to a lie straight from the devil to follow those who teach what they want to believe. Liars that are damning souls promoting rebellion and an out of balance grace only doctrine.
The word of God says that God is not the author of confusion. It also says in numerous places that when everyone spake something different and their witness agreed not the congregation was confused. It also says that the battle of the warrior is with confused violence. The devil loves confusion and is more than happy to raise up all sorts of ministers that cannot agree on anything. They all speak different things and there are no miracles and no healings and all say they are Christians.
The word of God says in Isaiah 4:1 And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach. We will eat our own meal and use our own clothing.
Today the seven women (churches of the Gentiles) have taken hold of one man (Christ) but in rebellion wish to eat their own food (words of man and not words of truth) and clothe themselves with their own clothing. (Filthy rags rather than the robe of righteousness and covering of his Spirit)
They don't want to stand in faith and be a witness of the truth and risk being hated by everyone. They won't have that reproach.
The Lord told his disciples they would be hated of all men. He told them that the world hated him before it hated them. And for no reason.
When a Christian tries to warn people against the oncoming damnation of false teaching and a heretical lifestyle they are hated for no reason for in the eyes of God they did that which was right.
That hatred for no reason is repaying evil for good and in Proverbs it is written that he that repays evil for good evil shall not leave his house. One part of this is the house being his or her body.
Some hate for no reason and then wonder why they cannot receive an answer to prayer. The answer is simple. Repent.
It's no wonder they see no miracles when it's hard to even find any that can bring forth the hidden spiritual things.
All a carnal mind can do is twist scripture to say that David was gay or bisexual not even seeing the love spoken of was the deep spiritual love that those in a unity of the faith and a unity of the mind will have that can only be given by the Spirit of God.
The Lord said his kingdom was not of this world. He didn't say republic, confederacy or democracy. He is a King and the Son of a great King. He sets the law and he has all say as to how his kingdom is ordered. He does not need a television preacher or any other blasphemous heretic to tell him how to run his kingdom.
Today people see no harm in setting aside the word or being disobedient unto it. They see no harm in calling Jesus Christ a liar believing, writing or posting contrary to what the Lord and the word says. They thin they can just believe and say whatever they wish and the Lord doesn't care.
What did Peter say about the word?
2 Peter 1:21
[21] For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
Peter acknowledged that the scriptures were the words of men who were moved by the Holy Ghost.
So what does the Lord think about what they spoke and was recorded?
Matthew 12:32
[32] And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.
It seems that people do not fear God anymore. They think they can say, write or post anything they want and won't be held accountable.
Jesus came into the world to die for the sins of man but even though he loved there are things he hates. There are things he warned against and it isn't wise to shrug these things off as nothing.
What does the word say about what the Lord said?
Luke 12:4,5
[4] And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.
[5] But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.
People forget that the Lord said that he is to be feared and given the same honour that his Father gets. Which for some is nothing or next to it.
This grace only doctrine is out of balance and an abomination unto God according to Proverbs 11:1
So what does the word say about male on male homosexuality since people want to joke about Noah having sex with his sons?
John 2:18-21
[18] Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things?
[19] Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.
[20] Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days?
[21] But he spake of the temple of his body.
The concordance says that the temple is just that. A temple.
The scribes and pharisees knew Hebrew and Greek and Aramaic better than any person here or any modern day Gentile. They studied all their lives and didn't know Jesus meant his body. Once again no spiritual discernment.
The only way most Christians can see this is because this verse is written. Aside from that most wouldn't know the temple he spake of was his body.
Anything else?
Luke 8:11
[11] Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.
The word seed is just that according to the concordance. A seed.
Jesus said that the seed is the word.
It looks like the Lord has all control over what the word means contrary to man's wishes. That seed being the word is very important however.
Galatians 3:16
[16] Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.
Here the seed means Christ. Since Christ is the word we have two witnesses that the seed means Christ. He gives life.
Matthew 13:38
[38] The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;
Here the seed is the children of the kingdom. Those who are led of the Spirit. Those who are born again. Those who have the Lord (seed) in their hearts by faith.
The seed is the Lord, the Holy Ghost and the children of God here.
This is a third witness of Christ and the very Spirit Jesus warned not to blasphemy.
Matthew 17:20
[20] And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.
Here faith is the seed. The word says our hearts are purified by faith. It says without faith it is impossible to please God.
The word says every word of God is pure.
When our hearts are purified by faith it is purified by Christ who is the word.
Since faith is the substance of things hoped for (Christ the hope of glory) and the evidence of things not seen (the image of God whom no man hath seen) the seed is Christ.
Once again all bear witness to Jesus and the Holy Ghost. No confusion nor witnesses that do not agree.
Leviticus 15:16
[16] And if any man's seed of copulation go out from him, then he shall wash all his flesh in water, and be unclean until the even.
Genesis 38:8,9
[8] And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise up seed to thy brother.
[9] And Onan knew that the seed should not be his; and it came to pass, when he went in unto his brother's wife, that he spilled it on the ground, lest that he should give seed to his brother.
Here the seed is the seed of copulation. That which brings forth human life.
All seed whether in plants, animals or humans is to bring forth life. Not to be treated in any fashion that would bring shame to what the good Lord made it for.
The most serious seed is the Lord as all these are types and shadows of seed that brings forth life. Christ in a mystery.
It appears the Lord takes the seed rather seriously.
What does this have to do with male on male homosexuality?
Deuteronomy 23:12-14
[12] Thou shalt have a place also without the camp, whither thou shalt go forth abroad:
[13] And thou shalt have a paddle upon thy weapon; and it shall be, when thou wilt ease thyself abroad, thou shalt dig therewith, and shalt turn back and cover that which cometh from thee:
[14] For the LORD thy God walketh in the midst of thy camp, to deliver thee, and to give up thine enemies before thee; therefore shall thy camp be holy: that he see no unclean thing in thee, and turn away from thee
If the Lord considered covering waste so important that he would have the children of Israel have a dung paddle on their weapon to cover it so he didn't see it what makes men want to pervert the word so men can justify placing "seed" in an unclean place like a rectum?
Isaiah 19:14-16
[14] The LORD hath mingled a perverse spirit in the midst thereof: and they have caused Egypt to err in every work thereof, as a drunken man staggereth in his vomit.
[15] Neither shall there be any work for Egypt, which the head or tail, branch or rush, may do.
[16] In that day shall Egypt be like unto women: and it shall be afraid and fear because of the shaking of the hand of the LORD of hosts, which he shaketh over it.
The word says that it is the Lord that will mingle a perverse spirit with them that rebel against God.
The word also says that these who have this perverse spirit become as women.
These men taking the woman's place in a homosexual union become as women.
It is probably a great trophy for the devil than to take a male child of God and convince him he's a woman or can take that role in a sexual union. Since every firstborn that opens the womb is holy unto the Lord it's a greater trophy.
Is there a second witness about a mingled people?
Jeremiah 50:37
[37] A sword is upon their horses, and upon their chariots, and upon all the mingled people that are in the midst of her; and they shall become as women: a sword is upon her treasures; and they shall be robbed.
They shall be robbed. The thief cometh to steal kill and destroy. Rob them of their salvation.
The people today are quick to say that this doesn't apply for this generation. The word says Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and for ever. It also is written his word will not change. The Lord even said heaven and earth shall pass away but his word would not. He even said man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Grace is for when we have done our best and still fail.
It is the people that do not want to change. They think God should accept them any way they choose to come.
It is written because they have no changes there is no fear of God in them.
John 8:29
[29] And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.
If the Lord allowed all of the "sins unto death" that his Father destroyed nations over he would not be pleasing his Father. He is no liar like man.
This same loving Jesus that healed the sick and afflicted was the same one that made a scourge and drove the moneychangers out of the temple. He overturned the tables of those who sold doves. Many today attempt to sell the dove, or Spirit of God.
I had no plans on posting this but when I see that the word of God is blasphemed with no fear of God I cannot be a partaker of that.
When I first joined I made it clear that I have views many would hate and these views would probably enrage people. I then attempted to help only with spiritual things that would strengthen a person that might have come seeking. Every post was considerate of others until I read this foolishness about Noah having sex with his sons.
Until then I kept them to myself and tried to help. This is the first post I have made that shows how I really feel about homosexuality. It does not disagree with anything else I have written. Many so-called ministers wouldn't care but a double minded man is unstable in all his ways according to Proverbs.
It is also written in the list of those desiring the office of a bishop that men should be sober minded and faithful among many other necessities that people shrug off today.
This is not about transgender people. This is about the abomination of male on male side A homosexuality that others choose to joke about.
At least my conscience is clean about not continuing with known and uncaring blasphemy. To those who choose to believe what they wish above what the word of God says I leave these scriptures.
Ephesians 5:31,32
31: FOR THIS CAUSE SHALL A MAN LEAVE HIS FATHER AND MOTHER, AND SHALL BE JOINED UNTO HIS WIFE, AND THEY TWO SHALL BE ONE FLESH.
32: This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
In Galatians 4:26 it is written that Jerusalem above is our mother. Those in it who are the souls of just men made perfect are as his mother as well as Jesus said in Matthew 12:50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
We know that Jehovah God Almighty is his Father.
The "man" Christ Jesus left them to die for his betrothed and to dwell in her heart by faith.
What is meant by the man and wife being one flesh?
Jeremiah 31:22
22: How long wilt thou go about, O thou backsliding daughter? for the LORD hath created a new thing in the earth, A woman shall compass a man.
The word says man was created from the dust of the earth. That man (earth) shall be as the bride of Christ, or woman when renewed by the Spirit of God. She (bride) shall compass the man (Christ) as he dwells in her heart by faith.
What does the word say about this mystery when the bride of Christ is rebellious as Eve, Vashti and other women who have played the whore against the Lord in both the old and new testament?
Revelation 17:3-5
3: So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.
4: And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication:
5: And upon her forefead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.
The number of heads and horns show she is out of balance just as faith without works and so many one sided doctrines such as Jesus being loving and no need to fear him.
In her hand is the evil works of man and the devil she loves and upon her head is written the truth about her.
She that should have been a bride but chose to become a whore.
One of the two distinct types of women in the word of God.
A church that has turned back to this temporal life and loved sin and abomination. One where her so-called ministers have no discernment of spirits nor see the spiritual things that can save their soul.
They have no humility to say as Moses If you aren't with us take us not up. They'd rather seek that ministry position whether they know the Lord or not. Whether the leading of the Spirit of God is with them or not. They are willing to damn others just so they can be somebody.
To them that which should be a "calling" is a career.
I will delete my account as I will only be banned anyway and what I believe is not open to debate. I won't be ashamed of that which the Lord shows me by his Spirit nor will I debate and open the door for more blasphemy.
At any rate I am through. I can't stand it when people only want to joke about the word and types and shadows of Jesus and dare not fear him.
Del, you and I have had a few conversations. I think you know I respect your position. And I hope you know I appreciate your desire to understand transgender lives. I had hoped you would learn the truth and spread the word that the stigma attached to trans people is one borne out of fear and ignorance, and that trans people are just ordinary people with an extraordinary challenge, brought on by social ignorance.
I really don't know how much of that has been accomplished during your time here. I hope a lot. If not, I think we are patient enough to help you for as long as you want to learn. The same goes for anyone "on the outside" who wants to know the truth. Our door is always open to those with good intentions.
I'm not really sure what you hoped to accomplish with this post. You said, "There were a few openings but most were met with opposition from non-believers." I understood that to mean you met some people here who wanted help in finding God but most didn't. It's an awful lot like what I experienced when I came out to family and friends, some wanted to know but most just walked away. I guess that's life.
A lot of Christians in the US feel this is a Christian nation. I guess that's because so many Christians live here. For LGBT people, this is a problem. The reason for that is there are a lot of christian bullies out there and they seem to be the most vocal, and they seem to get the most funding for their causes. And LGBT people are their target. You and I have talked about this and I think we both agree those people are not really Christians, in that they do not follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. But they nonetheless create a lot of problems for LGBT people. It's been a one-sided war that we have only recently begun to fight back. That's one of the reasons so many of us walk away from our Christian upbringing. Maybe we are the non-believers you are talking about. It's pretty hard to find peace in a belief system that believes you are an abomination. And to accomplish this feat all you did was be born transgender.
I'm not sure if your ultimate goal in coming here was to convert transgender people to Christianity. When you first came here, I think I mentioned to you I hoped you would be going back to your fellow believers and let them know we aren't deserving of the criticism and should not be judged as sinners, and worse. Personally, I feel it would be a lot easier to convert trans people to Christianity if we didn't feel we'd be walking into a lion's den, or that once there, we'd be instantly pressured to let the Lord cure us. Many of us have been burned and it is going to take a lot more than one kind soul to bring us back, not to mention regaining our trust.
There's an old saying, "You attract more bees with nectar than with vinegar." For many of us, the words in the Bible have become vinegar. And that word "abomination" makes us cringe.
I'm saying all this because I felt maybe there's been some level of misunderstanding here. Communicating through only the written word is very difficult. Lots can get lost and misinterpreted. I hope I was able to express my thoughts well enough so that loss is minimized. I also want to say I don't speak for all trans people. No one can.
I think you have a position that's a lot more consistent - more in-line with living a walk of faith - then most of the amen corner here does. They do have a high degree of 'pick and choose' about what they find to be true and false. And I'm sure it's much more consistent internally too, that what you believe doesn't change year to year according to what you find convenient or 'new and shiny'. Still...I'm not much for it. Totally opposed to it for many reasons, some of them are even good reasons. I think that there are other solutions and ways of dealing with the problem that have a higher proven factor of good outcomes, and those things should be pursued as opposed to wishin' and hopin' on god.
"There were a few openings but most were met with opposition from non-believers."
Are you suggesting that those who doubt should remain silent in the face of overwhelming non-evidence? Faith has always and forever has been faced with opposition from non-believers, I just don't think they have faced enough.
Julie,
I remember we spoke on various issues and agreed about many things.
When I say nonbelievers it wasn't just those who flat out do not believe.
It included the ones that say that they are Christians but yet feel free to blasphemy.
An example is this Noah posting.
Noah was a type and shadow of Jesus Christ. A foretelling. A preacher of righteousness. To joke about him having sex with his sons is filthy and blasphemy.
Would you trust your soul which will live forever into the hands of a minister that thinks it's funny to blasphemy and take the type and shadow of the only atoning Lamb of sacrifice acceptable unto God Almighty.
It's no wonder the Lord said that few would find the way.
If a person is truly called of God it is no joke. It's nothing funny.
Even in Islam whom most Christians say are lost would kill a person that blasphemies against Allah. Some of these so-called preachers should take note. Most of them are why the nonbelievers mock Christians.
For what it is worth I was not talking about Sarah either. She is a precious sister in my eyes and I hope she continues with her faith.
Neither was I wanting to direct my post against transsexuals.
I make every attempt when speaking to people about transsexuals to say decent things. I may not agree with the transgender train of thought but I still try to give everyone the benefit of the doubt as the word of God say all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.
Still in all these christians shouldn't be joking around about the Lord and all whom are types and shadows.
Some take it dead serious.
And for some of us that makes us just as hated by mainstream Christianity as transsexuals.
Tekla
I don't mind opposition to scripture and Christianity.
You are right and more should face it.
My concern has always been "where" the opposition takes place.
You may trust in science and it may be your strength in times of trouble. It may even be the only thing that keeps you from feeling worthless or contemplating suicide at times for all I know.
For others Christianity may be the only thing that keeps them from committing suicide.
Why ruin that on a Christianity Board?
I only posted to tell Sarah that I enjoyed her humor and say why the post about Noah having sex with his sons riled me.
Also to tell Julie that I wasn't talking about transsexuals when I said nonbeliever. I meant both those who do not believe and those who would like to make others think they believe when the words they post manifest the truth of what is in their heart.
Who would you trust with your soul.
Someone dead serious or someone that thinks it's a laughing matter?
As for me I'll go as I will only be banned anyway.
But know this. I am one who cared and take salvation serious.
Take care
Del
Quote from: tekla on November 26, 2011, 07:08:43 PM
I think you have a position that's a lot more consistent - more in-line with living a walk of faith - then most of the amen corner here does. They do have a high degree of 'pick and choose' about what they find to be true and false. And I'm sure it's much more consistent internally too, that what you believe doesn't change year to year according to what you find convenient or 'new and shiny'. Still...I'm not much for it. Totally opposed to it for many reasons, some of them are even good reasons. I think that there are other solutions and ways of dealing with the problem that have a higher proven factor of good outcomes, and those things should be pursued as opposed to wishin' and hopin' on god.
"There were a few openings but most were met with opposition from non-believers."
Are you suggesting that those who doubt should remain silent in the face of overwhelming non-evidence? Faith has always and forever has been faced with opposition from non-believers, I just don't think they have faced enough.
Tekla,
I do want to thank you. I do know you and I do not see eye to eye. You do ask the hard questions that I should not be afraid to look at. I believe that one can only grow if they are tested and tried and it's not in the easy questions and answers that can do it.
Del,
Thank you for taking the time to clarify what you meant. When I wrote the thread it was only meant to show that even though we do not have what they went through (It's at best conjecture because we can only imagine what they went through) they were human and had to face some of the same things that we still do today. And for me where I often struggle is with the fact that we want to place them on such a high pedestal and forget that they were just as human and the only thing that made them different per say was that they were available and willing to listen,obey and follow through even when things did not make sense. And it is still the same struggle we have today.
Hello Del,
I'm not a believer, but I am always open to different opinions from what I believe in.
But to be honest I find your post waaay too long, so I really don't feel inclined to read much of it... (nor will most others, I believe)
How about making it shorter if you want people to read it :) No disrespect meant...
(Or if it's meant only for people well-versed in Christian scriptures, ignore what I said)
Quote from: Del on November 26, 2011, 09:56:13 PM
As for me I'll go as I will only be banned anyway.
But know this. I am one who cared and take salvation serious.
Take care
Del
Del, what makes you think you'll get banned?
Excerpts from the TOS:
7. Susan and her staff are the only authorized personnel that are permitted to tell someone to leave. If someone wants to discuss a subject you are not interested in either suggest a new subject; go to another of the many areas on this site; or ignore that person, topic, or discussion.16. Please limit religious discussions to the spirituality forum. If a thread in another forum turns into a religious discussion please move the thread to the spirituality forum. Our moderators will assist in this process if necessary. (This term does not apply to chat)Don't see you in violation of those items. Please reconsider, you might not have appreciated what said member posted, but consider why you come here. So far I have only seen you be respectful, encouraging, and sincere. I think that counts for something. :)
SJ
Sarah,
As I said I didn't mind your post as you did bring the issues of the Lord using average people to light.
It just might get some to think about the miracles that still exist when people are 100% dedicated to the Lord and not a doctrine, lifestyle or anything else that gets in the way.
I found that admirable.
Apple,
I am sorry that the post was too long but I cannot shorten them.
I removed half of it as it was as it kept getting kicked out as too long. Many websites have a character length restriction.
The Spirit of God can make things clear point by point and line upon line and precept upon precept.
That is one problem with Christianity though.
People can sit in front of a computer half the day but find it hard to squeeze out an hour for God once a week.
Then they cry about no miracles.
Maybe if they would spend as much time on their face before God seeking his presence as they do on television, computers, ball games and video games they would find Him.
Sandra,
The reason I say I would probably be banned is because I dared tell the truth using what is called the rightly divided word of truth as brought forth by the Spirit.
It is an insight the world thinks is foolish.
It is that which angers many.
It is that of which will not be found in any seminary or modern contemporary teaching where numbers, building size, pleasing people and money are the focus by lazy school taught so-called theologians who don't even know Christ.
It also is something I am not ashamed of even if the whole world hates me.
Therefore it would not surprise me if I wasn't banned as I will not deny what the Lord has blessed me with.
As I stated I went to great lengths to hold back on many things until I saw the blasphemous foolishness of Noah having sex with his sons.
I am not impressed with theologians nor the blasphemous antics of secular preachers / teachers / ministers and students that think that the Son of the living God that can damn their souls to an everlasting hell designed for the devil and his fallen angels can be mocked. The word says God is not mocked and whatsoever a man sows the same shall he reap.
I tried my best to give a word here and there to bring forth the faith of those who have been put down in churches by being lumped together under an umbrella term.
Most ministers out there in straight churches do not even know the difference between side A and side B homosexuality. They just say they're all going to hell.
I am one who studies things out as led by the Lord not to transgress.
That is why I was willing to help in areas where I could without blaspheming the Holy Ghost or denying Christ or the things the Spirit of God had taught me.
In conclusion it would not surprise me to get banned.
The truth hurts and it's easier to claim to protect someone by keeping them from it.
But, if people can ignore spiritual death and damnation to please others they should have no problem banning me.
To them I'm just another straight cisgender that hates people even though that is not true.
True love is telling the truth.
But, if people can ignore spiritual death and damnation to please others they should have no problem banning me.
Oddly enough though I ignore spiritual death and damnation to please others just because - well, nuns if you must know. I never support banning anyone, any particular thought or ideas because it seems to me anti-American.
Hello Del
I personally like to have my own ideas challenged and don't mind hearing arguments against ->-bleeped-<- (for example, my doctor challenged me about it though he didn't really disagree, and he was impressed I was willing to listen to him), but because the purpose of this forum is for transgender people to find support, such discussions are better left to other places :) You seem sensible from what I read in this thread, so I'm sure you understand...
And you say that people find it hard to squeeze out an hour for God once a week. Well, let me ask you something. If I ask you to spend one hour a week suddenly on, say, Buddha, would you do it? You wouldn't, right? Similarly, I'm not a Christian, so I wouldn't suddenly spend an hour, or in fact any time at all, reading Christian stuff. So if you want non-believers to read what you say, wouldn't it be best to start with something that's easier to swallow? You quoted a lot of scriptures, but would you believe anything I say if I quoted a lot of Buddhist texts?
Tekla,
I am happy that you feel that way. Many don't. Some can become rather un-American in that light.
Apple,
Sorry to not make myself clear.
I meant Christians.
I would not expect non-believers to tarry long with scripture.
On the other hand for those professing Christ:
The Lord said tarry at Jerusalem until ye be endued with power from on high. He didn't say swing by my office for a minute or two until I get you that Jack Van Impe book.
It says in Psalms; She (the saints) that tarried at home (Jerusalem, presence of God) divided the spoil.
What is that spoil?
It says in Psalms Thy word I esteem as great spoil.
Loosely translated when the saints tarry in the presence of God he will rightly divide the word of truth for them by his Spirit.
It also say Bring every thought to the captivity of Christ and Pray without ceasing.
It doesn't say if your bored think about the Lord and give him a minute.
It also shows with a multitude of counsellers that the office of ministry is a calling.
Not a career.
Schooling is for a career.
The Holy Ghost brings forth the word for a calling.
I stop with that.
If those professing Christ would tarry in prayer and reading the word and allow the Lord to reveal the truth by his Spirit they just might see the miracles and even know what the word says.
As it says in the prophets, Seek ye the old path wherein is the good way. Since Jesus said only God is good the way of God.
He also said any man instructed in the kingdom of God is as a scribe bringing forth that which is old and new.
Knowing how to use both the old and new testament to teach the truth.
Not picking and choosing which scripture will support a lust or tell others how buddy-Jesus loves their every thought and action.
I hope that clears it up a little.
What one sees as truth another can see as false or simply unproven. Faith and religion are abstract. You can't hear it, see it, touch it or smell it. And I'm speaking in the physical here. Metaphorically, that may be completely be untrue, for some.
The point is the freedom to believe what we choose to believe without condemnation, discrimination, prejudice and without facing judgment is something I believe all people deserve. No one should tell you, "These are the facts! End of discussion!" But if they do, you have the right to walk away.
Because god, heaven, hell and all that is surrounded by it is thus far unprovable, believers have to expect challenges and opposition. We know that 1+1=2. But even if you choose not to believe that, fine. That's your right. And I have no right to debate you on this unless you choose to enter into a debate.
I see faith as an everlasting-life insurance policy. You can't collect until you die and you are hoping you bought that policy from a company that will deliver on the contract. Humans have a very hard time believing that when they die, that's it, lights out. Enter god, religion and faith. Problem solved. Man creates the rules, based on human decency, and decides if you follow those rules you get life everlasting, and a good life at that. In fact, it's everything one could ever dream it would be. It's a great concept, when you are trying to keep people in check. But there are those who use loopholes and bend the concept to fit their own needs.
And that's where the faithful fail. They should be working to discourage and even fight against those who use faith for personal benefit. But based on the number of people who support TV ministries, "christian family" coalitions that are fronts for anti-LGBT campaigns, and other charlatans, that's not happening much.
So from my perspective, true Christians need to clean their house. They need to get rid of the charlatans and get a campaign going that discourages any support of them. And by doing that, I believe they will increase their numbers because they will be supporting the real teachings of Christ. And until that house is cleaned, they should stop inviting people in. It gives Christianity a bad image.
This is something my dad sent me years ago. I wonder if the man referred to in this story would approve of the state of Christianity today?
One Solitary Life
He was born in an obscure village, the son of a peasant woman.
He grew up in another village, where he worked in a carpenter's shop until he was thirty. Then for three years he became a wandering preacher.
He never wrote a book. He never held an office. He never had a family or owned a house. He didn't go to college. He never visited a big city. He never traveled two hundred miles from the place where he was born. He did none of those things one usually associates with greatness.
He had no credentials but himself.
He was only thirty-three when the tide of public opinion turned against him. His friends ran away. He was turned over to his enemies and went through a mockery of a trial. He was executed by the state. While he was dying, his executioners gambled for his clothing, the only property he had on earth. When he was dead he was laid in a borrowed grave through the pity of a friend.
Twenty centuries have come and gone, and today he is the central figure of the human race and the leader of mankind's progress. All the armies that ever marched, all the navies that ever sailed, all the parliaments that ever sat, all the kings that ever reigned, put together, have not affected the life of man on this earth as much as that One Solitary Life.
Julie,
To start with I opened this thread coming against the post of one who thought joking around about Noah having sex with his sons would be funny.
I to this date have not came against the rudeness and criticism of non-believers except to say they should do it in another place like the General Spirituality board so the Christians have a safe haven on the Christian section.
I did this as the one doing so professes to be going to school to be a minister.
The word of God does have requirements for those who are ministers and one requirement is to be soberminded and offend in nothing that the ministry be not blamed.
As for Christians cleaning their own houses first I believe in what the word of God calls a just weight and an equal balance. Proverbs 11: 1 says an unjust weight and divers balances are an abomination.
The word says reprove, rebuke and exhort with all longsuffering. All 3 parts make up a sermon or should make up a post. Not just an out of balance one sided post.
I do come against the likes of the television evangelists that hate the GLBT community but I also come against the ones among that community that are wrong as well when either pushes their words to blaspheming God, the Lord or the Holy Ghost. Some things are not called for.
People do not see when I come against the likes of Jim Bakker, Benny Hinn, Joyce Meyer and such with their foolishness like Joyce Meyer's prosperity garbage and Jim Bakker's tribulation backpack. Those who are clearly selling the twisted word that is vain for a buck. They can call it a love gift but when the gift is exchanged for money it is selling. The Lord said make not my house a house of merchandise.
In like manner when I see someone who should be striving with all that is in them to make their calling (if they are truly called) and election sure and strengthen those who are downtrodden and have only what remains of their hope in Christ blasphemy it makes me thankful they are not the one I entrust my soul to and feel sorry for any that takes heed of them.
Straight, cisgender, GLBT. All should be taking it serious and not blaspheming.
Blasphemy from those who do not believe and admit as much should come as no surprise.
That should be expected.
You are correct in that Christians should clean their own house before speaking to others.
That goes for all. Straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, gender queer, cisgender and whosoever else.
The same Jesus that loved was the same one who drove the sinners out of the temple.
A just weight and an equal balance.
If the straight preachers should clean up their act all should.
Me included.
I hope that answers to show you that I am not biased against transgenders.
For what it is worth the word says that the Lord gives every seed a body as it pleases him.
What they do with it is up to them.
Julie,
I did want to add this while I'm at it.
I have noticed any form of rebuke on a straight or cisgender site about the blasphemy they post and a person gets banned. Quicker if the defend a member of the GLBT community.
The same holds true on GLBT sites.
I know because I have been banned from enough of them. Neither wants the whole truth from what I see. I am talking about them who call themselves Christian. Not non-believers.
And of transsexuals for Sarah's sake whom I deem to be one of an honest heart towards the Lord I will say this.
If a MtF pre-op transsexual remains celibate until surgery and then marries a post-op FtM transsexual.
At least it is a man and woman and no knowing whoring around before marriage.
The reasons being no premarital fornication which is sin for both cisgender, straight, transgender and the rest.
Also it is a greater sacrifice in obedience unto the Lord than many straight so-called Christians make that judge and condemn others while they wait for the opportunity to sin when in private.
And finally as for the television preachers and all who have books everyone seems to rely on.
How do they even know if that person is a Christian?
Will Joel Osteen hop on his jet to come pray for them when they need prayer? I doubt it.
How do they know the author of that book that backs homosexuality or transgender views isn't just some person well versed in scripture searching out what will make the buyers happy so he can live a grand lifestyle?
If I wanted to sell my soul I could twist scripture here and tell everyone what they want to hear or see.
You know what would happen?
They'd be right behind me at the judgment seat to hear: Depart from me ye worker of iniquity.
I would rather risk being hated by not only the whole world but by every member on a website to tell a member that is honestly seeking how to be saved or grow in faith.
The Lord did not die to make people rich nor so they could be somebody or hear what they wanted.
He died to save his people from their sin.
I do like the post you gave about Jesus.
There is way more to that one poor man however.
Sadly neither straight, cisgender, gay nor transgender seem to want to know all about him.
I hope this does not anger you as in many ways you are right about some things. In those we agree.
The rest however should seek it out themselves.
I am through.
Hi Del. I have always enjoyed your posts and get alot out of reading them. I also believe in the Whole word of God and always try not to take things out of context. Guess I am hoping you will reconsider your decision to leave this forum. I, for one, am very grateful you are here. And, I do agree, this should be a forum where born again believers feel free to post, ask biblical, post how God is working in their lives, etc.....and all free from being torn apart by the secular community.
Del,
I seriously believe that what you have posted is way down there on reasons for being banned here! Our TOS 7, which speaks directly about Religion posts to be kept to the Spirituality Board/Forum, which is what you have been doing. As a Christian also, it is good to see one that is non-TG, and see's us as people to share God's gift of Jesus Christ with, without prejudice towards us.
Take a sabbatical if you must...but do come back!
You know in the end, it's never the non-believers attacking the Christians, it Christians that end up attacking Christians. Happened in ever single (and I went to a pile back in the day) teaching evolution school board meetings I attended.
As a former Seminary student I would caution you Del. Not because I like to blaspheme but I don't think you are well versed enough in scripture to aggressively concern yourself with the behavior of others.
If you do believe in God and Jesus then you ought to recognize that they work through the Holy Spirit in mysterious ways. Do not be so quick to dismiss the experiences of others even if they are sitting in front of a computer all day.
God says that it is through GRACE not acts that people are saved. So I'm already looking at ya with some wonk eyes here.
Welcome to the forum though. And I also didn't read the entire OP. Even though you want to post more, why not post each bit and discuss it a little instead of walls of text.
This post may seem offensive, but it isn't meant to be. this is my point of view of religion. I don't go to church or anything mainly because of the self-righteousness and hypocrisy that has plagued it. But I do still own a bible. So, here goes.
At my last 2 PFLAG meetings, we have had ministers from the 1st Presbyterian Church nearby. They were there to show that they were trying to be more open to the GLBT community and also understand how the Christianity is viewed from our perspective. So I applaud this move, and I hope you and other churches will do the same.
What I think most Christians, that I know at least, fail to realize is that about 2000 years ago, there was this man who was also non-conforming at the time. He did what some would consider at the time, strange, incredible and wondrous things. some thought he was amazing, others thought he was very odd. And others hated him. He gave up his job and went out across his homeland to spread a message of love and peace to everyone. But the people who hated him found a way to silence him forever. Or so they thought. Now he has more followers than any pop star could dream of. In fact, you could say they were almost religious in their love for him. And now these people who claim to follow such a non-conformist like to pick on the few who do not fit their viewpoint. In a way, Christianity has become the very thing that killed Jesus, that he was opposed to.
Until people like the ones I deal with every day can stop twisting the words of the bible to suit their own purposes of discrimination, I will never set foot in a church again. The last time I was in a church, was in Jerusalem at the Church of the Nativity. I pity people who hide behind that book because it is a cop out, its them trying to justify their hatred because they think a book tells them its okay.
Hi Del,
Sorry to see you upset. I don't remember the post that upset you but it is your right, in fact it is your duty, at Susan's to report rude, obnoxious posts to the Mods and we will deal with them. And if we don't the chief lady jumps on us for not doing our jobs.
No one can ban except a global mod or an admin. We take that step very carefully and usually with great regret because we have failed in our duty to care for the people here. With the exception of spammers who no one wants.
As Tekla said the Christian 'wars' are rampant at times and, as you know, I find it quite amusing from my own belief se in which I'm very careful not to be rude to people and to appreciate their point of view, if if it makes no sense to me.
As Tekla has also said. I do respect your attitude to your faith and beliefs. I do admire you for holding true to those in life and here. But that does not mean people will understand those beliefs. As we have discussed, in very pleasant messages, belief systems are complicated. I know there are many transgender people on this site who are Christian and derive great love and comfort from their faith. I also know there are many who feel totally abandoned by a God who sentenced them to Hell on Earth with no chance of redemption in their lives. And there are some of us who have made their peace with nature and science and cannot believe in something that seems so bizarre and illogical.
Do stay. I enjoy our conversations. You bring something special to this site and I and many others respect you for it. Even if we may not agree. But I'm a firm believer in Voltaire "I do not agree with anything you say, but I will defend you to the death for your right to say it"
Hugs
Cindy
The answer below is in reference to the thought about there being more than one way unto God.
Men would love people to believe that as then they can twist it to make money and be popular.
In the world outside the gospel of Jesus Christ there are many truths. We see this every day.
With the gospel of Jesus Christ there is only one truth.
The Lord said "I am the way, the truth, and the life." He didn't say he was many ways and many truths and many lifes.
The word even says we are all parts of his body. many parts that make one body. Just as there is one hope of our calling.
One Lord, one faith and one baptism. One God and Father of all.
The word says he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. That is why fornication is evil. It is joining the body (temple of the Holy Ghost) unto a harlot. Joining a temple of one Holy Spirit unto an evil adulterous temple of a harlot's spirit.
The word also says can two agree unless they be agreed? The Lord is not going to join his Holy Spirit unto that of a whore.
The word says that we are called unto a unity of the faith and all should be thinking the same thing and speaking the same thing.
The Lord said a kingdom divided will not stand but fall. With no unity of the faith and every person believing what they wish their house will fall. Peter said we are a spiritual house and the word says before the Lord returns there will be a great falling away. Everyone speaking something different and believing what they want and the devil mowing them over like nothing.
In the Song Of Solomon the woman's "one eye" ravishes the king.
The one eye is spiritually told in an abundance of scriptures which I do not have time to go into as the Spirit.
The Lord said the light of the body is the eye. If that light be darkness the whole body is dark. How great is that darkness.
The word says the candle of the Lord is the spirit of man. When the Lord spake the parable about lighting a candle it is the Spirit of God or Holy Ghost illuminating our spirit or giving it life that we might be a living soul.
If that spirit is dark or evil the whole body is evil.
The woman that captivates the King of kings has one eye or Spirit.
He is coming back for a bride comprised of one Spirit with all believing the same and thinking the same and speaking the same.
When it comes to the gospel of Jesus Christ there is only one way.
Keaira,
I have heard this story but as I said above the same Jesus that preached love and peace was the same one that threw the money changers out of the temple.
As a matter of fact he said in the book of John that he was never alone as he always did those things which pleased his Father.
While there has always been a sacrifice for those who sin in ignorance he would not be pleasing his Father if he allowed or blessed the sins his Father destroyed nations for.
But, you all can believe what you want.
Cindy,
Thank you for your views.
Yes, I have enjoyed talking to you too.
The post in question is about Noah having sex with his sons.
Not appropriate talk from a minister.
Of any denomination or group.
Take care kiddo.
Del,
I don't doubt you for you're beliefs. You certainly seem well-versed in the Gospel. I am merely expressing how I have been treated by so-called Christians. I wish I could say that it was just a 'few bad apples.' Sadly, this has not been the case. However, I bear no ill will towards you or your beliefs. Nor do I harbor any towards those who judge me unfairly. Just know that for some of us, it might not be a case of doubting God, Because God does not make mistakes. It's a case of doubting the follower's and where their motive lies when they use God's name to judge us.
Keaira,
I am sorry that some hurt you.
This whole thread is getting sidetracked from the original issue.
I hope all works out for you with your faith.
Take care.
I originally started this thread because of a remark I find highly offensive.
I then spoke my peace about what the Spirit of God showed me to counter the foolishness.
Since then this thread is swaying into all different areas and it is tempting me to post more offensive things here which can be read by the very ones I came to help.
Therefore I am dropping out of this conversation for their sake.
I have no plans on going any further. Personally I hope the moderators lock it as I am through.
I do not want that which the Lord has blessed me with to destroy others. (babes in Christ)
:police:
Ok
Susan's Terms of Service are clearly labelled and clearly accessible. This is an inclusive site and Susan welcomes people from all walks of life. Belittling peoples beliefs is against ToS 10. That does not mean robust discussion is banned. But robust discussion is a healthy and intelligent way to provide information. ToS 11 covers foul and obscene language. I know that in the humour section this is relaxed, but only for fun. I know staff take a dim view of people posting inflammatory jokes and comments. Even if they are humorous. Few of us like anti-gay or anti-TG jokes etc. Why should we tolerate anti-faith jokes?
The purpose of this site is to support people who are transgendered, people who are friends of TG people, SO of TG people and interested members of the public who wish to understand TG issues in a non-puerile way. We have had great success, many of us have benefited from support ideas, and friendships. Some of my closest friends I have met here, our friendships have far transcended the site to being one where we know each other, go out with each other. and lets be honest, I have women here who are my sisters. I love them as such.
When we insult someone we insult ourselves. I'm not going back to the post that Del found offensive, I have found it and yes it was 'funny' but it was obviously rude to people who are devout Christians. But it is old news and we move on.
I would ban a post that said rude things against the Hindi or against Islamic faiths. I will defend the right of Christians to support and broadcast their traditional beliefs. I see no reason why we cannot celebrate Christmas, Easter etc with all the religious and social trimmings. I am a very lucky woman as I have students who are Hindu and Moslem and my workplace celebrates their festivals and take pride in learning about the differences in our cultures.
People are very similar, we have blood pumping around our bodies, we have lungs and brains. We live. I can assure you we die. I will have no god to go too. Del believes he does.
Lets try very hard, particularly at this time of year which is a very significant time of year for people of Christian faith, to accept each other. To talk in a respectful and robust way. If we cannot understand another persons point of view. Ask.
If you find the post too much for you, leave it. There are heaps of threads at Susan's.
You can even start your own.
Cindy James