Chr MIKEY

Reflection on 2 Corinthians 4:18: Fixing Our Gaze on the Eternal

Today, I meditated on 2 Corinthians 4:18, which says, "So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever." Reflecting on this verse in context, I realized that Paul was encouraging the Corinthians, who were likely enduring persecution and various forms of suffering, to focus on the eternal glory that outweighs their present troubles.

Temporal Suffering and Eternal Glory

Paul’s message is clear: the sufferings and troubles of this life are temporary, but the glory that awaits us is eternal. The earth and everything in it are ephemeral. Our physical bodies may experience pain and suffering, but these are fleeting compared to the eternal life and glory promised to us. This perspective helps us endure hardship, knowing that it will pass and give way to something far greater.

Faith and the Unseen

As I reflected further, I understood that our faith itself involves fixing our gaze on the unseen. Salvation is received by faith, not by sight. We recognize fellow believers not by their good works, which are visible and transient, but by the righteousness imputed to them by God, which is invisible and eternal. Good works are important, but they are not the basis of our salvation. They will pass away, but the righteousness that comes from faith will last forever.

Assurance of Salvation

Many Christians doubt their salvation because they focus on their visible good works as proof. However, our assurance of salvation comes from believing in what Jesus has done for us, not from our deeds. We are called to live by faith, not by sight. The world may demand visible proof, but our relationship with God is based on faith and humility. As James 1:21 says, we must humbly receive the word planted in us, which can save us.

Living by Faith and Humility

Our walk with God is characterized by faith and humility. We trust in Him and His promises, even when we cannot see them. Hebrews 11:3 states, "By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible." We begin with faith, and through humility, God reveals His truths to us. Those who are insincere or proud will not receive revelation from God, but the humble and honest will.

The Eternal Perspective

Paul's exhortation is to fix our gaze on what is unseen and eternal. While we may experience suffering, persecution, and other troubles, these are temporary. We should focus on the eternal truths and promises of God. We have eternal life, the life of God Himself, and we will enjoy this life forever in His kingdom, where there is no suffering, no persecution, no sadness, and no evil—only perfect fellowship with God.

Comparing Earthly and Eternal Realities

When we compare our temporary troubles with the vastness of eternity, the contrast is stark. Our earthly sufferings are like a drop in the ocean compared to the infinite glory of eternal life with God. We are called to live by faith, trusting in the unseen and eternal promises of God. This is how we are to navigate this life, with our eyes fixed on the eternal.

Conclusion: A Call to Live by Faith

In conclusion, 2 Corinthians 4:18 calls us to live lives of faith, fixing our gaze on the unseen and eternal rather than the visible and temporary. Our good works, while important, are not the basis of our salvation. The righteousness imputed to us by God, which we receive by faith, is eternal. Our earthly sufferings are temporary, but the glory that awaits us is everlasting. We are to live in humility and faith, trusting in God's promises and looking forward to the eternal life we have with Him. This is the perspective that Paul encourages us to maintain, and it is the way we are called to walk with God.

"Stand Up Soldiers, this is our Call" 🚢

Christian/Gospel Rap is Back! 💯

Entering God's Rest: A Reflection on Hebrews 4:10

"For all who have entered into God's rest have rested from their labors, just as God did after creating the world." - Hebrews 4:10 (NLT)

Reflecting on Hebrews 4:10 reveals profound truths about God's rest and its implications for our salvation. This verse underscores that those who enter into God's rest cease from their works, just as God did after completing creation. This concept is both revolutionary and liberating, transforming our understanding of faith and salvation.

God's Rest: Completion, Not Fatigue

First, let's explore why God rested. Genesis tells us that after six days of creation, God rested on the seventh day. However, God's rest was not due to fatigue. An omnipotent God does not tire. Instead, God's rest signified the completion of His work. There was nothing left to do. Everything was perfect and whole.

God's Rest vs. Israel's Sabbath

The rest mentioned in Hebrews 4 is distinct from the Sabbath rest observed by the Israelites. While the Israelites' Sabbath was a shadow of the rest to come, Hebrews 4 speaks of entering God's own rest. This rest is not merely a cessation of physical labor one day a week but a spiritual rest that reflects God's own cessation from His creative work. It is a rest that signifies completeness and fulfillment.

Entering God's Rest Through Faith

Hebrews 4 emphasizes that this rest is still available and can be entered through faith. Faith is the key that opens the door to this divine rest. It is through believing in the finished work of Christ that we enter God's rest. As Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."

The Finished Work of Christ

This leads us to the heart of the Gospel. Jesus Christ, God incarnate, lived a sinless life, died on the cross for our sins, and rose on the third day for our justification. His final words on the cross, "It is finished" (John 19:30), echo the completeness of God's rest. Salvation is accomplished. There is nothing left for us to add.

The Greatest Exchange

The Gospel is the greatest exchange. Christ, who knew no sin, became sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21). He took the penalty for our sins, and we receive the reward of His righteous life. This exchange is both just and gracious, crafted by God Himself. We receive what we do not deserve—eternal life—because He bore what He did not deserve—our sins.

Resting in Salvation

To enter God's rest means to cease from our works regarding salvation. Just as God rested because everything was complete, we rest in the finished work of Christ. This rest is characterized by a deep sense of peace and assurance, knowing that our salvation is secure not because of our efforts, but because of His perfect work.

Living Out This Rest

Living in God's rest does not negate the value of good works. Instead, good works flow naturally from our identity in Christ. We do good not to earn salvation, but as a response to the grace we have received. Our lives reflect our rest in Him, characterized by trust, peace, and obedience out of love, not out of a need to earn favor.

Invitation to Enter the Rest

This rest is open to all who believe. If you have not yet entered this rest, consider the invitation of Christ, who said, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). This is a call to stop striving and start believing. Trust in the finished work of Christ, and you will find rest for your soul.

Conclusion

Hebrews 4:10 beautifully captures the essence of the Gospel—resting in the completed work of Christ. As we reflect on this truth, may we embrace the rest that God offers, resting from our labors and trusting fully in His grace. Salvation is not a result of our works but of His finished work. Let us enter that rest and live out our faith from a place of divine peace and assurance.

When we say doing good works cannot save you, we are not saying that we or God despise good works. Rather, we mean that good works do not earn God's favor, approval, or salvation. We do good works because of who we are in Christ, not with the motive of earning His favor or salvation. That approach is misguided. So, when we say good works cannot save you, we are not discouraging good works; we are teaching you how to do them in light of Jesus Christ's finished work.

In fact, understand that your good works are not done by your own power. If doing them by your own power pleased God, then He wouldn't need to give you His Spirit. It is the Spirit who enables us to do good works that please Him. Remember, they are fruits of the Spirit, not your own fruit.

Our Christian life is a life of faith. We already are saved, and we are just living out that reality. Good works have nothing to do with our salvation.

SHALOM.

💯

⚠️ PLEASE, UNDERSTAND THAT THESE ARE QUESTIONS ASKED BY REAL TIME UNBELIEVERS IN CHRIST. I DON'T MAKE THEM UP.
THE FOLLOWING IS THE ANSWER PROVIDED TO THEM. I THINK I SHOULD SHARE WITH CHRISTIANS ⚠️

QUESTION:

If God exists, why does he need humans at all? I mean, how can an entity, with infinite powers have needs at all?

RESPONSE:

Andy Brookman

When you're done going through the subtly dishonest answers, consider this:

The idea that God needs humans can be misunderstood. God, in His infinite power and completeness, doesn't need anything in the sense that we understand need. He is entirely self-sufficient and self-sustaining. The relationship between God and humans is not about God needing us to fulfill some lack or void in Himself.

Instead, God's creation of humans and His desire for a relationship with us stems from His nature as a loving and relational being. God created us out of an overflow of His love, wanting to share His goodness, joy, and life with us. This is not a need on God's part but rather an expression of His abundant love.

When people ask why an infinite, all-powerful God would need humans, it's crucial to clarify what we mean by "need." God, by His very nature, is complete and self-sufficient. He does not require anything outside of Himself to exist, to be fulfilled, or to accomplish His purposes. He is the source of all life, all goodness, and all being.

So, why did God create humans? The answer lies in understanding God's character. God is love (1 John 4:8). Love, by its nature, seeks to share itself, to give and to create. God's creation of humanity is an outpouring of His love and goodness. He created us not because He needed us, but because He wanted to share His love with us. This is a profound distinction. It shifts the perspective from seeing humans as fulfilling a deficiency in God to understanding humans as recipients of His boundless love.

Moreover, God desires a relationship with us. This relationship is not about meeting His needs but about inviting us into the fullness of life and joy that He offers. It’s about God’s desire to be with us, to guide us, and to ultimately bring us into a deeper understanding of His love and truth. This relational aspect reflects God's nature as a loving Father who delights in His children.

In addition, God's creation of humans allows us to participate in His divine plan. We are invited to be co-workers with God in bringing about His purposes in the world. This participation is a gift and a privilege, not a necessity for God. It’s an opportunity for us to experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from living in harmony with His will.

To summarize, God does not need humans in the sense of fulfilling a lack within Himself. Instead, He created us out of an overflow of His love, desiring to share His life and joy with us and inviting us into a relationship with Him. This understanding highlights the depth of God's love and the incredible purpose He has for our lives.

Understanding God's Actions in the Old Testament Through the Lens of Jesus

Disclaimer ⚠️: These are from my PERSONAL reflections

1. Jesus as the Perfect Image of God:
- The Bible says that Jesus is the express image of God (Hebrews 1:3). When we look at Jesus, we see God’s true nature.
- Jesus taught us to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44) and demonstrated this by sacrificing Himself for humanity, showing God's ultimate heart of love and mercy.

2. God’s Actions in the Old Testament:
- Not God’s Ultimate Desire: The violent actions attributed to God in the Old Testament do not reflect His ultimate desire. Jesus, who embodies God’s nature, shows us that God’s heart is not inclined toward violence but towards love and reconciliation.
- The Fall and Human Sin: God created everything good (Genesis 1:31). However, sin entered the world through human disobedience, resulting in suffering and separation from God.

3. Analogous to a Leader Seeking Peace:
- Consider a peaceful leader who desires harmony but faces rebellion. This leader might reluctantly engage in conflict to demonstrate the consequences of violence and to maintain order. Similarly, God's actions in the Old Testament can be seen as responses to human sin and rebellion, aimed at teaching and guiding humanity back to the right path.

4. Protection of the Messianic Lineage:
- God’s interventions, including acts of judgment, were often aimed at preserving the lineage of the Messiah. The Israelites were set apart to bring forth Jesus, the Savior of the world.
- By ensuring the survival and purity of Israel, God was safeguarding the arrival of the Messiah, through whom salvation would be offered to all humanity.

5. God’s Reluctance to Punish:
- Scriptures like Ezekiel 33:11 emphasize that God does not take pleasure in the death of the wicked but desires that they turn from their ways and live. This reflects God’s true desire for repentance and reconciliation rather than destruction.

6. Interpreting the Old Testament Through Jesus:
- When reading the Old Testament, it is essential to do so with humility and seek understanding through the lens of Jesus’ teachings. Jesus reveals God's true nature, and His actions should inform our interpretation of the more challenging passages in the Old Testament.
- Just as Jesus embodies love, mercy, and forgiveness, these qualities reflect God’s ultimate character and intentions.

Conclusion
God’s actions in the Old Testament, including instances of judgment, should be understood within the broader context of His plan for humanity’s redemption. These actions were not His primary desire but were sometimes necessary to achieve a greater purpose—preserving the lineage of the Messiah and guiding humanity towards salvation. Jesus’ teachings and sacrifice reveal God’s true heart, which is always inclined towards love, mercy, and the redemption of all people.

By focusing on Jesus, we can gain a clearer understanding of God's nature and intentions, recognizing that His ultimate goal is to bring about a world where love and justice prevail, culminating in the salvation offered through Christ.

QUESTION:
Chr MIKEY what makes you so arrogantly sure the Christians God is the real God? What method outside of your plagiarized Bible did you use to determine the other religions are false that can't be used by other religions to determine your religion and God are false?

RESPONSE: Octavio Solis

Your question touches on important aspects of faith, evidence, and comparison between religions. Let me share some thoughts on this matter, and I will be honest:

Personal Experience and Transformation
Many Christians, including myself, have had profound personal experiences that affirm their faith in God. These experiences can include answered prayers, a sense of divine presence, and personal transformation. While personal experience is subjective, it can be a powerful indicator for the individual believer.

Historical Evidence
The Christian faith is rooted in historical events, particularly the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The resurrection, in particular, is supported by various historical evidences such as the empty tomb, the transformation of the apostles, and the growth of the early Church despite intense persecution. Scholars such as Gary Habermas and N.T. Wright have provided extensive research on this topic.

Philosophical and Logical Arguments
Various philosophical arguments support the existence of a monotheistic God consistent with the Christian understanding. These include the Cosmological Argument, the Moral Argument, and the Argument from Design. These arguments, which can be explored in works by philosophers like William Lane Craig and Alvin Plantinga, suggest a rational basis for belief in God.

Comparative Religion:
Christianity offers a unique narrative that differs significantly from other religions. For example, the concept of grace — salvation as a free gift from God rather than something earned by human effort — sets Christianity apart. When comparing religious texts and teachings, one can find distinct differences that make Christianity unique in its claims and doctrines.

Impact on Society and Culture:
The influence of Christianity on the world has been profound, shaping Western civilization's laws, ethics, and humanitarian efforts. Figures such as William Wilberforce (abolition of the slave trade) and Mother Teresa (charity work) were motivated by their Christian faith to make significant positive impacts on society.

Consistency and Coherence:
The Christian worldview provides a coherent and consistent explanation of reality, addressing the origins, meaning, morality, and destiny of human life. This consistency is seen in the alignment of biblical teachings with observed human experiences and moral intuitions.

It's important to acknowledge that believers from other faiths also have reasons for their beliefs. The process of determining religious truth involves examining evidence, personal reflection, and open dialogue. While Christians believe that the evidence supports the truth of their faith, it's crucial to approach such discussions with humility and respect for others' perspectives.

Ultimately, faith is a deeply personal journey, and each person must weigh the evidence and experiences in their own search for truth..

Jesus didn't say, I am a truth, or I know truth. He made a bold claim. He said, I am the Truth! 💯

QUESTION:
Assuming that you think an all-knowing God had something to do with the Bible, how did he get so much wrong? If he had been more careful, or more intelligent, we'd be 2000 years more advanced. We would not have had plagues and other diseases that are now prevented or treated by medical science. Many people would not have been executed for accurate beliefs that contradicted the faulty Bible. Why would he not help us rather than obstruct with his misguided words?
REPLY:
Thank you for your question. It raises significant points about the nature of divine revelation, the historical context of the Bible, and the development of human knowledge. Here are a few points to consider:

The Purpose of the Bible
1. Spiritual and Moral Guidance:
- The primary purpose of the Bible is to provide spiritual and moral guidance, not to serve as a scientific textbook. It focuses on revealing God’s character, His plan for humanity, and principles for living a life in relationship with Him and others.
- While there are instances where the Bible touches on natural phenomena, its main goal is to address issues of faith, morality, and the human condition.

2. Historical and Cultural Context:
- The Bible was written over a span of centuries by different authors, each influenced by their historical and cultural contexts. The understanding of the natural world during these times was limited compared to what we know today.
- The language and concepts used were appropriate for the audiences of that time, aiming to convey deeper truths rather than detailed scientific explanations.

Science and Revelation
1. Complementary Nature:
- Many Christians believe that science and faith are complementary rather than contradictory. Science helps us understand the mechanisms of the natural world, while faith addresses questions of purpose, meaning, and morality.
- Throughout history, numerous scientists have been people of faith who saw their scientific work as exploring God’s creation (e.g., Isaac Newton, Gregor Mendel).

2. Progress of Human Knowledge:
- The advancements in science and medicine we see today are part of the natural progression of human knowledge and the development of technology. These advancements have often been built on centuries of accumulated knowledge and discovery.
- The Bible encourages the pursuit of wisdom and understanding, which can be seen as supportive of scientific inquiry and progress.

The Fall and Human Sin
1. Original Goodness of Creation
- When God created the world, He declared it good. Genesis 1:31 states, "God saw all that he had made, and it was very good." This underscores that God did not create a world filled with suffering and evil.
- The original creation was perfect and free from sin, suffering, and death.

2. The Fall of Man:
- The introduction of sin into the world through the disobedience of Adam and Eve brought about a fundamental change. This event, known as the Fall, is detailed in Genesis 3.
- As a result of the Fall, suffering, disease, and death entered the world. The consequences of human sin have permeated all of creation, leading to the brokenness we see today.

3. Human Responsibility
- The suffering and evil present in the world are the result of human choices and the broken state of a fallen world. It is not a reflection of God's original intention or His character.
- God gave humans free will, and with that freedom came the possibility of making wrong choices. The Fall demonstrates the importance of free will and the profound impact of our choices.

Misinterpretations and Misuses
1. Historical Misinterpretations:
- Throughout history, there have been misinterpretations of the Bible that have led to harmful actions, such as the persecution of individuals for beliefs that contradicted certain interpretations of scripture.
- It’s important to distinguish between the teachings of the Bible and the ways in which fallible humans have interpreted and applied those teachings. Misguided interpretations do not reflect the true nature of the biblical message.

2. Medical and Social Progress:
- Many advances in medicine and public health have come from a better understanding of the natural world, often with contributions from individuals inspired by their faith to alleviate suffering and improve human well-being.
- The principles of compassion, care for the sick, and love for one's neighbor, which are central to the Bible’s teachings, have inspired countless initiatives to improve health and combat disease.

God's Ultimate Plan
1. Divine Patience and Human Freedom
- God’s plan for humanity involves granting us free will, including the freedom to learn, discover, and make progress over time. This freedom allows for genuine growth and development, both spiritually and scientifically.
- The challenges and obstacles we face, including diseases and plagues, can serve to bring out the best in humanity, fostering resilience, innovation, and a deeper reliance on each other and on God.

2. Hope and Redemption
- The Bible’s message of hope and redemption is ultimately about God’s desire to restore a broken world. This includes both the spiritual restoration of individuals and the eventual renewal of creation as described in Christian eschatology.
- While we work towards alleviating suffering and advancing knowledge, we also look forward to the fulfillment of God’s promise of a new heaven and a new earth.

3. New Heaven and New Earth:
- God's plan to create a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1) is a testament to His original design and His intention to restore creation to its intended goodness. This demonstrates that the current state of suffering and evil is not His ultimate desire for humanity.
- The promise of a new creation free from suffering, sin, and death highlights God's commitment to redeeming and perfecting His creation, reinforcing that He is not the author of the brokenness we experience now.

Conclusion
The Bible’s primary role is to guide us spiritually and morally, while science helps us understand and navigate the natural world. Misinterpretations and misuses of scripture have caused harm, but this does not negate the Bible’s enduring value and the positive impact it has had on countless lives. Both faith and science have roles to play in the human journey, and they can complement each other in meaningful ways. The suffering and evil in the world result from human sin and the fall, not from God's original creation or intent.

I hope this provides some clarity on the issue. I’m open to further discussion if you have more questions or thoughts.

QUESTION:

If God doesn't make mistakes. Why did he create a sun that gives us cancer? You would think he would of left out the UV Rays. Being all powerful he would of found a way to make a sun with no uv Rays.

REPLY:

Octavio Solis
Thank you for your thoughtful question. It touches on important aspects of our understanding of God's creation and the presence of suffering in the world. Here are a few points to consider:

The Role of UV Rays
1. Beneficial Aspects of UV Rays:
- UV rays play a crucial role in the natural world. For instance, they help our bodies produce vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones and immune function.
- UV rays also have a role in regulating various ecological processes, including the formation of the ozone layer that protects life on Earth from excessive harmful radiation.

2. Complexity of Creation:
- The sun, with all its components including UV rays, is part of a finely tuned system that supports life on Earth. The delicate balance in nature is a testament to the intricate design of creation.
- Removing UV rays entirely could disrupt this balance and have unforeseen negative consequences.

Free Will and Natural Consequences
1. Human Responsibility:
- While God created the natural world, humans have a responsibility to understand and mitigate risks associated with it. But I assure you, God's intention was never to create cancer. You can testify that God didn't pour cancer from heaven, right?
The development of sunscreen, protective clothing, and public health guidelines are examples of how we can manage the risks of UV exposure.
- The ability to make choices and take precautions is part of our God-given free will.

2. Sin and the Fallen World:
- The world is not as God originally intended it to be. The presence of sin has introduced various forms of suffering and imperfection into the world.
- The Bible teaches that suffering and death are consequences of the fall of humanity (Genesis 3). This doesn't mean God created suffering, but that it's a result of human disobedience and the brokenness it introduced into the world.

God's Ultimate Plan
1. Redemption and Restoration:
- Christianity teaches that God has a plan to ultimately redeem and restore creation. The promise of a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1) reflects God’s desire to renew and perfect creation.
- In this renewed creation, there will be no more suffering or death, and the imperfections of the current world will be eradicated.

2. Trust in God’s Wisdom:
- As finite beings, we may not fully understand all the reasons behind God’s design choices. Trusting in God's wisdom means acknowledging that His understanding of the complexities of creation surpasses ours.
- The presence of challenges in the natural world can also serve to develop our character, resilience, and dependency on God.

In summary, the presence of UV rays and the associated risks are part of a complex and finely balanced natural system. While they can cause harm, they also play essential roles in sustaining life and health. The Christian perspective also recognizes that the world is currently in a fallen state, but God has a plan for its ultimate restoration. Primeval creation was without fault, for God created it good.

I hope this provides some clarity on the issue. I'm open to further discussion if you have more questions or thoughts.

Is the Bible Just Fiction?
Before you deem the Bible fiction, consider this:

1. Historical Accuracy and Evidence:
Archaeological Corroboration: Numerous archaeological discoveries have confirmed the historical accuracy of many events, places, and people mentioned in the Bible. For example, the Dead Sea Scrolls provide manuscripts of biblical texts that predate Christ, showing the Bible's consistency over time.
Extra-Biblical References: Historical writings from non-Christian sources, such as Jewish historian Josephus and Roman historians Tacitus and Pliny the Younger, mention Jesus and early Christians, supporting the Bible's historical claims.

2. Manuscript Evidence:
Manuscript Quantity and Quality: The Bible has more manuscript evidence than any other ancient document. There are over 5,800 Greek New Testament manuscripts, some dating back to within a few decades of the original writings.
Despite being written over 1,500 years by over 40 authors, the Bible exhibits remarkable consistency in its message and teachings.

3. Transformative Impact:
Countless individuals across diverse cultures and backgrounds have reported profound personal transformation through reading the Bible and following its teachings. These changes often include moral improvement, finding purpose, and experiencing peace and joy.
The Bible has significantly influenced laws, ethical norms, and cultural practices around the world. Many movements for social justice, abolition of slavery, and human rights were inspired by biblical principles.

4. Prophecies and Fulfillment:
The Bible contains numerous prophecies that have been fulfilled in history. For example, prophecies about the coming of Jesus Christ in the Old Testament were fulfilled in the New Testament, providing evidence of the Bible's divine inspiration.

5. Moral and Spiritual Guidance:
The Bible offers timeless moral and spiritual guidance that has helped shape the moral framework of many societies. Teachings such as loving your neighbor, forgiving others, and seeking justice are central to many ethical systems.
The Bible addresses profound questions about human existence, purpose, and destiny, offering answers that resonate with people seeking meaning in life.

6. Misuse and Abuse: While it is true that some have misused the Bible to control and exploit others, this is not the fault of the Bible itself but of those who distort its teachings. The core message of the Bible emphasizes love, compassion, and justice.

7. Testimony of Believers:

Many early Christians chose to die rather than renounce their faith in the Bible's message. This willingness to face persecution and death suggests they believed deeply in the truth of the scriptures.

For over two millennia, diverse communities worldwide have found in the Bible a reliable source of spiritual nourishment and moral guidance.

Peace 💯✌🏽