Sexual issues in Christianity

Gardasil

2008-07-20T02:12:53Z

How do you feel about the Gardasil vaccine? If you have a daughter or daughters, would have them take the vaccine? I'm sure most of us would hope a daughter or daughters would only have sex with one person, there is always the possibility that might not happen. It's also possible a daughter might only have one sex partner in her life but he could have been with others. There is also the possibility of rape. I would hate to think a girl would get HPV from being raped.

sex education

2008-07-12T05:03:30Z

I know a lot of people in this community probably are opposed to any sex education in the schools that is more than abstinence based. While I disagree to some extent, I respect that position. Most people opposing sex ed in schools say it is the parents job to teach their children about sex. I agree parents should teach their kids about sex whether the schools do it or not.

My question is this. If you believe teaching sex ed the responsibility of parents, how much do you think parents should teach? Do you think just telling children not to do it is sufficient? Do you think parents should explain concepts like contraception and sexually transmitted diseases?

How much, if any, sex education did you receive from your parents? Was it satisfactory or did it leave you with questions that went unanswered until you started having sex? Do you wish they had taught you more or did they teach you too much?

I don't remember where I read this but I thought I'd share

2008-07-03T20:56:15Z

I'm pretty sure it was in church magazine for young couples.

For married couples, "Good sex is a gift from God. Great sex is a gift you give to each other."

Do you agree or disagree? What are your feelings on the subject?

adultery

2008-06-21T04:26:24Z

is it considered adultery/ a sin to be attracted to your fiance? at what point would it be considered lust? is it a sin to lust after your fiance?

any opinions or biblical knowledge?

Nuns

2008-06-13T17:28:37Z

Have you ever known anyone who became a nun? I don't. I wonder just how strong someone's faith would have to be to forego sex for the rest of their lives.

Your thoughts?

FGM

2008-05-23T18:42:29Z

As I'm sure you know, many followers of Islam adhere to a practice called FGM. (Female Genital Mutilation) This is also called female circumcision. It entails the removal of the clitoris. It is often done in the most unsanitary of conditions. The idea behind it is that if the clitoris is removed, the woman won't have any pleasure from sex. It is done with the idea that a woman who doesn't enjoy sex won't stray from her husband.

There was a time, in this country anyway, when a woman's sexual pleasure was a taboo topic. It just wasn't discussed. I wonder if there was ever a time when a Christian woman was looked down upon for enjoying sex. I'm talking sex in the context of marriage here.

Marriage question

2008-04-26T03:44:14Z

For those of you in this community who are still single, how important is it for you to marry someone who is a virgin?

For those who are married, did your spouse's past play any role in your decision to marry him/her?

For the record, my husband and I neither one were virgins when we married but we had only had sex with each other.

Something that bothers me

2008-04-03T13:46:11Z

This may outside the scope of this community but I thought I would post it here to get your thoughts.

Something that really bothers me is the belief that some men have that a girl who uses tampons can't be a virgin. I saw two guys making fun of a girl at Wendy's day before yesterday because they found tampons in her purse. They were saying she couldn't be a virgin because virgins couldn't use tampons. She got really upset, grabbed her purse and left. When she did, my friend and I both told them they were wrong and owed her an apology.

Virgins can and do use tampons. I did when I was a virgin and so do a lot of girls. I don't know if it's ignorance or what but I wish the people teaching health classes in middle school and high school would clear up this misconception. I'm sure a lot of girls have been hurt by it.

SequelMania: Scopes Trial II: The Gay Ape:

2008-03-04T16:43:17Z

Back in 1925, the State of Tennessee made into law a gag-rule plaed on teachers preventing them from discussing evolution. The result was a very famous trial, and Tennessee becoming the laughingstock of the world. You would think that Tennesseeans would have learned from this embarrassment. But no - the great Tennessee State Legislature is at it again - again thinking of passing a gag-rule on our teachers into law. This time, the subject isn't evolution, though. Rather, it is any form of sexuality other than heterosexuality. (Click Here to read more.)

marriage, sex and the Bible

2008-02-22T04:34:13Z

My question for you all is what is marriage, biblically? Is it biblically proven that MODERN marriage is what God meant by "don't have sex until you're married" or is it possible for marriage to equal commitment, and for things you feel ready for to be allowed?

Here's some research I've come up with:

http://www.ethicsdaily.com/article_detail.cfm?AID=9071 <--ignore the slavery stuff at the end

and, as this brings in homosexuality...focusing on the marriage concepts: http://www.clgs.org/marriage/lecture_kuan.html

Rape

2008-02-18T03:44:53Z

If a girl loses her virginity as the result of being raped, is it wrong for her to think of herself as still being a virgin? How do the single guys in here who want to marry someone who is a virgin feel about the possibility of marrying a girl who's only sexual contact was being raped? It seems to me it would be wrong to not want to marry a girl who would still be a virgin if she had been raped.

Like it too much

2008-02-04T15:24:40Z

This may have been asked before but I'm fairly new here.

Is it wrong for a Christian couple to like sex a lot? I know that sex between married couples is a blessing and meant to be enjoyed but I sometimes wonder if my husband and I love it too much. Sometimes it seems like I want to have sex with him all the time. He's the same way.

Spin-Doctors Distort the Facts on the Charlene Hastings Case

2008-01-12T23:47:04Z

Charlene Hastings is fighting back against the hospital that discriminated against her by denying her breast augmentation surgery. However, hot on her trail, spin-doctors are distorting the facts, painting her into an enemy of Freedom of Religion.

To find out why those claims by the conservative spin-doctors are mere spin rather than substance, read the full blog entry.

Daughters of Charity Require Surgeon to Discriminate against Transsexuals

2008-01-11T19:23:10Z

According to the Mercury News, Charlene Hastings has been denied breast augmentation surgery by the surgeon of her choice because the hospital does not allow him to operate on transsexuals - as a result of a hospital policy institued when the Daughters of Charity took over the hospital. This is a scandal on both a religious and a civil level.

(Click Here to read my Full Blog-Rant)

Religion and Holistic Sexuality

2007-12-23T01:49:47Z

The editors of jn1034 have posted an entry on Orthodox Spirituality and Theological Sexuality consisting of excerpted material written by Aquiles Barreño. They have also posted on The Sacred Nature of Sexual Self-Pleasure.

This may have been asked before

2007-12-16T21:17:00Z

I'm new to the community so if this has been asked before I apologize in advance.

Are there any sex acts that are forbidden by Christianity for a couple who are married? I would think anything that brings pain or permanent damage would be frowned upon.

I'm new

2007-12-06T00:37:49Z

Hi!!!! I'm new to this community but I've been around LJ for several years now. I'm looking forward to taking part in this community. I hope there will many good discussions. Thanks for letting me in.

The doctrine of grace and mercy:

2007-10-14T16:03:34Z

Recently, a few people in here have been showing me that they have not been well educated as to the doctrine of grace. Also, by their self-righteousness, they've been showing that they have no concept of what sins exist outside of the top ten. This post should clear a few things up for you.

None of us have a reason to look down on people who are entangled in sexual sins. Porn, fornication and adultery do not hurt more people than: greed, dishonesty, arrogance, bigotry, strife, sedition, malice, gluttony, apathy, vanity, fear (being fearful is listed as a sin in Revelation), or any number of other sins. We all have our own flaws to manage. Just because you're not killing, stealing or sleeping around -- that doesn't mean you have it all together. You are overlooking hundreds of NT commandments concerning deadly sins you commit every single day. We are all sinners saved by grace. Be humble and approach all men with an attitude of understanding and mercy.

GRACE AND MERCY:

Questions:

Why is it bad to listen to secular music but okay to look at secular paintings or read secular literature or eat secular cheeseburgers? How is martial arts going to become a "god" to someone easier than football or baseball? Why are Harry Potter, The Matrix, Batman and Hellboy bad but Lord of The Rings, Star Wars, Unbreakable and The Chronicles of Narnia good? Aren't there witches and mythical creatures in The Chronicles of Narnia in spite of the good message? Why is violence okay to watch in Saving Private Ryan or Gladiator but not okay in The Godfather or Conan The Barbarian? Why are martial arts evil in Kill Bill but okay in Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon? Why is it wrong to identify yourself with comic book culture or the underground music scene but okay to identify yourself with motorcycle culture or skin art? Weren't Harley's and tattoos mostly for druggies just a few years back? Don't gangs full of thugs still consider those things their symbols? Why is it bad to spend your money on DVDs but okay to spend it on golf? Why is it bad to watch romantic comedies but okay to weep over Lifetime movies? Why is nudity okay in sculpture but bad on film? Why is going to a bar to meet girls bad but going there to play in a band okay? Why is a sports bar a bad place but Applebees okay? Don't both places serve alcohol?

I've heard all the churchy and political answers. Let's be honest. The reason everyone else's hobbies are bad but not yours is simply because you're you. That's pretty much it. Everyone justifies his own stuff. Everyone nitpicks everyone else's stuff. That's how people are.

Insecurity:

I often wonder about guys who are gung-ho about legalism and holiness doctrine but reluctant to teach about grace and mercy. Before, I wondered if maybe they thought they were better than everyone and that they just didn't count their own sins as evil but that can't be right. Nobody is that arrogant. Right? Then, I thought that maybe they were just ambitious people trying to build a eutopian society -- a heaven on Earth where all men are perfect -- but that can't be right. Nobody is that naive. Right? Then, I started realizing where it comes from. It's out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks. These men are searching for holiness so adamantly because they themselves feel dirty. These men are compensating for their own weakness. They keep falling short in their own quests for mastery and it bugs them.

Men who are constantly preaching about holiness and neglecting the doctrines of grace and forgiveness are insecure in their own salvation. Maybe they have checkered pasts. Maybe they have secret sins they can't overcome no matter how hard they try. Maybe they are comparing themselves to elders from their childhood they thought were perfect saints because they never got to see those old people outside of Sunday morning. Maybe they just don't understand the gospel of grace. I don't know. But it's as obvious as a middle-aged guy buying a sports car or a little dude buying a big truck that these guys are compensating for what they feel is their own inadequacy. They wear white shirts all the time to symbolize the purity they lack. They preach fire and brimstone because they are angry at themselves for not being able to obtain the elusive perfection they crave. They condemn others because they can't deal with their own shame. It's insecurity.

Good news. There is good news for the insecure. Christ paid the price already. His righteousness has been ascribed to you. Your sins have been washed away. God has had mercy on you because you accepted his love. You're clean. He is able to keep you so don't doubt his strength because of your weakness. Go and try not to sin anymore but you're forgiven. Relax.

THE DOCTRINES OF GRACE AND MERCY:

"And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment." - I John 3:19-23

"But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us." - I John 1:7-10

"For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin. There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you." - Romans 7:15-8:11

"Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God. I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain." - Galatians 2:16-21

"This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham. For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith." - Galatians 3:2-14

"What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin." - Romans 4:1-8

"Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster." - Galatians 3:19-25

"For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law." - Galatians 5:13-18

"And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong." - I Corinthians 12:7-10

"But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away." - Isaiah 64:6

"But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law." - Romans 3:21-28

"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement." - Romans 5:1-11

"But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you." - Phillipians 3:7-15

"Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway." - I Corinthians 9:24-27

"For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy." - Romans 9:15-16

"For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ." - John 1:17

"And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." - John 3:14-18

"Therefore the people came to Moses, and said, We have sinned, for we have spoken against the LORD, and against thee; pray unto the LORD, that he take away the serpents from us. And Moses prayed for the people. And the LORD said unto Moses, Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole: and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live. And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived." - Numbers 21:7-9

"Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ." - Colossians 2:12-17

"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." - Ephesians 2:8-9

"But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ." - Ephesians 4:7

"For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses." - Matthew 6:14-15

"Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:" - Luke 6:37

"But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen." - Jude 1:20-25

*** Instead of the law of sin and death, focus your attention on doing good works.

"For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee." - Titus 2:11-15

"If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty. For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only." - James 2:8-24

"Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you." - John 15:15

"When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal." - Matthew 25:31-40

"Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law." - Romans 13:8-10

"Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets." - Matthew 22:37-40

"Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth." - I John 3:16-18

* Definition:

Grace: "unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration or sanctification"

http://www.m-w.com/dictionary/grace

- - -

"Jesus went unto the mount of Olives. And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them. And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more." - John 8:1-11

"All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not." - I Corinthians 10:23

Christians obey regulation after regulation for the purpose of pleasing the ignorant and winning the favor of all men so everyone will want to join up. Well, somewhere along the line Christians started putting those regulations in front of the message of the gospel. We became a bunch of hall monitors and apple polishers instead of showing people the love and mercy of God. That's why they can't understand the gospel. We talk about this God who sacrificed himself for them just as they are then in the next breath we shush them for cussing like it's going to scare all the angels away. Do you know how retarded that must seem to any reasonable observer of any sort? "Hey! God died for you just as you are! Now, take off your hat and quit using synonyms for poo or I'm going to run you out of my church this instant!"

"What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:31-39

The message of God's grace is "hidden" throughout the New Testament. It is not "hidden" very well. It's on nearly every page. But you'd think it was some sort of secret "Bible code" the way some people ignore it in favor of shame and fear preaching.

Love is a higher calling. Perfect love casts out fear according to I John 4:18. The gospel is a message of hope. Hope doesn't make anyone ashamed according to Romans 5:5.

Shame:

You want to claim I've forgotten how to blush like those guys in Jeremiah 6 but the truth is that I've just learned to overcome the words of fear mongers.

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed." - Romans 10:9-11

"For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren," - Hebrews 2:11

I am imperfect. Yet, I'm not ashamed. I'm unashamed. Because I know I have an advocate. I know he has cleansed me from all unrighteousness and made me whole in spite of my own imperfection. He accomplished what no man could ever accomplish. His sacrifice saved me and you.

"But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before, This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin. Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; And having an high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." - Hebrew 10:12-31

I am not advocating a lifestyle of complete carelessness or unbridled wickedness. I'm not asking people to use grace as a doormat in front of the pearly gates. I'm saying that we should focus more on kindness than nitpicking. We are free men for that purpose.

- - -

GOOD VS. EVIL

When you take a look at the ten commandments it's easy to feel good about yourself. You don't murder people, cheat on your wife or steal stuff. You start feeling like maybe you're pretty good. Maybe even perfect. Never mind all the impossible regulations that accompany the ten commandments in Mosaic law. Nobody reads those anymore. They don't count. Right?

How about the commandments in the New Testament? Do they count? Yea. And you know what? You've most likely broken a dozen of them every single day of your ugly life. Is grace a cloak for child molesters, murderers and thieves? No. Does the doctrine of grace encourage us to act like animals and abuse one another? No. Grace is offered to those who accept the message of love and sacrifice that Jesus preached by example. That must mean enough to you to inspire an attempt to reflect it. Your heart must be in it. You must be a lover.

But do we all need grace? Yes. Because we all sin every single day. We try to avoid the major sins and do the important acts of compassion. We do our best to manage our behavior. But we all fall short. Constantly.

You can use the following rules as a guide to manage your behavior. At the same time, try using them as a guide to lead yourself toward humbleness and mercy. Because, looking at this list, it becomes obvious that we all fall short (and do so very often) of God's intent for us each day of our lives.

* Text: Galatians 5:13-26 KJV

NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDMENTS:

*** THE GOOD:

Love:

A personal commitment to treating everyone with an attitude of kindness, respect and dignity in every instant. Love God with all of your heart and love everyone else as much as you love yourself. That means we should consider the welfare of our neighbors as important as our own. If you have a coat then he should have a coat. Who is your neighbor? EVERYONE. Including strangers and even your worst enemies. Lay your life down so others can have what they need. Provide for them. Be there for them. Carry their burden. Do their work. Feed them. Clothe them. Shelter them. Encourage them. Help them.

[I John 3:14-18, John 15:12, Mark 12:28-31, Romans 13:8-10, I John 4:7-21, I Cor. 13:1-13, Romans 12:10, Hebrews 10:24-25, Galatians 5:13-14, Galatians 6:2, James 1:8-10]

Joy:

Rejoice in whatever is good and noble. Always maintain a thankful heart without complaining or being discouraged. Show appreciation for the good in the world at every moment. Always be ready to find what is good about any person, any place or any situation. Be genuine in your enjoyment of this life and all of God's gifts.

[Phil. 4:4-8, I Thess. 5:18, I Peter 3:15-16, James 1:2-3, Heb. 10:24-25, Heb. 10:34-38, I Cor. 10:24,31-33], [Romans 14:17-19, Matt. 6:33]

Peace:

Peace doesn't imply tranquility or passivity. Peace is not a tranquil pool but a strong and flowing river undaunted by mountains, trees or stones. Maintain a confidence through all of life's obstacles. Work to bring resolution where there is conflict, struggle or suffering. Save the day. Work out your problems in a spirit of gentleness and meekness.

[Isaiah 38:18-19, Isaiah 40:28-31, Jeremiah 6:13-17, Isaiah 57:20-21, I Thess. 5:13, John 15:27, II Cor. 4:1-18 (7-10), John 16:33, Ephesians 2:13-14, Colossians 3:15]

Long-suffering:

Patience and endurance in all things: patience in our relationships, in our work environment, with our children and with our enemies. Endure persecution with a smile. Be an understanding friend and father. Be patient with leaders who aren't perfect. Never give up on people when they mess up. When you get knocked down or fail then you get back up and keep going. Be faithful in every way when tempted, distressed or troubled. Never give up.

[II Cor. 4:7-10, I Cor. 13:4-7, II Timothy 2:3-5, I Cor. 9:24-27, James 1:12, Heb. 12:1-7, Colossians 3:12-13]

Gentleness:

Never contribute to another's harm, humiliation or discouragement. In all things be kind and graceful. Show mercy to those who fail. Never rebuke or correct a child with unnecessary harshness because your patience is running thin. Never show any amount of rudeness to employees of fast food chains, grocery stores, banks or the license branch. Not only be understanding of the shortcomings of other drivers on the road but help them get through when you can. Never put your own feelings first. Always consider how someone else feels and try to make life more enjoyable for other people. Strengthen people instead of tearing them down. Avoid arguments and insults of any kind. Never say a harsh word even in jest. Keep a friendly tone of voice. Never yell at people. Provoke others to success instead of mocking them for their failures.

[Romans 12:9-10, Matthew 5:7, Romans 14:13, Romans 15:1-6, I Cor. 4:7, Phil. 2:5-10, I Cor. 12:22-26, James 5:19-20, II Timothy 2:23-26, Galatians 6:1-2]

Goodness:

Rejoice in what is good instead of in what is evil or vain. Stand up for justice. Show good judgment. Do good deeds for people. Do good works that effect those around you. Show your kindness in good deeds both great and small. Show your compassion by feeding the poor and helping the old and the young. Put aside your life and make sacrifices for those around you. Show mercy to the weak. Be their hero.

[Phil. 4:8, Galatians 6:7-10, Matt. 7:12, II Cor. 9:6-8, James 5:17, I Timothy 5:24-25, I Timothy 6:3-8, Luke 17:9-10]

Faith:

Sincerely hope and believe for the best. Trust that God has a good plan for your life. Trust that he is a just and kind leader. Show that trust in all your deeds. Be faithful to him. Also, be faithful to your own promises. Be honest, sincere and trustworthy.

[James 2:14-26, Heb. 11:6-7, Ephesians 2:8-10, Romans 10:9-17, Galatians 5:5-6, Galatians 2:16-21, Romans 5:1-8, Heb. 11:1, Ephesians 5:1-2, Romans 6:1-23]

Meekness:

Be humble and small in your own eyes. Serve one another. Don't be arrogant, boastful or self-centered. Show all men kindness and mercy. Be a helpful, polite and giving soul to all you encounter. Be slow to anger and quick to forgive.

[Matt. 5:5, I Peter 5:6, Phil. 2:4-9, I Cor. 4:6-7, II Cor. 10:7,12,18, Luke 22:25-30]

Temperance:

In all things use moderation and self-control. Show your discipline in how you speak, eat, drive, entertain yourself and work. Always use your time and money wisely. Be prudent and respectful of all wisdom and logic. Be perfect in all your ways.

[II Peter 1:5-8, I Peter 5:8-10, I Cor. 9:25-27, Proverbs 16:32, Ephesians 5:18-20, II Timothy 2:22]

*** THE BAD:

Adultery:

Never cheat on your spouse or provoke someone else's spouse to cheat on them. Never respond to the temptation to lust after someone who is married (celebrities included) or provoke a married person to lust after you. Avoid lusting after anyone who is not your spouse. Be faithful to the one you love. The consequence of disobedience in this matter can lead to the destruction of marriages (and harm to the children in those homes) along with the betrayal of love. Crimes of passion sometimes follow.

[Matt. 5:27-28, Deuteronomy 5:18]

Fornication:

Never have sex outside of marriage. Never lust for someone in your heart (or mind) outside of marriage either. Never have sex without the commitment and trust of the solid promise of marriage because the stakes are too high. More and more children are born out of wedlock today. Unwanted children are often aborted or abandoned. Single parent homes struggle financially and emotionally. Children deserve the support of a complete family and you risk depriving a potential child of his or her right to a complete family when you roll the dice on unsafe and unprotected sex -- that is to say: sex not protected by birth control but also sex not protected by trust or commitment. Also, you can get an STD. Yikes. Wait until you're grown up and married. It's not worth the risk to have sex when you're a kid. Slow down.

[I Cor. 6:15-20]

Uncleanness:

Avoid all impure attitudes, movies, music, language, and deeds. Never look at someone's butt. Never call someone a "nerd" or a "loser" or anything negative. Stay pure to the best of your ability. Be perfect and clean.

[Matt. 23:23-28]

Lasciviousness:

Avoid lewd or lustful behavior. Don't tempt people. Don't tell dirty jokes. Avoid sexual innuendo, vulgar language, vulgar entertainment and perverted behavior.

[II Cor. 12:21]

Idolatry:

Avoid the worship of any object, person, place or thing. By worship, I mean the sacrifice of your time, money and attention. Do not spend an inordinate amount of time or money on sports, entertainment, celebrities, fashion, fitness, food, etc. Do not spend more on your clothes than you give to the needy. Do not buy big fancy luxury cars when something practical will do. Don't spend tons of money to go watch baseball or sit on your butt watching it on TV for 12 hours a week when you spend almost no time in prayer or helping out at soup kitchens. Also, don't put your faith in religious leaders instead of studying God's word for yourself. Also, do not put your own welfare ahead of obedience to God.

[Galatians 4:7-11, II Cor. 6:14-16]

Witchcraft:

Do not get involved in sorcery, occult magic, consorting with unclean spirits, or demonic activity. Also, avoid surrendering control of yourself to drugs, spirits, manipulation or seduction. Do not use trickery to take advantage of others. Do not rebel against the truth.

[Acts 13:6-12, II Timothy 3:1-17]

Hatred:

Do not despise, ignore, hold a grudge against, discriminate against, become enemies with, maintain a rivalry with or bully anyone at any time for any reason. Never act mean or rude to anyone. Never refuse a friendship. Never turn people away. Treat everyone with respect and kindness.

[Matt. 5:21-26, I John 3:14-18]

Variance:

Avoid all deviant behavior. Never defy authority. Never disregard what is nice, good and honorable. Never be greedy. Never take advantage of people. Never pervert justice. Do the right thing at all times in every way possible.

[I Cor. 12:12-31, I Peter 3:8-14]

Emulations:

Avoid ambitious rivalry and competition. Never put others down for your own gain. Never use lies, gossip or insults to promote yourself at the expense of another.

[Ephesians 4:21-5:2]

Wrath:

Never do anything out of revenge, anger or unbridled passion. Never seek retribution. Never use violence, threats, verbal assaults or mean behavior to get your way or humiliate someone.

[James 1:19-22]

Strife:

Avoid pointless conflicts and bitter arguments. Stay away from divisions, cliques and factions. Maintain unity at all times.

[I Cor. 3:3-9, Ephesians 4:1-16, Phil. 1:27-28, Galatians 5:13-15]

Sedition:

Never undermine authority or seek to cause confusion within a group. Never turn others against each other for your own gain or their loss.

[I Timothy 4:1-7, II Timothy 3:1-17]

Heresy:

Never teach false doctrine, spread lies or lead others astray. Never take advantage of the ignorance or fears of others to control or manipulate them. Instead, proclaim the truth to all men freely.

[II Timothy 3:1-17, Acts 20:28-31, II Peter 2:1-22, Matt. 24:24, I Timothy 4:1-7, I Timothy 6:3-12, Revelation 2:1-3, II Cor. 11:13-15]

Envy:

Never be resentful of what someone else has. Never expect others to worship you for what you have. Never desire to take something away from someone for your gain or their loss. Never desire to steal someone's stuff, their place, their honor, their attention or their joy. Never try to pretend you are something that you're not. Never demean the accomplishments of another out of jealousy. Never sabotage someone else because you don't want them to have more than you have.

[I Peter 2:1, Job 5:2, Galatians 5:25-26, James 4:1-12]

Murder:

Never kill people or work toward that goal. Never try to diminish someone's health or welfare. Never attempt to detract or steal the livelihood of another person or group for any reason. Never degrade people or treat them as though their lives are worth less than yours. Never humiliate or abuse people. Treat everyone as you'd like to be treated.

[Matt. 5:21-26, I John 3:14-18, Mark 10:19]

Drunkenness:

Never surrender control of your inhibitions and good judgment to alcohol, drugs or any dominating or controlling agent. You are responsible for yourself. The act of surrendering that responsibility doesn't absolve you from responsibility for the stupid stuff you do under the influence of whatever agent. It was your decision to get drunk. If someone took advantage of you or you take advantage of someone, if you were hurt or hurt another, if you die or kill someone -- it all comes down to your decision to roll the dice. You are to blame. Don't surrender control of yourself. Don't tempt fate.

[Ephesians 5:18-21, Isaiah 28:7-8, I cor. 6:19-20, Proverbs 20:1, Proverbs 23:21, I Kings 20:16-21]

Reveling:

Never act unruly or wild. Avoid destructive behavior of any kind. Don't hurt people. Don't be a jerk. Don't "trash talk" people. Don't fall in with a rough crowd and act crazy. Be innocent and pure of heart.

[Romans 1:24-32, II Timothy 3:1-17], [Ephesians 5:4, 4:29, Colossians 3:17, Titus 2:6-8, I Peter 3:15-16, II Timothy 2:16-17, I Peter 2:11-12, 16-17, I Peter 3:8-11, James 3:5-18, Matt. 12:34-37]

----------------------------------------------

Conclusion:

That's a pretty good guide for behavior. When you get that list done there are a dozen more lists in the other epistles (Colossians, Corinthians, Romans, Ephesians, James, Peter, Thesselonians, etc.). Each individual person will find some of these things to be easy while they find others difficult. Every person has his or her own set of strengths and weaknesses.

Anyone who looks at this list and thinks he is perfect needs to wake up. We all fall short in so many ways and so often. All of us. We miss opportunities to do good and we mess up and do bad things every day.

Try to figure out which things on this list are most important. Look at the potential consequences of each behavior and get your priorities straight. If you never ever curse but you hate people constantly then your priorities are a little out of order. If you aren't trying to feed some of the 30,000 kids who die of starvation every night but you're an ace when it comes to church attendance you shouldn't be asking yourself when they are going to throw a parade in your honor. Try to concentrate on the most important things first. Then work on the little things.

Strive for perfection but understand that you live under grace. Don't be merciless in your estimation of yourself and don't be merciless in your estimation of others. Be kind. Show mercy. Lift people up. Don't tear people down. The goal of these rules is not to create a master race of robots but simply to teach us how to love one another. When you start doing that then you pretty much obey the rules on your own and if you break any it's usually for the greater good. That's why God trusts you enough not to count or remember your sins anymore. You're family. You're a friend. He trusts you. Don't abuse that grace and trust but don't forget it. You are free. It's a wonderful thing.

***

Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks. For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean. But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. Let not then your good be evil spoken of: For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men. Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence. It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. - Romans 14:1-23

"Come, let us reason together" on gays

2007-10-12T13:45:05Z

My friend Nathan just wrote a blog entry about the way Christians treat gays. He quotes "Come, Let Us Reason Together," recently published by the National Association of Evangelicals, which aims to create new ways for the Church to handle such delicate and controversial topics such as homosexuality and abortion.

Thought I'd share that with you all. If you disagree with my friend, PLEASE DO NOT FLAME HIS BLOG!!!!! Keep the flames here.

Christian Childbirth?

2007-10-06T03:26:50Z

An interesting discussion arose from a lecture I had this afternoon (from a class entitled, "Biblical Model for Home and Family"). Is there a proper way for a Christian couple to deliver their child into the world?

Apparently the professor believes so. She spent an hour or so tracing the history of childbirth (from midwifery to scheduled C-sections), then attempting to enlighten us to the evils of hospital deliveries. Her conclusion is that a midwife is preferred, and a home delivery with a midwife is best. Among her objections to the "norm" of today:

1. Induced labor - not Scriptural or practiced by midwives
2. Pitocin - as opposed to your body's natural, gradually rising levels of oxytocin, pitocin brings the full brunt of labor pains immediately, making delivery excruciating
3. Epidural - dangerous to the child; makes the baby more lethargic at birth; makes it impossible to change birthing positions and eliminates the "fetal ejection reflex"
4. Forced "bed" position - prevents gravity from helping or allowing for more comfortable positions; designed with the doctor in mind
5. Fetal monitors - cut off blood supply; require laying down (again eliminates movement)
6. Hospital environment increases fear and anxiety (which makes delivery more difficult); makes you more susceptible to blind obedience to hospital staff; more likely to take a C-Section unnecessarily just to "speed things up"
7. Aminocyticis - dangerous (infection, injury, miscarriage all much higher); not practical to Christians of a pro-life stance

So what do you all think? Is there a "biblical model" for child-bearing? Is it Scripturally sound to attempt to alleviate the curse of Genesis?

Beauty:

2007-09-29T08:18:53Z

I've noticed that some of you guys/girls seem to be of the opinion that physical beauty is something evil or corrupt. This is not correct at all. It is not a sin to be beautiful, nor is it a sin to delight in the beauty of another. It is not a sin to admire someone's beauty. It is not a sin to let your beauty shine. It is not a sin to want a beautiful wife or husband.

It is corrupt to esteem beauty above or equal to integrity, honor and wisdom. It is a sin to lust after beauty to the point that you do something profane. It is a sin to become so obsessed with it that you idolize it as if it isn't something fleeting and vain but something highly meaningful and important. It is a sin to worship beauty.

But it is not a sin to hope you can find a spouse that has a reasonable combination of brains, character and beauty. Not at all. Not in the least.

-----------------------

"And in all the land were no women found so fair as the daughters of Job: and their father gave them inheritance among their brethren." - Job 42:15

"Leah was tender eyed; but Rachel was beautiful and well favoured." - Genesis 29:17

"And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid was fair and beautiful; whom Mordecai, when her father and mother were dead, took for his own daughter." - Esther 2:7

"And it came to pass, when he was come near to enter into Egypt, that he said unto Sara his wife, Behold now, I know that thou art a fair woman to look upon:" - Genesis 12:11

"And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, Rebekah came out, who was born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham's brother, with her pitcher upon her shoulder. And the damsel was very fair to look upon, a virgin, neither had any man known her: and she went down to the well, and filled her pitcher, and came up." - Genesis 24:15-16

"Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art fair; thou hast doves' eyes within thy locks: thy hair is as a flock of goats, that appear from mount Gilead." - Song of Solomon 4:1

"Thou art beautiful, O my love, as Tirzah, comely as Jerusalem, terrible as an army with banners." - Song of Solomon 6:4

p.s.

Why am I still banned from "christianity" after all this time?

Contraception

2007-09-26T22:11:01Z

Hey y'all...this is my first post here, and I'm not sure how much/if all this has been discussed. I glanced back through the archives through Dec 2006 and didn't see any posts specifically asking this question, but if I missed something and there's a good conversation that's already happened on this topic please point me in the right direction.

Anyway, for background: I've been married for 10 months. My husband and I (for many reasons, mostly our financial preparedness) have decided to not have children for a few years. We are both fairly young (23), and feel spending some time working hard to save money and grow spiritually and emotionally closer to each other and God is the best idea for our marriage and any future kids that we may have. Because of this, we've decided to actively prevent pregnancy. I've been taking an oral contraceptive for our entire marriage so far.

I've had several conversations with Christian men and women that I respect immensely about birth control lately, and my husband and I have been discussing whether the pill is right for us and if we should change to a barrier method (mostly because of the possibility of my pill working secondarily as an abortive).

What I would love to see is a discussion on birth control. What do you believe? That none should be used? Only natural family planning? Only barrier methods? Are hormonal controls okay, even if they might be abortives? Is everything short of an abortion (or even is that okay?) okay with you? I'd love to hear thoughts and support of thoughts from both sides of the spectrum. ;)

Also, I would love it if you could give me thoughts semi-directed at my particular situation: a young Christian married couple who feel they could best support (financially and emotionally) a family in 2-4 years, although if an unplanned pregnancy were to occur before then they would be excited...after the initial shock and freak-out. ;)

Thanks for all your thoughts/opinions in advance!

EDIT: edited for some grammar mistakes...oops.

till death do us part....or at least until the marriage expires

2007-09-21T15:04:07Z

Glamorous Politician Wants Law to Allow 7 Year Itch

BERLIN (Reuters) - Bavaria's most glamorous politician -- a flame-haired motorcyclist who helped bring down state premier Edmund Stoiber -- has shocked the Catholic state in Germany by suggesting marriage should last just 7 years.

Gabriele Pauli, who poses on her web site in motorcycle leathers, is standing for the leadership of Bavaria's Christian Social Union (CSU) -- sister party of Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservative Christian Democrats (CDU) -- in a vote next week.

She told reporters at the launch of her campaign manifesto on Wednesday she wanted marriage to expire after seven years and accused the CSU, which promotes traditional family values, of nurturing ideals of marriage which are wide of the mark.

"The basic approach is wrong ... many marriages last just because people believe they are safe," she told reporters. "My suggestion is that marriages expire after seven years."

After that time, couples should either agree to extend their marriage or it should be automatically dissolved, she said.

Read the rest of the article here

i'm interested in what others think about this idea of a 'limited time marriage'.

two sons:

2007-09-20T20:46:52Z

And he said, A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.

And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father.

But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.

Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing. And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound. And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.

And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.

And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

- Luke 15:11-32

I'm the older son in that story.

I'm upset at certain people for letting me down when I needed them and trying to vilify me in order to justify themselves. But I shouldn't hold such a grudge. I need to forgive people in spite of their attitudes. Even though they will never apoligize or admit they were wrong, I need to let go and move on.

Also, I need to forget about trying to find someone to date who meets certain standards. You can't hold someone accountable for every decision she has ever made. I wouldn't want someone to judge me based on my worst mistakes or flaws. I can't let anything from someone's past stop me from seeing her as my equal in every way. People are people. A few more or less mistakes doesn't make anyone all that special. We're all deeply flawed.

I'm going to stop expecting so much from people. I'm going to stop expecting myself to live up to impossible standards. I'm going to forget the flaws of the entire world, forget about the rules, relax, be happy and try to make people happy. That's it.

The Standard.

2007-09-19T12:23:25Z

In discussing this issue with another LJ-er, I've thought a great deal about what my standard for dating -used- to be, and what it is now.

It -used- to be that I would not settle for anything less than what I perceived as the male version of myself; he -had- to be crazy about God, he -had- to be this and he -had- to be that.

This was in college.

But, now, after a world of experience, I think I realize that this kind of thinking isn't really productive to finding a mate, and was perhaps some kind of shield to protect myself from actually getting to know any guys. Now, my standard is a bit more flexible. I still want him to be a Christian, and I -do- want to be attracted to him, [and also has to be sane], but beyond that...I'm actually pretty flexible. :D I'm not sure if I want to date a single dad, because I'm not sure I'm ready for kids...but, I'm not sure that, at this point, I'd be completely opposed to it either.

For some of the older members of the comm, have you found that your standard was way stricter when you were less experienced than it is now? For those who have found someone special, how different is your spouse than what you were expecting?

Just a few curious thoughts about love this morning. ^^

~C. L.~